Chapter XXIX: Part XIV: Christian Service

The Good Samaritan. "When he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went
to him, and bound up his wounds." Luke 10:33, 34.

The Gift Of Giving

Abraham Offering Up Isaac. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only
begotten Son." John 3:16.

1. What example of giving has God given to the world?

“God so loved the world, that _He gave His only begotten Son_, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

2. By what were Abraham’s faith and devotion tested?

“By faith Abraham, when he was tried, _offered up Isaac_; and he that had received the promises _offered up his only begotten son_.” Heb. 11:17.

3. What did Christ do to redeem us?

“Who _gave Himself_ for our sins.” Gal. 1:4. See also Titus 2:14; 1 Tim. 2:6.

4. Why did He lay aside His riches and become poor?

“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet _for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich_.” 2 Cor. 8:9.

5. After Abraham was blessed, what was he to be?

“I will bless thee, ... _and thou shalt be a blessing_.” Gen. 12:2.

6. As Christ sent out His disciples to preach, to heal the sick, and to raise the dead, what did He say to them?

“Freely ye have received, _freely give_.” Matt. 10:8.

7. Why does God comfort us in our troubles?

“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, _that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God_.” 2 Cor. 1:4.

NOTE.—All who accept the gospel take upon themselves the
obligation to pass its blessings on to others. In this way the
work of salvation is extended. Every soul reclaimed from sin, God
expects to join in the same work for others which lifted him up,
and placed his feet upon the Rock. The good things of God are not
to be selfishly kept to ourselves. We receive to give. Says
Whittier, “The soul is lost that’s saved alone.” And as love
prompted God’s great gift, so His love in our hearts will prompt
us to give, to minister, and to engage in loving service for the
welfare and the happiness of others.

8. What did Christ say of the blessedness of giving?

“I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, _It is more blessed to give than to receive_.” Acts 20:35.

NOTE.—The government of God is founded on the principle of
benevolence, or the desire to bless others. Our richest blessings
come as the result of the good things we have passed on to our
fellow men.

“The quality of mercy is not strained,
It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
Upon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—
It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”

9. For what was Christ anointed by the Holy Spirit?

“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Me _to preach good tidings unto the meek_; He hath sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.” Isa. 61:1. See Luke 4:18.

NOTE.—The Holy Spirit is given to fit God’s children for service.

10. After being thus anointed, what did Jesus do?

“Who went about _doing good_.” Acts 10:38.

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Have you had a kindness shown?
Pass it on;
’Twas not given for you alone.
Pass it on;
Let it travel down the years,
Let it wipe another’s tears,
Till in heaven the gift appears—
Pass it on.

Preaching The Gospel

The Gospel Commission. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to
every creature." Mark 16:15.

1. Before leaving His disciples, what great commission did Christ give them?

“And He said unto them, _Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature_.” Mark 16:15.

NOTE.—The word gospel means good news, or glad tidings.

2. What is the gospel of Christ?

“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for _it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth_.” Rom. 1:16.

3. How extensively and for how long did Christ say the gospel should be preached?

“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached _in all the world_ for a witness unto all nations; and _then shall the end come_.” Matt. 24:14.

4. Why was the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles?

“Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, _to take out of them a people for His name_.” Acts 15:14.

5. How are those who preach the gospel described?

“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth.” Isa. 52:7.

6. What was the object of Christ’s ministry?

“I the Lord have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; _to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house_.” Isa. 42:6, 7.

7. For what purpose did Christ select the apostle Paul, and send him to the Gentiles?

“And He said, ... I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, _to make thee a minister and a witness ... to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God_, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.” Acts 26:15-18.

8. What is the Christian minister commanded to preach?

“Preach _the word_.” 2 Tim. 4:2.

9. Of what did Christ say the Scriptures testify?

“They are they which testify of _Me_.” John 5:39.

NOTE.—Every one, therefore, who preaches the word aright, will
preach Christ. Paul, who faithfully preached God’s word, said he
was determined not to know (i.e., to make known) anything “save
Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.” 1 Cor. 2:2. Jonathan Edwards was
once asked by a young minister what he thought of a sermon he had
just preached. “It was a very poor sermon, indeed,” said Mr.
Edwards. “Why?” asked the young minister. “Because,” said Mr.
Edwards, “there was no _Christ_ in it.” All the great truths of
the Scriptures center in Christ. Rightly understood, all lead to
Him. Christ, therefore, should be presented in every discourse as
the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, of the great plan
of salvation.

10. How does God expect His ministers to preach the word?

“He that hath My word, let him speak My word _faithfully_.” Jer. 23:28.

11. How did Christ present the truth to the people?

“And with many such parables spake He the word unto them, _as they were able to hear it_.” Mark 4:33.

NOTE.—Ministers should learn to adapt their labors to those for
whom they labor—to meet the people where they are.

12. What rule for teaching doctrine is laid down in the Bible?

“For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.” Isa. 28:10.

13. How should the servant of God labor?

“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.” 2 Tim. 2:24, 25.

NOTE.—While the claims of the law of God are presented to the
sinner, ministers should never forget that love—the love of God—is
the only power that can soften the heart and lead to repentance
and obedience, and that to _save_ men is their great work.

14. As a preparation for their work, what did Christ do to the apostles?

“Then _opened He their understanding_, that they might understand the Scriptures.” Luke 24:45.

15. For what did He tell them to tarry in Jerusalem?

“But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, _until ye be endued with power from on high_.” Verse 49.

16. How did the apostles preach the gospel?

“With the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.” 1 Peter 1:12.

17. What was the result of this preaching?

“_Many_ of them which heard the word _believed_.” “And the word of God _increased_; and _the number of the disciples multiplied_ in Jerusalem _greatly_; and a great company of the _priests_ were obedient to the faith.” Acts 4:4; 6:7.

18. What promise is made to the faithful gospel minister?

“He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, _shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him_.” Ps. 126:6.

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To every clime, where lost by sin,
The grace of Christ a soul may win,
From here Thy messengers go forth
From east to west, from south to north.

Perchance, in heaven one day to me
Some blessed soul may come and say,
All hail, beloved! But for thee
My soul to death had been a prey.
Ah, then what sweetness in the thought
One soul to glory to have brought!

The Good Shepherd. "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the
oversight thereof." 1 Peter 5:2.

The Shepherd And His Work

Feeding The Five Thousand. "Give ye them to eat." Matt. 14:16.

1. Who did Christ say is the good shepherd?

“I am the good shepherd.” John 10:11.

2. What is Christ elsewhere called?

“The Shepherd and _Bishop of your souls_.” “The _chief Shepherd_.” 1 Peter 2:25; 5:4.

3. What does the expression “the _chief_ Shepherd” imply?

That there are _under_-shepherds.

4. How does the good shepherd manifest his love and care for the sheep?

“The good shepherd _giveth his life for the sheep_.” John 10:11.

5. What does the hireling, or false shepherd, do, and why?

“The hireling _fleeth, because he is an hireling_, and _careth not for the sheep_.” Verse 13.

6. What example will the true shepherd set before his flock?

“In all things showing thyself _a pattern of good works_.” Titus 2:7.

7. What is the special work of the gospel shepherd?

“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, _to feed the church of God_, which He hath purchased with His own blood.” Acts 20:28. “_Feed the flock of God_ which is among you, _taking the oversight thereof_.” 1 Peter 5:2. See also John 21:15-17.

8. With what kind of food will the true shepherd feed the flock?

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom: _Preach the word_.” 2 Tim. 4:1, 2. “O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; therefore _thou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me_.” Eze. 33:7. See Eze. 3:17-21.

9. Was there to come a time when people would not listen to plain Bible truth?

“_For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine_; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the _truth_, and shall be _turned unto fables_.” 2 Tim. 4:3, 4.

10. Instead of the straight testimony, what kind of preaching will such demand?

“Prophesy not unto us right things, _speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits_.” Isa. 30:10.

11. What test is given by which we may distinguish between true and false shepherds?

“_To the law and to the testimony_: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isa. 8:20. “For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and _they should seek the law at his mouth_.” Mal. 2:7.

12. What will those servants be doing upon whom Christ pronounces a blessing when He comes?

“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, _to give them meat in due season_? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.” Matt. 24:45-47.

13. What excuses are made by some for not expounding the prophecies?

“And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver to _one that is learned_, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and _he saith, I cannot; for it is sealed_: and the book is delivered to him that is _not learned_, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, _I am not learned_.” Isa. 29:11, 12.

NOTE.—The prophecies of Daniel were to be unsealed at “the time of
the end.” See Dan. 12:4, 9, 10; Rev. 10:1, 2. In Jer. 25:34-37 is
found a warning message addressed to unfaithful shepherds.

14. After receiving his commission to preach, how did the apostle Paul feel?

“For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, _woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel_!” 1 Cor. 9:16.

15. How faithfully will the true shepherd watch the flock?

“They watch for your souls, _as they that must give account_.” Heb. 13:17.

NOTE.—Mark Guy Pearse once said to Mr. Spurgeon: “When I was a
young fellow in London, I used to sit right over there and hear
you preach, and you will never know how much good you did me. You
used to wind me up like an eight-day clock. I was bound to go
right for a week after hearing you.”

16. If God’s watchmen fail to warn the wicked, what terrible responsibility will be charged to their account?

“If thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but _his blood will I require at thine hand_.” Eze. 33:8. See Isa. 3:10, 11.

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Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,
Every soul a warning give;
Whosoever hears the message
May repent and turn and live.

Sound it loud o’er every hilltop,
Gloomy shade and sunny plain;
Ocean depths repeat the message,
Full salvation’s glad refrain.

Sound it in the hedge and highway,
Earth’s dark spots where exiles roam;
Let it tell all things are ready,
Father waits to welcome home.

Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,
Blow it loud o’er land and sea;
God commissions, sound the message!
Every captive may be free.
DR. H. L. GILMOUR.

Missionary Work

Ruth Gleaning In The Field Of Boaz. "For the love of Christ constraineth
us." 2 Cor. 5:14.

1. What has been given to every man?

“For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and _to every man his work_.” Mark 13:34.

2. Besides work, what else has been given to every man?

“And unto one he gave five _talents_, to another two, and to another one; _to every man according to his several ability_.” Matt. 25:15.

3. What are those called to whom this work is committed?

“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own _servants_, and delivered unto them his goods.” Verse 14.

4. What use did these servants make of their talents?

“Then he that had received the five talents _went and traded with the same_, and made them other five talents.... But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.” Verses 16-18.

5. What excuse did the one who hid his talent make?

“_I was afraid_, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.” Verse 25.

6. What did his master say to him?

“His lord answered and said unto him, _Thou wicked and slothful servant_.” Verse 26.

7. What did he say the servant should have done?

“Thou oughtest therefore to have _put my money to the exchangers_, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.” Verse 27.

8. What is characteristic of slothful persons?

“The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.” Prov. 22:13.

NOTE.—That is, they see great obstacles before them, and are
always ready with excuses.

9. What was the fate of the slothful servant?

“And _cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness_: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Matt. 25:30.

10. What was said to the servant who improved his talents?

“His lord said unto him, _Well done, thou good and faithful servant_: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: _enter thou into the joy of thy lord_.” Verse 21.

11. Why did Christ endure the cruel death on the cross?

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; _who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame_, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Heb. 12:2.

12. What will bring to the Lord this satisfaction and joy?

“He shall _see of the travail of His soul_, and shall be satisfied.” Isa. 53:11.

13. How will Christ demonstrate His joy over the saved?

“He will joy over thee _with singing_.” Zeph. 3:17.

14. What did Paul set forth as his crown of rejoicing?

“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? _Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?_ For ye are our glory and joy.” 1 Thess. 2:19, 20.

15. Since this joy comes to Christ only through His self-denial and suffering for others, in what way must all others partake of that joy?

“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him: _if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him_: if we deny Him, He also will deny us.” 2 Tim. 2:11, 12.

16. What motive should prompt to soul-saving labor?

“For _the love of Christ constraineth us_.” 2 Cor. 5:14.

17. Whom does every faithful Christian worker represent?

“Now then we are _ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us_: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” Verse 20.

18. What does God do with the unfruitful members?

“_Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away_: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” John 15:2.

19. Can one occupy a mere neutral position toward Christ?

“He that is not with Me is _against_ Me: and he that gathereth not with Me _scattereth_.” Luke 11:23.

20. For what does the Lord tell us to pray?

“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few: _pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest_.” Luke 10:2.

21. How are we cautioned against delaying the work?

“Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.” John 4:35.

22. What promise is made to those who sow the gospel seed?

“They that sow in tears _shall reap in joy_. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, _shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him_.” Ps. 126:5, 6.

23. What promise is made to soul-winners?

“He that winneth souls is _wise_.” Prov. 11:30. “And they that be wise [margin, teachers] shall _shine as the brightness of the firmament_; and they that turn many to righteousness _as the stars forever and ever_.” Dan. 12:3.

The Poor, And Our Duty Toward Them

On The Way To The Inn. "He ... bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his
own beast." Luke 10:33, 34.

1. What is God’s attitude toward the poor?

“He shall _deliver_ the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.” Ps. 72:12.

2. For what purpose did Christ say God had anointed Him?

“He hath anointed Me _to preach the gospel to the poor_.” Luke 4:18.

3. When did He say we could minister to the poor?

“_Whensoever ye will_ ye may do them good.” Mark 14:7.

4. What did Paul say regarding our duty to the poor?

“I have showed you all things, how that so laboring _ye ought to support the weak_, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said, _It is more blessed to give than to receive_.” Acts 20:35.

5. What promises are made to those who consider the poor?

“Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.” Ps. 41:1-3.

Lazarus At The Rich Man’s Gate. "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the
poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." Prov. 21:13.

6. How does the Lord regard kindness shown to the poor?

“He that hath pity upon the poor _lendeth unto the Lord_; and that which he hath given _will He pay him again_.” Prov. 19:17. “For _God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love_, which ye have showed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” Heb. 6:10.

7. What fate awaits those who turn a deaf ear to the poor?

“Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, _he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard_.” Prov. 21:13.

8. What classes are we especially enjoined to help?

“Learn to do well; seek judgment, _relieve the oppressed_, _judge the fatherless_, _plead for the widow_.” Isa. 1:17.

9. What is pure and undefiled religion declared to be?

“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, _To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction_, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” James 1:27.

10. What kind of fast is most acceptable to God?

“Is not this the fast that I have chosen?... Is it not to _deal thy bread to the hungry_, and that thou _bring the poor that are cast out to thy house_? when thou seest _the naked, that thou cover him_; and that _thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh_?” Isa. 58:6, 7.

11. What is promised those who do this work?

“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry and He shall say, Here I am.... And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” Verses 9-11.

12. How did the patriarch Job treat the poor?

“I was a _father_ to the poor: and _the cause which I knew not I searched out_.” Job 29:16.

13. What did Christ tell the rich young man to do?

“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, _go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor_, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.” Matt. 19:21.

NOTE.—From Matt. 25:31-45 we learn that Christ identifies Himself
with needy, suffering humanity; and that any neglect shown them He
regards as done unto Himself.

Christian Help Work

The Samaritan At The Inn. "He ... brought him to an inn, and took care of
him." Luke 10:33, 34.

1. What was the character of Christ’s work among men?

“Who went about _doing good_.” Acts 10:38.

2. What will His true followers do?

“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so _to walk, even as He walked_.” 1 John 2:6.

3. In ministering to the needy, whom are we really serving?

“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, _ye have done it unto Me_.” Matt. 25:40.

4. How long will there be poor in the world?

“Ye have the poor _always with you_.” Matt. 26:11.

5. What relation do all sustain to God?

“The rich and poor _meet together_: the Lord is _the maker_ of them all.” Prov. 22:2.

6. What is one good evidence of genuine repentance?

“Break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by _showing mercy to the poor_.” Dan. 4:27.

7. What is one evidence that one has a knowledge of God?

“He _judged the cause of the poor and needy_; then it was well with him: was not this to _know Me_? saith the Lord.” Jer. 22:16.

8. What classes are subjects for Christian help work?

“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the _fatherless_ and _widows_ in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” James 1:27.

9. Is it our duty always to give what is expected or asked?

“Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but _such as I have give I thee_: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” Acts 3:6. See 2 Cor. 12:8.

10. What is sometimes of greater value even than money to discouraged souls?

“I _smiled on them_ when they had no confidence.” Job 29: 24, margin R. V.

11. What divine law of retroaction attends giving?

“_Give, and it shall be given unto you_; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For _with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again_.” Luke 6:38. See Ps. 18:25, 26; 109:17; Gal. 6:7.

12. What is promised those who give to the poor?

“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and _that which he hath given will He pay him again_.” Prov. 19:17. “He that giveth unto the poor _shall not lack_.” Prov. 28:27.

13. How did Job learn of the needs of the poor?

“The cause of him that I knew not _I searched out_.” Job 29:16, R. V. “I used _to investigate_.” Jewish Version.

14. What parable illustrates practical Christian help work?

The parable of the good Samaritan. Luke 10:30-37.

15. When Christ sent out the seventy, what did He tell them to do in the cities whither they went?

“And _heal the sick_ that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.” Verse 9.

16. Amidst poverty, suffering, and distress, what kind of workers does God wish to see?

“But this is a people _robbed_ and _spoiled_; they are all of them _snared in holes_, and they are _hid in prison-houses_: they are for a _prey_, and NONE DELIVERETH: _for a spoil_, and none saith, RESTORE. Who among you will give ear to this?” Isa. 42: 22, 23.

17. What is our duty toward the outcast and wandering?

“_Hide_ the outcasts; _bewray not him that wandereth_. Let Mine outcasts _dwell with thee_.” Isa. 16:3, 4.

18. What incentive have Christians for doing prison work?

“_I was in prison_, and ye came unto Me.” Matt. 25:36.

19. Who notes the groans of the prisoner?

“From heaven did _the Lord_ behold the earth; _to hear the groaning of the prisoner_.” Ps. 102:19, 20.

20. What work constitutes the fast most acceptable to God?

“Is not this the fast that I have ordained, to untie the knots of wickedness; to relax the burden of the yoke; and rescue those who are oppressed by violence: and that ye withdraw every yoke? Is it not to part thy bread with the famished, and to bring the vagrant poor into thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou clothe him?” Isa. 58:6, 7, Spurrell’s Version.

21. What promises are made to those who thus minister to the wants and distresses of others?

“If thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” Verses 10, 11.

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Somebody near you is struggling alone
Over life’s desert sand;
Faith, hope, and courage together are gone:
Reach him a helping hand,
Turn on his darkness a beam of your light;
Kindle, to guide him, a beacon-fire bright;
Cheer his discouragement; soothe his affright;
Lovingly help him to stand.

Somebody near you is hungry and cold;
Send him some aid today.
Somebody near you is feeble and old,
Left without human stay:
Under his burdens put hands kind and strong;
Speak to him tenderly, sing him a song;
Haste to do something to help him along
Over his weary way.
MRS. E. E. WILLIAMS.

Visiting The Sick

A Message Of Comfort. "I was sick, and ye visited Me." Matt. 25:36.

1. For what will Christ finally commend the righteous?

“I was sick, and _ye visited Me_.” Matt. 25:36.

2. Why, in His earthly ministry, did Christ heal the sick?

“That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, _Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses_.” Matt. 8:17.

3. With what is Christ touched?

“With the feeling of our infirmities.” Heb. 4:15.

4. What relief did He bring to Peter’s household?

“And when Jesus was come into Peter’s house, He saw his wife’s mother laid, and sick of a fever. _And He touched her hand, and the fever left her_: and she arose, and ministered unto them.” Matt. 8:14, 15.

5. What example did He leave us?

“Who _went about doing good_, and _healing all that were oppressed of the devil_; for God was with Him.” Acts 10:38. “As He is, so are we in this world.” 1 John 4:17.

6. What should we not forget in our ministry for the sick?

“_Pray one for another, that ye may be healed._ The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” James 5:16.

Healing The Sick

Healing The Blind Men. "Himself took our infirmities, and bare our
sicknesses." Matt. 8:17.

1. What does the Lord declare Himself to be?

“I am the Lord that _healeth_ thee.” Ex. 15:26. “Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; _who healeth all thy diseases_.” Ps. 103:3.

2. What was promised Israel on condition of obedience?

“Thou shalt therefore keep the commandments, ... and _the Lord will take away from thee all sickness_.” Deut. 7:11-15.

3. When through disobedience Jeroboam’s hand was withered, by what means was it restored?

“And the king answered and said unto the man of God, Entreat now the face of the Lord thy God, and _pray for me, that my hand may be restored me again. And the man of God besought the Lord, and the king’s hand was restored him again, and became as it was before._” 1 Kings 13:6.

4. When Miriam was stricken with leprosy, how was she healed?

“And _Moses cried unto the Lord_, saying, Heal her now, O God, I beseech Thee.” Num. 12:13.

5. What mistake did Asa make in his severe affliction?

“And Asa in the thirty and ninth year of his reign was diseased in his feet, until his disease was exceeding great: yet in his disease _he sought not to the Lord, but to the physicians_.” 2 Chron. 16:12.

6. How was a child restored to life by Elijah?

“And he stretched himself upon the child three times, and _cried unto the Lord_, and said, O Lord my God, I pray Thee, let this child’s soul come into him again. And the Lord heard the voice of Elijah; _and the soul of the child came into him again, and he revived_.” 1 Kings 17:21, 22.

7. How was Hezekiah’s prayer for restoration from sickness answered?

“Thus saith the Lord, the God of David thy father, _I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years_.” Isa. 38:5.

8. What constituted a large part of Christ’s ministry?

“And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and _healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people_.” Matt. 4:23.

9. In doing this, what prophecy was fulfilled?

“He cast out the spirits with His word, and healed all that were sick: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, _Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses_.” Matt. 8:16, 17.

NOTE.—The essence of the gospel is restoration, or healing of
body, soul, and spirit. See John 3:16, Luke 4:17-19; Acts 3:19-21;
Rom. 8:21-23; 1 Cor. 15:51-55.

10. In the case of the woman healed of an infirmity, what gave effect to her touch of Christ’s garment?

“And He said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: _thy faith hath made thee whole_; go in peace.” Luke 8:48.

11. Before sending out the twelve, what power did Christ give them?

“Then He called His twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and _to cure diseases_. And He sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and _to heal the sick_.” Luke 9:1, 2. See Matt. 10:1, 7, 8; Luke 10:1, 9.

12. What notable miracle was performed by the apostles shortly after the day of Pentecost?

The Great Physician. "And He healed them all." Matt. 12:15.

“Then Peter said [to the lame man], Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and _immediately his feet and ankle-bones received strength_. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God.” Acts 3:6-8.

13. Among others, what gift has God set in the church?

“And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then _gifts of healing_, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.” 1 Cor. 12:28.

14. In sickness, what is every child of God privileged to do?

“Is any sick among you? _let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him_, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” James 5:14.

15. What assurance of blessing is given to those who ask according to God’s will?

“The prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” Verse 15.

NOTE.—Physical healing may not always be for our good or to the
glory of God. Hence we must be ready to pray with Jesus,
“Nevertheless not my will, but Thine, be done.” Luke 22:42. Paul
was denied the removal of infirmity, but the Lord assured him, “My
grace is sufficient for thee.” 2 Cor. 12:9. It is not a denial of
faith to make use of the simple remedial means that God has given,
or those ordinary essentials upon which He makes life dependent,
as proper food, pure air, rest, exercise, and sunshine.

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We may not climb the heavenly steeps,
To bring the Saviour down;
In vain we search the lowest deeps,
For Him no depths can drown.

But warm, sweet, tender, even yet
A present help is He;
And faith has yet its Olivet,
And love, its Galilee.

The healing of the seamless dress
Is by our beds of pain;
We touch Him in life’s throng and press,
And we are whole again.

Through Him the first fond prayers are said
Our lips of childhood frame;
The last low whispers of our dead
Are burdened with His name.
JOHN G. WHITTIER.

Prison Work

In Prison. "Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them." Heb.
13:3.

1. What does Christ give us as one reason why He will bid the righteous welcome into His kingdom?

“I was _in prison_, and _ye came unto Me_.” Matt. 25:36.

2. What is pure and undefiled religion declared to be?

To visit those in affliction. James 1:27.

NOTE.—In 1909 there were 100,221 prisoners in 195 penal
institutions in the United States, or an average of 112 to each
100,000.

3. What does God see when He looks down from heaven?

“For He hath looked down from the height of His sanctuary; from heaven did the Lord behold the earth; _to hear the groaning of the prisoner; to loose those that are appointed to death_.” Ps. 102:19, 20.

4. For what purpose did God send His Son into the world?

“To bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.” Isa. 42:7.

5. For what work did Christ say He was anointed?

“To preach the gospel to the poor; ... _to preach deliverance to the captives, ... to set at liberty them that are bruised_.” Luke 4:18.

6. Why did the psalmist wish to be brought out of the prison-house of sin?

“Bring my soul out of prison, _that I may praise Thy name_.” Ps. 142:7.

7. Whose prison-house does Satan not open?

“That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; _that opened not the house [the grave] of his prisoners_.” Isa. 14:17.

8. For what does the psalmist pray?

“_Let the sighing of the prisoner come before Thee_; according to the greatness of Thy power _preserve Thou those that are appointed to die_.” Ps. 79:11.

9. How does God regard His people who are in prison?

“For the Lord heareth the poor, and _despiseth not His prisoners_.” Ps. 69:33.

10. Why has the devil been permitted to cast some of God’s people into prison?

“Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, _that ye may be tried_.... Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” Rev. 2:10. See Dan. 11:33-35.

NOTE.—Dr. William Dodd (1729-77), an unfortunate English divine,
who, under stress of circumstances, became a heavy forger, was
imprisoned at Newgate for a time, and finally executed. Upon
visiting him, John Wesley found “a penitent and hopeful
malefactor,” and in his “Journal” says: “A real, deep work of God
seemed to be already begun in his soul. Perhaps by driving him too
fast, Satan has driven him to God, to that repentance which shall
never be repented of.” Visiting him shortly before his execution,
Mr. Wesley is reported to have replied to Mr. Dodd’s apologies for
receiving him in the condemned cell, “Courage, brother; perhaps
God saw that nothing else would do.” See “Life of John Wesley,” by
Richard Watson, page 207.

11. How would God have us sympathize with those in bonds and adversity?

“Remember them that are in bonds, _as bound with them_; and them which suffer adversity, _as being yourselves also in the body_.” Heb. 13:3.

12. What blessed invitation will Christ finally extend to those who have ministered to the wants of the needy, and visited the sick and those in prison?

“Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, _Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world_.” Matt 25:34.

Order And Organization

The Camp Of Israel. "Let all things be done decently and in order." 1 Cor.
14:40.

1. Of what is God the author?

“For God is not the author of confusion, but of _peace_, as in all churches of the saints.” 1 Cor. 14:33. See 1 Cor. 11:16.

2. Why did Paul give instruction to Timothy concerning the duties and qualifications of bishops and deacons?

“These things write I unto thee, ... _that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God_, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground [margin, stay] of the truth.” 1 Tim. 3:14, 15.

3. How should everything pertaining to God’s work be done?

“Let all things be done _decently and in order_.” 1 Cor. 14:40.

NOTE.—“Order is heaven’s first law.”—_Milton._ In the Scriptures
Christians are likened to soldiers, and their work to that of a
warrior, or to a conqueror going forth to conquer. 2 Tim. 2:3, 4;
1 Tim. 1:18; Rev. 6:2. As order, organization, direction, and
discipline are necessary in an army, so are they also in the
church. The weapons used and the object sought are different in
each case (Rom. 13:4; 2 Cor. 10:3, 4); but the necessity for order
and organization are the same in both.

4. What is one prime essential of soldiers in an army?

“All these men of war, that could _keep rank_, came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David king over all Israel.” 1 Chron. 12:38.

5. That the burden of judging and looking after the affairs of Israel might not all rest on Moses, what instruction did Jethro, his father-in-law, give him?

“Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. And let them judge the people at all seasons: and it shall be, that every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge: so shall it be easier for thyself, and they shall bear the burden with thee.” Ex. 18:21, 22.

6. How many apostles did Christ at first ordain to preach the gospel?

“And _He ordained twelve_, that they should be with Him, and that He might send them forth to preach.” Mark 3:14.

7. How many did He later appoint to this work?

“After these things the Lord appointed _other seventy also_, and sent them two and two before His face into every city and place, whither He Himself would come.” Luke 10:1.

8. When the number of the disciples multiplied, what instruction did the apostles give the believers, that none might be neglected in the daily ministration of temporal necessities?

“Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.” Acts 6:3.

NOTE.—The men thus selected were known as deacons. The lesson to
be learned from this is that leaders and people should unite in
planning and providing for the necessary organization and
officering of the church according to its growth and needs. This
cooperation is again shown in the words of Paul, “Whomsoever ye
shall approve by your letters, them will I send.” 1 Cor. 16:3. See
also Acts 15:22.

9. What word came through the Spirit to the ministering prophets and teachers laboring at Antioch?

“As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, _Separate Me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them_. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.” Acts 13:2, 3.

10. What is one of the gifts which God has set in the church?

“And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that ... helps, _governments_.” 1 Cor. 12:28.

NOTE.—The word here rendered _governments_ implies the work or
office of “steering, piloting, directing.”

11. For the direction of matters in each local church, what instruction did the apostle Paul give to Titus?

“For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and _ordain elders in every city_, as I had appointed thee.” Titus 1:5.

12. What instruction did he give to the members of the church as to their relationship to those thus appointed?

“_Obey them that have the rule_ [margin, _guide_] _over you, and submit yourselves_: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief.” Heb. 13:17. See 1 Peter 5:5; Mark 10:42-45.

13. What instruction and caution are given to elders?

“The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, ... _Feed the flock of God_ which is among you, _taking the oversight thereof_, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; _neither as being lords over God’s heritage_, but being ensamples to the flock.” 1 Peter 5:1-3.

NOTE.—For the qualifications and duties of elders, see 1 Tim.
3:1-3; Titus 1:6-9; Acts 20:28-31; and the scripture just quoted.
How God regards rebellion against divinely appointed authority and
leadership, is illustrated in the expulsion of Satan and his
angels from heaven, and in the fate of Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.
See Rev. 12:7-9; Numbers 16. The unity and harmony which should
exist among believers is described in John 13:34, 35; 17:20-23;
and Eph. 4:1-6. The evil of place-seeking in the church is shown
in Mark 10:35-45 and Luke 14:7-11; and of ecclesiastical tyranny,
in Dan. 7:25; 8:24, 25; 2 Thess. 2:3, 4; and John 16:2. The course
to be pursued toward offending members, and in cases where
differences arise, is pointed out in Matt. 18:15-18; 5:23, 24;
Gal. 6:1; 1 Tim. 5:19, 20; Titus 3:10, 11; 1 Corinthians 5; and
Acts 15. And the guide-book in all matters of both doctrine and
discipline should be the Bible. Isa. 8:20; 2 Tim. 3:16, 17; 4:1,
2.

‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐

Has some one seen Christ in you today?
Christian, look to your heart, I pray;
The little things you have done or said—
Did they accord with the way you prayed?
Have your thoughts been pure and words been kind?
Have you sought to have the Saviour’s mind?
The world with a criticizing view
Has watched; but did it see Christ in you?

Has some one seen Christ in you today?
Christian, look to your life, I pray;
There are aching hearts and blighted souls
Being lost on sin’s destructive shoals,
And perhaps of Christ their only view
May be what they see of Him in you.
Will they see enough to bring hope and cheer?
Look to your light! does it shine out clear?

Support Of The Ministry

Jacob’s Vow. "Of all that Thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth
unto Thee." Gen. 28:22.

1. What is one way in which we are commanded to honor God?

“Honor the Lord _with thy substance_, and _with the first-fruits of all thine increase_.” Prov. 3:9.

2. What part of one’s income has the Lord especially claimed as His?

“And _all the tithe_ [_tenth_] _of the land_, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, _is the Lord’s: it is holy unto the Lord_.” Lev. 27:30.

3. For whose support and for what work was the tithe devoted in Israel?

“Behold, I have given _the children of Levi_ all the tenth in Israel for an inheritance, _for their service which they serve, even the service of the tabernacle of the congregation_.” Num. 18:21.

4. In what language does Paul approve of the same method of support for the gospel ministry?

“If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?... Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? _Even so hath the Lord ordained that they __ which preach the gospel should live of the gospel_.” 1 Cor. 9:11-14.

5. Upon what fundamental basis does the requirement of tithe-paying rest?

“_The earth is the Lord’s_, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” Ps. 24:1.

6. Who owns all the gold and silver in the world?

“The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine, saith the Lord of hosts.” Haggai 2:8.

7. Who owns all the cattle and fowls of the earth?

“For every beast of the forest is Mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are Mine.” Ps. 50:10, 11.

8. Who gives man power to get wealth?

“But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for _it is He that giveth thee power to get wealth_.” Deut. 8:18.

9. What statement of Christ shows that man is not an original owner, but a steward of God’s goods?

“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and _delivered unto them his goods_.” Matt. 25:14. See 1 Cor. 4:7.

10. How early in the history of the world do we read of tithe-paying?

“For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; to whom also _Abraham gave a tenth part of all_.” Heb. 7:1, 2. See Gen. 14:17-20.

11. What vow did Jacob make at Bethel?

“And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that I come again to my father’s house in peace; then shall the Lord be my God: ... and _of all that Thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto Thee_.” Gen. 28:20-22.

NOTE.—It is thus evident that the duty of paying tithes was
recognized by the patriarchs as a religious obligation.

12. After what order was Christ made a high priest?

“Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even _Jesus, made an high priest forever after the order of Melchisedec_.” Heb. 6:20.

NOTE.—As Christ’s priesthood succeeded the Aaronic or Levitical
priesthood, which was supported by the tithes of Israel; and as
Christ was made a priest after the order of Melchisedec, who
received tithes of the patriarchs before the Levitical priesthood
was ordained, it is but logical and natural to conclude that the
ministry under Christ’s priesthood should be supported by the same
means as were both of these priesthoods,—the tithes of God’s
people.

13. Did Christ Himself approve of tithe-paying?

“Ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: _these ought ye to have done_, and not to leave the other undone.” Matt. 23:23.

14. Of what is one guilty who withholds the tithe and free-will offerings?

“Will a man rob God? Yet _ye have robbed Me_. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed Thee? _In tithes and offerings._” Mal. 3:8.

15. Concerning what does the Lord ask us to prove Him, and upon what conditions does He promise great blessings?

“_Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse_, that there may be meat in Mine house, and _prove Me now herewith_, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts.” Verses 10, 11.

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My gracious Lord, I own Thy right
To every service I can pay,
And call it my supreme delight
To hear Thy dictates, and obey.

What is my being, but for Thee,—
Its sure support, its noblest end?
’Tis my delight Thy face to see,
And serve the cause of such a Friend.

I would not sigh for worldly joy,
Or to increase my worldly good;
Nor future days or powers employ
To spread a sounding name abroad.

’Tis to my Saviour I would live—
To Him who for my ransom died;
Nor could all worldly honor give
Such bliss as crowns me at His side.
PHILIP DODDRIDGE.

The Widow’s Mites. "This poor widow hath cast in more than they all." Luke
21:3.

Free-Will Offerings

Bringing Gifts To The Feast. "Bring an offering, and come into His
courts." Ps. 96:8.

1. By what has God ordained that His work be sustained?

“Tithes and offerings.” Mal. 3:8.

2. How are we told to come into His courts?

“_Bring an offering_, and come into His courts.” Ps. 96:8.

NOTE.—Various offerings are mentioned in the Bible, such as
thank-offerings, peace-offerings, sin-offerings, and
trespass-offerings.

3. In celebrating the three annual feasts, what instruction did God give to His people anciently?

“Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto Me in the year.... And _none shall appear before Me empty_.” Ex. 23:14, 15.

4. With what spirit would God have us give?

“Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for _God loveth a cheerful giver_.” 2 Cor. 9:7.

5. On what condition did Paul say he would have a reward?

“If I do this thing _willingly_, I have a reward.” 1 Cor. 9:17.

6. What has Christ said regarding giving?

“It is _more blessed to give than to receive_.” Acts 20:35.

7. How does God regard the covetous man?

“The wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire, and blesseth the covetous, _whom the Lord abhorreth_.” Ps. 10:3. See Ex. 18:21.

8. What warning did Christ give against covetousness?

“Take heed, and _beware of covetousness_: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.” Luke 12:15.

9. How, in the parable, did God regard the selfish rich man?

“But God said unto him, _Thou fool_, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?” Verse 20.

10. What application does Christ make of this parable?

“So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” Verse 21. See 1 Tim. 6:7.

11. By what means can men lay up treasure in heaven?

“Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.” Luke 12:33. See 1 Tim. 6:7.

12. What charge was Timothy instructed to give the rich?

“Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; _that they do good_, _that they be rich in good works_, _ready to distribute_, _willing to communicate_; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” 1 Tim. 6:17-19.

13. How does God regard such a course?

“But to do good and to communicate forget not: _for with such sacrifices God is well pleased_.” Heb 13:16.

14. According to what rule should one give?

“_Every man shall give as he is able_, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which He hath given thee.” Deut. 16:17.

15. Upon what basis are gifts acceptable to God?

“For if there be first a willing mind, _it is accepted according to that a man hath_, and not according to that he hath not.” 2 Cor. 8:12.

16. What indicates where our hearts are?

“For _where your treasure is_, there will your heart be also.” Luke 12:34.

Hospitality

Elijah And The Widow. "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers." Heb.
13:2.

1. What do the Scriptures say concerning hospitality?

“_Use hospitality one to another_ without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” 1 Peter 4:9, 10. “Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; ... _distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality_.” Rom. 12:10-13.

2. Is a mere expression of good wishes sufficient?

“If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; _what doth it profit_?” James 2:15, 16.

3. When should we exercise hospitality?

“_As we have therefore opportunity_, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” Gal. 6:10.

4. What encouragement is given to entertain strangers?

“Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for _thereby some have entertained angels unawares_.” Heb. 13:2. See Gen 18: 1-8; 19:1-3.

5. What blessings are promised those who do such work?

“The liberal soul _shall be made fat_: and he that watereth _shall be watered also himself_.” Prov. 11:25. 1 Kings 17:8-16.

Who Is The Greatest?

Jesus Washing The Disciples’ Feet. "Whosoever of you will be the chiefest,
shall be servant of all." Mark 10:44.

1. At the last Passover, what did Christ say to His disciples?

“And he said unto them, With desire have I desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer: for I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” Luke 22:15, 16.

2. Concerning what had there been a strife among the disciples?

“And there was also a strife among them, _which of them should be accounted the greatest_.” Verse 24.

3. How did Christ rebuke this spirit?

“And He said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but _he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve_.” Verses 25, 26. See Mark 10:42-45.

4. What did the Saviour say of His own position?

“For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but _I am among you as he that serveth_.” Verse 27.

5. Notwithstanding that He was their Lord and Master, what example of humility and willing service did Christ give?

“He riseth from supper, and laid aside His garments; and took a towel, and girded Himself. After that _He poureth water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded_.” John 13:4, 5.

6. What was the custom anciently respecting feet-washing?

“Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and _wash your feet_.” “And he said, Behold now, my lords, turn in, I pray you, into your servant’s house, and tarry all night, and _wash your feet_.” “And the man brought the men into Joseph’s house, and _gave them water, and they washed their feet_.” Gen. 18:4; 19:2; 43:24. See also Judges 19:21; 2 Sam. 11:8.

7. How did Christ reprove Simon for misjudging Him in permitting a woman who was a sinner to wash His feet?

“And He turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, _thou gavest Me no water for My feet_: but she hath washed My feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.” Luke 7:44.

NOTES.—From the scriptures just cited, it appears that the usual
custom in Christ’s time was for the guests to wash their own feet.

“As sandals were ineffectual against the dust and heat of an
Eastern climate, washing the feet on entering a house was an act
both of respect to the company and of refreshment to the
traveler.”—_Complete Dictionary of the Bible, by Smith and Barnum,
article __“__Washing the Hands and Feet.__”_

At a feast it was an Oriental custom for servants or slaves to
wash the feet of guests. See 1 Sam. 25:40, 41. It was not the
custom, however, of _equals_ to wash the feet of _equals_, much
less for _superiors_ to wash the feet of _inferiors_. But this is
the very thing that Christ did when He washed the disciples’ feet,
and instituted the ordinance of feet-washing. In this lies the
lesson of humility and willingness to serve which He designed to
teach.

8. What question did Peter ask concerning this proffered service?

“Then cometh He to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto Him, _Lord, dost Thou wash my feet_?” John 13:6.

9. What answer did Jesus make?

“Jesus answered and said unto him, _What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter_.” Verse 7.

10. How did Peter feel about the Saviour’s washing his feet?

“Peter saith unto Him, _Thou shalt never wash my feet_.” Verse 8.

11. What was the Master’s reply to Peter?

“Jesus answered him, _If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with Me_.” Same verse.

NOTE.—This ordinance is a type of a higher cleansing,—the
cleansing of the heart from the stain of sin. It is a rebuke to
all selfishness and seeking of place and preferment among Christ’s
professed followers, and a witness to the fact that, in God’s
sight, it is true humility and loving service which constitute
real greatness.

12. Learning that union with Christ depended on this service, what did Peter say?

“Simon Peter saith unto Him, Lord, _not my feet only, but also my hands and my head_.” Verse 9. See verse 10.

13. After having washed their feet, what did Christ say?

“_I have given you an example_, that ye should do as I have done to you.” Verse 15.

14. What did He say about their washing one another’s feet?

“Ye call Me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; _ye also ought to wash one another’s feet_.” Verses 13, 14.

15. What did Christ say would be their experience in obeying His instruction?

“If ye know these things, _happy are ye if ye do them_.” Verse 17.

16. How does Christ regard an act performed toward the humblest of His disciples?

“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, _ye have done it unto Me_.” Matt. 25:40.

NOTE.—The great lesson intended to be taught by the instituting of
this ordinance evidently was such humility as would lead to
willing service for others. The ordinance itself has been
practised by many of the most devout followers of Christ during
the Christian era, and is still observed by some. Kitto, in his
Cyclopedia of Biblical Literature, says it became “a part of the
observances of the early Christian church,” and that “traces of
the practise abound in ecclesiastical history.” The Waldenses held
it as an ordinance of the church (see their “Confession of Faith,”
page 12); and according to the Cyclopedia of Biblical Literature
(Vol. III, page 616), “the Church of England at first carried out
the letter of the command.” It is a great test of character, and
its observance tends to unite hearts in Christian fellowship and
love.

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I will never, never leave thee,
I will never thee forsake;
I will guide, and save, and keep thee,
For My name and mercy’s sake:
Fear no evil,
Only all My counsel take.