Poor, Depraved Human Nature.
By Roswell F. Cottrell
It is a wonder that Heaven undertook to save men. Many wonder at the representation of the Scriptures, that so few find the way to life; but, viewing humanity as it is, the greater wonder is that any of so perverse a race can be saved. Men can hear the story of Calvary and the cross; can have the great sacrifice of Heaven set before them, the labors and sufferings and death of the Son of God in behalf of a world of sinners; and then wish to share in the redemption and salvation thus dearly bought, if they could do so without bearing the cross! If the world with all their surroundings and worldly interests favored it, they would obey the word of God and keep his commandments; but as it is, obedience cannot be given—it is out of the question! Oh! the astonishing ingratitude of fallen human nature! Had Jesus shunned the cross, and chosen not to suffer, there would have been no hope for us. We wish to share in the benefit, but not in the sufferings! But Jesus has said, "Whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me cannot be my disciple." And an apostle has declared it "our reasonable service," in view of "the mercies of God," to offer ourselves a "living sacrifice" to God and his cause. Hence if we suffer with Christ, we shall also reign with him; but if we deny him he will also deny us. Is it not just and right that a sacrifice on our part is required? Yet how few are willing to make any real sacrifice in the cause of Christ. And yet they hope to be saved! None but those who have followed Christ will be at home in his presence. Those who have been ashamed of Christ here, will be ashamed of themselves, if introduced to his presence in glory. R. F. COTTRELL.