(An appreciation of those who have gone before us to pave the way for gospel preachers. This article was written by Winfred Clark, a faithful gospel preacher who passed on to his reward on August 11, 1997. His words are still encouraging gospel preachers to this day.)
This is a statement made by the Lord to two of the disciples of John (John 1:35-39). He has just pointed them to the Christ saying: “behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world.” This aroused their attention and caused them to follow Him. As Jesus turns to see them following, He says, “what seek ye?” They said, “where dwellest thou?” His answer was, “come and see.” That has to be a grand invitation. It has to be something worth our time and attention. So let’s take a look.
I. THIS INVITATION HELPS US TO OVERCOME DELAY
You will note that He does not say, “come sometime” nor does He say “come someday.” The implication is “come now.” The emphasis should be on the word now. That is where Paul places the emphasis in Second Corinthians 6:2. He says, “now is the accepted time,” “now is the day of salvation.” Twice he utters this in rapid fashion. So it is easy to see the invitation of our Lord as helping one to overcome delay.
II. THIS INVITATION HELPS US TO OVERCOME DARKNESS
It is obvious that these men were i n the dark as t o where Jesus dwelt. They would humbly ask but would never know until they have responded to His invitation to see. After they respond, they will surely see. They would no longer be in the dark. Wasn’t this what Paul was to do? Was he not given the responsibility of “opening the eyes and turning men from darkness to light” (Acts 26:18)? Yes, as they respond to that invitation they would overcome any darkness or doubt they might have about the Lord.
III. THIS INVITATION HELPS US TO OVERCOME DISTANCE
As they come, the distance between them and the Lord is overcome. That which separated is no longer there. They are no longer separated from Him who takes away the sins of the world. Paul spoke of those who were at one time far off but now were made nigh by the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:13). Yes this is a grand and glorious invitation that helps one to overcome that which would otherwise separate him from the Christ to which he must come.
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