Humble Hero

Many Today Fail to “See” Christ

Many of those gathered at the Jordan had been present at Jesus’ baptism, but only a few among them were aware of the sign then given. During the preceding months of John’s ministry, many had refused to obey the call to repentance. So when Heaven bore testimony to Jesus at His baptism, they did not perceive it. Eyes that had never turned in faith to Him did not behold the revelation of the glory of God. Ears that had never listened to His voice did not hear the words of witness. It is still this way now. Often Christ and ministering angels make their presence felt in the assemblies of the people, yet many do not know it. They detect nothing unusual. But to some the Savior’s presence is revealed. They are comforted, encouraged, and blessed. HH 54.10

The deputies from Jerusalem had demanded of John, “Why then do you baptize?” and they were waiting for his answer. Suddenly, as his glance swept over the crowd, his face lighted up, and his whole being was stirred with deep emotion. With outstretched hands he cried, “I baptize with water, but there stands One among you whom you do not know. It is He who, coming after me, is preferred before me, whose sandal strap I am not worthy to loose.” HH 54.11

The message was distinct and unmistakable, to be carried back to the Sanhedrin. The Messiah was among them! In amazement, priests and rulers gazed around them, but among the crowd they could not distinguish the One of whom John had spoken. HH 54.12

At the baptism of Jesus, John’s mind was directed to the words of Isaiah, “He was led as a lamb to the slaughter.” Isaiah 53:7. During the weeks that followed, John studied the prophecies and the sacrificial service with new interest. He saw that Christ’s coming had a deeper significance than priests or people had recognized. When he saw Jesus among the crowd after He returned from the desert, he waited almost impatiently to hear the Savior declare His mission; but He spoke no word and gave no sign. Jesus did not respond to the Baptist’s announcement of Him. He mingled with the disciples of John, taking no measures to call attention to Himself. HH 55.1

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him. With the light of the glory of God resting on him, the prophet stretched out his hands, declaring, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is He of whom I said, ‘After me comes a Man who is preferred before me.’ ... I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. ... He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ... ‘This is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” HH 55.2