Renwick’s ministry lasted about four years.  During this time he seemed to be the most hated man in the world; reproach, revenge, and hatred rolled over his head like breaking waves.  He was called a deceiver, a fanatic, a schismatic, a traitor.  He was pursued by malicious rumors to blacken his name, and by armed men to shed his blood.  Yet he continued steadfastly on his way.  Winter storms and summer rains could not abate his ardor.  Neither the advice of friends, nor the wrath of foes, could swerve him, no, not one moment, nor one hairbreath.  His spirit was on fire while his body was emaciated.  A thousand arrows were flying around this dove, some of them drinking its blood, yet was it singing.

One night he appeared at the door of John Brown.  He was graciously received.  A storm was sweeping the moor.  As he sat by the glowing fire, drying his dripping garments and warming his shivering body, he remarked, “Reproach has not broken my heart; but the excessive traveling, and many exposures, have weakened my body.”

His mother and sisters visited him when in jail, awaiting his execution.  Looking into their sad faces, he cheered them up, by exclaiming, “Oh, how can I contain this, to be within two hours of the crown of glory!  Let us be glad, and rejoice.  This death is to me, as if I were to lie down on a bed of roses.”  When the drum sounded the signal for the execution, he cried out, “Yonder, the welcome warning; the Bridegroom is coming; I am ready, I am ready.”  He died with the words of assurance on his lips:  “Lord, into Thy hands I commend my spirit.”

Are present Covenanters acquainted thus with God?  Have they the all-inclusive view of His glorious Trinity, His personal presence, His revealed will, His exacting requirements, His omnipotent grace, His redeeming love, His mediatorial kingdom, His everlasting Covenant?  Have they the view that will keep them steadfast, progressive, and enthusiastic in His service?  They, who have an abiding acquaintance with God, will eventually develop a life, that will be clear as the sun, deep as the sea, firm as the rock, and strong as the cedar.

* * * * *

Points for the class.

1.  Where was James Renwick born?

2.  How was he troubled with doubts regarding God?

3.  How did the death of Cargill affect him?

4.  What was his first notable service in the Covenant?

5.  Where did he study theology?

6.  How did he testify against the errors of the Church of Holland?

7.  What success did he have in his ministry?

8.  What was his great sorrow?

9.  Wherein lay his unwavering strength?

XLIX.

The Shepherdless flock.