Filed under: True Conversion
“The “cross” stands for vicarious service and suffering. Christ laid down His life for others, and His followers are called on to be willing to do the same: “We ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16). That is the inevitable logic of Calvary. We are called to follow Christ’s example, to the fellowship of His sufferings, to be partners in His service. As Christ made himself “of no reputation” (Phil 2:7) —we must not. As He “came not to be ministered unto—but to minister” (Matthew 20:28) —so must we. As He “pleased not Himself” (Romans 15:3), no more must we. As He ever thought of others—so must we: “Remember those in prison—as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated—as if you yourselves were suffering” (Heb 13:3).
“For whoever will save his life, shall lose it; and whoever will lose his life for My sake, shall find it” (Matthew 16:25). Words almost identical with these are found again in Matthew 10:39, Mark 8:35, Luke 9:24; 17:33, John 12:25. Surely, such repetition argues the deep importance of our noting and heeding this saying of Christ’s. He died that we might live (John 12:24), so must we (John 12:25). Like Paul we must be able to say, “Neither do I count my life as dear unto myself” (Acts 20:24). The “life” that is lived for the gratification of SELF in this world, is “lost” for eternity; the life that is sacrificed to self-interests and yielded to Christ, will be “found” again, and preserved through eternity.” —A. W. Pink (1886–1952)
Taken from “The Cross and Self” by A. W. Pink (1886–1952)
Real Men Love Pink - A Collection of Quotes by A. W. Pink 