What Parting Words Reveal
What Parting Words Reveal ...
... About Death: The parting words of people can reveal much about their attitude toward death. For instance, the 17th century English philosopher, Thomas Hobbes exposed the insecurity of atheism when he said before dying, “I am taking a fearful leap into the dark.” By contrast, Patrick Henry, the 18th century statesman of the American Revolution, demonstrated the security of his Christian belief when he witnessed to his doctor from his deathbed: “Observe how real and beneficial ... Christ is to a man about to die.”
... About Destiny: The last words of people can also tell us where they will spend eternity. The 18th century French philosopher, Voltaire’s last words were, “I am abandoned by God and man. I shall go to Hell. I wish I’d never been born.” How different were the words of the 19th century American evangelist, D. L. Moody: “Earth is receding. Heaven is opening. It is my coronation day.”
... About Life: The final words of people may give us their summary of their own lives. On his deathbed, Jay Gould, 19th century American industrialist, financier and one of the richest men in the world, summed up his life this way: “I am the most miserable devil on earth.” By contrast, the Apostle Paul, a first century evangelist and church planter, viewed his life this way: “The time has come for my departure. I have fought the good fight ... finished the race ... kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord ... will award to me on that day – and not only me, but also all who have longed for His appearing” (2 Tim. 4:6-8).
... To Others: I hope these last words of Patrick Henry, D. L. Moody and the Apostle Paul encourage you to speak often of your confidence in the Savior. You never know when a Hobbes, a Voltaire or a Gould may be listening!
By Larry Ondrejack