The Review and Herald

1605/1903

July 15, 1909

Revealing Christ

EGW

The Father in heaven desires that the world shall see Christ in his followers. Life and immortality are to be brought to light through those who are one with God in Christ. It is our privilege to have the spirit of light and knowledge that is the wisdom of heaven. All who have this spirit, in whatever position they may be placed, the highest or the lowest place of service, will reveal in their work the power of this light and knowledge. Constantly we are to behold him who lived among men a life of perfect obedience. And the more closely we study him, the more nearly shall we resemble him in character, and the greater will be our efficiency in working for others. RH July 15, 1909, par. 1

The sacrifice of the Son of God was made that human nature might be elevated, and restored to its original purity. Jehovah suffered the glory of his Son to be veiled that the fallen race might be redeemed. Amazing love was revealed in the sacrifice thus made. He who was rich with the riches of eternity became poor, that we through his poverty might be made rich. He was high and exalted in heaven, crowned with glory, and honored by all the angelic host, yet he, the brightness and glory of heaven, consented to sojourn among fallen mortals, and by dying in their stead, rescue them from death. It behooved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren, that he might elevate them from the degradation into which they had fallen through sin. RH July 15, 1909, par. 2

The condescension of Christ in behalf of men was a marvel to the angels. Redemption through Christ was to them a mystery of love and wisdom, and it absorbed their interest even more than had the work of creation. Such love amazed and enraptured them. It was so ardent, so matchless, so devoid of selfishness, they could not comprehend it. The creation of man in the beginning, the formation of the heavens and the earth, the beauty and glory with which the Creator had clothed all nature, had called forth the wonder and admiration of the universe of heaven, their reverence and love. But this condescension of their Commander in exchanging a throne for a manger in Bethlehem, and subjecting himself in mockery and insult, poverty and a felon's death, called forth from the shining hosts of heaven the highest adoration and the deepest joy. Their joy and praise burst forth, at the announcement to the shepherds on the hills of Bethlehem, in the song, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” RH July 15, 1909, par. 3

Man alone, he for whom this great sacrifice was made, manifested indifference. He who should above all others have been interested, charmed, captivated, and filled with the deepest gratitude, was unmoved, untouched. This indifference is apparent today not only in those who are in open rebellion to God, but in those who profess to be the followers of Christ. These will receive the greater condemnation; for Christ is more greatly dishonored by those who profess his name, yet in works deny him, than by those who stand in open rebellion to his will. Christ is not put to shame by the sinful lives of sinners as he is by professed Christians whose lives are not circumspect, and sanctified by the truth they profess. RH July 15, 1909, par. 4

The enchantments of the world, the riches of the universe presented with all their attractions, could not for a moment divert the Son of God from the work before him, though the path before him was marked with suffering, tears, and blood. The accomplishment of his purpose was more to him than the woe, more to him than the enrapturing joys of heaven. RH July 15, 1909, par. 5

How should we, the objects of such love and condescension, appreciate the mystery of redemption. The splendors of the world, presented in their most attractive form, should sink into insignificance before this great condescension. Those who are true followers of Christ will be willing to suffer for his sake. As they contemplate this mystery, the heart will be filled with tender love, a lively devotion. They will feel that they must follow the example of him who went about doing good, and who cheerfully gave his life to ransom us from the degradation of sin. Selfishness and worldliness will be seen to be inconsistent with the profession of the name of Christ. They can not live for themselves and be Christians. RH July 15, 1909, par. 6

We need in all our churches the evidences of the meekness of Christ. In order to do intelligently the solemn work committed to us, we must hide self in Christ. We have a short time in which to accomplish the work that is essential. Let us earnestly prepare for the conflict that is before us. I am instructed to say to all our people, Let your light so shine in words and deeds, that you will reveal that truth is cherished in the heart. RH July 15, 1909, par. 7

If we reveal the meekness and self-abnegation that was seen in Christ's life, the seed we sow will grow. As our experience enlarges, our opportunities will multiply, our knowledge will increase, and through Christ we shall become strong in bearing responsibilities. O precious privilege to co-operate with heavenly and divine agencies! RH July 15, 1909, par. 8

Those who labor for souls need to remember that they are pledged to co-operate with Christ, to obey his directions, to follow his guidance. Every hour they are to ask for and to receive power from on high. They are to cherish a constant sense of the Saviour's love, of his efficiency, his watchfulness, his tenderness. They are to look to him as the Shepherd and Bishop of their souls. Then they will have the sympathy and support of heavenly angels. Christ will be their joy and crown of rejoicing. Their hearts will be controlled by the Holy Spirit. They will go forth clothed with holy zeal, and their efforts will be accompanied by a power proportionate to the importance of the message they proclaim. RH July 15, 1909, par. 9