Levity in the Dorm Rooms

As I continue on in my month long break from school, I continue to trudge along through various books. My previous class, History of Christianity, sparked a keen interest in the lives of Christian men that have gone before us. As the writer of Hebrews admonishes us, I desire to "remember our leaders" and "imitate their faith" (Heb 13:7). Undoubtedly this author had our joy that we receive in mind when he wrote this, for when we behold the grace of God working through the unworthy vessels that have gone before us, how can one help but marvel at the goodness of God?

In light of this, a week ago I journeyed a mere mile to Bethel Seminary's enormous library, browsing and perusing title's of books that would seem worthwhile to read. Having a few Christian leaders in mind, I first came across one that was at the top of my list, Charles Haddon Spurgeon. One of the most capable preachers ever to live, Spurgeon wit, wisdom, fidelity to the Gospel, and uncanny ability to reach scores of people equipped him as a very influential preacher and author. Perhaps that last sentence is phrased poorly. Undoubtedly Spurgeon was an amazing talent and surely he worked tirelessly, but as the Apostle Paul would be quick to say (and Spurgeon as well!), it was the grace of God working in him.

The wisdom Spurgeon spews forth could fill numerous blog posts. One comment, however, was rather convicting, and is acutely applicable to the majority of college dormitory settings. In his biography on C.H. Spurgeon (labeled as such), author Arnold Dallimore writes concerning the new home for his Pastor's college:

The building did not contain any dormitories, however. The Men still boarded among the families of the Tabernacle. Spurgeon believed that if they all lived together there would be too much joking and lightness, as was generally the case in other colleges. "Levity of conduct in my brethern," he stated, "brings heaviness of heart to me....Oh, how can ministers be ... talking lightness and wantonness, when sinners are perishing? It must not be so among us."

In today's age of an adolescence that permeates and persists into the late twenties for many males, this statement is devasting. How can we persist in such triviality when souls are dying? How can we be so amused in meaningless, shallow laughter, when sinners each day are perishing? As one who sees unfortunate residue of child adolescence in his own life, may God remind us that we need to make the best use of the time, for the days are indeed evil (Eph. 5:15-16).