Xix. to Lady Kenmure
Samuel Rutherford urges Lady Kenmure to deepen her relationship with Christ through labor, effort, and dedication, warning against the ease of superficial Christianity and the idolatry of seeking worldly joy and comfort.
Samuel Rutherford emphasizes the importance of deepening one's communion with Christ, urging believers to draw closer to Him and discover new depths of His love. He encourages believers to put in the effort, labor, and time to seek after Christ, as true intimacy with Him requires dedication and perseverance. Rutherford reflects on his own journey of faith, acknowledging the challenges and winding paths he has faced in seeking God. He warns against seeking joy, comfort, and confidence in the world, reminding believers that true fulfillment is found in Christ alone.
Text
MADAM, -- I hope that ye are wrestling and struggling on, in this dead
age, wherein folks have lost tongue, and legs, and arms for Christ. I
urge upon you, Madam, a nearer communion with Christ, and a growing
communion. There are curtains to be drawn by in Christ, that we never
saw, and new foldings of love in Him. I despair that ever I shall win
to the far end of that love, there are so many plies in it. Therefore,
dig deep; and sweat, and labour, and take pains for Him; and set by as
much time in the day for Him as you can. He will be won with labour.
Now, Madam, I assure you, the greatest part but play with Christianity;
they put it by-hand easily. I thought it had been an easy thing to be a
Christian, and that to seek God had been at the next door; but O, the
windings and turnings that He has led me through! And I see yet much
way to the ford.
I pray God I may not look to the world for my joys, and comforts, and
confidence -- that were to put Christ out of His office. Now, the
presence of the great Angel of the covenant be with you and that sweet
child.
Yours in the Lord Jesus.
ABERDEEN, March 7, 1637
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of a Growing Communion with Christ
- The Ease of Christianity is an Illusion
- Looking to the World for Joy and Comfort is Idolatry
- Christ's presence is essential for true joy and comfort
- The world cannot provide what Christ offers
Key Quotes
“There are curtains to be drawn by in Christ, that we never saw, and new foldings of love in Him.” — Samuel Rutherford
“I despair that ever I shall win to the far end of that love, there are so many plies in it.” — Samuel Rutherford
“He will be won with labour.” — Samuel Rutherford
Application Points
- We must labor and strive to understand Christ and deepen our relationship with Him.
- True Christianity requires effort and dedication, not just superficial practice.
- We must seek joy and comfort in Christ's presence, not in the world.