The comet. (Johnson City, Tenn.) 1884-1916, 1911-04-20

]
Lord.
In the New Testament, all were
commanded to consecrate that they
might be holy people, a chosen gen
GRAFTON, a royal priesthood. We learn
from Hebrews that the Son of God
was consecrated forever; then let us
press into this new and living way
The ministry never can have power
with God and man. unless truly con
secrated to the one who has given
them the call to preach the everlast.
ing gospel. This conservation must
be kept, in spite Of men or devils
Like Peter and John, ''obey God rath
er than men," Brethren in the min.
istry, are we consecrated to Gods
call to preach the gospel, giving our
selves to the ministry of the word
and prayer as Christ in the garden,
Peter on the housetop, Paul in fasting
and prayer till God spake, Daniel in
prayer and supplcation; the devils
breast-work broken down. We cannot
blame the laity for not wanting to
support man that is not consecrated
to the ministry.
Want Full Service.
A preacher half given up to the
ministry will discourage any class
and weaken their faith and, when this
takes place, those who follow Though
they are men of God given up to the
gospeD will suffer because of the I'M
70 E,f 80
Grated ministry first, then, and not till
then, can we lead the fiocks into full
conservation. l firmly believe that in
our little zion we have some of the
most self-sacrificing, self-denying.
both in the ministry and laity. The
shepherds must lead in this great bat
tie against sin. Dear brethren, keep
where the fire of the Holy Ghost can
burn out all trace of things that
would entangle or hinder or divide
our minds. We have often had the |
question put to US, What will be- |
come of our families? Our income |
will not permit us to lay aside any.
thing for the future" We can only |
trust to the one who has called us |
with the highest calling. Here again
is the keeping of our conservation
fully. Oh, for that spirit of Paul who
said BE We followers of me even as
l also am of Christi" again, de
termined not to know anything among
you, save Jesus Christ and him cru.
Gifted"
Will Win and Keep Flock.
Oh, my beloved brethren, a min
stry "crucified with Christ" will carry
an influence that will stimulate and
win the confidence of Gods people
having the confidence Of
Gods people, the shepherd never can
cad them. A consecrated and sanciti
led preacher will prove himself. 1t
nay take time, but with patience let
Is possess our souls. Brethren, we
are apt to think too much of our
selves. The life that is poured out
'or others will receive the richest
reasure. Give and it shall be given
INTO you; good measure, pressed
lown, and shaken together, and run.
ling over" Many OF Gods servants
all to go far enough along this line.
Brethren, God being our helper, let us
yenture farther out on these exceed
ng great and precious promises; then,
IS our conservation unfolds, oh let us
,lunge deeper into the fountain that
leanseth from all sin. Gods servant
Who lives these truths before the flock
VIII surely find those who will be
eady to pluck out their eyes Tread
ial 4:5) yea, give of their hard
armed means for the support of Gods
allied man. If you suffer the will of
+od I'VE do well" ye do we'll, do we'll
e. ]. Managh, in Gospel Banner