JOS. CLARKE by Jos. Clarke

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Jan 31, 1871

JOS. CLARKE

By Jos. Clarke

1 John 3:21.

“If our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.” 1 John 3:21.

A conscience void of offense, is of priceless value. The stain of sin, until removed by the blood of Christ, is still upon the mind. It is felt by the conscience. Like a festering, rankling sore, it preys upon the nerves, and causes anguish and sorrow of heart.

But the poor soul, so distressed, has fled to the cross. In Christ, it has found a balm; and now amid prayers and tears, it rests in peace. Instead of sorrow, there is joy; instead of pain, there is comfort and rest.

And now comes the rich experience of pardoning love. Heaven is brought down to earth. Who can tell the deep, heartfelt gratitude of the soul born again, transferred from the tyranny of sin and Satan, to the glorious liberty of the children of God?

Old things are passed away, and all is new. God is now seen everywhere. In all his works, the power of the Creator is clearly seen; in the opening flower, and in the ripening fruit; in the tender herb of the field, and in the majestic oak of the forest; in the valley, and hill, and mountain, God is manifest. The starry heavens which seemed mute and distant before, now speak a language distinct and clear. The majesty of Jehovah is chanted in solemn tones; the rich, melodious strains of heavenly music, echo from Heaven, and linger among the spheres. The ear once deaf to such sounds, is now open; and as the song of praise falls upon it, the soul is entranced with divine and heavenly pleasures.

Who would wander in darkness, deaf, dumb, and blind, to the charms of Heaven; dead to the only true Source of light and life, when such sublime enjoyments are offered to the sin-sick soul, only on condition of repentance, and faith, and obedience? Shall we not seek it, and live? Shall we undervalue so great a prize?