WHERE ARE YOU STANDING?
By T. E. Bowen
Often professed Christians place themselves in the way of temptation. By the very act of taking their position, an index is made as to their true inward feelings. During the trial of the Saviour, both John and Peter were with their Lord. One fell into temptation and denied his Lord, while the other remained true, and was strengthened by the experience. It is written of these two disciples thus: “And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple; that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest. But Peter stood at the door without.” John then obtained permission for Peter also to come in, which he did; but instead of seeking a place near Jesus, as we feel sure that other disciple did, it is written of him, “And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it was cold; and they warmed themselves; and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself.” John 18:15–18. Yes, Peter stood with those whom he knew loved not his Saviour and Lord. It was while he stood there, that he denied his Lord again. There are always two companies with whom to stand, both among angels and men. With which are you standing? Whose company are you seeking? that of the pure loyal angels and those among men who are seeking the heavenly treasure? or are you taking your stand among those who have no love nor interest in eternal things? Judas was selected as a disciple. Jesus loved him, and sought to rescue him from covetousness and ruin. Little by little he let into his heart evil, until it is written of him on the night of betrayal, “Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon Him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye? They answered Him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am He. And Judas also, which betrayed Him, stood with them.” Here was a band of murderers, robbers,—avowed enemies of Jesus. On the other hand was the company of disciples with Jesus. Judas was not with this little band in their secluded place of worship, but he chose to stand with the mob. We are not to shut ourselves away from those who need our help. We are not to gather ourselves away in selfishness from even enemies of God, but are to labor for their salvation in seeking to win them to Jesus; but, dear friends, this is a much different position from leaving off this ministration of helping them into better paths, and deliberately, from choice, taking our stand with them. The ball-room, the popular places of amusement, and the like, are not the places for Christians to be found standing. Jesus and holy angels are not found in these companies, only to take down with their holy pens the unholy thoughts, words, and actions; or to lead ensnared souls to a place of safety. Take heed, dear reader, where you stand. Let the sure foundation of the principles of righteousness be your standing place now, then “ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass [on the earth], and to stand before the Son of Man” when “He shall appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” T. E. Bowen.