He who gains the world at such a cost is a loser by the bargain. On the other hand, the whole world is too small, yea, an utterly inadequate price, to pay for the ransom of the soul once lost. Thou canst not buy back thy soul, which thou hast bartered for the world, with all that thou hast of the world. The appeal contained in these solemn questions comes home with irresistible force to all who are in their right mind. All, however, are not so minded.
Multitudes account their souls of very small value indeed.
Give us health, wealth, houses, lands, honors, and we care not for righteousness, either imputed or personal, peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost. The third argument in favor of cross-bearing is drawn from the second advent. These words suggest a contrast between the present and the future state of the speaker, and imply a promise of a corresponding contrast between the present and the future of His faithful followers. Now Jesus is the Son of man, destined ere many weeks pass to be crucified at Jerusalem. His reward for enduring the cross, despising the shame.