"Watch ye therefore. And what I say unto you, I say unto all. Watch!" Mark xiii, 35, 37.
WHO, of all men in the world, most needs this exhortation? The Christian. Why?
1. Because he is a soldier, surrounded by enemies, who are waiting to destroy his soul. They are ready to take advantage of his carelessness or neglect of duty; they are vigilant; they are numerous; they are subtle. Therefore, he should watch.
2. Because he is a pilgrim, travelling through a hostile land. There may be snares in his way; stones, over which he may stumble; pits, into which he may fall; enticers, who would lure him from his heavenly home. Therefore, he must watch.
3. Because he is a steward. He has precious treasures to take care of—his own soul, his talents, his time, his Master's honor. He must take care that he does not lose the first, misuse the second, waste the third, and endanger the fourth. Therefore, he need watch.
4. Because he is a servant. His Lord is now absent: when he comes back he will expect all to be in readiness for his reception—each one at his post, each one looking out for him. Therefore, the Christian must watch.
Christian reader! you are a soldier—you have entered Christ's army by your profession; his enemies are yours; his cause is yours. Are you watching?
Christian reader! you are a pilgrim—you confess that earth is not your home, that you are dwelling here but for a time; you know that you are surrounded with dangers. Are you watching?
Christian reader! you are a steward. Christ has given precious treasures into your possession. Are you watching?
Christian reader! you are a servant—you profess to be expecting the return of your Lord. Are you watching?
Your Captain, your Lord, your Master says to you, "Watch!" and pronounces you "blessed" if you watch. Rev. xvi, 15.