Good Words from J.C. Ryle on the 4th of July

J.C. Ryle writing in 1890:

"My wish is, that men may write on their hearts that the well-being of England depends not on commerce, or clever politicians, or steam, or armies, or navies, or gold, or iron, or coal, or corn, but on the maintenance of the principles of the English Reformation."

  Light from Old Times

Perhaps in our country we might well say that the well-bring of America depends on the maintenance - or the return to - the principles of the First Great Awakening. There is no hope apart from the bold proclamation of the gospel!

Capitol Bible Study: "In the World but Not of the World"

From this week's Bible study at the West Virginia capitol:

 

“This world is not my home, I’m just a-passing through…”

 

Most of us remember those familiar words from this old gospel song. It goes on, “Lord, You know, I have no friend like You. If Heaven’s not my home, then Lord what will I do? The angels beckon me from heaven’s open door; and I can’t feel at home in this world any more”. This song poignantly speaks of a believer’s desire to go home to heaven to be with Christ. Later verses tell of loved ones who have gone on before and of the victory and rejoicing that takes place in heaven. It reminds of Paul’s teaching that “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20) and that we should “set our minds on things above” (Colossians 3:2). While we might certainly long for the peace, joy, and victory of heaven, we are left here on earth to face the trials, challenges, and difficulties of life in this world.  While our hearts may be in heaven, Jesus has left us here in this world for a reason.  

We will be more effective in living out our Christian lives and sharing the gospel with the lost by learning from Jesus’ descriptions of our relationship with the world found in His prayer in John 17.

Read or download our study, "What in the World?"

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John Newton - "My Politics"

In Light of what is going on in our world today, some amazing words from John Newton back in 1778:

My politics!

(Letters of John Newton, 1778)

The whole system of my politics is summed up in this one verse, "The Lord reigns! Let the nations tremble!" Psalm 99:1

The times look awfully dark indeed; and as the clouds grow thicker--the stupidity of the nation seems proportionally to increase. If the Lord had not a remnant here, I would have very formidable apprehensions. But He loves His redeemed children; some are sighing and mourning before Him, and I am sure He hears their sighs, and sees their tears. I trust there is mercy in store for us at the bottom; but I expect a shaking time before things get into a right channel--before we are humbled, and are taught to give Him the glory.

The state of the nation, the state of the churches--both are deplorable! Those who should be praying--are disputing and fighting among themselves! Alas! how many professors are more concerned for the mistakes of government--than for their own sins!

 
"Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns!" Revelation 19:6

HT: Grace Gems