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  LVI. TO EARLSTON, THE YOUNGER
  by Samuel Rutherford
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Summary: The sermon emphasizes the importance of suffering for Christ
and gaining Him as the ultimate prize, surpassing all other things.

Topics: "Suffering For Christ", "Faith In Adversity"
Scripture References: Matthew 6:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9, Philippians 1:21, Colossians 3:2, Hebrews 6:19

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DESCRIPTION
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Samuel Rutherford preaches about finding joy and blessings in suffering
for Christ, recognizing that even enemies can unintentionally contribute
to our blessings. He reflects on the sweetness of the cross and the
presence of the Lord in times of affliction, acknowledging personal
neglects and guiltiness. Rutherford emphasizes the importance of
building a strong foundation in Christ to withstand life's storms, with
a secure anchor within the veil of God's presence. He concludes that
true gain is found in Christ alone, with all other things being
temporary and insignificant.

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CONTENT
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MUCH HONORED SIR, -- Grace, mercy, and peace be to you. I am well.

Christ triumpheth in me, blessed be His name. I have all things. I

burden no man. I see that this earth and the fatness thereof is my

Father's. Sweet, sweet is the cross of my Lord. The blessing of God

upon the cross of my Lord Jesus! My enemies have contributed (beside

their design) to make me blessed. This is my palace, not my prison;

especially, when my Lord shineth and smileth upon His poor afflicted

and sold Joseph, who is separated from his brethren. But, oh, my

neglects! Oh, my unseen guiltiness! I imagined that a sufferer for

Christ kept the keys of Christ's treasure, and might take out his

heart-full of comforts when he pleased; but I see, a sufferer and a

witness shall be holden at the door, as well as another poor sinner,

and be glad to eat with the bairns, and to take the by-board.

Sir, lay the foundation thus, and ye shall not soon shrink, nor be

shaken. Make tight work at the bottom, and your ship shall ride against

all storms, if withal your anchor be fastened on good ground; I mean

within the vail. And verily I think this is all, to gain Christ. All

other things are shadows, dreams, fancies, and nothing.

Sir, remember my love to your mother. I pray for mercy and grace to

her; I wish her on-going toward heaven. As I promised to write, so show

her that I want nothing in my Lord's service. Christ will not be in

such a poor man's common as mine. Grace, grace be with you.

ABERDEEN, Sept. 22, 1637

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/samuel-rutherford/lvi-to-earlston-the-younger/
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