The Desire of Ages--10--The Voice in the Wilderness

[Dorine]

  "All who became the subjects of Christ's kingdom, he said, would give evidence of faith and repentance. Kindness, honesty, and fidelity would be seen in their lives. They would minister to the needy, and bring their offerings to God. They would shield the defenseless, and give an example of virtue and compassion. So the followers of Christ will give evidence of the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. In the daily life, justice, mercy, and the love of God will be seen. Otherwise they are like the chaff that is given to the fire."

Christ working in a surrendered life to Him develops a character that will show forth all the fruits of the spirit. The church is desperately lacking in these characteristics. But praise God there are some who are looking inward and realizing their great need of a changed heart and are coming into that abiding relationship with Jesus that brings about that change. May we be lights for Jesus to those around us that are still trying to find the happiness and peace they are looking for. We know where it is to be found. What a tragedy if we keep it to ourselves for if we do then we will not only negatively influence others but we will lose our own way.

[Richard Myers]

Amen dear sister!  It is a new heart we need in order to please God.  Yet, few understand that this means, and even fewer understand how to obtain a new heart.

     Amid discord and strife, a voice was heard from the wilderness, a voice startling and stern, yet full of hope: "Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." With a new, strange power it moved the people. Prophets had foretold the coming of Christ as an event far in the future; but here was an announcement that it was at hand. John's singular appearance carried the minds of his hearers back to the ancient seers. In his manner and dress he resembled the prophet Elijah. With the spirit and power of Elijah he denounced the national corruption, and rebuked the prevailing sins. His words were plain, pointed, and convincing. Many believed him to be one of the prophets risen from the dead. The whole nation was stirred. Multitudes flocked to the wilderness.
     John proclaimed the coming of the Messiah, and called the people to repentance. As a symbol of cleansing from sin, he baptized them in the waters of the Jordan. Thus by a significant object lesson he declared that those who claimed to be the chosen people of God were defiled by sin, and that without purification of heart and life they could have no part in the Messiah's kingdom.