Jesus speaks again–“I–thirst” and some one near by with sponge and stick reaches up to moisten His lips. Then a shout, a loud cry of _victory_ bursts in one word from those lips, “_It is finished_.” Then softly breathing out the last words, “Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit,” and bowing His head, Jesus, masterful, kingly to the last, _yielded up_ His spirit.
The Resurrection: Gravity Upward
A New Morning.
It was near the dawning of a new morning, the morning of a new day destined to be a great day. While yet dark there come a number of women out of the city gate toward the tomb where Jesus’ body had been laid. They carry spices and ointment. With woman’s ever tender thoughtfulness they are bent upon some kindly service for that precious body. They had followed up the burial and noted the arrangements with a view to this morning’s early service. Their whole thought is absorbed with a tomb and a body and a bit of loving attention. They wonder as they come along whom they can get to roll the heavy stone over into its groove at the side of the opening. Mary Magdalene is in the lead. With her in the darkness is her friend Mary, the mother of John and James. Others come along a little behind, in small groups.
As they get near to the place the keen eyes of Mary Magdalene notice at once with a quick start that the stone is rolled away. Somebody has been tampering with the tomb in the night. Leaving her companion, she starts back on a run into the city and finds Peter, and tells him that the Lord has been taken away, and they don’t know where He has been laid. Peter, too, is startled. He gets John, and the two start back on a run.
Meanwhile the other women have gone on toward the tomb. As they approach they are startled and awed to find a man there, with the glorious appearance of an angel, sitting upon the stone. To these awe-stricken women this angel being quietly said, “Do not be afraid. I know you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here. He is risen, as He told you. Come and see the place where He lay.” And as they gaze with wide open eyes, he adds, “Go quickly and tell His disciples, and be sure you tell Peter, that He is risen from the dead, and lo, He goeth before you into Galilee. You will meet Him there. Lo, I have told you.” But the women were panic-stricken, and ran away down the road, and told no one except some of the apostles. And to them their story seemed ridiculous. They refused to believe such talk.
And now Peter and John come breathless to the tomb. John is in the lead. Either he is younger or swifter of foot. As he comes up he stops at the opening of the tomb, and, with a bit of reverential awe, gazes within. He can see the linen cloths lying; but the body they had encased is clearly not in them. Peter comes up, and steps at once inside for a closer inspection. There the linen cloths are, just as they had enswathed the body, but flattened down, showing the absence of anything inside their folds. The napkin that had been about the head was folded up neatly and laid over to one side. Then John enters, and as he continues looking conviction comes to him that Jesus has indeed risen. Wondering greatly at this thing, wholly unexpected by them, they go off to their homes in the city.
And now another little group of the women come up, and are perplexed in turn as the others, the stone away, the body of Jesus not there. As they stand with staring eyes and fearing hearts, two men unexpectedly appear in clothing that dazzles the women’s eyes. Frightened, they bow down before these men, who seem to be angels. But the men quickly reassure them with their words. Why were they seeking a living One in a tomb? Jesus was not there. He was risen. And they remind the women of Jesus’ own words about being killed and then rising again. As the men talk the women remember the Master’s words, and wonderingly see their meaning now, and hurry away to tell their friends the great news.
Jesus Seeking Out Peter.
And now Mary Magdalene has gotten back to the tomb. In her zeal for the safety of that precious body, she had made quite a journey into the city and back. Her zeal took her quickly to Peter. Her sorrow makes the way back longer. She had been first to come, but had not heard the news that came to her companions. Now she stands at the open tomb weeping. She stoops and looks in to see if it can be really true that _He_ is not there. To her surprise two angel beings are seated, one at each end of where Jesus’ body had been lying. They say to her, “Why are you weeping?” She replies, “Because they have taken away _my Lord_, and I know not where they have laid Him.” Turning back in her grief as the words are spoken, she sees some one else standing. Again the same question by this One. Why was she weeping? Whom was she looking for? Her eyes are blinded with the rain of tears. This is likely the man in charge of the garden wherein this family tomb was.
With earnest tones she says, “Sir, if _thou_ didst carry Him away, tell me where thou didst lay Him and _I_ will have Him taken away.” Then that one word came to her ears, her name, in that unmistakable voice, “Mary.” Quicker than a flash came the response, “_Oh, my Master_!” That same wondrous, quiet voice continues, “Do not continue to be clinging to Me. I am not yet ascended to my Father. Be going to my brethren and tell them I ascend to My Father and your Father, My God and your God.” And Mary quickly departs on her glad errand for Him. She was the first to see His face and hear His voice, and have her hand upon His person, and do something at His bidding.
And now the other women who had been at the tomb in the garden and fled away are on the road approaching the city. As they hurry along, to their utter amazement–here is Jesus in the road approaching them. With a glad smile in His eyes, the old, sweet voice speaks out in rich tones the usual simple salutation of greeting, “Good morning.” At once they are down on their knees and faces, holding His feet and worshipping. And Jesus softly says, “Do not be afraid. Go tell my brethren to meet Me in Galilee, up by the old blue waters of the sea.”
While these incidents were occurring, all in such short time, something else is going on of a different sort. The Roman soldiers guarding that tomb had had a great shock. They had been suddenly displaced by another guard. The sacred Roman seal had been ruthlessly broken, the stone rolled back from the opening, and some one sat upon it. Their bewildered, stupefied senses heard the movements and were aware of a strange, blinding light. Then they knew that the body they were to guard was no longer within. That was about as much as they could get together. They hurry to town and tell the chief priests. Quickly the chief priests gather their clique to confer about this new phase. Was there ever such mulish obstinacy? No thought of candid investigation seems to enter their mind. The way of covering this new difficulty is after all easy. Money will buy the soldiers, and they will do as they are bid. It took a good bit of gold. The soldiers probably were keen to know how to work so good a mine. And the story was freely circulated that the body was stolen while the soldiers slept.
Peter has gone down the road from the garden toward the city after having satisfied Himself that Jesus was not in the tomb. He was _wondering_ what all this meant. John, lighter of foot, had hurried ahead to his home in the city, very likely to tell the news to Jesus’ mother, his own new mother. Peter plods slowly along. There is no need of haste now. He is thinking, wondering, thinking. It was still early morning, with the sweet dew on the ground, and the air so still. Down past some big trees maybe he was walking, deeply absorbed, when–Somebody is by his side. It is the Master! But we must leave them alone together. That was a sacred interview, meant only for Peter.
Made Known in the Breaking of Bread.
The news now quickly spread; the two stories, that of the soldiers, that of the disciples. Folks listened to the one they preferred. Everybody was discussing this new startling appendix to the crucifixion. A bit later in the day two others were walking along one of the country roads leading out of the city, toward a village a few miles away. They jog along slowly as men who are heavy footed with disappointment. They are intently absorbed in conversation, eagerly discussing and questioning about something that clearly puzzled them.
A Stranger, unrecognized, overtakes them and joins in their conversation. He asks, “What is this that you are so concerned about?” So absorbed are they with their thoughts, that at His question they stand still, looking sad and unable for a moment to answer. Where would they begin where there was so much? Then one of them says, “Do you lodge by yourself in the city, and even then do not know the things that have been going on there?” The Stranger draws them out. “What things?” He says. Thus encouraged, they find relief in unburdening their hearts. It was all about Jesus, a man of great power in word and deed, before God and all the people; the great cruelty with which the rulers had secured a sentence of death for Him–and–crucified–Him.
“We were, however, hoping,” they said, “that He was the One who was about to redeem the nation. And now it is the third day since these things occurred. And most surprising word was brought by certain women that has greatly stirred us. They went early to the tomb, and did not find His body, but saw a vision of angels who positively said that He was alive. And some of our party went there and found it true as the women said. But–they did not see _Him_.”
Then the Stranger began speaking in a quiet, earnest way that caught them at once. “O foolish men, so slow you are in heart to believe the messages of the old prophets! Was it not needful that the Christ should suffer these very things and to enter into His glory?” Then He began freely to quote passages from all through their sacred writings. As they walk along listening to this wonderful explanation, which now sounds so simple from this Man’s lips, they come up to their home in the village. The Stranger seemed inclined to go on. But they earnestly urge Him to come in and get some refreshment and stay over night. He may talk more. They have heard no such winsome talk since Jesus was with them.
He yields. And, as they gather over the simple evening meal, the Stranger picks up the loaf, and looking up repeats the simple grace, and breaking the loaf reaches the pieces over. But as their hands go out for the bread, their eyes turn toward the Stranger’s face. Instantly they are spell-bound–_that face_–why–it is the _Master!!_ Then He is not there. And they said to each other, “Did you ever hear such talking?” “My heart was burning all the time He was talking.” “And mine, too.” Then they hasten back to the city. Those miles are so much shorter now! They go straight to the house where they have been meeting.
“_Even So Send I You_.”
Here were gathered most of the apostles and several others. Eagerly they were discussing the exciting news of the day. Some _know_ that Jesus has risen. Mary Magdalene, with eyes dancing, says, “I _saw_ Him.” But some are full of doubt and questionings. How _could_ it be? The door is guarded, for if the frenzy of the national leaders should spread, _they_ come next. There’s a knock at the door. Cautiously it is opened. Two dusty but radiant faces appear. “The Lord is risen _indeed_,” they exclaim. And then they tell the story of the afternoon and His wondrous explanation and of that meal.
As they are talking, all at once–who’s that?–right in their midst. It looks like Jesus. There is that face with those unmistakable marks. And you can see their eyes quickly searching between the sandal straps. Yes, it looks like Him. But it can’t be. Their eyes befool them. It’s been a hard day for them. It must be a spirit. As they start back, there comes in that voice they can never forget, the old quiet “Good evening.”–“Peace unto you.” Then He holds out His hands and feet, saying, “Do not be troubled–it is I Myself–handle Me, and make sure. A spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see that I have.” Then He said, “Have you something to eat?” and He ate a bit of broiled fish.
Reassured by such simple practical evidence, a glad peace fills their hearts and faces. They talk together a bit. Then Jesus rising, said again, “Peace unto you–as the Father hath sent Me, even so send I you.” Then He breathed strongly upon them, saying in very quiet, solemn tones, “Receive ye the Holy Spirit–Whosesoever sins ye forgive they are forgiven. Whosesoever ye retain they are retained.” And again, as they look, He is not there.
But one man was absent that new Sabbath evening hour. Thomas simply could not believe, and would not, without the most sane, common-sense evidence. He missed much by not being at that meeting. The next Sabbath evening he is present with the others. Again the Master comes as before, unexpectedly standing in their midst, as they talk together about Him. And now Thomas is fully satisfied after his week of doubting. Some of us folks will always be grateful for Thomas.
Some time later, there occurs that second wondrous draught of fishes, at the command of the unrecognized Stranger, one morning at the breaking of the day, and the talk with Peter and the others as they walk along the old shore of the sea. And to James, who seems to have been a leader by dint of a strong personality, He appears.
And one day when there was an unusually large meeting of His followers, as many as five hundred, He came as before and was recognized. And then at the last upon Olives’ top came the goodbye meeting and message.
It is surely worthy of remark that the Bethany home is not represented at either cross or tomb. Many of His dear friends are named in connection with both, but not these. Here are some of those dearest to Him, and to whom He is most dear. Here is one, a woman, who had discerned more keenly ahead than any other that He was to die and why. She had understood the minor strains of the old Hebrew oratorio as none other. She had learned at His feet. And here, too, was one who knew death, and the life beyond, and then a return again to this life. It was not indifference that kept them away. They loved tenderly, and were tenderly loved. Their absence is surely most significant. Mary’s ointment had already been used. This morning in glad ecstasy of spirit she and her brother and sister wait. _They know._
Gravity Upward.
Two things stand out very clearly about Jesus’ resurrection. It was not expected by these followers, but received at first with incredulity and doubt and stubborn unwillingness to accept it without clear undisputable proof. And then that they were thoroughly satisfied that He was actually back again with them, with His personal identity thoroughly established; so satisfied that their lives were wholly controlled by the consciousness of a risen Jesus. Sacrifice, suffering, torture, and violent death were yielded to gladly for His sake.
A new morning broke that morning, the morning of a new day, a new sort of day. That resurrection day became a new day to them and to all Jesus’ followers. The old Sabbath day was a _rest_-day. God Sabbathed from His work of creation. This new day is more, it is a _victory_-day. Every new coming of it spells out Jesus’ victory over sin and death and our victory in Him. The old Hebrew rest-day came at the week’s close. The new victory-day comes at the week’s beginning. With the fine tingle of victory in our spirits we are ever at the beginning of a new life and new victory and great things to come.
Did Jesus rise? Or, was He raised? Both are said of Him. Both are true. He was raised by the power of the Father. Every bit of His human life was under the direction and control of His Father. Every act of His from first to last was in the strength of the Father. This last act was so. The Father’s vindication of His Son was seen in the power that raised Him up from out of the domain of death. He was raised.
_Jesus rose_ from the dead. The action was in accord with the law of His life. He rose at will by the moral gravity of His character. He had gone down, now He lets Himself rebound up. The language used of His death is very striking. No one of the four descriptions of the death upon the cross says that He _died_. The words commonly used to describe the death of others are not used of Jesus. Very different language is used. Matthew says, “He dismissed His spirit.” Mark and Luke each say, “He breathed out” His life. John says, “He delivered up His spirit.”
His dying was voluntary. Not only the time of it and the manner of it, but the fact of it was of His own choosing. The record never suggests that death overcame Him. He yielded to it of His own strong accord. He was not overcome by death. He could not be, for sin having no hold within His being, death could have none. Physical death is one of the logical results of the sin within. Jesus yielded up His spirit. It was a free, voluntary act. He had explained months before that so it would be. “I lay down My life that I may take it again. No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have the power to lay it down, and I have the power to take it again. This commandment I received from My Father.” This being so, the return to life followed the same voluntary course. Having accomplished the purpose in dying, He now recalled His spirit into the body and rises by His own choice.
Man’s true gravity is toward a center upward. Sin’s gravity is toward a center downward. When an ordinary man, a sinful man, dies, he is overcome by the logical result of the sin in himself. He is overcome by the moral gravity downward of His sin. He has no choice. His own moral gravity apart from sin is upward. But that is overbalanced by the downward pull of the sin ingrained in his very being. And this quite apart from his attitude toward the sin.
In Jesus there was no sin. Being free of it, He rose at will. “It was not possible that He should be held by death,” for it had no hold upon Him. His gravity was upward. For a purpose, a great strong purpose, He yielded to death’s embrace. Now that purpose being achieved, He quietly lets Himself up toward the natural center of gravity of His life.
The Life Side of Death.
Clearly Jesus’ body had undergone changes through death and resurrection. It is the same to outer appearance, so far as _personal identity_ is concerned. The doubting, questioning disciples handle His person, they know His face, they recognize His voice. He eats with them and talks with them and moves in their midst as before. Even the doubter, stubborn in his demand for tangible, physical evidence, is convinced by the feel of his hands that this is indeed Jesus back again. Further, He moves about among them unrecognized till He chooses to be known. Yet this may have been His power over them rather than any changed quality in His person.
But mark that the limitations of space and of material obstructions are gone after the resurrection. He no longer needs to get that body through space by physical strength or management, but seems to go where He will by choosing to be there. He is no longer affected in His movements by the walls of a building or other such material obstruction, but comes and goes at will. The arrangement of the linen cloths in the tomb, as marked so keenly by Peter and John, is significant. They are found lying as they were when enfolding that body, as though He had in rising risen up through them.
Clearly the body is the same so far as personal identity is concerned. But the limitations are gone. The control of spirit over body seems full, without any limitations. As one of us can, _in spirit,_ be in a place far removed as quick as thought, so He seems to have been able to be _actually_, bodily, where He wanted to be as quickly. All the old powers remain. All the old limitations are gone, never to return. Jesus had moved over to the life side of death. He had gone down into death’s domain, given it a death blow, and then risen up into a new Eden life, where neither sin nor death had power to touch. Those forty days were sample days of the new Eden life on earth.
Jesus has become the leader of a new sort of life lived on the earth, mingling in its activities, but free of its power, _controlled from above_. He asks every one who will to come along after Him. We can, for He has. It is possible, because of Him. We may, for He asks us to. It is our privilege. Let us go.
The Ascension: Back Home Again Until—-
Tarry Ye–Go Ye.
One day the disciples and followers of Jesus had met in Jerusalem, when Jesus Himself came again in their midst and talked with them quite a bit. He said particularly that they were not to leave Jerusalem, but wait there. In a few days the Holy Spirit would come upon them, and they were to wait until He came. Then He asked them to go with Him for a walk. And they walk together along those old Jerusalem streets, out the gate and off past Gethsemane toward the top of Olives over against Bethany. On the way they ask Him if it was His plan to set up the kingdom then. He turns their thought away from Palestine toward the world, away from times and seasons toward telling a race about Himself.
And now they are standing together on the Mount of Olives. There is Peter, the new man of rock, and John and James, the sons of thunder, and little Scotch Andrew, and the man in whom is no guile, and the others. But one’s eyes quickly go by these to the Man in the center of the group. These men stand gazing on that face, listening for His words. There is a consciousness that the goodbye word is about to be spoken. Yonder they can see the bit of a depression and the tops of some old trees. That is Gethsemane. And over beyond that is the city wall and the little knoll near by outside. That is Calvary. With memories such as these suggest they listen with eyes as well as ears. “Ye shall receive power,” the Master is saying, “and ye shall be _My witnesses_ here in Jerusalem and in all Judea, your brothers, and in Samaria, the nearby people you don’t like, and unto the uttermost part of the earth, everybody else.” They are held by the words and by that face. Then He lifts up His hands in blessing upon them. And as they gaze they notice He is rising, His feet are off the earth, then higher and higher. Then a shining glory cloud sweeps down out of the blue, and now they see Him no more.
Coming Again.
They continue gazing, held spellbound by the sight, thinking maybe they may get another look. Then two men in white apparel are in their midst and speak to them: “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into the heavens? This Jesus who was received up into heaven shall so come in like manner as ye beheld Him going into heaven.” That word at once sends them back to the waiting-place of which the Master had spoken. From that time they never lost the upward glance, but they were ever absorbed in obeying the Master’s command.
Jesus’ ascension was a continuation of the resurrection movement. The resurrection was the beginning of the ascension. Having finished the task involved in dying, Jesus responded to the natural upward movement of His life. On His way up from the tomb to His Father’s home and throne, He tarried awhile on the earth for the sake of these disciples and leaders, then yielded again to the upward movement. The two men in white apparel give the key to the ascension. Jesus will remain above until the next great step in the kingdom plan. Then He will return to carry out in full the Father’s great love-plan for man and for the earth.
His last act with these men was conducting them to the Mount of Olives. That is ever to be the point of outlook for His follower. Yonder in full view is Gethsemane and Calvary. Following the line of His eyes and pointing finger, as the last word is spoken, leads us ever to the man nearest by, to the uttermost parts of the earth, and to all between. Following His disappearing figure keeps us ever looking upward to Himself and forward to His return.
Study Notes
Analysis and References
The spirit-key to an understanding of God’s Word is surrender of will and life to His mastery. “He that is willing to do His will will know of the teaching.” The mental-key to a grasp of the contents of that Book is _habitual broad reading_. It cannot be too insistently insisted upon that wide reading from end to end of the Book, and from end to end of the year, is _the_ simple essential to a clear understanding and a firm grasp of the Bible. It is the only possible salvation from the piece-meal, microscopic study of sentences and verses that has been in common use _clear out of all proportion_. Such disproportionate study steals away very largely the historical setting, and the simple meaning in the mind of speaker and writer. Wide reading habitually indulged in should come first, and out of that will naturally grow the closer study. This is the true order. In giving references it is needful to mark particular verses. Yet this is to be regretted because of our inveterate habit of reading only the marked verses instead of getting the sweep of their connection. The connection is a very large part of the interpretation of any passage. The references here are meant to be indices to the whole passage in connection. They are not meant to be full, but simply to start one going. They should be supplemented by others suggested by one’s own reading, by marginal references (those of the American Revision are specially well selected), and by concordance and topical text-book. What a student digs out for himself is in a peculiar sense his own. It is woven into his fibre. It helps make him the man he comes to be. Those who may want a course to follow rigidly without independent study will find these notes disappointing. For those who want a daily scheme of study the allotment for the day can be by certain designated pages of reading with the corresponding paragraphs in the Study Notes. The paragraphing will be found to be in some measure, though not wholly, a sub-analysis. The American Revision is used here.
I. The Purpose of Jesus.
1. The Purpose in the Coming of Jesus.
_God Spelling Himself out in Jesus_: change in the original language–bother in spelling Jesus out–sticklers for the old forms–Jesus’ new spelling of old words.
_Jesus is God following us up_: God heart-broken–man’s native air–bad choice affected man’s will–the wrong lane–God following us up.
_The Early Eden Picture_, Genesis 1:26-31. 2:7-25: unfallen man–like God–the breath of God in man–a spirit, infinite, eternal–love–holy–wise–sovereign over creation, Psalm 8:5-8–in his own will–summary–God’s thought for man.
_Man’s Bad Break_, Genesis 3. the climax of opportunity–the tree of choice–the temptation–blended lies–the tempter’s strategy–the choice made–the immediate result–safety in shame–the danger of staying in Eden–guarding man’s home–the return, Rev. 2:7. 22:14, 2. John 10:10.
_Outside the Eden Gate_: a costly meal–result in the man himself–ears and eyes affected–looking without seeing–a personal test–Isaiah’s famous passage, Isaiah 6:9-10, see Isaiah 42:18, 20, 23. 43:8. 29:10. Jeremiah 5:21. 6:10. 7:26. Ezekiel 12:2. Psalm 69:23. Micah 3:6. Acts 7:51.–Jesus’ use of parables–Jesus’ irony–Matthew 13:10-15. Mark 4:10-12. Luke 8:9-10. See John 12:40. Acts 28:26, 27. Romans 11:8. John 9:39-41–tongue affected–the tongue man’s index–effect of seeing God–whole mental process affected–sense of dread— Paul’s seven steps down in mental process, Ephesians 4:17-19–Jesus the music of God, the face of God.
_Sin’s Brood_: result in the growth of sin–three stages, flood, Moses, Paul–Paul’s Summary, Romans I:18-32, see Matthew 15:19. Galatians 5:19-21. 2 Timothy 3:2-5.–Paul’s Outlook–a summary of to-day–the conventional cloak–four great paragraphs–man still a king, Genesis 9:6. 1 Corinthians 11:7. James 3:9.–a composite picture–analysis of sin–the root of sin.
_God’s Treatment of Sin_: “gave them up,” Romans 1:24, 26, 28. see Job 8:4. 1 Kings 14:16. Psalms 81:12. Acts 7:42, Romans 9:22 (endured).–the worst thing and the best–sin’s gait–Jesus is God letting sin do its worst upon Himself.
_A Bright Gleam of Light_: the non-Christian world–God has no favorites–all know God directly, Romans 1:20, 32. John 1:9–believing on Jesus–the outside majority–Peter’s statement, Acts 10:34, 35.–Paul’s statement, Romans 2:7.–persistent climbers–trusting the unknown Jesus–the Master’s command–to help our brothers–Jesus is God sacrificing His best.
_The Broken Tryst_, Genesis 3:8-9: God keeping tryst–man not there–God’s search–a lonely God–still calling–Jesus is God calling man back to the broken tryst.
_God’s Wooing_: direct revelation to all–the inner light, John 1:9. Acts 17:26-28. Job 12:10. Psalms 139:1-16.–through nature, Psalms 19:1-6.–in the daily weave of life, Acts 17:28.–“The Lord’s at the loom”–a special revelation, Romans 3:2. Deuteronomy 4:8.–in Jesus, Heb. 1:1-3.–the Book–the mission of the Book, John 20:31.–summary–chiefly Jesus.
2. The Plan for the Coming of Jesus.
_God’s Darling_, Psalms 8:5-8.–the plan for the new man–the Hebrew picture by itself–difference between God’s plan and actual events–one purpose through breaking plans–the original plan–a starting point–getting inside.
_Fastening a Tether inside_: the longest way around–the pedigree–the start.
_First Touches on the Canvas_: the first touch, Genesis 3:15.–three groups of prediction–first group: to Abraham, Genesis 12:1-3; to Isaac, Genesis 26:1-5; to Jacob, Genesis 28:10-15; through Jacob, Genesis 49:9-11. through Balaam, Numbers 24:17-19; through Moses, Deuteronomy 18:15-19, see Matthew 21:11. John 1:21. 6:14. Acts 3:22. 7:37.–second group: David, 2 Samuel 7:16, 18, 19. 23:3-5. Psalms 2nd, 110th. Solomon in 72nd Psalm. Forty-fifth Psalm.
_A Full Length Picture in Colors_: third group in prophetic books–one continuous subject–“day of the Lord,” 134 times,–Somebody coming–His Person; _divine_, Isaiah 7:14. 9:6. 33:22. Micah 4:7. 5:2. Haggai 2:9. _human_, Isaiah 32:2. Daniel 7:13. _manner of birth_, Isaiah 7:14. _of native stock_, Isaiah 9:6. Ezekiel 29:21. _of David’s line,_ _ Isaiah 9:7. 11:1. 16:5. Jeremiah 23:5. 33:15, 17, 21, 26. Amos 9:11. Zechariah 3:8. 6:12. _a branch of Jehovah, _ Isaiah 4:2. _a King_, Isaiah 9:6. 32:1. 33:17. Jeremiah 23:5. Zechariah 6:13. 9:9. _called David_, Jeremiah 30:9. Ezekiel 37:24, 25. Hosea 3:5. _a priest-king,_ Zechariah 6:13. _a preacher_, Isaiah 61:1-3. _a teacher_, Isaiah 9:6 (counsellor).–the kingdom, Daniel 2:34,44. Obadiah:21 (Jehovah’s).–the capital, Isaiah 2:3. 4:5. 33:20,21. 59:20. 65:18, 19. Joel 3:16, 17, 20, 21. Micah 4:7, 8.–the presence of God, Ezekiel 37:27. Joel 3:21. Zechariah 2:10, 11. Zephaniah 3:17.–visibly present, Isaiah 4:5, 6.–characteristics, vengeance, Isaiah 61:2. 63:1-6. Zephaniah 3:19.–great victory, Zechariah 9:9.— but without force, Isaiah 11:4. Zechariah 9:10.–peace, Isaiah 2:4. 9:6, 7.–established in loving kindness, Isaiah 16:5.–justice and right, Isaiah 9:7. 16:5. 32:1. Jeremiah 23:5. 33:15.–the poor and meek, Isaiah 11:4, 5.–broken-hearted, poor and imprisoned, Isaiah 61:1-3.–protection from all ills, Isaiah 32:2.–impartiality in judging even the most weak and obnoxious, Isaiah 42:3, 4.–gradual increase, Isaiah 9:7. 42:4. a great crisis, Zephaniah 4:1. Habakkuk 3:1-15. with unexpected suddenness, Malachi 3:1–effect upon Israel _nationally_; Spirit-baptized, Isaiah 44:2. Ezekiel 37:9-14. 39:29.–never withdrawn, Isaiah 59:21.–judgments removed, Zephaniah 3:14, 15.–impurity cleansed, Isaiah 4:4. Malachi 3:2, 3.–possession of land, Zephaniah 2:7.–capital holy, Joel 3:17.–weakness gone, Micah 4:6, 7. freedom from enemies, Isaiah 33:18, 19.–Jeremiah 30:8-10. Joel 3:17. Zechariah 14:11. Micah 5:6.–at peace, Isaiah 33:20. Micah 5:5.–leadership, Isaiah 2:2. Micah 4:1, 3. 5:8.–spiritual leadership, Joel 2:28, 29.–supremacy, etc., Isaiah 60:1-22. 11:10. 2:2. Micah 4:1, 3. 5:8. Zechariah 2:10.–Jerusalem center, Isaiah 60:10-14. Zechariah 14:16. effect upon Israel _personally_; made over new, Ezekiel 11:17-20. 36:25-27. Jeremiah 31:31-34. Isaiah 4:3.–devotion and open-mindedness, Isaiah 32:3-4. 44:5.–sickness absent, Isaiah 33:24.–longer lives, Isaiah 65:20.–increase in numbers, Jeremiah 33:22. Ezekiel 37:26. Isaiah 44:4.–no disappointed plans, Isaiah 65:21-23. Amos 9:14.–fear gone, Micah 4:4.–thrilled hearts, Isaiah 60:5. effect upon _other nations_; to come back to God, Micah 5:3 (see John 10:16).–Spirit upon all, Joel 2:28.–voluntary coming to Israel for instruction, Isaiah 2:3. Micah 4:2.–earth filled with knowledge, Isaiah 11:9.–her influence as the dew, Micah 5:7.–the only medium, Isaiah 60:12. wondrous blessings shared with all, Isaiah 42:1, 6, 7. 49:6. 51:4. 61:1.–universal peace, Micah 4:3-4. Zechariah 9:10. changes in nature; at Jerusalem, Isaiah 33:21. Joel 3:18 l.c. Zechariah 14:8. Ezekiel 47:1-5. Zechariah 14:4.–increased light, Isaiah 30:26.–overshadowed by presence of God, Isaiah 60:19 (Presence cloud, Exodus; as sun, Matthew 17:2 with parallels; above sun Acts 26:13).–renewed fertility, Ezekiel 36:29, 30. Hosea 2:21. Joel 3:18. Amos 9:13. Zechariah 14:10. Isaiah 4:2.–removal of curse upon earth, Zechariah 14:11. Isaiah 65:17.–the animal creation, Isaiah 11:6-9. 65:25. Hosea 2:18 (see Romans 8:20-22).–without limit, Isaiah 2:2. 9:7. Daniel 2:44. 7:14. Micah 4:1. 5:4. Zephaniah 3:20. Zechariah 9:10. Joel 3:20.–a return to original conditions–characteristics of the coming One–mental equipment, Isaiah 11:2. 42:1. 61:1.–personal beauty and dignity, Isaiah 4:2. 33:17. Daniel 7:14. Micah 5:14.–unpretentious, Zechariah 9:9.–direct touch with God, Isaiah 49:1-3. 50:4.–backed by power of God, etc., Isaiah 42:1, 6. 49:3. 52:13. 53:11. 59:20. Zechariah 3:8. Malachi 3:1.–the poor cared for righteously, Isaiah 11:3-5.–divine insight, Isaiah 11:3.
_Back to Eden_: a wild dream–the Hebrew Book’s conception–Simeon and Anna, Luke 2:25-38.
_Strange Dark Shadowings_: weird forebodings–acted out, Joseph and David–Psalms 22. 69:20, 21. Isaiah 50:6, 7. 52:13-53:12. Daniel 9:24-26. Zechariah 11:4-14. 12:10. 13:7. a valley-road to the throne.
3. The Tragic Break in the Plan.
_The Jerusalem Climate_: the contrasting receptions, Luke 2. the music of heaven, Job 38:6, 7. Luke 2:13, 14. pick out the choruses of Revelation, the crowning book.–the after-captivity leaders, see Ezra and Nehemiah–ideals and ideas–present leaders–Herod–the high priest–the faithful few, Luke 2:25, 38. 23:51.
_The Bethlehem Fog_: Matthew 1 and 2. Luke 2. a foggy shadow–suspicion of Mary–a stable cradle–murder of babes–star-students–senate meeting–a troubled city-flight–Galilee.
_The Man Sent Ahead_: the growing boy–John’s relation to Jesus–trace passages in gospels referring to John.
_The Contemptuous Rejection_: accepted by individuals, rejected by nation–John’s drawing power–a dramatic presentation. John 1:19-34.–ominous silence–five satisfied seekers, John 1:35-51.–cleansing of temple, John 2:13-22.–first public work, John 2:23-25.–Nicodemus, John 3:1-21.–helping John, John 3:22, 23. 4:1 with Matthew 3:5-7. Luke 3:7-14. the dispute about the two men, John 3:25-30 (note American Revision)–John’s arrest–effect upon Jesus, Matthew 4:12-25.–“withdrew.”
_The Aggressive Rejection_: the second stage–Nazareth, Luke 4:16-30.–seven incidents, _i.e._ (i) healing at pool of Bethesda, John 5:1-47. (2) forgiving and healing palsied man, Matthew 9:2-8 with parallels. (3) criticizing Jesus’ personal conduct, Matthew 9:10-17 with parallels. (4) grain fields on the Sabbath, Matthew 12:1-8 with parallels. (5) healing whithered hand, Matthew 12:9-14 with parallels.–second “withdrew,” Mark 3:7-12 with parallels. (6) charge of having an unclean spirit, Mark 3:20-30 with parallels. (7) interruption by his mother, Matthew 12:46-50 with parallels.–the murder of John, Matthew 14:1-12 with parallels.–third “withdrew,” Matthew 14:13 with parallels.–staying in Galilee during fourth Passover, John 6:4, 5.
_The Murderous Rejection_: a fugitive from Judea, John 7:1.–fresh attack by southern leaders, Matthew 15:1-20 with parallel in Mark.–fourth “withdrew”–outside national lines, Matthew, 15:21 with parallel in Mark.–return to Sea of Galilee and request for sign, Matthew 15:29-16:4 with parallel in Mark.–Feast of Tabernacles, John 7: 2-8:59.–the blind man cured, John 9:1-40.–Transfiguration, Matthew 17:1-8 with parallels.–the beginning of the last journey, Luke 9:51. Mark 10:1, 32. Matthew 19:1.–the Seventy, Luke 10:1-17.–getting nearer to Jerusalem, divorce question, Mark 10:2-12. Matthew 19:3-12.–Good Samaritan, Luke 10:25-37. Beelzebub, “vehemently,” Luke 11. fresh tilt over Sabbath question, Luke 13:10-17.–cunning attempt to get Him into Judea, Luke 13:31.–Feast of Dedication, John 10:22-40.–Lazarus, John 11:1-46. formal decision against Him, John 11:47-53. a fugitive, John 11:57. no more openly, John 11:54. crowding pilgrims, John 11:55, 56. Lazarus again, John 12:9-11. the last week; triumphal entry, Matthew 21:1-17 with parallels, daily visits and return to Olivet, Luke 21:37-38; cleansing temple, Matthew 21:12-17 with parallels; duel of questionings, Matthew 22. Mark 11:27-12:34. Luke 20:1-44; His terrific arraignment, Matthew 23:1-39 with parallels; Greeks, John 12:20-36. Bethany feast, Matthew 26:6-13 with parallels, Judas, Matthew 26:14-16 with parallels; with the inner circle, Matthew 26:17-46 with parallels.
_Suffering the Birih-pains of a New Life_: why did Jesus die?–God’s plan of atonement, Leviticus 1:3-9–Paul’s statement in effect, Galatians 2:20.–Jesus’ dying does not fit into Hebrew ritual–standpoint of Hebrews–what God counselled, Acts 2:23.–this affects only the form not the virtue of Jesus’ death–preaching of Acts, 2:14-36, 38, 39. 3:12-26. 4:8-12. 5:29-32, and on, first church council, Acts 15.13-18 with Amos 9:11-12.–the superlative of hate–Jesus’ death voluntary, John 10:17, 18–ten attempts before the cross; three to kill at once, Luke 4:30. John 8:59. 10:31. other attempts, Matthew 12:14. John 5:18. 7:1, 30, 32. 10:39. 11:53 Jesus’ own explanation:–the temple, John 2:19. lifted up, 3:15. Matthew 9:15 with parallels. His flesh, John 6:53-57. with Jesus’ own interpretation, good Shepherd, John 10:11; for the sheep, 10:15; other sheep, 10:16; take it again, 10:17; of Myself, 10:18. cross, Matthew 10:38 with parallels. Jonah, Matthew 12:39, 40. 16:4 with parallel in Luke. Greeks, John 12:24-33. the Father’s command, John 14:31. for friends, John 15:13. sanctified, John 17:19. the Father’s cup, John 18:11. John’s comment, John 12:47-52.–the necessity for dying–a step in a wider plan–for the nation–wholly voluntary–six elements in a perfect sacrifice–Jesus alone is a perfect sacrifice–Paul’s comment, Romans 3:26.–God’s master-stroke–faith–Hebrew heathen and Christian grouped.
4. Some Surprising Results of the Break.
_The Surprised Jew_: a clash of wills–thousands of believing Jews–the church displacing kingdom–two-fold division of men formerly–now three-fold–church different in organization from kingdom–the Baptist puzzled–Jesus did not fill out Hebrew prophecy–two characteristics, personal and official–personal details fulfilled–official not because of rejection–out of situation grew four gospels–Mark–Matthew’s the gap gospel–Paul’s audiences–Luke’s gospel–these three tell of rejection mainly–John’s gospel–the order of the gospels in canon.
_The Surprised Church_: God holds to His plan–mixed ideas of kingdom and church–a handy principle of interpretation–one law consistently applied–the church to fulfil its mission and go–the kingdom simply retarded, yet to come–the plan enriched–sliding scale of fulfilment–the King must come— even this in Hebrew picture, Zechariah 12:10. New Testament teaching. Peter, Acts 3:21.–keeping truth in proportion–the gospel of the kingdom–Paul, 1 Thessalonians 1.10. 2:19. 3:13. 4:13-18. 5:10-23. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10. 2:1-9. 1 Corinthians 1:7, 8. 3:13. 5:5. 15:23, 25, 51, 52. 16:22. 2 Corinthians 1:14. 5:2-4. Romans 8:18, 19, 23. 11:12-29. 13:11, 12. 16:20. Colossians 3:4. Ephesians 1:10, 14, 18. 4:4, 30. 5:27. Philippians 1:6, 10. 2:16. 3:20. 4:5. 1 Timothy 1:1 (note Paul’s use of “hope” throughout). 6:14. Titus 2:13. 2 Timothy 1:12, 18. 2:12. 4:1, 8.–The Book of Revelation–the coming surprise. _The Surprising Jew_: greatest surprise–for all–the puzzle of history–divinely preserved–the keystone of the coming kingdom–Jesus the spirit magnet for Jew and all.
II. The Person of Jesus.
1. The Human Jesus.
_God’s meaning of “Human”:_ man’s fellow–two meanings of word human–original meaning–natural limitations.
_The Hurt of sin_: sin’s added limitations.
_Our Fellow_: Jesus truly human–up to first standard–His insistence–perfect in His humanness–fellowship in sin’s limitations–hungry, Matthew 16:5. John 4:6-8.–tired, John 4:6. Mark 4:38.–poverty, Matthew 13:55. Mark 6:3.–hard toil, John 19:25-27.–homeless, Luke 4:16-30. Matthew 8:20. Luke 9:58.–discipline of waiting.
_There’s More of God since Jesus Went Back_: the Nazareth home–fellowship with His brothers–“In the shop of Nazareth”–a Man on the throne.
2. The Divine Jesus.
_Jehovah-Jesus:_ John 1:1-18. the intimacy of John, John 13:23. 19:26. 20:2. 21:7, 20. “with Jesus,” John 18:15.–John writes of Jesus— when he wrote–getting the range–his literary style–the beginning–the Word–this was Jesus–the tragic tone.
_God’s Spokesman_: the Creator was Jehovah— Jehovah is Jesus–the Spokesman–Old Testament revelations, Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, the elders of Israel, Isaiah, Ezekiel,–Whom these saw–various ways of speaking–John’s Gospel a battlefield–finding the Man. _Whom Moses Saw_: Jesus’ own standpoint–“down from heaven,” John 3:13, 31. 6:38. 8:42. would go back again, John 6:62. John 16:5, 10. 13:1. come on an errand, then going back, John 16:28 13:3. He only had seen the Father, John 6:46. only begotten Son, John 3:16, 18. His own Father, John 5:17, 18. 10:32-33. 19:7.–Jesus’ answer to Jews’ objection, John 5:19-47.–“He wrote of Me,” the true meaning–I and the Father one, John 10:30.–the Father in Me, John 10:38. the name Father in Old Testament, 2 Samuel 7:14. 1 Chronicles 17:13. 22:10. Psalm 68:5. 89:26. 103:13. Isaiah 63:16. 64:8. Jeremiah 3:4, 19. Malachi 3:17.–Jehovah the common name–trace Jesus’ use of Father about 180 times–manna, John 6:32.
_Jesus is God Wooing Man_: “Abraham–saw and was glad,” John 8:33-59–supposed meanings–natural meaning–“I am”–Jesus is Jehovah come Himself to woo man.
3. The Winsome Jesus.
_The Face of Jesus_: Jesus drew crowds, men, women, children, bad people, enemies–His personality–face–impress of experiences–the glory of God in that face, 2 Corinthians 4:6. Hebrews 1:3.
_The Music of God in the Voice of Jesus_: the eye–Jesus’ eyes, Luke 4:16-30. John 8:59. 10:31. 7:32, 45, 46. 18:6. Mark 10:32. 9:36. 10:13-16. Luke 19:48.–His voice, Matthew 26:30. personal touch, Matthew 8:3, 15. 9:29. 17:7. 20:34. Mark 1:41. 7:33. Luke 5:13. 22:51. (John 14:16-20). His presence irresistible. Moses’ request, Exodus 33:18. Jesus draws men–yielding to His power.
III. The Great Experiences of Jesus’ Life.
1. The Jordan: The Decisive Start. Matthew 3:13-17. Mark 1:9-11. Luke 3:21-22.
_The Anvil of Experience_: knowledge only through experience–the Fourth, Daniel 3:25.–three Hebrews, Daniel 3.–Babylonian premier, Daniel 6:16-23.–George Mueller–Jesus made perfect through experience, Hebrews 2:10. 5:8, 9. 7:28, l.c.–all our experiences, Hebrews 2:14-18. Philippians 2:7. Hebrews 4:15, except through sin, Hebrews 4:15, l.c. 7:26. 2 Corinthians 5:21, f.c. 1 Peter 2:22. 1 John 3:5, l.c.–Jesus’ suffering, Philippians 2:6-8. Hebrews 2:9, 17, 18. 4:15. His obedience, Luke 2:51. Matthew 26:39. John 10:18. 14:31. Philippians 2:8. Romans 5:19. Hebrews 5:8. knowledge through experience–common experiences–mountain peaks–the tragic in each.
_Our Brother_: Jesus coming for baptism–John’s objection–why baptized–getting in touch–the point of contact–choosing for Himself the Father’s choice–the dangers–His strong purpose–the Father’s approval–three times the voice, here, transfiguration, Matthew 17:5. Mark 9:7. Luke 9:35. Greeks, John 12:28. the decisive start.
2. The Wilderness: Temptation. Matthew 4:1-11. Mark 1:12, 13. Luke 4:1-13.
_The University of Arabia_: Jesus’ naturalness–the Spirit’s presence–intensity, Luke 2:45-51.–a true perspective— the temptation’s path–sin’s path–John’s grouping, 1 John 2:16.–the Spirit’s plan–why–the devil’s weakness–the Spirit’s leading–a wilderness for every God-used man, Moses, Elijah, Paul.
_Earth’s Ugliest, Deepest Scar_: Jesus the only one led up to be tempted–the wilderness–its history, Genesis 13:10-13. 18:16-19:38.–Jesus really tempted–no wrong here in inner response–every temptation–by the devil.
_Waiting the Father’s Word_: the tempter’s skill–acting divinely–a stone for hunger–not wrong in itself–recognizing temptation–“man”–waiting the Father’s word–the trained inner ear–not our power but God’s through our obedience.
_Love never tests_: a more agreeable setting–touching tender chords–the religious temptation–only through consent–bad scripture quoting, Psalm 91–a helpful dust-cloth–using power only to help–a true quotation, Deuteronomy 6:16.
_The Devil acknowledges the King_: a dazzling scene–analyzing the tempter’s proposition–a common cunning trap–Jesus’ kingly conduct–the devil obeys Him–but to return–a coward–our safety in Jesus–lead us not into temptation.
3. The Transfiguration: An Emergency Measure. Matthew 16:28-17:1-8. Mark 9:1-8. Luke 9:27-36.
_God in Sore Straits_: the darkest hour save one, fugitive, John 7:1. ban, John 9:22, 34. pushing, Matthew 15:1. Mark 7:1.–the danger zone, “withdrew,” Matthew 4:12. 12:15. 14:13. 15:21. Tabernacles, John 7:32. 8:59.–Galileans desert, John 6:60-66.–the inner circle infected, John 6:67-71.–God needs men.
_Fire and anvil for Leaders_: mental strength–seasoned leadership–Simon and Peter.
_An Irresistible Plan_: alone with the twelve–the changed plan, Matthew 16:18-21.–Peter’s stupid boldness, Matthew 16:22, with Mark 8:32.–the best available stuff–to see the Jesus within–getting Paul, Acts 9:1-9. 22:6-11. 26:12-18.
_The Glory of that Light_: while praying–changed from within–absorbed with Jesus’ master-stroke–the jarring human note–the glory obscured–through an opened door–the kingdom.
_A Vision of Jesus_: gleams of light–the purpose secured, John 20:19, 24, 26-29.–an indelible impress, John 1:14. 12:41. Mark 9:3 with 1 Peter 1:16-17. Acts 12:2.–changed while looking, Acts 22:11. 2 Corinthians 3:18.
4. Gethsemane: The Strange, Lone Struggle. Matthew 26:36-46. Mark 14:32-42. Luke 22:39-46. Hebrews 5:7.
_The Pathway in_: messengers ahead–Jesus _felt_ the cross drawing near–the look of His face, Luke 9:51-55.–His disciples afraid, Mark 10:32.–indignation against sin, John 11:33, 38. marginal reading American Revision.–the Greeks, John 12:20-28.
_The Climax of Suffering_: the darkest shadow–why the struggle is strange–shock of extremes–His purpose in yielding–separation from the Father–Matthew 27:46. Mark 15:34 margin.–the superlative degree of suffering.
_Alone_: a full evening, Matthew 26:17-19 with parallels. John, chapters 13 to 17.–for prayer–on knees and face–the changed prayer–ready for the worst.
5. Calvary: Victory. Matthew 26:47-27:61. Mark 14: 43-15:47. Luke 22:47-23:56. John 18:1-19:42.
_Yielding to Arrest_: the betrayal–protecting the disciples–checking Peter’s violence–the arrest–the disciples forsake Him–except two, John 18:15, 16.
_The Real Jewish Ruler_: Annas the intriguer–an unrebuked insult–the case settled at once–before Caiaphas–difficulty in fixing a charge–the dramatic question and solemn answer–second condemnation–gross insults.
_Held Steady by Great Love_: Peter gains entrance through John, John 18:16.–the stammering denial–the bolder–with oaths and curses–Jesus’ look–Peter’s tears.
_An Obstinate Roman_: before the senate–trying to make a case–the formal condemnation–before Pilate–an unexpected set-back–alone with Pilate–acquitted–shrill protests–off to Herod.
_A Savage Duel_: before Herod–no word for him–more insults–a second acquittal–back to Pilate–his character–his summing up–their protests–his wife’s message–Barabbas or Jesus–Pilate weakening–the scourging and coarse mocking–Pilate’s surprise–a new charge–the governor startled–alone again with Pilate–the use of Caesar’s name–renunciation of national hopes–the defeated governor’s small revenge–the duel over.
_Victory_: out to Calvary–the pitying women–crucified–praying for the soldiers–pitching dice for His clothes–the inscription–coarse taunts and jests–winning a man at the very last–providing for His mother the darkness–the agonizing cry–the shout of victory.
6. The Resurrection: Gravity Upward. Matthew 28:1-15. Mark 16:1-8. Luke 24:1-49. John 20:1-21:25. 1 Corinthians 15:4-7.
_A New Morning_: early visit to the tomb–Mary Magdalene’s alarmed call for Peter–the message of the angels–Peter and John come–another group of women get an angelic message.
_Jesus seeking out Peter_: Mary Magdalene meets Jesus–He meets other women–the soldiers’ story–alone with Peter.
_Made Known in the Breaking of Bread_: the Emmaus travellers–the Stranger’s explanation–the evening meal–the Master!
_Even so Send I you_: the meeting in Jerusalem–the Master’s unexpected presence–the sure proofs–breathing on them–Thomas’ stubborn doubts–a week later–a second great catch of fish–to James–to five hundred–on Olives’ top–the Bethany home not represented.
_Gravity Upward_: the resurrection not expected–fully assured–the new victory-day–Jesus was raised–He rose at will–His dying voluntary, so the rising–man’s true gravity–sin’s gravity–Jesus’ gravity upward.
_The Life Side of Death_: bodily changes in Jesus–personal identity unchanged–limitations gone–the Leader of a new sort of life.
7. The Ascension: Back Home Again Until—-
_Tarry ye–Go ye_: the Jerusalem meeting–the walk to Olives–not Palestine only, but a world–the last word–upward–seen no more.
_Coming again_: gazing upward, Acts 1:10, 11.–a continuation upward–the Olivet outlook.
Footnotes
[1] Genesis 2: 25.
[2] Schiller.
[3] “An Indian Priestess.” Published by Hodder & Stoughton.
[4] Mary A. Lathbury.
[5] Nathaniel Parker Willis.
[6] Arthur Peirce Vaughn.
[7] So the best manuscripts.
[8] Frances Ridley Havergal.
Transcriber’s Notes
[A] Original text read “disguest”.