“Survey the picture of a father who sees his child returning from the error of his way. In the New Testament, you see the portrait Divinely drawn.
When the prodigal was a great way off, his father saw him. Oh, to have quick eyes to spy out the awakened!
The father ran to meet him. Oh, to be eager to help the hopeful!
He fell upon his neck, and kissed him. Oh, for a heart overflowing with love, to joy and rejoice over seeking ones!
As that father was, such should we be; ever loving, and ever on the outlook.
Our eyes, and ears, and feet should ever be given to penitents. Our tears and open arms should be ready for them.
The father in Christ is the man to remember the best robe, and the ring, and the sandals.
He remembers those provisions of grace because he is full of love to the returning one.
Love is a practical theologian, and takes care to deal practically with all the blessings of the covenant, and all the mysteries of revealed truth.
It does not hide away the robe and ring in a treasury of theology; but brings them forth, and puts them on.
O my brethren, as you are the sons of God, be also fathers in God!
Let this be the burning passion of your souls.
Grow to be leaders and champions. God give you the honour of maturity, the glory of strength!”
–Charles H. Spurgeon, An All-Round Ministry: Addresses to Ministers and Students (Carlisle, PA: Banner of Truth, 1900/1960), 193-194.
