Of the desire after eternal life, and how great blessings are promised to those who strive. explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Contempt for the World

  The chapter contrasts earthly trials and self-denial with the eternal joy of heaven, urging the disciple to despise temporal comforts.

• Suffering and the Cross

  The disciple is called to endure labor, sorrow, and humiliation as preparation for the heavenly reward.

• Love of God Above All

  The disciple is instructed to seek what is acceptable to God rather than his own desires, cleaving to God with all affection.

Characters to notice

• Jesus Christ

  Speaker throughout the chapter, addressing the disciple as 'My Son' and promising eternal rewards.

• The Disciple

  The listener who is exhorted to desire eternal life, endure trials, and seek God's will above his own.

• God the Father

  Implied as the source of the 'Supreme Goodness' and 'Supreme Grace' that grants the desire for eternal happiness.

Key passages

• “My Son, when thou feelest the desire of eternal happiness to be poured into thee from above, and longest to depart from the tabernacle of this body, that thou mayest contemplate My glory without shadow of turning, enlarge thine heart, and take in this holy inspiration with all thy desire.”

  When you feel a longing for eternal happiness given by God, and you wish to leave this earthly body to see God's glory clearly, open your heart and fully embrace this holy inspiration.

  The chapter opens with an invitation to receive the desire for heaven as a gift from God.

• “Thou must still be tried upon earth, and be exercised in many things. Consolation shall from time to time be given thee, but abundant satisfying shall not be granted.”

  You will continue to be tested on earth and trained in many ways. You will receive comfort occasionally, but not full satisfaction yet.

  The disciple is reminded that earthly life is a time of trial and partial consolation, not final fulfillment.

• “Now therefore bow thyself humbly under the hands of all men; nor let it trouble thee who said this or who ordered that; but take special heed that whether thy superior, thy inferior, or thy equal, require anything from thee, or even show a desire for it; take it all in good part, and study with a good will to fulfil the desire.”

  Humbly submit to everyone, whether superior, inferior, or equal, and willingly fulfill their requests without worrying about who gave the order.

  The chapter concludes with a call to humble obedience and service to others as a path to heavenly glory.