Man of the Earth Earthy (5)

When commencing the construction of the new house, after the purification of the previous foundation (since the beams and planks formerly had consisted of Amorite and Hittite tree trunks), a new foundation was laid—a rock which encompassed the complete length and width, yea, that was even greater than was necessary for the new building, so that there would be no fear of collapse or sinking away, neither to the east, the west, or the south, neither of the external or internal walls. Upon this foundation (which was a most desirable cornerstone, so resplendent that the beauty and the glory of it delighted and fascinated all those who beheld it) the first room, which was cemented upon it, was so beautiful and glorious that it was truly fit to be called a most excellent work. This room was set apart to instruct the soul in the exercises of saving faith, exercises which in the end lead to the eternal felicity of the soul. This applied especially to our homeowner, for in this manner he received the freedom to approach God and the assurance of his spiritual kinship; yea it made him a fellow partaker in the righteousness of Christ and acceptable in God’s eyes. In other words, it purified his heart, justified him before God, and brought him peace in his conscience. It placed him in such a blessed state that already here below, he felt the blessings of being an heir of eternal life.

Above this first room a second was built, which was destined to become a room of instruction in the exercising and growth of those virtues so that his increase in grace might become visible and that he would be able to strive and conquer all difficult and serious matters. It would also serve to show that he had a name that he lived; that he had become a virtuous and good man, diligent in the performance of all that is becoming for a Christian, and doing all that is required in God’s law. He should also in this manner bring forth fruits worthy of conversion and provide the evidence thereof.

A third room was then added which was designated as a school where growth in the knowledge of godly and heavenly matters, especially Christian discernment and prudence, would be taught. These had as its object the way the homeowner would conduct his business life and discern the walk of his neighbor. Here he was taught to deal carefully and circumspectly with his neighbor so that he would not be an offense or annoyance to him but seek to win him over for the kingdom of God, especially if they were strangers of God or weak in the faith, which Solomon calls the knowledge of the saints in Proverbs 9:10. On the inside wall of this room a good friend of the homeowner had written, “Practical knowledge of God’s will.”

Above this room, a fourth story was added where it was suitable to be instructed in Christian moderation, an instruction which, according to the reasoning of that merciful Lord of whom we have often made mention, was highly necessary for His subjects. This instruction was given not only in the proper use of intellect and knowledge, for man must also be wise with moderation (Romans 12:3). A person should know and acknowledge his own weaknesses and faults, should not elevate himself above others, and in all things exercise humility, gladly stepping aside for others. One should keep himself busy with the things which pertain to and are necessary for salvation without inquiring into those things which belong to the hidden will of God (Deuteronomy 29:29).

We should also consider both the outward and personal life where moderation entails that Christian virtue whereby a person is kept in the way of his proper duty.

In this manner our homeowner received instruction as follows:

In the first place, concerning modesty: it should not only be visible in our clothing so that it appears neither gaudy nor frivolous but also in our conversation— not using a multitude of words whereby we end up transgressing but by setting a watch before our lips and being slow to speak.

In the second place, we must exercise modesty in the use of food and drink, taking care not to use more than is necessary for our sustenance and refreshment so that we would not be “inclined to the wine and fleshpots,” using as our examples such biblical persons as Hannah, and Daniel and his friends.

In the third place, maintain purity of the soul and body whereby the uncontrolled passions and evil lusts which strive against the seventh commandment of the godly law (Romans 13:13) are restrained. p

(To be continued)

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