Lvi. to Earlston, the Younger
The sermon emphasizes the importance of suffering for Christ and gaining Him as the ultimate prize, surpassing all other things.
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.
Text
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
Sermon Outline
- The Blessing of Suffering for Christ
- The Dangers of Neglect and Unseen Guilt
- The True Value of Gaining Christ
- All Other Things are Shadows
- The Importance of Anchoring in Christ
- The Importance of a Strong Foundation
Key Quotes
“Sweet, sweet is the cross of my Lord.” — Samuel Rutherford
“Make tight work at the bottom, and your ship shall ride against all storms, if withal your anchor be fastened on good ground;” — Samuel Rutherford
“All other things are shadows, dreams, fancies, and nothing.” — Samuel Rutherford
Application Points
- I must be willing to suffer for Christ and find my blessing and triumph in Him.
- I must build a strong foundation in my faith by making a secure commitment to Christ and anchoring my faith in Him.
- I must prioritize gaining Christ above all other things, recognizing that He is the ultimate prize and value.