The Desire of Ages--22--Imprisonment and Death of John

[R Myers]

Imprisonment and Death of John

     John the Baptist had been first in heralding Christ's kingdom, and he was first also in suffering. From the free air of the wilderness and the vast throngs that had hung upon his words, he was now shut in by the walls of a dungeon cell. He had become a prisoner in the fortress of Herod Antipas. In the territory east of Jordan, which was under the dominion of Antipas, much of John's ministry had been spent. Herod himself had listened to the preaching of the Baptist. The dissolute king had trembled under the call to repentance. "Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy; . . . and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly." John dealt with him faithfully, denouncing his iniquitous alliance with Herodias, his brother's wife. For a time Herod feebly sought to break the chain of lust that bound him; but Herodias fastened him the more firmly in her toils, and found revenge upon the Baptist by inducing Herod to cast him into prison.   
     The life of John had been one of active labor, and the gloom and inaction of his prison life weighed heavily upon him. As week after week passed, bringing no change, despondency and doubt crept over him. His disciples did not forsake him. They were allowed access to the prison, and they brought him tidings of the works of Jesus, and told how the people were flocking to Him. But they questioned why, if this new teacher was the Messiah, He did nothing to effect John's release. How could He permit His faithful herald to be deprived of liberty and perhaps of life?
     These questions were not without effect. Doubts which otherwise would never have arisen were suggested to John. Satan rejoiced to hear the words of these disciples, and to see how they bruised the soul of the Lord's messenger. Oh, how often those who think themselves the friends of a good man, and who are eager to show their fidelity to him, prove to be his most dangerous enemies! How often, instead of strengthening his faith, their words depress and dishearten! 
     Like the Saviour's disciples, John the Baptist did not understand the nature of Christ's kingdom. He expected Jesus to take the throne of David; and as time passed, and the Saviour made no claim to kingly authority, John became perplexed and troubled. He had declared to the people that in order for the way to be prepared before the Lord, the prophecy of Isaiah must be fulfilled; the mountains and hills must be brought low, the crooked made straight, and the rough places plain. He had looked for the high places of human pride and power to be cast down. He had pointed to the Messiah as the One whose fan was in His hand, and who would thoroughly purge His floor, who would gather the wheat into His garner, and burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Like the prophet Elijah, in whose spirit and power he had come to Israel, he looked for the Lord to reveal Himself as a God that answereth by fire. 
     In his mission the Baptist had stood as a fearless reprover of iniquity, both in high places and in low. He had dared to face King Herod with the plain rebuke of sin. He had not counted his life dear unto himself, that he might fulfill his appointed work. And now from his dungeon he watched for the Lion of the tribe of Judah to cast down the pride of the oppressor, and to deliver the poor and him that cried. But Jesus seemed to content Himself with gathering disciples about Him, and healing and teaching the people. He was eating at the tables of the publicans, while every day the Roman yoke rested more heavily upon Israel, while King Herod and his vile paramour worked their will, and the cries of the poor and suffering went up to heaven.
     To the desert prophet all this seemed a mystery beyond his fathoming. There were hours when the whisperings of demons tortured his spirit, and the shadow of a terrible fear crept over him. Could it be that the long-hoped-for Deliverer had not yet appeared? Then what meant the message that he himself had been impelled to bear? John had been bitterly disappointed in the result of his mission. He had expected that the message from God would have the same effect as when the law was read in the days of Josiah and of Ezra (2 Chronicles 34; Nehemiah 8, 9); that there would follow a deep-seated work of repentance and returning unto the Lord. For the success of this mission his whole life had been sacrificed. Had it been in vain? 
     John was troubled to see that through love for him, his own disciples were cherishing unbelief in regard to Jesus. Had his work for them been fruitless? Had he been unfaithful in his mission, that he was now cut off from labor? If the promised Deliverer had appeared, and John had been found true to his calling, would not Jesus now overthrow the oppressor's power, and set free His herald? 
     But the Baptist did not surrender his faith in Christ. The memory of the voice from heaven and the descending dove, the spotless purity of Jesus, the power of the Holy Spirit that had rested upon John as he came into the Saviour's presence, and the testimony of the prophetic scriptures,--all witnessed that Jesus of Nazareth was the Promised One.
     John would not discuss his doubts and anxieties with his companions. He determined to send a message of inquiry to Jesus. This he entrusted to two of his disciples, hoping that an interview with the Saviour would confirm their faith, and bring assurance to their brethren. And he longed for some word from Christ spoken directly for himself.   
     The disciples came to Jesus with their message, "Art Thou He that should come, or do we look for another?" 
     How short the time since the Baptist had pointed to Jesus, and proclaimed, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." "He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me." John 1:29, 27. And now the question, "Art Thou He that should come?" It was keenly bitter and disappointing to human nature. If John, the faithful forerunner, failed to discern Christ's mission, what could be expected from the self-seeking multitude?
     The Saviour did not at once answer the disciples' question. As they stood wondering at His silence, the sick and afflicted were coming to Him to be healed. The blind were groping their way through the crowd; diseased ones of all classes, some urging their own way, some borne by their friends, were eagerly pressing into the presence of Jesus. The voice of the mighty Healer penetrated the deaf ear. A word, a touch of His hand, opened the blind eyes to behold the light of day, the scenes of nature, the faces of friends, and the face of the Deliverer. Jesus rebuked disease and banished fever. His voice reached the ears of the dying, and they arose in health and vigor. Paralyzed demoniacs obeyed His word, their madness left them, and they worshiped Him. While He healed their diseases, He taught the people. The poor peasants and laborers, who were shunned by the rabbis as unclean, gathered close about Him, and He spoke to them the words of eternal life.
     Thus the day wore away, the disciples of John seeing and hearing all. At last Jesus called them to Him, and bade them go and tell John what they had witnessed, adding, "Blessed is he, whosoever shall find none occasion of stumbling in Me." Luke 7:23, R. V. The evidence of His divinity was seen in its adaptation to the needs of suffering humanity. His glory was shown in His condescension to our low estate.
     The disciples bore the message, and it was enough. John recalled the prophecy concerning the Messiah, "The Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord." Isaiah 61:1, 2. The works of Christ not only declared Him to be the Messiah, but showed in what manner His kingdom was to be established. To John was opened the same truth that had come to Elijah in the desert, when "a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire:" and after the fire, God spoke to the prophet by "a still small voice." 1 Kings 19:11, 12. So Jesus was to do His work, not with the clash of arms and the overturning of thrones and kingdoms, but through speaking to the hearts of men by a life of mercy and self-sacrifice. 
     The principle of the Baptist's own life of self-abnegation was the principle of the Messiah's kingdom. John well knew how foreign all this was to the principles and hopes of the leaders in Israel. That which was to him convincing evidence of Christ's divinity would be no evidence to them. They were looking for a Messiah who had not been promised. John saw that the Saviour's mission could win from them only hatred and condemnation. He, the forerunner, was but drinking of the cup which Christ Himself must drain to its dregs.
     The Saviour's words, "Blessed is he, whosoever shall find none occasion of stumbling in Me," were a gentle reproof to John. It was not lost upon him. Understanding more clearly now the nature of Christ's mission, he yielded himself to God for life or for death, as should best serve the interests of the cause he loved.
     After the messengers had departed, Jesus spoke to the people concerning John. The Saviour's heart went out in sympathy to the faithful witness now buried in Herod's dungeon. He would not leave the people to conclude that God had forsaken John, or that his faith had failed in the day of trial. "What went ye out into the wilderness to see?" He said. "A reed shaken with the wind?" 
     The tall reeds that grew beside the Jordan, bending before every breeze, were fitting representatives of the rabbis who had stood as critics and judges of the Baptist's mission. They were swayed this way and that by the winds of popular opinion. They would not humble themselves to receive the heart-searching message of the Baptist, yet for fear of the people they dared not openly oppose his work. But God's messenger was of no such craven spirit. The multitudes who were gathered about Christ had been witnesses to the work of John. They had heard his fearless rebuke of sin. To the self-righteous Pharisees, the priestly Sadducees, King Herod and his court, princes and soldiers, publicans and peasants, John had spoken with equal plainness. He was no trembling reed, swayed by the winds of human praise or prejudice. In the prison he was the same in his loyalty to God and his zeal for righteousness as when he preached God's message in the wilderness. In his faithfulness to principle he was as firm as a rock.
     Jesus continued, "But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts." John had been called to reprove the sins and excesses of his time, and his plain dress and self-denying life were in harmony with the character of his mission. Rich apparel and the luxuries of this life are not the portion of God's servants, but of those who live "in kings' courts," the rulers of this world, to whom pertain its power and its riches. Jesus wished to direct attention to the contrast between the clothing of John, and that worn by the priests and rulers. These officials arrayed themselves in rich robes and costly ornaments. They loved display, and hoped to dazzle the people, and thus command greater consideration. They were more anxious to gain the admiration of men than to obtain the purity of heart which would win the approval of God. Thus they revealed that their allegiance was not given to God, but to the kingdom of this world.
     "But what," said Jesus, "went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written,--


          "Behold, I send My messenger before Thy face,
           Which shall prepare Thy way before Thee. 

     "Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist." In the announcement to Zacharias before the birth of John, the angel had declared, "He shall be great in the sight of the Lord." Luke 1:15. In the estimation of Heaven, what is it that constitutes greatness? Not that which the world accounts greatness; not wealth, or rank, or noble descent, or intellectual gifts, in themselves considered. If intellectual greatness, apart from any higher consideration, is worthy of honor, then our homage is due to Satan, whose intellectual power no man has ever equaled. But when perverted to self-serving, the greater the gift, the greater curse it becomes. It is moral worth that God values. Love and purity are the attributes He prizes most. John was great in the sight of the Lord, when, before the messengers from the Sanhedrin, before the people, and before his own disciples, he refrained from seeking honor for himself, but pointed all to Jesus as the Promised One. His unselfish joy in the ministry of Christ presents the highest type of nobility ever revealed in man.   
     The witness borne of him after his death, by those who had heard his testimony to Jesus, was, "John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this Man were true." John 10:41. It was not given to John to call down fire from heaven, or to raise the dead, as Elijah did, nor to wield Moses' rod of power in the name of God. He was sent to herald the Saviour's advent, and to call upon the people to prepare for His coming. So faithfully did he fulfill his mission, that as the people recalled what he had taught them of Jesus, they could say, "All things that John spake of this Man were true." Such witness to Christ every disciple of the Master is called upon to bear.
     As the Messiah's herald, John was "much more than a prophet." For while prophets had seen from afar Christ's advent, to John it was given to behold Him, to hear the testimony from heaven to His Messiahship, and to present Him to Israel as the Sent of God. Yet Jesus said, "He that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he."
     The prophet John was the connecting link between the two dispensations. As God's representative he stood forth to show the relation of the law and the prophets to the Christian dispensation. He was the lesser light, which was to be followed by a greater. The mind of John was illuminated by the Holy Spirit, that he might shed light upon his people; but no other light ever has shone or ever will shine so clearly upon fallen man as that which emanated from the teaching and example of Jesus. Christ and His mission had been but dimly understood as typified in the shadowy sacrifices. Even John had not fully comprehended the future, immortal life through the Saviour. 
     Aside from the joy that John found in his mission, his life had been one of sorrow. His voice had been seldom heard except in the wilderness. His was a lonely lot. And he was not permitted to see the result of his own labors. It was not his privilege to be with Christ and witness the manifestation of divine power attending the greater light. It was not for him to see the blind restored to sight, the sick healed, and the dead raised to life. He did not behold the light that shone through every word of Christ, shedding glory upon the promises of prophecy. The least disciple who saw Christ's mighty works and heard His words was in this sense more highly privileged than John the Baptist, and therefore is said to have been greater than he.
     Through the vast throngs that had listened to John's preaching, his fame had spread throughout the land. A deep interest was felt as to the result of his imprisonment. Yet his blameless life, and the strong public sentiment in his favor, led to the belief that no violent measures would be taken against him. 
     Herod believed John to be a prophet of God, and he fully intended to set him at liberty. But he delayed his purpose from fear of Herodias.
     Herodias knew that by direct measures she could never win Herod's consent to the death of John, and she resolved to accomplish her purpose by stratagem. On the king's birthday an entertainment was to be given to the officers of state and the nobles of the court. There would be feasting and drunkenness. Herod would thus be thrown off his guard, and might then be influenced according to her will.
     When the great day arrived, and the king with his lords was feasting and drinking, Herodias sent her daughter into the banqueting hall to dance for the entertainment of the guests. Salome was in the first flush of womanhood, and her voluptuous beauty captivated the senses of the lordly revelers. It was not customary for the ladies of the court to appear at these festivities, and a flattering compliment was paid to Herod when this daughter of Israel's priests and princes danced for the amusement of his guests.
     The king was dazed with wine. Passion held sway, and reason was dethroned. He saw only the hall of pleasure, with its reveling guests, the banquet table, the sparkling wine and the flashing lights, and the young girl dancing before him. In the recklessness of the moment, he desired to make some display that would exalt him before the great men of his realm. With an oath he promised to give the daughter of Herodias whatever she might ask, even to the half of his kingdom.   
     Salome hastened to her mother, to know what she should ask. The answer was ready,--the head of John the Baptist. Salome knew not of the thirst for revenge in her mother's heart, and she shrank from presenting the request; but the determination of Herodias prevailed. The girl returned with the terrible petition, "I will that thou forthwith give me in a charger the head of John the Baptist." Mark 6:25, R. V.
     Herod was astonished and confounded. The riotous mirth ceased, and an ominous silence settled down upon the scene of revelry. The king was horror-stricken at the thought of taking the life of John. Yet his word was pledged, and he was unwilling to appear fickle or rash. The oath had been made in honor of his guests, and if one of them had offered a word against the fulfillment of his promise, he would gladly have spared the prophet. He gave them opportunity to speak in the prisoner's behalf. They had traveled long distances in order to hear the preaching of John, and they knew him to be a man without crime, and a servant of God. But though shocked at the girl's demand, they were too besotted to interpose a remonstrance. No voice was raised to save the life of Heaven's messenger. These men occupied high positions of trust in the nation, and upon them rested grave responsibilities; yet they had given themselves up to feasting and drunkenness until the senses were benumbed. Their heads were turned with the giddy scene of music and dancing, and conscience lay dormant. By their silence they pronounced the sentence of death upon the prophet of God to satisfy the revenge of an abandoned woman. 
     Herod waited in vain to be released from his oath; then he reluctantly commanded the execution of the prophet. Soon the head of John was brought in before the king and his guests. Forever sealed were those lips that had faithfully warned Herod to turn from his life of sin. Never more would that voice be heard calling men to repentance. The revels of one night had cost the life of one of the greatest of the prophets. 
     Oh, how often has the life of the innocent been sacrificed through the intemperance of those who should have been guardians of justice! He who puts the intoxicating cup to his lips makes himself responsible for all the injustice he may commit under its besotting power. By benumbing his senses he makes it impossible for him to judge calmly or to have a clear perception of right and wrong. He opens the way for Satan to work through him in oppressing and destroying the innocent. "Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." Proverbs 20:1. Thus it is that "judgment is turned away backward, . . . and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey." Isaiah 59:14, 15. Those who have jurisdiction over the lives of their fellow men should be held guilty of a crime when they yield to intemperance. All who execute the laws should be lawkeepers. They should be men of self-control. They need to have full command of their physical, mental, and moral powers, that they may possess vigor of intellect, and a high sense of justice. 
     The head of John the Baptist was carried to Herodias, who received it with fiendish satisfaction. She exulted in her revenge, and flattered herself that Herod's conscience would no longer be troubled. But no happiness resulted to her from her sin. Her name became notorious and abhorred, while Herod was more tormented by remorse than he had been by the warnings of the prophet. The influence of John's teachings was not silenced; it was to extend to every generation till the close of time. 
     Herod's sin was ever before him. He was constantly seeking to find relief from the accusings of a guilty conscience. His confidence in John was unshaken. As he recalled his life of self-denial, his solemn, earnest appeals, his sound judgment in counsel, and then remembered how he had come to his death, Herod could find no rest. Engaged in the affairs of the state, receiving honors from men, he bore a smiling face and dignified mien, while he concealed an anxious heart, ever oppressed with the fear that a curse was upon him.
     Herod had been deeply impressed by the words of John, that nothing can be hidden from God. He was convinced that God was present in every place, that He had witnessed the revelry of the banqueting room, that He had heard the command to behead John, and had seen the exultation of Herodias, and the insult she offered to the severed head of her reprover. And many things that Herod had heard from the lips of the prophet now spoke to his conscience more distinctly than had the preaching in the wilderness.
     When Herod heard of the works of Christ, he was exceedingly troubled. He thought that God had raised John from the dead, and sent him forth with still greater power to condemn sin. He was in constant fear that John would avenge his death by passing condemnation upon him and his house. Herod was reaping that which God had declared to be the result of a course of sin,--"a trembling heart, and failing of eyes, and sorrow of mind: and thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life: in the morning thou shalt say, Would God it were even! and at even thou shalt say, Would God it were morning! for the fear of thine heart wherewith thou shalt fear, and for the sight of thine eyes which thou shalt see." Deuteronomy 28:65-67. The sinner's own thoughts are his accusers; and there can be no torture keener than the stings of a guilty conscience, which give him no rest day nor night.
     To many minds a deep mystery surrounds the fate of John the Baptist. They question why he should have been left to languish and die in prison. The mystery of this dark providence our human vision cannot penetrate; but it can never shake our confidence in God when we remember that John was but a sharer in the sufferings of Christ. All who follow Christ will wear the crown of sacrifice. They will surely be misunderstood by selfish men, and will be made a mark for the fierce assaults of Satan. It is this principle of self-sacrifice that his kingdom is established to destroy, and he will war against it wherever manifested.
     The childhood, youth, and manhood of John had been characterized by firmness and moral power. When his voice was heard in the wilderness saying, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight" (Matthew 3:3), Satan feared for the safety of his kingdom. The sinfulness of sin was revealed in such a manner that men trembled. Satan's power over many who had been under his control was broken. He had been unwearied in his efforts to draw away the Baptist from a life of unreserved surrender to God; but he had failed. And he had failed to overcome Jesus. In the temptation in the wilderness, Satan had been defeated, and his rage was great. Now he determined to bring sorrow upon Christ by striking John. The One whom he could not entice to sin he would cause to suffer.
     Jesus did not interpose to deliver His servant. He knew that John would bear the test. Gladly would the Saviour have come to John, to brighten the dungeon gloom with His own presence. But He was not to place Himself in the hands of enemies and imperil His own mission. Gladly would He have delivered His faithful servant. But for the sake of thousands who in after years must pass from prison to death, John was to drink the cup of martyrdom. As the followers of Jesus should languish in lonely cells, or perish by the sword, the rack, or the fagot, apparently forsaken by God and man, what a stay to their hearts would be the thought that John the Baptist, to whose faithfulness Christ Himself had borne witness, had passed through a similar experience! 
     Satan was permitted to cut short the earthly life of God's messenger; but that life which "is hid with Christ in God," the destroyer could not reach. Colossians 3:3. He exulted that he had brought sorrow upon Christ, but he had failed of conquering John. Death itself only placed him forever beyond the power of temptation. In this warfare, Satan was revealing his own character. Before the witnessing universe he made manifest his enmity toward God and man.
     Though no miraculous deliverance was granted John, he was not forsaken. He had always the companionship of heavenly angels, who opened to him the prophecies concerning Christ, and the precious promises of Scripture. These were his stay, as they were to be the stay of God's people through the coming ages. To John the Baptist, as to those that came after him, was given the assurance, "Lo, I am with you all the days, even unto the end." Matthew 28:20, R. V., margin. 
     God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

[Kellee]

(1) "Like the Savior's disciples, John the Baptist did not understand the nature of Christ's kingdom...He had pointed to the Messiah as the One whose fan was in His hand, and who would thoroughly purge His floor, who would gather the wheat into His garner, and burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Like the prophet Elijah, in whose spirit and power he had come to Israel, he looked for the Lord to reveal Himself as a God that answereth by fire."

It's interesting that she says John didn't understand God's purpose, though he thought God was one who answered by fire. But truly, we never find God to be this way. O sure, there are places in the Bible where it might appear that way, but we must judge everything in the revealed light of the life of Christ. And we find no action to support the claim that God tortures those who don't follow Him. It simply is not there.

I submit we need to carefully re-examine our traditional view and belief of how God is going to handle His wicked children. When our church was first established, we denounced the long-held belief that God was going to burn wicked sinners in hell for all eternity. This was a very good and much-needed step! It helped us to understand God's character that much more. But I don't think we can leave it there. God would like us to remain progressive in our thinking!

Our entire picture of God rests on this one event. For if God cannot be trusted when dealing with His enemies, when can He be trusted? In Matthew 5, Jesus said this Himself: "If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that." Yes, Jesus repeatedly warned His wicked children of the consequences of their sin, but we find no action in His own life to suggest that He inflicts those consequences or inflicts torture of any kind. We must view everything in the Old Testament by the life of Christ, and we must also view everything to come in the future by the life of Christ. If the two are not reconciled, and frankly, if God doesn't come out smelling like a rose (as one man put it!), we better go back and read again!

Further quotes on this from the chapter:

"So Jesus was to do His work, not with the clash of arms and the overturning of thrones and kingdoms, but through speaking to the hearts of men by a life of mercy and self-sacrifice."

"John well knew how foreign all this was to the principles and hopes of the leaders in Israel. That which was to him convincing evidence of Christ's divinity, would be no evidence to them. They were looking for a Messiah who had not been promised."

(2) "The Savior did not at once answer the disciples' question."

Once again, God shows that He does not handle things on the basis of claims alone. He provides ample evidence for our belief in Him, nothing less. More often than not, His response to our foolish questions is "Come and See" not "Come and Hear."

(3) "But when perverted to self-serving, the greater the gift, the greater curse it becomes."

God does not withhold His good gifts only for those who are faithful to Him. This is why our faith in a person cannot be based solely upon the gifts they hold! God freely gives of His gifts to all His children, because (remember!) He is an out-of-control Giver, and He gives just as much to the wicked as to the righteous. However, the gifts to the wicked actually become curses for them because of their own choices. God is only good. He only gives good things. But we, through our power of choice, can pervert them and turn them into curses. And how dare we blame those "curses" on God!

(4) "The sinner's own thoughts are his accusers; and there can be no torture keener than the stings of a guilty conscience, which give him no rest day or night."

Perhaps herein is an example of the "weeping and gnashing of teeth" and the wicked at the end who have no rest day or night. If they have truly seen and confessed (which they will) that God has never been anything but good and fair and just, they have only themselves to blame for their eternal loss. Their own guilty conscience is their accuser. And since there can be no torture keener than that, what does God have to add? Nothing.

(5) "The One whom he [Satan] could not entice to sin, he would cause to suffer...He [Satan] exulted that he had brought sorrow upon Christ, but he had failed of conquering John. Death itself only placed him forever beyond the power of temptation."

Another great irony here. By death, Satan destroys the only avenue by which he might continue to tempt and annoy us. Sometimes we think that death is the greatest thing to be feared, but Paul said that to die is gain. Why? Because it takes us from the weariness of the world and places us in a state of readiness for the Second Coming of Christ. And to have died a martyr as well! What greater cause is there? Some fear the time of trouble, and I can't say that it's something I look forward to. We're going to see evil like we've never seen it, but I know that I would rather die than confess that God is unlike who I know Him to be. And when we have the chance to stand up and die for our Lord, I hope I will be able to laugh at my persecutors and say, "Death? Is that all? Death is my reward and I will receive it with pleasure!"

(6) "God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning."

And here is our promise for today. I don't have one thing to worry about. I don't have one thing to complain about. I don't have to look to men for approval. I don't even have to look to myself for approval. I don't have to wonder about the future. My God is with me and He is leading me. He knows the end from the beginning, and He knows not only what is best, but He knows that when I get to heaven and He says, "Well done, good and faithful servant," I will look back over my life and the ways in which He has led me and will be free to turn back to Him and say, "Well done, O Good and Faithful King!!"

[Richard Myers]

This chapter is a beatiful demontration of the power of God's grace to carry us through our sufferings. "John the Baptist had been first in heralding Christ's kingdom, and he was first also in suffering." Some Christians have never learned this truth. God does not stop Satan from hurting His children, but rather He gives them grace to accept the pain and to use their suffering for His honor and glory. This also causes great difficulty for others in that they cannot see why God would let Satan "get away" with doing such things.

God's children may rest in the knowledge that "all things work together for good to those who love Him." Satan will not only lose his war, but will in the end suffer for each sin he did and for the sins of those whom he enticed to sin. God's justice will be seen in the end. The system that God has put in place will see that all will receive according to their works done in the flesh. Satan will not "get away" with anything. A record is being kept in heaven of each sin. Satan will suffer for each sin.

We know that God is all wise and we may trust  Him as He allows our trials to come. "God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. 'Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.' Phil. 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor."[/color]

There are many today who are in the middle of great trials. They may be greatly encouraged as they discern God's purpose for them in the middle of their trial.  Let me repeat this beautiful truth. "And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor."   If this is a blessing for you, then jump ahead of us and read chapter 73. There you will find food for your soul. 

[Richard Myers]

Here is an important question to consider. Did John rightly understand the mission of Jesus? Did John ever learn of his error?

[Richard Myers]

It was John who said "behold the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world", yet John did not understand the Lamb had to die. Why did the greatest of all prophets not understand the Lamb had to die?

[Richard Myers]

This chapter is a beatiful demontration of the power of God's grace to carry us through our sufferings. "John the Baptist had been first in heralding Christ's kingdom, and he was first also in suffering." Some Christians have never learned this truth. God does not stop Satan from hurting His children, but rather He gives them grace to accept the pain and to use their suffering for His honor and glory. This also causes great difficulty for others in that they cannot see why God would let Satan "get away" with doing such things.

God's children may rest in the knowledge that "all things work together for good to those who love Him." Satan will not only lose his war, but will in the end suffer for each sin he did and for the sins of those whom he enticed to sin. God's justice will be seen in the end. The system that God has put in place will see that all will receive according to their works done in the flesh. Satan will not "get away" with anything. A record is being kept in heaven of each sin. Satan will suffer for each sin.

We know that God is all wise and we may trust  Him as He allows our trials to come. "God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. 'Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.' Phil. 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor."

There are many today who are in the middle of great trials. They may be greatly encouraged as they discern God's purpose for them in the middle of their trial.  Let me repeat this beautiful truth. "And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor."  If this is a blessing for you, then jump ahead of us and read chapter 73. There you will find food for your soul. 

By faith, we who suffer may be lifted above this world, and receive great joy as we labor together with God for the salvation of precious souls as did John the Baptist. As He prepared a people for the first coming of Christ, we are to prepare a people for His soon second coming. Let us glory in out tribulations. As we abide in Christ, they work for our good and God's glory. "We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us." Romans 5:2-5.

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

I have to "Amen" that recommendation on chapter 73, "Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled." That is one of the most profound and life-changing chapters!

As I was enjoying reading this chapter (22) again, I noticed something I had not before seen on page 216:

"But the Baptist did not surrender his faith in Christ. The memory of the voice from heaven and the descending dove, the spotless purity of Jesus, the power of the Holy Spirit that had rested upon John as he came into the Saviour's presence, and the testimony of the prophetic scriptures,—all witnessed that Jesus of Nazareth was the Promised One." {DA 216.3}
John would not discuss his doubts and anxieties with his companions. He determined to send a message of inquiry to Jesus. This he entrusted to two of his disciples, hoping that an interview with the Saviour would confirm their faith, and bring assurance to their brethren. And he longed for some word from Christ spoken directly for himself. {DA 216.4}
The disciples came to Jesus with their message, “Art Thou He that should come, or do we look for another?” {DA 216.5}
How short the time since the Baptist had pointed to Jesus, and proclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” “He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me.” John 1:29, 27. And now the question, “Art Thou He that should come?” It was keenly bitter and disappointing to human nature. If John, the faithful forerunner, failed to discern Christ's mission, what could be expected from the self-seeking multitude? {DA 216.6}

What stands out from these four paragraphs is that John Himself did not actually doubt that Jesus was the Christ--for John "did not surrender his faith in Christ" (though, as you pointed out Richard, since John did not understand clearly the nature of Christ's mission, it seems hard to fully grasp the extent of John's "faith"--whether it was just in Jesus as the person being the Messiah, as it is clear that John did not fully grasp what the work/mission of the Messiah would fully be. I was fascinated that Ellen White points out that as John sent his disciples to go to Jesus, it was actually to "confirm THEIR FAITH"--but John also was wanting a message for himself. It is interesting how John handled the difficult trial. Easily he could have greatly hindered Christ's mission by entertaining open doubts--but I am reminded of the blessed counsel in Steps to Christ, page 119, paragraph 3: "Make it a rule never to utter one word of doubt or discouragement." By not opening his mouth to the temptations of Satan, and actually pointing his disciples to Jesus to go and see/ask what the Jesus Himself was doing, it provided a way for both the disciples and John to be strengthened.

We are human, liable to error, and in constant need of Jesus. John the Baptist was no different. We would expect more from him, but we need to remember how weak and frail we ourselves are. Let us rejoice that Jesus loves to have us come to Him with all our perplexities and difficulties, in the midst of sorrow and affliction, and trust that He also has a message for us (which again and again is going to be for us to "look and live!"--to keep our eyes upon Jesus--and that "by beholding we become changed"--and that as we do, and surrender fully to Christ, the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in our lives--not one will be missing). It is as we contemplate the character of God as revealed in Christ that we more fully discern His mission and the sacrifice that was necessary to save us from sin.

Only God fully knows what John's last thoughts were before he was beheaded. But we can thank God that suffering--one of the most despised experiences to the selfish, carnal heart, can actually be the greatest privilege in binding our hearts to the suffering heart of our God of infinite love who paid the greatest price of suffering at the Cross of Calvary--and in the whole plan of redemption. For eternity we will study it, it will be our science and our song, but it is deeper and greater than we can ever fully know. But as we enter into that fellowship of suffering, God is changing us to have more of His perspective--and to in some degree reflect more and more fully the loveliness of Jesus to a world that does not know His tender, pitying love. Long-suffering is the essence of divine love!

[Richard Myers]

Amen, Pastor Sean! God will allow us to have doubts, but what will we do with them? Do we refuse to submit to them? Or do we yield up the truth? John was perplexed because Jesus was not the "Lion" of the tribe of Judah. But, neither was John. He was a living the same life as Jesus, one of loneliness and self abnegation. But, along with the nation, he had been decieved about the role of Christ. He did not know the Lamb had to die. Such a deception upon such a great prophet. We need to understand this is a warning for us today. Satan has not been sleeping for the last 2,000 years. What deceptions has he brought into our time?

Why did Jesus reprove John? God has given us much light, and as we prayerfully study it, there will be great blessings for us.

Only God fully knows what John's last thoughts were before he was beheaded. But we can thank God that suffering--one of the most despised experiences to the selfish, carnal heart, can actually be the greatest privilege in binding our hearts to the suffering heart of our God of infinite love who paid the greatest price of suffering at the Cross of Calvary--and in the whole plan of redemption.

The "last thoughts of John."    I like to think they were similar to those of Stephen who was also martyred for his faith. We know this: "The Saviour's words, 'Blessed is he, whosoever shall find none occasion of stumbling in Me,' were a gentle reproof to John. It was not lost upon him. Understanding more clearly now the nature of Christ's mission, he yielded himself to God for life or for death, as should best serve the interests of the cause he loved."

Are we prepared for either life or death? Do we understand "And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor."

[Richard Myers]

As I was considering the "doubts" of John, my mind was led to another truth. I went searching for it, thinking it would be a blessing for others. John was not looking for any "hooks" to hang his doubts on. He was perplexed, but maintained his trust in Jesus. His question to Jesus was not good. But, this did not reveal a lack of trust, but a lack of understanding.

While God has given ample evidence for faith, He will never remove all excuse for unbelief. All who look for hooks to hang their doubts upon will find them. And those who refuse to accept and obey God's word until every objection has been removed, and there is no longer an opportunity for doubt, will never come to the light….
 
There is but one course for those to pursue who honestly desire to be freed from doubts. Instead of questioning and caviling concerning that which they do not understand, let them give heed to the light which already shines upon them, and they will receive greater light. Let them do every duty which has been made plain to their understanding, and they will be enabled to understand and perform those of which they are now in doubt. 

Satan can present a counterfeit so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the truth; but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires, at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the truth and the "Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world." John 1:9. The Spirit of truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is declared: "Seek, and ye shall find." "If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine." Matthew 7:7; John 7:17. DD 12.

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Popular belief and deception can have such a strong effect upon God's people. We see this even in the case of John the Baptist:

Like the Saviour's disciples, John the Baptist did not understand the nature of Christ's kingdom. He expected Jesus to take the throne of David; and as time passed, and the Saviour made no claim to kingly authority, John became perplexed and troubled. He had declared to the people that in order for the way to be prepared before the Lord, the prophecy of Isaiah must be fulfilled; the mountains and hills must be brought low, the crooked made straight, and the rough places plain. He had looked for the high places of human pride and power to be cast down. He had pointed to the Messiah as the One whose fan was in His hand, and who would thoroughly purge His floor, who would gather the wheat into His garner, and burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Like the prophet Elijah, in whose spirit and power he had come to Israel, he looked for the Lord to reveal Himself as a God that answereth by fire. 

May we prayerfully search the Scriptures and the Spirit of Prophecy that we also be not deceived by a false conception of the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Godhead who is working mightily in this time.

Some believe that the Holy Spirit's mission is to give people freedom to follow "impressions" or false interpretations of Scripture over the plain statements of the word of God. This is even happening in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. But the work of the Holy Spirit is to lead us to have a Christ-like character in harmony with God's word, so that "all the fruits of the Spirit will be seen in the life; not one will be missing" {DA 676.4}. Look to Jesus, and let His Spirit guide into all truth.

[Richard Myers]

Amen, Pastor Sean!

Because of the apostasy and false teachings in Israel, John, a holy man, was "perplexed and troubled."  To what degree was Satan troubling him?  "There were hours when the whisperings of demons tortured his spirit, and the shadow of a terrible fear crept over him. Could it be that the long-hoped-for Deliverer had not yet appeared? Then what meant the message that he himself had been impelled to bear? John had been bitterly disappointed in the result of his mission. He had expected that the message from God would have the same effect as when the law was read in the days of Josiah and of Ezra (2 Chronicles 34; Nehemiah 8, 9); that there would follow a deep-seated work of repentance and returning unto the Lord. For the success of this mission his whole life had been sacrificed. Had it been in vain?" 

This was a holy man who was chosen to prepare the people for the coming of Christ. This is what Satan was doing to John. How is it today? Are there similar deceptions for those who are to prepare a people for the second coming of Christ? Absolutely, except Satan has had 2,000 years to plan for our day. This is why we are still on this earth. The deceptions in the church are greater now than then. The deceptions are so great, the church as a whole believes it is "rich and increased with goods, and in need of nothing."  But, that is not the case. We are in a continual need of Jesus and do not know it. Most believe they can sin a known sin and still have Jesus. Such a deception! 

Jesus stands at the door of many hearts, knocking, wanting in. Open the door.

[Richard Myers]

As we study the Book of Job in our Sabbath Schools this quarter, let us keep in mind what we have studied in the rest of the Bible. Suffering is the life of the true believer. Jesus tells us to pick up our cross and follow Him. And, we know we ought not think it strange when fiery trials come upon us. And, as we abide in Christ and He in us, "we glory in our tribulations" for they work for our good and God's glory. While many have read these truths, many also have not experienced them from a converted Christian's position. Therefor, they cannot appreciate the Book of Job, and readily accept the lie that Job did not sin.

In today's reading, the chapter opens with this: "John the Baptist had been first in heralding Christ's kingdom, and he was first also in suffering." How are we to take this? It will be taken differently by different people. Some will be horrified, others blessed to understand that there was no greater prophet than John, and Satan was allowed to cause him great pain in order to hurt Jesus. But, John did not complain as did Job. His mind began to wander, but by God's grace his lack of understanding the mission of Christ did not cause him to complain about his situation.

   Satan was permitted to cut short the earthly life of God's messenger; but that life which "is hid with Christ in God," the destroyer could not reach. Colossians 3:3. He exulted that he had brought sorrow upon Christ, but he had failed of conquering John. Death itself only placed him forever beyond the power of temptation. In this warfare, Satan was revealing his own character. Before the witnessing universe he made manifest his enmity toward God and man.

     Though no miraculous deliverance was granted John, he was not forsaken. He had always the companionship of heavenly angels, who opened to him the prophecies concerning Christ, and the precious promises of Scripture. These were his stay, as they were to be the stay of God's people through the coming ages. To John the Baptist, as to those that came after him, was given the assurance, "Lo, I am with you all the days, even unto the end." Matthew 28:20, R. V., margin.
     God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

As we study the Book of Job, let us not be as those who have had great light and are not walking in it, but let us remember and take advantage of knowing that "of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor."

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Richard!

Only when we are abiding in Christ can we truly see suffering in the way God sees it--the value of fellowship with Christ in His kingdom that is not aligned with the principles of this world. It is Christ's kingdom that awakens persecution because it calls to repentance, and turning from sin.

 The principle of the Baptist's own life of self-abnegation was the principle of the Messiah's kingdom. John well knew how foreign all this was to the principles and hopes of the leaders in Israel. That which was to him convincing evidence of Christ's divinity would be no evidence to them. They were looking for a Messiah who had not been promised. John saw that the Saviour's mission could win from them only hatred and condemnation. He, the forerunner, was but drinking of the cup which Christ Himself must drain to its dregs.

[Richard Myers]

Amen, Pastor Sean.  When we love Jesus with the whole heart, it is then that the world will understand there is a God in heaven. Those whose hearts are hard will not appreciate the example of Christ in man. And, it is not only wicked and unrepentant man that will persecute the converted Christian, but the father of lies will turn his attention to those who he is fast losing to his cause. So it was with John the Baptist, and so it will be with those who turn away from sin and become slaves to Christ. They will glory in their tribulation, knowing it will bring honor and glory to God and patience and experience in their own lives. Do we want to be witnesses for Christ? Will we understand why we are left on this earth after we are converted?

 God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. "Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake." Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor.

Even the "baby Christian" such as the thief on the cross is willing. Are we? If not, why not?

[JimB]

And, it is not only wicked and unrepentant man that will persecute the converted Christian, but the father of lies will turn his attention to those who he is fast losing to his cause. So it was with John the Baptist, and so it will be with those who turn away from sin and become slaves to Christ.

Richard, what you're saying immediately took my mind to the following verse. If Christ was persecuted so will be His followers.


John 15:20 Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Richard and Jim! When we realize what heaven values--love and purity--and that trials are for our best that these attributes may be deepened in our experience, we will be thankful that God lovingly leads us through trial and tribulation.

I appreciated the revelation of Jesus in our reading today as concerns how John could come to discern more clearly the character of the Messiah:

  Thus the day wore away, the disciples of John seeing and hearing all. At last Jesus called them to Him, and bade them go and tell John what they had witnessed, adding, "Blessed is he, whosoever shall find none occasion of stumbling in Me." Luke 7:23, R. V. The evidence of His divinity was seen in its adaptation to the needs of suffering humanity. His glory was shown in His condescension to our low estate.

Divinity is high and exalted in holiness, but also infinitely condescending--what a picture to contemplate of Christ, who, though the King of Heaven, reveals His glory in uplifting the suffering and poor to experience transforming grace and healing love! Praise the Lord for such a Savior!

[Richard Myers]

     The life of John had been one of active labor, and the gloom and inaction of his prison life weighed heavily upon him. As week after week passed, bringing no change, despondency and doubt crept over him. His disciples did not forsake him. They were allowed access to the prison, and they brought him tidings of the works of Jesus, and told how the people were flocking to Him. But they questioned why, if this new teacher was the Messiah, He did nothing to effect John's release. How could He permit His faithful herald to be deprived of liberty and perhaps of life?
     These questions were not without effect. Doubts which otherwise would never have arisen were suggested to John. Satan rejoiced to hear the words of these disciples, and to see how they bruised the soul of the Lord's messenger. Oh, how often those who think themselves the friends of a good man, and who are eager to show their fidelity to him, prove to be his most dangerous enemies! How often, instead of strengthening his faith, their words depress and dishearten!
     Like the Saviour's disciples, John the Baptist did not understand the nature of Christ's kingdom. He expected Jesus to take the throne of David; and as time passed, and the Saviour made no claim to kingly authority, John became perplexed and troubled.

There is a fine lesson to learn in the depression John experienced. It is true John was faced with doubting Jesus, but he did not. His faith failed not. His disciples were used to present him with the temptation, but while he did not understand the mission of Christ, he did not doubt Christ.

     After the messengers had departed, Jesus spoke to the people concerning John. The Saviour's heart went out in sympathy to the faithful witness now buried in Herod's dungeon. He would not leave the people to conclude that God had forsaken John, or that his faith had failed in the day of trial. 

His faith did not fail.

     The Baptist did not surrender his faith in Christ. The memory of the voice from heaven and the descending dove, the spotless purity of Jesus, the power of the Holy Spirit that had rested upon John as he came into the Saviour's presence, and the testimony of the prophetic scriptures,--all witnessed that Jesus of Nazareth was the Promised One.

[Pastor Sean Brizendine]

Amen, Richard! This is a deep truth that our chapter pointed out as concerns how John's faith did not fail. I was moved to see a corollary to this further in the chapter:

  The childhood, youth, and manhood of John had been characterized by firmness and moral power. When his voice was heard in the wilderness saying, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight" (Matthew 3:3), Satan feared for the safety of his kingdom. The sinfulness of sin was revealed in such a manner that men trembled. Satan's power over many who had been under his control was broken. He had been unwearied in his efforts to draw away the Baptist from a life of unreserved surrender to God; but he had failed. And he had failed to overcome Jesus. In the temptation in the wilderness, Satan had been defeated, and his rage was great. Now he determined to bring sorrow upon Christ by striking John. The One whom he could not entice to sin he would cause to suffer.
     Jesus did not interpose to deliver His servant. He knew that John would bear the test. Gladly would the Saviour have come to John, to brighten the dungeon gloom with His own presence. But He was not to place Himself in the hands of enemies and imperil His own mission. Gladly would He have delivered His faithful servant. But for the sake of thousands who in after years must pass from prison to death, John was to drink the cup of martyrdom. As the followers of Jesus should languish in lonely cells, or perish by the sword, the rack, or the fagot, apparently forsaken by God and man, what a stay to their hearts would be the thought that John the Baptist, to whose faithfulness Christ Himself had borne witness, had passed through a similar experience! 

As I was reading this, the Holy Spirit impressed my mind with a Bible truth about suffering: "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3:12). Why was John permitted to suffer so keenly? For the very reason that He WOULD NOT YIELD HIS FAITH, and SIN AGAINST GOD! If Satan cannot get us to separate from Christ by leadings us into sin, then He will try to lead us to murmur or doubt God, and deny our faith when we suffer for being a self-denying disciple of Jesus.

The truths that this chapter brings out leads us to another question. Why does persecution seem to slumber to such a great degree at the present time? Could it be that Laodicean condition awakens no great threat to Satan's kingdom, unlike the fearless reproof of sin that was borne by Jesus and John the Baptist? Let us see an inspired answer:

There is another and more important question that should engage the attention of the churches of today. The apostle Paul declares that "all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution." 2 Timothy 3:12. Why is it, then, that persecution seems in a great degree to slumber? The only reason is that the church has conformed to the world's standard and therefore awakens no opposition. The religion which is current in our day is not of the pure and holy character that marked the Christian faith in the days of Christ and His apostles. It is only because of the spirit of compromise with sin, because the great truths of the word of God are so indifferently regarded, because there is so little vital godliness in the church, that Christianity is apparently so popular with the world. Let there be a revival of the faith and power of the early church, and the spirit of persecution will be revived, and the fires of persecution will be rekindled. {GC 48.3}

Let us pray that our lives, too, by beholding the loveliness of Jesus and applying the truths of His word, may be characterized by firmness and power, so that sin will not be tolerated in our lives and we will lovingly and faithfully reprove sin as the Spirit gives us utterance.

"We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history." {Life Sketches, page 196, paragraph 2}

[JimB]

God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him.]

Here is a wonderful promise that should encourage all to make sure they are being led by the Spirit. In knowing this we know that God will be will with us at every step!

[Richard Myers]

Amen, Jim!  Thus, we can glory in our tribulation knowing it will work for God's glory and our salvation. God will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear. When we by God's grace enter heaven, we will learn why God allowed the trials to come. We then shall be thankful that God did indeed lead us in the very best way and our trials were for our good and the good of others.

We come into the world in need of a change in nature. This we will receive when the Holy Spirit is allowed to come into our hearts. He will cleanse the heart and make it pure and holy with His presence. We will then be partakers of the divine nature while still living in fallen flesh (2 Peter 1:4).

    John had been called to reprove the sins and excesses of his time, and his plain dress and self-denying life were in harmony with the character of his mission. Rich apparel and the luxuries of this life are not the portion of God's servants, but of those who live "in kings' courts," the rulers of this world, to whom pertain its power and its riches. Jesus wished to direct attention to the contrast between the clothing of John, and that worn by the priests and rulers. These officials arrayed themselves in rich robes and costly ornaments. They loved display, and hoped to dazzle the people, and thus command greater consideration. They were more anxious to gain the admiration of men than to obtain the purity of heart which would win the approval of God. Thus they revealed that their allegiance was not given to God, but to the kingdom of this world......

     In the estimation of Heaven, what is it that constitutes greatness? Not that which the world accounts greatness; not wealth, or rank, or noble descent, or intellectual gifts, in themselves considered. If intellectual greatness, apart from any higher consideration, is worthy of honor, then our homage is due to Satan, whose intellectual power no man has ever equaled. But when perverted to self-serving, the greater the gift, the greater curse it becomes. It is moral worth that God values. Love and purity are the attributes He prizes most. John was great in the sight of the Lord, when, before the messengers from the Sanhedrin, before the people, and before his own disciples, he refrained from seeking honor for himself, but pointed all to Jesus as the Promised One. His unselfish joy in the ministry of Christ presents the highest type of nobility ever revealed in man.