PRIZE ESSAY.
What Marks do the Lambs of Jesus Christ Bear?
True Christians may be known by their walk and conversation. They are anointed ones, and they walk in the narrow way, following in Christ's footsteps. They look unto Jesus, who is "the Author and Finisher of their faith." They are a despised or persecuted people, as true Christians have been in all ages.
The lambs of Christ have always a great deal of trouble, and are tried and tempted in many ways, but it is for a token of their eternal salvation, if God sanctifies the trouble. If their affliction drives them to God, it is a sanctified affliction, and is for their souls' good.
An infallible mark of a regenerated character is, when he begins to hate evil, and where there is the Spirit's work, there is the panting after God.
A child of God looks within, and feels that there is no putting away sin but by the blood of Jesus Christ, and no pardon for poor sinners but by His sacrifice.
We cannot make ourselves clean, or walk in the right way in our own strength, but God will help us if we ask Him in the right way.
The lambs of Jesus Christ are "poor in spirit" and "pure in heart." They "hunger and thirst after righteousness." Although they are often "persecuted for righteousness' sake," yet Christ's righteousness is imputed to them, because He has atoned for their sins. In speaking of truly good men, Mr. Gadsby said—
"Life, light, and holiness divine
From Jesus they by faith receive;
The Spirit makes His graces shine,
And gives them power in Christ to live."