A SAINT IN SIN CITY

PREFACE

In the fictional story that follows, is a tale of two baseball teammates. Their complex relationship comes to a bizarre head during the World Series. Saul Sallie, nephew of Seven Sallie, and Mason Maxwell are both pitchers. Both have dreamed of one day playing in the majors. Both make it in the majors. They even played in the biggest games in baseball, the World Series. One has the best game of his life, and is adored by most. The other becomes both despised by many, and admired by few for refusing to play in a deciding game seven due to religious convictions.

The two men are teammates, yet rivals, who came up through the minors together. They are friends, yet at times, enemies. Both their Christian faith and family are more important to them than baseball. Yet this too is on an opposite spectrum. Saul adheres to the Bible, and the Bible alone. Mason, although reluctant to admit it, adheres to the creeds of man-made theories and traditions.

Since this tale of spiritual struggle and redemption takes place in the not too distant future, I have placed the major league team in Las Vegas. I have heard that Vegas has been wanting a MLB franchise, with Oakland, Tampa, and Cincinnati the most likely teams to possibly move there. One of the reasons I have placed this tale in the near future, is I want to be able to speculate on things happening in the world that will at some point affect both religious liberty and liberty of conscience.

Bible prophecy has warned us of this, and things are certainly brewing in the world along these lines. But only God knows the exact timetable. So the exact time frame is also vague to me the writer, and my speculations are just that. What could happen, not what will happen. Yet God has given us signs of when the end is near. One excellent example are the words of Jesus in Matthew chapter 24.

After a brief prologue in the third person, it is my intention to post a chapter every week. Hopefully time restraints allow me to achieve this goal. Mason and Saul will be telling their story in the first person. I may add another person or persons later on. Although I have the basic outline conceived, I do not know where exactly this will be going. But half the fun of writing is seeing where the story takes you. Thanks for your interest!

PROLOUGE

Mason sat on a log outside of Saul Sallie’s empty cabin and watched the sun glistening on the lake. Where was Saul? Mason was sure he would find him here at his favorite getaway. Was Saul worried that the back lash against him was so strong, that the morons issuing death threats would actually look for him here?

It had seemed a lot longer than six days ago since Mason pitched a perfect game in the World Series, crediting his dead wife for being with him. The day before he had gone to a psychic medium, who told him things he was certain she couldn’t have known about his wife and him. He knew Saul would have advised him against it, shoving Bible verses in face as he did so. But how could she know that their daughter was named after Beth’s grandmother? Or that he had proposed to her on a lake? The very lake he now gazed at.

He had kept this visit to a psychic to himself, but the media loved him referencing his deceased wife as helping him. The drama had made him a hero, not only in Las Vegas, but the entire nation and even internationally. His perfection on the mound had also tied the series at three games apiece.

Saul, who was considered Vegas’s ace, was to pitch the deciding game seven the next night, a Wednesday. But it was rained out. Thursday, it rained again. It was finally rescheduled for Friday evening, with not a cloud in the sky. But Saul not only refused to pitch, he wasn’t even at the ballpark.

It was in Saul Sallie’s contract that he was not required to pitch on Friday evenings or Saturdays. He followed the Biblical Sabbath, and his love for, and devotion to God would not allow him to waver even for the World Series. His manager had hoped he would waver his conviction, given the circumstances. But he was not only disappointed, he was angry. Especially when their opponent got eleven hits and scored six runs to go on and win the World Series.

Saul had insisted on this Sabbath stipulation ever since his first year in the minors. It was a demand that likely made his road to the majors twice as long. It might have gotten him cut if he wasn’t such a talented pitcher. It had been a beautiful young lady that he had studied and argued with that had convinced him of the Sabbath truth.

Marcella Knight-Storm had shown Saul Bible text after Bible text, and then had given him a history lesson on how and when Sunday keeping first began, and how it ultimately became a tradition among most Christian denominations. That beautiful young lady would become his wife a year later.

Mason looked at two things carved into the log. Both were heart shaped, and in the middle, both had two names. One said Marcella -n- Saul, while the other said Beth -n- Mason. He smiled to himself as he recalled the day he carved his fiancée’s name into the wood.

“Mason asked me to marry him!” Beth told Marcella excitedly as the two women hugged and jumped up and down. Saul simply grinned, shook Mason’s hand, and told him congrats.

Marcella ran into the cabin, and returned with a knife. She handed it to Mason and giggled. “Make it permanent.”

He ran his hand over the carving as tears filled his eyes. “I miss you, Bethany. Where are you?”

A Goldfinch landed five feet in front of him, seemed to look at him, and flew away. Was that her? He snorted and shook his head. Over thinking can drive you crazy. And right now he was overthinking Saul’s situation too. It overshadowed his glee of a perfect game. He was part of one of the biggest swings in sports history. He was the big hero of game six, but his good friend was the goat of game seven, even though he didn’t play. How ironic.

Mason was confused, and sighed heavily, shaking his head. “Oh brother, where art thou?”

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #50 and final in series)

Peace Be Unto You (See Luke 24:33-48, John 20:19-29)

When Jesus first appeared to the disciples in the upper room, they didn’t recognize Him at first. But then He spoke and they knew Him. “Peace be unto you.”

Jesus is ever ready to speak peace to souls that are burdened with doubts and fears. He waits for us to open the door of the heart to Him, and say, abide with us. He says, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock: if anyone hears My voice, and open the door, I will come into them, and will dine with them, and they with Me. (Revelation 3:20)

The Holy Spirit was not yet fully manifested, for Christ had not yet been glorified. The more abundant impartation of the Spirit did not take place until after Christ’s ascension.

Jesus committed to the disciples a most sacred trust with the work before them. He desired to impress them with the fact that without the Holy Spirit, this work could not be accomplished. The Holy Spirit is the breath of spiritual life in the soul. The impartation of the Spirit is the impartation of the life of Christ.

Remission of sins can be obtained only through the merits of Christ.

When Jesus first met the disciples in the upper chamber, Thomas was not with them. He had heard the report of others , and received abundant proof that Jesus had risen, but gloom and unbelief filled his heart. It wounded his vanity to think that Jesus had revealed  Himself to all the others except Him. He would not accept the witness of his brethren, or exercise faith that was dependent upon their testimony. He ardently loved his Lord, but he had allowed jealousy and unbelief to take possession of his mind and heart.

Many who are given to doubt excuse themselves by saying that if they had the evidence which Thomas had from his companions, they would believe. They do not realize that they have not only that evidence, but much more. Many who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be removed, will never realize their desire.

In His treatment of Thomas, Jesus gave a lesson for His followers. His example shows how we should treat those whose faith is weak, and who make their doubts prominent. Jesus did not overwhelm Thomas with reproach, nor did he enter into controversy with him. Unbelief is seldom overcome by arguing or scorn. Instead it is put upon self-defense, and finds new support for excuse.

But let Jesus, in His love and mercy, be revealed as the crucified Savior, and from many once unwilling lips will be heard the acknowledgement of Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”

By the Sea Once More (See John 21:1-22)

Much of the time of Christ’s ministry had been passed near the Sea of Galilee.

Seven of the disciples were in company. They were clad in the humble garb of fishermen. They were poor in worldly goods, but rich in the knowledge and practice of the truth, which in the sight of Heaven gave them the highest rank as teachers. They had not been students in the rabbinical schools, but for three years they had been taught by the greatest Educator the world had ever known.

Christ had a lesson to give especially relating to Peter. Peter’s denial of his Lord had been in shameful contrast to his former professions of loyalty. He had dishonored Christ, and incurred the distrust of his brethren. They thought he would not be allowed to take his former position among them, and he himself felt that he had forfeited his trust. Before being called to take up again his apostolic work, he must before them all give evidence of his repentance. The Savior gave him opportunity to regain the confidence of his brethren, and, so far as possible, remove the reproach he had brought upon the gospel.

Here is a lesson for all of Christ’s followers. The gospel makes no compromise with evil. It cannot excuse sin. Secret sins are to be confessed in secret to God. But for open sin, open confession is required.

Peter was naturally forward and impulsive, and Satan had taken advantage of these characteristics to overthrow him. Just before the fall of Peter, Jesus had said, “Satan has desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, that your faith doesn’t fail, and when you are converted, strengthen your brethren.” (Luke 22:31, 32)

That time had now come, and the transformation in Peter was evident. The close, testing words of the Lord had not called out one forward, self-sufficient reply. And because of his humiliation and repentance, Peter was better prepared than ever before to act as shepherd to the flock.

Before his fall, Peter was always speaking unadvisedly, from the impulse of the moment. He was always ready to correct others, and to express his mind before he had clear comprehension. But the converted Peter was very different. He had retained his former fervor, but the grace of Christ regulated his zeal. He was no longer impetuous, self-confident, and self-exalted. He was calm, self-possessed, and teachable.

The Savior’s manner of dealing with Peter had a lesson for all time. It taught to meet the transgressor with patience, sympathy, and forgiving love. Although Peter had denied his Lord, Christ’s love toward him never faltered.

Peter had tried to plan for the work of God, instead of waiting to follow God’s plan. But he could gain nothing by rushing ahead of the Lord. Jesus bids him, “follow Me.” Do not run ahead of Me. Then you will have the hosts of Stan to meet alone. Let Me go before you, then you will not be overcome by the enemy.

It is our work to look to Christ and follow Him. We shall see mistakes in the lives of other, and defects in their characters. But in Christ we shall find perfection. By beholding Him, we become transformed.

Go Teach All Nations (See Matthew 28:16-20, Luke 24:50-53, Acts 1:9-12)

The disciples were to be co-laborers with their Redeemer in the work of saving the world.

Christ’s word on the mountainside were His announcement that His sacrifice in behalf of humanity was full and complete. Clothed with boundless authority, He gave His commission to the disciples… All who come to Me, confessing their sins, I freely receive. All who will, may be reconciled to God, and receive everlasting life.

The humblest worker, moved by the Holy Spirit, will touch invisible chords, whose vibrations will ring to the ends of the earth, and make melody through eternal ages.

Jesus lifts men from the narrow circle which their selfishness prescribes. He abolishes all territorial lines and artificial distinctions of society. He makes no difference between neighbors and strangers, friends, and enemies. He teaches us to look upon every needy soul as our brother or sister.

There were places where the Savior Himself could not do many might works because of their unbelief. So now, unbelief separates the church from her divine Helper. Her hold upon eternal realities is weak. By her lack of faith, God is disappointed, and robbed of His glory.

Divine love has been stirred to unfathomable depths of humanity, and angels marvel to behold the recipients of so great love return a mere surface gratitude. Angels marvel at man’s shallow appreciation of the love of God. Heaven stands indignant at the neglect of souls in need.

The gospel is to be presented, not as a lifeless theory, but as a living force to change the life. God desires that the receivers of His grace shall be witnesses to its power.

Christ is sitting for His portrait in every Christian. Let it be reflected in the character, and manifested in the life. In everyone, Christ’s long suffering love, His holiness, meekness, mercy, and truth are to be manifested to the world.

Instead of man’s speculations, let the word of God be preached. Let Christians put away their dissensions, and give themselves to God for the saving of the lost. Let them in faith ask for the blessing, and it will come. The outpouring of the Spirit in apostolic days was the “former rain,” and glorious was the result. But the “latter rain” will be more abundant! (Joel 2:23)

All who consecrate soul, body, and spirit to God will be constantly receiving a new endowment of physical and mental power. The inexhaustible supplies of heaven are at their command. Christ gives them the breath of His own Spirit, the life of His own life. The Holy Spirit puts forth its highest energies to work in heart and mind.

Jesus had authenticated the fact that He was a living Savior! His disciples need no longer associate Him with the tomb. They could now think of Him as glorified before the heavenly universe.

As Jesus ascended to heaven, the awestricken disciples gazed upward.

When the disciples went back to Jerusalem, the people looked upon them with amazement. After the trial and crucifixion of Christ, it had been thought that they would appear downcast and ashamed. Their enemies expected to see upon their faces an expression of sorrow and defeat. Instead of this there was only gladness and triumph. Their faces were aglow with a happiness not born of earth.

They did not mourn over disappointed hopes, but were full of praise and thanksgiving to God. With rejoicing they told the wonderful story of Christ’s resurrection and His ascension to heaven, and their testimony was received by many.

The disciples no longer had any distrust of the future. They knew that Jesus was in heaven. They knew they had a friend at the throne of God, and they were eager to present their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus.

For us our Lord ascended, and for us He lives!

“Wherefore He is able to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing that He ever lives to make intercession for them. (Hebrews 7:25)

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #49)

In Joseph’s tomb

In the beginning the Father and the Son had rested upon the Sabbath after Their work of creation. (Genesis 2:1-3) Now Jesus rested from the work of redemption.

Upon the very day of Christ’s death, three men, differing widely from one another, had declared their faith. He who commanded the Roman guard, he who bore the cross of the Savior, and he who died upon the cross at His side.

However, the priests and rulers were not at rest. They had carried out their purpose in putting Christ to death. But they did not feel the sense of victory they had expected. They now dreaded the dead Christ more than they had ever feared the living Christ.

While the disciples feared to show themselves openly as His followers, Joseph and Nicodemus came boldly to their aid. The help of these rich and honored men was greatly needed at this time. They could do for their dead Master what it was impossible for the poor disciples to do. Their wealth and influence protected them from the malice of the priests and rulers.

Nicodemus had had opportunity for reflection. A clearer light now illuminated his mind, and the words which Jesus had spoken to him were no longer mysterious. He felt that he had lost much by not connecting himself with the Savior during His life. The very event that destroyed the hopes of the disciples had convinced both Nicodemus and Joseph of His divinity.

The mourning and cries of the suffering ones brought home to thousands of minds the conviction that a great light had gone out of the world. Without Christ, the earth was blackness and darkness.

Jesus was sealed as securely in the tomb as if He were to remain there through all time. Roman guards were powerless to confine the Lord of life within the tomb. The hour of His release was near.

The Lord is Risen (See Matthew 28:2-4, 11-15)

Angels that excel in strength were guarding the tomb, and waiting to welcome the Prince of life.

At the death of Jesus the soldiers had beheld the earth wrapped in darkness at midday. But at the resurrection they saw the brightness of the angels illuminate the night, and heard the inhabitants of heaven singing with great joy and triumph: “You have vanquished Satan and the powers of darkness. You have swallowed up death in victory.”

All created beings live by the will and power of God. They are dependent recipients of the life of God. Only He who is One with God could say, I have power to lay down my life, and I have power to take it again. In His divinity, Christ possessed the power to break the bonds of death.

To the believer, Christ is the resurrection and the life. In our Savior the life that was lost through sin is restored. For He has life in Himself to quicken who He will. He is invested with the right to give immortality. The life that He laid down in humanity, He takes up again, and gives to humanity.

To the believer, death is but a small matter. Jesus speaks of it as if it were a little moment. “If any man keep my saying, he shall never see death.” To the Bible believing Christian, death is but a sleep, a moment of silence and darkness. The life is hid with Christ in God, and “when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall you also appear, with Him in glory.” (John 8:51, 52 and Colossians 3:4)

Why Do You Weep? (See Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18)

The women who had stood by the cross of Christ waited for the Sabbath to pass. On the first day of the week, very early, they made their way to the tomb, taking with them precious spices to anoint the Savior’s body. They had not understood His rising from the dead.

A young man clothed in shinning garments was sitting by the tomb. It was the angel who had rolled away the stone. He had taken the guise of humanity that he might not alarm these friends of Jesus. Another angel in human form is there and says, “Why do you seek the living among the dead?”

The day that was a day of rejoicing to all heaven was to the disciples a day of uncertainty, confusion, and perplexity. Christ’s first work on earth after His resurrection was to convince His disciples of His undiminished love and tender regard for them. To give them proof that He was their living Savior. That He had broken the fetters of the tomb, and could no longer be held by the enemy death!

At first the disciples could not cast off their doubts and perplexities. Even when the women declared that they had seen the Lord, the disciples would not believe. They thought they were under a delusion.

In the garden, Mary had stood weeping, when Jesus was close beside her. Her eyes were so blinded by tears that she did not discern Him. And the hearts of the disciples were so full of grief that they did not believe the angel’s message of the words of Christ Himself.

How many are still doing what Mary and the disciples did? Jesus is close beside them, but their tear blinded eyes, and troubled hearts do not discern Him. He speaks to them but they do not understand. Do not mourn as those who are hopeless and helpless. Jesus lives! And because He lives, we shall live also!

Jesus lives to make intercession for us! Grasp this hope, and it will hold the soul like an anchor. Believe and you shall see the glory of God.

The Walk to Emmaus (See Luke 24:13-33)

Late in the afternoon of the day of the resurrection, two disciples were on their way to Emmaus, a little town eight miles from Jerusalem. These disciples had no prominent place in Christ’s work, but they were earnest believers in Him. They were greatly perplexed as they walked.

Strange that the disciples did not remember Christ’s words, and realize that He had foretold the events which had come to pass. They did not realize that the last part of His disclosure would be just as verily fulfilled as the first part. That the third day He would rise again. This was the part they should have remembered.

The priests and rulers did not forget this. On the day “that followed the preparation, the chief priests and rulers came together to Pilate, saying, Sir, we remembered that that deceiver said, while He was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.” (Matthew 27:62, 63) But the disciples did not remember these words.

In teaching the disciples, Jesus showed the importance of the Old Testament as a witness to His mission. Many professed Christians now disregard the Old Testament. But such is not Christ’s teaching. So highly did He value it that at one time He said, “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.” (Luke 16:31)

The miracles of Christ are a proof of His divinity. But a stronger proof that He is the world’s Redeemer is found in comparing the prophecies of the Old Testament with the history of the New Testament.

Jesus interests Himself in those who need Him. Gladly will He enter the humblest home, and cheer the lowliest heart. But if humanity is too indifferent to think of the heavenly Guest, or ask Him to abide with them, He passes on. Thus many meet with great loss.

Had the disciples failed to press an invitation, they would not have known that their traveling companion was the risen Lord. Christ never forces His company upon anyone. He stands at the door of our hearts and knocks, and it’s up to us to decide whether to let Him in or not. (See Revelation 3:20)

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #48)

Calvary (See Matthew 27:31-53, Mark 15:20-38, Luke 23:26-46, John 19:16-30)

“And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him.” (Luke 23:33)

For transgression of the law of God, Adam and Eve were banished from Eden. Christ, our substitute, was to suffer without the boundaries of Jerusalem. He died outside the gate, where felons and murderers were executed. Full of significance are the words, Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, “being made a curse for us.” (Galatians 3:13)

All through the disgraceful farce of a trial Jesus had borne Himself with firmness and dignity. But after the second scourging, when the cross was laid upon Him, His human nature could bear no more, and He collapsed beneath the burden.

When Christ rode into Jerusalem, the hopes of the disciples had been raised to the highest pitch. They had pressed close about their Master, feeling that it was a high honor to be connected with Him. Now in His humiliation they followed Him at a distance. Now they were filled with grief and disappointed hopes.

Christ pitied His abusers in their ignorance and guilt. He breathed only a plea for their forgiveness—“for they no not what they do.”

That prayer of Christ for His enemies embraced the world. It took in every sinner that ever had lived or should live, from the beginning of the world until the end of time. Upon all rests the guilt of crucifying the Son of God. To all, forgiveness is freely offered. “Whoever will,” may have peace with God and inherit eternal life.

In order to destroy Christ, the priests and rulers had been ready to sacrifice their national existence. They were united with Satan and his angels, and were doing his bidding. Christ could have come down from the cross. But it is because He would not save Himself that the sinner has hope of pardon, and favor with God.

How grateful to the Savior was the utterance of faith and love from the dying thief next to Him! While the leading Jews deny Him, and even the disciples doubt His divinity, the poor thief, upon the brink of eternity, calls Jesus Lord. Many were ready to call Him Lord when He wrought miracles, and after He had risen from the grave. But none acknowledged Him as He hung dying upon the cross except the penitent thief.

With amazement the heavenly angels behold the infinite love of Jesus, who suffering the most intense agony of mind and body, thought only of others, and encouraged the penitent soul to believe.

In Christ’s dying hour, He remembered His mother. Looking into her grief stricken face, and then upon John, He said to her, “Woman behold thy Son!” Then to John He said, “Behold thy mother!” John understood Christ’s words, and accepted the trust. He at once took Mary into his home, and took care of her.

Oh pitiful, loving Savior! Amid all of His physical pain, and mental anguish, He had thoughtful care for His mother!

Through familiarity with evil, humanity had become so blinded to its enormity. Christ saw how deep is the hold of sin upon the human heart, and how few would be willing to break from its power. He knew that without help from God, humanity must perish.

The withdrawal of the divine countenance from the Savior in His hour of supreme anguished pierced His heart with a sorrow that can never fully be understood by man.

The Savior could not see through the portals of the tomb! Hope did not present to Him His coming forth from the grave a conqueror, or tell Him of the Father’s acceptance of His sacrifice. He feared that sin was so offensive to God that their separation was to be eternal.

Christ felt the anguish which the sinner will feel when mercy shall no longer plead for the guilty race. It was the sense of sin, bringing the Father’s wrath upon Him as man’s substitute, that made the cup He drank so bitter, and broke the heart of the Son of God.

God and His holy angels were beside the cross. The Father was with His Son! Yet His presence was not revealed.

He who stilled the angry waves and walked the foam-capped billows, who made devils tremble and disease flee, who opened blind eyes and called forth the dead to life—offers Himself upon the cross as a sacrifice, and this because of love for us! He, the Sin Bearer, endures the wrath of divine justice, and for our sake becomes sin itself.

Amid the awful darkness, apparently forsaken of God, Christ had drained the last dregs of human woe. In those dreadful hours He had relied upon the evidence of His Father’s acceptance previously given to Him. Darkness settled upon the earth, and a hoarse rumbling like heavy thunder was heard. There was a violent earthquake. The wildest confusion and consternation ensued.

Right after Christ declared “It is finished,” priests were officiating in the temple. With a rending noise the inner veil of the temple is torn from top to bottom by an unseen hand. All is terror and confusion. The priest is about to slay the victim. But the knife drops from his nerveless hand, and the lamb escapes. Type has met antitype in the death of God’s Son.

Henceforth the Savior was to officiate as priest and advocate in the heaven of heavens.

It Is Finished

To the angels and the unfallen worlds the cry, “It is finished,” had a deep significance. Not until the death of Christ was the character of Satan clearly revealed to the angels or the unfallen worlds. The arch apostate had so clothed himself with deception that even the holy beings had not understood his principles. They had not clearly seen the nature of his rebellion.

Spiritual rebellion was not to be overcome by force. Compelling power is found only under Satan’s government. The Lord’s principles are not of this order. God’s government is moral, and truth and love are to be the prevailing principles.

In the councils of heaven, it was decided that time must be given for Satan to develop the principles which were the foundation of his system of government. He had claimed that these were superior to God’s principles. Time was given that they might be seen by the heavenly universe.

All the efforts of Satan to oppress and overcome Jesus only brought out in a purer light His spotless character. Heaven viewed with grief and amazement Christ hanging upon the cross, blood flowing from His wounded temples. All heaven was filled with wonder when the prayer of Christ was offered in the midst of His terrible suffering—“Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

Satan saw that his disguise was torn away. His administration was laid open , and He had revealed himself as a murderer. Yet he was not then destroyed.

Because he, after his rebellion, had been banished from heaven, Satan claimed that the human race must be forever shut out from God’s favor. God could not be just, he urged, and yet show mercy to the sinner.

But even as a sinner, man was in a different position from that of Satan. Lucifer in heaven had sinned in the light of God’s glory. To him as to no other created being was given a revelation of God’s love. But humanity was deceived, their minds darkened by Satan’s sophistry. The height and depth of God’s love, mankind did not know.

God did not change His law, but He sacrificed Himself, in Christ, for man’s redemption. “God was in Christ , reconciling the world unto Himself.” (2 Corinthians 5:19)

It had been Satan’s purpose to divorce mercy from truth and justice. But by His life and death, Christ proved that God’s justice did not destroy His mercy, but that sin could be forgiven, and that the law is righteous, and can be obeyed.

It was because the law is changeless, because man could be saved only by keeping its precepts, that Jesus was lifted up on the cross. Yet the very means by which Christ established the law Satan represented as destroying it. Here will be the last conflict of the great controversy between Christ and Satan. By substituting human law for God’s law, Satan will seek to control the world. This work is foretold in prophecy.

Of the great apostate power which is the representative of Satan (The antichrist) it is declared, “He shall speak great words against the Most High, and shall wear out (persecute) the saints of the Most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand. (Daniel 7:25)

(For an example of this prophecy fulfilled in history, one excellent resource is “Foxe’s Christian Martyrs of the World.” By John Foxe.)

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES ANDS QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #47)

Judas

The history of Judas presents the sad ending of a life that might have been honored. Had Judas died before his last journey to Jerusalem he would have been regarded as a man worthy of a place among the twelve, and one who would be greatly missed.

But it was for a purpose that his character was laid open to the world. It was to be a warning to all who, like him, should betray sacred trusts.

Judas had fostered the evil spirit of greed until it had become the ruling motive of his life. The love of the world overbalanced his love for Christ.

The Savior did not repulse Judas. He gave him a place among the twelve. He trusted him to do the work of an evangelist. He endowed him with power to heal the sick and to cast out devils. But Judas did not come to the point of surrendering himself fully to Christ. He did not give up his worldly ambition or his love of money. While he accepted the position of a minster of Christ, he did not bring himself under the divine molding. He felt that he could retain his own judgement and opinions, and he cultivated a disposition to criticize and accuse.

Christ’s often repeated statement that His kingdom was not of this world displeased Judas.

Judas saw what relief, what joy and gladness, come to human hearts through the healing power of the Redeemer. He might have comprehended the methods of Christ, but he was blinded by his own selfish desires.

Christ’s discourse in the synagogue concerning the bread of life was the turning point in the history of Judas. He heard the words “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you have no life in you.” (John 6:53) He saw that Christ was offering spiritual rather than worldly good.

Judas made no open opposition, nor seemed to question the Savior’s lessons. Yet the dissension of who should be the greatest was generally excited by him.

Judas’s experience will be the experience of everyone who persists in tampering with sin. The elements of depravity that are not resisted and overcome respond to Satan’s temptation, and the soul is led captive at his will.

Judas did not believe that Jesus would permit himself to be arrested. In betraying Him, it was his purpose to teach him a lesson, and acquire for himself a high position in his kingdom. Since Jesus had escaped so many snares previously, Judas thought Jesus would not allow Himself to be taken.

The priests had been willing to make Judas their tool, but they despised his baseness. When he turned to them with confession, they spurned him.

The Savior did not reproach His betrayer. He knew that Judas did not repent. His confession was forced from his guilty soul by an awful sense of condemnation and a looking for of judgement, but he felt no deep, heartbreaking grief that he had betrayed the spotless Son of God. Yet Jesus spoke no word of condemnation. He looked pityingly upon Judas, and said, “For this hour came I into the world.”

Judas saw that his entreaties were in vain, and he rushed from the hall. He felt that he could not live to see Jesus crucified, and in despair went out and hanged himself.

Retribution seemed already visiting those who were guilty of the blood of Jesus.

In Pilate’s Judgement Hall (See Matthew 27:2, 11-31, Mark 15:1-20, Luke 23:1-25, John 18:28-40, 19:1-16)

Before Pilate, the Roman governor, stands Christ bound as a prisoner. Pilate had to deal with all kinds of criminals, but never before had a man bearing marks of such goodness and nobility been brought before him. On his face he saw no sign of guilt, no expression of fear, no boldness or defiance. He saw a man of calm and dignified bearing, whose countenance bore not the marks of a criminal, but the signature of heaven.

Pilate saw through the priests’ purpose. He did not believe that the prisoner had plotted against the government. His meek and humble appearance was altogether out of harmony with the charge.

With noisy cries, priests, scribes, and rulers demanded that Jesus be sentenced to death. The shouts were taken up by the onlooking mob, and the uproar was deafening. Pilate was confused. Seeing that Jesus made no answer to His accusers, Pilate said to Him, “You answer nothing? Behold how many things they testify against You.” But Jesus still answered nothing.

Standing behind Pilate, in view of all the court, Christ heard the abuse. But to all the false charges against Him He answered not a word. His whole bearing gave evidence of conscious innocence. He stood unmoved by the fury of the waves that beat about Him.

“I find in Him no fault at all,” Pilate had declared. These words from a heathen judge were a scathing rebuke to falsehood of the rulers of Israel who were accusing the Savior.

When Pilate heard that Christ was from Galilee, he decided to send Him to Herod, the ruler of that province, who was then in Jerusalem. By this course, Pilate thought to shift the responsibility of the trial from himself to Herod. He also thought this a good opportunity to heal an old quarrel between himself and Herod. And so it proved. Thus the two magistrates made friends over the trial of the Savior.

Herod as well as Pilate was satisfied that Christ had been accused through malice and envy. Yet he peppered Christ with many questions, but throughout the Savior maintained a profound silence. He even petitioned Christ to preform a miracle. The Son of God had taken upon Himself human nature. He must do as man must do in like circumstances. Therefore He would not work a miracle to save Himself the pain and humiliation that man must endure when placed in a similar position.

The mission of Christ in this world was not to gratify idle curiosity. He came to heal the broken hearted.

Hardened as he was, Herod dared not ratify the condemnation of Christ. He wished to relieve himself of the terrible responsibility, and he sent Jesus back to the Roman judgement hall. Pilate was disappointed and much displeased.

Although Pilate found no fault in Jesus, he declared that he would chastise Him and then release Him. Here Pilate showed his weakness. He had declared that Jesus was innocent, yet he was willing for Him to be scourged to pacify the accusers.

Pilate had taken step after step in violation of his conscience. He had excused himself from judging with justice and equity, and he now found himself almost helpless in the hands of the priests and rulers. His wavering and indecision proved his ruin.

The wife of Pilate had been visited by an angel from heaven, and in a dream she beheld the Savior. She was not a Jew, but as she looked upon Jesus in her dream, she had no doubt of His character and mission. While Pilate was hesitating as to what he should do, a messenger pressed through the crowd, and handed him a letter from his wife which read: “Have nothing to do with that just Man, for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of Him.”

Pilate’s face grew pale. He was confused by his own conflicting emotions. But while he had been delaying to act, the priests and rulers were still further inflaming the minds of the people.

The Roman authorities at this time held a prisoner named Barabbas, who was under sentence of death. This man had claimed to be the Messiah. Under cover of religious enthusiasm, he was a hardened and desperate villain, bent on rebellion and cruelty.

Pilate asked the crowd who he should release, Jesus or Barabbas. He was certain they would choose Jesus, but instead demanded that he release Barabbas. He asked what he should do with Christ. The surging multitude roared like demons. “Let Him be crucified.”

Satan led the cruel mob in its abuse of the Savior. It was his purpose to provoke Him to retaliation, and thus break up the plan of salvation. But He who could have driven away that mob in terror by the flashing forth of His divine majesty—submitted with perfect calmness to the coarsest insult and outrage. Every feature of Christ’s face expressed gentleness and the tenderest pity for His cruel foes. In His manner there was no cowardly weakness, but the strength and dignity of long suffering love.

Pilate was filled with amazement at the uncomplaining patience of the Savior. In the vast sea of upturned faces, His alone was peaceful.

Pilate had longed to deliver Jesus. But he saw that he could not do this, and yet retain his own position and honor. Rather than lose his worldly power, he chose to sacrifice an innocent life. How many, to escape loss or suffering, in like manner sacrifice principle. Conscience and duty point one way, and self-interest points another.

Yet the very thing he dreaded afterward came upon him. Not long after the crucifixion, his honors were stripped from him, and he was cast down from his high office. Stung by remorse and wounded pride, he ended his own life.

“The natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”  (1 Corinthians 2:14)

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #46)

Gethsemane (See Matthew 26:36-56, Luke 22:39-53, John 18:1-12)

Throughout Jesus’s life on earth He had walked in the light of God’s presence. When in conflict with men who were inspired by the very spirit of Satan, He could say, “He that sent Me is with Me: the Father has not left Me alone, for I always do those things that please Him.” (John 8:29)

But now He seemed to be shut out from the light of God’s sustaining presence. Now He was numbered with the transgressors. The guilt of fallen humanity He must bear. Upon Him who knew no sin must bear the iniquity of us all. So dreadful does sin appear to Him, so great is the weight of guilt which He must bear, that He is tempted to fear it will shut Him out forever from His Father’s love.

Feeling how terrible is the wrath of God against transgression, He exclaims, “My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death.”

As they approached the garden, the disciples had marked the change that came over their Master. Never before had they seen Him so utterly sad and silent. As He proceeded, this strange sadness deepened, yet they dared not question Him as to the cause.

Jesus felt that by He was being separated from His Father. The gulf was so broad, so black, so deep, that His spirit shuddered before it. This agony He must not exert His divine power to escape. As man, He must suffer the consequences of man’s sin. As man He must endure the wrath of God against transgression.

Hitherto Jesus had been an intercessor for others; now He longed to have an intercessor for Himself.

With the issues of the conflict before Him, Christ’s soul was filled with dread of separation from God. Satan told Him that if He became the surety for a sinful world, the separation would be eternal. He would be identified with Satan’s kingdom, and would nevermore be one with God. And what was to be gained by this sacrifice? How hopeless appeared the guilt and ingratitude of humanity!

The sins of humanity weighed heavily upon Christ, and the sense of God’s wrath against sin was crushing out His life.

The human heart longs for sympathy in suffering. This longing Jesus felt to the very depths of His being.

How dark seemed the malignity of sin! Terrible was the temptation to let the human race bear the consequences of its own guilt, while Jesus stood innocent before God. If He could only know that His disciples understood and appreciated this, He would be encouraged.

The sleeping disciples: Surely, the love of John for His Master should have kept him awake, and praying. The redeemer had spent entire nights praying for His disciples , that their faith might not fail.

Should Jesus now put to James and John the question He had once asked them, “Are you able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?” They would not have ventured to answer, “We are able.” (Matthew 20:22)

The disciples awakened at the voice of Jesus, but they hardly knew Him. His face was so changed by anguish. Jesus did not reprove them, but said, “Watch ye and pray, lest you enter into temptation.” Even in His great agony, He was seeking to excuse their weakness. “The spirit truly is ready,” He said, “but the flesh is weak.”

The disciples saw Christ’s face marked with the bloody sweat of agony, and they were filled with fear. His anguish of mind they could not understand. “His visage was so marred more than any man, and His form more than the sons of men.” (Isaiah 52:14)

The awful moment had come—that moment which was to decide the destiny of the world. The fate of humanity trembled in the balance. Christ might even now refuse to drink the cup apportioned to guilty man. He sees the transgressors of the law, if left to themselves, must perish. He sees the helplessness of humanity. He sees the power of sin over our fallen natures.

Having made the decision, Jesus fell as if dying to the ground. Where now were His disciples, to place their hands tenderly beneath the head of their fainting Master, and bathe that brow, marred indeed more than the sons of men? The Savior trod the wine press alone, and of the people, there was none with Him. (See Isaiah 63:3)

But God suffered with His Son. Angels beheld the Savior’s agony. They saw their Lord enclosed by legions of satanic forces. His human nature weighed down with a shuddering, mysterious dread. Could mortals have viewed the amazement of the angelic host as in silent grief they watched the Father separating His beams of light, love, and glory from His beloved Son, they would better understand how offensive in His sight is sin.

The mighty angel who stands in God’s presence, occupying the position from which Satan fell, came to the side of Christ. The angel didn’t come to take the cup from Christ’s hand, but to strengthen Him to drink it, with the assurance of the Father’s love. Although Christ’s agony did not cease, His depression and discouragement left Him.

Jesus did not refuse the traitor’s kiss!

Jesus stepped forth to meet His betrayer. Standing in advance of His disciples, He said, “Who do you seek?” As these words were spoken, the angel who had just ministered to Jesus stepped between Him and the mob. They staggered back. Priests, elders, soldiers, and even Judas fell as dead men to the ground. Yet this miraculous event didn’t stop them! Even more amazing, Jesus submitted rather than obliterate them!

The disciples were terrified as they saw Jesus permit Himself to be taken and bound. They were offended that He should suffer this humiliation to Himself and them.

Before Annas and the Court of Caiaphas (See Matthew 26:57-75, 27:1, Mark 14:53-72, 15:1, Luke 22:54-71, John 18: 13:27)

The Savior contrasted His own manner of work with the methods of His accusers. For months they had hunted Him, striving to entrap Him and bring Him before a secret tribunal, where they might obtain by perjury what was impossible to gain by fair means.

Annas was silenced by the reply of Jesus. Fearing that Christ would say something regarding His course of action that he would prefer to keep covered up, he said nothing more at that time. One of his officers, filled with wrath as he saw Annas silenced, struck Jesus on the face, saying, “Do you answer the high priest so?”

Christ calmly replied, “If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why do you hit me?” Jesus spoke no words of retaliation. His calm answer came from a heart sinless, patient, and gentle, that would not be provoked.

To be surrounded by human beings under the control of Satan was revolting to Him. And He knew in a moment, by the flashing forth of His divine power, He could lay His cruel tormentors in the dust. This made the trial all the harder to bear.

His love for His Father, and His pledge, made from the foundation of the world, to become the Sin Bearer, led Him to endure uncomplainingly the course treatment of those He came to save.

Caiaphas had regarded Jesus as a rival. When the council had assembled in the judgement hall, Caiaphas took his seat as presiding officer. On either side were the judges, and those specially interested in the trial. The Roman soldiers were stationed on the platform below the throne. At the foot of the throne stood Jesus. Upon Him the gaze of the whole multitude was fixed. The excitement was intense. Of all the throng Jesus alone was calm and serene. The very atmosphere surrounding Him seemed pervaded by a holy influence.

The people compared the excited and malignant deportment of Annas and Caiaphas with the calm, majestic bearing of Jesus. Even in the minds of that hardened multitude arose the question, is this man of godlike presence to be condemned as a criminal?

Caiaphas, raising his right hand toward heaven, addressed Jesus in the form of a solemn oath: “I adjure You by the living God, that You tell us whether You are the Christ, the Son of God.” To this appeal Christ could not remain silent. There was a time to be silent, and a time to speak.

The words of Christ startled the high priest, and he tore his garments. A high priest was not to rend his garments. By Levitical law this was prohibited under sentence of death. Finite man might rend his own heart by showing a contrite and humble spirit. This God would discern. But no rent must be made in the priestly robes, for this would mar the representation of heavenly things. This act was looked upon as having severed himself from God.

By rending his garments, Caiaphas himself was committing blasphemy. Yet standing under the condemnation of God, he pronounced sentence upon Christ as a blasphemer.

Christ’s very nobility and godlike bearing goaded them to madness. His meekness, His innocence, His majestic patience, filled them with hatred born of Satan. Mercy and justice were trampled upon. Never was criminal treated so inhuman a manner as was the Son of God.

“Before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice.” (Mark 14:30) While the degrading oaths were fresh upon Peter’s lips, and the shrill crowing of the cock was still ringing in his ears, the Savior turned from the frowning judges, and looked full upon His poor disciple, and their eyes met. In that gentle countenance he read deep pity and sorrow, but there was no anger there.

The sight of that pale, suffering face, and that look of compassion and forgiveness pierced Peter’s heart like an arrow. Peter had just declared that he didn’t know Jesus, but he now realized with bitter grief how well his Lord knew him, and how accurately he had read his heart, the falseness of which was unknown even to himself.

Had those hours in the garden been spent in watching and prayer, Peter would not have been left to depend upon his own feeble strength. He would not have denied his Lord.

When the condemnation of Jesus was pronounced by the judges, a satanic fury took possession of the people. The roar of voices was like that of wild beasts.

The angels of God faithfully recorded every insulting look, word, and act against their beloved Commander. One day the base men who scorned and spat upon the calm, pale face of Christ will look upon it in its glory, shinning brighter than the sun.

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #45)

Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled (See John 13:14-17, 31-38)

The Savior’s words to the disciples were full of hope. He knew that they were to be assailed by the enemy, and that Satan’s craft is most successful against those who are depressed by difficulties. Therefore He pointed them away from “the things which are seen,” to “the things which are not seen.” (2 Corinthians 4:18) From earthly exile He turned their thoughts to the heavenly home.

Christ’s departure from earth was the opposite of what the disciples feared. It did not mean a final separation. He was going to prepare a place for them, that He might come again, and receive them unto Himself. While He was building mansions for them, they were to build characters after the divine similitude.

There are not many ways to heaven. Each one may not chose their own way. Christ says, “I am the way… no one comes to the Father, but by me.”

When Phillip said, “show us the Father,” Jesus, amazed at his dullness of comprehension, asked with pained surprise, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet you have not known me, Phillip?”

Christ had not ceased to be God when He became man. Though He had humbled Himself to humanity, the Godhead was still His own. Christ alone could represent the Father to humanity, and it was His representation the disciples had been privileged to behold for over three years.

If the disciples believed this vital connection between the Father and the Son, their faith would not forsake them when they saw Christ’s suffering and death to save a perishing world. Christ was seeking to lead them from their low condition of faith to the experience they might receive if they truly realized what He was—God in human flesh!

The Savior was deeply anxious for His disciples to understand for what purpose His divinity was united to humanity.

As yet the disciples were unacquainted with the Savior’s unlimited resources and power. He said to them, “Hitherto have you asked nothing in My name.” (John 16:24) He explained that the secret of their success would be in asking for strength and grace in His name. He would be present before the Father to make request for them. The prayer of the humble suppliant He presents as His own desire in that soul’s behalf.

Every sincere prayer is heard in heaven. It may not be fluently expressed, but if the heart is in it, it will ascend to the sanctuary where Jesus ministers, and He will present it to the Father without one awkward, stammering word, beautiful and fragrant with the incense of His own perfection.

The path of sincerity and integrity is not a path free from obstruction, but in every difficulty we are to see a call to prayer. There is no one living who has any power that he has not received from God, and the source whence it comes is open to the weakest human being.

“In My name,” Christ instructed His disciples to pray. In Christ’s name His followers are to stand before God. For Christ’s sake the Father pardons those that fear Him. He does not see in them the vileness of the sinner. He recognizes in them the likeness of His Son in whom they believe.

The Lord is disappointed when His people place a low estimate upon themselves. He desires His chosen heritage to value themselves according to the price He has placed upon them. God wanted them, or else He would not have sent His Son on such an expensive errand to redeem them! He is pleased when they make the highest demands on Him, that they may glorify His name. They may expect large things if they have faith in His promises.

But to pray in Christ’s name means much. It means that we are to accept His character, and manifest His spirit. The Savior’s promises are given on condition. “If you love Me,” He says, “Keep my commandments.” He saves men, not in sin, but from sin; and those who love Him will show their love by obedience.

All true obedience comes from the heart. It was heart work with Christ. And if we consent, He will so identify Himself with our thoughts and aims, so blend our hearts and minds into conformity to His will, that when obeying Him we shall but be carrying out our own impulses.

The will, refined and sanctified, will find its highest delight in doing His service. Through an appreciation of the character of Christ, sin will become hateful to us.

Earthly ideas, temporal things, still had a large place in the disciples thoughts. They did not understand the spiritual nature of Christ’s kingdom, though He had so often explained it to them.

It is by the Spirit of truth, working through the word of God, that Christ subdues His chosen people to Himself.

The power of evil had been strengthening for centuries, and the submission of men to this satanic captivity was amazing. Sin could be resisted and overcome only through the mighty agency of the Third Person of the Godhead, who would come with no modified energy, but in the fullness of divine power.

It is the Spirit that makes effectual what has been wrought out by the world’s Redeemer. It is by the Spirit that the heart is made pure. Through the Spirit the believer becomes a partaker of the divine nature. Christ has given His Spirit as a divine power to overcome all hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil, and to impress His own character upon His church.

The preaching of the word will be of no avail without the continual presence and aid of the Holy Spirit.

One might be able to present the letter of the word of God, he might be familiar with all its commands and promises. But unless the Holy Spirit sets home the TRUTH, no souls will truly fall on the Rock and be broken.

We cannot use the Holy Spirit. The Spirit is to use us.

Through the Spirit, God works in His people “to will and do of His good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13) But many will not submit to this. They want to manage themselves.

When Peter said he would follow his Lord to prison and to death, he meant it, every word of it. But he did not know himself. Hidden in his heart were elements of evil that circumstances would fan into life.

The Savior saw in him a self-love and assurance that would overbear even his love for Jesus. Christ’s solemn warning was a call to heart searching. Peter needed to distrust himself, and to have a deeper faith in Christ.

“I am the true vine,” Jesus says. Instead of choosing the graceful palm, the lofty cedar, or the strong oak, Jesus takes the vine with its clinging tendrils to represent Himself. The palm tree, the cedar, and the oak stand alone. They require no support. But the vine entwines about the trellis, and thus climbs heavenward. So Christ in His humanity was dependent on divine power. “I can of my own self do nothing.” (John 5:30)

The soul, though dead in trespasses and sins, receives life through connection with Christ. By faith in Him as a personal Savior, the union is formed. The sinner unites his weakness to Christ’s strength, their emptiness to Christ’s fullness, their frailty to Christ’s enduring might. Then they have the mind of Christ.

The humanity of Christ has touched our humanity, therefore our humanity has touched divinity. Thus through the agency of the Holy Spirit humanity becomes a partaker of the divine nature. This union with Christ, once formed, must be maintained. Christ said, “Abide in me and I in you.” Abiding in Christ means a constant receiving of His Spirit, a life of unreserved surrender to His service.

Separated from the vine, the branch cannot live. No more, said Jesus, can you live apart from Me. The life you have received from Jesus can be preserved only by continual communion. So long as the soul is united to Christ, there is no danger that it will wither or decay.

The command to love one another had a new meaning in the light of Jesus’s self-sacrifice. The whole work of grace is one continual service of love of self-denying, self-sacrificing effort. During every hour of Christ’s sojourn upon earth, the love of God was flowing from Him in irrepressible streams. All who are imbued with His Spirit will love as He loved.

As the world’s Redeemer, Christ was constantly confronted with apparent failure. He longed to do even more uplifting and saving than He already had, but satanic influences were constantly working to oppose His way. But Jesus would not be discouraged!

When the last steps of Christ’s humiliation were to be taken, when the deepest sorrow was closing about His soul, He said to His disciples, “The prince of this world comes, and has nothing in Me.” “The prince of this world is judged.” Now shall he be cast out. (John 14:30, 16:11, 12:31)

Christ’s followers are to manifest of the same enduring nature as His. We are to despair of nothing, and hope for everything.

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #44)

A Servant of Servants (See Luke 22:7-18, John 13:1-17)

In the upper chamber of a dwelling at Jerusalem, Christ was sitting at a table with His disciples. They had gathered to celebrate the Passover. The Savior desired to keep this feast alone with the twelve. He knew that His hour had come.

Jesus Himself was the true paschal lamb, and on the day the Passover was eaten He was to be sacrificed. He was about to drink the cup of wrath. He must soon receive the final baptism of suffering. But a few quiet hours yet remained to Him, and these were to be spent for the benefit of His beloved disciples.

THE WHOLE LIFE OF CHRIST HAD BEEN A LIFE OF UNSELFISH SERVICE!

Jesus was now in the shadow of the cross, and the pain was torturing His heart. He knew that He would be deserted in the hour of His betrayal. He knew that by the most humiliating process to which criminals were subjected He would be put to death. He knew that ingratitude and cruelty He had come to save. He knew how great the sacrifice that He must make, and for how many it would be in vain.

Knowing all that was before Him, He might naturally have been overwhelmed with the thought of His own humiliation and suffering. He looked upon the twelve, who had been with Him as His own, and who, after His shame and sorrow and painful usage were over, would be left to struggle in the world.

Christ’s thoughts of what He Himself must suffer were ever connected with His disciples. He did not think of Himself. His care for them were uppermost in His mind.

The sympathy and tenderness awakened by Christ’s grief seemed to have passed away. His sorrowful words, pointing to His own suffering, had made little impression. The glances they cast upon each other told of jealousy and contention.

How was Christ to bring these poor souls where Satan would not gain over them a decided victory? How could He show that a mere profession of discipleship did not make them disciples, or ensure them a place in His kingdom? How could He show that it is loving service, true humility, which constitutes real greatness? How was He to kindle love in their hearts, and enable them to comprehend what He longed to tell them?

One of the last acts of Jesus’s life on earth was to gird Himself as a servant, and perform a servant’s part.

The disciples knew nothing of the purpose of Judas. Jesus alone could read his secret. Yet He did not expose him. Jesus hungered for his soul. He felt for him such a burden as for Jerusalem when He wept over the doomed city. His heart was crying, how can I give thee up?

The constraining power of that love was felt by Judas. When the Savior’s hands were bathing those soiled feet, the heart of Judas thrilled through and through with the impulse then and there to confess his sins. But he would not humble himself.

When Jesus girded Himself with a towel to wash the dust from their feet, He desired by that very act to wash the alienation, jealousy, and pride from their hearts.

Like the disciples, we too have been washed in the blood of Christ, yet often through contact with evil, the heart’s purity is soiled. We must come to Christ for His cleansing grace.

Peter shrank from bringing his soiled feet in contact with the hands of his Lord and Master, but often we bring our sinful, polluted hearts in contact with the heart of Christ! How grievous to Him is our evil temper, lust, our vanity, and pride! Yet all our infirmity and defilement we must bring to Him. He alone can wash our souls clean.

NO ONE WAS SO EXALTED AS CHRIST, AND YET HE STOOPED TO THE HUMBLEST DUTY!

HE EVEN WASHED THE FEET OF HIS BETRAYER!

In Christ’s kingdom the principle of preference and supremacy has no place. The only greatness is the greatness of humility. The only distinction is found in devotion to the service of others.

While pride, variance, and strife for supremacy are cherished, the heart cannot enter into fellowship with Christ.

Christ in the fullness of His grace is there to change the current of the thoughts that have been running in selfish channels. The Holy Spirit quickens the sensibilities of those who follow the example of their Lord.

In Remembrance of Me (See Matthew 26:20-29, Mark 14:17-25, Luke 22:14-23, John 13:18-30)

Christ was standing at the point of transition between two economies, and their two great festivals. He, the spotless Lamb of God, was about to present Himself as a sin offering, that He would thus bring to an end the systems of types and ceremonies that for four thousand years had pointed to His death.

At the feet washing, Christ had given convincing proof that He understood the character of Judas. “You are not all clean.” (John 13:11) He said. These words convinced the false disciple that Christ read his secret purpose. Now Christ spoke out more plainly. “I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, he that eats bread with Me, has lifted up his heel against Me.”

As the disciples realized the import of these words, and remembered how true His sayings were, fear and self-distrust seized them. They began to search their own hearts to see if one thought against their Master were harbored there. With the most painful emotion, one after another inquired, “Lord, is it I?”

Wonderful had been the long-suffering of Jesus in dealing with this tempted soul. Nothing that could be done to save Judas had been left undone. By reading the secret purpose in the traitor’s heart, Christ gave to Judas the final, convincing evidence of His divinity.

When we suppose one to be in error and sin, we are not to divorce ourselves from them. By no careless separation are we to leave them a prey to temptation, or drive them upon Satan’s battleground. This is not Christ’s method. It was because the disciples were erring and faulty that He washed their feet, and all but one of the twelve were thus brought to repentance.

As the Lord’s disciples gather about His table, they are not to remember and lament their shortcomings. They are not to stand in the shadow of the cross, but in its saving light. With hearts cleansed by Christ’s most precious blood, in full consciousness of His presence, although unseen, they are to hear His words, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you.”

It is only because of His death that we can look with joy to His second coming. His sacrifice is the center of our hope. Upon this we must fix our faith.

“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so has the Son of man been lifted up, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3:14, 15) To the cross of Calvary, bearing a dying Savior, we must look. Our eternal interests demand that we show faith in Christ.

Looking upon the crucified Redeemer, we more fully comprehend the magnitude, and meaning of the sacrifice made by the Majesty of heaven. The plan of salvation is glorified before us, and the thoughts of Calvary awakens living and sacred emotions in our hearts. Praise to God and the Lamb will be in our hearts, and on our lips. For pride and self-worship cannot flourish in the soul that keeps fresh in memory the scenes of Calvary.

He who beholds the Savior’s matchless love will be elevated in thoughts, purified in heart, transformed in character. He will go forth to be a light to the world, to reflect in some degree this mysterious love.

The more we contemplate the cross of Christ, the more fully shall we adopt the language of the apostle when he said, “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” (Galatians 6:14)

As faith contemplates our Lord’s great sacrifice, the soul assimilates the spiritual life of Christ!

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #43)

On the Mount of Olives (See Matthew 24, Mark 13, and Luke 21:5-38)

Christ’s words to the priests and rulers, “Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” (Matthew 23:38). This had struck terror to their hearts. They affected indifference, but the question kept rising in their minds as to the import of these words.

Christ’s words had been spoken in the hearing of a large number of people. But when He was alone, Peter, John, James, and Andrew came to Him as He sat upon the Mount of Olives. “Tell us,” they said, “when shall these things be? And what shall be the sign of your coming, and the end of the world?”

Jesus did not answer His disciples by taking up separately the destruction of Jerusalem and the great day of His coming. He mingled the description of these two events. Had He opened to the disciples future events as He beheld them, they would have been unable to endure the sight. In mercy he left them to study out the meaning for themselves.

This entire discourse was given, not for the disciples only, but for those who should live in the last scenes of earth’s history.

The authorities will make laws to restrict religious liberty. They will assume the right that is God’s alone. But God will interpose in behalf of His loyal, commandment keeping people.

Those who apostatize in the time of trial will, to secure their own safety, bear false witness, and betray their brethren. Christ has warned us of this, that we may not be surprised at the unnatural, cruel course of those who reject the light.

The day and hour of Christ’s second coming has not been revealed. He stated plainly to His disciples that He Himself could not make known the day or hour of His second appearing. Had He been at liberty to reveal this, why did He need to admonish them to maintain an attitude of constant expectancy?

How was it in Noah’s day? “God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” (Genesis 6:5) The inhabitants of the antediluvian world turned from Jehovah, refusing to do His holy will.

Christ said, “Because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.” God has always given humanity warning of coming judgement.

Christ’s disciples were given warning of the destruction of Jerusalem. Those who watched for the sign of the coming ruin, and fled from the city, escaped the destruction. So now we are given warning of Christ’s second coming and of the destruction to fall upon the world. Those who heed the warning will be saved.

The evil servant says in his heart, “My Lord delays His coming.” He does not say that Christ will not come. He does not scoff at the idea of His second coming. But in his heart and by his actions he declares that the Lord’s coming is delayed.

The world, full of godless pleasure, is asleep in carnal security.

When the scorner, the rejector of truth, has become presumptuous. When the routine of work, and money making is carried on without regard to principle, when the student is eagerly seeking knowledge of everything but his Bible, Christ comes as a thief.

Everything in the world is in agitation. The signs of the times are ominous. Coming events are casting their shadow. The Spirit of God is withdrawing from the earth. There are tempests, earthquakes, fires, floods, murders, etc. Who can read the future? Where is the security? There is assurance in nothing that is human or earthly.

The highest excitement prevails, yet probation’s hour is fast closing. Every case is about to be eternally decided. Satan sees that his time is short. He has set all of his agencies at work that men may be deceived, deluded, occupied, and entranced.

Solemnly there come down to us through the centuries the warning words of our Lord from the Mount of Olives. “Watch you therefore, and pray always, that you may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.”

The Least of These My Brethren (See Matthew 25:31-46)

Those who Christ commends in the judgement may have known little of theology, but have cherished His principles.

Not to any class is Christ’s love restricted. He identifies Himself with every child of humanity.

Christ’s followers are not to feel themselves detached from the perishing world around them. They are a part of the great web of humanity, and Heaven looks upon them as brothers and sisters to sinners as well as saints.

The fallen, the erring, and the sinful, Christ’s love embraces. Every deed of kindness done to uplift a fallen soul, every act of mercy, is accepted as done to Him.

Angels of heaven are passing throughout the length and breadth of the earth, seeking to comfort the sorrowing, to protect the imperiled, to win the hearts of humanity to Christ. Not one is neglected or passed by. God is no respecter of persons, and He has an equal care for all the souls He created.

As you open your heart to Christ’s needy and suffering ones, you are welcoming unseen angels.

To the rich, God has given wealth that they may relieve and comfort His suffering children. But too often they are indifferent to the needs of others.

We need not go to Nazareth, to Capernaum, or to Bethany, in order to walk in the steps of Jesus. We shall find His footprints beside the sickbed, in the hovels of poverty, in every place where there are human hearts in need of consolation. In doing as Jesus did when on earth, we shall walk in His steps.

Christ’s rule of life, by which every one of us must stand or fall in the judgement, is “Whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do you even so to them.” (Matthew 7:12)

Love to humanity is the earthward manifestation of the love of God.

DESTINY’S BIBLE STUDY NOTES AND QUOTES

(The Life and Ministry of Jesus #42)

Woes on the Pharisees (See Matthew Chapter 23, Mark 12:41-44, Luke 20:45-47, 21:1-4)

The interest of the people in Christ and His work had steadily increased. They were amazed by His teachings, but they were also greatly perplexed. They had respected the priests and rabbis for their intelligence and apparent piety. So they marveled that the rulers would not believe on Jesus when His teachings were so plain and simple.

Through reverence for tradition and their blind faith in a corrupt priesthood, the people were enslaved. These chains Christ endeavored to break. The character of the priests, rulers, and Pharisees must be fully exposed.

In such plain words the Savior revealed the selfish ambitions that was ever reaching for place and power, displaying a mock humility, while their hearts were filled with avarice and envy.

If Christ were on earth today, surrounded by those who bear the title of “Reverend,” would He not repeat His saying, “Neither be you called masters: for One is your Master, even Christ. The Scripture declares of God, “Holy and reverend is His name.” (Psalm 111:9 KJV) So to what human being is this title befitting?

Again and again Christ had taught that true greatness is measured by moral worth. In the estimation of heaven, greatness of character consists in living for the welfare of our fellow people, in doing works of love and mercy. Christ, the King of glory, was a servant to fallen humanity.

Jesus was in the court where the treasure chests were, and He watched those who came to deposit their gifts. Many of the rich brought large sums, which they presented with great ostentation. Jesus looked upon them sadly, but made no comment on their liberal offerings. Then His countenance lighted as He saw a poor widow approach hesitatingly, as though fearful of being observed. Her gift was very small in comparison with the gifts of those around her, yet it was her all!

The Savior called His disciples to Him, and had them mark the widow’s poverty. Then His words of commendation fell upon her ear: “Of a truth I say to you, that this poor widow has cast in more than them all.”

Tears of joy filled her eyes as she felt that her act was understood and appreciated. Many would have advised her to keep her pittance for her own use. Given into the hands of the well fed priests, it would be lost sight of among the many costly gifts brought to the treasury. But Jesus understood her motive!

Her heart went with her gift. Its value was estimated, not by the worth of the coin, but by the love to God and the interest in His work that prompted the deed. It is motive that gives character to our acts, stamping them with ignominy or with high moral worth.

A heart of faith and love is dearer to God than the most costly gift.

The widow deprived herself of food in order to give those two mites to the cause she loved. And she did it in faith, believing that her heavenly Father would not overlook her great need. It was this unselfish spirit and childlike faith that won the Savior’s commendation.

The influence of that little gift has been like a stream, small in its beginning, but widening and deepening as it flowed down through the ages. This moment in history, her example of self-sacrifice, has acted and reacted upon thousands, even millions, of hearts in every land and in every age.

As the whited and beautifully decorated tomb concealed the putrefying remains within, so the outward holiness of the priests and rulers concealed iniquity.

The Pharisees built the tombs of the prophets, and adorned their sepulchers, and said to one another, ‘if we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have united with them in shedding the blood of God’s servants.’ At the same time they were planning to take the life of His Son. This should be a lesson to us. It should open our eyes to the power of Satan to deceive the mind that turns from the light of truth.

Israel as a nation had divorced herself from God. Looking for the last time upon the interior of the temple, Jesus said with mournful pathos, “Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. For I say to you, you shall not see Me henceforth, till you shall say, Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.”

He had called the temple His Father’s house, but now, as the Son of God should pass out from those walls, God’s presence would be withdrawn forever from the temple built to His glory. Henceforth its ceremonies would be meaningless, its services a mockery.

In the Outer Court (See John 12:20-43)

At this time Christ’s work bore the appearance of cruel defeat. He had been victor in the controversy with the priests and Pharisees, but it was evident that He would never be received by them as the Messiah.

When Christ heard the eager request, “We would see Jesus,” echoing the hungering cry of the world, His countenance lighted up. He said, “The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.” In the request of the Greeks He saw an earnestness for the results of His great sacrifice.

The Greeks longed to know the truth in regard to His mission. “We would se Jesus,” they said. Their desire was granted.

The hour of Christ’s glorification had come. He was standing in the shadow of the cross, and the inquiry of the Greeks showed Him that the sacrifice He was about to make would bring many sons and daughters to God.

Only by His death could the world be saved. Like a grain of wheat, the Son of man must be cast into the ground. But He was to live again! Christ presented His future , illustrating it by the things of nature.

The farmer preserves his grain by seemingly casting it away. So in human life, to give is to live. Those who for Christ’s sake sacrifice their life in this world will keep it unto eternal life. The law of self-sacrifice is the law of self-preservation.

The life spent on self is like the grain that is eaten. It disappears, but there is no increase. A man may gather all he can for self, he may live and think and plan for self. But his life passes away, and he has nothing. The law of self-serving is the law of self-destruction.

Christ’s humanity shrank from the hour of abandonment, when to all appearance He would be deserted even by God, when all would see Him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. He shrank from being treated as the worst of criminals, from a shameful and dishonored death. A foreboding of His conflict with the powers of darkness, a sense of the awful burden of human transgression, and the Father’s wrath because of sin caused the spirit of Jesus to faint, and the pallor of death to overspread His countenance.

The voice of God had been heard at the baptism of Jesus at the beginning of His ministry, and again at His transfiguration on the mount. Now at the close of His ministry it was heard for the third time, by a larger number of persons, and under peculiar circumstances.

The work of human redemption is not all that is accomplished by the cross. The love of God is manifested to the universe. The prince of this world is cast out. The accusations which Satan has brought against God are refuted. The reproach which he has cast upon heaven is forever removed. Angels as well as humanity are drawn to the Redeemer!

“I, if I be lifted up,” Jesus said. “Will draw all men unto Me.”