And so, conformably to this doctrine concerning the corrupt and anti-heavenly state of the natural heart, the Bible throughout teaches that a great work is to be done before we can enter the kingdom of heaven. It teaches that we must believe in, look to, and follow after the Lord Jesus Christ; "for without me," He says, "ye can do nothing." It teaches that we must learn and live according to the laws of the heavenly life which He has revealed;—must "hear the Word of God and do it," else we cannot be fit for an abode among the blessed. It insists on the necessity of repentance, self-denial, watchfulness and prayer. Its language is: "Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself." "What I say unto you I say unto all. Watch." "Pray without ceasing." It represents the life of those journeying heavenward, as a struggle, a warfare, a ceaseless conflict with the inclinations of the natural man, "the foes of our own household." It says: "Strive [literally, agonise] to enter in through the strait gate." "These [the multitude whom the seer of Patmos beheld 'arrayed in white robes'] are they who came out of great tribulation." And the Lord says: "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life, shall lose it; and whosoever will lose his life for my sake, shall find it." (Matt. xvi. 24, '5.)
Yes: Following in the footsteps of our Divine Master
