​Mountain Marathons
As Christians we are called to be long distance mountain marathon runners – not just short distance sprinters.  Just as an athlete needs to build up their muscles and aerobic fitness, developing the strength and stamina for the endurance needed, so we need to stretch our faith, our devotion, our obedience and skills.  Christians need to stretch minds and muscles, escape from comfort zones and persevere – keep on keeping on – fighting the good fight of Faith.  "Holding fast the Word of life, so that I may rejoice in the Day of Christ that I have not run in vain or laboured in vain." Philippians 2:16
 
Essential Ingredients for Success
A successful athlete needs training.  Discipline.   Motivation.  Focus.  Persistence.  Perseverance.  Athletes need stamina.  They need to build up their oxygen levels so that they can run and not grow weary, walk and not faint.  This requires discipline and diligence.  Keeping on when you want to stop.  This requires stretches, stair training, repetitions of sprints, push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and perseverance.  "Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.  And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown. Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus I fight: not as one who beats the air. 
But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest,
​when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified." 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

​Measurable Goals and Grades to Increase Stamina
Successful sportsmen focus on measurable goals and incentives – making the team, scoring the goal, winning the game, achieving the grade, accomplishing the standards required.  There are medals and trophies to be won.  Titles to be awarded.  Athletes first need to make the local team, and then the regionals, provincials, nationals and finally worlds.  For some this means the Olympics.  Think how much time, energy, dedication and years of self-sacrifice must be needed for an athlete to reach a world class level to compete in the Olympics, or any international tournament?  "And also if anyone competes in athletics, he competes according to the rules." 2 Timothy 2:5
 
Training for Victory
In the Army we were continually reminded: Winners never quit!  Quitters never win!  Never give up.  Never give in.  Strive for victory.  The Army disciplined us, forced us to do without, to endure hardship, to persevere in spite of all obstacles and discouragement, even when deprived of sleep and food, and pushed to the limit, to never give up and make excuses.  Selection in the Army, and in sports teams, is aimed at weeding out those too weak – physically, emotionally or mentally.  In the Military they would deliberately discourage and tempt candidates to give up – so as to see who has what it takes to endure, adapt, persevere and overcome.   "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ." 2 Timothy 2:3
​


​The Roots of Failure
Why do so many give up?  Lack of discipline.  Neglect of training.  Failure to heed counsel and instruction from the coach.  Self-indulgence.  Comfort weakens us.  Hardship strengthens us.  Those who are easily distracted, double-minded and half-hearted will fail.  There are so many quitters, losers, excuse makers and failures.  They are too tired or too weak.  Wimps, wets, weeds, spineless jellyfish, cowards and compromisers will fail and give up.  "I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:14
 
Defining the Words
Websters Dictionary defines endurance as: "Continuance…lasting…a bearing or suffering, a continuing under pain or distress…without sinking or yielding to the pressure."
Endure: "To last, to continue, to remain; to abide…without breaking…to sustain."
Steadfast: "Fixed, firm,…constant; resolute; not fickle or wavering."
Steadfastness: "Firmness of mind or purpose; fixedness in principle; constancy; resolution; as the steadfastness of Faith.  He adhered to his opinions with steadfastness. Undeviating."

Endure to the End
The Bible teaches us: "…He who endures to the end will be saved." Matthew 10:22
We are commanded to: "Do not labour for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life…" John 6:27
What endures forever?  "But the Word of the Lord endures forever…" 1 Peter 1:25.  +
Winners study the Word of God.  Winners submit to the God of the Word.
 
Against All Odds
As Christians we are called to persevere, in spite of sicknesses, disappointments, opposition, danger and difficulty.  In the face of criticism, we must keep on keeping on, persevering with all endurance and steadfastness.  "…that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting, but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the Head –Christ – from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love." Ephesians 4:14-16
​
Failures Never To Forget
In the Scriptures we read of failures who deserted the Faith: Esau, Judas, Demas…"But we are not of those who draw back to perdition, but of those who believe to the saving of the soul." Hebrews 10:39.  "Indeed we count them blessed who endure.  You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord – that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful." James 5:11.  "And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end,  that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises." Hebrews 6:11-12
 
Examples of Excellence
We have a great cloud of witnesses, examples of excellence, in the Scripture and in Church history.  Overcomers who persevered and pressed on to victory: Noah, Abraham, Joseph, David and Daniel, Peter, Paul, Polycarp, Perpetua, Martin Luther, William Carey, Robert Moffatt, David Livingstone, Mary Slessor, C.T. Studd, Richard Wurmbrand, R. J. Rushdoony, James Kennedy and many more.  "Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us." Hebrews 12:1
 
A Joshua Generation
We must not be like that faithless generation who were condemned to wander in the wilderness, but we need to be like the Joshua generation who went in and possessed the land, conquering, overcoming, in faith and obedience.  "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the Faith." 2 Timothy 4:7

Climbing Mountains Requires Stamina
Mountain climbing is a tremendous analogy for the spiritual perseverance and persistence needed in our spiritual lives and Christian service.  Nobody attains to the summit of a mountain by one step, or even leap.  It requires thousands of steps, direction finding, consulting the map and compass, following the guide, physical strain and pain, a determination not to give up, or turn back.  A focus and resilience to overcome every obstacle.  To keep on keeping on.  To not give up.  To keep on even when you want to give up and turn back.  No matter how steep, or narrow, the climb, or how precipitous the pathway may sometimes seem to be, we need to trust the Guide and persevere to the summit.  "But you must continue in the things which you have learned and been assured of, knowing from whom you have learned them." 2 Timothy 3:14
 
Increased Cost Decreases Numbers
As the cost of discipleship increases, the numbers decrease.  This should not surprise us.  At the first church picnic, over 5000 people came.  But at the first Church sermon, the Sermon on the Mount, there were several hundred.  For the Pentecost prayer meeting, when the Lord commanded them to pray day and night, until the power from above came down upon them, there were 120 gathered in The Upper Room.  When it came to the first mid-week outreach, the first door to door, street Evangelism, there were 70 who went out, two by two, to evangelise in the highways and the byways.  When it came to daily discipleship, there were 12 men and about 4 women who followed the Lord everywhere.  Love…"bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." 1 Corinthians 13:7
 
How Far Would You Go For Christ?
And of those 12 men, one betrayed Him, one denied Him, one doubted Him, and they all forsook Him.  Only John went all the way to the Cross and stood with the woman disciples, beneath the Cross, identifying with the sufferings of Christ when He was dying a disgraceful criminals death and there was every chance of John being arrested and crucified as Jesus was.  As the cost of discipleship increases, the numbers decrease.  "But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the Gospel of the grace of God." Acts 20:24
 
Dedicated Missionary Examples of Spiritual Stamina
In our Mission we have some examples of tremendous spiritual stamina.  The Chairman of the Board of Frontline Fellowship for over 14 years, Rev. Bill Bathman, was involved in full-time Christian service for over 67 years.  Much of that behind the Iron Curtain, evangelising in communist countries.  Even after he marked his 89th Birthday Bill Bathman was still able to preach in such a way that he was banned from the pulpit for making an altar call! He preached to respectable church people like they were sinners who needed to Repent!.  Rev. Fritz Haus, a Member of the Board of Frontline Fellowship, served as a Missionary here in Africa for over 60 years.  For over 70 years he served the Lord faithfully, including throughout the Second World War, in the Afrika Korp, on the Eastern Front, in prisoner of war camps, and planting churches throughout South Africa.  He could truly say that he had run the race and kept the Faith.  Rev. Erlo Stegen, the Founder and Director of KwaSizabantu Mission has recently celebrated 70 years of ministry, serving the Lord in Evangelism, primarily amongst the Zulu people, but also worldwide, planting Mission stations throughout Europe and Africa.  "Indeed we count them blessed who endure." James 5:11
 
Give Up Your Small Ambitions and Follow Christ!
We need to free ourselves from this short-term, self-centred, instant, disposable, materialistic, throw-away culture mentality.  God has called us to long-distance mountain marathons.  We need spiritual stamina.  We need to stretch our minds and muscles, deepen our faith, widen our vision, press on towards the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus (Philippians 3:14).  "…holding fast the Word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain or laboured in vain." Philippians 2:16
"Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him." James 1:12
"Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage." Galatians 5:1
"Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing." 2 Timothy 4:8

Written by: Dr Peter Hammond
peter@frontline.org.za

​Much of the opposition and criticism which Christians receive is due to ignorance and misunderstandings of what a Christian actually is. From the very beginning, there were false accusations against Christians in the Roman Empire.

False Accusations
Christians were accused of cannibalism! “You Christians eat the flesh and drink the blood of people during your ceremonies!” Because the Lord’s Supper symbolically refers to eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Lord Jesus, certain Romans, either out of ignorance or malice, spread the rumour that the Christians were actually involved in human sacrifice and cannibalism!

Christians were accused of incest! “You Christians marry your brothers and sisters!” As Christians referred to everyone in the Church as their “brothers” and “sisters” in Christ, outsiders misunderstood this Spiritual brotherhood and accused believers of marrying close relatives.
​
It may surprise you to know that for the first three centuries of the Christian Church believers were accused of Atheism! Because Christians refused to worship the gods of Rome they were attacked as “Atheists!” When Christians were being condemned to death in the arena the cry often was: “Away with the Atheists!”

Because Christians refused to worship the idols of Rome they were also accused of causing every natural disaster that occurred. “You Christians have offended the gods and our ancestral spirits!”

Christians were also accused of lack of patriotism and “treason!” For refusing to worship the emperor Christians were condemned as “traitors.” It is worth noting that the early Christians were not persecuted for worshipping the Lord Jesus. The Romans were polytheists, they believed in many gods, and could not care what gods were worshipped. The “crime” of the early church was that they refused to worship the State.

Christians were also accused of disrupting business. The idol making industry was outraged by the drop in business caused by Gospel preaching. The Book of Acts describes the mob attack against Christians in Thessalonica where it was exclaimed: “These who have turned the world upside down have come here too!” Acts 17:6

Confronting Cultural Corrosion
Christianity most certainly does turn the world upside down, or rather right side up. Preaching against sin has often been regarded as anti-social behaviour. By steadfastly campaigning for an end to the slave trade and an end to slavery itself, Christians were perceived as radical and a threat to the social order. In the wake of the great Evangelical Awakenings and Revivals, bars and brothels have been closed down and those who made their living by enticing poor people to gamble have suffered dramatic loss in “business.” Today the opposition of Christians to pornography, perversion, the Transgenderism cult and abortion provokes similar hostility.

However, quite aside from the distortions caused by anti-Christian propaganda, there is also a widespread ignorance of what a Christian really is. It is natural that people should be outraged at the extravagance of some high-profile “christians” such as popes, prosperity preachers and tele-evangelists. All Christians should share the disgust at hypocrisy and scandals. However, the Lord Jesus declared: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord’, shall enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in Heaven.” Matthew 7:21


​True Christianity is Following Christ
Christianity is all about Christ. It is not about nominal Christians, ministers and denominations. Cults idolize leaders. Religions follow ritual. But true Christians have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me.” Matthew 16:24

Distinguishing Between Nominal and Real Christianity
Webster’s dictionary distinguishes between nominal Christians and real Christians. A nominal Christian is defined as: “A believer in the religion of Christ. A professor in his belief in the religion of Christ.” However, Webster’s dictionary then makes it clear what a real Christian is: “A real disciple of Christ; one who believes in the truth of the Christian religion and studies to follow the example and obey the precepts of Christ. A believer in Christ who is characterized by real piety… relating to Christ.“

The word Christian only appears in the Bible twice. In the Book of Acts Christians are most often described as: “Disciples”, “Believers” and “Followers of the Way.”

Many people who today claim to be Christians, or are assumed to be Christians, could not accurately be described as Disciples or Followers of the Way, because they are not under the discipline of Christ, seeking to follow His example and obey His commands. Neither can many of the theologians who train ministers be called: “Believers.” If they deny the inerrancy of Scripture, and do not believe in the Deity of Christ and the Trinity, in many cases even doubting or denying the existence of God Himself, can they in any sense be called Believers?

What is a Christian?
So, what does the Bible actually teach as to what a Christian truly is? The attitudes and actions which should characterize the Christian are made clear by what we are called to be and what we must do.

1. A Christian is a disciple. A disciple is one who gives up everything (Luke 14:33); denies himself (Matthew 16:24); takes up his cross (Mark 8:34) and follows the example of Jesus (1Peter 2:21). Disciples are identified by their dedication to the Word of God (John 8:31) and love for God’s creatures and the people of God (John 8:34). “Anyone who does not carry his cross and follow Me cannot be my Disciple.” Luke 14: 27

2. A Christian is a free man (1 John 3:8; Ephesians 1:7; Galatians 1:4; Hebrews 2:14-15). The Word of God is the truth (John 17:17) that sets us free (John 8:32). A Christian is someone who has surrendered to the Word of God (James 1:21-25) and receives the freedom that can only come through Christ (John 8:36). Millions of Christians worldwide can testify of how the Lord Jesus freed them from addictions to smoking, drunkenness, gambling, perversion and drugs.

As the converted slave trader John Newton testified in his famous hymn, Amazing Grace: “Amazing grace! How sweet the sound, that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost, but now I am found, was blind, but now I see…Through many dangers, toils and snares I have already come; ‘tis grace has brought me safe thus far, and grace will lead me home.” Christians are freed from slavery to sin and satan, subservience to the world’s pressures and conformity to public opinion. We are set free to serve Christ. “Freedom is what we have – Christ has set us free; stand then as free people and do not allow yourselves to become slaves again.” Galatians 5:1

10. Christians are also called to be light for the world (Matthew 5:14-16). As Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12), so Christians are to reflect the light of Christ to a dark world.

11. The Scripture also describes the Christian as a farmer (Matthew 21:28-32). Christians are to care for God’s vineyard (Matthew 20:1). We must sow (John 4:37) the seed of the Gospel (Mark 4:14) which will accomplish (Isaiah 55:11) the task of salvation (Romans 1:16). We must plow up the hard ground, water the soil with much prayer (1 Corinthians 3:8) and reap the harvest (John 4:38). “This is to my Fathers glory that you may bear much fruit so you will be My disciples.” John 15:8

From all of these Scriptural word pictures of what a Christian should be, it becomes clear that many of the modern misconceptions concerning what a Christian is are inadequate. The superficial, shallow, one-dimensional concept of “Just open the door of your heart” brand of half-hearted, churchianity is lukewarm, namby-pamby, wishy-washy, wimpish, weak and weedy. Any Biblical definition of a Christian must include: action, devotion, dedication, perseverance, sacrifice and service. “He who is not with Me is against Me, and he who does not gather with Me, scatters abroad.” Matthew 12:30

Two Choices
A Christian is one who is born again by the power of the Holy Spirit. He has a real relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. He loves the Lord Jesus with all of his heart, soul, mind and strength. And he seeks to serve and honour Christ in all areas of life. Jesus Christ made it clear that there are two roads – the broad road and the narrow road. There are two gates – the wide gate and the narrow gate. There are two trees – the bad tree which bears the fruit of the flesh: pride, greed, lust, jealousy, envy, bitterness and hatred, and the good tree which bears good fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:19-23).

Two Destinations
There are two types of people: the foolish man and the wise man. They built their houses on two different foundations. The foolish man built his house on the sand of human wisdom, but the wise man built his house upon the of the rock of God’s Word. And when the storm rages, when the rain falls, when the floods rise and the winds blow, it will be clear which house will stand and which will fall. Jesus taught that there are two ultimate destinations: hell or Heaven. The broad, popular, easy road leads to hell, whereas the hard, narrow, difficult and unpopular road is the one that leads to eternal life in Heaven (Matthew 7:13-27).

“Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
 
To listen to a From the Frontline radio interview on this subject, click here: https://fromthefrontline.podbean.com/e/from-the-frontline-episode-277real-christianity/
​
Do You Want to Change your World?
If so, then plan now to join us for the inspiring and life-changing Great Commission Course (GCC), 4 -24 January 2024 https://www.frontlinemissionsa.org/events-blog/great-commission-course-2018  For over two decades, participants of the GCC have come from as far afield as Australia and America, Britain and Botswana, Canada and Congo, Ghana and Germany, Namibia and New Zealand, Malawi and Mozambique, Sudan and South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The GCC is a uniquely practical Missionary Training programme for all who desire to be more innovative and effective in cross-cultural evangelism and discipleship. The GCC is an intensive, boots on the ground, body, mind and spirit training programme with daily outreaches and practicals with hands-on ministry, designed to stretch your mind and muscles, to widen your vision and to deepen your faith. Make Christ’s Great Commission your supreme ambition.
Contact: Frontline Fellowship admin@frontline.org.za
https://www.frontlinemissionsa.org/events-blog/category/2024-january-524-great-commission-course

Written by Dr. Peter Hammond
peter@frontline.org.za

To view the video presentation on Vimeo CLICK HERE
 
"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21
 
Back to the Bible
2019 marks the 500th anniversary of systematic Biblical Exposition. It was 1 January 1519 when Swiss Reformer, Ulrich Zwingli, launched the Reformation in Switzerland by beginning Expository Preaching. Starting with Matthew 1:1, he worked, week by week, chapter by chapter, verse by verse, line by line, through every Book and every Word of the New Testament. This bold action of replacing the Latin mass with the preaching of the Word of God, in the local language, marked the beginning of Expository Preaching. ​

​The Reformer of Switzerland
Ulrich Zwingli was the father of the Reformation in Switzerland. Born and raised in the Alps, Zwingli was one of the most colourful and audacious characters in Swiss history. A devout student of Scripture, Zwingli was transformed and shaped by the Word of God. He has been described as "an amazing combination of intellect, passion and wit."
 
Man of the Mountains
Born at an altitude of 3,600 feet (1,100 metres), the son of the Mayor of Wildhaus, Zwingli studied in Bern, Basel and Vienna. In 1506, he received his MA degree. As a pastor in Glarus, Zwingli served as a chaplain with Swiss soldiers in the Battle of Marignon.
 
Won by the Word
When Erasmus's New Testament in Greek appeared in 1516, Zwingli immediately purchased a copy. Zwingli taught himself Hebrew and Greek, wrote out and memorized Paul's Epistles in the Greek New Testament. He carried around his little pocket edition with him, memorizing much of the New Testament. Zwingli was shocked to find that there was a world of difference between the teachings of the Bible and the teachings and practices of the Roman Catholic church.
 
Launching a Reformation
When Zwingli was appointed pastor at Grossmünster, (the Great Cathedral) in Zürich, he began his duties, on 1 January 1519, by systematically preaching through the New Testament.
 
Facing Death
Shortly after he became pastor in Zürich, the city was hit by the plague. Zwingli showed his courage by giving no thought to his own safety, but stayed in Zürich and ministered selflessly to the highly contagious victims. He himself was struck down with the plague and nearly died.

​The Song of the Plague
Ulrich Zwingli testified that when the plague hit Zürich, he re-examined his whole life and the state of his soul. After he recovered from this debilitating illness, Zwingli wrote The Song of the Plague, in which he shows a vibrant faith in the all-sufficiency of God's grace through our Lord Jesus:
 
“Help me, O Lord, my strength and rock;
Lo, at the door I hear death’s knock.
 
“Uplift Thine arm, once pierced for me,
That conquered death and set me free.
 
“Yet, if Thy voice, in life’s midday.
Recalls my soul, then I obey.
 
“In Faith and hope, earth I resign.
Secure of Heaven, for I am Thine.
 
“My pains increase; haste to console;
For fear and woe seize body and soul.
 
“Death is at hand. My senses fail.
My tongue is dumb; now, Christ, prevail.
 
“Lo! satan strains to snatch his prey;
I feel his grasp; must I give way?
 
“He harms me not, I fear no loss,
For here I lie beneath Thy Cross.
 
“My God! My Lord! Healed by Thy Hand
Upon the earth once more I stand.
 
“Let sin no more rule over me;
My mouth shall sing alone to Thee.
 
“Though now delayed, my hour will come.
Involved, perchance, in deeper gloom.
 
“But, let it come; with joy I’ll rise,
And bear my yoke straight to the skies.”

​Revival Sweeps Zürich
Zwingli recovered from this ordeal, his faith deepened and matured, his mind resolute. He called the people to return to the Bible as the sole standard of Faith and practice, to recognise Christ as the only true Head of the Church. Zwingli attacked one Roman doctrine after another. He attacked unbelief, superstition and hypocrisy. Eagerly he strove after repentance, applying Christ's Lordship to all areas of life, in Christian love and faith. He emphasized the need to care for and protect widows and orphans, to maintain law and uphold justice. Zwingli was concerned that our personal Christian faith and love should also result in justice established in the laws of the community.
 
Unity in Christ
At the heart of the Swiss Reformation was a dynamic sense of Christian community. The Church is a genuine community, one in body and spirit, having the grace of Christ in common and bearing the fruit of the Spirit, the fruit of Christ and the Spirit of God. This unity must extend beyond matters of the spirit to social concerns for the entire community.
 
Zürich Transformed
As Zwingli systematically preached through the New Testament, he laid the foundations for the Reformation in Switzerland. In 1523, the City Council of Zürich voted to become Protestant. At the First Zürich Disputation, in 1523, the City Council and 600 citizens, convened in the City Hall to observe the debate between Ulrich Zwingli and four delegates from the Bishop of Constance. At this gathering, the city formally adopted the Reformation and encouraged Zwingli to continue with his Reforms.
 
The 67 Theses
In Zwingli's 67 Theses, which he made public at The First Zürich Disputation (29 January 1523), he stated:
"3. Christ is the only way to salvation for all who ever were, are and shall be."
 
"19. Christ is the only Mediator between God and ourselves.
 
"42. But if ministers are unfaithful and transgress the Laws of Christ, they may be deposed in accordance with God's Will.
 
"56. Whoever remits any sin only for the sake of money is the companion of Simon (Magus) and Balaam and a real messenger of the devil."
 
With the support of the City Council, Zwingli launched a comprehensive programme of Reform. The City Council of Zürich put an end to mercenary service. All images, statues and relics were removed from church buildings. The mass was abolished. Altars, processions and other trappings and superstitions were discarded. The school system was reformed. Monastery buildings were turned into hospitals, schools and orphanages. The Bible became the basis for all law. All Zürich clergymen were ordered to preach only from Scripture. Priests, monks and nuns were permitted to marry.

​Work Ethic Restored
Zwingli worked hard to shift the Swiss economy from dependence on mercenary service to agriculture and trade. He urged the people to productive labour: "You are a tool in the Hands of God. He demands your service… how fortunate you are that He lets you take part in His work."
 
From Death to Life
Zwingli compared the moral sickness and spiritual death of sin to the plague, which had killed one out of every three people in Zürich and he compared their physical recovery to health to the need for Regeneration and spiritual Reformation of church and society.
 
The Bible Translated
Zwingli began to translate the Scriptures into Schweizer-Deutsch (Swiss-German). His lively and dynamic translation reflects his upbringing amidst the towering mountains and lush valleys of Switzerland's Alps. For example in Psalm 23, he wrote: "In schoner Alp weidet Er mich"(In the beautiful Alps He tends me).
 
God’s Word is Unstoppable
Zwingli compared the Word of God to the mighty Rhine River that flowed out of the Alps: "For God's sake, do not put yourself at odds with the Word of God. For truly, it will persist as surely as the Rhine follows its course. One can possibly dam it up for a while, but it is impossible to stop it."
 
A Solemn Duty
Zwingli took his pastoral duties most seriously, writing that they "inspired in me more fear than joy, because I knew and I remain convinced that I will give an account of the blood of the sheep which would perish as a consequence of my carelessness."
 
Marriage
Earlier, on behalf of 11 other priests, Zwingli had written to the bishop of Constance seeking permission for priests to marry. This the bishop had refused. Now, after 2 years of secret marriage, Ulrich married Anna Reinhart, a young widow with 3 children. Ulrich and Anna Zwingli were blessed with another 3 children in their marriage.

Magistrates are to be Ministers of Justice
“Magistrates must not only keep order, but they must be seen as guardians of public morality. A church without the magistrate is mutilated and incomplete, as the Church is a minister of Grace as the magistrate is to be a minister of Justice.”
 
One Atonement for All Time
“Our Lord Jesus Christ is the only way for Salvation for all who were, are and ever shall be. The Old Covenant people looked forward to the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. Today, in the day of grace, we look back. One event, one Atonement, one Saviour for all time.
 
The Word of God is Above the Church
“I shall allow myself to be taught better, but only from the Scriptures, based upon the Scriptures which are inspired by God. Sola Scriptura! All who say the Gospel is invalid without the confirmation of the church err and slander God. The Word of God is above the Church.
 
Christ Alone Redeems and Reconciles Us to God
“The sum and substance of the Gospel is that the Lord Jesus Christ, the true Son of God, has made known the will of our Heavenly Father and with His innocence and atoning sacrifice, He has redeemed us from death and has reconciled us to God. Christ is the only way to Salvation. Solus Christus!
 
False Teachers are Murderers of Souls
“Whoever so seeks, or points out any other way, errs. Yes, he is a thief and a murder of souls. Therefore all who consider other teachings equal to, or higher than, the Gospel err and they do not know what the Gospel is.
 
Christ Jesus is the Head of the Church
“For Christ Jesus is the Guide, the Leader, promised by God. He is the fulfillment of all Messianic prophecies. He is an eternal Salvation and He is the Head of all believers, who are His body. Outside of Him, we are dead in our trespassers and sins. We can do nothing without Him. All who have died in Christ are members of the Church and children of God. The Church is the communion of the saints, the Bride of Christ.
 
It is Foolishness and Insanity for the Members of the Body to Act Independently of the Head
“As the members of the body can do nothing without the control of the head, so no one in the body of the Church should do the least without the Head, Christ Jesus, our Lord. As a man is mad whose limbs try to do something without the head, tearing and wounding and injuring himself, thus when the members of Christ undertake something without the consent of the Head, Christ, they are mad. Hence, we see in the clerical all foolishness, for they also do not agree with the Head of the Church, who is Christ. Solus Christus! Thus, they still rage. ​

​In Biblical Faith Rests Our Salvation
“Where Christ is listened to, one learns the will of God and we are united to Him. Therefore all Christian people shall use their best diligence to ensure that the Gospel of Christ is faithfully preached everywhere. For in the Faith rests our Salvation and in unbelief our damnation. You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.
 
The Papacy is Antichrist
“Human doctrines and decrees do not aid in the salvation of everyone. Solus Christus! Christ alone is the only eternal High Priest. From which it follows those who have called themselves high priests, or vicars of Christ, have opposed the honour and power of Christ. The pope is anti-Christ.
 
 The Lord’s Supper is a Celebration and Memorial Service
“Christ having sacrificed Himself once for all is for eternity a certain and valid Sacrifice for all the sins of His faithful elect. From which it follows that the Lord’s Supper is not a sacrifice, it is not a mass, it is a Eucharist, a Thanksgiving service and a remembrance of the Sacrifice and assurance of the Salvation that Christ has given us. Christ is the only Mediator between God and us. Solus Christus! God desires to give us all things in His Name. We need no mediator except our Lord Jesus Christ.
 
Through Christ Alone
“You cannot pray to God through saints and images. When we pray for each other here on earth, we do so through Christ alone. Christ is our Justice. Our words, in so far as they are good, they are of Christ. But, in so far as they are ours, they are neither good nor right.
 
Christ is our Example
“Christ scorned the luxuries and pomp of this world. Whence from it follows that those ministers who attract wealth to themselves in His Name, slander Him terribly when they make him the pretext for their greed and worldly things.
 
Reject All Idolatry and Hypocrisy
“No Christian is bound to do those things which God has not decreed. God is displeased with nothing so much as with idolatry and hypocrisy. All is gross hypocrisy and prolific, which is mere show that they may be seen of men.
 
You Have One Holy Father in Heaven
“All Christian men and women are brethren of Christ and brethren of one another and shall call no minister father, we have one Holy Father, Who is in Heaven.
 
Ministers Must Be Married
“All which God has allowed, or not forbidden, is righteous. Hence, marriage is permitted for all men and women. All who are known as clergy, sin when they do not protect themselves by marriage. Those who pledge and promise chastity, refusing matrimony, foolishly and childlessly take too much upon themselves, those who make such vows do wrong.
 
No One Has Authority to Excommunicate Those of Another City or Fellowship
“No person may impose a ban of excommunication upon anyone, except the whole church, that is the full congregation, of those amongst the one who being banned, together with their watchman. Rome has no authority, or jurisdiction, over Zürich. One may only ban him who is of the same congregation, who gives public offence through false doctrine, false teaching and blatant and unrepentant scandalous immorality.
 
Christ Alone is Head of the Church
“The teachings of Christ provide no justification for the spiritual so-called powers of popes and cardinals for their pomp and pretence. Scripture alone is our authority. Christ alone is the Head of the Church. The deeds and doctrines of Christ are superior to that of cardinals and popes. All that the papacy claims to have of power and protection, belongs actually to the laity of Christ’ true Church. If leaders are unfaithful and transgress the Laws of Christ, they may be deposed in the Name of God.
 
Regeneration is Essential for Membership of the True Church
“The church consists of born-again, baptised believers, who are faithfully studying the Word of God and applying the Lordship of Christ to all areas of life. Christians owe obedience only to Christ. In so far as church leaders do not command that which is contrary to God's Word, the Bible, they are to be followed.
 
Any Law Not in Conformity with the Laws of God is Invalid
“All laws must be in harmony with the Laws of God, as recorded in the Bible. No one may be condemned whom God's Word does not condemn. If God is not offended, let us not take offence. Their rule is best and most stable which rules in the Name of God alone and is worst and is most unstable which rules in accordance to man’s own laws.
 
Public Prayer Must Not be a Hypocritical Performance to Impress Men
“Real intercessors call to God in spirit. Truly, prayer must be made without great ado performed before men. Pray to God, do not perform for men. Hypocrites do their works so that all can be seen by men. They also will receive their reward only in this life. Hence, it must always follow that any church activities, song and outcry, without devotedness before God, is only for fleshly reward and is seeking either fame before men, or more unrighteous financial gain.
 
Ignore Those Who Condemn What God's Word Does Not Condemn
“Whoever, through stupidity or ignorance is offended without cause, should be ignored. We may not consider that as a sin, which is not a sin according to God, as clearly taught in His Word.
 
Papal Hypocrisy
“Greater offence I know not than that the pope does not allow priests to have wives, but he permits him to hire prostitutes! Out with this shame! A man who is inconsistent in his speech cannot be trusted. “
 
Confessionals Have No Power to Forgive Sins
“God alone remits sin through Jesus Christ His Son, He alone is our Sovereign Lord. Whosoever assigns power to forgive sins to human beings, fallible priests, detract from the honour of God and gives to one who is not God. This is real idolatry. The confession, which is made to priests or neighbours, should not be declared for our remittance of sins, but only seeking spiritual advice and Biblical counsel.
 
Those Men Who Claim to Remit Sins Are Antichrist
“Christ has borne all our griefs and guilt, therefore whoever assigns works of penance to confessors attributes that which belongs to Christ, they err and slander God. Whoever pretends to remit any sin to a penitent confessor, could not be a vicar of God, or of Saint Peter, but he is of the devil. Such are anti-Christ.
 
Accepting Money for Remission of Sins in Anti-christ
“Whoever remits any sin only for the sake of money is the companion of Simeon and Balaam and the real messenger of the devil personified, anti-Christ.
 
Purgatory is Not Taught in Scripture
“The true Scriptures teach nothing of purgatory after death. The sentence of evil is known to God alone. The less God has revealed in His Word concerning any subject, the less we should undertake to know about it. Where the Scripture is clear, we must be clear. Where the Scripture is silent, we may not be dogmatic. To determine the period of time therefore, e.g. seven years for a mortal sin and to lie for the sake of gain, is not human but devilish. Paying for indulgences is anti-Christ.
 
Cardinals and Bishops Need to Return to Biblical Duties or be Condemned Forever
“The Scripture recognise no priests, except those who faithfully proclaim the Word of God. All clerical superiors should at once step down and take up the Cross of Christ and not the money chest, or they will perish in hell forever. For I tell you, the axe is raised against the root of the rotten tree. Faith comes from hearing and hearing from the Word of God. I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ for it is the power of God for the Salvation of everyone who believes. For the Word of God is living and powerful and sharper than any double edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit and of joints and marrow and is the discerner of the thoughts and intellect of the heart. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness that the man of God may be complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
 
“So shall My Word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please and it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11
 
Back to Biblical Foundations
Ulrich Zwingli said: “They may kill the body, but they cannot kill the soul. Whatever cannot be justified by the Bible is to be abolished. Religion is a personal spiritual experience, which does not require sacraments, or ceremonies, to sustain it. The Bible is the Law of God. A truly Christian community must follow the Bible.”
 
"For to me to live is Christ and to die is gain." Philippians 1:21
 
Transformed by the Word of God
One of the prayers of Ulrich Zwingli: “Almighty, eternal and merciful God whose Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path, open and illuminate our minds that we may purely and perfectly understand Thy Word and that our lives may be transformed to what we have rightly understood in the Word, that nothing may be displeasing unto Thy Majesty, who is Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”

​Dr. Peter Hammond
Livingstone Fellowship
P.O. Box 74 Newlands 7725
Cape Town South Africa
Tel: 021-689-4480
Email: mission@frontline.org.za
Website: www.livingstonefellowship.co.za
www.hmsschoolofchristianjournalism.org

 
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The audio CD of this message as delivered to Livingstone Fellowship, can be obtained from Christian Liberty Books, PO Box 358, Howard Place 7450, Cape Town, South Africa, Tel: 021-689-7478, Fax: 086-551-7490, Email: admin@christianlibertybooks.co.za and Website: www.christianlibertybooks.co.za.

​The Foundation of Wisdom and Understanding
"… the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His precepts have good understanding." Psalm 111:10
 
The Fear of God is mentioned more times than any other aspect of devotion. The reverential awe, respect and fear of God must be the fundamental attitude of our Faith. Any view of God, which does not lead us to fear God and obey His Law cannot be a Biblical view. "Great and marvellous are Your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are Your ways, King of the ages. 'Who will not fear You, 0 Lord and bring glory to Your Name? You alone are Holy. All nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed." Revelation 15:2-4

​When something is repeated in Scripture, it emphasises its importance. Loving God, His Name, His Law and His Word is mentioned 88 times in the Bible. Trusting God and His Word occurs 91 times. There are 278 references to fearing God in the Bible. "And now, O Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the Lord your God with all of your heart and with all of your soul." Deuteronomy 10:12

​Fear God Alone
The official history book of the Reconnaissance Commando is entitled: “We Fear Naught But God.” The theme of the sermon by Jonathan Edwards, which launched the Great Evangelical Awakening was “Sinners in the Hands of An Angry God.” Mary Slessor was converted to Christ by an old woman who warned her of the terrors of the Day of Judgement and the flames of hell. Mary dedicated her life to saving lost souls, first in Aberdeen in Scotland, then in Calabar, Nigeria. How could Professor Martin Luther have the courage to defy the pope and emperor? Martin Luther feared God, so he was freed from the fear of man. “And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. But rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” Matthew 10:28

Worship God Alone
In the Psalms, the Prayer Book and Hymn Book of the Bible, the Fear of the Lord is declared to be the highest expression of worship - 62 times! "But the eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His unfailing love." Psalm 33:18
 
Protection and Deliverance
"The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him and He delivers them... Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing." Psalm 34:7-8
 
The Love of God
"For as high as the heavens are above the earth so great is His love for those who fear Him... But from everlasting to everlasting the Lord's love is with those who fear Him and His righteousness with their children's children - with those who keep His Covenant and remember to obey His precepts." Psalm 103:11, 17-18
 
Blessings and Prosperity Come to Those Who Fear God
"Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in His ways. You will eat the fruit of your labour-blessings and prosperity will be yours." Psalm 128:1-2 
 
Forgiveness of Sins
"...if You, O Lord, kept a record of sin, O Lord, who could stand? But with You there is forgiveness, therefore You are feared." Psalm 130:2-4. The mercy of God should not lead to complacency, but to fear the Creator and Eternal Judge, before whom we must stand and give an account.
 
A Fountain of Wisdom, Knowledge, Discretion and Virtue
In the Proverbs, the Fear of the Lord is referred to 15 times as being the source of wisdom, knowledge, discretion, truthfulness and morality. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline." Proverbs 1:7. Previous generations, which feared God, produced libraries of great knowledge, wisdom, art and music, which celebrated virtue.
 
Those Who Fear God Love Knowledge and Accept Rebuke
"Since they hated knowledge and did not choose to fear the Lord, since they would not accept My advice and spurned My rebuke, they will eat the fruit of their ways ...for the waywardness of the simple will kill them and the complacency of fools will destroy them". Proverbs 1:29-32. It seems that we live in an age of foolishness and apostasy. Blasphemy abounds. Perversion is celebrated. These are symptoms of a generation which hates knowledge and choses to reject God and His Law.
 
Wisdom Comes From the Word of God
"Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord and shun evil." Proverbs 3:7. It is foolish to trust in our own heart and to be wise in our own eyes.
 
To Fear the Lord is To Hate Evil Behaviour, Pride and Perverse Speech
"To fear the Lord is to hate evil, I hate pride and arrogance, evil behaviour and perverse speech." Proverbs 8:13. Perhaps we tolerate evil because we do not love and fear God enough.

​Abundant Life
"The fear of the Lord adds length to life." Proverbs 10:27. The Rise of the GayGB and the Pink Agenda book documents how homosexuals tend to live, on average, half as long as straight, heterosexual people. Married people also tend to live longer than single people do, on average.
 
A God Honouring Life
"He whose walk is upright fears the Lord, but he whose ways are devious despises Him." Proverbs 14:2. The blasphemers in the abortion movement, false prophets, Marxists, feminists and perverts evidently despise God and His Word.
 
Courage to Oppose Evil
"A wise man fears the Lord and shuns evil..." Proverbs 14:16. Avoid that which dishonours God and His Commandments. Tattoos, body piercing, occultism and perversion war against our souls.
 
A Mighty Fortress is our God
"He who fears the Lord has a secure fortress and for His children it will be a refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, turning a man from the snares of death." Proverbs 14:27-27.
 
Protection from Evil
"Through the fear of the Lord a man avoids evil." Proverbs 16:6. The fear of the Lord has led millions to turn away from drunkenness, drug abuse, gambling and other vices.
 
Life
"The fear of the Lord leads to life." Proverbs 19:23. The fear of the Lord has saved millions from premature death as they have forsaken life-shortening vices such as drugs, alcoholic drinks, smoking, perversion, gambling and crime.
 
Zeal
"Always be zealous for the fear of the Lord." Proverbs 23:17. The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing. Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.
 
A New Heart
The New Covenant provides redeemed men and women with a new heart to fear God - for their own good and for the good of their descendants. "The time is coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a New Covenant... I will put My Law in their minds and write it on their hearts... I will be their God and they will be My people." Jeremiah 31:31,33
 
Perseverance of the Saints
"They will be My people and I will be their God. I will give them singleness of heart and action, so that they will always fear Me for their own good and the good of their children after them. I will make an everlasting Covenant with them: I will never stop doing good to them and I will inspire them to fear Me, so that they will never turn away from Me." Jeremiah 32:38-40
 
Those Who Fear the Lord Hate Evil
We should fear God because He is Sovereign. "The Lord reigns... let those who love the Lord hate evil.” Psalm 17:1, 10. Perhaps we tolerate evil because we do not really love God with all our heart? Those who love God, hate evil.
 
The Lord is the King of all Kings
"The Lord reigns, let the nations tremble; He sits enthroned between the cherubim, let the earth shake. Great is the Lord... He Lord 'is exalted over the nations," Psalm 99:1-2. God is great and awesome. We should fear God because of who He is: our Creator, Sovereign Lord and Eternal Judge. He is the One who decides whether we live and when we die. He is a Holy and jealous God (Deuteronomy 5:9-10; 6:13-15). He is righteous and just (2 Chronicles 19:6-9).

Do Not Fear Man – Fear God Alone
"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather be afraid of the One who can destroy both body and soul in hell." Matthew 10:28. Live in the light of eternity.
 
Liberating, Inspiring and Empowering
The fear of man will prove to be a snare. The fear of God is liberating.
The fear of God will enable us to stand firm when others are falling back.
The fear of God will enable us to stand up when others remain seated.
The fear of God will empower us to step out in Faith when others draw back in fear.
The fear of God will empower us to fight the good fight of Faith when others surrender to the spirit of this perverse and cowardly age of apostasy.
 
Respect God with Reverent Awe
We need to teach our children to fear the Lord (Psalm 34:1). To fear the Lord will involve keeping "your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. Turn from evil and do good, seek peace and pursue it" (Psalm 34:13-14). We need to teach respect for the Name of God, for His Church and for His Word - the Bible. "The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The ordinances of the Lord are sure and altogether righteous..." Psalm 19:9
 
Understanding Aspects of the Fear of God
The Old Testament uses eight different Hebrew words and one Aramaic word to describe the Fear of God: Standing in awe of God (Psalm 22:23; 33:8); Trembling before God (1 Chronicles 16:30; Psalm 96:9; 114:7); Being filled with dread (Psalm 89:7; Isaiah 8:13; Hebrews 12:39); Living in fearful apprehension of Judgement (Deuteronomy 28:66; 2 Chronicles 10:29); Frightened (Exodus 15:16; 23:27); The Terror of the Lord (Daniel 6:26); The Fear of God (Exodus 3:6; Psalm 119:120); Terror and horror (Deuteronomy 9:19); and Worship with trembling (Psalm 2:11).
 
The Wrath of the Lamb
The New Testament speaks of "the wrath of the Lamb"," the terror of the Lord", "reverence" and "fear". "And the kings of the earth, the princes, the generals, the rich, the mighty... hid in caves and among the rocks of the mountains. They called to the mountains and the rocks, 'Fall on us and hide us from the face of Him 'Who sits on the throne and from the wrath of the Lamb! For the great day of their wrath has come and who can stand?'" Revelation 6:15-17
 
A Motive for Evangelism
"Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men ..." 2 Corinthians 5:11. Knowing that everyone of us must give an account of our lives to Almighty God on the Day of Judgement, should make us more zealous in Evangelism.
 
Incentive to Choose Wisely
"His mercy extends to those who fear Him and do what is right." Acts 10:35
 
God Accepts Those Who Fear Him
"...now realize ...that God does not show favouritism, but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right." Acts 10:34-35
 
God Will Consume His Enemies
"If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgement and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God." Hebrews 10:26-27
 
Our God is a Consuming Fire
"Therefore, since we are receiving a Kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire." Hebrews 12:28-29
 
God Will Judge Each One’s Work
"Since you call on a Father who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear" 1 Peter 1:17
 
Give God the Honour Due to Him
"Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honour the king." 1 Peter 2:17
 
The Essential Foundation for Freedom and Justice
If we do not fear the wrath of God, then we will not appreciate the love of God. Only the Fear of God can produce lasting justice and righteousness in individuals, families, churches and nations. Only to the degree that people fear God and obey His commandments can society function for the good and freedom of all its people. "Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord..." Psalm 33:12
 
Christ Himself
Once it was the blessing – now it is Lord;
Once it was the feeling – now it is His Word.
Once His gifts I wanted – now the Giver own;
Once I sought for healing – now Himself alone. 
 
Once it was painful trying – now it is perfect trust;
Once a half salvation – now the uttermost.
Once it was ceaseless holding – now He holds me fast;
Once it was constant drifting – now my anchor is cast.
 
Once it was busy planning – now it is trusting prayer;
Once it was anxious worrying – now He has the care.
Once it was what I wanted – now what Jesus says,
Once it was constant asking – now it is ceaseless praise.
 
Once it was working – His it hence shall be.
Once I tried to use Him – now He uses me.
Once the power I wanted – now the Mighty One.
Once it was for self, I laboured – now for Him alone.
 
Set Free to Serve God
Until we learn to fear God, we will be enslaved to the fear of man. People-pleasers make traitors. We need to please God and be freed from the fear of man. The first time our Lord came as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. The next time – He will not come as a Lamb. He will come as the Lion and He will destroy His enemies.
 
“…He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.” 1 John 4:4
 
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
 
“…we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Romans 8:37
 
“…submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.” James 4:7
 
Dr. Peter Hammond
Livingstone Fellowship
P.O. Box 74 Newlands 7725
Cape Town South Africa
Tel: 021-689-4480
Email: mission@frontline.org.za,
www.FrontlineMissionSA.org
www.livingstonefellowship.co.za
www.WilliamCareyBI.com
 
​See also:
Exposing Hypocrisy
Compromise and Cowardice in an Age of Deceit

An Example of Excellence
Dr. David Livingstone is an example of excellence. His life, legacy and literature continue to speak to us today. The challenge of David Livingstone is most relevant to our times.

If Dr. David Livingstone was here today, what would he say to us?
We do not need to guess. We have his writings and published statements available. We can know exactly what David Livingstone would say to us today. It is what he said to the people of his generation:

• "The Salvation of men ought to be the chief desire and aim of every Christian!"
• "All men have the right to hear God's Word. No nation ought to hoard the Gospel like a miser!"
• "Can the love of Christ not carry the missionary where the slave trade carries the trader?"
• "If you have men who will come only if they know there is a good road, I don't want them. I want men who will come even if there is no road at all!"
• "We must be uncommon Christians, i.e. imminently holy and devoted servants of the Most High. Let us seek that selfishness be extirpated, pride banished, unbelief driven from the mind. Every idol dethroned and everything hostile to holiness and opposed to the Divine will crucified; that holiness to the Lord may be engraved on the heart and evermore characterise our whole conduct."
• "We have still a debt of gratitude to Jesus… and there is no greater privilege on earth, than after having our own chains broken off, to go forth and proclaim liberty to the captives, the opening of prison to them that are bound."

A Vision of Victory
Dr. David Livingstone was inspired by an optimistic view of the future. Like most of the missionaries of the 19th century, Livingstone held to the Eschatology of victory:

"Discoveries and inventions are culminative… filling the earth with the glory of the Lord. All nations will sing His glory and bow before Him… our work and its fruit are culminative. We work towards a new state of things. Future missionaries will be rewarded by conversions for every sermon. We are their pioneers and helpers… let them not forget the watchmen of the night, who worked when all was gloom and no evidence of success in the way of conversions cheers our path. They will doubtless have more light than we. But we serve our Master earnestly, and proclaim the same Gospel as they will do."​