Finisher of the Work, September 29

So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!”—John 19:30JNN 287.1

The Lord does not come to this world with gold and silver to advance His work. He supplies men and women with resources, that by their gifts and offerings they may keep His work advancing. The one purpose above all others for which God’s gifts should be used is the sustaining of workers in the great harvest field. And if men, and women as well, will become channels of blessing to other souls, the Lord will keep the channels supplied. It is not returning to God His own that makes people poor; it is withholding that tends to poverty.JNN 287.2

The work of imparting that which has been received will constitute every member of the church a laborer together with God. Of yourself you can do nothing; but Christ is the great worker. It is the privilege of every human being who receives Christ to be a worker together with Him.JNN 287.3

The Saviour said: “I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto Me” (John 12:32). For the joy of seeing souls redeemed, Christ endured the cross. He became the living sacrifice for a fallen world. Into that act of self-sacrifice was put the heart of Christ, the love of God; and through this sacrifice was given to the world the mighty influence of the Holy Spirit. It is through sacrifice that God’s work must be carried forward. Of every child of God self-sacrifice is required. Christ said: “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself; and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). To all who believe, Christ gives a new character. This character, through His infinite sacrifice, is the reproduction of His own.JNN 287.4

The Author of our salvation will be the Finisher of the work. One truth received into the heart will make room for still another truth. And the truth, wherever received, quickens into activity the powers of the receiver. When our church members are truly lovers of God’s Word, they will reveal the best and strongest qualities; and the nobler they are, the more childlike in spirit they will be, believing the Word of God against all selfishness.JNN 287.5

A flood of light is shining from the Word of God, and there must be an awakening to neglected opportunities.—Testimonies for the Church 6:448-450.JNN 287.6

Further Reflection: Do I view the work of God as a privilege, a God-given opportunity to work with the One who is the Finisher of the work?JNN 287.7