Thousands of Israel are on their march. The words of Moses, “We are journeying into the place of which the LORD said, I will give it you,” is the declaration of all of God’s children on earth. They anxiously desire and endeavor to persuade others to leave all behind and accompany them. If they cannot succeed, they must bid them a painful and solemn farewell. Such are the leading ideas suggested by our text, which I would like to now illustrate and apply to you this morning with three thoughts.

1A.  First, CHRISTIANS ARE JOURNEYING

2A.  Next, CHRISTIANS DESIRE OTHERS TO JOURNEY WITH THEM

“Come thou with us,” as Moses said to Jethro, is the language of every Christian’s heart. But more specifically, Christians desire:

1B.  First, that God may be glorified

2B.  Second, Christians are concerned for the welfare of their unconverted friends

3B.  Additionally, Christians foresee the misery that is coming upon their unconverted friends

4B.  Fourth, Christians desire the company of their friends in their pilgrimage

3A.  Finally, CHRISTIANS LEAVE THOSE WHO WILL NOT JOURNEY WITH THEM

Observe that to those who cannot be persuaded to accompany them, sojourners must give the parting hand. Having tried every method which love and friendship dictate, if they do not succeed in persuading you to travel with them, they must not tarry. They must go and leave you behind.

1B.  Is there nothing in this congregation which resembles the scene which has been described?

2B.  But let me tell you, he does not love you less, he simply loves the Savior more

* Adapted from a sermon by Asahel Nettleton