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救赎：基督复活和升天

致读者

这本小册子记录了基督复活和升天的历史，帮助信主的读者更好地研究圣经。本书连同本系列中的前几本小册子，含有其他任何书籍所没有阐述过的、有关基督生命和使命的许多内容。{6Red 2.1}

出版者

1、复活之后

犹太官长们虽然已经贯彻了他们治死上帝儿子的阴谋诡计，但他们的忧惧并未因而消除，他们对基督的嫉妒也没有止息。他们在达到报仇泄忿因而满心得意之余，总怕他那卧在约瑟坟墓中的身体将要再活过来。他们曾竭力要相信祂是一个骗子，但却是徒然。到处都听到那些还没听到祂死讯的人打听拿撒勒人耶稣在哪里。人们把患病将亡的亲友带到逾越节来求那大医师医治。祭司们心里原知道耶稣是全能的。他们曾见过祂在拉撒路的坟墓行的神迹;知道祂曾在那里使死人复活，所以他们便因害怕祂自己会从死里复活而战兢不已。{6Red 3.1}

他们曾听祂说过，祂有权柄舍去祂的生命，也有权柄取回来。他们记得祂曾说：“你们拆毁这殿，我三日内要再建立起来”(约2:19)。他们把这些话放在一起，就担惊受怕。犹大在把他的夫子卖给祭司们时，也曾再三告诉他们，耶稣最后一次上耶路撒冷的时候，在路上私下对门徒所说：“看哪，我们上耶路撒冷去，人子要被交给祭司长和文士，他们要定祂死罪，又交给外邦人，将祂戏弄，鞭打，钉在十字架上，第三日祂要复活”(太20:18,19)。他们想起祂说过的许多事，现在他们看出，那是明白的预言，已经应验。他们不愿想这些事，但他们极欲排除这些思想却是不能，他们正象他们的父魔鬼一样，不得不信，“却是战兢。” {6Red 3.2}

如今那紧张的场面已经过去，基督的形像就浮现在他们心头了。他们看见祂泰然自若、毫无怨言地站在祂的仇敌面前，受他们的戏弄，侮辱、而没有说一句不平的话。他们想起祂为那些钉祂在十字架上的人祷告求赦免，想起祂忘了自己的痛苦，想起祂慈怜地响应那个垂死强盗的祈求，想起笼罩大地的黑暗及其突消散，并祂胜利的呼喊：“成了!”那声音似乎响彻宇宙。他们想起祂立即死亡，地大震动，岩石抖落，坟墓敞开，圣殿的幔子裂为两半。这一切非凡的事迹，以压倒一切的力量重现在他们眼前，使他们不能不信耶稣是上帝的儿子。{6Red 4.1}

他们在安息日也没怎么休息。他们虽然因怕沾染污秽而不愿踏进外邦人的门槛，但他们还是就耶稣的尸体召开了会议。他们知道门徒们在安息日过了之前不会企图去挪动祂;但他们却急于在安息日结束之前作好一切预防措施。因此“祭司长和法利赛人聚集，来见彼拉多，说：大人，我们记得那诱惑人的，还活着的时候，曾说，三日后我要复活。因此，请吩咐人将坟墓把守妥当，直到第三日;恐怕他的门徒来把祂偷了去，就告诉百姓说，祂从死里复活了;这样，那后来的迷惑，比先前的更利害了”(太27:62-64)。彼拉多也象犹太人一样，并不情愿耶稣复活得势，来惩罚那些曾经杀害祂的人，故此他将一队罗马兵丁交给祭司们指挥。他说：“你们有看守的兵，去吧，尽你们所能的，把守妥当。他们就带着看守的兵同去，封了石头，将坟墓把守妥当”(太27:65-66)。{6Red 4.2}

罗马军队的纪律是很严格的。哨兵若在岗位上睡觉了就会处以死刑。犹太人充分利用了这个机会，在耶稣的坟墓四周驻兵看守。他们在那堵住墓门的巨石上加盖了封印，如果有人移动就可知道，又采取了一切措施，以便防止门徒为耶稣的遗体造谣惑众。其实他们一切的计划和预防措施，适足以使耶稣复活的胜利更加完全，并且更加充分地确定它的真实性。{6Red 5.1}

上帝和祂的圣天使怎样看待把守世界救赎主遗体的那些准备工作啊!那些努力看起来必是多么软弱而愚昧啊!诗人的话早已描绘了这个场面：“外邦为什么争闹，万民为什么谋算虚妄的事?世上的君王一齐起来，臣宰一同商议，要敌挡耶和华，并祂的受膏者。说：我们要挣开祂们的捆绑，脱去祂们的绳索。那坐在天上的必发笑，主必嗤笑他们”(诗2:1-4)。罗马的守兵和罗马的武器，毫无能力把生命的主关闭在坟墓之中。基督曾说过祂有权柄舍了自己的生命再取回来。祂得胜的时辰已经近了。{6Red 5.2}

上帝曾支配耶稣降生时一系列的事件。祂以人的样式显现是有指定时间的。上帝所默示的一长串预言都指向基督降临我们的世界，并且详细地描绘了祂受到接待的方式。要是救主在世界历史的早期显现，基督徒们得到的益处就不会这么大，因为他们的信心就不会因仔细研究延伸到将来的预言和叙述将要发生的大事而得到发展和加强。{6Red 6.1}

因为犹太人邪恶的背离了上帝，祂就允许他们落在异邦的权势之下。犹太人只得到有限的权柄;就连犹太公会也不蒙允许就涉及死刑的任何重要案件作出终审判决。象犹太人这样被偏执和迷信所控制的民族，是极其残忍无情的。上帝的智慧显明在差祂的儿子正当罗马当权的时候到世上来。要是犹太体系充分当权，我们就不会象现在这样拥有基督在人间的生活和服务史了。嫉妒成性的祭司和官长们就会迅速除掉如此可怕的对手。祂就会被石头打死，被诬告违背了上帝的律法。犹太人没有把一个人钉死在十字架上;那是罗马的行刑办法;所以就不会有髑髅地的十字架。那么预言就不会应验了;因为基督要以极其公开的方式在十字架上被举起来，就象铜蛇在旷野被举起来一样。{6Red 6.2}

要是基督的降生延期许多年，直到犹太权柄变得更少，预言也不会应验;因为犹太人既缺少权力，就不能影响罗马当局就虚谎的控告签署耶稣的死刑许可，也就不会有基督的十字架竖立在髑髅地。救主死后不久，钉十字架的死刑就废除了。耶稣死时发生的那些情景，人们无人性的行为，笼罩大地的超自然的黑暗，自然界在磐石崩裂电光闪射中显出的痛苦，使他们深感懊悔和恐怖，以致十字架作为死亡的刑具很快就废止了。当耶路撒冷陷落的时候，暴徒们再度得势，钉十字架曾一度复兴，便有许多十字架竖立在髑髅地。{6Red 7.1}

基督降临的时间和方式直接而完全地应验了预言。此事的证据藉着使徒们和他们同时代人的见证赐给了世人，乃是基督徒信心最有力的证据。我们虽不是亲眼目睹耶稣行神迹的人，那些神迹证明祂的神性;但我们有祂门徒的陈述，他们亲眼目睹过祂的神迹，我们则凭信心藉他们的眼睛看见，藉他们的耳朵听见;我们的信心与他们的信心一同领会所赐的证据。{6Red 8.1}

使徒们根据众先知和义人们的见证接受了耶稣，展开了一段历经许多世纪的时期。基督教界拥有一个充分而完全的证据之链，贯穿旧约和新约圣经;一个指向一位要来的救主，另一个应验了那个预言的条件。这一切足以坚固那些愿意相信之人的信心。上帝的计划是给人类一个公平的机会，去培养对上帝和祂儿子的能力及圣灵运行的信心。{6Red 8.2}

祭司们怀着不祥的预感在祭坛前供职，因为他们看到那幔子。那幔子已被看不见的手从上到下撕为两半，还没来得及更换或完全修缮。至圣所的神秘既被揭开，他们对于面临的灾祸就心中充满了恐惧。有许多供职的祭司深刻认识了耶稣的真身份。他们考察预言不是徒然的。到基督复活之后，他们就承认祂为上帝的儿子了。{6Red 8.3}

在那个值得纪念的逾越节期间，钉十字架的情景乃是人们思想的主题和谈论的话题。有数百人曾把自己受苦的亲友带来过节，希望见到耶稣，求祂医治和解救。他们在节期没有看见祂就大感失望，及至听说祂已被当作罪犯处死时，他们的愤慨和忧伤就无以复加了。{6Red 9.1}

曾满心希望得到救主医治而来过节的许多患病受苦的人因失望而消沉了。街道上和圣殿的院子中充满哀哭之声。病人因得不到拿撒勒人耶稣医治之能的抚摸就濒于死亡了。他们去求医生诊治也毫无效验，因为没有任何医生能像躺在约瑟坟墓里的主那样的高明。受苦的人久已期待这次是他们得解救的惟一希望，却徒然打听他们所寻找的医治者。{6Red 9.2}

祭司们以为向耶稣报仇泄恨必是痛快的，但如今却尝到其中的苦味了。他们知道自己正受到民众严厉的责难，并知道他们从前所利用来反对耶稣的人，现在正为着他们自己可耻的行为而悔恨不已。他们既亲眼目睹耶稣神圣感化力的这一切的证据，就更害怕祂在坟墓中的遗体，过于祂活在他们中间的时候。他们一想到祂可能从坟墓出来，他们有罪的心灵就充满了无法形容的恐惧。他们觉得说不定什么时候耶稣会来站在他们面前，以致被告变成原告，被定罪的要定他们的罪，被杀者要秉公执行杀害祂的人所当受的死刑。{6Red 9.3}

2、复活

坟墓那里已经做好一切准备工作，防止任何意外或门徒的欺骗行为。夜晚渐渐过去，破晓前最黑暗的时间已经到了。罗马的军兵仍按更次在把守着坟墓。哨兵在坟墓前来回踱步，那一百兵丁中余下的人则安置在墓地的不同岗位，尽力把守坟墓。然而还有天使看守着坟墓，他们中只要一位施展能力，就能击倒罗马全军。{6Red 10.1}

有一位地位极高的天使奉命从天而降。他的面貌如同闪电，衣服洁白如雪。他的足迹劈开黑暗，整个天空都被他辉煌的荣光照亮。睡着的兵丁同时站了起来，惊奇敬畏地注视着敞开而明亮的诸天，和那临近的明亮景象。大地颤抖隆起;兵丁、官长和哨兵都仆倒在地象死人一样。那些曾经胜利地声称占有耶稣遗体的恶使者，惊恐地逃窜。一位负责指挥的大能天使一直与他的队伍一同看守着主的坟墓，此时加入那从天而来的强大天使，他们一起径直走向坟墓。{6Red 10.2}

这位天使长抓住这块巨大的石头，它曾是许多强壮的人将其安置在那儿的，他将石头滚开，坐在上面。另一位天使则进到坟墓里去，解开耶稣的裹头巾。然后这位大能的天使，用一种震撼大地的声音喊叫说，耶稣，上帝的儿子，祢的父召唤祢!然后那位获得权柄征服死亡与坟墓的出来了，带着胜利者的步伐，走出了坟墓，这时有地震、闪电与雷轰。当基督舍去祂的生命时，曾有一次地震作为特征;当祂胜利地取回自己的生命时，再有一次地震为那个时辰作证。{6Red 11.1}

耶稣是睡了之人初熟的果子。祂从坟墓里出来的时候，曾叫许多人人死里复活，就这样永远解决了争议已久的复活问题。祂既使这一大批俘虏从死里复活，就证明那些在耶稣里睡了的人必有一次最终的复活。在基督里的信徒就这样领受了有关虔诚的已死之人来生的亮光。{6Red 11.2}

撒但恼怒万分，因为他的使者在天使面前纷纷逃散，并因为基督战胜了死亡，藉这个行动表明了祂将来的权柄如何。撒但曾目睹自己控制人心的能力怂恿人侮辱和谋杀上帝的儿子，但他经历的这一切的胜利都在基督神能的这一表现面前灰飞烟灭了。他曾胆敢希望耶稣不会再将自己的生命取回来;但在救主从坟墓里出来的时候，他就勇气尽失了。耶稣既已付了人类的全部赎价，就使人能奉得胜者基督的名为自己的利益战胜撒但。这个大仇敌如今知道自己最后必定灭亡，而自己的国度最终也必倾覆。{6Red 11.3}

上帝儿子复活的场面，生动地表显了基督驾天云复临时大复活的荣耀景象。那时死人在坟墓中听见祂的声音，就复活出来。不仅地要震动，连天也要震动。基督复活的时候，曾有少数的坟墓震开。但是祂复临时，所有死了的义人，从义者亚伯到最后死了的圣徒，都要醒来得荣耀不朽的生命。{6Red 12.1}

坟墓旁边的兵丁仅因一位带有天上荣耀和能力天使而满心恐惧，象死人一样仆倒在地。当上帝的儿子带着能力和大荣耀，在千万天使的护卫下从天庭降临的时候，祂的一切敌人怎能在祂面前站立得住呢?那时地球要象醉汉一样来回摇晃，又象小屋一样被挪移了位置。一切物质都要被烈火熔化。天也要象书卷一样被卷起来。{6Red 12.2}

耶稣死时，罗马兵丁曾在正午看见遍地黑暗;但在主复活的时候，他们却在黑夜看见众天使的荣光，并听见天上的居民欢欣鼓舞地唱着：祢已经战胜了撒但和黑暗的权势，祢已经胜利地吞灭了死亡!“我听见天上有大声音说，我上帝的救恩，能力国度，并祂基督的权柄，现在都来到了。因为那在我们上帝面前昼夜控告我们弟兄的，已经被摔下去了”(启12:10)。{6Red 12.3}

因着基督舍命的大工，在天庭控告弟兄的撒但被摔了下去。虽有撒但不断的反对，救赎的计划仍继续进行。人因基督为他舍命而有了无上的价值。撒但知道他所篡夺的王国迟早要被夺去，就决心不遗余力地尽多毁灭上帝照自己形像所造的生灵。他恨人类是因为基督向他们显示了赦罪之爱和怜悯。如今他要对他们施行各种诡计，使他们灭亡。他因为绝望而变本加厉地活动。{6Red 13.1}

基督来到世上为要维护祂父的律法的要求，而祂的死则表明那律法的不变性。然而撒但却把谬论强加给人，说基督的死废掉了上帝的律法。撒但就这样误导许多自称基督徒的人违背天父的诫命，同时还以为自己是忠于圣子的。{6Red 13.2}

基督教界对撒但的历史和他行使的可怕权柄不够了解。许多人看他只是一个虚构的东西。同时他却潜入众人心里;他左右民众——他假扮成光明天使的样式——他指挥自己训练有素的军队如同一位能征惯战的将领——他对人性有深刻的认识，能够很有逻辑、很有哲理，或表现出伪善的虔诚。{6Red 13.3}

他此时便准备在祭司们心中就基督的复活作工。他很清楚，他们既已陷入他的网罗，并且犯下杀害上帝儿子的可怕罪行，就完全在他的势力之下。他们逃脱民众愤怒的唯一希望就是坚称耶稣是一个骗子，并且控告祂的门徒把祂的尸体偷走了，好宣布祂从死里复活了。{6Red 14.1}

天上使者非常的荣耀从天空和坟墓消失之后，罗马兵丁们才斗胆抬起头来，四处张望。他们看到墓口的大石已被挪开，便惊惶失措地起来，发现耶稣的遗体不见了，坟墓空了。他们转身离开坟墓，因所见所闻而不知所措。他们连忙赶到城里，向所遇见的人诉说见到的奇事。有些度过了不眠之夜的门徒，听到这件奇妙的事便又有希望又害怕。同时有一个报信的人被派到祭司和官长那儿向他们报告：你们所钉死的基督已经从死里复活了! {6Red 14.2}

一个仆人立即带着一个秘密信息到罗马士兵那里，召他们到大祭司的官邸。他们受到仔细的盘问。于是他们将在坟墓口所看见的事作了详细的陈述：有一位可怕的天使从天上而来，面貌如同闪电，衣服洁白如雪，大地震撼摇动，他们无力的倒下了。天使在坟墓口抓住巨石，滚开它犹如滚开一个小石子一样。从坟墓里有一个大有荣光的形体出现了，天上和地上合唱胜利和快乐的诗歌，当荣光消退后，音乐也停止了，他们恢复了气力，发现坟墓空了，找不到耶稣的身体了。{6Red 15.1}

祭司、文士和官长们听到这个报告时，面若死灰，说不出一句话来。他们惊恐地意识到关于弥赛亚的预言如今已经应验了三分之二，便因可能即将发生的事而吓得魂不附体。他们无法质疑那摆在他们面前的证据。拿撒勒人耶稣，被钉死的那一位，确实从死里复活了。{6Red 15.2}

他们惊魂稍定的时候，便开始考虑最好采取什么方针，撒但则在场建议方式方法。他们感到自己已经置身于别无选择的地步，只能孤注一掷，否认基督到底。他们断定，如果这个报告传到民间，他们不仅会丧失尊荣和权威，还很可能会丧命。耶稣曾说过，祂会从死里复活并升到天上;他们便决心不让百姓知道祂的话应验了。他们以为只要能用钱收买罗马卫兵，这事就能成就。{6Red 15.3}

他们在盘问时发现可以用大笔的贿赂收买罗马卫兵，叫他们否认原先的报告，并作证说门徒们夜间在哨兵睡觉时把耶稣的尸体偷走了。哨兵在岗位上睡觉原是应判死刑的罪行。祭司们为要获得自己想要的证据，就应许保证守卫士兵们的安全。于是罗马兵丁为了金钱，就把自己的人格出卖给犹太人了。他们进来见祭司的时候，带着一个非常惊人的真理信息，而出去的时候，则带了许多金钱，嘴里还带着祭司们为他们所捏造的假见证。{6Red 16.1}

同时有一个送信的人奉派把消息传给彼拉多。彼拉多听到所发生的事，便满心恐惧，闭门谢客，不想见任何人。可是祭司们究竟找到了他，促请他不必追究守卫兵们失职的罪，而要放过此事。彼拉多在私下盘问了守卫兵并从他们口中知道一切的详情之后，终于同意这么做。守卫兵们因为害怕会丧命，一点不敢向巡抚隐瞒。彼拉多虽然不再追究这事，但从那时起他心里就没有平安或安慰了。{6Red 16.2}

3、坟墓边的妇女

用来膏耶稣遗体的香料在安息日之前就预备好了。七日的第一日清早，马利亚和其他几个妇女到坟墓那里去膏抹救主的遗体。她们走近园子的时候，看到天上光明美丽，大地在脚下颤抖，便感十分惊奇。她们急忙走向坟墓，惊讶地发现墓门的大石头被挪开了，罗马卫兵不在那里。她们注意到一道亮光照耀在坟墓周围，往里一看，墓内竟是空空的。{6Red 17.1}

马利亚就赶快全速跑到门徒那里，告诉他们说耶稣不在他们安葬祂的坟墓里。她去做这事的时候，在坟墓等候她的其他妇女更加彻底地检查了坟墓内部，证实主不在那里。突然，她们看到一个俊美的年轻人，穿着发光的衣服，坐在坟墓旁边。他是那位滚开大石的天使，如今取了人的样式，免得使这些作为基督的挚友并在祂公开服务时帮助祂的妇女受惊。然而尽管天使遮掩了他的荣耀，妇女们还是因环绕着他的主的荣耀而大感惊奇恐惧。她们转身逃离坟墓，却听到天上的使者对她们说柔和安慰的话：“不要害怕!我知道你们是寻找那钉十字架的耶稣。祂不在这里，照祂所说的，已经复活了。你们来看安放主的地方。快去告诉祂的门徒，说祂从死里复活了，并且在你们以先往加利利去，在那里你们要见祂。看哪，我已经告诉你们了”(太28:5-7)。{6Red 17.2}

妇女们回应天使的邀请，再往坟墓里一看，见有另一个光明的天使在那里。他对她们说：“为什么在死人中找活人呢?祂不在这里，已经复活了。当记念祂还在加利利的时候怎样告诉你们，说：‘人子必须被交在罪人手里，钉在十字架上，第三日复活’”(路24:5-7)。这些天使很熟悉耶稣对门徒说过的话，因为他们作为守护天使一直与祂同在，经历了祂生平一切的场景，目睹了祂的受审和被钉。{6Red 18.1}

天使们温柔智慧地提醒妇女们耶稣说过的话，祂已就祂的被钉和复活预先警告过她们。妇女们如今完全理解了夫子所说的这些当时对她们来说神秘莫测的话。她们有了新的希望和勇气。耶稣曾说过祂要从死里复活，曾将祂作为上帝的儿子、世界的救赎主的要求寄托在祂将要从死里复活上。{6Red 18.2}

第一个发现坟墓空空的马利亚急忙赶到彼得和约翰那里，告诉他们说有人把主从坟墓里挪了去，她不知道他们把祂放在哪里。于是这两个门徒跑到坟墓那里，所见的情形正如马利亚说的一样。他们夫子的遗体不在那里，只看见细麻布和裹头巾各在一处。彼得感到困惑，约翰却相信耶稣已经从死里复活，正如祂曾告诉他们的。他们还不明白旧约圣经所说基督必要从死里复活的意思，但约翰的信心是基于耶稣还与他们在一起时亲口所说的话。{6Red 18.3}

这两个门徒离开坟墓，回家去了。马利亚却不忍在还不知道主的遗体怎样了的时候就离开。她站在那里哭的时候，再一次蹲下来往坟墓里望;看到那有两个天使，穿着光明的衣服。他们扮成人形，马利亚没有认出他们是天使。他们在安放耶稣身体的地方坐着，一个在头，一个在脚。他们对马利亚说：“妇人，你为什么哭?”她说：“因为有人把我主挪了去，我不知道放在哪里”(约20:13)。马利亚想到坟墓敞开，夫子的遗体不见了，就很难受安慰。{6Red 19.1}

她因忧伤而断念，没有注意跟她讲话的天使。她转过身来哭泣的时候，另一个声音问她说：“妇人!你为什么哭?你找谁呢?”她泪眼模糊，没有观察对她讲话的人，却立刻想从问她的人得知夫子遗体的下落。她以为对她讲话的人可能是看园的，就恳求他说：“先生，若是你把祂移了去，请告诉我你把祂放在哪里，我便去取祂”(约20:15)。{6Red 19.2}

她觉得只要能得着救主宝贵的被钉的身体，就是她在忧伤之中最大的安慰。她想，如果有人认为用财主的坟墓来安葬她的主是太尊贵了，那么，她自己愿意为祂预备一个地方。她极其渴望找到祂，以便将祂体面地安葬。但如今耶稣自己的声音落在她惊讶的耳中了。祂对她说：“马利亚!”她立即擦干眼泪，她以为是看园的那个人向她显明了自己的身份——原来是耶稣!她大喜过望，一时忘了祂是曾钉过十字架的;她向祂伸出双手说：“拉波尼!”祂便回答说：“不要摸我，因我还没有升上去见我的父;你往我弟兄那里去，告诉他们说：我要升上去见我的父，也是你们的父;见我的上帝，也是你们的上帝”(约20:16,17)。{6Red 20.1}

耶稣不肯接受祂百姓的崇拜，直到祂确知祂的牺牲已得到天父的接纳，由上帝亲自向祂保证，祂为祂的子民所做的赎罪是完全而充足的，他们可以藉着祂的宝血得到永生。耶稣立时升到天上，在上帝的宝座前展示祂的额头和手脚所受羞辱和残害的记号。但祂拒绝接受荣耀的冠冕和王袍以及天使的敬拜，如同祂不接受马利亚的敬拜一样，直到天父表示祂的牺牲已蒙接纳。{6Red 20.2}

祂还有一个与祂地上的选民有关的请求。祂希望从此以后祂的赎民与上天和祂的父之间的关系能得到确认。在祂接受天上的尊荣以前，祂的教会要被称为义，得到接纳。祂宣称祂的意思是：祂在哪里，祂的教会也要在哪里。祂若得荣耀，祂的子民也要分享祂的荣耀。那些在地上与祂同受苦难的人，必最后在祂的国里与祂同掌王权。基督用最明确的方式为祂的教会请命，表示祂与他们利害相关，并以比死亡更坚强的爱心与决心维护他们藉着祂所得到的权利与资格。{6Red 21.1}

上帝答应了这个请求，宣布“上帝的使者都要拜祂”(来1:6)。每一位天使的领队都服从那庄严的命令，称被杀的羔羊是配得的。祂以一个胜利者的姿态复活了!凯歌声在整个天庭反复回荡。无数天使俯伏在救赎主面前。基督的请求已得到批准。教会藉着她的代表和元首得称为义。天父在此确认祂与祂儿子所立的约，愿意与悔改顺从的人和好，使他们藉着基督的功劳，得到上帝的悦纳。基督保证“使人比精金还宝贵，使人比俄斐纯金更宝贵”。天上地下所有的权柄都已赐给生命之君，可是祂片时也没有忘记留在罪恶世界上可怜的门徒。祂准备回到他们那里去，让他们分享祂的权柄和荣耀。人类的救赎主就是这样藉着自已的牺牲把天与地，有限的人与无限的上帝联系起来。{6Red 21.2}

耶稣对马利亚说：“不要摸我，因我还没有升上去见我的父”。当基督垂目死在十字架上时，祂的灵魂并没有象许多人所相信的立刻升到天上去，否则祂怎么会说“我还没有升上去见我的父”呢?耶稣的灵和身体一起睡在坟墓里，并没有升上高天，与身体分开，单独存在那里，看着伤心的门徒用香料抹它所留下的身体。耶稣的生命和智力，都和祂的身体一起留在坟墓里。祂出来的时候，是一个整体。祂没有把祂的灵从天上召下来。祂有权柄把自己的命舍掉，也有权柄把它取回来。{6Red 22.1}

这个堕落世界最光明的清晨，是救主从死里复活的那个清晨。然而对人类来说，它却不如祂受审和被钉十字架的那日重要。救主控制着死亡的权势，祂在自己有生命，众天军对祂能从死里复活并不感到惊奇。但他们所爱的元帅竟会为反叛的人类而死，着实令他们感到惊奇。{6Red 22.2}

基督在安息日安息在坟墓里。一周的第一日早晨，天上地上的生灵都起来活动的时候，祂从坟墓里复活，又重新从事教导祂门徒的工作。但这并没有使第一日成圣而变成安息日。耶稣在祂受难以前曾设立圣餐礼，来纪念祂为世人的罪孽身体擘开，流出鲜血。祂说：“你们每逢吃这饼，喝这杯，是表明主的死，直等到祂来”(林前11:26)。悔改的信徒按照所要求的步骤，用受浸来纪念基督的死，埋葬和复活。他下到水里，就象基督的死和埋葬;他从水中上来，象征祂的复活——不再度有罪的老生活，而要度在基督耶稣里的新生活。{6Red 22.3}

看到并听到天使对她们讲话的其他妇女，满心恐惧又大大喜乐地离开坟墓。她们赶紧到门徒们那里去，照天使所指示的，告诉他们所听见所看见的事。天使明确提到妇女们要把消息带给彼得。在跟从基督的那一小群人中，彼得是最沮丧的，因为他曾可耻地否认主。圣天使很了解彼得因自己的罪而自责的心情，他们对任性而忧伤之人的温柔同情表现在他们对这个不幸的门徒表示的关怀，这向彼得表明，他的悔改已蒙悦纳，他的罪已得赦免。{6Red 23.1}

门徒们听到妇女们的报告时，感到很惊讶。他们开始想起主预言过祂要复活的话。这事本应使他们满心快乐，却令他们大感困惑。他们因基督的死而遭受了大失望之后，他们信心还没有刚强到足以接受复活的事实。他们的希望已完全破灭，以致无法相信妇女们的话，却以为那是她们的错觉。甚至当抹大拉的马利亚向他们作证说她已看见主并与主讲话时，他们仍旧不肯相信祂已复活了。{6Red 23.2}

接连发生的大事令他们非常沮丧。在七日的第六日，他们眼看着他们的夫子死了;在下一个第一日，他们发现祂的尸体不在了，并被诬告偷盗尸体，欺骗民众的罪。他们没有希望可以更正那渐渐得势而对他们不利的错谬传言。而今他们又因信主妇女们的报告而有了新的困惑。他们在烦恼中渴望所爱的夫子同在。祂平时总是随时解释令他们不知所措的奥秘并消除他们的难题。{6Red 24.1}

4、耶稣在以马忤斯

耶稣这日见了几个门徒，问候她们说“愿你们平安”(太28:9)!她们就上前抱住祂的脚拜祂。祂允许了这种敬拜，因为祂已升上去见了祂的父，得到了祂的嘉许和圣天使的敬拜。当日下午晚些时候，两个门徒在去距耶路撒冷不到13公里远的以马忤斯的路上。他们曾来耶路撒冷过逾越节，早上听到的耶稣的遗体从坟墓被挪去的消息令他们大感困惑。妇女们就天上使者和耶稣亲自显现所做的报告又加剧了这种困惑。他们现在回家去，要默想和祷告，希望能就这些他们实在不明白的事得到一些亮光。{6Red 24.2}

这两个门徒在耶稣的服务中虽然没有居于显要地位，却是祂的热心信徒。他们上路之后不久，便有一位陌生人在后面赶上来，与他们同行;但他们忙着思想正彼此谈论着的那些困惑的事，几乎没有注意到那人的加入。这两个壮汉心里非常忧伤，以致边走边哭。在这里，基督的爱怜之心看到祂可以消除这样的悲伤。这两个门徒正在谈论前几天所发生的事情。他们不明白，耶稣既然自称是上帝的儿子，为什么会让自己受耻辱的死。{6Red 25.1}

其中有一个说，祂不可能是假冒的，但祂可能对自己的使命和将来的荣耀有误解。他们担心仇敌嘲笑祂的话是真的：“祂救了别人，不能救自己”(可15:31)。他们奇怪祂既然一再证明自己能洞察别人的心思，怎么会对自己有这样的误解。妇女们的奇怪报告，更使他们疑虑重重。{6Red 25.2}

若是得不到耶稣的启迪，这两个门徒就可能对过去几天发生的奥秘事长此困惑下去。耶稣扮成陌生人，开始与他们交谈。“只是他们的眼睛迷糊了，不认识祂。 耶稣对他们说：你们走路彼此谈论的是什么事呢?他们就站住，脸上带着愁容。二人中有一个名叫革流巴的回答说：你在耶路撒冷作客，还不知道这几天在那里所出的事吗?耶稣说：什么事呢?他们说：就是拿撒勒人耶稣的事。祂是个先知，在上帝和众百姓面前，说话行事都有大能”(路24:16-19)。{6Red 26.1}

然后他们对祂讲了他们的夫子受审和被钉十字架的事，连同妇女们就祂的遗体被挪走所作的见证，她们所见天使的异象，复活的消息，以及曾到坟墓去的那两个门徒的报告。“耶稣对他们说：无知的人哪，先知所说的一切话，你们的心信得太迟钝了。基督这样受害，又进入祂的荣耀，岂不是应当的吗?于是从摩西和众先知起，凡经上所指着自己的话，都给他们讲解明白了”(路24:25-27)。{6Red 26.2}

这两个门徒惊奇而快乐地静静地听着。他们不敢问这陌生人是谁。他们专心地听祂讲论，被祂的恩言和仪态所吸引，陶醉于祂的才智，因为祂开他们的心窍，对他们讲解圣经，根据预言向他们说明基督怎样必须被害，并在受害后进入祂的荣耀。{6Red 27.1}

耶稣从摩西所写的第一卷书讲起，一直讲到众先知就祂的生平、祂的使命、祂的受难、受死和复活所记的灵感证言。祂并不认为必需行一个神迹来证明祂就是复活了的世界救赎主;而是回到预言，通过充分而清楚地解释预言来解决祂身份的问题，说明凡发生在祂身上的事都由受上帝默示的作者们预言出来了。耶稣总是将听众的心带回到旧约圣经中真理的宝贵矿山。祂在财主和拉撒路的比喻中例证了祂对旧约圣经的尊重，祂说：“若不听从摩西和先知的话，就是有一个从死里复活的，他们也是不听劝”(路16:31)。使徒们也都证明了旧约圣经的重要性。彼得说：“因为预言从来没有出于人意的，乃是人被圣灵感动，说出上帝的话来”(彼后1:21)。路加这样论到预言基督降临的众先知：“主以色列的上帝是应当称颂的!因祂眷顾祂的百姓，为他们施行救赎，在祂仆人大卫家中，为我们兴起了拯救的角，正如主藉着从创世以来圣先知的口所说的话”(路1:68-70)。{6Red 27.2}

从亚当的日子起直到末日，那藉着先祖和先知说话的乃是基督的声音。拒绝了耶稣的犹太人没有看出这个真理，今日许多自称基督徒的人也没有看出来。一种美妙的和谐贯穿着新旧约圣经;起先读起来似乎难以理解的段落，当殷勤研读并与涉及同一主题的其它经文相对照的时候，就呈现出清楚的解释。仔细地查考预言原会使犹太人的悟性大得启迪，以致认出耶稣就是所预言的弥赛亚。但他们却曲解预言来迎合他们自己乖僻败坏的思想和野心勃勃的欲望。{6Red 28.1}

门徒们一直困惑于祭司们的解释和遗传，因此他们对主的受审、受死和复活才有黑暗和不信。这些曾被曲解的预言如今由曾藉着圣灵默示人写下这些预言的主对这两个门徒讲明了。耶稣向门徒说明，有关弥赛亚的预言的每一个细节都准确地应验在他们夫子的生与死上。祂作为一个陌生人对他们讲话，也作为一个惊讶于他们竟对圣经没有正确解释的人。正确地解经原会使他们脱离这一切的难题。{6Red 28.2}

耶稣从前虽然教导过他们预言，可是他们却一直没能完全放弃基督在第一次降临时要建立属世国度的想法。他们的成见使他们看祂的被钉为他们一切希望的最后破灭。然而正当他们灰心失望的时候，主却向他们说明了那使他们绝望的事构成了最高的证据，以致他们的信仰得到了纠正，他们越来越有信心了。他们如今理解了主在受审前所说的许多话，那些话是他们当时明白不了的。如今每件事在他们心中都已清楚明了。他们在耶稣的生与死中看到了预言的应验，他们的心便因爱他们的救主而火热起来了。{6Red 28.3}

许多自称基督徒的人竟把旧约圣经撇在一边，只看新约圣经。如今的呼声是：“远离律法和先知，给我们基督的福音。”假如新约圣经中基督的生平和教训就是坚固信仰所必需的一切，为什么基督不在这个场合只提到祂所教导的道理，祂品格的智慧和纯洁，以及祂所行的奇事，作为祂弥赛亚身份的充分证据呢? {6Red 29.1}

耶稣的生活史、祂的死和复活，既是上帝儿子的事迹，若无旧约圣经中的证据，就无法得到充分的证明。基督显在旧约圣经中是与在新约圣经中一样明显的。一个证明一位要来的救主，另一个则证明已经按照众先知所预言的方式来到的救主。为要赏识救赎的计划，就必须彻底明白旧约圣经。正是过去的预言所发出的荣光才清晰美丽地显示了新约圣经中基督的生平和教训。耶稣的神迹虽是祂神性的证据;但祂是世界救赎主的最有力的证据却是在将旧约圣经的预言与新约史相对照的时候才得到的。耶稣对犹太人说过：“你们应当查考圣经，因你们以为内中有永生;给我作见证的就是这经”(约5:39)。当时世上除了旧约圣经没有其它圣经存在;所以救主的这个命令是很明白的。{6Red 29.2}

这两个门徒与耶稣同行，专心听祂的恩言时，祂的仪态一点没让他们觉得不过是在听一个过节回来偶然碰到的客旅讲话，而是在听一位完全明白预言的人讲经。祂象他们一样小心地走过粗糙的石头，在攀登某个很陡的地方后和他们一起停下来休息一会儿。两个门徒就这样与那位能说“天上地下所有的权柄都赐给我了”(太28:18)的神圣救主沿着山路同行。{6Red 30.1}

这位战胜死亡的大能者，为拯救丧亡的世界，降到了人类痛苦的最深处。祂愿意屈尊与这两个门徒同往以马忤斯，教导和安慰他们。祂一直愿意这样与受苦和困惑中的人同在。当我们走在最艰难的道路中时，耶稣会与我们同在，为我们铺平道路。祂是那同一位人子，带着祂经过坟墓并升到祂父那里去之前同样的怜悯和仁爱。{6Red 30.2}

终于，在太阳落山的时候，这两个门徒和他们的同伴到家了。对他们来说，似乎这段路从来没有这么短过，时间也从来没有过得这么快过。那个陌生人没有停下来的迹象;但那两个门徒受不了这么快就与一位使他们的心生出新的希望和喜乐的人分别，就敦促祂留下来与他们一同过夜。耶稣没有立刻同意他们的邀请，却似乎有意继续前行。于是那两个门徒出于对这位陌生人的友爱，便以“时候晚了”(路24:29)为由强留祂。耶稣便答应了他们的恳求，进了他们简陋的住所。{6Red 31.1}

救主从不强迫我们与祂同在。祂寻求与那些祂知道需要祂关怀的人作伴，并给他们一个机会力劝祂继续与他们同在。他们若是满心渴望地恳求祂与他们同住，祂就会进到最简陋的家庭，鼓舞最卑微的人。在等候晚餐的时候，耶稣继续向祂的东道主们讲解圣经，提出祂神性的证据，并向他们展开救恩的计划。简单的晚饭不久就预备好，这三个人便在桌前就座，耶稣已照祂的习惯坐在首位上。{6Red 31.2}

求主赐福食物的责任通常落在家长的身上;但耶稣却按手在饼上祝福了饼。祂的祈祷一出口，那两个门徒就吃惊地仰望。肯定只有他们的主才总是这样做。祂的声音敲打着他们的耳骨，乃是他们夫子的声音，而且，看哪，祂的手上有钉痕!这确实是他们很熟悉的亲爱夫子的样子!他们一时之间怔住了;然后便起来俯伏在祂脚前敬拜祂，但祂突然不见了。{6Red 31.3}

此时他们才知道自己原来一直在与复活的救赎主同行共话。他们的眼睛被蒙蔽了，所以之前没有认出祂来，尽管祂所讲的真理已深入他们消沉的心中。祂经受了客西马尼园中的斗争，十字架的耻辱，并且胜过了死亡和坟墓——众天使在祂面前俯伏敬拜，感恩赞美，祂却寻找那两个孤独失望的门徒，与他们同在数小时，教导和安慰他们，可是他们却没有认出祂来。{6Red 32.1}

耶稣没有一开始就向他们显出祂的真身份，然后开他们的心窍，向他们讲解圣经;因为祂知道，那样他们就会因再次见到祂、因祂从死里复活而大喜过望，以致心满意足。他们就不会渴求神圣的真理了。祂希望将这些真理永远铭刻在他们心中，以便将之传给他人，而他人则转而传播这宝贵的知识，直到成千上万的人都领受那日在去以马忤斯的路上赐给两个失望门徒的亮光。{6Red 32.2}

祂一直扮作陌生人，直到解释了圣经，并使他们对祂的生平、祂的品格、祂到地上来的使命和祂的死与复活有了理智的信心。祂希望真理在他们心中稳稳扎根，不是因为祂个人的见证支持了真理，而是因为预表性律法和旧约的众先知所讲的都与祂生与死的事实相符，呈现了关于那个真理的无可置疑的证据。当祂对这两个门徒作工的目的达到了的时候，祂才向他们显出自己，好使他们可以喜乐满足，然后祂就不见了。{6Red 32.3}

这两个门徒离开耶路撒冷回家的时候，本来打算重操旧业，尽可能隐瞒他们已经破灭的希望。而今他们的喜乐超过了先前的失望。“他们彼此说：在路上，祂和我们说话，给我们讲解圣经的时候，我们的心岂不是火热的吗”(路24:32)? {6Red 33.1}

他们忘了自己的饥饿和疲倦，连预备好的晚饭也没有吃，因为他们不能逗留在自己家里，不让其他门徒得到他们新得到的知识。他们渴望把自己的喜乐分给他们的同伴，好叫他们可以因一位从死里复活的救主而一同欢喜快乐。虽然天色已晚，他们还是立即出发，原路返回耶路撒冷去;但他们如今的心情与他们启程来以马忤斯时的沮丧心情多么不同啊。耶稣就在他们身旁，他们却不知道。祂快乐地听到他们在路上彼此交谈时表达的喜乐和感激之情。{6Red 33.2}

他们太高兴了，没有注意崎岖不平难走的路段。虽然没有月亮光照他们，但他们的心却因新启示的喜乐而亮堂堂的。他们爬过崎岖的地方，和危险的岩脊，有时因匆忙而蹒跚跌倒。但他们一点也不因此惊慌，而是坚定地一路前行。他们有时失迷了路，不得不折回，直到又找到了，便以新的速度重新前行。他们渴望把宝贵的消息带给朋友们。人的口以前从未传过这样的好消息;因为基督复活的事实将成为伟大的真理，教会一切的信心和希望都以它为中心。{6Red 33.3}

5、在楼房里

两个门徒到了耶路撒冷，进了东门。这边的城门在过节期间是整夜开着的。家家户户都是漆黑寂静。而这两个人藉着月光在狭小的街道上行走。他们知道在那座值得纪念的楼房可以找到他们的众弟兄，就是耶稣在受死之前最后的一个晚上曾在之处。门徒们也曾在这里度过安息日，为主悲哀。而今他们毫无睡意，因为他们正在叙述令人兴奋的事。这两个行人再三要求开门，才有人小心翼翼地开了门。他们进去，耶稣也与他们一同进去，祂一路都是他们看不见的同伴。{6Red 34.1}

他们发现门徒们聚在一起，处在兴奋状态。希望和信心正在他们心中争取优势。抹大拉马利亚的报告，以及其他妇女的报告，大家都听到了;然而有些人太绝望了，不相信她们的见证。彼得与复活之主会面的证据是以极大的热诚和确信提出来的，对弟兄们来说更有分量，他们的信心开始复苏了。当那两个从以马忤斯来的门徒带着快乐的好消息进来时，就听到许多人惊叹着对他们说：“主果然复活，已经现给西门看了”(路24:34)。{6Red 34.2}

这两个从以马忤斯来的门徒讲了他们的故事，主怎么开他们的眼睛，向他们显明了预言的垂直链条，从先祖的日子直到如今，预示着所发生在救主身上的一切。那群人屏息静听这个报告。有些人受鼓舞有了新的信心;有些人则表示怀疑。忽然耶稣亲自显在他们中间。祂举起双手祝福，对他们说：“愿你们平安”(路24:36)! {6Red 35.1}

“他们却惊慌害怕，以为所看见的是灵。耶稣说：你们为什么愁烦?为什么心里起疑念呢?你们看我的手，我的脚，就知道实在是我了。摸我看看!灵无骨无肉，你们看，我是有的。说了这话，就把手和脚给他们看”(路24:37-40)。{6Red 35.2}

他们看见祂的手和脚被残酷的钉子所钉伤。他们认出祂优美的口音，正是他们从来没有从别人口中听过的声音。“他们正喜得不敢信，并且希奇，耶稣就说，你们这里有什么吃的没有?他们便给祂一片烧鱼和一块蜜房。祂接过来，在他们面前吃了”(路24:41-43)。于是信心和喜乐代替了疑惑和不信。他们就用言语所不能形容的情绪，承认他们复活的救主。{6Red 35.3}

耶稣便向那一整群的人解释圣经，从摩西的第一卷书开始，特别详细地讲解了指向当时的预言，预示了基督的受难及复活。“耶稣对他们说：这就是我从前与你们同在之时所告诉你们的话说：摩西的律法、先知的书，和诗篇上所记的，凡指着我的话都必须应验。于是耶稣开他们的心窍，使他们能明白圣经，又对他们说：照经上所写的，基督必受害，第三日从死里复活，并且人要奉祂的名传悔改、赦罪的道，从耶路撒冷起直传到万邦。你们就是这些事的见证”(路24:44-48)。{6Red 36.1}

门徒们这时才开始认识到他们使命的性质和范围。他们要向全世界传扬基督所教导他们的奇妙真理。祂一生的事迹，祂的死和复活，以及指明这些事的预言，上帝律法的神圣性，救恩计划的奥秘和耶稣赦罪的权柄──他们乃是这些事的见证。他们的工作就是从耶路撒冷开始，使人人都知道这些事。他们要传扬平安的福音，劝人悔改得救，并彰显救主的大能。基督第一次降世时，天使曾宣布：在地上平安喜悦归于人(路2:14)。祂在地上的生活完成之后，从死里复活第一次向聚集的门徒显现的时候，向他们说赐福的话：“愿你们平安”(路24:36)! {6Red 36.2}

耶稣准备随时向心中因疑惧而负重忧伤的人说平安的话。这位宝贵的救主等着我们打开心门请祂进来，与我们同住。祂说：“看哪，我站在门外叩门，若有听见我声音就开门的，我要进到他那里去，我与他，他与我，一同坐席”(启3:20)。我们的生活是一种不断斗争的生活;我们必须与执政的、掌权的争战，对抗属灵的恶魔和永不睡觉的仇敌。我们必须抵挡试探，并且得胜象基督得了胜。当基督的平安进入我们心里时，我们就能在最严峻的考验之下从容忍耐。{6Red 37.1}

耶稣的复活是一切在祂里面睡了的人最后复活的范例。救主复活的身体，祂的仪态，以及祂说话的语调，对于祂的门徒来说，都是十分熟悉的。将来那些在基督里睡了的人也要这样复活。我们必认出我们的朋友如同门徒认出耶稣一样。他们在世时可能身体上有种种残疾和病害，但在他们复活得荣耀的身体上，将只完全保留他们个人的特征。我们将从那些焕发着耶稣容颜光辉的脸上，认出我们所爱之人的相貌。{6Red 37.2}

耶稣的死曾使多马彻底绝望。他的信心似乎消失在完全的黑暗里了。当耶稣在那间楼房向门徒显现时，他并不在场。他虽听过别人的报告，也得到许多证据证明耶稣已经复活，可是迟钝的阴暗和顽梗的不信使他对一切鼓舞人心的见证关闭了心门。当他听见其他的门徒述说救主复活的奇妙显现时，他反而陷于更深的绝望之中。如果耶稣真已从死里复活，就再没有希望设立地上的国度了。而且想到他的夫子向其他门徒显现，却没有向他显现，这很伤害他的虚荣心。所以他坚决不肯相信，日坐愁城，整整一周之久，这种苦闷与他弟兄们的希望和信心比较起来，就格外觉得黑暗了。{6Red 37.3}

在这一段时间里，他与弟兄们在一起时，再三声称：“我非看见祂手上的钉痕，用指头探入那钉痕，又用手探入祂的肋旁，我总不信”(约20:25)。他不愿藉着弟兄们的眼睛去看，也不愿根据他们的见证而运用信心。他固然热爱他的主，但是他却让嫉妒和不信占据了自己的心思意念。{6Red 38.1}

这时，有几个门徒把那常去的楼房当作临时的住家。他们每天晚上都聚集在那里。有一天晚上，多马决定去和他们一同聚集。他虽然不信，但多少还希望那好消息是真的。当门徒吃晚饭的时候，他们谈起基督在预言中向他们提出的所信真理的凭据。那时，“门都关了，耶稣来站在当中说，愿你们平安”(约20:26)。{6Red 38.2}

然后祂责备了这个不接受那些已见过祂之人的见证的不信的人，转身对多马说：“伸过你的指头来，摸我的手，伸出你的手来，探入我的肋旁，不要疑惑，总要信”(约20:27)。这几句话表明他熟识多马的思想和言语。这个怀疑的门徒知道他的同伴在这一周中没有一个人曾见过耶稣，所以他们不可能把他顽梗的不信告诉夫子。这时，他认出在自己面前的这一位就是他曾被钉十字架的主。他再不想要其他的证据了。他的心因欢喜而跳动，因为他认识到耶稣确实从死里复活了，便以深切的爱情和献身俯伏在祂夫子脚前，喊着说：“我的主!我的上帝”(约20:28)! {6Red 39.1}

耶稣悦纳他的这种承认，但温和地责备他的不信说：“你因看见了我才信，那没有看见就信的有福了”(约20:29)。耶稣在此表明：如果多马甘心相信他弟兄们的见证，如果他在亲眼见到耶稣之前没有不肯相信，他的信心就必更为基督所悦纳。如果世人都像多马一样，就没有一个人会因信得救了，因为如今凡是接受基督的人必须相信别人的见证。{6Red 39.2}

许多人的信心软弱，摇摆不定，以为自己若有多马从同伴得到的证据，就不会象他那样怀疑不信。他们并没有认识到他们不仅有那种证据，还有额外的证据堆积在他们四围。许多人象多马一样，要等到一切疑惑的根由都消除之后才肯相信。这样的人永远不会达到他们的愿望，却要渐渐地陷于顽梗不信之中，直到无法感知支持耶稣之证据的分量，并象好怀疑的犹太人一样，他们所拥有的那一点亮光也会熄灭在包围着他们心思的黑暗里。拒绝神圣真理之清晰确实的证据会使人心刚硬，蒙蔽人的悟性。宝贵的真理既被忽视，就从不愿接受它的人心中完全消失了。{6Red 39.3}

耶稣对待多马的做法，给了跟从祂的人一个教训，就是应如何对待那些怀疑宗教真理，并强调这些疑惑的人。祂没有用责备的话压服多马，也不与他争辩，只是谦卑柔和地向怀疑的人显示自己。多马曾采取最不讲理的立场，提出让他相信的唯一条件，但是耶稣以自己大度的爱和体谅，打破他的一切障碍。辩论是很难消除不信的，反而会引人自卫，使人提出新的理由和依据。耶稣作为被钉的救主所显示的慈爱和怜悯，使许多原来不愿意承认的口象多马一样承认说：“我的主，我的上帝”。{6Red 40.1}

6、耶稣在加利利

耶稣复活的时候，从坟墓中带出一批囚虏作为胜利之君的战利品。祂以此证明祂胜过了死亡和坟墓，并给了一切义人复活的保证与确据。那些从坟墓里出来的人走进城里，以他们复活的形体向许多人显现，证明耶稣确已从死里复活了，他们是与祂一同复活的。那喊叫“成了”的声音，竟传进了死人的耳中。它穿透了坟墓的墙壁，并呼唤睡了的人起来。将来上帝的声音要震动天和地的时候也必如此。那声音也必穿透坟墓，打开墓门。那时会有一次大地震，使世界摇来摇去好像醉酒的人。荣耀的王基督要显现，由众天使伴随着。号筒要响，赐生命的主要叫死了的义人出来得到不朽的生命。{6Red 41.1}

祭司和官长们确知那些曾死了的人在耶稣复活时也复活了。他们得到了各方面的可靠报告。这些报告的人见过复活的人并与他们谈过话，听他们见证那位被祭司和官长杀害的生命之君耶稣已经从死里复活了。那说门徒把他们夫子的遗体从坟墓抢走了的谣言被人大肆传播，以致许多人信了。但祭司们在编造谣言时弄巧成拙。凡有思想、未被偏见蒙蔽的人，都察出那是谎言。{6Red 41.2}

兵丁们若是睡着了，就不可能知道坟墓怎么会空的。若有一个哨兵被惊醒，他肯定会叫醒别的哨兵。假如照他们所断言的，他们真的睡着了，后果是人所共知的。这种怠职之罪的惩罚乃是死，而且没有得宽恕的指望;所以犯罪的人很不可能宣告自己犯了这种罪。要是犹太祭司和官长们发现哨兵在岗位上睡着了，他们就会要求彻底调查此事，并且依法严惩不忠的兵丁。{6Red 42.1}

要是他们有一点相信自己言论的真实性，他们就会叫门徒负责，毫不留情地惩罚他们。他们既没有这么做，就充分证明门徒们是无辜的，也足以证明事实上祭司们已被逼到迫切需要捏造和传播谎言来对付越来越多不利于他们、却坚固耶稣复活的真理和祂为上帝圣子的证据。耶稣再三向门徒显现，连同那些与祂一起复活的人，也大大有助于将真理根植在凡愿意相信之人的心里。{6Red 42.2}

当代也有象犹太人那样捏造事实的现象。骄傲的人逼迫义人，耗费他们的光阴、感化力和金钱来止息或反驳真理的证据;为了达到这个目的而采取极其矛盾的措施。不乏有聪明伶俐的人贪婪地吞下极其可笑的谎言，因为这些谎言符合他们内心的情绪。这表明一个可悲的事实，就是上帝已任由他们心眼瞎盲，心地刚硬。有些无辜的人虽然可能因为信任欺骗他们的人而暂时受骗，但他们若是愿意受教，而且真心渴望认识真理，就会有机会认识真理。怀疑和困惑就会消散，他们就会发现误导他们之人矛盾重重，因为错谬本身就在不自然地为真理作着见证。{6Red 42.3}

祭司和官长们经常地处于恐惧之中，只怕行在路上，或在自己的密室中，会忽然与复活的基督见面。他们觉得自己毫无保障。铜墙铁壁怎能挡得住复活的上帝儿子呢! {6Red 43.1}

耶稣在受死之前曾在那间楼房告诉门徒，祂复活之后要在他们以先往加利利去;在祂复活的那天早晨，天使在坟墓旁也对妇女们说过：“你们可以去告诉祂的门徒和彼得，说：‘祂在你们以先往加利利去。在那里你们要见祂，正如祂从前所告诉你们的’”(可16:7)。门徒们在逾越节那一周逗留在耶路撒冷，因为他们若是不在，就会被认为是不忠分子和异端。他们那段时期晚上在那间楼房聚会。他们中有一些人住在那里。耶稣两次在那里向他们显现，吩咐他们要暂时逗留在耶路撒冷。{6Red 43.2}

逾越节一过，弟兄们就离开耶路撒冷，照着所受的指示前往加利利。这一次结伴同行的共有七个门徒。他们穿着渔夫的俭朴服装。他们在属世的财物方面是贫穷的，可是在真理的知识和实践方面却是富足的，所以在上帝的眼光看来，他们是有资格担任最高的位分，就是教师之职。他们固然没有在先知的学校中作过学生，可是他们曾在世界上空前绝后的最大教育家手下受教三年之久。在祂的教导之下，他们已成为高尚，聪明，风雅的人，足能担任引领世人认识真理的工作。{6Red 44.1}

救主在地上工作的时间，大半是用在加利利海附近一带地方，祂许多最奇妙的神迹也是在这里行的。当门徒这一次聚集在不致受人搅扰的地方时，他们心中尽想到耶稣和祂大能的作为。在这个海面上，当他们满心惊慌，猛烈的风暴要把他们逼到死地的时候，耶稣曾从浪涛上走来搭救他们。这里，祂也曾用祂的话平息狂风大浪，对狂怒的深渊说：“住了吧!静了吧”(可4:39)!在一眼望到的海滩上，祂曾行大能的神迹，用几个小饼和小鱼给一万多人吃饱。离此不远有迦百农城，就是祂行过那么多最奇妙的神迹、医治病人、使死人复活的地方。所以当门徒在加利利再看到这些景象时，他们心中就充满了救主的言论和作为。{6Red 44.2}

那一天晚上天气很好。彼得仍有划船打鱼的旧好，便建议他们出海撒网。这个建议得到了大家的赞同，因为他们是穷人，一夜顺利的捕鱼所得，足可供他们所需要的衣食，所以他们就驾船出海了，去重操旧业。但他们整夜辛劳却没有打着什么。在那疲倦漫长的数小时中，他们谈论到那没有和他们同在的主，并回忆他们在附近地区所看见的惊心动魄的情景和令人激动的大事。同时他们对于自己的将来也提出许多问题，并不禁对自己的前途忧虑起来。{6Red 45.1}

在这同时，岸上有一位孤独的守望者一直在看着他们，然而他们却没有看见祂。后来天亮了。那时门徒的船离岸不远。他们看见一个陌生人站在海岸上，祂先向他们招呼，问他们说：“小子，你们有吃的没有?”他们没有认出耶稣，就回答说：“没有。”“耶稣说，你们把网撒在船的右边，就必得着。他们便撒下网去，竟拉不上来了，因为鱼甚多”(约21:5,6)。{6Red 45.2}

门徒对他们这一尝试的结果满心惊奇;但约翰认出这个陌生人来，就对彼得惊呼：“是主!”于是喜乐取代了失望。彼得立刻束上外衣跳到海里，一会儿就站在他的主旁边了。其余的门徒划着船，拉着一网的鱼也来了。“他们上了岸，就看见那里有炭火，上面有鱼，又有饼”(约21:9)。{6Red 45.3}

他们太吃惊了，以致没有问这炭火和食物是从哪里来的。“耶稣对他们说：把刚才打的鱼拿几条来”(约21:10)。彼得就遵命赶紧去帮助弟兄们，把他所随便撒下的网拉到岸上来。到这事作完，一切都准备好之后，耶稣就叫门徒来吃饭。祂擘开饼和鱼，分给他们，他们七个人就都很清楚地认出祂来。这也使他们想起从前在山边给五千人吃饱的神迹，但是他们心里生出一种神秘的敬畏。他们静静地望着复活的救主。{6Red 46.1}

他们回想起祂开始传道的时候曾发生过与刚才相似的情景。那时耶稣曾吩咐他们把船开到水深之处，下网打鱼，因为圈住的鱼多，网都破了。后来耶稣又吩咐他们撇下网，跟从祂，祂要使他们得人如得鱼一样。耶稣刚才行这最后一个神迹，为的是加深从前那个神迹的印象;好使门徒们认识到，虽然他们不再有主亲身与他们同在，也不再有从事他们所爱职业的经济来源，但复活的救主仍然照顾他们。只要他们从事祂的工作，祂就必供给他们的需要。而且耶稣吩咐他们把网撒在船的右边，也是有用意的。当时基督正站在他们右边的岸上。如果他们能与祂共同工作，就有祂的神能与他们的人力合作，他们就不会失败。{6Red 46.2}

基督再施捕鱼的神迹，乃是重新向门徒宣告使命，向他们说明：他们夫子的死并没有减轻他们从事祂所分派之工的责任。彼得曾多次行事好像那十二个人的代表，基督还有一个教训是特别给他的。他在主被卖的那天晚上所做的事，与他从前所表白的忠心和献身形成一个可耻的对比。所以他在能重新负起使徒的工作之先，必须在众门徒面前显出真心悔改的凭据。所以救主特意给他机会，使他可以再得弟兄们的信任，免得在紧急时刻，他们因他从前的失败而有的不信任会削弱他的效用。6Red 47.1}

门徒们料想主不会再允许彼得在圣工中居于他迄今所居于的显要位置了，他自己也丧失了惯有的自信心。但耶稣在海边吃饭时，却把彼得挑出来，说：“约拿的儿子西门，你爱我比这些更深吗”(约21:15)?“这些”是指着他的弟兄们说的。彼得曾一度声称：“众人虽为祢的缘故跌倒，我却永不跌倒”(太26:33)，还表示自己愿意与主同死同下监牢。如今他在众门徒面前对于自已有更正确的估计了。他说：“主啊，是的，祢知道我爱你。”彼得在这次的回答中没有作激烈的保证，说他的爱比他的弟兄们更深。他甚至不敢就自己对救主的忠诚发表意见，而是恳求那能洞察心中一切动机的救主来判断他的真诚，──“祢知道我爱祢。” {6Red 47.2}

耶稣的回答明确地赞许了这个悔改的门徒，并将他置于受托的位置。祂说：“你喂养我的小羊。”耶稣再试验彼得，重述祂先前的话说：“约拿的儿子西门，你爱我吗?”这一次祂没有问彼得是不是比弟兄们爱祂更深。彼得第二次的回答，像第一次一样，也没有作过分的夸张，他说：“主啊!是的，祢知道我爱祢。”耶稣对他说：“你牧养我的羊。”救主再一次发出考问说：“约拿的儿子西门，你爱我吗?”彼得就很忧愁，他以为耶稣再三问这个问题表明祂不相信他的话。他知道他的主确有怀疑他的理由，于是带着一颗伤痛的心回答说：“主啊!祢是无所不知的，祢知道我爱祢。”耶稣对他说：“你喂养我的羊”(约21:16,17)。{6Red 48.1}

彼得曾三次公开地否认他的主，耶稣也三次使他提出爱和忠诚的保证，那锐利的问题好像带刺的利箭一般透入他伤痛的心怀。在聚集的门徒面前，耶稣显明彼得的悔改是何等的深切，并显出这个一度自夸的门徒是何等彻底地自卑了。他如今受托照顾基督羊群的重要使命。彼得即或有了每一种其他的极好资格，但没有基督的爱，他就不能作一个管理主羊群的忠心牧人。知识、口才、慈善、感恩和热心，在善工上都有帮助，但是心中若没有洋溢着耶稣的爱，则传道服务的工作必然失败。{6Red 48.2}

彼得生来就是心直口快，并易于受情感冲动的。撒但曾利用这些特性使他迷途。当耶稣在门徒们面前公开说明祂要去耶路撒冷受难，并且死在祭司长和文士手中时，彼得曾自以为是地驳斥他的夫子说：“主啊，万不可如此!这事必不临到祢身上”(太16:22)。他无法想象上帝的儿子怎么可能会被处死。撒但向他心中暗示，耶稣若是上帝的儿子，祂就

  【Note to the Reader】

This little book, recording the history of the resurrection and ascension of Christ, is presented to the reader in the belief that its perusal will aid him in studying the sacred Scriptures. This, with the preceding books of this series, contains many features of the life and mission of Christ, not presented in any other work.?---Publishers.{6Red 2.1}[1]

  《The Resurrection of Christ》

【After the Crucifixion】

The Jewish priests and rulers had now carried out their fiendish purpose of putting to death the Son of God; but their apprehensions were not quieted, nor was their jealousy of Christ dead. Mingled with the joy of gratified revenge, there was an ever-present fear that his dead body lying in Joseph’s tomb would come forth to life. They had labored to believe that he was a deceiver; but it was in vain. They everywhere heard inquiries for Jesus of Nazareth from those who had not heard of his death, and had brought their sick and dying friends to the passover to be healed by the great Physician. The priests knew in their hearts that Jesus had been all-powerful; they had witnessed his miracle at the grave of Lazarus; they knew that he had there raised the dead to life, and they trembled for fear he would himself rise from the dead.?{6Red 3.1}[2]

  They had heard him declare that he had power to lay down his life and to take it up again; they remembered that he had said, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up;” they put this and that together, and were afraid. When Judas had betrayed his Master to the priests, he had repeated to them?the declaration which Jesus had privately made to his disciples while on their way to the city. He had said, “Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify him; and the third day he shall rise again.” They remembered many things which he had said, that they now recognized as plain prophecies of the events which had taken place. They did not desire to think of these things, but they could not shut them from their understanding. Like their father, the devil, they believed and trembled.?{6Red 3.2}[3]

  Now that the frenzy of excitement was passed, the image of Christ would intrude upon their minds, as he stood serene and uncomplaining before his enemies, suffering their taunts and abuse without a murmur. They remembered the prayer for forgiveness, offered in behalf of those who nailed him to the cross, his forgetfulness of his own suffering, and his merciful response to the prayer of the dying thief, the darkness which covered the earth, its sudden lifting, and his triumphant cry, “It is finished,” which seemed to resound through the universe, his immediate death, the quaking of the earth and the shivering of the rocks, the opening of the graves and the rending of the vail of the temple. All these remarkable circumstances pressed upon their minds the overpowering evidence that Jesus was the Son of God.?{6Red 4.1}[4]

  They rested but little upon the Sabbath. Though they would not step over a Gentile’s threshold for fear of defilement, yet they held a?council concerning the body of Christ. They knew that the disciples would not attempt to remove him until after the Sabbath; but they were anxious that all precautions should be taken at its close. Therefore “the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto Pilate, saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again. Command, therefore, that the sepulcher be made sure until the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead; so the last error shall be worse than the first.” Pilate was as unwilling as were the Jews that Jesus should rise with power to punish the guilt of those who had destroyed him, and he placed a band of Roman soldiers at the command of the priests. Said he, “Ye have a watch; go your way, make it as sure as ye can. So they went, and made the sepulcher sure, sealing the stone and setting a watch.”?{6Red 4.2}[5]

  The discipline of the Roman army was very severe. A sentinel found sleeping at his post was punishable with death. The Jews realized the advantage of having such a guard about the tomb of Jesus. They placed a seal upon the stone that closed the sepulcher, that it might not be disturbed without the fact being known, and took every precaution against the disciples practicing any deception in regard to the body of Jesus. But all their plans and precautions only served to make the triumph of the resurrection more complete, and to more fully establish its truth.?{6Red 5.1}[6]

  How must God and his holy angels have looked upon all those preparations to guard the body of?the world’s Redeemer! How weak and foolish must those efforts have seemed! The words of the psalmist picture this scene: “Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together against the Lord, and against his Anointed, saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us. He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh; the Lord shall have them in derision.” Roman guards and Roman arms were powerless to confine the Lord of life within the narrow inclosure of the sepulcher. Christ had declared that he had power to lay down his life and to take it up again. The hour of his victory was near.?{6Red 5.2}[7]

  God had ruled the events clustering around the birth of Christ. There was an appointed time for him to appear in the form of humanity. A long line of inspired prophecy pointed to the coming of Christ to our world, and minutely described the manner of his reception. Had the Saviour appeared at an earlier period in the world’s history, the advantages gained to Christians would not have been so great, as their faith would not have been developed and strengthened by dwelling upon the prophecies which stretched into the far future, and recounted the events which were to transpire.?{6Red 6.1}[8]

  Because of the wicked departure of the Jews from God, he had allowed them to come under the power of a heathen nation. Only a certain limited power was granted the Jews; even the Sanhedrim was not allowed to pronounce final judgment upon any important case which involved the infliction of capital punishment. A people controlled, as were the Jews, by bigotry?and superstition, are most cruel and unrelenting. The wisdom of God was displayed in sending his Son to the world at a time when the Roman power held sway. Had the Jewish economy possessed full authority, we should not now have a history of the life and ministry of Christ among men. The jealous priests and rulers would have quickly made away with so formidable a rival. He would have been stoned to death on the false accusation of breaking the law of God. The Jews put no one to death by crucifixion; that was a Roman method of punishment; there would therefore have been no cross upon Calvary. Prophecy would not then have been fulfilled; for Christ was to be lifted up in the most public manner on the cross, as the serpent was lifted up in the wilderness.?{6Red 6.2}[9]

  Had the coming of Christ been deferred many years later, until the Jewish power had become still less, prophecy would have failed of its fulfillment; for it would not have been possible for the Jews, with their waning power, to have influenced the Roman authorities to sign the death-warrant of Jesus upon the lying charges presented, and there would have been no cross of Christ erected upon Calvary. Soon after the Saviour’s execution the method of death by crucifixion was abolished. The scenes which took place at the death of Jesus, the inhuman conduct of the people, the supernatural darkness which veiled the earth, and the agony of nature displayed in the rending of the rocks and the flashing of the lightning, struck them with such remorse and terror, that the cross, as an instrument of death, soon fell into disuse. At the destruction of Jerusalem, when mob power again?obtained control, crucifixion was again revived for a time, and many crosses stood upon Calvary.?{6Red 7.1}[10] 

 Christ coming at the time and in the manner which he did was a direct and complete fulfillment of prophecy. The evidence of this, given to the world through the testimony of the apostles and that of their contemporaries, is among the strongest proofs of the Christian faith. We were not eye-witnesses of the miracles of Jesus, which attest his divinity; but we have the statements of his disciples who were eye-witnesses of them, and we see by faith through their eyes, and hear through their ears; and our faith with theirs grasps the evidence given.?{6Red 8.1}[11]

  The apostles accepted Jesus upon the testimony of prophets and righteous men, stretching over a period of many centuries. The Christian world have a full and complete chain of evidence running through both the Old and the New Testament; in the one pointing to a Saviour to come, and in the other fulfilling the conditions of that prophecy. All this is sufficient to establish the faith of those who are willing to believe. The design of God was to leave the race a fair opportunity to develop faith in the power of God, and of his Son, and in the work of the Holy Spirit.?{6Red 8.2}[12]

  The priests who ministered before the altar had gloomy presentiments as they looked upon the vail, rent by unseen hands from top to bottom, and which there had not been time to replace or to fully repair. The uncovering of the sacred mysteries of the most holy place brought to them a shuddering dread of coming calamity. Many of the officiating priests were deeply convicted of the true character of Jesus; their searching?of the prophecies had not been in vain, and after he was raised from the dead they acknowledged him as the Son of God.?{6Red 8.3}[13]

  During that memorable passover the scenes of the crucifixion were the theme of thought, and the topic of conversation. Hundreds had brought with them to the passover their afflicted relatives and friends, expecting to see Jesus and prevail upon him to heal and save them. Great was their disappointment to find that he was not at the feast; and when they were told that he had been executed as a criminal, their indignation and grief knew no bounds.?{6Red 9.1}[14]

  The multitudes of sufferers who had come with the expectation of being healed by the Saviour sank under their disappointment. The streets and the temple courts were filled with mourning. The sick were dying for want of the healing touch of Jesus of Nazareth. Physicians were consulted in vain; there was no skill like that of Him who lay in state in Joseph’s tomb. The afflicted, who had long looked forward to this time as their only hope of relief, asked in vain for the Healer they had sought.?{6Red 9.2}[15]

  The revenge which the priests thought would be so sweet had already become bitterness to them. They knew that they were meeting the severe censure of the people; they knew that the very persons whom they had influenced against Jesus were now horrified by their own shameful work. As they witnessed all these proofs of the divine influence of Jesus, they were more afraid of his dead body in the tomb than they had been of him when he was living and among them. The possibility of his coming forth from the sepulcher filled their guilty souls with?indescribable terror. They felt that Jesus might at any time stand before them, the accused to become the accuser, the condemned to in turn condemn, the slain to demand justice in the death of his murderers.?{6Red 9.3}[16]

  【The Resurrection】

Every preparation had been made at the sepulcher to prevent any surprise or fraud being perpetrated by the disciples. The night had worn slowly away, and the darkest hour before daybreak had come. The Roman guards were keeping their weary watch, the sentinels pacing to and fro before the sepulcher, while the remainder of the detachment of one hundred soldiers were reclining upon the ground in different positions, taking what rest they could. But angels were also guarding the sepulcher, one of whom could have stricken down the whole Roman army by the putting forth of his power.?{6Red 10.1}[17]

  One of the most exalted order of angels is sent from Heaven; his countenance is like the lightning, and his garments white as snow. He parts the darkness from his track, and the whole heavens are lit with his resplendent glory. The sleeping soldiers start simultaneously to their feet, and gaze with awe and wonder at the open, lighted heavens, and the vision of brightness which approaches. The earth trembles and heaves; soldiers, officers, and sentinels all fall as dead men prostrate upon the earth. The evil angels, who have triumphantly claimed the body of Christ, flee in terror from the place. One of the mighty, commanding angels who has, with his company, been keeping watch over the?tomb of his Master, joins the powerful angel who comes from Heaven; and together they advance directly to the sepulcher.?{6Red 10.2}[18]

  The angelic commander laid hold of the great stone which had required many strong men to place it in position, rolled it away, and took his seat upon it, while his companion entered the sepulcher and unwound the wrappings from the face and head of Jesus. Then the mighty angel, with a voice that caused the earth to quake, was heard: Jesus, thou Son of God, thy Father calls thee! Then he who had earned the power to conquer death and the grave came forth, with the tread of a conqueror, from the sepulcher, amid the reeling of the earth, the flashing of lightning, and the roaring of thunder. An earthquake marked the hour when Christ laid down his life; and another earthquake signaled the moment when he took it up again in triumph.?{6Red 11.1}[19]

  Jesus was the first-fruits of them that slept. When he came forth from the tomb he called a multitude from the dead, thus settling forever the long-disputed question of the resurrection. In raising this multitude of captives from the dead, he gives evidence that there will be a final resurrection of those who sleep in Jesus. The believers in Christ thus receive the very light they want in regard to the future life of the pious dead.?{6Red 11.2}[20]

  Satan was bitterly incensed that his angels had fled from the presence of the heavenly angels, and that Christ had conquered death, and shown by this act what his future power was to be. All the triumph that Satan had experienced in witnessing his own power over men, which had urged them on to insult and murder the Son?of God, fled before this exhibition of the divine power of Christ. He had dared to hope that Jesus would not take up his life again; but his courage failed him when the Saviour came forth, having paid the full ransom of man, and enabled him to overcome Satan in his own behalf in the name of Christ, the Conqueror. The arch-enemy now knew that he must eventually die, and that his kingdom would have an end.?{6Red 11.3}[21]

  In this scene of the resurrection of the Son of God is given a lively image of the glory that will be revealed at the general resurrection of the just at the second appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven. Then the dead that are in their graves shall hear his voice and come forth to life; and not only the earth, but the heavens themselves, shall be shaken. A few graves were opened at the resurrection of Christ; but at his second coming all the precious dead, from righteous Abel to the last saint that dies, shall awake to glorious, immortal life.?{6Red 12.1}[22]

  If the soldiers at the sepulcher were so filled with terror at the appearance of one angel clothed with heavenly light and strength, that they fell as dead men to the ground, how will his enemies stand before the Son of God, when he comes in power and great glory, accompanied by ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands of angels from the courts of Heaven? Then the earth shall reel to and fro like a drunkard, and be removed as a cottage. The elements shall be in flames, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll.?{6Red 12.2}[23]

  At the death of Jesus the soldiers had beheld the earth wrapped in profound darkness at midday; but at the resurrection they saw the brightness?of the angels illuminate the night, and heard the inhabitants of Heaven singing with great joy and triumph: Thou hast vanquished Satan and the powers of darkness! Thou hast swallowed up death in victory! “And I heard a loud voice saying in Heaven, Now is come salvation and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ; for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, who accused them before our God day and night.”?{6Red 12.3}[24]

  The casting down of Satan as an accuser of the brethren in Heaven was accomplished by the great work of Christ in giving up his life. Notwithstanding Satan’s persistent opposition, the plan of redemption was being carried out. Man was esteemed of sufficient value for Christ to sacrifice his life for him. Satan, knowing that the empire he had usurped would in the end be wrested from him, determined to spare no pains to destroy as many as possible of the creatures whom God had created in his image. He hated man because Christ had manifested for him such forgiving love and pity, and he now prepared to practice upon him every species of deception by which he might be lost; he pursued his course with more energy because of his own hopeless condition.?{6Red 13.1}[25]

  Christ came to earth to vindicate the claims of his Father’s law, and his death shows the immutability of that law. But Satan thrusts upon man the fallacy, that the law of God was abolished by the death of Christ, and he thus leads many professed Christians to transgress the Father’s commandments, while they assume devotion to his Son.?{6Red 13.2}[26] 

 The Christian world is not sufficiently?acquainted with the history of Satan, and the terrible power that he wields. Many look upon him as a mere imaginary being. Meanwhile he has crept into the popular mind; he sways the people—he assumes the character of an angel of light—he marshals his trained forces like a skilled general—he has gained profound knowledge of human nature, and can be logical, philosophical, or hypocritically religious.?{6Red 13.3}[27]

  He now prepared to work upon the minds of the priests in regard to the event of the resurrection of Christ. He knew that, having already fallen into his trap, and committed the horrible crime of slaying the Son of God, they were entirely in his power, and their only course to escape the wrath of the people was to persist in denouncing Jesus as an impostor, and to accuse his disciples of stealing away his body that they might declare him to be risen from the dead.?{6Red 14.1}[28]

  After the exceeding glory of the angelic messenger had faded from the heavens and from the sepulcher, the Roman guards ventured to raise their heads and to look about them. They saw that the great stone at the door of the sepulcher was removed, and they arose in consternation to find the body of Jesus gone and the tomb empty. They turned from the sepulcher, overwhelmed by what they had seen and heard, and made their way with all haste to the city, relating to those whom they met the marvelous scenes they had witnessed. Some of the disciples, who had passed a sleepless night, heard the wonderful story with mingled hope and fear. Meanwhile a messenger was dispatched to the priests and rulers, announcing to them: Christ whom ye crucified is risen from the dead!?{6Red 14.2}[29] 

 A servant was immediately sent with a private message summoning the Roman guard to the palace of the high priest. There they were closely questioned; they gave a full statement of what they had witnessed at the sepulcher: That an awful messenger had come from Heaven with face like the lightning for brightness, and with garments white as snow; that the earth shook and trembled, and they were stricken powerless; that the angel had laid hold of the immense stone at the door of the sepulcher, and had rolled it away as if it had been a pebble; that a form of great glory had emerged from the sepulcher; that a chorus of voices had made the heavens and earth vocal with songs of victory and joy; that when the light had faded out, and the music had ceased, they had recovered their strength, found the tomb empty, and the body of Jesus nowhere to be found.?{6Red 15.1}[30]

  When the priests, scribes, and rulers heard this account, their faces were blanched to a deadly pallor. They could not utter a word. With horror they perceived that two-thirds of the prophecy concerning Messiah had now been fulfilled, and their hearts failed them with fear of what might be about to take place. They could not question the evidence of the witnesses before them. Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified one, had indeed risen from the dead.?{6Red 15.2}[31]

  When they had recovered from their first shock at hearing this news, they began to consider what course they would best pursue, and Satan was present to suggest ways and means. They felt that they had placed themselves where they had no alternative but to brave it out, and deny Christ to the very last. They reasoned that if?this report should be circulated among the people, they would not only be stripped of their honor and authority, but would probably lose their lives. Jesus had said that he would rise from the dead and ascend to Heaven; they determined to keep the people in ignorance of the fulfillment of his word. They thought this could be done if the Roman guard could be bought with money.?{6Red 15.3}[32] 

 They found upon trial that the guard could be induced by large bribes to deny their former report, and to testify that the disciples had stolen the body of Jesus in the night, while the sentinels slept. It was a crime punishable by death for a sentinel to sleep at his post; and, in order to secure the evidence they wished, the priests promised to insure the safety of the guard. The Roman soldiers sold their integrity to the false Jews for money. They came in before the priests burdened with a most startling message of truth, and went out with a burden of money, and with a lying report upon their tongues which had been framed for them by the priests.?{6Red 16.1}[33]

  Meanwhile a messenger had been sent, bearing the news to Pilate. When he heard what had occurred, his soul was filled with terror. He shut himself within his home, not wishing to see any one; but the priests found their way into his presence, and urged him to make no investigation of the affirmed neglect of the sentinels, but to let the matter pass. Pilate at length consented to this, after having a private interview with the guard, and learning all the particulars from them. They dared not conceal anything from the governor for fear of losing their lives. Pilate did not prosecute the matter farther, but from that time there was no more peace or comfort for him.?{6Red 16.2}[34] 

 【The Women at the Tomb】

The spices with which the body of Jesus was to be anointed had been prepared on the day preceding the Sabbath. Early in the morning of the first day of the week, the Marys, with certain other women, went to the sepulcher to proceed with the work of embalming the body of the Saviour. As they neared the garden, they were surprised to see the heavens beautifully lighted up, and the earth trembling beneath their feet. They hastened to the sepulcher, and were astonished to find that the stone was rolled away from the door, and that the Roman guard were not there. They noticed a light shining about the tomb, and, looking in, saw that it was empty.?{6Red 17.1}[35] 

 Mary then hastened with all speed to the disciples, and informed them that Jesus was not in the sepulcher where they had laid him. While she was upon this errand, the other women, who waited for her at the sepulcher, made a more thorough examination of the interior, to satisfy themselves that their Lord was indeed gone. Suddenly they beheld a beautiful young man, clothed in shining garments, sitting by the sepulcher. It was the angel who had rolled away the stone, and who now assumed a character that would not terrify the women who had been the friends of Christ, and assisted him in his public ministry. But notwithstanding the veiling of the brightness of the angel, the women were greatly amazed and terrified at the glory of the Lord which encircled him. They turned to flee from the sepulcher, but the heavenly messenger addressed?them with soothing and comforting words: “Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here, for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him; lo, I have told you.”?{6Red 17.2}[36]

  As the women responded to the invitation of the angel, and looked again into the sepulcher, they saw another angel of shining brightness, who addressed them with the inquiry: “Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen; remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.” These angels were well acquainted with the words of Jesus to his disciples, for they had been with him in the capacity of guardian angels, through all the scenes of his life, and had witnessed his trial and crucifixion.?{6Red 18.1}[37] 

 With combined wisdom and tenderness, the angels reminded the women of the words of Jesus, warning them beforehand of his crucifixion and resurrection. The women now fully comprehended the words of their Master, which at the time were veiled in mystery to them. They gathered fresh hope and courage. Jesus had declared that he would rise from the dead, and had rested his claims as the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world, upon his future resurrection from the dead.?{6Red 18.2}[38]

  Mary, who had first discovered that the tomb was empty, hurried to Peter and John, and announced that the Lord had been taken out of the?sepulcher, and she knew not where they had laid him. At these words the disciples both hastened to the sepulcher, and found it as Mary had said. The body of their Master was not there, and the linen clothes lay by themselves. Peter was perplexed; but John believed that Jesus had risen from the dead, as he had told them he should do. They did not understand the scripture of the Old Testament, which taught that Christ should rise from the dead; but the belief of John was based upon the words of Jesus himself while he was yet with them.?{6Red 18.3}[39]

  The disciples left the sepulcher, and returned to their homes; but Mary could not bear to leave while all was uncertainty as to what had become of the body of her Lord. As she stood weeping, she stooped down to once more look into the sepulcher; and lo, there were two angels, clothed in garments of white. They were disguised by an appearance of humanity, and Mary did not recognize them as celestial beings. One sat where the head of Jesus had rested, and the other where his feet had been. They addressed Mary with the words: “Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.” In view of the open sepulcher, and the disappearance of her Master’s body, Mary was not easily comforted.?{6Red 19.1}[40]

  In her abandonment of grief she did not notice the heavenly appearance of those who addressed her. As she turned aside to weep, another voice inquired, “Woman, why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou?” Her eyes were so blinded by tears that she did not observe the person who spoke to her, but she immediately?grasped the idea of obtaining from her interrogator some information concerning the whereabouts of her Master’s body. She thought that the speaker might be the one who had charge of the garden, and she addressed him pleadingly: “Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away.”?{6Red 19.2}[41]

  She felt that if she could only gain possession of the precious crucified body of her Saviour, it would be a great consolation to her grief. She thought that if this rich man’s tomb was considered too honorable a place for her Lord, she would herself provide a place for him. Her great anxiety was to find him, that she might give him honorable burial. But now the voice of Jesus himself fell upon her astonished ears. He said to her, “Mary.” Instantly her tears were brushed away; and he whom she supposed was the gardener stood revealed before her—it was Jesus! For a moment she forgot in her joy that he had been crucified; she stretched forth her hands to him, saying, “Rabboni!” Jesus then said, “Touch me not, for I am not yet ascended to my Father; but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God.”?{6Red 20.1}[42] 

 Jesus refused to receive the homage of his people until he knew that his sacrifice had been accepted by the Father, and until he had received the assurance from God himself that his atonement for the sins of his people had been full and ample, that through his blood they might gain eternal life. Jesus immediately ascended to Heaven and presented himself before the throne of God, showing the marks of shame and cruelty upon his brow, his hands and feet. But he refused?to receive the coronet of glory, and the royal robe, and he also refused the adoration of the angels as he had refused the homage of Mary, until the Father signified that his offering was accepted.?{6Red 20.2}[43] 

 He also had a request to prefer concerning his chosen ones upon earth. He wished to have the relation clearly defined that his redeemed should hereafter sustain to Heaven, and to his Father. His church must be justified and accepted before he could accept heavenly honor. He declared it to be his will that where he was, there his church should be; if he was to have glory, his people must share it with him. They who suffer with him on earth must finally reign with him in his kingdom. In the most explicit manner Christ pleaded for his church, identifying his interest with theirs, and advocating, with a love and constancy stronger than death, their rights and titles gained through him.?{6Red 21.1}[44]

  God’s answer to this appeal goes forth in the proclamation: “Let all the angels of God worship him.” Every angelic commander obeys the royal mandate, and Worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain; and that lives again a triumphant conqueror! echoes and re-echoes through all Heaven. The innumerable company of angels prostrate themselves before the Redeemer. The request of Christ is granted; the church is justified through him, its representative and head. Here the Father ratifies the contract with his Son, that he will be reconciled to repentant and obedient men, and take them into divine favor through the merits of Christ. Christ guarantees that he will make a man “more precious than fine gold, even a man than the golden wedge of?Ophir.” All power in Heaven and on earth is now given to the Prince of life; yet he does not for a moment forget his poor disciples in a sinful world, but prepares to return to them, that he may impart to them his power and glory. Thus did the Redeemer of mankind, by the sacrifice of himself, connect earth with Heaven, and finite man with the infinite God.?{6Red 21.2}[45] 

 Jesus said to Mary, “Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father.” When he closed his eyes in death upon the cross, the soul of Christ did not go at once to Heaven, as many believe, or how could his words be true—“I am not yet ascended to my Father”? The spirit of Jesus slept in the tomb with his body, and did not wing its way to Heaven, there to maintain a separate existence, and to look down upon the mourning disciples embalming the body from which it had taken flight. All that comprised the life and intelligence of Jesus remained with his body in the sepulcher; and when he came forth it was as a whole being; he did not have to summon his spirit from Heaven. He had power to lay down his life and to take it up again.?{6Red 22.1}[46] 

 The brightest morning that ever dawned upon a fallen world, was that in which the Saviour rose from the dead; but it was of no greater importance to man than the day upon which his trial and crucifixion took place. It was no marvel to the heavenly host that He who controlled the power of death, and had life in himself, should awaken from the sleep of the grave. But it was a marvel to them that their loved Commander should die for rebellious men.?{6Red 22.2}[47]

  Christ rested in the tomb on the Sabbath day, and when holy beings of both Heaven and earth?were astir on the morning of the first day of the week, he rose from the grave to renew his work of teaching his disciples. But this fact does not consecrate the first day of the week, and make it a Sabbath. Jesus, prior to his death, established a memorial of the breaking of his body and the spilling of his blood for the sins of the world, in the ordinance of the Lord’s supper, saying, “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till he come.” And the repentant believer, who takes the steps required in conversion, commemorates in his baptism the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. He goes down into the water in the likeness of Christ’s death and burial, and he is raised out of the water in the likeness of his resurrection—not to take up the old life of sin, but to live a new life in Christ Jesus.?{6Red 22.3}[48]

  The other women who had seen and been addressed by the angels, left the sepulcher with mingled feelings of fear and great joy. They hastened to the disciples, as the angels had directed, and related to them the things which they had seen and heard. Peter was expressly mentioned by the angel as one to whom the women were to communicate their news. This disciple had been the most despondent of all the little company of Christ’s followers, because of his shameful denial of the Lord. Peter’s remorse for his crime was well understood by the holy angels, and their tender compassion for the wayward and sorrowing is revealed in the solicitude they manifested for the unhappy disciple, and which evidenced to him that his repentance was accepted, and his sin forgiven.?{6Red 23.1}[49]

  When the disciples heard the account which?the women brought, they were astonished. They began to recall the words of their Lord which foretold his resurrection. Still, this event, which should have filled their hearts with joy, was a great perplexity to them. After their great disappointment in the death of Christ, their faith was not strong enough to accept the fact of the resurrection. Their hopes had been so blighted that they could not believe the statement of the women, but thought that they were the subjects of an illusion. Even when Mary Magdalene testified that she had seen and spoken with her Lord, they still refused to believe that he had risen.?{6Red 23.2}[50]

  They were terribly depressed by the events that had crowded upon them. On the sixth day they had seen their Master die; upon the first day of the succeeding week they found themselves deprived of his body, and the stigma resting upon them of having stolen it away for the purpose of practicing a deception upon the people. They despaired of ever correcting the false impressions that had gained ground against them; and now they were newly perplexed by the reports of the believing women. In their trouble their hearts yearned for their beloved Master, who had always been ready to explain the mysteries that perplexed them and to smooth their difficulties.?{6Red 24.1}[51]

  【Jesus at Emmaus】

On this same day Jesus met several of his disciples, and greeted them with “All hail,” upon which they approached him and held him by the feet and worshiped him. He permitted this?homage, for he had then ascended to his Father, and had received his approval, and the worship of the holy angels. Late in the afternoon of the same day, two of the disciples were on their way to Emmaus, eight miles from Jerusalem. They had come to the city to keep the passover, and the news of the morning in regard to the removal of the body of Jesus from the sepulcher had greatly perplexed them. This perplexity had been increased by the reports of the women concerning the heavenly messengers, and the appearance of Jesus himself. They were now returning to their home to meditate and pray, in hope of gaining some light in reference to these matters which so confused their understanding.?{6Red 24.2}[52] 

 These two disciples had not held a prominent position beside Jesus in his ministry, but they were earnest believers in him. Soon after they began their journey, they observed a stranger coming up behind them, who presently joined their company; but they were so busy with perplexing thoughts, which they were communicating to each other, that they scarcely noticed they were not alone. Those strong men were so burdened with grief that they wept as they traveled on. Christ’s pitying heart of love saw here a sorrow which he could relieve. The disciples were reasoning with each other concerning the events of the past few days, and marveling how the fact of Jesus yielding himself up to a shameful death could be reconciled with his claims as the Son of God.?{6Red 25.1}[53]

  One maintained that he could be no pretender, but had been himself deceived in regard to his mission and his future glory. They both feared that what his enemies had flung in his teeth was?too true—“He saved others; himself he cannot save.” Yet they wondered how he could be so mistaken in himself, when he had given them such repeated evidence that he could read the hearts of others. And the strange reports of the women threw them into still greater uncertainty.?{6Red 25.2}[54]

  Long might these disciples have perplexed themselves over the mysteries of the past few days, if they had not received enlightenment from Jesus. He, disguised as a stranger, entered into conversation with them. “But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? And the one of them whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him. Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people.”?{6Red 26.1}[55]

  They then recounted to him the facts of the trial and crucifixion of their Master, together with the testimony of the women in regard to the removal of his body, and vision of angels which they had seen, the news of the resurrection, and the report of those disciples who had gone to the sepulcher. “Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken; ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.”?{6Red 26.2}[56]

  The disciples were silent from amazement and delight. They did not venture to ask the stranger who he was. They listened to him intently, charmed by his intelligence, and drawn toward him by his gracious words and manner, as he opened the Scriptures to their understanding, showing them from prophecy how Christ must suffer, and after suffering enter into his glory.?{6Red 27.1}[57] 

 Jesus began with the first book written by Moses, and traced down through all the prophets the inspired proof in regard to his life, his mission, his suffering, death, and resurrection. He did not deem it necessary to work a miracle to evidence that he was the risen Redeemer of the world; but he went back to the prophecies, and gave a full and clear explanation of them to settle the question of his identity, and the fact that all which had occurred to him was foretold by the inspired writers. Jesus ever carried the minds of his hearers back to the precious mine of truth found in the Old-Testament Scriptures. The esteem in which he held those sacred records is exemplified in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus, where he says, “If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rose from the dead.” The apostles also all testify to the importance of the Old Testament Scriptures. Peter says: “For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” Luke thus speaks of the prophets who predicted the coming of Christ: “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people; and hath raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David, as he spake by the?mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began.”?{6Red 27.2}[58]

  It is the voice of Christ that speaks through the prophets and patriarchs, from the days of Adam even down to the closing scenes of time. This truth was not discerned by the Jews who rejected Jesus, and it is not discerned by many professing Christians today. A beautiful harmony runs through the Old and New Testaments; passages which may seem dark at a first reading, present clear interpretations when diligently studied, and compared with other scripture referring to the same subject. A careful search of the prophecies would have so enlightened the understanding of the Jews that they would have recognized Jesus as the predicted Messiah. But they had interpreted those predictions to meet their own perverted ideas and ambitious aspirations.?{6Red 28.1}[59]

  The disciples had been confused by the interpretations and traditions of the priests, and hence their darkness and unbelief in regard to the trial, death, and resurrection of their Master. These misinterpreted prophecies were now made plain to the understanding of the two disciples, by Him who, through his Holy Spirit, inspired men to write them. Jesus showed his disciples that every specification of prophecy regarding Messiah had found an exact fulfillment in the life and death of their Master. He addressed them as a stranger, and as one who was astonished that they had not interpreted the Scriptures correctly, which would have relieved them from all their difficulties.?{6Red 28.2}[60]

  Although Jesus had previously taught them in regard to the prophecies, yet they had been?unable to entirely relinquish the idea of the temporal kingdom of Christ at his first coming. Their preconceived views led them to look upon his crucifixion as the final destruction of all their hopes. But when, in the midst of their discouragement, they were shown that the very things which had caused them to despair formed the climax of proof that their belief had been correct, their faith returned with increased strength. They now comprehended many things which their Master had said before his trial, and which they could not at that time understand. Everything was clear and plain to their minds. In the life and death of Jesus they saw the fulfillment of prophecy, and their hearts burned with love for their Saviour.?{6Red 28.3}[61]

  Many professed Christians throw aside the Old Testament, and shut themselves up to the New. The cry now is, “Away with the law and the prophets, and give us the gospel of Christ.” If the life of Christ and the teachings of the New Testament Scriptures were all that was necessary to establish belief, why did not Jesus upon this occasion merely refer to the doctrines he had taught, the wisdom and purity of his character, and the miracles he had performed, as sufficient evidence of his Messiahship??{6Red 29.1}[62]

  The history of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, as that of the Son of God, cannot be fully demonstrated without the evidence contained in the Old Testament. Christ is revealed in the Old Testament as clearly as in the New. The one testifies of a Saviour to come, while the other testifies of a Saviour that?has?come in the manner predicted by the prophets. In order to appreciate the plan of redemption, the Scripture?of the Old Testament must be thoroughly understood. It is the glorified light from the prophetic past that brings out the life of Christ and the teachings of the New Testament with clearness and beauty. The miracles of Jesus are a proof of his divinity; but the strongest proofs that he is the world’s Redeemer are found in the prophecies of the Old Testament compared with the history of the New. Jesus said to the Jews “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me.” At that time there was no other scripture in existence save that of the Old Testament; so the injunction of the Saviour is plain.?{6Red 29.2}[63]

  As the disciples walked on with Jesus, listening intently to his gracious words, nothing in his bearing suggested to them that they were listening to other than a casual pilgrim, returning from the feast, but one who thoroughly understood the prophecies. He walked as carefully as they over the rough stones, halting with them for a little rest after climbing some unusually steep place. Thus the two disciples made their way along the mountainous road in company with the divine Saviour, who could say, “All power is given unto me in Heaven and on earth.”?{6Red 30.1}[64]

  This mighty conqueror of death, who had reached to the very depths of human misery to rescue a lost world, assumed the humble task of walking with the two disciples to Emmaus, to teach and comfort them. Thus he ever identifies himself with his suffering and perplexed people. In our hardest and most trying paths, lo, Jesus is with us to smooth the way. He is the same Son of man, with the same sympathies and love?which he had before he passed through the tomb and ascended to his Father.?{6Red 30.2}[65]

  At length, as the sun was going down, the disciples with their companion arrived at their home. The way had never before seemed so short to them, nor had time ever passed so quickly. The stranger made no sign of halting; but the disciples could not endure the thought of parting so soon from one who had inspired their hearts with new hope and joy, and they urged him to remain with them over night. Jesus did not at once yield to their invitation, but seemed disposed to pursue his journey. Thereupon the disciples, in their affection for the stranger, importuned him earnestly to tarry with them, urging as a reason that “the day was far spent.” Jesus yielded to their entreaties and entered their humble abode.?{6Red 31.1}[66]

  The Saviour never forces his presence upon us. He seeks the company of those whom he knows need his care, and gives them an opportunity to urge his continuance with them. If they, with longing desire, entreat him to abide with them he will enter the humblest homes, and brighten the lowliest hearts. While waiting for the evening meal, Jesus continued to open the Scriptures to his hosts, bringing forward the evidence of his divinity, and unfolding to them the plan of salvation. The simple fare was soon ready, and the three took their position at the table, Jesus taking his place at the head as was his custom.?{6Red 31.2}[67] 

 The duty of asking a blessing upon the food usually devolved upon the head of the family; but Jesus placed his hands upon the bread and blessed it. At the first word of his petition the disciples looked up in amazement. Surely none?other than their Lord had ever done in this manner. His voice strikes upon their ear as the voice of their Master, and, behold, there are the wounds in his hands! It is indeed the well-known form of their beloved Master! For a moment they are spell-bound; then they arise to fall at his feet and worship him; but he suddenly disappears from their midst.?{6Red 31.3}[68]

  Now they know that they have been walking and talking with the risen Redeemer. Their eyes had been clouded so that they had not before discerned him, although the truths he uttered had sunk deep in their discouraged hearts. He who had endured the conflict of the garden, the shame of the cross, and who had gained the victory over death and the tomb—He, before whom angels had fallen prostrate, worshiping with thanksgiving and praise, had sought the two lonely and desponding disciples, and been in their presence for hours, teaching and comforting them, yet they had not known him.?{6Red 32.1}[69]

  Jesus did not first reveal himself in his true character to them, and then open the Scriptures to their minds; for he knew that they would be so overjoyed to see him again, risen from the dead, that their souls would be satisfied. They would not hunger for the sacred truths which he wished to indelibly impress upon their minds, that they might impart them to others, who should in their turn spread the precious knowledge, until thousands of people should receive the light given that day to the despairing disciples as they journeyed to Emmaus.?{6Red 32.2}[70]

  He maintained his disguise till he had interpreted the Scriptures, and had led them to an intelligent faith in his life, his character, his mission?to earth, and his death and resurrection. He wished the truth to take firm root in their minds, not because it was supported by his personal testimony, but because the typical law, and the prophets of the Old Testament, agreeing with the facts of his life and death, presented unquestionable evidence of that truth. When the object of his labors with the two disciples was gained, he revealed himself to them that their joy might be full, and then vanished from their sight.?{6Red 32.3}[71]

  When these disciples left Jerusalem, to return to their homes, they intended to take up their old employment again, and conceal their blighted hopes as best they could. But now their joy exceeded their former despair. “And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the Scriptures?”?{6Red 33.1}[72]

  They forgot their hunger and fatigue, and left the prepared repast, for they could not tarry in their homes and hold their newly found knowledge from the other disciples. They longed to impart their own joy to their companions, that they might rejoice together in a living Saviour risen from the dead. Late as it was, they set about retracing their way to Jerusalem; but how different were their feelings now from those which depressed them when they set out upon their way to Emmaus. Jesus was by their side, but they knew it not. He heard with gladness their expressions of joy and gratitude as they talked with each other by the way.?{6Red 33.2}[73]

  They were too happy to notice the difficulties of the rough, uncertain road. There was no moon to light them, but their hearts were light with?the joy of a new revelation. They picked their way over the rough stones, and the dangerous ledges, sometimes stumbling and falling in their haste. But not at all disconcerted by this, they pressed resolutely on. Occasionally they lost their path in the darkness, and were obliged to retrace their steps until they found the track, when they renewed their journey with fresh speed. They longed to deliver their precious message to their friends. Never before had human lips such tidings to proclaim; for the fact of Christ’s resurrection was to be the great truth around which all the faith and hope of the church would center.?{6Red 33.3}[74]

  【In the Upper Chamber】

When the disciples arrived at Jerusalem they entered the eastern gate, which was open on festal occasions. The houses were dark and silent, but they made their way through the narrow streets by the light of the rising moon. They knew that they would find their brethren in the memorable upper chamber where Jesus had spent the last night before his death. Here the disciples had passed the Sabbath in mourning for their Lord. And now they had no disposition to sleep, for exciting events were being related among them. Cautious hands unbarred the door to the repeated demand of the two travelers; they entered, and with them also entered Jesus, who had been their unseen companion all the way.?{6Red 34.1}[75] 

 They found the disciples assembled, and in a state of excitement. Hope and faith were struggling for ascendency in their minds. The report?of Mary Magdalene, and that of the other women, had been heard by all; but some were too hopeless to believe their testimony. The evidence of Peter, concerning his interview with the risen Lord, was borne with great ardor and assurance, and had more weight with the brethren, and their faith began to revive. When the disciples from Emmaus entered with their joyful tidings, they were met by the exclamation from many voices: “The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon.”?{6Red 34.2}[76]

  The two from Emmaus told their story of how the Lord had opened their eyes, and revealed to them the straight chain of prophecy which reached from the days of the patriarchs to that time, and foreshadowed all that had transpired regarding their Saviour. The company heard this report in breathless silence. Some were inspired with new faith; others were incredulous. Suddenly Jesus himself was in their midst. His hands were raised in blessing, and he said unto them, “Peace be unto you.”?{6Red 35.1}[77] 

 “But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. And when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet.”?{6Red 35.2}[78]

  There they beheld the feet and hands marred by the cruel nails; and they recognized his melodious voice, like none other they had ever heard. “And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? And they gave him a piece of a broiled?fish, and of an honeycomb. And he took it, and did eat before them.” Faith and joy now took the place of doubt and unbelief, and they acknowledged their risen Saviour with feelings which no words could express.?{6Red 35.3}[79]

  Jesus now expounded the Scriptures to the entire company, commencing with the first book of Moses, and dwelling particularly on the prophecy pointing to the time then present, and foretelling the sufferings of Christ and his resurrection. “And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures. And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things.”?{6Red 36.1}[80]

  The disciples now began to realize the nature and extent of their commission. They were to proclaim to the world the wonderful truths which Christ had intrusted to them. The events of his life, his death, and resurrection, the harmony of prophecy with those events, the sacredness of the law of God, the mysteries of the plan of salvation, the power of Jesus for the remission of sins—to all these things were they witnesses, and it was their work to make them known to all men, beginning at Jerusalem. They were to proclaim a gospel of peace and salvation through repentance and the power of the Saviour. At?the first advent of Jesus to the world, the angel announced: Peace on earth, and good will to men. After his earthly life was completed, he came forth from the dead, and, appearing for the first time to his assembled disciples, addressed them with the blessed words, “Peace be unto you.”?{6Red 36.2}[81]

  Jesus is ever ready to speak peace to souls that are troubled with doubts and fear. This precious Saviour waits for us to open the door of our heart to him, and say, Abide with us. He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” Our life is a continual strife; we must war against principalities and powers, against spiritual wickedness, and foes that never sleep; we must resist temptations, and overcome as Christ overcame. When the peace of Jesus enters our heart we are calm and patient under the severest trials.?{6Red 37.1}[82]

  The resurrection of Jesus was a sample of the final resurrection of all who sleep in him. The risen body of the Saviour, his deportment, the accents of his speech, were all familiar to his followers. In like manner will those who sleep in Jesus rise again. We shall know our friends even as the disciples knew Jesus. Though they may have been deformed, diseased, or disfigured in this mortal life, yet in their resurrected and glorified body their individual identity will be perfectly preserved, and we shall recognize, in the face radiant with the light shining from the face of Jesus, the lineaments of those we love.?{6Red 37.2}[83] 

 The death of Jesus had left Thomas in blank despair. His faith seemed to have gone out in?utter darkness. He was not present in the upper chamber when Jesus appeared to his disciples. He had heard the reports of the others, and had received copious proof that Jesus had risen, but stolid gloom and stubborn unbelief closed his heart against all cheering testimony. As he heard the disciples repeat their account of the wonderful manifestation of the resurrected Saviour, it only served to plunge him in deeper despair; for if Jesus had really risen from the dead there could be no farther hope of his literal earthly kingdom. It also wounded his vanity to think that his Master would reveal himself to all his disciples but him; so he was determined not to believe, and for an entire week he brooded over his wretchedness, which seemed all the darker as contrasted with the reviving hope and faith of his brethren.?{6Red 37.3}[84]

  During this time he frequently, when in company with his brethren, reiterated the words, “Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.” He would not see through the eyes of his brethren, nor exercise faith which was dependent upon their testimony. He ardently loved his Lord, but jealousy and unbelief took possession of his mind and heart.?{6Red 38.1}[85] 

 The upper chamber was the home of a number of the disciples, and every evening they all assembled in this place. On a certain evening Thomas decided to meet with his brethren; for notwithstanding his unbelief, he cherished a faint hope, unacknowledged to himself, that the good news was true. While the disciples were partaking of their usual meal, and meanwhile?canvassing the evidences of the truth of their faith which Christ had given them in the prophecies, “then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.”?{6Red 38.2}[86]

  He then reproved the unbelieving who had not received the testimony of those who had seen him, and, turning to Thomas, said, “Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side; and be not faithless, but believing.” These words showed that he had read the thoughts and words of Thomas. The doubting disciple knew that none of his companions had seen Jesus for a week, and therefore could not have told the Master of his stubborn unbelief. He recognized the person before him as his Lord who had been crucified; he had no desire for farther proof; his heart leaped for joy as he realized that Jesus was indeed risen from the dead. He cast himself at the feet of his Master in deep affection and devotion, crying, “My Lord and my God.”?{6Red 39.1}[87] 

 Jesus accepted his acknowledgment, but mildly rebuked him for his unbelief: “Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed; blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” Jesus here showed Thomas that his faith would have been more acceptable to him if he had believed the evidence of his brethren, and had not refused to believe until he had seen Jesus with his own eyes. If the world should follow this example of Thomas, no one would believe unto salvation; for all who now receive Christ do so through the testimony of others.?{6Red 39.2}[88]

  Many who have a weak and wavering faith, reason that if they had the evidence which?Thomas had from his companions they would not doubt as he did. They do not realize that they have not only that evidence, but additional testimony piled up about them on every side. Many who, like Thomas, wait for all cause of doubt to be removed, may never realize their desire as he did, but gradually become entrenched in their unbelief, until they cannot perceive the weight of evidence in favor of Jesus, and, like the skeptical Jews, what little light they have will go out in the darkness which closes around their minds. To reject the plain and conclusive evidences of divine truth hardens the heart, and blinds the understanding. The precious light, being neglected, fades utterly from the mind that is unwilling to receive it.?{6Red 39.3}[89] 

 Jesus, in his treatment of Thomas, gave his followers a lesson regarding the manner in which they should treat those who have doubts upon religious truth, and who make those doubts prominent. He did not overwhelm Thomas with words of reproach, nor did he enter into a controversy with him; but, with marked condescension and tenderness, he revealed himself unto the doubting one. Thomas had taken a most unreasonable position, in dictating the only conditions of his faith; but Jesus, by his generous love and consideration, broke down all the barriers he had raised. Persistent controversy will seldom weaken unbelief, but rather put it upon self-defense, where it will find new support and excuse. Jesus, revealed in his love and mercy as the crucified Saviour, will wring from many once unwilling lips the acknowledgment of Thomas, “My Lord and my God.”?{6Red 40.1}[90]

  【Jesus at Galilee】

The captives brought up from the graves at the time of the resurrection of Jesus were his trophies as a conquering Prince. Thus he attested his victory over death and the grave; thus he gave a pledge and an earnest of the resurrection of all the righteous dead. Those who were called from their graves went into the city, and appeared unto many in their resurrected forms, and testified that Jesus had indeed risen from the dead, and that they had risen with him. The voice that cried, “It is finished,” was heard among the dead. It pierced the walls of sepulchers, and summoned the sleepers to arise. Thus shall it be when God’s voice shall be heard shaking the heavens and earth. That voice will penetrate the graves and unbar the tombs. A mighty earthquake will then cause the world to reel to and fro like a drunkard. Then Christ, the King of Glory, shall appear, attended by all the heavenly angels. The trumpet shall sound, and the Life-giver shall call forth the righteous dead to immortal life.?{6Red 41.1}[91] 

 It was well known to the priests and rulers that certain persons who were dead had risen at the resurrection of Jesus. Authentic reports were brought to them of different ones who had seen and conversed with these resurrected ones, and heard their testimony that Jesus, the Prince of life, whom the priests and rulers had slain, was risen from the dead. The false report that the disciples had robbed the sepulcher of the body of their Master was so diligently circulated that very many believed it. But the priests, in?manufacturing their false report, overreached themselves, and all thinking persons, not blinded by bigotry, detected the falsehood.?{6Red 41.2}[92]

  If the soldiers had been asleep, they could not know how the sepulcher became empty. If one sentinel had been awake, he would assuredly have wakened others. If they had really slept, as they affirmed they had, the consequence was well known to all. The penalty for such neglect of duty was death, and there could be no hope of pardon; so the offenders would not be likely to proclaim their fault. If the Jewish priests and rulers had discovered the sentinels asleep at their post, they would not have passed the matter over so lightly, but would have demanded a thorough investigation of the matter, and the full penalty of the law upon the unfaithful soldiers.?{6Red 42.1}[93]

  Had they had the least faith in the truthfulness of their statements, they would have called the disciples to account, and visited upon them the most unrelenting punishment. That they did not do this was a thorough proof of the innocence of the disciples, and of the fact that the priests were driven to the dire necessity of fabricating and circulating a lie to meet the evidence accumulating against them, and establishing the truth of the resurrection of Jesus, and his claims as the divine Son of God. The oft-repeated appearance of Jesus to his disciples, and the persons of the dead who were resurrected with him, also did much to plant the truth in the minds of those who were willing to believe.?{6Red 42.2}[94]

  This fabrication of the Jews has a parallel in our time; the proud persecutors of righteousness expend their time, influence, and money to silence or controvert the evidence of truth; and the?most inconsistent measures are taken to accomplish this object. And there are not wanting persons of intelligence who will greedily swallow the most ridiculous falsehoods because they accord with the sentiments of their hearts. This reveals the sad fact that God has given them up to blindness of mind, and hardness of heart. There are innocent persons, who may be deceived for a time because of the confidence they place in their deceivers; but if they are teachable, and really desire a knowledge of the truth, they will have opportunity to perceive it. Doubts and perplexities will vanish; they will discover the inconsistencies of their false guides; for error itself bears a constrained testimony for the truth.?{6Red 42.3}[95] 

 The priests and rulers were in continual dread lest, in walking the streets, or within the privacy of their own homes, they should meet face to face with the resurrected Christ. They felt that there was no safety for them; bolts and bars seemed but poor protection against the risen Son of God.?{6Red 43.1}[96] 

 Before his death Jesus had, in the upper chamber, told his disciples that after he was risen he would go before them into Galilee; and on the morning of the resurrection the angel at the sepulcher had said unto the women, “Go your way; tell his disciples, and Peter, that he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.” The disciples were detained at Jerusalem during the passover week, for their absence would have been interpreted as disaffection and heresy. During that time they assembled together at evening in the upper chamber, where some of them had their home; here Jesus?twice revealed himself to them, and bade them tarry for a time at Jerusalem.?{6Red 43.2}[97]

  As soon as the passover was finished, the brethren left Jerusalem, and went to Galilee as they had been directed. Seven of the disciples were in company; they were clad in the humble garb of fishermen; they were poor in worldly goods, but rich in the knowledge and practice of the truth, which gave them, in the sight of Heaven, the highest rank as teachers. They had not been students in the school of the prophets, but for three years they had taken lessons from the greatest educator the world has ever known. Under his tuition they had become elevated, intelligent, and refined, fit mediums through which the souls of men might be led to a knowledge of the truth.?{6Red 44.1}[98

  Much of the time of the Saviour’s ministry was spent on the shores of Galilee, and there many of his most wonderful miracles were performed. As the disciples gathered together in a place where they were not likely to be disturbed, their minds were full of Jesus and his mighty works. On this sea, when their hearts were filled with terror, and the fierce storm was hurrying them on to destruction, Jesus had walked upon the crested billows to their rescue. Here the wildest storm was hushed by his voice, which said to the raging deep, “Peace, be still.” Within sight was the beach, where, by a mighty miracle, he had fed above ten thousand persons from a few small loaves and fishes. Not far distant was Capernaum, the scene of his most wonderful manifestations, in healing the sick and in raising the dead. As the disciples looked again?upon Galilee, their minds were full of the words and deeds of their Saviour.?{6Red 44.2}[99]

  The evening was pleasant, and Peter, who retained much of his old love for boats and fishing, proposed that they should go out upon the sea and cast their nets. This proposition met with the approval of all, for they were poor and in need of food and clothing, which they would be able to procure with the proceeds of a successful night’s fishing. So they went out upon the sea in their boat, to pursue their old employment. But they toiled through the entire night with no success. Through the long, weary hours they talked of their absent Lord, and recalled the scenes and events of thrilling interest which had been enacted in that vicinity, and of which they had been witnesses. They speculated upon what their own future would be, and grew sad at the prospect before them.?{6Red 45.1}[100] 

 All the while a lone watcher upon the shore followed them with his eye, while he himself was unseen. At length the morning dawned. The boat was but a little distance from the shore, and the disciples saw a stranger standing upon the beach, who accosted them with the question, “Children, have ye any meat?” Not recognizing Jesus, they answered, “No.” “And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.”?{6Red 45.2}[101]

  The disciples were filled with wonder at the result of their trial; but John now discerned who the stranger was, and exclaimed to Peter, “It is the Lord.” Joy now took the place of disappointment. Peter immediately girt about?him his fisher’s coat, and, throwing himself into the water, was soon standing by the side of his Lord. The other disciples came in their boat, dragging the net with fishes. “As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.”?{6Red 45.3}[102]

  They were too much amazed to question whence came the fire and the repast. “Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.” Peter, obeying the command, rushed for the net which he had so unceremoniously dropped, and helped his brethren drag it to the shore. After the work was all done, and the preparation made, Jesus bade the disciples come and dine. He broke the bread and the fish, and divided it among them, and in so doing he was known and acknowledged of all the seven. The miracle of feeding the five thousand upon the mountain-side was now brought distinctly to their minds; but a mysterious awe was upon them, and they kept silent as they looked upon their resurrected Saviour.?{6Red 46.1}[103]

  They remembered that at the commencement of his ministry a similar scene had been enacted to that which had just taken place. Jesus had then bade them launch out into the deep, and let down their nets for a draught, and the net had broken because of the amount of fishes taken. Then he had bade them leave their nets and follow him, and he would make them fishers of men. This last miracle that Jesus had just wrought was for the purpose of making the former miracle more impressive; that the disciples might perceive that, notwithstanding they were to be deprived of the personal companionship of their Master, and of the means of sustenance by the?pursuit of their favorite employment, yet a resurrected Saviour had a care over them, and would provide for them while they were doing his work. Jesus also had a purpose in bidding them cast their net upon the right side of the ship. On that side stood Christ upon the shore. If they labored in connection with him—his divine power uniting with their human effort—they would not fail of success.?{6Red 46.2}[104]

  The repetition of the miraculous draught of fishes was a renewal of Christ’s commission to his disciples. It showed them that the death of their Master did not remove their obligation to do the work which he had assigned them. To Peter, who had acted on many occasions as representative of the twelve, a special lesson was given. The part which he had acted on the night of his Lord’s betrayal was so shameful and inconsistent with his former assertions of loyalty and devotion, that it was necessary for him to give evidence to all the disciples that he sincerely repented of his sin before he could resume his apostolic work. The Saviour designed to place him where he could regain the entire confidence of his brethren, lest, in the time of emergency, their distrust because of his former failure might cripple his usefulness.?{6Red 47.1}[105] 

 The disciples expected that Peter would no longer be allowed to occupy the prominent position in the work which he had hitherto held, and he himself had lost his customary self-confidence. But Jesus, while dining by the sea-side, singled out Peter, saying, “Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these?” referring to his brethren. Peter had once said, “Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never?be offended,” and had expressed himself ready to go to prison and to death with his Master. But now he puts a true estimate upon himself in the presence of the disciples: “Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee.” In this response of Peter there is no vehement assurance that his affection is greater than that of his companions; he does not even express his own opinion of his devotion to his Saviour, but appeals to that Saviour, who can read all the motives of the human heart, to himself judge as to his sincerity,—“Thou knowest that I love thee.”?{6Red 47.2}[106]

  The reply of Jesus was positively favorable to the repentant disciple, and placed him in a position of trust. It was, “Feed my lambs.” Again Jesus applied the test to Peter, repeating his former words: “Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?” This time he did not ask the disciple whether he loved him better than did his brethren. The second response of Peter was like the first, free from all extravagant assurance: “Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee.” Jesus said unto him, “Feed my sheep.” Once more the Saviour put the trying question: “Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?” Peter was grieved, for he thought the repetition of this question indicated that Jesus did not believe his statement. He knew that his Lord had cause to doubt him, and with an aching heart he answered, “Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep.”?{6Red 48.1}[107]

  Three times had Peter openly denied his Lord, and three times did Jesus draw from him the assurance of his love and loyalty, by pressing home that pointed question, like a barbed arrow, to his wounded heart. Jesus, before the assembled?disciples, brought out the depth of Peter’s penitence, and showed how thoroughly humbled was the once boasting disciple. He was now intrusted with the important commission of caring for the flock of Christ. Though every other qualification might be unexceptionable, yet without the love of Christ he could not be a faithful shepherd over the Christian flock. Knowledge, eloquence, benevolence, gratitude, and zeal are all aids in the good work, but without an inflowing of the love of Jesus in the heart, the work of the Christian minister is a failure.?{6Red 48.2}[108]

  Peter was naturally forward and impulsive, and Satan had taken advantage of these characteristics to lead him astray. When Jesus had opened before his disciples the fact that he must go to Jerusalem to suffer and die at the hands of the chief priests and scribes, Peter had presumptuously contradicted his Master, saying, “Be it far from thee, Lord; this shall not be unto thee.” He could not conceive it possible that the Son of God should be put to death. Satan suggested to his mind that if Jesus was the Son of God he could not die. Just prior to the fall of Peter, Jesus had said to him, “Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat; but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not; and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” That period had now come, and the transformation wrought in Peter was evident. The close, testing questions of the Lord had not provoked one forward, self-sufficient reply; and because of his humiliation and repentance he was better prepared than ever before to fill the office of shepherd to the flock.?{6Red 49.1}[109]

  The lesson which he had received from the chief?Shepherd, in the treatment of his case, was a most important one to Peter, and also to the other disciples. It taught them to deal with the transgressor with patience, sympathy, and forgiving love. During the time in which Peter denied his Lord, the love which Jesus bore him never faltered. Just such love should the under-shepherd feel for the sheep and lambs committed to his care. Remembering his own weakness and failure, Peter was to deal with his flock as tenderly as Christ had dealt with him.?{6Red 49.2}[110]

  Jesus walked alone with Peter, for there was something which he wished to communicate to him only. In that memorable upper chamber, previous to his death, Jesus had said to his disciple, “Whither I go thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards;” Peter had replied to this: “Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.” Jesus now, in sympathy for him, and that he might be strengthened for the final test of his faith in Christ, opened before him his future. He told him that after living a life of usefulness, when age was telling upon his strength, he should indeed follow his Lord. Said Jesus, “When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself and walkedst whither thou wouldest; but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God.”?{6Red 50.1}[111]

  Jesus here explicitly stated to Peter the fact and manner of his death; he even referred to the stretching forth of his hands upon the cross; and after he had thus spoken he repeated his former injunction: “Follow me.” The disciple was not?disconcerted by the revelation of his Master. He felt willing to suffer any death for his Lord. Peter saw that John was following, and a desire came over him to know?his?future, and he “saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.” Peter should have considered that his Lord would reveal to him all that it was best for him to know, without inquiry on his part. It is the duty of every one to follow Christ, without undue anxiety as to the duty assigned to others. In saying of John, “If I will that he tarry till I come,” Jesus gave no assurance that this disciple should live until the second coming of Christ; he merely asserted his own supreme power, and that even if he should will this to be so, it would in no way affect the work of Peter. The future of both John and Peter was in the hands of their Lord, and obedience in following him was the duty required of each.?{6Red 50.2}[112] 

 John lived to be very aged; he witnessed the fulfillment of the words of Christ in regard to the desolation of Jerusalem. He saw the stately temple of the Jews in ruins, and not one stone left upon another that was not thrown down. Peter was now an entirely converted man; but the honor and authority received from Christ did not give him supremacy over his brethren. He was venerated, and had much influence in the church because of the favor of God in forgiving him his apostasy, and intrusting to him the feeding of his flock, and because he ever remained one of the closest followers of Christ in his daily life.?{6Red 51.1}[113]

  【Meeting of the Brethren】

Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted.” There were others besides the eleven who assembled on the mountain-side. After he had revealed himself to them, certain followers of Jesus were only partially convinced of his identity with the crucified One. But none of the eleven had any doubt upon the subject. They had listened to his words, revealing the straight chain of prophecy in regard to himself. He had eaten with them, and shown them his wounded side and his pierced hands and feet, and they had handled him, so there was no room for unbelief in their minds.?{6Red 52.1}[114]

  This meeting at Galilee had been appointed by the Saviour; the angel from Heaven had announced it to several of the disciples; and Jesus himself had given them special directions in regard to it, saying, “After I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee.” The place upon the mountain-side was selected by Jesus, because of its accommodation for a large company. This meeting was of the utmost importance to the church, which was soon to be left to carry on the work without the personal presence of the Saviour. Jesus here designed to manifest himself to all the brethren that should assemble, in order that all their doubt and unbelief might be swept away.?{6Red 52.2}[115]

  The appointment of Jesus was repeated to those who believed on him, while they were yet lingering at Jerusalem, attending the festal?occasions which followed the passover. The tidings reached many lonely ones who were mourning the death of their Lord; and they made their way to the place of meeting by circuitous routes, coming in from every direction, that they might not excite the suspicion of the jealous Jews. With the most intense interest they assembled together. Those who had been favored with a sight of the resurrected Saviour recounted to the doubting ones the messages of the angels, and their interviews with their Master. They reasoned from scripture, as Jesus had done with them, showing how every specification of prophecy relating to the first advent of Christ had been fulfilled in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.?{6Red 52.3}[116]

  Thus the favored disciples passed from group to group, encouraging and strengthening the faith of their brethren. Many of those assembled heard these communications with amazement. A new train of thought was started in their minds regarding the crucified One. If what they had just heard was true, then Jesus was more than a prophet. No one could triumph over death, and burst the fetters of the tomb, but Messiah. Their ideas of Messiah and his mission had been so confused by the false teachings of the priests that it was necessary for them to unlearn what had been taught them, in order to be able to accept the truth, that Christ, through ignominy, suffering, and death, should finally take his throne.?{6Red 53.1}[117] 

 With mingled anxiety, fear, and hope, they waited to see if Jesus would indeed appear to fulfill his appointment. Thomas recounted to an eager, listening crowd his former unbelief, and?his refusal to believe unless he saw the wounded hands, feet, and side of his Lord, and put his finger in the prints of the nails. He told them how his doubts were swept away forever by the sight of his Saviour, bearing the cruel marks of the crucifixion, and that he wished for no farther evidence.?{6Red 53.2}[118] 

 While the people were watching and waiting, suddenly Jesus stood in their midst. No one could tell from whence or how he came. The disciples recognized him at once, and hastened to pay him homage. Many who were present had never before seen him, but when they looked upon his divine countenance, and then upon his wounded hands and feet, pierced by the nails of the crucifixion, they knew it was the Saviour, and worshiped him.?{6Red 54.1}[119]

  But there were some who still doubted; they could not believe the joyous truth. “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in Heaven and in earth.” This assurance of Jesus exceeded all their expectations. They knew of his power, while he was one among them, over disease of every type, and over Satan and his angels; but they could not at first grasp the grand reality that all power in Heaven and on earth had been given to Him who had walked their streets, and sat at their tables, and taught in their midst.?{6Red 54.2}[120]

  Jesus sought to draw their minds away from himself personally, to the importance of his position as the heir of all things, an equal with God himself; that through suffering and conflict he had gained his great inheritance, the kingdoms of Heaven and of earth. He wished them to understand at once how ample was his authority,?and, as one above all powers and principalities, he issued the great commission to his chosen disciples:—?{6Red 54.3}[121] 

 “Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”?{6Red 55.1}[122] 

 A wide door was thus thrown open before his amazed listeners, who had heretofore been taught the most rigid seclusion from all save their own nation. A new and fuller interpretation of the prophecies dawned upon their minds; they labored to comprehend the work that was assigned them. The world regarded Jesus as an impostor; only a few hundreds ranked under his banner, and the faith of these had been fearfully shaken by the fact of his death, and they had not been able to settle upon any definite plan of action. Now Christ had revealed himself to them in his resurrected form, and had given them a mission so extensive that, with their limited views, they could scarcely comprehend it. It was difficult for them to realize that the faith which had bound them to the side of Jesus should not only be the religion of the Jews, but of all nations.?{6Red 55.2}[123]

  Superstition, tradition, bigotry, and idolatry ruled the world. The Jews alone claimed to have a certain knowledge of God, and they were so exclusive, both socially and religiously, that they were despised by every other people. The high wall of separation which they had raised made the Jews a little world to themselves, and they called all other classes heathen and dogs.?But Jesus committed to his disciples the scheme of making known their religion to all nations, tongues, and people. It was the most sublime enterprise ever intrusted to man—to preach a crucified and risen Saviour, and a full and free salvation to all men, both rich and poor, learned and ignorant—to teach that Christ came to the world to pardon the repentant, and to offer them a love high as heaven, broad as the world, and enduring as eternity.?{6Red 55.3}[124]

  They were to teach the observance of all things whatsoever Jesus had commanded them, and were to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Jesus was about to be removed from his disciples; but he assured them that although he should ascend to his Father, his Spirit and influence would be with them always, and with their successors even unto the end of the world. Christ could not have left his followers a more precious legacy than the assurance that his presence would be with them through all the dark and trying hours of life. When Satan seems ready to destroy the church of God, and bring his people to confusion, they should remember that One has promised to be with them who has said, “All power is given unto me in Heaven and on earth.”?{6Red 56.1}[125]

  Persecution and reproach have ever been the lot of the true followers of Christ. The world hated the Master, and it has ever hated his servants; but the Holy Spirit, the Comforter which Christ sent unto his disciples, cheers and strengthens them to do his work with fidelity during his personal absence. The Comforter, the Spirit of truth, was to abide with them forever, and Christ assured them that the union existing between?himself and the Father, now also embraced them.?{6Red 56.2}[126]

  The understanding of the disciples, which had been clouded by misinterpretation of the prophecies, was now fully opened by Jesus, who shed a clear light upon those scriptures referring to himself. He showed them the true character of his kingdom; and they now began to see that it was not the mission of Christ to establish a temporal power, but that his kingdom of divine grace was to be manifested in the hearts of his people, and that only through his humiliation, suffering, and death, could the kingdom of his glory finally be established.?{6Red 57.1}[127]

  The power of death was held by the devil; but Jesus had removed its stinging despair, by meeting the enemy upon his own territory and there conquering him. Henceforth death would be robbed of its terror for the Christian, since Christ himself had felt its pangs, and risen from the grave to sit at the right hand of the Father in Heaven, having all power in Heaven and on earth. The conflict between Christ and Satan was determined when the Lord arose from the dead, shaking the prison-house of his enemy to its foundations, and robbing him of his spoils by bringing up a company of the sleeping dead, as a fresh trophy of the victory achieved by the second Adam. This resurrection was a sample, and an assurance, of the final resurrection of the righteous dead at Christ’s second coming.?{6Red 57.2}[128]

  Jerusalem had been the scene of Christ’s amazing condescension for the human race. There had he suffered, been rejected, and condemned. The land of Judea, of which Jerusalem was the metropolis, was his birthplace. There, clad in the garb of humanity, he had walked with men,?and few had discerned how near Heaven came to earth when Jesus dwelt among them. It was, therefore, very appropriate that the work of the disciples should begin at Jerusalem. While all minds were agitated by the thrilling scenes of the past few weeks, it was a most fitting opportunity for the message to be borne to that city.?{6Red 57.3}[129]

  As the instruction of Jesus to the apostles was drawing to a close, and as the hour of his separation from them approached, he directed their minds more definitely to the work of the Spirit of God in fitting them for their mission. Through the medium of a familiar intercourse, he illuminated their minds to understand the sublime truths which they were to reveal to the world. But their work was not to be entered upon till they should know of a surety, by the baptism of the Holy Ghost, that they were connected with Heaven. They were promised new courage and joy from the heavenly illumination they should then experience, and which would enable them to comprehend the depth and breadth and fullness of God’s love.?{6Red 58.1}[130] 

 After being fitted for their mission by the descent of the Holy Ghost, the disciples were to proclaim pardon for sin, and salvation through repentance, and the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, and to reveal the principles of the kingdom of Christ, beginning at Jerusalem, and from thence extending their labors throughout Judea, and into Samaria, and finally to the uttermost parts of the earth. Here is a lesson to all who have a message of truth to give to the world: Their own hearts must first be imbued with the Spirit of God, and their labors should commence at home; their families should have the benefit?of their influence; and the transforming power of the Spirit of God should be demonstrated in their own homes by a well-disciplined family. Then the circle should widen; the whole neighborhood should perceive the interest felt for their salvation, and the light of truth should be faithfully presented to them; for their salvation is of as much importance as that of persons at a distance. From the immediate neighborhood, and adjoining cities and towns, the circle of the labors of God’s servants should widen, till the message of truth is given to the uttermost parts of the earth.?{6Red 58.2}[131]

  This was the order which Christ instituted for the labors of his disciples; but it is frequently reversed by the evangelical workers of this time. They neglect the inner circle; it is not felt to be a necessity that the quickening influence of the Spirit of God should first operate upon their own hearts, and sanctify and ennoble their lives. The simplest duties, lying directly in their path, are neglected for some wider and more distant field, where their labors are frequently expended in vain. Whereas in a field easier of access they would have labored with success, and encountered fewer trials, gaining influence and new courage as the way opened and broadened before them.?{6Red 59.1}[132] 

 The apostles might have entreated the Lord that, in view of the unappreciated efforts which had been put forth in Jerusalem, and the insult and cruel death to which Christ had been subjected, they might be permitted to seek some more promising field, where they would find hearts more ready to hear and receive their message. But no such plea was made. Jesus was the sole director of the work. The very ground?where the greatest of all teachers had scattered the seeds of truth, was to be thoroughly cultivated by the apostles until those seeds should spring up and yield an abundant harvest. In their labors the disciples were to endure the hatred, oppression, and jealousy of the Jews; but this had been experienced by their Master before them, and they were not to fly from it.?{6Red 59.2}[133]

  Before his death, Jesus had said to his disciples, while comforting them in view of his approaching humiliation and death, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you.” Now, after the conflict and the victory, after triumphing over death, and receiving his reward, in a more emphatic manner he bestowed upon them that peace which passeth all understanding. He qualified them to enter upon the work which he had commenced. As he had been sent by his Father, so he sent forth the disciples. He breathed upon them, and said, “Receive ye the Holy Ghost.”?{6Red 60.1}[134] 

 The apostles were not sent forth to be witnesses for Christ until they had received that spiritual endowment necessary to fit them for the execution of their great commission. All professions of Christianity are but lifeless expressions of faith until Jesus imbues the believer with his spiritual life, which is the Holy Ghost. The evangelist is not prepared to teach the truth, and to be the representative of Christ, till he has received this heavenly gift.?{6Red 60.2}[135] 

 Men in responsible positions, who are proclaiming the truth of God in the name of Jesus without the spiritual energy given by the quickening power of God, are doing an unreal work, and cannot be certain whether success or defeat?will attend their labors. Many forget that religion and duty are not dreary sentimentalisms, but earnest action. It is not the great services and lofty aspirations which receive the approval of God, but the love and consecration through which the service is performed, be it great or little. Storms of opposition and rebuffs are God’s providences to drive us under the shelter of his wing. When the cloud envelops us, his voice is heard: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you.”?{6Red 60.3}[136] 

 The act of Christ in breathing upon his disciples the Holy Ghost, and in imparting his peace to them, was as a few drops before the plentiful shower to be given on the day of Pentecost. Jesus impressed this fact upon his disciples, that as they should proceed in the work intrusted to them, they would the more fully comprehend the nature of that work, and the manner in which the kingdom of Christ was to be set up on earth. They were appointed to be witnesses for the Saviour; they were to testify what they had seen and heard of his resurrection; they were to repeat the gracious words which proceeded from his lips. They were acquainted with his holy character; he was as an angel standing in the sun, yet casting no shadow. It was the sacred work of the apostles to present the spotless character of Christ to men, as the standard for their lives. The disciples had been so intimately associated with this Pattern of holiness that they were in some degree assimilated to him in character, and were specially fitted to make known to the world his precepts and example.?{6Red 61.1}[137]

  The more that the minister of Christ associates?with his Master, through contemplation of his life and character, the more closely will he resemble him, and the better qualified will he be to teach his truths. Every feature in the life of the great Example should be studied with care, and close converse should be held with him through the prayer of living faith. Thus will the defective human character be transformed into the image of his glorious character. Thus will the teacher of the truth be prepared to lead souls to Christ.?{6Red 61.2}[138]

  Jesus, in giving the disciples their first commission, had said, “I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of Heaven, and whatsoever thou [referring to responsible men who should represent his church] shalt bind upon earth shall be bound in Heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in Heaven.” In renewing the commission of those to whom he had imparted the Holy Ghost, he said, “Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained.” These words conveyed to the disciples a sense of the sacredness of their work, and its tremendous results. Imbued with the Spirit of God, they were to go forth preaching the merits of a sin-pardoning Saviour; and they had the assurance that all Heaven was interested in their labors, and that what they did on earth, in the spirit and power of Christ, should be ratified in Heaven.?{6Red 62.1}[139]

  Jesus did not, by this assurance, give the apostles or their successors power to forgive sins, as his representatives. The Roman Catholic Church directs its people to confess the secrets of their lives to the priest, and from him, acting in the place?of Christ, to receive absolution from their sins. The Saviour taught that?his?is the only name given under Heaven whereby men shall be saved. Jesus, however, delegated to his church upon earth, in her organized capacity, the power to censure and to remove censure according to the rules prescribed by inspiration; but these acts were only to be done by men of good repute, who were consecrated by the great Head of the church, and who showed by their lives that they were earnestly seeking to follow the guidance of the Spirit of God.?{6Red 62.2}[140]

  No man was to exercise an arbitrary power over another man’s conscience. Christ gave no ecclesiastical right to forgive sin, nor to sell indulgences, that men may sin without incurring the displeasure of God, nor did he give his servants liberty to accept a gift or bribe for cloaking sin, that it may escape merited censure. Jesus charged his disciples to preach the remission of sin?in his name?among all nations; but they themselves were not empowered to remove one stain of sin from the children of Adam. Nor were they to execute judgment against the guilty; the wrath of an offended God was to be proclaimed against the sinner; but the power which the Roman Church assumes to visit that wrath upon the offender is not established by any direction of Christ; he himself will execute the sentence pronounced against the impenitent. Whoever would attract the people to himself as one in whom is invested power to forgive sins, incurs the wrath of God, for he turns souls away from the heavenly Pardoner to a weak and erring mortal.?{6Red 63.1}[141]

  Jesus showed his disciples that only as they?should partake of his Spirit, and be assimilated to his merciful character, would they be endowed with spiritual discernment and miraculous power. All their strength and wisdom must come from him. When dealing with obstinately offending members, the holy men of the church were to follow the directions laid down by Christ; this, the only course of safety for the church, has been traced step by step by the apostles with the pen of inspiration.?{6Red 63.2}[142]

  When the church takes up the case of an offender, the prayer of faith will bring Christ into the midst as an all-wise counselor. Men are in danger of being controlled by prejudice or the reports and opinions of others. Their own unsanctified judgment may balance their decisions. Therefore, where important decisions are to be made in reference to individuals in the church, the judgment of one man, however wise and experienced he may be, is not to be regarded as sufficient to act upon.?{6Red 64.1}[143] 

 Jesus has said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst.” With Christ to preside over the council of the church, how cautiously should each man speak and act. Prayer should be offered for the erring, and every means be used to restore him to the favor of God and the church; but if the voice of the church is disregarded, and his individual will is set up above it, then the offender must be promptly dealt with, and the decision of the brethren, made with prayer and faith, and according to the wisdom given them of God, is ratified by Heaven.?{6Red 64.2}[144]

  The repentance of the sinner is to be accepted by the church with grateful hearts. The church?is empowered to absolve sins only in the sense of assuring the repenting sinner of the forgiving mercy of the Saviour, and in leading him out from the darkness of unbelief and guilt, to the light of faith and righteousness. It may place his trembling hand in the loving hand of Jesus. Such a remission is ratified by Heaven. The directions of the apostles in regard to condemnation or acquittal in case of church trials are to remain valid till the end of time. And the promise of Christ’s presence in answer to prayer should comfort and encourage his church today as much as it comforted and encouraged the apostles whom Christ directly addressed. Those who despise the authority of the church despise the authority of Christ himself.?{6Red 64.3}[145]

  Notwithstanding the refusal of Heaven’s best gift by Jerusalem, the work of the apostles was to commence there. The first overtures of mercy were to be made to the murderers of the Son of God. There were also many there who had secretly believed on Jesus, and many who had been deceived by the priests and rulers, but were ready to accept him, if it could be proven that he was indeed the Christ. The apostles, as eyewitnesses, were to testify of Jesus and his resurrection. They were to open to the people the prophecies relating to him, and to show how perfectly they had been fulfilled. They were to bring before the people the most convincing evidence of the truths which they taught, and they were to proclaim the joyful tidings of salvation to the world.?{6Red 65.1}[146] 

 As all minds were interested in the history and mission of Jesus, because of the events?which had just transpired at Jerusalem, this was a time when the preaching of his gospel would make the most decided impression upon the public mind. At the commencement of their work the disciples were to receive a marvelous power. Their testimony of Christ was to be confirmed by signs and wonders, and the performance of miracles by the apostles, and those who received their message. Said Jesus, “They shall cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents [as in the case of Paul], and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.”?{6Red 65.2}[147]

  【Ascension of Christ】

After the meeting of Jesus with the brethren, at Galilee, the disciples returned to Jerusalem; and while the eleven were gathered together in the city Jesus met with them, and again led their minds out into the prophecies concerning himself. He deeply impressed upon their understanding the necessity of thoroughly studying the ancient prophecies regarding Messiah, and of comparing them with the facts of his life, death, and resurrection, in order to establish their fulfillment in himself. They were to diligently trace link after link of sacred truth revealed by the prophets, in types and figures representing the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. He lifted the vail from their understanding, concerning the typical system of the Jews, and they now saw clearly the meaning of the forms and symbols which were virtually abolished by the death of Christ.?{6Red 66.1}[148]

  The Saviour of the world, as a divine Conqueror, was about to ascend to his Father’s throne. He selected the Mount of Olives as the scene of this last display of his glory. Accompanied by the eleven, he made his way to the mountain. The disciples were not aware that this was to be their last season with their Master. He employed the time in sacred converse with them, reiterating his former instructions. As they passed through the gates of Jerusalem, many wondering eyes looked upon the little company, led by one whom a few weeks before the priests and rulers had condemned and crucified.?{6Red 67.1}[149]

  They crossed the Kedron, and approached Gethsemane. Here Jesus paused, that his disciples might call to mind the lessons he had given them while on his way to the garden on the night of his great agony. He looked again upon the vine which he had then used as a symbol to represent the union of his church with himself and his Father; and he refreshed the memory of his followers by repeating the impressive truths which he had then illustrated to them. Reminders of the unrequited love of Jesus were all around him; even the disciples walking by his side, who were so dear to his heart, had, in the hour of his humiliation, when he most needed their sympathy and comfort, reproached and forsaken him.?{6Red 67.2}[150]

  Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty- three years; he had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; he had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to his throne of glory—as he reviews the ingratitude of the people he came to save—will he not withdraw his?sympathy and love from them? Will not his affections be centered on that world where he is appreciated, and where sinless angels adore him, and wait to do his bidding? No; his promise to those loved ones whom he leaves on earth is “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Before his conflict, he had prayed the Father that they might not be taken out of the world, but should be kept from the evil which is in the world.?{6Red 67.3}[151]

  At length the little company reach the Mount of Olives. This place had been peculiarly hallowed by the presence of Jesus while he bore the nature of man. It was consecrated by his prayers and tears. When he had ridden into Jerusalem, just prior to his trial, the steeps of Olivet had echoed the joyous shouts of the triumphant multitude. On its sloping descent was Bethany, where he had often found repose at the house of Lazarus. At the foot of the mount was the garden of Gethsemane, where he had agonized alone, and moistened the sod with his blood.?{6Red 68.1}[152]

  Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. He then paused, and they all gathered about him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from his countenance, as he looked with deep love upon his disciples. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; but words of unutterable tenderness were the last which fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing them, and as if in assurance of his protecting care, he slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As he passed upward, the awe-struck disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of?their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory received him out of their sight, and at the same moment there floated down to their charmed senses the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir.?{6Red 68.2}[153]

  While their gaze was still riveted upward, voices addressed them which sounded like the music which had just charmed them. They turned, and saw two beings in the form of men; yet their heavenly character was immediately discerned by the disciples, whom they addressed in comforting accents, saying, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into Heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into Heaven.” These angels were of the company that had been waiting in a shining cloud to escort Jesus to his throne; and in sympathy and love for those whom the Saviour had left, they came to remove all uncertainty from their minds, and to give them the assurance that he would come to earth again.?{6Red 69.1}[154]

  All Heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As he ascended he led the way, and the multitude of captives whom he had raised from the dead at the time when he came forth from the tomb, followed him. The heavenly host, with songs of joy and triumph, escorted him upward. At the portals of the city of God an innumerable company of angels awaited his coming. As they approached the gates of the city, the angels who were escorting the Majesty of Heaven, in triumphant tones addressed the company at the portals: “Lift up your heads, O ye gates, and be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of Glory shall come in!”?{6Red 69.2}[155]

  The waiting angels at the gates of the city inquire in rapturous strains, “Who is this King of Glory? The escorting angels joyously reply in songs of triumph, “The Lord, strong and mighty! The Lord, mighty in battle! Lift up your heads, O ye gates, even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of Glory shall come in!” Again the waiting angels ask, “Who is this King of Glory?” and the escorting angels respond in melodious strains, “The Lord of hosts! He is the King of Glory!” Then the portals of the city of God are widely opened, and the heavenly train pass in amid a burst of angelic music. All the heavenly host surround their majestic Commander as he takes his position upon the throne of the Father.?{6Red 70.1}[156] 

 With the deepest adoration and joy, the hosts of angels bow before him, while the glad shout rings through the courts of Heaven: “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing!” Songs of triumph mingle with music from angelic harps, till Heaven seems to overflow with delightful harmony, and inconceivable joy and praise. The Son of God has triumphed over the prince of darkness, and conquered death and the grave. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming: “Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever!”?{6Red 70.2}[157]

  He is seated by the side of his Father on his throne. The Saviour presents the captives he has rescued from the bonds of death, at the price of his own life. His hands place immortal crowns upon their brows; for they are the representatives,?and samples, of those who shall be redeemed, by the blood of Christ, from all nations, tongues, and people, and come forth from the dead, when he shall call the just from their graves at his second coming. Then shall they see the marks of Calvary in the glorified body of the Son of God. Their greatest joy will be found in the presence of Him who sitteth on the throne; and the enraptured saints will exclaim, My Beloved is mine, and I am his! He is the chief among ten thousand, and altogether lovely!?{6Red 70.3}[158]

  The disciples returned to Jerusalem, not mourning, but full of joy. When last they looked upon their Lord, his countenance shone with heavenly brightness, and he smiled lovingly upon them. Those hands that had so often been stretched forth in the act of blessing the sick and the afflicted, and in rebuking demons—those hands which had been bruised by the cruel nails, were mercifully extended, as though in the disciples they embraced the whole world, and called down a blessing upon all the followers of Christ. Beams of light seemed to emanate from those dear hands and to fall upon the watching, waiting ones.?{6Red 71.1}[159]

  The most precious fact to the disciples in the ascension of Jesus was that he went from them into Heaven in the tangible form of their divine Teacher. The very same Jesus, who had walked, and talked, and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; who had sought retirement with them in the groves; and who had that very day toiled with them up the steep ascent of Olivet,—had ascended to Heaven in the form of humanity. And the heavenly messengers?had assured them that the very same Jesus whom they had seen go up into Heaven, should come again in like manner as he had ascended. This assurance has ever been, and will be till the close of time, the hope and joy of all true lovers of Christ.?{6Red 71.2}[160]

  The disciples not only saw the Lord ascend, but they had the testimony of the angels that he had gone to occupy his Father’s throne in Heaven. The last remembrance that the disciples were to have of their Lord was as the sympathizing Friend, the glorified Redeemer. Moses veiled his face to hide the glory of the law which was reflected upon it, and the glory of Christ’s ascension was veiled from human sight. The brightness of the heavenly escort, and the opening of the glorious gates of God to welcome him, were not to be discerned by mortal eyes.?{6Red 72.1}[161]

  Had the track of Christ to Heaven been revealed to the disciples in all its inexpressible glory, they could not have endured the sight. Had they beheld the myriads of angels, and heard the bursts of triumph from the battlements of Heaven, as the everlasting doors were lifted up, the contrast between that glory and their own lives in a world of trial, would have been so great that they would hardly have been able to again take up the burden of their earthly lives, prepared to execute with courage and faithfulness the commission given them by the Saviour. Even the Comforter, the Holy Ghost which was sent to them, would not have been properly appreciated, nor would it have strengthened their hearts sufficiently to bear reproach, contumely, imprisonment, and death if need be.?{6Red 72.2}[162]

  Their senses were not to become so infatuated?with the glories of Heaven that they would lose sight of the character of Christ on earth, which they were to copy in themselves. They were to keep distinctly before their minds the beauty and majesty of his life, the perfect harmony of all his attributes, and the mysterious union of the divine and human in his nature. It was better that the earthly acquaintance of the disciples with their Saviour should end in the solemn, quiet, and sublime manner in which it did. His visible ascent from the world was in harmony with the meekness and quiet of his life.?{6Red 72.3}[163]

  The disciples returned to Jerusalem rejoicing, not that they were deprived of their Master and Teacher, for this was to them a cause for personal mourning rather than joy. But Jesus had assured them that he would send the Comforter, as an equivalent for his visible presence. He had said, “If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father.” They rejoiced because Jesus had wrought out salvation for man; he had answered the claims of the law, and had become a perfect offering for man; he had ascended to Heaven to carry forward the work of atonement begun on earth. He was the Advocate of man, his Intercessor with the Father.?{6Red 73.1}[164]  Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem; who worked with his earthly father at the carpenter’s trade; who sat in weariness by Jacob’s well; who slept in weariness in Peter’s fishing-boat; who hungered and thirsted; who took little children in his arms and blessed them; who was rejected, scourged, and crucified,—ascended in the form of a man to Heaven, and took his place at the right hand of God. Having felt our infirmities, our sorrows, and temptations, he is amply fitted to?plead for man as his representative. Jesus, when upon earth, was the most perfect type of man; and it is the Christian’s joy and comfort that this patient, loving Saviour is to be his King and Judge; for “the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son.”?{6Red 73.2}[165] 

 We are not inclined to associate kingly glory and judicial authority with the self-denial, patience, love, and forgiveness shown in the life of Christ; yet these attributes qualified the Saviour for his exalted position. The qualities of character which he developed on earth constitute his exaltation in glory. His triumphs were gained by love, not by force. In coming to Christ the sinner consents to be elevated to the noblest ideal of man.?{6Red 74.1}[166]

  “Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world?” The attributes which exalted Christ, if obtained by his followers, will place the scepter in their hands, and they shall be kings and priests with God. Christ pledged himself to keep the law which Adam transgressed, and to magnify that law and make it honorable by demonstrating that it was not arbitrary, and could be kept inviolate by man. Christ showed by his life that the law of God is faultless, and that man, by disobeying it, brings upon himself the evils which its restrictions seek to avert from him.?{6Red 74.2}[167]

  When the disciples returned to Jerusalem alone, people looked at them, expecting to see in their faces expressions of sorrow, confusion, and defeat; but they saw there gladness and triumph. They did not wail over disappointed hopes, but were continually in the temple praising and blessing God. The priests and rulers were at a?loss to understand this mystery. After the discouraging events connected with the trial, condemnation, and ignominious death of their Master, the disciples were supposed to be defeated and ashamed; but they now came forth with buoyant spirits, and countenances beaming with a joy not born of earth.?{6Red 74.3}[168]

  They told the wonderful story of Christ’s glorious resurrection, and ascension to Heaven, and many believed their testimony. The disciples had no longer a vague distrust of the future; they knew that Jesus was in Heaven; that his sympathies were unchanged; that he was identifying himself with suffering humanity, receiving the prayers of his people; that he was pleading with God the merits of his own precious blood, showing his wounded hands and feet, as a remembrance of the price he had paid for his redeemed. They knew that he would come again escorted by the heavenly host, and they looked upon this event, not as a dreaded calamity, but as an occasion for great joy and longing anticipation. They knew that he would stand again upon the Mount of Olives, while the Hebrew hallelujahs should mingle with Gentile hosannas, and myriads of voices should unite in the glad acclamation of “Crown him Lord of all!” They knew that he had ascended to Heaven to prepare mansions for his obedient children, and that he would return and take them unto himself.?{6Red 75.1}[169]

  With joy the disciples related to their brethren the news of their Lord’s ascension. They now felt that they had a Friend at the throne of God, and were eager to prefer their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. They gathered?together in solemn awe and bowed in prayer, repeating to each other the assurance of the Saviour, “Whatsoever ye shall 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.” During the ten days following the ascension, they, with one accord, devoted the time to prayer and praise, waiting for the descent of the Holy Ghost. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, “It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.”?{6Red 75.2}[170]

  “Great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” The Saviour came into the world, outwardly the son of David, not manifesting the full significance of his character. His spirit was subject to that discipline and experience through which humanity must in some measure pass. His divinity was veiled beneath humanity. He hid within himself those all-powerful attributes which belonged to him as one equal with God. At times his divine character flashed forth with such wonderful power that all who were capable of discerning spiritual things pronounced him the Son of God.?{6Red 76.1}[171]

  Christ exiled himself to the world that he might bring heavenly light within the reach of humanity. The Jews did not comprehend the twofold character of Christ; and as he did not assume temporal, kingly power, and establish his reign on David’s throne, bringing into subjection?every foreign authority, the Jewish dignitaries refused to accept him. They could not connect man’s suffering, grief, and poverty with their idea of the Messiah. Yet this was the only Saviour the word of God through his prophets had ever predicted.?{6Red 76.2}[172]

  The Jews utterly failed to understand the spiritual connection which identified Christ with both the human and the divine, and gave fallen man a presentation of what he should strive to become. Christ was God in the flesh. As the son of David, he stood forth a perfect type of true manhood, bold in doing his duty, and of the strictest integrity, yet full of love, compassion, and tender sympathy. In his miracles he revealed himself as Lord. When he was asked by Philip to show him the Father, he answered, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me, hath seen the Father.”?{6Red 77.1}[173]

  The Jews were continually seeking for and expecting a Divinity among them that would be revealed in outward show, and by one flash of over-mastering will would change the current of all minds, force from them an acknowledgment of his superiority, elevate himself, and gratify the ambition of his people. This being the case, when Christ was treated with contempt, there was a powerful temptation before him to reveal his heavenly character, and to compel his persecutors to admit that he was Lord above kings and potentates, priests and temple. But it was his difficult task to maintain the level of humanity.?{6Red 77.2}[174]

  In the intercessory prayer of Jesus with his Father, he claimed that he had fulfilled the?conditions which made it obligatory upon the Father to fulfill his part of the contract made in Heaven, with regard to fallen man. He prayed: “I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. [That is, he had wrought out a righteous character on earth as an example for men to follow.] And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.” In this prayer he farther goes on to state what is comprehended by the work which he has accomplished, and which has given him all those who believe on his name.?{6Red 77.3}[175]

  He values this recompense so highly that he forgets the anguish it has cost him to redeem fallen man. He declares himself glorified in those who believe on him. The church, in his name, is to carry to glorious perfection the work which he has commenced; and when that church shall be finally ransomed in the Paradise of God, he will look upon the travail of his soul and be satisfied. Through all eternity the ransomed host will be his chief glory.?{6Red 78.1}[176] 

 Jesus, the Majesty of Heaven, humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross; “wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name.” This mighty Saviour has promised to come again, and to take his church to the mansions he has prepared for them. While he is in Heaven carrying on the work of intercession and atonement commenced on earth, his life and character are to be exemplified by his church upon earth. He has promised that, “He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my?Father.” And again, “Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name.” “Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.”?{6Red 78.2}[177]

  He who considered it not robbery to be equal with God, once trod the earth, bearing our suffering and sorrowing nature, and tempted in all points like as we are; and now he appears in the presence of God as our great High Priest, ready to accept the repentance, and to answer the prayers of his people, and, through the merits of his own righteousness, to present them to the Father. He raises his wounded hands to God, and claims their blood-bought pardon. I have graven them on the palms of my hands, he pleads. Those memorial wounds of my humiliation and anguish secure to my church the best gifts of Omnipotence.?{6Red 79.1}[178]

  What a source of joy to the disciples, to know that they had such a Friend in Heaven to plead in their behalf! Through the visible ascension of Christ all their views and contemplation of Heaven are changed. Their minds had formerly dwelt upon it as a region of unlimited space, tenanted by spirits without substance. Now Heaven was connected with the thought of Jesus, whom they had loved and reverenced above all others, with whom they had conversed and journeyed, whom they had handled, even in his resurrected body, who had spoken hope and comfort to their hearts, and who, while the words were upon his lips, had been taken up before their eyes, the tones of his voice coming back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received him: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”?{6Red 79.2}[179]

  Heaven could no longer appear to them as an indefinite, incomprehensible space, filled with intangible spirits. They now looked upon it as their future home, where mansions were being prepared for them by their loving Redeemer. Prayer was clothed with a new interest, since it was a communion with their Saviour. With new and thrilling emotions and a firm confidence that their prayer would be answered, they gathered in the upper chamber to offer their petitions, and to claim the promise of the Saviour, who had said “Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” They prayed in the name of Jesus.?{6Red 80.1}[180]

  They had a gospel to preach—Christ in human form, a man of sorrows; Christ in humiliation, taken by wicked hands and crucified; Christ resurrected, and ascended to Heaven, into the presence of God, to be man’s Advocate; Christ to come again with power and great glory in the clouds of heaven, and to receive the obedient and loyal to himself.?{6Red 80.2}[181]

  The apostles went forth with courage and hope, to do their Master’s work with fidelity. They knew that the most acceptable way of waiting for Christ was to work for him. It was theirs to direct others to the coming Lord, and to teach them to wait patiently for his appearing. This work was given to every disciple of Christ.?{6Red 80.3}[182]

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