November 14, 2021

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty. 1 Corinthians 1:18,27

Many more processions of torture and death in France followed the one described yesterday, but the serene joy on the countenances of those tortured for their faith produced a steady stream of powerful and unforgettable silent sermons; and a steady stream of joyous souls who gave their sin-stained hearts to Jesus for cleansing! There were cases of onlookers whose anger and hate for the “heretics” were transformed into love as God’s Spirit pleaded with irresistible eloquence.

In response to this trend, the priests circulated terrible accusations against Protestants including plotting to massacre Catholics and overthrow the government. These repeated accusations created an atmosphere of suspicion and distrust which permeated all classes of society. A realization by the gospel adherents of the ongoing peril caused many to flee. Suddenly there were vacancies in every kind of position: university professors, authors, artisans, printers, scholars, even courtiers. Their self-imposed exile from their beloved France astonished the papists, who previously had no idea the extent of those who favored the Biblical faith.

Meanwhile, the bold and outspoken William Farel was working on behalf of France from Switzerland. He preached among his countrymen and fellow exiles who had fled, and had much good assistance translating the writings of German Reformers into French. Along with the French Bible, these were printed in large quantities and sold extensively across France by colporteurs.

A cleansed heart in possession of the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22) understands these words of Jesus (ending verse below). But, as stated in our opening verse, such a command makes no sense whatsoever to those whose hearts are far from God (even if lip service is given – see Isaiah 29:13, Matthew 15:8). Beloved, if the Spirit shows you where you are lacking, be exceedingly glad, for this is exactly where He desires to purify you. You are being sanctified!

But He knows the way that I take; When He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. Job 23:10

Jesus said, “I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you.” Matthew 5:44