Chapter 5

John preaching to crowdJohn the Baptist by the Jordan.

John the Baptist by the Jordan.

The Birth of Jesus.The Birth of Jesus.The Birth of Jesus.The Birth of Jesus."THEREwas a man sent from God, whose name was John."The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through Him might believe."He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light." John 1:6-8."As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send My Messenger before Thy face, which shall prepare Thy way before Thee."The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight."John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins."And there went out unto him all the land of Judea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins."And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;"And preached, saying, There cometh One mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose."I indeed have baptized you with water; but He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." Mark 1:2-8.crowd seeing bright light in distanceThe Wise Men Following the Star.In ancient times, when a king made a visit to another country, he sent messengers before him. These messengers would see that there was a good path for him to travel, andthat the people where he was going were ready to receive him.John the Baptist was God's messenger, sent to arouse the people of this world, and prepare them to receive Jesus when He should come to visit them.Before Jesus came to this earth He was a great King in heaven. Paul says He was "equal with God." Philippians 2:6.We can never understand how the Son of God, the great King of heaven, could come to this earth as a babe. This is one of God's great mysteries.But he did come in just this way. He was born in a manger in Bethlehem. Coming in this humble manner, the priests and rulers of Israel were not ready to receive this Babe as their Saviour. They were looking for Him to come as a great King, in pomp and splendor.But there were on the plains of Bethlehem some humble shepherds who were looking and waiting for the promised Messiah. To them angels were sent to tell of the birth of Jesus.And the angel said, "Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And they went to Bethlehem in haste, and found the infant Jesus as the angel had told them.God meant that others, as well as the Jews, should know that the Saviour had come to begin His work on earth. Away off in the Eastern country there were wise men who had read the prophecies about the Messiah, and believed that He would soon appear.at the stableThe Shepherds Worship Jesus.One night these men saw a wonderfully bright star in the sky, moving toward the land of Judea. They believed this to be a sign that the Messiah had come. So they followed the star, and it brought them to the manger in Bethlehem."And when they were come into the house, they saw theyoung child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh."And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way."And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and His mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy Him."Find the second chapter of Matthew, and read about the flight into Egypt, and why they finally went to Nazareth, in Galilee, instead of to a city of Judea. Verses 15 and 23 tell the reason.

The Birth of Jesus.The Birth of Jesus.The Birth of Jesus.The Birth of Jesus.

"THEREwas a man sent from God, whose name was John.

"The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through Him might believe.

"He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light." John 1:6-8.

"As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send My Messenger before Thy face, which shall prepare Thy way before Thee.

"The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight.

"John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.

"And there went out unto him all the land of Judea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins.

"And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a skin about his loins; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;

"And preached, saying, There cometh One mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose.

"I indeed have baptized you with water; but He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost." Mark 1:2-8.

crowd seeing bright light in distanceThe Wise Men Following the Star.

The Wise Men Following the Star.

In ancient times, when a king made a visit to another country, he sent messengers before him. These messengers would see that there was a good path for him to travel, andthat the people where he was going were ready to receive him.

John the Baptist was God's messenger, sent to arouse the people of this world, and prepare them to receive Jesus when He should come to visit them.

Before Jesus came to this earth He was a great King in heaven. Paul says He was "equal with God." Philippians 2:6.

We can never understand how the Son of God, the great King of heaven, could come to this earth as a babe. This is one of God's great mysteries.

But he did come in just this way. He was born in a manger in Bethlehem. Coming in this humble manner, the priests and rulers of Israel were not ready to receive this Babe as their Saviour. They were looking for Him to come as a great King, in pomp and splendor.

But there were on the plains of Bethlehem some humble shepherds who were looking and waiting for the promised Messiah. To them angels were sent to tell of the birth of Jesus.

And the angel said, "Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." And they went to Bethlehem in haste, and found the infant Jesus as the angel had told them.

God meant that others, as well as the Jews, should know that the Saviour had come to begin His work on earth. Away off in the Eastern country there were wise men who had read the prophecies about the Messiah, and believed that He would soon appear.

at the stableThe Shepherds Worship Jesus.

The Shepherds Worship Jesus.

One night these men saw a wonderfully bright star in the sky, moving toward the land of Judea. They believed this to be a sign that the Messiah had come. So they followed the star, and it brought them to the manger in Bethlehem.

"And when they were come into the house, they saw theyoung child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.

"And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.

"And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and His mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy Him."

Find the second chapter of Matthew, and read about the flight into Egypt, and why they finally went to Nazareth, in Galilee, instead of to a city of Judea. Verses 15 and 23 tell the reason.

The Childhood of Jesus.The Childhood of Jesus.The Childhood of Jesus.THEearly life of Jesus was spent in Nazareth, a small city in the northern part of Palestine. His parents were very poor, and He had only what poor children have.His father was a carpenter, and Christ learned the carpenter's trade and worked with him. From His earliest days He was a pattern of obedience and industry. He was used to a life of hardship and toil, and can comfort all those who must work for a living.Of the childhood of Jesus it is written, "The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him." Luke 2:40.The mother of Jesus was His first earthly teacher. From her lips, and by reading the prophecies, He was taught of heavenly things and of His mission to this world.Jesus in the temple\Jesus among the Teachers of the Law.The wonderful truths which He Himself had spoken to Moses and the prophets, He was now taught by His mother. The Holy Spirit gave her wisdom to teach Him aright. All parents should teach their children as Jesus was taught, that every child may obtain knowledge as Jesus did.Jesus left all His glory and power when He came to earth as a babe. He took His place by the side of the fallen men of earth. He came "in the likeness of sinful flesh." He was subject to all the temptations and weakness of our fallen race.Jesus and Joseph workingJesus in the Carpenter Shop.Yet by the power of God He was kept from yielding tothe temptations which surrounded Him. This power He gained by earnest prayer to His Father in Heaven. This power every child and man can obtain in the same way.In His humble life, as the child of poor parents, He faithfully did His part of the work. Ever obedient and cheerful, He was as a pleasant sunbeam in the home circle.Once a year His parents went up to Jerusalem to attend the passover. When Jesus was twelve years of age He went up with them.When the feast was over, Joseph and Mary started for home with a company of friends, but Jesus remained in Jerusalem. They supposed He was in the company, and did not miss Him until they had journeyed a whole day. Then they turned back to find Him."And it came to pass, that after three days, they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them and asking them questions." Luke 2:46. These doctors were learned men in the Scriptures, yet they were astonished at the questions and answers of Jesus. They soon saw that He had a deeper knowledge of the Word of God than they had, although He was so young.Jesus seemed to know the Scriptures from beginning to end. He repeated them in such a way that their true meaning shoneout. His knowledge of the Scriptures made them ashamed."Though Christ seemed like a child that was seeking help from those who knew a great deal more than He did, yet He was bringing light to their minds in every word He spoke." While appearing to instruct Jesus, these doctors were asking questions and learning Bible truths which they did not understand.And while Jesus was thus teaching others, "He Himself was receiving light and knowledge about His own work and mission in the world; for it is plainly stated that Christ 'grew in knowledge.'"When Mary found Him she said, "Son, why hast Thou thus dealt with us? Behold, Thy father and I have sought Thee sorrowing." And Jesus answered, "How is it that ye sought me? Wist ye not that I must be about My Father's business?"His parents could not understand Him then, but when He began His ministry it was plain to them."And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them; but His mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." Luke 2:41-53.

The Childhood of Jesus.The Childhood of Jesus.The Childhood of Jesus.

THEearly life of Jesus was spent in Nazareth, a small city in the northern part of Palestine. His parents were very poor, and He had only what poor children have.

His father was a carpenter, and Christ learned the carpenter's trade and worked with him. From His earliest days He was a pattern of obedience and industry. He was used to a life of hardship and toil, and can comfort all those who must work for a living.

Of the childhood of Jesus it is written, "The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him." Luke 2:40.

The mother of Jesus was His first earthly teacher. From her lips, and by reading the prophecies, He was taught of heavenly things and of His mission to this world.

Jesus in the temple\Jesus among the Teachers of the Law.

\Jesus among the Teachers of the Law.

The wonderful truths which He Himself had spoken to Moses and the prophets, He was now taught by His mother. The Holy Spirit gave her wisdom to teach Him aright. All parents should teach their children as Jesus was taught, that every child may obtain knowledge as Jesus did.

Jesus left all His glory and power when He came to earth as a babe. He took His place by the side of the fallen men of earth. He came "in the likeness of sinful flesh." He was subject to all the temptations and weakness of our fallen race.

Jesus and Joseph workingJesus in the Carpenter Shop.

Jesus in the Carpenter Shop.

Yet by the power of God He was kept from yielding tothe temptations which surrounded Him. This power He gained by earnest prayer to His Father in Heaven. This power every child and man can obtain in the same way.

In His humble life, as the child of poor parents, He faithfully did His part of the work. Ever obedient and cheerful, He was as a pleasant sunbeam in the home circle.

Once a year His parents went up to Jerusalem to attend the passover. When Jesus was twelve years of age He went up with them.

When the feast was over, Joseph and Mary started for home with a company of friends, but Jesus remained in Jerusalem. They supposed He was in the company, and did not miss Him until they had journeyed a whole day. Then they turned back to find Him.

"And it came to pass, that after three days, they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them and asking them questions." Luke 2:46. These doctors were learned men in the Scriptures, yet they were astonished at the questions and answers of Jesus. They soon saw that He had a deeper knowledge of the Word of God than they had, although He was so young.

Jesus seemed to know the Scriptures from beginning to end. He repeated them in such a way that their true meaning shoneout. His knowledge of the Scriptures made them ashamed.

"Though Christ seemed like a child that was seeking help from those who knew a great deal more than He did, yet He was bringing light to their minds in every word He spoke." While appearing to instruct Jesus, these doctors were asking questions and learning Bible truths which they did not understand.

And while Jesus was thus teaching others, "He Himself was receiving light and knowledge about His own work and mission in the world; for it is plainly stated that Christ 'grew in knowledge.'"

When Mary found Him she said, "Son, why hast Thou thus dealt with us? Behold, Thy father and I have sought Thee sorrowing." And Jesus answered, "How is it that ye sought me? Wist ye not that I must be about My Father's business?"

His parents could not understand Him then, but when He began His ministry it was plain to them.

"And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them; but His mother kept all these sayings in her heart. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man." Luke 2:41-53.

The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.WHENJesus was about thirty years of age, He went to be baptized by John in the River Jordan. He was not baptized because He was a sinner, but to set an example for all to follow.When He came out of the water the Holy Spirit, in the form of a dove, descended from Heaven upon Him. Then the voice of God was heard, saying "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."The descent of the dove upon Christ was His anointing for the work of the ministry that was before Him. From the Jordan the Spirit led Him into the wilderness, where He fasted forty days, and where the devil tempted Him in many ways, as recorded in Matthew 4:1-11.From the wilderness He returned to the Jordan, and began to choose His disciples. We next hear of Him at the marriage at Cana of Galilee, where He performed the wonderful miracle of turning water into wine.Soon after this, Jesus went to Jerusalem to attend the feast of the passover. As He entered the temple where God was worshiped, He found the court filled with cattle, sheep, and birds, for sale to those who would buy sacrifices for their sins.Cheating and robbery were carried on in the very temple court. Even priests and rulers were engaged in this unholy traffic. As Jesus stands on the temple steps His eye views the whole scene. His countenance changes, and all seem compelled to look upon Him.Jesus swinging a whipJesus Drives the Buyers and Sellers from the Temple.All trading ceased, and there was silence in the temple court. Then, raising a whip of small cords, He cried, "Take these things hence; make not My Father's house an house of merchandise." John 2:16.Priests, and rulers, and merchants fled in terror from the temple. They could not endure the look on His face nor the power of His voice. The divine power had flashed through the humanity of Christ.After a time the crowd that had fled at the words of Jesus came slowly back; but what a change had taken place! Instead of unholy trade, they saw the Saviour healing the sick who were pressing around Him.On every side was heard the urgent, pitiful appeals, "Master, bless me." All were healed who came to Him. The lame were made to walk, the dumb to speak, and the blind to see.The mothers brought their children to be healed and blessed. The little sufferers were returned to their mother's arms with the bloom of health and the smile of happiness on their faces.Jesus loved the children because they were so pure and innocent and simple in their ways. He took them as an example of the purity and simplicity that should show in the lives of those who should follow Him.One day some mothers brought their children to Jesus, hoping that He would bless them. But He had worked a long time, and needed rest. So His disciples rebuked the mothers, and told them not to trouble the Master."But when Jesus saw it, He was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God." Mark 10:14.The pen of Julia Gill has given the following beautiful description of this scene:—

The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.The Early Ministry of Jesus.

WHENJesus was about thirty years of age, He went to be baptized by John in the River Jordan. He was not baptized because He was a sinner, but to set an example for all to follow.

When He came out of the water the Holy Spirit, in the form of a dove, descended from Heaven upon Him. Then the voice of God was heard, saying "This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased."

The descent of the dove upon Christ was His anointing for the work of the ministry that was before Him. From the Jordan the Spirit led Him into the wilderness, where He fasted forty days, and where the devil tempted Him in many ways, as recorded in Matthew 4:1-11.

From the wilderness He returned to the Jordan, and began to choose His disciples. We next hear of Him at the marriage at Cana of Galilee, where He performed the wonderful miracle of turning water into wine.

Soon after this, Jesus went to Jerusalem to attend the feast of the passover. As He entered the temple where God was worshiped, He found the court filled with cattle, sheep, and birds, for sale to those who would buy sacrifices for their sins.

Cheating and robbery were carried on in the very temple court. Even priests and rulers were engaged in this unholy traffic. As Jesus stands on the temple steps His eye views the whole scene. His countenance changes, and all seem compelled to look upon Him.

Jesus swinging a whipJesus Drives the Buyers and Sellers from the Temple.

Jesus Drives the Buyers and Sellers from the Temple.

All trading ceased, and there was silence in the temple court. Then, raising a whip of small cords, He cried, "Take these things hence; make not My Father's house an house of merchandise." John 2:16.

Priests, and rulers, and merchants fled in terror from the temple. They could not endure the look on His face nor the power of His voice. The divine power had flashed through the humanity of Christ.

After a time the crowd that had fled at the words of Jesus came slowly back; but what a change had taken place! Instead of unholy trade, they saw the Saviour healing the sick who were pressing around Him.

On every side was heard the urgent, pitiful appeals, "Master, bless me." All were healed who came to Him. The lame were made to walk, the dumb to speak, and the blind to see.

The mothers brought their children to be healed and blessed. The little sufferers were returned to their mother's arms with the bloom of health and the smile of happiness on their faces.

Jesus loved the children because they were so pure and innocent and simple in their ways. He took them as an example of the purity and simplicity that should show in the lives of those who should follow Him.

One day some mothers brought their children to Jesus, hoping that He would bless them. But He had worked a long time, and needed rest. So His disciples rebuked the mothers, and told them not to trouble the Master.

"But when Jesus saw it, He was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God." Mark 10:14.

The pen of Julia Gill has given the following beautiful description of this scene:—

Jesus and crowd iwth childrenJesus Blessing the Children.

Jesus Blessing the Children.

Christ and the Little Ones."THE Master has come over Jordan,"Said Hannah, the mother, one day,"He is healing the people who throng Him,With a touch of His finger, they say."And now I shall carry the children—Little Rachel, and Samuel, and John,I shall carry the baby, Esther,For the Lord to look upon."The father looked at her kindly,But he shook his head and smiled;"Now, who but a doting motherWould think of a thing so wild?"If the children were tortured by demons,Or dying of fever, 'twere well,Or had they the taint of the leper,Like many in Israel.""Nay, do not hinder me, Nathan—I feel such a burden of care;If I carry it to the Master,Perhaps I shall leave it there."If he lays His hand on the children,My heart will be lighter, I know,For a blessing for ever and everWill follow them as they go."So over the hills to Judah,Along the vine-rows green,With Esther asleep on her bosom,And Rachel her brothers between,'Mong the people who hung on His teaching,Or waited His touch and His word,Through the row of proud Pharisees listening,She pressed to the feet of the Lord."Now, why shouldst thou hinder the Master,"Said Peter, "with children like these?Seest not how, from morning till evening,He teacheth, and healeth disease?"Then Christ said, "Forbid not the children—Permit them to come unto Me."And He took in His arms little Esther,And Rachel He set on His knee;And the heavy heart of the motherWas lifted all earth-care above;And He laid His hands on the brothers,And blest them with tenderest love.As He said of the babes in His bosom,"Of such is the kingdom of heaven,"New strength for all duty and trialThat hour to her spirit was given.

Christ and the Little Ones.

"THE Master has come over Jordan,"Said Hannah, the mother, one day,"He is healing the people who throng Him,With a touch of His finger, they say."And now I shall carry the children—Little Rachel, and Samuel, and John,I shall carry the baby, Esther,For the Lord to look upon."The father looked at her kindly,But he shook his head and smiled;"Now, who but a doting motherWould think of a thing so wild?"If the children were tortured by demons,Or dying of fever, 'twere well,Or had they the taint of the leper,Like many in Israel.""Nay, do not hinder me, Nathan—I feel such a burden of care;If I carry it to the Master,Perhaps I shall leave it there."If he lays His hand on the children,My heart will be lighter, I know,For a blessing for ever and everWill follow them as they go."So over the hills to Judah,Along the vine-rows green,With Esther asleep on her bosom,And Rachel her brothers between,'Mong the people who hung on His teaching,Or waited His touch and His word,Through the row of proud Pharisees listening,She pressed to the feet of the Lord."Now, why shouldst thou hinder the Master,"Said Peter, "with children like these?Seest not how, from morning till evening,He teacheth, and healeth disease?"Then Christ said, "Forbid not the children—Permit them to come unto Me."And He took in His arms little Esther,And Rachel He set on His knee;And the heavy heart of the motherWas lifted all earth-care above;And He laid His hands on the brothers,And blest them with tenderest love.As He said of the babes in His bosom,"Of such is the kingdom of heaven,"New strength for all duty and trialThat hour to her spirit was given.

"THE Master has come over Jordan,"Said Hannah, the mother, one day,"He is healing the people who throng Him,With a touch of His finger, they say.

"THE Master has come over Jordan,"

Said Hannah, the mother, one day,

"He is healing the people who throng Him,

With a touch of His finger, they say.

"And now I shall carry the children—Little Rachel, and Samuel, and John,I shall carry the baby, Esther,For the Lord to look upon."

"And now I shall carry the children—

Little Rachel, and Samuel, and John,

I shall carry the baby, Esther,

For the Lord to look upon."

The father looked at her kindly,But he shook his head and smiled;"Now, who but a doting motherWould think of a thing so wild?

The father looked at her kindly,

But he shook his head and smiled;

"Now, who but a doting mother

Would think of a thing so wild?

"If the children were tortured by demons,Or dying of fever, 'twere well,Or had they the taint of the leper,Like many in Israel."

"If the children were tortured by demons,

Or dying of fever, 'twere well,

Or had they the taint of the leper,

Like many in Israel."

"Nay, do not hinder me, Nathan—I feel such a burden of care;If I carry it to the Master,Perhaps I shall leave it there.

"Nay, do not hinder me, Nathan—

I feel such a burden of care;

If I carry it to the Master,

Perhaps I shall leave it there.

"If he lays His hand on the children,My heart will be lighter, I know,For a blessing for ever and everWill follow them as they go."

"If he lays His hand on the children,

My heart will be lighter, I know,

For a blessing for ever and ever

Will follow them as they go."

So over the hills to Judah,Along the vine-rows green,With Esther asleep on her bosom,And Rachel her brothers between,

So over the hills to Judah,

Along the vine-rows green,

With Esther asleep on her bosom,

And Rachel her brothers between,

'Mong the people who hung on His teaching,Or waited His touch and His word,Through the row of proud Pharisees listening,She pressed to the feet of the Lord.

'Mong the people who hung on His teaching,

Or waited His touch and His word,

Through the row of proud Pharisees listening,

She pressed to the feet of the Lord.

"Now, why shouldst thou hinder the Master,"Said Peter, "with children like these?Seest not how, from morning till evening,He teacheth, and healeth disease?"

"Now, why shouldst thou hinder the Master,"

Said Peter, "with children like these?

Seest not how, from morning till evening,

He teacheth, and healeth disease?"

Then Christ said, "Forbid not the children—Permit them to come unto Me."And He took in His arms little Esther,And Rachel He set on His knee;

Then Christ said, "Forbid not the children—

Permit them to come unto Me."

And He took in His arms little Esther,

And Rachel He set on His knee;

And the heavy heart of the motherWas lifted all earth-care above;And He laid His hands on the brothers,And blest them with tenderest love.

And the heavy heart of the mother

Was lifted all earth-care above;

And He laid His hands on the brothers,

And blest them with tenderest love.

As He said of the babes in His bosom,"Of such is the kingdom of heaven,"New strength for all duty and trialThat hour to her spirit was given.

As He said of the babes in His bosom,

"Of such is the kingdom of heaven,"

New strength for all duty and trial

That hour to her spirit was given.

Martha, Jesus and MaryAt the Home of Mary and Martha

At the Home of Mary and Martha

Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.ONearth Jesus had no home of His own. He said of Himself, "The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head." See Matthew 8:20.He never remained long in one place. We read of His beautiful teachings and wonderful miracles in all parts of Palestine. At one time He is on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. At another time He is in Jerusalem, cleansing the temple and healing the sick. Then He is by Jacob's well, in Samaria, teaching the people of Sychar the way to everlasting life.He had no home of His own, but many were glad to receive Him as a loved and honored guest. When in these homes He more than repaid them for their care, by the beautiful lessons He taught, and the sorrows He comforted.And we can have Jesus in our homes to-day just as truly as they had Him when He was on earth. If we invite Him, He will come into our homes and dwell with us, and teach us, and help us in all our trials, and comfort us in all our sorrows.In the little town of Bethany, near Jerusalem, was the home of Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha. At this pleasant home the Saviour was always welcome. This whole family believed in Jesus and His mission, and eagerly listened to the words which He spake.In this peaceful home Jesus often found rest. When weary, and feeling the need of human sympathy, He was glad to escape from the throngs of people, and the contentions of the wicked Pharisees, for the quiet and peace of this humble home.At the time of His first visit to Bethany, His disciples came with Him to the home of Lazarus. Here He had no enemies to watch his words, and He taught the great truths of the gospel plainly, and not in parables.Prizing these lessons, Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, an eager listener to the wonderful words of life. But Martha was busy preparing food for the guests. She was very anxious that they should be comfortably cared for.Martha felt that her sister was not helping in the work as she ought, and came to Christ, and said, "Lord, dost Thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me."But Jesus answered, "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things; but one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:40, 41.The most important thing in this world is to learn the great lessons which Jesus teaches. There is need for the Marthas with their zeal and carefulness for the work and servants of God. But first they should, like Mary, learn at the feet of Jesus."Happy the home where Jesus' nameIs sweet to ev'ry ear;Where children early lisp His fame,And parents hold Him dear."Lord, may we in our homes agree,This blessed peace to gain;Unite our hearts in love to Thee,And love to all will reign."

Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.Jesus in the Home.

ONearth Jesus had no home of His own. He said of Himself, "The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head." See Matthew 8:20.

He never remained long in one place. We read of His beautiful teachings and wonderful miracles in all parts of Palestine. At one time He is on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. At another time He is in Jerusalem, cleansing the temple and healing the sick. Then He is by Jacob's well, in Samaria, teaching the people of Sychar the way to everlasting life.

He had no home of His own, but many were glad to receive Him as a loved and honored guest. When in these homes He more than repaid them for their care, by the beautiful lessons He taught, and the sorrows He comforted.

And we can have Jesus in our homes to-day just as truly as they had Him when He was on earth. If we invite Him, He will come into our homes and dwell with us, and teach us, and help us in all our trials, and comfort us in all our sorrows.

In the little town of Bethany, near Jerusalem, was the home of Lazarus and his sisters Mary and Martha. At this pleasant home the Saviour was always welcome. This whole family believed in Jesus and His mission, and eagerly listened to the words which He spake.

In this peaceful home Jesus often found rest. When weary, and feeling the need of human sympathy, He was glad to escape from the throngs of people, and the contentions of the wicked Pharisees, for the quiet and peace of this humble home.

At the time of His first visit to Bethany, His disciples came with Him to the home of Lazarus. Here He had no enemies to watch his words, and He taught the great truths of the gospel plainly, and not in parables.

Prizing these lessons, Mary sat at the feet of Jesus, an eager listener to the wonderful words of life. But Martha was busy preparing food for the guests. She was very anxious that they should be comfortably cared for.

Martha felt that her sister was not helping in the work as she ought, and came to Christ, and said, "Lord, dost Thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me."

But Jesus answered, "Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things; but one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part which shall not be taken away from her." Luke 10:40, 41.

The most important thing in this world is to learn the great lessons which Jesus teaches. There is need for the Marthas with their zeal and carefulness for the work and servants of God. But first they should, like Mary, learn at the feet of Jesus.

"Happy the home where Jesus' nameIs sweet to ev'ry ear;Where children early lisp His fame,And parents hold Him dear."Lord, may we in our homes agree,This blessed peace to gain;Unite our hearts in love to Thee,And love to all will reign."

"Happy the home where Jesus' nameIs sweet to ev'ry ear;Where children early lisp His fame,And parents hold Him dear.

"Happy the home where Jesus' name

Is sweet to ev'ry ear;

Where children early lisp His fame,

And parents hold Him dear.

"Lord, may we in our homes agree,This blessed peace to gain;Unite our hearts in love to Thee,And love to all will reign."

"Lord, may we in our homes agree,

This blessed peace to gain;

Unite our hearts in love to Thee,

And love to all will reign."

The Miracles of Jesus.The Miracles of Jesus.The Miracles of Jesus.DURINGHis mission on earth, Jesus performed many wonderful miracles. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, made the deaf to hear, cleansed the lepers, raised the dead, stilled the storm, and did many other wonderful works.At one time Jesus had been teaching all day in a desert place. As the night came on the disciples asked Him to send the people away that they might go into the villages and buy food to eat.But Jesus answered, "Give ye them to eat." They were astonished at this, for there were five thousand people to be fed, and they had only five loaves and two small fishes.Then Jesus took the loaves and fishes and blessed them, and divided them among the people. "And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes," Mark 6:39-44At another time four of the disciples fished all night on the Lake of Gennesaret, or Galilee, and had caught nothing. And Jesus said to Peter, "Launch out into the deep, and let down your net for a draught."But Peter was discouraged, and said, "Master, we have toiled all the night and have taken nothing; nevertheless at Thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their net brake." Luke 5:1-7.Jesus and fishermen and lots of fishThe Net Full of Fishes.Then Peter and Andrew called to James and John to come with their boat and help them. And both boats were filled with the fish.Some time after this miracle, Jesus and the disciples were crossing this same lake, and a terrible storm arose. But Jesus was lying asleep on one of the hard seats of the boat.The disciples worked hard to save the boat; but when it began to fill with water, they awoke Him, and said, "Master, Master, we perish." And the Saviour rebuked the storm, and it ceased, and the waters became still.Every miracle performed by Jesus had a lesson for us. These miracles show that the Lord can control every element for the good of His people and work. They also show that He can provide for all our wants.Wherever Jesus went, the sick and the suffering were brought to Him, and He never turned them away. By a touch the blind received their sight. By a word the deaf were made to hear, and the lame to walk.To the appeal of the lepers He said, "I will, be thou clean," and they were cured of their loathsome disease. At His command the devils were cast out, and those having all manner of diseases were healed.All sickness and suffering are the result of sin. When the same dear hand that healed the sick on earth shall destroy sin, all sickness and suffering shall be forever ended.Among the many miracles of Jesus, even the dead were raised to life. The daughter of Jairus, a ruler in Israel, was sick, and before Jesus reached her she died. Yet He took her by the hand, and said, "Damsel, I say unto thee, arise." And she was raised to life and perfect health. See Mark 5:22-43.The son of the widow of Nain was raised from the dead as he was being taken to the place of burial. See Luke 7:11-15.Jesus healingThe Mighty Healer.But the greatest exhibition of divine power was in the raising of Lazarus, who had been dead four days. He had been dead so long that no one even thought of his being raised.But when the stone was rolled away, Jesus cried, "Lazarus, come forth!" At the call of the Life-giver, he that had been dead came to the door of the sepulcher. And Jesus said, "Loose him, and let him go." These miracles show that Jesus can break the power of death. When He shall again come to this earth He will bring the final reward to His people. See Revelation 22:12.Paul based his future hope on the resurrection. "For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised; and if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain, ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which have fallen asleep in Christ are perished." 1 Cor. 15:16-18.

The Miracles of Jesus.The Miracles of Jesus.The Miracles of Jesus.

DURINGHis mission on earth, Jesus performed many wonderful miracles. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, made the deaf to hear, cleansed the lepers, raised the dead, stilled the storm, and did many other wonderful works.

At one time Jesus had been teaching all day in a desert place. As the night came on the disciples asked Him to send the people away that they might go into the villages and buy food to eat.

But Jesus answered, "Give ye them to eat." They were astonished at this, for there were five thousand people to be fed, and they had only five loaves and two small fishes.

Then Jesus took the loaves and fishes and blessed them, and divided them among the people. "And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes," Mark 6:39-44

At another time four of the disciples fished all night on the Lake of Gennesaret, or Galilee, and had caught nothing. And Jesus said to Peter, "Launch out into the deep, and let down your net for a draught."

But Peter was discouraged, and said, "Master, we have toiled all the night and have taken nothing; nevertheless at Thy word I will let down the net. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes; and their net brake." Luke 5:1-7.

Jesus and fishermen and lots of fishThe Net Full of Fishes.

The Net Full of Fishes.

Then Peter and Andrew called to James and John to come with their boat and help them. And both boats were filled with the fish.

Some time after this miracle, Jesus and the disciples were crossing this same lake, and a terrible storm arose. But Jesus was lying asleep on one of the hard seats of the boat.

The disciples worked hard to save the boat; but when it began to fill with water, they awoke Him, and said, "Master, Master, we perish." And the Saviour rebuked the storm, and it ceased, and the waters became still.

Every miracle performed by Jesus had a lesson for us. These miracles show that the Lord can control every element for the good of His people and work. They also show that He can provide for all our wants.

Wherever Jesus went, the sick and the suffering were brought to Him, and He never turned them away. By a touch the blind received their sight. By a word the deaf were made to hear, and the lame to walk.

To the appeal of the lepers He said, "I will, be thou clean," and they were cured of their loathsome disease. At His command the devils were cast out, and those having all manner of diseases were healed.

All sickness and suffering are the result of sin. When the same dear hand that healed the sick on earth shall destroy sin, all sickness and suffering shall be forever ended.

Among the many miracles of Jesus, even the dead were raised to life. The daughter of Jairus, a ruler in Israel, was sick, and before Jesus reached her she died. Yet He took her by the hand, and said, "Damsel, I say unto thee, arise." And she was raised to life and perfect health. See Mark 5:22-43.

The son of the widow of Nain was raised from the dead as he was being taken to the place of burial. See Luke 7:11-15.

Jesus healingThe Mighty Healer.

The Mighty Healer.

But the greatest exhibition of divine power was in the raising of Lazarus, who had been dead four days. He had been dead so long that no one even thought of his being raised.

But when the stone was rolled away, Jesus cried, "Lazarus, come forth!" At the call of the Life-giver, he that had been dead came to the door of the sepulcher. And Jesus said, "Loose him, and let him go." These miracles show that Jesus can break the power of death. When He shall again come to this earth He will bring the final reward to His people. See Revelation 22:12.

Paul based his future hope on the resurrection. "For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised; and if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain, ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which have fallen asleep in Christ are perished." 1 Cor. 15:16-18.

Moses.Moses.Moses.Moses.MUCHof the teaching of our Saviour was made plain by the use of parables, or object lessons. He took the things of every-day life, with which all were familiar, to illustrate the truths of eternal life."And He spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:"Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican."The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank Thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all I possess."And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto Heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner." Luke 18:9-13.praying to be seen and praying to be heardThe Pharisee and the PublicanOur own righteousness is nothing but "filthy rags." Our own good deeds can never save us. Prayer is simply coming to God as our Father. It is telling Him of our needs, and thanking Him for His blessings.The Pharisee felt no need, and so received no blessing. The publican knew he was a sinner, and asked for the mercy of God. Hence he went from the temple forgiven, "justified," made just before God. His record was made clean on the books of Heaven.In another parable Jesus said, "There was a certain richman, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day.rich man having poor man thrown outThe Rich Man and Lazarus."And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, and desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table." See Luke 16:19-31.The rich man died and was punished, because he had not made God his hope and trust. But Lazarus, although poor and afflicted, had been a servant of the Most High God. He also died, but received the glorious reward which God has in store for all who obey Him.This parable teaches that riches are no sign of God's favor; neither does poverty indicate that one is rejected of God. At another time a lawyer asked Jesus, "Who is my neighbor?"Jesus answered with a parable. A man traveling fromJerusalem to Jericho was met by thieves, who beat him, and robbed him, and left him, supposing he was dead.A priest came that way, but passed by on the other side of the road. A Levite also came and looked at him, and then went away without giving aid. But at last, one of the Samaritans (a people despised by the Jews) came along. When he saw the wounded man, he bound up his wounds, lifted him onto his beast, took him to an inn, and cared for him.Then Jesus asked, "which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?" And the lawyer could only answer, "He that showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said, "Go, and do thou likewise." See Luke 10:25-37.Samaritan holidng injured man on horseThe Good Samaritan.Our neighbor is any human being in need. A man despised may be living out the principles taught by Christ, better than the ones who despise him.

Moses.Moses.Moses.Moses.

MUCHof the teaching of our Saviour was made plain by the use of parables, or object lessons. He took the things of every-day life, with which all were familiar, to illustrate the truths of eternal life.

"And He spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:

"Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.

"The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank Thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all I possess.

"And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto Heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner." Luke 18:9-13.

praying to be seen and praying to be heardThe Pharisee and the Publican

The Pharisee and the Publican

Our own righteousness is nothing but "filthy rags." Our own good deeds can never save us. Prayer is simply coming to God as our Father. It is telling Him of our needs, and thanking Him for His blessings.

The Pharisee felt no need, and so received no blessing. The publican knew he was a sinner, and asked for the mercy of God. Hence he went from the temple forgiven, "justified," made just before God. His record was made clean on the books of Heaven.

In another parable Jesus said, "There was a certain richman, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day.

rich man having poor man thrown outThe Rich Man and Lazarus.

The Rich Man and Lazarus.

"And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, and desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table." See Luke 16:19-31.

The rich man died and was punished, because he had not made God his hope and trust. But Lazarus, although poor and afflicted, had been a servant of the Most High God. He also died, but received the glorious reward which God has in store for all who obey Him.

This parable teaches that riches are no sign of God's favor; neither does poverty indicate that one is rejected of God. At another time a lawyer asked Jesus, "Who is my neighbor?"

Jesus answered with a parable. A man traveling fromJerusalem to Jericho was met by thieves, who beat him, and robbed him, and left him, supposing he was dead.

A priest came that way, but passed by on the other side of the road. A Levite also came and looked at him, and then went away without giving aid. But at last, one of the Samaritans (a people despised by the Jews) came along. When he saw the wounded man, he bound up his wounds, lifted him onto his beast, took him to an inn, and cared for him.

Then Jesus asked, "which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?" And the lawyer could only answer, "He that showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said, "Go, and do thou likewise." See Luke 10:25-37.

Samaritan holidng injured man on horseThe Good Samaritan.

The Good Samaritan.

Our neighbor is any human being in need. A man despised may be living out the principles taught by Christ, better than the ones who despise him.

The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.AFTERthree years and a half of ministry, Jesus came to Jerusalem to eat the last passover. From the supper room He went with His disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus knew that the time for His suffering and death had now come, and He went to the garden for one last season of prayer to His Father.We can never understand the terrible sufferings of Christ in Gethsemane. He was to suffer for the sins of the world. He must feel the displeasure which God has for sin.So great was His mental agony that drops of blood, like sweat, stood upon His face. Three times He prayed to the Father for strength and submission for the awful trial before Him.After each prayer He came to the disciples for sympathy; but each time found them asleep. Had they watched and prayed with the Master, they, too, would have received strength for the trial and sorrow before them.After the last prayer, He said to the disciples, "Rise, let us be going; behold he is at hand that doth betray Me." Matthew 26:45, 46. They were then met by the throng that had come to take Jesus, and Judas betrayed His Master with a kiss.Jesus praying with an angel watchingIn Gethsemane.That same night Jesus was examined before the high priestsand the Sanhedrim, and in the morning He was taken before Pilate for condemnation. Pilate was a Roman governor, and no one could be put to death unless he commanded it.When Pilate saw Jesus, he did not believe he was a criminal. He saw a man of noble, dignified bearing, with no appearance of crime about Him.Angel talking to Pilate's wife, Jesus in backtround in crowdThe Dream of Pilate's WifeBut men had been hired by the priests to testify falsely against Jesus. Pilate listened to them, and then questioned the Saviour. He then gave his decision, "I find no fault in the Man." Pilate wished to release Him: but the priests were determined that he should be put to death.Then Pilate sent Jesus bound to Herod, for Herod was ruler of Galilee, and the home of Jesus had been in that country. The soldiers mocked and derided Him, and then Herod sent Him back to Pilate.Pilate was angry when Jesus was brought back to Him for final trial. So he said, "I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go." But the priests would not consent, and all cried out, "Away with this man." Nothing less than the death of Jesus would pacify them.At this time God sent a warning to Pilate. An angel troubled the mind of Pilate's wife, and she sent word to her husband, "Have thou nothing to do with that just Man; for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of Him." Matthew 27:19.But Pilate feared to displease the Jews. So he washed his hands before the people, to show that he would not be responsible for the death of Jesus. And yet Pilate condemned Him to death, and He was taken to Calvary and crucified between two thieves.Tender, loving hands took Him down from the cruel cross, and laid Him away in Joseph's new tomb. But the tomb could not hold Him.angel in tomb talking to women: He is not here; for He is risen.angel in tomb talking to women: He is not here; for He is risen.Early on the morning of the first day of the week, a powerful angel was sent from the courts of Heaven. The stone was rolled away from the tomb, and the angel cried with a loud voice, "Jesus, Thou Son of God, come forth, Thy Father calls Thee!" And Christ came from the tomb, a conquerer over sin, Satan, death, and the grave.When the women came that morning, to care for the body of Jesus, they found a shining angel at the tomb. And he said to them, "Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified."He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come and 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."And they departed quickly from the sepulcher with fear and great joy; and did run to bring His disciples word." Matthew 28:1-8.

The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.The Death and Resurrection of Jesus.

AFTERthree years and a half of ministry, Jesus came to Jerusalem to eat the last passover. From the supper room He went with His disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus knew that the time for His suffering and death had now come, and He went to the garden for one last season of prayer to His Father.

We can never understand the terrible sufferings of Christ in Gethsemane. He was to suffer for the sins of the world. He must feel the displeasure which God has for sin.

So great was His mental agony that drops of blood, like sweat, stood upon His face. Three times He prayed to the Father for strength and submission for the awful trial before Him.

After each prayer He came to the disciples for sympathy; but each time found them asleep. Had they watched and prayed with the Master, they, too, would have received strength for the trial and sorrow before them.

After the last prayer, He said to the disciples, "Rise, let us be going; behold he is at hand that doth betray Me." Matthew 26:45, 46. They were then met by the throng that had come to take Jesus, and Judas betrayed His Master with a kiss.

Jesus praying with an angel watchingIn Gethsemane.

In Gethsemane.

That same night Jesus was examined before the high priestsand the Sanhedrim, and in the morning He was taken before Pilate for condemnation. Pilate was a Roman governor, and no one could be put to death unless he commanded it.

When Pilate saw Jesus, he did not believe he was a criminal. He saw a man of noble, dignified bearing, with no appearance of crime about Him.

Angel talking to Pilate's wife, Jesus in backtround in crowdThe Dream of Pilate's Wife

The Dream of Pilate's Wife

But men had been hired by the priests to testify falsely against Jesus. Pilate listened to them, and then questioned the Saviour. He then gave his decision, "I find no fault in the Man." Pilate wished to release Him: but the priests were determined that he should be put to death.

Then Pilate sent Jesus bound to Herod, for Herod was ruler of Galilee, and the home of Jesus had been in that country. The soldiers mocked and derided Him, and then Herod sent Him back to Pilate.

Pilate was angry when Jesus was brought back to Him for final trial. So he said, "I will therefore chastise Him and let Him go." But the priests would not consent, and all cried out, "Away with this man." Nothing less than the death of Jesus would pacify them.

At this time God sent a warning to Pilate. An angel troubled the mind of Pilate's wife, and she sent word to her husband, "Have thou nothing to do with that just Man; for I have suffered many things this day in a dream because of Him." Matthew 27:19.

But Pilate feared to displease the Jews. So he washed his hands before the people, to show that he would not be responsible for the death of Jesus. And yet Pilate condemned Him to death, and He was taken to Calvary and crucified between two thieves.

Tender, loving hands took Him down from the cruel cross, and laid Him away in Joseph's new tomb. But the tomb could not hold Him.

angel in tomb talking to women: He is not here; for He is risen.angel in tomb talking to women: He is not here; for He is risen.

Early on the morning of the first day of the week, a powerful angel was sent from the courts of Heaven. The stone was rolled away from the tomb, and the angel cried with a loud voice, "Jesus, Thou Son of God, come forth, Thy Father calls Thee!" And Christ came from the tomb, a conquerer over sin, Satan, death, and the grave.

When the women came that morning, to care for the body of Jesus, they found a shining angel at the tomb. And he said to them, "Fear not ye; for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

"He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come and 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.

"And they departed quickly from the sepulcher with fear and great joy; and did run to bring His disciples word." Matthew 28:1-8.

The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.AFTERthe resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples at different times and places. They were thus strengthened for the work that was before them.At His last visit, forty days after the resurrection, He walked with them from Jerusalem to the Mount of Olives. Here He gave the blessed promise, so dear to every child of God, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.And then, with hands raised in blessing, He rose from among them. As they gazed upward, "a cloud [of heavenly angels] received Him out of their sight."Had they lost their Saviour forever? Oh, no! Two shining angels had been sent to comfort them, and said, "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." Acts 1:9-11.Jesus Himself has said, "I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:1-3.The angels told the disciples that He would "so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into Heaven." He ascended bodily, in plain sight of the disciples. When He returns, "every eye shall see Him." Revelation 1:7.Jesus ascending in a cloudThe Ascension.Paul, in describing Christ's second coming, says, "For theLord Himself shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord." 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17.Paul calls the Christian's hope "that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." Titus 2:13.The hope of the Christian depends on the second coming of our Lord, for He says, "Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Revelation 22:12.Yes, Jesus is coming again. And when He comes the righteous dead will be raised from their graves, and all that have been faithful and true will be rewarded with everlasting life in the paradise of God.The reward is worth receiving. A beautiful crown is waiting; for Paul says, "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but untoall them also that love His appearing." 2 Timothy 4:6-8.This is called a "crown of life," in James 1:12, and Revelation 2:10. Peter calls it a "crown of glory," and says it is to be given "when the Chief Shepherd shall appear." 1 Peter 5:4.And this earth, cleansed and purified from sin and the effects of the curse, is to be our home. Peter says of it, "Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness." 2 Peter 3:10, 13.The New Jerusalem, which Christ is preparing in heaven, shall come down to earth and be its capital city. The apostle-prophet John said he "saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven.""And I saw no temple therein; for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. . . . The Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it.""And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.""He that overcometh shall inheritall things;and I will be his God, and he shall be My son." Revelation 21:7.The earth and the dominion of it were given to man at creation. These will be restored to him at redemption.The prophet Micah said to the "daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion." Micah 4:8.Then Eden lost will be Eden regained, and the lost dominion will beThe Dominion Restored

The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.The Dominion Restored.

AFTERthe resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples at different times and places. They were thus strengthened for the work that was before them.

At His last visit, forty days after the resurrection, He walked with them from Jerusalem to the Mount of Olives. Here He gave the blessed promise, so dear to every child of God, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.

And then, with hands raised in blessing, He rose from among them. As they gazed upward, "a cloud [of heavenly angels] received Him out of their sight."

Had they lost their Saviour forever? Oh, no! Two shining angels had been sent to comfort them, and said, "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." Acts 1:9-11.

Jesus Himself has said, "I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:1-3.

The angels told the disciples that He would "so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into Heaven." He ascended bodily, in plain sight of the disciples. When He returns, "every eye shall see Him." Revelation 1:7.

Jesus ascending in a cloudThe Ascension.

The Ascension.

Paul, in describing Christ's second coming, says, "For theLord Himself shall descend from Heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we ever be with the Lord." 1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17.

Paul calls the Christian's hope "that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." Titus 2:13.

The hope of the Christian depends on the second coming of our Lord, for He says, "Behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be." Revelation 22:12.

Yes, Jesus is coming again. And when He comes the righteous dead will be raised from their graves, and all that have been faithful and true will be rewarded with everlasting life in the paradise of God.

The reward is worth receiving. A beautiful crown is waiting; for Paul says, "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but untoall them also that love His appearing." 2 Timothy 4:6-8.

This is called a "crown of life," in James 1:12, and Revelation 2:10. Peter calls it a "crown of glory," and says it is to be given "when the Chief Shepherd shall appear." 1 Peter 5:4.

And this earth, cleansed and purified from sin and the effects of the curse, is to be our home. Peter says of it, "Nevertheless we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness." 2 Peter 3:10, 13.

The New Jerusalem, which Christ is preparing in heaven, shall come down to earth and be its capital city. The apostle-prophet John said he "saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven."

"And I saw no temple therein; for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. . . . The Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it."

"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away."

"He that overcometh shall inheritall things;and I will be his God, and he shall be My son." Revelation 21:7.

The earth and the dominion of it were given to man at creation. These will be restored to him at redemption.

The prophet Micah said to the "daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come, even the first dominion." Micah 4:8.

Then Eden lost will be Eden regained, and the lost dominion will be

The Dominion Restored

The Dominion Restored.

Transcriber's Notes:Obvious punctuation errors repairedPage 84, "happines" changed to "happiness" (give true happiness)Page 107, "Benjaman" changed to "Benjamin" (Benjamin, the two)Page 119, "Egyptains" changed to "Egyptians" (to the Egyptians)Page 121, "recieved" changed to "received" (What they received)Page 123, "posessed" changed to "possessed" (all they possessed)Page 130, "Whosover" changed to "Whosoever" (Whosoever therefore shall)Page 158, "chapthers" changed to "chapters" (plainly in chapters two)

Transcriber's Notes:

Obvious punctuation errors repaired

Page 84, "happines" changed to "happiness" (give true happiness)

Page 107, "Benjaman" changed to "Benjamin" (Benjamin, the two)

Page 119, "Egyptains" changed to "Egyptians" (to the Egyptians)

Page 121, "recieved" changed to "received" (What they received)

Page 123, "posessed" changed to "possessed" (all they possessed)

Page 130, "Whosover" changed to "Whosoever" (Whosoever therefore shall)

Page 158, "chapthers" changed to "chapters" (plainly in chapters two)

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