TEXT: Heb. 6:19 — I Tim. 1:19

INTRODUCTION: My objective is to give a description of the old ship of Zion.

Its hulk is built not of wood or steel, but the solid "Rock of Ages."

Its sails are made of the canvas of faith (II Cor. 5:7).

Let us take a good look at the old Gospel Ship.

I. THE OLD GOSPEL SHIP HAS A GANG PLANK THAT IS WIDE ENOUGH THAT ALL WHO BELIEVE MAY ENTER.

A. He that believeth on him is not condemned. (John 3:718).

B. Look unto me and be ye saved, all the end of the earth. (Isa. 45:22).

C. Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy laden. (Matt: 11:28).

II. THE OLD GOSPEL SHIP HAS A COMPASS WITH WHICH TO GUIDE IT.

A. This compass is the Word of God.

B. Its needle always points to Christ, "The Morning Star"

C. No one can lose his way when sailing by its directions.

III. THE OLD GOSPEL SHIP HAS AN ANCHOR WHICH HOLDS IN THE TIME OF A STORM.

A. The crew is not to lose heart, but cast anchor.

B. The anchor never gives way.

C. This anchor is both sure and steadfast. (Heb. 6:19)

IV. THE OLD GOSPEL SHIP HAS CHRIST AS ITS CAPTAIN AND THE HOLY GHOST AS ITS PILOT.

A. They know every snare along the way.

B. The Lord has said, "I will guide thee with mine eye". (Deut. 33:27).

V.  THE OLD GOSPEL SHIP HAS A WHISTLE TO LET SISTER SHIPS KNOW ITS COURSE.

A. This whistle is the testimony of the saints.

B. It should not give an uncertain sound.

C. And they overcame him, (satan) by the blood of the Lamb, and by the        word of their testimony." (Rev. 12: 11).

VI. THE OLD GOSPEL SHIP HAS A WIRELESS TELEGRAM SYSTEM.

A.. It is used to keep in contact with headquarters.

C. "And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear", (Isa. 65:24).

A.. "And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abrahams bosom". (Luke 16:22).