"Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so men persecuted the prophets who were before you." (v. 12)

Who is a saint? The historic definition is one whose life is worthy of imitation by all of Christendom. Some add that a sense of humor is a prerequisite, along with having performed miracles. "She is a saint," we say. What do we mean? We usually have in mind a person whose goodness, unselfishness, love, is unmistakable. Ah, but ask that one, "Are you a saint?" The answer: "Of course not." Is this false modesty? No! God’s true saints are the first to admit they are far from the mark. Why? Because those who live closest to Christ disclaim resemblance to the goodness, love, and compassion of the Christ they follow.

John Wesley and George Whitefield were good friends, bu…