The Acts of the ApostlesThe Acts of the Apostles presents the amazing story ofthe early Christian church through the rest of NewTestament times. After Jesus was victorious over Satanand returned to heaven, the enemy turned hisattention to Jesus' church on earth. Here are thrillingstories of fierce persecutions and unswerving loyalty toGod. Peter, Paul, James, John, Luke, Barnabas,Stephen, Mark, and the other early apostles carriedthe wonderful news of the gospel to all of the thenknown world. Unwilling to surrender their faith, manygave their lives.

Author - Ellen G. White

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Table of Contents

1. God's Purpose for His Church ....................................9

2. The Training of the Twelve .......................................17

3. The Great Commission ............................................25

4. Pentecost .................................................................35

5. The Gift of the Spirit .................................................47

6. At the Temple Gate ..................................................57

7. A Warning Against Hypocrisy ...................................70

8. Before the Sanhedrin ...............................................77

9. The Seven Deacons .................................................87

10. The First Christian Martyr ........................................97

11. The Gospel in Samaria ..........................................103

12. From Persecutor to Disciple...................................112

13. Days of Preparation ...............................................123

14. A Seeker for Truth .................................................131

15. Delivered From Prison ...........................................143

16. The Gospel Message in Antioch ...........................155

17. Heralds of the Gospel ............................................166

18. Preaching Among the Heathen .............................177

19. Jew and Gentile .....................................................188

20. Exalting the Cross .................................................201

21. In the Regions Beyond ..........................................211

22. Thessalonica .........................................................221

23. Berea and Athens ..................................................231

24. Corinth ...................................................................243

25. The Thessalonian Letters ......................................255

26. Apollos at Corinth ..................................................269

27. Ephesus ................................................................281

28. Days of Toil and Trial ............................................291

29. A Message of Warning and Entreaty .....................298

30. Called to Reach a Higher Standard .......................309

31. The Message Heeded .......................................... 323

32. A Liberal Church ....................................................335

33. Laboring Under Difficulties ....................................346

34. A Consecrated Ministry .........................................359

35. Salvation to the Jews ............................................372

36. Apostasy in Galatia ...............................................383

37. Paul's Last Journey to Jerusalem ..........................389

38. Paul a Prisoner ......................................................399

39. The Trial at Caesarea ............................................419

40. Paul Appeals to Caesar .........................................428

41. "Almost Thou Persuadest Me" ...............................433

42. The Voyage and Shipwreck ..................................439

43. In Rome .................................................................447

44. Caesar's Household ..............................................461

45. Written From Rome ...............................................469

46. At Liberty ...............................................................485

47. The Final Arrest .....................................................489

48. Paul Before Nero ...................................................492

49. Paul's Last Letter ...................................................498

50. Condemned to Die ................................................509

51. A Faithful Under-Shepherd ....................................514

52. Steadfast Unto the End .........................................529

53. John the Beloved .................................................. 539

54. A Faithful Witness .................................................546

55. Transformed by Grace ..........................................557

56. Patmos ..................................................................568

57. The Revelation ..................................................... 578

58. The Church Triumphant ....................................... 593

Chap. 1 - God's Purpose for His Church

The church is God's appointed agency for thesalvation of men. It was organized for service, andits mission is to carry the gospel to the world.From the beginning it has been God's plan thatthrough His church shall be reflected to the worldHis fullness and His sufficiency. The members ofthe church, those whom He has called out ofdarkness into His marvelous light, are to showforth His glory. The church is the repository of the

riches of the grace of Christ; and through thechurch will eventually be made manifest, even to"the principalities and powers in heavenly places,"the final and full display of the love of God.Ephesians 3:10.

Many and wonderful are the promises recordedin the Scriptures regarding the church. "Minehouse shall be called an house of prayer for allpeople." Isaiah 56:7. "I will make them and theplaces round about My hill a blessing; and I willcause the shower to come down in his season;

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there shall be showers of blessing." "And I willraise up for them a plant of renown, and they shallbe no more consumed with hunger in the land,neither bear the shame of the heathen any more.Thus shall they know that I the Lord their God amwith them, and that they, even the house of Israel,are My people, saith the Lord God. And ye Myflock, the flock of My pasture, are men, and I am

your God, saith the Lord God." Ezekiel 34:26, 29-31.

"Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord, and Myservant whom I have chosen: that ye may knowand believe Me, and understand that I am He:before Me there was no God formed, neither shallthere be after Me. I, even I, am the Lord; andbeside Me there is no Saviour. I have declared,and have saved, and I have showed, when therewas no strange god among you: therefore ye areMy witnesses." "I the Lord have called thee inrighteousness, and will hold thine hand, and willkeep thee, and give thee for a covenant of thepeople, for a light of the Gentiles; to open the blindeyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison,and them that sit in darkness out of the prisonhouse." Isaiah 43:10-12; 42:6, 7.

"In an acceptable time have I heard thee, andin a day of salvation have I helped thee: and I willpreserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of thepeople, to establish the earth, to cause to inheritthe desolate heritages; that thou mayest say to the

prisoners, Go forth; to them that are in darkness,Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, andtheir pastures shall be in all high places. Theyshall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heatnor sun smite them: for

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He that hath mercy on them shall lead them, evenby the springs of water shall He guide them. And Iwill make all My mountains a way, and Myhighways shall be exalted. . . .

"Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; andbreak forth into singing, O mountains: for the Lordhath comforted His people, and will have mercyupon His afflicted. But Zion said, The Lord hathforsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me. Cana woman forget her sucking child, that she shouldnot have compassion on the son of her womb?yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of Myhands; thy walls are continually before Me." Isaiah49:8-16.

The church is God's fortress, His city of refuge,which He holds in a revolted world. Any betrayal ofthe church is treachery to Him who has boughtmankind with the blood of His only-begotten Son.From the beginning, faithful souls have constitutedthe church on earth. In every age the Lord has hadHis watchmen, who have borne a faithfultestimony to the generation in which they lived.These sentinels gave the message of warning;and when they were called to lay off their armor,others took up the work. God brought thesewitnesses into covenant relation with Himself,uniting the church on earth with the church inheaven. He has sent forth His angels to minister toHis church, and the gates of hell have not beenable to prevail against His people.

Through centuries of persecution, conflict, anddarkness, God has sustained His church. Not onecloud has fallen upon it that He has not preparedfor; not one opposing

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force has risen to counterwork His work, that Hehas not foreseen. All has taken place as Hepredicted. He has not left His church forsaken, buthas traced in prophetic declarations what wouldoccur, and that which His Spirit inspired theprophets to foretell has been brought about. AllHis purposes will be fulfilled. His law is linked withHis throne, and no power of evil can destroy it.Truth is inspired and guarded by God; and it willtriumph over all opposition.

During ages of spiritual darkness the church ofGod has been as a city set on a hill. From age toage, through successive generations, the puredoctrines of heaven have been unfolding within itsborders. Enfeebled and defective as it mayappear, the church is the one object upon whichGod bestows in a special sense His supremeregard. It is the theater of His grace, in which Hedelights to reveal His power to transform hearts.

"Whereunto," asked Christ, "shall we liken thekingdom of God? or with what comparison shallwe compare it?" Mark 4:30. He could not employ

the kingdoms of the world as a similitude. Insociety He found nothing with which to compare it.Earthly kingdoms rule by the ascendancy ofphysical power; but from Christ's kingdom everycarnal weapon, every instrument of coercion, isbanished. This kingdom is to uplift and ennoblehumanity. God's church is the court of holy life,filled with varied gifts and endowed with the HolySpirit. The members are to find their happiness inthe happiness of those whom they help and bless.

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Wonderful is the work which the Lord designsto accomplish through His church, that His namemay be glorified. A picture of this work is given inEzekiel's vision of the river of healing: "Thesewaters issue out toward the east country, and godown into the desert, and go into the sea: whichbeing brought forth into the sea, the waters shallbe healed. And it shall come to pass, thateverything that liveth, which moveth,

whithersoever the rivers shall come, shall live: . . .and by the river upon the bank thereof, on thisside and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat,whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruitthereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruitaccording to his months, because their watersthey issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruitthereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof formedicine." Ezekiel 47:8-12.

From the beginning God has wrought throughHis people to bring blessing to the world. To theancient Egyptian nation God made Joseph afountain of life. Through the integrity of Joseph thelife of that whole people was preserved. ThroughDaniel God saved the life of all the wise men ofBabylon. And these deliverances are as objectlessons; they illustrate the spiritual blessingsoffered to the world through connection with theGod whom Joseph and Daniel worshiped.Everyone in whose heart Christ abides, everyonewho will show forth His love to the world, is aworker together with God for the blessing of

humanity. As he receives from the Saviour graceto impart to others, from his whole being flowsforth the tide of spiritual life.

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God chose Israel to reveal His character tomen. He desired them to be as wells of salvationin the world. To them were committed the oraclesof heaven, the revelation of God's will. In the earlydays of Israel the nations of the world, throughcorrupt practices, had lost the knowledge of God.They had once known Him; but because "theyglorified Him not as God, neither were thankful;but became vain in their imaginations, . . . theirfoolish heart was darkened." Romans 1:21. Yet inHis mercy God did not blot them out of existence.He purposed to give them an opportunity of againbecoming acquainted with Him through Hischosen people. Through the teachings of thesacrificial service, Christ was to be uplifted beforeall nations, and all who would look to Him should

live. Christ was the foundation of the Jewisheconomy. The whole system of types and symbolswas a compacted prophecy of the gospel, apresentation in which were bound up the promisesof redemption.

But the people of Israel lost sight of their highprivileges as God's representatives. They forgotGod and failed to fulfill their holy mission. Theblessings they received brought no blessing to theworld. All their advantages they appropriated fortheir own glorification. They shut themselves awayfrom the world in order to escape temptation. Therestrictions that God had placed upon theirassociation with idolaters as a means ofpreventing them from conforming to the practicesof the heathen, they used to build up a wall ofseparation between themselves and all othernations. They

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robbed God of the service He required of them,and they robbed their fellow men of religiousguidance and a holy example.

Priests and rulers became fixed in a rut ofceremonialism. They were satisfied with a legalreligion, and it was impossible for them to give toothers the living truths of heaven. They thoughttheir own righteousness all-sufficient, and did notdesire that a new element should be brought intotheir religion. The good will of God to men they didnot accept as something apart from themselves,but connected it with their own merit because oftheir good works. The faith that works by love andpurifies the soul could find no place for union withthe religion of the Pharisees, made up ofceremonies and the injunctions of men.

Of Israel God declared: "I had planted thee anoble vine, wholly a right seed: how then art thouturned into the degenerate plant of a strange vineunto Me?" Jeremiah 2:21. "Israel is an empty vine,he bringeth forth fruit unto himself." Hosea 10:1."And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and men of

Judah, judge, I pray you, betwixt Me and Myvineyard. What could have been done more to Myvineyard, that I have not done in it? wherefore,when I looked that it should bring forth grapes,brought it forth wild grapes?

"And now go to; I will tell you what I will do toMy vineyard: I will take away the hedge thereof,and it shall be eaten up; and break down the wallthereof, and it shall be trodden down: and I will layit waste: it shall not be pruned, nor digged; butthere shall come up briers and

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thorns: I will also command the clouds that theyrain no rain upon it. For the vineyard of the Lord ofhosts is the house of Israel, and the men of JudahHis pleasant plant: and He looked for judgment,but behold oppression; for righteousness, butbehold a cry." Isaiah 5:3-7. "The diseased have yenot strengthened, neither have ye healed thatwhich was sick, neither have ye bound up thatwhich was broken, neither have ye brought again

that which was driven away, neither have yesought that which was lost; but with force and withcruelty have ye ruled them." Ezekiel 34:4.

The Jewish leaders thought themselves toowise to need instruction, too righteous to needsalvation, too highly honored to need the honorthat comes from Christ. The Saviour turned fromthem to entrust to others the privileges they hadabused and the work they had slighted. God'sglory must be revealed, His word established.Christ's kingdom must be set up in the world. Thesalvation of God must be made known in the citiesof the wilderness; and the disciples were called todo the work that the Jewish leaders had failed todo.

Chap. 2 - The Training of the Twelve

For the carrying on of His work, Christ did notchoose the learning or eloquence of the JewishSanhedrin or the power of Rome. Passing by the

self-righteous Jewish teachers, the Master Workerchose humble, unlearned men to proclaim thetruths that were to move the world. These men Hepurposed to train and educate as the leaders ofHis church. They in turn were to educate othersand send them out with the gospel message. Thatthey might have success in their work they were tobe given the power of the Holy Spirit. Not byhuman might or human wisdom was the gospel tobe proclaimed, but by the power of God.

For three years and a half the disciples wereunder the instruction of the greatest Teacher theworld has ever known. By personal contact andassociation, Christ trained them for His service.Day by day they walked and talked with Him,hearing His words of cheer to the weary andheavy-laden, and seeing the manifestation of Hispower in behalf

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of the sick and the afflicted. Sometimes He taughtthem, sitting among them on the mountainside;

sometimes beside the sea or walking by the way,He revealed the mysteries of the kingdom of God.Wherever hearts were open to receive the divinemessage, He unfolded the truths of the way ofsalvation. He did not command the disciples to dothis or that, but said, "Follow Me." On His journeysthrough country and cities, He took them with Him,that they might see how He taught the people.They traveled with Him from place to place. Theyshared His frugal fare, and like Him weresometimes hungry and often weary. On thecrowded streets, by the lakeside, in the lonelydesert, they were with Him. They saw Him in everyphase of life.

It was at the ordination of the Twelve that thefirst step was taken in the organization of thechurch that after Christ's departure was to carry onHis work on the earth. Of this ordination the recordsays, "He goeth up into a mountain, and callethunto Him whom He would: and they came untoHim. And He ordained twelve, that they should be

with Him, and that He might send them forth topreach." Mark 3:13, 14.

Look upon the touching scene. Behold theMajesty of heaven surrounded by the Twelvewhom He has chosen. He is about to set themapart for their work. By these feeble agencies,through His word and Spirit, He designs to placesalvation within the reach of all.

With gladness and rejoicing, God and theangels beheld this scene. The Father knew thatfrom these men the light of heaven would shineforth; that the words spoken by

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them as they witnessed for His Son, would echofrom generation to generation till the close of time.

The disciples were to go forth as Christ'switnesses, to declare to the world what they hadseen and heard of Him. Their office was the mostimportant to which human beings had ever beencalled, second only to that of Christ Himself. Theywere to be workers together with God for the

saving of men. As in the Old Testament the twelvepatriarchs stood as representatives of Israel, sothe twelve apostles stand as representatives of thegospel church.

During His earthly ministry Christ began tobreak down the partition wall between Jew andGentile, and to preach salvation to all mankind.Though He was a Jew, He mingled freely with theSamaritans, setting at nought the Pharisaiccustoms of the Jews with regard to this despisedpeople. He slept under their roofs, ate at theirtables, and taught in their streets.

The Saviour longed to unfold to His disciplesthe truth regarding the breaking down of the"middle wall of partition" between Israel and theother nations--the truth that "the Gentiles shouldbe fellow heirs" with the Jews and "partakers ofHis promise in Christ by the gospel." Ephesians2:14; 3:6. This truth was revealed in part at thetime when He rewarded the faith of the centurionat Capernaum, and also when He preached thegospel to the inhabitants of Sychar. Still more

plainly was it revealed on the occasion of His visitto Phoenicia, when He healed the daughter of theCanaanite woman. These experiences helped thedisciples to understand that among those whommany regarded

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as unworthy of salvation, there were soulshungering for the light of truth.

Thus Christ sought to teach the disciples thetruth that in God's kingdom there are no territoriallines, no caste, no aristocracy; that they must goto all nations, bearing to them the message of aSaviour's love. But not until later did they realize inall its fullness that God "hath made of one blood allnations of men for to dwell on all the face of theearth, and hath determined the times beforeappointed, and the bounds of their habitation; thatthey should seek the Lord, if haply they might feelafter Him, and find Him, though He be not far fromevery one of us." Acts 17:26, 27.

In these first disciples was presented markeddiversity. They were to be the world's teachers,and they represented widely varied types ofcharacter. In order successfully to carry forwardthe work to which they had been called, thesemen, differing in natural characteristics and inhabits of life, needed to come into unity of feeling,thought, and action. This unity it was Christ'sobject to secure. To this end He sought to bringthem into unity with Himself. The burden of Hislabor for them is expressed in His prayer to HisFather, "That they all may be one; as Thou,Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also maybe one in Us;" "that the world may know that Thouhas sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thou hastloved Me." John 17:21, 23. His constant prayer forthem was that they might be sanctified through thetruth; and He prayed with assurance, knowing thatan Almighty decree had been given before theworld was

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made. He knew that the gospel of the kingdomwould be preached to all nations for a witness; Heknew that truth armed with the omnipotence of theHoly Spirit, would conquer in the battle with evil,and that the bloodstained banner would one daywave triumphantly over His followers.

As Christ's earthly ministry drew to a close, andHe realized that He must soon leave His disciplesto carry on the work without His personalsupervision, He sought to encourage them and toprepare them for the future. He did not deceivethem with false hopes. As an open book He readwhat was to be. He knew He was about to beseparated from them, to leave them as sheepamong wolves. He knew that they would sufferpersecution, that they would be cast out of thesynagogues, and would be thrown into prison. Heknew that for witnessing to Him as the Messiah,some of them would suffer death. And somethingof this He told them. In speaking of their future, Hewas plain and definite, that in their coming trial

they might remember His words and bestrengthened to believe in Him as the Redeemer.

He spoke to them also words of hope andcourage. "Let not your heart be troubled," He said;"ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In MyFather's house are many mansions: if it were notso, I would have told you. I go to prepare a placefor you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, Iwill come again, and receive you unto Myself; thatwhere I am, there ye may be also. And whither Igo ye know, and the way ye know." John 14:1-4.For your sake I came into the world; for you I havebeen working.

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When I go away I shall still work earnestly for you.I came to the world to reveal Myself to you, thatyou might believe. I go to My Father and yours toco-operate with Him in your behalf.

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believethon Me, the works that I do shall he do also; andgreater works than these shall he do; because I go

unto My Father." John 14:12. By this, Christ didnot mean that the disciples would make moreexalted exertions than He had made, but that theirwork would have greater magnitude. He did notrefer merely to miracle working, but to all thatwould take place under the agency of the HolySpirit. "When the Comforter is come," He said,"whom I will send unto you from the Father, eventhe Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from theFather, He shall testify of Me: and ye also shallbear witness, because ye have been with Me fromthe beginning." John 15:26, 27.

Wonderfully were these words fulfilled. Afterthe descent of the Holy Spirit, the disciples wereso filled with love for Him and for those for whomHe died, that hearts were melted by the wordsthey spoke and the prayers they offered. Theyspoke in the power of the Spirit; and under theinfluence of that power, thousands wereconverted.

As Christ's representatives the apostles were tomake a decided impression on the world. The fact

that they were humble men would not diminishtheir influence, but increase it; for the minds oftheir hearers would be carried from them to theSaviour, who, though unseen, was still workingwith them. The wonderful teaching of the apostles,their

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words of courage and trust, would assure all that itwas not in their own power that they worked, but inthe power of Christ. Humbling themselves, theywould declare that He whom the Jews hadcrucified was the Prince of life, the Son of theliving God, and that in His name they did theworks that He had done.

In His parting conversation with His discipleson the night before the crucifixion the Saviourmade no reference to the suffering that He hadendured and must yet endure. He did not speak ofthe humiliation that was before Him, but sought tobring to their minds that which would strengthentheir faith, leading them to look forward to the joys

that await the overcomer. He rejoiced in theconsciousness that He could and would do morefor His followers than He had promised; that fromHim would flow forth love and compassion,cleansing the soul temple, and making men likeHim in character; that His truth, armed with thepower of the Spirit, would go forth conquering andto conquer.

"These things I have spoken unto you," Hesaid, "that in Me ye might have peace. In the worldye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; Ihave overcome the world." John 16:33. Christ didnot fail, neither was He discouraged; and thedisciples were to show a faith of the sameenduring nature. They were to work as He hadworked, depending on Him for strength. Thoughtheir way would be obstructed by apparentimpossibilities, yet by His grace they were to goforward, despairing of nothing and hoping foreverything.

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Christ had finished the work that was given Himto do. He had gathered out those who were tocontinue His work among men. And He said: "I amglorified in them. And now I am no more in theworld, but these are in the world, and I come toThee. Holy Father, keep through Thine own namethose whom Thou hast given Me, that they may beone, as We are." "Neither pray I for these alone,but for them also which shall believe on Methrough their word; that they all may be one; . . . Iin them and Thou in Me, that they may be madeperfect in one; and that the world may know thatThou hast sent Me, and hast loved them, as Thouhast loved Me." John 17:10, 11, 20-23.

Chap. 3 - The Great Commission

After the death of Christ the disciples werewell-nigh overcome by discouragement. TheirMaster had been rejected, condemned, and

crucified. The priests and rulers had declaredscornfully, "He saved others; Himself He cannotsave. If He be the King of Israel, let Him now comedown from the cross, and we will believe Him."Matthew 27:42. The sun of the disciples' hope hadset, and night settled down upon their hearts.Often they repeated the words, "We trusted that ithad been He which should have redeemed Israel."Luke 24:21. Lonely and sick at heart, theyremembered His words, "If they do these things ina green tree, what shall be done in the dry?" Luke23:31.

Jesus had several times attempted to open thefuture to His disciples, but they had not cared tothink about what He said. Because of this Hisdeath had come to them as a surprise; andafterward, as they reviewed the past and saw theresult of their unbelief, they were filled with sorrow.

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When Christ was crucified, they did not believethat He would rise. He had stated plainly that He

was to rise on the third day, but they wereperplexed to know what He meant. This lack ofcomprehension left them at the time of His deathin utter hopelessness. They were bitterlydisappointed. Their faith did not penetrate beyondthe shadow that Satan had cast athwart theirhorizon. All seemed vague and mysterious tothem. If they had believed the Saviour's words,how much sorrow they might have been spared!

Crushed by despondency, grief, and despair,the disciples met together in the upper chamber,and closed and fastened the doors, fearing thatthe fate of their beloved Teacher might be theirs. Itwas here that the Saviour, after His resurrection,appeared to them.

For forty days Christ remained on the earth,preparing the disciples for the work before themand explaining that which heretofore they hadbeen unable to comprehend. He spoke of theprophecies concerning His advent, His rejection bythe Jews, and His death, showing that everyspecification of these prophecies had been

fulfilled. He told them that they were to regard thisfulfillment of prophecy as an assurance of thepower that would attend them in their futurelabors. "Then opened He their understanding," weread, "that they might understand the Scriptures,and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus itbehooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from thedead the third day: and that repentance andremission of sins should be preached in His nameamong all nations, beginning at Jerusalem."

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And He added, "Ye are witnesses of these things."Luke 24:45-48.

During these days that Christ spent with Hisdisciples, they gained a new experience. As theyheard their beloved Master explaining theScriptures in the light of all that had happened,their faith in Him was fully established. Theyreached the place where they could say, "I knowwhom I have believed." 2 Timothy 1:12. Theybegan to realize the nature and extent of their

work, to see that they were to proclaim to theworld the truths entrusted to them. The events ofChrist's life, His death and resurrection, theprophecies pointing to these events, the mysteriesof the plan of salvation, the power of Jesus for theremission of sins--to all these things they hadbeen witnesses, and they were to make themknown to the world. They were to proclaim thegospel of peace and salvation through repentanceand the power of the Saviour.

Before ascending to heaven, Christ gave Hisdisciples their commission. He told them that theywere to be the executors of the will in which Hebequeathed to the world the treasures of eternallife. You have been witnesses of My life ofsacrifice in behalf of the world, He said to them.You have seen My labors for Israel. And althoughMy people would not come to Me that they mighthave life, although priests and rulers have doneunto Me as they listed, although they haverejected Me, they shall have still anotheropportunity of accepting the Son of God. You have

seen that all who come to Me confessing theirsins, I freely receive.

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Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.To you, My disciples, I commit this message ofmercy. It is to be given to both Jews and Gentiles--to Israel, first, and then to all nations, tongues, andpeoples. All who believe are to be gathered intoone church.

The gospel commission is the great missionarycharter of Christ's kingdom. The disciples were towork earnestly for souls, giving to all the invitationof mercy. They were not to wait for the people tocome to them; they were to go to the people withtheir message.

The disciples were to carry their work forwardin Christ's name. Their every word and act was tofasten attention on His name, as possessing thatvital power by which sinners may be saved. Theirfaith was to center in Him who is the source ofmercy and power. In His name they were to

present their petitions to the Father, and theywould receive answer. They were to baptize in thename of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.Christ's name was to be their watchword, theirbadge of distinction, their bond of union, theauthority for their course of action, and the sourceof their success. Nothing was to be recognized inHis kingdom that did not bear His name andsuperscription.

When Christ said to the disciples, Go forth inMy name to gather into the church all who believe,He plainly set before them the necessity ofmaintaining simplicity. The less ostentation andshow, the greater would be their influence forgood. The disciples were to speak with the samesimplicity with which Christ had spoken. Theywere to

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impress upon their hearers the lessons He hadtaught them.

Christ did not tell His disciples that their workwould be easy. He showed them the vastconfederacy of evil arrayed against them. Theywould have to fight "against principalities, againstpowers, against the rulers of the darkness of thisworld, against spiritual wickedness in high places."Ephesians 6:12. But they would not be left to fightalone. He assured them that He would be withthem; and that if they would go forth in faith, theyshould move under the shield of Omnipotence. Hebade them be brave and strong; for One mightierthan angels would be in their ranks--the General ofthe armies of heaven. He made full provision forthe prosecution of their work and took uponHimself the responsibility of its success. So longas they obeyed His word, and worked inconnection with Him, they could not fail. Go to allnations, He bade them. Go to the farthest part ofthe habitable globe and be assured that Mypresence will be with you even there. Labor in faithand confidence; for the time will never come whenI will forsake you. I will be with you always, helping

you to perform your duty, guiding, comforting,sanctifying, sustaining you, giving you success inspeaking words that shall draw the attention ofothers to heaven.

Christ's sacrifice in behalf of man was full andcomplete. The condition of the atonement hadbeen fulfilled. The work for which He had come tothis world had been accomplished. He had wonthe kingdom. He had wrested it from Satan andhad become heir of all things. He was on His way

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to the throne of God, to be honored by theheavenly host. Clothed with boundless authority,He gave His disciples their commission, "Go yetherefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them inthe name of the Father, and of the Son, and of theHoly Ghost: teaching them to observe all thingswhatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I amwith you alway, even unto the end." Matthew28:19, 20.

Just before leaving His disciples, Christ oncemore plainly stated the nature of His kingdom. Herecalled to their remembrance things He hadpreviously told them regarding it. He declared thatit was not His purpose to establish in this world atemporal kingdom. He was not appointed to reignas an earthly monarch on David's throne. Whenthe disciples asked Him, "Lord, wilt Thou at thistime restore again the kingdom to Israel?" Heanswered, "It is not for you to know the times orthe seasons, which the Father hath put in His ownpower." Acts 1:6, 7. It was not necessary for themto see farther into the future than the revelationsHe had made enabled them to see. Their workwas to proclaim the gospel message.

Christ's visible presence was about to bewithdrawn from the disciples, but a newendowment of power was to be theirs. The HolySpirit was to be given them in its fullness, sealingthem for their work. "Behold," the Saviour said, "Isend the promise of My Father upon you: but tarryye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with

power from on high." Luke 24:49. "For John trulybaptized with

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water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghostnot many days hence." "Ye shall receive power,after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: andye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem,and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto theuttermost part of the earth." Acts 1:5, 8.

The Saviour knew that no argument, howeverlogical, would melt hard hearts or break throughthe crust of worldliness and selfishness. He knewthat His disciples must receive the heavenlyendowment; that the gospel would be effectiveonly as it was proclaimed by hearts made warmand lips made eloquent by a living knowledge ofHim who is the way, the truth, and the life. Thework committed to the disciples would requiregreat efficiency; for the tide of evil ran deep andstrong against them. A vigilant, determined leaderwas in command of the forces of darkness, and

the followers of Christ could battle for the right onlythrough the help that God, by His Spirit, wouldgive them.

Christ told His disciples that they were to begintheir work at Jerusalem. That city had been thescene of His amazing sacrifice for the human race.There, clad in the garb of humanity, He hadwalked and talked with men, and few haddiscerned how near heaven came to earth. ThereHe had been condemned and crucified. InJerusalem were many who secretly believedJesus of Nazareth to be the Messiah, and manywho had been deceived by priests and rulers. Tothese the gospel must be proclaimed. They wereto be called to repentance. The wonderful truththat

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through Christ alone could remission of sins beobtained, was to be made plain. And it was whileall Jerusalem was stirred by the thrilling events of

the past few weeks, that the preaching of thedisciples would make the deepest impression.

During His ministry, Jesus had kept constantlybefore the disciples the fact that they were to beone with Him in His work for the recovery of theworld from the slavery of sin. When He sent forththe Twelve and afterward the Seventy, to proclaimthe kingdom of God, He was teaching them theirduty to impart to others what He had made knownto them. In all His work He was training them forindividual labor, to be extended as their numbersincreased, and eventually to reach to the uttermostparts of the earth. The last lesson He gave Hisfollowers was that they held in trust for the worldthe glad tidings of salvation.

When the time came for Christ to ascend to HisFather, He led the disciples out as far as Bethany.Here He paused, and they gathered about Him.With hands outstretched in blessing, as if inassurance of His protecting care, He slowlyascended from among them. "It came to pass,

while He blessed them, He was parted from them,and carried up into heaven." Luke 24:51.

While the disciples were gazing upward tocatch the last glimpse of their ascending Lord, Hewas received into the rejoicing ranks of heavenlyangels. As these angels escorted Him to thecourts above, they sang in triumph, "Sing untoGod, ye kingdoms of the earth; O sing praises

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unto the Lord, to Him that rideth upon the heavensof heavens. . . . Ascribe ye strength unto God: Hisexcellency is over Israel, and His strength is in theheavens." Psalm 68:32-34, margin.

The disciples were still looking earnestly towardheaven when, "behold, two men stood by them inwhite apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee,why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this sameJesus, which is taken up from you into heaven,shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Himgo into heaven." Acts 1:10, 11.

The promise of Christ's second coming wasever to be kept fresh in the minds of His disciples.The same Jesus whom they had seen ascendinginto heaven, would come again, to take to Himselfthose who here below give themselves to Hisservice. The same voice that had said to them,"Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end,"would bid them welcome to His presence in theheavenly kingdom.

As in the typical service the high priest laidaside his pontifical robes and officiated in thewhite linen dress of an ordinary priest; so Christlaid aside His royal robes and garbed Himself withhumanity and offered sacrifice, Himself the priest,Himself the victim. As the high priest, afterperforming his service in the holy of holies, cameforth to the waiting congregation in his pontificalrobes; so Christ will come the second time,clothed in garments of whitest white, "so as nofuller on earth can white them." Mark 9:3. He willcome in His own glory, and in the glory of His

Father, and all the angelic host will escort Him onHis way.

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Thus will be fulfilled Christ's promise to Hisdisciples, "I will come again, and receive you untoMyself." John 14:3. Those who have loved Himand waited for Him, He will crown with glory andhonor and immortality. The righteous dead willcome forth from their graves, and those who arealive will be caught up with them to meet the Lordin the air. They will hear the voice of Jesus,sweeter than any music that ever fell on mortalear, saying to them, Your warfare is accomplished."Come, ye blessed of My Father, inherit thekingdom prepared for you from the foundation ofthe world." Matthew 25:34.

Well might the disciples rejoice in the hope oftheir Lord's return.

Chap. 4 - Pentecost

As the disciples returned from Olivet toJerusalem, the people looked on them, expectingto see on their faces expressions of sorrow,confusion, and defeat; but they saw theregladness and triumph. The disciples did not nowmourn over disappointed hopes. They had seenthe risen Saviour, and the words of His partingpromise echoed constantly in their ears.

In obedience to Christ's command, they waitedin Jerusalem for the promise of the Father--theoutpouring of the Spirit. They did not wait inidleness. The record says that they were"continually in the temple, praising and blessingGod." Luke 24:53. They also met together topresent their requests to the Father in the name ofJesus. They knew that they had a Representativein heaven, an Advocate at the throne of God. Insolemn awe they bowed in prayer, repeating theassurance, "Whatsoever ye shall

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ask the Father in My name, He will give it you.Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask,and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full."John 16:23, 24. Higher and still higher theyextended the hand of faith, with the mightyargument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that isrisen again, who is even at the right hand of God,who also maketh intercession for us." Romans8:34.

As the disciples waited for the fulfillment of thepromise, they humbled their hearts in truerepentance and confessed their unbelief. As theycalled to remembrance the words that Christ hadspoken to them before His death they understoodmore fully their meaning. Truths which had passedfrom their memory were again brought to theirminds, and these they repeated to one another.They reproached themselves for theirmisapprehension of the Saviour. Like aprocession, scene after scene of His wonderful lifepassed before them. As they meditated upon His

pure, holy life they felt that no toil would be toohard, no sacrifice too great, if only they could bearwitness in their lives to the loveliness of Christ'scharacter. Oh, if they could but have the past threeyears to live over, they thought, how differentlythey would act! If they could only see the Masteragain, how earnestly they would strive to showHim how deeply they loved Him, and howsincerely they sorrowed for having ever grievedHim by a word or an act of unbelief! But they werecomforted by the thought that they were forgiven.And they determined that, so far as possible, theywould atone for their unbelief by bravelyconfessing Him before the world.

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The disciples prayed with intense earnestnessfor a fitness to meet men and in their dailyintercourse to speak words that would lead sinnersto Christ. Putting away all differences, all desirefor the supremacy, they came close together in

Christian fellowship. They drew nearer and nearerto God, and as they did this they realized what aprivilege had been theirs in being permitted toassociate so closely with Christ. Sadness filledtheir hearts as they thought of how many timesthey had grieved Him by their slowness ofcomprehension, their failure to understand thelessons that, for their good, He was trying to teachthem.

These days of preparation were days of deepheart searching. The disciples felt their spiritualneed and cried to the Lord for the holy unction thatwas to fit them for the work of soul saving. Theydid not ask for a blessing for themselves merely.They were weighted with the burden of thesalvation of souls. They realized that the gospelwas to be carried to the world, and they claimedthe power that Christ had promised.

During the patriarchal age the influence of theHoly Spirit had often been revealed in a markedmanner, but never in its fullness. Now, inobedience to the word of the Saviour, the disciples

offered their supplications for this gift, and inheaven Christ added His intercession. He claimedthe gift of the Spirit, that He might pour it upon Hispeople.

"And when the Day of Pentecost was fullycome, they were all with one accord in one place.And suddenly there came a sound from heaven asof a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the housewhere they were sitting."

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The Spirit came upon the waiting, prayingdisciples with a fullness that reached every heart.The Infinite One revealed Himself in power to Hischurch. It was as if for ages this influence hadbeen held in restraint, and now Heaven rejoiced inbeing able to pour out upon the church the richesof the Spirit's grace. And under the influence of theSpirit, words of penitence and confession mingledwith songs of praise for sins forgiven. Words ofthanksgiving and of prophecy were heard. All

heaven bent low to behold and to adore thewisdom of matchless, incomprehensible love. Lostin wonder, the apostles exclaimed, "Herein islove." They grasped the imparted gift. And whatfollowed? The sword of the Spirit, newly edgedwith power and bathed in the lightnings of heaven,cut its way through unbelief. Thousands wereconverted in a day.

"It is expedient for you that I go away," Christhad said to His disciples; "for If I go not away, theComforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, Iwill send Him unto you." "When He, the Spirit oftruth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: forHe shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever Heshall hear, that shall He speak: and He will showyou things to come." John 16:7, 13.

Christ's ascension to heaven was the signalthat His followers were to receive the promisedblessing. For this they were to wait before theyentered upon their work. When Christ passedwithin the heavenly gates, He was enthronedamidst the adoration of the angels. As soon as this

ceremony was completed, the Holy Spiritdescended upon the disciples in rich currents, andChrist was indeed glorified, even

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with the glory which He had with the Father fromall eternity. The Pentecostal outpouring wasHeaven's communication that the Redeemer'sinauguration was accomplished. According to Hispromise He had sent the Holy Spirit from heavento His followers as a token that He had, as priestand king, received all authority in heaven and onearth, and was the Anointed One over His people.

"And there appeared unto them cloven tongueslike as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. Andthey were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and beganto speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gavethem utterance." The Holy Spirit, assuming theform of tongues of fire, rested upon thoseassembled. This was an emblem of the gift thenbestowed on the disciples, which enabled them tospeak with fluency languages with which they had

heretofore been unacquainted. The appearance offire signified the fervent zeal with which theapostles would labor and the power that wouldattend their work.

"There were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews,devout men, out of every nation under heaven."During the dispersion the Jews had beenscattered to almost every part of the inhabitedworld, and in their exile they had learned to speakvarious languages. Many of these Jews were onthis occasion in Jerusalem, attending the religiousfestivals then in progress. Every known tonguewas represented by those assembled. Thisdiversity of languages would have been a greathindrance to the proclamation of the gospel; Godtherefore in a miraculous manner supplied thedeficiency of the apostles. The Holy Spirit did forthem that which

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they could not have accomplished for themselvesin a lifetime. They could now proclaim the truths of

the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy thelanguages of those for whom they were laboring.This miraculous gift was a strong evidence to theworld that their commission bore the signet ofHeaven. From this time forth the language of thedisciples was pure, simple, and accurate, whetherthey spoke in their native tongue or in a foreignlanguage.

"Now when this was noised abroad, themultitude came together, and were confounded,because that every man heard them speak in hisown language. And they were all amazed andmarveled, saying one to another, Behold, are notall these which speak Galileans? and how hear weevery man in our own tongue, wherein we wereborn?"

The priests and rulers were greatly enraged atthis wonderful manifestation, but they dared notgive way to their malice, for fear of exposingthemselves to the violence of the people. Theyhad put the Nazarene to death; but here were Hisservants, unlettered men of Galilee, telling in all

the languages then spoken, the story of His lifeand ministry. The priests, determined to accountfor the miraculous power of the disciples in somenatural way, declared that they were drunken frompartaking largely of the new wine prepared for thefeast. Some of the most ignorant of the peoplepresent seized upon this suggestion as the truth,but the more intelligent knew it to be false; andthose who understood the different languagestestified to the accuracy with which theselanguages were used by the disciples.

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In answer to the accusation of the priests Petershowed that this demonstration was in directfulfillment of the prophecy of Joel, wherein heforetold that such power would come upon men tofit them for a special work. "Ye men of Judea, andall ye that dwell at Jerusalem," he said, "be thisknown unto you, and hearken to my words: forthese are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is

but the third hour of the day. But this is that whichwas spoken by the prophet Joel: And it shall cometo pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour outof My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and yourdaughters shall prophesy, and your young menshall see visions, and your old men shall dreamdreams: and on My servants and on Myhandmaidens I will pour out in those days of MySpirit; and they shall prophesy."

With clearness and power Peter bore witnessof the death and resurrection of Christ: "Ye men ofIsrael, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, aman approved of God among you by miracles andwonders and signs, which God did by Him in themidst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him . . .ye have taken, and by wicked hands havecrucified and slain: whom God hath raised up,having loosed the pains of death: because it wasnot possible that He should be holden of it."

Peter did not refer to the teachings of Christ toprove his position, because he knew that theprejudice of his hearers was so great that his

words on this subject would be of no effect.Instead, he spoke to them of David, who wasregarded by the Jews as one of the patriarchs oftheir nation. "David speaketh concerning Him," hedeclared: "I foresaw the

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Lord always before My face, for He is on My righthand, that I should not be moved: therefore did Myheart rejoice, and My tongue was glad; moreoveralso My flesh shall rest in hope: because Thou wiltnot leave My soul in hell, neither wilt Thou sufferThine Holy One to see corruption. . . .

"Men and brethren, let me freely speak untoyou of the patriarch David, that he is both deadand buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto thisday." "He . . . spake of the resurrection of Christ,that His soul was not left in hell, neither His fleshdid see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up,whereof we all are witnesses."

The scene is one full of interest. Behold thepeople coming from all directions to hear the

disciples witness to the truth as it is in Jesus. Theypress in, crowding the temple. Priests and rulersare there, the dark scowl of malignity still on theirfaces, their hearts still filled with abiding hatredagainst Christ, their hands uncleansed from theblood shed when they crucified the world'sRedeemer. They had thought to find the apostlescowed with fear under the strong hand ofoppression and murder, but they find them liftedabove all fear and filled with the Spirit, proclaimingwith power the divinity of Jesus of Nazareth. Theyhear them declaring with boldness that the One sorecently humiliated, derided, smitten by cruelhands, and crucified, is the Prince of life, nowexalted to the right hand of God.

Some of those who listened to the apostles hadtaken an active part in the condemnation anddeath of Christ. Their voices had mingled with therabble in calling for His

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crucifixion. When Jesus and Barabbas stoodbefore them in the judgment hall and Pilate asked,"Whom will ye that I release unto you?" they hadshouted, "Not this Man, but Barabbas!" Matthew27:17; John 18:40. When Pilate delivered Christ tothem, saying, "Take ye Him, and crucify Him: for Ifind no fault in Him;" "I am innocent of the blood ofthis just Person," they had cried, "His blood be onus, and on our children." John 19:6; Matthew27:24, 25.

Now they heard the disciples declaring that itwas the Son of God who had been crucified.Priests and rulers trembled. Conviction andanguish seized the people. "They were pricked intheir heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest ofthe apostles, Men and brethren, what shall wedo?" Among those who listened to the discipleswere devout Jews, who were sincere in theirbelief. The power that accompanied the words ofthe speaker convinced them that Jesus wasindeed the Messiah.

"Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and bebaptized every one of you in the name of JesusChrist for the remission of sins, and ye shallreceive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promiseis unto you, and to your children, and to all that areafar off, even as many as the Lord our God shallcall."

Peter urged home upon the convicted peoplethe fact that they had rejected Christ because theyhad been deceived by priests and rulers; and thatif they continued to look to these men for counsel,and waited for them to acknowledge Christ beforethey dared to do so, they would never accept Him.These powerful men, though making a profession

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of godliness, were ambitious for earthly riches andglory. They were not willing to come to Christ toreceive light.

Under the influence of this heavenlyillumination the scriptures that Christ hadexplained to the disciples stood out before them

with the luster of perfect truth. The veil that hadprevented them from seeing to the end of thatwhich had been abolished, was now removed, andthey comprehended with perfect clearness theobject of Christ's mission and the nature of Hiskingdom. They could speak with power of theSaviour; and as they unfolded to their hearers theplan of salvation, many were convicted andconvinced. The traditions and superstitionsinculcated by the priests were swept away fromtheir minds, and the teachings of the Saviour wereaccepted.

"Then they that gladly received his word werebaptized: and the same day there were addedunto them about three thousand souls."

The Jewish leaders had supposed that thework of Christ would end with His death; but,instead of this, they witnessed the marvelousscenes of the Day of Pentecost. They heard thedisciples, endowed with a power and energyhitherto unknown, preaching Christ, their wordsconfirmed by signs and wonders. In Jerusalem,

the stronghold of Judaism, thousands openlydeclared their faith in Jesus of Nazareth as theMessiah.

The disciples were astonished and overjoyed atthe greatness of the harvest of souls. They did notregard this wonderful ingathering as the result oftheir own efforts; they realized that they wereentering into other men's labors.

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Ever since the fall of Adam, Christ had beencommitting to chosen servants the seed of Hisword, to be sown in human hearts. During His lifeon this earth He had sown the seed of truth andhad watered it with His blood. The conversionsthat took place on the Day of Pentecost were theresult of this sowing, the harvest of Christ's work,revealing the power of His teaching.

The arguments of the apostles alone, thoughclear and convincing, would not have removed theprejudice that had withstood so much evidence.But the Holy Spirit sent the arguments home to

hearts with divine power. The words of theapostles were as sharp arrows of the Almighty,convicting men of their terrible guilt in rejectingand crucifying the Lord of glory.

Under the training of Christ the disciples hadbeen led to feel their need of the Spirit. Under theSpirit's teaching they received the finalqualification, and went forth to their lifework. Nolonger were they ignorant and uncultured. Nolonger were they a collection of independent unitsor discordant, conflicting elements. No longer weretheir hopes set on worldly greatness. They were of"one accord," "of one heart and of one soul." Acts2:46; 4:32. Christ filled their thoughts; theadvancement of His kingdom was their aim. Inmind and character they had become like theirMaster, and men "took knowledge of them, thatthey had been with Jesus." Acts 4:13.

Pentecost brought them the heavenlyillumination. The truths they could not understandwhile Christ was with them were now unfolded.With a faith and assurance that

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they had never before known, they accepted theteachings of the Sacred Word. No longer was it amatter of faith with them that Christ was the Son ofGod. They knew that, although clothed withhumanity, He was indeed the Messiah, and theytold their experience to the world with a confidencewhich carried with it the conviction that God waswith them.

They could speak the name of Jesus withassurance; for was He not their Friend and ElderBrother? Brought into close communion withChrist, they sat with Him in heavenly places. Withwhat burning language they clothed their ideas asthey bore witness for Him! Their hearts weresurcharged with a benevolence so full, so deep, sofar-reaching, that it impelled them to go to theends of the earth, testifying to the power of Christ.They were filled with an intense longing to carryforward the work He had begun. They realized thegreatness of their debt to heaven and theresponsibility of their work. Strengthened by the

endowment of the Holy Spirit, they went forth filledwith zeal to extend the triumphs of the cross. TheSpirit animated them and spoke through them.The peace of Christ shone from their faces. Theyhad consecrated their lives to Him for service, andtheir very features bore evidence to the surrenderthey had made.

Chap. 5 - The Gift of the Spirit

When Christ gave His disciples the promise ofthe Spirit, He was nearing the close of His earthlyministry. He was standing in the shadow of thecross, with a full realization of the load of guilt thatwas to rest upon Him as the Sin Bearer. Beforeoffering Himself as the sacrificial victim, Heinstructed His disciples regarding a most essentialand complete gift which He was to bestow uponHis followers--the gift that would bring within theirreach the boundless resources of His grace. "I willpray the Father," He said, "and He shall give you

another Comforter, that He may abide with youforever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the worldcannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neitherknoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He dwellethwith you, and shall be in you." John 14:16, 17. TheSaviour was pointing forward to the time when theHoly Spirit should come to do a mighty work asHis representative. The evil that had beenaccumulating for centuries

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was to be resisted by the divine power of the HolySpirit.

What was the result of the outpouring of theSpirit on the Day of Pentecost? The glad tidings ofa risen Saviour were carried to the uttermost partsof the inhabited world. As the disciples proclaimedthe message of redeeming grace, hearts yieldedto the power of this message. The church beheldconverts flocking to her from all directions.Backsliders were reconverted. Sinners united withbelievers in seeking the pearl of great price. Some

who had been the bitterest opponents of thegospel became its champions. The prophecy wasfulfilled, "He that is feeble . . . shall be as David;and the house of David . . . as the angel of theLord." Zechariah 12:8. Every Christian saw in hisbrother a revelation of divine love andbenevolence. One interest prevailed; one subjectof emulation swallowed up all others. The ambitionof the believers was to reveal the likeness ofChrist's character and to labor for the enlargementof His kingdom.

"With great power gave the apostles witness ofthe resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great gracewas upon them all." Acts 4:33. Under their laborswere added to the church chosen men, who,receiving the word of truth, consecrated their livesto the work of giving to others the hope that filledtheir hearts with peace and joy. They could not berestrained or intimidated by threatenings. The Lordspoke through them, and as they went from placeto place, the poor had the gospel preached tothem, and miracles of divine grace were wrought.

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So mightily can God work when men givethemselves up to the control of His Spirit.

The promise of the Holy Spirit is not limited toany age or to any race. Christ declared that thedivine influence of His Spirit was to be with Hisfollowers unto the end. From the Day of Pentecostto the present time, the Comforter has been sentto all who have yielded themselves fully to theLord and to His service. To all who have acceptedChrist as a personal Saviour, the Holy Spirit hascome as a counselor, sanctifier, guide, andwitness. The more closely believers have walkedwith God, the more clearly and powerfully havethey testified of their Redeemer's love and of Hissaving grace. The men and women who throughthe long centuries of persecution and trial enjoyeda large measure of the presence of the Spirit intheir lives, have stood as signs and wonders in the

world. Before angels and men they have revealedthe transforming power of redeeming love.

Those who at Pentecost were endued withpower from on high, were not thereby freed fromfurther temptation and trial. As they witnessed fortruth and righteousness they were repeatedlyassailed by the enemy of all truth, who sought torob them of their Christian experience. They werecompelled to strive with all their God-given powersto reach the measure of the stature of men andwomen in Christ Jesus. Daily they prayed for freshsupplies of grace, that they might reach higher andstill higher toward perfection. Under the HolySpirit's working even the weakest,

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by exercising faith in God, learned to improve theirentrusted powers and to become sanctified,refined, and ennobled. As in humility theysubmitted to the molding influence of the HolySpirit, they received of the fullness of the Godheadand were fashioned in the likeness of the divine.

The lapse of time has wrought no change inChrist's parting promise to send the Holy Spirit asHis representative. It is not because of anyrestriction on the part of God that the riches of Hisgrace do not flow earthward to men. If thefulfillment of the promise is not seen as it might be,it is because the promise is not appreciated as itshould be. If all were willing, all would be filled withthe Spirit. Wherever the need of the Holy Spirit is amatter little thought of, there is seen spiritualdrought, spiritual darkness, spiritual declensionand death. Whenever minor matters occupy theattention, the divine power which is necessary forthe growth and prosperity of the church, and whichwould bring all other blessings in its train, islacking, though offered in infinite plenitude.

Since this is the means by which we are toreceive power, why do we not hunger and thirst forthe gift of the Spirit? Why do we not talk of it, prayfor it, and preach concerning it? The Lord is morewilling to give the Holy Spirit to those who serveHim than parents are to give good gifts to their

children. For the daily baptism of the Spirit everyworker should offer his petition to God. Companiesof Christian workers should gather to ask forspecial help, for heavenly wisdom, that they mayknow how to plan and execute wisely. Especiallyshould they pray that God will baptize

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His chosen ambassadors in mission fields with arich measure of His Spirit. The presence of theSpirit with God's workers will give the proclamationof truth a power that not all the honor or glory ofthe world could give.

With the consecrated worker for God, inwhatever place he may be, the Holy Spirit abides.The words spoken to the disciples are spoken alsoto us. The Comforter is ours as well as theirs. TheSpirit furnishes the strength that sustains striving,wrestling souls in every emergency, amidst thehatred of the world, and the realization of their ownfailures and mistakes. In sorrow and affliction,when the outlook seems dark and the future

perplexing, and we feel helpless and alone,--theseare the times when, in answer to the prayer offaith, the Holy Spirit brings comfort to the heart.

It is not a conclusive evidence that a man is aChristian because he manifests spiritual ecstasyunder extraordinary circumstances. Holiness is notrapture: it is an entire surrender of the will to God;it is living by every word that proceeds from themouth of God; it is doing the will of our heavenlyFather; it is trusting God in trial, in darkness aswell as in the light; it is walking by faith and not bysight; it is relying on God with unquestioningconfidence, and resting in His love.

It is not essential for us to be able to define justwhat the Holy Spirit is. Christ tells us that the Spiritis the Comforter, "the Spirit of truth, whichproceedeth from the Father." It is plainly declaredregarding the Holy Spirit that, in His work ofguiding men into all truth, "He shall not speak ofHimself." John 15:26; 16:13.

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The nature of the Holy Spirit is a mystery. Mencannot explain it, because the Lord has notrevealed it to them. Men having fanciful views maybring together passages of Scripture and put ahuman construction on them, but the acceptanceof these views will not strengthen the church.Regarding such mysteries, which are too deep forhuman understanding, silence is golden.

The office of the Holy Spirit is distinctlyspecified in the words of Christ: "When He iscome, He will reprove the world of sin, and ofrighteousness, and of judgment." John 16:8. It isthe Holy Spirit that convicts of sin. If the sinnerresponds to the quickening influence of the Spirit,he will be brought to repentance and aroused tothe importance of obeying the divine requirements.

To the repentant sinner, hungering and thirstingfor righteousness, the Holy Spirit reveals the Lambof God that taketh away the sin of the world. "Heshall receive of Mine, and shall show it unto you,"

Christ said. "He shall teach you all things, andbring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever Ihave said unto you." John 16:14; 14:26.

The Spirit is given as a regenerating agency, tomake effectual the salvation wrought by the deathof our Redeemer. The Spirit is constantly seekingto draw the attention of men to the great offeringthat was made on the cross of Calvary, to unfoldto the world the love of God, and to open to theconvicted soul the precious things of theScriptures.

Having brought conviction of sin, andpresented before the mind the standard ofrighteousness, the Holy Spirit

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withdraws the affections from the things of thisearth and fills the soul with a desire for holiness."He will guide you into all truth" (John 16:13), theSaviour declared. If men are willing to be molded,there will be brought about a sanctification of thewhole being. The Spirit will take the things of God

and stamp them on the soul. By His power theway of life will be made so plain that none need errtherein.

From the beginning, God has been working byHis Holy Spirit through human instrumentalities forthe accomplishment of His purpose in behalf of thefallen race. This was manifest in the lives of thepatriarchs. To the church in the wilderness also, inthe time of Moses, God gave His "good Spirit toinstruct them." Nehemiah 9:20. And in the days ofthe apostles He wrought mightily for His churchthrough the agency of the Holy Spirit. The samepower that sustained the patriarchs, that gaveCaleb and Joshua faith and courage, and thatmade the work of the apostolic church effective,has upheld God's faithful children in everysucceeding age. It was through the power of theHoly Spirit that during the Dark Ages theWaldensian Christians helped to prepare the wayfor the Reformation. It was the same power thatmade successful the efforts of the noble men andwomen who pioneered the way for the

establishment of modern missions and for thetranslation of the Bible into the languages anddialects of all nations and peoples.

And today God is still using His church to makeknown His purpose in the earth. Today the heraldsof the cross are going from city to city, and fromland to land, preparing

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the way for the second advent of Christ. Thestandard of God's law is being exalted. The Spiritof the Almighty is moving upon men's hearts, andthose who respond to its influence becomewitnesses for God and His truth. In many placesconsecrated men and women may be seencommunicating to others the light that has madeplain to them the way of salvation through Christ.And as they continue to let their light shine, as didthose who were baptized with the Spirit on the Dayof Pentecost, they receive more and still more ofthe Spirit's power. Thus the earth is to be lightenedwith the glory of God.

On the other hand, there are some who,instead of wisely improving present opportunities,are idly waiting for some special season ofspiritual refreshing by which their ability toenlighten others will be greatly increased. Theyneglect present duties and privileges, and allowtheir light to burn dim, while they look forward to atime when, without any effort on their part, they willbe made the recipients of special blessing, bywhich they will be transformed and fitted forservice.

It is true that in the time of the end, when God'swork in the earth is closing, the earnest efforts putforth by consecrated believers under the guidanceof the Holy Spirit are to be accompanied byspecial tokens of divine favor. Under the figure ofthe early and the latter rain, that falls in Easternlands at seedtime and harvest, the Hebrewprophets foretold the bestowal of spiritual grace inextraordinary measure upon God's church. Theoutpouring of the Spirit in the days of the apostleswas the beginning of the early, or

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former, rain, and glorious was the result. To theend of time the presence of the Spirit is to abidewith the true church.

But near the close of earth's harvest, a specialbestowal of spiritual grace is promised to preparethe church for the coming of the Son of man. Thisoutpouring of the Spirit is likened to the falling ofthe latter rain; and it is for this added power thatChristians are to send their petitions to the Lord ofthe harvest "in the time of the latter rain." Inresponse, "the Lord shall make bright clouds, andgive them showers of rain." "He will cause to comedown . . . the rain, the former rain, and the latterrain," Zechariah 10:1; Joel 2:23.

But unless the members of God's church todayhave a living connection with the Source of allspiritual growth, they will not be ready for the timeof reaping. Unless they keep their lamps trimmedand burning, they will fail of receiving added gracein times of special need.

Those only who are constantly receiving freshsupplies of grace, will have power proportionate totheir daily need and their ability to use that power.Instead of looking forward to some future timewhen, through a special endowment of spiritualpower, they will receive a miraculous fitting up forsoul winning, they are yielding themselves daily toGod, that He may make them vessels meet for Hisuse. Daily they are improving the opportunities forservice that lie within their reach. Daily they arewitnessing for the Master wherever they may be,whether in some humble sphere of labor in thehome, or in a public field of usefulness.

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To the consecrated worker there is wonderfulconsolation in the knowledge that even Christduring His life on earth sought His Father daily forfresh supplies of needed grace; and from thiscommunion with God He went forth to strengthenand bless others. Behold the Son of God bowed in

prayer to His Father! Though He is the Son ofGod, He strengthens His faith by prayer, and bycommunion with heaven gathers to Himself powerto resist evil and to minister to the needs of men.As the Elder Brother of our race He knows thenecessities of those who, compassed with infirmityand living in a world of sin and temptation, stilldesire to serve Him. He knows that themessengers whom He sees fit to send are weak,erring men; but to all who give themselves whollyto His service He promises divine aid. His ownexample is an assurance that earnest, perseveringsupplication to God in faith--faith that leads toentire dependence upon God, and unreservedconsecration to His work--will avail to bring to menthe Holy Spirit's aid in the battle against sin.

Every worker who follows the example of Christwill be prepared to receive and use the power thatGod has promised to His church for the ripening ofearth's harvest. Morning by morning, as theheralds of the gospel kneel before the Lord andrenew their vows of consecration to Him, He will

grant them the presence of His Spirit, with itsreviving, sanctifying power. As they go forth to theday's duties, they have the assurance that theunseen agency of the Holy Spirit enables them tobe "laborers together with God."

Chap. 6 - At the Temple Gate

The disciples of Christ had a deep sense oftheir own inefficiency, and with humiliation andprayer they joined their weakness to His strength,their ignorance to His wisdom, their unworthinessto His righteousness, their poverty to Hisexhaustless wealth. Thus strengthened andequipped, they hesitated not to press forward inthe service of the Master.

A short time after the descent of the Holy Spirit,and immediately after a season of earnest prayer,Peter and John, going up to the temple to worship,saw at the gate Beautiful a cripple, forty years ofage, whose life, from his birth, had been one of

pain and infirmity. This unfortunate man had longdesired to see Jesus, that he might be healed; buthe was almost helpless, and was far removedfrom the scene of the great Physician's labors. Hispleadings at last induced some friends to bear himto the gate of the temple,

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but upon arriving there, he found that the Oneupon whom his hopes were centered, had beenput to a cruel death.

His disappointment excited the sympathy ofthose who knew for how long he had eagerlyhoped to be healed by Jesus, and daily theybrought him to the temple, in order that passers-bymight be induced by pity to give him a trifle torelieve his wants. As Peter and John passed, heasked an alms from them. The disciples regardedhim compassionately, and Peter said, "Look on us.And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receivesomething of them. Then Peter said, Silver andgold have I none." As Peter thus declared his

poverty, the countenance of the cripple fell; but itgrew bright with hope as the apostle continued,"But such as I have give I thee: In the name ofJesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.

"And he took him by the right hand, and liftedhim up: and immediately his feet and ankle-bonesreceived strength. And he leaping up stood, andwalked, and entered with them into the temple,walking, and leaping, and praising God. And allthe people saw him walking and praising God: andthey knew that it was he which sat for alms at theBeautiful Gate of the temple: and they were filledwith wonder and amazement at that which hadhappened."

"And as the lame man which was healed heldPeter and John, all the people ran together untothem in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatlywondering." They were astonished that thedisciples could perform miracles similar to thoseperformed by Jesus. Yet here was this man, for

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forty years a helpless cripple, now rejoicing in thefull use of his limbs, free from pain, and happy inbelieving in Jesus.

When the disciples saw the amazement of thepeople, Peter asked, "Why marvel ye at this? orwhy look ye so earnestly on us, as though by ourown power or holiness we had made this man towalk?" He assured them that the cure had beenwrought in the name and through the merits ofJesus of Nazareth, whom God had raised from thedead. "His name through faith in His name," theapostle declared, "hath made this man strong,whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is byHim hath given him this perfect soundness in thepresence of you all."

The apostles spoke plainly of the great sin ofthe Jews in rejecting and putting to death thePrince of life; but they were careful not to drivetheir hearers to despair. "Ye denied the Holy Oneand the Just," Peter said, "and desired a murdererto be granted unto you; and killed the Prince oflife, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof

we are witnesses." "And now, brethren, I wot thatthrough ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.But those things, which God before had showedby the mouth of all His prophets, that Christ shouldsuffer, He hath so fulfilled." He declared that theHoly Spirit was calling upon them to repent and beconverted, and assured them that there was nohope of salvation except through the mercy of theOne whom they had crucified. Only through faith inHim could their sins be forgiven.

"Repent ye therefore, and be converted," hecried, "that

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your sins may be blotted out, when the times ofrefreshing shall come from the presence of theLord."

"Ye are the children of the prophets, and of thecovenant which God made with our fathers, sayingunto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all thekindreds of the earth be blessed. Unto you firstGod, having raised up His Son Jesus, sent Him to

bless you, in turning away every one of you fromhis iniquities."

Thus the disciples preached the resurrection ofChrist. Many among those who listened werewaiting for this testimony, and when they heard itthey believed. It brought to their minds the wordsthat Christ had spoken, and they took their standin the ranks of those who accepted the gospel.The seed that the Saviour had sown sprang upand bore fruit.

While the disciples were speaking to thepeople, "the priests, and the captain of the temple,and the Sadducees, came upon them, beinggrieved that they taught the people, and preachedthrough Jesus the resurrection from the dead."

After Christ's resurrection the priests hadspread far and near the lying report that His bodyhad been stolen by the disciples while the Romanguard slept. It is not surprising that they weredispleased when they hear Peter and Johnpreaching the resurrection of the One they had

murdered. The Sadducees especially were greatlyaroused. They felt that their most cherisheddoctrine was in danger, and their reputation atstake.

Converts to the new faith were rapidlyincreasing, and both Pharisees and Sadduceesagreed that if these new

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teachers were suffered to go unchecked, their owninfluence would be in greater danger than whenJesus was upon the earth. Accordingly, thecaptain of the temple, with the help of a number ofSadducees, arrested Peter and John, and putthem in prison, as it was too late that day for themto be examined.

The enemies of the disciples could not but beconvinced that Christ had risen from the dead. Theevidence was too clear to be doubted.Nevertheless, they hardened their hearts, refusingto repent of the terrible deed they had committedin putting Jesus to death. Abundant evidence that

the apostles were speaking and acting underdivine inspiration had been given the Jewishrulers, but they firmly resisted the message oftruth. Christ had not come in the manner that theyexpected, and though at times they had beenconvinced that He was the Son of God, yet theyhad stifled conviction, and crucified Him. In mercyGod gave them still further evidence, and nowanother opportunity was granted them to turn toHim. He sent the disciples to tell them that theyhad killed the Prince of life, and in this terriblecharge He gave them another call to repentance.But feeling secure in their own righteousness, theJewish teachers refused to admit that the mencharging them with crucifying Christ werespeaking by the direction of the Holy Spirit.

Having committed themselves to a course ofopposition to Christ, every act of resistancebecame to the priests an additional incentive topursue the same course. Their obstinacy becamemore and more determined. It was not that they

could not yield; they could, but would not. It wasnot

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alone because they were guilty and deserving ofdeath, not alone because they had put to deaththe Son of God, that they were cut off fromsalvation; it was because they armed themselveswith opposition to God. They persistently rejectedlight and stifled the convictions of the Spirit. Theinfluence that controls the children of disobedienceworked in them, leading them to abuse the menthrough whom God was working. The malignity oftheir rebellion was intensified by each successiveact of resistance against God and the message Hehad given His servants to declare. Every day, intheir refusal to repent, the Jewish leaders took uptheir rebellion afresh, preparing to reap that whichthey had sown.

The wrath of God is not declared againstunrepentant sinners merely because of the sinsthey have committed, but because, when called to

repent, they choose to continue in resistance,repeating the sins of the past in defiance of thelight given them. If the Jewish leaders hadsubmitted to the convicting power of the HolySpirit, they would have been pardoned; but theywere determined not to yield. In the same way, thesinner, by continued resistance, places himselfwhere the Holy Spirit cannot influence him.

On the day following the healing of the cripple,Annas and Caiaphas, with the other dignitaries ofthe temple, met together for the trial, and theprisoners were brought before them. In that veryroom and before some of those very men, Peterhad shamefully denied his Lord. This camedistinctly to his mind as he appeared for his owntrial. He now had an opportunity of redeeming hiscowardice.

Those present who remembered the part thatPeter had

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acted at the trial of his Master, flatteredthemselves that he could now be intimidated bythe threat of imprisonment and death. But thePeter who denied Christ in the hour of His greatestneed was impulsive and self-confident, differingwidely from the Peter who was brought before theSanhedrin for examination. Since his fall he hadbeen converted. He was no longer proud andboastful, but modest and self-distrustful. He wasfilled with the Holy Spirit, and by the help of thispower he was resolved to remove the stain of hisapostasy by honoring the name he had oncedisowned.

Hitherto the priests had avoided mentioning thecrucifixion or the resurrection of Jesus. But now, infulfillment of their purpose, they were forced toinquire of the accused how the cure of theimpotent man had been accomplished. "By whatpower, or by what name, have ye done this?" theyasked.

With holy boldness and in the power of theSpirit Peter fearlessly declared: "Be it known unto

you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by thename of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom yecrucified, whom God raised from the dead, evenby Him doth this man stand here before youwhole. This is the stone which was set at noughtof you builders, which is become the head of thecorner. Neither is there salvation in any other: forthere is none other name under heaven givenamong men, whereby we must be saved."

This courageous defense appalled the Jewishleaders. They had supposed that the discipleswould be overcome with fear and confusion whenbrought before the Sanhedrin.

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But, instead, these witnesses spoke as Christ hadspoken, with a convincing power that silencedtheir adversaries. There was no trace of fear inPeter's voice as he declared of Christ, "This is thestone which was set at nought of you builders,which is become the head of the corner."

Peter here used a figure of speech familiar tothe priests. The prophets had spoken of therejected stone; and Christ Himself, speaking onone occasion to the priests and elders, said: "Didye never read in the Scriptures, The stone whichthe builders rejected, the same is become thehead of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and itis marvelous in our eyes? Therefore say I untoyou, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you,and given to a nation bringing forth the fruitsthereof. And whosoever shall fall on this stoneshall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, itwill grind him to powder." Matthew 21:42-44.

As the priests listened to the apostles' fearlesswords, "they took knowledge of them, that theyhad been with Jesus."

Of the disciples after the transfiguration ofChrist it is written that at the close of thatwonderful scene "they saw no man, save Jesusonly." Matthew 17:8. "Jesus only"-- in these wordsis contained the secret of the life and power thatmarked the history of the early church. When the

disciples first heard the words of Christ, they felttheir need of Him. They sought, they found, theyfollowed Him. They were with Him in the temple, atthe table, on the mountainside, in the field. Theywere as pupils with a teacher, daily receiving fromHim lessons of eternal truth.

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After the Saviour's ascension, the sense of thedivine presence, full of love and light, was still withthem. It was a personal presence. Jesus, theSaviour, who had walked and talked and prayedwith them, who had spoken hope and comfort totheir hearts, had, while the message of peace wasupon His lips, been taken from them into heaven.As the chariot of angels received Him, His wordshad come to them, "Lo, I am with you alway, evenunto the end." Matthew 28:20. He had ascendedto heaven in the form of humanity. They knew thatHe was before the throne of God, their Friend andSaviour still; that His sympathies were unchanged;

that He would forever be identified with sufferinghumanity. They knew that He was presentingbefore God the merit of His blood, showing Hiswounded hands and feet as a remembrance of theprice He had paid for His redeemed ones; and thisthought strengthened them to endure reproach forHis sake. Their union with Him was stronger nowthan when He was with them in person. The lightand love and power of an indwelling Christ shoneout through them, so that men, beholding,marveled.

Christ placed His seal on the words that Peterspoke in His defense. Close beside the disciple,as a convincing witness, stood the man who hadbeen so miraculously healed. The appearance ofthis man, a few hours before a helpless cripple,but now restored to soundness of health, added aweight of testimony to Peter's words. Priests andrulers were silent. They were unable to refutePeter's statement, but they were nonethelessdetermined to put a stop to the teaching of thedisciples.

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Christ's crowning miracle--the raising ofLazarus--had sealed the determination of thepriests to rid the world of Jesus and His wonderfulworks, which were fast destroying their influenceover the people. They had crucified Him; but herewas a convincing proof that they had not put astop to the working of miracles in His name, nor tothe proclamation of the truth He taught. Alreadythe healing of the cripple and the preaching of theapostles had filled Jerusalem with excitement.

In order to conceal their perplexity, the priestsand rulers ordered the apostles to be taken away,that they might counsel among themselves. Theyall agreed that it would be useless to deny that theman had been healed. Gladly would they havecovered up the miracle by falsehoods; but this wasimpossible, for it had been wrought in the full lightof day, before a multitude of people, and hadalready come to the knowledge of thousands.

They felt that the work of the disciples must bestopped or Jesus would gain many followers. Theirown disgrace would follow, for they would be heldguilty of the murder of the Son of God.

But notwithstanding their desire to destroy thedisciples, the priests dared not do more thanthreaten them with the severest punishment if theycontinued to speak or to work in the name ofJesus. Calling them again before the Sanhedrin,they commanded them not to speak or teach inthe name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered:"Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearkenunto you more than unto God, judge ye. For wecannot but speak the things which we have seenand heard."

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Gladly would the priests have punished thesemen for their unswerving fidelity to their sacredcalling, but they feared the people; "for all menglorified God for that which was done." So, with

repeated threats and injunctions, the apostleswere set at liberty.

While Peter and John were prisoners, the otherdisciples, knowing the malignity of the Jews, hadprayed unceasingly for their brethren, fearing thatthe cruelty shown to Christ might be repeated. Assoon as the apostles were released, they soughtthe rest of the disciples and reported to them theresult of the examination. Great was the joy of thebelievers. "They lifted up their voice to God withone accord, and said, Lord, Thou art God, whichhast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and allthat in them is: who by the mouth of Thy servantDavid hast said, Why did the heathen rage, andthe people imagine vain things? The kings of theearth stood up, and the rulers were gatheredtogether against the Lord, and against His Christ.For of a truth against Thy Holy Child Jesus, whomThou hast anointed, both Herod, and PontiusPilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel,were gathered together, for to do whatsoever Thy

hand and Thy counsel determined before to bedone.

"And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: andgrant unto Thy servants, that with all boldnessthey may speak Thy word, by stretching forthThine hand to heal; and that signs and wondersmay be done by the name of Thy Holy ChildJesus."

The disciples prayed that greater strengthmight be imparted to them in the work of theministry; for they saw

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that they would meet the same determinedopposition that Christ had encountered when uponthe earth. While their united prayers wereascending in faith to heaven, the answer came.The place where they were assembled wasshaken, and they were endowed anew with theHoly Spirit. Their hearts filled with courage, theyagain went forth to proclaim the word of God inJerusalem. "With great power gave the apostles

witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus," andGod marvelously blessed their efforts.

The principle for which the disciples stood sofearlessly when, in answer to the command not tospeak any more in the name of Jesus, theydeclared, "Whether it be right in the sight of God tohearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye,"is the same that the adherents of the gospelstruggled to maintain in the days of theReformation. When in 1529 the German princesassembled at the Diet of Spires, there waspresented the emperor's decree restrictingreligious liberty, and prohibiting all furtherdissemination of the reformed doctrines. It seemedthat the hope of the world was about to be crushedout. Would the princes accept the decree? Shouldthe light of the gospel be shut out from themultitudes still in darkness? Mighty issues for theworld were at stake. Those who had accepted thereformed faith met together, and their unanimousdecision was, "Let us reject this decree. In matters

of conscience the majority has no power."--Merled'Aubigne, History of the Reformation, b. 13, ch. 5.

This principle we in our day are firmly tomaintain. The banner of truth and religious libertyheld aloft by the founders

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of the gospel church and by God's witnessesduring the centuries that have passed since then,has, in this last conflict, been committed to ourhands. The responsibility for this great gift restswith those whom God has blessed with aknowledge of His word. We are to receive thisword as supreme authority. We are to recognizehuman government as an ordinance of divineappointment, and teach obedience to it as asacred duty, within its legitimate sphere. But whenits claims conflict with the claims of God, we mustobey God rather than men. God's word must berecognized as above all human legislation. A"Thus saith the Lord" is not to be set aside for a"Thus saith the church" or a "Thus saith the state."

The crown of Christ is to be lifted above thediadems of earthly potentates.

We are not required to defy authorities. Ourwords, whether spoken or written, should becarefully considered, lest we place ourselves onrecord as uttering that which would make usappear antagonistic to law and order. We are notto say or do anything that would unnecessarilyclose up our way. We are to go forward in Christ'sname, advocating the truths committed to us. If weare forbidden by men to do this work, then we maysay, as did the apostles, "Whether it be right in thesight of God to hearken unto you more than untoGod, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the thingswhich we have seen and heard."

Chap. 7 - A Warning Against Hypocrisy

As the disciples proclaimed the truths of thegospel in Jerusalem, God bore witness to theirword, and a multitude believed. Many of these

early believers were immediately cut off fromfamily and friends by the zealous bigotry of theJews, and it was necessary to provide them withfood and shelter.

The record declares, "Neither was there anyamong them that lacked," and it tells how the needwas filled. Those among the believers who hadmoney and possessions cheerfully sacrificed themto meet the emergency. Selling their houses ortheir lands, they brought the money and laid it atthe apostles' feet, "and distribution was made untoevery man according as he had need."

This liberality on the part of the believers wasthe result of the outpouring of the Spirit. Theconverts to the gospel were "of one heart and ofone soul." One common interest controlled them--the success of the mission entrusted to

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them; and covetousness had no place in theirlives. Their love for their brethren and the causethey had espoused, was greater than their love of

money and possessions. Their works testified thatthey accounted the souls of men of higher valuethen earthly wealth.

Thus it will ever be when the Spirit of Godtakes possession of the life. Those whose heartsare filled with the love of Christ, will follow theexample of Him who for our sake became poor,that through His poverty we might be made rich.Money, time, influence--all the gifts they havereceived from God's hand, they will value only as ameans of advancing the work of the gospel. Thusit was in the early church; and when in the churchof today it is seen that by the power of the Spiritthe members have taken their affections from thethings of the world, and that they are willing tomake sacrifices in order that their fellow men mayhear the gospel, the truths proclaimed will have apowerful influence upon the hearers.

In sharp contrast to the example ofbenevolence shown by the believers, was theconduct of Ananias and Sapphira, whoseexperience, traced by the pen of Inspiration, has

left a dark stain upon the history of the earlychurch. With others, these professed disciples hadshared the privilege of hearing the gospelpreached by the apostles. They had been presentwith other believers when, after the apostles hadprayed, "the place was shaken where they wereassembled together; and they were all filled withthe Holy Ghost." Acts 4:31. Deep conviction hadrested upon all present, and under the directinfluence of the Spirit of God,

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Ananias and Sapphira had made a pledge to giveto the Lord the proceeds from the sale of certainproperty.

Afterward, Ananias and Sapphira grieved theHoly Spirit by yielding to feelings of covetousness.They began to regret their promise and soon lostthe sweet influence of the blessing that hadwarmed their hearts with a desire to do largethings in behalf of the cause of Christ. Theythought they had been too hasty, that they ought

to reconsider their decision. They talked the matterover, and decided not to fulfill their pledge. Theysaw, however, that those who parted with theirpossessions to supply the needs of their poorerbrethren, were held in high esteem among thebelievers; and ashamed to have their brethrenknow that their selfish souls grudged that whichthey had solemnly dedicated to God, theydeliberately decided to sell their property andpretend to give all the proceeds into the generalfund, but really to keep a large share forthemselves. Thus they would secure their livingfrom the common store and at the same time gainthe high esteem of their brethren.

But God hates hypocrisy and falsehood.Ananias and Sapphira practiced fraud in theirdealing with God; they lied to the Holy Spirit, andtheir sin was visited with swift and terriblejudgment. When Ananias came with his offering,Peter said: "Ananias, why hath Satan filled thineheart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep backpart of the price of the land? Whiles it remained,

was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was itnot in thine own power? why hast thou conceivedthis thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied untomen, but unto God."

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"Ananias hearing these words fell down, andgave up the ghost: and great fear came on allthem that heard these things."

"Whiles it remained, was it not thine own?"Peter asked. No undue influence had beenbrought to bear upon Ananias to compel him tosacrifice his possessions to the general good. Hehad acted from choice. But in attempting todeceive the disciples, he had lied to the Almighty.

"It was about the space of three hours after,when his wife, not knowing what was done, camein. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whetherye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea,for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is itthat ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of

the Lord? behold, the feet of them which haveburied thy husband are at the door, and shall carrythee out. Then fell she down straightway at hisfeet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young mencame in, and found her dead, and, carrying herforth, buried her by her husband. And great fearcame upon all the church, and upon as many asheard these things."

Infinite Wisdom saw that this signalmanifestation of the wrath of God was necessaryto guard the young church from becomingdemoralized. Their numbers were rapidlyincreasing. The church would have beenendangered if, in the rapid increase of converts,men and women had been added who, whileprofessing to serve God, were worshipingmammon. This judgment testified that men cannotdeceive God, that He detects the hidden sin of theheart, and that He will not be mocked. It wasdesigned as a warning to

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the church, to lead them to avoid pretense andhypocrisy, and to beware of robbing God.

Not to the early church only, but to all futuregenerations, this example of God's hatred ofcovetousness, fraud, and hypocrisy, was given asa danger-signal. It was covetousness that Ananiasand Sapphira had first cherished. The desire toretain for themselves a part of that which they hadpromised to the Lord, led them into fraud andhypocrisy.

God has made the proclamation of the gospeldependent upon the labors and the gifts of Hispeople. Voluntary offerings and the tithe constitutethe revenue of the Lord's work. Of the meansentrusted to man, God claims a certain portion,--the tenth. He leaves all free to say whether or notthey will give more than this. But when the heart isstirred by the influence of the Holy Spirit, and avow is made to give a certain amount, the onewho vows has no longer any right to theconsecrated portion. Promises of this kind made tomen would be looked upon as binding; are those

not more binding that are made to God? Arepromises tried in the court of conscience lessbinding than written agreements of men?

When divine light is shining into the heart withunusual clearness and power, habitual selfishnessrelaxes its grasp and there is a disposition to giveto the cause of God. But none need think that theywill be allowed to fulfill the promises then made,without a protest on the part of Satan. He is notpleased to see the Redeemer's kingdom on earthbuilt up. He suggests that the pledge made wastoo much,

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that it may cripple them in their efforts to acquireproperty or gratify the desires of their families.

It is God who blesses men with property, andHe does this that they may be able to give towardthe advancement of His cause. He sends thesunshine and the rain. He causes vegetation toflourish. He gives health and the ability to acquiremeans. All our blessings come from His bountiful

hand. In turn, He would have men and womenshow their gratitude by returning Him a portion intithes and offerings--in thank offerings, in freewillofferings, in trespass offerings. Should means flowinto the treasury in accordance with this divinelyappointed plan,--a tenth of all the increase, andliberal offerings,--there would be an abundance forthe advancement of the Lord's work.

But the hearts of men become hardenedthrough selfishness, and, like Ananias andSapphira, they are tempted to withhold part of theprice, while pretending to fulfill God'srequirements. Many spend money lavishly in self-gratification. Men and women consult theirpleasure and gratify their taste, while they bring toGod, almost unwillingly, a stinted offering. Theyforget that God will one day demand a strictaccount of how His goods have been used, andthat He will no more accept the pittance they handinto the treasury than He accepted the offering ofAnanias and Sapphira.

From the stern punishment meted out to thoseperjurers, God would have us learn also howdeep is His hatred and contempt for all hypocrisyand deception. In pretending

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that they had given all, Ananias and Sapphira liedto the Holy Spirit, and, as a result, they lost this lifeand the life that is to come. The same God whopunished them, today condemns all falsehood.Lying lips are an abomination to Him. He declaresthat into the Holy City "there shall in no wiseenter . . . anything that defileth, neither whatsoeverworketh abomination, or maketh a lie." Revelation21:27. Let truth telling be held with no loose handor uncertain grasp. Let it become a part of the life.Playing fast and loose with truth, and dissemblingto suit one's own selfish plans, means shipwreckof faith. "Stand therefore, having your loins girtabout with truth." Ephesians 6:14. He who uttersuntruths sells his soul in a cheap market. Hisfalsehoods may seem to serve in emergencies; hemay thus seem to make business advancement

that he could not gain by fair dealing; but he finallyreaches the place where he can trust no one.Himself a falsifier, he has no confidence in theword of others.

In the case of Ananias and Sapphira, the sin offraud against God was speedily punished. Thesame sin was often repeated in the after history ofthe church and is committed by many in our time.But though it may not be attended by the visiblemanifestation of God's displeasure, it is no lessheinous in His sight now than in the apostles' time.The warning has been given; God has clearlymanifested His abhorrence of this sin; and all whogive themselves up to hypocrisy andcovetousness may be sure that they aredestroying their own souls.

Chap. 8 - Before the Sanhedrin

It was the cross, that instrument of shame andtorture, which brought hope and salvation to the

world. The disciples were but humble men, withoutwealth, and with no weapon but the word of God;yet in Christ's strength they went forth to tell thewonderful story of the manger and the cross, andto triumph over all opposition. Without earthlyhonor or recognition, they were heroes of faith.From their lips came words of divine eloquencethat shook the world.

In Jerusalem, where the deepest prejudiceexisted, and where the most confused ideasprevailed in regard to Him who had been crucifiedas a malefactor, the disciples continued to speakwith boldness the words of life, setting before theJews the work and mission of Christ, Hiscrucifixion, resurrection, and ascension. Priestsand rulers heard with amazement the clear, boldtestimony of the apostles. The power of the risenSaviour had indeed fallen on the

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disciples, and their work was accompanied bysigns and miracles that daily increased the

number of believers. Along the streets where thedisciples were to pass, the people laid their sick"on beds and couches, that at the least theshadow of Peter passing by might overshadowsome of them." Here also were brought thosevexed with unclean spirits. The crowds gatheredround them, and those who were healed shoutedthe praises of God and glorified the name of theRedeemer.

The priests and rulers saw that Christ wasextolled above them. As the Sadducees, who didnot believe in a resurrection, heard the apostlesdeclaring that Christ had risen from the dead, theywere enraged, realizing that if the apostles wereallowed to preach a risen Saviour, and to workmiracles in His name, the doctrine that there wouldbe no resurrection would be rejected by all, andthe sect of the Sadducees would soon becomeextinct. The Pharisees were angry as theyperceived that the tendency of the disciples'teaching was to undermine the Jewish

ceremonies, and make the sacrificial offerings ofno effect.

Hitherto all the efforts made to suppress thisnew teaching had been in vain; but now bothSadducees and Pharisees determined that thework of the disciples should be stopped, for it wasproving them guilty of the death of Jesus. Filledwith indignation, the priests laid violent hands onPeter and John, and put them in the commonprison.

The leaders in the Jewish nation had signallyfailed of fulfilling God's purpose for His chosenpeople. Those

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whom the Lord had made the depositaries of truthhad proved unfaithful to their trust, and God choseothers to do His work. In their blindness theseleaders now gave full sway to what they calledrighteous indignation against the ones who weresetting aside their cherished doctrines. They wouldnot admit even the possibility that they themselves

did not rightly understand the word, or that theyhad misinterpreted or misapplied the Scriptures.They acted like men who had lost their reason.What right have these teachers, they said, someof them mere fishermen, to present ideas contraryto the doctrines that we have taught the people?Being determined to suppress the teaching ofthese ideas, they imprisoned those who werepresenting them.

The disciples were not intimidated or cast downby this treatment. The Holy Spirit brought to theirminds the words spoken by Christ: "The servant isnot greater than his lord. If they have persecutedMe, they will also persecute you; if they have keptMy saying, they will keep yours also. But all thesethings will they do unto you for My name's sake,because they know not Him that sent Me." "Theyshall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the timecometh, that whosoever killeth you will think thathe doeth God service." "These things have I toldyou, that when the time shall come, ye may

remember that I told you of them." John 15:20, 21;16:2, 4.

The God of heaven, the mighty Ruler of theuniverse, took the matter of the imprisonment ofthe disciples into His own hands, for men werewarring against His work. By night

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the angel of the Lord opened the prison doors andsaid to the disciples, "Go, stand and speak in thetemple to the people all the words of this life." Thiscommand was directly contrary to the order givenby the Jewish rulers; but did the apostles say, Wecannot do this until we have consulted themagistrates and received permission from them?No; God had said, "Go," and they obeyed. "Theyentered into the temple early in the morning, andtaught."

When Peter and John appeared among thebelievers and recounted how the angel had ledthem directly through the band of soldiersguarding the prison, bidding them resume the

work that had been interrupted, the brethren werefilled with amazement and joy.

In the meantime the high priest and those withhim had "called the council together, and all thesenate of the children of Israel." The priests andrulers had decided to fix upon the disciples thecharge of insurrection, to accuse them ofmurdering Ananias and Sapphira, and ofconspiring to deprive the priests of their authority.They hoped so to excite the mob that it would takethe matter in hand and deal with the disciples as ithad dealt with Jesus. They were aware that manywho did not accept the teachings of Christ wereweary of the arbitrary rule of the Jewish authoritiesand anxious for some change. The priests fearedthat if these dissatisfied ones were to accept thetruths proclaimed by the apostles, and were toacknowledge Jesus as the Messiah, the anger ofthe entire people would be raised against thereligious leaders, who would then be made toanswer

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for the murder of Christ. They decided to takestrong measures to prevent this.

When they sent for the prisoners to be broughtbefore them, great was their amazement at theword brought back that the prison doors werefound to be securely bolted and the guardstationed before them, but that the prisoners werenowhere to be found.

Soon the astonishing report came, "Behold, themen whom ye put in prison are standing in thetemple, and teaching the people. Then went thecaptain with the officers, and brought them withoutviolence: for they feared the people, lest theyshould have been stoned."

Although the apostles were miraculouslydelivered from prison, they were not safe fromexamination and punishment. Christ had saidwhen He was with them, "Take heed toyourselves: for they shall deliver you up tocouncils." Mark 13:9. By sending an angel todeliver them, God had given them a token of His

love and an assurance of His presence. It wasnow their part to suffer for the sake of the Onewhose gospel they were preaching.

In the history of prophets and apostles, aremany noble examples of loyalty to God. Christ'switnesses have endured imprisonment, torture,and death itself, rather than break God'scommands. The record left by Peter and John isas heroic as any in the gospel dispensation. Asthey stood for the second time before the menwho seemed bent on their destruction, no fear orhesitation could be discerned in their words orattitude. And when the high priest said, "Did wenot straitly command you that ye should not teachin

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this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalemwith your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man'sblood upon us," Peter answered, "We ought toobey God rather than men." It was an angel fromheaven who delivered them from prison and bade

them teach in the temple. In following hisdirections they were obeying the divine command,and this they must continue to do at whatever costto themselves.

Then the Spirit of Inspiration came upon thedisciples; the accused became the accusers,charging the murder of Christ upon those whocomposed the council. "The God of our fathersraised up Jesus," Peter declared, "whom ye slewand hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted withHis right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for togive repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.And we are His witnesses of these things; and sois also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given tothem that obey Him."

So enraged were the Jews at these words thatthey decided to take the law into their own handsand without further trial, or without authority fromthe Roman officers, to put the prisoners to death.Already guilty of the blood of Christ, they werenow eager to stain their hands with the blood ofHis disciples.

But in the council there was one man whorecognized the voice of God in the words spokenby the disciples. This was Gamaliel, a Pharisee ofgood reputation and a man of learning and highposition. His clear intellect saw that the violentstep contemplated by the priests would lead toterrible consequences. Before addressing thosepresent, he

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requested that the prisoners be removed. He wellknew the elements he had to deal with; he knewthat the murderers of Christ would hesitate atnothing in order to carry out their purpose.

He then spoke with great deliberation andcalmness, saying: "Ye men of Israel, take heed toyourselves what ye intend to do as touching thesemen. For before these days rose up Theudas,boasting himself to be somebody; to whom anumber of men, about four hundred, joinedthemselves: who was slain; and all, as many asobeyed him, were scattered, and brought to

nought. After this man rose up Judas of Galilee inthe days of the taxing, and drew away muchpeople after him: he also perished; and all, evenas many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And nowI say unto you, Refrain from these men, and letthem alone: for if this counsel or this work be ofmen, it will come to nought: but if it be of God, yecannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even tofight against God."

The priests saw the reasonableness of theseviews, and were obliged to agree with Gamaliel.Yet their prejudice and hatred could hardly berestrained. Very reluctantly, after beating thedisciples and charging them again at the peril oftheir lives to preach no more in the name of Jesus,they released them. "And they departed from thepresence of the council, rejoicing that they werecounted worthy to suffer shame for His name. Anddaily in the temple, and in every house, theyceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ."

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Shortly before His crucifixion Christ hadbequeathed to His disciples a legacy of peace."Peace I leave with you," He said, "My peace Igive unto you: not as the world giveth, give I untoyou. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it beafraid." John 14:27. This peace is not the peacethat comes through conformity to the world. Christnever purchased peace by compromise with evil.The peace that Christ left His disciples is internalrather than external and was ever to remain withHis witnesses through strife and contention.

Christ said of Himself, "Think not that I amcome to send peace on earth: I came not to sendpeace, but a sword." Matthew 10:34. The Prince ofPeace, He was yet the cause of division. He whocame to proclaim glad tidings and to create hopeand joy in the hearts of the children of men,opened a controversy that burns deep andarouses intense passion in the human heart. AndHe warns His followers, "In the world ye shall havetribulation." "They shall lay their hands on you, and

persecute you, delivering you up to thesynagogues, and into prisons, being broughtbefore kings and rulers for My name's sake." "Yeshall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren,and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shallthey cause to be put to death." John 16:33; Luke21:12, 16.

This prophecy has been fulfilled in a markedmanner. Every indignity, reproach, and cruelty thatSatan could instigate human hearts to devise, hasbeen visited upon the followers of Jesus. And itwill be again fulfilled in a marked manner; for thecarnal heart is still at enmity with the law of

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God, and will not be subject to its commands. Theworld is no more in harmony with the principles ofChrist today than it was in the days of theapostles. The same hatred that prompted the cry,"Crucify Him! crucify Him!" the same hatred thatled to the persecution of the disciples, still works inthe children of disobedience. The same spirit

which in the Dark Ages consigned men andwomen to prison, to exile, and to death, whichconceived the exquisite torture of the Inquisition,which planned and executed the Massacre of St.Bartholomew, and which kindled the fires ofSmithfield, is still at work with malignant energy inunregenerate hearts. The history of truth has everbeen the record of a struggle between right andwrong. The proclamation of the gospel has everbeen carried forward in this world in the face ofopposition, peril, loss, and suffering.

What was the strength of those who in the pasthave suffered persecution for Christ's sake? It wasunion with God, union with the Holy Spirit, unionwith Christ. Reproach and persecution haveseparated many from earthly friends, but neverfrom the love of Christ. Never is the tempest-triedsoul more dearly loved by His Saviour than whenhe is suffering reproach for the truth's sake. "I willlove him," Christ said, "and will manifest Myself tohim." John 14:21. When for the truth's sake thebeliever stands at the bar of earthly tribunals,

Christ stands by his side. When he is confinedwithin prison walls, Christ manifests Himself to himand cheers his heart with His love. When hesuffers death for Christ's sake, the Saviour says tohim, They may kill the body, but they cannot hurtthe soul. "Be of good cheer; I

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have overcome the world." "Fear thou not; for I amwith thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I willstrengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I willuphold thee with the right hand of Myrighteousness." John 16:33; Isaiah 41:10.

"They that trust in the Lord shall be as MountZion, which cannot be removed, but abidethforever. As the mountains are round aboutJerusalem, so the Lord is round about His peoplefrom henceforth even forever." "He shall redeemtheir soul from deceit and violence: and preciousshall their blood be in His sight." Psalm 125:1-3;72:14.

"The Lord of hosts shall defend them; . . . theLord their God shall save them in that day as theflock of His people: for they shall be as the stonesof a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon His land."Zechariah 9:15, 16.

Chap. 9 - The Seven Deacons

"In those days, when the number of thedisciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuringof the Grecians against the Hebrews, becausetheir widows were neglected in the dailyministration."

The early church was made up of manyclasses of people, of various nationalities. At thetime of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit atPentecost, "there were dwelling at JerusalemJews, devout men, out of every nation underheaven." Acts 2:5. Among those of the Hebrewfaith who were gathered at Jerusalem were somecommonly known as Grecians, between whom

and the Jews of Palestine there had long existeddistrust and even antagonism.

The hearts of those who had been convertedunder the labors of the apostles, were softenedand united by Christian love. Despite formerprejudices, all were in harmony with one another.Satan knew that so long as this union continued

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to exist, he would be powerless to check theprogress of gospel truth; and he sought to takeadvantage of former habits of thought, in the hopethat thereby he might be able to introduce into thechurch elements of disunion.

Thus it came to pass that as disciples weremultiplied, the enemy succeeded in arousing thesuspicions of some who had formerly been in thehabit of looking with jealousy on their brethren inthe faith and of finding fault with their spiritualleaders, and so "there arose a murmuring of theGrecians against the Hebrews." The cause ofcomplaint was an alleged neglect of the Greek

widows in the daily distribution of assistance. Anyinequality would have been contrary to the spirit ofthe gospel, yet Satan had succeeded in arousingsuspicion. Prompt measures must now be taken toremove all occasion for dissatisfaction, lest theenemy triumph in his effort to bring about adivision among the believers.

The disciples of Jesus had reached a crisis intheir experience. Under the wise leadership of theapostles, who labored unitedly in the power of theHoly Spirit, the work committed to the gospelmessengers was developing rapidly. The churchwas continually enlarging, and this growth inmembership brought increasingly heavy burdensupon those in charge. No one man, or even oneset of men, could continue to bear these burdensalone, without imperiling the future prosperity ofthe church. There was necessity for a furtherdistribution of the responsibilities which had beenborne so faithfully by a few during the earlier daysof the church. The apostles must now take animportant step in

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the perfecting of gospel order in the church bylaying upon others some of the burdens thus farborne by themselves.

Summoning a meeting of the believers, theapostles were led by the Holy Spirit to outline aplan for the better organization of all the workingforces of the church. The time had come, theapostles stated, when the spiritual leaders havingthe oversight of the church should be relieved fromthe task of distributing to the poor and from similarburdens, so that they might be free to carryforward the work of preaching the gospel."Wherefore, brethren," they said, "look ye outamong you seven men of honest report, full of theHoly Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appointover this business. But we will give ourselvescontinually to prayer, and to the ministry of theword." This advice was followed, and by prayerand the laying on of hands, seven chosen menwere solemnly set apart for their duties asdeacons.

The appointment of the seven to take theoversight of special lines of work, proved a greatblessing to the church. These officers gave carefulconsideration to individual needs as well as to thegeneral financial interests of the church, and bytheir prudent management and their godlyexample they were an important aid to their fellowofficers in binding together the various interests ofthe church into a united whole.

That this step was in the order of God, isrevealed in the immediate results for good thatwere seen. "The word of God increased; and thenumber of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalemgreatly; and a great company of the priests

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were obedient to the faith." This ingathering ofsouls was due both to the greater freedomsecured by the apostles and to the zeal and powershown by the seven deacons. The fact that thesebrethren had been ordained for the special work oflooking after the needs of the poor, did not exclude

them from teaching the faith. On the contrary, theywere fully qualified to instruct others in the truth,and they engaged in the work with greatearnestness and success.

To the early church had been entrusted aconstantly enlarging work--that of establishingcenters of light and blessing wherever there werehonest souls willing to give themselves to theservice of Christ. The proclamation of the gospelwas to be world-wide in its extent, and themessengers of the cross could not hope to fulfilltheir important mission unless they should remainunited in the bonds of Christian unity, and thusreveal to the world that they were one with Christin God. Had not their divine Leader prayed to theFather, "Keep through Thine own name thosewhom Thou hast given Me, that they may be one,as We are"? And had He not declared of Hisdisciples, "The world hath hated them, becausethey are not of the world"? Had He not pleadedwith the Father that they might be "made perfect inone," "that the world may believe that Thou hast

sent Me"? John 17:11, 14, 23, 21. Their spirituallife and power was dependent on a closeconnection with the One by whom they had beencommissioned to preach the gospel.

Only as they were united with Christ could thedisciples hope to have the accompanying power ofthe Holy Spirit and

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the co-operation of angels of heaven. With thehelp of these divine agencies they would presentbefore the world a united front and would bevictorious in the conflict they were compelled towage unceasingly against the powers of darkness.As they should continue to labor unitedly,heavenly messengers would go before them,opening the way; hearts would be prepared for thereception of truth, and many would be won toChrist. So long as they remained united, thechurch would go forth "fair as the moon, clear asthe sun, and terrible as an army with banners."Song of Solomon 6:10. Nothing could withstand

her onward progress. The church would advancefrom victory to victory, gloriously fulfilling her divinemission of proclaiming the gospel to the world.

The organization of the church at Jerusalemwas to serve as a model for the organization ofchurches in every other place where messengersof truth should win converts to the gospel. Thoseto whom was given the responsibility of thegeneral oversight of the church were not to lord itover God's heritage, but, as wise shepherds, wereto "feed the flock of God, . . . being ensamples tothe flock" (1 Peter 5:2, 3); and the deacons wereto be "men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghostand wisdom." These men were to take theirposition unitedly on the side of right and tomaintain it with firmness and decision. Thus theywould have a uniting influence upon the entireflock.

Later in the history of the early church, when invarious parts of the world many groups ofbelievers had been formed into churches, theorganization of the church was further

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perfected, so that order and harmonious actionmight be maintained. Every member was exhortedto act well his part. Each was to make a wise useof the talents entrusted to him. Some wereendowed by the Holy Spirit with special gifts--"firstapostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers,after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps,governments, diversities of tongues." 1Corinthians 12:28. But all these classes of workerswere to labor in harmony.

"There are diversities of gifts, but the sameSpirit. And there are differences of administrations,but the same Lord. And there are diversities ofoperations, but it is the same God which workethall in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is givento every man to profit withal. For to one is given bythe Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the wordof knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faithby the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healingby the same Spirit; to another the working ofmiracles; to another prophecy; to another

discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds oftongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:but all these worketh that one and the selfsameSpirit, dividing to every man severally as He will.For as the body is one, and hath many members,and all the members of that one body, beingmany, are one body: so also is Christ." 1Corinthians 12:4-12.

Solemn are the responsibilities resting uponthose who are called to act as leaders in thechurch of God on earth. In the days of thetheocracy, when Moses was endeavoring to carryalone burdens so heavy that he would soon have

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worn away under them, he was counseled byJethro to plan for a wise distribution ofresponsibilities. "Be thou for the people toGodward," Jethro advised, "that thou mayest bringthe causes unto God: and thou shalt teach themordinances and laws, and shalt show them theway wherein they must walk, and the work that

they must do." Jethro further advised that men beappointed to act as "rulers of thousands, andrulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers oftens." These were to be "able men, such as fearGod, men of truth, hating covetousness." Theywere to "judge the people at all seasons," thusrelieving Moses of the wearing responsibility ofgiving consideration to many minor matters thatcould be dealt with wisely by consecrated helpers.

The time and strength of those who in theprovidence of God have been placed in leadingpositions of responsibility in the church, should bespent in dealing with the weightier mattersdemanding special wisdom and largeness ofheart. It is not in the order of God that such menshould be appealed to for the adjustment of minormatters that others are well qualified to handle."Every great matter they shall bring unto thee,"Jethro proposed to Moses, "but every small matterthey shall judge: so shall it be easier for thyself,and they shall bear the burden with thee. If thoushalt do this thing, and God command thee so,

then thou shalt be able to endure, and all thispeople shall also go to their place in peace."

In harmony with this plan, "Moses chose ablemen out of all Israel, and made them heads overthe people, rulers of thousands, rulers ofhundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers

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of tens. And they judged the people at all seasons:the hard causes they brought unto Moses, butevery small matter they judged themselves."Exodus 18:19-26.

Later, when choosing seventy elders to sharewith him the responsibilities of leadership, Moseswas careful to select, as his helpers, menpossessing dignity, sound judgment, andexperience. In his charge to these elders at thetime of their ordination, he outlined some of thequalifications that fit a man to be a wise ruler in thechurch. "Hear the causes between your brethren,"said Moses, "and judge righteously between everyman and his brother, and the stranger that is with

him. Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; butye shall hear the small as well as the great; yeshall not be afraid of the face of man; for thejudgment is God's." Deuteronomy 1:16, 17.

King David, toward the close of his reign,delivered a solemn charge to those bearing theburden of the work of God in his day. Summoningto Jerusalem "all the princes of Israel, the princesof the tribes, and the captains of the companiesthat ministered to the king by course, and thecaptains over the thousands, and captains overthe hundreds, and the stewards over all thesubstance and possession of the king, and of hissons, with the officers, and with the mighty men,and with all the valiant men," the aged kingsolemnly charged them, "in the sight of all Israelthe congregation of the Lord, and in the audienceof our God," to "keep and seek for all thecommandments of the Lord your God." 1Chronicles 28:1, 8.

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To Solomon, as one called to occupy a positionof leading responsibility, David gave a specialcharge: "Thou, Solomon my son, know thou theGod of thy father, and serve Him with a perfectheart and with a willing mind: for the Lordsearcheth all hearts, and understandeth all theimaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek Him, Hewill be found of thee; but if thou forsake Him, Hewill cast thee off forever. Take heed now; for theLord hath chosen thee: . . . be strong." 1Chronicles 28:9, 10.

The same principles of piety and justice thatwere to guide the rulers among God's people inthe time of Moses and of David, were also to befollowed by those given the oversight of the newlyorganized church of God in the gospeldispensation. In the work of setting things in orderin all the churches, and ordaining suitable men toact as officers, the apostles held to the highstandards of leadership outlined in the OldTestament Scriptures. They maintained that he

who is called to stand in a position of leadingresponsibility in the church "must be blameless, asthe steward of God; not self-willed, not soonangry, not given to wine, no striker, not given tofilthy lucre; but a lover of hospitality, a lover ofgood men, sober, just, holy, temperate; holdingfast the faithful word as he hath been taught, thathe may be able by sound doctrine both to exhortand to convince the gainsayers." Titus 1:7-9.

The order that was maintained in the earlyChristian church made it possible for them tomove forward solidly as a well-disciplined armyclad with the armor of God. The

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companies of believers, though scattered over alarge territory, were all members of one body; allmoved in concert and in harmony with oneanother. When dissension arose in a local church,as later it did arise in Antioch and elsewhere, andthe believers were unable to come to anagreement among themselves, such matters were

not permitted to create a division in the church, butwere referred to a general council of the entirebody of believers, made up of appointed delegatesfrom the various local churches, with the apostlesand elders in positions of leading responsibility.Thus the efforts of Satan to attack the church inisolated places were met by concerted action onthe part of all, and the plans of the enemy todisrupt and destroy were thwarted.

"God is not the author of confusion, but ofpeace, as in all churches of the saints." 1Corinthians 14:33. He requires that order andsystem be observed in the conduct of churchaffairs today no less than in the days of old. Hedesires His work to be carried forward withthoroughness and exactness so that He may placeupon it the seal of His approval. Christian is to beunited with Christian, church with church, thehuman instrumentality co-operating with thedivine, every agency subordinate to the HolySpirit, and all combined in giving to the world thegood tidings of the grace of God.

Chap. 10 - The First Christian Martyr

Stephen, the foremost of the seven deacons,was a man of deep piety and broad faith. Thougha Jew by birth, he spoke the Greek language andwas familiar with the customs and manners of theGreeks. He therefore found opportunity to preachthe gospel in the synagogues of the Greek Jews.He was very active in the cause of Christ andboldly proclaimed his faith. Learned rabbis anddoctors of the law engaged in public discussionwith him, confidently expecting an easy victory.But "they were not able to resist the wisdom andthe spirit by which he spake." Not only did hespeak in the power of the Holy Spirit, but it wasplain that he was a student of the prophecies andlearned in all matters of the law. He ably defendedthe truths that he advocated and utterly defeatedhis opponents. To him was the promise fulfilled,

"Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditatebefore what ye shall answer: for I will give

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you a mouth and wisdom, which all youradversaries shall not be able to gainsay norresist." Luke 21:14, 15.

As the priests and rulers saw the power thatattended the preaching of Stephen, they werefilled with bitter hatred. Instead of yielding to theevidence that he presented, they determined tosilence his voice by putting him to death. Onseveral occasions they had bribed the Romanauthorities to pass over without commentinstances where the Jews had taken the law intotheir own hands and had tried, condemned, andexecuted prisoners in accordance with theirnational custom. The enemies of Stephen did notdoubt that they could again pursue such a coursewithout danger to themselves. They determined torisk the consequences and therefore seized

Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrincouncil for trial.

Learned Jews from the surrounding countrieswere summoned for the purpose of refuting thearguments of the prisoner. Saul of Tarsus waspresent and took a leading part against Stephen.He brought the weight of eloquence and the logicof the rabbis to bear upon the case, to convincethe people that Stephen was preaching delusiveand dangerous doctrines; but in Stephen he metone who had a full understanding of the purposeof God in the spreading of the gospel to othernations.

Because the priests and rulers could not prevailagainst the clear, calm wisdom of Stephen, theydetermined to make an example of him; and whilethus satisfying their revengeful hatred, they wouldprevent others, through fear, from adopting hisbelief. Witnesses were hired to bear falsetestimony

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that they had heard him speak blasphemouswords against the temple and the law. "We haveheard him say," these witnesses declared, "thatthis Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place,and shall change the customs which Mosesdelivered us."

As Stephen stood face to face with his judgesto answer to the charge of blasphemy, a holyradiance shone upon his countenance, and "allthat sat in the council, looking steadfastly on him,saw his face as it had been the face of an angel."Many who beheld this light trembled and veiledtheir faces, but the stubborn unbelief and prejudiceof the rulers did not waver.

When Stephen was questioned as to the truthof the charges against him, he began his defensein a clear, thrilling voice, which rang through thecouncil hall. In words that held the assemblyspellbound, he proceeded to rehearse the historyof the chosen people of God. He showed athorough knowledge of the Jewish economy andthe spiritual interpretation of it now made manifest

through Christ. He repeated the words of Mosesthat foretold of the Messiah: "A Prophet shall theLord your God raise up unto you of your brethren,like unto me; Him shall ye hear." He made plainhis own loyalty to God and to the Jewish faith,while he showed that the law in which the Jewstrusted for salvation had not been able to saveIsrael from idolatry. He connected Jesus Christwith all the Jewish history. He referred to thebuilding of the temple by Solomon, and to thewords of both Solomon and Isaiah: "Howbeit theMost High dwelleth not in temples made withhands; as saith the prophet, Heaven is

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My throne, and earth is My footstool: what housewill ye build Me? saith the Lord: or what is theplace of My rest? Hath not My hand made allthese things?"

When Stephen reached this point, there was atumult among the people. When he connected

Christ with the prophecies and spoke as he did ofthe temple, the priest, pretending to be horror-stricken, rent his robe. To Stephen this act was asignal that his voice would soon be silencedforever. He saw the resistance that met his wordsand knew that he was giving his last testimony.Although in the midst of his sermon, he abruptlyconcluded it.

Suddenly breaking away from the train ofhistory that he was following, and turning upon hisinfuriated judges, he cried: "Ye stiff-necked anduncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do alwaysresist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so doye. Which of the prophets have not your fatherspersecuted? and they have slain them whichshowed before of the coming of the Just One; ofwhom ye have been now the betrayers andmurderers: who have received the law by thedisposition of angels, and have not kept it."

At this, priests and rulers were besidethemselves with anger. Acting more like beasts ofprey than human beings, they rushed upon

Stephen, gnashing their teeth. In the cruel facesabout him the prisoner read his fate; but he did notwaver. For him the fear of death was gone. Forhim the enraged priests and the excited mob hadno terror. The scene before him faded from hisvision. To him the gates of heaven were ajar, and,looking in, he saw the glory of the courts of God,and Christ, as if just risen from His

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throne, standing ready to sustain His servant. Inwords of triumph Stephen exclaimed, "Behold, Isee the heavens opened, and the Son of manstanding on the right hand of God."

As he described the glorious scene upon whichhis eyes were gazing, it was more than hispersecutors could endure. Stopping their ears, thatthey might not hear his words, and uttering loudcries, they ran furiously upon him with one accord"and cast him out of the city." "And they stonedStephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord

Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down,and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin totheir charge. And when he had said this, he fellasleep."

No legal sentence had been passed uponStephen, but the Roman authorities were bribedby large sums of money to make no investigationinto the case.

The martyrdom of Stephen made a deepimpression upon all who witnessed it. The memoryof the signet of God upon his face; his words,which touched the very souls of those who heardthem, remained in the minds of the beholders, andtestified to the truth of that which he hadproclaimed. His death was a sore trial to thechurch, but it resulted in the conviction of Saul,who could not efface from his memory the faithand constancy of the martyr, and the glory thathad rested on his countenance.

At the scene of Stephen's trial and death, Saulhad seemed to be imbued with a frenzied zeal.

Afterward he was angered by his own secretconviction that Stephen had been honored by Godat the very time when he was dishonored

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by men. Saul continued to persecute the church ofGod, hunting them down, seizing them in theirhouses, and delivering them up to the priests andrulers for imprisonment and death. His zeal incarrying forward this persecution brought terror tothe Christians at Jerusalem. The Romanauthorities made no special effort to stay the cruelwork and secretly aided the Jews in order toconciliate them and to secure their favor.

After the death of Stephen, Saul was elected amember of the Sanhedrin council in considerationof the part he had acted on that occasion. For atime he was a mighty instrument in the hands ofSatan to carry out his rebellion against the Son ofGod. But soon this relentless persecutor was to beemployed in building up the church that he was

now tearing down. A Mightier than Satan hadchosen Saul to take the place of the martyredStephen, to preach and suffer for His name, and tospread far and wide the tidings of salvationthrough His blood.

Chap. 11 - The Gospel in Samaria

After the death of Stephen there arose againstthe believers in Jerusalem a persecution sorelentless that "they were all scattered abroadthroughout the regions of Judea and Samaria."Saul "made havoc of the church, entering intoevery house, and haling men and womencommitted them to prison." Of his zeal in this cruelwork he said at a later date: "I verily thought withmyself, that I ought to do many things contrary tothe name of Jesus of Nazareth. Which thing I alsodid in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shutup in prison. . . . And I punished them oft in everysynagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme;

and being exceedingly mad against them, Ipersecuted them even unto strange cities." ThatStephen was not the only one who suffered deathmay be seen from Saul's own words, "And whenthey were put to death, I gave my voice againstthem." Acts 26:9-11.

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At this time of peril Nicodemus came forward infearless avowal of his faith in the crucified Saviour.Nicodemus was a member of the Sanhedrin andwith others had been stirred by the teaching ofJesus. As he had witnessed Christ's wonderfulworks, the conviction had fastened itself upon hismind that this was the Sent of God. Too proudopenly to acknowledge himself in sympathy withthe Galilean Teacher, he had sought a secretinterview. In this interview Jesus had unfolded tohim the plan of salvation and His mission to theworld, yet still Nicodemus had hesitated. He hid

the truth in his heart, and for three years there waslittle apparent fruit. But while Nicodemus had notpublicly acknowledged Christ, he had in theSanhedrin council repeatedly thwarted theschemes of the priests to destroy Him. When atlast Christ had been lifted up on the cross,Nicodemus remembered the words that He hadspoken to him in the night interview on the Mountof Olives, "As Moses lifted up the serpent in thewilderness, even so must the Son of man be liftedup" (John 3:14); and he saw in Jesus the world'sRedeemer.

With Joseph of Arimathea, Nicodemus hadborne the expense of the burial of Jesus. Thedisciples had been afraid to show themselvesopenly as Christ's followers, but Nicodemus andJoseph had come boldly to their aid. The help ofthese rich and honored men was greatly needed inthat hour of darkness. They had been able to dofor their dead Master what it would have beenimpossible for the poor disciples to do; and theirwealth and influence had protected them, in a

great measure, from the malice of the priests andrulers.

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Now, when the Jews were trying to destroy theinfant church, Nicodemus came forward in itsdefense. No longer cautious and questioning, heencouraged the faith of the disciples and used hiswealth in helping to sustain the church atJerusalem and in advancing the work of thegospel. Those who in other days had paid himreverence, now scorned and persecuted him, andhe became poor in this world's goods; yet hefaltered not in the defense of his faith.

The persecution that came upon the church inJerusalem resulted in giving a great impetus to thework of the gospel. Success had attended theministry of the word in that place, and there wasdanger that the disciples would linger there toolong, unmindful of the Saviour's commission to go

to all the world. Forgetting that strength to resistevil is best gained by aggressive service, theybegan to think that they had no work so importantas that of shielding the church in Jerusalem fromthe attacks of the enemy. Instead of educating thenew converts to carry the gospel to those who hadnot heard it, they were in danger of taking acourse that would lead all to be satisfied with whathad been accomplished. To scatter Hisrepresentatives abroad, where they could work forothers, God permitted persecution to come uponthem. Driven from Jerusalem, the believers "wenteverywhere preaching the word."

Among those to whom the Saviour had giventhe commission, "Go ye therefore, and teach allnations" (Matthew 28:19), were many from thehumbler walks of life--men and women who hadlearned to love their Lord and who had determinedto follow His example of unselfish service.

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To these lowly ones, as well as to the discipleswho had been with the Saviour during His earthlyministry, had been given a precious trust. Theywere to carry to the world the glad tidings ofsalvation through Christ.

When they were scattered by persecution theywent forth filled with missionary zeal. Theyrealized the responsibility of their mission. Theyknew that they held in their hands the bread of lifefor a famishing world; and they were constrainedby the love of Christ to break this bread to all whowere in need. The Lord wrought through them.Wherever they went, the sick were healed and thepoor had the gospel preached unto them.

Philip, one of the seven deacons, was amongthose driven from Jerusalem. He "went down tothe city of Samaria, and preached Christ untothem. And the people with one accord gave heedunto those things which Philip spake, hearing andseeing the miracles which he did. For uncleanspirits . . . came out of many that were possessedwith them: and many taken with palsies, and that

were lame, were healed. And there was great joyin that city." Christ's message to the Samaritanwoman with whom He had talked at Jacob's wellhad borne fruit. After listening to His words, thewoman had gone to the men of the city, saying,"Come, see a man, which told me all things thatever I did: is not this the Christ? They went withher, heard Jesus, and believed on Him. Anxious tohear more, they begged Him to remain. For twodays He stayed with them, "and many morebelieved because of His own word." John 4:29, 41.

And when His disciples were driven fromJerusalem,

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some found in Samaria a safe asylum. TheSamaritans welcomed these messengers of thegospel, and the Jewish converts gathered aprecious harvest from among those who had oncebeen their bitterest enemies.

Philip's work in Samaria was marked with greatsuccess, and, thus encouraged, he sent toJerusalem for help. The apostles now perceivedmore fully the meaning of the words of Christ, "Yeshall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, andin all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto theuttermost part of the earth." Acts 1:8.

While Philip was still in Samaria, he wasdirected by a heavenly messenger to "go towardthe south unto the way that goeth down fromJerusalem unto Gaza. . . . And he arose andwent." He did not question the call, nor did hehesitate to obey; for he had learned the lesson ofconformity to God's will.

"And, behold, a man of Ethiopia, a eunuch ofgreat authority under Candace queen of theEthiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure,and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, wasreturning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias theprophet." This Ethiopian was a man of goodstanding and of wide influence. God saw thatwhen converted he would give others the light he

had received and would exert a strong influence infavor of the gospel. Angels of God were attendingthis seeker for light, and he was being drawn tothe Saviour. By the ministration of the Holy Spiritthe Lord brought him into touch with one whocould lead him to the light.

Philip was directed to go to the Ethiopian andexplain to him the prophecy that he was reading."Go near," the

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Spirit said, "and join thyself to this chariot." AsPhilip drew near, he asked the eunuch,"Understandest thou what thou readest? And hesaid, How can I, except some man should guideme? And he desired Philip that he would come upand sit with him." The scripture that he wasreading was the prophecy of Isaiah relating toChrist: "He was led as a sheep to the slaughter;and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, soopened He not His mouth: in His humiliation His

judgment was taken away: and who shall declareHis generation? for His life is taken from theearth."

"Of whom speaketh the prophet this?" theeunuch asked, "of himself, or of some other man?"Then Philip opened to him the great truth ofredemption. Beginning at the same scripture, he"preached unto him Jesus."

The man's heart thrilled with interest as theScriptures were explained to him; and when thedisciple had finished, he was ready to accept thelight given. He did not make his high worldlyposition an excuse for refusing the gospel. "Asthey went on their way, they came unto a certainwater: and the eunuch said, See, here is water;what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philipsaid, If thou believest with all thine heart, thoumayest. And he answered and said, I believe thatJesus Christ is the Son of God. And hecommanded the chariot to stand still: and theywent down both into the water, both Philip and theeunuch; and he baptized him.

"And when they were come up out of the water,the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that theeunuch saw him no more: and he went on his wayrejoicing. But Philip

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was found at Azotus: and passing through hepreached in all the cities, till he came toCaesarea."

This Ethiopian represented a large class whoneed to be taught by such missionaries as Philip--men who will hear the voice of God and go whereHe sends them. There are many who are readingthe Scriptures who cannot understand their trueimport. All over the world men and women arelooking wistfully to heaven. Prayers and tears andinquiries go up from souls longing for light, forgrace, for the Holy Spirit. Many are on the verge ofthe kingdom, waiting only to be gathered in.

An angel guided Philip to the one who wasseeking for light and who was ready to receive the

gospel, and today angels will guide the footstepsof those workers who will allow the Holy Spirit tosanctify their tongues and refine and ennoble theirhearts. The angel sent to Philip could himself havedone the work for the Ethiopian, but this is notGod's way of working. It is His plan that men are towork for their fellow men.

In the trust given to the first disciples, believersin every age have shared. Everyone who hasreceived the gospel has been given sacred truth toimpart to the world. God's faithful people havealways been aggressive missionaries,consecrating their resources to the honor of Hisname and wisely using their talents in His service.

The unselfish labor of Christians in the pastshould be to us an object lesson and aninspiration. The members of God's church are tobe zealous of good works, separating from worldlyambition and walking in the footsteps of Him

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who went about doing good. With hearts filled withsympathy and compassion, they are to minister tothose in need of help, bringing to sinners aknowledge of the Saviour's love. Such work callsfor laborious effort, but it brings a rich reward.Those who engage in it with sincerity of purposewill see souls won to the Saviour, for the influencethat attends the practical carrying out of the divinecommission is irresistible.

Not upon the ordained minister only rests theresponsibility of going forth to fulfill thiscommission. Everyone who has received Christ iscalled to work for the salvation of his fellow men."The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let himthat heareth say, Come." Revelation 22:17. Thecharge to give this invitation includes the entirechurch. Everyone who has heard the invitation isto echo the message from hill and valley, saying,"Come."

It is fatal mistake to suppose that the work ofsoul-saving depends alone upon the ministry. Thehumble, consecrated believer upon whom the

Master of the vineyard places a burden for souls isto be given encouragement by the men uponwhom the Lord has laid larger responsibilities.Those who stand as leaders in the church of Godare to realize that the Saviour's commission isgiven to all who believe in His name. God will sendforth into His vineyard many who have not beendedicated to the ministry by the laying on ofhands.

Hundreds, yea, thousands, who have heard themessage of salvation are still idlers in the marketplace, when they might be engaged in some lineof active service. To these

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Christ is saying, "Why stand ye here all the dayidle?" and He adds, "Go ye also into the vineyard."Matthew 20:6, 7. Why is it that many more do notrespond to the call? Is it because they thinkthemselves excused in that they do not stand inthe pulpit? Let them understand that there is a

large work to be done outside the pulpit bythousands of consecrated lay members.

Long has God waited for the spirit of service totake possession of the whole church so thateveryone shall be working for Him according to hisability. When the members of the church of Goddo their appointed work in the needy fields athome and abroad, in fulfillment of the gospelcommission, the whole world will soon be warnedand the Lord Jesus will return to this earth withpower and great glory. "This gospel of thekingdom shall be preached in all the world for awitness unto all nations; and then shall the endcome." Matthew 24:14.

Chap. 12 - From Persecutor to Disciple

Prominent among the Jewish leaders whobecame thoroughly aroused by the successattending the proclamation of the gospel, was Saulof Tarsus. A Roman citizen by birth, Saul was

nevertheless a Jew by descent and had beeneducated in Jerusalem by the most eminent of therabbis. "Of the stock of Israel, of the tribe ofBenjamin," Saul was "a Hebrew of the Hebrews;as touching the law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal,persecuting the church; touching therighteousness which is in the law, blameless."Philippians 3:5, 6. He was regarded by the rabbisas a young man of great promise, and high hopeswere cherished concerning him as an able andzealous defender of the ancient faith. His elevationto membership in the Sanhedrin council placedhim in a position of power.

Saul had taken a prominent part in the trial andconviction of Stephen, and the striking evidencesof God's presence with the martyr had led Saul todoubt the righteousness

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of the cause he had espoused against thefollowers of Jesus. His mind was deeply stirred. In

his perplexity he appealed to those in whosewisdom and judgment he had full confidence. Thearguments of the priests and rulers finallyconvinced him that Stephen was a blasphemer,that the Christ whom the martyred disciple hadpreached was an impostor, and that thoseministering in holy office must be right.

Not without severe trial did Saul come to thisconclusion. But in the end his education andprejudices, his respect for his former teachers, andhis pride of popularity braced him to rebel againstthe voice of conscience and the grace of God. Andhaving fully decided that the priests and scribeswere right, Saul became very bitter in hisopposition to the doctrines taught by the disciplesof Jesus. His activity in causing holy men andwomen to be dragged before tribunals, wheresome were condemned to imprisonment and someeven to death, solely because of their faith inJesus, brought sadness and gloom to the newlyorganized church, and caused many to seeksafety in flight.

Those who were driven from Jerusalem by thispersecution "went everywhere preaching theword." Acts 8:4. Among the cities to which theywent was Damascus, where the new faith gainedmany converts.

The priests and rulers had hoped that byvigilant effort and stern persecution the heresymight be suppressed. Now they felt that they mustcarry forward in other places the decidedmeasures taken in Jerusalem against the newteaching.

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For the special work that they desired to havedone at Damascus, Saul offered his services."Breathing out threatenings and slaughter againstthe disciples of the Lord," he "went unto the highpriest, and desired of him letters to Damascus tothe synagogues, that if he found any of this way,whether they were men or women, he might bringthem bound unto Jerusalem." Thus "with authority

and commission from the chief priests" (Acts26:12), Saul of Tarsus, in the strength and vigor ofmanhood, and fired with mistaken zeal, set out onthat memorable journey, the strange occurrencesof which were to change the whole current of hislife.

On the last day of the journey, "at midday," asthe weary travelers neared Damascus, they camewithin full view of broad stretches of fertile lands,beautiful gardens, and fruitful orchards, wateredby cool streams from the surrounding mountains.After the long journey over desolate wastes suchscenes were refreshing indeed. While Saul, withhis companions, gazed with admiration on thefruitful plain and the fair city below, "suddenly," ashe afterward declared, there shone "round aboutme and them which journeyed with me" "a lightfrom heaven, above the brightness of the sun"(Acts 26:13), too glorious for mortal eyes to bear.Blinded and bewildered, Saul fell prostrate to theground.

While the light continued to shine round aboutthem, Saul heard, "a voice speaking . . . in theHebrew tongue" (Acts 26:14), "saying unto him,Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou Me? And hesaid, Who art Thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I amJesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee tokick against the pricks."

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Filled with fear, and almost blinded by theintensity of the light, the companions of Saul hearda voice, but saw no man. But Saul understood thewords that were spoken, and to him was clearlyrevealed the One who spoke--even the Son ofGod. In the glorious Being who stood before himhe saw the Crucified One. Upon the soul of thestricken Jew the image of the Saviour'scountenance was imprinted forever. The wordsspoken struck home to his heart with appallingforce. Into the darkened chambers of his mind

there poured a flood of light, revealing theignorance and error of his former life and hispresent need of the enlightenment of the HolySpirit. Saul now saw that in persecuting thefollowers of Jesus he had in reality been doing thework of Satan. He saw that his convictions of rightand of his own duty had been based largely on hisimplicit confidence in the priests and rulers. Hehad believed them when they told him that thestory of the resurrection was an artful fabrication ofthe disciples. Now that Jesus Himself stoodrevealed, Saul was convinced of the truthfulnessof the claims made by the disciples.

In that hour of heavenly illumination Saul'smind acted with remarkable rapidity. The propheticrecords of Holy Writ were opened to hisunderstanding. He saw that the rejection of Jesusby the Jews, His crucifixion, resurrection, andascension, had been foretold by the prophets andproved Him to be the promised Messiah.Stephen's sermon at the time of his martyrdomwas brought forcibly to Saul's mind, and he

realized that the martyr had indeed beheld "theglory of God" when he said, "Behold, I see theheavens

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opened, and the Son of man standing on the righthand of God." Acts 7:55, 56. The priests hadpronounced these words blasphemy, but Saul nowknew them to be truth.

What a revelation was all this to the persecutor!Now Saul knew for a certainty that the promisedMessiah had come to this earth as Jesus ofNazareth and that He had been rejected andcrucified by those whom He came to save. Heknew also that the Saviour had risen in triumphfrom the tomb and had ascended into theheavens. In that moment of divine revelation Saulremembered with terror that Stephen, who hadborne witness of a crucified and risen Saviour, hadbeen sacrificed by his consent, and that later,through his instrumentality, many other worthy

followers of Jesus had met their death by cruelpersecution.

The Saviour had spoken to Saul throughStephen, whose clear reasoning could not becontroverted. The learned Jew had seen the faceof the martyr reflecting the light of Christ's glory--appearing as if "it had been the face of an angel."Acts 6:15. He had witnessed Stephen'sforbearance toward his enemies and hisforgiveness of them. He had also witnessed thefortitude and cheerful resignation of many whomhe had caused to be tormented and afflicted. Hehad seen some yield up even their lives withrejoicing for the sake of their faith.

All these things had appealed loudly to Sauland at times had thrust upon his mind an almostoverwhelming conviction that Jesus was thepromised Messiah. At such times he had struggledfor entire nights against this conviction, andalways he had ended the matter by avowing hisbelief

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that Jesus was not the Messiah and that Hisfollowers were deluded fanatics.

Now Christ had spoken to Saul with His ownvoice, saying, "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thouMe?" And the question, "Who art Thou, Lord?"was answered by the same voice, "I am Jesuswhom thou persecutest." Christ here identifiesHimself with His people. In persecuting thefollowers of Jesus, Saul had struck directly againstthe Lord of heaven. In falsely accusing andtestifying against them, he had falsely accusedand testified against the Saviour of the world.

No doubt entered the mind of Saul that the Onewho spoke to him was Jesus of Nazareth, thelong-looked-for Messiah, the Consolation andRedeemer of Israel. "Trembling and astonished,"he inquired, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into thecity, and it shall be told thee what thou must do."

When the glory was withdrawn, and Saul arosefrom the ground, he found himself totally deprivedof sight. The brightness of Christ's glory had beentoo intense for his mortal eyes; and when it wasremoved, the blackness of night settled upon hisvision. He believed that this blindness was apunishment from God for his cruel persecution ofthe followers of Jesus. In terrible darkness hegroped about, and his companions, in fear andamazement, "led him by the hand, and broughthim into Damascus."

On the morning of that eventful day, Saul hadneared Damascus with feelings of self-satisfactionbecause of the confidence that had been placed inhim by the chief priest. To

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him had been entrusted grave responsibilities. Hewas commissioned to further the interests of theJewish religion by checking, if possible, the spreadof the new faith in Damascus. He had determined

that his mission should be crowned with successand had looked forward with eager anticipation tothe experiences that he expected were before him.

But how unlike his anticipations was hisentrance into the city! Stricken with blindness,helpless, tortured by remorse, knowing not whatfurther judgment might be in store for him, hesought out the home of the disciple Judas, where,in solitude, he had ample opportunity for reflectionand prayer. For three days Saul was "withoutsight, and neither did eat nor drink." These days ofsoul agony were to him as years. Again and againhe recalled, with anguish of spirit, the part he hadtaken in the martyrdom of Stephen. With horror hethought of his guilt in allowing himself to becontrolled by the malice and prejudice of thepriests and rulers, even when the face of Stephenhad been lighted up with the radiance of heaven.In sadness and brokenness of spirit he recountedthe many times he had closed his eyes and earsagainst the most striking evidences and had

relentlessly urged on the persecution of thebelievers in Jesus of Nazareth.

These days of close self-examination and ofheart humiliation were spent in lonely seclusion.The believers, having been given warning of thepurpose of Saul in coming to Damascus, fearedthat he might be acting a part, in order the morereadily to deceive them; and they held themselves

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aloof, refusing him their sympathy. He had nodesire to appeal to the unconverted Jews, withwhom he had planned to unite in persecuting thebelievers; for he knew that they would not evenlisten to his story. Thus he seemed to be shutaway from all human sympathy. His only hope ofhelp was in a merciful God, and to Him heappealed in brokenness of heart.

During the long hours when Saul was shut inwith God alone, he recalled many of the passagesof Scripture referring to the first advent of Christ.

Carefully he traced down the prophecies, with amemory sharpened by the conviction that hadtaken possession of his mind. As he reflected onthe meaning of these prophecies he wasastonished at his former blindness ofunderstanding and at the blindness of the Jews ingeneral, which had led to the rejection of Jesus asthe promised Messiah. To his enlightened visionall now seemed plain. He knew that his formerprejudice and unbelief had clouded his spiritualperception and had prevented him from discerningin Jesus of Nazareth the Messiah of prophecy.

As Saul yielded himself fully to the convictingpower of the Holy Spirit, he saw the mistakes ofhis life and recognized the far-reaching claims ofthe law of God. He who had been a proudPharisee, confident that he was justified by hisgood works, now bowed before God with thehumility and simplicity of a little child, confessinghis own unworthiness and pleading the merits of acrucified and risen Saviour. Saul longed to come

into full harmony and communion with the Fatherand the Son; and in the intensity of his

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desire for pardon and acceptance he offered upfervent supplications to the throne of grace.

The prayers of the penitent Pharisee were notin vain. The inmost thoughts and emotions of hisheart were transformed by divine grace; and hisnobler faculties were brought into harmony withthe eternal purposes of God. Christ and Hisrighteousness became to Saul more than thewhole world. The conversion of Saul is astriking evidence of the miraculous power of theHoly Spirit to convict men of sin. He had verilybelieved that Jesus of Nazareth had disregardedthe law of God and had taught His disciples that itwas of no effect. But after his conversion, Saulrecognized Jesus as the one who had come intothe world for the express purpose of vindicatingHis Father's law. He was convinced that Jesus

was the originator of the entire Jewish system ofsacrifices. He saw that at the crucifixion type hadmet antitype, that Jesus had fulfilled the OldTestament prophecies concerning the Redeemerof Israel.

In the record of the conversion of Saulimportant principles are given us, which weshould ever bear in mind. Saul was broughtdirectly into the presence of Christ. He was onewhom Christ intended for a most important work,one who was to be a "chosen vessel" unto Him;yet the Lord did not at once tell him of the workthat had been assigned him. He arrested him inhis course and convicted him of sin; but when Saulasked, "What wilt Thou have me to do?" theSaviour placed the inquiring Jew in connectionwith His church, there to obtain a knowledge ofGod's will concerning him.

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The marvelous light that illumined the darknessof Saul was the work of the Lord; but there wasalso a work that was to be done for him by thedisciples. Christ had performed the work ofrevelation and conviction; and now the penitentwas in a condition to learn from those whom Godhad ordained to teach His truth.

While Saul in solitude at the house of Judascontinued in prayer and supplication, the Lordappeared in vision to "a certain disciple atDamascus, named Ananias," telling him that Saulof Tarsus was praying and in need of help. "Arise,and go into the street which is called Straight," theheavenly messenger said, "and inquire in thehouse of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for,behold, he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision aman named Ananias coming in, and putting hishand on him, that he might receive his sight."

Ananias could scarcely credit the words of theangel; for the reports of Saul's bitter persecution ofthe saints at Jerusalem had spread far and wide.He presumed to expostulate: "Lord, I have heard

by many of this man, how much evil he hath doneto Thy saints at Jerusalem: and here he hathauthority from the chief priests to bind all that callon Thy name." But the command was imperative:"Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto Me, tobear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, andthe children of Israel."

Obedient to the direction of the angel, Ananiassought out the man who had but recently breathedout threatenings against all who believed on thename of Jesus; and putting his hands on the headof the penitent sufferer, he said, "Brother Saul, theLord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee

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in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thoumightest receive thy sight, and be filled with theHoly Ghost.

"And immediately there fell from his eyes as ithad been scales: and he received sight forthwith,and arose, and was baptized."

Thus Jesus gave sanction to the authority ofHis organized church and placed Saul inconnection with His appointed agencies on earth.Christ had now a church as His representative onearth, and to it belonged the work of directing therepentant sinner in the way of life.

Many have an idea that they are responsible toChrist alone for their light and experience,independent of His recognized followers on earth.Jesus is the friend of sinners, and His heart istouched with their woe. He has all power, both inheaven and on earth; but He respects the meansthat He has ordained for the enlightenment andsalvation of men; He directs sinners to the church,which He has made a channel of light to the world.

When, in the midst of his blind error andprejudice, Saul was given a revelation of the Christwhom he was persecuting, he was placed in directcommunication with the church, which is the lightof the world. In this case Ananias representsChrist, and also represents Christ's ministers uponthe earth, who are appointed to act in His stead. In

Christ's stead Ananias touches the eyes of Saul,that they may receive sight. In Christ's stead heplaces his hands upon him, and, as he prays inChrist's name, Saul receives the Holy Ghost. All isdone in the name and by the authority of Christ.Christ is the fountain; the church is the channel ofcommunication.

Chap. 13 - Days of Preparation

After his baptism, Paul broke his fast andremained "certain days with the disciples whichwere at Damascus. And straightway he preachedChrist in the synagogues, that He is the Son ofGod." Boldly he declared Jesus of Nazareth to bethe long-looked-for Messiah, who "died for our sinsaccording to the Scriptures; . . . was buried, and . .. rose again the third day," after which He wasseen by the Twelve and by others. "And last of all,"Paul added, "He was seen of me also, as of oneborn out of due time." 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4, 8. His

arguments from prophecy were so conclusive, andhis efforts were so manifestly attended by thepower of God, that the Jews were confounded andunable to answer him. The news of Paul'sconversion had come to the Jews as a greatsurprise. He who had journeyed to Damascus"with authority and commission from the chiefpriests" (Acts 26:12) to apprehend and persecutethe believers was now

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preaching the gospel of a crucified and risenSaviour, strengthening the hands of those whowere already its disciples, and continually bringingin new converts to the faith he had once so bitterlyopposed.

Paul had formerly been known as a zealousdefender of the Jewish religion and an untiringpersecutor of the followers of Jesus. Courageous,independent, persevering, his talents and trainingwould have enabled him to serve in almost any

capacity. He could reason with extraordinaryclearness, and by his withering sarcasm couldplace an opponent in no enviable light. And nowthe Jews saw this young man of unusual promiseunited with those whom he formerly persecuted,and fearlessly preaching in the name of Jesus.

A general slain in battle is lost to his army, buthis death gives no additional strength to theenemy. But when a man of prominence joins theopposing force, not only are his services lost, butthose to whom he joins himself gain a decidedadvantage. Saul of Tarsus, on his way toDamascus, might easily have been struck dead bythe Lord, and much strength would have beenwithdrawn from the persecuting power. But God inHis providence not only spared Saul's life, butconverted him, thus transferring a champion fromthe side of the enemy to the side of Christ. Aneloquent speaker and a severe critic, Paul, withhis stern purpose and undaunted courage,possessed the very qualifications needed in theearly church.

As Paul preached Christ in Damascus, all whoheard him were amazed and said, "Is not this hethat destroyed

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them which called on this name in Jerusalem, andcame hither for that intent, that he might bringthem bound unto the chief priests?" Paul declaredthat his change of faith had not been prompted byimpulse or fanaticism, but had been brought aboutby overwhelming evidence. In his presentation ofthe gospel he sought to make plain the propheciesrelating to the first advent of Christ. He showedconclusively that these prophecies had beenliterally fulfilled in Jesus of Nazareth. Thefoundation of his faith was the sure word ofprophecy.

As Paul continued to appeal to his astonishedhearers to "repent and turn to God, and do worksmeet for repentance" (Acts 26:20), he "increasedthe more in strength, and confounded the Jews

which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is veryChrist." But many hardened their hearts, refusingto respond to his message, and soon theirastonishment at his conversion was changed intointense hatred like that which they had showntoward Jesus.

The opposition grew so fierce that Paul was notallowed to continue his labors at Damascus. Amessenger from heaven bade him leave for atime, and he "went into Arabia" (Galatians 1:17),where he found a safe retreat.

Here, in the solitude of the desert, Paul hadample opportunity for quiet study and meditation.He calmly reviewed his past experience and madesure work of repentance. He sought God with allhis heart, resting not until he knew for a certaintythat his repentance was accepted and his sinpardoned. He longed for the assurance that Jesuswould be with him in his coming ministry. Heemptied his soul of

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the prejudices and traditions that had hithertoshaped his life, and received instruction from theSource of truth. Jesus communed with him andestablished him in the faith, bestowing upon him arich measure of wisdom and grace.

When the mind of man is brought intocommunion with the mind of God, the finite withthe Infinite, the effect on body and mind and soulis beyond estimate. In such communion is foundthe highest education. It is God's own method ofdevelopment. "Acquaint now thyself with Him" (Job22:21), is His message to mankind.

The solemn charge that had been given Paulon the occasion of his interview with Ananias,rested with increasing weight upon his heart.When, in response to the word, "Brother Saul,receive thy sight," Paul had for the first time lookedupon the face of this devout man, Ananias underthe inspiration of the Holy Spirit said to him: "The

God of our fathers hath chosen thee, that thoushouldest know His will, and see that Just One,and shouldest hear the voice of His mouth. Forthou shalt be His witness unto all men of whatthou hast seen and heard. And now why tarriestthou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thysins, calling on the name of the Lord." Acts 22:13-16.

These words were in harmony with the wordsof Jesus Himself, who, when He arrested Saul onthe journey to Damascus, declared: "I haveappeared unto thee for this purpose, to make theea minister and a witness both of these thingswhich thou hast seen, and of those things in thewhich I will appear unto thee; delivering thee fromthe people,

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and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I sendthee, to open their eyes, and to turn them fromdarkness to light, and from the power of Satan

unto God, that they may receive forgiveness ofsins, and inheritance among them which aresanctified by faith that is in Me." Acts 26:16-18.

As he pondered these things in his heart, Paulunderstood more and more clearly the meaning ofhis call "to be an apostle of Jesus Christ throughthe will of God." 1 Corinthians 1:1. His call hadcome, "not of men, neither by man, but by JesusChrist, and God the Father." Galatians 1:1. Thegreatness of the work before him led him to givemuch study to the Holy Scriptures, in order that hemight preach the gospel "not with wisdom ofwords, lest the cross of Christ should be made ofnone effect," "but in demonstration of the Spiritand of power," that the faith of all who heard"should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in thepower of God." 1 Corinthians 1:17; 2:4, 5. AsPaul searched the Scriptures, he learned thatthroughout the ages "not many wise men after theflesh, not many mighty, not many noble, arecalled: but God hath chosen the foolish things ofthe world to confound the wise; and God hath

chosen the weak things of the world to confoundthe things which are mighty; and base things ofthe world, and things which are despised, hathGod chosen, yea, and things which are not, tobring to nought things that are: that no fleshshould glory in His presence." 1 Corinthians 1:26-29. And so, viewing the wisdom of the world in thelight of the cross, Paul "determined not to knowanything,

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. . . save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified." 1Corinthians 2:2.

Throughout his later ministry, Paul never lostsight of the Source of his wisdom and strength.Hear him, years afterward, still declaring, "For tome to live is Christ." Philippians 1:21. And again: "Icount all things but loss for the excellency of theknowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom Ihave suffered the loss of all things, . . . that I maywin Christ, and be found in Him, not having mine

own righteousness, which is of the law, but thatwhich is through the faith of Christ, therighteousness which is of God by faith: that I mayknow Him, and the power of His resurrection, andthe fellowship of His sufferings." Philippians 3:8-10.

From Arabia Paul "returned again untoDamascus" (Galatians 1:17), and "preached boldly. . . in the name of Jesus." Unable to withstand thewisdom of his arguments, "the Jews took counselto kill him." The gates of the city were diligentlyguarded day and night to cut off his escape. Thiscrisis led the disciples to seek God earnestly, andfinally they "took him by night, and let him downthrough the wall, lowering him in a basket." Acts9:25, R.V.

After his escape from Damascus, Paul went toJerusalem, about three years having passed sincehis conversion. His chief object in making this visit,as he himself declared afterward, was "to seePeter." Galatians 1:18. Upon arriving in the citywhere he had once been well known as "Saul the

persecutor," "he assayed to join himself to thedisciples: but they were all afraid of him, andbelieved not that he

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was a disciple." It was difficult for them to believethat so bigoted a Pharisee, and one who had doneso much to destroy the church, could become asincere follower of Jesus. "But Barnabas took him,and brought him to the apostles, and declaredunto them how he had seen the Lord in the way,and that He had spoken to him, and how he hadpreached boldly at Damascus in the name ofJesus."

Upon hearing this, the disciples received himas one of their number. Soon they had abundantevidence as to the genuineness of his Christianexperience. The future apostle to the Gentiles wasnow in the city where many of his formerassociates lived, and to these Jewish leaders helonged to make plain the prophecies concerning

the Messiah, which had been fulfilled by theadvent of the Saviour. Paul felt sure that theseteachers in Israel, with whom he had once beenso well acquainted, were as sincere and honest ashe had been. But he had miscalculated the spirit ofhis Jewish brethren, and in the hope of theirspeedy conversion he was doomed to bitterdisappointment. Although "he spake boldly in thename of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against theGrecians," those who stood at the head of theJewish church refused to believe, but "went aboutto slay him." Sorrow filled his heart. He wouldwillingly have yielded up his life if by that meanshe might bring some to a knowledge of the truth.With shame he thought of the active part he hadtaken in the martyrdom of Stephen, and now in hisanxiety to wipe out the stain resting upon one sofalsely accused, he sought to vindicate the truthfor which Stephen had given his life.

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Burdened in behalf of those who refused tobelieve, Paul was praying in the temple, as hehimself afterward testified, when he fell into atrance; whereupon a heavenly messengerappeared before him and said, "Make haste, andget thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will notreceive thy testimony concerning Me." Acts 22:18.

Paul was inclined to remain at Jerusalem,where he could face the opposition. To him itseemed an act of cowardice to flee, if byremaining he might be able to convince some ofthe obstinate Jews of the truth of the gospelmessage, even if to remain should cost him hislife. And so he answered, "Lord, they know that Iimprisoned and beat in every synagogue them thatbelieved on Thee: and when the blood of Thymartyr Stephen was shed, I was also standing by,and consenting unto his death, and kept theraiment of them that slew him." But it was not inharmony with the purpose of God that His servantshould needlessly expose his life; and theheavenly messenger replied, "Depart: for I will

send thee far hence unto the Gentiles." Acts22:19-21.

Upon learning of this vision, the brethrenhastened Paul's secret escape from Jerusalem, forfear of his assassination. "They brought him downto Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus." Thedeparture of Paul suspended for a time the violentopposition of the Jews, and the church had aperiod of rest, in which many were added to thenumber of believers.

Chap. 14 - A Seeker for Truth

In the course of his ministry the apostle Petervisited the believers at Lydda. Here he healedAeneas, who for eight years had been confined tohis bed with palsy. "Aeneas, Jesus Christ makeththee whole," the apostle said; "arise, and make thybed." "He arose immediately. And all that dwelt atLydda and Saron saw him, and turned to theLord."

At Joppa, which was near Lydda, there lived awoman named Dorcas, whose good deeds hadmade her greatly beloved. She was a worthydisciple of Jesus, and her life was filled with actsof kindness. She knew who needed comfortableclothing and who needed sympathy, and shefreely ministered to the poor and the sorrowful.Her skillful fingers were more active than hertongue.

"And it came to pass in those days, that shewas sick, and died." The church in Joppa realizedtheir loss, and hearing that Peter was at Lydda,the believers sent messengers to

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him, "desiring him that he would not delay to cometo them. Then Peter arose and went with them.When he was come, they brought him into theupper chamber: and all the widows stood by himweeping, and showing the coats and garmentswhich Dorcas made, while she was with them." In

view of the life of service that Dorcas had lived, itis little wonder that they mourned, that warmteardrops fell upon the inanimate clay. Theapostle's heart was touched with sympathy as hebeheld their sorrow. Then, directing that theweeping friends be sent from the room, hekneeled down and prayed fervently to God torestore Dorcas to life and health. Turning to thebody, he said, "Tabitha, arise. And she opened hereyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up."Dorcas had been of great service to the church,and God saw fit to bring her back from the land ofthe enemy, that her skill and energy might still bea blessing to others, and also that by thismanifestation of His power the cause of Christmight be strengthened.

It was while Peter was still at Joppa that hewas called by God to take the gospel to Cornelius,in Caesarea.

Cornelius was a Roman centurion. He was aman of wealth and noble birth, and his positionwas one of trust and honor. A heathen by birth,

training, and education, through contact with theJews he had gained a knowledge of God, and heworshiped Him with a true heart, showing thesincerity of his faith by compassion to the poor. Hewas known far and near for his beneficence, andhis righteous life made him of good repute amongboth Jews and Gentiles.

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His influence was a blessing to all with whom hecame in contact. The inspired record describeshim as "a devout man, and one that feared Godwith all his house, which gave much alms to thepeople, and prayed to God alway."

Believing in God as the Creator of heaven andearth, Cornelius revered Him, acknowledged Hisauthority, and sought His counsel in all the affairsof life. He was faithful to Jehovah in his home lifeand in his official duties. He had erected the altarof God in his home, for he dared not attempt to

carry out his plans or to bear his responsibilitieswithout the help of God.

Though Cornelius believed the prophecies andwas looking for the Messiah to come, he had not aknowledge of the gospel as revealed in the life anddeath of Christ. He was not a member of theJewish church and would have been looked uponby the rabbis as a heathen and unclean. But thesame Holy Watcher who said of Abraham, "I knowhim," knew Cornelius also, and sent a messagedirect from heaven to him.

The angel appeared to Cornelius while he wasat prayer. As the centurion heard himselfaddressed by name, he was afraid, yet he knewthat the messenger had come from God, and hesaid, "What is it, Lord?" The angel answered, "Thyprayers and thine alms are come up for amemorial before God. And now send men toJoppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname isPeter: he lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whosehouse is by the seaside."

The explicitness of these directions, in whichwas named even the occupation of the man withwhom Peter was

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staying, shows that Heaven is acquainted with thehistory and business of men in every station of life.God is familiar with the experience and work of thehumble laborer, as well as with that of the kingupon his throne.

"Send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon."Thus God gave evidence of His regard for thegospel ministry and for His organized church. Theangel was not commissioned to tell Cornelius thestory of the cross. A man subject, even as thecenturion himself, to human frailties andtemptations, was to be the one to tell him of thecrucified and risen Saviour.

As His representatives among men, God doesnot choose angels who have never fallen, buthuman beings, men of like passions with those

they seek to save. Christ took humanity that Hemight reach humanity. A divine-human Saviourwas needed to bring salvation to the world. And tomen and women has been committed the sacredtrust of making known "the unsearchable riches ofChrist." Ephesians 3:8.

In His wisdom the Lord brings those who areseeking for truth into touch with fellow beings whoknow the truth. It is the plan of Heaven that thosewho have received light shall impart it to those indarkness. Humanity, drawing its efficiency fromthe great Source of wisdom, is made theinstrumentality, the working agency, through whichthe gospel exercises its transforming power onmind and heart.

Cornelius was gladly obedient to the vision.When the angel had gone, the centurion "calledtwo of his household servants, and a devoutsoldier of them that waited on him

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continually; and when he had declared all thesethings unto them, he sent them to Joppa."

The angel, after his interview with Cornelius,went to Peter, in Joppa. At the time, Peter waspraying upon the housetop of his lodging, and weread that he "became very hungry, and wouldhave eaten: but while they made ready, he fell intoa trance." It was not for physical food alone thatPeter hungered. As from the housetop he viewedthe city of Joppa and the surrounding country hehungered for the salvation of his countrymen. Hehad an intense desire to point out to them from theScriptures the prophecies relating to the sufferingsand death of Christ. In the vision Peter "sawheaven opened, and a certain vessel descendingunto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at thefour corners, and let down to the earth: whereinwere all manner of four-footed beasts of the earth,and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls ofthe air. And there came a voice to him, Rise,Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord;for I have never eaten anything that is common or

unclean. And the voice spake unto him again thesecond time, What God hath cleansed, that callnot thou common. This was done thrice: and thevessel was received up again into heaven."This vision conveyed to Peter both reproof andinstruction. It revealed to him the purpose of God--that by the death of Christ the Gentiles should bemade fellow heirs with the Jews to the blessings ofsalvation. As yet none of the disciples hadpreached the gospel to the Gentiles. In their mindsthe middle wall of partition, broken down by

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the death of Christ, still existed, and their laborshad been confined to the Jews, for they hadlooked upon the Gentiles as excluded from theblessings of the gospel. Now the Lord was seekingto teach Peter the world-wide extent of the divineplan.

Many of the Gentiles had been interestedlisteners to the preaching of Peter and the other

apostles, and many of the Greek Jews hadbecome believers in Christ, but the conversion ofCornelius was to be the first of importance amongthe Gentiles.

The time had come for an entirely new phaseof work to be entered upon by the church of Christ.The door that many of the Jewish converts hadclosed against the Gentiles was now to be thrownopen. And the Gentiles who accepted the gospelwere to be regarded as on an equality with theJewish disciples, without the necessity ofobserving the rite of circumcision.

How carefully the Lord worked to overcome theprejudice against the Gentiles that had been sofirmly fixed in Peter's mind by his Jewish training!By the vision of the sheet and its contents Hesought to divest the apostle's mind of thisprejudice and to teach the important truth that inheaven there is no respect of persons; that Jewand Gentile are alike precious in God's sight; thatthrough Christ the heathen may be made

partakers of the blessings and privileges of thegospel.

While Peter was meditating on the meaning ofthe vision, the men sent from Cornelius arrived inJoppa and stood before the gate of hislodginghouse. Then the Spirit said

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to him, "Behold, three men seek thee. Arisetherefore, and get thee down, and go with them,doubting nothing: for I have sent them."

To Peter this was a trying command, and it waswith reluctance at every step that he undertook theduty laid upon him; but he dared not disobey. He"went down to the men which were sent unto himfrom Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whomye seek: what is the cause wherefore ye arecome?" They told him of their singular errand,saying, "Cornelius the centurion, a just man, andone that feareth God, and of good report amongall the nation of the Jews, was warned from God

by a holy angel to send for thee into his house,and to hear words of thee."

In obedience to the directions just receivedfrom God, the apostle promised to go with them.On the following morning he set out for Caesarea,accompanied by six of his brethren. These were tobe witnesses of all that he should say or do whilevisiting the Gentiles, for Peter knew that he wouldbe called to account for so direct a violation of theJewish teachings.

As Peter entered the house of the Gentile,Cornelius did not salute him as an ordinary visitor,but as one honored of Heaven and sent to him byGod. It is an Eastern custom to bow before aprince or other high dignitary and for children tobow before their parents; but Cornelius,overwhelmed with reverence for the one sent byGod to teach him, fell at the apostle's feet andworshiped him. Peter was horror-stricken, and helifted the centurion up, saying, "Stand up; I myselfalso am a man."

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While the messengers of Cornelius had beengone upon their errand, the centurion "had calledtogether his kinsmen and near friends," that theyas well as he might hear the preaching of thegospel. When Peter arrived, he found a largecompany eagerly waiting to listen to his words.

To those assembled, Peter spoke first of thecustom of the Jews, saying that it was lookedupon as unlawful for Jews to mingle socially withthe Gentiles, that to do this involved ceremonialdefilement. "Ye know," he said, "how that it is anunlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keepcompany, or come unto one of another nation; butGod hath showed me that I should not call anyman common or unclean. Therefore came I untoyou without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for:I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent forme?"

Cornelius then related his experience and thewords of the angel, saying in conclusion,"Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thouhast well done that thou art come. Now thereforeare we all here present before God, to hear allthings that are commanded thee of God."

Peter said, "Of a truth I perceive that God is norespecter of persons: but in every nation he thatfeareth Him, and worketh righteousness, isaccepted with Him."

Then to that company of attentive hearers theapostle preached Christ--His life, His miracles, Hisbetrayal and crucifixion, His resurrection andascension, and His work in heaven as man'srepresentative and advocate. As Peter pointedthose present to Jesus as the sinner's only hope,he

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himself understood more fully the meaning of thevision he had seen, and his heart glowed with thespirit of the truth that he was presenting.

Suddenly the discourse was interrupted by thedescent of the Holy Spirit. "While Peter yet spakethese words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them whichheard the word. And they of the circumcisionwhich believed were astonished, as many ascame with Peter, because that on the Gentilesalso was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. Forthey heard them speak with tongues, and magnifyGod. "Then answered Peter, Can any manforbid water, that these should not be baptized,which have received the Holy Ghost as well aswe? And he commanded them to be baptized inthe name of the Lord."

Thus was the gospel brought to those who hadbeen strangers and foreigners, making them fellowcitizens with the saints, and members of thehousehold of God. The conversion of Corneliusand his household was but the first fruits of aharvest to be gathered in. From this household a

wide-spread work of grace was carried on in thatheathen city.

Today God is seeking for souls among the highas well as the lowly. There are many likeCornelius, men whom the Lord desires to connectwith His work in the world. Their sympathies arewith the Lord's people, but the ties that bind themto the world hold them firmly. It requires moralcourage for them to take their position for Christ.Special efforts should be made for these souls,who are in so great

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danger, because of their responsibilities andassociations.

God calls for earnest, humble workers, who willcarry the gospel to the higher class. There aremiracles to be wrought in genuine conversions,--miracles that are not now discerned. The greatestmen of this earth are not beyond the power of awonder-working God. If those who are workers

together with Him will be men of opportunity, doingtheir duty bravely and faithfully, God will convertmen who occupy responsible positions, men ofintellect and influence. Through the power of theHoly Spirit many will accept the divine principles.Converted to the truth, they will become agenciesin the hand of God to communicate the light. Theywill have a special burden for other souls of thisneglected class. Time and money will beconsecrated to the work of the Lord, and newefficiency and power will be added to the church.

Because Cornelius was living in obedience toall the instruction he had received, God so orderedevents that he was given more truth. A messengerfrom the courts of heaven was sent to the Romanofficer and to Peter in order that Cornelius mightbe brought into touch with one who could lead himinto greater light.

There are in our world many who are nearerthe kingdom of God than we suppose. In this darkworld of sin the Lord has many precious jewels, towhom He will guide His messengers. Everywhere

there are those who will take their stand for Christ.Many will prize the wisdom of God above anyearthly advantage, and will become faithful light

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bearers. Constrained by the love of Christ, theywill constrain others to come to Him.

When the brethren in Judea heard that Peterhad gone to the house of a Gentile and preachedto those assembled, they were surprised andoffended. They feared that such a course, whichlooked to them presumptuous, would have theeffect of counteracting his own teaching. Whenthey next saw Peter they met him with severecensure, saying, "Thou wentest in to menuncircumcised, and didst eat with them."

Peter laid the whole matter before them. Herelated his experience in regard to the vision andpleaded that it admonished him to observe nolonger the ceremonial distinction of circumcisionand uncircumcision, nor to look upon the Gentiles

as unclean. He told them of the command givenhim to go to the Gentiles, of the coming of themessengers, of his journey to Caesarea, and ofthe meeting with Cornelius. He recounted thesubstance of his interview with the centurion, inwhich the latter had told him of the vision by whichhe had been directed to send for Peter.

"As I began to speak," he said, in relating hisexperience, "the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on usat the beginning. Then remembered I the word ofthe Lord, how that He said, John indeed baptizedwith water; but ye shall be baptized with the HolyGhost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the likegift as He did unto us, who believed on the LordJesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstandGod?"

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On hearing this account, the brethren weresilenced. Convinced that Peter's course was in

direct fulfillment of the plan of God, and that theirprejudices and exclusiveness were utterly contraryto the spirit of the gospel, they glorified God,saying, "Then hath God also to the Gentilesgranted repentance unto life."

Thus, without controversy, prejudice wasbroken down, the exclusiveness established bythe custom of ages was abandoned, and the waywas opened for the gospel to be proclaimed to theGentiles.

Chap. 15 - Delivered From Prison

"Now about that time Herod the king stretchedforth his hands to vex certain of the church." Thegovernment of Judea was then in the hands ofHerod Agrippa, subject to Claudius, the Romanemperor. Herod also held the position of tetrarchof Galilee. He was professedly a proselyte to theJewish faith, and apparently very zealous incarrying out the ceremonies of the Jewish law.

Desirous of obtaining the favor of the Jews, hopingthus to make secure his offices and honors, heproceeded to carry out their desires bypersecuting the church of Christ, spoiling thehouses and goods of the believers, andimprisoning the leading members of the church.He cast James, the brother of John, into prison,and sent an executioner to kill him with the sword,as another Herod had caused the prophet John tobe beheaded. Seeing that the Jews were wellpleased with these efforts, he imprisoned Peteralso.

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It was during the Passover that these crueltieswere practiced. While the Jews were celebratingtheir deliverance from Egypt and pretending greatzeal for the law of God, they were at the sametime transgressing every principle of that law bypersecuting and murdering the believers in Christ.

The death of James caused great grief andconsternation among the believers. When Peteralso was imprisoned, the entire church engaged infasting and prayer.

Herod's act in putting James to death wasapplauded by the Jews, though some complainedof the private manner in which it wasaccomplished, maintaining that a public executionwould have more thoroughly intimidated thebelievers and those sympathizing with them.Herod therefore held Peter in custody, meaningstill further to gratify the Jews by the publicspectacle of his death. But it was suggested that itwould not be safe to bring the veteran apostle outfor execution before all the people then assembledin Jerusalem. It was feared that the sight of himbeing led out to die might excite the pity of themultitude.

The priests and elders also feared lest Petermight make one of those powerful appeals whichhad frequently aroused the people to study the lifeand character of Jesus--appeals which they, with

all their arguments, had been unable to controvert.Peter's zeal in advocating the cause of Christ hadled many to take their stand for the gospel, andthe rulers feared that should he be given anopportunity to defend his faith in the presence ofthe multitude who had come to

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the city to worship, his release would bedemanded at the hands of the king.

While, upon various pretexts, the execution ofPeter was being delayed until after the Passover,the members of the church had time for deepsearching of heart and earnest prayer. Theyprayed without ceasing for Peter, for they felt thathe could not be spared from the cause. Theyrealized that they had reached a place where,without the special help of God, the church ofChrist would be destroyed.

Meanwhile worshipers from every nationsought the temple which had been dedicated to

the worship of God. Glittering with gold andprecious stones, it was a vision of beauty andgrandeur. But Jehovah was no longer to be foundin that palace of loveliness. Israel as a nation haddivorced herself from God. When Christ, near theclose of His earthly ministry, looked for the lasttime upon the interior of the temple, He said,"Behold, your house is left unto you desolate."Matthew 23:38. Hitherto He had called the templeHis Father's house; but as the Son of God passedout from those walls, God's presence waswithdrawn forever from the temple built to Hisglory. The day of Peter's execution was at lastappointed, but still the prayers of the believersascended to heaven; and while all their energiesand sympathies were called out in fervent appealsfor help, angels of God were watching over theimprisoned apostle.

Remembering the former escape of theapostles from prison, Herod on this occasion hadtaken double precautions.

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To prevent all possibility of release, Peter hadbeen put under the charge of sixteen soldiers,who, in different watches, guarded him day andnight. In his cell he was placed between twosoldiers and was bound by two chains, each chainbeing fastened to the wrist of one of the soldiers.He was unable to move without their knowledge.With the prison doors securely fastened, and astrong guard before them, all chance of rescue orescape through human means was cut off. Butman's extremity is God's opportunity.

Peter was confined in a rock-hewn cell, thedoors of which were strongly bolted and barred;and the soldiers on guard were made answerablefor the safekeeping of the prisoner. But the boltsand bars and the Roman guard, which effectuallycut off all possibility of human aid, were but tomake more complete the triumph of God in thedeliverance of Peter. Herod was lifting his handagainst Omnipotence, and he was to be utterly

defeated. By the putting forth of His might, Godwas about to save the precious life that the Jewswere plotting to destroy.

It is the last night before the proposedexecution. A mighty angel is sent from heaven torescue Peter. The strong gates that shut in thesaint of God open without the aid of human hands.The angel of the Most High passes through, andthe gates close noiselessly behind him. He entersthe cell, and there lies Peter, sleeping the peacefulsleep of perfect trust.

The light that surrounds the angel fills the cell,but does not rouse the apostle. Not until he feelsthe touch of the angel's hand and hears a voicesaying, "Arise up quickly,"

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does he awaken sufficiently to see his cellilluminated by the light of heaven, and an angel ofgreat glory standing before him. Mechanically heobeys the word spoken to him, and as in rising he

lifts his hands he is dimly conscious that thechains have fallen from his wrists.

Again the voice of the heavenly messengerbids him, "Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals,"and again Peter mechanically obeys, keeping hiswondering gaze riveted upon his visitor andbelieving himself to be dreaming or in a vision.Once more the angel commands, "Cast thygarment about thee, and follow me." He movestoward the door, followed by the usually talkativePeter, now dumb from amazement. They stepover the guard and reach the heavily bolted door,which of its own accord swings open and closesagain immediately, while the guards within andwithout are motionless at their post.

The second door, also guarded within andwithout, is reached. It opens as did the first, withno creaking of hinges or rattling of iron bolts. Theypass through, and it closes again as noiselessly.In the same way they pass through the thirdgateway and find themselves in the open street.No word is spoken; there is no sound of footsteps.

The angel glides on in front, encircled by a light ofdazzling brightness, and Peter, bewildered, andstill believing himself to be in a dream, follows hisdeliverer. Thus they pass on through one street,and then, the mission of the angel beingaccomplished, he suddenly disappears.

The heavenly light faded away, and Peter felthimself to be in profound darkness; but as hiseyes became accustomed

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to the darkness, it gradually seemed to lessen,and he found himself alone in the silent street, withthe cool night air blowing upon his brow. He nowrealized that he was free, in a familiar part of thecity; he recognized the place as one that he hadoften frequented and had expected to pass on themorrow for the last time.

He tried to recall the events of the past fewmoments. He remembered falling asleep, boundbetween two soldiers, with his sandals and outer

garments removed. He examined his person andfound himself fully dressed and girded. His wrists,swollen from wearing the cruel irons, were freefrom the manacles. He realized that his freedomwas no delusion, no dream or vision, but a blessedreality. On the morrow he was to have been ledforth to die; but, lo, an angel had delivered himfrom prison and from death. "And when Peter wascome to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety,that the Lord hath sent His angel, and hathdelivered me out of the hand of Herod, and fromall the expectation of the people of the Jews."

The apostle made his way at once to the housewhere his brethren were assembled and wherethey were at that moment engaged in earnestprayer for him. "As Peter knocked at the door ofthe gate, a damsel came to hearken, namedRhoda. And when she knew Peter's voice, sheopened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, andtold how Peter stood before the gate. And theysaid unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly

affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It ishis angel.

"But Peter continued knocking: and when theyhad

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opened the door, and saw him, they wereastonished. But he, beckoning unto them with thehand to hold their peace, declared unto them howthe Lord had brought him out of the prison." AndPeter "departed, and went into another place." Joyand praise filled the hearts of the believers,because God had heard and answered theirprayers and had delivered Peter from the hands ofHerod.

In the morning a large concourse of peoplegathered to witness the execution of the apostle.Herod sent officers to the prison for Peter, whowas to be brought with a great display of arms andguards in order not only to ensure against his

escape, but to intimidate all sympathizers and toshow the power of the king.

When the keepers before the door found thatPeter had escaped, they were seized with terror. Ithad been expressly stated that their lives would berequired for the life of their charge, and because ofthis they had been especially vigilant. When theofficers came for Peter, the soldiers were still atthe door of the prison, the bolts and bars were stillfast, the chains were still secured to the wrists ofthe two soldiers; but the prisoner was gone.

When the report of Peter's escape was broughtto Herod, he was exasperated and enraged.Charging the prison guard with unfaithfulness, heordered them to be put to death. Herod knew thatno human power had rescued Peter, but he wasdetermined not to acknowledge that a divinepower had frustrated his design, and he sethimself in bold defiance against God.

Not long after Peter's deliverance from prison,Herod

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went to Caesarea. While there he made a greatfestival designed to excite the admiration and gainthe applause of the people. This festival wasattended by pleasure lovers from all quarters, andthere was much feasting and wine drinking. Withgreat pomp and ceremony Herod appeared beforethe people and addressed them in an eloquentoration. Clad in a robe sparkling with silver andgold, which caught the rays of the sun in itsglittering folds and dazzled the eyes of thebeholders, he was a gorgeous figure. The majestyof his appearance and the force of his well-chosenlanguage swayed the assembly with a mightypower. Their senses already perverted by feastingand wine drinking, they were dazzled by Herod'sdecorations and charmed by his deportment andoratory; and wild with enthusiasm they showeredadulation upon him, declaring that no mortal couldpresent such an appearance or command suchstartling eloquence. They further declared that

while they had ever respected him as a ruler,henceforth they should worship him as a god.

Some of those whose voices were now heardglorifying a vile sinner had but a few years beforeraised the frenzied cry, Away with Jesus! CrucifyHim, crucify Him! The Jews had refused to receiveChrist, whose garments, coarse and often travel-stained, covered a heart of divine love. Their eyescould not discern, under the humble exterior, theLord of life and glory, even though Christ's powerwas revealed before them in works that no mereman could do. But they were ready to worship as agod the haughty king whose splendid garments ofsilver and gold covered a corrupt, cruel heart.

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Herod knew that he deserved none of thepraise and homage offered him, yet he acceptedthe idolatry of the people as his due. His heartbounded with triumph, and a glow of gratified pride

overspread his countenance as he heard theshout ascend, "It is the voice of a god, and not of aman."

But suddenly a terrible change came over him.His face became pallid as death and distorted withagony. Great drops of sweat started from hispores. He stood for a moment as if transfixed withpain and terror; then turning his blanched and lividface to his horror-stricken friends, he cried inhollow, despairing tones, He whom you haveexalted as a god is stricken with death.

Suffering the most excruciating anguish, hewas borne from the scene of revelry and display. Amoment before he had been the proud recipient ofthe praise and worship of that vast throng; now herealized that he was in the hands of a Rulermightier than himself. Remorse seized him; heremembered his relentless persecution of thefollowers of Christ; he remembered his cruelcommand to slay the innocent James, and hisdesign to put to death the apostle Peter; heremembered how in his mortification and

disappointed rage he had wreaked anunreasoning vengeance upon the prison guards.He felt that God was now dealing with him, therelentless persecutor. He found no relief from painof body or anguish of mind, and he expectednone.

Herod was acquainted with the law of God,which says, "Thou shalt have no other gods beforeMe" (Exodus 20:3); and he knew that in acceptingthe worship of the people

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he had filled up the measure of his iniquity andbrought upon himself the just wrath of Jehovah.

The same angel who had come from the royalcourts to rescue Peter, had been the messengerof wrath and judgment to Herod. The angel smotePeter to arouse him from slumber; it was with adifferent stroke that he smote the wicked king,laying low his pride and bringing upon him thepunishment of the Almighty. Herod died in great

agony of mind and body, under the retributivejudgment of God.

This demonstration of divine justice had apowerful influence upon the people. The tidingsthat the apostle of Christ had been miraculouslydelivered from prison and death, while hispersecutor had been stricken down by the curse ofGod, were borne to all lands and became themeans of leading many to a belief in Christ.

The experience of Philip, directed by an angelfrom heaven to go to the place where he met oneseeking for truth; of Cornelius, visited by an angelwith a message from God; of Peter, in prison andcondemned to death, led by an angel forth tosafety--all show the closeness of the connectionbetween heaven and earth.

To the worker for God the record of these angelvisits should bring strength and courage. Today,as verily as in the days of the apostles, heavenlymessengers are passing through the length andbreadth of the land, seeking to comfort the

sorrowing, to protect the impenitent, to win thehearts of men to Christ. We cannot see thempersonally;

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nevertheless they are with us, guiding, directing,protecting.

Heaven is brought near to earth by that mysticladder, the base of which is firmly planted on theearth, while the topmost round reaches the throneof the Infinite. Angels are constantly ascendingand descending this ladder of shining brightness,bearing the prayers of the needy and distressed tothe Father above, and bringing blessing and hope,courage and help, to the children of men. Theseangels of light create a heavenly atmosphereabout the soul, lifting us toward the unseen andthe eternal. We cannot behold their forms with ournatural sight; only by spiritual vision can wediscern heavenly things. The spiritual ear alonecan hear the harmony of heavenly voices.

"The angel of the Lord encampeth round aboutthem that fear Him, and delivereth them." Psalm34:7. God commissions His angels to save Hischosen ones from calamity, to guard them from"the pestilence that walketh in darkness" and "thedestruction that wasteth at noonday." Psalm 91:6.Again and again have angels talked with men as aman speaketh with a friend, and led them toplaces of security. Again and again have theencouraging words of angels renewed thedrooping spirits of the faithful and, carrying theirminds above the things of earth, caused them tobehold by faith the white robes, the crowns, thepalm branches of victory, which overcomers willreceive when they surround the great whitethrone. It is the work of the angels to comeclose to the tried, the suffering, the tempted. Theylabor untiringly in behalf

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of those for whom Christ died. When sinners areled to give themselves to the Saviour, angels bear

the tidings heavenward, and there is greatrejoicing among the heavenly host. "Joy shall be inheaven over one sinner that repenteth, more thanover ninety and nine just persons, which need norepentance." Luke 15:7. A report is borne toheaven of every successful effort on our part todispel the darkness and to spread abroad theknowledge of Christ. As the deed is recountedbefore the Father, joy thrills through all theheavenly host.

The principalities and powers of heaven arewatching the warfare which, under apparentlydiscouraging circumstances, God's servants arecarrying on. New conquests are being achieved,new honors won, as the Christians, rallying roundthe banner of their Redeemer, go forth to fight thegood fight of faith. All the heavenly angels are atthe service of the humble, believing people ofGod; and as the Lord's army of workers herebelow sing their songs of praise, the choir abovejoin with them in ascribing praise to God and toHis Son.

We need to understand better than we do themission of the angels. It would be well toremember that every true child of God has the co-operation of heavenly beings. Invisible armies oflight and power attend the meek and lowly oneswho believe and claim the promises of God.Cherubim and seraphim, and angels that excel instrength, stand at God's right hand, "all ministeringspirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall beheirs of salvation." Hebrews 1:14.

Chap. 16 - The Gospel Message in Antioch

After the disciples had been driven fromJerusalem by persecution, the gospel messagespread rapidly through the regions lying beyondthe limits of Palestine; and many small companiesof believers were formed in important centers.Some of the disciples "traveled as far as Phenice,and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word."Their labors were usually confined to the Hebrew

and Greek Jews, large colonies of whom were atthis time to be found in nearly all the cities of theworld.

Among the places mentioned where the gospelwas gladly received is Antioch, at that time themetropolis of Syria. The extensive commercecarried on from that populous center brought tothe city many people of various nationalities.Besides, Antioch was favorably known as a resortfor lovers of ease and pleasure, because of itshealthful situation, its beautiful surroundings, andthe wealth, culture, and refinement

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to be found there. In the days of the apostles ithad become a city of luxury and vice.

The gospel was publicly taught in Antioch bycertain disciples from Cyprus and Cyrene, whocame "preaching the Lord Jesus." "The hand ofthe Lord was with them," and their earnest labors

were productive of fruit. "A great number believed,and turned unto the Lord."

"Tidings of these things came unto the ears ofthe church which was in Jerusalem: and they sentforth Barnabas, that he should go as far asAntioch." Upon arrival in his new field of labor,Barnabas saw the work that had already beenaccomplished by divine grace, and he "was glad,and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heartthey would cleave unto the Lord."

The labors of Barnabas in Antioch were richlyblessed, and many were added to the number ofbelievers there. As the work developed, Barnabasfelt the need of suitable help in order to advance inthe opening providences of God, and he went toTarsus to seek for Paul, who, after his departurefrom Jerusalem some time before, had beenlaboring in "the regions of Syria and Cilicia,"proclaiming "the faith which once he destroyed."Galatians 1:21, 23. Barnabas was successful infinding Paul and in persuading him to return withhim as a companion in ministry.

In the populous city of Antioch, Paul found anexcellent field of labor. His learning, wisdom, andzeal exerted a powerful influence over theinhabitants and frequenters of that city of culture;and he proved just the help that Barnabas needed.For a year the two disciples labored unitedly

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in faithful ministry, bringing to many a savingknowledge of Jesus of Nazareth, the world'sRedeemer.

It was in Antioch that the disciples were firstcalled Christians. The name was given thembecause Christ was the main theme of theirpreaching, their teaching, and their conversation.Continually they were recounting the incidents thathad occurred during the days of His earthlyministry, when His disciples were blessed with Hispersonal presence. Untiringly they dwelt upon Histeachings and His miracles of healing. Withquivering lips and tearful eyes they spoke of His

agony in the garden, His betrayal, trial, andexecution, the forbearance and humility with whichHe had endured the contumely and tortureimposed upon Him by His enemies, and theGodlike pity with which He had prayed for thosewho persecuted Him. His resurrection andascension, and His work in heaven as theMediator for fallen man, were topics on which theyrejoiced to dwell. Well might the heathen call themChristians, since they preached Christ andaddressed their prayers to God through Him.

It was God who gave to them the name ofChristian. This is a royal name, given to all whojoin themselves to Christ. It was of this name thatJames wrote later, "Do not rich men oppress you,and draw you before the judgment seats? Do notthey blaspheme that worthy name by the which yeare called?" James 2:6, 7. And Peter declared, "Ifany man suffer as a Christian, let him not beashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf." "Ifye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy

are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God restethupon you." 1 Peter 4:16, 14.

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The believers at Antioch realized that God waswilling to work in their lives "both to will and to doof His good pleasure." Philippians 2:13. Living, asthey were, in the midst of a people who seemed tocare but little for the things of eternal value, theysought to arrest the attention of the honest inheart, and to bear positive testimony concerningHim whom they loved and served. In their humbleministry they learned to depend upon the power ofthe Holy Spirit to make effective the word of life.And so, in the various walks of life, they daily boretestimony of their faith in Christ.

The example of the followers of Christ atAntioch should be an inspiration to every believerliving in the great cities of the world today. While itis in the order of God that chosen workers of

consecration and talent should be stationed inimportant centers of population to lead out inpublic efforts, it is also His purpose that the churchmembers living in these cities shall use their God-given talents in working for souls. There are richblessings in store for those who surrender fully tothe call of God. As such workers endeavor to winsouls to Jesus, they will find that many who nevercould have been reached in any other way areready to respond to intelligent personal effort.

The cause of God in the earth today is in needof living representatives of Bible truth. Theordained ministers alone are not equal to the taskof warning the great cities. God is calling not onlyupon ministers, but also upon physicians, nurses,colporteurs, Bible workers, and other consecratedlaymen of varied talent who have a knowledge of

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the word of God and who know the power of Hisgrace, to consider the needs of the unwarned

cities. Time is rapidly passing, and there is muchto be done. Every agency must be set inoperation, that present opportunities may bewisely improved.

Paul's labors at Antioch, in association withBarnabas, strengthened him in his conviction thatthe Lord had called him to do a special work forthe Gentile world. At the time of Paul's conversion,the Lord had declared that he was to be made aminister to the Gentiles, "to open their eyes, and toturn them from darkness to light, and from thepower of Satan unto God, that they may receiveforgiveness of sins, and inheritance among themwhich are sanctified by faith that is in Me." Acts26:18. The angel that appeared to Ananias hadsaid of Paul, "He is a chosen vessel unto Me, tobear My name before the Gentiles, and kings, andthe children of Israel." Acts 9:15. And Paul himself,later in his Christian experience, while praying inthe temple at Jerusalem, had been visited by anangel from heaven, who bade him, "Depart: for I

will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles." Acts22:21.

Thus the Lord had given Paul his commissionto enter the broad missionary field of the Gentileworld. To prepare him for this extensive anddifficult work, God had brought him into closeconnection with Himself and had opened beforehis enraptured vision views of the beauty and gloryof heaven. To him had been given the ministry ofmaking known "the mystery" which had been "keptsecret since the world began" (Romans16:25),--"the mystery of His

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will" (Ephesians 1:9), "which in other ages was notmade known unto the sons of men, as it is nowrevealed unto His holy apostles and prophets bythe Spirit; that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs,and of the same body, and partakers of Hispromise in Christ by the gospel: whereof,"declares Paul, "I was made a minister. . . . Unto

me, who am less than the least of all saints, is thisgrace given, that I should preach among theGentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; and tomake all men see what is the fellowship of themystery, which from the beginning of the worldhath been hid in God, who created all things byJesus Christ: to the intent that now unto theprincipalities and powers in heavenly places mightbe known by the church the manifold wisdom ofGod, according to the eternal purpose which Hepurposed in Christ Jesus our Lord." Ephesians3:5-11.

God had abundantly blessed the labors of Pauland Barnabas during the year they remained withthe believers in Antioch. But neither of them hadas yet been formally ordained to the gospelministry. They had now reached a point in theirChristian experience when God was about toentrust them with the carrying forward of a difficultmissionary enterprise, in the prosecution of whichthey would need every advantage that could beobtained through the agency of the church.

"There were in the church that was at Antiochcertain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, andSimeon that was called Niger, and Lucius ofCyrene, and Manaen, . . . and Saul. As theyministered to the Lord, and fasted, the

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Holy Ghost said, Separate Me Barnabas and Saulfor the work whereunto I have called them." Beforebeing sent forth as missionaries to the heathenworld, these apostles were solemnly dedicated toGod by fasting and prayer and the laying on ofhands. Thus they were authorized by the church,not only to teach the truth, but to perform the riteof baptism and to organize churches, beinginvested with full ecclesiastical authority.

The Christian church was at this time enteringupon an important era. The work of proclaimingthe gospel message among the Gentiles was nowto be prosecuted with vigor; and as a result thechurch was to be strengthened by a great

ingathering of souls. The apostles who had beenappointed to lead out in this work would beexposed to suspicion, prejudice, and jealousy.Their teachings concerning the breaking down of"the middle wall of partition" (Ephesians 2:14) thathad so long separated the Jewish and the Gentileworld, would naturally subject them to the chargeof heresy, and their authority as ministers of thegospel would be questioned by many zealous,believing Jews. God foresaw the difficulties thatHis servants would be called to meet, and, in orderthat their work should be above challenge, Heinstructed the church by revelation to set themapart publicly to the work of the ministry. Theirordination was a public recognition of their divineappointment to bear to the Gentiles the gladtidings of the gospel.

Both Paul and Barnabas had already receivedtheir commission from God Himself, and theceremony of the laying

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on of hands added no new grace or virtualqualification. It was an acknowledged form ofdesignation to an appointed office and arecognition of one's authority in that office. By itthe seal of the church was set upon the work ofGod.

To the Jew this form was a significant one.When a Jewish father blessed his children, he laidhis hands reverently upon their heads. When ananimal was devoted to sacrifice, the hand of theone invested with priestly authority was laid uponthe head of the victim. And when the ministers ofthe church of believers in Antioch laid their handsupon Paul and Barnabas, they, by that action,asked God to bestow His blessing upon thechosen apostles in their devotion to the specificwork to which they had been appointed.

At a later date the rite of ordination by thelaying on of hands was greatly abused;unwarrantable importance was attached to the act,as if a power came at once upon those whoreceived such ordination, which immediately

qualified them for any and all ministerial work. Butin the setting apart of these two apostles, there isno record indicating that any virtue was impartedby the mere act of laying on of hands. There isonly the simple record of their ordination and ofthe bearing that it had on their future work.

The circumstances connected with theseparation of Paul and Barnabas by the Holy Spiritto a definite line of service show clearly that theLord works through appointed agencies in Hisorganized church. Years before, when the divinepurpose concerning Paul was first revealed to himby the Saviour Himself, Paul was immediatelyafterward brought

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into contact with members of the newly organizedchurch at Damascus. Furthermore, the church atthat place was not long left in darkness as to thepersonal experience of the converted Pharisee.And now, when the divine commission given at

that time was to be more fully carried out, the HolySpirit, again bearing witness concerning Paul as achosen vessel to bear the gospel to the Gentiles,laid upon the church the work of ordaining him andhis fellow laborer. As the leaders of the church inAntioch "ministered to the Lord, and fasted, theHoly Ghost said, Separate Me Barnabas and Saulfor the work whereunto I have called them."

God has made His church on the earth achannel of light, and through it He communicatesHis purposes and His will. He does not give to oneof His servants an experience independent of andcontrary to the experience of the church itself.Neither does He give one man a knowledge of Hiswill for the entire church while the church--Christ'sbody --is left in darkness. In His providence Heplaces His servants in close connection with Hischurch in order that they may have lessconfidence in themselves and greater confidencein others whom He is leading out to advance Hiswork.

There have ever been in the church those whoare constantly inclined toward individualindependence. They seem unable to realize thatindependence of spirit is liable to lead the humanagent to have too much confidence in himself andto trust in his own judgment rather than to respectthe counsel and highly esteem the judgment of hisbrethren,

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especially of those in the offices that God hasappointed for the leadership of His people. Godhas invested His church with special authority andpower which no one can be justified indisregarding and despising, for he who does thisdespises the voice of God.

Those who are inclined to regard theirindividual judgment as supreme are in grave peril.It is Satan's studied effort to separate such onesfrom those who are channels of light, throughwhom God has wrought to build up and extend His

work in the earth. To neglect or despise thosewhom God has appointed to bear theresponsibilities of leadership in connection with theadvancement of the truth, is to reject the meansthat He has ordained for the help, encouragement,and strength of His people. For any worker in theLord's cause to pass these by, and to think that hislight must come through no other channel thandirectly from God, is to place himself in a positionwhere he is liable to be deceived by the enemyand overthrown. The Lord in His wisdom hasarranged that by means of the close relationshipthat should be maintained by all believers,Christian shall be united to Christian and church tochurch. Thus the human instrumentality will beenabled to co-operate with the divine. Everyagency will be subordinate to the Holy Spirit, andall the believers will be united in an organized andwell-directed effort to give to the world the gladtidings of the grace of God.

Paul regarded the occasion of his formalordination as marking the beginning of a new and

important epoch in his lifework. It was from thistime that he afterward

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dated the beginning of his apostleship in theChristian church.

While the light of the gospel was shiningbrightly at Antioch, an important work wascontinued by the apostles who had remained inJerusalem. Every year, at the time of the festivals,many Jews from all lands came to Jerusalem toworship at the temple. Some of these pilgrimswere men of fervent piety and earnest students ofthe prophecies. They were looking and longing forthe advent of the promised Messiah, the hope ofIsrael. While Jerusalem was filled with thesestrangers, the apostles preached Christ withunflinching courage, though they knew that in sodoing they were placing their lives in constantjeopardy. The Spirit of God set its seal upon theirlabors; many converts to the faith were made; and

these, returning to their homes in different parts ofthe world, scattered the seeds of truth through allnations and among all classes of society.

Prominent among the apostles who engaged inthis work were Peter, James, and John, who feltconfident that God had appointed them to preachChrist among their countrymen at home. Faithfullyand wisely they labored, testifying of the thingsthey had seen and heard, and appealing to "amore sure word of prophecy" (2 Peter 1:19), in aneffort to persuade "the house of Israel . . . that Godhath made that same Jesus, whom" the Jews"crucified, both Lord and Christ" (Acts 2:36).

Chap. 17 - Heralds of the Gospel

"Sent forth by the Holy Ghost," Paul andBarnabas, after their ordination by the brethren inAntioch, "departed unto Seleucia; and from thencethey sailed to Cyprus." Thus the apostles begantheir first missionary journey.

Cyprus was one of the places to which thebelievers had fled from Jerusalem because of thepersecution following the death of Stephen. It wasfrom Cyprus that certain men had journeyed toAntioch, "preaching the Lord Jesus." Acts 11:20.Barnabas himself was "of the country of Cyprus"(Acts 4:36); and now he and Paul, accompaniedby John Mark, a kinsman of Barnabas, visited thisisland field.

Mark's mother was a convert to the Christianreligion, and her home at Jerusalem was anasylum for the disciples. There they were alwayssure of a welcome and a season of rest. It wasduring one of these visits of the apostles to his

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mother's home, that Mark proposed to Paul andBarnabas that he should accompany them on theirmissionary tour. He felt the favor of God in hisheart and longed to devote himself entirely to thework of the gospel ministry.

Arriving at Salamis, the apostles "preached theword of God in the synagogues of the Jews. . . .And when they had gone through the isle untoPaphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a falseprophet, a Jew, whose name was Bar-Jesus:which was with the deputy of the country, SergiusPaulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabasand Saul, and desired to hear the word of God.But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name byinterpretation) withstood them, seeking to turnaway the deputy from the faith."

Not without a struggle does Satan allow thekingdom of God to be built up in the earth. Theforces of evil are engaged in unceasing warfareagainst the agencies appointed for the spread ofthe gospel, and these powers of darkness areespecially active when the truth is proclaimedbefore men of repute and sterling integrity. Thus itwas when Sergius Paulus, the deputy of Cyprus,was listening to the gospel message. The deputyhad sent for the apostles, that he might beinstructed in the message they had come to bear,

and now the forces of evil, working through thesorcerer Elymas, sought with their balefulsuggestions to turn him from the faith and sothwart the purpose of God.

Thus the fallen foe ever works to keep in hisranks men of influence who, if converted, mightrender effective service in God's cause. But thefaithful gospel worker need not

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fear defeat at the hand of the enemy; for it is hisprivilege to be endued with power from above towithstand every satanic influence.

Although sorely beset by Satan, Paul had thecourage to rebuke the one through whom theenemy was working. "Filled with the Holy Ghost,"the apostle "set his eyes on him, and said, O full ofall subtlety and all mischief, thou child of the devil,thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou notcease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? Andnow, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee,

and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for aseason. And immediately there fell on him a mistand a darkness; and he went about seeking someto lead him by the hand. Then the deputy, whenhe saw what was done, believed, beingastonished at the doctrine of the Lord."

The sorcerer had closed his eyes to theevidences of gospel truth, and the Lord, inrighteous anger, caused his natural eyes to beclosed, shutting out from him the light of day. Thisblindness was not permanent, but only for aseason, that he might be warned to repent andseek pardon of the God whom he had sogrievously offended. The confusion into which hewas thus brought made of no effect his subtle artsagainst the doctrine of Christ. The fact that he wasobliged to grope about in blindness proved to allthat the miracles which the apostles hadperformed, and which Elymas had denounced assleight of hand, were wrought by the power ofGod. The deputy, convinced of the truth of the

doctrine taught by the apostles, accepted thegospel.

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Elymas was not a man of education, yet hewas peculiarly fitted to do the work of Satan.Those who preach the truth of God will meet thewily foe in many different forms. Sometimes it willbe in the person of learned, but more often ofignorant, men, whom Satan has trained to besuccessful instruments to deceive souls. It is theduty of the minister of Christ to stand faithful at hispost, in the fear of God and in the power of Hismight. Thus he may put to confusion the hosts ofSatan and may triumph in the name of the Lord.

Paul and his company continued their journey,going to Perga, in Pamphylia. Their way wastoilsome; they encountered hardships andprivations, and were beset with dangers on everyside. In the towns and cities through which they

passed, and along the lonely highways, they weresurrounded by dangers seen and unseen. ButPaul and Barnabas had learned to trust God'spower to deliver. Their hearts were filled withfervent love for perishing souls. As faithfulshepherds in search of the lost sheep, they gaveno thought to their own ease and convenience.Forgetful of self, they faltered not when weary,hungry, and cold. They had in view but oneobject--the salvation of those who had wanderedfar from the fold.

It was here that Mark, overwhelmed with fearand discouragement, wavered for a time in hispurpose to give himself wholeheartedly to theLord's work. Unused to hardships, he wasdisheartened by the perils and privations of theway. He had labored with success under favorable

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circumstances; but now, amidst the opposition andperils that so often beset the pioneer worker, he

failed to endure hardness as a good soldier of thecross. He had yet to learn to face danger andpersecution and adversity with a brave heart. Asthe apostles advanced, and still greater difficultieswere apprehended, Mark was intimidated and,losing all courage, refused to go farther andreturned to Jerusalem.

This desertion caused Paul to judge Markunfavorably, and even severely, for a time.Barnabas, on the other hand, was inclined toexcuse him because of his inexperience. He feltanxious that Mark should not abandon theministry, for he saw in him qualifications that wouldfit him to be a useful worker for Christ. In afteryears his solicitude in Mark's behalf was richlyrewarded, for the young man gave himselfunreservedly to the Lord and to the work ofproclaiming the gospel message in difficult fields.Under the blessing of God, and the wise training ofBarnabas, he developed into a valuable worker.

Paul was afterward reconciled to Mark andreceived him as a fellow laborer. He also

recommended him to the Colossians as one whowas a fellow worker "unto the kingdom of God,"and "a comfort unto me." Colossians 4:11. Again,not long before his own death, he spoke of Markas "profitable" to him "for the ministry." 2 Timothy4:11.

After the departure of Mark, Paul and Barnabasvisited Antioch in Pisidia and on the Sabbath daywent into the Jewish synagogue and sat down."After the reading of the law and the prophets therulers of the synagogue sent unto

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them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have anyword of exhortation for the people, say on." Beingthus invited to speak, "Paul stood up, andbeckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, andye that fear God, give audience." Then followed awonderful discourse. He proceeded to give ahistory of the manner in which the Lord had dealtwith the Jews from the time of their deliverance

from Egyptian bondage, and how a Saviour hadbeen promised, of the seed of David, and heboldly declared that "of this man's seed hath Godaccording to His promise raised unto Israel aSaviour, Jesus: when John had first preachedbefore His coming the baptism of repentance to allthe people of Israel. And as John fulfilled hiscourse, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I amnot He. But, behold, there cometh One after me,whose shoes of His feet I am not worthy to loose."Thus with power he preached Jesus as theSaviour of men, the Messiah of prophecy.Having made this declaration, Paul said, "Men andbrethren, children of the stock of Abraham, andwhosoever among you feareth God, to you is theword of this salvation sent. For they that dwell atJerusalem, and their rulers, because they knewHim not, nor yet the voices of the prophets whichare read every Sabbath day, they have fulfilledthem in condemning Him."

Paul did not hesitate to speak the plain truthconcerning the rejection of the Saviour by the

Jewish leaders. "Though they found no cause ofdeath in Him," the apostle declared, "yet desiredthey Pilate that He should be slain. And when

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they had fulfilled all that was written of Him, theytook Him down from the tree, and laid Him in asepulcher. But God raised Him from the dead: andHe was seen many days of them which came upwith Him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are Hiswitnesses unto the people."

"We declare unto you glad tidings," the apostlecontinued, "how that the promise which was madeunto the fathers, God hath fulfilled the same untous their children, in that He hath raised up Jesusagain; as it is also written in the second psalm,Thou art My Son, this day have I begotten Thee.And as concerning that He raised Him up from thedead, now no more to return to corruption, He saidon this wise, I will give you the sure mercies ofDavid. Wherefore He saith also in another psalm,

Thou shalt not suffer Thine Holy One to seecorruption. For David, after he had served his owngeneration by the will of God, fell on sleep, andwas laid unto his fathers, and saw corruption: butHe, whom God raised again, saw no corruption."And now, having spoken plainly of the fulfillment offamiliar prophecies concerning the Messiah, Paulpreached unto them repentance and the remissionof sin through the merits of Jesus their Saviour."Be it known unto you," he said, "that through thisMan is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins:and by Him all that believe are justified from allthings, from which ye could not be justified by thelaw of Moses."

The Spirit of God accompanied the words thatwere spoken, and hearts were touched. Theapostle's appeal to Old Testament prophecies,and his declaration that these had been fulfilled inthe ministry of Jesus of Nazareth,

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carried conviction to many a soul longing for theadvent of the promised Messiah. And thespeaker's words of assurance that the "gladtidings" of salvation were for Jew and Gentilealike, brought hope and joy to those who had notbeen numbered among the children of Abrahamaccording to the flesh.

"When the Jews were gone out of thesynagogue, the Gentiles besought that thesewords might be preached to them the nextSabbath." The congregation having finally brokenup, "many of the Jews and religious proselytes,"who had accepted the glad tidings borne to themthat day, "followed Paul and Barnabas: who,speaking to them, persuaded them to continue inthe grace of God."

The interest aroused in Antioch of Pisidia byPaul's discourse brought together on the nextSabbath day, "almost the whole city . . . to hearthe word of God. But when the Jews saw themultitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake

against those things which were spoken by Paul,contradicting and blaspheming.

"Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, andsaid, It was necessary that the word of God shouldfirst have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put itfrom you, and judge yourselves unworthy ofeverlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For sohath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have setthee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thoushouldest be for salvation unto the ends of theearth."

"When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad,and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many aswere ordained to eternal life believed." Theyrejoiced exceedingly that

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Christ recognized them as the children of God,and with grateful hearts they listened to the wordpreached. Those who believed were zealous incommunicating the gospel message to others, and

thus "the word of the Lord was publishedthroughout all the region."

Centuries before, the pen of inspiration hadtraced this ingathering of the Gentiles; but thoseprophetic utterances had been but dimlyunderstood. Hosea had said: "Yet the number ofthe children of Israel shall be as the sand of thesea, which cannot be measured nor numbered;and it shall come to pass, that in the place where itwas said unto them, Ye are not My people, there itshall be said unto them, Ye are the sons of theliving God." And again: "I will sow her unto Me inthe earth; and I will have mercy upon her that hadnot obtained mercy; and I will say to them whichwere not My people, Thou art My people; and theyshall say, Thou art my God." Hosea 1:10; 2:23.The Saviour Himself, during His earthly ministry,foretold the spread of the gospel among theGentiles. In the parable of the vineyard Hedeclared to the impenitent Jews, "The kingdom ofGod shall be taken from you, and given to a nationbringing forth the fruits thereof." Matthew 21:43.

And after His resurrection He commissioned Hisdisciples to go "into all the world" and "teach allnations." They were to leave none unwarned, butwere to "preach the gospel to every creature."Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15.

In turning to the Gentiles in Antioch of Pisidia,Paul and Barnabas did not cease laboring for theJews elsewhere, wherever there was a favorableopportunity to gain a hearing.

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Later, in Thessalonica, in Corinth, in Ephesus, andin other important centers, Paul and hiscompanions in labor preached the gospel to bothJews and Gentiles. But their chief energies werehenceforth directed toward the building up of thekingdom of God in heathen territory, amongpeoples who had but little or no knowledge of thetrue God and of His Son.

The hearts of Paul and his associate workerswere drawn out in behalf of those who were

"without Christ, being aliens from thecommonwealth of Israel, and strangers from thecovenants of promise, having no hope, andwithout God in the world." Through the untiringministrations of the apostles to the Gentiles, the"strangers and foreigners," who "sometimes werefar off," learned that they had been "made nigh bythe blood of Christ," and that through faith in Hisatoning sacrifice they might become "fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household ofGod." Ephesians 2:12, 13, 19.

Advancing in faith, Paul labored unceasingly forthe upbuilding of God's kingdom among those whohad been neglected by the teachers in Israel.Constantly he exalted Christ Jesus as "the King ofkings, and Lord of lords" (1 Timothy 6:15), andexhorted the believers to be "rooted and built up inHim, and stablished in the faith." Colossians 2:7.

To those who believe, Christ is a surefoundation. Upon this living stone, Jews andGentiles alike may build. It is broad enough for all

and strong enough to sustain the weight andburden of the whole world. This is a fact

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plainly recognized by Paul himself. In the closingdays of his ministry, when addressing a group ofGentile believers who had remained steadfast intheir love of the gospel truth, the apostle wrote,"Ye . . . are built upon the foundation of theapostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself beingthe chief cornerstone." Ephesians 2:19, 20. Asthe gospel message spread in Pisidia, theunbelieving Jews of Antioch in their blind prejudice"stirred up the devout and honorable women, andthe chief men of the city, and raised persecutionagainst Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them"from that district.

The apostles were not discouraged by thistreatment; they remembered the words of theirMaster: "Blessed are ye, when men shall revileyou, and persecute you, and shall say all manner

of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice,and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward inheaven: for so persecuted they the prophets whichwere before you." Matthew 5:11, 12.

The gospel message was advancing, and theapostles had every reason for feeling encouraged.Their labors had been richly blessed among thePisidians at Antioch, and the believers whom theyleft to carry forward the work alone for a time,"were filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost."

Chap. 18 - Preaching Among the Heathen

From Antioch in Pisidia, Paul and Barnabaswent to Iconium. In this place, as at Antioch, theybegan their labors in the synagogue of their ownpeople. They met with marked success; "a greatmultitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeksbelieved." But in Iconium, as in other places wherethe apostles labored, "the unbelieving Jews stirred

up the Gentiles, and made their minds evilaffected against the brethren."

The apostles, however, were not turned asidefrom their mission, for many were accepting thegospel of Christ. In the face of opposition, envy,and prejudice they went on with their work,"speaking boldly in the Lord," and God "gavetestimony unto the word of His grace, and grantedsigns and wonders to be done by their hands."These evidences of divine approval had apowerful influence on those whose minds wereopen to conviction, and converts to the gospelmultiplied.

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The increasing popularity of the messageborne by the apostles, filled the unbelieving Jewswith envy and hatred, and they determined to stopthe labors of Paul and Barnabas at once. Bymeans of false and exaggerated reports they led

the authorities to fear that the entire city was indanger of being incited to insurrection. Theydeclared that large numbers were attachingthemselves to the apostles and suggested that itwas for secret and dangerous designs.

In consequence of these charges the discipleswere repeatedly brought before the authorities; buttheir defense was so clear and sensible, and theirstatement of what they were teaching so calm andcomprehensive, that a strong influence wasexerted in their favor. Although the magistrateswere prejudiced against them by the falsestatements they had heard, they dared notcondemn them. They could but acknowledge thatthe teachings of Paul and Barnabas tended tomake men virtuous, law-abiding citizens, and thatthe morals and order of the city would improve ifthe truths taught by the apostles were accepted.

Through the opposition that the disciples met,the message of truth gained great publicity; theJews saw that their efforts to thwart the work ofthe new teachers resulted only in adding greater

numbers to the new faith. "The multitude of the citywas divided: and part held with the Jews, and partwith the apostles."

So enraged were the leaders among the Jewsby the turn that matters were taking, that theydetermined to gain their ends by violence.Arousing the worst passions of the

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ignorant, noisy mob, they succeeded in creating atumult, which they attributed to the teaching of thedisciples. By this false charge they hoped to gainthe help of the magistrates in carrying out theirpurpose. They determined that the apostlesshould have no opportunity to vindicatethemselves and that the mob should interfere bystoning Paul and Barnabas, thus putting an end totheir labors.

Friends of the apostles, though unbelievers,warned them of the malicious designs of the Jewsand urged them not to expose themselves

needlessly to the fury of the mob, but to escape fortheir lives. Paul and Barnabas accordinglydeparted in secret from Iconium, leaving thebelievers to carry on the work alone for a time. Butthey by no means took final leave; they purposedto return after the excitement had abated, andcomplete the work begun.

In every age and in every land, God'smessengers have been called upon to meet bitteropposition from those who deliberately chose toreject the light of heaven. Often, bymisrepresentation and falsehood, the enemies ofthe gospel have seemingly triumphed, closing thedoors by which God's messengers might gainaccess to the people. But these doors cannotremain forever closed, and often, as God'sservants have returned after a time to resume theirlabors, the Lord has wrought mightily in theirbehalf, enabling them to establish memorials tothe glory of His name.

Driven by persecution from Iconium, theapostles went to Lystra and Derbe, in Lycaonia.

These towns were inhabited largely by a heathen,superstitious people, but among

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them were some who were willing to hear andaccept the gospel message. In these places and inthe surrounding country the apostles decided tolabor, hoping to avoid Jewish prejudice andpersecution.

In Lystra there was no Jewish synagogue,though a few Jews were living in the town. Manyof the inhabitants of Lystra worshiped at a templededicated to Jupiter. When Paul and Barnabasappeared in the town and, gathering the Lystriansabout them, explained the simple truths of thegospel, many sought to connect these doctrineswith their own superstitious belief in the worship ofJupiter.

The apostles endeavored to impart to theseidolaters a knowledge of God the Creator and ofHis Son, the Saviour of the human race. They first

directed attention to the wonderful works of God--the sun, the moon, and the stars, the beautifulorder of the recurring seasons, the mighty snow-capped mountains, the lofty trees, and othervaried wonders of nature, which showed a skillbeyond human comprehension. Through theseworks of the Almighty, the apostles led the mindsof the heathen to a contemplation of the greatRuler of the universe.

Having made plain these fundamental truthsconcerning the Creator, the apostles told theLystrians of the Son of God, who came fromheaven to our world because He loved thechildren of men. They spoke of His life andministry, His rejection by those He came to save,His trial and crucifixion, His resurrection, and Hisascension to heaven, there to act as man'sadvocate. Thus, in the Spirit

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and power of God, Paul and Barnabas preachedthe gospel in Lystra.

At one time, while Paul was telling the peopleof Christ's work as a healer of the sick andafflicted, he saw among his hearers a cripplewhose eyes were fastened on him and whoreceived and believed his words. Paul's heart wentout in sympathy toward the afflicted man, in whomhe discerned one who "had faith to be healed." Inthe presence of the idolatrous assembly Paulcommanded the cripple to stand upright on hisfeet. Heretofore the sufferer had been able to takea sitting posture only, but now he instantly obeyedPaul's command and for the first time in his lifestood on his feet. Strength came with this effort offaith, and he who had been a cripple "leaped andwalked."

"When the people saw what Paul had done,they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech ofLycaonia, The gods are come down to us in thelikeness of men." This statement was in harmonywith a tradition of theirs that the gods occasionally

visited the earth. Barnabas they called Jupiter, thefather of gods, because of his venerableappearance, his dignified bearing, and themildness and benevolence expressed in hiscountenance. Paul they believe to be Mercury,"because he was the chief speaker," earnest andactive, and eloquent with words of warning andexhortation.

The Lystrians, eager to show their gratitude,prevailed upon the priest of Jupiter to do theapostles honor, and he "brought oxen andgarlands unto the gates, and would have donesacrifice with the people." Paul and Barnabas, whohad sought retirement and rest, were not aware of

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these preparations. Soon, however, their attentionwas attracted by the sound of music and theenthusiastic shouting of a large crowd who hadcome to the house where they were staying.

When the apostles ascertained the cause ofthis visit and its attendant excitement, "they renttheir clothes, and ran in among the people" in thehope of preventing further proceedings. In a loud,ringing voice, which rose above the shouting of thepeople, Paul demanded their attention; and as thetumult suddenly ceased, he said: "Sirs, why do yethese things? We also are men of like passionswith you, and preach unto you that ye should turnfrom these vanities unto the living God, whichmade heaven, and earth, and the sea, and allthings that are therein: who in times past sufferedall nations to walk in their own ways. NeverthelessHe left not Himself without witness, in that He didgood, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitfulseasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness."

Notwithstanding the positive denial of theapostles that they were divine, andnotwithstanding Paul's endeavors to direct theminds of the people to the true God as the onlyobject worthy of adoration, it was almostimpossible to turn the heathen from their intention

to offer sacrifice. So firm had been their belief thatthese men were indeed gods, and so great theirenthusiasm, that they were loath to acknowledgetheir error. The record says that they were "scarcerestrained."

The Lystrians reasoned that they had beheldwith their own eyes the miraculous powerexercised by the apostles.

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They had seen a cripple who had never beforebeen able to walk, made to rejoice in perfecthealth and strength. It was only after muchpersuasion on the part of Paul, and carefulexplanation regarding the mission of himself andBarnabas as representatives of the God of heavenand of His Son, the great Healer, that the peoplewere persuaded to give up their purpose. Thelabors of Paul and Barnabas at Lystra weresuddenly checked by the malice of "certain Jewsfrom Antioch and Iconium," who, upon learning of

the success of the apostles' work among theLycaonians, had determined to follow them andpersecute them. On arriving at Lystra, these Jewssoon succeeded in inspiring the people with thesame bitterness of spirit that actuated their ownminds. By words of misrepresentation andcalumny those who had recently regarded Pauland Barnabas as divine beings were persuadedthat in reality the apostles were worse thanmurderers and were deserving of death.

The disappointment that the Lystrians hadsuffered in being refused the privilege of offeringsacrifice to the apostles, prepared them to turnagainst Paul and Barnabas with an enthusiasmapproaching that with which they had hailed themas gods. Incited by the Jews, they planned toattack the apostles by force. The Jews chargedthem not to allow Paul an opportunity to speak,alleging that if they were to grant him this privilege,he would bewitch the people.

Soon the murderous designs of the enemies ofthe gospel were carried out. Yielding to the

influence of evil, the Lystrians became possessedwith a satanic fury and, seizing Paul,

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mercilessly stoned him. The apostle thought thathis end had come. The martyrdom of Stephen,and the cruel part that he himself had acted uponthat occasion, came vividly to his mind. Coveredwith bruises and faint with pain, he fell to theground, and the infuriated mob "drew him out ofthe city, supposing he had been dead."

In this dark and trying hour the company ofLystrian believers, who through the ministry ofPaul and Barnabas had been converted to thefaith of Jesus, remained loyal and true. Theunreasoning opposition and cruel persecution bytheir enemies served only to confirm the faith ofthese devoted brethren; and now, in the face ofdanger and scorn, they showed their loyalty bygathering sorrowfully about the form of him whomthey believed to be dead.

What was their surprise when in the midst oftheir lamentations the apostle suddenly lifted uphis head and rose to his feet with the praise ofGod upon his lips. To the believers thisunexpected restoration of God's servant wasregarded as a miracle of divine power and seemedto set the signet of Heaven upon their change ofbelief. They rejoiced with inexpressible gladnessand praised God with renewed faith.

Among those who had been converted atLystra, and who were eyewitnesses of thesufferings of Paul, was one who was afterward tobecome a prominent worker for Christ and whowas to share with the apostle the trials and thejoys of pioneer service in difficult fields. This was ayoung man named Timothy. When Paul wasdragged out of the city, this youthful disciple wasamong the number who took their stand beside hisapparently lifeless body and who saw him

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arise, bruised and covered with blood, but withpraises upon his lips because he had beenpermitted to suffer for the sake of Christ.

The day following the stoning of Paul, theapostles departed for Derbe, where their laborswere blessed, and many souls were led to receiveChrist as the Saviour. But "when they hadpreached the gospel to that city, and had taughtmany," neither Paul nor Barnabas was content totake up work elsewhere without confirming thefaith of the converts whom they had beencompelled to leave alone for a time in the placeswhere they had recently labored. And so,undaunted by danger, "they returned again toLystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch, confirmingthe souls of the disciples, and exhorting them tocontinue in the faith." Many had accepted the gladtidings of the gospel and had thus exposedthemselves to reproach and opposition. These theapostles sought to establish in the faith in orderthat the work done might abide.

As an important factor in the spiritual growth ofthe new converts the apostles were careful tosurround them with the safeguards of gospelorder. Churches were duly organized in all placesin Lycaonia and Pisidia where there werebelievers. Officers were appointed in each church,and proper order and system were established forthe conduct of all the affairs pertaining to thespiritual welfare of the believers.

This was in harmony with the gospel plan ofuniting in one body all believers in Christ, and thisplan Paul was careful to follow throughout hisministry. Those who in

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any place were by his labor led to accept Christ asthe Saviour were at the proper time organized intoa church. Even when the believers were but few innumber, this was done. The Christians were thustaught to help one another, remembering thepromise, "Where two or three are gathered

together in My name, there am I in the midst ofthem." Matthew 18:20.

And Paul did not forget the churches thusestablished. The care of these churches rested onhis mind as an ever-increasing burden. Howeversmall a company might be, it was nevertheless theobject of his constant solicitude. He watched overthe smaller churches tenderly, realizing that theywere in need of special care in order that themembers might be thoroughly established in thetruth and taught to put forth earnest, unselfishefforts for those around them.

In all their missionary endeavors Paul andBarnabas sought to follow Christ's example ofwilling sacrifice and faithful, earnest labor forsouls. Wide-awake, zealous, untiring, they did notconsult inclination or personal ease, but withprayerful anxiety and unceasing activity theysowed the seed of truth. And with the sowing ofthe seed, the apostles were careful to give to allwho took their stand for the gospel, practicalinstruction that was of untold value. This spirit of

earnestness and godly fear made upon the mindsof the new disciples a lasting impression regardingthe importance of the gospel message.

When men of promise and ability wereconverted, as in the case of Timothy, Paul andBarnabas sought earnestly

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to show them the necessity of laboring in thevineyard. And when the apostles left for anotherplace, the faith of these men did not fail, but ratherincreased. They had been faithfully instructed inthe way of the Lord, and had been taught how tolabor unselfishly, earnestly, perseveringly, for thesalvation of their fellow men. This careful trainingof new converts was an important factor in theremarkable success that attended Paul andBarnabas as they preached the gospel in heathenlands.

The first missionary journey was fast drawing toa close. Commending the newly organized

churches to the Lord, the apostles went toPamphylia, "and when they had preached theword in Perga, they went down into Attalia, andthence sailed to Antioch."

Chap. 19 - Jew and Gentile

On reaching Antioch in Syria, from which placethey had been sent forth on their mission, Pauland Barnabas took advantage of an earlyopportunity to assemble the believers andrehearse "all that God had done with them, andhow He had opened the door of faith unto theGentiles." Acts 14:27. The church at Antioch was alarge and growing one. A center of missionaryactivity, it was one of the most important of thegroups of Christian believers. Its membership wasmade up of many classes of people from amongboth Jews and Gentiles.

While the apostles united with the ministersand lay members at Antioch in an earnest effort to

win many souls to Christ, certain Jewish believersfrom Judea "of the sect of the Pharisees"succeeded in introducing a question that soon ledto wide-spread controversy in the church andbrought consternation to the believing Gentiles.With great assurance these Judaizing teachersasserted that in order

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to be saved, one must be circumcised and mustkeep the entire ceremonial law.

Paul and Barnabas met this false doctrine withpromptness and opposed the introduction of thesubject to the Gentiles. On the other hand, manyof the believing Jews of Antioch favored theposition of the brethren recently come from Judea.

The Jewish converts generally were notinclined to move as rapidly as the providence ofGod opened the way. From the result of theapostles' labors among the Gentiles it was evidentthat the converts among the latter people would

far exceed the Jewish converts in number. TheJews feared that if the restrictions and ceremoniesof their law were not made obligatory upon theGentiles as a condition of church fellowship, thenational peculiarities of the Jews, which hadhitherto kept them distinct from all other people,would finally disappear from among those whoreceived the gospel message.

The Jews had always prided themselves upontheir divinely appointed services, and many ofthose who had been converted to the faith ofChrist still felt that since God had once clearlyoutlined the Hebrew manner of worship, it wasimprobable that He would ever authorize a changein any of its specifications. They insisted that theJewish laws and ceremonies should beincorporated into the rites of the Christian religion.They were slow to discern that all the sacrificialofferings had but prefigured the death of the Sonof God, in which type met antitype, and after whichthe rites and ceremonies of the Mosaicdispensation were no longer binding.

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Before his conversion Paul had regardedhimself as blameless "touching the righteousnesswhich is in the law." Philippians 3:6. But since hischange of heart he had gained a clear conceptionof the mission of the Saviour as the Redeemer ofthe entire race, Gentile as well as Jew, and hadlearned the difference between a living faith and adead formalism. In the light of the gospel theancient rites and ceremonies committed to Israelhad gained a new and deeper significance. Thatwhich they shadowed forth had come to pass, andthose who were living under the gospeldispensation had been freed from theirobservance. God's unchangeable law of TenCommandments, however, Paul still kept in spiritas well as in letter.

In the church at Antioch the consideration ofthe question of circumcision resulted in much

discussion and contention. Finally, the members ofthe church, fearing that a division among themwould be the outcome of continued discussion,decided to send Paul and Barnabas, with someresponsible men from the church, to Jerusalem tolay the matter before the apostles and elders.There they were to meet delegates from thedifferent churches and those who had come toJerusalem to attend the approaching festivals.Meanwhile all controversy was to cease until afinal decision should be given in general council.This decision was then to be universally acceptedby the different churches throughout the country.

On the way to Jerusalem the apostles visitedthe believers in the cities through which theypassed, and encouraged them by relating theirexperience in the work of God and the conversionof the Gentiles.

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At Jerusalem the delegates from Antioch metthe brethren of the various churches, who hadgathered for a general meeting, and to them theyrelated the success that had attended theirministry among the Gentiles. They then gave aclear outline of the confusion that had resultedbecause certain converted Pharisees had gone toAntioch declaring that, in order to be saved, theGentile converts must be circumcised and keepthe law of Moses.

This question was warmly discussed in theassembly. Intimately connected with the questionof circumcision were several others demandingcareful study. One was the problem as to whatattitude should be taken toward the use of meatsoffered to idols. Many of the Gentile converts wereliving among ignorant and superstitious peoplewho made frequent sacrifices and offerings toidols. The priests of this heathen worship carriedon an extensive merchandise with the offeringsbrought to them, and the Jews feared that theGentile converts would bring Christianity into

disrepute by purchasing that which had beenoffered to idols, thereby sanctioning, in somemeasure, idolatrous customs.

Again, the Gentiles were accustomed to eat theflesh of animals that has been strangled, while theJews had been divinely instructed that whenbeasts were killed for food, particular care was tobe taken that the blood should flow from the body;otherwise the meat would not be regarded aswholesome. God had given these injunctions tothe Jews for the purpose of preserving theirhealth. The Jews regarded it as sinful to use bloodas an article of diet. They held that the blood wasthe life, and that the shedding of blood was inconsequence of sin.

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The Gentiles, on the contrary, practicedcatching the blood that flowed from the sacrificialvictim and using it in the preparation of food. The

Jews could not believe that they ought to changethe customs they had adopted under the specialdirection of God. Therefore, as things then stood,if Jew and Gentile should attempt to eat at thesame table, the former would be shocked andoutraged by the latter.

The Gentiles, and especially the Greeks, wereextremely licentious, and there was danger thatsome, unconverted in heart, would make aprofession of faith without renouncing their evilpractices. The Jewish Christians could not toleratethe immorality that was not even regarded ascriminal by the heathen. The Jews therefore held itas highly proper that circumcision and theobservance of the ceremonial law should beenjoined on the Gentile converts as a test of theirsincerity and devotion. This, they believed, wouldprevent the addition to the church of those who,adopting the faith without true conversion of heart,might afterward bring reproach upon the cause byimmorality and excess.

The various points involved in the settlement ofthe main question at issue seemed to presentbefore the council insurmountable difficulties. Butthe Holy Spirit had, in reality, already settled thisquestion, upon the decision of which seemed todepend the prosperity, if not the very existence, ofthe Christian church.

"When there had been much disputing, Peterrose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, yeknow how that a good while ago God made choiceamong us, that the Gentiles by my mouth shouldhear the word of the gospel, and

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believe." He reasoned that the Holy Spirit haddecided the matter under dispute by descendingwith equal power upon the uncircumcised Gentilesand the circumcised Jews. He recounted hisvision, in which God had presented before him asheet filled with all manner of four-footed beastsand had bidden him kill and eat. When he refused,

affirming that he had never eaten that which wascommon or unclean, the answer had been, "WhatGod hath cleansed, that call not thou common."Acts 10:15.

Peter related the plain interpretation of thesewords, which was given him almost immediately inhis summons to go to the centurion and instructhim in the faith of Christ. This message showedthat God was no respecter of persons, butaccepted and acknowledged all who feared Him.Peter told of his astonishment when, in speakingthe words of truth to those assembled at the homeof Cornelius, he witnessed the Holy Spirit takingpossession of his hearers, Gentiles as well asJews. The same light and glory that was reflectedupon the circumcised Jews shone also upon thefaces of the uncircumcised Gentiles. This wasGod's warning that Peter was not to regard one asinferior to the other, for the blood of Christ couldcleanse from all uncleanness.

Once before, Peter had reasoned with hisbrethren concerning the conversion of Cornelius

and his friends, and his fellowship with them. Ashe on that occasion related how the Holy Spirit fellon the Gentiles he declared, "Forasmuch then asGod gave them the like gift as He did unto us, whobelieved on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, thatI could withstand God?" Acts 11:17. Now, withequal fervor and force, he said: "God, whichknoweth the hearts,

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bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost,even as He did unto us; and put no differencebetween us and them, purifying their hearts byfaith. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put ayoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neitherour fathers nor we were able to bear?" This yokewas not the law of Ten Commandments, as somewho oppose the binding claims of the law assert;Peter here referred to the law of ceremonies,which was made null and void by the crucifixion ofChrist.

Peter's address brought the assembly to apoint where they could listen with patience to Pauland Barnabas, who related their experience inworking for the Gentiles. "All the multitude keptsilence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul,declaring what miracles and wonders God hadwrought among the Gentiles by them."

James also bore his testimony with decision,declaring that it was God's purpose to bestowupon the Gentiles the same privileges andblessings that had been granted to the Jews.

The Holy Spirit saw good not to impose theceremonial law on the Gentile converts, and themind of the apostles regarding this matter was asthe mind of the Spirit of God. James presided atthe council, and his final decision was, "Whereforemy sentence is, that we trouble not them, whichfrom among the Gentiles are turned to God."

This ended the discussion. In this instance wehave a refutation of the doctrine held by theRoman Catholic Church that Peter was the head

of the church. Those who, as popes, have claimedto be his successors, have no Scripturalfoundation for their pretensions. Nothing in the lifeof Peter

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gives sanction to the claim that he was elevatedabove his brethren as the vicegerent of the MostHigh. If those who are declared to be thesuccessors of Peter had followed his example,they would always have been content to remain onan equality with their brethren.

In this instance James seems to have beenchosen as the one to announce the decisionarrived at by the council. It was his sentence thatthe ceremonial law, and especially the ordinanceof circumcision, should not be urged upon theGentiles, or even recommended to them. Jamessought to impress the minds of his brethren withthe fact that, in turning to God, the Gentiles hadmade a great change in their lives and that much

caution should be used not to trouble them withperplexing and doubtful questions of minorimportance, lest they be discouraged in followingChrist.

The Gentile converts, however, were to give upthe customs that were inconsistent with theprinciples of Christianity. The apostles and elderstherefore agreed to instruct the Gentiles by letterto abstain from meats offered to idols, fromfornication, from things strangled, and from blood.They were to be urged to keep thecommandments and to lead holy lives. They werealso to be assured that the men who had declaredcircumcision to be binding were not authorized todo so by the apostles.

Paul and Barnabas were recommended tothem as men who had hazarded their lives for theLord. Judas and Silas were sent with theseapostles to declare to the Gentiles by word ofmouth the decision of the council: "It seemed goodto the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you nogreater

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burden than these necessary things; that yeabstain from meats offered to idols, and fromblood, and from things strangled, and fromfornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, yeshall do well." The four servants of God were sentto Antioch with the epistle and message that wasto put an end to all controversy; for it was thevoice of the highest authority upon the earth.

The council which decided this case wascomposed of apostles and teachers who had beenprominent in raising up the Jewish and GentileChristian churches, with chosen delegates fromvarious places. Elders from Jerusalem anddeputies from Antioch were present, and the mostinfluential churches were represented. The councilmoved in accordance with the dictates ofenlightened judgment, and with the dignity of achurch established by the divine will. As a result oftheir deliberations they all saw that God Himselfhad answered the question at issue by bestowing

upon the Gentiles the Holy Ghost; and theyrealized that it was their part to follow the guidanceof the Spirit.

The entire body of Christians was not called tovote upon the question. The "apostles and elders,"men of influence and judgment, framed and issuedthe decree, which was thereupon generallyaccepted by the Christian churches. Not all,however, were pleased with the decision; therewas a faction of ambitious and self-confidentbrethren who disagreed with it. These menassumed to engage in the work on their ownresponsibility. They indulged in much murmuringand faultfinding, proposing new plans and seekingto pull down the work of the men whom God hadordained to teach the gospel message. From thefirst the church has

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had such obstacles to meet and ever will have tillthe close of time.

Jerusalem was the metropolis of the Jews, andit was there that the greatest exclusiveness andbigotry were found. The Jewish Christians livingwithin sight of the temple naturally allowed theirminds to revert to the peculiar privileges of theJews as a nation. When they saw the Christianchurch departing from the ceremonies andtraditions of Judaism, and perceived that thepeculiar sacredness with which the Jewishcustoms had been invested would soon be lostsight of in the light of the new faith, many grewindignant with Paul as the one who had, in a largemeasure, caused this change. Even the discipleswere not all prepared to accept willingly thedecision of the council. Some were zealous for theceremonial law, and they regarded Paul withdisfavor because they thought that his principles inregard to the obligations of the Jewish law werelax.

The broad and far-reaching decisions of thegeneral council brought confidence into the ranksof the Gentile believers, and the cause of God

prospered. In Antioch the church was favored withthe presence of Judas and Silas, the specialmessengers who had returned with the apostlesfrom the meeting in Jerusalem. "Being prophetsalso themselves," Judas and Silas, "exhorted thebrethren with many words, and confirmed them."These godly men tarried in Antioch for a time."Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch,teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, withmany others also."

When Peter, at a later date, visited Antioch, hewon the confidence of many by his prudentconduct toward the

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Gentile converts. For a time he acted inaccordance with the light given from heaven. Heso far overcame his natural prejudice as to sit attable with the Gentile converts. But when certainJews who were zealous for the ceremonial law,came from Jerusalem, Peter injudiciously changed

his deportment toward the converts frompaganism. A number of the Jews "dissembledlikewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas alsowas carried away with their dissimulation." Thisrevelation of weakness on the part of those whohad been respected and loved as leaders, left amost painful impression on the minds of theGentile believers. The church was threatened withdivision. But Paul, who saw the subvertinginfluence of the wrong done to the church throughthe double part acted by Peter, openly rebukedhim for thus disguising his true sentiments. In thepresence of the church, Paul inquired of Peter, "Ifthou, being a Jew, livest after the manner ofGentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellestthou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?"Galatians 2:13, 14.

Peter saw the error into which he had fallen,and immediately set about repairing the evil thathad been wrought, so far as was in his power.God, who knows the end from the beginning,permitted Peter to reveal this weakness of

character in order that the tried apostle might seethat there was nothing in himself whereof he mightboast. Even the best of men, if left to themselves,will err in judgment. God also saw that in time tocome some would be so deluded as to claim forPeter and his pretended successors the exaltedprerogatives that belong to God alone. And thisrecord of

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the apostle's weakness was to remain as a proofof his fallibility and of the fact that he stood in noway above the level of the other apostles.

The history of this departure from rightprinciples stands as a solemn warning to men inpositions of trust in the cause of God, that theymay not fail in integrity, but firmly adhere toprinciple. The greater the responsibilities placedupon the human agent, and the larger hisopportunities to dictate and control, the more harmhe is sure to do if he does not carefully follow the

way of the Lord and labor in harmony with thedecisions arrived at by the general body ofbelievers in united council.

After all Peter's failures; after his fall andrestoration, his long course of service, his intimateacquaintance with Christ, his knowledge of theSaviour's straightforward practice of rightprinciples; after all the instruction he had received,all the gifts and knowledge and influence he hadgained by preaching and teaching the word--is itnot strange that he should dissemble and evadethe principles of the gospel through fear of man, orin order to gain esteem? Is it not strange that heshould waver in his adherence to right? May Godgive every man a realization of his helplessness,his inability to steer his own vessel straight andsafe into the harbor.

In his ministry, Paul was often compelled tostand alone. He was specially taught of God anddared make no concessions that would involveprinciple. At times the burden was heavy, but Paul

stood firm for the right. He realized that the churchmust never be brought under the control

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of human power. The traditions and maxims ofmen must not take the place of revealed truth. Theadvance of the gospel message must not behindered by the prejudices and preferences ofmen, whatever might be their position in thechurch.

Paul had dedicated himself and all his powersto the service of God. He had received the truthsof the gospel direct from heaven, and throughouthis ministry he maintained a vital connection withheavenly agencies. He had been taught by Godregarding the binding of unnecessary burdensupon the Gentile Christians; thus when theJudaizing believers introduced into the Antiochchurch the question of circumcision, Paul knew themind of the Spirit of God concerning such teachingand took a firm and unyielding position which

brought to the churches freedom from Jewish ritesand ceremonies.

Notwithstanding the fact that Paul waspersonally taught by God, he had no strainedideas of individual responsibility. While looking toGod for direct guidance, he was ever ready torecognize the authority vested in the body ofbelievers united in church fellowship. He felt theneed of counsel, and when matters of importancearose, he was glad to lay these before the churchand to unite with his brethren in seeking God forwisdom to make right decisions. Even "the spiritsof the prophets," he declared, "are subject to theprophets. For God is not the author of confusion,but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." 1Corinthians 14:32, 33. With Peter, he taught thatall united in church capacity should be "subjectone to another." 1 Peter 5:5.

Chap. 20 - Exalting the Cross

After spending some time in ministry atAntioch, Paul proposed to his fellow worker thatthey set forth on another missionary journey. "Letus go again," he said to Barnabas, "and visit ourbrethren in every city where we have preached theword of the Lord, and see how they do."

Both Paul and Barnabas had a tender regardfor those who had recently accepted the gospelmessage under their ministry, and they longed tosee them once more. This solicitude Paul neverlost. Even when in distant mission fields, far fromthe scene of his earlier labors, he continued tobear upon his heart the burden of urging theseconverts to remain faithful, "perfecting holiness inthe fear of God." 2 Corinthians 7:1. Constantly hetried to help them to become self-reliant, growingChristians, strong in faith, ardent in zeal, andwholehearted in their consecration to God and tothe work of advancing His kingdom.

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Barnabas was ready to go with Paul, butwished to take with them Mark, who had againdecided to devote himself to the ministry. To thisPaul objected. He "thought not good to take . . .with them" one who during their first missionaryjourney had left them in a time of need. He wasnot inclined to excuse Mark's weakness indeserting the work for the safety and comforts ofhome. He urged that one with so little stamina wasunfitted for a work requiring patience, self-denial,bravery, devotion, faith, and a willingness tosacrifice, if need be, even life itself. So sharp wasthe contention that Paul and Barnabas separated,the latter following out his convictions and takingMark with him. "So Barnabas took Mark, andsailed unto Cyprus; and Paul chose Silas, anddeparted, being recommended by the brethrenunto the grace of God."

Journeying through Syria and Cilicia, wherethey strengthened the church, Paul and Silas atlength reached Derbe and Lystra in the province of

Lycaonia. It was at Lystra that Paul had beenstoned, yet we find him again on the scene of hisformer danger. He was anxious to see how thosewho through his labors had accepted the gospelwere enduring the test of trial. He was notdisappointed, for he found that the Lystrianbelievers had remained firm in the face of violentopposition.

Here Paul again met Timothy, who hadwitnessed his sufferings at the close of his firstvisit to Lystra and upon whose mind theimpression then made had deepened with thepassing of time until he was convinced that it washis duty to give himself fully to the work of theministry. His

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heart was knit with the heart of Paul, and helonged to share the apostle's labors by assistingas the way might open.

Silas, Paul's companion in labor, was a triedworker, gifted with the spirit of prophecy; but thework to be done was so great that there was needof training more laborers for active service. InTimothy Paul saw one who appreciated thesacredness of the work of a minister; who was notappalled at the prospect of suffering andpersecution; and who was willing to be taught. Yetthe apostle did not venture to take theresponsibility of giving Timothy, an untried youth, atraining in the gospel ministry, without first fullysatisfying himself in regard to his character and hispast life.

Timothy's father was a Greek and his mother aJewess. From a child he had known theScriptures. The piety that he saw in his home lifewas sound and sensible. The faith of his motherand his grandmother in the sacred oracles was tohim a constant reminder of the blessing in doingGod's will. The word of God was the rule by whichthese two godly women had guided Timothy. Thespiritual power of the lessons that he had received

from them kept him pure in speech and unsulliedby the evil influences with which he wassurrounded. Thus his home instructors had co-operated with God in preparing him to bearburdens.

Paul saw that Timothy was faithful, steadfast,and true, and he chose him as a companion inlabor and travel. Those who had taught Timothy inhis childhood were rewarded by seeing the son oftheir care linked in close fellowship with the greatapostle. Timothy was a mere youth when he waschosen by God to be a teacher, but his principleshad

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been so established by his early education that hewas fitted to take his place as Paul's helper. Andthough young, he bore his responsibilities withChristian meekness.

As a precautionary measure, Paul wiselyadvised Timothy to be circumcised--not that God

required it, but in order to remove from the mindsof the Jews that which might be an objection toTimothy's ministration. In his work Paul was tojourney from city to city, in many lands, and oftenhe would have opportunity to preach Christ inJewish synagogues, as well as in other places ofassembly. If it should be known that one of hiscompanions in labor was uncircumcised, his workmight be greatly hindered by the prejudice andbigotry of the Jews. Everywhere the apostle metdetermined opposition and severe persecution. Hedesired to bring to his Jewish brethren, as well asto the Gentiles, a knowledge of the gospel, andtherefore he sought, so far as was consistent withthe faith, to remove every pretext for opposition.Yet while he conceded this much to Jewishprejudice, he believed and taught circumcision oruncircumcision to be nothing and the gospel ofChrist everything.

Paul loved Timothy, his "own son in the faith." 1Timothy 1:2. The great apostle often drew theyounger disciple out, questioning him in regard to

Scripture history, and as they traveled from placeto place, he carefully taught him how to dosuccessful work. Both Paul and Silas, in all theirassociation with Timothy, sought to deepen theimpression that had already been made upon hismind, of the sacred, serious nature of the work ofthe gospel minister.

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In his work, Timothy constantly sought Paul'sadvice and instruction. He did not move fromimpulse, but exercised consideration and calmthought, inquiring at every step, Is this the way ofthe Lord? The Holy Spirit found in him one whocould be molded and fashioned as a temple for theindwelling of the divine Presence.

As the lessons of the Bible are wrought into thedaily life, they have a deep and lasting influenceupon the character. These lessons Timothylearned and practiced. He had no specially brilliant

talents, but his work was valuable because heused his God-given abilities in the Master'sservice. His knowledge of experimental pietydistinguished him from other believers and gavehim influence.

Those who labor for souls must attain to adeeper, fuller, clearer knowledge of God than canbe gained by ordinary effort. They must throw alltheir energies into the work of the Master. Theyare engaged in a high and holy calling, and if theygain souls for their hire they must lay firm holdupon God, daily receiving grace and power fromthe Source of all blessing. "For the grace of Godthat bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldlylusts, we should live soberly, righteously, andgodly, in this present world; looking for thatblessed hope, and the glorious appearing of thegreat God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gaveHimself for us, that He might redeem us from alliniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people,zealous of good works." Titus 2:11-14.

Before pressing forward into new territory, Pauland his companions visited the churches that hadbeen

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established in Pisidia and the regions round about."As they went through the cities, they deliveredthem the decrees for to keep, that were ordainedof the apostles and elders which were atJerusalem. And so were the churches establishedin the faith, and increased in number daily."

The apostle Paul felt a deep responsibility forthose converted under his labors. Above all things,he longed that they should be faithful, "that I mayrejoice in the day of Christ," he said, "that I havenot run in vain, neither labored in vain." Philippians2:16. He trembled for the result of his ministry. Hefelt that even his own salvation might be imperiledif he should fail of fulfilling his duty and the churchshould fail of co-operating with him in the work ofsaving souls. He knew that preaching alone would

not suffice to educate the believers to hold forththe word of life. He knew that line upon line,precept upon precept, here a little and there alittle, they must be taught to advance in the workof Christ.

It is a universal principle that whenever onerefuses to use his God-given powers, thesepowers decay and perish. Truth that is not lived,that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, itshealing virtue. Hence the apostle's fear that hemight fail of presenting every man perfect inChrist. Paul's hope of heaven grew dim when hecontemplated any failure on his part that wouldresult in giving the church the mold of the humaninstead of the divine. His knowledge, hiseloquence, his miracles, his view of eternal sceneswhen caught up to the third heaven--all would beunavailing if through unfaithfulness in his workthose for whom he

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labored should fail of the grace of God. And so, byword of mouth and by letter, he pleaded with thosewho had accepted Christ, to pursue a course thatwould enable them to be "blameless andharmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in themidst of a crooked and perverse nation, . . . aslights in the world, holding forth the word of life."Philippians 2:15, 16.

Every true minister feels a heavy responsibilityfor the spiritual advancement of the believersentrusted to his care, a longing desire that theyshall be laborers together with God. He realizesthat upon the faithful performance of his God-given work depends in a large degree the well-being of the church. Earnestly and untiringly heseeks to inspire the believers with a desire to winsouls for Christ, remembering that every additionto the church should be one more agency for thecarrying out of the plan of redemption.

Having visited the churches in Pisidia and theneighboring region, Paul and Silas, with Timothy,pressed on into "Phrygia and the region of

Galatia," where with mighty power they proclaimedthe glad tidings of salvation. The Galatians weregiven up to the worship of idols; but, as theapostles preached to them, they rejoiced in themessage that promised freedom from thethralldom of sin. Paul and his fellow workersproclaimed the doctrine of righteousness by faithin the atoning sacrifice of Christ. They presentedChrist as the one who, seeing the helplesscondition of the fallen race, came to redeem menand women by living a life of obedience to God'slaw and by paying the penalty of disobedience.And in the light of the cross many who had

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never before known of the true God, began tocomprehend the greatness of the Father's love.

Thus the Galatians were taught thefundamental truths concerning "God the Father"and "our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself forour sins, that He might deliver us from this present

evil world, according to the will of God and ourFather." "By the hearing of faith" they received theSpirit of God and became "the children of God byfaith in Christ." Galatians 1:3, 4; 3:2, 26. Paul'smanner of life while among the Galatians wassuch that he could afterward say, "I beseech you,be as I am." Galatians 4:12. His lips had beentouched with a live coal from off the altar, and hewas enabled to rise above bodily infirmities and topresent Jesus as the sinner's only hope. Thosewho heard him knew that he had been with Jesus.Endued with power from on high, he was able tocompare spiritual things with spiritual and to teardown the strongholds of Satan. Hearts werebroken by his presentation of the love of God, asrevealed in the sacrifice of His only-begotten Son,and many were led to inquire, What must I do tobe saved?

This method of presenting the gospelcharacterized the labors of the apostle throughouthis ministry among the Gentiles. Always he keptbefore them the cross of Calvary. "We preach not

ourselves," he declared in the later years of hisexperience, "but Christ Jesus the Lord; andourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. For God,who commanded the light to shine out ofdarkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give

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the light of the knowledge of the glory of God inthe face of Jesus Christ." 2 Corinthians 4:5, 6.

The consecrated messengers who in the earlydays of Christianity carried to a perishing world theglad tidings of salvation, allowed no thought ofself-exaltation to mar their presentation of Christand Him crucified. They coveted neither authoritynor pre-eminence. Hiding self in the Saviour, theyexalted the great plan of salvation, and the life ofChrist, the Author and Finisher of this plan. Christ,the same yesterday, today, and forever, was theburden of their teaching.

If those who today are teaching the word ofGod, would uplift the cross of Christ higher and

still higher, their ministry would be far moresuccessful. If sinners can be led to give oneearnest look at the cross, if they can obtain a fullview of the crucified Saviour, they will realize thedepth of God's compassion and the sinfulness ofsin.

Christ's death proves God's great love for man.It is our pledge of salvation. To remove the crossfrom the Christian would be like blotting the sunfrom the sky. The cross brings us near to God,reconciling us to Him. With the relentingcompassion of a father's love, Jehovah looks uponthe suffering that His Son endured in order to savethe race from eternal death, and accepts us in theBeloved.

Without the cross, man could have no unionwith the Father. On it depends our every hope.From it shines the light of the Saviour's love, andwhen at the foot of the cross the sinner looks up tothe One who died to save him, he

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may rejoice with fullness of joy, for his sins arepardoned. Kneeling in faith at the cross, he hasreached the highest place to which man canattain.

Through the cross we learn that the heavenlyFather loves us with a love that is infinite. Can wewonder that Paul exclaimed, "God forbid that Ishould glory, save in the cross of our Lord JesusChrist"? Galatians 6:14. It is our privilege also toglory in the cross, our privilege to give ourselveswholly to Him who gave Himself for us. Then, withthe light that streams from Calvary shining in ourfaces, we may go forth to reveal this light to thosein darkness.

Chap. 21 - In the Regions Beyond

The time had come for the gospel to beproclaimed beyond the confines of Asia Minor.The way was preparing for Paul and his fellowworkers to cross over into Europe. At Troas, onthe borders of the Mediterranean Sea, "a visionappeared to Paul in the night: There stood a manof Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come overinto Macedonia, and help us."

The call was imperative, admitting of no delay."After he had seen the vision," declares Luke, whoaccompanied Paul and Silas and Timothy on thejourney across to Europe, "immediately weendeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredlygathering that the Lord had called us for to preachthe gospel unto them. Therefore loosing fromTroas, we came with a straight course toSamothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; andfrom thence to Philippi, which is the chief city ofthat part of Macedonia, and a colony."

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"On the Sabbath," Luke continues, "we wentout of the city by a riverside, where prayer waswont to be made; and we sat down, and spakeunto the women which resorted thither. And acertain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, ofthe city of Thyatira, which worshiped God, heardus: whose heart the Lord opened." Lydia receivedthe truth gladly. She and her household wereconverted and baptized, and she entreated theapostles to make her house their home.

As the messengers of the cross went abouttheir work of teaching, a woman possessed of aspirit of divination followed them, crying, "Thesemen are the servants of the most high God, whichshow unto us the way of salvation. And this didshe many days."

This woman was a special agent of Satan andhad brought to her masters much gain bysoothsaying. Her influence had helped tostrengthen idolatry. Satan knew that his kingdom

was being invaded, and he resorted to this meansof opposing the work of God, hoping to mingle hissophistry with the truths taught by those who wereproclaiming the gospel message. The words ofrecommendation uttered by this woman were aninjury to the cause of truth, distracting the minds ofthe people from the teachings of the apostles andbringing disrepute upon the gospel, and by themmany were led to believe that the men who spokewith the Spirit and power of God were actuated bythe same spirit as this emissary of Satan.

For some time the apostles endured thisopposition; then under the inspiration of the HolyGhost Paul commanded the evil spirit to leave thewoman. Her immediate silence

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testified that the apostles were the servants ofGod and that the demon had acknowledged themto be such and had obeyed their command.

Dispossessed of the evil spirit and restored toher right mind, the woman chose to become afollower of Christ. Then her masters were alarmedfor their craft. They saw that all hope of receivingmoney from her divinations and soothsayings wasat an end and that their source of income wouldsoon be entirely cut off if the apostles wereallowed to continue the work of the gospel.

Many others in the city were interested ingaining money through satanic delusions, andthese, fearing the influence of a power that couldso effectually stop their work, raised a mighty cryagainst the servants of God. They brought theapostles before the magistrates with the charge:"These men, being Jews, do exceedingly troubleour city, and teach customs, which are not lawfulfor us to receive, neither to observe, beingRomans."

Stirred by a frenzy of excitement, the multituderose against the disciples. A mob spirit prevailedand was sanctioned by the authorities, who torethe outer garments from the apostles and

commanded that they should be scourged. "Andwhen they had laid many stripes upon them, theycast them into prison, charging the jailer to keepthem safely: who, having received such a charge,thrust them into the inner prison, and made theirfeet fast in the stocks."

The apostles suffered extreme torture becauseof the painful position in which they were left, butthey did not murmur. Instead, in the utter darknessand desolation of the

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dungeon, they encouraged each other by words ofprayer and sang praises to God because theywere found worthy to suffer shame for His sake.Their hearts were cheered by a deep and earnestlove for the cause of their Redeemer. Paul thoughtof the persecution he had been instrumental inbringing upon the disciples of Christ, and herejoiced that his eyes had been opened to see,

and his heart to feel, the power of the glorioustruths which once he despised.

With astonishment the other prisoners heardthe sound of prayer and singing issuing from theinner prison. They had been accustomed to hearshrieks and moans, cursing and swearing,breaking the silence of the night; but never beforehad they heard words of prayer and praiseascending from that gloomy cell. Guards andprisoners marveled and asked themselves whothese men could be, who, cold, hungry, andtortured, could yet rejoice.

Meanwhile the magistrates returned to theirhomes, congratulating themselves that by promptand decisive measures they had quelled a tumult.But on the way they heard further particularsconcerning the character and work of the menthey had sentenced to scourging andimprisonment. They saw the woman who hadbeen freed from satanic influence and were struckby the change in her countenance and demeanor.In the past she had caused the city much trouble;

now she was quiet and peaceable. As theyrealized that in all probability they had visited upontwo innocent men the rigorous penalty of theRoman law they were indignant with themselvesand decided that in the morning they wouldcommand that the apostles be privately releasedand

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escorted from the city, beyond the danger ofviolence from the mob.

But while men were cruel and vindictive, orcriminally negligent of the solemn responsibilitiesdevolving upon them, God had not forgotten to begracious to His servants. All heaven wasinterested in the men who were suffering forChrist's sake, and angels were sent to visit theprison. At their tread the earth trembled. Theheavily bolted prison doors were thrown open; thechains and fetters fell from the hands and feet ofthe prisoners; and a bright light flooded the prison.

The keeper of the jail had heard withamazement the prayers and songs of theimprisoned apostles. When they were led in, hehad seen their swollen and bleeding wounds, andhad himself caused their feet to be fastened in thestocks. He had expected to hear from them bittergroans and imprecations, but he heard insteadsongs of joy and praise. With these sounds in hisears the jailer had fallen into a sleep from whichhe was awakened by the earthquake and theshaking of the prison walls.

Starting up in alarm, he saw with dismay thatall the prison doors were open, and the fearflashed upon him that the prisoners had escaped.He remembered with what explicit charge Pauland Silas had been entrusted to his care the nightbefore, and he was certain that death would be thepenalty of his apparent unfaithfulness. In thebitterness of his spirit he felt that it was better forhim to die by his own hand than to submit to adisgraceful execution. Drawing his sword, he wasabout to kill himself, when Paul's

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voice was heard in the words of cheer, "Do thyselfno harm: for we are all here." Every man was inhis place, restrained by the power of God exertedthrough one fellow prisoner.

The severity with which the jailer had treatedthe apostles had not aroused their resentment.Paul and Silas had the spirit of Christ, not the spiritof revenge. Their hearts, filled with the love of theSaviour, had no room for malice against theirpersecutors.

The jailer dropped his sword and, calling forlights, hastened into the inner dungeon. He wouldsee what manner of men these were who repaidwith kindness the cruelty with which they had beentreated. Reaching the place where the apostleswere, and casting himself before them, he askedtheir forgiveness. Then, bringing them out into theopen court, he inquired, "Sirs, what must I do to besaved?"

The jailer had trembled as he beheld the wrathof God manifested in the earthquake; when hethought that the prisoners had escaped he hadbeen ready to die by his own hand; but now allthese things seemed of little consequencecompared with the new, strange dread thatagitated his mind, and his desire to possess thetranquillity and cheerfulness shown by theapostles under suffering and abuse. He saw intheir countenances the light of heaven; he knewthat God had interposed in a miraculous mannerto save their lives; and with peculiar force thewords of the spirit-possessed woman came to hismind: "These men are the servants of the mosthigh God, which show unto us the way ofsalvation."

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With deep humility he asked the apostles toshow him the way of life. "Believe on the LordJesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thyhouse," they answered; and "they spake unto him

the word of the Lord, and to all that were in hishouse." The jailer then washed the wounds of theapostles and ministered to them, after which hewas baptized by them, with all his household. Asanctifying influence diffused itself among theinmates of the prison, and the minds of all wereopened to listen to the truths spoken by theapostles. They were convinced that the God whomthese men served had miraculously released themfrom bondage.

The citizens of Philippi had been greatlyterrified by the earthquake, and when in themorning the officers of the prison told themagistrates of what had occurred during the night,they were alarmed and sent the sergeants toliberate the apostles. But Paul declared, "Theyhave beaten us openly uncondemned, beingRomans, and have cast us into prison; and now dothey thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let themcome themselves and fetch us out."

The apostles were Roman citizens, and it wasunlawful to scourge a Roman, save for the most

flagrant crime, or to deprive him of his libertywithout a fair trial. Paul and Silas had beenpublicly imprisoned, and they now refused to beprivately released without the proper explanationon the part of the magistrates.

When this word was brought to the authorities,they were alarmed for fear that the apostles wouldcomplain to the emperor, and going at once to theprison, they apologized

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to Paul and Silas for the injustice and cruelty donethem and personally conducted them out of theprison, entreating them to depart from the city. Themagistrates feared the apostles' influence over thepeople, and they also feared the Power that hadinterposed in behalf of these innocent men.

Acting upon the instruction given by Christ, theapostles would not urge their presence where itwas not desired. "They went out of the prison, andentered into the house of Lydia: and when they

had seen the brethren, they comforted them, anddeparted."

The apostles did not regard as in vain theirlabors in Philippi. They had met much oppositionand persecution; but the intervention ofProvidence in their behalf, and the conversion ofthe jailer and his household, more than atoned forthe disgrace and suffering they had endured. Thenews of their unjust imprisonment and miraculousdeliverance became known through all that region,and this brought the work of the apostles to thenotice of a large number who otherwise would nothave been reached.

Paul's labors at Philippi resulted in theestablishment of a church whose membershipsteadily increased. His zeal and devotion, and,above all, his willingness to suffer for Christ'ssake, exerted a deep and lasting influence uponthe converts. They prized the precious truths forwhich the apostles had sacrificed so much, andgave themselves with wholehearted devotion tothe cause of their Redeemer.

That this church did not escape persecution isshown by an expression in Paul's letter to them.He says, "Unto you

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it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only tobelieve on Him, but also to suffer for His sake;having the same conflict which ye saw in me." Yetsuch was their steadfastness in the faith that hedeclares, "I thank my God upon everyremembrance of you, always in every prayer ofmine for you all making request with joy, for yourfellowship in the gospel from the first day untilnow." Philippians 1:29, 30, 3-5.

Terrible is the struggle that takes placebetween the forces of good and of evil in importantcenters where the messengers of truth are calledupon to labor. "We wrestle not against flesh andblood," declares Paul, "but against principalities,against powers, against the rulers of the darknessof this world." Ephesians 6:12. Till the close of

time there will be a conflict between the church ofGod and those who are under the control of evilangels.

The early Christians were often called to meetthe powers of darkness face to face. By sophistryand by persecution the enemy endeavored to turnthem from the true faith. At the present time, whenthe end of all things earthly is rapidly approaching,Satan is putting forth desperate efforts to ensnarethe world. He is devising many plans to occupyminds and to divert attention from the truthsessential to salvation. In every city his agenciesare busily organizing into parties those who areopposed to the law of God. The archdeceiver is atwork to introduce elements of confusion andrebellion, and men are being fired with a zeal thatis not according to knowledge.

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Wickedness is reaching a height never beforeattained, and yet many ministers of the gospel arecrying, "Peace and safety." But God's faithfulmessengers are to go steadily forward with theirwork. Clothed with the panoply of heaven, they areto advance fearlessly and victoriously, neverceasing their warfare until every soul within theirreach shall have received the message of truth forthis time.

Chap. 22 - Thessalonica

After leaving Philippi, Paul and Silas made theirway to Thessalonica. Here they were given theprivilege of addressing large congregations in theJewish synagogue. Their appearance boreevidence of the shameful treatment they hadrecently received, and necessitated an explanationof what had taken place. This they made withoutexalting themselves, but magnified the One whohad wrought their deliverance.

In preaching to the Thessalonians, Paulappealed to the Old Testament propheciesconcerning the Messiah. Christ in His ministry hadopened the minds of His disciples to theseprophecies; "beginning at Moses and all theprophets, He expounded unto them in all theScriptures the things concerning Himself." Luke24:27. Peter in preaching Christ had produced hisevidence from the Old Testament. Stephen hadpursued the same course. And Paul also in hisministry appealed to the scriptures foretelling thebirth, sufferings,

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death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ. Bythe inspired testimony of Moses and the prophetshe clearly proved the identity of Jesus of Nazarethwith the Messiah and showed that from the daysof Adam it was the voice of Christ which had beenspeaking through patriarchs and prophets.

Plain and specific prophecies had been givenregarding the appearance of the Promised One.To Adam was given an assurance of the coming ofthe Redeemer. The sentence pronounced onSatan, "I will put enmity between thee and thewoman, and between thy seed and her seed; itshall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise hisheel" (Genesis 3:15), was to our first parents apromise of the redemption to be wrought outthrough Christ.

To Abraham was given the promise that of hisline the Saviour of the world should come: "In thyseed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.""He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as ofone, And to thy seed, which is Christ." Genesis22:18; Galatians 3:16. Moses, near the closeof his work as a leader and teacher of Israel,plainly prophesied of the Messiah to come. "TheLord thy God," he declared to the assembled hostsof Israel, "will raise up unto thee a Prophet fromthe midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me;unto Him ye shall hearken." And Moses assured

the Israelites that God Himself had revealed this tohim while in Mount Horeb, saying, "I will raisethem up a Prophet from among their brethren, likeunto thee, and will put My words in His mouth; andHe shall speak unto them all that I shall commandHim." Deuteronomy 18:15, 18.

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The Messiah was to be of the royal line, for inthe prophecy uttered by Jacob the Lord said, "Thescepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiverfrom between his feet, until Shiloh come; and untoHim shall the gathering of the people be." Genesis49:10.

Isaiah prophesied: "There shall come forth arod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shallgrow out of his roots." "Incline your ear, and comeunto Me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I willmake an everlasting covenant with you, even thesure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him

for a witness to the people, a leader andcommander to the people. Behold, thou shalt calla nation that thou knowest not, and nations thatknew not thee shall run unto thee because of theLord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; forHe hath glorified thee." Isaiah 11:1; 55:3-5.Jeremiah also bore witness of the comingRedeemer as a Prince of the house of David:"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I willraise unto David a righteous Branch, and a Kingshall reign and prosper, and shall executejudgment and justice in the earth. In His daysJudah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely:and this is His name whereby He shall be called,The Lord Our Righteousness." And again: "Thussaith the Lord: David shall never want a man to situpon the throne of the house of Israel; neithershall the priests the Levites want a man before Meto offer burnt offerings, and to kindle meatofferings, and to do sacrifice continually."Jeremiah 23:5, 6; 33:17, 18. Even thebirthplace of the Messiah was foretold: "Thou,

Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little amongthe thousands

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of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth untoMe that is to be Ruler in Israel; whose goings forthhave been from of old, from everlasting." Micah5:2.

The work that the Saviour was to do on theearth had been fully outlined: "The Spirit of theLord shall rest upon Him, the spirit of wisdom andunderstanding, the spirit of counsel and might, thespirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord; andshall make Him of quick understanding in the fearof the Lord." The One thus anointed was "topreach good tidings unto the meek; . . . to bind upthe brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to thecaptives, and the opening of the prison to themthat are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year ofthe Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; tocomfort all that mourn; to appoint unto them that

mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes,the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praisefor the spirit of heaviness; that they might becalled trees of righteousness, the planting of theLord, that He might be glorified." Isaiah 11:2, 3;61:1-3. "Behold My servant, whom I uphold;Mine elect, in whom My soul delighteth; I have putMy Spirit upon Him: He shall bring forth judgmentto the Gentiles. He shall not cry, nor lift up, norcause His voice to be heard in the street. Abruised reed shall He not break, and the smokingflax shall He not quench: He shall bring forthjudgment unto truth. He shall not fail nor bediscouraged, till He have set judgment in theearth: and the isles shall wait for His law." Isaiah42:1-4.

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With convincing power Paul reasoned from theOld Testament Scriptures that "Christ must needs

have suffered, and risen again from the dead."Had not Micah prophesied, "They shall smite theJudge of Israel with a rod upon the cheek"? Micah5:1. And had not the Promised One, throughIsaiah, prophesied of Himself, "I gave My back tothe smiters, and My cheeks to them that pluckedoff the hair: I hid not My face from shame andspitting"? Isaiah 50:6. Through the psalmist Christhad foretold the treatment that He should receivefrom men: "I am . . . a reproach of men, anddespised of the people. All they that see Me laughMe to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake thehead, saying, He trusted on the Lord that Hewould deliver Him: let Him deliver Him, seeing Hedelighted in Him." "I may tell all My bones: theylook and stare upon Me. They part My garmentsamong them, and cast lots upon My vesture." "Iam become a stranger unto My brethren, and analien unto My mother's children. For the zeal ofThine house hath eaten Me up; and thereproaches of them that reproached Thee arefallen upon Me." "Reproach hath broken My heart;

and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for someto take pity, but there was none; and forcomforters, but I found none." Psalm 22:6-8, 17,18; 69:8, 9, 20. How unmistakably plain wereIsaiah's prophecies of Christ's sufferings anddeath! "Who hath believed our report? "theprophet inquires, "and to whom is the arm of theLord revealed? For He shall grow up before Himas a

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tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: Hehath no form nor comeliness; and when we shallsee Him, there is no beauty that we should desireHim. He is despised and rejected of men; a man ofsorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid asit were our faces from Him; He was despised, andwe esteemed Him not.

"Surely He hath borne our griefs, and carriedour sorrows: yet we did esteem Him stricken,smitten of God, and afflicted. But He was wounded

for our transgressions, He was bruised for ouriniquities: the chastisement of our peace was uponHim; and with His stripes we are healed.

"All we like sheep have gone astray; we haveturned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hathlaid on Him the iniquity of us all. He wasoppressed, and he was afflicted, yet He openednot His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to theslaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers isdumb, so He openeth not His mouth. He wastaken from prison and from judgment: and whoshall declare His generation? for He was cut offout of the land of the living: for the transgression ofmy people was He stricken." Isaiah 53:1-8.

Even the manner of His death had beenshadowed forth. As the brazen serpent had beenuplifted in the wilderness, so was the comingRedeemer to be lifted up, "that whosoeverbelieveth in Him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life." John 3:16.

"One shall say unto Him, What are thesewounds in Thine hands? Then He shall answer,Those with which I was wounded in the house ofMy friends." Zechariah 13:6.

"He made His grave with the wicked, and withthe rich

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in His death; because He had done no violence,neither was any deceit in His mouth. Yet it pleasedthe Lord to bruise Him; He hath put Him to grief."Isaiah 53:9, 10.

But He who was to suffer death at the hands ofevil men was to rise again as a conqueror over sinand the grave. Under the inspiration of theAlmighty the Sweet Singer of Israel had testified ofthe glories of the resurrection morn. "My fleshalso," he joyously proclaimed, "shall rest in hope.For Thou wilt not leave My soul in hell [the grave];neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to seecorruption." Psalm 16:9, 10. Paul showed how

closely God had linked the sacrificial service withthe prophecies relating to the One who was to be"brought as a lamb to the slaughter." The Messiahwas to give His life as "an offering for sin." Lookingdown through the centuries to the scenes of theSaviour's atonement, the prophet Isaiah hadtestified that the Lamb of God "poured out His soulunto death: and He was numbered with thetransgressors; and He bare the sin of many, andmade intercession for the transgressors." Isaiah53:7, 10, 12.

The Saviour of prophecy was to come, not as atemporal king, to deliver the Jewish nation fromearthly oppressors, but as a man among men, tolive a life of poverty and humility, and at last to bedespised, rejected, and slain. The Saviour foretoldin the Old Testament Scriptures was to offerHimself as a sacrifice in behalf of the fallen race,thus fulfilling every requirement of the broken law.In Him the sacrificial types were to meet theirantitype, and His

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death on the cross was to lend significance to theentire Jewish economy.

Paul told the Thessalonian Jews of his formerzeal for the ceremonial law and of his wonderfulexperience at the gate of Damascus. Before hisconversion he had been confident in a hereditarypiety, a false hope. His faith had not beenanchored in Christ; he had trusted instead in formsand ceremonies. His zeal for the law had beendisconnected from faith in Christ and was of noavail. While boasting that he was blameless in theperformance of the deeds of the law, he hadrefused the One who made the law of value.

But at the time of his conversion all had beenchanged. Jesus of Nazareth, whom he had beenpersecuting in the person of His saints, appearedbefore him as the promised Messiah. Thepersecutor saw Him as the Son of God, the onewho had come to the earth in fulfillment of the

prophecies and who in His life had met everyspecification of the Sacred Writings.

As with holy boldness Paul proclaimed thegospel in the synagogue at Thessalonica, a floodof light was thrown upon the true meaning of therites and ceremonies connected with thetabernacle service. He carried the minds of hishearers beyond the earthly service and theministry of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary, to thetime when, having completed His mediatorialwork, Christ would come again in power and greatglory, and establish His kingdom on the earth.Paul was a believer in the second coming ofChrist; so clearly and forcibly did he present thetruths concerning this event, that upon the mindsof many who

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heard there was made an impression which neverwore away.

For three successive Sabbaths Paul preachedto the Thessalonians, reasoning with them fromthe Scriptures regarding the life, death,resurrection, office work, and future glory of Christ,the "Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."Revelation 13:8. He exalted Christ, the properunderstanding of whose ministry is the key thatunlocks the Old Testament Scriptures, givingaccess to their rich treasures.

As the truths of the gospel were thusproclaimed in Thessalonica with mighty power, theattention of large congregations was arrested."Some of them believed, and consorted with Pauland Silas; and of the devout Greeks a greatmultitude, and of the chief women not a few."

As in the places formerly entered, the apostlesmet with determined opposition. "The Jews whichbelieved not" were "moved with envy." TheseJews were not then in favor with the Romanpower, because, not long before, they had raisedan insurrection in Rome. They were looked uponwith suspicion, and their liberty was in a measure

restricted. They now saw an opportunity to takeadvantage of circumstances to re-establishthemselves in favor and at the same time to throwreproach upon the apostles and the converts toChristianity.

This they set about doing by uniting with"certain lewd fellows of the baser sort," by whichmeans they succeeded in setting "all the city on anuproar." In the hope of finding the apostles, they"assaulted the house of Jason;"

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but they could find neither Paul nor Silas. And"when they found them not," the mob in their maddisappointment "drew Jason and certain brethrenunto the rulers of the city, crying, These that haveturned the world upside down are come hitheralso; whom Jason hath received: and these all docontrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying thatthere is another king, one Jesus."

As Paul and Silas were not to be found, themagistrates put the accused believers underbonds to keep the peace. Fearing further violence,"the brethren immediately sent away Paul andSilas by night unto Berea."

Those who today teach unpopular truths neednot be discouraged if at times they meet with nomore favorable reception, even from those whoclaim to be Christians, than did Paul and his fellowworkers from the people among whom theylabored. The messengers of the cross must armthemselves with watchfulness and prayer, andmove forward with faith and courage, workingalways in the name of Jesus. They must exaltChrist as man's mediator in the heavenlysanctuary, the One in whom all the sacrifices ofthe Old Testament dispensation centered, andthrough whose atoning sacrifice the transgressorsof God's law may find peace and pardon.

Chap. 23 - Berea and Athens

At Berea Paul found Jews who were willing toinvestigate the truths he taught. Luke's recorddeclares of them: "These were more noble thanthose in Thessalonica, in that they received theword with all readiness of mind, and searched theScriptures daily, whether those things were so.Therefore many of them believed; also ofhonorable women which were Greeks, and ofmen, not a few."

The minds of the Bereans were not narrowedby prejudice. They were willing to investigate thetruthfulness of the doctrines preached by theapostles. They studied the Bible, not fromcuriosity, but in order that they might learn whathad been written concerning the promisedMessiah. Daily they searched the inspired records,and as they compared scripture with scripture,heavenly angels were beside them, enlighteningtheir minds and impressing their hearts.

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Wherever the truths of the gospel areproclaimed, those who honestly desire to do rightare led to a diligent searching of the Scriptures. If,in the closing scenes of this earth's history, thoseto whom testing truths are proclaimed would followthe example of the Bereans, searching theScriptures daily, and comparing with God's wordthe messages brought them, there would today bea large number loyal to the precepts of God's law,where now there are comparatively few. But whenunpopular Bible truths are presented, many refuseto make this investigation. Though unable tocontrovert the plain teachings of Scripture, theyyet manifest the utmost reluctance to study theevidences offered. Some assume that even ifthese doctrines are indeed true, it matters littlewhether or not they accept the new light, and theycling to pleasing fables which the enemy uses to

lead souls astray. Thus their minds are blinded byerror, and they become separated from heaven.

All will be judged according to the light that hasbeen given. The Lord sends forth Hisambassadors with a message of salvation, andthose who hear He will hold responsible for theway in which they treat the words of His servants.Those who are sincerely seeking for truth willmake a careful investigation, in the light of God'sword, of the doctrines presented to them.

The unbelieving Jews of Thessalonica, filledwith jealousy and hatred of the apostles, and notcontent with having driven them from their owncity, followed them to Berea and aroused againstthem the excitable passions of the lower class.Fearing that violence would be done to Paul if he

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remained there, the brethren sent him to Athens,accompanied by some of the Bereans who hadnewly accepted the faith.

Thus persecution followed the teachers of truthfrom city to city. The enemies of Christ could notprevent the advancement of the gospel, but theysucceeded in making the work of the apostlesexceedingly hard. Yet in the face of opposition andconflict, Paul pressed steadily forward, determinedto carry out the purpose of God as revealed to himin the vision at Jerusalem: "I will send thee farhence unto the Gentiles." Acts 22:21.

Paul's hasty departure from Berea deprivedhim of the opportunity he had anticipated ofvisiting the brethren at Thessalonica.

On arriving at Athens, the apostle sent theBerean brethren back with a message to Silas andTimothy to join him immediately. Timothy hadcome to Berea prior to Paul's departure, and withSilas had remained to carry on the work so wellbegun there, and to instruct the new converts inthe principles of the faith.

The city of Athens was the metropolis ofheathendom. Here Paul did not meet with an

ignorant, credulous populace, as at Lystra, butwith a people famous for their intelligence andculture. Everywhere statues of their gods and ofthe deified heroes of history and poetry met theeye, while magnificent architecture and paintingsrepresented the national glory and the popularworship of heathen deities. The senses of thepeople were entranced by the beauty andsplendor of art. On every hand sanctuaries andtemples,

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involving untold expense, reared their massiveforms. Victories of arms and deeds of celebratedmen were commemorated by sculpture, shrines,and tablets. All these made Athens a vast galleryof art. As Paul looked upon the beauty andgrandeur surrounding him, and saw the city whollygiven to idolatry, his spirit was stirred with jealousyfor God, whom he saw dishonored on every side,and his heart was drawn out in pity for the peopleof Athens, who, notwithstanding their intellectual

culture, were ignorant of the true God. Theapostle was not deceived by that which he saw inthis center of learning. His spiritual nature was soalive to the attraction of heavenly things that thejoy and glory of the riches which will never perishmade valueless in his eyes the pomp and splendorwith which he was surrounded. As he saw themagnificence of Athens he realized its seductivepower over lovers of art and science, and his mindwas deeply impressed with the importance of thework before him.

In this great city, where God was notworshiped, Paul was oppressed by a feeling ofsolitude, and he longed for the sympathy and aidof his fellow laborers. So far as human friendshipwas concerned, he felt himself to be utterly alone.In his epistle to the Thessalonians he expresseshis feelings in the words, "Left at Athens alone." 1Thessalonians 3:1. Obstacles that were apparentlyinsurmountable presented themselves before him,making it seem almost hopeless for him to attempt

to reach the hearts of the people. Whilewaiting for Silas and Timothy, Paul was not idle.

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He "disputed . . . in the synagogue with the Jews,and with the devout persons, and in the marketdaily with them that met with him." But his principalwork in Athens was to bear the tidings of salvationto those who had no intelligent conception of Godand of His purpose in behalf of the fallen race. Theapostle was soon to meet paganism in its mostsubtle, alluring form.

The great men of Athens were not long inlearning of the presence in their city of a singularteacher who was setting before the peopledoctrines new and strange. Some of these mensought Paul out and entered into conversation withhim. Soon a crowd of listeners gathered aboutthem. Some were prepared to ridicule the apostleas one who was far beneath them both sociallyand intellectually, and these said jeeringly among

themselves, "What will this babbler say?" Others,"because he preached unto them Jesus, and theresurrection," said, "He seemeth to be a setterforth of strange gods."

Among those who encountered Paul in themarket place were "certain philosophers of theEpicureans, and of the Stoics;" but they, and allothers who came in contact with him, soon sawthat he had a store of knowledge even greaterthan their own. His intellectual power commandedthe respect of the learned; while his earnest,logical reasoning and the power of his oratory heldthe attention of all in the audience. His hearersrecognized the fact that he was no novice, but wasable to meet all classes with convincing argumentsin support of the doctrines he taught. Thus theapostle stood undaunted, meeting his opposers ontheir own

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ground, matching logic with logic, philosophy withphilosophy, eloquence with eloquence.

His heathen opponents called his attention tothe fate of Socrates, who, because he was a setterforth of strange gods, had been condemned todeath, and they counseled Paul not to endangerhis life in the same way. But the apostle'sdiscourses riveted the attention of the people, andhis unaffected wisdom commanded their respectand admiration. He was not silenced by thescience or the irony of the philosophers, andsatisfying themselves that he was determined toaccomplish his errand among them, and, at allhazards, to tell his story, they decided to give hima fair hearing.

They accordingly conducted him to Mars' Hill.This was one of the most sacred spots in allAthens, and its recollections and associationswere such as to cause it to be regarded with asuperstitious reverence that in the minds of someamounted to dread. It was in this place thatmatters connected with religion were often

carefully considered by men who acted as finaljudges on all the more important moral as well ascivil questions.

Here, away from the noise and bustle ofcrowded thoroughfares, and the tumult ofpromiscuous discussion, the apostle could beheard without interruption. Around him gatheredpoets, artists, and philosophers--the scholars andsages of Athens, who thus addressed him: "Maywe know what this new doctrine, whereof thouspeakest, is? for thou bringest certain strangethings to our ears: we would know thereof whatthese things mean."

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In that hour of solemn responsibility, theapostle was calm and self-possessed. His heartwas burdened with an important message, and thewords that fell from his lips convinced his hearersthat he was no idle babbler. "Ye men of Athens,"

he said, "I perceive that in all things ye are toosuperstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld yourdevotions, I found an altar with this inscription, Tothe Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantlyworship, Him declare I unto you." With all theirintelligence and general knowledge, they wereignorant of the God who created the universe. Yetthere were some who were longing for greaterlight. They were reaching out toward the Infinite.

With hand outstretched toward the templecrowded with idols, Paul poured out the burden ofhis soul, and exposed the fallacies of the religionof the Athenians. The wisest of his hearers wereastonished as they listened to his reasoning. Heshowed himself familiar with their works of art,their literature, and their religion. Pointing to theirstatuary and idols, he declared that God could notbe likened to forms of man's devising. Thesegraven images could not, in the faintest sense,represent the glory of Jehovah. He reminded themthat these images had no life, but were controlledby human power, moving only when the hands of

men moved them; and therefore those whoworshiped them were in every way superior to thatwhich they worshiped.

Paul drew the minds of his idolatrous hearersbeyond the limits of their false religion to a trueview of the Deity, whom they had styled the"Unknown God." This Being, whom he nowdeclared unto them, was independent of

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man, needing nothing from human hands to add toHis power and glory.

The people were carried away with admirationfor Paul's earnest and logical presentation of theattributes of the true God--of His creative powerand the existence of His overruling providence.With earnest and fervid eloquence the apostledeclared, "God that made the world and all thingstherein, seeing that He is Lord of heaven andearth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;neither is worshiped with men's hands, as though

He needed anything, seeing He giveth to all life,and breath, and all things." The heavens were notlarge enough to contain God, how much less werethe temples made by human hands!

In that age of caste, when the rights of menwere often unrecognized, Paul set forth the greattruth of human brotherhood, declaring that God"hath made of one blood all nations of men for todwell on all the face of the earth." In the sight ofGod all are on an equality, and to the Creatorevery human being owes supreme allegiance.Then the apostle showed how, through all God'sdealings with man, His purpose of grace andmercy runs like a thread of gold. He "hathdetermined the times before appointed, and thebounds of their habitation; that they should seekthe Lord, if haply they might feel after Him, andfind Him, though He be not far from every one ofus."

Pointing to the noble specimens of manhoodabout him, with words borrowed from a poet oftheir own he pictured the infinite God as a Father,

whose children they were. "In Him we live, andmove, and have our being," he

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declared; "as certain also of your own poets havesaid, For we are also His offspring. Forasmuchthen as we are the offspring of God, we ought notto think that the Godhead is like unto gold, orsilver, or stone, graven by art and man's device.

"And the times of this ignorance God winked at;but now commandeth all men everywhere torepent." In the ages of darkness that had precededthe advent of Christ, the divine Ruler had passedlightly over the idolatry of the heathen; but now,through His Son, He had sent men the light oftruth; and He expected from all repentance untosalvation, not only from the poor and humble, butfrom the proud philosopher and the princes of theearth. "Because He hath appointed a day, in thewhich He will judge the world in righteousness bythat Man whom He hath ordained; whereof He

hath given assurance unto all men, in that He hathraised Him from the dead." As Paul spoke of theresurrection from the dead, "some mocked: andothers said, We will hear thee again of thismatter."

Thus closed the labors of the apostle atAthens, the center of heathen learning, for theAthenians, clinging persistently to their idolatry,turned from the light of the true religion. When apeople are wholly satisfied with their ownattainments, little more need be expected of them.Though boasting of learning and refinement, theAthenians were constantly becoming more corruptand more content with the vague mysteries ofidolatry.

Among those who listened to the words of Paulwere some to whose minds the truths presentedbrought conviction,

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but they would not humble themselves toacknowledge God and to accept the plan ofsalvation. No eloquence of words, no force ofargument, can convert the sinner. The power ofGod alone can apply the truth to the heart. He whopersistently turns from this power cannot bereached. The Greeks sought after wisdom, yet themessage of the cross was to them foolishnessbecause they valued their own wisdom morehighly than the wisdom that comes from above.

In their pride of intellect and human wisdommay be found the reason why the gospel messagemet with comparatively little success among theAthenians. The worldly-wise men who come toChrist as poor lost sinners, will become wise untosalvation; but those who come as distinguishedmen, extolling their own wisdom, will fail ofreceiving the light and knowledge that He alonecan give.

Thus Paul met the paganism of his day. Hislabors in Athens were not wholly in vain.Dionysius, one of the most prominent citizens, and

some others, accepted the gospel message andunited themselves fully with the believers.

Inspiration has given us this glance into the lifeof the Athenians, who, with all their knowledge,refinement, and art, were yet sunken in vice, that itmight be seen how God, through His servant,rebuked idolatry and the sins of a proud, self-sufficient people. The words of the apostle, andthe description of his attitude and surroundings, astraced by the pen of inspiration, were to behanded down to all coming generations, bearingwitness of his unshaken confidence, his couragein loneliness and adversity, and the

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victory he gained for Christianity in the very heartof paganism.

Paul's words contain a treasure of knowledgefor the church. He was in a position where hemight easily have said that which would haveirritated his proud listeners and brought himself

into difficulty. Had his oration been a direct attackupon their gods and the great men of the city, hewould have been in danger of meeting the fate ofSocrates. But with a tact born of divine love, hecarefully drew their minds away from heathendeities, by revealing to them the true God, whowas to them unknown.

Today the truths of Scripture are to be broughtbefore the great men of the world in order thatthey may choose between obedience to God's lawand allegiance to the prince of evil. God setseverlasting truth before them--truth that will makethem wise unto salvation, but He does not forcethem to accept it. If they turn from it, He leavesthem to themselves, to be filled with the fruit oftheir own doings.

"The preaching of the cross is to them thatperish foolishness; but unto us which are saved itis the power of God. For it is written, I will destroythe wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothingthe understanding of the prudent." "God hathchosen the foolish things of the world to confound

the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things ofthe world to confound the things which are mighty;and base things of the world, and things which aredespised, hath God chosen, yea, and things whichare not, to bring to nought things that are." 1Corinthians 1:18, 19, 27, 28. Many of the greatestscholars and statesmen, the world's most

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eminent men, will in these last days turn from thelight because the world by wisdom knows not God.Yet God's servants are to improve everyopportunity to communicate the truth to thesemen. Some will acknowledge their ignorance ofthe things of God and will take their place ashumble learners at the feet of Jesus, the MasterTeacher.

In every effort to reach the higher classes, theworker for God needs strong faith. Appearancesmay seem forbidding, but in the darkest hour thereis light above. The strength of those who love and

serve God will be renewed day by day. Theunderstanding of the Infinite is placed at theirservice, that in carrying out His purposes they maynot err. Let these workers hold the beginning oftheir confidence firm unto the end, rememberingthat the light of God's truth is to shine amid thedarkness that enshrouds our world. There is to beno despondency in connection with God's service.The faith of the consecrated worker is to standevery test brought to bear upon it. God is able andwilling to bestow upon His servants all the strengththey need and to give them the wisdom that theirvaried necessities demand. He will more than fulfillthe highest expectations of those who put theirtrust in Him.

Chap. 24 - Corinth

During the first century of the Christian Era,Corinth was one of the leading cities, not only ofGreece, but of the world. Greeks, Jews, and

Romans, with travelers from every land, throngedits streets, eagerly intent on business andpleasure. A great commercial center, situatedwithin easy access of all parts of the RomanEmpire, it was an important place in which toestablish memorials for God and His truth.

Among the Jews who had taken up theirresidence in Corinth were Aquila and Priscilla, whoafterward became distinguished as earnestworkers for Christ. Becoming acquainted with thecharacter of these persons, Paul "abode withthem."

At the very beginning of his labors in thisthoroughfare of travel, Paul saw on every handserious obstacles to the progress of his work. Thecity was almost wholly given up to idolatry. Venuswas the favorite goddess, and with the

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worship of Venus were connected manydemoralizing rites and ceremonies. The

Corinthians had become conspicuous, evenamong the heathen, for their gross immorality.They seemed to have little thought or care beyondthe pleasures and gaieties of the hour.

In preaching the gospel in Corinth, the apostlefollowed a course different from that which hadmarked his labors at Athens. While in the latterplace, he had sought to adapt his style to thecharacter of his audience; he had met logic withlogic, science with science, philosophy withphilosophy. As he thought of the time thus spent,and realized that his teaching in Athens had beenproductive of but little fruit, he decided to followanother plan of labor in Corinth in his efforts toarrest the attention of the careless and theindifferent. He determined to avoid elaboratearguments and discussions, and "not to knowanything" among the Corinthians "save JesusChrist, and Him crucified." He would preach tothem "not with enticing words of man's wisdom,but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power." 1Corinthians 2:2, 4.

Jesus, whom Paul was about to present beforethe Greeks in Corinth as the Christ, was a Jew oflowly origin, reared in a town proverbial for itswickedness. He had been rejected by His ownnation and at last crucified as a malefactor. TheGreeks believed that there was need of elevatingthe human race, but they regarded the study ofphilosophy and science as the only means ofattaining to true elevation and honor. Could Paullead them to believe that faith in the power of thisobscure Jew would uplift and ennoble every powerof the being?

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To the minds of multitudes living at the presenttime, the cross of Calvary is surrounded by sacredmemories. Hallowed associations are connectedwith the scenes of the crucifixion. But in Paul's daythe cross was regarded with feelings of repulsionand horror. To uphold as the Saviour of mankind

one who had met death on the cross, wouldnaturally call forth ridicule and opposition.

Paul well knew how his message would beregarded by both the Jews and the Greeks ofCorinth. "We preach Christ crucified," he admitted,"unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto theGreeks foolishness." 1 Corinthians 1:23. Amonghis Jewish hearers there were many who would beangered by the message he was about toproclaim. In the estimation of the Greeks his wordswould be absurd folly. He would be looked uponas weak-minded for attempting to show how thecross could have any connection with theelevation of the race or the salvation of mankind.

But to Paul the cross was the one object ofsupreme interest. Ever since he had been arrestedin his career of persecution against the followersof the crucified Nazarene he had never ceased toglory in the cross. At that time there had beengiven him a revelation of the infinite love of God,as revealed in the death of Christ; and amarvelous transformation had been wrought in his

life, bringing all his plans and purposes intoharmony with heaven. From that hour he had beena new man in Christ. He knew by personalexperience that when a sinner once beholds thelove of the Father, as seen in the sacrifice of HisSon, and yields to the divine influence, a changeof heart takes place, and henceforth Christ is alland in all.

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At the time of his conversion, Paul was inspiredwith a longing desire to help his fellow men tobehold Jesus of Nazareth as the Son of the livingGod, mighty to transform and to save. Henceforthhis life was wholly devoted to an effort to portraythe love and power of the Crucified One. His greatheart of sympathy took in all classes. "I amdebtor," he declared, "both to the Greeks, and tothe barbarians; both to the wise, and to theunwise." Romans 1:14. Love for the Lord of glory,

whom he had so relentlessly persecuted in theperson of His saints, was the actuating principle ofhis conduct, his motive power. If ever his ardor inthe path of duty flagged, one glance at the crossand the amazing love there revealed, was enoughto cause him to gird up the loins of his mind andpress forward in the path of self-denial.

Behold the apostle preaching in the synagogueat Corinth, reasoning from the writings of Mosesand the prophets, and bringing his hearers downto the advent of the promised Messiah. Listen ashe makes plain the work of the Redeemer as thegreat high priest of mankind--the One who throughthe sacrifice of His own life was to makeatonement for sin once for all, and was then totake up His ministry in the heavenly sanctuary.Paul's hearers were made to understand that theMessiah for whose advent they had been longing,had already come; that His death was the antitypeof all the sacrificial offerings, and that His ministryin the sanctuary in heaven was the great object

that cast its shadow backward and made clear theministry of the Jewish priesthood.

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Paul "testified to the Jews that Jesus wasChrist." From the Old Testament Scriptures heshowed that according to the prophecies and theuniversal expectation of the Jews, the Messiahwould be of the lineage of Abraham and of David;then he traced the descent of Jesus from thepatriarch Abraham through the royal psalmist. Heread the testimony of the prophets regarding thecharacter and work of the promised Messiah, andHis reception and treatment on the earth; then heshowed that all these predictions had been fulfilledin the life, ministry, and death of Jesus ofNazareth.

Paul showed that Christ had come to offersalvation first of all to the nation that was lookingfor the Messiah's coming as the consummation

and glory of their national existence. But thatnation had rejected Him who would have giventhem life, and had chosen another leader, whosereign would end in death. He endeavored to bringhome to his hearers the fact that repentance alonecould save the Jewish nation from impending ruin.He revealed their ignorance concerning themeaning of those Scriptures which it was theirchief boast and glory that they fully understood.He rebuked their worldliness, their love of station,titles, and display, and their inordinate selfishness.

In the power of the Spirit, Paul related the storyof his own miraculous conversion and of hisconfidence in the Old Testament Scriptures, whichhad been so completely fulfilled in Jesus ofNazareth. His words were spoken with solemnearnestness, and his hearers could not but discern

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that he loved with all his heart the crucified andrisen Saviour. They saw that his mind was

centered in Christ, that his whole life was boundup with his Lord. So impressive were his words,that only those who were filled with the bitteresthatred against the Christian religion could standunmoved by them.

But the Jews of Corinth closed their eyes to theevidence so clearly presented by the apostle, andrefused to listen to his appeals. The same spiritthat had led them to reject Christ, filled them withwrath and fury against His servant; and had notGod especially protected him, that he mightcontinue to bear the gospel message to theGentiles, they would have put an end to his life.

"And when they opposed themselves, andblasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said untothem, Your blood be upon your own heads; I amclean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.And he departed thence, and entered into acertain man's house, named Justus, one thatworshiped God, whose house joined hard to thesynagogue."

Silas and Timothy had "come from Macedonia"to help Paul, and together they labored for theGentiles. To the heathen, as well as to the Jews,Paul and his companions preached Christ as theSaviour of the fallen race. Avoiding complicated,far-fetched reasoning, the messengers of thecross dwelt upon the attributes of the Creator ofthe world, the Supreme Ruler of the universe.Their hearts aglow with the love of God and of HisSon, they appealed to the heathen to behold theinfinite sacrifice made in man's behalf. They knewthat if those who had long been groping

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in the darkness of heathenism could but see thelight streaming from Calvary's cross, they wouldbe drawn to the Redeemer. "I, if I be lifted up," theSaviour had declared, "will draw all men unto Me."John 12:32.

The gospel workers in Corinth realized theterrible dangers threatening the souls of those for

whom they were laboring; and it was with a senseof the responsibility resting on them that theypresented the truth as it is in Jesus. Clear, plain,and decided was their message--a savor of lifeunto life, or of death unto death. And not only intheir words, but in the daily life, was the gospelrevealed. Angels co-operated with them, and thegrace and power of God was shown in theconversion of many. "Crispus, the chief ruler of thesynagogue, believed on the Lord with all hishouse; and many of the Corinthians hearingbelieved, and were baptized."

The hatred with which the Jews had alwaysregarded the apostles was now intensified. Theconversion and baptism of Crispus had the effectof exasperating instead of convincing thesestubborn opposers. They could not bringarguments to disprove Paul's preaching, and forlack of such evidence they resorted to deceptionand malignant attack. They blasphemed thegospel and the name of Jesus. In their blind angerno words were too bitter, no device too low, for

them to use. They could not deny that Christ hadworked miracles; but they declared that He hadperformed them through the power of Satan; andthey boldly affirmed that the wonderful workswrought by Paul were accomplished through thesame agency.

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Though Paul had a measure of success inCorinth, yet the wickedness that he saw and heardin that corrupt city almost disheartened him. Thedepravity that he witnessed among the Gentiles,and the contempt and insult that he received fromthe Jews, caused him great anguish of spirit. Hedoubted the wisdom of trying to build up a churchfrom the material that he found there.

As he was planning to leave the city for a morepromising field, and seeking earnestly tounderstand his duty, the Lord appeared to him in avision and said, "Be not afraid, but speak, and hold

not thy peace: for I am with thee, and no man shallset on thee to hurt thee: for I have much people inthis city." Paul understood this to be a command toremain in Corinth and a guarantee that the Lordwould give increase to the seed sown.Strengthened and encouraged, he continued tolabor there with zeal and perseverance.

The apostle's efforts were not confined topublic speaking; there were many who could nothave been reached in that way. He spent muchtime in house-to-house labor, thus availing himselfof the familiar intercourse of the home circle. Hevisited the sick and the sorrowing, comforted theafflicted, and lifted up the oppressed. And in allthat he said and did he magnified the name ofJesus. Thus he labored, "in weakness, and in fear,and in much trembling." 1 Corinthians 2:3. Hetrembled lest his teaching should reveal theimpress of the human rather than the divine.

"We speak wisdom among them that areperfect," Paul afterward declared; "yet not the

wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of thisworld, that come to nought: but

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we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, eventhe hidden wisdom, which God ordained beforethe world unto our glory: which none of the princesof this world knew: for had they known it, theywould not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as itis written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard,neither have entered into the heart of man, thethings which God hath prepared for them that loveHim. But God hath revealed them unto us by HisSpirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, thedeep things of God. For what man knoweth thethings of a man, save the spirit of man which is inhim? even so the things of God knoweth no man,but the Spirit of God.

"Now we have received, not the spirit of theworld, but the spirit which is of God; that we mightknow the things that are freely given to us of God.

Which things also we speak, not in the wordswhich man's wisdom teacheth, but which the HolyGhost teacheth; comparing spiritual things withspiritual." 1 Corinthians 2:6-13.

Paul realized that his sufficiency was not inhimself, but in the presence of the Holy Spirit,whose gracious influence filled his heart, bringingevery thought into subjection to Christ. He spokeof himself as "always bearing about in the bodythe dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also ofJesus might be made manifest in our body." 2Corinthians 4:10. In the apostle's teachings Christwas the central figure. "I live," he declared, "yetnot I, but Christ liveth in me." Galatians 2:20. Selfwas hidden; Christ was revealed and exalted.

Paul was an eloquent speaker. Before hisconversion he

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had often sought to impress his hearers by flightsof oratory. But now he set all this aside. Instead of

indulging in poetic descriptions and fancifulrepresentations, which might please the sensesand feed the imagination, but which would nottouch the daily experience, Paul sought by the useof simple language to bring home to the heart thetruths that are of vital importance. Fancifulrepresentations of truth may cause an ecstasy offeeling, but all too often truths presented in thisway do not supply the food necessary tostrengthen and fortify the believer for the battles oflife. The immediate needs, the present trials, ofstruggling souls--these must be met with sound,practical instruction in the fundamental principlesof Christianity.

Paul's efforts in Corinth were not without fruit.Many turned from the worship of idols to serve theliving God, and a large church was enrolled underthe banner of Christ. Some were rescued fromamong the most dissipated of the Gentiles andbecame monuments of the mercy of God and theefficacy of the blood of Christ to cleanse from sin.

The increased success that Paul had inpresenting Christ, roused the unbelieving Jews tomore determined opposition. They rose in a bodyand "made insurrection with one accord againstPaul, and brought him to the judgment seat" ofGallio, who was then proconsul of Achaia. Theyexpected that the authorities, as on formeroccasions, would side with them; and with loud,angry voices they uttered their complaints againstthe apostle, saying, "This fellow persuadeth mento worship God contrary to the law."

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The Jewish religion was under the protection ofthe Roman power, and the accusers of Paulthought that if they could fasten upon him thecharge of violating the laws of their religion, hewould probably be delivered to them for trial andsentence. They hoped thus to compass his death.But Gallio was a man of integrity, and he refused

to become the dupe of the jealous, intriguingJews. Disgusted with their bigotry and self-righteousness, he would take no notice of thecharge. As Paul prepared to speak in self-defense,Gallio told him that it was not necessary. Thenturning to the angry accusers, he said, "If it were amatter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews,reason would that I should bear with you: but if itbe a question of words and names, and of yourlaw, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of suchmatters. And he drave them from the judgmentseat."

Both Jews and Greeks had waited eagerly forGallio's decision; and his immediate dismissal ofthe case, as one that had no bearing upon thepublic interest, was the signal for the Jews toretire, baffled and angry. The proconsul's decidedcourse opened the eyes of the clamorous crowdwho had been abetting the Jews. For the first timeduring Paul's labors in Europe, the mob turned tohis side; under the very eye of the proconsul, andwithout interference from him, they violently beset

the most prominent accusers of the apostle. "Allthe Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of thesynagogue, and beat him before the judgmentseat. And Gallio cared for none of those things."Thus Christianity obtained a signal victory.

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"Paul after this tarried there yet a good while." Ifthe apostle had at this time been compelled toleave Corinth, the converts to the faith of Jesuswould have been placed in a perilous position. TheJews would have endeavored to follow up theadvantage gained, even to the extermination ofChristianity in that region.

Chap. 25 - The Thessalonian Letters

The arrival of Silas and Timothy fromMacedonia, during Paul's sojourn in Corinth, had

greatly cheered the apostle. They brought him"good tidings" of the "faith and charity" of thosewho had accepted the truth during the first visit ofthe gospel messengers to Thessalonica. Paul'sheart went out in tender sympathy toward thesebelievers, who, in the midst of trial and adversity,had remained true to God. He longed to visit themin person, but as this was not then possible, hewrote to them.

In this letter to the church at Thessalonica theapostle expresses his gratitude to God for thejoyful news of their increase of faith. "Brethren," hewrote, "we were comforted over you in all ouraffliction and distress by your faith: for now welive, if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thankscan we render to God again for you, for all the joywherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;night and day praying exceedingly that we mightsee your face, and might perfect that which islacking in your faith?"

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"We give thanks to God always for you all,making mention of you in our prayers;remembering without ceasing your work of faith,and labor of love, and patience of hope in our LordJesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father."

Many of the believers in Thessalonica had"turned . . . from idols to serve the living and trueGod." They had "received the word in muchaffliction;" and their hearts were filled with "joy ofthe Holy Ghost." The apostle declared that in theirfaithfulness in following the Lord they were"ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia andAchaia." These words of commendation were notunmerited; "for from you," he wrote, "sounded outthe word of the Lord not only in Macedonia andAchaia, but also in every place your faith toGodward is spread abroad."

The Thessalonian believers were truemissionaries. Their hearts burned with zeal fortheir Saviour, who had delivered them from fear of

"the wrath to come." Through the grace of Christ amarvelous transformation had taken place in theirlives, and the word of the Lord, as spoken throughthem, was accompanied with power. Hearts werewon by the truths presented, and souls wereadded to the number of believers.

In this first epistle, Paul referred to his mannerof labor among the Thessalonians. He declaredthat he had not sought to win converts throughdeception or guile. "As we were allowed of God tobe put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak;not as pleasing men, but God, which

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trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used weflattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak ofcovetousness; God is witness: nor of men soughtwe glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, whenwe might have been burdensome, as the apostlesof Christ. But we were gentle among you, even asa nurse cherisheth her children: so being

affectionately desirous of you, we were willing tohave imparted unto you, not the gospel of Godonly, but also our own souls, because ye weredear unto us."

"Ye are witnesses, and God also," the apostlecontinued, "how holily and justly and unblamablywe behaved ourselves among you that believe: asye know how we exhorted and comforted andcharged every one of you, as a father doth hischildren, that ye would walk worthy of God, whohath called you unto His kingdom and glory.

"For this cause also thank we God withoutceasing, because, when ye received the word ofGod which ye heard of us, ye received it not as theword of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God,which effectually worketh also in you that believe.""What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord JesusChrist at His coming? For ye are our glory andjoy." In his first epistle to the Thessalonianbelievers, Paul endeavored to instruct themregarding the true state of the dead. He spoke of

those who die as being asleep--in a state ofunconsciousness: "I would not have you to beignorant, brethren, concerning them which areasleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others whichhave no hope. For if we believe

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that Jesus died and rose again, even so them alsowhich sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him. . . .For the Lord Himself shall descend from heavenwith a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, andwith the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shallrise first: then we which are alive and remain shallbe caught up together with them in the clouds, tomeet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever bewith the Lord."

The Thessalonians had eagerly grasped theidea that Christ was coming to change the faithfulwho were alive, and to take them to Himself. Theyhad carefully guarded the lives of their friends, lestthey should die and lose the blessing which they

looked forward to receiving at the coming of theirLord. But one after another their loved ones hadbeen taken from them, and with anguish theThessalonians had looked for the last time uponthe faces of their dead, hardly daring to hope tomeet them in a future life.

As Paul's epistle was opened and read, greatjoy and consolation was brought to the church bythe words revealing the true state of the dead.Paul showed that those living when Christ shouldcome would not go to meet their Lord in advanceof those who had fallen asleep in Jesus. The voiceof the Archangel and the trump of God wouldreach the sleeping ones, and the dead in Christshould rise first, before the touch of immortalityshould be given to the living. "Then we which arealive and remain shall be caught up together withthem in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: andso shall we ever be with the Lord. Whereforecomfort one another with these words."

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The hope and joy that this assurance broughtto the young church at Thessalonica can scarcelybe appreciated by us. They believed andcherished the letter sent to them by their father inthe gospel, and their hearts went out in love tohim. He had told them these things before; but atthat time their minds were striving to graspdoctrines that seemed new and strange, and it isnot surprising that the force of some points hadnot been vividly impressed on their minds. Butthey were hungering for truth, and Paul's epistlegave them new hope and strength, and a firmerfaith in, and a deeper affection for, the One whothrough His death had brought life and immortalityto light.

Now they rejoiced in the knowledge that theirbelieving friends would be raised from the grave tolive forever in the kingdom of God. The darknessthat had enshrouded the resting place of the deadwas dispelled. A new splendor crowned the

Christian faith, and they saw a new glory in thelife, death, and resurrection of Christ.

"Even so them also which sleep in Jesus willGod bring with Him," Paul wrote. Many interpretthis passage to mean that the sleeping ones willbe brought with Christ from heaven; but Paulmeant that as Christ was raised from the dead, soGod will call the sleeping saints from their gravesand take them with Him to heaven. Preciousconsolation! glorious hope! not only to the churchof Thessalonica, but to all Christians whereverthey may be.

While laboring at Thessalonica, Paul had sofully covered the subject of the signs of the times,showing what events would occur prior to therevelation of the Son of man in

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the clouds of heaven, that he did not think itnecessary to write at length regarding this subject.He, however, pointedly referred to his former

teachings. "Of the times and the seasons," hesaid, "ye have no need that I write unto you. Foryourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lordso cometh as a thief in the night. For when theyshall say, Peace and safety; then suddendestruction cometh upon them."

There are in the world today many who closetheir eyes to the evidences that Christ has given towarn men of His coming. They seek to quiet allapprehension, while at the same time the signs ofthe end are rapidly fulfilling, and the world ishastening to the time when the Son of man shallbe revealed in the clouds of heaven. Paul teachesthat it is sinful to be indifferent to the signs whichare to precede the second coming of Christ. Thoseguilty of this neglect he calls children of the nightand of darkness. He encourages the vigilant andwatchful with these words: "But ye, brethren, arenot in darkness, that that day should overtake youas a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and thechildren of the day: we are not of the night, nor of

darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others;but let us watch and be sober."

Especially important to the church in our timeare the teachings of the apostle upon this point. Tothose living so near the great consummation, thewords of Paul should come with telling force: "Letus, who are of the day, be sober, putting on thebreastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, thehope of salvation. For God hath not appointed

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us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our LordJesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether wewake or sleep, we should live together with Him."

The watchful Christian is a working Christian,seeking zealously to do all in his power for theadvancement of the gospel. As love for hisRedeemer increases, so also does love for hisfellow men. He has severe trials, as had hisMaster; but he does not allow affliction to sour histemper or destroy his peace of mind. He knows

that trial, if well borne, will refine and purify him,and bring him into closer fellowship with Christ.Those who are partakers of Christ's sufferings willalso be partakers of His consolation and at lastsharers of His glory.

"We beseech you, brethren," Paul continued inhis letter to the Thessalonians, "to know themwhich labor among you, and are over you in theLord, and admonish you; and to esteem them veryhighly in love for their work's sake. And be atpeace among yourselves."

The Thessalonian believers were greatlyannoyed by men coming among them withfanatical ideas and doctrines. Some were"disorderly, working not at all, but . . . busy-bodies." The church had been properly organized,and officers had been appointed to act asministers and deacons. But there were some, self-willed and impetuous, who refused to besubordinate to those who held positions ofauthority in the church. They claimed not only theright of private judgment, but that of publicly urging

their views upon the church. In view of this, Paulcalled the attention of the Thessalonians to therespect and deference due to those who

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had been chosen to occupy positions of authorityin the church.

In his anxiety that the believers at Thessalonicashould walk in the fear of God, the apostlepleaded with them to reveal practical godliness inthe daily life. "We beseech you, brethren," hewrote, "and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that asye have received of us how ye ought to walk andto please God, so ye would abound more andmore. For ye know what commandments we gaveyou by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God,even your sanctification, that ye should abstainfrom fornication." "For God hath not called us untouncleanness, but unto holiness."

The apostle felt that he was to a large extentresponsible for the spiritual welfare of those

converted under his labors. His desire for themwas that they might increase in a knowledge of theonly true God, and Jesus Christ, whom He hadsent. Often in his ministry he would meet with littlecompanies of men and women who loved Jesus,and bow with them in prayer, asking God to teachthem how to maintain a living connection with Him.Often he took counsel with them as to the bestmethods of giving to others the light of gospeltruth. And often, when separated from those forwhom he had thus labored, he pleaded with Godto keep them from evil and help them to beearnest, active missionaries.

One of the strongest evidences of trueconversion is love to God and man. Those whoaccept Jesus as their Redeemer have a deep,sincere love for others of like precious faith. Thusit was with the believers at Thessalonica. "Astouching

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brotherly love," the apostle wrote, "ye need notthat I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taughtof God to love one another. And indeed ye do ittoward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia:but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increasemore and more; and that ye study to be quiet, andto do your own business, and to work with yourown hands, as we commanded you; that ye maywalk honestly toward them that are without, andthat ye may have lack of nothing."

"The Lord make you to increase and abound inlove one toward another, and toward all men, evenas we do toward you: to the end He may stablishyour hearts unblamable in holiness before God,even our Father, at the coming of our Lord JesusChrist with all His saints."

"Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them thatare unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support theweak, be patient toward all men. See that nonerender evil for evil unto any man; but ever followthat which is good, both among yourselves, and toall men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing.

In everything give thanks: for this is the will of Godin Christ Jesus concerning you."

The apostle cautioned the Thessalonians not todespise the gift of prophecy, and in the words,"Quench not the Spirit; despise not prophesyings;prove all things; hold fast that which is good," heenjoined a careful discrimination in distinguishingthe false from the true. He besought them to"abstain from all appearance of evil;" and closedhis letter with the prayer that God would sanctifythem wholly,

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that in "Spirit and soul and body" they might "bepreserved blameless unto the coming of our LordJesus Christ. Faithful is He that calleth you," headded, "who also will do it." The instructionthat Paul sent the Thessalonians in his first epistleregarding the second coming of Christ, was inperfect harmony with his former teaching. Yet hiswords were misapprehended by some of the

Thessalonian brethren. They understood him toexpress the hope that he himself would live towitness the Saviour's advent. This belief served toincrease their enthusiasm and excitement. Thosewho had previously neglected their responsibilitiesand duties, now became more persistent in urgingtheir erroneous views.

In his second letter Paul sought to correct theirmisunderstanding of his teaching and to set beforethem his true position. He again expressed hisconfidence in their integrity, and his gratitude thattheir faith was strong, and that their love aboundedfor one another and for the cause of their Master.He told them that he presented them to otherchurches as an example of the patient,persevering faith that bravely withstandspersecution and tribulation, and he carried theirminds forward to the time of the second coming ofChrist, when the people of God shall rest from alltheir cares and perplexities.

"We ourselves," he wrote, "glory in you in thechurches of God for your patience and faith in all

your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: .. . and to you who are troubled rest with us, whenthe Lord Jesus shall be revealed

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from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming firetaking vengeance on them that know not God, andthat obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:who shall be punished with everlasting destructionfrom the presence of the Lord, and from the gloryof His power. . . . Wherefore also we pray alwaysfor you, that our God would count you worthy ofthis calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of Hisgoodness, and the work of faith with power: thatthe name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorifiedin you, and ye in Him, according to the grace ofour God and the Lord Jesus Christ."

But before the coming of Christ, importantdevelopments in the religious world, foretold inprophecy, were to take place. The apostledeclared: "Be not soon shaken in mind, or be

troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor byletter as from us, as that the day of Christ is athand. Let no man deceive you by any means: forthat day shall not come, except there come afalling away first, and that man of sin be revealed,the son of perdition; who opposeth and exaltethhimself above all that is called God, or that isworshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the templeof God, showing himself that he is God."

Paul's words were not to be misinterpreted. Itwas not to be taught that he, by special revelation,had warned the Thessalonians of the immediatecoming of Christ. Such a position would causeconfusion of faith; for disappointment often leadsto unbelief. The apostle therefore cautioned thebrethren to receive no such message as comingfrom him,

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and he proceeded to emphasize the fact that thepapal power, so clearly described by the prophet

Daniel, was yet to rise and wage war againstGod's people. Until this power should haveperformed its deadly and blasphemous work, itwould be in vain for the church to look for thecoming of their Lord. "Remember ye not," Paulinquired, "that, when I was yet with you, I told youthese things?"

Terrible were the trials that were to beset thetrue church. Even at the time when the apostlewas writing, the "mystery of iniquity" had alreadybegun to work. The developments that were totake place in the future were to be "after theworking of Satan with all power and signs andlying wonders, and with all deceivableness ofunrighteousness in them that perish."

Especially solemn is the apostle's statementregarding those who should refuse to receive "thelove of the truth." "For this cause," he declared ofall who should deliberately reject the messages oftruth, "God shall send them strong delusion, thatthey should believe a lie: that they all might bedamned who believed not the truth, but had

pleasure in unrighteousness." Men cannot withimpunity reject the warnings that God in mercysends them. From those who persist in turningfrom these warnings, God withdraws His Spirit,leaving them to the deceptions that they love.

Thus Paul outlined the baleful work of thatpower of evil which was to continue through longcenturies of darkness and persecution before thesecond coming of Christ. The Thessalonianbelievers had hoped for immediate deliverance;

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now they were admonished to take up bravely andin the fear of God the work before them. Theapostle charged them not to neglect their duties orresign themselves to idle waiting. After theirglowing anticipations of immediate deliverance theround of daily life and the opposition that theymust meet would appear doubly forbidding. Hetherefore exhorted them to steadfastness in thefaith:

"Stand fast, and hold the traditions which yehave been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.Now our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God,even our Father, which hath loved us, and hathgiven us everlasting consolation and good hopethrough grace, comfort your hearts, and stablishyou in every good word and work." "The Lord isfaithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you fromevil. And we have confidence in the Lord touchingyou, that ye both do and will do the things whichwe command you. And the Lord direct your heartsinto the love of God, and into the patient waitingfor Christ." The work of the believers had beengiven them by God. By their faithful adherence tothe truth they were to give to others the light whichthey had received. The apostle bade them not tobecome weary in well-doing, and pointed them tohis own example of diligence in temporal matterswhile laboring with untiring zeal in the cause ofChrist. He reproved those who had giventhemselves up to sloth and aimless excitement,

and directed that "with quietness they work, andeat their own bread." He also

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enjoined upon the church to separate from theirfellowship anyone who should persist indisregarding the instruction given by God'sministers. "Yet," he added, "count him not as anenemy, but admonish him as a brother."

This epistle also Paul concluded with a prayerthat amidst life's toils and trials the peace of Godand the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ might betheir consolation and support.

Chap. 26 - Apollos at Corinth

After leaving Corinth, Paul's next scene of laborwas Ephesus. He was on his way to Jerusalem toattend an approaching festival, and his stay atEphesus was necessarily brief. He reasoned with

the Jews in the synagogue, and so favorable wasthe impression made upon them that theyentreated him to continue his labors among them.His plan to visit Jerusalem prevented him fromtarrying then, but he promised to return to them, "ifGod will." Aquila and Priscilla had accompaniedhim to Ephesus, and he left them there to carry onthe work that he had begun.

It was at this time that "a certain Jew namedApollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, andmighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus." Hehad heard the preaching of John the Baptist, hadreceived the baptism of repentance, and was aliving witness that the work of the prophet had notbeen in vain. The Scripture record of Apollos isthat he

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"was instructed in the way of the Lord; and beingfervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently

the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism ofJohn."

While in Ephesus, Apollos "began to speakboldly in the synagogue." Among his hearers wereAquila and Priscilla, who, perceiving that he hadnot yet received the full light of the gospel, "tookhim unto them, and expounded unto him the wayof God more perfectly." Through their teaching heobtained a clearer understanding of the Scripturesand became one of the ablest advocates of theChristian faith.

Apollos was desirous of going on into Achaia,and the brethren at Ephesus "wrote, exhorting thedisciples to receive him" as a teacher in fullharmony with the church of Christ. He went toCorinth, where, in public labor and from house tohouse, "he mightily convinced the Jews, . . .showing by the Scriptures that Jesus was Christ."Paul had planted the seed of truth; Apollos nowwatered it. The success that attended Apollos inpreaching the gospel led some of the believers toexalt his labors above those of Paul. This

comparison of man with man brought into thechurch a party spirit that threatened to hindergreatly the progress of the gospel.

During the year and a half that Paul had spentin Corinth, he had purposely presented the gospelin its simplicity. "Not with excellency of speech orof wisdom" had he come to the Corinthians; butwith fear and trembling, and "in demonstration ofthe Spirit and of power," had he declared "thetestimony of God," that their "faith should not standin the wisdom of men, but in the power of God." 1Corinthians 2:1, 4, 5.

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Paul had necessarily adapted his manner toteaching to the condition of the church. "I, brethrencould not speak unto you as unto spiritual," heafterward explained to them, "but as unto carnal,even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you withmilk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not

able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able." 1Corinthians 3:1, 2. Many of the Corinthianbelievers had been slow to learn the lessons thathe was endeavoring to teach them. Theiradvancement in spiritual knowledge had not beenproportionate to their privileges and opportunities.When they should have been far advanced inChristian experience, and able to comprehend andto practice the deeper truths of the word, theywere standing where the disciples stood whenChrist said to them, "I have yet many things to sayunto you, but ye cannot bear them now." John16:12. Jealousy, evil surmising, and accusationhad closed the hearts of many of the Corinthianbelievers against the full working of the Holy Spirit,which "searcheth all things, yea, the deep things ofGod." 1 Corinthians 2:10. However wise theymight be in worldly knowledge, they were butbabes in the knowledge of Christ.

It had been Paul's work to instruct theCorinthian converts in the rudiments, the veryalphabet, of the Christian faith. He had been

obliged to instruct them as those who wereignorant of the operations of divine power uponthe heart. At that time they were unable tocomprehend the mysteries of salvation; for "thenatural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit ofGod: for they are foolishness unto him: neither canhe know them, because they

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are spiritually discerned." Verse 14. Paul hadendeavored to sow the seed, which others mustwater. Those who followed him must carry forwardthe work from the point where he had left it, givingspiritual light and knowledge in due season, as thechurch was able to bear it. When the apostletook up his work in Corinth, he realized that hemust introduce most carefully the great truths hewished to teach. He knew that among his hearerswould be proud believers in human theories, andexponents of false systems of worship, who weregroping with blind eyes, hoping to find in the bookof nature theories that would contradict the reality

of the spiritual and immortal life as revealed in theScriptures. He also knew that critics wouldendeavor to controvert the Christian interpretationof the revealed word, and that skeptics would treatthe gospel of Christ with scoffing and derision.As he endeavored to lead souls to the foot of thecross, Paul did not venture to rebuke, directly,those who were licentious, or to show howheinous was their sin in the sight of a holy God.Rather he set before them the true object of lifeand tried to impress upon their minds the lessonsof the divine Teacher, which, if received, would liftthem from worldliness and sin to purity andrighteousness. He dwelt especially upon practicalgodliness and the holiness to which those mustattain who shall be accounted worthy of a place inGod's kingdom. He longed to see the light of thegospel of Christ piercing the darkness of theirminds, that they might see how offensive in thesight of God were their immoral practices.Therefore the burden of his teaching among themwas Christ and Him crucified. He

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sought to show them that their most earnest studyand their greatest joy must be the wonderful truthof salvation through repentance toward God andfaith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

The philosopher turns aside from the light ofsalvation, because it puts his proud theories toshame; the worldling refuses to receive it, becauseit would separate him from his earthly idols. Paulsaw that the character of Christ must beunderstood before men could love Him or view thecross with the eye of faith. Here must begin thatstudy which shall be the science and the song ofthe redeemed through all eternity. In the light ofthe cross alone can the true value of the humansoul be estimated.

The refining influence of the grace of Godchanges the natural disposition of man. Heavenwould not be desirable to the carnal-minded; theirnatural, unsanctified hearts would feel no

attraction toward that pure and holy place, and if itwere possible for them to enter, they would findthere nothing congenial. The propensities thatcontrol the natural heart must be subdued by thegrace of Christ before fallen man is fitted to enterheaven and enjoy the society of the pure, holyangels. When man dies to sin and is quickened tonew life in Christ, divine love fills his heart; hisunderstanding is sanctified; he drinks from aninexhaustible fountain of joy and knowledge, andthe light of an eternal day shines upon his path, forwith him continually is the Light of life.

Paul had sought to impress upon the minds ofhis Corinthian brethren the fact that he and theministers associated with him were but mencommissioned by God to teach the

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truth, that they were all engaged in the same work,and that they were alike dependent upon God forsuccess in their labors. The discussion that had

arisen in the church regarding the relative meritsof different ministers was not in the order of God,but was the result of cherishing the attributes ofthe natural heart. "While one saith, I am of Paul;and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, butministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lordgave to every man? I have planted, Apolloswatered; but God gave the increase. So thenneither is he that planteth anything, neither he thatwatereth; but God that giveth the increase." 1Corinthians 3:4-7.

It was Paul who had first preached the gospelin Corinth, and who had organized the churchthere. This was the work that the Lord hadassigned him. Later, by God's direction, otherworkers were brought in, to stand in their lot andplace. The seed sown must be watered, and thisApollos was to do. He followed Paul in his work, togive further instruction, and to help the seed sownto develop. He won his way to the hearts of thepeople, but it was God who gave the increase. It is

not human, but divine power, that workstransformation of character. Those who plant andthose who water do not cause the growth of theseed; they work under God, as His appointedagencies, co-operating with Him in His work. Tothe Master Worker belongs the honor and glorythat comes with success.

God's servants do not all possess the samegifts, but they are all His workmen. Each is to learnof the Great Teacher,

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and is then to communicate what he has learned.God has given to each of His messengers anindividual work. There is a diversity of gifts, but allthe workers are to blend in harmony, controlled bythe sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit. As theymake known the gospel of salvation, many will beconvicted and converted by the power of God. Thehuman instrumentality is hid with Christ in God,

and Christ appears as the chiefest among tenthousand, the One altogether lovely.

"Now he that planteth and he that watereth areone: and every man shall receive his own rewardaccording to his own labor. For we are laborerstogether with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye areGod's building." Verses 8, 9. In this scripture theapostle compares the church to a cultivated field,in which the husbandmen labor, caring for thevines of the Lord's planting; and also to a building,which is to grow into a holy temple for the Lord.God is the Master Worker, and He has appointedto each man his work. All are to labor under Hissupervision, letting Him work for and through Hisworkmen. He gives them tact and skill, and if theyheed His instruction, crowns their efforts withsuccess. God's servants are to work together,blending in kindly, courteous order, "in honorpreferring one another." Romans 12:10. There isto be no unkind criticism, no pulling to pieces ofanother's work; and there are to be no separateparties. Every man to whom the Lord has

entrusted a message has his specific work. Eachone has an individuality of his own, which he is notto sink in that of any other man. Yet each

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is to work in harmony with his brethren. In theirservice God's workers are to be essentially one.No one is to set himself up as a criterion, speakingdisrespectfully of his fellow workers or treatingthem as inferior. Under God each is to do hisappointed work, respected, loved, and encouragedby the other laborers. Together they are to carrythe work forward to completion.

These principles are dwelt upon at length inPaul's first letter to the Corinthian church. Theapostle refers to "the ministers of Christ" as"stewards of the mysteries of God," and of theirwork he declares: "It is required in stewards, that aman be found faithful. But with me it is a verysmall thing that I should be judged of you, or ofman's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self.

For I know nothing by myself; yet I am not herebyjustified: but He that judgeth me is the Lord.Therefore judge nothing before the time, until theLord come, who both will bring to light the hiddenthings of darkness, and will make manifest thecounsels of the hearts: and then shall every manhave praise of God." 1 Corinthians 4:1-5.

It is not given to any human being to judgebetween the different servants of God. The Lordalone is the judge of man's work, and He will giveto each his just reward.

The apostle, continuing, referred directly to thecomparisons that had been made between hislabors and those of Apollos: "These things,brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myselfand to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learnin us not to think of men above that which is

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written, that no one of you be puffed up for oneagainst another. For who maketh thee to differ

from another? and what hast thou that thou didstnot receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dostthou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?"Verses 6, 7. Paul plainly set before the churchthe perils and the hardships that he and hisassociates had patiently endured in their servicefor Christ. "Even unto this present hour," hedeclared, "we both hunger, and thirst, and arenaked, and are buffeted, and have no certaindwelling place; and labor, working with our ownhands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted,we suffer it: being defamed, we entreat: we aremade as the filth of the world, and are theoffscouring of all things unto this day. I write notthese things to shame you, but as my belovedsons I warn you. For though ye have ten thousandinstructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers:for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through thegospel." Verses 11-15. He who sends forthgospel workers as His ambassadors is dishonoredwhen there is manifested among the hearers sostrong an attachment to some favorite minister

that there is an unwillingness to accept the laborsof some other teacher. The Lord sends help to Hispeople, not always as they may choose, but asthey need; for men are shortsighted and cannotdiscern what is for their highest good. It is seldomthat one minister has all the qualificationsnecessary to perfect a church in all therequirements of Christianity; therefore God oftensends to them other ministers, each possessing

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some qualifications in which the others weredeficient.

The church should gratefully accept theseservants of Christ, even as they would accept theMaster Himself. They should seek to derive all thebenefit possible from the instruction which eachminister may give them from the word of God. Thetruths that the servants of God bring are to beaccepted and appreciated in the meekness ofhumility, but no minister is to be idolized.

Through the grace of Christ, God's ministersare made messengers of light and blessing. As byearnest, persevering prayer they obtain theendowment of the Holy Spirit and go forthweighted with the burden of soulsaving, theirhearts filled with zeal to extend the triumphs of thecross, they will see fruit of their labors. Resolutelyrefusing to display human wisdom or to exalt self,they will accomplish a work that will withstand theassaults of Satan. Many souls will be turned fromdarkness to light, and many churches will beestablished. Men will be converted, not to thehuman instrumentality, but to Christ. Self will bekept in the background; Jesus only, the Man ofCalvary, will appear.

Those who are working for Christ today mayreveal the same distinguishing excellenciesrevealed by those who in the apostolic ageproclaimed the gospel. God is just as ready to givepower to His servants today as He was to givepower to Paul and Apollos, to Silas and Timothy,to Peter, James, and John.

In the apostles' day there were somemisguided souls who claimed to believe in Christ,yet refused to show respect to His ambassadors.They declared that they followed no

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human teacher, but were taught directly by Christwithout the aid of the ministers of the gospel. Theywere independent in spirit and unwilling to submitto the voice of the church. Such men were ingrave danger of being deceived.

God has placed in the church, as His appointedhelpers, men of varied talents, that through thecombined wisdom of many the mind of the Spiritmay be met. Men who move in accordance withtheir own strong traits of character, refusing toyoke up with others who have had a longexperience in the work of God, will becomeblinded by self-confidence, unable to discernbetween the false and the true. It is not safe forsuch ones to be chosen as leaders in the church;

for they would follow their own judgment andplans, regardless of the judgment of their brethren.It is easy for the enemy to work through thosewho, themselves needing counsel at every step,undertake the guardianship of souls in their ownstrength, without having learned the lowliness ofChrist.

Impressions alone are not a safe guide to duty.The enemy often persuades men to believe that itis God who is guiding them, when in reality theyare following only human impulse. But if we watchcarefully, and take counsel with our brethren, weshall be given an understanding of the Lord's will;for the promise is, "The meek will He guide injudgment: and the meek will He teach His way."Psalm 25:9. In the early Christian church therewere some who refused to recognize either Paulor Apollos, but held that Peter was their leader.They affirmed that Peter had been

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most intimate with Christ when the Master wasupon the earth, while Paul had been a persecutorof the believers. Their views and feelings werebound about by prejudice. They did not show theliberality, the generosity, the tenderness, whichreveals that Christ is abiding in the heart.

There was danger that this party spirit wouldresult in great evil to the Christian church, andPaul was instructed by the Lord to utter words ofearnest admonition and solemn protest. Of thosewho were saying, "I am of Paul; and I of Apollos;and I of Cephas; and I of Christ," the apostleinquired, "Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified foryou? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?""Let no man glory in men," he pleaded. "For allthings are yours; whether Paul, or Apollos, orCephas, or the world, or life, or death, or thingspresent, or things to come; all are yours; and yeare Christ's; and Christ is God's." 1 Corinthians1:12, 13; 3:21-23. Paul and Apollos were inperfect harmony. The latter was disappointed andgrieved because of the dissension in the church at

Corinth; he took no advantage of the preferenceshown to himself, nor did he encourage it, buthastily left the field of strife. When Paul afterwardurged him to revisit Corinth, he declined and didnot again labor there until long afterward when thechurch had reached a better spiritual state.

Chap. 27 - Ephesus

While Apollos was preaching at Corinth, Paulfulfilled his promise to return to Ephesus. He hadmade a brief visit to Jerusalem and had spentsome time at Antioch, the scene of his earlylabors. Thence he traveled through Asia Minor,"over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia" (Acts18:23), visiting the churches which he himself hadestablished, and strengthening the faith of thebelievers.

In the time of the apostles the western portionof Asia Minor was known as the Roman provinceof Asia. Ephesus, the capital, was a great

commercial center. Its harbor was crowded withshipping, and its streets were thronged withpeople from every country. Like Corinth, itpresented a promising field for missionary effort.

The Jews, now widely dispersed in all civilizedlands, were generally expecting the advent of theMessiah. When John

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the Baptist was preaching, many, in their visits toJerusalem at the annual feasts, had gone out tothe banks of the Jordan to listen to him. Therethey had heard Jesus proclaimed as the PromisedOne, and they had carried the tidings to all parts ofthe world. Thus had Providence prepared the wayfor the labors of the apostles.

On his arrival at Ephesus, Paul found twelvebrethren, who, like Apollos, had been disciples ofJohn the Baptist, and like him had gained someknowledge of the mission of Christ. They had notthe ability of Apollos, but with the same sincerity

and faith they were seeking to spread abroad theknowledge they had received.

These brethren knew nothing of the mission ofthe Holy Spirit. When asked by Paul if they hadreceived the Holy Ghost, they answered, "Wehave not so much as heard whether there be anyHoly Ghost." "Unto what then were ye baptized?"Paul inquired, and they said, "Unto John'sbaptism."

Then the apostle set before them the greattruths that are the foundation of the Christian'shope. He told them of Christ's life on this earth andof His cruel death of shame. He told them how theLord of life had broken the barriers of the tomband risen triumphant over death. He repeated theSaviour's commission to His disciples: "All poweris given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go yetherefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them inthe name of the Father, and of the Son, and of theHoly Ghost." Matthew 28:18, 19. He told them alsoof Christ's promise to send the Comforter, throughwhose power mighty signs and

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wonders would be wrought, and he described howgloriously this promise had been fulfilled on theDay of Pentecost.

With deep interest and grateful, wondering joythe brethren listened to Paul's words. By faith theygrasped the wonderful truth of Christ's atoningsacrifice and received Him as their Redeemer.They were then baptized in the name of Jesus,and as Paul "laid his hands upon them," theyreceived also the baptism of the Holy Spirit, bywhich they were enabled to speak the languagesof other nations and to prophesy. Thus they werequalified to labor as missionaries in Ephesus andits vicinity and also to go forth to proclaim thegospel in Asia Minor.

It was by cherishing a humble, teachable spiritthat these men gained the experience thatenabled them to go out as workers into the harvestfield. Their example presents to Christians a

lesson of great value. There are many who makebut little progress in the divine life because theyare too self-sufficient to occupy the position oflearners. They are content with a superficialknowledge of God's word. They do not wish tochange their faith or practice and hence make noeffort to obtain greater light.

If the followers of Christ were but earnestseekers after wisdom, they would be led into richfields of truth as yet wholly unknown to them. Hewho will give himself fully to God will be guided bythe divine hand. He may be lowly and apparentlyungifted; yet if with a loving, trusting heart heobeys every intimation of God's will, his powerswill be purified, ennobled, energized, and hiscapabilities will be increased. As he treasures thelessons of divine wisdom, a

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sacred commission will be entrusted to him; he willbe enabled to make his life an honor to God and a

blessing to the world. "The entrance of Thy wordsgiveth light; it giveth understanding unto thesimple." Psalm 119:130. There are today manyas ignorant of the Holy Spirit's work upon the heartas were those believers in Ephesus; yet no truth ismore clearly taught in the word of God. Prophetsand apostles have dwelt upon this theme. ChristHimself calls our attention to the growth of thevegetable world as an illustration of the agency ofHis Spirit in sustaining spiritual life. The sap of thevine, ascending from the root, is diffused to thebranches, sustaining growth and producingblossoms and fruit. So the life-giving power of theHoly Spirit, proceeding from the Saviour, pervadesthe soul, renews the motives and affections, andbrings even the thoughts into obedience to the willof God, enabling the receiver to bear the preciousfruit of holy deeds.

The Author of this spiritual life is unseen, andthe exact method by which that life is imparted andsustained, it is beyond the power of humanphilosophy to explain. Yet the operations of the

Spirit are always in harmony with the written word.As in the natural, so in the spiritual world. Thenatural life is preserved moment by moment bydivine power; yet it is not sustained by a directmiracle, but through the use of blessings placedwithin our reach. So the spiritual life is sustainedby the use of those means that Providence hassupplied. If the follower of Christ would grow up"unto a perfect man, unto the measure of thestature of the

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fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 4:13), he must eat ofthe bread of life and drink of the water of salvation.He must watch and pray and work, in all thingsgiving heed to the instructions of God in His word.

There is still another lesson for us in theexperience of those Jewish converts. When theyreceived baptism at the hand of John they did notfully comprehend the mission of Jesus as the SinBearer. They were holding serious errors. But with

clearer light, they gladly accepted Christ as theirRedeemer, and with this step of advance came achange in their obligations. As they received apurer faith, there was a corresponding change intheir life. In token of this change, and as anacknowledgment of their faith in Christ, they wererebaptized in the name of Jesus.

As was his custom, Paul had begun his work atEphesus by preaching in the synagogue of theJews. He continued to labor there for threemonths, "disputing and persuading the thingsconcerning the kingdom of God." At first he metwith a favorable reception; but as in other fields,he was soon violently opposed. "Divers werehardened, and believed not, but spake evil of thatway before the multitude." As they persisted intheir rejection of the gospel, the apostle ceased topreach in the synagogue.

The Spirit of God had wrought with and throughPaul in his labors for his countrymen. Sufficientevidence had been presented to convince all whohonestly desired to know the truth. But many

permitted themselves to be controlled by prejudiceand unbelief, and refused to yield

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to the most conclusive evidence. Fearing that thefaith of the believers would be endangered bycontinued association with these opposers of thetruth, Paul separated from them and gathered thedisciples into a distinct body, continuing his publicinstructions in the school of Tyrannus, a teacher ofsome note.

Paul saw that "a great door and effectual" wasopening before him, although there were "manyadversaries." 1 Corinthians 16:9. Ephesus was notonly the most magnificent, but the most corrupt, ofthe cities of Asia. Superstition and sensualpleasure held sway over her teeming population.Under the shadow of her temples, criminals ofevery grade found shelter, and the most degradingvices flourished.

Ephesus was a popular center for the worshipof Diana. The fame of the magnificent temple of"Diana of the Ephesians" extended throughout allAsia and the world. Its surpassing splendor madeit the pride, not only of the city, but of the nation.The idol within the temple was declared bytradition to have fallen from the sky. Upon it wereinscribed symbolic characters, which werebelieved to possess great power. Books had beenwritten by the Ephesians to explain the meaningand use of these symbols.

Among those who gave close study to thesecostly books were many magicians, who wielded apowerful influence over the minds of thesuperstitious worshipers of the image within thetemple.

The apostle Paul, in his labors at Ephesus, wasgiven special tokens of divine favor. The power ofGod accompanied his efforts, and many werehealed of physical

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maladies. "God wrought special miracles by thehands of Paul: so that from his body were broughtunto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and thediseases departed from them, and the evil spiritswent out of them." These manifestations ofsupernatural power were far more potent than hadever before been witnessed in Ephesus, and wereof such a character that they could not be imitatedby the skill of the juggler or the enchantments ofthe sorcerer. As these miracles were wrought inthe name of Jesus of Nazareth, the people hadopportunity to see that the God of heaven wasmore powerful than the magicians who wereworshipers of the goddess Diana. Thus the Lordexalted His servant, even before the idolatersthemselves, immeasurably above the mostpowerful and favored of the magicians.

But the One to whom all the spirits of evil aresubject and who had given His servants authorityover them, was about to bring still greater shame

and defeat upon those who despised andprofaned His holy name. Sorcery had beenprohibited by the Mosaic law, on pain of death, yetfrom time to time it had been secretly practiced byapostate Jews. At the time of Paul's visit toEphesus there were in the city "certain of thevagabond Jews, exorcists," who, seeing thewonders wrought by him, "took upon them to callover them which had evil spirits the name of theLord Jesus." An attempt was made by "seven sonsof one Sceva, a Jew, and chief of the priests."Finding a man possessed with a demon, theyaddressed him, "We adjure you by Jesus whomPaul preacheth." But "the evil spirit answered

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and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but whoare ye? And the man in whom the evil spirit wasleaped on them, and overcame them, andprevailed against them, so that they fled out of thathouse naked and wounded."

Thus unmistakable proof was given of thesacredness of the name of Christ, and the perilwhich they incurred who should invoke it withoutfaith in the divinity of the Saviour's mission. "Fearfell on them all, and the name of the Lord Jesuswas magnified."

Facts which had previously been concealedwere now brought to light. In acceptingChristianity, some of the believers had not fullyrenounced their superstitions. To some extent theystill continued the practice of magic. Now,convinced of their error, "many that believedcame, and confessed, and showed their deeds."Even to some of the sorcerers themselves thegood work extended; and "many of them alsowhich used curious arts brought their bookstogether, and burned them before all men: andthey counted the price of them, and found it fiftythousand pieces of silver. So mightily grew theword of God and prevailed."

By burning their books on magic, the Ephesianconverts showed that the things in which they had

once delighted they now abhorred. It was by andthrough magic that they had especially offendedGod and imperiled their souls; and it was againstmagic that they showed such indignation. Thusthey gave evidence of true conversion.

These treatises on divination contained rulesand forms of communication with evil spirits. Theywere the regulations of the worship of Satan--directions for soliciting his

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help and obtaining information from him. Byretaining these books the disciples would haveexposed themselves to temptation; by selling themthey would have placed temptation in the way ofothers. They had renounced the kingdom ofdarkness, and to destroy its power they did nothesitate at any sacrifice. Thus truth triumphed overmen's prejudices and their love of money.

By this manifestation of the power of Christ, amighty victory for Christianity was gained in the

very stronghold of superstition. The influence ofwhat had taken place was more widespread thaneven Paul realized. From Ephesus the news waswidely circulated, and a strong impetus was givento the cause of Christ. Long after the apostlehimself had finished his course, these scenes livedin the memory of men and were the means ofwinning converts to the gospel.

It is fondly supposed that heathen superstitionshave disappeared before the civilization of thetwentieth century. But the word of God and thestern testimony of facts declare that sorcery ispracticed in this age as verily as in the days of theold-time magicians. The ancient system of magicis, in reality, the same as what is now known asmodern spiritualism. Satan is finding access tothousands of minds by presenting himself underthe guise of departed friends. The Scripturesdeclare that "the dead know not anything."Ecclesiastes 9:5. Their thoughts, their love, theirhatred, have perished. The dead do not holdcommunion with the living. But true to his early

cunning, Satan employs this device in order togain control of minds.

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Through spiritualism many of the sick, thebereaved, the curious, are communicating with evilspirits. All who venture to do this are on dangerousground. The word of truth declares how Godregards them. In ancient times He pronounced astern judgment on a king who had sent for counselto a heathen oracle: "Is it not because there is nota God in Israel, that ye go to inquire of Baal-zebubthe god of Ekron? Now therefore thus saith theLord, Thou shalt not come down from that bed onwhich thou art gone up, but shalt surely die." 2Kings 1:3, 4.

The magicians of heathen times have theircounterpart in the spiritualistic mediums, theclairvoyants, and the fortune-tellers of today. Themystic voices that spoke at Endor and at Ephesus

are still by their lying words misleading thechildren of men. Could the veil be lifted frombefore our eyes, we should see evil angelsemploying all their arts to deceive and to destroy.Wherever an influence is exerted to cause men toforget God, there Satan is exercising hisbewitching power. When men yield to hisinfluence, ere they are aware the mind isbewildered and the soul polluted. The apostle'sadmonition to the Ephesian church should beheeded by the people of God today: "Have nofellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness,but rather reprove them." Ephesians 5:11.

Chap. 28 - Days of Toil and Trial

For over three years Ephesus was the center ofPaul's work. A flourishing church was raised uphere, and from this city the gospel spreadthroughout the province of Asia, among both Jewsand Gentiles.

The apostle had now for some time had beencontemplating another missionary journey. He"purposed in the spirit, when he had passedthrough Macedonia and Achaia, to go toJerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I mustalso see Rome." In harmony with this plan "hesent into Macedonia two of them that ministeredunto him, Timotheus and Erastus;" but feeling thatthe cause in Ephesus still demanded hispresence, he decided to remain until afterPentecost. An event soon occurred, however,which hastened his departure.

Once a year, special ceremonies were held atEphesus in honor of the goddess Diana. Theseattracted great numbers of people from all parts ofthe province. Throughout

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this period, festivities were conducted with theutmost pomp and splendor.

This gala season was a trying time for thosewho had newly come to the faith. The company ofbelievers who met in the school of Tyrannus werean inharmonious note in the festive chorus, andridicule, reproach, and insult were freely heapedupon them. Paul's labors had given the heathenworship a telling blow, in consequence of whichthere was a perceptible falling off in theattendance at the national festival and in theenthusiasm of the worshipers. The influence of histeachings extended far beyond the actual convertsto the faith. Many who had not openly acceptedthe new doctrines became so far enlightened as tolose all confidence in their heathen gods.

There existed also another cause ofdissatisfaction. An extensive and profitablebusiness had grown up at Ephesus from themanufacture and sale of small shrines andimages, modeled after the temple and the imageof Diana. Those interested in this industry foundtheir gains diminishing, and all united in attributingthe unwelcome change to Paul's labors.

Demetrius, a manufacturer of silver shrines,calling together the workmen of his craft, said:"Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have ourwealth. Moreover ye see and hear, that not aloneat Ephesus, but almost throughout all Asia, thisPaul hath persuaded and turned away muchpeople, saying that they be no gods, which aremade with hands: so that not only this our craft isin danger to be set at nought; but also that thetemple of the great goddess

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Diana should be despised, and her magnificenceshould be destroyed, whom all Asia and the worldworshipeth." These words roused the excitablepassions of the people. "They were full of wrath,and cried out, saying, Great is Diana of theEphesians."

A report of this speech was rapidly circulated."The whole city was filled with confusion." Searchwas made for Paul, but the apostle was not to be

found. His brethren, receiving an intimation of thedanger, had hurried him from the place. Angels ofGod had been sent to guard the apostle; his timeto die a martyr's death had not yet come.

Failing to find the object of their wrath, the mobseized "Gaius and Aristarchus, men of Macedonia,Paul's companions in travel," and with these "theyrushed with one accord into the theater."

Paul's place of concealment was not far distant,and he soon learned of the peril of his belovedbrethren. Forgetful of his own safety, he desired togo at once to the theater to address the rioters.But "the disciples suffered him not." Gaius andAristarchus were not the prey the people sought;no serious harm to them was apprehended. Butshould the apostle's pale, care-worn face be seen,it would arouse at once the worst passions of themob and there would not be the least humanpossibility of saving his life.

Paul was still eager to defend the truth beforethe multitude, but he was at last deterred by a

message of warning from the theater. "Certain ofthe chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent untohim, desiring him that he would not adventurehimself into the theater."

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The tumult in the theater was continuallyincreasing. "Some . . . cried one thing, and someanother: for the assembly was confused; and themore part knew not wherefore they were cometogether." The fact that Paul and some of hiscompanions were of Hebrew extraction made theJews anxious to show plainly that they were notsympathizers with him and his work. Theytherefore brought forward one of their own numberto set the matter before the people. The speakerchosen was Alexander, one of the craftsmen, acoppersmith, to whom Paul afterward referred ashaving done him much evil. 2 Timothy 4:14.Alexander was a man of considerable ability, and

he bent all his energies to direct the wrath of thepeople exclusively against Paul and hiscompanions. But the crowd, seeing that Alexanderwas a Jew, thrust him aside, and "all with onevoice about the space of two hours cried out,Great is Diana of the Ephesians."

At last, from sheer exhaustion, they ceased,and there was a momentary silence. Then therecorder of the city arrested the attention of thecrowd, and by virtue of his office obtained ahearing. He met the people on their own groundand showed that there was no cause for thepresent tumult. He appealed to their reason. "Yemen of Ephesus," he said, "what man is there thatknoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is aworshiper of the great goddess Diana, and of theimage which fell down from Jupiter? Seeing thenthat these things cannot be spoken against, yeought to be quiet, and to do nothing rashly. For yehave brought hither these men, which are

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neither robbers of churches, nor yet blasphemersof your goddess. Wherefore if Demetrius, and thecraftsmen which are with him, have a matteragainst any man, the law is open, and there aredeputies: let them implead one another. But if yeinquire anything concerning other matters, it shallbe determined in a lawful assembly. For we are indanger to be called in question for this day'suproar, there being no cause whereby we maygive an account of this concourse. And when hehad thus spoken, he dismissed the assembly."

In his speech Demetrius had said, "This ourcraft is in danger." These words reveal the realcause of the tumult at Ephesus, and also thecause of much of the persecution which followedthe apostles in their work. Demetrius and hisfellow craftsmen saw that by the teaching andspread of the gospel the business of imagemaking was endangered. The income of paganpriests and artisans was at stake, and for thisreason they aroused against Paul the most bitteropposition.

The decision of the recorder and of othersholding honorable offices in the city had set Paulbefore the people as one innocent of any unlawfulact. This was another triumph of Christianity overerror and superstition. God had raised up a greatmagistrate to vindicate His apostle and hold thetumultuous mob in check. Paul's heart was filledwith gratitude to God that his life had beenpreserved and that Christianity had not beenbrought into disrepute by the tumult at Ephesus.

"After the uproar was ceased, Paul called untohim the disciples, and embraced them, anddeparted for to go into

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Macedonia." On this journey he was accompaniedby two faithful Ephesian brethren, Tychicus andTrophimus.

Paul's labors in Ephesus were concluded. Hisministry there had been a season of incessantlabor, of many trials, and of deep anguish. He had

taught the people in public and from house tohouse, with many tears instructing and warningthem. Continually he had been opposed by theJews, who lost no opportunity to stir up thepopular feeling against him.

And while thus battling against opposition,pushing forward with untiring zeal the gospel work,and guarding the interests of a church yet young inthe faith, Paul was bearing upon his soul a heavyburden for all the churches.

News of apostasy in some of the churches ofhis planting caused him deep sorrow. He fearedthat his efforts in their behalf might prove to be invain. Many a sleepless night was spent in prayerand earnest thought as he learned of the methodsemployed to counteract his work. As he hadopportunity and as their condition demanded, hewrote to the churches, giving reproof, counsel,admonition, and encouragement. In these lettersthe apostle does not dwell on his own trials, yetthere are occasional glimpses of his labors andsufferings in the cause of Christ. Stripes and

imprisonment, cold and hunger and thirst, perils byland and by sea, in the city and in the wilderness,from his own countrymen, from the heathen, andfrom false brethren--all this he endured for thesake of the gospel. He was "defamed," "reviled,"made "the offscouring of all things,"

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"perplexed," "persecuted," "troubled on everyside," "in jeopardy every hour," "alway deliveredunto death for Jesus' sake." Amidst theconstant storm of opposition, the clamor ofenemies, and the desertion of friends the intrepidapostle almost lost heart. But he looked back toCalvary and with new ardor pressed on to spreadthe knowledge of the Crucified. He was buttreading the blood-stained path that Christ hadtrodden before him. He sought no discharge fromthe warfare till he should lay off his armor at thefeet of his Redeemer.

Chap. 29 - A Message of Warning and Entreaty

The first epistle to the Corinthian church waswritten by the apostle Paul during the latter part ofhis stay at Ephesus. For no others had he felt adeeper interest or put forth more untiring effortthan for the believers in Corinth. For a year and ahalf he had labored among them, pointing them toa crucified and risen Saviour as the only means ofsalvation, and urging them to rely implicitly on thetransforming power of His grace. Before acceptinginto church fellowship those who made aprofession of Christianity, he had been careful togive them special instruction as to the privilegesand duties of the Christian believer, and he hadearnestly endeavored to help them to be faithful totheir baptismal vows.

Paul had a keen sense of the conflict whichevery soul must wage with the agencies of evilthat are continually seeking to deceive andensnare, and he had worked untiringly

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to strengthen and confirm those who were youngin the faith. He had entreated them to make anentire surrender to God; for he knew that when thesoul fails to make this surrender, then sin is notforsaken, the appetites and passions still strive forthe mastery, and temptations confuse theconscience.

The surrender must be complete. Every weak,doubting, struggling soul who yields fully to theLord is placed in direct touch with agencies thatenable him to overcome. Heaven is near to him,and he has the support and help of angels ofmercy in every time of trial and need.

The members of the church at Corinth weresurrounded by idolatry and sensuality of the mostalluring form. While the apostle was with them,these influences had but little power over them.Paul's firm faith, his fervent prayers and earnestwords of instruction, and, above all, his godly life

had helped them to deny self for Christ's sakerather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin.

After the departure of Paul, however,unfavorable conditions arose; tares that had beensown by the enemy appeared among the wheat,and erelong these began to bring forth their evilfruit. This was a time of severe trial to theCorinthian church. The apostle was no longer withthem to quicken their zeal and aid them in theirendeavors to live in harmony with God, and littleby little many became careless and indifferent,and allowed natural tastes and inclinations tocontrol them. He who had so often urged them tohigh ideals of purity and uprightness was nolonger with them, and not a few who, at the time oftheir conversion,

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had put away their evil habits, returned to thedebasing sins of heathenism.

Paul had written briefly to the church,admonishing them "not to company" with memberswho should persist in profligacy; but many of thebelievers perverted the apostle's meaning,quibbled over his words, and excused themselvesfor disregarding his instruction.

A letter was sent to Paul by the church, askingfor counsel concerning various matters, but sayingnothing of the grievous sins existing among them.The apostle was, however, forcibly impressed bythe Holy Spirit that the true state of the church hadbeen concealed and that this letter was an attemptto draw from him statements which the writerscould construe to serve their own purposes.

About this time there came to Ephesusmembers of the household of Chloe, a Christianfamily of high repute in Corinth. Paul asked themregarding the condition of things, and they told himthat the church was rent by divisions. Thedissensions that had prevailed at the time ofApollos's visit had greatly increased. Falseteachers were leading the members to despise the

instructions of Paul. The doctrines and ordinancesof the gospel had been perverted. Pride, idolatry,and sensualism, were steadily increasing amongthose who had once been zealous in the Christianlife.

As this picture was presented before him, Paulsaw that his worst fears were more than realized.But he did not because of this give way to thethought that his work had been a failure. With"anguish of heart" and with "many

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tears" he sought counsel from God. Gladly wouldhe have visited Corinth at once, had this been thewisest course to pursue. But he knew that in theirpresent condition the believers would not profit byhis labors, and therefore he sent Titus to preparethe way for a visit from himself later on. Then,putting aside all personal feelings over the courseof those whose conduct revealed such strangeperverseness, and keeping his soul stayed upon

God, the apostle wrote to the church at Corinthone of the richest, most instructive, most powerfulof all his letters.

With remarkable clearness he proceeded toanswer the various questions brought forward bythe church, and to lay down general principles,which, if heeded, would lead them to a higherspiritual plane. They were in peril, and he couldnot bear the thought of failing at this critical time toreach their hearts. Faithfully he warned them oftheir dangers and reproved them for their sins. Hepointed them again to Christ and sought to kindleanew the fervor of their early devotion.

The apostle's great love for the Corinthianbelievers was revealed in his tender greeting tothe church. He referred to their experience inturning from idolatry to the worship and service ofthe true God. He reminded them of the gifts of theHoly Spirit which they had received, and showedthat it was their privilege to make continualadvancement in the Christian life until they shouldattain to the purity and holiness of Christ. "In

everything ye are enriched by Him," he wrote, "inall utterance, and in all knowledge; even as

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the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: sothat ye come behind in no gift; waiting for thecoming of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall alsoconfirm you unto the end, that ye may beblameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Paul spoke plainly of the dissensions that hadarisen in the Corinthian church, and exhorted themembers to cease from strife. "I beseech you,brethren," he wrote, "by the name of our LordJesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, andthat there be no divisions among you; but that yebe perfectly joined together in the same mind andin the same judgment."

The apostle felt at liberty to mention how andby whom he had been informed of the divisions inthe church. "It hath been declared unto me of you,

my brethren, by them which are of the house ofChloe, that there are contentions among you."

Paul was an inspired apostle. The truths hetaught to others he had received "by revelation;"yet the Lord did not directly reveal to him at alltimes just the condition of His people. In thisinstance those who were interested in theprosperity of the church at Corinth, and who hadseen evils creeping in, had presented the matterbefore the apostle, and from divine revelationswhich he had formerly received he was preparedto judge of the character of these developments.Notwithstanding the fact that the Lord did not givehim a new revelation for that special time, thosewho were really seeking for light accepted hismessage as

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expressing the mind of Christ. The Lord hadshown him the difficulties and dangers whichwould arise in the churches, and, as these evils

developed, the apostle recognized theirsignificance. He had been set for the defense ofthe church. He was to watch for souls as one whomust render account to God, and was it notconsistent and right for him to take notice of thereports concerning the anarchy and divisionsamong them? Most assuredly; and the reproof hesent them was as certainly written under theinspiration of the Spirit of God as were any of hisother epistles.

The apostle made no mention of the falseteachers who were seeking to destroy the fruit ofhis labor. Because of the darkness and division inthe church, he wisely forbore to irritate them bysuch references, for fear of turning some entirelyfrom the truth. He called attention to his own workamong them as that of "a wise master builder,"who had laid the foundation upon which othershad built. But he did not thereby exalt himself; forhe declared, "We are laborers together with God."He claimed no wisdom of his own, butacknowledged that divine power alone had

enabled him to present the truth in a mannerpleasing to God. United with Christ, the greatest ofall teachers, Paul had been enabled tocommunicate lessons of divine wisdom, which metthe necessities of all classes, and which were toapply at all times, in all places, and under allconditions.

Among the more serious of the evils that haddeveloped among the Corinthian believers, wasthat of a return to many of the debasing customsof heathenism. One former

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convert had so far backslidden that his licentiouscourse was a violation of even the low standard ofmorality held by the Gentile world. The apostlepleaded with the church to put away from amongthem "that wicked person." "Know ye not," headmonished them, "that a little leaven leaveneththe whole lump? Purge out therefore the old

leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye areunleavened."

Another grave evil that had arisen in the churchwas that of brethren going to law against oneanother. Abundant provision had been made forthe settlement of difficulties among believers.Christ Himself had given plain instruction as tohow such matters were to be adjusted. "If thybrother shall trespass against thee," the Saviourhad counseled, "go and tell him his fault betweenthee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hastgained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee,then take with thee one or two more, that in themouth of two or three witnesses every word maybe established. And if he shall neglect to hearthem, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect tohear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathenman and a publican. Verily I say unto you,Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be boundin heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earthshall be loosed in heaven." Matthew 18:15-18.

To the Corinthian believers who had lost sightof this plain counsel, Paul wrote in no uncertainterms of admonition and rebuke. "Dare any ofyou," he asked, "having a matter against another,go to law before the unjust, and not before thesaints? Do ye not know that the saints shall judgethe world? and if the world shall be judged by you,are

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ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Knowye not that we shall judge angels? how much morethings that pertain to this life? If then ye havejudgments of things pertaining to this life, set themto judge who are least esteemed in the church. Ispeak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not awise man among you? no, not one that shall beable to judge between his brethren? But brothergoeth to law with brother, and that before theunbelievers. Now therefore there is utterly a faultamong you, because ye go to law one withanother. Why do ye not rather take wrong? . . .

Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that yourbrethren. Know ye not that the unrighteous shallnot inherit the kingdom of God?"

Satan is constantly seeking to introducedistrust, alienation, and malice among God'speople. We shall often be tempted to feel that ourrights are invaded, even when there is no realcause for such feelings. Those whose love for selfis stronger than their love for Christ and His causewill place their own interests first and will resort toalmost any expedient to guard and maintain them.Even many who appear to be conscientiousChristians are hindered by pride and self-esteemfrom going privately to those whom they think inerror, that they may talk with them in the spirit ofChrist and pray together for one another. Whenthey think themselves injured by their brethren,some will even go to law instead of following theSaviour's rule.

Christians should not appeal to civil tribunals tosettle differences that may arise among church

members. Such differences should be settledamong themselves, or by the

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church, in harmony with Christ's instruction. Eventhough injustice may have been done, the followerof the meek and lowly Jesus will suffer himself "tobe defrauded" rather than open before the worldthe sins of his brethren in the church.

Lawsuits between brethren are a reproach tothe cause of truth. Christians who go to law withone another expose the church to the ridicule ofher enemies and cause the powers of darkness totriumph. They are wounding Christ afresh andputting Him to open shame. By ignoring theauthority of the church, they show contempt forGod, who gave to the church its authority.

In this letter to the Corinthians Paulendeavored to show them Christ's power to keepthem from evil. He knew that if they would complywith the conditions laid down, they would be

strong in the strength of the Mighty One. As ameans of helping them to break away from thethralldom of sin and to perfect holiness in the fearof the Lord, Paul urged upon them the claims ofHim to whom they had dedicated their lives at thetime of their conversion. "Ye are Christ's," hedeclared. "Ye are not your own. . . . Ye are boughtwith a price: therefore glorify God in your body,and in your spirit, which are God's."

The apostle plainly outlined the result of turningfrom a life of purity and holiness to the corruptpractices of heathenism. "Be not deceived," hewrote; "neither fornicators, nor idolaters, noradulterers, . . . nor thieves, nor covetous, nordrunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shallinherit the kingdom of God." He begged them tocontrol

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the lower passions and appetites. "Know ye not,"he asked, "that your body is the temple of the HolyGhost which is in you, which ye have of God?"

While Paul possessed high intellectualendowments, his life revealed the power of a rarerwisdom, which gave him quickness of insight andsympathy of heart, and brought him into closetouch with others, enabling him to arouse theirbetter nature and inspire them to strive for a higherlife. His heart was filled with an earnest love forthe Corinthian believers. He longed to see themrevealing an inward piety that would fortify themagainst temptation. He knew that at every step inthe Christian pathway they would be opposed bythe synagogue of Satan and that they would haveto engage in conflicts daily. They would have toguard against the stealthy approach of the enemy,forcing back old habits and natural inclinations,and ever watching unto prayer. Paul knew that thehigher Christian attainments can be reached onlythrough much prayer and constant watchfulness,and this he tried to instill into their minds. But he

knew also that in Christ crucified they were offeredpower sufficient to convert the soul and divinelyadapted to enable them to resist all temptations toevil. With faith in God as their armor, and with Hisword as their weapon of warfare, they would besupplied with an inner power that would enablethem to turn aside the attacks of the enemy.

The Corinthian believers needed a deeperexperience in the things of God. They did notknow fully what it meant to behold His glory and tobe changed from character

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to character. They had seen but the first rays ofthe early dawn of that glory. Paul's desire for themwas that they might be filled with all the fullness ofGod, following on to know Him whose going forthis prepared as the morning, and continuing tolearn of Him until they should come into the fullnoontide of a perfect gospel faith.

Chap. 30 - Called to Reach a Higher Standard

In the hope of impressing vividly upon theminds of the Corinthian believers the importanceof firm self-control, strict temperance, andunflagging zeal in the service of Christ, Paul in hisletter to them made a striking comparison betweenthe Christian warfare and the celebrated foot racesheld at stated intervals near Corinth. Of all thegames instituted among the Greeks and theRomans, the foot races were the most ancient andthe most highly esteemed. They were witnessedby kings, nobles, and statesmen. Young men ofrank and wealth took part in them and shrank fromno effort or discipline necessary to obtain theprize.

The contests were governed by strictregulations, from which there was no appeal.Those who desired their names entered ascompetitors for the prize had first to undergo asevere preparatory training. Harmful indulgence ofappetite, or any other gratification that would lower

mental or physical vigor, was strictly forbidden. Forone to have any hope

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of success in these trials of strength and speed,the muscles must be strong and supple, and thenerves well under control. Every movement mustbe certain, every step swift and unswerving; thephysical powers must reach the highest mark.

As the contestants in the race made theirappearance before the waiting multitude, theirnames were heralded, and the rules of the racewere distinctly stated. Then they all startedtogether, the fixed attention of the spectatorsinspiring them with a determination to win. Thejudges were seated near the goal, that they mightwatch the race from its beginning to its close andgive the prize to the true victor. If a man reachedthe goal first by taking an unlawful advantage, hewas not awarded the prize.

In these contests great risks were run. Somenever recovered from the terrible physical strain. Itwas not unusual for men to fall on the course,bleeding at the mouth and nose, and sometimes acontestant would drop dead when about to seizethe prize. But the possibility of lifelong injury or ofdeath was not looked upon as too great a risk torun for the sake of the honor awarded thesuccessful contestant.

As the winner reached the goal, the applauseof the vast multitude of onlookers rent the air andawoke the echoes of the surrounding hills andmountains. In full view of the spectators, the judgepresented him with the emblems of victory--alaurel crown and a palm branch to carry in his righthand. His praise was sung throughout the land; hisparents received their share of honor; and eventhe city

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in which he lived was held in high esteem forhaving produced so great an athlete.

In referring to these races as a figure of theChristian warfare, Paul emphasized thepreparation necessary to the success of thecontestants in the race--the preliminary discipline,the abstemious diet, the necessity for temperance."Every man that striveth for the mastery," hedeclared, "is temperate in all things." The runnersput aside every indulgence that would tend toweaken the physical powers, and by severe andcontinuous discipline trained their muscles tostrength and endurance, that when the day of thecontest should arrive, they might put the heaviesttax upon their powers. How much more importantthat the Christian, whose eternal interests are atstake, bring appetite and passion under subjectionto reason and the will of God! Never must he allowhis attention to be diverted by amusements,luxuries, or ease. All his habits and passions mustbe brought under the strictest discipline. Reason,

enlightened by the teachings of God's word andguided by His Spirit, must hold the reins of control.

And after this has been done, the Christianmust put forth the utmost exertion in order to gainthe victory. In the Corinthian games the last fewstrides of the contestants in the race were madewith agonizing effort to keep up undiminishedspeed. So the Christian, as he nears the goal, willpress onward with even more zeal anddetermination than at the first of his course.

Paul presents the contrast between the chapletof fading laurel received by the victor in the footraces, and the crown

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of immortal glory that will be given to him who runswith triumph the Christian race. "They do it," hedeclares, "to obtain a corruptible crown; but we anincorruptible." To win a perishable prize, theGrecian runners spared themselves no toil ordiscipline. We are striving for a prize infinitely more

valuable, even the crown of everlasting life. Howmuch more careful should be our striving, howmuch more willing our sacrifice and self-denial!

In the epistle to the Hebrews is pointed out thesingle-hearted purpose that should characterizethe Christian's race for eternal life: "Let us layaside every weight, and the sin which doth soeasily beset us, and let us run with patience therace that is set before us, looking unto Jesus theauthor and finisher of our faith." Hebrews 12:1, 2.Envy, malice, evil thinking, evilspeaking,covetousness--these are weights that the Christianmust lay aside if he would run successfully therace for immortality. Every habit or practice thatleads into sin and brings dishonor upon Christmust be put away, whatever the sacrifice. Theblessing of heaven cannot attend any man inviolating the eternal principles of right. One sincherished is sufficient to work degradation ofcharacter and to mislead others.

"If thy hand cause thee to stumble," the Savioursaid, "Cut it off: it is good for thee to enter into life

maimed, rather than having thy two hands to gointo hell, into the unquenchable fire. And if thy footcause thee to stumble, cut it off: it is good for theeto enter into life halt, rather than having thy twofeet to be cast into hell." Mark 9:43-45,

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R.V. If to save the body from death, the foot or thehand should be cut off, or even the eye pluckedout, how much more earnest should the Christianbe to put away sin, which brings death to the soul!

The competitors in the ancient games, afterthey had submitted to self-denial and rigiddiscipline, were not even then sure of the victory."Know ye not," Paul asked, "that they which run ina race run all, but one receiveth the prize?"However eagerly and earnestly the runners mightstrive, the prize could be awarded to but one. Onehand only could grasp the coveted garland. Somemight put forth the utmost effort to obtain the prize,but as they reached forth the hand to secure it,

another, an instant before them, might grasp thecoveted treasure.

Such is not the case in the Christian warfare.Not one who complies with the conditions will bedisappointed at the end of the race. Not one whois earnest and persevering will fail of success. Therace is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong.The weakest saint, as well as the strongest, maywear the crown of immortal glory. All may win who,through the power of divine grace, bring their livesinto conformity to the will of Christ. The practice, inthe details of life, of the principles laid down inGod's word, is too often looked upon asunimportant--a matter too trivial to demandattention. But in view of the issue at stake, nothingis small that will help or hinder. Every act casts itsweight into the scale that determines life's victoryor defeat. And the reward given to those who win

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will be in proportion to the energy and earnestnesswith which they have striven.

The apostle compared himself to a manrunning in a race, straining every nerve to win theprize. "I therefore so run," he says, "not asuncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth theair: but I keep under my body, and bring it intosubjection: lest that by any means, when I havepreached to others, I myself should be acastaway." That he might not run uncertainly or atrandom in the Christian race, Paul subjectedhimself to severe training. The words, "I keepunder my body," literally mean to beat back bysevere discipline the desires, impulses, andpassions.

Paul feared lest, having preached to others, hehimself should be a castaway. He realized that ifhe did not carry out in his life the principles hebelieved and preached, his labors in behalf ofothers would avail him nothing. His conversation,his influence, his refusal to yield to self-gratification, must show that his religion was not a

profession merely, but a daily, living connectionwith God. One goal he kept ever before him, andstrove earnestly to reach--"the righteousnesswhich is of God by faith." Philippians 3:9. Paulknew that his warfare against evil would not endso long as life should last. Ever he realized theneed of putting a strict guard upon himself, thatearthly desires might not overcome spiritual zeal.With all his power he continued to strive againstnatural inclinations. Ever he kept before him theideal to be attained, and this ideal he strove toreach by willing obedience to the law of God. His

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words, his practices, his passions--all werebrought under the control of the Spirit of God.

It was this singlehearted purpose to win therace for eternal life that Paul longed to seerevealed in the lives of the Corinthian believers.He knew that in order to reach Christ's ideal forthem, they had before them a life struggle from

which there would be no release. He entreatedthem to strive lawfully, day by day seeking forpiety and moral excellence. He pleaded with themto lay aside every weight and to press forward tothe goal of perfection in Christ.

Paul pointed the Corinthians to the experienceof ancient Israel, to the blessings that rewardedtheir obedience, and to the judgments thatfollowed their transgressions. He reminded themof the miraculous way in which the Hebrews wereled from Egypt under the protection of the cloud byday and the pillar of fire by night. Thus they weresafely conducted through the Red Sea, while theEgyptians, essaying to cross in like manner, wereall drowned. By these acts God had acknowledgedIsrael as His church. They "did all eat the samespiritual meat; and did all drink the same spiritualdrink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock thatfollowed them: and that Rock was Christ." TheHebrews, in all their travels, had Christ as aleader. The smitten rock typified Christ, who was

to be wounded for men's transgressions, that thestream of salvation might flow to all.

Notwithstanding the favor that God showed tothe Hebrews, yet because of their lust for theluxuries left behind in Egypt, and because of theirsin and rebellion, the

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judgments of God came upon them. The apostleenjoined the Corinthian believers to heed thelesson contained in Israel's experience. "Nowthese things were our examples," he declared, "tothe intent we should not lust after evil things, asthey also lusted." He showed how love of easeand pleasure had prepared the way for sins thatcalled forth the signal vengeance of God. It waswhen the children of Israel sat down to eat anddrink, and rose up to play, that they threw off thefear of God, which they had felt as they listened tothe giving of the law; and, making a golden calf torepresent God, they worshiped it. And it was after

enjoying a luxurious feast connected with theworship of Baalpeor, that many of the Hebrews fellthrough licentiousness. The anger of God wasaroused, and at His command "three and twentythousand" were slain by the plague in one day.

The apostle adjured the Corinthians, "Let himthat thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall."Should they become boastful and self-confident,neglecting to watch and pray, they would fall intogrievous sin, calling down upon themselves thewrath of God. Yet Paul would not have them yieldto despondency or discouragement. He gave themthe assurance: "God is faithful, who will not sufferyou to be tempted above that ye are able; but willwith the temptation also make a way of escape,that ye may be able to bear it."

Paul urged his brethren to ask themselves whatinfluence their words and deeds would have uponothers and to do nothing, however innocent initself, that would seem to

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sanction idolatry or offend the scruples of thosewho might be weak in the faith. "Whether thereforeye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to theglory of God. Give none offense, neither to theJews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church ofGod."

The apostle's words of warning to theCorinthian church are applicable to all time andare especially adapted to our day. By idolatry hemeant not only the worship of idols, but self-serving, love of ease, the gratification of appetiteand passion. A mere profession of faith in Christ, aboastful knowledge of the truth, does not make aman a Christian. A religion that seeks only togratify the eye, the ear, and the taste, or thatsanctions self-indulgence, is not the religion ofChrist.

By a comparison of the church with the humanbody, the apostle aptly illustrated the close and

harmonious relationship that should exist amongall members of the church of Christ. "By oneSpirit," he wrote, "are we all baptized into onebody, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whetherwe be bond or free; and have been all made todrink into one Spirit. For the body is not onemember, but many. If the foot shall say, Because Iam not the hand, I am not of the body; is ittherefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say,Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; isit therefore not of the body? If the whole bodywere an eye, where were the hearing? If the wholewere hearing, where were the smelling? But nowhath God set the members every one of them inthe body, as it hath pleased Him. And if they wereall one member, where were the body?

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But now are they many members, yet but onebody. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, Ihave no need of thee: nor again the head to thefeet, I have no need of you. . . . God hath

tempered the body together, having given moreabundant honor to that part which lacked: thatthere should be no schism in the body; but that themembers should have the same care one foranother. And whether one member suffer, all themembers suffer with it; or one member behonored, all the members rejoice with it. Now yeare the body of Christ, and members in particular."And then, in words which from that day to thishave been to men and women a source ofinspiration and encouragement, Paul set forth theimportance of that love which should be cherishedby the followers of Christ: "Though I speak with thetongues of men and of angels, and have notcharity, I am become as sounding brass, or atinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift ofprophecy, and understand all mysteries, and allknowledge; and though I have all faith, so that Icould remove mountains, and have not charity, Iam nothing. And though I bestow all my goods tofeed the poor, and though I give my body to be

burned, and have not charity, it profiteth menothing."

No matter how high the profession, he whoseheart is not filled with love for God and his fellowmen is not a true disciple of Christ. Though heshould possess great faith and have power evento work miracles, yet without love his faith wouldbe worthless. He might display great liberality; butshould he, from some other motive than

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genuine love, bestow all his goods to feed thepoor, the act would not commend him to the favorof God. In his zeal he might even meet a martyr'sdeath, yet if not actuated by love, he would beregarded by God as a deluded enthusiast or anambitious hypocrite.

"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charityenvieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is notpuffed up." The purest joy springs from thedeepest humiliation. The strongest and noblest

characters are built on the foundation of patience,love, and submission to God's will.

Charity "doth not behave itself unseemly,seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked,thinketh no evil." Christ-like love places the mostfavorable construction on the motives and acts ofothers. It does not needlessly expose their faults; itdoes not listen eagerly to unfavorable reports, butseeks rather to bring to mind the good qualities ofothers.

Love "rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth inthe truth; beareth all things, believeth all things,hopeth all things, endureth all things." This love"never faileth." It can never lose its value; it is aheavenly attribute. As a precious treasure, it willbe carried by its possessor through the portals ofthe city of God.

"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, thesethree; but the greatest of these is charity."

In the lowering of the moral standard amongthe Corinthian believers, there were those who

had given up some of the fundamental features oftheir faith. Some had gone so far as to deny thedoctrine of the resurrection. Paul met this heresywith a very plain testimony regarding the

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unmistakable evidence of the resurrection ofChrist. He declared that Christ, after His death,"rose again the third day according to theScriptures," after which "He was seen of Cephas,then of the Twelve: after that, He was seen ofabove five hundred brethren at once; of whom thegreater part remain unto this present, but someare fallen asleep. After that, He was seen ofJames; then of all the apostles. And last of all Hewas seen of me also."

With convincing power the apostle set forth thegreat truth of the resurrection. "If there be noresurrection of the dead," he argued, "then isChrist not risen: and if Christ be not risen, then isour preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.

Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God;because we have testified of God that He raisedup Christ: whom He raised not up, if so be that thedead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is notChrist raised: and if Christ be not raised, your faithis vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they alsowhich are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If inthis life only we have hope in Christ, we are of allmen most miserable. But now is Christ risen fromthe dead, and become the first fruits of them thatslept."

The apostle carried the minds of the Corinthianbrethren forward to the triumphs of theresurrection morn, when all the sleeping saints areto be raised, henceforth to live forever with theirLord. "Behold," the apostle declared, "I show you amystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all bechanged, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye,at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, andthe dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shallbe changed. For this

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corruptible must put on incorruption, and thismortal must put on immortality. So when thiscorruptible shall have put on incorruption, and thismortal shall have put on immortality, then shall bebrought to pass the saying that is written, Death isswallowed up in victory. O death, where is thysting? O grave, where is thy victory? . . . Thanksbe to God, which giveth us the victory through ourLord Jesus Christ."

Glorious is the triumph awaiting the faithful.The apostle, realizing the possibilities before theCorinthian believers, sought to set before themthat which uplifts from the selfish and the sensual,and glorifies life with the hope of immortality.Earnestly he exhorted them to be true to their highcalling in Christ. "My beloved brethren," hepleaded, "be ye steadfast, unmovable, alwaysabounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch asye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."

Thus the apostle, in the most decided andimpressive manner, endeavored to correct thefalse and dangerous ideas and practices that wereprevailing in the Corinthian church. He spokeplainly, yet in love for their souls. In his warningsand reproofs, light from the throne of God wasshining upon them, to reveal the hidden sins thatwere defiling their lives. How would it be received?

After the letter had been dispatched, Paulfeared lest that which he had written might woundtoo deeply those whom he desired to benefit. Hekeenly dreaded a further alienation and sometimeslonged to recall his words. Those who, like theapostle, have felt a responsibility for beloved

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churches or institutions, can best appreciate hisdepression of spirit and self-accusing. Theservants of God who bear the burden of His workfor this time know something of the sameexperience of labor, conflict, and anxious care that

fell to the lot of the great apostle. Burdened bydivisions in the church, meeting with ingratitudeand betrayal from some to whom he looked forsympathy and support, realizing the peril of thechurches that harbored iniquity, compelled to beara close, searching testimony in reproof of sin, hewas at the same time weighed down with fear thathe might have dealt with too great severity. Withtrembling anxiety he waited to receive sometidings as to the reception of his message.

Chap. 31 - The Message Heeded

From Ephesus Paul set forth on anothermissionary tour, during which he hoped to visitonce more the scenes of his former labors inEurope. Tarrying for a time at Troas, "to preachChrist's gospel," he found some who were ready tolisten to his message. "A door was opened untome of the Lord," he afterward declared of hislabors in this place. But successful as were hisefforts at Troas, he could not remain there long.

"The care of all the churches," and particularly ofthe church at Corinth, rested heavily on his heart.He had hoped to meet Titus at Troas and to learnfrom him how the words of counsel and reproofsent to the Corinthian brethren had been received,but in this he was disappointed. "I had no rest inmy spirit," he wrote concerning this experience,"because I found not Titus my brother." Hetherefore left Troas and crossed over toMacedonia, where, at Philippi he met Timothy.

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During this time of anxiety concerning thechurch at Corinth, Paul hoped for the best; yet attimes feelings of deep sadness would sweep overhis soul, lest his counsels and admonitions mightbe misunderstood. "Our flesh had no rest," heafterward wrote, "but we were troubled on everyside; without were fightings, within were fears.

Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that arecast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus."

This faithful messenger brought the cheeringnews that a wonderful change had taken placeamong the Corinthian believers. Many hadaccepted the instruction contained in Paul's letterand had repented of their sins. Their lives were nolonger a reproach to Christianity, but exerted apowerful influence in favor of practical godliness.

Filled with joy, the apostle sent another letter tothe Corinthian believers, expressing his gladnessof heart because of the good work wrought inthem: "Though I made you sorry with a letter, I donot repent, though I did repent." When tortured bythe fear that his words would be despised, he hadsometimes regretted that he had written sodecidedly and severely. "Now I rejoice," hecontinued, "not that ye were made sorry, but thatye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were madesorry after a godly manner, that ye might receivedamage by us in nothing. For godly sorrowworketh repentance to salvation not to be

repented of." That repentance which is producedby the influence of divine grace upon the heart willlead to confession and forsaking of sin. Such werethe fruits which the apostle declared had beenseen in the lives of the Corinthian believers. "What

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carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing ofyourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear,yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal."

For some time Paul had been carrying aburden of soul for the churches--a burden soheavy that he could scarcely endure it. Falseteachers had sought to destroy his influenceamong the believers and to urge their owndoctrines in the place of gospel truth. Theperplexities and discouragements with which Paulwas surrounded are revealed in the words, "Wewere pressed out of measure, above strength,insomuch that we despaired even of life."

But now one cause of anxiety was removed. Atthe tidings of the acceptance of his letter to theCorinthians, Paul broke forth into words ofrejoicing: "Blessed be God, even the Father of ourLord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and theGod of all comfort; who comforteth us in all ourtribulation, that we may be able to comfort themwhich are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewithwe ourselves are comforted of God. For as thesufferings of Christ abound in us, so ourconsolation also aboundeth by Christ. Andwhether we be afflicted, it is for your consolationand salvation, which is effectual in the enduring ofthe same sufferings which we also suffer: orwhether we be comforted, it is for your consolationand salvation. And our hope of you is steadfast,knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings,so shall ye be also of the consolation."

In expressing his joy over their reconversionand their growth in grace, Paul ascribed to God allthe praise for this transformation of heart and life."Thanks be unto God,"

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he exclaimed, "which always causeth us totriumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savorof His knowledge by us in every place. For we areunto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that aresaved, and in them that perish." It was the customof the day for a general victorious in warfare tobring with him on his return a train of captives. Onsuch occasions incense bearers were appointed,and as the army marched triumphantly home, thefragrant odor was to the captives appointed to die,a savor of death, showing that they were nearingthe time of their execution; but to those of theprisoners who had found favor with their captors,and whose lives were to be spared, it was a savorof life, in that it showed them that their freedomwas near.

Paul was now full of faith and hope. He felt thatSatan was not to triumph over the work of God inCorinth, and in words of praise he poured forth thegratitude of his heart. He and his fellow laborers

would celebrate their victory over the enemies ofChrist and the truth, by going forth with new zealto extend the knowledge of the Saviour. Likeincense the fragrance of the gospel was to bediffused throughout the world. To those whoshould accept Christ, the message would be asavor of life unto life; but to those who shouldpersist in unbelief, a savor of death unto death.

Realizing the overwhelming magnitude of thework, Paul exclaimed, "Who is sufficient for thesethings?" Who is able to preach Christ in such away that His enemies shall have no just cause todespise the messenger or the message

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that he bears? Paul desired to impress uponbelievers the solemn responsibility of the gospelministry. Faithfulness in preaching the word,united with a pure, consistent life, can alone makethe efforts of ministers acceptable to God andprofitable to souls. Ministers of our day, burdened

with a sense of the greatness of the work, maywell exclaim with the apostle, "Who is sufficient forthese things?"

There were those who had charged Paul withself-commendation in writing his former letter. Theapostle now referred to this by asking themembers of the church if they thus judged hismotives. "Do we begin again to commendourselves?" he inquired; "or need we, as someothers, epistles of commendation to you, or lettersof commendation from you?" Believers moving toa new place often carried with them letters ofcommendation from the church with which theyhad formerly been united; but the leading workers,the founders of these churches, had no need ofsuch commendation. The Corinthian believers,who had been led from the worship of idols to thefaith of the gospel, were themselves all therecommendation that Paul needed. Theirreception of the truth, and the reformation wroughtin their lives, bore eloquent testimony to thefaithfulness of his labors and to his authority to

counsel, reprove, and exhort as a minister ofChrist.

Paul regarded the Corinthian brethren as histestimonial. "Ye are our epistle," he said, "writtenin our hearts, known and read of all men:forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be theepistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with

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ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not intables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart."

The conversion of sinners and theirsanctification through the truth is the strongestproof a minister can have that God has called himto the ministry. The evidence of his apostleship iswritten upon the hearts of those converted, and iswitnessed to by their renewed lives. Christ isformed within, the hope of glory. A minister isgreatly strengthened by these seals of his ministry.

Today the ministers of Christ should have thesame witness as that which the Corinthian church

bore to Paul's labors. But though in this age thereare many preachers, there is a great scarcity ofable, holy ministers--men filled with the love thatdwelt in the heart of Christ. Pride, self-confidence,love of the world, faultfinding, bitterness, envy, arethe fruit borne by many who profess the religion ofChrist. Their lives, in sharp contrast to the life ofthe Saviour, often bear sad testimony to thecharacter of the ministerial labor under which theywere converted.

A man can have no greater honor than to beaccepted by God as an able minister of thegospel. But those whom the Lord blesses withpower and success in His work do not boast. Theyacknowledge their entire dependence on Him,realizing that of themselves they have no power.With Paul they say, "Not that we are sufficient ofourselves to think anything as of ourselves; butour sufficiency is of God; who also hath made usable ministers of the new testament."

A true minister does the work of the Master. Hefeels

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the importance of his work, realizing that hesustains to the church and to the world a relationsimilar to that which Christ sustained. He worksuntiringly to lead sinners to a nobler, higher life,that they may obtain the reward of the overcomer.His lips are touched with a live coal from the altar,and he uplifts Jesus as the sinner's only hope.Those who hear him know that he has drawn nearto God in fervent, effectual prayer. The Holy Spirithas rested upon him, his soul has felt the vital,heavenly fire, and he is able to compare spiritualthings with spiritual. Power is given him to teardown the strongholds of Satan. Hearts are brokenby his presentation of the love of God, and manyare led to inquire, "What must I do to be saved?"

"Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as wehave received mercy, we faint not; but haverenounced the hidden things of dishonesty, notwalking in craftiness, nor handling the word of Goddeceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth

commending ourselves to every man's consciencein the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it ishid to them that are lost: in whom the god of thisworld hath blinded the minds of them whichbelieve not, lest the light of the glorious gospel ofChrist, who is the image of God, should shine untothem. For we preach not ourselves, but ChristJesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants forJesus' sake. For God, who commanded the light toshine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, togive the light of the knowledge of the glory of Godin the face of Jesus Christ."

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Thus the apostle magnified the grace andmercy of God, shown in the sacred trustcommitted to him as a minister of Christ. By God'sabundant mercy he and his brethren had beensustained in difficulty, affliction, and danger. Theyhad not modeled their faith and teaching to suit the

desires of their hearers, nor kept back truthsessential to salvation in order to make theirteaching more attractive. They had presented thetruth with simplicity and clearness, praying for theconviction and conversion of souls. And they hadendeavored to bring their conduct into harmonywith their teaching, that the truth presented mightcommend itself to every man's conscience.

"We have this treasure," the apostle continued,"in earthen vessels, that the excellency of thepower may be of God, and not of us." God couldhave proclaimed His truth through sinless angels,but this is not His plan. He chooses human beings,men compassed with infirmity, as instruments inthe working out of His designs. The pricelesstreasure is placed in earthen vessels. Throughmen His blessings are to be conveyed to theworld. Through them His glory is to shine forth intothe darkness of sin. In loving ministry they are tomeet the sinful and the needy, and lead them tothe cross. And in all their work they are to ascribe

glory, honor, and praise to Him who is above alland over all.

Referring to his own experience, Paul showedthat in choosing the service of Christ he had notbeen prompted by selfish motives, for his pathwayhad been beset by trial and temptation. "We aretroubled on every side," he wrote, "yet notdistressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

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persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but notdestroyed; always bearing about in the body thedying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesusmight be made manifest in our body."

Paul reminded his brethren that as Christ'smessengers he and his fellow laborers werecontinually in peril. The hardships they enduredwere wearing away their strength. "We which live,"he wrote, "are alway delivered unto death forJesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might bemade manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death

worketh in us, but life in you." Suffering physicallythrough privation and toil, these ministers of Christwere conforming to His death. But that which wasworking death in them was bringing spiritual lifeand health to the Corinthians, who by a belief inthe truth were being made partakers of life eternal.In view of this, the followers of Jesus were to becareful not to increase, by neglect anddisaffection, the burdens and trials of the laborers.

"We having the same spirit of faith," Paulcontinued, "according as it is written, I believed,and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, andtherefore speak." Fully convinced of the reality ofthe truth entrusted to him, nothing could inducePaul to handle the word of God deceitfully or toconceal the convictions of his soul. He would notpurchase wealth, honor, or pleasure by conformityto the opinions of the world. Though in constantdanger of martyrdom for the faith that he hadpreached to the Corinthians, he was notintimidated, for he knew that He who had died and

risen again would raise him from the grave andpresent him to the Father.

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"All things are for your sakes," he said, "that theabundant grace might through the thanksgiving ofmany redound to the glory of God." Not for self-aggrandizement did the apostles preach thegospel. It was the hope of saving souls that ledthem to devote their lives to this work. And it wasthis hope that kept them from ceasing their effortsbecause of threatened danger or actual suffering.

"For which cause," Paul declared, "we faint not;but though our outward man perish, yet the inwardman is renewed day by day." Paul felt the power ofthe enemy; but though his physical strength wasdeclining, yet faithfully and unflinchingly hedeclared the gospel of Christ. Clad in the wholearmor of God, this hero of the cross pressedforward in the conflict. His voice of cheer

proclaimed him triumphant in the combat. Fixinghis gaze on the reward of the faithful, heexclaimed in tones of victory, "Our light affliction,which is but for a moment, worketh for us a farmore exceeding and eternal weight of glory; whilewe look not at the things which are seen, but atthe things which are not seen: for the things whichare seen are temporal; but the things which arenot seen are eternal."

Very earnest and touching is the apostle'sappeal that his Corinthian brethren consider anewthe matchless love of their Redeemer. "Ye knowthe grace of our Lord Jesus Christ," he wrote,"that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes Hebecame poor, that ye through His poverty might berich." You know the height from which He stooped,the depth of humiliation to which He descended.Having once entered upon the path of self-denialand sacrifice, he turned

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not aside until He had given His life. There was norest for Him between the throne and the cross.

Point after point Paul lingered over, in orderthat those who should read his epistle might fullycomprehend the wonderful condescension of theSaviour in their behalf. Presenting Christ as Hewas when equal with God and with Him receivingthe homage of the angels, the apostle traced Hiscourse until He had reached the lowest depths ofhumiliation. Paul was convinced that if they couldbe brought to comprehend the amazing sacrificemade by the Majesty of heaven, all selfishnesswould be banished from their lives. He showedhow the Son of God had laid aside His glory,voluntarily subjecting Himself to the conditions ofhuman nature, and then had humbled Himself as aservant, becoming obedient unto death, "even thedeath of the cross" (Philippians 2:8), that He mightlift fallen man from degradation to hope and joyand heaven.

When we study the divine character in the lightof the cross we see mercy, tenderness, and

forgiveness blended with equity and justice. Wesee in the midst of the throne One bearing inhands and feet and side the marks of the sufferingendured to reconcile man to God. We see aFather, infinite, dwelling in light unapproachable,yet receiving us to Himself through the merits ofHis Son. The cloud of vengeance that threatenedonly misery and despair, in the light reflected fromthe cross reveals the writing of God: Live, sinner,live! ye penitent, believing souls, live! I have paid aransom.

In the contemplation of Christ we linger on theshore of

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a love that is measureless. We endeavor to tell ofthis love, and language fails us. We consider Hislife on earth, His sacrifice for us, His work inheaven as our advocate, and the mansions He ispreparing for those who love Him, and we can onlyexclaim, O the height and depth of the love of

Christ! "Herein is love, not that we loved God, butthat He loved us, and sent His Son to be thepropitiation for our sins." "Behold, what manner oflove the Father hath bestowed upon us, that weshould be called the sons of God." 1 John 4:10;3:1. In every true disciple this love, like sacredfire, burns on the altar of the heart. It was on theearth that the love of God was revealed throughChrist. It is on the earth that His children are toreflect this love through blameless lives. Thussinners will be led to the cross to behold the Lambof God.

Chap. 32 - A Liberal Church

In his first letter to the church at Corinth, Paulgave the believers instruction regarding thegeneral principles underlying the support of God'swork in the earth. Writing of his apostolic labors intheir behalf, he inquired:

"Who goeth a warfare any time at his owncharges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth notof the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, andeateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I thesethings as a man? or saith not the law the samealso? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thoushalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadethout the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? orsaith He it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes,no doubt, this is written: that he that plowethshould plow in hope; and that he that thresheth inhope should be partaker of his hope.

"If we have sown unto you spiritual things," theapostle further inquired, "is it a great thing if weshall reap your

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carnal things? If others be partakers of this powerover you, are not we rather? Nevertheless wehave not used this power; but suffer all things, lestwe should hinder the gospel of Christ. Do ye not

know that they which minister about holy thingslive of the things of the temple? and they whichwait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Evenso hath the Lord ordained that they which preachthe gospel should live of the gospel." 1 Corinthians9:7-14.

The apostle here referred to the Lord's plan forthe maintenance of the priests who ministered inthe temple. Those who were set apart to this holyoffice were supported by their brethren, to whomthey ministered spiritual blessings. "Verily they thatare of the sons of Levi, who receive the office ofthe priesthood, have a commandment to taketithes of the people according to the law." Hebrews7:5. The tribe of Levi was chosen by the Lord forthe sacred offices pertaining to the temple and thepriesthood. Of the priest it was said, "The Lord thyGod hath chosen him . . . to stand to minister inthe name of the Lord." (Deuteronomy 18:5.) Onetenth of all the increase was claimed by the Lordas His own, and to withhold the tithe was regardedby Him as robbery.

It was to this plan for the support of the ministrythat Paul referred when he said, "Even so hath theLord ordained that they which preach the gospelshould live of the gospel." And later, in writing toTimothy, the apostle said, "The laborer is worthy ofhis reward." 1 Timothy 5:18.

The payment of the tithe was but a part ofGod's plan for

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the support of His service. Numerous gifts andofferings were divinely specified. Under the Jewishsystem the people were taught to cherish a spiritof liberality both in sustaining the cause of Godand in supplying the wants of the needy. Forspecial occasions there were freewill offerings. Atthe harvest and the vintage, the first fruits of thefield--corn, wine, and oil--were consecrated as anoffering to the Lord. The gleanings and the cornersof the field were reserved for the poor. The firstfruits of the wool when the sheep were shorn, of

the grain when the wheat was threshed, were setapart for God. So also were the first-born of allanimals, and a redemption price was paid for thefirst-born son. The first fruits were to be presentedbefore the Lord at the sanctuary and were thendevoted to the use of the priests.

By this system of benevolence the Lord soughtto teach Israel that in everything He must be first.Thus they were reminded that God was theproprietor of their fields, their flocks, and theirherds; that it was He who sent them the sunshineand the rain that developed and ripened theharvest. Everything that they possessed was His;they were but the stewards of His goods.

It is not God's purpose that Christians, whoseprivileges far exceed those of the Jewish nation,shall give less freely than they gave. "Untowhomsoever much is given," the Saviour declared,"of him shall be much required." Luke 12:48. Theliberality required of the Hebrews was largely tobenefit their own nation; today the work of Godextends

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over all the earth. In the hands of His followers,Christ has placed the treasures of the gospel, andupon them He has laid the responsibility of givingthe glad tidings of salvation to the world. Surelyour obligations are much greater than were thoseof ancient Israel.

As God's work extends, calls for help will comemore and more frequently. That these calls maybe answered, Christians should heed thecommand, "Bring ye all the tithes into thestorehouse, that there may be meat in Minehouse." Malachi 3:10. If professing Christianswould faithfully bring to God their tithes andofferings, His treasury would be full. There wouldthen be no occasion to resort to fairs, lotteries, orparties of pleasure to secure funds for the supportof the gospel.

Men are tempted to use their means in self-indulgence, in the gratification of appetite, in

personal adornment, or in the embellishment oftheir homes. For these objects many churchmembers do not hesitate to spend freely and evenextravagantly. But when asked to give to theLord's treasury, to carry forward His work in theearth, they demur. Perhaps, feeling that theycannot well do otherwise, they dole out a sum farsmaller than they often spend for needlessindulgence. They manifest no real love for Christ'sservice, no earnest interest in the salvation ofsouls. What marvel that the Christian life of suchones is but a dwarfed, sickly existence!

He whose heart is aglow with the love of Christwill regard it as not only a duty, but a pleasure, toaid in the

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advancement of the highest, holiest workcommitted to man--the work of presenting to theworld the riches of goodness, mercy, and truth.It is the spirit of covetousness which leads men to

keep for gratification of self means that rightfullybelong to God, and this spirit is as abhorrent toHim now as when through His prophet He sternlyrebuked His people, saying, "Will a man rob God?Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, Wherein havewe robbed Thee? In tithes and offerings. Ye arecursed with a curse: for ye have robbed Me, eventhis whole nation." Malachi 3:8, 9.

The spirit of liberality is the spirit of heaven.This spirit finds its highest manifestation in Christ'ssacrifice on the cross. In our behalf the Fathergave His only-begotten Son; and Christ, havinggiven up all that He had, then gave Himself, thatman might be saved. The cross of Calvary shouldappeal to the benevolence of every follower of theSaviour. The principle there illustrated is to give,give. "He that saith he abideth in Him oughthimself also so to walk, even as He walked." 1John 2:6.

On the other hand, the spirit of selfishness isthe spirit of Satan. The principle illustrated in thelives of worldlings is to get, get. Thus they hope to

secure happiness and ease, but the fruit of theirsowing is misery and death.

Not until God ceases to bless His children willthey cease to be under bonds to return to Him theportion that He claims. Not only should they renderthe Lord the portion that belongs to Him, but theyshould bring also to His

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treasury, as a gratitude offering, a liberal tribute.With joyful hearts they should dedicate to theCreator the first fruits of their bounties--theirchoicest possessions, their best and holiestservice. Thus they will gain rich blessings. GodHimself will make their souls like a watered gardenwhose waters fail not. And when the last greatharvest is gathered in, the sheaves that they areenabled to bring to the Master will be therecompense of their unselfish use of the talentslent them.

God's chosen messengers, who are engagedin aggressive labor, should never be compelled togo a warfare at their own charges, unaided by thesympathetic and hearty support of their brethren. Itis the part of church members to deal liberally withthose who lay aside their secular employment thatthey may give themselves to the ministry. WhenGod's ministers are encouraged, His cause isgreatly advanced. But when, through theselfishness of men, their rightful support iswithheld, their hands are weakened, and oftentheir usefulness is seriously crippled.

The displeasure of God is kindled against thosewho claim to be His followers, yet allowconsecrated workers to suffer for the necessitiesof life while engaged in active ministry. Theseselfish ones will be called to render an account,not only for the misuse of their Lord's money, butfor the depression and heartache which theircourse has brought upon His faithful servants.Those who are called to the work of the ministry,and at the call of duty give up all to engage in

God's service, should receive for their self-sacrificing

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efforts wages sufficient to support themselves andtheir families.

In the various departments of secular labor,mental and physical, faithful workmen can earngood wages. Is not the work of disseminatingtruth, and leading souls to Christ, of moreimportance than any ordinary business? And arenot those who faithfully engage in this work justlyentitled to ample remuneration? By our estimate ofthe relative value of labor for moral and forphysical good, we show our appreciation of theheavenly in contrast with the earthly.

That there may be funds in the treasury for thesupport of the ministry, and to meet the calls forassistance in missionary enterprises, it isnecessary that the people of God give cheerfullyand liberally. A solemn responsibility rests upon

ministers to keep before the churches the needs ofthe cause of God and to educate them to beliberal. When this is neglected, and the churchesfail to give for the necessities of others, not onlydoes the work of the Lord suffer, but the blessingthat should come to believers is withheld.

Even the very poor should bring their offeringsto God. They are to be sharers of the grace ofChrist by denying self to help those whose need ismore pressing than their own. The poor man's gift,the fruit of self-denial, comes up before God asfragrant incense. And every act of self-sacrificestrengthens the spirit of beneficence in the giver'sheart, allying him more closely to the One whowas rich, yet for our sakes became poor, that wethrough His poverty might be rich.

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The act of the widow who cast two mites--allthat she had--into the treasury, is placed on record

for the encouragement of those who, strugglingwith poverty, still desire by their gifts to aid thecause of God. Christ called the attention of thedisciples to this woman, who had given "all herliving." Mark 12:44. He esteemed her gift of morevalue than the large offerings of those whose almsdid not call for self-denial. From their abundancethey had given a small portion. To make heroffering, the widow had deprived herself of eventhe necessities of life, trusting God to supply herneeds for the morrow. Of her the Saviourdeclared, "Verily I say unto you, That this poorwidow hath cast more in, than all they which havecast into the treasury." Verse 43. Thus He taughtthat the value of the gift is estimated not by theamount, but by the proportion that is given and themotive that actuates the giver. The apostlePaul in his ministry among the churches wasuntiring in his efforts to inspire in the hearts of thenew converts a desire to do large things for thecause of God. Often he exhorted them to theexercise of liberality. In speaking to the elders of

Ephesus of his former labors among them, hesaid, "I have showed you all things, how that solaboring ye ought to support the weak, and toremember the words of the Lord Jesus, how Hesaid, It is more blessed to give than to receive.""He which soweth sparingly," he wrote to theCorinthians, "shall reap also sparingly; and hewhich soweth bountifully shall reap alsobountifully. Every man according as he purposethin his heart, so let him give;

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not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth acheerful giver." Acts 20:35; 2 Corinthians 9:6, 7.

Nearly all the Macedonian believers were poorin this world's goods, but their hearts wereoverflowing with love for God and His truth, andthey gladly gave for the support of the gospel.When general collections were taken up in theGentile churches for the relief of the Jewishbelievers, the liberality of the converts in

Macedonia was held up as an example to otherchurches. Writing to the Corinthian believers, theapostle called their attention to "the grace of Godbestowed on the churches of Macedonia; how thatin a great trial of affliction the abundance of theirjoy and their deep poverty abounded unto theriches of their liberality. For to their power, . . . yea,and beyond their power they were willing ofthemselves; praying us with much entreaty that wewould receive the gift, and take upon us thefellowship of the ministering to the saints." 2Corinthians 8:1-4.

The willingness to sacrifice on the part of theMacedonian believers came as a result ofwholehearted consecration. Moved by the Spirit ofGod, they "first gave their own selves to the Lord"(2 Corinthians 8:5), then they were willing to givefreely of their means for the support of the gospel.It was not necessary to urge them to give; rather,they rejoiced in the privilege of denyingthemselves even of necessary things in order tosupply the needs of others. When the apostle

would have restrained them, they importuned himto accept their offering. In their simplicity andintegrity,

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and in their love for the brethren, they gladlydenied self, and thus abounded in the fruit ofbenevolence.

When Paul sent Titus to Corinth to strengthenthe believers there, he instructed him to build upthat church in the grace of giving, and in apersonal letter to the believers he also added hisown appeal. "As ye abound in everything," hepleaded, "in faith, and utterance, and knowledge,and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see thatye abound in this grace also," "Now thereforeperform the doing of it; that as there was areadiness to will, so there may be a performancealso out of that which ye have. For if there be firsta willing mind, it is accepted according to that aman hath, and not according to that he hath not."

"And God is able to make all grace abound towardyou; that ye, always having all sufficiency in allthings, may abound to every good work: . . . beingenriched in everything to all bountifulness, whichcauseth through us thanksgiving to God." 2Corinthians 8:7, 11, 12; 9:8-11. Unselfishliberality threw the early church into a transport ofjoy; for the believers knew that their efforts werehelping to send the gospel message to those indarkness. Their benevolence testified that theyhad not received the grace of God in vain. Whatcould produce such liberality but the sanctificationof the Spirit? In the eyes of believers andunbelievers it was a miracle of grace.

Spiritual prosperity is closely bound up withChristian liberality. The followers of Christ shouldrejoice in the privilege of revealing in their lives thebeneficence of their

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Redeemer. As they give to the Lord they have theassurance that their treasure is going before themto the heavenly courts. Would men make theirproperty secure? Let them place it in the handsthat bear the marks of the crucifixion. Would theyenjoy their substance? Let them use it to bless theneedy and suffering. Would they increase theirpossessions? Let them heed the divine injunction,"Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with thefirst fruits of all thine increase: so shall thy barnsbe filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burstout with new wine." Proverbs 3:9, 10. Let themseek to retain their possessions for selfishpurposes, and it will be to their eternal loss. But lettheir treasure be given to God, and from thatmoment it bears His inscription. It is sealed withHis immutability.

God declares, "Blessed are ye that sow besideall waters." Isaiah 32:20. A continual imparting ofGod's gifts wherever the cause of God or theneeds of humanity demand our aid, does not tendto poverty. "There is that scattereth, and yet

increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more thanis meet, but it tendeth to poverty." Proverbs 11:24.The sower multiplies his seed by casting it away.So it is with those who are faithful in distributingGod's gifts. By imparting they increase theirblessings. "Give, and it shall be given unto you,"God has promised; "good measure, presseddown, and shaken together, and running over,shall men give into your bosom." Luke 6:38.

Chap. 33 - Laboring Under Difficulties

While Paul was careful to set before hisconverts the plain teaching of Scripture regardingthe proper support of the work of God, and whilehe claimed for himself as a minister of the gospelthe "power to forbear working" (1 Corinthians 9:6)at secular employment as a means of self-support,yet at various times during his ministry in the greatcenters of civilization he wrought at a handicraftfor his own maintenance.

Among the Jews physical toil was not thoughtstrange or degrading. Through Moses theHebrews had been instructed to train their childrento industrious habits, and it was regarded as a sinto allow the youth to grow up in ignorance ofphysical labor. Even though a child was to beeducated for holy office, a knowledge of practicallife was thought essential. Every youth, whetherhis parents were rich or poor, was taught sometrade. Those parents who neglected to providesuch a training for their children were looked uponas departing from the instruction of the

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Lord. In accordance with this custom, Paul hadearly learned the trade of tentmaking.

Before he became a disciple of Christ, Paulhad occupied a high position and was notdependent upon manual labor for support. Butafterward, when he had used all his means infurthering the cause of Christ, he resorted at times

to his trade to gain a livelihood. Especially was thisthe case when he labored in places where hismotives might have been misunderstood.

It is at Thessalonica that we first read of Paul'sworking with his hands in self-supporting laborwhile preaching the word. Writing to the church ofbelievers there, he reminded them that he "mighthave been burdensome" to them, and added: "Yeremember, brethren, our labor and travail: forlaboring night and day, because we would not bechargeable unto any of you, we preached unto youthe gospel of God." 1 Thessalonians 2:6, 9. Andagain, in his second epistle to them, he declaredthat he and his fellow laborer while with them hadnot eaten "any man's bread for nought." Night andday we worked, he wrote, "that we might not bechargeable to any of you: not because we havenot power, but to make ourselves an ensampleunto you to follow us." 2 Thessalonians 3:8, 9.

At Thessalonica Paul had met those whorefused to work with their hands. It was of thisclass that he afterward wrote: "There are some

which walk among you disorderly, working not atall, but are busybodies. Now them that are suchwe command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ,that

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with quietness they work, and eat their ownbread." While laboring in Thessalonica, Paul hadbeen careful to set before such ones a rightexample. "Even when we were with you," hewrote, "this we commanded you, that if any wouldnot work, neither should he eat." Verses 11, 12,10. In every age Satan has sought to impairthe efforts of God's servants by introducing intothe church a spirit of fanaticism. Thus it was inPaul's day, and thus it was in later centuries duringthe time of the Reformation. Wycliffe, Luther, andmany others who blessed the world by theirinfluence and their faith, encountered the wiles bywhich the enemy seeks to lead into fanaticismoverzealous, unbalanced, and unsanctified minds.Misguided souls have taught that the attainment of

true holiness carries the mind above all earthlythoughts and leads men to refrain wholly fromlabor. Others, taking extreme views of certain textsof Scripture, have taught that it is a sin to work--that Christians should take no thought concerningthe temporal welfare of themselves or theirfamilies, but should devote their lives wholly tospiritual things. The teaching and example of theapostle Paul are a rebuke to such extreme views.

Paul was not wholly dependent upon the laborof his hands for support while at Thessalonica.Referring later to his experiences in that city, hewrote to the Philippian believers inacknowledgment of the gifts he had received fromthem while there, saying, "Even in Thessalonicaye sent once and again unto my necessity."Philippians 4:16. Notwithstanding the fact that hereceived this help he was

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careful to set before the Thessalonians anexample of diligence, so that none could rightfullyaccuse him of covetousness, and also that thosewho held fanatical views regarding manual labormight be given a practical rebuke.

When Paul first visited Corinth, he foundhimself among a people who were suspicious ofthe motives of strangers. The Greeks on theseacoast were keen traders. So long had theytrained themselves in sharp business practices,that they had come to believe that gain wasgodliness, and that to make money, whether byfair means or foul, was commendable. Paul wasacquainted with their characteristics, and he wouldgive them no occasion for saying that he preachedthe gospel in order to enrich himself. He mightjustly have claimed support from his Corinthianhearers; but this right he was willing to forgo, lesthis usefulness and success as a minister shouldbe injured by the unjust suspicion that he waspreaching the gospel for gain. He would seek to

remove all occasion for misrepresentation, that theforce of his message might not be lost.

Soon after his arrival at Corinth, Paul found "acertain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, latelycome from Italy, with his wife Priscilla." Thesewere "of the same craft" with himself. Banished bythe decree of Claudius, which commanded allJews to leave Rome, Aquila and Priscilla hadcome to Corinth, where they established abusiness as manufacturers of tents. Paul madeinquiry concerning them, and learning that theyfeared God and were seeking to avoid thecontaminating influences with which they were

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surrounded, "he abode with them, andwrought. . . . And he reasoned in the synagogueevery Sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and theGreeks." Acts 18:2-4.

Later, Silas and Timothy joined Paul at Corinth.These brethren brought with them funds from the

churches in Macedonia, for the support of thework.

In his second letter to the believers in Corinth,written after he had raised up a strong churchthere, Paul reviewed his manner of life amongthem. "Have I committed an offense," he asked,"in abasing myself that ye might be exalted,because I have preached to you the gospel of Godfreely? I robbed other churches, taking wages ofthem, to do you service. And when I was presentwith you, and wanted, I was chargeable to noman: for that which was lacking to me the brethrenwhich came from Macedonia supplied: and in allthings I have kept myself from being burdensomeunto you, and so will I keep myself. As the truth ofChrist is in me, no man shall stop me of thisboasting in the regions of Achaia." 2 Corinthians11:7-10.

Paul tells why he had followed this course inCorinth. It was that he might give no cause forreproach to "them which desire occasion." 2Corinthians 11:12. While he had worked at

tentmaking he had also labored faithfully in theproclamation of the gospel. He himself declares ofhis labors, "Truly the signs of an apostle werewrought among you in all patience, in signs, andwonders, and mighty deeds." And he adds, "Forwhat is it wherein ye were inferior to otherchurches, except it be that I myself was notburdensome to you? Forgive me this wrong.Behold,

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the third time I am ready to come to you; and I willnot be burdensome to you: for I seek not yours,but you. . . . And I will very gladly spend and bespent for you." 2 Corinthians 12:12-15.

During the long period of his ministry inEphesus, where for three years he carried forwardan aggressive evangelistic effort throughout thatregion, Paul again worked at his trade. InEphesus, as in Corinth, the apostle was cheeredby the presence of Aquila and Priscilla, who had

accompanied him on his return to Asia at the closeof his second missionary journey.

There were some who objected to Paul's toilingwith his hands, declaring that it was inconsistentwith the work of a gospel minister. Why shouldPaul, a minister of the highest rank, thus connectmechanical work with the preaching of the word?Was not the laborer worthy of his hire? Whyshould he spend in making tents time that to allappearance could be put to better account?

But Paul did not regard as lost the time thusspent. As he worked with Aquila he kept in touchwith the Great Teacher, losing no opportunity ofwitnessing for the Saviour, and of helping thosewho needed help. His mind was ever reaching outfor spiritual knowledge. He gave his fellow workersinstruction in spiritual things, and he also set anexample of industry and thoroughness. He was aquick, skillful worker, diligent in business, "ferventin spirit, serving the Lord." Romans 12:11. As heworked at his trade, the apostle had access to a

class of people that he could not otherwise havereached. He showed his associates

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that skill in the common arts is a gift from God,who provides both the gift and the wisdom to use itaright. He taught that even in everyday toil God isto be honored. His toil-hardened hands detractednothing from the force of his pathetic appeals as aChristian minister.

Paul sometimes worked night and day, not onlyfor his own support, but that he might assist hisfellow laborers. He shared his earnings with Luke,and he helped Timothy. He even suffered hungerat times, that he might relieve the necessities ofothers. His was an unselfish life. Toward the closeof his ministry, on the occasion of his farewell talkto the elders of Ephesus, at Miletus, he could liftup before them his toilworn hands, and say, "Ihave coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have

ministered unto my necessities, and to them thatwere with me. I have showed you all things, howthat so laboring ye ought to support the weak, andto remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how Hesaid, It is more blessed to give than to receive."Acts 20:33-35.

If ministers feel that they are suffering hardshipand privation in the cause of Christ, let them inimagination visit the workshop where Paullabored. Let them bear in mind that while thischosen man of God is fashioning the canvas, he isworking for bread which he has justly earned byhis labors as an apostle.

Work is a blessing, not a curse. A spirit ofindolence destroys godliness and grieves theSpirit of God. A stagnant pool is offensive, but apure, flowing stream spreads health

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and gladness over the land. Paul knew that thosewho neglect physical work soon become

enfeebled. He desired to teach young ministersthat by working with their hands, by bringing intoexercise their muscles and sinews, they wouldbecome strong to endure the toils and privationsthat awaited them in the gospel field. And herealized that his own teachings would lack vitalityand force if he did not keep all parts of the systemproperly exercised.

The indolent forfeit the invaluable experiencegained by a faithful performance of the commonduties of life. Not a few, but thousands of humanbeings exist only to consume the benefits whichGod in His mercy bestows upon them. They forgetto bring to the Lord gratitude offerings for theriches He has entrusted to them. They forget thatby trading wisely on the talents lent them they areto be producers as well as consumers. If theycomprehended the work that the Lord desiresthem to do as His helping hand they would notshun responsibility.

The usefulness of young men who feel thatthey are called by God to preach, depends much

upon the manner in which they enter upon theirlabors. Those who are chosen of God for the workof the ministry will give proof of their high callingand by every possible means will seek to developinto able workmen. They will endeavor to gain anexperience that will fit them to plan, organize, andexecute. Appreciating the sacredness of theircalling, they will, by self-discipline, become moreand still more like their Master, revealing Hisgoodness, love, and truth. And as they manifest

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earnestness in improving the talents entrusted tothem, the church should help them judiciously.

Not all who feel that they have been called topreach, should be encouraged to throwthemselves and their families at once upon thechurch for continuous financial support. There isdanger that some of limited experience may bespoiled by flattery, and by unwise encouragementto expect full support independent of any serious

effort on their part. The means dedicated to theextension of the work of God should not beconsumed by men who desire to preach only thatthey may receive support and thus gratify a selfishambition for an easy life.

Young men who desire to exercise their gifts inthe work of the ministry, will find a helpful lesson inthe example of Paul at Thessalonica, Corinth,Ephesus, and other places. Although an eloquentspeaker, and chosen by God to do a special work,he was never above labor, nor did he ever wearyof sacrificing for the cause he loved. "Even untothis present hour," he wrote to the Corinthians, "weboth hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and arebuffeted, and have no certain dwelling place; andlabor, working with our own hands: being reviled,we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it." 1Corinthians 4:11, 12.

One of the greatest of human teachers, Paulcheerfully performed the lowliest as well as thehighest duties. When in his service for the Mastercircumstances seemed to require it, he willingly

labored at his trade. Nevertheless, he ever heldhimself ready to lay aside his secular work, inorder to meet the opposition of the enemies of thegospel, or to

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improve a special opportunity to win souls toJesus. His zeal and industry are a rebuke toindolence and desire for ease.

Paul set an example against the sentiment,then gaining influence in the church, that thegospel could be proclaimed successfully only bythose who were wholly freed from the necessity ofphysical toil. He illustrated in a practical way whatmight be done by consecrated laymen in manyplaces where the people were unacquainted withthe truths of the gospel. His course inspired manyhumble toilers with a desire to do what they couldto advance the cause of God, while at the sametime they supported themselves in daily labor.Aquila and Priscilla were not called to give their

whole time to the ministry of the gospel, yet thesehumble laborers were used by God to showApollos the way of truth more perfectly. The Lordemploys various instrumentalities for theaccomplishment of His purpose, and while somewith special talents are chosen to devote all theirenergies to the work of teaching and preaching thegospel, many others, upon whom human handshave never been laid in ordination, are called toact an important part in soulsaving.

There is a large field open before the self-supporting gospel worker. Many may gainvaluable experiences in ministry while toiling aportion of the time at some form of manual labor,and by this method strong workers may bedeveloped for important service in needy fields.

The self-sacrificing servant of God who laborsuntiringly in word and doctrine, carries on his hearta heavy burden. He does not measure his work byhours. His wages do not

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influence him in his labor, nor is he turned from hisduty because of unfavorable conditions. Fromheaven he received his commission, and toheaven he looks for his recompense when thework entrusted to him is done.

It is God's design that such workers shall befreed from unnecessary anxiety, that they mayhave full opportunity to obey the injunction of Paulto Timothy, "Meditate upon these things; givethyself wholly to them." 1 Timothy 4:15. While theyshould be careful to exercise sufficiently to keepmind and body vigorous, yet it is not God's planthat they should be compelled to spend a largepart of their time at secular employment.

These faithful workers, though willing to spendand be spent for the gospel, are not exempt fromtemptation. When hampered and burdened withanxiety because of a failure on the part of thechurch to give them proper financial support, some

are fiercely beset by the tempter. When they seetheir labors so lightly prized, they becomedepressed. True, they look forward to the time ofthe judgment for their just award, and this buoysthem up; but meanwhile their families must havefood and clothing. If they could feel that they werereleased from their divine commission they wouldwillingly labor with their hands. But they realizethat their time belongs to God, notwithstanding theshortsightedness of those who should providethem with sufficient funds. They rise above thetemptation to enter into pursuits by which theycould soon place themselves beyond the reach ofwant, and they continue to labor for theadvancement of the cause that is dearer to themthan life itself. In order

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to do this, they may, however, be forced to followthe example of Paul and engage for a time inmanual labor while continuing to carry forwardtheir ministerial work. This they do to advance not

their own interests, but the interests of God'scause in the earth.

There are times when it seems to the servantof God impossible to do the work necessary to bedone, because of the lack of means to carry on astrong, solid work. Some are fearful that with thefacilities at their command they cannot do all thatthey feel it their duty to do. But if they advance infaith, the salvation of God will be revealed, andprosperity will attend their efforts. He who hasbidden His followers go into all parts of the worldwill sustain every laborer who in obedience to Hiscommand seeks to proclaim His message.

In the upbuilding of His work the Lord does notalways make everything plain before His servants.He sometimes tries the confidence of His peopleby bringing about circumstances which compelthem to move forward in faith. Often He bringsthem into strait and trying places, and bids themadvance when their feet seem to be touching thewaters of Jordan. It is at such times, when theprayers of His servants ascend to Him in earnest

faith, that God opens the way before them andbrings them out into a large place.

When God's messengers recognize theirresponsibilities toward the needy portions of theLord's vineyard, and in the spirit of the MasterWorker labor untiringly for the conversion of souls,the angels of God will prepare the way beforethem, and the means necessary for the carrying

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forward of the work will be provided. Those whoare enlightened will give freely to support the workdone in their behalf. They will respond liberally toevery call for help, and the Spirit of God will moveupon their hearts to sustain the Lord's cause notonly in the home fields, but in the regions beyond.Thus strength will come to the working forces inother places, and the work of the Lord willadvance in His own appointed way.

Chap. 34 - A Consecrated Ministry

In His life and lessons Christ has given aperfect exemplification of the unselfish ministrywhich has its origin in God. God does not live forHimself. By creating the world, and by upholdingall things, He is constantly ministering to others."He maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on thegood, and sendeth rain on the just and on theunjust." Matthew 5:45. This ideal of ministry theFather committed to His Son. Jesus was given tostand at the head of humanity, by His example toteach what it means to minister. His whole life wasunder a law of service. He served all, ministered toall.

Again and again Jesus tried to establish hisprinciple among His disciples. When James andJohn made their request for pre-eminence, Hesaid, "Whosoever will be great among you, let himbe your minister; and whosoever will be chiefamong you, let him be your servant: even as theSon of man came not to be ministered unto, but tominister, and to give His life a ransom for many."Matthew 20:26-28.

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Since His ascension Christ has carried forwardHis work on the earth by chosen ambassadors,through whom He speaks to the children of menand ministers to their needs. The great Head ofthe church superintends His work through theinstrumentality of men ordained by God to act asHis representatives.

The position of those who have been called ofGod to labor in word and doctrine for theupbuilding of His church, is one of graveresponsibility. In Christ's stead they are tobeseech men and women to be reconciled to God,and they can fulfill their mission only as theyreceive wisdom and power from above.

Christ's ministers are the spiritual guardians ofthe people entrusted to their care. Their work hasbeen likened to that of watchmen. In ancient timessentinels were often stationed on the walls of

cities, where, from points of vantage, they couldoverlook important posts to be guarded, and givewarning of the approach of an enemy. Upon theirfaithfulness depended the safety of all within. Atstated intervals they were required to call to oneanother, to make sure that all were awake and thatno harm had befallen any. The cry of good cheeror of warning was borne from one to another, eachrepeating the call till it echoed round the city.

To every minister the Lord declares: "O son ofman, I have set thee a watchman unto the houseof Israel; therefore thou shalt hear the word at Mymouth, and warn them from Me. When I say untothe wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; ifthou dost not speak to warn the wicked

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from his way, that wicked man shall die in hisiniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand.Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to

turn from it, . . . thou hast delivered thy soul."Ezekiel 33:7-9.

The words of the prophet declare the solemnresponsibility of those who are appointed asguardians of the church of God, stewards of themysteries of God. They are to stand as watchmenon the walls of Zion, to sound the note of alarm atthe approach of the enemy. Souls are in danger offalling under temptation, and they will perishunless God's ministers are faithful to their trust. Iffor any reason their spiritual senses become sobenumbed that they are unable to discern danger,and through their failure to give warning thepeople perish, God will require at their hands theblood of those who are lost.

It is the privilege of the watchmen on the wallsof Zion to live so near to God, and to besusceptible to the impressions of His Spirit, thatHe can work through them to tell men and womenof their peril and point them to the place of safety.Faithfully are they to warn them of the sure resultof transgression, and faithfully are they to

safeguard the interests of the church. At no timemay they relax their vigilance. Theirs is a workrequiring the exercise of every faculty of the being.In trumpet tones their voices are to be lifted, andnever are they to sound one wavering, uncertainnote. Not for wages are they to labor, but becausethey cannot do otherwise, because they realizethat there is a woe upon them if they fail to preachthe gospel. Chosen

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of God, sealed with the blood of consecration, theyare to rescue men and women from impendingdestruction.

The minister who is a co-worker with Christ willhave a deep sense of the sacredness of his workand of the toil and sacrifice required to perform itsuccessfully. He does not study his own ease orconvenience. He is forgetful of self. In his searchfor the lost sheep he does not realize that he

himself is weary, cold, and hungry. He has but oneobject in view--the saving of the lost.

He who serves under the bloodstained bannerof Immanuel will have that to do which will call forheroic effort and patient endurance. But the soldierof the cross stands unshrinkingly in the forefront ofthe battle. As the enemy presses the attackagainst him, he turns to the stronghold for aid, andas he brings to the Lord the promises of the word,he is strengthened for the duties of the hour. Herealizes his need of strength from above. Thevictories that he gains do not lead to selfexaltation, but cause him to lean more and moreheavily on the Mighty One. Relying upon thatPower, he is enabled to present the message ofsalvation so forcibly that it vibrates in other minds.

He who teaches the word must himself live inconscious, hourly communion with God throughprayer and a study of His word, for here is thesource of strength. Communion with God willimpart to the minister's efforts a power greaterthan the influence of his preaching. Of this power

he must not allow himself to be deprived. With anearnestness that cannot be denied, he must pleadwith God to strengthen and fortify him for duty andtrial, and to touch his lips

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with living fire. All too slight is the hold that Christ'sambassadors often have upon eternal realities. Ifmen will walk with God, He will hide them in thecleft of the Rock. Thus hidden, they can see God,even as Moses saw Him. By the power and lightthat He imparts they can comprehend more andaccomplish more than their finite judgment haddeemed possible. Satan's craft is mostsuccessfully used against those who aredepressed. When discouragement threatens tooverwhelm the minister, let him spread out beforeGod his necessities. It was when the heavenswere as brass over Paul that he trusted most fullyin God. More than most men, he knew themeaning of affliction; but listen to his triumphantcry as, beset by temptation and conflict, his feet

press heavenward: "Our light affliction, which isbut for a moment, worketh for us a far moreexceeding and eternal weight of glory; while welook not at the things which are seen, but at thethings which are not seen." 2 Corinthians 4:17, 18.Paul's eyes were ever fastened on the unseen andeternal. Realizing that he was fighting againstsupernatural powers, he placed his dependenceon God, and in this lay his strength. It is by seeingHim who is invisible that strength and vigor of soulare gained and the power of earth over mind andcharacter is broken.

A pastor should mingle freely with the peoplefor whom he labors, that by becoming acquaintedwith them he may know how to adapt his teachingto their needs. When a minister has preached asermon, his work has but just begun. There ispersonal work for him to do. He should visit the

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people in their homes, talking and praying withthem in earnestness and humility. There arefamilies who will never be reached by the truths ofGod's word unless the stewards of His grace entertheir homes and point them to the higher way. Butthe hearts of those who do this work must throb inunison with the heart of Christ.

Much is comprehended in the command, "Goout into the highways and hedges, and compelthem to come in, that My house may be filled."Luke 14:23. Let ministers teach the truth infamilies, drawing close to those for whom theylabor, and as they thus co-operate with God, Hewill clothe them with spiritual power. Christ willguide them in their work, giving them words tospeak that will sink deep into the hearts of thelisteners. It is the privilege of every minister to beable to say with Paul, "I have not shunned todeclare unto you all the counsel of God." "I keptback nothing that was profitable unto you, buthave showed you, and have taught you publicly,and from house to house, . . . repentance toward

God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ." Acts20:27, 20, 21. The Saviour went from house tohouse, healing the sick, comforting the mourners,soothing the afflicted, speaking peace to thedisconsolate. He took the little children in His armsand blessed them, and spoke words of hope andcomfort to the weary mothers. With unfailingtenderness and gentleness He met every form ofhuman woe and affliction. Not for Himself but forothers did He labor. He was the servant of all. Itwas His meat and drink to bring hope and strengthto all with whom He came in contact. And as

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men and women listened to the truths that fell fromHis lips, so different from the traditions anddogmas taught by the rabbis, hope sprang up intheir hearts. In His teaching there was anearnestness that sent His words home withconvicting power.

God's ministers are to learn Christ's method oflaboring, that they may bring from the storehouseof His word that which will supply the spiritualneeds of those for whom they labor. Thus only canthey fulfill their trust. The same Spirit that dwelt inChrist as He imparted the instruction He wasconstantly receiving, is to be the source of theirknowledge and the secret of their power incarrying on the Saviour's work in the world.

Some who have labored in the ministry havefailed of attaining success because they have notgiven their undivided interest to the Lord's work.Ministers should have no engrossing interestsaside from the great work of leading souls to theSaviour. The fishermen whom Christ called,straightway left their nets and followed Him.Ministers cannot do acceptable work for God andat the same time carry the burden of largepersonal business enterprises. Such a division ofinterest dims their spiritual perception. The mindand heart are occupied with earthly things, and theservice of Christ takes a second place. They seek

to shape their work for God by theircircumstances, instead of shaping circumstancesto meet the demands of God.

The energies of the minister are all needed forhis high calling. His best powers belong to God.He should not engage in speculation or in anyother business that would

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turn him aside from his great work. "No man thatwarreth," Paul declared, "entangleth himself withthe affairs of this life; that he may please him whohath chosen him to be a soldier." 2 Timothy 2:4.Thus the apostle emphasized the minister's needof unreserved consecration to the Master'sservice. The minister who is wholly consecrated toGod refuses to engage in business that wouldhinder him from giving himself fully to his sacredcalling. He is not striving for earthly honor orriches; his one purpose is to tell others of theSaviour, who gave Himself to bring to human

beings the riches of eternal life. His highest desireis not to lay up treasure in this world, but to bringto the attention of the indifferent and the disloyalthe realities of eternity. He may be asked toengage in enterprises which promise large worldlygain, but to such temptations he returns theanswer, "What shall it profit a man, if he shall gainthe whole world, and lose his own soul?" Mark8:36.

Satan presented this inducement to Christ,knowing that if He accepted it, the world wouldnever be ransomed. And under different guises hepresents the same temptation to God's ministerstoday, knowing that those who are beguiled by itwill be false to their trust.

It is not God's will that His ministers shouldseek to be rich. Regarding this, Paul wrote toTimothy: "The love of money is the root of all evil:which while some coveted after, they have erredfrom the faith, and pierced themselves throughwith many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee

these things; and follow after righteousness,godliness, faith,

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love, patience, meekness." By example as well asby precept, the ambassador for Christ is to"charge them that are rich in this world, that theybe not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches,but in the living God, who giveth us richly all thingsto enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich ingood works, ready to distribute, willing tocommunicate; laying up in store for themselves agood foundation against the time to come, thatthey may lay hold on eternal life." 1 Timothy 6:10,11, 17-19.

The experiences of the apostle Paul and hisinstruction regarding the sacredness of theminister's work are a source of help and inspirationto those engaged in the gospel ministry. Paul'sheart burned with a love for sinners, and he put allhis energies into the work of soul winning. There

never lived a more self-denying, perseveringworker. The blessings he received he prized as somany advantages to be used in blessing others.He lost no opportunity of speaking of the Saviouror of helping those in trouble. From place to placehe went, preaching the gospel of Christ andestablishing churches. Wherever he could find ahearing, he sought to counteract wrong, and toturn the feet of men and women into the path ofrighteousness.

Paul did not forget the churches that he hadestablished. After making a missionary tour, heand Barnabas retraced their steps and visited thechurches they had raised up, choosing from themmen whom they could train to unite in proclaimingthe gospel.

This feature of Paul's work contains animportant lesson

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for ministers today. The apostle made it a part ofhis work to educate young men for the office of theministry. He took them with him on his missionaryjourneys, and thus they gained an experience thatlater enabled them to fill positions of responsibility.When separated from them, he still kept in touchwith their work, and his letters to Timothy and toTitus are evidences of how deep was his desire fortheir success.

Experienced workers today do a noble workwhen, instead of trying to carry all the burdensthemselves, they train younger workers and placeburdens on their shoulders.

Paul never forgot the responsibility resting onhim as a minister of Christ, or that if souls werelost through unfaithfulness on his part, God wouldhold him accountable. "Whereof I am made aminister," he declared of the gospel, "according tothe dispensation of God which is given to me foryou, to fulfill the word of God; even the mysterywhich hath been hid from ages and fromgenerations, but now is made manifest to His

saints: to whom God would make known what isthe riches of the glory of this mystery among theGentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:whom we preach, warning every man, andteaching every man in all wisdom; that we maypresent every man perfect in Christ Jesus:whereunto I also labor, striving according to Hisworking, which worketh in me mightily."Colossians 1:25-29.

These words present before the worker forChrist a high attainment, yet this attainment all canreach who, putting themselves under the control ofthe Great Teacher, learn

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daily in the school of Christ. The power at God'scommand is limitless, and the minister who in hisgreat need shuts himself in with the Lord may beassured that he will receive that which will be tohis hearers a savor of life unto life.

Paul's writings show that the gospel ministershould be an example of the truths that heteaches, "giving no offense in anything, that theministry be not blamed." Of his own work he hasleft us a picture in his letter to the Corinthianbelievers: "In all things approving ourselves as theministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions,in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, inimprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings,in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by loveunfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power ofGod, by the armor of righteousness on the righthand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, byevil report and good report: as deceivers, and yettrue; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying,and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yetmaking many rich." 2 Corinthians 6:3, 4-10.

To Titus he wrote: "Young men likewise exhortto be sober-minded. In all things showing thyself apattern of good works: in doctrine showing

uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech,that cannot be condemned; that he that is of thecontrary part may be ashamed, having no evilthing to say of you." Titus 2:6-8.

There is nothing more precious in the sight ofGod than His ministers, who go forth into thewaste places of the earth to sow the seeds oftruth, looking forward to the

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harvest. None but Christ can measure thesolicitude of His servants as they seek for the lost.He imparts His Spirit to them, and by their effortssouls are led to turn from sin to righteousness.

God is calling for men who are willing to leavetheir farms, their business, if need be theirfamilies, to become missionaries for Him. And thecall will be answered. In the past there have beenmen who, stirred by the love of Christ and theneeds of the lost, have left the comforts of homeand the society of friends, even that of wife and

children, to go into foreign lands, among idolatersand savages, to proclaim the message of mercy.Many in the attempt have lost their lives, butothers have been raised up to carry on the work.Thus step by step the cause of Christ hasprogressed, and the seed sown in sorrow hasyielded a bountiful harvest. The knowledge of Godhas been widely extended and the banner of thecross planted in heathen lands.

For the conversion of one sinner the ministershould tax his resources to the utmost. The soulthat God has created and Christ has redeemed isof great value because of the possibilities before it,the spiritual advantages that have been granted it,the capabilities that it may possess if vitalized bythe word of God, and the immortality it may gainthrough the hope presented in the gospel. And ifChrist left the ninety and nine that He might seekand save one lost sheep, can we be justified indoing less? Is not a neglect to work as Christworked, to sacrifice as He sacrificed, a betrayal ofsacred trusts, an insult to God?

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The heart of the true minister is filled with anintense longing to save souls. Time and strengthare spent, toilsome effort is not shunned; forothers must hear the truths that brought to his ownsoul such gladness and peace and joy. The Spiritof Christ rests upon him. He watches for souls asone that must give an account. With his eyes fixedon the cross of Calvary, beholding the upliftedSaviour, relying on His grace, believing that He willbe with him until the end, as his shield, hisstrength, his efficiency, he works for God. Withinvitations and pleadings, mingled with theassurances of God's love, he seeks to win souls toJesus, and in heaven he is numbered amongthose who are "called, and chosen, and faithful."Revelation 17:14.

Chap. 35 - Salvation to the Jews

After many unavoidable delays, Paul at lastreached Corinth, the scene of so much anxiouslabor in the past, and for a time the object of deepsolicitude. He found that many of the earlybelievers still regarded him with affection as theone who had first borne to them the light of thegospel. As he greeted these disciples and saw theevidences of their fidelity and zeal he rejoiced thathis work in Corinth had not been in vain.

The Corinthian believers, once so prone to losesight of their high calling in Christ, had developedstrength of Christian character. Their words andacts revealed the transforming power of the graceof God, and they were now a strong force for goodin that center of heathenism and superstition. Inthe society of his beloved companions and thesefaithful converts the apostle's worn and troubledspirit found rest.

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During his sojourn at Corinth, Paul found timeto look forward to new and wider fields of service.His contemplated journey to Rome especiallyoccupied his thoughts. To see the Christian faithfirmly established at the great center of the knownworld was one of his dearest hopes and mostcherished plans. A church had already beenestablished in Rome, and the apostle desired tosecure the co-operation of the believers there inthe work to be accomplished in Italy and in othercountries. To prepare the way for his laborsamong these brethren, many of whom were as yetstrangers to him, he sent them a letter announcinghis purpose of visiting Rome and his hope ofplanting the standard of the cross in Spain.

In his epistle to the Romans, Paul set forth thegreat principles of the gospel. He stated hisposition on the questions which were agitating theJewish and the Gentile churches, and showed thatthe hopes and promises which had once belonged

especially to the Jews were now offered to theGentiles also.

With great clearness and power the apostlepresented the doctrine of justification by faith inChrist. He hoped that other churches also mightbe helped by the instruction sent to the Christiansat Rome; but how dimly could he foresee the far-reaching influence of his words! Through all theages the great truth of justification by faith hasstood as a mighty beacon to guide repentantsinners into the way of life. It was this light thatscattered the darkness which enveloped Luther'smind and revealed to him the power of the

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blood of Christ to cleanse from sin. The same lighthas guided thousands of sin-burdened souls to thetrue Source of pardon and peace. For the epistleto the church at Rome, every Christian has reasonto thank God.

In this letter Paul gave free expression to hisburden in behalf of the Jews. Ever since hisconversion, he had longed to help his Jewishbrethren to gain a clear understanding of thegospel message. "My heart's desire and prayer toGod for Israel is," he declared, "that they might besaved."

It was no ordinary desire that the apostle felt.Constantly he was petitioning God to work inbehalf of the Israelites who had failed to recognizeJesus of Nazareth as the promised Messiah. "I saythe truth in Christ," he assured the believers atRome, "my conscience also bearing me witness inthe Holy Ghost, that I have great heaviness andcontinual sorrow in my heart. For I could wish thatmyself were accursed from Christ for my brethren,my kinsmen according to the flesh: who areIsraelites, to whom pertaineth the adoption, andthe glory, and the covenants, and the giving of thelaw, and the service of God, and the promises;whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning

the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessedforever."

The Jews were God's chosen people, throughwhom He had purposed to bless the entire race.From among them God had raised up manyprophets. These had foretold the advent of aRedeemer who was to be rejected and slain bythose who should have been the first to recognizeHim as the Promised One.

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The prophet Isaiah, looking down through thecenturies and witnessing the rejection of prophetafter prophet and finally of the Son of God, wasinspired to write concerning the acceptance of theRedeemer by those who had never before beennumbered among the children of Israel. Referringto this prophecy, Paul declares: "Esaias is verybold, and saith, I was found of them that soughtMe not; I was made manifest unto them that asked

not after Me. But to Israel He saith, All day long Ihave stretched forth My hands unto a disobedientand gainsaying people."

Even though Israel rejected His Son, God didnot reject them. Listen to Paul as he continues theargument: "I say then, Hath God cast away Hispeople? God forbid. For I also am an Israelite, ofthe seed of Abraham, of the tribe of Benjamin.God hath not cast away His people which Heforeknew. Wot ye not what the Scripture saith ofElias? how he maketh intercession to God againstIsrael, saying, Lord, they have killed Thy prophets,and digged down Thine altars; and I am left alone,and they seek my life. But what saith the answerof God unto him? I have reserved to Myself seventhousand men, who have not bowed the knee tothe image of Baal. Even so then at this presenttime also there is a remnant according to theelection of grace."

Israel had stumbled and fallen, but this did notmake it impossible for them to rise again. Inanswer to the question, "Have they stumbled that

they should fall?" the apostle replies: "God forbid:but rather through their fall salvation

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is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them tojealousy. Now if the fall of them be the riches ofthe world, and the diminishing of them the richesof the Gentiles; how much more their fullness? ForI speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am theapostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: if byany means I may provoke to emulation themwhich are my flesh, and might save some of them.For if the casting away of them be the reconcilingof the world, what shall the receiving of them be,but life from the dead?"

It was God's purpose that His grace should berevealed among the Gentiles as well as among theIsraelites. This had been plainly outlined in OldTestament prophecies. The apostle uses some ofthese prophecies in his argument. "Hath not thepotter power over the clay," he inquires, "of the

same lump to make one vessel unto honor, andanother unto dishonor? What if God, willing toshow His wrath, and to make His power known,endured with much long-suffering the vessels ofwrath fitted to destruction: and that He might makeknown the riches of His glory on the vessels ofmercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory,even us, whom He hath called, not of the Jewsonly, but also of the Gentiles? As He saith also inOsee, I will call them My people, which were notMy people; and her beloved, which was notbeloved. And it shall come to pass, that in theplace where it was said unto them, Ye are not Mypeople; there shall they be called the children ofthe living God." See Hosea 1:10.

Notwithstanding Israel's failure as a nation,there remained among them a goodly remnant ofsuch as should be saved.

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At the time of the Saviour's advent there werefaithful men and women who had received withgladness the message of John the Baptist, andhad thus been led to study anew the propheciesconcerning the Messiah. When the early Christianchurch was founded, it was composed of thesefaithful Jews who recognized Jesus of Nazareth asthe one for whose advent they had been longing. Itis to this remnant that Paul refers when he writes,"If the first fruit be holy, the lump is also holy: andif the root be holy, so are the branches."

Paul likens the remnant in Israel to a nobleolive tree, some of whose branches have beenbroken off. He compares the Gentiles to branchesfrom a wild olive tree, grafted into the parent stock."If some of the branches be broken off," he writesto the Gentile believers, "and thou, being a wildolive tree, wert grafted in among them, and withthem partakest of the root and fatness of the olivetree; boast not against the branches. But if thouboast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off,

that I might be grafted in. Well; because ofunbelief they were broken off, and thou standestby faith. Be not high-minded, but fear: for if Godspared not the natural branches, take heed lest Healso spare not thee. Behold therefore thegoodness and severity of God: on them which fell,severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thoucontinue in His goodness: otherwise thou alsoshalt be cut off." Through unbelief and therejection of Heaven's purpose for her, Israel as anation had lost her connection with God. But thebranches that had been separated from the parent

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stock God was able to reunite with the true stockof Israel--the remnant who had remained true tothe God of their fathers. "They also," the apostledeclares of these broken branches, "if they abidenot still in unbelief, shall be grafted in: for God isable to graft them in again." "If thou," he writes tothe Gentiles, "wert cut out of the olive tree which iswild by nature, and wert grafted contrary to nature

into a good olive tree: how much more shall these,which be the natural branches, be grafted intotheir own olive tree? For I would not, brethren, thatye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest yeshould be wise in your own conceits; thatblindness in part is happened to Israel, until thefullness of the Gentiles be come in. "And so allIsrael shall be saved: as it is written, There shallcome out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turnaway ungodliness from Jacob: for this is Mycovenant unto them, when I shall take away theirsins. As concerning the gospel, they are enemiesfor your sakes: but as touching the election, theyare beloved for the father's sakes. For the giftsand calling of God are without repentance. For asye in times past have not believed God, yet havenow obtained mercy through their unbelief: evenso have these also now not believed, that throughyour mercy they also may obtain mercy. For Godhad concluded them all in unbelief, that He mighthave mercy upon all.

"O the depth of the riches both of the wisdomand knowledge of God! how unsearchable are Hisjudgments, and His ways past finding out! For whohath known the

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mind of the Lord? or who hath been Hiscounselor? or who hath first given to Him, and itshall be recompensed unto him again? For of Him,and through Him, and to Him, are all things: towhom be glory forever."

Thus Paul shows that God is abundantly ableto transform the hearts of Jew and Gentile alike,and to grant to every believer in Christ theblessings promised to Israel. He repeats Isaiah'sdeclaration concerning God's people: "Though thenumber of the children of Israel be as the sand ofthe sea, a remnant shall be saved: for He willfinish the work, and cut it short in righteousness:because a short work will the Lord make upon theearth. And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord

of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been asSodoma and been made like unto Gomorrah."At the time when Jerusalem was destroyed andthe temple laid in ruins, many thousands of theJews were sold to serve as bondmen in heathenlands. Like wrecks on a desert shore they werescattered among the nations. For eighteenhundred years the Jews have wandered from landto land throughout the world, and in no place havethey been given the privilege of regaining theirancient prestige as a nation. Maligned, hated,persecuted, from century to century theirs hasbeen a heritage of suffering.

Notwithstanding the awful doom pronouncedupon the Jews as a nation at the time of theirrejection of Jesus of Nazareth, there have livedfrom age to age many noble, God-fearing Jewishmen and women who have suffered in silence.God has comforted their hearts in affliction and

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has beheld with pity their terrible situation. He hasheard the agonizing prayers of those who havesought Him with all the heart for a rightunderstanding of His word. Some have learned tosee in the lowly Nazarene whom their forefathersrejected and crucified, the true Messiah of Israel.As their minds have grasped the significance ofthe familiar prophecies so long obscured bytradition and misinterpretation, their hearts havebeen filled with gratitude to God for theunspeakable gift He bestows upon every humanbeing who chooses to accept Christ as a personalSaviour.

It is to this class that Isaiah referred in hisprophecy, "A remnant shall be saved." FromPaul's day to the present time, God by His HolySpirit has been calling after the Jew as well as theGentile. "There is no respect of persons with God,"declared Paul. The apostle regarded himself as"debtor both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians,"as well as to the Jews; but he never lost sight ofthe decided advantages possessed by the Jews

over others, "chiefly, because that unto them werecommitted the oracles of God." "The gospel," hedeclared, "is the power of God unto salvation toeveryone that believeth; to the Jew first, and alsoto the Greek. For therein is the righteousness ofGod revealed from faith to faith: as it is written,The just shall live by faith." It is of this gospel ofChrist, equally efficacious for Jew and Gentile, thatPaul in his epistle to the Romans declared he wasnot ashamed.

When this gospel shall be presented in itsfullness to the Jews, many will accept Christ asthe Messiah. Among Christian

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ministers there are only a few who feel called uponto labor for the Jewish people; but to those whohave been often passed by, as well as to allothers, the message of mercy and hope in Christis to come.

In the closing proclamation of the gospel, whenspecial work is to be done for classes of peoplehitherto neglected, God expects His messengersto take particular interest in the Jewish peoplewhom they find in all parts of the earth. As the OldTestament Scriptures are blended with the New inan explanation of Jehovah's eternal purpose, thiswill be to many of the Jews as the dawn of a newcreation, the resurrection of the soul. As they seethe Christ of the gospel dispensation portrayed inthe pages of the Old Testament Scriptures, andperceive how clearly the New Testament explainsthe Old, their slumbering faculties will be aroused,and they will recognize Christ as the Saviour of theworld. Many will by faith receive Christ as theirRedeemer. To them will be fulfilled the words, "Asmany as received Him, to them gave He power tobecome the sons of God, even to them thatbelieve on His name." John 1:12.

Among the Jews are some who, like Saul ofTarsus, are mighty in the Scriptures, and these willproclaim with wonderful power the immutability of

the law of God. The God of Israel will bring this topass in our day. His arm is not shortened that itcannot save. As His servants labor in faith forthose who have long been neglected anddespised, His salvation will be revealed.

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"Thus saith the Lord, who redeemed Abraham,concerning the house of Jacob, Jacob shall notnow be ashamed, neither shall his face now waxpale. But when he seeth his children, the work ofMine hands, in the midst of him, they shall sanctifyMy name, and sanctify the Holy One of Jacob, andshall fear the God of Israel. They also that erred inspirit shall come to understanding, and they thatmurmured shall learn doctrine." Isaiah 29:22-24.

Chap. 36 - Apostasy in Galatia

While tarrying at Corinth, Paul had cause forserious apprehension concerning some of thechurches already established. Through theinfluence of false teachers who had arisen amongthe believers in Jerusalem, division, heresy, andsensualism were rapidly gaining ground amongthe believers in Galatia. These false teachers weremingling Jewish traditions with the truths of thegospel. Ignoring the decision of the generalcouncil at Jerusalem, they urged upon the Gentileconverts the observance of the ceremonial law.

The situation was critical. The evils that hadbeen introduced threatened speedily to destroythe Galatian churches.

Paul was cut to the heart, and his soul wasstirred by this open apostasy on the part of thoseto whom he had faithfully taught the principles ofthe gospel. He immediately wrote to the deludedbelievers, exposing the false theories that theyhad accepted and with great severity rebuking

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those who were departing from the faith. Aftersaluting the Galatians in the words, "Grace be toyou and peace from God the Father, and from ourLord Jesus Christ," he addressed to them thesewords of sharp reproof:

"I marvel that ye are so soon removed fromHim that called you into the grace of Christ untoanother gospel: which is not another; but there besome that trouble you, and would pervert thegospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel fromheaven, preach any other gospel unto you thanthat which we have preached unto you, let him beaccursed." Paul's teachings had been in harmonywith the Scriptures, and the Holy Spirit hadwitnessed to his labors; therefore he warned hisbrethren not to listen to anything that contradictedthe truths he had taught them.

The apostle bade the Galatian believersconsider carefully their first experience in the

Christian life. "O foolish Galatians," he exclaimed,"who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obeythe truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hathbeen evidently set forth, crucified among you?This only would I learn of you, Received ye theSpirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing offaith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in theSpirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Haveye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet invain. He therefore that ministereth to you theSpirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth heit by the works of the law, or by the hearing offaith?"

Thus Paul arraigned the believers in Galatiabefore the tribunal of their own conscience andsought to arrest them

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in their course. Relying on the power of God tosave, and refusing to recognize the doctrines ofthe apostate teachers, the apostle endeavored to

lead the converts to see that they had beengrossly deceived, but that by returning to theirformer faith in the gospel they might yet defeat thepurpose of Satan. He took his position firmly onthe side of truth and righteousness; and hissupreme faith and confidence in the message hebore, helped many whose faith had failed, toreturn to their allegiance to the Saviour.

How different from Paul's manner of writing tothe Corinthian church was the course he pursuedtoward the Galatians! The former he rebuked withcaution and tenderness, the latter with words ofunsparing reproof. The Corinthians had beenovercome by temptation. Deceived by theingenious sophistry of teachers who presentederrors under the guise of truth, they had becomeconfused and bewildered. To teach them todistinguish the false from the true, called forcaution and patience. Harshness or injudicioushaste on Paul's part would have destroyed hisinfluence over many of those whom he longed tohelp.

In the Galatian churches, open, unmaskederror was supplanting the gospel message. Christ,the true foundation of the faith, was virtuallyrenounced for the obsolete ceremonies ofJudaism. The apostle saw that if the believers inGalatia were saved from the dangerous influenceswhich threatened them, the most decisivemeasures must be taken, the sharpest warningsgiven.

An important lesson for every minister of Christto learn

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is that of adapting his labors to the condition ofthose whom he seeks to benefit. Tenderness,patience, decision, and firmness are alike needful;but these are to be exercised with properdiscrimination. To deal wisely with differentclasses of minds, under varied circumstances andconditions, is a work requiring wisdom and

judgment enlightened and sanctified by the Spiritof God.

In his letter to the Galatian believers Paulbriefly reviewed the leading incidents connectedwith his own conversion and early Christianexperience. By this means he sought to show thatit was through a special manifestation of divinepower that he had been led to see and grasp thegreat truths of the gospel. It was throughinstruction received from God Himself that Paulwas led to warn and admonish the Galatians in sosolemn and positive a manner. He wrote, not inhesitancy and doubt, but with the assurance ofsettled conviction and absolute knowledge. Heclearly outlined the difference between beingtaught by man and receiving instruction direct fromChrist.

The apostle urged the Galatians to leave thefalse guides by whom they had been misled, andto return to the faith that had been accompaniedby unmistakable evidences of divine approval. Themen who had attempted to lead them from their

belief in the gospel were hypocrites, unholy inheart and corrupt in life. Their religion was madeup of a round of ceremonies, through theperformance of which they expected to gain thefavor of God. They had no desire for a gospel thatcalled for obedience to the word, "Except a

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man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom ofGod." John 3:3. They felt that a religion based onsuch a doctrine, required too great a sacrifice, andthey clung to their errors, deceiving themselvesand others.

To substitute external forms of religion forholiness of heart and life is still as pleasing to theunrenewed nature as it was in the days of theseJewish teachers. Today, as then, there are falsespiritual guides, to whose doctrines many listeneagerly. It is Satan's studied effort to divert mindsfrom the hope of salvation through faith in Christand obedience to the law of God. In every age the

archenemy adapts his temptations to theprejudices or inclinations of those whom he isseeking to deceive. In apostolic times he led theJews to exalt the ceremonial law and reject Christ;at the present time he induces many professingChristians, under pretense of honoring Christ, tocast contempt on the moral law and to teach thatits precepts may be transgressed with impunity. Itis the duty of every servant of God to withstandfirmly and decidedly these perverters of the faithand by the word of truth fearlessly to expose theirerrors.

In his effort to regain the confidence of hisbrethren in Galatia, Paul ably vindicated hisposition as an apostle of Christ. He declaredhimself to be an apostle, "not of men, neither byman, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father,who raised Him from the dead." Not from men, butfrom the highest Authority in heaven, had hereceived his commission. And his position hadbeen acknowledged by a general council at

Jerusalem, with the decisions of which Paul hadcomplied in all his labors among the Gentiles.

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It was not to exalt self, but to magnify the graceof God, that Paul thus presented to those whowere denying his apostleship, proof that he was"not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles." 2Corinthians 11:5. Those who sought to belittle hiscalling and his work were fighting against Christ,whose grace and power were manifested throughPaul. The apostle was forced, by the opposition ofhis enemies, to take a decided stand inmaintaining his position and authority.

Paul pleaded with those who had once knownin their lives the power of God, to return to theirfirst love of gospel truth. With unanswerablearguments he set before them their privilege ofbecoming free men and women in Christ, throughwhose atoning grace all who make full surrender

are clothed with the robe of His righteousness. Hetook the position that every soul who would besaved must have a genuine, personal experiencein the things of God.

The apostle's earnest words of entreaty werenot fruitless. The Holy Spirit wrought with mightypower, and many whose feet had wandered intostrange paths, returned to their former faith in thegospel. Henceforth they were steadfast in theliberty wherewith Christ had made them free. Intheir lives were revealed the fruits of theSpirit--"love, joy, peace, long-suffering,gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness,temperance." The name of God was glorified, andmany were added to the number of believersthroughout that region.

Chap. 37 - Paul's Last Journey to Jerusalem

Paul greatly desired to reach Jerusalem beforethe Passover as he would thus have an

opportunity to meet those who should come fromall parts of the world to attend the feast. Ever hecherished the hope that in some way he might beinstrumental in removing the prejudice of hisunbelieving countrymen, so that they might be ledto accept the precious light of the gospel. He alsodesired to meet the church at Jerusalem and bearto them the gifts sent by the Gentile churches tothe poor brethren in Judea. And by this visit hehoped to bring about a firmer union between theJewish and the Gentile converts to the faith.

Having completed his work at Corinth, hedetermined to sail directly for one of the ports onthe coast of Palestine. All the arrangements hadbeen made, and he was about to step on boardthe ship, when he was told of a plot laid by theJews to take his life. In the past these opposers ofthe

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faith had been foiled in all their efforts to put anend to the apostle's work.

The success attending the preaching of thegospel aroused the anger of the Jews anew. Fromevery quarter were coming accounts of the spreadof the new doctrine by which Jews were releasedfrom the observance of the rites of the ceremoniallaw and Gentiles were admitted to equal privilegeswith the Jews as children of Abraham. Paul, in hispreaching at Corinth, presented the samearguments which he urged so forcibly in hisepistles. His emphatic statement, "There is neitherGreek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision"(Colossians 3:11), was regarded by his enemiesas daring blasphemy, and they determined that hisvoice should be silenced.

Upon receiving warning of the plot, Pauldecided to go around by way of Macedonia. Hisplan to reach Jerusalem in time for the Passoverservices had to be given up, but he hoped to bethere at Pentecost.

Accompanying Paul and Luke were "Sopater ofBerea; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus andSecundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timotheus;and of Asia, Tychicus and Trophimus." Paul hadwith him a large sum of money from the Gentilechurches, which he purposed to place in thehands of the brethren in charge of the work inJudea; and because of this he madearrangements for these representative brethrenfrom various contributing churches, to accompanyhim to Jerusalem. At Philippi Paul tarried tokeep the Passover. Only Luke remained with him,the other members of the company

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passing on to Troas to await him there. ThePhilippians were the most loving and trueheartedof the apostle's converts, and during the eightdays of the feast he enjoyed peaceful and happycommunion with them.

Sailing from Philippi, Paul and Luke reachedtheir companions at Troas five days later, andremained for seven days with the believers in thatplace.

Upon the last evening of his stay the brethren"came together to break bread." The fact that theirbeloved teacher was about to depart, had calledtogether a larger company than usual. Theyassembled in an "upper chamber" on the thirdstory. There, in the fervency of his love andsolicitude for them, the apostle preached untilmidnight.

In one of the open windows sat a youth namedEutychus. In this perilous position he went to sleepand fell to the court below. At once all was alarmand confusion. The youth was taken up dead, andmany gathered about him with cries and mourning.But Paul, passing through the frightened company,embraced him and offered up an earnest prayerthat God would restore the dead to life. His petitionwas granted. Above the sound of mourning andlamentation the apostle's voice was heard, saying,

"Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him." Withrejoicing the believers again assembled in theupper chamber. They partook of the Communion,and then Paul "talked a long while, even till breakof day."

The ship on which Paul and his companionswere to continue their journey, was about to sail,and the brethren hastened on board. The apostlehimself, however, chose to take the nearer routeby land between Troas and Assos, meeting

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his companions at the latter city. This gave him ashort season for meditation and prayer. Thedifficulties and dangers connected with his comingvisit to Jerusalem, the attitude of the church theretoward him and his work, as well as the conditionof the churches and the interests of the gospelwork in other fields, were subjects of earnest,anxious thought, and he took advantage of this

special opportunity to seek God for strength andguidance.

As the travelers sailed southward from Assos,they passed the city of Ephesus, so long thescene of the apostle's labors. Paul had greatlydesired to visit the church there, for he hadimportant instruction and counsel to give them. Butupon consideration he determined to hasten on,for he desired, "if it were possible for him, to be atJerusalem the Day of Pentecost." On arriving atMiletus, however, about thirty miles from Ephesus,he learned that it might be possible tocommunicate with the church before the shipshould sail. He therefore immediately sent amessage to the elders, urging them to hasten toMiletus, that he might see them before continuinghis journey. In answer to his call they came,and he spoke to them strong, touching words ofadmonition and farewell. "Ye know," he said, "fromthe first day that I came into Asia, after whatmanner I have been with you at all seasons,serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with

many tears, and temptations, which befell me bythe lying in wait of the Jews: and how I kept backnothing that was profitable unto you, but haveshowed you, and have taught you publicly, andfrom house to house, testifying both to

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the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentancetoward God, and faith toward our Lord JesusChrist."

Paul had ever exalted the divine law. He hadshown that in the law there is no power to savemen from the penalty of disobedience.Wrongdoers must repent of their sins and humblethemselves before God, whose just wrath theyhave incurred by breaking His law, and they mustalso exercise faith in the blood of Christ as theironly means of pardon. The Son of God had diedas their sacrifice and had ascended to heaven tostand before the Father as their advocate. Byrepentance and faith they might be freed from the

condemnation of sin and through the grace ofChrist be enabled henceforth to render obedienceto the law of God. "And now, behold," Paulcontinued, "I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem,not knowing the things that shall befall me there:save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city,saying that bonds and afflictions abide me. Butnone of these things move me, neither count I mylife dear unto myself, so that I might finish mycourse with joy, and the ministry, which I havereceived of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel ofthe grace of God. And now, behold, I know that yeall, among whom I have gone preaching thekingdom of God, shall see my face no more."

Paul had not designed to bear this testimony;but, while he was speaking, the Spirit of Inspirationcame upon him, confirming his fears that thiswould be his last meeting with his Ephesianbrethren. "Wherefore I take you to record thisday, that I am pure from the blood of all men. For Ihave not shunned to declare

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unto you all the counsel of God." No fear of givingoffense, no desire for friendship or applause, couldlead Paul to withhold the words that God hadgiven him for their instruction, warning, orcorrection. From His servants today God requiresfearlessness in preaching the word and in carryingout its precepts. The minister of Christ is not topresent to the people only those truths that are themost pleasing, while he withholds others thatmight cause them pain. He should watch withdeep solicitude the development of character. If hesees that any of his flock are cherishing sin hemust as a faithful shepherd give them from God'sword the instruction that is applicable to their case.Should he permit them in their self-confidence togo on unwarned, he would be held responsible fortheir souls. The pastor who fulfills his highcommission must give his people faithfulinstruction on every point of the Christian faith,showing them what they must be and do in order

to stand perfect in the day of God. He only who isa faithful teacher of the truth will at the close of hiswork be able to say with Paul, "I am pure from theblood of all men."

"Take heed therefore unto yourselves," theapostle admonished his brethren, "and to all theflock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath madeyou overseers, to feed the church of God, whichHe hath purchased with His own blood." Ifministers of the gospel were to bear constantly inmind the fact that they are dealing with thepurchase of the blood of Christ, they would have adeeper sense of the importance of their work.They are to take heed to themselves and to theirflock. Their own example is to illustrate

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and enforce their instructions. As teachers of theway of life they should give no occasion for thetruth to be evil spoken of. As representatives ofChrist they are to maintain the honor of His name.

By their devotion, their purity of life, their godlyconversation, they are to prove themselves worthyof their high calling.

The dangers that would assail the church atEphesus were revealed to the apostle. "I knowthis," he said, "that after my departing shallgrievous wolves enter in among you, not sparingthe flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise,speaking perverse things, to draw away disciplesafter them." Paul trembled for the church as,looking into the future, he saw the attacks whichshe must suffer from both external and internalfoes. With solemn earnestness he bade hisbrethren guard vigilantly their sacred trusts. For anexample he pointed them to his own unweariedlabors among them: "Therefore watch, andremember, that by the space of three years Iceased not to warn everyone night and day withtears.

"And now, brethren," he continued, "I commendyou to God, and to the word of His grace, which isable to build you up, and to give you an

inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Ihave coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel."Some of the Ephesian brethren were wealthy, butPaul had never sought personal benefit from them.It was no part of his message to call attention tohis own wants. "These hands," he declared, "haveministered unto my necessities, and to them thatwere with me." Amidst his arduous labors andextensive journeys for the cause of Christ, he was

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able, not only to supply his own wants, but tospare something for the support of his fellowlaborers and the relief of the worthy poor. This heaccomplished only by unremitting diligence andthe closest economy. Well might he point to hisown example as he said, "I have showed you allthings, how that so laboring ye ought to supportthe weak, and to remember the words of the LordJesus, how He said, It is more blessed to givethan to receive.

"And when he had thus spoken, he kneeleddown, and prayed with them all. And they all weptsore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,sorrowing most of all for the words which hespake, that they should see his face no more. Andthey accompanied him unto the ship."

From Miletus the travelers sailed in "a straightcourse unto Coos, and the day following untoRhodes, and from thence unto Patara," on thesouthwest shore of Asia Minor, where, "finding aship sailing over unto Phoenicia," they "wentaboard, and set forth." At Tyre, where the ship wasunloaded, they found a few disciples, with whomthey were permitted to tarry seven days. Throughthe Holy Spirit these disciples were warned of theperils awaiting Paul at Jerusalem, and they urgedhim "that he should not go up to Jerusalem." Butthe apostle allowed not the fear of affliction andimprisonment to turn him from his purpose. Atthe close of the week spent in Tyre, all thebrethren, with their wives and children, went withPaul to the ship, and before he stepped on board,

they knelt upon the shore and prayed, he for them,and they for him.

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Pursuing their journey southward, the travelersarrived at Caesarea and "entered into the house ofPhilip the evangelist, which was one of the seven;and abode with him." Here Paul spent a fewpeaceful, happy days--the last of perfect freedomthat he was to enjoy for a long time.

While Paul tarried at Caesarea, "there camedown from Judea a certain prophet, namedAgabus. And when he was come unto us," Lukesays, "he took Paul's girdle, and bound his ownhands and feet, and said, Thus saith the HolyGhost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind theman that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver himinto the hands of the Gentiles."

"When we heard these things," Luke continues,"both we, and they of that place, besought him not

to go up to Jerusalem." But Paul would not swervefrom the path of duty. He would follow Christ ifneed be to prison and to death. "What mean ye toweep and to break mine heart?" he exclaimed; "forI am ready not to be bound only, but also to die atJerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." Seeingthat they caused him pain without changing hispurpose, the brethren ceased their importunity,saying only, "The will of the Lord be done."

The time soon came for the brief stay atCaesarea to end, and, accompanied by some ofthe brethren, Paul and his company set out forJerusalem, their hearts deeply shadowed by thepresentiment of coming evil.

Never before had the apostle approachedJerusalem with so sad a heart. He knew that hewould find few friends and

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many enemies. He was nearing the city which hadrejected and slain the Son of God and over which

now hung the threatenings of divine wrath.Remembering how bitter had been his ownprejudice against the followers of Christ, he felt thedeepest pity for his deluded countrymen. And yethow little could he hope that he would be able tohelp them! The same blind wrath which had onceburned in his own heart, was now with untoldpower kindling the hearts of a whole nation againsthim.

And he could not count upon the sympathy andsupport of even his own brethren in the faith. Theunconverted Jews who had followed so closelyupon his track, had not been slow to circulate themost unfavorable reports at Jerusalem, bothpersonally and by letter, concerning him and hiswork; and some, even of the apostles and elders,had received these reports as truth, making noattempt to contradict them, and manifesting nodesire to harmonize with him.

Yet in the midst of discouragements the apostlewas not in despair. He trusted that the Voice whichhad spoken to his own heart would yet speak to

the hearts of his countrymen, and that the Masterwhom his fellow disciples loved and served wouldyet unite their hearts with his in the work of thegospel.

Chap. 38 - Paul a Prisoner

When we were come to Jerusalem, thebrethren received us gladly. And the day followingPaul went in with us unto James; and all the elderswere present."

On this occasion, Paul and his companionsformally presented to the leaders of the work atJerusalem the contributions forwarded by theGentile churches for the support of the pooramong their Jewish brethren. The gathering ofthese contributions had cost the apostle and hisfellow workers much time, anxious thought, andwearisome labor. The sum, which far exceededthe expectations of the elders at Jerusalem,

represented many sacrifices and even severeprivations on the part of the Gentile believers.

These freewill offerings betokened the loyaltyof the Gentile converts to the organized work ofGod throughout the world and should have beenreceived by all with grateful

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acknowledgment, yet it was apparent to Paul andhis companions that even among those beforewhom they now stood were some who wereunable to appreciate the spirit of brotherly love thathad prompted the gifts.

In the earlier years of the gospel work amongthe Gentiles some of the leading brethren atJerusalem, clinging to former prejudices andhabits of thought, had not co-operated heartily withPaul and his associates. In their anxiety topreserve a few meaningless forms andceremonies, they had lost sight of the blessing thatwould come to them and to the cause they loved,

through an effort to unite in one all parts of theLord's work. Although desirous of safeguarding thebest interests of the Christian church, they hadfailed to keep step with the advancing providencesof God, and in their human wisdom attempted tothrow about workers many unnecessaryrestrictions. Thus there arose a group of men whowere unacquainted personally with the changingcircumstances and peculiar needs met by laborersin distant fields, yet who insisted that they had theauthority to direct their brethren in these fields tofollow certain specified methods of labor. They feltas if the work of preaching the gospel should becarried forward in harmony with their opinions.

Several years had passed since the brethren inJerusalem, with representatives from other leadingchurches, gave careful consideration to theperplexing questions that had arisen over methodsfollowed by those who were laboring for theGentiles. As a result of this council, the brethrenhad united in making definite recommendations tothe churches

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concerning certain rites and customs, includingcircumcision. It was at this general council that thebrethren had also united in commending to theChristian churches Barnabas and Paul as laborersworthy of the full confidence of every believer.

Among those present at this meeting, weresome who had severely criticized the methods oflabor followed by the apostles upon whom restedthe chief burden of carrying the gospel to theGentile world. But during the council their views ofGod's purpose had broadened, and they hadunited with their brethren in making wise decisionswhich made possible the unification of the entirebody of believers.

Afterward, when it became apparent that theconverts among the Gentiles were increasingrapidly, there were a few of the leading brethren atJerusalem who began to cherish anew their formerprejudices against the methods of Paul and his

associates. These prejudices strengthened withthe passing of the years, until some of the leadersdetermined that the work of preaching the gospelmust henceforth be conducted in accordance withtheir own ideas. If Paul would conform hismethods to certain policies which they advocatedthey would acknowledge and sustain his work;otherwise they could no longer look upon it withfavor or grant it their support.

These men had lost sight of the fact that God isthe teacher of His people; that every worker in Hiscause is to obtain an individual experience infollowing the divine Leader, not looking to man fordirect guidance; that His workers are to be moldedand fashioned, not after man's ideas, but after thesimilitude of the divine.

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In his ministry the apostle Paul had taught thepeople "not with enticing words of man's wisdom,

but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power."The truths that he proclaimed had been revealedto him by the Holy Spirit, "for the Spirit searchethall things, yea, the deep things of God. For whatman knoweth the things of a man, save the spiritof man which is in him? even so the things of Godknoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. . . . Whichthings," declared Paul, "we speak, not in the wordswhich man's wisdom teacheth, but which the HolyGhost teacheth; comparing spiritual things withspiritual." 1 Corinthians 2:4, 10-13.

Throughout his ministry, Paul had looked toGod for direct guidance. At the same time, he hadbeen very careful to labor in harmony with thedecisions of the general council at Jerusalem, andas a result the churches were "established in thefaith, and increased in number daily." Acts 16:5.And now, notwithstanding the lack of sympathyshown him by some, he found comfort in theconsciousness that he had done his duty inencouraging in his converts a spirit of loyalty,generosity, and brotherly love, as revealed on this

occasion in the liberal contributions which he wasenabled to place before the Jewish elders.

After the presentation of the gifts, Paul"declared particularly what things God hadwrought among the Gentiles by his ministry." Thisrecital of facts brought to the hearts of all, even ofthose who had been doubting, the conviction thatthe blessing of heaven had accompanied hislabors. "When they heard it, they glorified theLord." They felt

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that the methods of labor pursued by the apostlebore the signet of Heaven. The liberalcontributions lying before them added weight tothe testimony of the apostle concerning thefaithfulness of the new churches establishedamong the Gentiles. The men who, whilenumbered among those who were in charge of thework at Jerusalem, had urged that arbitrarymeasures of control be adopted, saw Paul's

ministry in a new light and were convinced thattheir own course had been wrong, that they hadbeen held in bondage by Jewish customs andtraditions, and that the work of the gospel hadbeen greatly hindered by their failure to recognizethat the wall of partition between Jew and Gentilehad been broken down by the death of Christ.

This was the golden opportunity for all theleading brethren to confess frankly that God hadwrought through Paul, and that at times they haderred in permitting the reports of his enemies toarouse their jealousy and prejudice. But instead ofuniting in an effort to do justice to the one who hadbeen injured, they gave him counsel whichshowed that they still cherished a feeling that Paulshould be held largely responsible for the existingprejudice. They did not stand nobly in his defense,endeavoring to show the disaffected ones wherethey were wrong, but sought to effect acompromise by counseling him to pursue a coursewhich in their opinion would remove all cause formisapprehension.

"Thou seest, brother," they said, in response tohis testimony, "how many thousands of Jews thereare which believe; and they are all zealous of thelaw: and they are

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informed of thee, that thou teachest all the Jewswhich are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses,saying that they ought not to circumcise theirchildren, neither to walk after the customs. What isit therefore? the multitude must needs cometogether: for they will hear that thou art come. Dotherefore this that we say to thee: We have fourmen which have a vow on them; them take, andpurify thyself with them, and be at charges withthem, that they may shave their heads: and allmay know that those things, whereof they wereinformed concerning thee, are nothing; but thatthou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest thelaw. As touching the Gentiles which believe, wehave written and concluded that they observe nosuch thing, save only that they keep themselves

from things offered to idols, and from blood, andfrom strangled, and from fornication."

The brethren hoped that Paul, by following thecourse suggested, might give a decisivecontradiction to the false reports concerning him.They assured him that the decision of the formercouncil concerning the Gentile converts and theceremonial law, still held good. But the advice nowgiven was not consistent with that decision. TheSpirit of God did not prompt this instruction; it wasthe fruit of cowardice. The leaders of the church inJerusalem knew that by non-conformity to theceremonial law, Christians would bring uponthemselves the hatred of the Jews and exposethemselves to persecution. The Sanhedrin wasdoing its utmost to hinder the progress of thegospel. Men were chosen by this body to follow upthe apostles, especially Paul, and in

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every possible way to oppose their work. Shouldthe believers in Christ be condemned before theSanhedrin as breakers of the law, they wouldsuffer swift and severe punishment as apostatesfrom the Jewish faith.

Many of the Jews who had accepted the gospelstill cherished a regard for the ceremonial law andwere only too willing to make unwise concessions,hoping thus to gain the confidence of theircountrymen, to remove their prejudice, and to winthem to faith in Christ as the world's Redeemer.Paul realized that so long as many of the leadingmembers of the church at Jerusalem shouldcontinue to cherish prejudice against him, theywould work constantly to counteract his influence.He felt that if by any reasonable concession hecould win them to the truth he would remove agreat obstacle to the success of the gospel inother places. But he was not authorized of God toconcede as much as they asked.

When we think of Paul's great desire to be inharmony with his brethren, his tenderness toward

the weak in the faith, his reverence for theapostles who had been with Christ, and for James,the brother of the Lord, and his purpose tobecome all things to all men so far as he couldwithout sacrificing principle--when we think of allthis, it is less surprising that he was constrained todeviate from the firm, decided course that he hadhitherto followed. But instead of accomplishing thedesired object, his efforts for conciliation onlyprecipitated the crisis, hastened his predictedsufferings, and resulted in separating him from hisbrethren,

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depriving the church of one of its strongest pillars,and bringing sorrow to Christian hearts in everyland.

On the following day Paul began to carry outthe counsel of the elders. The four men who wereunder the Nazarite vow (Numbers 6), the term ofwhich had nearly expired, were taken by Paul into

the temple, "to signify the accomplishment of thedays of purification, until that an offering should beoffered for every one of them." Certain costlysacrifices for purification were yet to be offered.

Those who advised Paul to take this step hadnot fully considered the great peril to which hewould thus be exposed. At this season, Jerusalemwas filled with worshipers from many lands. As, infulfillment of the commission given him by God,Paul had borne the gospel to the Gentiles, he hadvisited many of the world's largest cities, and hewas well known to thousands who from foreignparts had come to Jerusalem to attend the feast.Among these were men whose hearts were filledwith bitter hatred for Paul, and for him to enter thetemple on a public occasion was to risk his life.For several days he passed in and out among theworshipers, apparently unnoticed; but before theclose of the specified period, as he was talkingwith a priest concerning the sacrifices to beoffered, he was recognized by some of the Jewsfrom Asia.

With the fury of demons they rushed upon him,crying, "Men of Israel, help: This is the man, thatteacheth all men everywhere against the people,and the law, and this place." And as the peopleresponded to the call for help,

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another accusation was added--"and furtherbrought Greeks also into the temple, and hathpolluted this holy place."

By the Jewish law it was a crime punishablewith death for an uncircumcised person to enterthe inner courts of the sacred edifice. Paul hadbeen seen in the city in company with Trophimus,an Ephesian, and it was conjectured that he hadbrought him into the temple. This he had not done;and being himself a Jew, his act in entering thetemple was no violation of the law. But though thecharge was wholly false, it served to arouse thepopular prejudice. As the cry was taken up andborne through the temple courts, the throngs

gathered there were thrown into wild excitement.The news quickly spread through Jerusalem, "andall the city was moved, and the people rantogether."

That an apostate from Israel should presume toprofane the temple at the very time whenthousands had come there from all parts of theworld to worship, excited the fiercest passions ofthe mob. "They took Paul, and drew him out of thetemple: and forthwith the doors were shut."

"As they went about to kill him, tidings cameunto the chief captain of the band, that allJerusalem was in an uproar." Claudius Lysias wellknew the turbulent elements with which he had todeal, and he "immediately took soldiers andcenturions, and ran down unto them: and whenthey saw the chief captain and the soldiers, theyleft beating of Paul." Ignorant of the cause of thetumult, but seeing that the rage of the multitudewas directed against Paul, the Roman captainconcluded that he must be a certain Egyptian

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rebel of whom he had heard, who had thus farescaped capture. He therefore "took him, andcommanded him to be bound with two chains; anddemanded who he was, and what he had done."At once many voices were raised in loud andangry accusation; "some cried one thing, someanother, among the multitude: and when he couldnot know the certainty for the tumult, hecommanded him to be carried into the castle. Andwhen he came upon the stairs, so it was, that hewas borne of the soldiers for the violence of thepeople. For the multitude of the people followedafter, crying, Away with him."

In the midst of the tumult the apostle was calmand self-possessed. His mind was stayed uponGod, and he knew that angels of heaven wereabout him. He felt unwilling to leave the templewithout making an effort to set the truth before hiscountrymen. As he was about to be led into thecastle he said to the chief captain, "May I speak

unto thee?" Lysias responded, "Canst thou speakGreek? Art not thou that Egyptian, which beforethese days madest an uproar, and leddest out intothe wilderness four thousand men that weremurderers?" In reply Paul said, "I am a man whicham a Jew of Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, a citizen of nomean city: and, I beseech thee, suffer me to speakunto the people."

The request was granted, and "Paul stood onthe stairs, and beckoned with the hand unto thepeople." The gesture attracted their attention,while his bearing commanded respect. "And whenthere was made a great silence, he spake untothem in the Hebrew tongue, saying, Men,brethren, and

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fathers, hear ye my defense which I make nowunto you." At the sound of the familiar Hebrewwords, "they kept the more silence," and in theuniversal hush he continued:

"I am verily a man which am a Jew, born inTarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this cityat the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to theperfect manner of the law of the fathers, and waszealous toward God, as ye all are this day." Nonecould deny the apostle's statements, as the factsthat he referred to were well known to many whowere still living in Jerusalem. He then spoke of hisformer zeal in persecuting the disciples of Christ,even unto death; and he narrated thecircumstances of his conversion, telling hishearers how his own proud heart had been led tobow to the crucified Nazarene. Had he attemptedto enter into argument with his opponents, theywould have stubbornly refused to listen to hiswords; but the relation of his experience wasattended with a convincing power that for the timeseemed to soften and subdue their hearts.

He then endeavored to show that his workamong the Gentiles had not been entered uponfrom choice. He had desired to labor for his ownnation; but in that very temple the voice of God

had spoken to him in holy vision, directing hiscourse "far hence unto the Gentiles." Hithertothe people had listened with close attention, butwhen Paul reached the point in his history wherehe was appointed Christ's ambassador to theGentiles, their fury broke forth anew. Accustomedto look upon themselves as the only peoplefavored by God, they were unwilling to

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permit the despised Gentiles to share theprivileges which had hitherto been regarded asexclusively their own. Lifting their voices above thevoice of the speaker, they cried, "Away with such afellow from the earth: for it is not fit that he shouldlive."

"As they cried out, and cast off their clothes,and threw dust into the air, the chief captaincommanded him to be brought into the castle, andbade that he should be examined by scourging;

that he might know wherefore they cried soagainst him.

"And as they bound him with thongs, Paul saidunto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for youto scourge a man that is a Roman, anduncondemned? When the centurion heard that, hewent and told the chief captain, saying, Take heedwhat thou doest: for this man is a Roman. Thenthe chief captain came, and said unto him, Tellme, art thou a Roman? He said, Yea. And thechief captain answered, With a great sum obtainedI this freedom. And Paul said, But I was freeborn.Then straightway they departed from him whichshould have examined him: and the chief captainalso was afraid, after he knew that he was aRoman, and because he had bound him.

"On the morrow, because he would haveknown the certainty wherefore he was accused ofthe Jews, he loosed him from his bands, andcommanded the chief priests and all their councilto appear, and brought Paul down, and set himbefore them."

The apostle was now to be tried by the sametribunal of which he himself had been a memberbefore his conversion.

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As he stood before the Jewish rulers, his bearingwas calm, and his countenance revealed thepeace of Christ. "Earnestly beholding the council,"he said, "Men and brethren, I have lived in all goodconscience before God until this day." Uponhearing these words, their hatred was kindledafresh; "and the high priest Ananias commandedthem that stood by him to smite him on themouth." At this inhuman command, Paulexclaimed, "God shall smite thee, thou whited wall:for sittest thou to judge me after the law, andcommandest me to be smitten contrary to thelaw?" "They that stood by said, Revilest thouGod's high priest?" With his usual courtesy Paulanswered, "I wist not, brethren, that he was thehigh priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not speakevil of the ruler of thy people. "But when Paul

perceived that the one part were Sadducees, andthe other Pharisees, he cried out in the council,Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of aPharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the deadI am called in question.

"And when he had so said, there arose adissension between the Pharisees and theSadducees: and the multitude was divided. For theSadducees say that there is no resurrection,neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confessboth." The two parties began to dispute betweenthemselves, and thus the strength of theiropposition against Paul was broken. "The scribesthat were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove,saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit oran angel hath spoken to him, let us not fightagainst God."

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In the confusion that followed, the Sadduceeswere eagerly striving to gain possession of theapostle, that they might put him to death; and thePharisees were as eager in striving to protect him."The chief captain, fearing lest Paul should havebeen pulled in pieces of them, commanded thesoldiers to go down, and to take him by force fromamong them, and to bring him into the castle."

Later, while reflecting on the trying experiencesof the day, Paul began to fear that his coursemight not have been pleasing to God. Could it bethat he had made a mistake after all in visitingJerusalem? Had his great desire to be in unionwith his brethren led to this disastrous result?

The position which the Jews as God'sprofessed people occupied before an unbelievingworld, caused the apostle intense anguish of spirit.How would those heathen officers look uponthem?--claiming to be worshipers of Jehovah, andassuming sacred office, yet giving themselves upto the control of blind, unreasoning anger, seekingto destroy even their brethren who dared to differ

with them in religious faith, and turning their mostsolemn deliberative council into a scene of strifeand wild confusion. Paul felt that the name of hisGod had suffered reproach in the eyes of theheathen.

And now he was in prison, and he knew thathis enemies, in their desperate malice, wouldresort to any means to put him to death. Could itbe that his work for the churches was ended andthat ravening wolves were to enter in now? Thecause of Christ was very near to Paul's heart, andwith deep anxiety he thought of the perils of thescattered

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churches, exposed as they were to thepersecutions of just such men as he hadencountered in the Sanhedrin council. In distressand discouragement he wept and prayed.

In this dark hour the Lord was not unmindful ofHis servant. He had guarded him from the

murderous throng in the temple courts; He hadbeen with him before the Sanhedrin council; Hewas with him in the fortress; and He revealedHimself to His faithful witness in response to theearnest prayers of the apostle for guidance. "Thenight following the Lord stood by him, and said, Beof good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified ofMe in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness alsoat Rome."

Paul had long looked forward to visiting Rome;he greatly desired to witness for Christ there, buthad felt that his purposes were frustrated by theenmity of the Jews. He little thought, even now,that it would be as a prisoner that he would go.

While the Lord encouraged His servant, Paul'senemies were eagerly plotting his destruction."And when it was day, certain of the Jews bandedtogether, and bound themselves under a curse,saying that they would neither eat nor drink till theyhad killed Paul. And they were more than fortywhich had made this conspiracy." Here was a fastsuch as the Lord through Isaiah had condemned--

a fast "for strife and debate, and to smite with thefist of wickedness." Isaiah 58:4.

The conspirators "came to the chief priests andelders, and said, We have bound ourselves undera great curse, that we will eat nothing until wehave slain Paul. Now therefore

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ye with the council signify to the chief captain thathe bring him down unto you tomorrow, as thoughye would inquire something more perfectlyconcerning him: and we, or ever he come near,are ready to kill him."

Instead of rebuking this cruel scheme, thepriests and rulers eagerly agreed to it. Paul hadspoken the truth when he compared Ananias to awhited sepulcher.

But God interposed to save the life of Hisservant. Paul's sister's son, hearing of the "lying inwait" of the assassins, "went and entered into thecastle, and told Paul. Then Paul called one of the

centurions unto him, and said, Bring this youngman unto the chief captain: for he hath a certainthing to tell him. So he took him, and brought himto the chief captain, and said, Paul the prisonercalled me unto him, and prayed me to bring thisyoung man unto thee, who hath something to sayunto thee."

Claudius Lysias received the youth kindly, andtaking him aside, asked, "What is that thou hast totell me?" The youth replied: "The Jews haveagreed to desire thee that thou wouldest bringdown Paul tomorrow into the council, as thoughthey would inquire somewhat of him moreperfectly. But do not thou yield unto them: for therelie in wait for him of them more than forty men,which have bound themselves with an oath, thatthey will neither eat nor drink till they have killedhim: and now are they ready, looking for a promisefrom thee."

"The chief captain then let the young mandepart, and charged him, See thou tell no manthat thou hast showed these things to me."

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Lysias at once decided to transfer Paul from hisjurisdiction to that of Felix the procurator. As apeople, the Jews were in a state of excitement andirritation, and tumults were of frequent occurrence.The continued presence of the apostle inJerusalem might lead to consequences dangerousto the city and even to the commandant himself.He therefore "called unto him two centurions,saying, Make ready two hundred soldiers to go toCaesarea, and horsemen threescore and ten, andspearmen two hundred, at the third hour of thenight; and provide them beasts, that they may setPaul on, and bring him safe unto Felix thegovernor."

No time was to be lost in sending Paul away."The soldiers, as it was commanded them, tookPaul, and brought him by night to Antipatris." Fromthat place the horsemen went on with the prisoner

to Caesarea, while the four hundred soldiersreturned to Jerusalem.

The officer in charge of the detachmentdelivered his prisoner to Felix, also presenting aletter with which he had been entrusted by thechief captain:

"Claudius Lysias unto the most excellentgovernor Felix sendeth greeting. This man wastaken of the Jews, and should have been killed ofthem: then came I with an army, and rescued him,having understood that he was a Roman. Andwhen I would have known the cause whereforethey accused him, I brought him forth into theircouncil: whom I perceived to be accused ofquestions of their law, but to have nothing laid tohis charge worthy of death or of bonds. And whenit was told me how that the Jews laid wait for theman, I sent straightway to thee, and gavecommandment

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to his accusers also to say before thee what theyhad against him. Farewell."

After reading the communication, Felix inquiredto what province the prisoner belonged, and beinginformed that he was of Cilicia, said: "I will hearthee . . . when thine accusers are also come. Andhe commanded him to be kept in Herod'sjudgment hall."

The case of Paul was not the first in which aservant of God had found among the heathen anasylum from the malice of the professed people ofJehovah. In their rage against Paul the Jews hadadded another crime to the dark catalogue whichmarked the history of that people. They had stillfurther hardened their hearts against the truth andhad rendered their doom more certain.

Few realize the full meaning of the words thatChrist spoke when, in the synagogue at Nazareth,He announced Himself as the Anointed One. Hedeclared His mission to comfort, bless, and savethe sorrowing and the sinful; and then, seeing that

pride and unbelief controlled the hearts of Hishearers, He reminded them that in time past Godhad turned away from His chosen people becauseof their unbelief and rebellion, and had manifestedHimself to those in heathen lands who had notrejected the light of heaven. The widow of Sareptaand Naaman the Syrian had lived up to all the lightthey had; hence they were accounted morerighteous than God's chosen people who hadbackslidden from Him and had sacrificed principleto convenience and worldly honor.

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Christ told the Jews at Nazareth a fearful truthwhen He declared that with backsliding Israelthere was no safety for the faithful messenger ofGod. They would not know his worth or appreciatehis labors. While the Jewish leaders professed tohave great zeal for the honor of God and the goodof Israel, they were enemies of both. By precept

and example they were leading the people fartherand farther from obedience to God--leading themwhere He could not be their defense in the day oftrouble.

The Saviour's words of reproof to the men ofNazareth applied, in the case of Paul, not only tothe unbelieving Jews, but to his own brethren inthe faith. Had the leaders in the church fullysurrendered their feeling of bitterness toward theapostle, and accepted him as one specially calledof God to bear the gospel to the Gentiles, the Lordwould have spared him to them. God had notordained that Paul's labors should so soon end,but He did not work a miracle to counteract thetrain of circumstances to which the course of theleaders in the church at Jerusalem had given rise.

The same spirit is still leading to the sameresults. A neglect to appreciate and improve theprovisions of divine grace has deprived the churchof many a blessing. How often would the Lordhave prolonged the work of some faithful minister,had his labors been appreciated! But if the church

permits the enemy of souls to pervert theunderstanding, so that they misrepresent andmisinterpret the words and acts of the servant ofChrist; if they allow themselves to stand in his wayand hinder his usefulness, the Lord

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sometimes removes from them the blessing whichHe gave.

Satan is constantly working through his agentsto dishearten and destroy those whom God haschosen to accomplish a great and good work.They may be ready to sacrifice even life itself forthe advancement of the cause of Christ, yet thegreat deceiver will suggest to their brethren doubtsconcerning them which, if entertained, wouldundermine confidence in their integrity ofcharacter, and thus cripple their usefulness. Toooften he succeeds in bringing upon them, throughtheir own brethren, such sorrow of heart that Godgraciously interposes to give His persecuted

servants rest. After the hands are folded upon thepulseless breast, when the voice of warning andencouragement is silent, then the obdurate maybe aroused to see and prize the blessings theyhave cast from them. Their death may accomplishthat which their life has failed to do.

Chap. 39 - The Trial at Caesarea

Five days after Paul's arrival at Caesarea hisaccusers came from Jerusalem, accompanied byTertullus, an orator whom they had engaged astheir counsel. The case was granted a speedyhearing. Paul was brought before the assembly,and Tertullus "began to accuse him." Judging thatflattery would have more influence upon theRoman governor than the simple statements oftruth and justice, the wily orator began his speechby praising Felix: "Seeing that by thee we enjoygreat quietness, and that very worthy deeds aredone unto his nation by thy providence, we accept

it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, withall thankfulness."

Tertullus here descended to barefacedfalsehood; for the character of Felix was base andcontemptible. It was said of him, that "in thepractice of all kinds of lust and cruelty, heexercised the power of a king with the temper of aslave."

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--Tacitus, History, ch. 5, par. 9. Those who heardTertullus knew that his flattering words wereuntrue, but their desire to secure thecondemnation of Paul was stronger than their loveof truth. In his speech, Tertullus charged Paulwith crimes which, if proved, would have resultedin his conviction for high treason against thegovernment. "We have found this man a pestilentfellow," declared the orator, "and a mover ofsedition among all the Jews throughout the world,and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes: who

also hath gone about to profane the temple."Tertullus then stated that Lysias, the commandantof the garrison at Jerusalem, had violently takenPaul from the Jews when they were about to judgehim by their ecclesiastical law, and had thusforced them to bring the matter before Felix.These statements were made with the design ofinducing the procurator to deliver Paul over to theJewish court. All the charges were vehementlysupported by the Jews present, who made noeffort to conceal their hatred of the prisoner.

Felix had sufficient penetration to read thedisposition and character of Paul's accusers. Heknew from what motive they had flattered him, andhe saw also that they had failed to substantiatetheir charges against Paul. Turning to theaccused, he beckoned to him to answer forhimself. Paul wasted no words in compliments, butsimply stated that he could the more cheerfullydefend himself before Felix, since the latter hadbeen so long a procurator, and therefore had so

good an understanding of the laws and customs ofthe Jews. Referring to the charges brought

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against him, he plainly showed that not one ofthem was true. He declared that he had caused nodisturbance in any part of Jerusalem, nor had heprofaned the sanctuary. "They neither found me inthe temple disputing with any man," he said,"neither raising up the people, neither in thesynagogues, nor in the city: neither can they provethe things whereof they now accuse me."

While confessing that "after the way which theycall heresy" he had worshiped the God of hisfathers, he asserted that he had always believed"all things which are written in the law and in theprophets;" and that in harmony with the plainteaching of the Scriptures, he held the faith of theresurrection of the dead. And he further declaredthat the ruling purpose of his life was to "have

always a conscience void of offense toward God,and toward men."

In a candid, straightforward manner he statedthe object of his visit to Jerusalem, and thecircumstances of his arrest and trial: "Now aftermany years I came to bring alms to my nation, andofferings. Whereupon certain Jews from Asiafound me purified in the temple, neither withmultitude, nor with tumult. Who ought to havebeen here before thee, and object, if they hadaught against me. Or else let these same heresay, if they have found any evil doing in me, whileI stood before the council, except it be for this onevoice, that I cried standing among them, Touchingthe resurrection of the dead I am called in questionby you this day."

The apostle spoke with earnestness andevident sincerity, and his words carried with thema weight of conviction. Claudius Lysias, in hisletter to Felix, had borne a similar

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testimony in regard to Paul's conduct. Moreover,Felix himself had a better knowledge of the Jewishreligion than many supposed. Paul's plainstatement of the facts in the case enabled Felix tounderstand still more clearly the motives by whichthe Jews were governed in attempting to convictthe apostle of sedition and treasonable conduct.The governor would not gratify them by unjustlycondemning a Roman citizen, neither would hegive him up to them to be put to death without afair trial. Yet Felix knew no higher motive than self-interest, and he was controlled by love of praiseand a desire for promotion. Fear of offending theJews held him back from doing full justice to aman whom he knew to be innocent. He thereforedecided to suspend the trial until Lysias should bepresent, saying, "When Lysias the chief captainshall come down, I will know the uttermost of yourmatter."

The apostle remained a prisoner, but Felixcommanded the centurion who had beenappointed to keep Paul, "to let him have liberty,"and to "forbid none of his acquaintance to ministeror come unto him."

It was not long after this that Felix and his wife,Drusilla, sent for Paul in order that in a privateinterview they might hear from him "concerning thefaith in Christ." They were willing and even eagerto listen to these new truths--truths which theymight never hear again and which, if rejected,would prove a swift witness against them in theday of God. Paul regarded this as a God-givenopportunity, and faithfully

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he improved it. He knew that he stood in thepresence of one who had power to put him todeath or to set him free; yet he did not addressFelix and Drusilla with praise or flattery. He knewthat his words would be to them a savor of life or

of death, and, forgetting all selfish considerations,he sought to arouse them to a sense of their peril.

The apostle realized that the gospel had aclaim upon whoever might listen to his words; thatone day they would stand either among the pureand holy around the great white throne, or withthose to whom Christ would say, "Depart from Me,ye that work iniquity." Matthew 7:23. He knew thathe must meet every one of his hearers before thetribunal of heaven and must there render anaccount, not only for all that he had said and done,but for the motive and spirit of his words anddeeds. So violent and cruel had been thecourse of Felix that few had ever before daredeven to intimate to him that his character andconduct were not faultless. But Paul had no fear ofman. He plainly declared his faith in Christ, andthe reasons for that faith, and was thus led tospeak particularly of those virtues essential toChristian character, but of which the haughty pairbefore him were so strikingly destitute.

He held up before Felix and Drusilla thecharacter of God--His righteousness, justice, andequity, and the nature of His law. He clearlyshowed that it is man's duty to live a life of sobrietyand temperance, keeping the passions under thecontrol of reason, in conformity to God's law, andpreserving the physical and mental powers in ahealthy condition.

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He declared that there would surely come a day ofjudgment when all would be rewarded accordingto the deeds done in the body, and when it wouldbe plainly revealed that wealth, position, or titlesare powerless to gain for man the favor of God orto deliver him from the results of sin. He showedthat this life is man's time of preparation for thefuture life. Should he neglect present privilegesand opportunities he would suffer an eternal loss;no new probation would be given him.

Paul dwelt especially upon the far-reachingclaims of God's law. He showed how it extends tothe deep secrets of man's moral nature and throwsa flood of light upon that which has beenconcealed from the sight and knowledge of men.What the hands may do or the tongue may utter--what the outer life reveals--but imperfectly showsman's moral character. The law searches histhoughts, motives, and purposes. The darkpassions that lie hidden from the sight of men, thejealousy, hatred, lust, and ambition, the evil deedsmeditated upon in the dark recesses of the soul,yet never executed for want of opportunity--allthese God's law condemns. Paul endeavoredto direct the minds of his hearers to the one greatSacrifice for sin. He pointed to the sacrifices thatwere shadows of good things to come, and thenpresented Christ as the antitype of all thoseceremonies--the object to which they pointed asthe only source of life and hope for fallen man.Holy men of old were saved by faith in the blood ofChrist. As they saw the dying agonies of

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the sacrificial victims they looked across the gulf ofages to the Lamb of God that was to take awaythe sin of the world.

God justly claims the love and obedience of allHis creatures. He has given them in His law aperfect standard of right. But many forget theirMaker and choose to follow their own way inopposition to His will. They return enmity for lovethat is as high as heaven and as broad as theuniverse. God cannot lower the requirements ofHis law to meet the standard of wicked men;neither can man in his own power meet thedemands of the law. Only by faith in Christ can thesinner be cleansed from guilt and be enabled torender obedience to the law of his Maker.

Thus Paul, the prisoner, urged the claims of thedivine law upon Jew and Gentile, and presentedJesus, the despised Nazarene, as the Son of God,the world's Redeemer.

The Jewish princess well understood thesacred character of that law which she had soshamelessly transgressed, but her prejudiceagainst the Man of Calvary steeled her heartagainst the word of life. But Felix had never beforelistened to the truth, and as the Spirit of God sentconviction to his soul, he became deeply agitated.Conscience, now aroused, made her voice heard,and Felix felt that Paul's words were true. Memorywent back over the guilty past. With terribledistinctness there came up before him the secretsof his early life of profligacy and bloodshed, andthe black record of his later years. He saw himselflicentious, cruel, rapacious. Never before had thetruth been thus brought home to his

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heart. Never before had his soul been so filled withterror. The thought that all the secrets of his careerof crime were open before the eye of God, andthat he must be judged according to his deeds,caused him to tremble with dread.

But instead of permitting his convictions to leadhim to repentance, he sought to dismiss theseunwelcome reflections. The interview with Paulwas cut short. "Go thy way for this time," he said;"when I have a convenient season, I will call forthee."

How wide the contrast between the course ofFelix and that of the jailer of Philippi! The servantsof the Lord were brought in bonds to the jailer, aswas Paul to Felix. The evidence they gave ofbeing sustained by a divine power, their rejoicingunder suffering and disgrace, their fearlessnesswhen the earth was reeling with the earthquakeshock, and their spirit of Christlike forgiveness,sent conviction to the jailer's heart, and withtrembling he confessed his sins and found pardon.Felix trembled, but he did not repent. The jailerjoyfully welcomed the Spirit of God to his heartand to his home; Felix bade the divine Messengerdepart. The one chose to become a child of Godand an heir of heaven; the other cast his lot withthe workers of iniquity.

For two years no further action was takenagainst Paul, yet he remained a prisoner. Felixvisited him several times and listened attentively tohis words. But the real motive for this apparentfriendliness was a desire for gain, and heintimated that by the payment of a large sum ofmoney

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Paul might secure his release. The apostle,however, was of too noble a nature to free himselfby a bribe. He was not guilty of any crime, and hewould not stoop to commit a wrong in order to gainfreedom. Furthermore, he was himself too poor topay such a ransom, had he been disposed to doso, and he would not, in his own behalf, appeal tothe sympathy and generosity of his converts. Healso felt that he was in the hands of God, and hewould not interfere with the divine purposesrespecting himself.

Felix was finally summoned to Rome becauseof gross wrongs committed against the Jews.Before leaving Caesarea in answer to thissummons, he thought to "show the Jews apleasure" by allowing Paul to remain in prison. ButFelix was not successful in his attempt to regainthe confidence of the Jews. He was removed fromoffice in disgrace, and Porcius Festus wasappointed to succeed him, with headquarters atCaesarea.

A ray of light from heaven had been permittedto shine upon Felix, when Paul reasoned with himconcerning righteousness, temperance, and ajudgment to come. That was his heaven-sentopportunity to see and to forsake his sins. But hesaid to the messenger of God, "Go thy way for thistime; when I have a convenient season, I will callfor thee." He had slighted his last offer of mercy.Never was he to receive another call from God.

Chap. 40 - Paul Appeals to Caesar

"When Festus was come into the province,after three days he ascended from Caesarea toJerusalem. Then the high priest and the chief ofthe Jews informed him against Paul, and besoughthim, and desired favor against him, that he wouldsend for him to Jerusalem." In making this requestthey purposed to waylay Paul along the road toJerusalem and murder him. But Festus had a highsense of the responsibility of his position, andcourteously declined to send for Paul. "It is not themanner of the Romans," he declared, "to deliverany man to die, before that he which is accusedhave the accusers face to face, and have licenseto answer for himself concerning the crime laidagainst him." He stated that "he himself woulddepart shortly" for Caesarea. "Let them there . . .which among you are able, go down with me, andaccuse this man, if there be any wickedness inhim."

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This was not what the Jews wanted. They hadnot forgotten their former defeat at Caesarea. Incontrast with the calm bearing and forciblearguments of the apostle, their own malignantspirit and baseless accusations would appear inthe worst possible light. Again they urged that Paulbe brought to Jerusalem for trial, but Festus heldfirmly to his purpose of giving Paul a fair trial atCaesarea. God in His providence controlled thedecision of Festus, that the life of the apostlemight be lengthened.

Their purposes defeated, the Jewish leaders atonce prepared to witness against Paul at the courtof the procurator. Upon returning to Caesarea,after a few days' sojourn at Jerusalem, Festus "thenext day sitting on the judgment seat commandedPaul to be brought." "The Jews which came downfrom Jerusalem stood round about, and laid manyand grievous complaints against Paul, which theycould not prove." Being on this occasion without alawyer, the Jews preferred their charges

themselves. As the trial proceeded, the accusedwith calmness and candor clearly showed thefalsity of their statements.

Festus discerned that the question in disputerelated wholly to Jewish doctrines, and that, rightlyunderstood, there was nothing in the chargesagainst Paul, could they be proved, that wouldrender him subject to sentence of death, or evento imprisonment. Yet he saw clearly the storm ofrage that would be created if Paul were notcondemned or delivered into their hands. And so,"willing to do the Jews a pleasure," Festus turnedto Paul, and asked if he

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was willing to go to Jerusalem under hisprotection, to be tried by the Sanhedrin.

The apostle knew that he could not look forjustice from the people who by their crimes werebringing down upon themselves the wrath of God.He knew that, like the prophet Elijah, he would be

safer among the heathen than with those who hadrejected light from heaven and hardened theirhearts against the gospel. Weary of strife, hisactive spirit could ill endure the repeated delaysand wearing suspense of his trial andimprisonment. He therefore decided to exercisehis privilege, as a Roman citizen, of appealing toCaesar.

In answer to the governor's question, Paul said:"I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I oughtto be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong,as thou very well knowest. For if I be an offender,or have committed anything worthy of death, Irefuse not to die: but if there be none of thesethings whereof these accuse me, no man maydeliver me unto them. I appeal unto Caesar."

Festus knew nothing of the conspiracies of theJews to murder Paul, and he was surprised at thisappeal to Caesar. However, the words of theapostle put a stop to the proceedings of the court."Festus, when he had conferred with the council,

answered, Hast thou appealed unto Caesar? untoCaesar shalt thou go."

Thus it was that once more, because of hatredborn of bigotry and self-righteousness, a servantof God was driven to turn for protection to theheathen. It was this same hatred that forced theprophet Elijah to flee for succor to the widow

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of Sarepta; and that forced the heralds of thegospel to turn from the Jews to proclaim theirmessage to the Gentiles. And this hatred thepeople of God living in this age have yet to meet.Among many of the professing followers of Christthere is the same pride, formalism, andselfishness, the same spirit of oppression, thatheld so large a place in the Jewish heart. In thefuture, men claiming to be Christ's representativeswill take a course similar to that followed by thepriests and rulers in their treatment of Christ andthe apostles. In the great crisis through which they

are soon to pass, the faithful servants of God willencounter the same hardness of heart, the samecruel determination, the same unyielding hatred.

All who in that evil day would fearlessly serveGod according to the dictates of conscience, willneed courage, firmness, and a knowledge of Godand His word; for those who are true to God will bepersecuted, their motives will be impugned, theirbest efforts misinterpreted, and their names castout as evil. Satan will work with all his deceptivepower to influence the heart and becloud theunderstanding, to make evil appear good, andgood evil. The stronger and purer the faith ofGod's people, and the firmer their determination toobey Him, the more fiercely will Satan strive to stirup against them the rage of those who, whileclaiming to be righteous, trample upon the law ofGod. It will require the firmest trust, the mostheroic purpose, to hold fast the faith oncedelivered to the saints.

God desires His people to prepare for thesoon-coming

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crisis. Prepared or unprepared, they must all meetit; and those only who have brought their lives intoconformity to the divine standard, will stand firm atthat time of test and trial. When secular rulersunite with ministers of religion to dictate in mattersof conscience, then it will be seen who really fearand serve God. When the darkness is deepest,the light of a godlike character will shine thebrightest. When every other trust fails, then it willbe seen who have an abiding trust in Jehovah.And while the enemies of truth are on every side,watching the Lord's servants for evil, God willwatch over them for good. He will be to them asthe shadow of a great rock in a weary land.

Chap. 41 - "Almost Thou Persuadest Me"

Paul had appealed to Caesar, and Festuscould not do otherwise than send him to Rome.But some time passed before a suitable ship could

be found; and as other prisoners were to be sentwith Paul, the consideration of their cases alsooccasioned delay. This gave Paul opportunity topresent the reasons of his faith before the principalmen of Caesarea, and also before King Agrippa II,the last of the Herods.

"After certain days King Agrippa and Bernicecame unto Caesarea to salute Festus. And whenthey had been there many days, Festus declaredPaul's cause unto the king, saying, There is acertain man left in bonds by Felix: about whom,when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and theelders of the Jews informed me, desiring to havejudgment against him." He outlined thecircumstances that led to the prisoner's appeal toCaesar, telling of Paul's recent trial before him,and saying that the Jews had brought against

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Paul no accusation such as he had supposed theywould bring, but "certain questions . . . of their own

superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead,whom Paul affirmed to be alive."

As Festus told his story, Agrippa becameinterested and said, "I would also hear the manmyself." In harmony with his wish, a meeting wasarranged for the following day. "And on themorrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice,with great pomp, and was entered into the place ofhearing, with the chief captains, and principal menof the city, at Festus' commandment Paul wasbrought forth."

In honor of his visitors, Festus had sought tomake this an occasion of imposing display. Therich robes of the procurator and his guests, theswords of the soldiers, and the gleaming armor oftheir commanders, lent brilliancy to the scene.

And now Paul, still manacled, stood before theassembled company. What a contrast was herepresented! Agrippa and Bernice possessed powerand position, and because of this they werefavored by the world. But they were destitute of

the traits of character that God esteems. Theywere transgressors of His law, corrupt in heart andlife. Their course of action was abhorred byheaven.

The aged prisoner, chained to his soldierguard, had in his appearance nothing that wouldlead the world to pay him homage. Yet in this man,apparently without friends or wealth or position,and held a prisoner for his faith in the Son of God,all heaven was interested. Angels were hisattendants. Had the glory of one of those shiningmessengers

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flashed forth, the pomp and pride of royalty wouldhave paled; king and courtiers would have beenstricken to the earth, as were the Roman guards atthe sepulcher of Christ.

Festus himself presented Paul to the assemblywith the words: "King Agrippa, and all men whichare here present with us, ye see this man, about

whom all the multitude of the Jews have dealt withme, both at Jerusalem, and also here, crying thathe ought not to live any longer. But when I foundthat he had committed nothing worthy of death,and that he himself hath appealed to Augustus, Ihave determined to send him. Of whom I have nocertain thing to write unto my lord. Wherefore Ihave brought him forth before you, and speciallybefore thee, O King Agrippa, that, afterexamination had, I might have somewhat to write.For it seemeth to me unreasonable to send aprisoner, and not withal to signify the crimes laidagainst him."

King Agrippa now gave Paul liberty to speak forhimself. The apostle was not disconcerted by thebrilliant display or the high rank of his audience;for he knew of how little worth are worldly wealthand position. Earthly pomp and power could notfor a moment daunt his courage or rob him of hisself-control.

"I think myself happy, King Agrippa," hedeclared, "because I shall answer for myself this

day before thee touching all the things whereof Iam accused of the Jews: especially because Iknow thee to be expert in all customs andquestions which are among the Jews: wherefore Ibeseech thee to hear me patiently."

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Paul related the story of his conversion fromstubborn unbelief to faith in Jesus of Nazareth asthe world's Redeemer. He described the heavenlyvision that at first had filled him with unspeakableterror, but afterward proved to be a source of thegreatest consolation--a revelation of divine glory,in the midst of which sat enthroned He whom hehad despised and hated, whose followers he waseven then seeking to destroy. From that hour Paulhad been a new man, a sincere and ferventbeliever in Jesus, made such by transformingmercy.

With clearness and power Paul outlined beforeAgrippa the leading events connected with the lifeof Christ on earth. He testified that the Messiah ofprophecy had already appeared in the person ofJesus of Nazareth. He showed how the OldTestament Scriptures had declared that theMessiah was to appear as a man among men, andhow in the life of Jesus had been fulfilled everyspecification outlined by Moses and the prophets.For the purpose of redeeming a lost world, thedivine Son of God had endured the cross,despising the shame, and had ascended toheaven triumphant over death and the grave.

Why, Paul reasoned, should it seem incrediblethat Christ should rise from the dead? Once it hadthus seemed to him, but how could he disbelievethat which he himself had seen and heard? At thegate of Damascus he had verily looked upon thecrucified and risen Christ, the same who hadwalked the streets of Jerusalem, died on Calvary,broken the bands of death, and ascended to

heaven. As verily as had Cephas, James, John, orany others of the disciples, he

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had seen and talked with Him. The Voice hadbidden him proclaim the gospel of a risen Saviour,and how could he disobey? In Damascus, inJerusalem, throughout all Judea, and in theregions afar off, he had borne witness of Jesus theCrucified, showing all classes "that they shouldrepent and turn to God, and do works meet forrepentance.

"For these causes," the apostle declared, "theJews caught me in the temple, and went about tokill me. Having therefore obtained help of God, Icontinue unto this day, witnessing both to smalland great, saying none other things than thosewhich the prophets and Moses did say shouldcome: that Christ should suffer, and that Heshould be the first that should rise from the dead,

and should show light unto the people, and to theGentiles."

The whole company had listened spellbound toPaul's account of his wonderful experiences. Theapostle was dwelling upon his favorite theme.None who heard him could doubt his sincerity. Butin the full tide of his persuasive eloquence he wasinterrupted by Festus, who cried out, "Paul, thouart beside thyself; much learning doth make theemad."

The apostle replied, "I am not mad, most nobleFestus; but speak forth the words of truth andsoberness. For the king knoweth of these things,before whom also I speak freely: for I ampersuaded that none of these thing are hiddenfrom him; for this thing was not done in a corner."Then, turning to Agrippa, he addressed himdirectly, "King Agrippa, believest thou theprophets? I know that thou believest."

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Deeply affected, Agrippa for the moment lostsight of his surroundings and the dignity of hisposition. Conscious only of the truths which hehad heard, seeing only the humble prisonerstanding before him as God's ambassador, heanswered involuntarily, "Almost thou persuadestme to be a Christian."

Earnestly the apostle made answer, "I would toGod, that not only thou, but also all that hear methis day, were both almost, and altogether such asI am," adding, as he raised his fettered hands,"except these bonds."

Festus, Agrippa, and Bernice might in justicehave worn the fetters that bound the apostle. Allwere guilty of grievous crimes. These offendershad that day heard the offer of salvation throughthe name of Christ. One, at least, had been almostpersuaded to accept the grace and pardonoffered. But Agrippa put aside the proffered mercy,

refusing to accept the cross of a crucifiedRedeemer.

The king's curiosity was satisfied, and, risingfrom his seat, he signified that the interview was atan end. As the assembly dispersed, they talkedamong themselves, saying, "This man doethnothing worthy of death or of bonds."

Though Agrippa was a Jew, he did not sharethe bigoted zeal and blind prejudice of thePharisees. "This man," he said to Festus, "mighthave been set at liberty, if he had not appealedunto Caesar." But the case had been referred tothat higher tribunal, and it was now beyond thejurisdiction of either Festus or Agrippa.

Chap. 42 - The Voyage and Shipwreck

At last Paul was on his way to Rome. "When itwas determined," Luke writes, "that we should sailinto Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other

prisoners unto one named Julius, a centurion ofAugustus' band. And entering into a ship ofAdramyttium, we launched, meaning to sail by thecoasts of Asia; one Aristarchus, a Macedonian ofThessalonica, being with us."

In the first century of the Christian Era travelingby sea was attended with peculiar hardship andperil. Mariners directed their course largely by theposition of the sun and stars; and when these didnot appear, and there were indications of storm,the owners of vessels were fearful of venturinginto the open sea. During a portion of the year,safe navigation was almost impossible.

The apostle Paul was now called upon toendure the trying experiences that would fall to hislot as a prisoner in chains during the long andtedious voyage to Italy. One

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circumstance greatly lightened the hardship of hislot--he was permitted the companionship of Luke

and Aristarchus. In his letter to the Colossians heafterward referred to the latter as his "fellowprisoner" (Colossians 4:10); but it was from choicethat Aristarchus shared Paul's bondage, that hemight minister to him in his afflictions.

The voyage began prosperously. The followingday they cast anchor in the harbor of Sidon. HereJulius, the centurion, "courteously entreated Paul,"and being informed that there were Christians inthe place, "gave him liberty to go unto his friendsto refresh himself." This permission was greatlyappreciated by the apostle, who was in feeblehealth.

Upon leaving Sidon, the ship encounteredcontrary winds; and being driven from a directcourse, its progress was slow. At Myra, in theprovince of Lycia, the centurion found a largeAlexandrian ship, bound for the coast of Italy, andto this he immediately transferred his prisoners.But the winds were still contrary, and the ship'sprogress was difficult. Luke writes, "When we hadsailed slowly many days, and scarce were come

over against Cnidus, the wind not suffering us, wesailed under Crete, over against Salmone; and,hardly passing it, came unto a place which iscalled the Fair Havens."

At Fair Havens they were compelled to remainfor some time, waiting for favoring winds. Winterwas approaching rapidly; "sailing was nowdangerous;" and those in charge of the vessel hadto give up hope of reaching their destinationbefore the season for travel by sea should be

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closed for the year. The only question now to bedecided was, whether to remain at Fair Havens, orattempt to reach a more favorable place in whichto winter.

This question was earnestly discussed, andwas finally referred by the centurion to Paul, whohad won the respect of both sailors and soldiers.The apostle unhesitatingly advised remainingwhere they were. "I perceive," he said, "that this

voyage will be with hurt and much damage, notonly of the lading and ship, but also of our lives."But "the master and the owner of the ship," andthe majority of passengers and crew, wereunwilling to accept this counsel. Because thehaven in which they had anchored "was notcommodious to winter in, the more part advised todepart thence also, if by any means they mightattain to Phenice, and there to winter; which is anhaven of Crete, and lieth toward the southwestand northwest."

The centurion decided to follow the judgment ofthe majority. Accordingly, "when the south windblew softly," they set sail from Fair Havens, in thehope that they would soon reach the desiredharbor. "But not long after there arose . . . atempestuous wind;" "the ship was caught, andcould not bear up into the wind."

Driven by the tempest, the vessel neared thesmall island of Clauda, and while under its shelterthe sailors made ready for the worst. The lifeboat,their only means of escape in case the ship should

founder, was in tow and liable to be dashed inpieces any moment. Their first work was to hoistthis boat on board. All possible precautions werethen

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taken to strengthen the ship and prepare it towithstand the tempest. The scant protectionafforded by the little island did not avail them long,and soon they were again exposed to the fullviolence of the storm.

All night the tempest raged, andnotwithstanding the precautions that had beentaken, the vessel leaked. "The next day theylightened the ship." Night came again, but the winddid not abate. The storm-beaten ship, with itsshattered mast and rent sails, was tossed hitherand thither by the fury of the gale. Every moment itseemed that the groaning timbers must give wayas the vessel reeled and quivered under thetempest's shock. The leak increased rapidly, and

passengers and crew worked continually at thepumps. There was not a moment's rest for any onboard. "The third day," writes Luke, "we cast outwith our own hands the tackling of the ship. Andwhen neither sun nor stars in many daysappeared, and no small tempest lay on us, allhope that we should be saved was then takenaway."

For fourteen days they drifted under a sunlessand starless heaven. The apostle, though himselfsuffering physically, had words of hope for thedarkest hour, a helping hand in every emergency.He grasped by faith the arm of Infinite Power, andhis heart was stayed upon God. He had no fearsfor himself; he knew that God would preserve himto witness at Rome for the truth of Christ. But hisheart yearned with pity for the poor souls aroundhim, sinful, degraded, and unprepared to die. Ashe earnestly pleaded with God to spare their lives,it was revealed to him that his prayer was granted.

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Taking advantage of a lull in the tempest, Paulstood forth on the deck and, lifting up his voice,said: "Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me,and not have loosed from Crete, and to havegained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you tobe of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of anyman's life among you, but of the ship. For therestood by me this night the angel of God, whose Iam, and whom I serve, saying, Fear not, Paul;thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, Godhath given thee all them that sail with thee.Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believeGod, that it shall be even as it was told me.Howbeit we must be cast upon a certain island."

At these words, hope revived. Passengers andcrew roused from their apathy. There was muchyet to be done, and every effort within their powermust be put forth to avert destruction.

It was on the fourteenth night of tossing on theblack, heaving billows, that "about midnight" the

sailors, hearing the sound of breakers, "deemedthat they drew near to some country; andsounded, and found it twenty fathoms: and whenthey had gone a little further, they sounded again,and found it fifteen fathoms. Then fearing," Lukewrites, "lest we should have fallen upon rocks,they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wishedfor the day."

At break of day the outlines of the stormy coastwere dimly visible, but no familiar landmarks couldbe seen. So gloomy was the outlook that theheathen sailors, losing all courage, "were about toflee out of the ship," and feigning to makepreparations for casting "anchors out of the

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foreship," they had already let down the lifeboat,when Paul, perceiving their base design, said tothe centurion and the soldiers, "Except theseabide in the ship, ye cannot be saved." The

soldiers immediately "cut off the ropes of the boat,and let her fall off" into the sea.

The most critical hour was still before them.Again the apostle spoke words of encouragement,and entreated all, both sailors and passengers, totake some food, saying, "This day is the fourteenthday that ye have tarried and continued fasting,having taken nothing. Wherefore I pray you to takesome meat: for this is for your health: for thereshall not a hair fall from the head of any of you."

"When he had thus spoken, he took bread, andgave thanks to God in presence of them all: andwhen he had broken it, he began to eat." Then thatworn and discouraged company of two hundredand seventy-five souls, who but for Paul wouldhave become desperate, joined with the apostle inpartaking of food. "And when they had eatenenough, they lightened the ship, and cast out thewheat into the sea."

Daylight had now fully come, but they couldsee nothing by which to determine their

whereabouts. However, "they discovered a certaincreek with a shore, into the which they wereminded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.And when they had taken up the anchors, theycommitted themselves unto the sea, and loosedthe rudder bands, and hoisted up the mainsail tothe wind, and made toward shore. And falling intoa place where two seas met, they ran the shipaground; and the fore part stuck fast, andremained unmovable,

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but the hinder part was broken with the violence ofthe waves."

Paul and the other prisoners were nowthreatened by a fate more terrible than shipwreck.The soldiers saw that while endeavoring to reachland it would be impossible for them to keep theirprisoners in charge. Every man would have all hecould do to save himself. Yet if any of theprisoners were missing, the lives of those who

were responsible for them would be forfeited.Hence the soldiers desired to put all the prisonersto death. The Roman law sanctioned this cruelpolicy, and the plan would have been executed atonce, but for him to whom all alike were underdeep obligation. Julius the centurion knew thatPaul had been instrumental in saving the lives ofall on board, and, moreover, convinced that theLord was with him, he feared to do him harm. Hetherefore "commanded that they which could swimshould cast themselves first into the sea, and getto land: and the rest, some on boards, and someon broken pieces of the ship. And so it came topass, that they escaped all safe to land." When theroll was called, not one was missing.

The shipwrecked crew were kindly received bythe barbarous people of Melita. "They kindled afire," Luke writes, "and received us everyone,because of the present rain, and because of thecold." Paul was among those who were active inministering to the comfort of others. Havinggathered "a bundle of sticks," he "laid them on the

fire," when a viper came forth "out of the heat, andfastened on his hand." The bystanders werehorror-stricken; and seeing

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by his chain that Paul was a prisoner, they said toone another, "No doubt this man is a murderer,whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yetvengeance suffereth not to live." But Paul shookoff the creature into the fire and felt no harm.Knowing its venomous nature, the people lookedfor him to fall down at any moment in terribleagony. "But after they had looked a great while,and saw no harm come to him, they changed theirminds, and said that he was a god."

During the three months that the ship'scompany remained at Melita, Paul and his fellowlaborers improved many opportunities to preachthe gospel. In a remarkable manner the Lordwrought through them. For Paul's sake the entireshipwrecked company were treated with great

kindness; all their wants were supplied, and uponleaving Melita they were liberally provided witheverything needful for their voyage. The chiefincidents of their stay are thus briefly related byLuke:

"In the same quarters were possessions of thechief man of the island, whose name was Publius;who received us, and lodged us three dayscourteously. And it came to pass, that the father ofPublius lay sick of a fever and of a bloody flux: towhom Paul entered in, and prayed, and laid hishands on him, and healed him. So when this wasdone, others also, which had diseases in theisland, came, and were healed: who also honoredus with many honors; and when we departed, theyladed us with such things as were necessary."

Chap. 43 - In Rome

With the opening of navigation, the centurionand his prisoners set out on their journey to Rome.

An Alexandrian ship, the "Castor and Pollux," hadwintered at Melita on her way westward, and inthis the travelers embarked. Though somewhatdelayed by contrary winds, the voyage was safelyaccomplished, and the ship cast anchor in thebeautiful harbor of Puteoli, on the coast of Italy.

In this place there were a few Christians, andthey entreated the apostle to remain with them forseven days, a privilege kindly granted by thecenturion. Since receiving Paul's epistle to theRomans, the Christians of Italy had eagerly lookedforward to a visit from the apostle. They had notthought to see him come as a prisoner, but hissufferings only endeared him to them the more.The distance from Puteoli to Rome being but ahundred and forty miles, and the seaport being inconstant communication with the metropolis, theRoman Christians were informed of Paul's

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approach, and some of them started to meet andwelcome him. On the eighth day after landing,the centurion and his prisoners set out for Rome.Julius willingly granted the apostle every favorwhich it was in his power to bestow; but he couldnot change his condition as a prisoner, or releasehim from the chain that bound him to his soldierguard. It was with a heavy heart that Paul wentforward to his long-expected visit to the world'smetropolis. How different the circumstances fromthose he had anticipated! How was he, fetteredand stigmatized, to proclaim the gospel? Hishopes of winning many souls to the truth in Rome,seemed destined to disappointment.

At last the travelers reach Appii Forum, fortymiles from Rome. As they make their way throughthe crowds that throng the great thoroughfare, thegray-haired old man, chained with a group ofhardened-looking criminals, receives many aglance of scorn and is made the subject of many arude, mocking jest.

Suddenly a cry of joy is heard, and a mansprings from the passing throng and falls upon theprisoner's neck, embracing him with tears andrejoicing, as a son would welcome a long-absentfather. Again and again is the scene repeated as,with eyes made keen by loving expectation, manydiscern in the chained captive the one who atCorinth, at Philippi, at Ephesus, had spoken tothem the words of life.

As the warmhearted disciples eagerly flockaround their father in the gospel, the wholecompany is brought to a

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standstill. The soldiers are impatient of delay, yetthey have not the heart to interrupt this happymeeting; for they, too, have learned to respect andesteem their prisoner. In that worn, pain-strickenface, the disciples see reflected the image ofChrist. They assure Paul that they have notforgotten him nor ceased to love him; that they are

indebted to him for the joyful hope which animatestheir lives and gives them peace toward God. Inthe ardor of their love they would bear him upontheir shoulders the whole way to the city, couldthey but have the privilege.

Few realize the significance of those words ofLuke, that when Paul saw his brethren, "hethanked God, and took courage." In the midst ofthe weeping, sympathizing company of believers,who were not ashamed of his bonds, the apostlepraised God aloud. The cloud of sadness that hadrested upon his spirit was swept away. HisChristian life had been a succession of trials,sufferings, and disappointments, but in that hourhe felt abundantly repaid. With firmer step andjoyful heart he continued on his way. He would notcomplain of the past, nor fear for the future. Bondsand afflictions awaited him, he knew; but he knewalso that it had been his to deliver souls from abondage infinitely more terrible, and he rejoiced inhis sufferings for Christ's sake.

At Rome the centurion Julius delivered up hisprisoners to the captain of the emperor's guard.The good account which he gave of Paul, togetherwith the letter from Festus, caused the apostle tobe favorably regarded by the chief

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captain, and, instead of being thrown into prison,he was permitted to live in his own hired house.Although still constantly chained to a soldier, hewas at liberty to receive his friends and to labor forthe advancement of the cause of Christ.

Many of the Jews who had been banished fromRome some years previously, had been allowed toreturn, so that large numbers were now to befound there. To these, first of all, Paul determinedto present the facts concerning himself and hiswork, before his enemies should have opportunityto embitter them against him. Three days after hisarrival in Rome, therefore, he called together their

leading men and in a simple, direct manner statedwhy he had come to Rome as a prisoner.

"Men and brethren," he said, "though I havecommitted nothing against the people, or customsof our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner fromJerusalem into the hands of the Romans. Who,when they had examined me, would have let mego, because there was no cause of death in me.But when the Jews spake against it, I wasconstrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I hadaught to accuse my nation of. For this causetherefore have I called for you, to see you, and tospeak with you: because that for the hope of IsraelI am bound with this chain." He said nothing ofthe abuse which he had suffered at the hands ofthe Jews, or of their repeated plots to assassinatehim. His words were marked with caution andkindness. He was not seeking to win personalattention or sympathy, but to defend the truth andto maintain the honor of the gospel.

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In reply, his hearers stated that they hadreceived no charges against him by letters publicor private, and that none of the Jews who hadcome to Rome had accused him of any crime.They also expressed a strong desire to hear forthemselves the reasons of his faith in Christ. "Asconcerning this sect," they said, "we know thateverywhere it is spoken against."

Since they themselves desired it, Paul badethem set a day when he could present to them thetruths of the gospel. At the time appointed, manycame together, "to whom he expounded andtestified the kingdom of God, persuading themconcerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses,and out of the prophets, from morning till evening."He related his own experience, and presentedarguments from the Old Testament Scriptures withsimplicity, sincerity, and power.

The apostle showed that religion does notconsist in rites and ceremonies, creeds and

theories. If it did, the natural man couldunderstand it by investigation, as he understandsworldly things. Paul taught that religion is apractical, saving energy, a principle wholly fromGod, a personal experience of God's renewingpower upon the soul.

He showed how Moses had pointed Israelforward to Christ as that Prophet whom they wereto hear; how all the prophets had testified of Himas God's great remedy for sin, the guiltless Onewho was to bear the sins of the guilty. He did notfind fault with their observance of forms andceremonies, but showed that while they

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maintained the ritual service with great exactness,they were rejecting Him who was the antitype of allthat system.

Paul declared that in his unconverted state hehad known Christ, not by personal acquaintance,but merely by the conception which he, in common

with others, cherished concerning the characterand work of the Messiah to come. He had rejectedJesus of Nazareth as an impostor because He didnot fulfill this conception. But now Paul's views ofChrist and His mission were far more spiritual andexalted, for he had been converted. The apostleasserted that he did not present to them Christafter the flesh. Herod had seen Christ in the daysof His humanity; Annas had seen Him; Pilate andthe priests and rulers had seen Him; the Romansoldiers had seen Him. But they had not seen Himwith the eye of faith; they had not seen Him as theglorified Redeemer. To apprehend Christ by faith,to have a spiritual knowledge of Him, was more tobe desired than a personal acquaintance with Himas He appeared on the earth. The communionwith Christ which Paul now enjoyed was moreintimate, more enduring, than a mere earthly andhuman companionship.

As Paul spoke of what he knew, and testified ofwhat he had seen, concerning Jesus of Nazarethas the hope of Israel, those who were honestly

seeking for truth were convinced. Upon someminds, at least, his words made an impression thatwas never effaced. But others stubbornly refusedto accept the plain testimony of the Scriptures,even when presented to them by one who had thespecial illumination of the Holy Spirit. They couldnot refute

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his arguments, but they refused to accept hisconclusions.

Many months passed by after Paul's arrival inRome, before the Jews of Jerusalem appeared inperson to present their accusations against theprisoner. They had been repeatedly thwarted intheir designs; and now that Paul was to be triedbefore the highest tribunal of the Roman Empire,they had no desire to risk another defeat. Lysias,Felix, Festus, and Agrippa had all declared theirbelief in his innocence. His enemies could hopefor success only in seeking by intrigue to influence

the emperor in their favor. Delay would furthertheir object, as it would afford them time to perfectand execute their plans, and so they waited for awhile before preferring their charges in personagainst the apostle.

In the providence of God this delay resulted inthe furtherance of the gospel. Through the favor ofthose who had Paul in charge, he was permitted todwell in a commodious house, where he couldmeet freely with his friends and also present thetruth daily to those who came to hear. Thus for twoyears he continued his labors, "preaching thekingdom of God, and teaching those things whichconcern the Lord Jesus Christ, will all confidence,no man forbidding him."

During this time the churches that he hadestablished in many lands were not forgotten.Realizing the dangers that threatened the convertsto the new faith, the apostle sought so far aspossible to meet their needs by letters of warningand practical instruction. And from Rome he

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sent out consecrated workers to labor not only forthese churches, but in fields that he himself hadnot visited. These workers, as wise shepherds,strengthened the work so well begun by Paul; andthe apostle, kept informed of the condition anddangers of the churches by constantcommunication with them, was enabled toexercise a wise supervision over all.

Thus, while apparently cut off from active labor,Paul exerted a wider and more lasting influencethan if he had been free to travel among thechurches as in former years. As a prisoner of theLord, he had a firmer hold upon the affections ofhis brethren; and his words, written by one underbonds for the sake of Christ, commanded greaterattention and respect than they did when he waspersonally with them. Not until Paul was removedfrom them, did the believers realize how heavywere the burdens he had borne in their behalf.Heretofore they had largely excused themselves

from responsibility and burden bearing becausethey lacked his wisdom, tact, and indomitableenergy; but now, left in their inexperience to learnthe lessons they had shunned, they prized hiswarnings, counsels, and instructions as they hadnot prized his personal work. And as they learnedof his courage and faith during his longimprisonment they were stimulated to greaterfidelity and zeal in the cause of Christ.

Among Paul's assistants at Rome were manyof his former companions and fellow workers.Luke, "the beloved physician," who had attendedhim on the journey to Jerusalem, through the twoyears' imprisonment at Caesarea, and upon hisperilous voyage to Rome, was with him still.

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Timothy also ministered to his comfort. Tychicus,"a beloved brother, and a faithful minister andfellow servant in the Lord," stood nobly by theapostle. Demas and Mark were also with him.

Aristarchus and Epaphras were his "fellowprisoners." Colossians 4:7-14.

Since the earlier years of his profession of faith,Mark's Christian experience had deepened. As hehad studied more closely the life and death ofChrist he had obtained clearer views of theSaviour's mission, its toils and conflicts. Readingin the scars in Christ's hands and feet the marks ofHis service for humanity, and the length to whichself-abnegation leads to save the lost andperishing, Mark had become willing to follow theMaster in the path of self-sacrifice. Now, sharingthe lot of Paul the prisoner, he understood betterthan ever before that it is infinite gain to win Christ,infinite loss to win the world and lose the soul forwhose redemption the blood of Christ was shed. Inthe face of severe trial and adversity, Markcontinued steadfast, a wise and beloved helper ofthe apostle. Demas, steadfast for a time,afterward forsook the cause of Christ. In referringto this, Paul wrote, "Demas hath forsaken me,having loved this present world." 2 Timothy 4:10.

For worldly gain, Demas bartered every high andnoble consideration. How shortsighted theexchange! Possessing only worldly wealth orhonor, Demas was poor indeed, however much hemight proudly call his own; while Mark, choosing tosuffer for Christ's sake, possessed eternal riches,being accounted in heaven an heir of God and ajoint heir with His Son.

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Among those who gave their hearts to Godthrough the labors of Paul in Rome wasOnesimus, a pagan slave who had wronged hismaster, Philemon, a Christian believer in Colosse,and had escaped to Rome. In the kindness of hisheart, Paul sought to relieve the poverty anddistress of the wretched fugitive and thenendeavored to shed the light of truth into hisdarkened mind. Onesimus listened to the words of

life, confessed his sins, and was converted to thefaith of Christ.

Onesimus endeared himself to Paul by hispiety and sincerity, no less than by his tender carefor the apostle's comfort, and his zeal in promotingthe work of the gospel. Paul saw in him traits ofcharacter that would render him a useful helper inmissionary labor, and he counseled him to returnwithout delay to Philemon, beg his forgiveness,and plan for the future. The apostle promised tohold himself responsible for the sum of whichPhilemon had been robbed. Being about todispatch Tychicus with letters to various churchesin Asia Minor, he sent Onesimus with him. It was asevere test for this servant thus to deliver himselfup to the master he had wronged; but he had beentruly converted, and he did not turn aside from hisduty.

Paul made Onesimus the bearer of a letter toPhilemon, in which, with his usual tact andkindness, the apostle pleaded the cause of therepentant slave and expressed a desire to retain

his services in the future. The letter began with anaffectionate greeting to Philemon as a friend andfellow laborer:

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"Grace to you, and peace, from God our Fatherand the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God,making mention of thee always in my prayers,hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hasttoward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; thatthe communication of thy faith may becomeeffectual by the acknowledging of every good thingwhich is in you in Christ Jesus." The apostlereminded Philemon that every good purpose andtrait of character which he possessed was due tothe grace of Christ; this alone made him differentfrom the perverse and the sinful. The same gracecould make the debased criminal a child of Godand a useful laborer in the gospel.

Paul might have urged upon Philemon his dutyas a Christian; but he chose rather the language ofentreaty: "As Paul the aged, and now also aprisoner of Jesus Christ, I beseech thee for myson Onesimus, whom I have begotten in mybonds; which in time past was to thee unprofitable,but now profitable to thee and to me." Theapostle asked Philemon, in view of the conversionof Onesimus, to receive the repentant slave as hisown child, showing him such affection that hewould choose to dwell with his former master, "notnow as a servant, but above a servant, a brotherbeloved." He expressed his desire to retainOnesimus as one who could minister to him in hisbonds as Philemon himself would have done,though he did not desire his services unlessPhilemon should of his own accord set the slavefree.

The apostle well knew the severity whichmasters exercised toward their slaves, and heknew also that Philemon

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was greatly incensed because of the conduct ofhis servant. He tried to write to him in a way thatwould arouse his deepest and tenderest feelingsas a Christian. The conversion of Onesimus hadmade him a brother in the faith, and anypunishment inflicted on this new convert would beregarded by Paul as inflicted on himself.

Paul voluntarily proposed to assume the debtof Onesimus in order that the guilty one might bespared the disgrace of punishment, and mightagain enjoy the privileges he had forfeited. "If thoucount me therefore a partner," he wrote toPhilemon, "receive him as myself. If he hathwronged thee, or oweth thee aught, put that onmine account; I Paul have written it with mine ownhand, I will repay it." How fitting an illustrationof the love of Christ for the repentant sinner! Theservant who had defrauded his master hadnothing with which to make restitution. The sinnerwho has robbed God of years of service has no

means of canceling the debt. Jesus interposesbetween the sinner and God, saying, I will pay thedebt. Let the sinner be spared; I will suffer in hisstead.

After offering to assume the debt of Onesimus,Paul reminded Philemon how greatly he himselfwas indebted to the apostle. He owed him his ownself, since God had made Paul the instrument ofhis conversion. Then, in a tender, earnest appeal,he besought Philemon that as he had by hisliberalities refreshed the saints, so he wouldrefresh the spirit of the apostle by granting him thiscause of rejoicing. "Having confidence in thyobedience," he

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added, "I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wiltalso do more than I say."

Paul's letter to Philemon shows the influence ofthe gospel upon the relation between master andservant. Slave-holding was an established

institution throughout the Roman Empire, and bothmasters and slaves were found in most of thechurches for which Paul labored. In the cities,where slaves often greatly outnumbered the freepopulation, laws of terrible severity were regardedas necessary to keep them in subjection. Awealthy Roman often owned hundreds of slaves,of every rank, of every nation, and of everyaccomplishment. With full control over the soulsand bodies of these helpless beings, he couldinflict upon them any suffering he chose. If one ofthem in retaliation or self-defense ventured toraise a hand against his owner, the whole family ofthe offender might be inhumanly sacrificed. Theslightest mistake, accident, or carelessness wasoften punished without mercy.

Some masters, more humane than others,were more indulgent toward their servants; but thevast majority of the wealthy and noble, given upwithout restraint to the indulgence of lust, passion,and appetite, made their slaves the wretched

victims of caprice and tyranny. The tendency ofthe whole system was hopelessly degrading.

It was not the apostle's work to overturnarbitrarily or suddenly the established order ofsociety. To attempt this would be to prevent thesuccess of the gospel. But he taught principleswhich struck at the very foundation of slavery andwhich, if carried into effect, would surelyundermine

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the whole system. "Where the Spirit of the Lord is,there is liberty," he declared. 2 Corinthians 3:17.When converted, the slave became a member ofthe body of Christ, and as such was to be lovedand treated as a brother, a fellow heir with hismaster to the blessings of God and the privilegesof the gospel. On the other hand, servants were toperform their duties, "not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing thewill of God from the heart." Ephesians 6:6.

Christianity makes a strong bond of union betweenmaster and slave, king and subject, the gospelminister and the degraded sinner who has found inChrist cleansing from sin. They have been washedin the same blood, quickened by the same Spirit;and they are made one in Christ Jesus.

Chap. 44 - Caesar's Household

The gospel has ever achieved its greatestsuccess among the humbler classes. "Not manywise men after the flesh, not many mighty, notmany noble, are called." 1 Corinthians 1:26. Itcould not be expected that Paul, a poor andfriendless prisoner, would be able to gain theattention of the wealthy and titled classes ofRoman citizens. To them vice presented all itsglittering allurements and held them willingcaptives. But from among the toilworn, want-stricken victims of their oppression, even fromamong the poor slaves, many gladly listened to

the words of Paul and in the faith of Christ found ahope and peace that cheered them under thehardships of their lot.

Yet while the apostle's work began with thehumble and the lowly, its influence extended untilit reached the very palace of the emperor.

Rome was at this time the metropolis of theworld. The haughty Caesars were giving laws tonearly every nation

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upon the earth. King and courtier were eitherignorant of the humble Nazarene or regarded Himwith hatred and derision. And yet in less than twoyears the gospel found its way from the prisoner'slowly home into the imperial halls. Paul is in bondsas an evildoer; but "the word of God is not bound."2 Timothy 2:9.

In former years the apostle had publiclyproclaimed the faith of Christ with winning power,and by signs and miracles he had given

unmistakable evidence of its divine character. Withnoble firmness he had risen up before the sagesof Greece and by his knowledge and eloquencehad put to silence the arguments of proudphilosophy. With undaunted courage he had stoodbefore kings and governors, and reasoned ofrighteousness, temperance, and judgment tocome, until the haughty rulers trembled as ifalready beholding the terrors of the day of God.

No such opportunities were now granted theapostle, confined as he was to his own dwelling,and able to proclaim the truth to those only whosought him there. He had not, like Moses andAaron, a divine command to go before theprofligate king and in the name of the great I AMrebuke his cruelty and oppression. Yet it was atthis very time, when its chief advocate wasapparently cut off from public labor, that a greatvictory was won for the gospel; for from the veryhousehold of the king, members were added tothe church.

Nowhere could there exist an atmosphere moreuncongenial to Christianity than in the Romancourt. Nero seemed to have obliterated from hissoul the last trace of the divine, and even of thehuman, and to bear the impress

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of Satan. His attendants and courtiers were ingeneral of the same character as himself--fierce,debased, and corrupt. To all appearance it wouldbe impossible for Christianity to gain a foothold inthe court and palace of Nero.

Yet in this case, as in so many others, wasproved the truth of Paul's assertion that theweapons of his warfare were "mighty through Godto the pulling down of strongholds," 2 Corinthians10:4. Even in Nero's household, trophies of thecross were won. From the vile attendants of a vilerking were gained converts who became sons ofGod. These were not Christians secretly, butopenly. They were not ashamed of their faith.

And by what means was an entrance achievedand a firm footing gained for Christianity whereeven its admission seemed impossible? In hisepistle to the Philippians, Paul ascribed to his ownimprisonment his success in winning converts tothe faith from Nero's household. Fearful lest itmight be thought that his afflictions had impededthe progress of the gospel, he assured them: "Iwould ye should understand, brethren, that thethings which happened unto me have fallen outrather unto the furtherance of the gospel."Philippians 1:12.

When the Christian churches first learned thatPaul was to visit Rome, they looked forward to asignal triumph of the gospel in that city. Paul hadborne the truth to many lands; he had proclaimedit in great cities. Might not this champion of thefaith succeed in winning souls to Christ even in themetropolis of the world? But their hopes werecrushed by the tidings that Paul had gone to Romeas a

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prisoner. They had confidently hoped to see thegospel, once established at this great center,extend rapidly to all nations and become aprevailing power in the earth. How great theirdisappointment! Human expectations had failed,but not the purpose of God.

Not by Paul's sermon's, but by his bonds, wasthe attention of the court attracted to Christianity. Itwas as a captive that he broke from so many soulsthe bonds that held them in the slavery of sin. Norwas this all. He declared: "Many of the brethren inthe Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are muchmore bold to speak the word without fear."Philippians 1:14.

Paul's patience and cheerfulness during hislong and unjust imprisonment, his courage andfaith, were a continual sermon. His spirit, so unlikethe spirit of the world, bore witness that a powerhigher than that of earth was abiding with him. And

by his example, Christians were impelled togreater energy as advocates of the cause from thepublic labors of which Paul had been withdrawn. Inthese ways were the apostle's bonds influential, sothat when his power and usefulness seemed cutoff, and to all appearance he could do the least,then it was that he gathered sheaves for Christ infields from which he seemed wholly excluded.

Before the close of that two years'imprisonment, Paul was able to say, "My bonds inChrist are manifest in all the palace, and in allother places," and among those who sentgreetings to the Philippians he mentions chieflythem "that are of Caesar's household." Verse 13;4:22.

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Patience as well as courage has its victories.By meekness under trial, no less than by boldnessin enterprise, souls may be won to Christ. TheChristian who manifests patience and

cheerfulness under bereavement and suffering,who meets even death itself with the peace andcalmness of an unwavering faith, may accomplishfor the gospel more than he could have effectedby a long life of faithful labor. Often when theservant of God is withdrawn from active duty, themysterious providence which our shortsightedvision would lament is designed by God toaccomplish a work that otherwise would neverhave been done.

Let not the follower of Christ think, when he isno longer able to labor openly and actively for Godand His truth, that he has no service to render, noreward to secure. Christ's true witnesses are neverlaid aside. In health and sickness, in life anddeath, God uses them still. When through Satan'smalice the servants of Christ have beenpersecuted, their active labors hindered, whenthey have been cast into prison, or dragged to thescaffold or to the stake, it was that truth might gaina greater triumph. As these faithful ones sealedtheir testimony with their blood, souls hitherto in

doubt and uncertainty were convinced of the faithof Christ and took their stand courageously forHim. From the ashes of the martyrs has sprung anabundant harvest for God.

The zeal and fidelity of Paul and his fellowworkers, no less than the faith and obedience ofthese converts to Christianity, undercircumstances so forbidding, rebuke slothfulnessand lack of faith in the minister of Christ. Theapostle

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and his associate workers might have argued thatit would be vain to call to repentance and faith inChrist the servants of Nero, subjected, as theywere, to fierce temptations, surrounded byformidable hindrances, and exposed to bitteropposition. Even should they be convinced of thetruth, how could they render obedience? But Pauldid not reason thus; in faith he presented thegospel to these souls, and among those who

heard were some who decided to obey at anycost. Notwithstanding obstacles and dangers, theywould accept the light, and trust God to help themlet their light shine forth to others.

Not only were converts won to the truth inCaesar's household, but after their conversionthey remained in that household. They did not feelat liberty to abandon their post of duty becausetheir surroundings were no longer congenial. Thetruth had found them there, and there theyremained, by their changed life and charactertestifying to the transforming power of the newfaith.

Are any tempted to make their circumstancesan excuse for failing to witness for Christ? Letthem consider the situation of the disciples inCaesar's household--the depravity of the emperor,the profligacy of the court. We can hardly imaginecircumstances more unfavorable to a religious life,and entailing greater sacrifice or opposition, thanthose in which these converts found themselves.Yet amidst difficulties and dangers they

maintained their fidelity. Because of obstacles thatseem insurmountable, the Christian may seek toexcuse himself from obeying the truth as it is inJesus;

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but he can offer no excuse that will bearinvestigation. Could he do this he would proveGod unjust in that He had made for His childrenconditions of salvation with which they could notcomply.

He whose heart is fixed to serve God will findopportunity to witness for Him. Difficulties will bepowerless to hinder him who is determined to seekfirst the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Inthe strength gained by prayer and a study of theword, he will seek virtue and forsake vice. Lookingto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of the faith, whoendured the contradiction of sinners againstHimself, the believer will willingly brave contemptand derision. And help and grace sufficient for

every circumstance are promised by Him whoseword is truth. His everlasting arms encircle thesoul that turns to Him for aid. In His care we mayrest safely, saying, "What time I am afraid, I willtrust in Thee." Psalm 56:3. To all who put theirtrust in Him, God will fulfill His promise. By Hisown example the Saviour has shown that Hisfollowers can be in the world and yet not of theworld. He came not to partake of its delusivepleasures, to be swayed by its customs, and tofollow its practices, but to do His Father's will, toseek and save the lost. With this object before himthe Christian may stand uncontaminated in anysurroundings. Whatever his station orcircumstances, exalted or humble, he will manifestthe power of true religion in the faithfulperformance of duty.

Not in freedom from trial, but in the midst of it,is Christian

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character developed. Exposure to rebuffs andopposition leads the follower of Christ to greaterwatchfulness and more earnest prayer to themighty Helper. Severe trial endured by the graceof God develops patience, vigilance, fortitude, anda deep and abiding trust in God. It is the triumph ofthe Christian faith that it enables its followers tosuffer and be strong; to submit, and thus toconquer; to be killed all the day long, and yet tolive; to bear the cross, and thus to win the crownof glory.

Chap. 45 - Written From Rome

The apostle Paul early in his Christianexperience was given special opportunities tolearn the will of God concerning the followers ofJesus. He was "caught up to the third heaven,""into paradise, and heard unspeakable words,which it is not lawful for a man to utter." He himselfacknowledged that many "visions and revelations"had been given him "of the Lord." His

understanding of the principles of gospel truth wasequal to that of "the very chiefest apostles." 2Corinthians 12:2, 4, 1, 11. He had a clear, fullcomprehension of "the breadth, and length, anddepth, and height" of "the love of Christ, whichpasseth knowledge." Ephesians 3:18, 19.

Paul could not tell all that he had seen in vision;for among his hearers were some who would havemisapplied his words. But that which was revealedto him enabled him to labor as a leader and a wiseteacher, and also molded the

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messages that he in later years sent to thechurches. The impression that he received whenin vision was ever with him, enabling him to give acorrect representation of Christian character. Byword of mouth and by letter he bore a messagethat ever since has brought help and strength tothe church of God. To believers today thismessage speaks plainly of the dangers that will

threaten the church, and the false doctrines thatthey will have to meet.

The apostle's desire for those to whom headdressed his letters of counsel and admonitionwas that they should "be no more children, tossedto and fro, and carried about with every wind ofdoctrine;" but that they should all come into "theunity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Sonof God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure ofthe stature of the fullness of Christ." He entreatedthose who were followers of Jesus in heathencommunities not to walk "as other Gentiles walk, inthe vanity of their mind, having the understandingdarkened, being alienated from the life of God . . .because of the blindness of their heart," but"circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,redeeming the time." Ephesians 4:14, 13, 17, 18;5:15, 16. He encouraged the believers to lookforward to the time when Christ, who "loved thechurch, and gave Himself for it," would "present itto Himself a glorious church, not having spot, orwrinkle, or any such thing"--a church "holy and

without blemish." Ephesians 5:25, 27. Thesemessages, written with a power not of man but ofGod, contain lessons which should be studied byall and

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which may with profit be often repeated. In thempractical godliness is outlined, principles are laiddown that should be followed in every church, andthe way that leads to life eternal is made plain.

In his letter to "the saints and faithful brethrenin Christ which are at Colosse," written while hewas a prisoner in Rome, Paul makes mention ofhis joy over their steadfastness in the faith, tidingsof which had been brought him by Epaphras, who,the apostle wrote, "declared unto us your love inthe Spirit. For this cause," he continued, "we also,since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray foryou, and to desire that ye might be filled with theknowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritualunderstanding; that ye might walk worthy of the

Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every goodwork, and increasing in the knowledge of God;strengthened with all might, according to Hisglorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness."

Thus Paul put into words his desire for theColossian believers. How high the ideal that thesewords hold before the follower of Christ! Theyshow the wonderful possibilities of the Christianlife and make it plain that there is no limit to theblessings that the children of God may receive.Constantly increasing in a knowledge of God, theymay go on from strength to strength, from heightto height in Christian experience, until by "Hisglorious power" they are made "meet to bepartakers of the inheritance of the saints in light."

The apostle exalted Christ before his brethrenas the One

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by whom God had created all things and by whomHe had wrought out their redemption. He declaredthat the hand that sustains the worlds in space,and holds in their orderly arrangements andtireless activity all things throughout the universeof God, is the hand that was nailed to the cross forthem. "By Him were all things created," Paulwrote, "that are in heaven, and that are in earth,visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, ordominions, or principalities, or powers: all thingswere created by Him, and for Him: and He isbefore all things, and by Him all things consist.""And you, that were sometime alienated andenemies in your mind by wicked works, yet nowhath He reconciled in the body of His flesh throughdeath, to present you holy and unblamable andunreprovable in His sight."

The Son of God stooped to uplift the fallen. Forthis He left the sinless worlds on high, the ninetyand nine that loved Him, and came to this earth tobe "wounded for our transgressions" and "bruisedfor our iniquities." Isaiah 53:5. He was in all things

made like unto His brethren. He became flesh,even as we are. He knew what it meant to behungry and thirsty and weary. He was sustainedby food and refreshed by sleep. He was a strangerand a sojourner on the earth--in the world, but notof the world; tempted and tried as men andwomen of today are tempted and tried, yet living alife free from sin. Tender, compassionate,sympathetic, ever considerate of others, Herepresented the character of God. "The Word wasmade flesh, and dwelt among us, . . . full of graceand truth." John 1:14.

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Surrounded by the practices and influences ofheathenism, the Colossian believers were indanger of being drawn away from the simplicity ofthe gospel, and Paul, in warning them against this,pointed them to Christ as the only safe guide. "Iwould that ye knew," he wrote, "what great conflict

I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and foras many as have not seen my face in the flesh;that their hearts might be comforted, being knittogether in love, and unto all riches of the fullassurance of understanding, to theacknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of theFather, and of Christ; in whom are hid all thetreasures of wisdom and knowledge.

"And this I say, lest any man should beguileyou with enticing words. . . . As ye have thereforereceived Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him:rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in thefaith, as ye have been taught, abounding thereinwith thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil youthrough philosophy and vain deceit, after thetradition of men, after the rudiments of the world,and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all thefullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye arecomplete in Him, which is the head of allprincipality and power."

Christ had foretold that deceivers would arise,through whose influence "iniquity" should

"abound," and "the love of many" should "waxcold." Matthew 24:12. He had warned the disciplesthat the church would be in more danger from thisevil than from the persecution of her enemies.Again and again Paul warned the believersagainst these false teachers. This peril, above allothers, they must guard

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against; for by receiving false teachers, they wouldopen the door to errors by which the enemy woulddim the spiritual perceptions and shake theconfidence of those newly come to the faith of thegospel. Christ was the standard by which theywere to test the doctrines presented. All that wasnot in harmony with His teachings they were toreject. Christ crucified for sin, Christ risen from thedead, Christ ascended on high--this was thescience of salvation that they were to learn andteach.

The warnings of the word of God regarding theperils surrounding the Christian church belong tous today. As in the days of the apostles men triedby tradition and philosophy to destroy faith in theScriptures, so today, by the pleasing sentiments ofhigher criticism, evolution, spiritualism, theosophy,and pantheism, the enemy of righteousness isseeking to lead souls into forbidden paths. Tomany the Bible is as a lamp without oil, becausethey have turned their minds into channels ofspeculative belief that bring misunderstanding andconfusion. The work of higher criticism, indissecting, conjecturing, reconstructing, isdestroying faith in the Bible as a divine revelation.It is robbing God's word of power to control, uplift,and inspire human lives. By spiritualism,multitudes are taught to believe that desire is thehighest law, that license is liberty, and that man isaccountable only to himself.

The follower of Christ will meet with the"enticing words" against which the apostle warned

the Colossian believers. He will meet withspiritualistic interpretations of

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the Scriptures, but he is not to accept them. Hisvoice is to be heard in clear affirmation of theeternal truths of the Scriptures. Keeping his eyesfixed on Christ, he is to move steadily forward inthe path marked out, discarding all ideas that arenot in harmony with His teaching. The truth of Godis to be the subject for his contemplation andmeditation. He is to regard the Bible as the voiceof God speaking directly to him. Thus he will findthe wisdom which is divine.

The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ isthe knowledge that all who are saved must have.This is the knowledge that works transformation ofcharacter. Received into the life, it will re-createthe soul in the image of Christ. This is theknowledge that God invites His children to receive,beside which all else is vanity and nothingness.

In every generation and in every land the truefoundation for character building has been thesame--the principles contained in the word of God.The only safe and sure rule is to do what Godsays. "The statutes of the Lord are right," and "hethat doeth these things shall never be moved."Psalm 19:8; 15:5. It was with the word of God thatthe apostles met the false theories of their day,saying, "Other foundation can no man lay than thatis laid." 1 Corinthians 3:11. At the time of theirconversion and baptism the Colossian believerspledged themselves to put away beliefs andpractices that had hitherto been a part of theirlives, and to be true to their allegiance to Christ. Inhis letter, Paul reminded them of this, andentreated them not to forget that in order

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to keep their pledge they must put forth constanteffort against the evils that would seek for masteryover them. "If ye then be risen with Christ," hesaid, "seek those things which are above, where

Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set youraffection on things above, not on things on theearth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid withChrist in God."

"If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature:old things are passed away; behold, all things arebecome new." 2 Corinthians 5:17. Through thepower of Christ, men and women have broken thechains of sinful habit. They have renouncedselfishness. The profane have become reverent,the drunken sober, the profligate pure. Souls thathave borne the likeness of Satan have becometransformed into the image of God. This change isin itself the miracle of miracles. A change wroughtby the Word, it is one of the deepest mysteries ofthe Word. We cannot understand it; we can onlybelieve, as declared by the Scriptures, it is "Christin you, the hope of glory."

When the Spirit of God controls mind andheart, the converted soul breaks forth into a newsong; for he realizes that in his experience thepromise of God has been fulfilled, that his

transgression has been forgiven, his sin covered.He has exercised repentance toward God for theviolation of the divine law, and faith toward Christ,who died for man's justification. "Being justified byfaith," he has "peace with God through our LordJesus Christ." Romans 5:1.

But because this experience is his, theChristian is not

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therefore to fold his hands, content with that whichhas been accomplished for him. He who hasdetermined to enter the spiritual kingdom will findthat all the powers and passions of unregeneratenature, backed by the forces of the kingdom ofdarkness, are arrayed against him. Each day hemust renew his consecration, each day do battlewith evil. Old habits, hereditary tendencies towrong, will strive for the mastery, and againstthese he is to be ever on guard, striving in Christ'sstrength for victory.

"Mortify therefore your members which areupon the earth," Paul wrote to the Colossians; "inthe which ye also walked sometime, when ye livedin them. But now ye also put off all these: anger,wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communicationout of your mouth. . . . Put on therefore, as theelect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies,kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; forbearing one another, and forgivingone another, if any man have a quarrel againstany: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.And above all these things put on charity, which isthe bond of perfectness. And let the peace of Godrule in your hearts, to the which also ye are calledin one body; and be ye thankful."

The letter to the Colossians is filled withlessons of highest value to all who are engaged inthe service of Christ, lessons that show thesingleness of purpose and the loftiness of aimwhich will be seen in the life of him who rightlyrepresents the Saviour. Renouncing all that would

hinder him from making progress in the upwardway or that would

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turn the feet of another from the narrow path, thebeliever will reveal in his daily life mercy, kindness,humility, meekness, forbearance, and the love ofChrist.

The power of a higher, purer, nobler life is ourgreat need. The world has too much of ourthought, and the kingdom of heaven too little.

In his efforts to reach God's ideal for him, theChristian is to despair of nothing. Moral andspiritual perfection, through the grace and powerof Christ, is promised to all. Jesus is the source ofpower, the fountain of life. He brings us to Hisword, and from the tree of life presents to usleaves for the healing of sin-sick souls. He leadsus to the throne of God, and puts into our mouth aprayer through which we are brought into closecontact with Himself. In our behalf He sets in

operation the all-powerful agencies of heaven. Atevery step we touch His living power.

God fixes no limit to the advancement of thosewho desire to be "filled with the knowledge of Hiswill in all wisdom and spiritual understanding."Through prayer, through watchfulness, throughgrowth in knowledge and understanding, they areto be "strengthened with all might, according to Hisglorious power." Thus they are prepared to workfor others. It is the Saviour's purpose that humanbeings, purified and sanctified, shall be His helpinghand. For this great privilege let us give thanks toHim who "hath made us meet to be partakers ofthe inheritance of the saints in light: who hathdelivered us from the power of darkness, and hathtranslated us into the kingdom of His dear Son."

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Paul's letter to the Philippians, like the one tothe Colossians, was written while he was aprisoner at Rome. The church at Philippi had sent

gifts to Paul by the hand of Epaphroditus, whomPaul calls "my brother, and companion in labor,and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and hethat ministered to my wants." While in Rome,Epaphroditus was sick, "nigh unto death: but Godhad mercy on him," Paul wrote, "and not on himonly, but on me also, lest I should have sorrowupon sorrow." Hearing of the sickness ofEpaphroditus, the believers at Philippi were filledwith anxiety regarding him, and he decided toreturn to them. "He longed after you all," Paulwrote, "and was full of heaviness, because that yehad heard that he had been sick. . . . I sent himtherefore the more carefully, that, when ye seehim again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be theless sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lordwith all gladness; and hold such in reputation:because for the work of Christ he was nigh untodeath, not regarding his life, to supply your lack ofservice toward me."

By Epaphroditus, Paul sent the Philippianbelievers a letter, in which he thanked them for

their gifts to him. Of all the churches, that ofPhilippi had been the most liberal in supplyingPaul's wants. "Now ye Philippians know also," theapostle said in his letter, "that in the beginning ofthe gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, nochurch communicated with me as concerninggiving and receiving, but ye only. For even inThessalonica ye sent once and again unto mynecessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire

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fruit that may abound to your account. But I haveall, and abound: I am full, having received ofEpaphroditus the things which were sent from you,an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable,well-pleasing to God."

"Grace be unto you, and peace, from God ourFather, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank myGod upon every remembrance of you, always inevery prayer of mine for you all making requestwith joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the

first day until now; being confident of this verything, that He which hath begun a good work inyou will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:even as it is meet for me to think this of you all,because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as bothin my bonds, and in the defense and confirmationof the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. ForGod is my record, how greatly I long after you all. .. . And this I pray, that your love may abound yetmore and more in knowledge and in all judgment;that ye may approve things that are excellent; thatye may be sincere and without offense till the dayof Christ; being filled with the fruits ofrighteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto theglory and praise of God."

The grace of God sustained Paul in hisimprisonment, enabling him to rejoice intribulation. With faith and assurance he wrote tohis Philippian brethren that his imprisonment hadresulted in the furtherance of the gospel. "I wouldye should understand, brethren," he declared,"that the things which happened unto me have

fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;so that my bonds with Christ are manifest in all thepalace, and in all other places; and

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many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confidentby my bonds, are much more bold to speak theword without fear."

There is a lesson for us in this experience ofPaul's, for it reveals God's way of working. TheLord can bring victory out of that which may seemto us discomfiture and defeat. We are in danger offorgetting God, of looking at the things which areseen, instead of beholding by the eye of faith thethings which are unseen. When misfortune orcalamity comes, we are ready to charge God withneglect or cruelty. If He sees fit to cut off ourusefulness in some line, we mourn, not stopping tothink that thus God may be working for our good.We need to learn that chastisement is a part of Hisgreat plan and that under the rod of affliction the

Christian may sometimes do more for the Masterthan when engaged in active service.

As their example in the Christian life, Paulpointed the Philippians to Christ, who, "being inthe form of God, thought it not robbery to be equalwith God: but made Himself of no reputation, andtook upon Him the form of a servant, and wasmade in the likeness of men: and being found in afashion as a man, He humbled Himself, andbecame obedient unto death, even the death ofthe cross."

"Wherefore, my beloved," he continued, "as yehave always obeyed, not as in my presence only,but now much more in my absence, work out yourown salvation with fear and trembling. For it is Godwhich worketh in you both to will and to do Hisgood pleasure. Do all things without murmuringsand disputings: that ye may be blameless

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and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, inthe midst of a crooked and perverse nation,among whom ye shine as lights in the world;holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice inthe day of Christ, that I have not run in vain,neither labored in vain."

These words were recorded for the help ofevery striving soul. Paul holds up the standard ofperfection and shows how it may be reached."Work out your own salvation," he says, "for it isGod which worketh in you."

The work of gaining salvation is one ofcopartnership, a joint operation. There is to be co-operation between God and the repentant sinner.This is necessary for the formation of rightprinciples in the character. Man is to make earnestefforts to overcome that which hinders him fromattaining to perfection. But he is wholly dependentupon God for success. Human effort of itself is notsufficient. Without the aid of divine power it availsnothing. God works and man works. Resistance oftemptation must come from man, who must draw

his power from God. On the one side there isinfinite wisdom, compassion, and power; on theother, weakness, sinfulness, absolutehelplessness.

God wishes us to have the mastery overourselves. But He cannot help us without ourconsent and co-operation. The divine Spirit worksthrough the powers and faculties given to man. Ofourselves, we are not able to bring the purposesand desires and inclinations into harmony with thewill of God; but if we are "willing to be madewilling," the Saviour will accomplish this for us,"Casting down imaginations,

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and every high thing that exalteth itself against theknowledge of God, and bringing into captivityevery thought to the obedience of Christ." 2Corinthians 10:5.

He who would build up a strong, symmetricalcharacter, he who would be a well-balanced

Christian, must give all and do all for Christ; for theRedeemer will not accept divided service. Daily hemust learn the meaning of self-surrender. Hemust study the word of God, learning its meaningand obeying its precepts. Thus he may reach thestandard of Christian excellence. Day by day Godworks with him, perfecting the character that is tostand in the time of final test. And day by day thebeliever is working out before men and angels asublime experiment, showing what the gospel cando for fallen human beings.

"I count not myself to have apprehended," Paulwrote; "but this one thing I do, forgetting thosethings which are behind, and reaching forth untothose things which are before, I press toward themark for the prize of the high calling of God inChrist Jesus."

Paul did many things. From the time that hegave his allegiance to Christ, his life was filled withuntiring service. From city to city, from country tocountry, he journeyed, telling the story of thecross, winning converts to the gospel, and

establishing churches. For these churches he hada constant care, and he wrote many letters ofinstruction to them. At times he worked at his tradeto earn his daily bread. But in all the busy activitiesof his life, Paul never lost sight of one greatpurpose--to press toward the prize

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of his calling. One aim he kept steadfastly beforehim--to be faithful to the One who at the gate ofDamascus had revealed Himself to him. From thisaim nothing had power to turn him aside. To exaltthe cross of Calvary--this was the all-absorbingmotive that inspired his words and acts. Thegreat purpose that constrained Paul to pressforward in the face of hardship and difficultyshould lead every Christian worker to consecratehimself wholly to God's service. Worldly attractionswill be presented to draw his attentions from theSaviour, but he is to press on toward the goal,showing to the world, to angels, and to men thatthe hope of seeing the face of God is worth all the

effort and sacrifice that the attainment of this hopedemands.

Though he was a prisoner, Paul was notdiscouraged. Instead, a note of triumph ringsthrough the letters that he wrote from Rome to thechurches. "Rejoice in the Lord alway," he wrote tothe Philippians, "and again I say, Rejoice. . . . Becareful for nothing; but in everything by prayer andsupplication with thanksgiving let your requests bemade known unto God. And the peace of God,which passeth all understanding, shall keep yourhearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally,brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoeverthings are honest, whatsoever things are just,whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things arelovely, whatsoever things are of good report; ifthere be any virtue, and if there be any praise,think on these things."

"My God shall supply all your need according toHis riches in glory by Christ Jesus. . . . The graceof our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all."

Chap. 46 - At Liberty

While Paul's labors in Rome were beingblessed to the conversion of many souls and thestrengthening and encouragement of thebelievers, clouds were gathering that threatenednot only his own safety, but also the prosperity ofthe church. On his arrival in Rome he had beenplaced in charge of the captain of the imperialguards, a man of justice and integrity, by whoseclemency he was left comparatively free to pursuethe work of the gospel. But before the close of thetwo years' imprisonment, this man was replacedby an official from whom the apostle could expectno special favor.

The Jews were now more active than ever intheir efforts against Paul, and they found an ablehelper in the profligate woman whom Nero hadmade his second wife, and who, being a Jewishproselyte, lent all her influence to aid their

murderous designs against the champion ofChristianity.

Paul could hope for little justice from theCaesar to whom he had appealed. Nero was moredebased in morals,

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more frivolous in character, and at the same timecapable of more atrocious cruelty, than any rulerwho had preceded him. The reins of governmentcould not have been entrusted to a more despoticruler. The first year of his reign had been markedby the poisoning of his young stepbrother, therightful heir to the throne. From one depth of viceand crime to another, Nero had descended, untilhe had murdered his own mother, and then hiswife. There was no atrocity which he would notperpetrate, no vile act to which he would notstoop. In every noble mind he inspired onlyabhorrence and contempt.

The details of the iniquity practiced in his courtare too degrading, too horrible, for description. Hisabandoned wickedness created disgust andloathing, even in many who were forced to sharehis crimes. They were in constant fear as to whatenormities he would suggest next. Yet even suchcrimes as Nero's did not shake the allegiance ofhis subjects. He was acknowledged as theabsolute ruler of the whole civilized world. Morethan this, he was made the recipient of divinehonors and was worshiped as a god.

From the viewpoint of human judgment, Paul'scondemnation before such a judge was certain.But the apostle felt that so long as he was loyal toGod, he had nothing to fear. The One who in thepast had been his protector could shield him stillfrom the malice of the Jews and from the power ofCaesar.

And God did shield His servant. At Paul'sexamination the charges against him were notsustained, and, contrary to the generalexpectation, and with a regard for justice

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wholly at variance with his character, Nerodeclared the prisoner guiltless. Paul's bonds wereremoved; he was again a free man.

Had his trial been longer deferred, or had hefrom any cause been detained in Rome until thefollowing year, he would doubtless have perishedin the persecution which then took place. DuringPaul's imprisonment the converts to Christianityhad become so numerous as to attract theattention and arouse the enmity of the authorities.The anger of the emperor was especially excitedby the conversion of members of his ownhousehold, and he soon found a pretext to makethe Christians the objects of his merciless cruelty.

About this time a terrible fire occurred in Romeby which nearly one half of the city was burned.Nero himself, it was rumored, had caused theflames to be kindled, but to avert suspicion hemade a pretense of great generosity by assisting

the homeless and destitute. He was, however,accused of the crime. The people were excitedand enraged, and in order to clear himself, andalso to rid the city of a class whom he feared andhated, Nero turned the accusation upon theChristians. His device succeeded, and thousandsof the followers of Christ--men, women, andchildren--were cruelly put to death. From thisterrible persecution Paul was spared, for soonafter his release he had left Rome. This lastinterval of freedom he diligently improved inlaboring among the churches. He sought toestablish a firmer union between the Greek andthe Eastern churches and to fortify the minds

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of the believers against the false doctrines thatwere creeping in to corrupt the faith.

The trials and anxieties that Paul had enduredhad preyed upon his physical powers. Theinfirmities of age were upon him. He felt that he

was now doing his last work, and, as the time ofhis labor grew shorter, his efforts became moreintense. There seemed to be no limit to his zeal.Resolute in purpose, prompt in action, strong infaith, he journeyed from church to church, in manylands, and sought by every means within hispower to strengthen the hands of the believers,that they might do faithful work in winning souls toJesus, and that in the trying times upon which theywere even then entering, they might remainsteadfast to the gospel, bearing faithful witness forChrist.

Chap. 47 - The Final Arrest

Paul's work among the churches after hisacquittal at Rome, could not escape theobservation of his enemies. Since the beginning ofthe persecution under Nero the Christians hadeverywhere been a proscribed sect. After a timethe unbelieving Jews conceived the idea of

fastening upon Paul the crime of instigating theburning of Rome. Not one of them thought for amoment that he was guilty; but they knew thatsuch a charge, made with the faintest show ofplausibility, would seal his doom. Through theirefforts, Paul was again arrested, and hurried awayto his final imprisonment.

On his second voyage to Rome, Paul wasaccompanied by several of his formercompanions; others earnestly desired to share hislot, but he refused to permit them thus to imperiltheir lives. The prospect before him was far lessfavorable than at the time of his formerimprisonment. The persecution under Nero hadgreatly lessened the number of Christians inRome. Thousands had been martyred for their

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faith, many had left the city, and those whoremained were greatly depressed and intimidated.

Upon his arrival at Rome, Paul was placed in agloomy dungeon, there to remain until his courseshould be finished. Accused of instigating one ofthe basest and most terrible of crimes against thecity and the nation, he was the object of universalexecration.

The few friends who had shared the burdens ofthe apostle, now began to leave him, some bydesertion, and others on missions to the variouschurches. Phygellus and Hermogenes were thefirst to go. Then Demas, dismayed by thethickening clouds of difficulty and danger, forsookthe persecuted apostle. Crescens was sent byPaul to the churches of Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia,Tychicus to Ephesus. Writing to Timothy of thisexperience, Paul said, "Only Luke is with me." 2Timothy 4:11. Never had the apostle needed theministrations of his brethren as now, enfeebled ashe was by age, toil, and infirmities, and confined inthe damp, dark vaults of a Roman prison. Theservices of Luke, the beloved disciple and faithfulfriend, were a great comfort to Paul and enabled

him to communicate with his brethren and theworld without.

In this trying time Paul's heart was cheered byfrequent visits from Onesiphorus. Thiswarmhearted Ephesian did all in his power tolighten the burden of the apostle's imprisonment.His beloved teacher was in bonds for the truth'ssake, while he himself went free, and he sparedhimself no effort to make Paul's lot more bearable.

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In the last letter that the apostle ever wrote, hespeaks thus of this faithful disciple: "The Lord givemercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for he oftrefreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain;but, when he was in Rome, he sought me out verydiligently, and found me. The Lord grant unto himthat he may find mercy of the Lord in that day." 2Timothy 1:16-18. The desire for love andsympathy is implanted in the heart by God

Himself. Christ, in His hour of agony inGethsemane, longed for the sympathy of Hisdisciples. And Paul, though apparently indifferentto hardship and suffering, yearned for sympathyand companionship. The visit of Onesiphorus,testifying to his fidelity at a time of loneliness anddesertion, brought gladness and cheer to one whohad spent his life in service for others.

Chap. 48 - Paul Before Nero

When Paul was summoned to appear beforethe emperor Nero for trial, it was with the nearprospect of certain death. The serious nature ofthe crime charged against him, and the prevailinganimosity toward Christians, left little ground forhope of a favorable issue.

Among the Greeks and Romans it wascustomary to allow an accused person theprivilege of employing an advocate to plead in hisbehalf before courts of justice. By force of

argument, by impassioned eloquence, or byentreaties, prayers, and tears, such an advocateoften secured a decision in favor of the prisoneror, failing in this, succeeded in mitigating theseverity of the sentence. But when Paul wassummoned before Nero, no man ventured to actas his counsel or advocate; no friend was at handeven to preserve a record of the charges broughtagainst him, or of the arguments that he urged inhis own defense. Among the

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Christians at Rome there was not one who cameforward to stand by him in that trying hour.

The only reliable record of the occasion isgiven by Paul himself, in his second letter toTimothy. "At my first answer," the apostle wrote,"no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: Ipray God that it may not be laid to their charge.Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, andstrengthened me; that by me the preaching might

be fully known, and that all the Gentiles mighthear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of thelion." 2 Timothy 4:16, 17.

Paul before Nero--how striking the contrast!The haughty monarch before whom the man ofGod was to answer for his faith, had reached theheight of earthly power, authority, and wealth, aswell as the lowest depths of crime and iniquity. Inpower and greatness he stood unrivaled. Therewere none to question his authority, none to resisthis will. Kings laid their crowns at his feet.Powerful armies marched at his command, andthe ensigns of his navies betokened victory. Hisstatue was set up in the halls of justice, and thedecrees of senators and the decisions of judgeswere but the echo of his will. Millions bowed inobedience to his mandates. The name of Neromade the world tremble. To incur his displeasurewas to lose property, liberty, life; and his frownwas more to be dreaded than a pestilence.

Without money, without friends, withoutcounsel, the aged prisoner stood before Nero--the

countenance of the emperor bearing the shamefulrecord of the passions that raged within; the faceof the accused telling of a heart at peace

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with God. Paul's experience had been one ofpoverty, self-denial, and suffering. Notwithstandingconstant misrepresentation, reproach, and abuse,by which his enemies had endeavored tointimidate him, he had fearlessly held aloft thestandard of the cross. Like his Master, he hadbeen a homeless wanderer, and like Him, he hadlived to bless humanity. How could Nero, acapricious, passionate, licentious tyrant,understand or appreciate the character andmotives of this son of God?

The vast hall was thronged by an eager,restless crowd that surged and pressed to thefront to see and hear all that should take place.The high and the low were there, the rich and thepoor, the learned and the ignorant, the proud and

the humble, all alike destitute of a true knowledgeof the way of life and salvation.

The Jews brought against Paul the old chargesof sedition and heresy, and both Jews andRomans accused him of instigating the burning ofthe city. While these accusations were urgedagainst him, Paul preserved an unbroken serenity.The people and the judges looked at him insurprise. They had been present at many trialsand had looked upon many a criminal, but neverhad they seen a man wear a look of such holycalmness as did the prisoner before them. Thekeen eyes of the judges, accustomed to read thecountenances of prisoners, searched Paul's facein vain for some evidence of guilt. When he waspermitted to speak in his own behalf, all listenedwith eager interest.

Once more Paul has an opportunity to upliftbefore a

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wondering multitude the banner of the cross. Ashe gazes upon the throng before him,--Jews,Greeks, Romans, with strangers from manylands,--his soul is stirred with an intense desire fortheir salvation. He loses sight of the occasion, ofthe perils surrounding him, of the terrible fate thatseems so near. He sees only Jesus, theIntercessor, pleading before God in behalf of sinfulmen. With more than human eloquence andpower, Paul presents the truths of the gospel. Hepoints his hearers to the sacrifice made for thefallen race. He declares that an infinite price hasbeen paid for man's redemption. Provision hasbeen made for him to share the throne of God. Byangel messengers, earth is connected withheaven, and all the deeds of men, whether goodor evil, are open to the eye of Infinite Justice.

Thus pleads the advocate of truth. Faithfulamong the faithless, loyal among the disloyal, hestands as God's representative, and his voice is asa voice from heaven. There is no fear, nosadness, no discouragement in word or look.

Strong in a consciousness of innocence, clothed inthe panoply of truth, he rejoices that he is a son ofGod. His words are as a shout of victory above theroar of battle. He declares the cause to which hehas devoted his life, to be the only cause that cannever fail. Though he may perish, the gospel willnot perish. God lives, and His truth will triumph.

Many who that day looked upon him "saw hisface as it had been the face of an angel." Acts6:15.

Never before had that company listened towords like these. They struck a cord that vibratedin the hearts of even

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the most hardened. Truth, clear and convincing,overthrew error. Light shone into the minds ofmany who afterward gladly followed its rays. Thetruths spoken on that day were destined to shakenations and to live through all time, influencing the

hearts of men when the lips that had uttered themshould be silent in a martyr's grave.

Never before had Nero heard the truth as heheard it on this occasion. Never before had theenormous guilt of his own life been so revealed tohim. The light of heaven pierced the sin-pollutedchambers of his soul, and he trembled with terrorat the thought of a tribunal before which he, theruler of the world, would finally be arraigned, andhis deeds receive their just award. He feared theapostle's God, and he dared not pass sentenceupon Paul, against whom no accusation had beensustained. A sense of awe restrained for a time hisbloodthirsty spirit.

For a moment, heaven was opened to theguilty and hardened Nero, and its peace and purityseemed desirable. That moment the invitation ofmercy was extended even to him. But only for amoment was the thought of pardon welcomed.Then the command was issued that Paul be takenback to his dungeon; and as the door closed uponthe messenger of God, the door of repentance

closed forever against the emperor of Rome. Noray of light from heaven was ever again topenetrate the darkness that enveloped him. Soonhe was to suffer the retributive judgments of God.

Not long after this, Nero sailed on his infamousexpedition to Greece, where he disgraced himselfand his kingdom

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by contemptible and debasing frivolity. Returningto Rome with great pomp, he surrounded himselfwith his courtiers and engaged in scenes ofrevolting debauchery. In the midst of this revelry avoice of tumult in the streets was heard. Amessenger dispatched to learn the cause,returned with the appalling news that Galba, at thehead of an army, was marching rapidly uponRome, that insurrection had already broken out inthe city, and that the streets were filled with anenraged mob, which, threatening death to the

emperor and all his supporters, was rapidlyapproaching the palace.

In this time of peril, Nero had not, like thefaithful Paul, a powerful and compassionate Godon whom to rely. Fearful of the suffering andpossible torture he might be compelled to endureat the hands of the mob, the wretched tyrantthought to end his life by his own hand, but at thecritical moment his courage failed. Completelyunmanned, he fled ignominiously from the city andsought shelter at a countryseat a few miles distant,but to no avail. His hiding place was soondiscovered, and as the pursuing horsemen drewnear, he summoned a slave to his aid and inflictedon himself a mortal wound. Thus perished thetyrant Nero, at the early age of thirty-two.

Chap. 49 - Paul's Last Letter

From the judgment hall of Caesar, Paulreturned to his cell, realizing that he had gained for

himself only a brief respite. He knew that hisenemies would not rest until they had compassedhis death. But he knew also that for a time truthhad triumphed. To have proclaimed a crucifiedand risen Saviour before the vast crowd who hadlistened to him, was in itself a victory. That day awork had begun which would grow andstrengthen, and which Nero and all other enemiesof Christ would seek in vain to hinder or destroy.

Sitting day after day in his gloomy cell, knowingthat at a word or a nod from Nero his life might besacrificed, Paul thought of Timothy anddetermined to send for him. To Timothy had beencommitted the care of the church at Ephesus, andhe had therefore been left behind when Paul madehis last journey to Rome. Paul and Timothy werebound together by an affection unusually deep andstrong.

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Since his conversion, Timothy had shared Paul'slabors and sufferings, and the friendship betweenthe two had grown stronger, deeper, and moresacred, until all that a son could be to a loved andhonored father, Timothy was to the aged, toilwornapostle. It is little wonder that in his loneliness andsolitude, Paul longed to see him.

Under the most favorable circumstancesseveral months must pass before Timothy couldreach Rome from Asia Minor. Paul knew that hislife was uncertain, and he feared that Timothymight arrive too late to see him. He had importantcounsel and instruction for the young man, towhom so great responsibility had been entrusted;and while urging him to come without delay, hedictated the dying testimony that he might not bespared to utter. His soul filled with loving solicitudefor his son in the gospel and for the church underhis care, Paul sought to impress Timothy with theimportance of fidelity to his sacred trust.

Paul began his letter with the salutation: "ToTimothy, my dearly beloved son: Grace, mercy,

and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesusour Lord. I thank God, whom I serve from myforefathers with pure conscience, that withoutceasing I have remembrance of thee in myprayers night and day."

The apostle then urged upon Timothy thenecessity of steadfastness in the faith. "I put theein remembrance," he wrote, "that thou stir up thegift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of myhands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear;but of power, and of love, and

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of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamedof the testimony of our Lord, nor of me Hisprisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions ofthe gospel according to the power of God." Paulentreated Timothy to remember that he had beencalled "with a holy calling" to proclaim the power ofHim who had "brought life and immortality to lightthrough the gospel: whereunto," he declared, "I am

appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and ateacher of the Gentiles. For the which cause I alsosuffer these things: nevertheless I am notashamed: for I know whom I have believed, andam persuaded that He is able to keep that which Ihave committed unto Him against that day."

Through his long term of service, Paul hadnever faltered in his allegiance to his Saviour.Wherever he was--whether before scowlingPharisees, or Roman authorities; before thefurious mob at Lystra, or the convicted sinners inthe Macedonian dungeon; whether reasoning withthe panic-stricken sailors on the shipwreckedvessel, or standing alone before Nero to plead forhis life--he had never been ashamed of the causehe was advocating. The one great purpose of hisChristian life had been to serve Him whose namehad once filled him with contempt; and from thispurpose no opposition or persecution had beenable to turn him aside. His faith, made strong byeffort and pure by sacrifice, upheld andstrengthened him.

"Thou therefore, my son," Paul continued, "bestrong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And thethings that thou hast heard of me among manywitnesses, the same commit

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thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teachothers also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as agood soldier of Jesus Christ."

The true minister of God will not shun hardshipor responsibility. From the Source that never failsthose who sincerely seek for divine power, hedraws strength that enables him to meet andovercome temptation, and to perform the dutiesthat God places upon him. The nature of the gracethat he receives, enlarges his capacity to knowGod and His Son. His soul goes out in longingdesire to do acceptable service for the Master.And as he advances in the Christian pathway hebecomes "strong in the grace that is in ChristJesus." This grace enables him to be a faithful

witness of the things that he has heard. He doesnot despise or neglect the knowledge that he hasreceived from God, but commits this knowledge tofaithful men, who in their turn teach others.

In this his last letter to Timothy, Paul held upbefore the younger worker a high ideal, pointingout the duties devolving on him as a minister ofChrist. "Study to show thyself approved unto God,"the apostle wrote, "a workman that needeth not tobe ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.""Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness,faith, charity, peace, with them that call on theLord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearnedquestions avoid, knowing that they do genderstrifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive;but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, inmeekness instructing those that oppose

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themselves; if God peradventure will give themrepentance to the acknowledging of the truth."

The apostle warned Timothy against the falseteachers who would seek to gain entrance into thechurch. "This know also," he declared, "that in thelast days perilous times shall come. For men shallbe lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters,proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents,unthankful, unholy; . . . having a form of godliness,but denying the power thereof: from such turnaway."

"Evil men and seducers shall wax worse andworse," he continued, "deceiving, and beingdeceived. But continue thou in the things whichthou hast learned and hast been assured of,knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and thatfrom a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures,which are able to make thee wise untosalvation. . . . All Scripture is given by inspirationof God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,for correction, for instruction in righteousness: thatthe man of God may be perfect, throughlyfurnished unto all good works." God has providedabundant means for successful warfare against

the evil that is in the world. The Bible is the armorywhere we may equip for the struggle. Our loinsmust be girt about with truth. Our breastplate mustbe righteousness. The shield of faith must be inour hand, the helmet of salvation on our brow; andwith the sword of the Spirit, which is the word ofGod, we are to cut our way through theobstructions and entanglements of sin.

Paul knew that there was before the church atime of great peril. He knew that faithful, earnestwork would

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have to be done by those left in charge of thechurches; and he wrote to Timothy, "I charge theetherefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ,who shall judge the quick and the dead at Hisappearing and His kingdom; Preach the word; beinstant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke,exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine."

This solemn charge to one so zealous andfaithful as was Timothy is a strong testimony to theimportance and responsibility of the work of thegospel minister. Summoning Timothy before thebar of God, Paul bids him preach the word, not thesayings and customs of men; to be ready towitness for God whenever opportunity shouldpresent itself--before large congregations andprivate circles, by the way and at the fireside, tofriends and to enemies, whether in safety orexposed to hardship and peril, reproach and loss.

Fearing that Timothy's mild, yielding dispositionmight lead him to shun an essential part of hiswork, Paul exhorted him to be faithful in reprovingsin and even to rebuke with sharpness those whowere guilty of gross evils. Yet he was to do this"with all long-suffering and doctrine." He was toreveal the patience and love of Christ, explainingand enforcing his reproofs by the truths of theword.

To hate and reprove sin, and at the same timeto show pity and tenderness for the sinner, is a

difficult attainment. The more earnest our ownefforts to attain to holiness of heart and life, themore acute will be our perception of sin and themore decided our disapproval of any deviationfrom the right. We must guard against undueseverity toward

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the wrongdoer, but we must also be careful not tolose sight of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. Thereis need of showing Christlike patience and love forthe erring one, but there is also danger of showingso great toleration for his error that he will lookupon himself as undeserving of reproof, and willreject it as uncalled for and unjust.

Ministers of the gospel sometimes do greatharm by allowing their forbearance toward theerring to degenerate into toleration of sins andeven participation in them. Thus they are led toexcuse and palliate that which God condemns,and after a time they become so blinded as to

commend the very ones whom God commandsthem to reprove. He who has blunted his spiritualperceptions by sinful leniency toward those whomGod condemns, will erelong commit a greater sinby severity and harshness toward those whomGod approves.

By the pride of human wisdom, by contempt forthe influence of the Holy Spirit, and by disrelish forthe truths of God's word, many who profess to beChristians, and who feel competent to teachothers, will be led to turn away from therequirements of God. Paul declared to Timothy,"The time will come when they will not enduresound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall theyheap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;and they shall turn away their ears from the truth,and shall be turned unto fables."

The apostle does not here refer to the openlyirreligious, but to the professing Christians whomake inclination their guide, and thus becomeenslaved by self. Such are willing to listen to thosedoctrines only that do not rebuke their sins

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or condemn their pleasure-loving course. They areoffended by the plain words of the faithful servantsof Christ and choose teachers who praise andflatter them. And among professing ministers thereare those who preach the opinions of men insteadof the word of God. Unfaithful to their trust, theylead astray those who look to them for spiritualguidance.

In the precepts of His holy law, God has givena perfect rule of life; and He has declared that untilthe close of time this law, unchanged in a singlejot or tittle, is to maintain its claim upon humanbeings. Christ came to magnify the law and makeit honorable. He showed that it is based upon thebroad foundation of love to God and love to man,and that obedience to its precepts comprises thewhole duty of man. In His own life He gave anexample of obedience to the law of God. In theSermon on the Mount He showed how itsrequirements extend beyond the outward acts and

take cognizance of the thoughts and intents of theheart.

The law, obeyed, leads men to deny"ungodliness and worldly lusts," and to "livesoberly, righteously, and godly, in this presentworld." Titus 2:12. But the enemy of allrighteousness has taken the world captive and hasled men and women to disobey the law. As Paulforesaw, multitudes have turned from the plain,searching truths of God's word and have chosenteachers who present to them the fables theydesire. Many among both ministers and peopleare trampling under their feet the commandmentsof God. Thus the Creator of the world is insulted,and Satan laughs in triumph at the success of hisdevices.

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With the growing contempt for God's law thereis an increasing distaste for religion, an increase of

pride, love of pleasure, disobedience to parents,and self-indulgence; and thoughtful mindseverywhere are anxiously inquiring, What can bedone to correct these alarming evils? The answeris found in Paul's exhortation to Timothy, "Preachthe word." In the Bible are found the only safeprinciples of action. It is a transcript of the will ofGod, an expression of divine wisdom. It opens toman's understanding the great problems of life,and to all who heed its precepts it will prove anunerring guide, keeping them from wasting theirlives in misdirected effort.

God has made known His will, and it is folly forman to question that which has gone out of Hislips. After Infinite Wisdom has spoken, there canbe no doubtful questions for man to settle, nowavering possibilities for him to adjust. All that isrequired of him is a frank, earnest concurrence inthe expressed will of God. Obedience is thehighest dictate of reason as well as of conscience.

Paul continued his charge: "Watch thou in allthings, endure afflictions, do the work of an

evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry." Paulwas about to finish his course, and he desiredTimothy to take his place, guarding the churchfrom the fables and heresies by which the enemy,in various ways, would endeavor to lead themfrom the simplicity of the gospel. He admonishedhim to shun all temporal pursuits andentanglements that would prevent him from givinghimself wholly to his work for God; to endure withcheerfulness the opposition, reproach, andpersecution

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to which his faithfulness would expose him; tomake full proof of his ministry by employing everymeans within his reach of doing good to those forwhom Christ died.

Paul's life was an exemplification of the truthshe taught, and herein lay his power. His heart wasfilled with a deep, abiding sense of hisresponsibility, and he labored in close communion

with Him who is the fountain of justice, mercy, andtruth. He clung to the cross of Christ as his onlyguarantee of success. The love of the Saviour wasthe undying motive that upheld him in his conflictswith self and in his struggles against evil as in theservice of Christ he pressed forward against theunfriendliness of the world and the opposition ofhis enemies.

What the church needs in these days of peril isan army of workers who, like Paul, have educatedthemselves for usefulness, who have a deepexperience in the things of God, and who are filledwith earnestness and zeal. Sanctified, self-sacrificing men are needed; men who will not shuntrial and responsibility; men who are brave andtrue; men in whose hearts Christ is formed "thehope of glory," and who with lips touched with holyfire will "preach the word." For want of suchworkers the cause of God languishes, and fatalerrors, like a deadly poison, taint the morals andblight the hopes of a large part of the human race.

As the faithful, toilworn standard-bearers areoffering up their lives for the truth's sake, who willcome forward to take their place? Will our youngmen accept the holy trust at the hands of theirfathers? Are they preparing to fill the vacanciesmade by the death of the faithful? Will the

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apostle's charge be heeded, the call to duty beheard, amidst the incitements to selfishness andambition that allure the youth?

Paul concluded his letter with personalmessages to different ones and again repeatedthe urgent request that Timothy come to him soon,if possible before the winter. He spoke of hisloneliness, caused by the desertion of some of hisfriends and the necessary absence of others; andlest Timothy should hesitate, fearing that thechurch at Ephesus might need his labors, Paulstated that he had already dispatched Tychicus tofill the vacancy.

After speaking of the scene of his trial beforeNero, the desertion of his brethren, and thesustaining grace of a covenant-keeping God, Paulclosed his letter by commending his belovedTimothy to the guardianship of the ChiefShepherd, who, though the undershepherds mightbe stricken down, would still care for His flock.

Chap. 50 - Condemned to Die

During Paul's final trial before Nero, theemperor had been so strongly impressed with theforce of the apostle's words that he deferred thedecision of the case, neither acquitting norcondemning the accused servant of God. But theemperor's malice against Paul soon returned.Exasperated by his inability to check the spread ofthe Christian religion, even in the imperialhousehold, he determined that as soon as aplausible pretext could be found, the apostleshould be put to death. Not long afterward Nero

pronounced the decision that condemned Paul toa martyr's death. Inasmuch as a Roman citizencould not be subjected to torture, he wassentenced to be beheaded.

Paul was taken in a private manner to the placeof execution. Few spectators were allowed to bepresent; for his persecutors, alarmed at the extentof his influence, feared that converts might be wonto Christianity by the scenes of his death. But eventhe hardened soldiers who attended him

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listened to his words and with amazement sawhim cheerful and even joyous in the prospect ofdeath. To some who witnessed his martyrdom, hisspirit of forgiveness toward his murderers and hisunwavering confidence in Christ till the last,proved a savor of life unto life. More than oneaccepted the Saviour whom Paul preached, anderelong fearlessly sealed their faith with theirblood.

Until his latest hour the life of Paul testified tothe truth of his words to the Corinthians: "God,who commanded the light to shine out ofdarkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give thelight of the knowledge of the glory of God in theface of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure inearthen vessels, that the excellency of the powermay be of God, and not of us. We are troubled onevery side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed,but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken;cast down, but not destroyed; always bearingabout in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, thatthe life also of Jesus might be made manifest inour body." 2 Corinthians 4:6-10. His sufficiencywas not in himself, but in the presence and agencyof the divine Spirit that filled his soul and broughtevery thought into subjection to the will of Christ.The prophet declares, "Thou wilt keep him inperfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee:because he trusteth in Thee." Isaiah 26:3. Theheaven-born peace expressed on Paul'scountenance won many a soul to the gospel.

Paul carried with him the atmosphere ofheaven. All who associated with him felt theinfluence of his union

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with Christ. The fact that his own life exemplifiedthe truth he proclaimed, gave convincing power tohis preaching. Here lies the power of truth. Theunstudied, unconscious influence of a holy life isthe most convincing sermon that can be given infavor of Christianity. Argument, even whenunanswerable, may provoke only opposition; but agodly example has a power that it is impossiblewholly to resist.

The apostle lost sight of his own approachingsufferings in his solicitude for those whom he wasabout to leave to cope with prejudice, hatred, andpersecution. The few Christians who accompaniedhim to the place of execution he endeavored tostrengthen and encourage by repeating thepromises given for those who are persecuted for

righteousness' sake. He assured them that nothingwould fail of all that the Lord had spokenconcerning His tried and faithful children. For alittle season they might be in heaviness throughmanifold temptations; they might be destitute ofearthly comforts; but they could encourage theirhearts with the assurance of God's faithfulness,saying, "I know whom I have believed, and ampersuaded that He is able to keep that which Ihave committed unto Him." 2 Timothy 1:12. Soonthe night of trial and suffering would end, and thenwould dawn the glad morning of peace and perfectday.

The apostle was looking into the great beyond,not with uncertainty or dread, but with joyous hopeand longing expectation. As he stands at the placeof martyrdom he sees not the sword of theexecutioner or the earth so soon to

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receive his blood; he looks up through the calmblue heaven of that summer day to the throne ofthe Eternal.

This man of faith beholds the ladder of Jacob'svision, representing Christ, who has connectedearth with heaven, and finite man with the infiniteGod. His faith is strengthened as he calls to mindhow patriarchs and prophets have relied upon theOne who is his support and consolation, and forwhom he is giving his life. From these holy menwho from century to century have borne testimonyfor their faith, he hears the assurance that God istrue. His fellow apostles, who, to preach thegospel of Christ, went forth to meet religiousbigotry and heathen superstition, persecution, andcontempt, who counted not their lives dear untothemselves that they might bear aloft the light ofthe cross amidst the dark mazes of infidelity--these he hears witnessing to Jesus as the Son ofGod, the Saviour of the world. From the rack, thestake, the dungeon, from dens and caves of theearth, there falls upon his ear the martyr's shout of

triumph. He hears the witness of steadfast souls,who, though destitute, afflicted, tormented, yetbear fearless, solemn testimony for the faith,declaring, "I know whom I have believed." These,yielding up their lives for the faith, declare to theworld that He in whom they have trusted is able tosave to the uttermost.

Ransomed by the sacrifice of Christ, washedfrom sin in His blood, and clothed in Hisrighteousness, Paul has the witness in himself thathis soul is precious in the sight of his Redeemer.His life is hid with Christ in God, and he is

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persuaded that He who has conquered death isable to keep that which is committed to His trust.His mind grasps the Saviour's promise, "I will raisehim up at the last day." John 6:40. His thoughtsand hopes are centered on the second coming ofhis Lord. And as the sword of the executionerdescends and the shadows of death gather about

the martyr, his latest thought springs forward, aswill his earliest in the great awakening, to meet theLife-giver, who shall welcome him to the joy of theblest.

Well-nigh a score of centuries have passedsince Paul the aged poured out his blood as awitness for the word of God and the testimony ofJesus Christ. No faithful hand recorded for thegenerations to come the last scenes in the life ofthis holy man, but Inspiration has preserved for ushis dying testimony. Like a trumpet peal his voicehas rung out through all the ages since, nervingwith his own courage thousands of witnesses forChrist and wakening in thousands of sorrow-stricken hearts the echo of his own triumphant joy:"I am now ready to be offered, and the time of mydeparture is at hand. I have fought a good fight, Ihave finished my course, I have kept the faith:henceforth there is laid up for me a crown ofrighteousness, which the Lord, the righteousJudge, shall give me at that day: and not to me

only, but unto all them also that love Hisappearing." 2 Timothy 4:6-8.

Chap. 51 - A Faithful Undershepherd

Little mention is made in the book of Acts of thelater work of the apostle Peter. During the busyyears of ministry that followed the outpouring ofthe Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, he was amongthose who put forth untiring efforts to reach theJews who came to Jerusalem to worship at thetime of the annual festivals.

As the number of believers multiplied inJerusalem and in other places visited by themessengers of the cross, the talents possessed byPeter proved of untold value to the early Christianchurch. The influence of his testimony concerningJesus of Nazareth extended far and wide. Uponhim had been laid a double responsibility. He borepositive witness concerning the Messiah beforeunbelievers, laboring earnestly for their

conversion; and at the same time he did a specialwork for believers, strengthening them in the faithof Christ.

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It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and entire reliance upon divinepower, that he received his call to act as anundershepherd. Christ had said to Peter, beforehis denial of Him, "When thou art converted,strengthen thy brethren." Luke 22:32. These wordswere significant of the wide and effectual workwhich this apostle was to do in the future for thosewho should come to the faith. For this work,Peter's own experience of sin and suffering andrepentance had prepared him. Not until he hadlearned his weakness, could he know thebeliever's need of dependence on Christ. Amid thestorm of temptation he had come to understand

that man can walk safely only as in utter self-distrust he relies upon the Saviour.

At the last meeting of Christ with His disciplesby the sea, Peter, tested by the thrice-repeatedquestion, "Lovest thou Me?" (John 21:15-17), hadbeen restored to his place among the Twelve. Hiswork had been appointed him; he was to feed theLord's flock. Now, converted and accepted, hewas not only to seek to save those without thefold, but was to be a shepherd of the sheep.

Christ mentioned to Peter only one condition ofservice--"Lovest thou Me?" This is the essentialqualification. Though Peter might possess everyother, yet without the love of Christ he could notbe a faithful shepherd over the flock of God.Knowledge, benevolence, eloquence, zeal--all areessential in the good work; but without the love ofChrist in the heart, the work of the Christianminister is a failure.

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The love of Christ is not a fitful feeling, but aliving principle, which is to be made manifest as anabiding power in the heart. If the character anddeportment of the shepherd is an exemplificationof the truth he advocates, the Lord will set the sealof His approval to the work. The shepherd and theflock will become one, united by their commonhope in Christ.

The Saviour's manner of dealing with Peter hada lesson for him and his brethren. Although Peterhad denied his Lord, the love which Jesus borehim had never faltered. And as the apostle shouldtake up the work of ministering the word to others,he was to meet the transgressor with patience,sympathy, and forgiving love. Remembering hisown weakness and failure, he was to deal with thesheep and lambs committed to his care astenderly as Christ had dealt with him.

Human beings, themselves given to evil, areprone to deal untenderly with the tempted and theerring. They cannot read the heart; they know notits struggle and its pain. Of the rebuke that is love,

of the blow that wounds to heal, of the warningthat speaks hope, they have need to learn.

Throughout his ministry, Peter faithfullywatched over the flock entrusted to his care, andthus proved himself worthy of the charge andresponsibility given him by the Saviour. Ever heexalted Jesus of Nazareth as the Hope of Israel,the Saviour of mankind. He brought his own lifeunder the discipline of the Master Worker. Byevery means within his power he sought toeducate the believers for active service. His godlyexample and untiring activity

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inspired many young men of promise to givethemselves wholly to the work of the ministry. Astime went on, the apostle's influence as aneducator and leader increased; and while he neverlost his burden to labor especially for the Jews, yethe bore his testimony in many lands andstrengthened the faith of multitudes in the gospel.

In the later years of his ministry, Peter wasinspired to write to the believers "scatteredthroughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia,and Bithynia." His letters were the means ofreviving the courage and strengthening the faith ofthose who were enduring trial and affliction, and ofrenewing to good works those who throughmanifold temptations were in danger of losing theirhold upon God. These letters bear the impress ofhaving been written by one in whom the sufferingsof Christ and also His consolation had been madeto abound; one whose entire being had beentransformed by grace, and whose hope of eternallife was sure and steadfast.

At the very beginning of his first letter the agedservant of God ascribed to his Lord a tribute ofpraise and thanksgiving. "Blessed be the God andFather of our Lord Jesus Christ," he exclaimed,"which according to His abundant mercy hathbegotten us again unto a lively hope by theresurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to aninheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that

fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, whoare kept by the power of God through faith untosalvation ready to be revealed in the last time."

In this hope of a sure inheritance in the earthmade new,

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the early Christians rejoiced, even in times ofsevere trial and affliction. "Ye greatly rejoice,"Peter wrote, "though now for a season, if need be,ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:that the trial of your faith, being much moreprecious than of gold that perisheth, though it betried with fire, might be found unto praise andhonor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, thoughnow ye see Him not, . . . ye rejoice with joyunspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end ofyour faith, even the salvation of your souls."

The apostle's words were written for theinstruction of believers in every age, and they

have a special significance for those who live atthe time when "the end of all things is at hand." Hisexhortations and warnings, and his words of faithand courage, are needed by every soul who wouldmaintain his faith "steadfast unto the end."Hebrews 3:14.

The apostle sought to teach the believers howimportant it is to keep the mind from wandering toforbidden themes or from spending its energies ontrifling subjects. Those who would not fall a prey toSatan's devices, must guard well the avenues ofthe soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, orhearing that which will suggest impure thoughts.The mind must not be left to dwell at random uponevery subject that the enemy of souls maysuggest. The heart must be faithfully sentineled, orevils without will awaken evils within, and the soulwill wander in darkness. "Gird up the loins of yourmind," Peter wrote, "be sober, and hope to the endfor the grace that is to be brought unto you at therevelation

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of Jesus Christ; . . . not fashioning yourselvesaccording to the former lusts in your ignorance:but as He which hath called you is holy, so be yeholy in all manner of conversation; because it iswritten, Be ye holy; for I am holy."

"Pass the time of your sojourning here in fear:forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemedwith corruptible things, as silver and gold, fromyour vain conversation received by tradition fromyour fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ,as of a Lamb without blemish and without spot:who verily was foreordained before the foundationof the world, but was manifest in these last timesfor you, who by Him do believe in God, that raisedHim up from the dead, and gave Him glory; thatyour faith and hope might be in God."

Had silver and gold been sufficient to purchasethe salvation of men, how easily might it havebeen accomplished by Him who says, "The silver

is Mine, and the gold is Mine." Haggai 2:8. Butonly by the precious blood of the Son of God couldthe transgressor be redeemed. The plan ofsalvation was laid in sacrifice. The apostle Paulwrote, "Ye know the grace of our Lord JesusChrist, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakesHe became poor, that ye through His povertymight be rich." 2 Corinthians 8:9. Christ gaveHimself for us that He might redeem us from alliniquity. And as the crowning blessing of salvation,"the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christour Lord." Romans 6:23.

"Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeyingthe truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love ofthe brethren,"

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Peter continued, "see that ye love one anotherwith a pure heart fervently." The word of God--thetruth--is the channel through which the Lordmanifests His Spirit and power. Obedience to the

word produces fruit of the requiredquality--"unfeigned love of the brethren." This loveis heaven-born and leads to high motives andunselfish actions. When truth becomes anabiding principle in the life, the soul is "born again,not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by theword of God, which liveth and abideth forever."This new birth is the result of receiving Christ asthe Word of God. When by the Holy Spirit divinetruths are impressed upon the heart, newconceptions are awakened, and the energieshitherto dormant are aroused to co-operate withGod.

Thus it had been with Peter and his fellowdisciples. Christ was the revealer of truth to theworld. By Him the incorruptible seed--the word ofGod--was sown in the hearts of men. But many ofthe most precious lessons of the Great Teacherwere spoken to those who did not then understandthem. When, after His ascension, the Holy Spiritbrought His teachings to the remembrance of thedisciples, their slumbering senses awoke. The

meaning of these truths flashed upon their mindsas a new revelation, and truth, pure andunadulterated, made a place for itself. Then thewonderful experience of His life became theirs.The Word bore testimony through them, the menof His appointment, and they proclaimed themighty truth, "The Word was made flesh, anddwelt among us, . . . full of

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grace and truth." "And of His fullness have all wereceived, and grace for grace." John 1:14, 16.

The apostle exhorted the believers to study theScriptures, through a proper understanding ofwhich they might make sure work for eternity.Peter realized that in the experience of every soulwho is finally victorious there would be scenes ofperplexity and trial; but he knew also that anunderstanding of the Scriptures would enable thetempted one to bring to mind promises that wouldcomfort the heart and strengthen faith in the

Mighty One. "All flesh is as grass," hedeclared, "and all the glory of man as the flower ofgrass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereoffalleth away: but the word of the Lord endurethforever. And this is the word which by the gospel ispreached unto you. Wherefore laying aside allmalice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies,and all evilspeakings, as newborn babes, desirethe sincere milk of the word, that ye may growthereby: if so be ye have tasted that the Lord isgracious."

Many of the believers to whom Peteraddressed his letters, were living in the midst ofheathen, and much depended on their remainingtrue to the high calling of their profession. Theapostle urged upon them their privileges asfollowers of Christ Jesus. "Ye are a chosengeneration," he wrote, "a royal priesthood, an holynation, a peculiar people; that ye should showforth the praises of Him who hath called you out ofdarkness into His marvelous light: which in timepast were not a people, but are now the people of

God: which had not obtained mercy, but now haveobtained mercy.

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"Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangersand pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which waragainst the soul; having your conversation honestamong the Gentiles: that, whereas they speakagainst you as evildoers, they may by your goodworks, which they shall behold, glorify God in theday of visitation."

The apostle plainly outlined the attitude thatbelievers should sustain toward the civilauthorities: "Submit yourselves to every ordinanceof man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to theking, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto themthat are sent by him for the punishment ofevildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.For so is the will of God, that with well-doing yemay put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:

as free, and not using your liberty for a cloak ofmaliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honorall men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honorthe king."

Those who were servants were advised toremain subject to their masters "with all fear; notonly to the good and gentle, but also to thefroward. For this is thankworthy," the apostleexplained, "if a man for conscience toward Godendure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory isit, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shalltake it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and sufferfor it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable withGod. For even hereunto were ye called: becauseChrist also suffered for us, leaving us an example,that ye should follow His steps: who did no sin,neither was guile found in His mouth: who, whenHe was

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reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, Hethreatened not; but committed Himself to Him thatjudgeth righteously: who His own self bare oursins in His own body on the tree, that we, beingdead to sins, should live unto righteousness: bywhose stripes ye were healed. For ye were assheep going astray; but are now returned unto theShepherd and Bishop of your souls."

The apostle exhorted the women in the faith tobe chaste in conversation and modest in dressand deportment. "Whose adorning," he counseled,"let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting thehair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on ofapparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart,in that which is not corruptible, even the ornamentof a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight ofGod of great price."

The lesson applies to believers in every age."By their fruits ye shall know them." Matthew 7:20.The inward adorning of a meek and quiet spirit ispriceless. In the life of the true Christian theoutward adorning is always in harmony with the

inward peace and holiness. "If any man will comeafter Me," Christ said, "let him deny himself, andtake up his cross, and follow Me." Matthew 16:24.Self-denial and sacrifice will mark the Christian'slife. Evidence that the taste is converted will beseen in the dress of all who walk in the path castup for the ransomed of the Lord.

It is right to love beauty and to desire it; butGod desires us to love and seek first the highestbeauty, that which is imperishable. No outwardadorning can compare in value or loveliness withthat "meek and quiet spirit," the "fine

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linen, white and clean" (Revelation 19:14), whichall the holy ones of earth will wear. This apparelwill make them beautiful and beloved here, andwill hereafter be their badge of admission to thepalace of the King. His promise is, "They shallwalk with Me in white: for they are worthy."Revelation 3:4.

Looking forward with prophetic vision to theperilous times into which the church of Christ wasto enter, the apostle exhorted the believers tosteadfastness in the face of trial and suffering."Beloved," he wrote, "think it not strangeconcerning the fiery trial which is to try you."

Trial is part of the education given in the schoolof Christ, to purify God's children from the dross ofearthliness. It is because God is leading Hischildren that trying experiences come to them.Trials and obstacles are His chosen methods ofdiscipline, and His appointed conditions ofsuccess. He who reads the hearts of men knowstheir weaknesses better than they themselves canknow them. He sees that some have qualificationswhich, if rightly directed, could be used in theadvancement of His work. In His providence Hebrings these souls into different positions andvaried circumstances, that they may discover thedefects that are concealed from their ownknowledge. He gives them opportunity toovercome these defects and to fit themselves for

service. Often He permits the fires of affliction toburn, that they may be purified. God's care forHis heritage is unceasing. He suffers no afflictionto come upon His children but such as is essential

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for their present and eternal good. He will purifyHis church, even as Christ purified the templeduring His ministry on earth. All that He bringsupon His people in test and trial comes that theymay gain deeper piety and greater strength tocarry forward the triumphs of the cross.

There had been a time in Peter's experiencewhen he was unwilling to see the cross in the workof Christ. When the Saviour made known to thedisciples His impending sufferings and death,Peter exclaimed, "Be it far from Thee, Lord: thisshall not be unto Thee." Matthew 16:22. Self-pity,which shrank from fellowship with Christ insuffering, prompted Peter's remonstrance. It wasto the disciple a bitter lesson, and one which he

learned but slowly, that the path of Christ on earthlay through agony and humiliation. But in the heatof the furnace fire he was to learn its lesson. Now,when his once active form was bowed with theburden of years and labors, he could write,"Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fierytrial which is to try you, as though some strangething happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch asye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, whenHis glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad alsowith exceeding joy."

Addressing the church elders regarding theirresponsibilities as undershepherds of Christ'sflock, the apostle wrote: "Feed the flock of Godwhich is among you, taking the oversight thereof,not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre,but of a ready mind; neither as being lords overGod's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.And

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when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shallreceive a crown of glory that fadeth not away."

Those who occupy the position ofundershepherds are to exercise a watchfuldiligence over the Lord's flock. This is not to be adictatorial vigilance, but one that tends toencourage and strengthen and uplift. Ministrymeans more than sermonizing; it means earnest,personal labor. The church on earth is composedof erring men and women, who need patient,painstaking effort that they may be trained anddisciplined to work with acceptance in this life, andin the future life to be crowned with glory andimmortality. Pastors are needed--faithfulshepherds--who will not flatter God's people, nortreat them harshly, but who will feed them with thebread of life--men who in their lives feel daily theconverting power of the Holy Spirit and whocherish a strong, unselfish love toward those forwhom they labor.

There is tactful work for the undershepherd todo as he is called to meet alienation, bitterness,

envy, and jealousy in the church, and he will needto labor in the spirit of Christ to set things in order.Faithful warnings are to be given, sins rebuked,wrongs made right, not only by the minister's workin the pulpit, but by personal labor. The waywardheart may take exception to the message, and theservant of God may be misjudged and criticized.Let him then remember that "the wisdom that isfrom above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle,and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and goodfruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

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And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace ofthem that make peace." James 3:17, 18.

The work of the gospel minister is "to make allmen see what is the fellowship of the mystery,which from the beginning of the world hath beenhid in God." Ephesians 3:9. If one entering uponthis work chooses the least self-sacrificing part,contenting himself with preaching, and leaving the

work of personal ministry for someone else, hislabors will not be acceptable to God. Souls forwhom Christ died are perishing for want of well-directed, personal labor; and he has mistaken hiscalling who, entering upon the ministry, is unwillingto do the personal work that the care of the flockdemands.

The spirit of the true shepherd is one of self-forgetfulness. He loses sight of self in order thathe may work the works of God. By the preachingof the word and by personal ministry in the homesof the people, he learns their needs, their sorrows,their trials; and, co-operating with the great BurdenBearer, he shares their afflictions, comforts theirdistresses, relieves their soul hunger, and winstheir hearts to God. In this work the minister isattended by the angels of heaven, and he himselfis instructed and enlightened in the truth thatmaketh wise unto salvation.

In connection with his instruction to those inpositions of trust in the church, the apostleoutlined some general principles that were to be

followed by all who were associated in churchfellowship. The younger members of the flockwere urged to follow the example of their elders inthe

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practice of Christlike humility: "Likewise, yeyounger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, allof you be subject one to another, and be clothedwith humility: for God resisteth the proud, andgiveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselvestherefore under the mighty hand of God, that Hemay exalt you in due time: casting all your careupon Him; for He careth for you. Be sober, bevigilant; because your adversary the devil, as aroaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he maydevour: whom resist steadfast in the faith."

Thus Peter wrote to the believers at a time ofpeculiar trial to the church. Many had alreadybecome partakers of Christ's sufferings, and soonthe church was to undergo a period of terrible

persecution. Within a few brief years many ofthose who had stood as teachers and leaders inthe church were to lay down their lives for thegospel. Soon grievous wolves were to enter in, notsparing the flock. But none of these things were tobring discouragement to those whose hopes werecentered in Christ. With words of encouragementand good cheer Peter directed the minds of thebelievers from present trials and future scenes ofsuffering "to an inheritance incorruptible, andundefiled, and that fadeth not away." "The God ofall grace," he fervently prayed, "who hath called usunto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that yehave suffered awhile, make you perfect, stablish,strengthen, settle you. To Him be glory anddominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Chap. 52 - Steadfast Unto the End

In the second letter addressed by Peter tothose who had obtained "like precious faith" withhimself, the apostle sets forth the divine plan for

the development of Christian character. He writes:"Grace and peace be multiplied unto you throughthe knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,according as His divine power hath given unto usall things that pertain unto life and godliness,through the knowledge of Him that hath called usto glory and virtue: whereby are given unto usexceeding great and precious promises: that bythese ye might be partakers of the divine nature,having escaped the corruption that is in the worldthrough lust.

"And beside this, giving all diligence, add toyour faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and toknowledge temperance; and to temperancepatience; and to patience godliness; and togodliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherlykindness charity. For if these things be in you, andabound,

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they make you that ye shall neither be barren norunfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord JesusChrist."

These words are full of instruction, and strikethe keynote of victory. The apostle presents beforethe believers the ladder of Christian progress,every step of which represents advancement inthe knowledge of God, and in the climbing ofwhich there is to be no standstill. Faith, virtue,knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness,brotherly kindness, and charity are the rounds ofthe ladder. We are saved by climbing round afterround, mounting step after step, to the height ofChrist's ideal for us. Thus He is made unto uswisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification,and redemption.

God has called His people to glory and virtue,and these will be manifest in the lives of all whoare truly connected with Him. Having becomepartakers of the heavenly gift, they are to go onunto perfection, being "kept by the power of Godthrough faith." 1 Peter 1:5. It is the glory of God to

give His virtue to His children. He desires to seemen and women reaching the highest standard;and when by faith they lay hold of the power ofChrist, when they plead His unfailing promises,and claim them as their own, when with animportunity that will not be denied they seek forthe power of the Holy Spirit, they will be madecomplete in Him.

Having received the faith of the gospel, thenext work of the believer is to add to his charactervirtue, and thus cleanse the heart and prepare themind for the reception of the knowledge of God.This knowledge is the foundation

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of all true education and of all true service. It is theonly real safeguard against temptation; and it isthis alone that can make one like God incharacter. Through the knowledge of God and ofHis Son Jesus Christ, are given to the believer "allthings that pertain unto life and godliness." No

good gift is withheld from him who sincerelydesires to obtain the righteousness of God.

"This is life eternal," Christ said, "that theymight know Thee the only true God, and JesusChrist, whom Thou hast sent." John 17:3. And theprophet Jeremiah declared: "Let not the wise manglory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty manglory in his might, let not the rich man glory in hisriches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that heunderstandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the Lordwhich exercise loving-kindness, judgment, andrighteousness, in the earth: for in these things Idelight, saith the Lord." Jeremiah 9:23, 24.Scarcely can the human mind comprehend thebreadth and depth and height of the spiritualattainments of him who gains this knowledge.

None need fail of attaining, in his sphere, toperfection of Christian character. By the sacrificeof Christ, provision has been made for the believerto receive all things that pertain to life andgodliness. God calls upon us to reach thestandard of perfection and places before us the

example of Christ's character. In His humanity,perfected by a life of constant resistance of evil,the Saviour showed that through co-operation withDivinity, human beings may in this life attain toperfection of character. This is God's assurance tous that we, too, may obtain complete victory.

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Before the believer is held out the wonderfulpossibility of being like Christ, obedient to all theprinciples of the law. But of himself man is utterlyunable to reach this condition. The holiness thatGod's word declares he must have before he canbe saved is the result of the working of divinegrace as he bows in submission to the disciplineand restraining influences of the Spirit of truth.Man's obedience can be made perfect only by theincense of Christ's righteousness, which fills withdivine fragrance every act of obedience. The partof the Christian is to persevere in overcoming

every fault. Constantly he is to pray to the Saviourto heal the disorders of his sin-sick soul. He hasnot the wisdom or the strength to overcome; thesebelong to the Lord, and He bestows them on thosewho in humiliation and contrition seek Him forhelp.

The work of transformation from unholiness toholiness is a continuous one. Day by day Godlabors for man's sanctification, and man is to co-operate with Him, putting forth persevering effortsin the cultivation of right habits. He is to add graceto grace; and as he thus works on the plan ofaddition, God works for him on the plan ofmultiplication. Our Saviour is always ready to hearand answer the prayer of the contrite heart, andgrace and peace are multiplied to His faithful ones.Gladly He grants them the blessings they need intheir struggle against the evils that beset them.

There are those who attempt to ascend theladder of Christian progress; but as they advancethey begin to put their trust in the power of man,and soon lose sight of Jesus,

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the Author and Finisher of their faith. The result isfailure--the loss of all that has been gained. Sadindeed is the condition of those who, becomingweary of the way, allow the enemy of souls to robthem of the Christian graces that have beendeveloping in their hearts and lives. "He thatlacketh these things," declares the apostle, "isblind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgottenthat he was purged from his old sins." Theapostle Peter had had a long experience in thethings of God. His faith in God's power to save hadstrengthened with the years, until he had provedbeyond question that there is no possibility offailure before the one who, advancing by faith,ascends round by round, ever upward andonward, to the topmost round of the ladder thatreaches even to the portals of heaven.

For many years Peter had been urging uponthe believers the necessity of a constant growth ingrace and in a knowledge of the truth; and now,

knowing that soon he would be called to suffermartyrdom for his faith, he once more drewattention to the precious privileges within the reachof every believer. In the full assurance of his faiththe aged disciple exhorted his brethren tosteadfastness of purpose in the Christian life."Give diligence," he pleaded, "to make your callingand election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shallnever fall: for so an entrance shall be ministeredunto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdomof our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ." Preciousassurance! Glorious is the hope before thebeliever as he advances by faith toward theheights of Christian perfection!

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"I will not be negligent," the apostle continued,"to put you always in remembrance of thesethings, though ye know them, and be establishedin the present truth. Yea, I think it meet, as long as

I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by puttingyou in remembrance; knowing that shortly I mustput off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord JesusChrist hath showed me. Moreover I will endeavorthat ye may be able after my decease to havethese things always in remembrance."

The apostle was well qualified to speak of thepurposes of God concerning the human race; forduring the earthly ministry of Christ he had seenand heard much that pertained to the kingdom ofGod. "We have not followed cunningly devisedfables," he reminded the believers, "when wemade known unto you the power and coming ofour Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses ofHis majesty. For He received from God the Fatherhonor and glory, when there came such a voice toHim from the excellent glory, This is My belovedSon, in whom I am well pleased. And this voicewhich came from heaven we heard, when we werewith Him in the holy mount."

Yet convincing as was this evidence of thecertainty of the believers' hope, there was another

still more convincing in the witness of prophecy,through which the faith of all might be confirmedand securely anchored. "We have also," Peterdeclared, "a more sure word of prophecy;whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto alight that shineth in a dark place, until the daydawn, and the daystar arise

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in your hearts: knowing this first, that no prophecyof the Scripture is of any private interpretation. Forthe prophecy came not in old time by the will ofman: but holy men of God spake as they weremoved by the Holy Ghost."

While exalting the "sure word of prophecy" as asafe guide in times of peril, the apostle solemnlywarned the church against the torch of falseprophecy, which would be uplifted by "falseteachers," who would privily bring in "damnableheresies, even denying the Lord." These falseteachers, arising in the church and accounted true

by many of their brethren in the faith, the apostlecompared to "wells without water, clouds that arecarried with a tempest; to whom the mist ofdarkness is reserved forever." "The latter end isworse with them," he declared, "than thebeginning. For it had been better for them not tohave known the way of righteousness, than, afterthey have known it, to turn from the holycommandment delivered unto them."

Looking down through the ages to the close oftime, Peter was inspired to outline conditions thatwould exist in the world just prior to the secondcoming of Christ. "There shall come in the lastdays scoffers," he wrote, "walking after their ownlusts, and saying, Where is the promise of Hiscoming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all thingscontinue as they were from the beginning of thecreation." But "when they shall say, Peace andsafety; then sudden destruction cometh uponthem." 1 Thessalonians 5:3. Not all, however,would be ensnared by the enemy's devices. As theend of all things earthly should approach, there

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would be faithful ones able to discern the signs ofthe times. While a large number of professingbelievers would deny their faith by their works,there would be a remnant who would endure tothe end.

Peter kept alive in his heart the hope of Christ'sreturn, and he assured the church of the certainfulfillment of the Saviour's promise, "If I go andprepare a place for you, I will come again, andreceive you unto Myself." John 14:3. To the triedand faithful ones the coming might seem longdelayed, but the apostle assured them: "The Lordis not slack concerning His promise, as some mencount slackness; but is long-suffering to usward,not willing that any should perish, but that allshould come to repentance. But the day of theLord will come as a thief in the night; in the whichthe heavens shall pass away with a great noise,and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the

earth also and the works that are therein shall beburned up.

"Seeing then that all these things shall bedissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to bein all holy conversation and godliness, looking forand hasting unto the coming of the day of God,wherein the heavens being on fire shall bedissolved, and the elements shall melt with ferventheat? Nevertheless we, according to His promise,look for new heavens and a new earth, whereindwelleth righteousness.

"Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look forsuch things, be diligent that ye may be found ofHim in peace, without spot, and blameless. Andaccount that the long-suffering of our Lord issalvation; even as our beloved brother Paul alsoaccording to the wisdom given unto him hathwritten

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unto you. . . . Ye therefore, beloved, seeing yeknow these things before, beware lest ye also,being led away with the error of the wicked, fallfrom your own steadfastness. But grow in grace,and in the knowledge of our Lord and SaviourJesus Christ."

In the providence of God, Peter was permittedto close his ministry in Rome, where hisimprisonment was ordered by the emperor Neroabout the time of Paul's final arrest. Thus the twoveteran apostles, who for many years had beenwidely separated in their labors, were to bear theirlast witness for Christ in the world's metropolis,and upon its soil to shed their blood as the seed ofa vast harvest of saints and martyrs.

Since his reinstatement after his denial ofChrist, Peter had unflinchingly braved danger andhad shown a noble courage in preaching acrucified, risen, and ascended Saviour. As he layin his cell he called to mind the words that Christhad spoken to him: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee,When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and

walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thoushalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, andanother shall gird thee, and carry thee whitherthou wouldest not." John 21:18. Thus Jesus hadmade known to the disciple the very manner of hisdeath, and even foretold the stretching of hishands upon the cross.

Peter, as a Jew and a foreigner, wascondemned to be scourged and crucified. Inprospect of this fearful death, the apostleremembered his great sin in denying Jesus in thehour of His trial. Once so unready to acknowledgethe

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cross, he now counted it a joy to yield up his lifefor the gospel, feeling only that, for him who haddenied his Lord, to die in the same manner as hisMaster died was too great an honor. Peter hadsincerely repented of that sin and had beenforgiven by Christ, as is shown by the high

commission given him to feed the sheep andlambs of the flock. But he could never forgivehimself. Not even the thought of the agonies of thelast terrible scene could lessen the bitterness ofhis sorrow and repentance. As a last favor heentreated his executioners that he might be nailedto the cross with his head downward. The requestwas granted, and in this manner died the greatapostle Peter.

Chap. 53 - John the Beloved

John is distinguished above the other apostlesas "the disciple whom Jesus loved." John 21:20.He seems to have enjoyed to a pre-eminentdegree the friendship of Christ, and he receivedmany tokens of the Saviour's confidence and love.He was one of the three permitted to witnessChrist's glory upon the mount of transfigurationand His agony in Gethsemane, and it was to hiscare that our Lord confided His mother in thoselast hours of anguish upon the cross.

The Saviour's affection for the beloved disciplewas returned with all the strength of ardentdevotion. John clung to Christ as the vine clings tothe stately pillar. For his Master's sake he bravedthe dangers of the judgment hall and lingeredabout the cross, and at the tidings that Christ hadrisen, he hastened to the sepulcher, in his zealout-stripping even the impetuous Peter.

The confiding love and unselfish devotionmanifested in the life and character of Johnpresent lessons of untold value

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to the Christian church. John did not naturallypossess the loveliness of character that his laterexperience revealed. By nature he had seriousdefects. He was not only proud, self-assertive, andambitious for honor, but impetuous, and resentfulunder injury. He and his brother were called "sonsof thunder." Evil temper, the desire for revenge,the spirit of criticism, were all in the beloved

disciple. But beneath all this the divine Teacherdiscerned the ardent, sincere, loving heart. Jesusrebuked this self-seeking, disappointed hisambitions, tested his faith. But He revealed to himthat for which his soul longed--the beauty ofholiness, the transforming power of love.

The defects in John's character came stronglyto the front on several occasions during hispersonal association with the Saviour. At one timeChrist sent messengers before Him into a villageof the Samaritans, requesting the people toprepare refreshments for Him and His disciples.But when the Saviour approached the town, Heappeared to be desirous of passing on towardJerusalem. This aroused the envy of theSamaritans, and instead of inviting Him to tarrywith them, they withheld the courtesies which theywould have given to a common wayfarer. Jesusnever urges His presence upon any, and theSamaritans lost the blessing which would havebeen granted them had they solicited Him to betheir guest.

The disciples knew that it was the purpose ofChrist to bless the Samaritans by His presence;and the coldness, jealousy, and disrespect shownto their Master filled them with surprise andindignation. James and John especially

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were aroused. That He whom they so highlyreverenced should be thus treated, seemed tothem a wrong too great to be passed over withoutimmediate punishment. In their zeal they said,"Lord, wilt Thou that we command fire to comedown from heaven, and consume them, even asElias did?" referring to the destruction of theSamaritan captains and their companies sent outto take the prophet Elijah. They were surprised tosee that Jesus was pained by their words, and stillmore surprised as His rebuke fell upon their ears:"Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. Forthe Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives,but to save them." Luke 9:54-56.

It is no part of Christ's mission to compel mento receive Him. It is Satan, and men actuated byhis spirit, who seek to compel the conscience.Under a pretense of zeal for righteousness, menwho are confederated with evil angels sometimesbring suffering upon their fellow men in order toconvert them to their ideas of religion; but Christ isever showing mercy, ever seeking to win by therevealing of His love. He can admit no rival in thesoul, nor accept of partial service; but He desiresonly voluntary service, the willing surrender of theheart under the constraint of love.

On another occasion James and Johnpresented through their mother a petitionrequesting that they might be permitted to occupythe highest positions of honor in Christ's kingdom.Notwithstanding Christ's repeated instructionconcerning the nature of His kingdom, theseyoung disciples still cherished the hope for aMessiah who would take His throne and kinglypower in accordance with the desires

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of men. The mother, coveting with them the placeof honor in this kingdom for her sons, asked,"Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one onThy right hand, and the other on the left, in Thykingdom."

But the Saviour answered, "Ye know not whatye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shalldrink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that Iam baptized with?" They recalled His mysteriouswords pointing to trial and suffering, yet answeredconfidently, "We are able." They would count ithighest honor to prove their loyalty by sharing allthat was to befall their Lord.

"Ye shall drink indeed of My cup, and bebaptized with the baptism that I am baptized with,"Christ declared--before Him a cross instead of athrone, two malefactors His companions at Hisright hand and at His left. James and John were tobe sharers with their Master in suffering--the one,

destined to swift-coming death by the sword; theother, longest of all the disciples to follow hisMaster in labor and reproach and persecution."But to sit on My right hand, and on My left," Hecontinued, "is not Mine to give, but it shall be givento them for whom it is prepared of My Father."Matthew 20:21-23. Jesus understood themotive that prompted the request and thusreproved the pride and ambition of the twodisciples: "The princes of the Gentiles exercisedominion over them, and they that are greatexercise authority upon them. But it shall not be soamong you: but whosoever will be great amongyou, let him be your minister; and whosoever willbe chief among you, let him be your servant: even

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as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto,but to minister, and to give His life a ransom formany." Matthew 20:25-28.

In the kingdom of God, position is not gainedthrough favoritism. It is not earned, nor is itreceived through an arbitrary bestowal. It is theresult of character. The crown and the throne arethe tokens of a condition attained--tokens of self-conquest through the grace of our Lord JesusChrist.

Long afterward, when John had been broughtinto sympathy with Christ through the fellowship ofHis sufferings, the Lord Jesus revealed to himwhat is the condition of nearness to His kingdom."To him that overcometh," Christ said, "will I grantto sit with Me in My throne, even as I alsoovercame, and am set down with My Father in Histhrone." Revelation 3:21. The one who standsnearest to Christ will be he who has drunk mostdeeply of His spirit of self-sacrificing love,--lovethat "vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, . . .seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked,thinketh no evil" (1 Corinthians 13:4, 5),--love thatmoves the disciple, as it moved our Lord, to give

all, to live and labor and sacrifice even unto death,for the saving of humanity.

At another time during their early evangelisticlabors, James and John met one who, while notan acknowledged follower of Christ, was castingout devils in His name. The disciples forbade theman to work and thought they were right in doingthis. But when they laid the matter before Christ,He reproved them, saying, "Forbid him not: forthere is no man which shall do a miracle in Myname, that

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can lightly speak evil of Me." Mark 9:39. None whoshowed themselves in any way friendly to Christwere to be repulsed. The disciples must notindulge a narrow, exclusive spirit, but mustmanifest the same far-reaching sympathy whichthey had seen in their Master. James and Johnhad thought that in checking this man they had inview the Lord's honor; but they began to see that

they were jealous for their own. Theyacknowledged their error and accepted thereproof.

The lessons of Christ, setting forth meeknessand humility and love as essential to growth ingrace and a fitness for His work, were of thehighest value to John. He treasured every lessonand constantly sought to bring his life intoharmony with the divine pattern. John had begunto discern the glory of Christ--not the worldly pompand power for which he had been taught to hope,but "the glory as of the Only Begotten of theFather, full of grace and truth." John 1:14.

The depth and fervor of John's affection for hisMaster was not the cause of Christ's love for him,but the effect of that love. John desired to becomelike Jesus, and under the transforming influence ofthe love of Christ he did become meek and lowly.Self was hid in Jesus. Above all his companions,John yielded himself to the power of thatwondrous life. He says, "The life was manifested,and we have seen it." "And of His fullness have all

we received, and grace for grace." 1 John 1:2;John 1:16. John knew the Saviour by anexperimental knowledge. His Master's

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lessons were graven on his soul. When hetestified of the Saviour's grace, his simplelanguage was eloquent with the love thatpervaded his whole being.

It was John's deep love for Christ which led himalways to desire to be close by His side. TheSaviour loved all the Twelve, but John's was themost receptive spirit. He was younger than theothers, and with more of the child's confiding trusthe opened his heart to Jesus. Thus he came moreinto sympathy with Christ, and through him theSaviour's deepest spiritual teaching wascommunicated to the people.

Jesus loves those who represent the Father,and John could talk of the Father's love as noother of the disciples could. He revealed to his

fellow men that which he felt in his own soul,representing in his character the attributes of God.The glory of the Lord was expressed in his face.The beauty of holiness which had transformed himshone with a Christlike radiance from hiscountenance. In adoration and love he beheld theSaviour until likeness to Christ and fellowship withHim became his one desire, and in his characterwas reflected the character of his Master.

"Behold," he said, "what manner of love theFather hath bestowed upon us, that we should becalled the sons of God. . . . Beloved, now are wethe sons of God, and it doth not yet appear whatwe shall be: but we know that, when He shallappear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Himas He is." 1 John 3:1, 2.

Chap. 54 - A Faithful Witness

After the ascension of Christ, John stands forthas a faithful, earnest laborer for the Master. Withthe other disciples he enjoyed the outpouring of

the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, and with freshzeal and power he continued to speak to thepeople the words of life, seeking to lead theirthoughts to the Unseen. He was a powerfulpreacher, fervent, and deeply in earnest. Inbeautiful language and with a musical voice hetold of the words and works of Christ, speaking ina way that impressed the hearts of those whoheard him. The simplicity of his words, the sublimepower of the truths he uttered, and the fervor thatcharacterized his teachings, gave him access toall classes.

The apostle's life was in harmony with histeachings. The love for Christ which glowed in hisheart led him to put forth earnest, untiring labor forhis fellow men, especially for his brethren in theChristian church.

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Christ had bidden the first disciples love oneanother as He had loved them. Thus they were tobear testimony to the world that Christ was formedwithin, the hope of glory. "A new commandment Igive unto you," He had said, "That ye love oneanother; as I have loved you, that ye also love oneanother." John 13:34. At the time when thesewords were spoken, the disciples could notunderstand them; but after they had witnessed thesufferings of Christ, after His crucifixion andresurrection, and ascension to heaven, and afterthe Holy Spirit had rested on them at Pentecost,they had a clearer conception of the love of Godand of the nature of that love which they musthave for one another. Then John could say to hisfellow disciples:

"Hereby perceive we the love of God, becauseHe laid down His life for us: and we ought to laydown our lives for the brethren."

After the descent of the Holy Spirit, when thedisciples went forth to proclaim a living Saviour,their one desire was the salvation of souls. They

rejoiced in the sweetness of communion withsaints. They were tender, thoughtful, self-denying,willing to make any sacrifice for the truth's sake. Intheir daily association with one another, theyrevealed the love that Christ had enjoined uponthem. By unselfish words and deeds they strove tokindle this love in other hearts.

Such a love the believers were ever to cherish.They were to go forward in willing obedience tothe new commandment. So closely were they tobe united with Christ that

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they would be enabled to fulfill all Hisrequirements. Their lives were to magnify thepower of a Saviour who could justify them by Hisrighteousness.

But gradually a change came. The believersbegan to look for defects in others. Dwelling uponmistakes, giving place to unkind criticism, they lostsight of the Saviour and His love. They became

more strict in regard to outward ceremonies, moreparticular about the theory than the practice of thefaith. In their zeal to condemn others, theyoverlooked their own errors. They lost thebrotherly love that Christ had enjoined, and,saddest of all, they were unconscious of their loss.They did not realize that happiness and joy weregoing out of their lives and that, having shut thelove of God out of their hearts, they would soonwalk in darkness.

John, realizing that brotherly love was waningin the church, urged upon believers the constantneed of this love. His letters to the church are fullof this thought. "Beloved, let us love one another,"he writes; "for love is of God; and everyone thatloveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He thatloveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In thiswas manifested the love of God toward us,because that God sent His only-begotten Son intothe world, that we might live through Him. Hereinis love, not that we loved God, but that He lovedus, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our

sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also tolove one another."

Of the special sense in which this love shouldbe manifested by believers, the apostle writes: "Anew commandment

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I write unto you, which thing is true in Him and inyou: because the darkness is past, and the truelight now shineth. He that saith he is in the light,and hateth his brother, is in darkness even untilnow. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light,and there is none occasion of stumbling in him.But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, andwalketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither hegoeth, because that darkness hath blinded hiseyes." "This is the message that ye heard from thebeginning, that we should love one another." "Hethat loveth not his brother abideth in death.Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: andye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding

in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God,because He laid down His life for us: and we oughtto lay down our lives for the brethren."

It is not the opposition of the world that mostendangers the church of Christ. It is the evilcherished in the hearts of believers that workstheir most grievous disaster and most surelyretards the progress of God's cause. There is nosurer way of weakening spirituality than bycherishing envy, suspicion, faultfinding, and evilsurmising. On the other hand, the strongestwitness that God has sent His Son into the worldis the existence of harmony and union among menof varied dispositions who form His church. Thiswitness it is the privilege of the followers of Christto bear. But in order to do this, they must placethemselves under Christ's command. Theircharacters must be conformed to His characterand their wills to His will.

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"A new commandment I give unto you," Christsaid, "That ye love one another; as I have lovedyou, that ye also love one another." John 13:34.What a wonderful statement; but, oh, how poorlypracticed! In the church of God today brotherlylove is sadly lacking. Many who profess to love theSaviour do not love one another. Unbelievers arewatching to see if the faith of professed Christiansis exerting a sanctifying influence upon their lives;and they are quick to discern the defects incharacter, the inconsistencies in action. LetChristians not make it possible for the enemy topoint to them and say, Behold how these people,standing under the banner of Christ, hate oneanother. Christians are all members of one family,all children of the same heavenly Father, with thesame blessed hope of immortality. Very close andtender should be the tie that binds them together.

Divine love makes its most touching appeals tothe heart when it calls upon us to manifest thesame tender compassion that Christ manifested.

That man only who has unselfish love for hisbrother has true love for God. The true Christianwill not willingly permit the soul in peril and need togo unwarned, uncared for. He will not hold himselfaloof from the erring, leaving them to plungefarther into unhappiness and discouragement or tofall on Satan's battleground.

Those who have never experienced the tender,winning love of Christ cannot lead others to thefountain of life. His love in the heart is aconstraining power, which leads men

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to reveal Him in the conversation, in the tender,pitiful spirit, in the uplifting of the lives of those withwhom they associate. Christian workers whosucceed in their efforts must know Christ; and inorder to know Him, they must know His love. Inheaven their fitness as workers is measured bytheir ability to love as Christ loved and to work asHe worked.

"Let us not love in word," the apostle writes,"but in deed and in truth." The completeness ofChristian character is attained when the impulse tohelp and bless others springs constantly fromwithin. It is the atmosphere of this lovesurrounding the soul of the believer that makeshim a savor of life unto life and enables God tobless his work.

Supreme love for God and unselfish love forone another--this is the best gift that our heavenlyFather can bestow. This love is not an impulse,but a divine principle, a permanent power. Theunconsecrated heart cannot originate or produceit. Only in the heart where Jesus reigns is it found."We love Him, because He first loved us." In theheart renewed by divine grace, love is the rulingprinciple of action. It modifies the character,governs the impulses, controls the passions, andennobles the affections. This love, cherished in thesoul, sweetens the life and sheds a refininginfluence on all around. John strove to lead thebelievers to understand the exalted privileges that

would come to them through the exercise of thespirit of love. This redeeming power, filling theheart, would control every other motive and raiseits possessors

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above the corrupting influences of the world. Andas this love was allowed full sway and became themotive power in the life, their trust and confidencein God and His dealing with them would becomplete. They could then come to Him in fullconfidence of faith, knowing that they wouldreceive from Him everything needful for theirpresent and eternal good. "Herein is our lovemade perfect," he wrote, "that we may haveboldness in the day of judgment: because as Heis, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love;but perfect love casteth out fear." "And this is theconfidence that we have in Him, that, if we askanything according to His will, He heareth us: andif we know that He hear us, . . . we know that wehave the petitions that we desired of Him."

"And if any man sin, we have an advocate withthe Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and He isthe propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only,but also for the sins of the whole world." "If weconfess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgiveus our sins, and to cleanse us from allunrighteousness." The conditions of obtainingmercy from God are simple and reasonable. TheLord does not require us to do some grievousthing in order to gain forgiveness. We need notmake long and wearisome pilgrimages, or performpainful penances, to commend our souls to theGod of heaven or to expiate our transgression. Hethat "confesseth and forsaketh" his sin "shall havemercy." Proverbs 28:13.

In the courts above, Christ is pleading for Hischurch--pleading for those for whom He has paidthe redemption

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price of His blood. Centuries, ages, can neverlessen the efficacy of His atoning sacrifice. Neitherlife nor death, height nor depth, can separate usfrom the love of God which is in Christ Jesus; notbecause we hold Him so firmly, but because Heholds us so fast. If our salvation depended on ourown efforts, we could not be saved; but it dependson the One who is behind all the promises. Ourgrasp on Him may seem feeble, but His love isthat of an elder brother; so long as we maintainour union with Him, no one can pluck us out of Hishand. As the years went by and the number ofbelievers grew, John labored with increasingfidelity and earnestness for his brethren. The timeswere full of peril for the church. Satanic delusionsexisted everywhere. By misrepresentation andfalsehood the emissaries of Satan sought toarouse opposition against the doctrines of Christ,and in consequence dissensions and heresieswere imperiling the church. Some who professedChrist claimed that His love released them fromobedience to the law of God. On the other hand,

many taught that it was necessary to observe theJewish customs and ceremonies; that a mereobservance of the law, without faith in the blood ofChrist, was sufficient for salvation. Some held thatChrist was a good man, but denied His divinity.Some who pretended to be true to the cause ofGod were deceivers, and in practice they deniedChrist and His gospel. Living themselves intransgression, they were bringing heresies into thechurch. Thus many were being led into the mazesof skepticism and delusion.

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John was filled with sadness as he saw thesepoisonous errors creeping into the church. He sawthe dangers to which the church was exposed,and he met the emergency with promptness anddecision. The epistles of John breathe the spirit oflove. It seems as if he wrote with a pen dipped inlove. But when he came in contact with those who

were breaking the law of God, yet claiming thatthey were living without sin, he did not hesitate towarn them of their fearful deception.

Writing to a helper in the gospel work, a womanof good repute and wide influence, he said: "Manydeceivers are entered into the world, who confessnot that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is adeceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves,that we lose not those things which we havewrought, but that we receive a full reward.Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in thedoctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth inthe doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father andthe Son. If there come any unto you, and bring notthis doctrine, receive him not into your house,neither bid him Godspeed: for he that biddeth himGodspeed is partaker of his evil deeds."

We are authorized to hold in the sameestimation as did the beloved disciple those whoclaim to abide in Christ while living intransgression of God's law. There exist in theselast days evils similar to those that threatened the

prosperity of the early church; and the teachings ofthe apostle John on these points should becarefully heeded. "You must have charity," is thecry heard everywhere,

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especially from those who profess sanctification.But true charity is too pure to cover anunconfessed sin. While we are to love the soulsfor whom Christ died, we are to make nocompromise with evil. We are not to unite with therebellious and call this charity. God requires Hispeople in this age of the world to stand for the rightas unflinchingly as did John in opposition to soul-destroying errors.

The apostle teaches that while we shouldmanifest Christian courtesy we are authorized todeal in plain terms with sin and sinners; that this isnot inconsistent with true charity. "Whosoevercommitteth sin," he writes, "transgresseth also thelaw: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye

know that He was manifested to take away oursins; and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth inHim sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seenHim, neither known Him."

As a witness for Christ, John entered into nocontroversy, no wearisome contention. Hedeclared what he knew, what he had seen andheard. He had been intimately associated withChrist, had listened to His teachings, hadwitnessed His mighty miracles. Few could see thebeauties of Christ's character as John saw them.For him the darkness had passed away; on himthe true light was shining. His testimony in regardto the Saviour's life and death was clear andforcible. Out of the abundance of a heartoverflowing with love for the Saviour he spoke;and no power could stay his words.

"That which was from the beginning," hedeclared, "which we have heard, which we haveseen with our eyes,

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which we have looked upon, and our hands havehandled, of the Word of life; . . . that which wehave seen and heard declare we unto you, that yealso may have fellowship with us: and truly ourfellowship is with the Father, and with His SonJesus Christ."

So may every true believer be able, through hisown experience, to "set to his seal that God istrue." John 3:33. He can bear witness to thatwhich he has seen and heard and felt of the powerof Christ.

Chap. 55 - Transformed by Grace

In the life of the disciple John true sanctificationis exemplified. During the years of his closeassociation with Christ, he was often warned andcautioned by the Saviour; and these reproofs he

accepted. As the character of the Divine One wasmanifested to him, John saw his own deficiencies,and was humbled by the revelation. Day by day, incontrast with his own violent spirit, he beheld thetenderness and forbearance of Jesus, and heardHis lessons of humility and patience. Day by dayhis heart was drawn out to Christ, until he lostsight of self in love for his Master. The power andtenderness, the majesty and meekness, thestrength and patience, that he saw in the daily lifeof the Son of God, filled his soul with admiration.He yielded his resentful, ambitious temper to themolding power of Christ, and divine love wroughtin him a transformation of character.

In striking contrast to the sanctification workedout in the life of John is the experience of hisfellow disciple,

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Judas. Like his associate, Judas professed to be adisciple of Christ, but he possessed only a form of

godliness. He was not insensible to the beauty ofthe character of Christ; and often, as he listened tothe Saviour's words, conviction came to him, buthe would not humble his heart or confess his sins.By resisting the divine influence he dishonored theMaster whom he professed to love. John warredearnestly against his faults; but Judas violated hisconscience and yielded to temptation, fasteningupon himself more securely his habits of evil. Thepractice of the truths that Christ taught was atvariance with his desires and purposes, and hecould not bring himself to yield his ideas in order toreceive wisdom from heaven. Instead of walking inthe light, he chose to walk in darkness. Evildesires, covetousness, revengeful passions, darkand sullen thoughts, were cherished until Satangained full control of him.

John and Judas are representatives of thosewho profess to be Christ's followers. Both thesedisciples had the same opportunities to study andfollow the divine Pattern. Both were closelyassociated with Jesus and were privileged to listen

to His teaching. Each possessed serious defectsof character; and each had access to the divinegrace that transforms character. But while one inhumility was learning of Jesus, the other revealedthat he was not a doer of the word, but a heareronly. One, daily dying to self and overcoming sin,was sanctified through the truth; the other,resisting the transforming power of grace andindulging selfish desires, was brought intobondage to Satan.

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Such transformation of character as is seen inthe life of John is ever the result of communionwith Christ. There may be marked defects in thecharacter of an individual, yet when he becomes atrue disciple of Christ, the power of divine gracetransforms and sanctifies him. Beholding as in aglass the glory of the Lord, he is changed fromglory to glory, until he is like Him whom he adores.

John was a teacher of holiness, and in hisletters to the church he laid down unerring rulesfor the conduct of Christians. "Every man that haththis hope in him," he wrote, "purifieth himself, evenas He is pure." "He that saith he abideth in Himought himself also so to walk, even as He walked."1 John 3:3; 2:6. He taught that the Christian mustbe pure in heart and life. Never should he besatisfied with an empty profession. As God is holyin His sphere, so fallen man, through faith inChrist, is to be holy in his sphere. "This is thewill of God," the apostle Paul wrote, "even yoursanctification." 1 Thessalonians 4:3. Thesanctification of the church is God's object in allHis dealings with His people. He has chosen themfrom eternity, that they might be holy. He gave HisSon to die for them, that they might be sanctifiedthrough obedience to the truth, divested of all thelittleness of self. From them He requires apersonal work, a personal surrender. God can behonored by those who profess to believe in Him,only as they are conformed to His image and

controlled by His Spirit. Then, as witnesses for theSaviour, they may make known what divine gracehas done for them.

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True sanctification comes through the workingout of the principle of love. "God is love; and hethat dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God inhim." 1 John 4:16. The life of him in whose heartChrist abides, will reveal practical godliness. Thecharacter will be purified, elevated, ennobled, andglorified. Pure doctrine will blend with works ofrighteousness; heavenly precepts will mingle withholy practices.

Those who would gain the blessing ofsanctification must first learn the meaning of self-sacrifice. The cross of Christ is the central pillar onwhich hangs the "far more exceeding and eternalweight of glory." "If any man will come after Me,"Christ says, "let him deny himself, and take up hiscross, and follow Me." 2 Corinthians 4:17; Matthew

16:24. It is the fragrance of our love for our fellowmen that reveals our love for God. It is patience inservice that brings rest to the soul. It is throughhumble, diligent, faithful toil that the welfare ofIsrael is promoted. God upholds and strengthensthe one who is willing to follow in Christ's way.

Sanctification is not the work of a moment, anhour, a day, but of a lifetime. It is not gained by ahappy flight of feeling, but is the result ofconstantly dying to sin, and constantly living forChrist. Wrongs cannot be righted nor reformationswrought in the character by feeble, intermittentefforts. It is only by long, persevering effort, sorediscipline, and stern conflict, that we shallovercome. We know not one day how strong willbe our conflict the next. So long as Satan reigns,we shall have self to subdue, besetting sins toovercome; so long as life shall last, there will beno

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stopping place, no point which we can reach andsay, I have fully attained. Sanctification is theresult of lifelong obedience.

None of the apostles and prophets everclaimed to be without sin. Men who have lived thenearest to God, men who would sacrifice life itselfrather than knowingly commit a wrong act, menwhom God has honored with divine light andpower, have confessed the sinfulness of theirnature. They have put no confidence in the flesh,have claimed no righteousness of their own, buthave trusted wholly in the righteousness of Christ.

So will it be with all who behold Christ. Thenearer we come to Jesus, and the more clearly wediscern the purity of His character, the moreclearly shall we see the exceeding sinfulness ofsin, and the less shall we feel like exaltingourselves. There will be a continual reaching outof the soul after God, a continual, earnest,heartbreaking confession of sin and humbling ofthe heart before Him. At every advance step in ourChristian experience our repentance will deepen.

We shall know that our sufficiency is in Christalone and shall make the apostle's confession ourown: "I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,)dwelleth no good thing." "God forbid that I shouldglory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ,by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I untothe world." Romans 7:18; Galatians 6:14.

Let the recording angels write the history of theholy struggles and conflicts of the people of God;let them record their prayers and tears; but let notGod be dishonored by the declaration from humanlips, "I am sinless; I am

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holy." Sanctified lips will never give utterance tosuch presumptuous words.

The apostle Paul had been caught up to thethird heaven and had seen and heard things thatcould not be uttered, and yet his unassumingstatement is: "Not as though I had alreadyattained, either were already perfect: but I follow

after." Philippians 3:12. Let the angels of heavenwrite of Paul's victories in fighting the good fight offaith. Let heaven rejoice in his steadfast treadheavenward, and that, keeping the prize in view,he counts every other consideration dross. Angelsrejoice to tell his triumphs, but Paul makes noboast of his attainments. The attitude of Paul is theattitude that every follower of Christ should take ashe urges his way onward in the strife for theimmortal crown.

Let those who feel inclined to make a highprofession of holiness look into the mirror of God'slaw. As they see its far-reaching claims, andunderstand its work as a discerner of the thoughtsand intents of the heart, they will not boast ofsinlessness. "If we," says John, not separatinghimself from his brethren, "say that we have nosin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not inus." "If we say that we have not sinned, we makeHim a liar, and His word is not in us." "If weconfess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive

us our sins, and to cleanse us from allunrighteousness." 1 John 1:8, 10, 9.

There are those who profess holiness, whodeclare that they are wholly the Lord's, who claima right to the promises of God, while refusing torender obedience to His

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commandments. These transgressors of the lawclaim everything that is promised to the children ofGod; but this is presumption on their part, for Johntells us that true love for God will be revealed inobedience to all His commandments. It is notenough to believe the theory of truth, to make aprofession of faith in Christ, to believe that Jesusis no impostor, and that the religion of the Bible isno cunningly devised fable. "He that saith, I knowHim, and keepeth not His commandments," Johnwrote, "is a liar, and the truth is not in him. Butwhoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the loveof God perfected: hereby know we that we are in

Him." "He that keepeth His commandmentsdwelleth in Him, and He in him." 1 John 2:4, 5;3:24. John did not teach that salvation was tobe earned by obedience; but that obedience wasthe fruit of faith and love. "Ye know that He wasmanifested to take away our sins," he said, "and inHim is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinnethnot: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neitherknown Him." 1 John 3:5, 6. If we abide in Christ, ifthe love of God dwells in the heart, our feelings,our thoughts, our actions, will be in harmony withthe will of God. The sanctified heart is in harmonywith the precepts of God's law.

There are many who, though striving to obeyGod's commandments, have little peace or joy.This lack in their experience is the result of afailure to exercise faith. They walk as it were in asalt land, a parched wilderness. They claim little,when they might claim much; for there is no

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limit to the promises of God. Such ones do notcorrectly represent the sanctification that comesthrough obedience to the truth. The Lord wouldhave all His sons and daughters happy, peaceful,and obedient. Through the exercise of faith thebeliever comes into possession of these blessings.Through faith, every deficiency of character maybe supplied, every defilement cleansed, every faultcorrected, every excellence developed.

Prayer is heaven's ordained means of successin the conflict with sin and the development ofChristian character. The divine influences thatcome in answer to the prayer of faith willaccomplish in the soul of the suppliant all for whichhe pleads. For the pardon of sin, for the HolySpirit, for a Christlike temper, for wisdom andstrength to do His work, for any gift He haspromised, we may ask; and the promise is, "Yeshall receive."

It was in the mount with God that Moses beheldthe pattern of that wonderful building that was tobe the abiding place of His glory. It is in the mount

with God--in the secret place of communion--thatwe are to contemplate His glorious ideal forhumanity. In all ages, through the medium ofcommunion with heaven, God has worked out Hispurpose for His children, by unfolding gradually totheir minds the doctrines of grace. His manner ofimparting truth is illustrated in the words, "Hisgoing forth is prepared as the morning." Hosea6:3. He who places himself where God canenlighten him, advances, as it were, from thepartial obscurity of dawn to the full radiance ofnoonday.

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True sanctification means perfect love, perfectobedience, perfect conformity to the will of God.We are to be sanctified to God through obedienceto the truth. Our conscience must be purged fromdead works to serve the living God. We are not yetperfect; but it is our privilege to cut away from the

entanglements of self and sin, and advance toperfection. Great possibilities, high and holyattainments, are placed within the reach of all.

The reason many in this age of the world makeno greater advancement in the divine life isbecause they interpret the will of God to be justwhat they will to do. While following their owndesires, they flatter themselves that they areconforming to God's will. These have no conflictswith self. There are others who for a time aresuccessful in the struggle against their selfishdesire for pleasure and ease. They are sincereand earnest, but grow weary of protracted effort, ofdaily death, of ceaseless turmoil. Indolence seemsinviting, death to self repulsive; and they closetheir drowsy eyes and fall under the power oftemptation instead of resisting it.

The directions laid down in the word of Godleave no room for compromise with evil. The Sonof God was manifested that He might draw all menunto Himself. He came not to lull the world tosleep, but to point out the narrow path in which all

must travel who reach at last the gates of the Cityof God. His children must follow where He has ledthe way; at whatever sacrifice of ease or selfishindulgence, at whatever cost of labor or suffering,they must maintain a constant battle with self.

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The greatest praise that men can bring to Godis to become consecrated channels through whomHe can work. Time is rapidly passing into eternity.Let us not keep back from God that which is Hisown. Let us not refuse Him that which, though itcannot be given with merit, cannot be deniedwithout ruin. He asks for a whole heart; give it toHim; it is His, both by creation and by redemption.He asks for your intellect; give it to Him; it is His.He asks for your money; give it to Him; it is His."Ye are not your own, for ye are bought with aprice." 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20. God requires thehomage of a sanctified soul, which has prepared

itself, by the exercise of the faith that works bylove, to serve Him. He holds up before us thehighest ideal, even perfection. He asks us to beabsolutely and completely for Him in this world asHe is for us in the presence of God. "This isthe will of God" concerning you, "even yoursanctification." 1 Thessalonians 4:3. Is it your willalso? Your sins may be as mountains before you;but if you humble your heart and confess yoursins, trusting in the merits of a crucified and risenSaviour, He will forgive and will cleanse you fromall unrighteousness. God demands of you entireconformity to His law. This law is the echo of Hisvoice saying to you, Holier, yes, holier still. Desirethe fullness of the grace of Christ. Let your heartbe filled with an intense longing for Hisrighteousness, the work of which God's worddeclares is peace, and its effect quietness andassurance forever.

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As your soul yearns after God, you will findmore and still more of the unsearchable riches ofHis grace. As you contemplate these riches youwill come into possession of them and will revealthe merits of the Saviour's sacrifice, the protectionof His righteousness, the fullness of His wisdom,and His power to present you before the Father"without spot, and blameless." 2 Peter 3:14.

Chap. 56 - Patmos

More than half a century had passed since theorganization of the Christian church. During thattime the gospel message had been constantlyopposed. Its enemies had never relaxed theirefforts, and had at last succeeded in enlisting thepower of the Roman emperor against theChristians.

In the terrible persecution that followed, theapostle John did much to confirm and strengthenthe faith of the believers. He bore a testimony

which his adversaries could not controvert andwhich helped his brethren to meet with courageand loyalty the trials that came upon them. Whenthe faith of the Christians would seem to waverunder the fierce opposition they were forced tomeet, the old, tried servant of Jesus would repeatwith power and eloquence the story of thecrucified and risen Saviour. He steadfastlymaintained his faith, and from his lips came everthe same glad message: "That which was from thebeginning, which we have heard, which we haveseen with our eyes, which we

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have looked upon, and our hands have handled,of the Word of life; . . . that which we have seenand heard declare we unto you." 1 John 1:1-3.John lived to be very old. He witnessed thedestruction of Jerusalem and the ruin of the statelytemple. The last survivor of the disciples who hadbeen intimately connected with the Saviour, hismessage had great influence in setting forth the

fact that Jesus was the Messiah, the Redeemer ofthe world. No one could doubt his sincerity, andthrough his teachings many were led to turn fromunbelief.

The rulers of the Jews were filled with bitterhatred against John for his unwavering fidelity tothe cause of Christ. They declared that their effortsagainst the Christians would avail nothing so longas John's testimony kept ringing in the ears of thepeople. In order that the miracles and teachings ofJesus might be forgotten, the voice of the boldwitness must be silenced.

John was accordingly summoned to Rome tobe tried for his faith. Here before the authoritiesthe apostle's doctrines were misstated. Falsewitnesses accused him of teaching seditiousheresies. By these accusations his enemies hopedto bring about the disciple's death.

John answered for himself in a clear andconvincing manner, and with such simplicity andcandor that his words had a powerful effect. His

hearers were astonished at his wisdom andeloquence. But the more convincing his testimony,the deeper was the hatred of his opposers. Theemperor Domitian was filled with rage. He couldneither

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dispute the reasoning of Christ's faithful advocate,nor match the power that attended his utterance oftruth; yet he determined that he would silence hisvoice.

John was cast into a caldron of boiling oil; butthe Lord preserved the life of His faithful servant,even as He preserved the three Hebrews in thefiery furnace. As the words were spoken, Thusperish all who believe in that deceiver, JesusChrist of Nazareth, John declared, My Masterpatiently submitted to all that Satan and his angelscould devise to humiliate and torture Him. He gaveHis life to save the world. I am honored in beingpermitted to suffer for His sake. I am a weak, sinful

man. Christ was holy, harmless, undefiled. He didno sin, neither was guile found in His mouth.

These words had their influence, and John wasremoved from the caldron by the very men whohad cast him in.

Again the hand of persecution fell heavily uponthe apostle. By the emperor's decree John wasbanished to the Isle of Patmos, condemned "forthe word of God, and for the testimony of JesusChrist." Revelation 1:9. Here, his enemies thought,his influence would no longer be felt, and he mustfinally die of hardship and distress.

Patmos, a barren, rocky island in the AegeanSea, had been chosen by the Roman governmentas a place of banishment for criminals; but to theservant of God this gloomy abode became thegate of heaven. Here, shut away from the busyscenes of life, and from the active labors of formeryears, he had the companionship of God andChrist and the heavenly angels, and from them hereceived instruction

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for the church for all future time. The events thatwould take place in the closing scenes of thisearth's history were outlined before him; and therehe wrote out the visions he received from God.When his voice could no longer testify to the Onewhom he loved and served, the messages givenhim on that barren coast were to go forth as alamp that burneth, declaring the sure purpose ofthe Lord concerning every nation on the earth.

Among the cliffs and rocks of Patmos, Johnheld communion with his Maker. He reviewed hispast life, and at thought of the blessings he hadreceived, peace filled his heart. He had lived thelife of a Christian, and he could say in faith, "Weknow that we have passed from death unto life." 1John 3:14. Not so the emperor who had banishedhim. He could look back only on fields of warfareand carnage, on desolated homes, on weepingwidows and orphans, the fruit of his ambitiousdesire for pre-eminence.

In his isolated home John was able to studymore closely than ever before the manifestationsof divine power as recorded in the book of natureand in the pages of inspiration. To him it was adelight to meditate on the work of creation and toadore the divine Architect. In former years hiseyes had been greeted by the sight of forest-covered hills, green valleys, and fruitful plains; andin the beauties of nature it had ever been hisdelight to trace the wisdom and skill of the Creator.He was now surrounded by scenes that to manywould appear gloomy and uninteresting; but toJohn it was otherwise. While his surroundingsmight

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be desolate and barren, the blue heavens thatbent above him were as bright and beautiful as theskies above his loved Jerusalem. In the wild,rugged rocks, in the mysteries of the deep, in theglories of the firmament, he read important

lessons. All bore the message of God's power andglory.

All around him the apostle beheld witnesses tothe Flood that had deluged the earth because theinhabitants ventured to transgress the law of God.The rocks thrown up from the great deep and fromthe earth by the breaking forth of the waters,brought vividly to his mind the terrors of that awfuloutpouring of God's wrath. In the voice of manywaters--deep calling unto deep--the prophet heardthe voice of the Creator. The sea, lashed to fury bythe merciless winds, represented to him the wrathof an offended God. The mighty waves, in theirterrible commotion, restrained within limitsappointed by an invisible hand, spoke of thecontrol of an infinite Power. And in contrast herealized the weakness and folly of mortals, who,though but worms of the dust, glory in theirsupposed wisdom and strength, and set theirhearts against the Ruler of the universe, as if Godwere altogether such a one as themselves. By therocks he was reminded of Christ, the Rock of his

strength, in whose shelter he could hide withoutfear. From the exiled apostle on rocky Patmosthere went up the most ardent longing of soul afterGod, the most fervent prayers.

The history of John affords a striking illustrationof the way in which God can use aged workers.When John was exiled to the Isle of Patmos, therewere many who

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thought him to be past service, an old and brokenreed, ready to fall at any time. But the Lord saw fitto use him still. Though banished from the scenesof his former labor, he did not cease to bearwitness to the truth. Even in Patmos he madefriends and converts. His was a message of joy,proclaiming a risen Saviour who on high wasinterceding for His people until He should return totake them to Himself. And it was after John hadgrown old in the service of his Lord that hereceived more communications from heaven than

he had received during all the former years of hislife.

The most tender regard should be cherishedfor those whose life interest has been bound upwith the work of God. These aged workers havestood faithful amid storm and trial. They may haveinfirmities, but they still possess talents that qualifythem to stand in their place in God's cause.Though worn, and unable to bear the heavierburdens that younger men can and should carry,the counsel they can give is of the highest value.

They may have made mistakes, but from theirfailures they have learned to avoid errors anddangers, and are they not therefore competent togive wise counsel? They have borne test and trial,and though they have lost some of their vigor, theLord does not lay them aside. He gives themspecial grace and wisdom.

Those who have served their Master when thework went hard, who endured poverty and

remained faithful when there were few to stand fortruth, are to be honored

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and respected. The Lord desires the youngerlaborers to gain wisdom, strength, and maturity byassociation with these faithful men. Let theyounger men realize that in having such workersamong them they are highly favored. Let themgive them an honored place in their councils.

As those who have spent their lives in theservice of Christ draw near to the close of theirearthly ministry, they will be impressed by the HolySpirit to recount the experiences they have had inconnection with the work of God. The record of Hiswonderful dealings with His people, of His greatgoodness in delivering them from trial, should berepeated to those newly come to the faith. Goddesires the old and tried laborers to stand in theirplace, doing their part to save men and womenfrom being swept downward by the mighty current

of evil. He desires them to keep the armor on tillHe bids them lay it down. In the experience ofthe apostle John under persecution, there is alesson of wonderful strength and comfort for theChristian. God does not prevent the plottings ofwicked men, but He causes their devices to workfor good to those who in trial and conflict maintaintheir faith and loyalty. Often the gospel laborercarries on his work amid storms of persecution,bitter opposition, and unjust reproach. At suchtimes let him remember that the experience to begained in the furnace of trial and affliction is worthall the pain it costs. Thus God brings His childrennear to Him, that He may show them theirweakness and His strength. He teaches them tolean on Him. Thus He prepares them

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to meet emergencies, to fill positions of trust, andto accomplish the great purpose for which theirpowers were given them.

In all ages God's appointed witnesses haveexposed themselves to reproach and persecutionfor the truth's sake. Joseph was maligned andpersecuted because he preserved his virtue andintegrity. David, the chosen messenger of God,was hunted like a beast of prey by his enemies.Daniel was cast into a den of lions because hewas true to his allegiance to heaven. Job wasdeprived of his worldly possessions, and soafflicted in body that he was abhorred by hisrelatives, and friends; yet he maintained hisintegrity. Jeremiah could not be deterred fromspeaking the words that God had given him tospeak; and his testimony so enraged the king andprinces that he was cast into a loathsome pit.Stephen was stoned because he preached Christand Him crucified. Paul was imprisoned, beatenwith rods, stoned, and finally put to death becausehe was a faithful messenger for God to theGentiles. And John was banished to the Isle ofPatmos "for the word of God, and for the testimonyof Jesus Christ."

These examples of human steadfastness bearwitness to the faithfulness of God's promises--ofHis abiding presence and sustaining grace. Theytestify to the power of faith to withstand the powersof the world. It is the work of faith to rest in God inthe darkest hour, to feel, however sorely tried andtempest-tossed, that our Father is at the helm. Theeye of faith alone can look beyond the things

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of time to estimate aright the worth of the eternalriches.

Jesus does not present to His followers thehope of attaining earthly glory and riches, of livinga life free from trial. Instead He calls upon them tofollow Him in the path of self-denial and reproach.He who came to redeem the world was opposedby the united forces of evil. In an unpityingconfederacy, evil men and evil angels arrayedthemselves against the Prince of Peace. His everyword and act revealed divine compassion, and His

unlikeness to the world provoked the bitteresthostility.

So it will be with all who will live godly in ChristJesus. Persecution and reproach await all who areimbued with the Spirit of Christ. The character ofthe persecution changes with the times, but theprinciple--the spirit that underlies it--is the samethat has slain the chosen of the Lord ever sincethe days of Abel.

In all ages Satan has persecuted the people ofGod. He has tortured them and put them to death,but in dying they became conquerors. They borewitness to the power of One mightier than Satan.Wicked men may torture and kill the body, but theycannot touch the life that is hid with Christ in God.They can incarcerate men and women in prisonwalls, but they cannot bind the spirit.

Through trial and persecution the glory--thecharacter--of God is revealed in His chosen ones.The believers in Christ, hated and persecuted bythe world, are educated and disciplined in the

school of Christ. On earth they walk in narrowpaths; they are purified in the furnace of affliction.

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They follow Christ through sore conflicts; theyendure self-denial and experience bitterdisappointments; but thus they learn the guilt andwoe of sin, and they look upon it with abhorrence.Being partakers of Christ's sufferings, they canlook beyond the gloom to the glory, saying, "Ireckon that the sufferings of this present time arenot worthy to be compared with the glory whichshall be revealed in us." Romans 8:18.

Chap. 57 - The Revelation

In the days of the apostles the Christianbelievers were filled with earnestness andenthusiasm. So untiringly did they labor for theirMaster that in a comparatively short time,notwithstanding fierce opposition, the gospel of thekingdom was sounded to all the inhabited parts of

the earth. The zeal manifested at this time by thefollowers of Jesus has been recorded by the penof inspiration for the encouragement of believers inevery age. Of the church at Ephesus, which theLord Jesus used as a symbol of the entireChristian church in the apostolic age, the faithfuland true Witness declared:

"I know thy works, and thy labor, and thypatience, and how thou canst not bear them whichare evil: and thou hast tried them which say theyare apostles, and are not, and hast found themliars: and hast borne, and hast patience, and forMy name's sake hast labored, and hast notfainted." Revelation 2:2, 3.

At the first the experience of the church atEphesus was marked with childlike simplicity andfervor. The

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believers sought earnestly to obey every word ofGod, and their lives revealed an earnest, sincere

love for Christ. They rejoiced to do the will of Godbecause the Saviour was in their hearts as anabiding presence. Filled with love for theirRedeemer, their highest aim was to win souls toHim. They did not think of hoarding the precioustreasure of the grace of Christ. They felt theimportance of their calling; and, weighted with themessage, "On earth peace, good will toward men,"they burned with desire to carry the glad tidings ofsalvation to earth's remotest bounds. And theworld took knowledge of them that they had beenwith Jesus. Sinful men, repentant, pardoned,cleansed, and sanctified, were brought intopartnership with God through His Son.

The members of the church were united insentiment and action. Love for Christ was thegolden chain that bound them together. Theyfollowed on to know the Lord more and still moreperfectly, and in their lives were revealed the joyand peace of Christ. They visited the fatherlessand widows in their affliction, and kept themselvesunspotted from the world, realizing that a failure to

do this would be a contradiction of their professionand a denial of their Redeemer.

In every city the work was carried forward.Souls were converted, who in their turn felt thatthey must tell of the inestimable treasure they hadreceived. They could not rest till the light whichhad illumined their minds was shining upon others.Multitudes of unbelievers were made

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acquainted with the reasons of the Christian'shope. Warm, inspired personal appeals weremade to the erring, to the outcast, and to thosewho, while professing to know the truth, werelovers of pleasure more than lovers of God.

But after a time the zeal of the believers beganto wane, and their love for God and for oneanother grew less. Coldness crept into the church.Some forgot the wonderful manner in which theyhad received the truth. One by one the oldstandard-bearers fell at their post. Some of the

younger workers, who might have shared theburdens of these pioneers, and thus have beenprepared for wise leadership, had become wearyof oft-repeated truths. In their desire for somethingnovel and startling they attempted to introducenew phases of doctrine, more pleasing to manyminds, but not in harmony with the fundamentalprinciples of the gospel. In their self-confidenceand spiritual blindness they failed to discern thatthese sophistries would cause many to questionthe experiences of the past, and would thus leadto confusion and unbelief.

As these false doctrines were urged,differences sprang up, and the eyes of many wereturned from beholding Jesus as the Author andFinisher of their faith. The discussion ofunimportant points of doctrine, and thecontemplation of pleasing fables of man'sinvention, occupied time that should have beenspent in proclaiming the gospel. The masses thatmight have been convicted and converted by afaithful presentation of the truth were left

unwarned. Piety was rapidly waning, and Satanseemed about to gain the

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ascendancy over those who claimed to befollowers of Christ.

It was at this critical time in the history of thechurch that John was sentenced to banishment.Never had his voice been needed by the churchas now. Nearly all his former associates in theministry had suffered martyrdom. The remnant ofbelievers was facing fierce opposition. To alloutward appearance the day was not far distantwhen the enemies of the church of Christ wouldtriumph.

But the Lord's hand was moving unseen in thedarkness. In the providence of God, John wasplaced where Christ could give him a wonderfulrevelation of Himself and of divine truth for theenlightenment of the churches.

In exiling John, the enemies of truth had hopedto silence forever the voice of God's faithfulwitness; but on Patmos the disciple received amessage, the influence of which was to continueto strengthen the church till the end of time.Though not released from the responsibility oftheir wrong act, those who banished John becameinstruments in the hands of God to carry outHeaven's purpose; and the very effort toextinguish the light placed the truth in bold relief.

It was on the Sabbath that the Lord of gloryappeared to the exiled apostle. The Sabbath wasas sacredly observed by John on Patmos as whenhe was preaching to the people in the towns andcities of Judea. He claimed as his own theprecious promises that had been given regardingthat day. "I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day,"John writes, "and heard behind me a great voice,as of a trumpet, saying,

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I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last. . . .And I turned to see the voice that spake with me.And being turned, I saw seven goldencandlesticks; and in the midst of the sevencandlesticks One like unto the Son of man."Revelation 1:10-13.

Richly favored was this beloved disciple. Hehad seen his Master in Gethsemane, His facemarked with the blood drops of agony, His"visage . . . marred more than any man, and Hisform more than the sons of men." Isaiah 52:14. Hehad seen Him in the hands of the Roman soldiers,clothed with an old purple robe and crowned withthorns. He had seen Him hanging on the cross ofCalvary, the object of cruel mockery and abuse.Now John is once more permitted to behold hisLord. But how changed is His appearance! He isno longer a Man of Sorrows, despised andhumiliated by men. He is clothed in a garment ofheavenly brightness. "His head and His hairs" are"white like wool, as white as snow; and His eyes . .. as a flame of fire; and His feet like unto fine

brass, as if they burned in a furnace." Revelation1:14, 15. His voice is like the music of manywaters. His countenance shines as the sun. In Hishand are seven stars, and out of His mouth issuesa sharp two-edged sword, an emblem of thepower of His word. Patmos is made resplendentwith the glory of the risen Lord. "And when Isaw Him," John writes, "I fell at His feet as dead.And He laid His right hand upon me, saying untome, Fear not." Verse 17. John wasstrengthened to live in the presence of his glorifiedLord. Then before his wondering vision were

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opened the glories of heaven. He was permitted tosee the throne of God and, looking beyond theconflicts of earth, to behold the white-robed throngof the redeemed. He heard the music of theheavenly angels and the triumphant songs ofthose who had overcome by the blood of the Lamband the word of their testimony. In the revelationgiven to him there was unfolded scene after scene

of thrilling interest in the experience of the peopleof God, and the history of the church foretold tothe very close of time. In figures and symbols,subjects of vast importance were presented toJohn, which he was to record, that the people ofGod living in his age and in future ages might havean intelligent understanding of the perils andconflicts before them.

This revelation was given for the guidance andcomfort of the church throughout the Christiandispensation. Yet religious teachers have declaredthat it is a sealed book and its secrets cannot beexplained. Therefore many have turned from theprophetic record, refusing to devote time andstudy to its mysteries. But God does not wish Hispeople to regard the book thus. It is "the revelationof Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, toshow unto His servants things which must shortlycome to pass." "Blessed is he that readeth," theLord declares, "and they that hear the words ofthis prophecy, and keep those things which arewritten therein: for the time is at hand." Verses 1,

3. "I testify unto every man that heareth the wordsof the prophecy of this book, If any man shall addunto these

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things, God shall add unto him the plagues thatare written in this book: and if any man shall takeaway from the words of the book of this prophecy,God shall take away his part out of the book of life,and out of the Holy City, and from the things whichare written in this book. He which testifieth thesethings saith, Surely I come quickly." Revelation22:18-20. In the Revelation are portrayed thedeep things of God. The very name given to itsinspired pages, "the Revelation," contradicts thestatement that this is a sealed book. A revelationis something revealed. The Lord Himself revealedto His servant the mysteries contained in thisbook, and He designs that they shall be open tothe study of all. Its truths are addressed to thoseliving in the last days of this earth's history, as wellas to those living in the days of John. Some of the

scenes depicted in this prophecy are in the past,some are now taking place; some bring to view theclose of the great conflict between the powers ofdarkness and the Prince of heaven, and somereveal the triumphs and joys of the redeemed inthe earth made new.

Let none think, because they cannot explainthe meaning of every symbol in the Revelation,that it is useless for them to search this book in aneffort to know the meaning of the truth it contains.The One who revealed these mysteries to Johnwill give to the diligent searcher for truth aforetaste of heavenly things. Those whose heartsare open to the reception of truth will be enabledto understand its teachings, and will be grantedthe blessing promised to those

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who "hear the words of this prophecy, and keepthose things which are written therein."

In the Revelation all the books of the Biblemeet and end. Here is the complement of the bookof Daniel. One is a prophecy; the other arevelation. The book that was sealed is not theRevelation, but that portion of the prophecy ofDaniel relating to the last days. The angelcommanded, "But thou, O Daniel, shut up thewords, and seal the book, even to the time of theend." Daniel 12:4.

It was Christ who bade the apostle record thatwhich was to be opened before him. "What thouseest, write in a book," He commanded, "and sendit unto the seven churches which are in Asia; untoEphesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos,and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and untoPhiladelphia, and unto Laodicea." "I am He thatliveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive forevermore. . . . Write the things which thou hastseen, and the things which are, and the thingswhich shall be hereafter; the mystery of the sevenstars which thou sawest in My right hand, and theseven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are

the angels of the seven churches: and the sevencandlesticks which thou sawest are the sevenchurches." Revelation 1:11, 18-20.

The names of the seven churches are symbolicof the church in different periods of the ChristianEra. The number 7 indicates completeness, and issymbolic of the fact that the messages extend tothe end of time, while the symbols used reveal thecondition of the church at different periods in thehistory of the world.

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Christ is spoken of as walking in the midst ofthe golden candlesticks. Thus is symbolized Hisrelation to the churches. He is in constantcommunication with His people. He knows theirtrue state. He observes their order, their piety,their devotion. Although He is high priest andmediator in the sanctuary above, yet He isrepresented as walking up and down in the midstof His churches on the earth. With untiring

wakefulness and unremitting vigilance, Hewatches to see whether the light of any of Hissentinels is burning dim or going out. If thecandlesticks were left to mere human care, theflickering flame would languish and die; but He isthe true watchman in the Lord's house, the truewarden of the temple courts. His continued careand sustaining grace are the source of life andlight.

Christ is represented as holding the sevenstars in His right hand. This assures us that nochurch faithful to its trust need fear coming tonought, for not a star that has the protection ofOmnipotence can be plucked out of the hand ofChrist.

"These things saith He that holdeth the sevenstars in His right hand." Revelation 2:1. Thesewords are spoken to the teachers in the church--those entrusted by God with weightyresponsibilities. The sweet influences that are tobe abundant in the church are bound up withGod's ministers, who are to reveal the love of

Christ. The stars of heaven are under His control.He fills them with light. He guides and directs theirmovements. If He did not do this, they wouldbecome fallen stars. So with His ministers. Theyare but instruments in His hands, and all the goodthey accomplish is done through His power.Through them

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His light is to shine forth. The Saviour is to be theirefficiency. If they will look to Him as He looked tothe Father they will be enabled to do His work. Asthey make God their dependence, He will givethem His brightness to reflect to the world.

Early in the history of the church the mystery ofiniquity foretold by the apostle Paul began itsbaleful work; and as the false teachers concerningwhom Peter had warned the believers, urged theirheresies, many were ensnared by false doctrines.Some faltered under trial and were tempted to giveup the faith. At the time when John was given this

revelation, many had lost their first love of gospeltruth. But in His mercy God did not leave thechurch to continue in a backslidden state. In amessage of infinite tenderness He revealed Hislove for them and His desire that they shouldmake sure work for eternity. "Remember," Hepleaded, "from whence thou art fallen, and repent,and do the first works." Verse 5. The churchwas defective and in need of stern reproof andchastisement, and John was inspired to recordmessages of warning and reproof and entreaty tothose who, losing sight of the fundamentalprinciples of the gospel, should imperil their hopeof salvation. But always the words of rebuke thatGod finds it necessary to send are spoken intender love and with the promise of peace to everypenitent believer. "Behold, I stand at the door, andknock," the Lord declares; "if any man hear Myvoice, and open the door, I will come in to him,and will sup with him, and he with Me." Revelation3:20.

And for those who in the midst of conflictshould

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maintain their faith in God, the prophet was giventhe words of commendation and promise: "I knowthy works: behold, I have set before thee an opendoor, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a littlestrength, and hast kept My word, and hast notdenied My name." "Because thou hast kept theword of My patience, I also will keep thee from thehour of temptation, which shall come upon all theworld, to try them that dwell upon the earth." Thebelievers were admonished: "Be watchful, andstrengthen the things which remain, that are readyto die." "Behold, I come quickly: hold that fastwhich thou hast, that no man take thy crown."Verses 8, 10, 2, 11. It was through one whodeclared himself to be a "brother, and companionin tribulation" (Revelation 1:9), that Christ revealedto His church the things that they must suffer forHis sake. Looking down through long centuries of

darkness and superstition, the aged exile sawmultitudes suffering martyrdom because of theirlove for the truth. But he saw also that He whosustained His early witnesses would not forsakeHis faithful followers during the centuries ofpersecution that they must pass through beforethe close of time. "Fear none of those things whichthou shalt suffer," the Lord declared; "behold, thedevil shall cast some of you into prison, that yemay be tried; and ye shall have tribulation: . . . bethou faithful unto death, and I will give thee acrown of life." Revelation 2:10.

And to all the faithful ones who were strivingagainst evil, John heard the promises made: "Tohim that

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overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life,which is in the midst of the Paradise of God." "Hethat overcometh, the same shall be clothed inwhite raiment; and I will not blot out his name out

of the book of life, but I will confess his namebefore My Father, and before His angels." "To himthat overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in Mythrone, even as I also overcame, and am set downwith My Father in His throne." Verse 7; 3:5, 21.John saw the mercy, the tenderness, and the loveof God blending with His holiness, justice, andpower. He saw sinners finding a Father in Him ofwhom their sins had made them afraid. Andlooking beyond the culmination of the greatconflict, he beheld upon Zion "them that hadgotten the victory . . . stand on the sea of glass,having the harps of God," and singing "the song ofMoses" and the Lamb. Revelation 15:2, 3.

The Saviour is presented before John underthe symbols of "the Lion of the tribe of Judah" andof "a Lamb as it had been slain." Revelation 5:5, 6.These symbols represent the union of omnipotentpower and self-sacrificing love. The Lion of Judah,so terrible to the rejectors of His grace, will be theLamb of God to the obedient and faithful. Thepillar of fire that speaks terror and wrath to the

transgressor of God's law is a token of light andmercy and deliverance to those who have kept Hiscommandments. The arm strong to smite therebellious will be strong to deliver the loyal.Everyone who is faithful will be saved. "He shallsend His angels with a great sound of a trumpet,and they

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shall gather together His elect from the four winds,from one end of heaven to the other." Matthew24:31.

In comparison with the millions of the world,God's people will be, as they have ever been, alittle flock; but if they stand for the truth asrevealed in His word, God will be their refuge.They stand under the broad shield ofOmnipotence. God is always a majority. When thesound of the last trump shall penetrate the prisonhouse of the dead, and the righteous shall comeforth with triumph, exclaiming, "O death, where is

thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?" (1Corinthians 15:55)--standing then with God, withChrist, with the angels, and with the loyal and trueof all ages, the children of God will be far in themajority.

Christ's true disciples follow Him through soreconflicts, enduring self-denial and experiencingbitter disappointment; but this teaches them theguilt and woe of sin, and they are led to look uponit with abhorrence. Partakers of Christ's sufferings,they are destined to be partakers of His glory. Inholy vision the prophet saw the ultimate triumph ofGod's remnant church. He writes:

"I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled withfire: and them that had gotten the victory . . . standon the sea of glass, having the harps of God. Andthey sing the song of Moses the servant of God,and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great andmarvelous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty; justand true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints."Revelation 15:2, 3.

"And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on theMount Sion, and with Him a hundred forty and fourthousand, having

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His Father's name written in their foreheads."Revelation 14:1. In this world their minds wereconsecrated to God; they served Him with theintellect and with the heart; and now He can placeHis name "in their foreheads." "And they shallreign for ever and ever." Revelation 22:5. They donot go in and out as those who beg a place. Theyare of that number to whom Christ says, "Come,ye blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdomprepared for you from the foundation of the world."He welcomes them as His children, saying, "Enterthou into the joy of thy Lord." Matthew 25:34, 21.

"These are they which follow the Lambwithersoever He goeth. These were redeemedfrom among men, being the first fruits unto Godand to the Lamb." Revelation 14:4. The vision of

the prophet pictures them as standing on MountZion, girt for holy service, clothed in white linen,which is the righteousness of the saints. But allwho follow the Lamb in heaven must first havefollowed Him on earth, not fretfully or capriciously,but in trustful, loving, willing obedience, as theflock follows the shepherd.

"I heard the voice of harpers harping with theirharps: and they sung as it were a new song beforethe throne: . . . and no man could learn that songbut the hundred and forty and four thousand,which were redeemed from the earth. . . . In theirmouth was found no guile: for they are withoutfault before the throne of God." Verses 2-5."And I John saw the Holy City, New Jerusalem,coming down from God out of heaven, preparedas a bride adorned for her husband." "Her lightwas like unto a stone most

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precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;and had a wall great and high, and had twelvegates, and at the gates twelve angels, and nameswritten thereon, which are the names of the twelvetribes of the children of Israel." "The twelve gateswere twelve pearls; every several gate was of onepearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as itwere transparent glass. And I saw no templetherein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lambare the temple of it." Revelation 21:2, 11, 12, 21,22.

"And there shall be no more curse: but thethrone of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; andHis servants shall serve Him: and they shall seeHis face; and His name shall be in their foreheads.And there shall be no night there; and they needno candle, neither light of the sun; for the LordGod giveth them light." Revelation 22:3-5.

"He showed me a pure river of water of life,clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne ofGod and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street ofit, and on either side of the river, was there the

tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, andyielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of thetree were for the healing of the nations." "Blessedare they that do His commandments, that theymay have right to the tree of life, and may enter inthrough the gates into the city." Verses 1, 2, 14."And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying,

"Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men,

And He will dwell with them,

And they shall be His people,

And God Himself shall be with them,

And be their God." Revelation 21:3.

Chap. 58 - The Church Triumphant

More than eighteen centuries have passedsince the apostles rested from their labors, but thehistory of their toils and sacrifices for Christ's sake

is still among the most precious treasures of thechurch. This history, written under the direction ofthe Holy Spirit, was recorded in order that by it thefollowers of Christ in every age might be impelledto greater zeal and earnestness in the cause ofthe Saviour.

The commission that Christ gave to thedisciples, they fulfilled. As these messengers ofthe cross went forth to proclaim the gospel, therewas such a revelation of the glory of God as hadnever before been witnessed by mortal man. Bythe co-operation of the divine Spirit, the apostlesdid a work that shook the world. To every nationwas the gospel carried in a single generation.

Glorious were the results that attended theministry of the chosen apostles of Christ. At thebeginning of their ministry some of them wereunlearned men, but their

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consecration to the cause of their Master wasunreserved, and under His instruction they gaineda preparation for the great work committed tothem. Grace and truth reigned in their hearts,inspiring their motives and controlling their actions.Their lives were hid with Christ in God, and selfwas lost sight of, submerged in the depths ofinfinite love.

The disciples were men who knew how tospeak and pray sincerely, men who could takehold of the might of the Strength of Israel. Howclosely they stood by the side of God, and boundtheir personal honor to His throne! Jehovah wastheir God. His honor was their honor. His truth wastheir truth. Any attack made upon the gospel wasas if cutting deep into their souls, and with everypower of their being they battled for the cause ofChrist. They could hold forth the word of lifebecause they had received the heavenlyanointing. They expected much, and thereforethey attempted much. Christ had revealed Himselfto them, and to Him they looked for guidance.

Their understanding of truth and their power towithstand opposition were proportionate to theirconformity to God's will. Jesus Christ, the wisdomand power of God, was the theme of everydiscourse. His name--the only name given underheaven whereby men can be saved--was by themexalted. As they proclaimed the completeness ofChrist, the risen Saviour, their words movedhearts, and men and women were won to thegospel. Multitudes who had reviled the Saviour'sname and despised His power now confessedthemselves disciples of the Crucified.

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Not in their own power did the apostlesaccomplish their mission, but in the power of theliving God. Their work was not easy. The openinglabors of the Christian church were attended byhardship and bitter grief. In their work the disciplesconstantly encountered privation, calumny, and

persecution; but they counted not their lives dearunto themselves and rejoiced that they were calledto suffer for Christ. Irresolution, indecision,weakness of purpose, found no place in theirefforts. They were willing to spend and be spent.The consciousness of the responsibility resting onthem purified and enriched their experience, andthe grace of heaven was revealed in theconquests they achieved for Christ. With the mightof omnipotence God worked through them tomake the gospel triumphant.

Upon the foundation that Christ Himself hadlaid, the apostles built the church of God. In theScriptures the figure of the erection of a temple isfrequently used to illustrate the building of thechurch. Zechariah refers to Christ as the Branchthat should build the temple of the Lord. Hespeaks of the Gentiles as helping in the work:"They that are far off shall come and build in thetemple of the Lord;" and Isaiah declares, "Thesons of strangers shall build up thy walls."Zechariah 6:12, 15; Isaiah 60:10.

Writing of the building of this temple, Petersays, "To whom coming, as unto a living stone,disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, andprecious, ye also, as lively stones, are built up aspiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer upspiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by JesusChrist." 1 Peter 2:4, 5.

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In the quarry of the Jewish and the Gentileworld the apostles labored, bringing out stones tolay upon the foundation. In his letter to thebelievers at Ephesus, Paul said, "Now therefore yeare no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household ofGod; and are built upon the foundation of theapostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself beingthe Chief Cornerstone; in whom all the buildingfitly framed together groweth unto an holy templein the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together

for an habitation of God through the Spirit."Ephesians 2:19-22.

And to the Corinthians he wrote: "According tothe grace of God which is given unto me, as awise master builder, I have laid the foundation,and another buildeth thereon. But let every mantake heed how he buildeth thereupon. For otherfoundation can no man lay than that is laid, whichis Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon thisfoundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood,hay, stubble; every man's work shall be mademanifest: for the day shall declare it, because itshall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall tryevery man's work of what sort it is." 1 Corinthians3:10-13.

The apostles built upon a sure foundation, eventhe Rock of Ages. To this foundation they broughtthe stones that they quarried from the world. Notwithout hindrance did the builders labor. Theirwork was made exceedingly difficult by theopposition of the enemies of Christ. They had tocontend against the bigotry, prejudice, and hatred

of those who were building upon a falsefoundation. Many

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who wrought as builders of the church could belikened to the builders of the wall in Nehemiah'sday, of whom it is written: "They which builded onthe wall, and they that bare burdens, with thosethat laded, everyone with one of his handswrought in the work, and with the other hand helda weapon." Nehemiah 4:17.

Kings and governors, priests and rulers, soughtto destroy the temple of God. But in the face ofimprisonment, torture, and death, faithful mencarried the work forward; and the structure grew,beautiful and symmetrical. At times the workmenwere almost blinded by the mists of superstitionthat settled around them. At times they werealmost overpowered by the violence of theiropponents. But with unfaltering faith and unfailingcourage they pressed on with the work.

One after another the foremost of the buildersfell by the hand of the enemy. Stephen wasstoned; James was slain by the sword; Paul wasbeheaded; Peter was crucified; John was exiled.Yet the church grew. New workers took the placeof those who fell, and stone after stone was addedto the building. Thus slowly ascended the templeof the church of God.

Centuries of fierce persecution followed theestablishment of the Christian church, but therewere never wanting men who counted the work ofbuilding God's temple dearer than life itself. Ofsuch it is written: "Others had trial of cruelmockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bondsand imprisonment: they were stoned, they weresawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with thesword: they wandered

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about in sheepskins and goatskins; beingdestitute, afflicted, tormented; (of whom the world

was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and inmountains, and in dens and caves of the earth."Hebrews 11:36-38.

The enemy of righteousness left nothingundone in his effort to stop the work committed tothe Lord's builders. But God "left not Himselfwithout witness." Acts 14:17. Workers were raisedup who ably defended the faith once delivered tothe saints. History bears record to the fortitude andheroism of these men. Like the apostles, many ofthem fell at their post, but the building of thetemple went steadily forward. The workmen wereslain, but the work advanced. The Waldenses,John Wycliffe, Huss and Jerome, Martin Lutherand Zwingli, Cranmer, Latimer, and Knox, theHuguenots, John and Charles Wesley, and a hostof others brought to the foundation material thatwill endure throughout eternity. And in later yearsthose who have so nobly endeavored to promotethe circulation of God's word, and those who bytheir service in heathen lands have prepared theway for the proclamation of the last great

message--these also have helped to rear thestructure. Through the ages that have passedsince the days of the apostles, the building ofGod's temple has never ceased. We may lookback through the centuries and see the livingstones of which it is composed gleaming like jetsof light through the darkness of error andsuperstition. Throughout eternity these preciousjewels will shine with increasing luster, testifying tothe power of the truth of God. The flashing light

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of these polished stones reveals the strongcontrast between light and darkness, between thegold of truth and the dross of error.

Paul and the other apostles, and all therighteous who have lived since then, have actedtheir part in the building of the temple. But thestructure is not yet complete. We who are living inthis age have a work to do, a part to act. We are tobring to the foundation material that will stand the

test of fire--gold, silver, and precious stones,"polished after the similitude of a palace." Psalm144:12. To those who thus build for God, Paulspeaks words of encouragement and warning: "Ifany man's work abide which he hath builtthereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man'swork shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but hehimself shall be saved; yet so as by fire." 1Corinthians 3:14, 15. The Christian who faithfullypresents the word of life, leading men and womeninto the way of holiness and peace, is bringing tothe foundation material that will endure, and in thekingdom of God he will be honored as a wisebuilder. Of the apostles it is written, "They wentforth, and preached everywhere, the Lord workingwith them, and confirming the word with signsfollowing." Mark 16:20. As Christ sent forth Hisdisciples, so today He sends forth the members ofHis church. The same power that the apostles hadis for them. If they will make God their strength, Hewill work with them, and they shall not labor invain. Let them realize that the work in which they

are engaged is one upon which the Lord hasplaced His signet. God said to

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Jeremiah, "Say not, I am a child: for thou shalt goto all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever Icommand thee thou shalt speak. Be not afraid oftheir faces: for I am with thee to deliver thee."Then the Lord put forth His hand and touched Hisservant's mouth, saying, "Behold, I have put Mywords in thy mouth." Jeremiah 1:7-9. And He bidsus go forth to speak the words He gives us, feelingHis holy touch upon our lips.

Christ has given to the church a sacred charge.Every member should be a channel through whichGod can communicate to the world the treasuresof His grace, the unsearchable riches of Christ.There is nothing that the Saviour desires so muchas agents who will represent to the world His Spiritand His character. There is nothing that the worldneeds so much as the manifestation through

humanity of the Saviour's love. All heaven iswaiting for men and women through whom Godcan reveal the power of Christianity.

The church is God's agency for theproclamation of truth, empowered by Him to do aspecial work; and if she is loyal to Him, obedient toall His commandments, there will dwell within herthe excellency of divine grace. If she will be true toher allegiance, if she will honor the Lord God ofIsrael, there is no power that can stand againsther.

Zeal for God and His cause moved thedisciples to bear witness to the gospel with mightypower. Should not a like zeal fire our hearts with adetermination to tell the story of redeeming love, ofChrist and Him crucified? It is the privilege ofevery Christian, not only to look for, but to hastenthe coming of the Saviour.

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If the church will put on the robe of Christ'srighteousness, withdrawing from all allegiance withthe world, there is before her the dawn of a brightand glorious day. God's promise to her will standfast forever. He will make her an eternalexcellency, a joy of many generations. Truth,passing by those who despise and reject it, willtriumph. Although at times apparently retarded, itsprogress has never been checked. When themessage of God meets with opposition, He gives itadditional force, that it may exert greater influence.Endowed with divine energy, it will cut its waythrough the strongest barriers and triumph overevery obstacle.

What sustained the Son of God during His lifeof toil and sacrifice? He saw the results of thetravail of His soul and was satisfied. Looking intoeternity, He beheld the happiness of those whothrough His humiliation had received pardon andeverlasting life. His ear caught the shout of theredeemed. He heard the ransomed ones singingthe song of Moses and the Lamb.

We may have a vision of the future, theblessedness of heaven. In the Bible are revealedvisions of the future glory, scenes pictured by thehand of God, and these are dear to His church. Byfaith we may stand on the threshold of the eternalcity, and hear the gracious welcome given to thosewho in this life co-operate with Christ, regarding itas an honor to suffer for His sake. As the wordsare spoken, "Come, ye blessed of My Father,"they cast their crowns at the feet of the Redeemer,exclaiming, "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain toreceive power, and riches, and wisdom, andstrength, and honor, and glory, and blessing.

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. . . Honor, and glory, and power, be unto Him thatsitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever." Matthew 25:34; Revelation 5:12,13.

There the redeemed greet those who led themto the Saviour, and all unite in praising Him who

died that human beings might have the life thatmeasures with the life of God. The conflict is over.Tribulation and strife are at an end. Songs ofvictory fill all heaven as the ransomed ones takeup the joyful strain, Worthy, worthy is the Lambthat was slain, and lives again, a triumphantconqueror.

"I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which noman could number, of all nations, and kindreds,and people, and tongues, stood before the throne,and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes,and palms in their hands; and cried with a loudvoice, saying, Salvation to our God which sittethupon the throne, and unto the Lamb." Revelation7:9, 10.

"These are they which came out of greattribulation, and have washed their robes, andmade them white in the blood of the Lamb.Therefore are they before the throne of God, andserve Him day and night in His temple: and Hethat sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them.They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any

more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor anyheat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of thethrone shall feed them, and shall lead them untoliving fountains of waters: and God shall wipeaway all tears from their eyes." "And there shall beno more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neithershall there be any more pain: for the former thingsare passed away." Revelation 7:14-17; 21:4.