The branch of self-righteousness on
which they stand is insufficient to bear them. By-and-by it begins to
give way. When the sinner feels this he cries, "What shall I do? Who
will save me?"
Now Christ is commissioned to save, and when the poor sinner sees that
he is about to perish, and in that state cries for help, Christ comes to
him and says, "Let go all hope in yourself; let go dependence upon every
other thing; trust to me and I will save you." "Come, for all things are
ready." But may be the sinner is afraid. Will Christ do as he promises?
Is he able to save? Well, the sinner looks round--he hesitates--perhaps
prays--weeps--promises; but while all these are well enough in their
places, they never of themselves bring peace and safety to the anxious
heart. At length he sees and feels that there is no one but Christ, who
stands as it were at the bottom of the tree, that can save him. And now
he lifts up his voice and cries, "Lord, save me, or I perish." Into the
hands of Christ he falls, and from that moment he is safe. This is
Gospel faith or confidence.
And this repentance and faith which I have described are necessary in
order to salvation. So the Bible decides; and whenever a soul exercises
them that soul is a Christian soul, and that man is a Christian man.
There is yet one question further of great moment. You hope, perhaps,
that you are a Christian--that you have truly repented, and do exercise
true faith.
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