Rover
D.L. Moody challenges Christians to come boldly to the throne of grace and receive the abundance of God's blessings, rather than settling for a superficial experience of salvation.
D.L. Moody illustrates the reluctance of many Christians to fully embrace God's blessings, comparing them to a dog named Rover who is content with crumbs but hesitant to accept a generous offering of roast beef from his master. He emphasizes that just as Rover should not shy away from the feast prepared for him, believers should boldly approach God's throne of grace to receive the abundant help and blessings available to them. Moody's message encourages Christians to recognize their worthiness to receive God's gifts and to not settle for less than what He offers.
Text
I remember when Dr. Arnold, who has gone to God, was delivering a sermon, he used this illustration. The sermon and text have all gone, but that illustration is fresh upon my mind to-night and brings home the truth. He said, "You have been sometimes out at dinner with a friend, and you have seen the faithful household dog standing watching every mouthful his master takes.
All the crumbs that fall on the floor he picks up, and seems eager for them, but when his master takes a plate of beef and puts it on the floor and says, 'Rover, here's something for you,' he comes up and smells of it, looks at his master, and goes away to a corner of the room.
He was willing to eat the crumbs, but he wouldn't touch the roast beef; thought it was too good for him." That is the way with a good many Christians. They are willing to eat the crumbs, but not willing to take all God wants. Come boldly to the throne of grace and get the help you need; there is an abundance for every man, woman and child.
Sermon Outline
- The Illustration of Rover
- The Problem of the Christian
- The Solution to the Problem
- Come Boldly to the Throne of Grace
- Get the Help You Need
Key Quotes
“You have been sometimes out at dinner with a friend, and you have seen the faithful household dog standing watching every mouthful his master takes.” — D.L. Moody
Application Points
- Be willing to take all that God wants for you, rather than settling for less.
- Come boldly to the throne of grace and receive the help you need.
- Trust in God's love and promises, and be honest and humble in your approach to Him.