Biblia

207. HEB 10:23. STEADFASTNESS IN THE CHRISTIAN PROFESSION

207. HEB 10:23. STEADFASTNESS IN THE CHRISTIAN PROFESSION

Heb_10:23. Steadfastness in the Christian Profession

"Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering, for he is faithful that promised."’97Heb_10:23.

The apostle had been referring to the sacrificial work of Jesus, in opening a way by which we might have boldness of access into the holiest of all, consecrated for us by his precious blood. He then directs us how we are to draw near to God by this way, viz. with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, with hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and bodies washed with pure water. Then he urges the necessity of steadfastness in the Christian profession, Let us hold fast," &c.

Let us consider,

I. The Profession referred to.

He calls it "the profession of our faith." it is the obvious exhibition of our faith in the gospel, and our attachment and obedience to the Lord Jesus Christ.

This profession is,

1. Put on when we become the members of his visible church.

The possession of religion is clearly supposed. But more than this is required; we must let our lights shine; as salt,’97the savor of our piety must be spread abroad. We must unite with his people; be called by his name, rally round his cross, and be devoted to his glory. We must be his witnesses and confessors in the world. Living epistles, read and known of all men. The members of the first church at Jerusalem, heard, believed, were baptized, and then continued steadfastly in the ordinances of Christ.

2. This profession is one part of religion itself.

It is directly enjoined by the head of the church. We are called to follow him who publicly honored his heavenly Father. He has said that they who are ashamed to confess him, of them he will also be ashamed. "If a man will be my disciple, let him take up his cross and follow me."

3. This profession will expose to difficulties and sufferings.

There will be,

(1) The assaults of Satan. This profession is a declaration of war with him. He will come as a flood to overwhelm us. Direct his fiery darts, &c. Sift us as he did Peter, &c.

There will also be,

(2) The opposition of the world. World is at enmity with God and all his people. Hated Christ, and will hate all his sincere followers. In the world must have tribulation.

There will also be,

(3) The indisposition of our own hearts. Weakness; indolence; self-love; unbelief; unwatchfulness; &c.

Notice then,

II. The Duty enjoined.

This profession must be held fast, &c.

This implies,

1. That there must be decision of character.

We must not be halting between two opinions. Not half-hearted. All our powers must be surrendered to God. The entire surrender of the whole man. The heart fully on the Lord’s side.

2. There must be constancy of spirit.

Heart established, mind fixed, soul stayed upon God. Constant in duties; especially prayer, praise, reading the Divine word, &c. Always setting the Lord before us, &c. Not as the morning cloud and early dew, &c.

3. There must be perseverance in practice.

We only retain our hold by pressing onwards, &c. We must be found walking in the Lord’s testimonies; running the appointed race; warring; striving; being diligent; and abounding more and more in the work of the Lord. Not weary, but faithful unto death.

4. In short, we must hold fast our profession.

(1) By the exercise of vigorous faith.

(2) By the constraining influence of Christ’s love.

(3) By the cheering attractions of a lively hope.

(4) By the supporting and staying effects of holy patience; and,

(5) By the continual use of all the appointed means of grace.

Let us consider,

III. Some Motives by which this Duty may be enforced.

Love to Jesus is a powerful motive Gratitude for past mercies. Our present happiness, and our prospect of eternal felicity. But there is one which the text supplies: "For he is faithful that promised." Christ’s faithfulness is here laid down as the great motive.

1. He has promised to give us grace to hold fast our profession; and "he is faithful."

"My grace is sufficient for thee." To cheer, to direct, to keep, to uphold, and to save to eternal life. He will never leave, &c. Supply all our need, &c. Sun and shield; give grace, and glory &c.

2. He has promised to acknowledge our profession; and "he is faithful."

He has said, "He will confess us;" acknowledge all we do and suffer for his sake, &c. Not forget a cup of water given to one of his disciples.

3. He has promised to reward our profession; and "he is faithful."

He has promised that we shall reap according as we sow; that we shall receive a. hundred-fold, and life everlasting; an unchanging inheritance; an unfading crown; a glorious throne, and an everlasting kingdom; fulness of joy for evermore. Our labors shall be rewarded with rest; our warfare with celestial triumph; and our sufferings with an eternal weight of glory. And "he is faithful." Nothing can change his mind; nothing can frustrate his counsels; nothing can cause him to violate his word. His throne and his glory rest upon the basis of his faithfulness. If this failed, heaven and earth would be involved in one common ruin.

"To patient faith the prize is sure,

And all that to the end endure

The cross, shall wear the crown."

Application

1. Learn that religion requires both the devotion of the heart, and the profession of the life.

2. The way to heaven is associated with conflicts.

3. Steadfastness is essential to our final salvation.

4. God has provided abundant resources for our comfort and safety.

5. The end will amply recompense for the trials of the way.

Autor: JABEZ BURNS