0352. 346. First and the Last Word

346. First and the Last Word

“First of all… Christ died for our sins” (1Co_15:3). “The Lamb is the Light thereof” (Rev_21:23).

Dr. Stuart Holden, in closing a meeting held in the Kingsway Hall, said: “My last word is this, that the basis of all sacrificial conflict, the basis of every life, and the inspiration of every career in fellowship with Jesus Christ, is the sacrificial life that He lived, is the unspeakable death that He died for our salvation. The last and ultimate thing to be said by any missionary, prospective or actual, in regard to his work, is this: ‘He loved me, and gave Himself for me.’“

1. Salvation. The first and the last word for salvation is, “He gave Himself for me.” Salvation is not Christ and me, but Christ for me—Gal_2:20.

2. Sanctification. “I am crucified with Christ… He liveth in me” (Gal_2:20). Holiness is not Christ and me, but Christ in me.

3. Service. “The love of Christ constraineth us… He died… we should live unto Him” (2Co_5:14-15). All true service is born of His service for us.

4. Example. “Suffered for us, leaving us an Example” (1Pe_2:21). We can do anything, or follow anywhere, where the magnetic influence of His Cross attracts us.

By: DR. F. E. MARSH