Deny Self by John Matteson

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · May 18, 1869

Deny Self.

By John Matteson

The following is the substance of a conversation between a Methodist class-leader, and an Adventist brother who formerly belonged to that church.

Methodist. Why do you not come to our meetings and enjoy religion with us? We enjoy the love of God to overflowing.

Adventist. I am trying to keep the commandments of God, that I may have right to the tree of life, and may obtain immortality when Jesus appears.

M. Then you have got to give up your tobacco. That must be very hard for an old man like you, who has used it from a child.

A. Yes, it is hard to overcome evil habits after our nature has become so perverted. But true religion will cleanse us from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. And by the grace of God I mean to perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord.

M. Pshaw! that is all nonsense. I can smoke and chew my tobacco, and serve God just as well. And now if you will come back to our church, I will promise to furnish you with tobacco as long as you live, and warrant you a place in Heaven as soon as you die.

A. Thank you, brother, for your kindness, but I can not accept of your offer. My Saviour has taught me, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow me.” Matt. xvi, 24. I prefer to follow Jesus.

Did Christ ever gratify any useless or hurtful indulgences? Never!

Can his followers indulge in any kind of useless or hurtful desire and follow Christ? Certainly not. Just so far as they do, so far they depart from the way of life.

Who will deny himself and follow Christ?

JOHN MATTESON.