Letter: 34f 70 Mrs Monthenez, London, 1844
John Nelson Darby expresses his gratitude for God's power in his ministry and desires others to be emboldened to bear witness to the power of Christ.
John Nelson Darby expresses deep gratitude for the power he feels in his ministry, attributing it to God's grace while simultaneously acknowledging his unworthiness and the humility it brings. He encourages his brethren to boldly witness the grace and power of Christ, recognizing that many are more blessed than he. Darby emphasizes the need for workers in God's kingdom who can effectively apply Christ's message to souls, providing them with the rest they seek. He reflects on his potential departure from England, feeling fulfilled in his efforts and hopeful for the strengthening of bonds among believers.
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p70 [Mrs Monthenez] [From the French.] VERY DEAR SISTER, - I believe God has given me more power than ever in my ministry, blessed be His name; indeed, I am very thankful for it. I hope, at the same time, that this has made me more humble than before; no doubt I had need of it, but I have felt myself so unworthy of this grace, and so humbled by the goodness and affection of the brethren that surround me, that whilst being impelled to work, I wished the rather to hide myself somewhere. Oh, how I desire that all the brethren should be emboldened by grace to bear witness to the grace and power of Christ according to its efficacy in those who bear it. And why not? However, there are several who in fact are more blessed than I, so that I believe sometimes there must be some fault in me that puts me forward, whilst others draw souls to God. God knows that I have not the desire for it. May God bless these brothers ever more; but what need the kingdom of God has of workmen who apply Christ to souls by the word, and give them the rest that they need, even amongst the children of God! It is quite possible that I leave England this week, I think of doing so. . . . I have done what I desired in my heart to do before leaving. Something may always retard us more than we think, but I have nothing now on hand to hinder me. . . . May God in His goodness ever strengthen the bonds of Christ between His dear children . . . .
Your affectionate brother in Christ.
London, 1844.
[51034F]
Sermon Outline
- The Power of God's Ministry
- The Desire for Others to Witness
- The Need for Workmen in the Kingdom of God
- The kingdom of God needs workmen who apply Christ to souls
- Who give them rest and meet their needs
Key Quotes
“Oh, how I desire that all the brethren should be emboldened by grace to bear witness to the grace and power of Christ according to its efficacy in those who bear it.” — John Nelson Darby
Application Points
- We should be grateful for the power of God in our lives and seek to be used by Him to bear witness to others.
- We need to be emboldened by grace to share the power of Christ with others, just as John Nelson Darby desires for others.
- The kingdom of God needs workmen who apply Christ to souls, giving them rest and meeting their needs.