Not Done Quickly
Counseling Luther to move more temperately, Erasmus judged that ancient institutions could not be quickly changed and would yield more easily to persuasion than condemnation. We can agree that Luther, not Erasmus, “understood the times,” and still appreciate the truth Erasmus stated.
Benjamin Rush disgustedly resigned after he repeatedly failed to get needed medical reforms through Congress for the Revolutionary Army. John Adams begged him to stay and fight the abuses from within. “Patience! Patience! Patience!” Adams said. “The first, the last, and the middle virtues of a politician.” Wasn’t the wicked Iago correct when he said, “How poor are they that have not patience. What wound did ever heal but by degrees?”
By its very nature, success in spiritual work is as elusive as the missing link. Workers feel they may as well plough the seas as to plant gospel seed in human hearts. The work of integrating faith and practice demands such firm, dogged efforts that many seek easier toil elsewhere. Spiritual work takes time—fast-profit entrepreneurs need not apply. Jeremiah 25:11; 2 Timothy 2:24–26
Source: Hurley, V. (2000, c1995). Speaker's sourcebook of new illustrations. (Page 171). Dallas: Word Publishers.
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