The Disciples as Witnesses to Heaven's Abundance

"It floweth with milk and honey." The promise of Canaan reveals a deeper truth: true disciples of the Lord Jesus are expected to demonstrate to the world the nature of the heavenly country toward which they journey. In one sense, they have already been there and returned.

St. Paul writes that "eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him." Yet the apostle continues: "God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit." Some possess true ideas of the heavenly kingdom—foretastes of glory. Heaven is the expansion of a life begun here below: "He that hath the Son hath life."

What specimens does the true disciple display from this unseen country? The character of Christ, reproduced in him by the power of the Holy Ghost—imperfectly yet genuinely. There is strength overcoming the world, peace transcending understanding, communion with Elohim, and an eternal soul-thirst perpetually renewed and satisfied.

Souls are won through the presentation of these fruits. Some reject Christ entirely. Yet many others halt between two opinions, saying through their manner: "Show us the fruits of the heavenly land. You dwell among us as a citizen of the heavenly city (Philippians 3:20). Enable us to gather from your conduct what are the characteristics of that noble, glorious companionship."