The Christian's Course
S. Hayward. 2 Timothy 4:6-8 For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.… I. We are to consider THE WAY OR PATH IN WHICH THE CHRISTIAN IS TO RUN. 1. The way in which the Christian is to run is a way of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. 2. The way the Christian is to run is a way of holiness (Psalm 119:32; 1 Thessalonians 4:7). Christians, in proceeding on this course, do it not with the same life and vigour; some appear cold and indifferent, whilst others are quick and lively; some make great advances, whilst others go on by slow degrees. Some begin the heavenly race soon, in the bloom of life, whilst others loiter till towards the evening of their days. II. We now come to consider HOW WE ARE TO RUN, THAT WE MAY FINISH OUR COURSE WITH ADVANTAGE. 1. That we may run the Christian race well, it is necessary that we cast off every weight. 2. We must begin and continue in a dependence upon Christ. 3. We must run with patience, courage, and resolution. 4. We must be watchful and diligent. Be upon your guard, Christian, the way you run is difficult, and it is attended with many snares and temptations. 5. We must keep pressing forward and persevere to the end of our course. You may meet with many discouragements, but still keep on, the further you go, the less ground remains to be trod, therefore let not your hearts be troubled. III. THE ENCOURAGEMENT CHRISTIANS HAVE TO RUN THIS RACE. 1. There is a glorious crown before us. 2. He that begins aright shall at length certainly finish his course. 3. Every one that finishes his course shall as surely receive the prize. To conclude, with some improvement of the point. (1) The further-we proceed in our text, the more we see the difficulty of the Christian life, and the vanity of their hopes who content themselves with a mere form. (2) How foolish are all those that run after perishing enjoyments, and neglect the prize of immortality. (3) What arguments are there for running this race. (4) How should every one that has begun this race rejoice in the encouragements that have been offered. (S. Hayward.) Parallel Verses KJV: For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. WEB: For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure has come.