H. A. ST. JOHN by H. A. St. John

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Aug 13, 1872

H. A. ST. JOHN

By H. A. St. John

Determinations.

“For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” 1 Cor. 2:2. Paul was a man of determination. He was not afraid to make resolutions, and fearlessly did he stand by them when made. He felt his own weakness, however, but, Christ strengthening him, he could do all things. The above scripture may be regarded as a clear enunciation of Paul's business in life. It should be observed that the word “know” is here used in the sense of “make known.” Then we have the statement that the apostle was determined to make known nothing save Jesus Christ and him crucified. This, to him, was an all-absorbing theme.

The apostle Paul had very much of the wisdom of this world. He could have easily entertained the multitude by discoursing upon subjects that pertained exclusively to the sciences of this world, but he chose not to do so. He might have been applauded for his erudition, but he cared not for that. His learning was of avail only as it assisted him to better make known Christ and him crucified. Paul was a wise and diligent teacher. In all places and under all circumstances he ceased not to teach and to preach Jesus Christ and him crucified. He shunned not to declare the whole counsel of God. Jesus Christ, his crucifixion, and resurrection, were the present truth in Paul's day; and how his whole soul was filled with it. It filled his heart, and from this abundance his mouth spake.

What a lesson is here for all those who profess to be looking for their Lord's speedy return! If we really love the Lord Jesus, if we really believe the present truth, if it really fills our hearts, then it will inspire our thoughts and words, and we will be engaged in all holy conversation and godliness. And our determination will be like that of the apostle, to make known, by every possible means, Jesus and his soon coming. Lord, inspire in my heart such a desire for the faith once delivered to the saints, that I may earnestly contend for it.