Articles
Last Sermon
I write this bit of history only for the benefit of the young who may come after me so they will not think a preacher's life is all flowers and sunshine. If I had to live life again I know of but few changes I would make. I learned forty years ago that to become a Christian, a man must:
- hear Christ (Matt. 7:24);
Matt 7:24 Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
- have faith in him (John 20:30);
John 20:30-31 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Chr-ist, the Son of God; and that belive-ing ye might have life through his name.
- repent of his sins (Luke 24:47);
Luke 24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, begin-ning at Jerusalem.
- confess Christ (Matt. 10:32);
Matthew 10:32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
- and be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).
Acts 2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
I have never had occasion to change but still preach it that way today; for I know if a man will do these things God will add him to his church, or the church of Christ, which is greater to me than all earthly gain. If this man then lives the life of a child of God, heaven will be his home.
As I come nearer the river's brink, I am fighting harder and trying to do more that God may welcome me, than ever before. Only a few more miles and I shall rejoice to see the other side. If God accepts me, all will be well with me. If not, I know he doeth all things well and shall humbly submit to his will. As this is my last lesson, I subscribe my name as J. D. TANT.
J. D. Tant – A Texas Preacher
