A Sinless LifeIllustration.A Teacher Of Righteousness. "He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb. 4:15.1. What testimony is borne concerning Christ's life on earth?“Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth.”1 Peter 2:22.2. What is true of all other members of the human family?“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”Rom. 3:23.3. With what question did Christ challenge His enemies?“Which of you convinceth Me of sin?”John 8:46.4. To what extent was Christ tempted?“[He] wasin all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”Heb. 4:15.5. In His humanity, of what nature did Christ partake?“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood,He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.”Heb. 2:14.6. How fully did Christ share our common humanity?“Whereforein all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high[pg 174]priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”Verse 17.Note.—In His humanity Christ partook of our sinful, fallen nature. If not, then He was not“made like unto His brethren,”was not“in all points tempted like as we are,”did not overcome as we have to overcome, and is not, therefore, the complete and perfect Saviour man needs and must have to be saved. The idea that Christ was born of an immaculate or sinless mother, inherited no tendencies to sin, and for this reason did not sin, removes Him from the realm of a fallen world, and from the very place where help is needed. On His human side, Christ inherited just what every child of Adam inherits—a sinful nature. On the divine side, from His very conception He was begotten and born of the Spirit. And all this was done to place mankind on vantage-ground, and to demonstrate thatin the same wayevery one who is“born of the Spirit”may gain like victories over sin in his own sinful flesh. Thus each one is to overcomeas Christ overcame. Rev. 3:21. Without this birth there can be no victory over temptation, and no salvation from sin. John 3:3-7.7. Where did God, in Christ, condemn sin, and gain the victory for us over temptation and sin?“For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin,condemned sin in the flesh.”Rom. 8:3.Note.—God, in Christ, condemned sin, not by pronouncing against it merely as a judge sitting on the judgment-seat, but by coming and livingin the flesh, in sinful flesh, and yet without sinning. In Christ, He demonstrated that it is possible, by His grace and power, to resist temptation, overcome sin, andlive a sinless life in sinful flesh.8. By whose power did Christ live the perfect life?“I can of Mine own self do nothing.”John 5:30.“The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: butthe Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.”John 14:10.Note.—In His humanity Christ was as dependent upon divine power to do the works of God as is any man to do the same thing. He employed no means to live a holy life that are not available to every human being. Through Him, every one may have God dwelling in him and working in him“towilland todoof His good pleasure.”1 John 4:15; Phil. 2:13.9. What unselfish purpose did Jesus ever have before Him?“For I came down from heaven,not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.”John 6:38.Have I need of aught, O Saviour!Aught on earth but Thee?Have I any in the heavens,Any one but Thee?Though I have of friends so many,Love, and gold, and health,If I have not Thee, my Saviour,Hold I any wealth?Corie F. Davis.[pg 175]Our PatternIllustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "Leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps." 1 Peter 2:21.1. In whose steps should we follow?“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us,leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.”1 Peter 2:21.2. How should the Christian walk?“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even asHe walked.”1 John 2:6. See Col. 2:6.3. What mind should be in us?“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.Note.—The mind of Christ was characterized by humility (verses 6-8); dependence upon God (John 5:19, 30); a determination to do only the Father's will (John 5:30; 6:38); thoughtfulness of others (Acts 10:38); and a willingness to sacrifice and suffer, and even to die, for the good of others (2 Cor. 8:9; Rom. 5:6-8; 1 Peter 2:24).4. As a child, what example did Christ set in the matter of obeying His parents?“And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, andwas subject unto them.”Luke 2:51.5. How are His childhood and youth described?“And Jesusincreased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”Verse 52.[pg 176]6. What example did He set concerning baptism?“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John,to be baptized of him. But John forbade Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: forthus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.”Matt. 3:13-15.7. How did Christ teach the prayerful life?“He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”Luke 6:12.“He took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.”Luke 9:28.8. To what kind of work did Jesus devote His life?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.9. For whom and why did Christ leave the riches of heaven?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich,yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.10. When reviled and mistreated, what did He do?“Who when He was reviled,reviled not again; when He suffered,He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.”1 Peter 2:23.11. How did He pray for those who crucified Him?“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34. See Acts 3:17.12. What is the inspired testimony concerning Him?“Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.”Heb. 1:9.Majestic sweetness sits enthronedUpon the Saviour's brow;His head with radiant light is crowned,His lips with grace o'erflow.No mortal can with Him compare,Among the sons of men;Fairer is He than all the fairThat fill the heavenly train.Samuel Stennett.[pg 177]Our Helper And FriendIllustration.Stilling The Tempest. "He arose, and rebuked the winds ... and there was a great calm." Matt. 8:26.1. Through Christ, what has been opened to the house of David?“In that day there shall bea fountainopened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalemfor sin and for uncleanness.”Zech. 13:1.2. Who has borne our sins, and stands ready to help us?“I that speak in righteousness,mighty to save.”Isa. 63: 1. last part.3. For what purpose did Christ come to this world?“For the Son of man is cometo seek and to save that which was lost.”Luke 19:10.4. Through what was Christ made a complete and perfect Saviour?“For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain of their salvation perfectthrough sufferings.”Heb. 2:10.5. Because of this, what is Christ able to do?“For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted,He is able to succor them that are tempted.”Verse 18.6. How complete a Saviour is He?“WhereforeHe is able also to save them to the uttermost that[pg 178]come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.”Heb. 7:25.7. From what is He able to keep us?“Now unto Him that is ableto keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”Jude 24, 25.8. What does He call those who accept Him?“Henceforth I call you not servants; ... I have called youfriends.”John 15:15.9. What kind of friend is He?“There isa friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”Prov. 18:24.10. What is the mark of a true friend?“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”Prov. 17:17.I will sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,How He left His home in glory,For the cross on Calvary.I was lost, but Jesus found me,Found the sheep that went astray;Threw His loving arms around me,Drew me back into His way.I was bruised, but Jesus healed me,Faint was I from many a fall,Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,But He freed me from them all.Days of darkness still come o'er me,Sorrow's paths I often tread,But the Saviour still is with me,By His hand I'm safely led.Yes, I'll sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,Sing it with the saints in glory,Gathered by the crystal sea.Francis H. Rowley.
A Sinless LifeIllustration.A Teacher Of Righteousness. "He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb. 4:15.1. What testimony is borne concerning Christ's life on earth?“Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth.”1 Peter 2:22.2. What is true of all other members of the human family?“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”Rom. 3:23.3. With what question did Christ challenge His enemies?“Which of you convinceth Me of sin?”John 8:46.4. To what extent was Christ tempted?“[He] wasin all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”Heb. 4:15.5. In His humanity, of what nature did Christ partake?“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood,He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.”Heb. 2:14.6. How fully did Christ share our common humanity?“Whereforein all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high[pg 174]priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”Verse 17.Note.—In His humanity Christ partook of our sinful, fallen nature. If not, then He was not“made like unto His brethren,”was not“in all points tempted like as we are,”did not overcome as we have to overcome, and is not, therefore, the complete and perfect Saviour man needs and must have to be saved. The idea that Christ was born of an immaculate or sinless mother, inherited no tendencies to sin, and for this reason did not sin, removes Him from the realm of a fallen world, and from the very place where help is needed. On His human side, Christ inherited just what every child of Adam inherits—a sinful nature. On the divine side, from His very conception He was begotten and born of the Spirit. And all this was done to place mankind on vantage-ground, and to demonstrate thatin the same wayevery one who is“born of the Spirit”may gain like victories over sin in his own sinful flesh. Thus each one is to overcomeas Christ overcame. Rev. 3:21. Without this birth there can be no victory over temptation, and no salvation from sin. John 3:3-7.7. Where did God, in Christ, condemn sin, and gain the victory for us over temptation and sin?“For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin,condemned sin in the flesh.”Rom. 8:3.Note.—God, in Christ, condemned sin, not by pronouncing against it merely as a judge sitting on the judgment-seat, but by coming and livingin the flesh, in sinful flesh, and yet without sinning. In Christ, He demonstrated that it is possible, by His grace and power, to resist temptation, overcome sin, andlive a sinless life in sinful flesh.8. By whose power did Christ live the perfect life?“I can of Mine own self do nothing.”John 5:30.“The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: butthe Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.”John 14:10.Note.—In His humanity Christ was as dependent upon divine power to do the works of God as is any man to do the same thing. He employed no means to live a holy life that are not available to every human being. Through Him, every one may have God dwelling in him and working in him“towilland todoof His good pleasure.”1 John 4:15; Phil. 2:13.9. What unselfish purpose did Jesus ever have before Him?“For I came down from heaven,not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.”John 6:38.Have I need of aught, O Saviour!Aught on earth but Thee?Have I any in the heavens,Any one but Thee?Though I have of friends so many,Love, and gold, and health,If I have not Thee, my Saviour,Hold I any wealth?Corie F. Davis.[pg 175]Our PatternIllustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "Leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps." 1 Peter 2:21.1. In whose steps should we follow?“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us,leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.”1 Peter 2:21.2. How should the Christian walk?“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even asHe walked.”1 John 2:6. See Col. 2:6.3. What mind should be in us?“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.Note.—The mind of Christ was characterized by humility (verses 6-8); dependence upon God (John 5:19, 30); a determination to do only the Father's will (John 5:30; 6:38); thoughtfulness of others (Acts 10:38); and a willingness to sacrifice and suffer, and even to die, for the good of others (2 Cor. 8:9; Rom. 5:6-8; 1 Peter 2:24).4. As a child, what example did Christ set in the matter of obeying His parents?“And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, andwas subject unto them.”Luke 2:51.5. How are His childhood and youth described?“And Jesusincreased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”Verse 52.[pg 176]6. What example did He set concerning baptism?“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John,to be baptized of him. But John forbade Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: forthus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.”Matt. 3:13-15.7. How did Christ teach the prayerful life?“He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”Luke 6:12.“He took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.”Luke 9:28.8. To what kind of work did Jesus devote His life?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.9. For whom and why did Christ leave the riches of heaven?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich,yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.10. When reviled and mistreated, what did He do?“Who when He was reviled,reviled not again; when He suffered,He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.”1 Peter 2:23.11. How did He pray for those who crucified Him?“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34. See Acts 3:17.12. What is the inspired testimony concerning Him?“Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.”Heb. 1:9.Majestic sweetness sits enthronedUpon the Saviour's brow;His head with radiant light is crowned,His lips with grace o'erflow.No mortal can with Him compare,Among the sons of men;Fairer is He than all the fairThat fill the heavenly train.Samuel Stennett.[pg 177]Our Helper And FriendIllustration.Stilling The Tempest. "He arose, and rebuked the winds ... and there was a great calm." Matt. 8:26.1. Through Christ, what has been opened to the house of David?“In that day there shall bea fountainopened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalemfor sin and for uncleanness.”Zech. 13:1.2. Who has borne our sins, and stands ready to help us?“I that speak in righteousness,mighty to save.”Isa. 63: 1. last part.3. For what purpose did Christ come to this world?“For the Son of man is cometo seek and to save that which was lost.”Luke 19:10.4. Through what was Christ made a complete and perfect Saviour?“For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain of their salvation perfectthrough sufferings.”Heb. 2:10.5. Because of this, what is Christ able to do?“For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted,He is able to succor them that are tempted.”Verse 18.6. How complete a Saviour is He?“WhereforeHe is able also to save them to the uttermost that[pg 178]come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.”Heb. 7:25.7. From what is He able to keep us?“Now unto Him that is ableto keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”Jude 24, 25.8. What does He call those who accept Him?“Henceforth I call you not servants; ... I have called youfriends.”John 15:15.9. What kind of friend is He?“There isa friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”Prov. 18:24.10. What is the mark of a true friend?“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”Prov. 17:17.I will sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,How He left His home in glory,For the cross on Calvary.I was lost, but Jesus found me,Found the sheep that went astray;Threw His loving arms around me,Drew me back into His way.I was bruised, but Jesus healed me,Faint was I from many a fall,Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,But He freed me from them all.Days of darkness still come o'er me,Sorrow's paths I often tread,But the Saviour still is with me,By His hand I'm safely led.Yes, I'll sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,Sing it with the saints in glory,Gathered by the crystal sea.Francis H. Rowley.
A Sinless LifeIllustration.A Teacher Of Righteousness. "He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb. 4:15.1. What testimony is borne concerning Christ's life on earth?“Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth.”1 Peter 2:22.2. What is true of all other members of the human family?“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”Rom. 3:23.3. With what question did Christ challenge His enemies?“Which of you convinceth Me of sin?”John 8:46.4. To what extent was Christ tempted?“[He] wasin all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”Heb. 4:15.5. In His humanity, of what nature did Christ partake?“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood,He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.”Heb. 2:14.6. How fully did Christ share our common humanity?“Whereforein all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high[pg 174]priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”Verse 17.Note.—In His humanity Christ partook of our sinful, fallen nature. If not, then He was not“made like unto His brethren,”was not“in all points tempted like as we are,”did not overcome as we have to overcome, and is not, therefore, the complete and perfect Saviour man needs and must have to be saved. The idea that Christ was born of an immaculate or sinless mother, inherited no tendencies to sin, and for this reason did not sin, removes Him from the realm of a fallen world, and from the very place where help is needed. On His human side, Christ inherited just what every child of Adam inherits—a sinful nature. On the divine side, from His very conception He was begotten and born of the Spirit. And all this was done to place mankind on vantage-ground, and to demonstrate thatin the same wayevery one who is“born of the Spirit”may gain like victories over sin in his own sinful flesh. Thus each one is to overcomeas Christ overcame. Rev. 3:21. Without this birth there can be no victory over temptation, and no salvation from sin. John 3:3-7.7. Where did God, in Christ, condemn sin, and gain the victory for us over temptation and sin?“For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin,condemned sin in the flesh.”Rom. 8:3.Note.—God, in Christ, condemned sin, not by pronouncing against it merely as a judge sitting on the judgment-seat, but by coming and livingin the flesh, in sinful flesh, and yet without sinning. In Christ, He demonstrated that it is possible, by His grace and power, to resist temptation, overcome sin, andlive a sinless life in sinful flesh.8. By whose power did Christ live the perfect life?“I can of Mine own self do nothing.”John 5:30.“The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: butthe Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.”John 14:10.Note.—In His humanity Christ was as dependent upon divine power to do the works of God as is any man to do the same thing. He employed no means to live a holy life that are not available to every human being. Through Him, every one may have God dwelling in him and working in him“towilland todoof His good pleasure.”1 John 4:15; Phil. 2:13.9. What unselfish purpose did Jesus ever have before Him?“For I came down from heaven,not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.”John 6:38.Have I need of aught, O Saviour!Aught on earth but Thee?Have I any in the heavens,Any one but Thee?Though I have of friends so many,Love, and gold, and health,If I have not Thee, my Saviour,Hold I any wealth?Corie F. Davis.[pg 175]Our PatternIllustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "Leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps." 1 Peter 2:21.1. In whose steps should we follow?“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us,leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.”1 Peter 2:21.2. How should the Christian walk?“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even asHe walked.”1 John 2:6. See Col. 2:6.3. What mind should be in us?“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.Note.—The mind of Christ was characterized by humility (verses 6-8); dependence upon God (John 5:19, 30); a determination to do only the Father's will (John 5:30; 6:38); thoughtfulness of others (Acts 10:38); and a willingness to sacrifice and suffer, and even to die, for the good of others (2 Cor. 8:9; Rom. 5:6-8; 1 Peter 2:24).4. As a child, what example did Christ set in the matter of obeying His parents?“And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, andwas subject unto them.”Luke 2:51.5. How are His childhood and youth described?“And Jesusincreased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”Verse 52.[pg 176]6. What example did He set concerning baptism?“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John,to be baptized of him. But John forbade Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: forthus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.”Matt. 3:13-15.7. How did Christ teach the prayerful life?“He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”Luke 6:12.“He took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.”Luke 9:28.8. To what kind of work did Jesus devote His life?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.9. For whom and why did Christ leave the riches of heaven?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich,yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.10. When reviled and mistreated, what did He do?“Who when He was reviled,reviled not again; when He suffered,He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.”1 Peter 2:23.11. How did He pray for those who crucified Him?“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34. See Acts 3:17.12. What is the inspired testimony concerning Him?“Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.”Heb. 1:9.Majestic sweetness sits enthronedUpon the Saviour's brow;His head with radiant light is crowned,His lips with grace o'erflow.No mortal can with Him compare,Among the sons of men;Fairer is He than all the fairThat fill the heavenly train.Samuel Stennett.[pg 177]Our Helper And FriendIllustration.Stilling The Tempest. "He arose, and rebuked the winds ... and there was a great calm." Matt. 8:26.1. Through Christ, what has been opened to the house of David?“In that day there shall bea fountainopened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalemfor sin and for uncleanness.”Zech. 13:1.2. Who has borne our sins, and stands ready to help us?“I that speak in righteousness,mighty to save.”Isa. 63: 1. last part.3. For what purpose did Christ come to this world?“For the Son of man is cometo seek and to save that which was lost.”Luke 19:10.4. Through what was Christ made a complete and perfect Saviour?“For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain of their salvation perfectthrough sufferings.”Heb. 2:10.5. Because of this, what is Christ able to do?“For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted,He is able to succor them that are tempted.”Verse 18.6. How complete a Saviour is He?“WhereforeHe is able also to save them to the uttermost that[pg 178]come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.”Heb. 7:25.7. From what is He able to keep us?“Now unto Him that is ableto keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”Jude 24, 25.8. What does He call those who accept Him?“Henceforth I call you not servants; ... I have called youfriends.”John 15:15.9. What kind of friend is He?“There isa friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”Prov. 18:24.10. What is the mark of a true friend?“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”Prov. 17:17.I will sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,How He left His home in glory,For the cross on Calvary.I was lost, but Jesus found me,Found the sheep that went astray;Threw His loving arms around me,Drew me back into His way.I was bruised, but Jesus healed me,Faint was I from many a fall,Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,But He freed me from them all.Days of darkness still come o'er me,Sorrow's paths I often tread,But the Saviour still is with me,By His hand I'm safely led.Yes, I'll sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,Sing it with the saints in glory,Gathered by the crystal sea.Francis H. Rowley.
A Sinless LifeIllustration.A Teacher Of Righteousness. "He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb. 4:15.1. What testimony is borne concerning Christ's life on earth?“Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth.”1 Peter 2:22.2. What is true of all other members of the human family?“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”Rom. 3:23.3. With what question did Christ challenge His enemies?“Which of you convinceth Me of sin?”John 8:46.4. To what extent was Christ tempted?“[He] wasin all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”Heb. 4:15.5. In His humanity, of what nature did Christ partake?“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood,He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.”Heb. 2:14.6. How fully did Christ share our common humanity?“Whereforein all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high[pg 174]priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”Verse 17.Note.—In His humanity Christ partook of our sinful, fallen nature. If not, then He was not“made like unto His brethren,”was not“in all points tempted like as we are,”did not overcome as we have to overcome, and is not, therefore, the complete and perfect Saviour man needs and must have to be saved. The idea that Christ was born of an immaculate or sinless mother, inherited no tendencies to sin, and for this reason did not sin, removes Him from the realm of a fallen world, and from the very place where help is needed. On His human side, Christ inherited just what every child of Adam inherits—a sinful nature. On the divine side, from His very conception He was begotten and born of the Spirit. And all this was done to place mankind on vantage-ground, and to demonstrate thatin the same wayevery one who is“born of the Spirit”may gain like victories over sin in his own sinful flesh. Thus each one is to overcomeas Christ overcame. Rev. 3:21. Without this birth there can be no victory over temptation, and no salvation from sin. John 3:3-7.7. Where did God, in Christ, condemn sin, and gain the victory for us over temptation and sin?“For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin,condemned sin in the flesh.”Rom. 8:3.Note.—God, in Christ, condemned sin, not by pronouncing against it merely as a judge sitting on the judgment-seat, but by coming and livingin the flesh, in sinful flesh, and yet without sinning. In Christ, He demonstrated that it is possible, by His grace and power, to resist temptation, overcome sin, andlive a sinless life in sinful flesh.8. By whose power did Christ live the perfect life?“I can of Mine own self do nothing.”John 5:30.“The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: butthe Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.”John 14:10.Note.—In His humanity Christ was as dependent upon divine power to do the works of God as is any man to do the same thing. He employed no means to live a holy life that are not available to every human being. Through Him, every one may have God dwelling in him and working in him“towilland todoof His good pleasure.”1 John 4:15; Phil. 2:13.9. What unselfish purpose did Jesus ever have before Him?“For I came down from heaven,not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.”John 6:38.Have I need of aught, O Saviour!Aught on earth but Thee?Have I any in the heavens,Any one but Thee?Though I have of friends so many,Love, and gold, and health,If I have not Thee, my Saviour,Hold I any wealth?Corie F. Davis.
Illustration.A Teacher Of Righteousness. "He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb. 4:15.
A Teacher Of Righteousness. "He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Heb. 4:15.
1. What testimony is borne concerning Christ's life on earth?
“Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth.”1 Peter 2:22.
2. What is true of all other members of the human family?
“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”Rom. 3:23.
3. With what question did Christ challenge His enemies?
“Which of you convinceth Me of sin?”John 8:46.
4. To what extent was Christ tempted?
“[He] wasin all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.”Heb. 4:15.
5. In His humanity, of what nature did Christ partake?
“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood,He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.”Heb. 2:14.
6. How fully did Christ share our common humanity?
“Whereforein all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high[pg 174]priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.”Verse 17.
Note.—In His humanity Christ partook of our sinful, fallen nature. If not, then He was not“made like unto His brethren,”was not“in all points tempted like as we are,”did not overcome as we have to overcome, and is not, therefore, the complete and perfect Saviour man needs and must have to be saved. The idea that Christ was born of an immaculate or sinless mother, inherited no tendencies to sin, and for this reason did not sin, removes Him from the realm of a fallen world, and from the very place where help is needed. On His human side, Christ inherited just what every child of Adam inherits—a sinful nature. On the divine side, from His very conception He was begotten and born of the Spirit. And all this was done to place mankind on vantage-ground, and to demonstrate thatin the same wayevery one who is“born of the Spirit”may gain like victories over sin in his own sinful flesh. Thus each one is to overcomeas Christ overcame. Rev. 3:21. Without this birth there can be no victory over temptation, and no salvation from sin. John 3:3-7.
7. Where did God, in Christ, condemn sin, and gain the victory for us over temptation and sin?
“For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin,condemned sin in the flesh.”Rom. 8:3.
Note.—God, in Christ, condemned sin, not by pronouncing against it merely as a judge sitting on the judgment-seat, but by coming and livingin the flesh, in sinful flesh, and yet without sinning. In Christ, He demonstrated that it is possible, by His grace and power, to resist temptation, overcome sin, andlive a sinless life in sinful flesh.
8. By whose power did Christ live the perfect life?
“I can of Mine own self do nothing.”John 5:30.“The words that I speak unto you I speak not of Myself: butthe Father that dwelleth in Me, He doeth the works.”John 14:10.
Note.—In His humanity Christ was as dependent upon divine power to do the works of God as is any man to do the same thing. He employed no means to live a holy life that are not available to every human being. Through Him, every one may have God dwelling in him and working in him“towilland todoof His good pleasure.”1 John 4:15; Phil. 2:13.
9. What unselfish purpose did Jesus ever have before Him?
“For I came down from heaven,not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me.”John 6:38.
Have I need of aught, O Saviour!Aught on earth but Thee?Have I any in the heavens,Any one but Thee?Though I have of friends so many,Love, and gold, and health,If I have not Thee, my Saviour,Hold I any wealth?Corie F. Davis.
Have I need of aught, O Saviour!Aught on earth but Thee?Have I any in the heavens,Any one but Thee?
Have I need of aught, O Saviour!
Aught on earth but Thee?
Have I any in the heavens,
Any one but Thee?
Though I have of friends so many,Love, and gold, and health,If I have not Thee, my Saviour,Hold I any wealth?Corie F. Davis.
Though I have of friends so many,
Love, and gold, and health,
If I have not Thee, my Saviour,
Hold I any wealth?
Corie F. Davis.
Our PatternIllustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "Leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps." 1 Peter 2:21.1. In whose steps should we follow?“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us,leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.”1 Peter 2:21.2. How should the Christian walk?“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even asHe walked.”1 John 2:6. See Col. 2:6.3. What mind should be in us?“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.Note.—The mind of Christ was characterized by humility (verses 6-8); dependence upon God (John 5:19, 30); a determination to do only the Father's will (John 5:30; 6:38); thoughtfulness of others (Acts 10:38); and a willingness to sacrifice and suffer, and even to die, for the good of others (2 Cor. 8:9; Rom. 5:6-8; 1 Peter 2:24).4. As a child, what example did Christ set in the matter of obeying His parents?“And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, andwas subject unto them.”Luke 2:51.5. How are His childhood and youth described?“And Jesusincreased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”Verse 52.[pg 176]6. What example did He set concerning baptism?“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John,to be baptized of him. But John forbade Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: forthus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.”Matt. 3:13-15.7. How did Christ teach the prayerful life?“He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”Luke 6:12.“He took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.”Luke 9:28.8. To what kind of work did Jesus devote His life?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.9. For whom and why did Christ leave the riches of heaven?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich,yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.10. When reviled and mistreated, what did He do?“Who when He was reviled,reviled not again; when He suffered,He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.”1 Peter 2:23.11. How did He pray for those who crucified Him?“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34. See Acts 3:17.12. What is the inspired testimony concerning Him?“Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.”Heb. 1:9.Majestic sweetness sits enthronedUpon the Saviour's brow;His head with radiant light is crowned,His lips with grace o'erflow.No mortal can with Him compare,Among the sons of men;Fairer is He than all the fairThat fill the heavenly train.Samuel Stennett.
Illustration.Sea Of Tiberias. "Leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps." 1 Peter 2:21.
Sea Of Tiberias. "Leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps." 1 Peter 2:21.
1. In whose steps should we follow?
“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us,leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.”1 Peter 2:21.
2. How should the Christian walk?
“He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even asHe walked.”1 John 2:6. See Col. 2:6.
3. What mind should be in us?
“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.
Note.—The mind of Christ was characterized by humility (verses 6-8); dependence upon God (John 5:19, 30); a determination to do only the Father's will (John 5:30; 6:38); thoughtfulness of others (Acts 10:38); and a willingness to sacrifice and suffer, and even to die, for the good of others (2 Cor. 8:9; Rom. 5:6-8; 1 Peter 2:24).
4. As a child, what example did Christ set in the matter of obeying His parents?
“And He went down with them, and came to Nazareth, andwas subject unto them.”Luke 2:51.
5. How are His childhood and youth described?
“And Jesusincreased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.”Verse 52.
6. What example did He set concerning baptism?
“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John,to be baptized of him. But John forbade Him, saying, I have need to be baptized of Thee, and comest Thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: forthus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered Him.”Matt. 3:13-15.
7. How did Christ teach the prayerful life?
“He went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.”Luke 6:12.“He took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray.”Luke 9:28.
8. To what kind of work did Jesus devote His life?
“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.
9. For whom and why did Christ leave the riches of heaven?
“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich,yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.
10. When reviled and mistreated, what did He do?
“Who when He was reviled,reviled not again; when He suffered,He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously.”1 Peter 2:23.
11. How did He pray for those who crucified Him?
“Then said Jesus,Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”Luke 23:34. See Acts 3:17.
12. What is the inspired testimony concerning Him?
“Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even Thy God, hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows.”Heb. 1:9.
Majestic sweetness sits enthronedUpon the Saviour's brow;His head with radiant light is crowned,His lips with grace o'erflow.No mortal can with Him compare,Among the sons of men;Fairer is He than all the fairThat fill the heavenly train.Samuel Stennett.
Majestic sweetness sits enthronedUpon the Saviour's brow;His head with radiant light is crowned,His lips with grace o'erflow.
Majestic sweetness sits enthroned
Upon the Saviour's brow;
His head with radiant light is crowned,
His lips with grace o'erflow.
No mortal can with Him compare,Among the sons of men;Fairer is He than all the fairThat fill the heavenly train.Samuel Stennett.
No mortal can with Him compare,
Among the sons of men;
Fairer is He than all the fair
That fill the heavenly train.
Samuel Stennett.
Our Helper And FriendIllustration.Stilling The Tempest. "He arose, and rebuked the winds ... and there was a great calm." Matt. 8:26.1. Through Christ, what has been opened to the house of David?“In that day there shall bea fountainopened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalemfor sin and for uncleanness.”Zech. 13:1.2. Who has borne our sins, and stands ready to help us?“I that speak in righteousness,mighty to save.”Isa. 63: 1. last part.3. For what purpose did Christ come to this world?“For the Son of man is cometo seek and to save that which was lost.”Luke 19:10.4. Through what was Christ made a complete and perfect Saviour?“For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain of their salvation perfectthrough sufferings.”Heb. 2:10.5. Because of this, what is Christ able to do?“For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted,He is able to succor them that are tempted.”Verse 18.6. How complete a Saviour is He?“WhereforeHe is able also to save them to the uttermost that[pg 178]come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.”Heb. 7:25.7. From what is He able to keep us?“Now unto Him that is ableto keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”Jude 24, 25.8. What does He call those who accept Him?“Henceforth I call you not servants; ... I have called youfriends.”John 15:15.9. What kind of friend is He?“There isa friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”Prov. 18:24.10. What is the mark of a true friend?“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”Prov. 17:17.I will sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,How He left His home in glory,For the cross on Calvary.I was lost, but Jesus found me,Found the sheep that went astray;Threw His loving arms around me,Drew me back into His way.I was bruised, but Jesus healed me,Faint was I from many a fall,Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,But He freed me from them all.Days of darkness still come o'er me,Sorrow's paths I often tread,But the Saviour still is with me,By His hand I'm safely led.Yes, I'll sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,Sing it with the saints in glory,Gathered by the crystal sea.Francis H. Rowley.
Illustration.Stilling The Tempest. "He arose, and rebuked the winds ... and there was a great calm." Matt. 8:26.
Stilling The Tempest. "He arose, and rebuked the winds ... and there was a great calm." Matt. 8:26.
1. Through Christ, what has been opened to the house of David?
“In that day there shall bea fountainopened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalemfor sin and for uncleanness.”Zech. 13:1.
2. Who has borne our sins, and stands ready to help us?
“I that speak in righteousness,mighty to save.”Isa. 63: 1. last part.
3. For what purpose did Christ come to this world?
“For the Son of man is cometo seek and to save that which was lost.”Luke 19:10.
4. Through what was Christ made a complete and perfect Saviour?
“For it became Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain of their salvation perfectthrough sufferings.”Heb. 2:10.
5. Because of this, what is Christ able to do?
“For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted,He is able to succor them that are tempted.”Verse 18.
6. How complete a Saviour is He?
“WhereforeHe is able also to save them to the uttermost that[pg 178]come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.”Heb. 7:25.
7. From what is He able to keep us?
“Now unto Him that is ableto keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.”Jude 24, 25.
8. What does He call those who accept Him?
“Henceforth I call you not servants; ... I have called youfriends.”John 15:15.
9. What kind of friend is He?
“There isa friend that sticketh closer than a brother.”Prov. 18:24.
10. What is the mark of a true friend?
“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”Prov. 17:17.
I will sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,How He left His home in glory,For the cross on Calvary.I was lost, but Jesus found me,Found the sheep that went astray;Threw His loving arms around me,Drew me back into His way.I was bruised, but Jesus healed me,Faint was I from many a fall,Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,But He freed me from them all.Days of darkness still come o'er me,Sorrow's paths I often tread,But the Saviour still is with me,By His hand I'm safely led.Yes, I'll sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,Sing it with the saints in glory,Gathered by the crystal sea.Francis H. Rowley.
I will sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,How He left His home in glory,For the cross on Calvary.
I will sing the wondrous story
Of the Christ who died for me,
How He left His home in glory,
For the cross on Calvary.
I was lost, but Jesus found me,Found the sheep that went astray;Threw His loving arms around me,Drew me back into His way.
I was lost, but Jesus found me,
Found the sheep that went astray;
Threw His loving arms around me,
Drew me back into His way.
I was bruised, but Jesus healed me,Faint was I from many a fall,Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,But He freed me from them all.
I was bruised, but Jesus healed me,
Faint was I from many a fall,
Sight was gone, and fears possessed me,
But He freed me from them all.
Days of darkness still come o'er me,Sorrow's paths I often tread,But the Saviour still is with me,By His hand I'm safely led.
Days of darkness still come o'er me,
Sorrow's paths I often tread,
But the Saviour still is with me,
By His hand I'm safely led.
Yes, I'll sing the wondrous storyOf the Christ who died for me,Sing it with the saints in glory,Gathered by the crystal sea.Francis H. Rowley.
Yes, I'll sing the wondrous story
Of the Christ who died for me,
Sing it with the saints in glory,
Gathered by the crystal sea.
Francis H. Rowley.