The Difference by G. B. THOMPSON

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Nov 30, 1905

The Difference

By G. B. THOMPSON

In Eph. 2: 11, 12, we have an inspired photograph of the unconverted man. “Wherefore remember, that once ye, the Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called Circumcision, in the flesh, made by hands; that ye were at that time separate from Christ, alienated from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world.”

This is a dark picture, but no darker than the facts warrant the inspired writer in drawing. In the story of the prodigal son, away from home, substance squandered, ragged, discouraged, feeding swine, and living on husks, we have placed before us the condition of a sinner, unregenerated and lost.

From the record of the man possessed with devils, we have the following facts stated concerning his deplorable condition:—

1. He had no home. Luke 8: 27.

2. He lived in the graveyard. Id.; Mark 5: 5.

3. He had no communion with Christ, but feared him. Mark 5: 7; Luke 8: 28.

4. He had no rest day or night. Mark 5: 5.

5. He injured himself continually. Id.

6. He was naked. Luke 8: 27.

What a graphic picture this presents of an unconverted man. It is a true picture of all who place themselves on the side of the enemy, and refuse to yield to the Lord. But while others might flee in terror from this demoniac of Gadara, the Saviour did not flee. Devils have no terror for him. He who had power to cast Satan and his rebel host out of heaven, did not tremble at

their approach. He rebuked the foul spirits which controlled this poor man, and the transformation was so marvelous that angels must have looked on with astonishment and joy. We are told that afterward—

1. He was sitting at rest. Mark 5: 15.

2. He was clothed. Id.; Luke 8: 35.

3. He had his “right mind.” Id.

4. He loved to be with Jesus. Mark 5: 18.

5. He was a missionary where he lived. Luke 8: 38, 39.

The contrast in this man’s condition is but the difference between the natural and the spiritual man. There is indeed a striking difference between the one who serves God, and the one who does not. One is a jewel, indestructible, and a treasure in the eyes of the Lord. The other is but chaff, to be carried away by the wind, and burned up in the fires of the last day. G. B. THOMPSON.