so much on the theme, "Ye must be born again." He later explained, "I will tell you easily enough why I preach on it. Simply because you must be born again!" Anyone who studies his writings will know that John Wesley did not believe in salvation by works. When he preached on the text, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate" he meant in essence, "Be eager, alert and desirous of going in at the door of salvation. It is the only way that leads to eternal life." We are to be concerned about our future destiny so that we will trust Christ as Saviour. Peter similarly urges us to make our calling and election sure. Let us examine our own hearts with the divine light of the Holy Spirit, as we consider our standing before the Lord. Q. Pasadena, Calif. "How were the lews of the Old Testament able to understand all of the things repre sented in the coming of the Mes siah and of His work of redemp tion? Another question I have is what is the difference in Satan sin fully saying, 'I will be like God ,' and our singing, 7 would be like Jesus'?" A. As to the first question, the tab ernacle and temple worship, with the sacrifices, all pointed toward the coming of God's Son. As early as Gen. 3:15 Adam and Eve re ceived light on this truth. Doubt less Cain and Abel were taught these facts as well. Granted, the people of earlier dispensations were not able to see as clearly as we are. All the more reason for our devotion and dedication to the Lord. The spiritual application and the typology of the Old Testament is eminently clear and understand able. Keep in mind the nature of
tered. It is also important to make certain that you not let a Bible study group take the place of your work in the Church. Speak with your pastor and get his practical suggestions on this vital matter. The Church is the divine appoint ment of the Lord and should have your primary allegiance so much as is possible. Q. Salem, Ore. "/ am confused about the idea that one can claim salvation for his entire family based upon Acts 16:31. I do believe in Cod's sovereign grace for His elect. Can you give me further help?" A. There are certain basic doc trines of the faith which will allow no deviation. There are other areas which can afford some latitude or difference of opinion. As believers we have every right to claim sal vation for our loved ones. That is not to say that we can demand it. The Biblical basis for prayer must always be in the will of God. We know that the Lord is not willing that any should perish. We claim salvation for those who may not know the Saviour personally on the basis of faith. Prayers for the unsaved are always in order. In fact such intercession should be a vital part of our daily lives. Q. Los Angeles, Calif. "I have been greatly troubled by John Wesley's continued use of the words, 'Strive to enter in at the strait gate' (Luke 13:24). How does this possibly har monize with salvation by grace?" A. What a tremendous example this giant of the faith has left for our admonition. Every waking hour of his life seemed to be dedicated to God's service. There were sev eral things which he emphasized on frequent occasions. One time he was taken to task for preaching Page 30
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