1 Thessalonians 3:7-10 Therefore, brothers, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:… A pious Armenian, calling on Mr. Hamlin, the missionary at Constantinople, remarked that he was astonished to see how the people are waking up to the truth; how, even among the most uncultivated, some were seeking after it as for hid treasure. "Yes," said he, "it is going forward; it will triumph; but alas! I shall not live to see it. Alas, that I am born an age too soon!" "But," said Mr. Hamlin, "do you remember what our Saviour said, 'There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth'? You may not live to see the truth triumphant in this empire, but should you reach the kingdom of heaven your joy over your whole nation redeemed will be infinitely greater than it could be on earth." He seemed surprised at this thought; but after examining the various passages to which I referred him, he seemed to be perfectly enraptured at the thought that our interest in the Church of Christ is something that death cannot touch, and which, instead of ceasing with this life, will only be increased and perfected in another. "Oh, fool, and slow of heart," said he, "to read the gospel so many times without perceiving this glorious truth." If this be so, no matter to what age a Christian is born, nor when he dies. (W. Baxendale.) Parallel Verses KJV: Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: |
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