Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813-1843) was a Scottish preacher during a time of revival in the first half of the nineteenth century. M’Cheyne’s dedication to preaching the good news of the Lord Jesus Christ remains a powerful challenge to us today.
M’Cheyne’s friend, Andrew Bonar, published a biography of him, largely drawn from his journal entries. The following is an excerpt (as reprinted by the Banner of Truth).
March 3.—Accompanied A. B. in one of his rounds through some of the most miserable habitations I ever beheld. Such scenes I never before dreamed of. Ah! why am I such a stranger to the poor of my native town? I have passed their doors thousands of times; I have admired the huge black piles of building, with their lofty chimneys breaking the sun’s rays—why have I never ventured within? How dwelleth the love of God in me? How cordial is the welcome even of the poorest and most loathsome to the voice of Christian sympathy! What imbedded masses of human beings are huddled together, unvisited by friend or minister! ‘No man careth for our souls’ is written over every forehead. Awake, my soul! Why should I give hours and days any longer to the vain world, when there is such a world of misery at my very door? Lord put thine own strength in me; confirm every good resolution; forgive my past long life of uselessness and folly.
Memoirs and Remains of Robert Murray M’Cheyne by Andrew Bonar
Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) says:
‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.’
Are we fulfilling Jesus’ great commission and reaching those around us with the gospel?