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Finishing the Race

Of all the games instituted among the Greeks and the Romans, the races were the most ancient and the most highly esteemed … The contests were governed by strict regulations, from which there was no appeal. Those who desired their names entered as competitors for the prize had first to undergo a severe preparatory training. Harmful indulgence of appetite, or any other gratification that would lower mental or physical vigour, was strictly forbidden. For one to have any hope of success in these trials of strength and speed, the muscles must be strong and supple, and the nerves well under control. Every movement must be certain, every step swift and unswerving; the physical powers must reach the highest mark.

Of all the games instituted among the Greeks and the Romans, the races were the most ancient and the most highly esteemed … The contests were governed by strict regulations, from which there was no appeal. Those who desired their names entered as competitors for the prize had first to undergo a severe preparatory training. Harmful indulgence of appetite, or any other gratification that would lower mental or physical vigour, was strictly forbidden. For one to have any hope of success in these trials of strength and speed, the muscles must be strong and supple, and the nerves well under control. Every movement must be certain, every step swift and unswerving; the physical powers must reach the highest mark.

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not thank you for your labour. It is equally absurd to offer Christ to <strong>the</strong>m whose heart is<br />

whole, having never yet been broken."-- Ibid., sermon 35.<br />

Thus while preaching <strong>the</strong> gospel of <strong>the</strong> grace of God, Wesley, like his Master, sought to<br />

"magnify <strong>the</strong> law, and make it honourable." Faithfully did he accomplish <strong>the</strong> work given<br />

him of God, and glorious were <strong>the</strong> results which he was permitted to behold. At <strong>the</strong> close of<br />

his long life of more than fourscore years--above half a century spent in itinerant ministryhis<br />

avowed adherents numbered more than half a million souls. But <strong>the</strong> multitude that<br />

through his labours had been lifted from <strong>the</strong> ruin and degradation of sin to a higher and a<br />

purer life, and <strong>the</strong> number who by his teaching had attained to a deeper and richer<br />

experience, will never be known till <strong>the</strong> whole family of <strong>the</strong> redeemed shall be ga<strong>the</strong>red into<br />

<strong>the</strong> kingdom of God. His life presents a lesson of priceless worth to every Christian. Would<br />

that <strong>the</strong> faith and humility, <strong>the</strong> untiring zeal, self-sacrifice, and devotion of this servant of<br />

Christ might be reflected in <strong>the</strong> churches of today!<br />

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