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OOD'S RIGHT £S SOVEREIGN, LORD MD CrERTOR, 2nr Mm Responsibility £s the Recipient of God 's Bounties. .>«»^l>. ■ » PART 1st.— CHAPTER 1st. god's right as sovereign, lord and creator, proved from scripture. CHAPTER 2nd. god's OWNERSHIP AND AUTHORITY PROVED FROM SCRIPTURE. PART 2nd.— CHAPTER 1st. man's INDEBTEDNESS AND ACCOUNTABILITY TO GOD AS STEWARDS OF THE BLESSINGS GIVEN. CHAPTER 2nd. THE BENEFITS OF SYSTEMATIC DISTRIBUTION OF OUR MEANS FOUNDED ON AN INTELLIGENT AND THOUGHTFiJL CONSIDERA- TION OF THE VARIOUS SCHEMES, HAVING FOR THEIR OBJECT THE FURTHERANCE OF CHRIST'S GL'^RY AND THE BENEFIT OF MANKIND. CHAPTER 3rd. aiVING IN GENERAL. SUMMARY OF THE WHOLE. I( m. syste:mati<3 aiviNa. GOD'S RIGHT AS SOVEREIGN, LORD AND CREATOR PROVED FROM SCRIPTURE. " In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth," Gen. lat, 1st. The name God, expressive of omnipotent power. In the Hebrew means strong and miglity. The Psahnist breaks forth into songs of praise, as he contemplates the glories of God's works. " When I consider the heavens the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained ;" What is man ? that thou art mindful of him / and the son of man that thou visitest him ?" The allusions in the third verse lead to the idea that this Psalm was written by David in his early life, when his nightly watches as a Shepherd, gave him frequent and ever recurring oppor- tunities of observing the glory and Majesty of God, as shown in the exceeding beauty and brilliancy of the starry host. Ps. 8th, 3-4. " Praise Him sun and moon : praise Him, all ye stars and light.'* Ps. 148th, 3. Let the sun, the fount of light and gladness, precious emblem of the " Light which lighteth every man" — let the moon which rules the night and is type of the church giving to the world the light received from the Sun of Righteousness — let the stars, so vast in numbers and lovely in their brightness, let these ever praise Him, who made and blessed them in the beginning. " The heavens declare the glory of God ; and the firmament sheweth his handy* work." Ps. 19th, 1. Returning to the 8th Psalm again the sweet singer of Israel, contemplates man, the last and noblest work of all — - the dignities and capacities bestowed upon him, the position assigned to him, viz. glory, honour and dominion, as he was before the fall, and slich as he will again be when restored by Christ, to whom as the only and one perfect man, the expressions in this Psalm are especially applicable. " Tlie heavens are Thine ; the earth also is Thine ; Thou hast laid the foundation of the round world, and all that therein is." " Thou hast made the north and the south : Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in Thy name." He had created the heavens # 8 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. and the earth, the north and the south, the snow-capped hills of Lebanon, and the parched and arid deserts of Africa and Arabia, the height of Heriuon on the east of Jordan, near which Jesus was bap- tized, and Tabor on the west, on which He was transfigured, are His for He made them : and without " Him was not anything made that was made," He hath made all things in wisdom and will fill them with his love, The Sovereign and Creative prerogative of God is fully proved from the verses already quoted and dwelt upon, and ijhe marginal references* will well repay a careful reading and com- paring one with the other, all bearing out the same teaching and pointing to God as the great " I am" of both Old and New Testament, and fraught witn expressions of the glorious majesty of the Triune €rod. From many others I will close this chapter with a few remarks Qn the following verses. " Let Israel rejoice in him that made him : ^d let the children of Sion be joyful in their king," This Psalm which is CO full of joy and exultation has no title in Hebrew except " Hallelujah" all praise and all joy looking forward to the time whea Christ should indeed come and enter Jerusalem, meek and lowly, yet, acknowledged by Pilate in the hour of His deepest abasement as " King of the Jews," and f urtlier on, past suffering and death to that time, when the Lord Jesus shall reign in majesty over the pbedient world, and His saints shall praise Him with one mind and \yith one mouth, as the Creator of all, and the visible and acknow- ledged king of all. They shall say " AUelulia for the Lord God omnipotent i-eigneth," Praise ye the Lord I 'tis good to raise Your hearts and voices in His praise ; His nature and His works invite To make this duty our delight. He formed the stars, those heavenly flames, " He counts their number, calls their name»i His wisdo.n's vast, and knows no bound, A deep where all our thoughts are drowned, * Sing to the Lord exalt Him high, Who spreads His clouds along the sky, ' There He prepares the fruitful rain, • Nor lets the drops descend in vain. He makes the grass the hills adorn, And clothes the smiling fields with com. The beasts with food his hands supply, And the young mvens when they cry. (») John 1; 1, 2. Heb. 1: 10. Psalm 102: 25. I Q&], V; LjS, 17. Heb. 11: 3. Zeoh. 12: 1. P^altn 149: 2 •CoPlBD. Isaiah 44: 24. 2. Jer. 10: 12, SYSTEMATIC GIVING. d hills o£ ^rabia, the 1 was bap- d, are His made that fill them of God is ipon, and and com- piling and estament, tie Triune V remarks lade him : bis Psalm iW except ime when nd lowly, ,basement death to over the mind and acknow- liord God er. 10: 12, GOD'S OWNERSHIP AND AUTHORITY PROVED FROM SCRIPTURE. • *' The earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof ; the world and they that dwell therein. ' Ps. 24th, 1. God here claims possession of the whole earth, it fulness — everythinjr with them that dwell on it ; recalling the creation to our minds and shewing the inalienable claim of the great maker and owner of all things, and who among the wealth- iest or most powerful of potentates is in position to dispute or gainsay this claim, or consider himself as really owning anything. " Who hath prevented me that I should repay him." Job 41st, 11. What can man give to Him ; who possesses all things including man him- self ? (again) " If I were hungry I would not tell thee ; for the world is mine and the fulness thereof." Ps. 50th, 12. "The silver is mine, and the gold is mine saith the Lord of Hosts." Hag. 2nd, 8. Thug we see the treasures hidden in the bowels of the earth are His, and men may work and slave to accumulate quantities of those p]^eciou3 metals, they may hoard and look^upon them as their chief good, but they can only hold them during the master's pleasure, for they are His and unless used for His glory, will prove a snare instead of a blessing. " Behold all souls are mine." Ezek. 18th, 4. God thus claims the earth and its treasures, and in the passage just quoted, the souls of men as His property. The teaching of this last verse is evident ; all are equally subject and accountable to God, and each will be reckoned with separately : for whatever may be the influence of social connections and surroundings, they cannot inter- fere with personal responsibility, nay more,if the wicked become good or the good become wicked, each shall be treated according to the change in his or her character, and who dare call in question, the action of Him, who owns the souls of men, or what remains for us, but -to yield a hearty assent — acknowledge our nothingness, and entire dependence on God, for life, health, home, friends, wealth and eve.iy comfort and blessing we enjoy. Man has a right of property towards his fellow man, but certainly none towards God : no matter how wealthy, no matterv how hardly earned, we cannot call our property our own as regards Him ; for His rij^lit is positive and inalienable as the Creator and Owner of " all the ends of the earth." The silver and the gold are His and He gives them to whom He # 10 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. ■» V will. If it were his pleasure all His followers could have them, but there are treasures that might be endangered by riches, thus many humble, poor Christians rich in faith and good works, are children of the Kings of Kings and feel there is a mansion prepared for them where Christ will be ever present and sorrow and sighing will be no more. " Behold the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the Lord's thy God, the earth also with all that therein is." Deut. 10th, 14. Thus again and again God asserts His right to each and all of those things which man prizes most. " Sanctify unto me all the firstborn among the children of Israel, both of man and beast ; it is mine." Ex. 13th, 10. " Every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills." Ps. 50th, 10. Of Canaan the land of promise, the land hardly obtained by travel, tnil and warfare, He said " the land shall not be sold forever for the land is mine," saith the Lord of Hosts. The pages of the New Testament give the same universal claim made and acted on, " Come and follow me" was the address of the God - man to whomsoever and whenever He pleased. It meant the forsaking of every earthly calling or possession yet was not asked as a favour but demanded as a right. Jesus spoke with authority and not as the Scribes. He sees two men fishing on the Sea of Galilee, following their occupation by which tl>ey pro- vided for the wants of their families as well as their own. Jesus speaks, " Follow me" and at once they leave their boats, nets, every- thing and follow the master. Further on two more are occupied in the same manner, but their aged father is wit]i them. Hark ! there comes the same command, with the same result, " they left the ship and their father and followed Him." He called Matthew from the receipt of custom, and at once all was left in obedience to that command. The poor widow gave all she was worth and Jesus connnends her generosity. The young man who loved his riches too much to obey Christ's command " To sell all that he had and follow Him," refused the call and is never mentioned again ; while those who obeyed, willingly yielding up everything that they might gain Christ, recognized themselves as stewards of G(jd's bounties, — he held fast by the sense of ownership and by his covetousness and unfaithfulness shut himself out from the kingdom of God. " He went away sorrowful for he had great possessions." Yes ! riches may be kept to the everlasting ruin of those who possess them, and allow their hearts to grovel and be satisfi^ with the perishing and passing things of earth. Following Jesus meant the giving up old employments, companions, home, everything, but what matter ? Winning souls for the master, from the service of sin and self, from SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 11 i them, but tlms many vorks, are n prepaied nd sighing heavens is is." Deut. 3 each and nto me all and beast ; mine, and n the land arfare. He ine," saitli e the same 3" was the le pleased. ession yet isus spoke fishing on tl>ey pro- n. Jesus ets, every- ccupied in ik ! there 't the ship from tlie e to that lid Jesus lis riches had and in ; while ley might ►unties, — sness and )d. " He s ! riches hem, and hing and g up old matter ? lelf, from the darkness of superstition or the bigotry of Judaisia, into the glorious freedom of the children of God ; wp i well worth the sacri- fice, and Andrew, Peter, James, John, and ^.he rest felt amply repaid by having the honour of being bearers of the glad tidings that Christ had come and brought "Grace and immortality to light in the Gospel." The parable of the talents a? recorded in twenty-fifth chapter c* Matthew gives a true picture of man's position towards God. Those to whom the talents are given are all servants of God, and are represented as working for Him and reproved when they did not do so Christ's servants here mean all who by their Christian profession stand in subjection to him. His " goods" mean all their gifts and endownments, whether acquired, natural or spiritual and while to some more is entrusted than to others, from all an equal fidelity is expected. The two who traded with their talents and increased them in the same ratio, although one had double the other received the same commeineration and reward : while the third, who buried the talent and kept it intact to give to the master on His return, was deprived of what he already had and cast into outer darkness : fit picture of those who shut up their gifts from active service for Christ without actually squandering them on unworthy objects. The master denounced them and with the power of a Sov- ereign consigns them to everlasting punishment and misery. " Where the worm dieth not and the fire is not quenched." Now while passages could be multiplied bearing out the idea at the head of this chapter, I feel satisfied those I ha\ e considered fully prove God's sovereignty, over all the works of his hands. That His right of proprietor is inalienable and as Lord and master, Jesus when on earth called whom he would. Controlling even the evil spirits, healing the sick, raising the dead, opening the eyes of the blind, causing the deaf to hear, the lame to walk. Yes, He taught with authority and spake as man never yet spoke. For our sakes became poor that we through His poverty might be rich. Having proved God's perfect right to everything we possess, let us proceed in the next chapter to prove what claim God makes on our substance. 12 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. GOD'S DEMAND, THE LAW OF TITHE. In Genesis 14th, we read that Abraham gave tithes of the spoil he had taken from Chedor.Homer and his confederate kings, to Melchezedek, king of Salem and Priest of the Most High God. These goods belonged to those whom he had rescued and Abraham had no claim on them, further than having recovered them. The king of Sodom acknowledges this claim and wishes Abraham to take a portion for himself, but he refuses ; " I will not take, he says, anything that is thine." Now after speaking so decidedly, Abraham takes a tenth of the spoil, and gives it to Melchizedek ; as victor giving what he knows is God's portion and which he would not surrender, feeling it was the specipl property of Him to whom all things belonged. This triV)ute is received by Melchiz- edek as a matter of course, as God's Priest he had blessed Abraham and in accepting tithes, he evidently performs the duties or his office, thus proving by deduction that such an offering was a known and religious homage and spoken of as such by Paul in Hebrews 7th. As to whom Melchizedek was, the mystery shrouding him has never been removed, but as a type of Christ he takes the highest place among all the personages of the <^ld Testament. Not David the sv/eet singer of Israel, Solomon in all his glory, Moses the great lawgiver, Aaron the High Priest, or Joshua the valiant leader and captain of Israels hosts, can compare as types of Christ, with this King of Rightecisness and Peace, and Priest of the Most Higli God. Before proceeding to consider the law of Tithe as given to God's ancient people, I would advert to Jacob's vow as bearing out our argument that the apportioning a tenth was well known and practised long before circumcision or the Levitical Priestliood was established. We all know the circumstances of Jacob's exile from homo and can easily imagine his thoughts would accuse him, of deceit and having caused sorrow to his aged father, and stirred anger, hate and revenge in Esau's heart. True Isaac had forgiven him ; but who can sin and leave no scar. God comforts him by a vision so glorious — so plain — that Jacob acknowledges his presence and putting stones together, he pours oil upon it, and thus consecrates to God's service, and vows to present a tenth of whatever he possesses if God spares his life to return to his home. God has placed man )f the spoil ) kings, to 3igh God. Abraham ^lem. The braham to t take, he decidedly, Ichizedek ; which he y of Him Y Melchiz- d blessed the duties ing was a r Paul in hrouding takes the snt. Not ry, Moses e valiant of Christ, the Most ) as given bearing known riesthood »b's exile use him, d stirred forgiven ►im by a presence isecrates possesses ced man SYSTEMATIC GIVING. \% next in dignity to the angels and crowned him with the empire o^ the world ; and through sin, man has lost much and become Ihfrf^ld to death, yet he still retains some remains of his original dominion^ " Thou mad'st him to have dominion over the works of thy hands.** Ps. 8th, 6. Now while God has thus given us all things richly t* enjoy, and leaves us in freedom to use and increase our substahcd to the extent of our ability, there is at the same time always soitid- thing to remind us that there is one above to whom these thingi belong and whose perfect right it is to withdraw or continue theiA as he sees fit. The ocean may appear to roll its billows where W pleases without hindrance, but it is met by the shore and hears thd words " Thus far shalt thou come and no farther : and here shall thy proud waves be stayed." Adam in Eden was reminded th^rd was a greater than he when forbidden to eat of the tree of thd " Knowledge of Good and Evil" death being the penalty of disobed- ience. Many persons say they prefer free will ofteriftgs. Most certainly let them be free will for God loves a cheerful giver ; bui I intend to prove that God who placed man over the works of Hii hands; has made a specific demand for a certain portion of our sd called possessions and this can easily be- done, by proving from Scripture that the tenth was considered us God's in the Old Testa- ment and the teachings of the New carry out the same idea on A larger scale, and till we have donated that portion of our incomd whether large oi small, we are robbing God ! think of it robbing God. God's demand. " A\ the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land of of the fruit *of the tree, is the Lord's ; it is holy unto the Lord." Lev. 27th, 30. " Behold I have given the children of Levi all thd tenth in Israel for an inheritance, for their service which they sei-vd^ even the service of the Tabernacle of the congregation." Num. 18th, 27. There is no doubtful sound about this command : all came from God and He was to be acknowledged and honoured, the whole producd of the land was subjected to the Tithe tribute. It was a yearly rent which the Israelites as tenants paid to God the owner of the land \ and a thank offering they rendered to Him for the bounties of Hid providence. A tenth was paid by the Levites to the Priests and afterwards they had the same libei-ty to use the rest of the producd of their threshing-floors or wine-presses, that the other tribes of Israel enjoyed. " Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed> that the field bringeth forth year by j'^ear, and thou shalt eatbeford the Lord thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his) name there, the tithe of thy com, of thy vine and of thy oil, and 14 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks ; tliat thou may'st learn to fear the Lord thy God always." Deut. 14th, 23. This is a new demand and to be considered a religions ^^ 18 SYSTEMATIC OIVINO. \% MAN'S INDEBTEDNESS AND ACCOUNTABILITY TO GOD AS STEWARDS OF THE BLESSINGS GIVEN. It seoms stranii^e that in a Christian hind and among tlie pro- fessed followers of Jesus such an appeal as this requires to be made. Why ! the Idolaters, (whose claim on your sympathy and means I intend very soon to advocate) do not know what stint means wnen an act of worship to their false God is to be celebrated. Whatever they hold most dear or costly is given up without a murnnir, nay more with gladness and rejoicing as if a great privilege had been conferred by being allowed to contribute. Cliristian brother and sister, the law says " Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and thy neighbour as thyself." Love is the fulfilling of the law, and the heart that glows with love to God, needs no law about giving, but is a law to itself. Were we always in the same frame of mind, there would be no necessity to urge again and again the setting apart a certai portion of our income, as God's, according as He has prospered us. But how often does coldness and indiffer- ence come over our hearts and we are prone to wander from our Saviour. We cannot trust these hearts of ours, and it is a good plan to have a set purpose,, and clear rules, to keep us in the way. Many persons have a very exaggerated idea of their giving and it is not till brought face to face with plain distinct statements that they can be made to feel their own meanness in the measure they give to God's cause compared with what they lavish on themselves. And then excuse themselves by saying they give what they can spare. A favourite expresion with some who never deny themselves any gratification, and who do not know what self-denial means, and whose lavish expenditure in their homes and on their persons certainly leave a very narrow margin for charity or loving benevo- lence. That man will have to render an account to God, of the use made of the blessings and mercies he has received, is admitted as a general truism but press the question home until it touches some darling idol or besetting sin and then whisper " The silver and the gold are mine saith the Lord of Hosts," how man's heart rebels. Why ! I worked late and early that I might have everything beautiful in my home and enjoy myself in my old age. " Sell all that thou hast and give to the poor," No ! no ! that is too much SYSTEMATIC GTVINO. 10 Y TO GOD »ng fclie pro- I to be made. iiid moans I moans wnon Whatever lurmur, nay TO had been brother and with all thy illing of the no law about same fi-ame d fi.gain the fs, according uid indiffer- from our is a good in the way. ving and it ements that easure they themselves. at they can themselves means, and eir persons ing benevo- , of the use mitted as a aches some ,^er and the art rebels. everything " Sell ail too much and I cannot do it. Alas I stewards are expected to keep exact accounts, follow christians let this be a sifting time and with earnest faithful hearts lot us see how we stand prepared with our account. Christ has given his life for us ; what have we done for Him ? (Jod has blessed us with health, homo, happiness. What return have we made for tliese blessings ? The Spirit has refreshed those souls of ours and given us the spirit of adoption whereby we call " Abba, Father have we always listened to the strivings or have we rosi.sted the pleading voice. These are calm pratical (juostions and on your faithfulness and ability to answer them, in the affirmative, depends your everlasting salvation. The man who makes a Ood of his money, puts his whole trust in it, not only loves it, but it is the object he woi'ships, no matter what church he attends or by what name ho is called, I repeat he wort^hipH his wealth ; it is the object of what faith he has. His hopes for his children rest on it, his comfort and support for advanced years are in it, his present influ- ence and p' sition depend on it, in short it takes God's place in his soul and wo read constantly where the passion for gold has taken possession of a man to such a degree, that human affections seemed destroyed and the miserable life and death of a miser has ensued. Yes riches may prove the iniin of an immoi'tal soul if trusted in. No hope for time, no preparation for eternity, no treasures laid up where neither " moth nor rust can corrupt," truly the advice con- tained in Lst Tim., G, 17, 19, is applicable in such a case " charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God who givoth us all things richly to enjoy, that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate. Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come that they may lay hold on eternal life. This is treasure that we act wisely in laying up, for the works are the outcome of faith and show forth love to God for all His mercies. And looking forward to eternal life through the finished and accepted work of Christ. Earthly nches scattered in faith, lay up in store a sure increase of heavenly wealth. "We gather by scattering." Prov. 11th, 24. Eternal life old M. 33 read, that which is really life. The life that now is, its goods being unsubstantial and itself a vapour. James 4th, 14. But wealth can be made a great blessing as in the case of God's ancient servant Job. He had great possessions, prosperity was all around him, everything he undertook succeeded, yet his riches were no snare, why ? because they were consecrated to God and while he and his family rejoiced and enjoyed affluence, his heart went forth 20 SYSTEMATIC OIVIWO. ■"1 . i to tho poor and o{)J)ivhsimi, vvith nuidy syinnatliy and optm purse. His woalfch njauet. 1 5th, 7, 11. We see by these verses the way in which the rich were to consider the poor, Moses admonishes the Israelites against a mean and selfish spirit, and exhorts to a liberal spirit of jgiftMiWga 22 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. charity and kindness which will secure the divine blessing. Rouse up then soldiers of Christ and gird thy armour on, the Captain wants your aid to beat down the opposing forces of sansual and vicious habits. " It is more blessed toijive than to receive" and some writers have spoken eloc^uently on the luxury of giving. Certain it is God does in very many instances tcbtify his delight in a liberal and unostentatious Christianity, the outcome of a soul freed from the bondage of self and rejoicing in the sense of adoption into God's family and favor through the blood of Jesus) by increase of means and blessings so plain that there can be no mistake as to their source. What we spend upon ourselves and our surroundings will decay these bodies or in other words, these houses of clay will become the food of worms, they are not to be despised but treated and cared for well, as the cas'cet of the Immortal soul. Yet when death has set his seal and the spirit returned to God who gave it, " Bury my dead out of my sight" is the language forced from us. Whatever we may leave when we die, we lose forever,^but what we give to God and spend in his service, is laid up for us in heaven. Terrible thought, can my carel ssness in giving ever have caused a soul to be lost, or my dislike to speaking about myself caused any to doubt the reality of God's work in my heart. God has been calling us by the benefits he has conferred upon us day by day to help others. Virtue would be added to faith and knowledge to virtue, while the three graces of Temperance, Patience and Godliness worild follow an increase of liberality in our churches greater than from any other cause. Faith and works can never be separted on earth, either is dead without the other " By their fruits ye shall know them" and that men are judged accordinig to their works, we know from the description of the final judgment "come ye blessed of my Father " for ye did such and such things. " Depart ye cursed" for ye did not do them. The Christian if sincerely desirious to find out the best method by which he can most thoroughly exercise ihe talent of property by relieving the necessities of man, need only try the comforts of systematic appropriation according to the special claims of different objects, to feel that there is no other system that possesses the same power of extending his usefulness towards his fellow men or that as great a benefit to the party practising it. Paul says " I will gladly spend and he spent for your souls." I am sure that christians are closely watched by those who know not Christ whether like his master he delights to spread abroad, or selfishly prefer to retain all for personal comfort or emolument. The effect of the adoption of a regular consecration to God of ourselves first and a distinct and generous jr _^t. ' [g. Rouse ain wants 1(1 vicious ne writers I it is God beral and from the nto God's of means eir source. ecay these I the food d for well, as set his y^ dead out ' we may I God and 3 thought, be lost, or ihe reality le benefits tue would 5 graces of icrease of e. Faith without men are iption of did such lem. The y which relieving V^stematic )jects, to power of great a Uy spend re closely laster he personal regular generous SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 23 portion of our belongings. Will give " a conscience void of offence towards God and man." He feels more and more strongly that he is but a steward and that to refuse or neglect to act up to that knowledge, would be both dishonest and idolatrous, and while this continues the life of joy and piety must indeed be feeble. Now why is it that when there is special need for funds to carry on some particular society or organization, the aim of which is to lighten the burden of a portion of the human family, earnest appeals are made from our pulpits, and christians are incited to give,by pictures of misery or distress. And even when under such influence the collections have met the demand does not the church as a pp-^rjle feel as if a meritorious act had been done? at sight of which men must bow and acknowledge a broad margin of good works. Unpro- fitable servants of a kind and benevolent Father. Surely you will get youp-f eward. Now if every professing Christian would set aside a tenth first and then as God gave him increase : any extra call would be gladly responded to and church members would speak less frequently of the necessity of stirring up the people to bring their ofterings into God's storehouse. Let us attempt great things for God and expect great results from Him and we will not be disap- pointed. How can the spirit of liberality and unselfishness be made more general ? In my opinion we must begin at the beginning and take the nurseries. Teach the children by precept and example to conquer selfishness, make them willing to yield even individual rights, when all are to be benefitted. Teach them from the early dawn of intelligence how much they owe to God, and here the Mother's love can be made the medium and subject of the first lessons and what more holy task than leading the little ones to Him who died that they might live. • The child loves and implicitly believes in and trusts its mother, and that love can be made the motive power of obedience, the little one sees that mother is grieved when it does wrong and the sadness in the loved one's face will often prove a stronger check than punishment would ever be. Love is a gentle and thorough teacher. The mother tells the child that God loves it and as proof of that love, points to its comfoi-table home and the blessings around it, but the strongest argument is that God gave it Mother and Father to take care of it for Him and that Jesus, God's well beloved son, came to earth and died, that the darling child might have a bright and everlasting home. Ye parents look to it that ye pourtray God as a merciful and loving father supplying all their wants through you as His appointed means. Then when old enough tell them again and again of God's unspeakable gift even Jesus, 24 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. - i^ -: lii bring them by prayer to His feet, and let them hear his loving words, " Suffer the little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of heaven," then tell them of the thousands of little ones who have never heard his name, and encourage them to give up some gratification in order to be able to give something to help other lambs to hear the glad storj' of the Cross. A child's heart is soft and easily impressed by kindly words and actions and see to it that you write nothing impure on these tablets but stories of the Lamb of God, His innocence and Love. His patience and kind- ness to the little ones. His sympathy and relief for all. Let the voice of childhood's joy be in your dwellings and hymns of praise burst from youthful lips. Too young to understand I think I hear some one say; no, no, you teach tiiem and God's glory will be the brighter for your efforts and your children may be His in that day when " He maketh up His jewels." Do not be afraid of beginning too early. The Ark will be taken care of — children are precious gifts and solemn responsibility rests on those to whom they are entrusted and woe to those who through bad example or neglect allow them to grow up in ignorance of their privileges, for it is on them the well being of the church depend when the mothers and fathers of the present have passed away and their actions whether selfish or otherwise have gone before them to the judgment. Blessed com- mendation if the well done of the master sounds in our ears, " Come ye blessed of my Father." Again Luke 19th, 17, " And He said unto him, well done thou good servant ; because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities." Now let the children see the regular laying apart a sum of money as God s every Sabbath morning and let them also be taught the lesson of denying self that tliey too may add their share* and every member of the family should contribute towards it, then at family worship all hearts would feel an active interest in the spread and increase of Christ's kingdom towards which they he 1 contributed,and a willing- ness felt to do without some things, hitherto looked upon as necessities that more might go to relieve the destitute and lighten the abodes of sin and misery with the rays of the sun of Righteousness. If God promised of old " Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith saith the Lord of Hosts, if I will not open you the windows of ,h 3aven, and pour out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." If so large a return was promised, for the performance of a prescribed duty how much more may be expected when love is the regulating power and not the law. Let all members and SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 25 ring words, lem not for thousands irage them something A child's ictions and it stories of B and kind- et the voice raise burst hear some lie brighter day when ;inning too 3cious gifts e entrusted allow them 1 them the fathers of r selfish or essed com- a,rs, " Come [e said unto en faitUul ow let the ^ods every of denying 3er of the vorship all increase of d a willing- necessities the abodes usness. If storehouse, Y herewith krindows of >om eno\igh erformance when love mbers and adherents of the christian churches take stock of the Lord's increase, and they may then expect that blessing that maketh rich, and addeth no sorrow. One of John Wesley's maxims was, " Get all you can, save all you can, and give all you can." The life of Christ was revealed in His labours of love, when He gave himself for us. Our lives are manifested in their highest and finest charac- ter when they are spent in the service of the Lord in doing good. None of us can live for ourselves alone, we belong to the home, society, world and it depends upon how we fulfil our duties to each other that stamps our character for all time as belonging to Christ or the world. " Up and away 1 like the dew of the m orn ng Soaring from earth to its home in the Sun, Bo let me steal away, gently and lovingly Only remembered by what I have done. Gladly away from this toil would I hasten, Up to the crown that for me has been won,- Unthought of by man in rewards or in praises Only remembered by what I have done. Needs there ilie praise of the love written record, The name and the epitaph graved on the stone ? The things we have lived for let them be our story. We but remembered by what we have done. My name and ray place and my tomb all forgotten The brief race of time well and patiently run So let me pass away peacefully, silently, Only remembered by what I have done. Up and away like the odors of sunset That sweeten the twilight as darkness comes on So be my life — a thing felt but not noticed Only remembered by what I have dor.e. Yes ; like the fragranee that wanders in freshnesa When the flowers that it came from are closed up and gone. So would I be to this world's weary dwellers, — Only remembered by what I have done. I need not be missed ; if my life has been bearing As its summer and autumn moved silently on The bloom, and the fruit ; and the seed of its season I shall still be remembered by what I have done. I need not be missed if another succeed me To reap down those fields which in Spring tim« I have sown — He who ploughed and who sowed is not missed by th« reaper He is only remembered by what he has done. Not myself, but the truth in life I have spoken, — Not myself but the seed that in life I have sown — ■ Shall pass on to ages — all about me forgotten Save the truth I have spoken, — the things I have done. i 26 SYSTEMATIC GIVING, So let my living be, so be my dying,— So let my name be uablazoned, unknown, — Upraised and unmissed, I shall yet be remembered Yeg, but remembered by what I have done. — Rkv. D. H. Bonab, D. D. THE BENEFITS OF A SYSTEMATIC DISTRIBUTION OF OUR MEANS, FOUNDED ON AN INTELLIGENT AND THOUGHTFUL CONSIDERATION OF THE CLAIMS OF THE VARIOUS SCHEMES HAVING FOR THEIR OBJECT THE FURTHERANCE OF CHRIST'S KINGDOM AND BENEFIT OF MAN. ah' * -, * h. The subject of systematic giving has been the theme of many an earnest and soul stirring Exhortation from pulpit, platform and press, and various and powerful arguments brought forward to impress the minds of hearers or readers with the conviction, that the best method and one in accordance with God's dealings with mankind, is that of a well digested system of benevolence, in oppo- sition to an impulsive and oftentimes mistaken and misplaced generosity. The human mind is so constituted that we are easily moved by sympathy to give credence to a tale of distress or desti- tution, and if in our power to relieve or assist, to do so, without taking the trouble of enquiring the reason why such distress exists or finding out the truthfulness or falsehood of the story, thus encouraging in many cases deceit, and fostering some of the worst vices of mankind. Why ? because it is so much more easy to put the hand in a well filled purse or plentiful larder, and of our abundance give what is never missed, than to take the trouble of searching out the homes and devoting a small portion of our time in trying by judicious advice and encouraging words to bring about a better state of things. "To feed the hungrj?^ ; clothe the naked, visit the widow and the fatherless in their affliction" was the com- mand of Him " who for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich." There are many cases where the need is urgent, and the relief must be prompt to be of any service, but as a general rule, such a course while it may procure for us the char- acter of being very charitable, will certainly not strengthen our* powers of discrimination or enable us to lay out to the best advantage the means which a kind and loving father has placed in our SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 27 , D. D. mON OF [T AND AIMS F e of many itf orm and 'orward to iction, that lings with !e, in oppo- misplaced are easily s or desti- o, without iress exists tory, thus the worst Eisy to put nd of our trouble of f our time ring about the naked, the com- irough His he need is ice, but as 3 the char- gthen our* advantage ed in our possession and for which we must give an account as to use or abuse. That a methodical and general apportioning of our substance has the authority and blessing from God, can be easily proved from the Bible, as we have already seen that the Jews were required to give a tenth always and often more to maintain the services of God's house. The giving to the Lord as held, taught and practised by Abraham, Moses, Jacob, David was not disallowed by Christ, nor were they merely ceremonial as far as they rest on our relationship to God, they are the same " yesterday — to-day and forever." Let us study the actions of the patriarchs and law-givers on this subject and surely all christians will admit that from those who live under the blaze and benefit of Gospel light, far greater contributions and far more self dedication should be expected than from the ancient Jews, who as a people refused Christ and would none of his doctrine. Surely the law of love will not give less than the ceremonial law. Christ called it a new law " That ye love one another." Why ? because the view of the comparative value of the soul and body, should inspire an earnestness and self-denial in seeking the salvation and safety of the souls around us, which could not have been the outcome or result of the Mosaic law. " All that believed were together and had all things in common." Could any language present in a few words, a stronger picture of Christian love. Christians have more sympathy with the outcast, and, feeling deep gratitude for being saved themselves, they are anxious about others and with time, talents and money consecrated to God : come up to the help of the Lord against the mighty. Let christians be humble and bear in mind that God can do without them, and it is only as a privilege we are permitted to work with and for Him. In Cor. 1st, 11, we read " Ye also helping together by prayer for us" thus much we can surely do and the true meaning of the petition " Thy kingdom come" will show itself in our hearts and lives. At ease in Zion while souls are perishing around us. No, a thousand times no,speak, plead, pray, wrestle, warn, be patient, be loving, give yourselves to the work and yours will not be a starless crown. Money, position, experience, health, work, will not win the blessing unless love is the motive power of all our actions. " Remember in all the good we may be permitted to do, it is rather the performance of God's promise to us than ours to Him. The more we do for God the more we are indebted to Him, for our sufficiency is of Him and not o ourselves — Matthew Henry — Uucle Ben's bag, (a little book, but filled with treasure, is a solid and pi actical argument for the weekly setting apart God's share " Sabbath by Sabbath ? This Ben saw 28 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. ,;■ I • was in principal how God taught the Jews to sustain national relig- ion and brotherhood." He adopted this plan as in accordance with God's word. It raised his esteem for the work of God, cherished gratitude to Him and strengthened and deepened his sympathy with man, and now he urges it upon all Christians. There is no disorder in God's plans or systems. The sun never forgets to shine or the moon and stars to keep their nightly vigil. " Order is Heaven's first law." Among men 'a complete system is necessary to success. I will make one more extract from " Uncle B( ii's Bag," and then commend it most ■ heartily to the church members of the present day, trusting the perusal of it may quicken the spirit of benevolence in our churches, " God love a cheerful giver" Ben feels that with rare exceptions, it is essential to cheerful giving — to have money in hand, or in an account easily available ; and that a fund in hand is the secret of liberal giving, here come in the good of a well regulated system of benevolence, and to have a special place and time of depositing. Call it the Lord's bag, bank or whatever name you please. " Reader if you have any regard for personal responsibility fidelity, honour and safety in a condition of the most solemn trust, if you possess a spark of love for Him who deemed not his life and blood too precious a gift to save and bless you, — if you would not render the gracious purpose of your creation, the reasonable expec- tation of the Divine Redeemer, and your own hopes of salvation abortive, — or if there lives in your breast any emotion of real compassion towai-ds those who joy not in your safety and bliss, live to God. If you retain the exercise of any true sense, prudent forethought and righteous self-love, and would tremble so to live on earth, as to find yourself homeless, friendless, and portionless in Eternity ; and if you would have the existence of time prove you to be a gracious God like being, worthy of elevation to a nobler fu- ture,without dishonour to your benefactor ; and not a creature of aL absorbing selfishness, be persuaded at once to commence a life of en- tire consecration." Extract Gold and Gospel. God demands a seventh portion of our time to be devoted to his service. He leaves it with ourselves how much more we will give, but He must have the seventh or we are throwing contempt on His command. " Remember the seventh day to keep it holy." The seasons as they roll in regular and settled course, recall the promise given to Noah that while the world lasted " seed time and harvest, summer and winter should not fail." " Beware of Covetousness." To over- value riches — to give them pre-eminence in our hearts that God neyer designed for them, this is covetousness, If the Jews were expected to bring thank and -t, ' onal relig- ance with cherished athy with o disorder ne or the Heaven's o success, and then e present nevolence that with money in in hand is regulated i time of lame you onsibility 5mn trust, is life and i^ould not ble expec- salvation n of real bliss, live , prudent so to live ionless in •rove you lobler fu- ure of aL ife of en- i seventh s it with e seventh mber the n regular while the hould not — to give for them, hank and SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 29 free will offerings as memorials of God's goodness, how uuich more should christians feel the like obligation. There is no action of our lives that will bring more true happiness than we feel when distri- buting God's gifts abroad, and telling others of all His loving kind- ness and tender mercies. Now give practical heed to all the reasons for a stated time and portion to be given to God. The weekly gift is a sure reminder of the Sabbath and its sacred obligations. Remember the words " Them that honour me, I will honour." Did Jesus reprove Mary for the costly box of ointment with which she anointed His feet ? or did He tell the widow she was wrong to give away all her living, or was there any reproof for the poor widow that had but an handful of meal and a little oil in a cruse ; and yet made the prophet a cake, before she or her son took any. She trusted God and well was she repaid. A religion that does not permeate through the whole life, is not the religion that esus taught and acted on during the time he dwelt among men. When men give once for all to any scheme, not so much is given, but when each lay aside weekly as their prosperity increases, there is a more reliable source to draw from than when dependent on what feeling may prompt or what they can spare. Christians are never fully realizing their highest privileges, till they are willing to s}>end and be spent for Christ, and in blissful experience they will find that Jesus will recompense them an hundred fold for their work of love and self-denial, for God is a good pay-master and no one has ever had cause to regret having devoted the best energies of soul and body to His service. We have proved how freely the Israelites gave to God's treasury. Let us ask what place we occupy to-day in comparison of benevolence. To hear some church members complain of the many calls upon their purses, one ignorant of the true state of things, would almost think God required too much from them, but glance in their homes, find out if you can how many things they deny themselves for conscience sake, that others may be relieved. What proportion their gifts to God's treasury bear with their gifts to each other or themselves. I fear that in many instances a very narrow margin would hold the acts of self-denial. O that Christians would understand and do their duty, not of necessity, not from fear, not for the pleasure of seeing their names in print or heading subscription lists. No ! no ! no ! these motives are unworthy this enlightened period of the world's history. When railroads and telegraphs bring man in communication and intercourse with his fellow man though separated by land and sea, distance vanishes and every right thinking man or woman should feel an interest in his 4" ~- ' m SYSTEMATIC GIVIXG. J w I brother man, and try by every means in his power to improve or ameliorate his condition. As a system Christianity embraces and claims the whole world for Christ. It seeks man in the midst of the darkness of ignorance and vice, and pours upon him the purity of the gospel as portrayed in the life and ministry of the God-man " holy, hannless, undefiled, separate from sinners," shows the exceed- ing sinfulness of sin and through the holy spirit strives to bring him into the liberty and happiness of the Sons of God. Christianity is or should be essentially a benevolent religion in its actions and its adherents. It is founded on the unspeakable gift of God's only Son, who " came to seek and to save that which was lost" and the follower of Jesus who regularly and systematically estimates his mercies and increase as coming from God, is only doing his duty and will find that his own soul will be enriched and a deeper sympathy with his less fortunate brother be kindled in his heart, means of usefulness will be increased, and the work of the Lord will prosper in his hand. Salvation is a gift, full, free, undeserved, enough for you, enough for me, enough for every one of Adam's soul sick and sin burdened children. There are some persons who would gladly avail themselves of the respectability that belongs (at the present time) to a profession of religion, they would partake of its benefits but keep aloof from its responsibilities. They talk glibly of that sermon or anothers's prayer, of this one's failing or another's inconsistency, but appeal to their purses for some good object and then see how far they are sincere,out upon such whited sepulchres, the master wants them not : They are an offence and hindrance to others. Could they only see themselves as God sees them, so much greed, self , meanness, surely they would cry to the rocks and moun- tains to hide them from His gaze. Feai'ful state and yet true of every unregenerate heart. O ! fellow Christian's be faithful, be earnest, give, that increased efforts may be put forth, that real heathens may not live in our midst, and that wayward humanity, may be won from the haunts of vice and lured into the sweet and narrow path that leads to God. Peace, security, happiness. Which will be our way ? We cannot tread in both, and the effort to do so, only leads to repeated disappointments. " Ye cannot serve God and Mammon." " The greatest triumph of Grace is to let God mark our way and then keep both feet on the line." Paul gives a rule, the observance of which is simple and easy and possesses many advan- taiges, he says " Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store as God has prospered him." Cor. 16th, 2. The community of goods which existed among Christiojis at the outset II iprove or ■aces and he midst he purity God-man le exceed- to bring ristianity iions and rod's only ' and the nates his his duty a deeper his heart. Lord will deserved, )f Adam's sons who elongs (at artake of ilkgHbly another's bject and 3ulchres, ranee to so much :id moun- true of ^ht'ul, be liat real umanity, veet and Which to do so, (lodand narlv our ule, the ■ advan- le of you 2. The le outset SYSTEMATIC GIVING. n gave temporary relief but ultimately tended to impoverish them as it put ft stop to individual effort and of necessity wtis discontinued. What a proof it was of the regenerating power of the Holy Spirit, that the persecutor, who in his zeal had robbed many of their all ; for believing that Jesus was the promised Saviour; should now be foremost in exertions for their relief. The first day of the week was already kept sacred by Christians, as the day of the Lord's Resur- rection, and gradually took the place of the Jewish Sabbui-h. Three annual feasts all typical of Christian truths were ordered to be observed on the first day of the week. The feasts of the " Wave offering," " Tabernacles," " Pentecost." What time more appropriate to lay up for God as He has blessed and increased our store, the mind dwelling on His love and goodness, during the week that is passed, enjoying the rest and comforts of the Sabbath after the toil, turmoil and weariness of the week : and then it is a stated reminder that all we have, comes from, and belongs to our Heavenly Father, who supplies our wants from day to day — week to week — month to month — year to year — lifetime from the cradle to the grave. Noth- ing that could be done to bring fallen man back to his Creator, has been left undone. No gift is too precious for those who love and accept Christ. No position too high or exalted for the Christian. " Beloved even now are we the sons of God and it doth not yet appear what we shall be," etc. Paul says " For the love of Christ constraineth us, because we thus judge, that if one died for all then were all dead ; and that He died for all, that they who live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him that died for them and rose again. Now let there be a con- scientious and systematic distribution or rather a laying aside such a portion for God, as conscience will sanction and be satisfied with, in the light of the blessings we have received and the requirements and needs of the present day. Systematic, formed and continued from a certain well defined rule. Periodic, the stated first day of the week, and punctually paid the act will at last, become the most joyful and heartfelt offering to the bountiful giver of every good gift. And we will soon realize the beauty of the thought that those who love Christ are scattered from pole to pole, but that universal brotherhood in salvation, forms the bond of union, and the thousands of the rich ascend with the millions of the poor, for their gifts are estimated not by their market value but by the spirit that prompts them. If we would have God open His treasury we must open ours, and it is only a part of our service to honour God in life, and love, and surely those who know the light, and rejoice in it, because they 32 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. ■?■ i feel their sins forgiven, surely gratitude should prompt to regular and systematic benevolence. " Freely ye have received — freely give. How does the world know you are a Christian ? Have you ever spoken a word for Christ to an unconverted soul ? Do your religious duties take the precedence of all others. Are you ready to tell others what Christ has done for you.or as a dumb dog, arc you silent when all around are speaking of God's mercies. You will say perhaps I am leaving my subject, viz : (systematic giving) with all deference I maintain that systematic service and waiting and honouring God to the best of our ability is as necessary to the welfare of our immortal souls, as giving of our gold or silver. We have certain hours of every day in which we attend to particular duties, and certain days in every week during which we give attention to different schemes of business. System and order must be diligently kept up, or disappointment and disorder will ensue. Life must have a proper aim, spiritual character and godly results to fulfil its high commission. There are endless ways of occupying it, of spending its opportunities and consuming its powers, but tlien there is only one of meeting the ends for which we were created, and for fully enjoying the blessings which a well spent life will secure even in this world. Many choose the path which gratifies self and only look to time for all comfort and joy, but such a life dishonours God and ends in misery. What an encouragement to do good with wealth and talents is afforded by reading the lives of devoted ser- vants of God. We read of their patience and faith under severe trials and times of darkness, and the question is pressed home to our hearts " How much owest thou unto my Lord." Cboseu not for good in me, wakened up from wrath to flee Hidden in the Savior's side, by the Spirit sanctified. Teach me Lord on earth to show, By thy love how much I owe, Olt I walk beneath the cloud, Dark as midnights gloomy shrouc?, But when fear is at its height, Jesus comes and all is light, Blessed Jesus ! bid me shuw. Doubting saints how much I owe. — Copied. The God man walked through a sinful world and in the like- ness of sinful flesh " And was not ashamed to call us brethren." By prayer and exercise strengthen the gifts which are in you that you may adorn the doctrine of God your Saviour in all things, and by a useful life " labour among men." See to it that you use in the best way what God has given. Some bury their talents and hide their Lord's money, produce nothing to his honour, and have little or no pleasure in His service. These can have none of the comfort of the self-denying Christian, for they pamper self and know noth- ing higher than selfish gratification. to regular Bcl — freely Have you Do your ^ou ready )g, arc you You will ^ing) with aiting and he welfare We have lar duties, btention to diligently Life must ;o fulfil its zing it, of tlien there }d, and for ecure even f and only nours God ^ood with )voted ser- der severe d home to roud, ^e. — Copied. Q the like- ihren." By u that you ;s, and by use in the 3 and hide have little tie comfort now noth- SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 33 " I care for no titles that are not my right No honour that is not my due But stand in my Htation by day and by night, The will of my Master to do. He lent me my lot be it humble or high And set me my busiuf'ss here, And whether I live in thy service or die My heart shall be found in my sphere. If wealthy — I stand as the steward of ay King If poor— as the friend of the Lord, If feeble— my jjrayers and my praises I bring, If stalwart my pen or my sword. If wisdom be mine I will cherish His gift, If simpleness— bask in His love If sorrow - His hope shall my spirit uplift If joy I will throne it above. — Copied, When Jesus says to each of us, (thou owest me thyself), He asks that our souls should be rendered up to him as blank sheets to bo filled as He pleases. That is self surrender,and one of the things sure to be written there is our entire submission to His will. This is a severe test, for we all love to have our way. Our own way is apt to be a very crooked and erratic path ; branching here and there as inclination, self-interest, or worldly pleasure sway our minds ; but God's will is in the straight and narrow way that leads to peace, security, rest, happiness. Remember, we are but Stewards and a true and faithful account of our improvement or neglect of our opportunities of honouring God with the best of possessions, (for from Him all come) will be called for from us. S4 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. CONSIDERATION OF SOME OF THE SCHEMES OF CHRIS- TIANITY WORTHY THE CONTINUED AND INCREASED SUPPORT OF CHRISTIANS. 1st.— GOD'S HOUSE AND HIS SERVICES. The age in which we live, is certainly a progressive one. Steam engines, railways, telegraphs, have become necessary to suc- cess in business. In ten years railway traffic has more than trebled, and telegraphic communication has increased quite as much. Post Office increase appears almost incredible. Every man engaged in ihe busy walks or life makes the most of time and o'»portunities, if he hopes for success. Time in point of fact is money, therefore he travels •' Express," writes by " Telegraph," prints by Steam. Utility is taught in all things and commercial towns are the outcome of enterprise, utility, and thorough business habits combined and intensified. The church also partakes of this feature of the world, hence organizations, societies, schemes, which later times have developed require a large amount of practical skill and earnest labor, for the carrying out of them to a successful issue. Usefulness is a c^iaracteristic of Christianity, hearts are anxious, hands are busy and many are wearing their lives away in striving to make the most of present opportunities, of following the master's example and " doing good." Every Christian is required to become a worker, there must be no drones in God's hive. The need is far greater than the supply. If any are idle in the vineyard, it is their own fault and certainly not from want of opportunity or obliga- tion. " The harvest truly is plentious but the labourers are few," Let us pause for a short time and examine the true source of Christian usefulness. It is given us by St. Paul in writing of the Macedonian converts " They first gave their own selves to the Lord,"and to us by the will of God." Self-dedication is the main- spring of Christian benevolence and usefulness. When a soul, weary and sick, has been brought to Christ and feels its sins forgiven and washed away, the strongest emotions of love and gratitude take hold of the heart " What can I do for Jesus" is the question SYSTEMATIC OlVINa 35 ' CHRIS- ND asive one. ry to suc- m trebled, ich. Post ngaged in (jrtunities, therefore ay Steaui. e outcome bined and the world, mes have earnest Jsefulness lands are to make 8 example become a eed is far it is their or obliga- are few," source of ng of the es to the the main- Mi a soul, s forgiven gratitude question that comes first. The work of Christ in saving, is " redemption by purchase," the price paid, His precious blood. " Ye are not your own, ye are bought with a price." The beliver owes all to Jesus, and hopes all from Him. What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me ? should be the language of his heart and the motive power of his actions. This was the way the Macedonian converts acted. It was a thorough and hearty dedication of themselves and their belongings to Jesus. Let us see how we stand as to systematic giving with regard to our churches, and again we turn to the Israelite and take a lesson ; seeing how they esteemed the temple or as we speak of our places of worship (churches). A Jewish boy of twelve yeax's of age, was expected to understand the whole law of Moses, and hence was well and thor- oughly conversant with the law of Tithes ; taking as it does so prominent a place in the Mosaic economy : and showing that God's claim on him must be met andhonourea. WhiL. Christian parents in their homes instil the same teacliings, the Sabbath School the nursery of the Church comes to the front, and the teacher has a precious opportunity of leading the lambs of the flock into green pastures of tender grass, by telling of Jacob's dream, Abram's faith. Tlie babe of Bethlehem, and all the other stories of the Bible then pointing them to the many comforts they possess com- pared with others, impress upon their minds " To whom much is fiven, of them much will be expected." And again, Christ gave [is life for them, what have they given to Him ? Encourage them to save something from self-indulgence and to bring it to the Sabbath School as their weekly offering towards God's work and acknowledgment that all their comforts come from His loving care. There are many ways in which we can assist to make our Church well-organized and successful ; and first let each member resolve to do his or her duty (irrespective of what others may do) as to God and not to man. 'The place where we worship, (be it large or small) should be very dear to us, for though God is not .confined to " temples made with hands," yet we know that He will meet with and give special blessings in the assembly of His saints. Bethel must have been very dear to Jacob's heart ; and has not God's house, frequently proved a very Bethel to our souls ? Let us dwell for a short time on the vast preparations made by David for the building of the first temple. Tinily he deemed no gift too costly. We read " Solomon my son, whom alone God has chosen, is yet young and tender and the work is great, for the palace is not for man but for the Lord God. Now I h£L e prepared with all my 36 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. might for the house of my God ; the gold for things to be made of gold, and the silver for things to be made of silver, and brass for things of brass ; the iron for things of iron, and wood for things of wood. Onyx stones and stones to be set : glistening stones and of divers colours, and all manner of precious stones and marble stones in abundance." " Moreover because I have set my affection to the house of m^ God, I have of mine own proper good, of gold and silver which I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I have prepared for the holy house, even three thousand talents of the gold of Ophir, and seven thousand talents of refined silver, to overlay the walls of the house withal, the gold for things of gold, and the silver for things of silver, and for all manner of work to be made by the hands of artificers. And who then is will- ing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord." " Then the chief of the fathers and princes of the tribes of Israel, and the captains of thousands and of hundreds, with the rulers of the kings, off*ered willingly, and gave for their service of the house of God, of gold five thousand talents and ten thousand drams, and of silver ten thousand talents, and of brass eighteen thousand talents, and one hundred thousand talents of iron. And they with whom precious stones were foun ^ gave them to the treasure of the house of the Lord, by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite. Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the Lord : and David the king also rejoiced with great joy." Wherefore David blessed the Lord and all the congregation and dedicated the offering to Him. Chron. 29th. The next five verses acknowledge God's sovereignty over all thus, " Of thine own have we given thee." Tney did not rest satisfied with giving a tenth, no — to their praise be it said they gave lavishly and with cheerful hearts and willing hands. Now glance at the costly gifts that always adorn the mosques and temples of idolators, they are ornamented with the most valuable and richest gifts, proving that every heart holds dear the place where they worship their God, whether it be the only living and true God, or an idol made of wood or stone, the work of men's hands. Now while Christi- anity is opposed to the pomp and glitter of outward show, yet Christian places of worship should always be freed from debt, before being consecrated to the service of God. Is it not an insult to the Most High to expect Him to accept and honour with His presence a building set apart for His glory, with a debt resting on it ? Can we forget that the silver and the gold are His, and are hoarded up or spent to pamper or decorate these bodies of ours. I SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 37 be made of d brass for »r things of 3nes and of irble stones tion to the )f gold and and above 3 thousand i of refined for things manner of Jien is will- "Then the il, and the f the kings, ise of God, nd of silver alents, and >m precious use of the the people rfect heart so rejoiced nd all the ^Jth. The thus, " Of isfied with vishly and the costly itors, thev s, proving •ship their idol made e Christi- show, yet rem debt, 'j an insult with His resting on and are )f ours. I cannot forbear giving a case iii point which I have recently read, in a book entitled "Doing good," George B. Thofneycroft,Ironmaster, a native of Tipton, Staffordshire, his education was neglected, but one mode of instruction failed not, a mother's unwearied efforts taught him the Holy Scriptures, and his tenacious memoiy rete .ned the incorruptible seed until he died. " In the early part of his career, he was connected with a Wesleyan chapel upon which a heavy debt lay. This pressed heavily upon Mr. Thorneycroft ; disturbing his nights and disquieting his days, at last he was deter- mined to make a strenuous effort to obtain its liquidation ; and after tossing in his bed much of the night, he was refreshed in the morning by the determination at which he had arrived." " He at once set about taking stock of iron, and drawing a balance, he, without hesitation paid off the whole amount — a very considerable sum to him in those days, in which his success was only beginning to develop itself. Providence after this seemed indeed to smile upon him, and he dated his great success in after life from this event." Here we have the true principal of liberality. It was his own ; it was first fruits ; it was for Christ ; and it blessed him that gave as well as the cause that was immediately benefited by his prompt action. As regards our duty to our churches, it is certainly requisite that the financial expenditure should have a firm basis. Every member should know what sum he can give each Sabbath and this being done (by aid of the envelope system) the elders, stewards, deacon, or by whatever name they may be called, know exactly what sum they have to work with and govern themselves accordingly. We all want a clever, well educated man for our minister, but how few of us take into consideration, the yeai*s of study and research occupied in preparing to preach the Gospel. And in many cases how inadequate the salary he receives. A mechanic often getting nearly double the amount. A pastor's studj^ should be well supplied with the best literature, in order to keep up with the various vital questions and circumstances of the religious world. He should have at hand all the recent missionary and other records. We must honour God's servant and give kindness, consid- eration, respect and Christian love. Do not encourage a fault finding captious spirit. Meet him with sympaty, help him in his work, encourage him to feel he is surrounded by friends willing to be co-workers with him in winning souls for Christ. See to it that we give ourselves first and all the rest will follow. Be in earnest, be diligent, be courteous to strangers, and strive to draw them to the Saviour with the bands of love let your manner be such that SYSTEMATIC GIVING. others taking notice of you may see you have been with Jesus," and " glorify your father in heaven," That church in which there are opposing forces cannot be a success. Practice the charity that thinketh no evil and like Aaron and Ilur of old, " Hold up the pastor's hands." A successful church must be a missionary and aggressive church, battling for the right and bearing aloft the blood stained banner of the cross. Here We are far advanced in the nine- teenth century and I ask, how many of our pastor's are supported and strengthened by the ready sympathy and earnest prayers of their flock for God's blessing to rest upon their labours and that souls may be Won by their ministrations. As to salary, no matter what private property your minister may possess, your duty is to pay him according to the position he holds and the provision should be as generous as possible that his mind may be freed from grovel- ling care about the needs of his family, remember the " Labourer is worthy of his hire," and Scripture speaks very plainly on this subject and with no uncertain sound, while such texts as the following can be found. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things ?" "Who goeth a warfare at any time at his own charge." " Who planteth a vine- yard and eateth not of the fruit thereof," or "who feedeth a flock and eateth not of the milk of the flock ? " Do ye not know, that they which minister about holy things, live of the things of the temple, and they which wait at the altar, are partakers with the altar. Even so hath the Lord ordained, that they which preach the Gospel live of the Gospel." The only inference to be drawn from this passage, is not that the Christian ministry is of a sacrificial character as the Jewish priesthood, but simply that as the latter Was supported by the contributions of |,the people, so should the former. The stipends of the clergy were at first from voluntary oflerings at the Lord's supper; at the love feast previous to it, every believer according to his ability, offered a gift, and when the expenses of the Table had been defrayed, the remainder was divided. A certain portion to the bishoio, presbyters, deacons and then to the relief of the widows, orpbciis and poor generally. Rev. A. R. Fausset, A. M., Barnes, thus paiaphaises and comments on the first of these verses. If we (Paul says of ministers) have been the means of imparting to you the gospel, and bestowing upon you its high hopes and privileges, " Is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things." Is it to be regarded as unequal, unjust or burden- soiAe ? Is it to be supposed that we are receiving that for which we have not rendered a valuable consideration ? The sense is, we Ii Jesus," ich there ^rity that d up the nary and the blood the nine- iupported rayers of and that o matter duty is to on should m grovel- Labourer Y on this ts as the lal things, \^ho goeth bh a vine- th a, flock now, that ;s of the with the reach the Avn from [sacrificial he latter ould the oluntary it, every hen the divided, then to IV. A. K the first e means its high ap your burden- |)r which [se is, we SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 89 impart blessings of more value than we receive. We receive a supply of our temporal wants. We impart to you under the Divine blessing, the gospel with all its hopes and consolations. We make you acquainted with God, with the plan of salvation. We instruct your children, we guide you in the path of comfort and peace ; we raise you from the degradation of idolatry and sin ; and we open before you the hope of tlie resurrection of the just, and of all the bliss of heaven." Extract Gold and Gospel. After reading these extracts who can shut their eyes to the plain duty of the members of a church to support liberally and encourage lovingly the shepherds who have the oversight of the various churches, and who are labouring faithfully in the Lord's vineyard ; spending and being spent in His service and for our benefit. We expect our minister to take an active part in every benevolent cause, let us see to it that his usefulness is not injured by want of means. In our times of sadness and sorrow, we look for his sympatliy and advice, and never is it withheld ; but how apt Christians are to take for granted that the pastor's heart is enjoying all the rv pose and comforts of which he tells us so sweetly and beseeches God so earnestly to bestow upon us, oh ! give more heart, more love, more prayer, that the man of God may feel that the supplications of his congregation ascend like incense to the Throne of Grace in his behalf. Give a careful, considerate, patient and intelligent attention to his sermons, bring a teachable, humble spirit and ask that food convenient for every waiting soul may be there. What know you of the hours of prayer and careful study that discourse has taken, the wearied brain, the aching heart, as the coldness and apathy of some of the members comes to mind : the levity of others, the inconsistency of nearly all. Above everything the dread of being an unfaithful watchman, a shepherd whose flock wanders upon the mountains of worldliness, pride and expediency, " Who is sufiicient for these things, bursts from his lips, as he anxiously considers and expresses the feelings prompted by the test under consideration. PREPARING FOR SABBATH. The miiiistt'r sat in liis study chair, The Bible the chief of books were there, But before he begiin to study, — he bowed In a prayer for help to the preacher's God. A great many texts passed through his mind Before he a suitable one could find. Perchance some longing anxious soul. Is waiting for Jesus to iHak,e it whole, 40 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. The erring soul or trembling one Must be warned or pointed to the Son, The thoughtless and gay must have warning given, That straight is the path that leads to heaven. The young must hear that they must die, Though health in their veins be running high The rich be told their wealth is vain, In a dying hour to soothe their pain. With words of comfort the poor to cheer, Their wants and trials oft gn his ears, .Again at the Throne of Grace h pleads For strength to supply his people's needs. • Out of God's storehouse full and fair, But how to divide, that each his share May have the portion his God would give Of the Bread of Life that all may live. The Holy Spirit with quickening power, Is there to bless — that sacred hour, EfTectUiil are the earnest prayers, Of the pleading hearts by the study chairs. Nearly nineteen centuries have passed since Jesus sent foi-th his disciples to evangelize the world. Their commission " Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost : Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world." Matt. 28th, 19, 20. And now in these latter days, a want is felt, an essay asked for, that may rouse Christians to a fuller sense of their absolute duty to give a regular, liberal and distinct portion of time, talents, money, to the support of the worship of the one living and true God. The pleeisant and successful working of the schemes of the church can only be car- ried on by the ce^^ainty of a reliable and generous financial fund from which they can be sustained by systematic giving. We have considered the claims of our church, let us take up one of her principal schemes namely, missions and missionaries. A successful church must be a missionary church, that is she must be an aggres- sive power in the world. Think of the millions on the face of the earth, who have never yet heard the gospel sound : know nothing of their need of Jesus, their lands filled with the abomination of Idolatry and darkness of heathenism. Open your purse strings — bring out your chetjue books, and if you cannot go yourselves and carry the glad tidings, give freely to those who are willing to leave SirSTEMATIC GIVING. 41 pent foi-tli 1 " Go ye bine of the all things u always, rid now in nay rouse a regular, le support i;sant and y be car- Lcial fund We have e of her |successful m aggres- lace of the nothing Ination of Ise strings Iselves and to leave home, friends, all, yes even life itself that Christ may be glorified and the dark places of the earth be ilUumined with the rays of the Son of Righteousness. Man of the world, bring your treasure with you, consider what has been done to rescue you from death eternal, and hear the famished, perishing souls cry " Come over and help us." If you want a rich blessing scatter, scatter abroad, and sow the seed of self-denial, the bread cast upon the waters will return after many days, freighted with rich blessings from heaven. How can the missionary spirit be made more general amongst us, I say we must begin at the beginning and take the nurseries. Teach the children from the early dawn of intelligence how much they owe to God. The mother's love can be made the medium fer the first lessons. The child loves its mother and that love becomes the motive power of obedience. The mother speaks of God's love and as proof of it points to the many comforts the little one has. Mother, father, home : God gave it all these things. Parents look to it that ye point your little ones to Him as their loving, merciful, father supplying all their wants through you as His appointed means. When old CDough, tell of God's greatest and best gifts, even Jesus, and encourage them to give up some gratifi- cation that they may be able to contribute towards sending help to other- little ones, (less highly favoured) living and knowing nothing of " Him who died for them." A child's heart is soft and easily swayed, by kindly words and feelings. O write nothing on these pure tablets, but stories of the Lamb of God, His innocence, His love, His patience, His kindness to the little ones, His sympathy and relief for all. Let the voice of joy be inyour dwelling and hymns of praise burst from childhoods lips. Too young to under- stand you say ! you teach them and God's glory will be all the greater and brighter for your efforts. The ark will be taken care of. Children are precious gifts and it is to them the well being of our churches and missions will be entrusted, when the fathers and mothers of to day have passed away, and their actions whether selfish or otherwise, have gone before them to the judgment. Blessed result if in our case the master says " She hath done what she could." A man taught from childl. )od to give a portion of his money or services to God, will never sh. ie off' the feeling of responsibility, although he may not always fillfil its demands, there- fore again I repeat, encourage a faithful and intelligent benevolence towards missions, churches and whatever schemes appear most important or effectual towards hastening the time, when the " knowledge of God shall cover the whole earth," From time to ^ 12 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 4. time we read of large bequests to each and all of these schemes ; the majority of people are unable to give largely but very few if any are so poor as to be unable to give one cent a day. Some will perhaps scoff at such an offering, but if that were done by those on the roll of the Methodist church alone, not including Sabbath Scholars who are members and a few who are very very poor, a sum for missionary purpose, $693,500 ; would be forthcoming, each member merely giving one cent a day. " Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature." Our duty as professing Christians appears very plain. Means must be provided, men must be sent, (God finding them) for how otherwise are the nations of the earth to become Christianized or be brought to the knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus. Yet some will say, why bother about the heathen ? they know no better, and will only be judged by the light they have, you will only increase their responsibilities by telling them of the Saviour, God and Heaven. Begone such sophistry. The glad tidings, was to be sent to all nations and God has promised Jesus " the heathen for his inheritance and the utter- most part of the earth for His possession." Waft, waft ye winds our story, And you ye waters rolJ, Til] like a sea of glory, It spreads from pole to pole. Till o'er our ransomed nature, The lamb for sinners slain Redeemer, King, Creator Returns in bliss to reign. Let us glance at a few of the missions and see what encour- agement we find to go on with the work, Japan. " the 38,000,000 of Japan are neither ignorant or degraded as regards natural or intellectual civilization. " And no people on the face of the earth presents so remarkable an opportunity for speedy Christiunization as Japan. Until forty years ago the people were kept in almost absolute seclusion developing within themselves a quaint civilization largely on the Chinese model. Think of 168 churches being founded in thirteen years, fifty-seven of which are self-supporting, and the rest rapidly rising into self-support — twelve thousand members, over one-fourth of whom were brought in during the past year. Dr. Cochran writes " Press, press, impress the truth on the mind and heart of Canadian Methodism that now is the golden oppor- tunity in Japan, a few thousand dollars and a few more men at once, is worth more in the service of the crown and kingdom of SYSTEMATIC OIVINO. 4^ icliemeg ; y few if 5ome will f those on Sabbath { poor, a ling, each ihe world >rofessing men must ations of no wl edge her about ;ed by the tilities by one such i and God the utter- ill eneour- 18,000,000 itural or the earth nization almost vilization founded and the members, ast year. }he mind n oppor- men at Qgdom of Jesus, our Saviour and Lord, than millions of money and an army of men by and by." Attempt great things for God, expect great things from God. It would be a blessing if some special plea or call could be made effectual in arousing the church out of her apathy, getting her out of the rut of meagre givings until she should emulate her master in practical sympathy for a lost world. Rescue the perishing, care for the dying. In face of a work so vast, (a world to be won for Christ,) the mighty responsibility that rests on Christendom as a whole, and on each individual as part and parcel of that whole, how pitiful and contemptible the excuses behind which men strive to shelter themselves. Christ did redeem us, He emptied himself of all but love, that we might have a man- sion in heaven. He sends the Holy Spirit into our hearts witnessing with our spirits as to our Sonship. This has he done for us. What have we done for Him. Do not shirk the question. Does your heart answer I have done all I can. I have denied myself all the luxuries of life, and some of its necessaries, that I might have to give or send to those who need, I am earnest in praying for the success of missionaries and missions that the dark places may be illumined by the rays of the Sun of Righteousness, and the abodes of cruelty and superstition become the habitation of the Prince of Peace. If as in God's sight you can answer yes — well ; if not remember the day of reckoning is soon to come and sins of omission will be punished as well as sins of commission. "In as much as ye did it not." The mission ground embraces the whole world, for the commission was to all nations, how small a beginning, whet stupendous results. Will you not use extra efforts, that more labourers may go forth to the harvest. You have home claims you say, and cannot give much to foreign missions, well just deal justly or as you will wish you had judged when you come to die. Analyze these claims, are they those of the outcast, the fallen, the degraded, if they are see to it how you meet them for they are home missions, although to people who know (by the ear at least) the sound of the " church going bell," and who most certainly are steadily refusing the call of salvation. The various agencies such as Benevolent societies, blind asylums, institutions for the deaf and dumb, orphans home, industrial or reform school and many others, have all deep and worthy claims for support on a christian community. Few persons can give to all and therefore I would beg, an earnest, prayerful and thorough investigation of the claims of each and all and then a generous share to those you prefer. I must not omit the F. M. G. A. in the list of worthy objects. The association 44 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. requires no word of praise from me, its young men have gone away and after a very short time we hear of them working for Jesus among strangers. I meant to give statistics of each of the most important mission stations but for the present I will but mention a few. The missions to India, China, North-west, Polynesia : the reports from the different churches should be attentively read by us, as we thus get a birds eye view of the work with less trouble and more reliability than in any other way. No character can be called Christian unless love be its essence and mainspring. In no section of God's vineyard is this more required than in the Sabbath School. Time, prayer, mind, nmst all be given in preparation : patience, hope, faith, must all be called into activity : and eternity alone will reveal, how largely the work of one humble faithful Sabbath School teacher may have furthered the coming of Christ's kingdom on earth or how many jewels it has won for His crown. The child passes from the primary through the intermediate classes till from the Bible class he becomes a teacher himself and imparts to others instruction in the word of God. Again the child is early taken from the Sabbath School to the church, joins in the outward worship of God, again hears that a stated portion of time is His : and cannot be spent in idleness or folly without breaking the command. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. The boy or girl reasons thus, God must own me, if he claims my time, my means, my heart, and as years are added and deeper reasoning, the word comes with power, and giving up all for Christ ! " I am not my own, I am bought with a price" bursts from his lips, angels rejoice that another soul is won for Christ who sees of the travail of His soul and is satisfied. A faithful Sabbath School teacher is a missionary in the true sense of the word, she brings the knowledge of God to the Lambs of the fold, she nurtures them on the pure milk of the word even the plain story of the cross, they are too young to argue, and accept with implicit faith the story of Calvary. I have already alluded to the mission to Japan and its mar- vellous success. I have just been reading the life of Rev John Geddie, first missionary to the New Hebrides ; what zeal, what patience, what endurance, what living epistle of a Christian soldier bearing the heat and burden of the day. What a reason that more means should be forthcoming to keep up and extend tne work still to be done that other places may " know the joyful sound." On his landing in 1848 there were no Christians there, when he left in 1872, there were no heathen, what a monument to the faithfulness of his life and service. He died in Australia in 1872. Let not SYSTEMATIC QIVINO. 46 ne away )r Jesus he most mention sia: the read by I trouble :' can be In no Sabbath aration : eternity faithful Christ's I crown. 3 classes imparts is early outward is His : ing the ilm boy me, my ling, the am not angels travail ;her is a Dwledge le pure are too alvary. ts mar- John d, what soldier 3n that le work d." On left in fulness et not r missions languish for want of means. Hear the cries that come from heathen lands, thir^k of the time that has passed since Christ sent forth the first missionaries to preach and baptize and promised to be with them always. Now then where is the Lord's V)ag, purse, bank or whatever you may call it, are you keeping it well supplied with funds taken from luxury, self-indulgence, worldly amusements or outward adorning. You cannot perhaps go from home yourself, then do the next best thing, and help those who are both willing and anxious to do so. They are willing to leave home, civilization, friends, country, all for what, the dark abodes of wickedness, ignorance and sin, Vv'here life is counted as of small value, and morality is unknown. It is impossible for us to understand how thoroughly revolting to an educated and christian mind intercourse with such fallen and degraded beings must be, but notwithstanding all this, the missionary sees in each, a sinner for whom Christ died and an innnortal soul perishing, which he came to save. Again I would ask you to turn to the wives of missionaries and let con- science answer the question. Do I love Jesus as these women do ? could I make the sacrifices they do for Christ. Now money must be expended on these missions continuously till they become self- supporting, and in their turn send help to weaker brethren. Some members murmur at the many calls made upon them. Well have God's bag at hand and you will nearly always have eiumgh to meet expected calls and for extra ones be willing to deny yourselves that you may enjoy to the full the luxury of giving. Men ! women ! " strengthen the things that remain and are ready to die." You do not want any mission to be given up, from want of funds. Rouse yourselves and be equal to the emergency. Ask God to send men and all Christendom supply the silver and gold. Up and be doing, more faith, more union, more brotherhood, more love to God and man. " Pray ye the Lord to send labourers into his vineyard." Aim at such a standard of benevolence as shall attract to the religion you profess, many who had seen no loveliness in it before. A gentleman in India was convei'sing one day with a missionary " are you really in earnest in saying your people who sent you here to preach to us, love Jesus ?" The missionary replied in the affirmative; "'Well he said if troops are wanted to defend any city over which England has control, they come by hundreds, if there is a vacancy in the civil service list there are hundreds of applicants, bub in this country where millions have never heard of a Saviour I see you here, another missionary 150 miles from this, and another fifty or one hundred miles further stilL I don't understand how they can II SYSTEMATIC OIVTNO. I< love Jesiis as you say they do, and not come or send us preaches ?" Pertinent question and one that should cause us all to stop and take thought before we answer. Love is the fulfilling of the law. The eonnuission is to preach the gospel " to every creature." Do not forget this injunction while there is one human being to whom the glad tidings of great joy have never been told, our commission is not executed and we as unfaithful watchmen are allowing fellow men to perish eternally, without having heard of the name of Jesus. It is very nice to be enthusiastic at missionary meet- ings, but when the collection is taken up, how many give ac- cording to their means ? how many accompany the gift with prayer for its success ? how many just put a few cents on the plate with a complacent smile as they say to themselves " I'll give them my mite." Again I repeat God can do without you or your money and if 'you Christ. He con- siders it as done to Himself, and a cup of cold water, becomes of value in His sight. Let u 3 turn again to God's word, " I have showed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said it is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20th, 35. What kindly generous heart but can answer yes to this assertion, it is the weak and trembling who need support. The verse breathes the spirit of the Lord's life and doctrine and teaches those who have not to A 64 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. t laliour from necessity, still to labour from benevolence that they may have to give to others. How few live up to this rule and yet it is but what Jesus did while He walked on earth, and the servant should be highly honoured in being permitted to follow the Master's steps. Wealth used for' Christ with a heart only desirous of His glory will be enlai-ged and blessed, have greater power of doing good and greater interest in the various schemes assisted. Christian brother instead of imagining you are conferring a favor by using a portion of youi money in God's service, believe me you are the honoureil party, in being allowed to take a share in the glorious work of winning the world for Christ. Leave self out of the ques- tion and cheerfully strengthen the hands of these labouring in the cause, by placing means in their hands that will enable them to do the work. " Freely ye have received freely give." Nothing has been withheld from us by God that is essential to our salvation. What greater gift could have been given than " Jesus ?" What brighter home could be promised than " Heaven ?" What purer robe could have been provided than " Christ's righteousness." What more simple plan of salvation than " come for all things are ready." What more general invitation " whosoever will let him take of the water of life freely." You may build a church or founil an hospital, head subscrintion lists and spend your means to feed the poor and yet be devoid of the principal that would make these actions a sacrifice of sweet savour unto God. Splendid munificence may cause your name to be remembered and gratitude may raise a monument to your honour, l)ut hear one word of warning. He that with neither money or possessions lays his heart upon the altar of Christ's love has a more lasting memorial and one that the countless ages of eternity will never lessen or mar. A little book called Aunt Parson's story is beside me, and shows how much individual effort can accomplish. The sum given weekly was not burdensome to any while few if any would have been able to pay S20.80 at one time. I think the benefit and comfort derived from a stated con- secration of a certain sum for the support and maintenance of the worship of God in our midst, and the spread of the glad tidings of salvation among the nations of the earth : is one of the noblest acts of the regenerated child of God. Life must have a proper aim, a, spiritual character and those combined will produce godly results, thus fulfilling its high commission. Many and diverse are the ways of occupying and spending its opportunities and exhausting its powers. But there is only one way of meeting the ends for which it was given us, and freely enjoying the blessing which it is capable SYSTEMATIC GlVINa 55 le >f tts a of receiving. Many ! how many choose the way which gratifies the flesh, but dishonours God and ends in misery. How great the encouragement to do good with wealth and talents, is afforded by reading the lives of devoted servants of God. It is a repetition of -a question that cannot be too frequently pressed home, " How much owest thou unto riy Lord." Chosen not for good in me, Wakened up from wrath to flee, Hidde.i in the Saviour's side, By the Spirit sanctified. , Teach me Lord on earth to show. By thy love how much I owe. Oft I walk beneath the cloud, Dark as midnight's gloomy shroud. But when fear is at its height > Jesus comes and all is light. Blessed Jesus bid me show. Doubting saints, how much I owe.— Copied, Now that the world may believe that Christians are sincere in their professions and that religion is something more than a respectable garment, serving to go to church in but not to be taken into our week day labours or business, and there are hundreds to-day in our own city who w^ould be brought nearer to Christ, if in their conscience they believed Christians sincere. All men have one deep instinct, it is this, that a man is sincere in what he w.U pay for and if they see religious men giving largely and cheerfully for their church, all doubts of their sincerity will be taken awaly And surely those services or rites can be worth very little which are not worth paying for. Rise up ye Christian men and women who know God and acknowledge a kind and beneficent providence, rise up and let all see that when hard won gains are in your hand, you find your noblest and most enduring joy in scattering them abroad, to lessen or ameliorate some of the anxieties and sufferings of humanity. Alas for that home, at whose door the poor and famished never knock, and from which, a collector for any chari- table purpose turns away, with a remark such as this, " no use to call there they always have so many calls upon their purses, they wonder where all the money goes to." The pleasant and successful working of the various schemes of our churches and organizations for the benefit of mankind, (by whatever name they may be called) can only be carried on by the certainty of a reliable and generous financial fund, from which they can be sustained, and this can only be obtained by systematic giving, spontaneous generosity ■1- If i 56 SYSTEMATIC GIVING. is often needed and called for to meet cases of exigency ; and these will occur when the regular supply is insufficient to meei the demand and earnestly may we thank God that helping hands and hearts are always found when required. Each member of a benevolent society becomes an integral part of that society, and is related to the sick or needy brother. If his obligations are viewed aright he will hasten to comfort and relieve him. Sonship is ours through Christ our elder brother. The want of this feeling of brotherhood is a crying evil in our churches and throughout Christendom and by it many of our common humanity are permitted to perish miserably in ignorance, want, and squallor. Christians cannot the charge be laid at many of your doors. " Inasmuch as ye did it not" etc. Out upon such coldness, such indifference among the blood bought children of one common Father ! Giving includes many many more things than mere money, which in reality is far less valuable. Make a practice of giving loving and gentle words, to those whose hearts are lonely and craving for sympathy, give ready and active assistance when required and do not be satisfied with saying, " How sorry I am," give time from your own ease and find out how this one's burden can be made lighter and that weak, tremb- ling, erring brother or sister be strengthened and encouraged, again to try to keep from temptation and win for themselves once more a name and place of respectability among men. and hope of eternal life through an ever kind, loving and willing Saviour. If these things are so and God's loving gifts are oflfered us thus abundantly shall we be satisfied with giving barely enough to keep our standing in the community as professing Christians. No, rather let our lives be a song of praise and our giving be that of heart and means consecrated to God's service. Must Christ work " who upholdeth all things by the word of His power," and must not we. Paul says *' I laboured more abundantly than they all." Work, abundant labour is among the signs of an Apostle and signs of a Christian too, for the clearest evidence of Christian character is working for and giving to Christ. The story of the Scotch baron who tired and disheartened at some difficulties, decided to drown himself ; when about plunging in, felt something pull him, turning round he saw a little girl who begged for help for a sick and dying mother. He v,ook her by the hand, and went home with her, found misery, cold, L anger and approaching death. He gave relief reeeived the mother's thanks and blessing and on his return to the stream, he said : " O foolish man ! to think of taking my life when there is so much real joy to be found on earth. In giving happines^B to this family SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 6T d, 's O ly I have learned a new secret, that in giving to others, I am made rich myself." " It is more blessed to give than to receive." "I expect to pass through the world but once ; if therefore, there can be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow human being, let me do it now ; let me not defer or neglect it for I shall not pass this way again 8,nd time passed never returns." Let us give cheerfully therefore ac God prospers us, and see the effect of our free will gifts, in His blessing on our means. Salvation is the free gift of God, and received by us through faith in Jesus Christ who brought life and immortality to light in the Gospel. It is the special privilege of Christians to be allowed to spread the glorious message " Peace on earth good will towards men," and by their walk and conversation, " let their light so shine that others taking ^knrwledge of them may glorify their Father in Heaven." What an honour. To every creature God has given some work, suited to their powers and worthy of them. Man has the improvement of his mental powers, the task of self-cultivation and the raising himself step by step from a lower to a higher degree of excellence, no matter in what walk of life he may be engaged, and to Christians God has entrusted the recovery of the human race, from folly, sin and carelessness to the knowledge of the only true God and Jesus whom He has sent. Loving the Lord with all our heart, strength, mind, soul ; and our neighbour as ourselves should be, but is not universally cherished. God has given and example of his intense love of man, in giving His son Jesus Christ, to die for us, and having given Him will certainly not withhold any good thing from those who love Him. Let us therefore put our love to Him beyond dispute. Do not be so worldl}'', so stingy, so careless, so cold, what after all do your gifts to God amount to, in nine cases out of ten, not an hundredth part of what you should give or what you spend on selfishness. " God is not mocked," what you sow you will surely reap and the harvest home will be a time of agony and remorse to many a soul whose aspirations after God have not been listened to, and whose possessor has turned the poor and needy from the door and spoken words of cruel cutting scorn to the erring one who has perchance been waiting for a kind word. Give love, and pure disinterested charity will be there. No matter how large your weekly subscription or donation may be, no matter though it embraces half your goods, no matter though you rise early to do good to others and visit the sick the fatherless and the widow, once more I repeat till you do all this and anything else from love to God, your offerings are of no good in His sight, with whom you 58 SYSTEMATIC GIVINQ. have to do. Settle this question at once and then having found Christ by blessed experience and realizing all He has done for you Go forth in His strength, beat down the enemy and with heart. life, substance, consecrated to His service, defeat will be impossible and a glorious scene will be witnessed of missions multiplying and flourishing, missionaries increased in number and better paid, encouraged by the prayers and systematic generosity of those who believe in and repeat, " Thy kingdom come." Home missions will then be a success for all Christians will do their utmost and the work while employing special labourers, will be partaken in by all. Gather the outcast, the fallen and lost. Remember Christ did not turn from the woman who was a sinner, though His pure spotless soul must have shrank from the contract. Yet — no. He hated the sin, but loved the sinner. Freely ye have received, freely give. Bring your offerings, support His cause, deal fairly and honestly with your responsibilities, study the working of the different societies having for their object the benefit of mankind and the spread of the Gospel, weigh their different claims, read the yearly reports and then distribute your means as you feel will be most to Grid's glory and your own satisfaction in that great day, when before the great white throne all must stand and give an account of their stewardship, to Him that sits upon the throne, and before an assembled world. No excuse will be made or received there. no claim of property or possessionss thought of or allowed, no inability or poverty pleaded or listened to. No ! naked and trembling, stripped of its own plausibility, the covetous, the idolator loving His gold (when on earth) more than he loved God or his fellow man will listen to his doom. " Inasmuch as ye did it not," etc. Fearful thought, all mankind will be ranged on either side of the Judge. Christian reader where will you be. The giving of our means to any object or society, certainly enhances our interest in that object and we instinctively pay greater attention when anything affects it than those in which we have no financial stake. Hence giving to missions both home and foreign increases our anxiety about their well-being and future success. The missionaries whom our money helped to fit out and send to their distant field of labour appear nearer and closer to our hearts, and while we pray for the success of missionaries in general, there is a greater warmth, a more earnest tone as we specially remember (our missionary) before the Throne of Grace. And so it is in every work. What w6 deny ourselves for : what we give our Aieans to assi : what we see strengthened and growing to larger dimensions through con- SYSTEMATIC GIVING. 59 tinned liberality : will grow dearer and dearer tons as we feel more and more, the love of Christ constraining us. God demanded a tenth from the Jew and surely the ransomed " child of God," freed from the punishment of sin and made an heir of salvation through Christ " our elder brother" will not be satisfied with giving less than the Jew, who although highly honoured as God's peculiar people, saw but as through a glass the coming glories of the promised Messiah, and yet gave freely, willing, joyfully towards the support and con- tinuance of the ceremonial dispensation. The recurrence of Sabbath has been specially spoken of by Paul. " Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him." Cor. Ifith, 2, Every one of you, must certainly include those in limited circumstances and we know by various instances .that the offerings of the poor are specially acceptable to Christ. " The widow's offering of her all," the widow of Sarepta, the box of ointment all met His commendation. Every Christian is advised and exhorted to lay aside a certain portion every Sabbath for religious purposes, as God has prospered us. This practice perse- vered in will bring a rich blessing and when we are called upon for aid in any good cause, we will not have to make mean contemptible excuses. Professing Christians cease being a sham and pretence : practice the luxury of saving for and giving to Jesus and you will soon get out of the rut of worldliness, and living for self into the freedom and brotherhood of the early Christian church, where the rich had nothing over and the poor had no lack. From Acts 20th, 17, we find, that the first day of the week, as being the day of our Lord's resurrection, had become the customary day of assembling of the church and by the hallowed associations of the day each member should feel strongly impelled to help in supplying the wants of the needy or less fortunate ones and sending to others the bread and water of life. If this was done in the early