Quotes from Walter J. Chantry

Calvinism that does not humble has missed its mark.

Christians are sensitive. We want to be liked and accepted. It is pleasant to be agreeable and peaceful. As God's grace quickens in us a love for men, a sense of courtesy is heightened, a longing for gentleness and peace is increased. But with all of this our Lord's honor is at issue in the discussion. You must consciously choose words that pain your own social consciousness and love of peace. Self has to be crucified. Two hearts are broken, not merely one.

Not one man has ever sacrificed for His Lord without richly being repaid. If the cross is only contrasted with earthly pleasures, it may seem hard and threatening. But when the cross is weighed in the balances with the glorious treasures to be had through it, even the cross seems sweet.

During the day as serious opinions are being discussed, there is an opportunity to give the biblical view on issues of sin and righteousness or the purpose of life. But each time you speak, you have seen rejection of yourself with your views. Each testimony of truth makes you more unwelcome. Will you be bold for truth today?

Of all people however, Reformed Christians should resurrect the biblical teaching on self-denial from its unjust obscurity. it is not the property of Medieval Flagellants. We dare not yield it as the property of the "deeper life" movement. It was the Son of God who said, "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me." Mark 8:34

True Calvinism always leads to the appreciation of self-denial. When the doctrines of grace are warmly preached, denial of self is necessarily one of the chief experiences of the soul. Each one of the doctrines infinitely exalts the most high God and humbles the sinful and human self as a mere worm.

The true test of your Calvinism comes just here: How low is self and how high is God in your heart? Almost every moment of your life offers a test.

Self-denial is the birth pang of spiritual joy. No woman seeks birth pangs, but she willingly endures them for the pleasure of cradling an infant in her arms. It is because of the sheer delight of living for the glory of Jehovah and the satisfaction of dwelling in the presence of His majestic fellowship that Christians submit to the agonies of self-denial.

The law is neither more nor less than an elucidation of the demands of love.

Needless to say, the Bible knows of no such grotesque creature as one who is saved but unrepentant.