A few words must be said as to the outcome of vital Christian faith.
How will it be recognized or known? We answer by its interest in, and
its works on, behalf of others' good. Christian faith must justify
itself in service. The sphere and the nature of that service must be
sought from Him Who has drawn the disciple to Himself. Sometimes it
means the taking up of the old task in an unselfish way; sometimes it
will lead to a new departure or an additional undertaking; sometimes it
sends one far off among the Gentiles. It is not so much the kind of
work that needs the emphasis, but rather the fact that if faith is
being perfected it falls short of completion unless the disciple views
all his activities, even the most humble ones, as occasions for service
for others' good.
There is need of caution, however. We live in a busy age, and activity
is nearly idolised. It is not that we must always be busy, but rather
that what we do is not a mere fad or notion taken up enthusiastically
and, when difficulties present themselves, then just as quickly
dropped. The outcome of faith is a task done for God on behalf of
others, when toil will cheerfully be borne, drudgery endured, trials
met with patience, and--through evil report and good report--the work
continued.