EGW WritingsLuke 2

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 4—Unto You a Saviour

DA 43.1

The King of glory stooped low to take humanity. Rude and forbidding were His earthly surroundings. His glory was veiled, that the majesty of His outward form might not become an object of attraction. He shunned all outward display. Riches, worldly honor, and human greatness can never save a soul from death; Jesus purposed that no attraction of an earthly nature should call men to His side. Only the beauty of heavenly truth must draw those who would follow Him. The character of the Messiah had long been foretold in prophecy, and He desired men to accept Him upon the testimony of the word of God.

DA 43.2

The angels had wondered at the glorious plan of redemption. They watched to see how the people of God would receive His Son, clothed in the garb of humanity. Angels came to the land of the chosen people. Other nations were dealing in fables and worshiping false gods. To the land where the glory of God had been revealed, and the light of prophecy had shone, the angels came. They came unseen to Jerusalem, to the appointed expositors of the Sacred Oracles, and the ministers of God’s house. Already to Zacharias the priest, as he ministered before the altar, the nearness of Christ’s coming had been announced. Already the forerunner was born, his mission attested by miracle and prophecy. The tidings of his birth and the wonderful significance of his mission had been spread abroad. Yet Jerusalem was not preparing to welcome her Redeemer.

DA 44.1

With amazement the heavenly messengers beheld the indifference of that people whom God had called to communicate to the world the light of sacred truth. The Jewish nation had been preserved as a witness that Christ was to be born of the seed of Abraham and of David’s line; yet they knew not that His coming was now at hand. In the temple the morning and the evening sacrifice daily pointed to the Lamb of God; yet even here was no preparation to receive Him. The priests and teachers of the nation knew not that the greatest event of the ages was about to take place. They rehearsed their meaningless prayers, and performed the rites of worship to be seen by men, but in their strife for riches and worldly honor they were not prepared for the revelation of the Messiah. The same indifference pervaded the land of Israel. Hearts selfish and world-engrossed were untouched by the joy that thrilled all heaven. Only a few were longing to behold the Unseen. To these heaven’s embassy was sent.

DA 44.2

Angels attend Joseph and Mary as they journey from their home in Nazareth to the city of David. The decree of imperial Rome for the enrollment of the peoples of her vast dominion has extended to the dwellers among the hills of Galilee. As in old time Cyrus was called to the throne of the world’s empire that he might set free the captives of the Lord, so Caesar Augustus is made the agent for the fulfillment of God’s purpose in bringing the mother of Jesus to Bethlehem. She is of the lineage of David, and the Son of David must be born in David’s city. Out of Bethlehem, said the prophet, “shall He come forth ... that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from the days of eternity.” Micah 5:2, margin. But in the city of their royal line, Joseph and Mary are unrecognized and unhonored. Weary and homeless, they traverse the entire length of the narrow street, from the gate of the city to the eastern extremity of the town, vainly seeking a resting place for the night. There is no room for them at the crowded inn. In a rude building where the beasts are sheltered, they at last find refuge, and here the Redeemer of the world is born.

DA 47.1

Men know it not, but the tidings fill heaven with rejoicing. With a deeper and more tender interest the holy beings from the world of light are drawn to the earth. The whole world is brighter for His presence. Above the hills of Bethlehem are gathered an innumerable throng of angels. They wait the signal to declare the glad news to the world. Had the leaders in Israel been true to their trust, they might have shared the joy of heralding the birth of Jesus. But now they are passed by.

DA 47.2

God declares, “I will pour water upon him that is thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground.” “Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness.” Isaiah 44:3; Psalm 112:4. To those who are seeking for light, and who accept it with gladness, the bright rays from the throne of God will shine.

DA 47.3

In the fields where the boy David had led his flock, shepherds were still keeping watch by night. Through the silent hours they talked together of the promised Saviour, and prayed for the coming of the King to David’s throne. “And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”

DA 47.4

At these words, visions of glory fill the minds of the listening shepherds. The Deliverer has come to Israel! Power, exaltation, triumph, are associated with His coming. But the angel must prepare them to recognize their Saviour in poverty and humiliation. “This shall be a sign unto you,” he says; “Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

DA 47.5

The heavenly messenger had quieted their fears. He had told them how to find Jesus. With tender regard for their human weakness, he had given them time to become accustomed to the divine radiance. Then the joy and glory could no longer be hidden. The whole plain was lighted up with the bright shining of the hosts of God. Earth was hushed, and heaven stooped to listen to the song,—

DA 48.1

“Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, good will toward men.”

DA 48.2

Oh that today the human family could recognize that song! The declaration then made, the note then struck, will swell to the close of time, and resound to the ends of the earth. When the Sun of Righteousness shall arise, with healing in His wings, that song will be re-echoed by the voice of a great multitude, as the voice of many waters, saying, “Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.” Revelation 19:6.

DA 48.3

As the angels disappeared, the light faded away, and the shadows of night once more fell on the hills of Bethlehem. But the brightest picture ever beheld by human eyes remained in the memory of the shepherds. “And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.”

DA 48.4

Departing with great joy, they made known the things they had seen and heard. “And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God.”

DA 48.5

Heaven and earth are no wider apart today than when shepherds listened to the angels’ song. Humanity is still as much the object of heaven’s solicitude as when common men of common occupations met angels at noonday, and talked with the heavenly messengers in the vineyards and the fields. To us in the common walks of life, heaven may be very near. Angels from the courts above will attend the steps of those who come and go at God’s command.

DA 48.6

The story of Bethlehem is an exhaustless theme. In it is hidden “the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God.” Romans 11:33. We marvel at the Saviour’s sacrifice in exchanging the throne of heaven for the manger, and the companionship of adoring angels for the beasts of the stall. Human pride and self-sufficiency stand rebuked in His presence. Yet this was but the beginning of His wonderful condescension. It would have been an almost infinite humiliation for the Son of God to take man’s nature, even when Adam stood in his innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted humanity when the race had been weakened by four thousand years of sin. Like every child of Adam He accepted the results of the working of the great law of heredity. What these results were is shown in the history of His earthly ancestors. He came with such a heredity to share our sorrows and temptations, and to give us the example of a sinless life.

DA 49.1

Satan in heaven had hated Christ for His position in the courts of God. He hated Him the more when he himself was dethroned. He hated Him who pledged Himself to redeem a race of sinners. Yet into the world where Satan claimed dominion God permitted His Son to come, a helpless babe, subject to the weakness of humanity. He permitted Him to meet life’s peril in common with every human soul, to fight the battle as every child of humanity must fight it, at the risk of failure and eternal loss.

DA 49.2

The heart of the human father yearns over his son. He looks into the face of his little child, and trembles at the thought of life’s peril. He longs to shield his dear one from Satan’s power, to hold him back from temptation and conflict. To meet a bitterer conflict and a more fearful risk, God gave His only-begotten Son, that the path of life might be made sure for our little ones. “Herein is love.” Wonder, O heavens! and be astonished, O earth!

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 4—Born in a Stable

HLv 25.1

The King of glory stooped low to take humanity. His glory veiled, He shunned all outward display. Jesus purposed that no attraction of an earthly nature should call men to His side. Only the beauty of heavenly truth must draw those who would follow Him. He desired men to accept Him on the testimony of the Word of God.

HLv 25.2

The angels watched to see how the people of God would receive His Son, clothed in the garb of humanity. To the land where the light of prophecy had shone, the angels came. They came unseen to Jerusalem and the ministers of God’s house.

HLv 25.3

Already to Zacharias the priest, as he ministered before the altar, the nearness of Christ’s coming had been announced. Already the forerunner was born, and tidings of his birth and the significance of his mission had been spread abroad. Yet Jerusalem was not preparing to welcome her Redeemer. God had called the Jewish nation to communicate to the world that Christ was to be born of David’s line, yet they knew not that His coming was at hand.

HLv 25.4

In the temple the morning and evening sacrifice pointed to the Lamb of God, yet even here was no preparation to receive Him. Priests and teachers rehearsed their meaningless prayers and performed the rites of worship, but were not prepared for the revelation of the Messiah. The same indifference pervaded the land of Israel. Hearts selfish and world-engrossed were untouched by the joy that thrilled all heaven. Only a few were longing to behold the Unseen.

HLv 26.1

Angels attended Joseph and Mary as they journeyed from Nazareth to the city of David. The decree of Rome for enrollment of the peoples of her vast domain had extended to the hills of Galilee. Caesar Augustus became God’s agent in bringing the mother of Jesus to Bethlehem. She was of the lineage of David, and the Son of David must be born in David’s city. “Out of thee [Bethlehem],” said the prophet, “shall He come forth ... that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from the days of eternity.” Micah 5:2, margin.

HLv 26.2

But in the city of this royal line, Joseph and Mary were unrecognized, unhonored. Weary and homeless, they traversed the narrow street to the eastern extremity of town, vainly seeking a resting place for the night. There was no room at the crowded inn. In a rude building where beasts were sheltered, they at last found refuge, and here the Redeemer was born.

HLv 26.3

The tidings filled heaven with rejoicing. Holy beings from the world of light were drawn to earth. Above the hills of Bethlehem a throng of angels waited the signal to declare the glad news to the world. The leaders in Israel might have shared the joy of heralding the birth of Jesus. But they were passed by. To those who seek light and accept it with gladness, the bright rays from the throne of God will shine. See Isaiah 44:3; Psalm 112:4.

HLv 26.4

In the fields where the boy David had led his flock, shepherds keeping watch by night talked together of the promised Saviour and prayed for His coming. And an “angel of the Lord came upon them... . And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”

HLv 26.5

At these words, visions of glory filled the minds of the listening shepherds. The Deliverer has come! Power, exaltation, triumph, are associated with His coming. But the angel prepared them to recognize their Saviour in poverty and humiliation: “Ye shall find a babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.”

HLv 27.1

The heavenly messenger had quieted their fears. He had told them how to find Jesus. He had given them time to become accustomed to the divine radiance. Then the whole plain was lighted up with the bright shining of the hosts of God. Earth was hushed, and heaven stooped to listen to the song—

Glory to God in the highest,
on earth peace, good will toward men.

HLv 27.2

Oh that today the human family could recognize that song! The note then struck will swell to the close of time, and resound to the ends of the earth.

HLv 27.3

As the angels disappeared, the shadows of night once more fell on the hills of Bethlehem. But the brightest picture ever beheld by human eyes remained in the memory of the shepherds. They “said to one another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.”

HLv 27.4

Departing with great joy, they made known the things they had seen and heard. “And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.”

HLv 27.5

Heaven and earth are no wider apart today than when shepherds listened to the angels’ song. Angels from the courts above will attend the steps of those in the common walks of life.

HLv 28.1

Yet this was but the beginning of His condescension! It would have been an almost infinite humiliation for the Son of God to take man’s nature even when Adam stood in innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted humanity when the race had been weakened by 4000 years of sin. Like every child of Adam He accepted the results of the working of the law of heredity. These results were shown in the history of His earthly ancestors. He came with such a heredity to share our temptations and give us the example of a sinless life.

HLv 28.2

Satan hated Christ. He hated Him who pledged Himself to redeem sinners. Yet into the world where Satan claimed dominion, God permitted His Son to come, a helpless babe, subject to the weakness of humanity, to meet life’s peril in common with every soul, to fight the battle as every child of humanity must fight it—at the risk of failure and eternal loss.

HLv 28.3

The heart of the human father looks into the face of his little child and trembles at the thought of life’s peril. He longs to shield him from temptation and conflict. To meet a bitterer conflict and more fearful risk, God gave His only-begotten Son.

HLv 28.4

“Herein is love.” Wonder, O heavens! and be astonished, O earth!

From Heaven With Love

Only the Shepherds Cared

HLv 27.6

In the story of Bethlehem is hidden “the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God.” Romans 11:33. We marvel at the Saviour’s sacrifice in exchanging the throne of heaven for the manger. Human pride stands rebuked in His presence.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 40, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 40, 1897, par. 15

The four apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, all bear record that Jew and Gentile, rulers, kings, and governors, priests and people, all classes and tongues, were represented in rejecting and crucifying Christ, the Son of God, a man who was innocent, and against whom they could find no proof. The synagogue of Satan, the prince of darkness and his evil agents, united in a desperate companionship with disloyal, evil men. They resolved to put the whole power of their corrupt energies to work to put out of the world the light of truth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Lt 53, 1900

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 4

In our Bible, we might ask, Why need Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Gospels, why need the Acts of the Apostles, and the variety of writers in the Epistles, go over the same thing?

15LtMs, Lt 53, 1900, par. 6

We are not to feel that we must speak the very same things, giving the same representation in the same words, and yet there is to be unity in the diversity. All the different testimonies unite to form one whole, as the books of the Bible are brought together, and bound under one cover. But should Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John go off on some tangent, contradicting each other’s testimony, then there would be confusion. In the presentation of truth by different minds, there is to be unity in diversity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 40, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 40, 1903, par. 2

At that time it was customary for a writer to send his manuscript to some one for examination and criticism. Luke chose Theophilus, as a man in whom he had confidence, to perform this important work. He first directs the attention of Theophilus to the record of Christ’s life as given in the book of Luke which had also been addressed by the same writer to Theophilus. He says:

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 91, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 91, 1903, par. 15

Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all these other writers who have borne their testimony in regard to the life of the Saviour during His earthly ministry? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record, and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s life and work? The Gospels differ. One writer brings in points that another does not bring in. If these points are essential, why did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ and do not comprehend all things in exactly the same way. Some Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of certain persons than to others; some points appear to be much more important to some than to others. The same principle applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable length on points that others would pass by quickly or not mention at all. Thus the whole truth is presented more clearly by several than by one. In the Gospels the records blend in one harmonious whole.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 68, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 68, 1898, par. 5

Our self-sacrificing laborers must not return from their missionaries fields, worn out physically, to find that there is “no place for them in the inn,” and that they must seek a place outside. [See Luke 2:7.] I think you need to come to your senses. You need to study your Bibles until you shall understand your duties without being so dull as to have to be told it. Let our worn-out ministers be encouraged, and let them know that in their <illness or their> failing health, there is a home for them, where they will be cared for and treated as you would wish to be treated under like circumstances.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Messiah, April 4

JNN 104.1

And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.—Luke 2:7

From the Heart

The Joyful News, August 4

FH 228.1

Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them.... Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.” Luke 2:8-10.

A Call To Stand Apart

Chapter 1—Beginnings

CSA 4.5

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad thesaying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. Luke 2:8-20.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 152, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 152, 1898, par. 8

After I had spoken many words to the people, I awoke. I looked from the window of the sleeper, and saw two white clouds. I fell asleep again, and in my dreams the words were spoken to me, look at those clouds. Just such clouds enshrouded the heavenly angels who came to herald the birth of Christ to the watching shepherds. “Lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:9-11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 2, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 2, 1903, par. 7

As we minister to those in need of help, we co-operate with the heavenly angels. “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for those who shall be heirs of salvation?” [Hebrews 1:14.] When Christ was born in Bethlehem, an angel appeared to the shepherds keeping watch by night. Through the silent hours they had been talking together of the promised Saviour and praying for the coming of the King to David’s throne. “And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” [Luke 2:9-11.]

18LtMs, Ms 2, 1903, par. 8

And suddenly the whole plain was lighted with the bright shining of the hosts of God. Earth was hushed, and heaven stooped to listen to the song, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Verse 14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 108, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 108, 1903, par. 24

To the humble shepherds the first announcement of the birth of the Messiah was made. “The angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:9-14.]

This Day With God

Observing Christmas, December 17

TDG 360.1

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. Luke 2:9, 10.

TDG 360.3

All heaven was interested in the great event of Christ’s advent to earth. Heavenly messengers came to make known the birth of the long-promised, long-expected Saviour to the humble shepherds who were watching their flocks by night on the plains of Bethlehem. The first manifestation that attracted the notice of the shepherds at the birth of the Saviour, was a radiant light in the starry heavens, which filled them with wonder and admiration.... The astonished shepherds could scarcely comprehend the precious message borne to them by the angels, and when the radiant light had passed away, they said one to another, “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child” (Luke 2:15-17)....

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 1—The Birth of Jesus

SJ 16.9

“And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.” Luke 2:9-19.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 91, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 91, 1892, par. 7

Our zeal needs to be quickened, that we may win souls to Jesus Christ. “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] “Glad tidings” “shall be to all people.” [Luke 2:10.] Keep up good courage in the Lord. We are laborers together with God, and our appointed task is to sow the good seed beside all waters—to sow in His vineyard, to reap and garner up the harvest. God would have us increase our talents. Then when the Master comes He may receive His own with usury.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 71, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 71, 1898, par. 14

Brethren, let us look our duties and responsibilities fairly in the face. We must come up to the help of the Lord against the mighty. We must preserve unity and love one for another if we would bear the divine credentials to the world that God has sent His Son to save all who will look unto Him, who will receive Him and believe in Him as their personal Saviour. If we are Christians, we shall be as faithful soldiers of Christ. We are pledged to stand under His banner to do faithful service. The message of truth is not for us alone. Our light is not to be hid under a bushel or under a bed. The light given us of heaven is to shine in clear, undimmed brightness to those who are in darkness. We are to proclaim the “glad tidings” that are “for all people.” [Luke 2:10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 117, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, par. 3

In New York there are many who are ripe for the harvest. In this great city there are thousands who have not bowed the knee to Baal. The angel said, “Behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” [Luke 2:10.] New York contains a part of the “all people.” We desire to see the new year open with teachers at work in all parts of New York. There is a work to be done in this city—a work that ought to have been done twelve years ago. It was not done; and why? Because men and women were not awake to the importance of the time in which we are living. They were unprepared to do the work that needed to be done. Those who were unconverted in regard to health reform could not work in God’s order. Therefore it is that in 1901 there is a dearth of workers.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 7, 1901

16LtMs, Lt 7, 1901, par. 12

God’s promises to the obedient are “good tidings of great joy.” [Luke 2:10.] They are gladdening to the humble, contrite soul. The life of the true Christian is radiant with the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness. If men and women would act as the Lord’s helping hand, doing deeds of love and kindness, uplifting the oppressed, rescuing those ready to perish, the glory of the Lord would be their rereward. Then they would not send thousands of miles to learn from human beings their duty. They would call, and the Lord would answer, “Here am I.” They would turn to the One close beside them, who has given them the promise, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]

Radiant Religion

God’s Greatest Gift to the World—His Son, November 2

RRe 308.1

The angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this lay in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. Luke 2:10, 11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 192, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, par. 10

Preach Christ crucified for the sins of a whole world. This is the work to be done now. What was the message of God to our world? Angels from heaven were sent at the birth Christ. What was the word brought from the heavenly courts? “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” [Luke 2:10, 11.] Now our message is to the churches, just as far as [it is] possible to reach them. Do not denounce, do not condemn and judge, for this will close the door to many hearts; but present Christ the sinless Savior. Make the very best impression possible. Dispense light.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 27, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 27, 1893, par. 6

When Christ came into our world as a babe in Bethlehem, the angels sung out, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” [Luke 2:14, 10, 11.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Incomparable Temptations, June 3

AG 162.3

When Christ was born in Bethlehem, the angels of God appeared to the shepherds, who were watching their flocks by night, and gave divine credentials of the authority of the newborn babe. Satan knew that One had come to the earth with a divine commission to dispute his authority. He heard the angel declare: “... Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord ...” (Luke 2:10, 11).

AG 162.4

The heavenly heralds aroused all the wrath of the synagogue of Satan. He followed the steps of those who had charge of the infant Jesus. He heard the prophecy of Simeon in the temple courts.... “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: for mine eyes have seen thy salvation,” ... (Luke 2:29-32). Satan was filled with frenzy as he saw that the aged Simeon recognized the divinity of Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 43, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 43, 1895, par. 50

When Christ was born in Bethlehem the angels of God appeared to the shepherds who were watching their flocks by night, and gave divine credentials of the authority of the newborn babe. Satan knew that one had come to the earth with a divine commission to dispute His authority. He heard the angels as they sang, “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host, praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” [Luke 2:10-14.]

10LtMs, Lt 43, 1895, par. 51

The heavenly heralds aroused all the wrath of the synagogue of Satan. He followed the steps of those who had charge of the infant Jesus. He heard the prophecy of Simeon in the temple courts, who had long been waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Ghost was upon him and he came by the Spirit into the temple. Taking the infant Saviour in his arms, he blessed God, and said, “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy word: for mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people. A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” [Verses 29-32.] Satan was filled with frenzy as he saw that the aged Simeon recognized the divinity of Christ.

10LtMs, Lt 43, 1895, par. 53

The fiercest and most inveterate enmity was put between the seed of the woman and the serpent. The serpent himself made Christ the mark of every weapon of hell. Satan knew that he must either conquer or himself be conquered. Success or failure involved too much for him to leave the work with any one of his agents of evil. The prince of evil himself must personally conduct the warfare, since all other enterprises were inferior to this. He came in determined opposition against Christ from the very beginning of His work. “But the child grew and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him ... And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” [Verses 40, 52.]

Homeward Bound

The Story of Bethlehem, February 10

HB 57.1

“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”—Luke 2:11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)

Ms 124, 1906

21LtMs, Ms 124, 1906, par. 13

After daylight I walked out in the open air. It was a very clear, bright morning. As I walked in our garden path, I felt assured the Lord had heard my prayer. I cast my helpless soul on Thee, and I will trust in Thy promises. “Unto you is born” “a Saviour,” and the message, so precious, is to be borne to the world. [Luke 2:11.] A ransom has been given for the human race. God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself, and Christ was in God to perform the contract made. We give thanks to Thee for Thy great glory. The Father and the Son united in mind and purpose.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Child of Nazareth, October 3

JNN 292.1

“For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”—Luke 2:11

That I May Know Him

The Babe of Bethlehem, January 20

TMK 26.1

Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Luke 2:11, 12.

My Life Today

Listen to the Angel Choir, December 25

ML 363.1

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:13, 14.

Reflecting Christ

“Glory to God in the Highest,” December 25

RC 373.1

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:13, 14.

Christian Education

Chapter 25—Fragments

CE 200.1

Christian Courtesy.—The heart in which the love of Christ abides, will constantly manifest more and more refinement, for the spring of the life is love to God and man. This is Christianity. This is “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] This is the carrying out of God’s purpose. Divine harmony, worthy of the wisdom and mercy which God has manifested to men! True Christian growth tends upward to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. True culture, real refinement of thought and manners, is better obtained through the lessons in the school of Christ, than through the most labored, pains-taking effort to observe forms and set rules, when the heart is not under the holy discipline of the Spirit of God.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

GC 46.3

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to Him the title, “Prince of Peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sang above the plains of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ: “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. But, rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and thus to one another. But the world at large are under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents to them principles of life which are wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise in rebellion against it. They hate the purity which reveals and condemns their sins, and they persecute and destroy those who would urge upon them its just and holy claims. It is in this sense—because the exalted truths it brings occasion hatred and strife—that the gospel is called a sword.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

GC88 46.2

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to him the title, “Prince of peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sung above the plains of Bethlehem, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] But rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system, which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and thus to one another. But the world at large are under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents to them principles of life which are wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise in rebellion against it. They hate the purity which reveals and condemns their sins, and they persecute and destroy those who would urge upon them its just and holy claims. It is in this sense—because the exalted truths it brings, occasion hatred and strife—that the gospel is called a sword.

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 2—Persecution in the First Centuries

4SP 47.2

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to him the title, “Prince of peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sung above the plains of Bethlehem, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ, “I came not to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] But rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. Christianity is a system, which, received and obeyed, would spread peace, harmony, and happiness throughout the earth. The religion of Christ will unite in close brotherhood all who accept its teachings. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile man to God, and thus to his fellow-man. But the world at large are under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents to them principles of life which are wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise in rebellion against it. They hate the purity which reveals and condemns their sins, and they persecute and destroy those who would urge upon them its just and holy claims. It is in this sense—because the exalted truths it brings, occasion hatred and strife—that the gospel is called a sword.

From Eternity Past

Chapter 4—The Plan of Redemption Is Unveiled

EP 32.5

Then inexpressible joy filled heaven. Through the celestial courts echoed the first strains of that song which was to ring out above the hills of Bethlehem, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. “The morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.” Job 38:7.

From Here to Forever

Two Classes in the Church

HF 30.3

How, then, can the gospel be called a message of peace? Angels sang above the plains of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. There is a seeming contradiction between these prophetic declarations and the words of Christ: “I come not to send peace, but a sword.” Matthew 10:34. But rightly understood, the two are in perfect harmony. The gospel is a message of peace. The religion of Christ, received and obeyed, would spread peace and happiness throughout the earth. It was the mission of Jesus to reconcile men to God, and thus to one another. But the world at large is under the control of Satan, Christ’s bitterest foe. The gospel presents principles of life wholly at variance with their habits and desires, and they rise against it. They hate the purity which condemns sin, and they persecute those who urge upon them its holy claims. It is in this sense that the gospel is called a sword.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 60, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 60, 1886, par. 6

It would be well for our minds to be carried back to the time when the Son of God was made flesh. Behold Him in the manger, and remember how the angel of the Lord appeared in great glory to the shepherds who were watching their flocks by night and announced to their joy a Saviour born in Bethlehem. There was also a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. There were also wise men who had been guided from the east by a star to the place where the child Jesus had been born. They came to worship Him, and they brought their gifts to Jesus—gold, frankincense, and myrrh. This was oblation offered by these men who were neither Jews nor Gentiles, but were men who had lived up to the best light they had. They had been searching the Scriptures, and as they traced the lines of prophecy, they ascertained about the time that Christ would come.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Lt 19a, 1884

4LtMs, Lt 19a, 1884, par. 13

Oh, how Jesus is grieved with the unbelief, the distrust, the want of gratitude, and the sinfulness of those who profess to be the advocates of the law of God! Will not this people understand [that through] their own course of worldliness, of selfishness, [they] have forfeited the mercies promised to the obedient? In view of the great benefits of the salvation brought to us through Jesus Christ, the whole heavenly host in the plains of Bethlehem broke forth into songs of praise saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. Why is there not more praise and less complaining? Should not our hearts be filled with gratitude to God? If angels saw cause for anthems of praise, why should not the objects Christ came to save be filled with thankfulness? There “are given to us exceeding great and precious promises that by these we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.]

God’s Amazing Grace

God’s Glorious Plan, December 3

AG 345.4

Then joy, inexpressible joy, filled heaven. The glory and blessedness of a world redeemed, outmeasured even the anguish and sacrifice of the Prince of life. Through the celestial courts echoed the first strains of that song which was to ring out above the hills of Bethlehem—“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14).5Patriarchs and Prophets, 64, 65.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 7, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 7, 1888, par. 50

Oh, I love Him. I love Him, for He is my love. I see in Him matchless charms, and oh, how I want that we shall enter in through the gates into the city. Then shall every crown be taken off from every head and cast at the feet of Jesus our blessed Redeemer. He has purchased it for me; He has purchased it for you, and we shall acknowledge Him Lord of all. And we shall cast all our honor at His feet and crown Him Lord of all. We shall shout, “Glory to God in the highest.” [Luke 2:14.] I wish we would learn to praise Him more. “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God.” [Psalm 50:23.] I wish you would talk of it. I wish you would educate your hearts and lips to praise Him, to talk of His power and glory. I wish you would tell of His power. When you do it, you are elevating your Saviour, and when you lift that standard up against your enemy, he will flee from you. God help us to praise Him more and be found faultless.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 47, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 47, 1894, par. 16

A rich man cannot, as such, enter heaven. He will have no title to his immortal inheritance and eternal reward; but the God of heaven can and will do great things for those who have worshiped mammon if they will co-operate with God. Through His grace He can transform the character. By beholding Jesus in His lowliness, in His self-denial and self-sacrifice, the self-sufficient, lordly, boasting rich man will see himself in contrast as wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked, and will become so small in his own estimation that he will prefer Christ to himself, and will lay hold on eternal life. Thus all things are possible with God. Jesus dwells in the heart of the rich man, and His love is perfected in him. “God is love, and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:16.] The whole law is fulfilled in him who loves God with all the heart, for the natural result will be sure to be revealed, which is love to his fellow man; he loves his neighbor as himself. This is the explanation of the announcement of the angels to the shepherds, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 86, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 86, 1895, par. 29

“Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. ... If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. ... God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:7, 12, 16.] The entire law is fulfilled in him who loves God with all his heart, and his neighbor as himself. This is “glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] O, it is not weakness to have a tender, <humble,> sympathetic, pitying heart. Of this no one should be ashamed as if it were a weakness. It is strength derived from Christ.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 183, 1899

14LtMs, Lt 183, 1899, par. 14

The power of the grace of God will do more for the soul than controversy will do in a lifetime. By the power of the truth how many things might be adjusted, and controversies hoary with age find quietude in the admission of better ways. The great, grand principle, “Peace on earth and good will to men” [Luke 2:14], will be far better practiced when those who believe in Christ are laborers together with God. Then all the little things which some are ever harping upon, which are not authoritatively settled by the Word of God, will not be magnified into important matters.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 184, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 184, 1903, par. 1

Not only “Glory to God in the highest,” but also “on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] This is the gospel which must be lived. Are the names of the church members written in the books of heaven, as laborers together with God? And are the church members the Lord’s channels, organized as living, active forces, to witness for God that the religion of Jesus Christ is for publicans and sinners, and that the church members are the channel through whom the Bible is to be made known as the religion of humanity?

18LtMs, Ms 184, 1903, par. 2

In many places the publicans and sinners are asking, What are the church members doing to save our souls? Do they lighten our burdens? Or do they unite and confederate with the world to increase the poverty of the already poor? Shall it be thus considered—that the church is merely an organization in the hands and under the control of the strongest party of society? Where does “the glory to God in the highest” come in? Where is the bringing in of “peace on earth and good will toward men?” [Verse 14.]

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

No Respect of Persons With God

GW92 315.1

God moves in his own way in preparing men to be laborers together with him. The value of men and women is not to be estimated by the class of labor they perform. It is fixed by the Lord Jesus, who paid the same price for every soul. In charity, in simplicity, and integrity, all who have Christ formed within, the hope of glory, are workers together with God. They are God’s husbandry; they are God’s building. The heart in which the love of Christ abides, will constantly manifest more and more refinement, for the spring of the life is love to God and man. This is Christianity. This is “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] This is the carrying out of God’s purpose. Divine harmony, worthy of the wisdom and mercy which God has manifested to men! True Christian growth tends upward to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. True culture, real refinement of thought and manners, is better obtained through the lessons in the school of Christ, than through the most labored, pains-taking effort to observe forms and set rules, when the heart is not under the holy discipline of the Spirit of God.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]

MR No. 1541—Christ-Centered Messages Needed at Camp Meetings

21MR 200.3

Oh, how Jesus is grieved with the unbelief, the distrust, the want of gratitude and the sinfulness of those who profess to be the advocates of the law of God! Will not this people understand [that through] their own course of worldliness, of selfishness, [they] have forfeited the mercies promised to the obedient? In view of the great benefits of the salvation brought to us through Jesus Christ, the whole heavenly host in the plains of Bethlehem broke forth into songs of praise, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). Why is there not more praise and less complaining? Should not our hearts be filled with gratitude to God? If angels saw cause for anthems of praise, why should not the objects Christ came to save be filled with thankfulness? There “are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.”

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 4—The Plan of Redemption

PP 65.3

Then joy, inexpressible joy, filled heaven. The glory and blessedness of a world redeemed, outmeasured even the anguish and sacrifice of the Prince of life. Through the celestial courts echoed the first strains of that song which was to ring out above the hills of Bethlehem—“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14. With a deeper gladness now than in the rapture of the new creation, “the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy.” Job 38:7.

Reflecting Christ

Christ “the Prince of Peace,” January 24

RC 38.7

When Isaiah foretold the birth of the Messiah, he ascribed to Him the title, “Prince of Peace.” When angels announced to the shepherds that Christ was born, they sang above the plains of Bethlehem: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14).

Selected Messages Book 1

Chapter 34—The Word Made Flesh

1SM 250.2

No one born into the world, not even the most gifted of God’s children, has ever been accorded such demonstration of joy as greeted the Babe born in Bethlehem. Angels of God sang His praises over the hills and plains of Bethlehem. “Glory to God in the highest,” they sang, “and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14). O that today the human family could recognize this song! The declaration then made, the note then struck, the tune then started, will swell and extend to the end of time, and resound to the ends of the earth. It is glory to God, it is peace on earth, good will to men. When the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings, the song then started in the hills of Bethlehem will be reechoed by the voice of a great multitude, as the voice of many waters, saying, “Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth” (Revelation 19:6).

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 31—The Sermon on the Mount

DA 308.1

God has given us His holy precepts, because He loves mankind. To shield us from the results of transgression, He reveals the principles of righteousness. The law is an expression of the thought of God; when received in Christ, it becomes our thought. It lifts us above the power of natural desires and tendencies, above temptations that lead to sin. God desires us to be happy, and He gave us the precepts of the law that in obeying them we might have joy. When at Jesus’ birth the angels sang,— “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14),they were declaring the principles of the law which He had come to magnify and make honorable.

The Faith I Live By

Jesus’ Example in Law Keeping, March 20

FLB 85.3

The law is an expression of the thought of God; when received in Christ, it becomes our thought.... God desires us to be happy, and He gave us the precepts of the law that in obeying them we might have joy. When at Jesus’ birth the angels sang— “Glory to God in the highest,
And on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:14),they were declaring the principles of the law which He had come to magnify and make honorable....

The Great Controversy

Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning

GC 314.2

There is no evidence that Christ is expected, and no preparation for the Prince of life. In amazement the celestial messenger is about to return to heaven with the shameful tidings, when he discovers a group of shepherds who are watching their flocks by night, and, as they gaze into the starry heavens, are contemplating the prophecy of a Messiah to come to earth, and longing for the advent of the world’s Redeemer. Here is a company that is prepared to receive the heavenly message. And suddenly the angel of the Lord appears, declaring the good tidings of great joy. Celestial glory floods all the plain, an innumerable company of angels is revealed, and as if the joy were too great for one messenger to bring from heaven, a multitude of voices break forth in the anthem which all the nations of the saved shall one day sing: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14.

GC 315.2

It was not alone upon the hills of Judea, not among the lowly shepherds only, that angels found the watchers for Messiah’s coming. In the land of the heathen also were those that looked for Him; they were wise men, rich and noble, the philosophers of the East. Students of nature, the Magi had seen God in His handiwork. From the Hebrew Scriptures they had learned of the Star to arise out of Jacob, and with eager desire they awaited His coming, who should be not only the “Consolation of Israel,” but a “Light to lighten the Gentiles,” and “for salvation unto the ends of the earth.” Luke 2:25, 32; Acts 13:47. They were seekers for light, and light from the throne of God illumined the path for their feet. While the priests and rabbis of Jerusalem, the appointed guardians and expounders of the truth, were shrouded in darkness, the Heaven-sent star guided these Gentile strangers to the birthplace of the newborn King.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning

GC88 314.1

There is no evidence that Christ is expected, and no preparation for the Prince of life. In amazement the celestial messenger is about to return to Heaven with the shameful tidings, when he discovers a group of shepherds who are watching their flocks by night, and, as they gaze into the starry heavens, are contemplating the prophecy of a Messiah to come to earth, and longing for the advent of the world’s Redeemer. Here is a company that are prepared to receive the heavenly message. And suddenly the angel of the Lord appeared, declaring the good tidings of great joy. Celestial glory flooded all the plain, an innumerable company of angels was revealed, and as if the joy were too great for one messenger to bring from Heaven, a multitude of voices broke forth in the anthem which all the nations of the saved shall one day sing, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good-will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.]

GC88 314.3

It was not alone upon the hills of Judea, not among the lowly shepherds only, that angels found the watchers for Messiah’s coming. In the land of the heathen also were those that looked for him; they were wise men, rich and noble, the philosophers of the East. Students of nature, the magi had seen God in his handiwork. From the Hebrew Scriptures they had learned of the Star to arise out of Jacob, and with eager desire they waited His coming, who should be not only the “Consolation of Israel,” but a “Light to lighten the Gentiles,” and “for salvation unto the ends of the earth.” [Luke 2:25, 32; Acts 13:47.] They were seekers for light, and light from the throne of God illumined the path for their feet. While the priests and rabbis of Jerusalem, the appointed guardians and expounders of the truth, were shrouded in darkness, the Heaven-sent star guided these Gentile strangers to the birthplace of the new-born King.

From Here to Forever

A Message Given by Humble Men

HF 195.3

In amazement the celestial messenger was about to return to heaven with the shameful tidings, when he discovered a group of shepherds watching their flocks. As they gazed into the starry heavens, they contemplated the prophecy of a Messiah to come and longed for the advent of the world’s Redeemer. Here was a company prepared to receive the heavenly message. Suddenly celestial glory flooded all the plain, an innumerable company of angels was revealed; and as if the joy were too great for one messenger to bring from heaven, a multitude of voices broke forth in the anthem which all the nations of the saved shall one day sing: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2:14.

HF 196.2

It was not alone among lowly shepherds that angels found watchers for Messiah’s coming. In the land of the heathen also were those that looked for Him—rich, noble wise men—the philosophers of the East. From the Hebrew Scriptures they had learned of the Star to arise out of Jacob. With eager desire they awaited His coming who should be not only the “Consolation of Israel,” but a “Light to lighten the Gentiles,” and “for salvation unto the ends of the earth.” Luke 2:25, 32; Acts 13:47. The Heaven-sent star guided Gentile strangers to the birthplace of the newborn King.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 197, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 197, 1903, par. 4

Satan knew that one had come to this earth to dispute his authority. He heard the angels as they sang, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] He followed the footsteps of those who had charge of the infant Saviour. He heard the words of the aged prophet in the temple, as, taking Jesus in his arms, he said, “Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word; for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people, a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.” [Verses 29-32.]

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 5—The Dedication

DA 50.1

About forty days after the birth of Christ, Joseph and Mary took Him to Jerusalem, to present Him to the Lord, and to offer sacrifice. This was according to the Jewish law, and as man’s substitute Christ must conform to the law in every particular. He had already been subjected to the rite of circumcision, as a pledge of His obedience to the law.

DA 50.2

As an offering for the mother, the law required a lamb of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering. But the law provided that if the parents were too poor to bring a lamb, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering, the other for a sin offering, might be accepted.

DA 50.3

The offerings presented to the Lord were to be without blemish. These offerings represented Christ, and from this it is evident that Jesus Himself was free from physical deformity. He was the “lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:19. His physical structure was not marred by any defect; His body was strong and healthy. And throughout His lifetime He lived in conformity to nature’s laws. Physically as well as spiritually, He was an example of what God designed all humanity to be through obedience to His laws.

DA 51.1

The dedication of the first-born had its origin in the earliest times. God had promised to give the First-born of heaven to save the sinner. This gift was to be acknowledged in every household by the consecration of the first-born son. He was to be devoted to the priesthood, as a representative of Christ among men.

DA 51.2

In the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, the dedication of the first-born was again commanded. While the children of Israel were in bondage to the Egyptians, the Lord directed Moses to go to Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and say, “Thus saith the Lord, Israel is My son, even My first-born: and I say unto thee, Let My son go, that he may serve Me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy first-born.” Exodus 4:22, 23.

DA 51.3

Moses delivered his message; but the proud king’s answer was, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go.” Exodus 5:2. The Lord worked for His people by signs and wonders, sending terrible judgments upon Pharaoh. At length the destroying angel was bidden to slay the first-born of man and beast among the Egyptians. That the Israelites might be spared, they were directed to place upon their doorposts the blood of a slain lamb. Every house was to be marked, that when the angel came on his mission of death, he might pass over the homes of the Israelites.

DA 51.4

After sending this judgment upon Egypt, the Lord said to Moses, “Sanctify unto Me all the first-born, ... both of man and of beast: it is Mine;” “for on the day that I smote all the first-born in the land of Egypt I hallowed unto Me all the first-born in Israel, both man and beast: Mine shall they be: I am the Lord.” Exodus 13:2; Numbers 3:13. After the tabernacle service was established, the Lord chose the tribe of Levi in the place of the first-born of all Israel to minister in the sanctuary. But the first-born were still to be regarded as the Lord’s, and were to be bought back by a ransom.

DA 51.5

Thus the law for the presentation of the first-born was made particularly significant. While it was a memorial of the Lord’s wonderful deliverance of the children of Israel, it prefigured a greater deliverance, to be wrought out by the only-begotten Son of God. As the blood sprinkled on the doorposts had saved the first-born of Israel, so the blood of Christ has power to save the world.

DA 52.1

What meaning then was attached to Christ’s presentation! But the priest did not see through the veil; he did not read the mystery beyond. The presentation of infants was a common scene. Day after day the priest received the redemption money as the babes were presented to the Lord. Day after day he went through the routine of his work, giving little heed to the parents or children, unless he saw some indication of the wealth or high rank of the parents. Joseph and Mary were poor; and when they came with their child, the priests saw only a man and woman dressed as Galileans, and in the humblest garments. There was nothing in their appearance to attract attention, and they presented only the offering made by the poorer classes.

DA 52.2

The priest went through the ceremony of his official work. He took the child in his arms, and held it up before the altar. After handing it back to its mother, he inscribed the name “Jesus” on the roll of the first-born. Little did he think, as the babe lay in his arms, that it was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory. The priest did not think that this babe was the One of whom Moses had written, “A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; Him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever He shall say unto you.” Acts 3:22. He did not think that this babe was He whose glory Moses had asked to see. But One greater than Moses lay in the priest’s arms; and when he enrolled the child’s name, he was enrolling the name of One who was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. That name was to be its death warrant; for the system of sacrifices and offerings was waxing old; the type had almost reached its antitype, the shadow its substance.

DA 52.3

The Shekinah had departed from the sanctuary, but in the Child of Bethlehem was veiled the glory before which angels bow. This unconscious babe was the promised seed, to whom the first altar at the gate of Eden pointed. This was Shiloh, the peace giver. It was He who declared Himself to Moses as the I AM. It was He who in the pillar of cloud and of fire had been the guide of Israel. This was He whom seers had long foretold. He was the Desire of all nations, the Root and the Offspring of David, and the Bright and Morning Star. The name of that helpless little babe, inscribed in the roll of Israel, declaring Him our brother, was the hope of fallen humanity. The child for whom the redemption money had been paid was He who was to pay the ransom for the sins of the whole world. He was the true “high priest over the house of God,” the head of “an unchangeable priesthood,” the intercessor at “the right hand of the Majesty on high.” Hebrews 10:21; 7:24; 1:3.

DA 55.1

Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work He had come to do. The priest looked upon Him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither saw nor felt anything unusual, God’s act in giving His Son to the world was acknowledged. This occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. “There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.”

DA 55.2

As Simeon enters the temple, he sees a family presenting their first-born son before the priest. Their appearance bespeaks poverty; but Simeon understands the warnings of the Spirit, and he is deeply impressed that the infant being presented to the Lord is the Consolation of Israel, the One he has longed to see. To the astonished priest, Simeon appears like a man enraptured. The child has been returned to Mary, and he takes it in his arms and presents it to God, while a joy that he has never before felt enters his soul. As he lifts the infant Saviour toward heaven, he says, “Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.”

DA 55.3

The spirit of prophecy was upon this man of God, and while Joseph and Mary stood by, wondering at his words, he blessed them, and said unto Mary, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

DA 55.4

Anna also, a prophetess, came in and confirmed Simeon’s testimony concerning Christ. As Simeon spoke, her face lighted up with the glory of God, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord.

DA 55.5

These humble worshipers had not studied the prophecies in vain. But those who held positions as rulers and priests in Israel, though they too had before them the precious utterances of prophecy, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.

DA 56.1

So it is still. Events upon which the attention of all heaven is centered are undiscerned, their very occurrence is unnoticed, by religious leaders, and worshipers in the house of God. Men acknowledge Christ in history, while they turn away from the living Christ. Christ in His word calling to self-sacrifice, in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and toil and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was eighteen hundred years ago.

DA 56.2

Mary pondered the broad and far-reaching prophecy of Simeon. As she looked upon the child in her arms, and recalled the words spoken by the shepherds of Bethlehem, she was full of grateful joy and bright hope. Simeon’s words called to her mind the prophetic utterances of Isaiah: “There shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: and the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon Him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord.... And righteousness shall be the girdle of His loins, and faithfulness the girdle of His reins.” “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.... For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 11:1-5; 9:2-6.

DA 56.3

Yet Mary did not understand Christ’s mission. Simeon had prophesied of Him as a light to lighten the Gentiles, as well as a glory to Israel. Thus the angels had announced the Saviour’s birth as tidings of joy to all peoples. God was seeking to correct the narrow, Jewish conception of the Messiah’s work. He desired men to behold Him, not merely as the deliverer of Israel, but as the Redeemer of the world. But many years must pass before even the mother of Jesus would understand His mission.

DA 56.4

Mary looked forward to the Messiah’s reign on David’s throne, but she saw not the baptism of suffering by which it must be won. Through Simeon it is revealed that the Messiah is to have no unobstructed passage through the world. In the words to Mary, “A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,” God in His tender mercy gives to the mother of Jesus an intimation of the anguish that already for His sake she had begun to bear.

DA 56.5

“Behold,” Simeon had said, “this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against.” They must fall who would rise again. We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned, pride must be humbled, if we would know the glory of the spiritual kingdom. The Jews would not accept the honor that is reached through humiliation. Therefore they would not receive their Redeemer. He was a sign that was spoken against.

DA 57.1

“That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” In the light of the Saviour’s life, the hearts of all, even from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish and oppressive, as claiming all, and giving nothing, as requiring the service of His creatures for His own glory, and making no sacrifice for their good. But the gift of Christ reveals the Father’s heart. It testifies that the thoughts of God toward us are “thoughts of peace, and not of evil.” Jeremiah 29:11. It declares that while God’s hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, He will spare nothing, however dear, which is necessary to the completion of His work. No truth essential to our salvation is withheld, no miracle of mercy is neglected, no divine agency is left unemployed. Favor is heaped upon favor, gift upon gift. The whole treasury of heaven is open to those He seeks to save. Having collected the riches of the universe, and laid open the resources of infinite power, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, All these are for man. Use these gifts to convince him that there is no love greater than Mine in earth or heaven. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

DA 57.2

At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Here was their crowning manifestation. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested the malignity of his hatred against God. He made it evident that the real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God, and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.

DA 57.3

By the life and the death of Christ, the thoughts of men also are brought to view. From the manger to the cross, the life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender, and to fellowship in suffering. It unveiled the purposes of men. Jesus came with the truth of heaven, and all who were listening to the voice of the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan’s kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.

DA 58.1

In the day of final judgment, every lost soul will understand the nature of his own rejection of truth. The cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind that has been blinded by transgression. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Every lying excuse will be swept away. Human apostasy will appear in its heinous character. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question of truth and error in the long-standing controversy will then have been made plain. In the judgment of the universe, God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that the divine decrees are not accessory to sin. There was no defect in God’s government, no cause for disaffection. When the thoughts of all hearts shall be revealed, both the loyal and the rebellious will unite in declaring, “Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints. Who shall not fear Thee, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? ... for Thy judgments are made manifest.” Revelation 15:3, 4.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 5—Joseph and Mary Dedicate Jesus

HLv 29.1

About forty days after the birth of Christ, Joseph and Mary took Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord, and to offer sacrifice. As man’s substitute Christ must conform to the law in every particular. He had already been circumcised, as a pledge of His obedience to the law.

HLv 29.2

As an offering for the mother, the law required a lamb for a burnt offering, and a pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering. These offerings were to be without blemish, for they represented Christ. He was the “lamb without blemish and without spot.” 1 Peter 1:19. He was an example of what God designed humanity to be through obedience to His laws.

HLv 29.3

The dedication of the firstborn had its origin in earliest times. God had promised to give the Firstborn of heaven to save the sinner. This gift was to be acknowledged in every household by the consecration of the firstborn son. He was to be devoted to the priesthood, as a representative of Christ among men.

HLv 29.4

What meaning then was attached to Christ’s presentation! But the priest did not see through the veil. Day after day he went through the presentation of infants, giving little heed to parents or children, unless he saw some indication of wealth or high rank. Joseph and Mary were poor, and the priest saw only a Galilean man and woman, dressed in the humblest garments.

HLv 29.5

The priest took the child in his arms and held it up before the altar. After handing it back to its mother, he inscribed the name “Jesus” on the roll. Little did he think, as the babe lay in his arms, that he was enrolling the name of the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, the One who was the foundation of the Jewish economy.

HLv 30.1

This babe was He who declared Himself to Moses as the I AM, He who in the pillar of cloud and of fire had been the guide of Israel. He was the Desire of all nations, the Root and Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star. That helpless babe was the hope of fallen humanity. He was to pay the ransom for the sins of the whole world.

HLv 30.2

But though the priest neither saw nor felt anything unusual, this occasion did not pass without some recognition of Christ. “There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, ... and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.”

HLv 30.3

As Simeon entered the temple, he was deeply impressed that the infant being presented to the Lord was the One he had longed to see. To the astonished priest, he appeared like a man enraptured. He took the child in his arms, while a joy he had never before felt entered his soul. As he lifted the infant Saviour toward heaven, he said, “Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.”

HLv 30.4

While Joseph and Mary stood by, wondering at his words, he said to Mary, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

HLv 30.5

Also Anna, a prophetess, came in and confirmed Simeon’s testimony. Her face lighted up with glory, and she poured out her heartfelt thanks that she had been permitted to behold Christ the Lord.

HLv 31.1

These humble worshipers had studied the prophecies. But the rulers and priests, though they too had the precious prophecies, were not walking in the way of the Lord, and their eyes were not open to behold the Light of life.

HLv 31.2

So it is still. The attention of all heaven is centered on events which are undiscerned by religious leaders. Men acknowledge Christ in history, but Christ in the poor and suffering who plead for relief, in the righteous cause that involves poverty and reproach, is no more readily received today than He was nineteen hundred years ago.

HLv 31.3

As Mary looked upon the child in her arms and recalled the words spoken by the shepherds, she was full of bright hope. Simeon’s words called to her mind the prophetic utterances of Isaiah: “The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined... . For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:2-6.

HLv 31.4

Yet Mary did not understand Christ’s mission. Simeon had prophesied of Him as a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the angels had announced the Saviour’s birth as tidings of joy to all peoples. God desired men to behold Him as the Redeemer of the world. But many years must pass before even the mother of Jesus would understand.

HLv 31.5

Mary saw not the baptism of suffering by which the Messiah’s reign on David’s throne must be won. In Simeon’s words to Mary, “A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,” God in tender mercy gave to the mother of Jesus an intimation of the anguish that already for His sake she had begun to bear.

HLv 31.6

“Behold,” Simeon had said, “this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel.” They must fall who would rise again. We must fall upon the Rock and be broken before we can be uplifted in Christ. Self must be dethroned. The Jews would not accept the honor that is reached through humiliation. Therefore they would not receive their Redeemer.

HLv 32.1

“That the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” In the light of the Saviour’s life, the hearts of all, from the Creator to the prince of darkness, are revealed. Satan has represented God as selfish. But the gift of Christ testifies that while God’s hatred of sin is as strong as death, His love for the sinner is stronger than death. Having undertaken our redemption, God will spare nothing necessary to the completion of His work. Having collected the riches of the universe, He gives them all into the hands of Christ, and says, Use these gifts to convince man that there is no love greater than Mine. His greatest happiness will be found in loving Me.

HLv 32.2

At the cross of Calvary, love and selfishness stood face to face. Christ had lived only to comfort and bless, and in putting Him to death, Satan manifested his hatred against God. The real purpose of his rebellion was to dethrone God and to destroy Him through whom the love of God was shown.

HLv 32.3

By the life and death of Christ the thoughts of men also are brought to view. The life of Jesus was a call to self-surrender and to fellowship in suffering. All who were listening to the Holy Spirit were drawn to Him. The worshipers of self belonged to Satan’s kingdom. In their attitude toward Christ, all would show on which side they stood. And thus everyone passes judgment on himself.

From Heaven With Love

How Everyone Will Judge Himself

HLv 32.4

In the day of final judgment, the cross will be presented, and its real bearing will be seen by every mind. Before the vision of Calvary with its mysterious Victim, sinners will stand condemned. Men will see what their choice has been. Every question in the controversy will have been made plain. God will stand clear of blame for the existence or continuance of evil. It will be demonstrated that there was no defect in God’s government, no cause for disaffection. Both the loyal and the rebellious will declare, “Just and true are Thy ways, Thou King of saints... . Thy judgments are made manifest.” Revelation 15:3, 4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 2, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 2, 1890, par. 2

Now, brethren, the blessing that is here spoken of we may receive when we come to God with our whole heart, when we empty it of every kind of prejudice and all this doubting and unbelief, then we can expect the Spirit of God. But it is the case as I presented before you one morning in regard to the presentation of Christ in the temple. The priest took Him in his arms, but he could see nothing there. God did not speak to him and say, “This is the consolation of Israel.” But just as soon as Simeon came in the Spirit of God led him, and because he was under His influence, the Holy Ghost being upon him, he sees there that little Infant in His mother’s arms, and every indication of the little family being in poverty, but the moment he beholds that, God says to him, “This is the consolation of Israel.” [Luke 2:25.] Now we have two distinct characters. The priest that was there officiating did not know Him; but here was one who recognized Him because he was where he could discern spiritual things. He was living in close relation with God. He was living in connection with the future eternal interest, and therefore he recognized the Spirit of God.

The Truth About Angels

The Magi

TA 161.1

It was not alone upon the hills of Judea, not among the lowly shepherds only, that angels found the watchers for the Messiah’s coming. In the land of the heathen also were those that looked for Him; they were wise men, rich and noble, the philosophers of the East. Students of nature, the Magi had seen God in His handiwork. From the Hebrew Scriptures they had learned of the Star to arise out of Jacob, and with eager desire they awaited His coming, who should be not only the “Consolation of Israel,” but “a Light to lighten the Gentiles,” and “for salvation unto the ends of the earth.” Luke 2:25, 32; Acts 13:47.—The Great Controversy, 315.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)

Ms 104, 1900

15LtMs, Ms 104, 1900, par. 11

Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. In the temple the Son of God was dedicated to the work he had come to do. The priest looked upon him as he would upon any other child. But though he neither felt nor saw anything unusual, God’s act in giving his Son to the world did not pass unacknowledged. “There was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.” [Luke 2:25, 26.]

15LtMs, Ms 104, 1900, par. 12

“And he came by the Spirit into the temple.” [Verse 27.] As Simeon enters the temple, he sees a family presenting their firstborn son before the priest. Their appearance bespeaks poverty; but Simeon understands the warnings of the Spirit, and he is deeply impressed that the infant being dedicated to the Lord is the Consolation of Israel, the One he has longed to see. To the astonished priest Simeon appears like a man enraptured. The child has been returned to Mary, and he takes it in his arms and presents it to God, while a joy that he has never felt before enters his soul. As he lifts the infant Saviour toward heaven, he says, “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” [Verses 29-32.]

15LtMs, Ms 104, 1900, par. 13

The spirit of prophecy came upon this man of God, and while Joseph and Mary stood by, wondering at the words spoken, he blessed them, and said to Mary, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; ... that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” [Verses 34, 35.]

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White

At the First Advent of Christ

CET 239.3

The last of the Old Testament prophets was Malachi. During the period of formalism before the appearance of Christ, so far as any record exists, there were no manifestations of the gift of prophecy. But prophets were sent to prepare the way for the Messiah. Zacharias, the father of John the Baptist, “wasfilled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied.” Luke 1:67. Simeon, a “just and devout” man, who was “waiting for the consolation of Israel,” came by the spirit into the temple, and prophesied concerning Jesus, that he should be a “light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.” Anna, a prophetess, “spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Luke 2:25, 32, 38. And there was no greater prophet in any age than was John the Baptist, who was chosen by God to proclaim to Israel the advent of “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” John 1:29.

The Retirement Years

Helpful Bible Texts for Seniors

RY 190.3

A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.—Luke 2:25-32.

RY 190.6

And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.—Luke 2:36-38.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 23, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 1

“And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death until he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: for mine eyes have seen thy salvation, which thou hast prepared before the face of all the people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of my people Israel.” [Luke 2:25-32.]

13LtMs, Ms 23, 1898, par. 2

“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him. ... And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” [Verses 40, 52.]

Patriarchs and Prophets

Introduction

PP 21.1

After the plan of salvation had been devised, God, as we have seen, could still, through the ministry of His Son and the holy angels, communicate with men across the gulf which sin had made. Sometimes He spoke face to face with them, as in the case of Moses, but more frequently by dreams and visions. Instances of such communication are everywhere prominent upon the sacred record, covering all dispensations. Enoch the seventh from Adam looked forward in the spirit of prophecy to the second advent of Christ in power and glory, and exclaimed, “Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of His saints.” Jude 14. “Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21. If the operation of the spirit of prophecy has at times seemed almost to disappear, as the spirituality of the people waned, it has nevertheless marked all the great crises in the experience of the church, and the epochs which witnessed the change from one dispensation to another. When the era marked by the incarnation of Christ was reached, the father of John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied. Luke 1:67. To Simeon it was revealed that he should not see death till he had seen the Lord; and when the parents of Jesus brought Him into the temple that He might be dedicated, Simeon came by the Spirit into the temple, took Him into his arms, and blessed Him while he prophesied concerning Him. And Anna, a prophetess, coming in the same instant, spake of Him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Luke 2:26, 36.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 13, 1876

3LtMs, Lt 13, 1876, par. 2

The other article was upon Christ going through the cornfield plucking the ears of corn and healing the withered hand—12 pages. If I can, with Mary’s help get out these subjects of such intense interest, I could say, “Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace.” [Luke 2:29.] These writings are all I can see now. Mary’s interest does not decrease at all. She is just as ardent and anxious as I am that this work shall be done now, before we leave California. Interesting subjects are continually opening to my mind. These subjects I speak upon which fastens them in Mary’s mind.

Jesus, Name Above All Names

Consolation of Israel, February 20

JNN 59.1

“Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word; for my eyes have seen Your salvation.”—Luke 2:29, 30

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 2—Jesus Presented in the Temple

SJ 19.6

“Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.” Luke 2:29-32.

SJ 19.7

Anna, a prophetess, “coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of Him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.” Luke 2:38.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

An Illustration

CT 446.2

Of Christ, Simeon said, “Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace, according to Thy word: for mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.” And the record declares, “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:29-32, 52.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 45, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 45, 1897, par. 12

“Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleopas, and Mary Magdalene.” [John 19:25.] As Christ’s mother stood by the cross upon which He hung, she realized the truth of the words spoken by Simeon, when he took the infant Saviour in his arms and blessed Him. “Mine eyes have seen thy salvation,” he said, “which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at the things which were spoken of Him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary His mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; (yea, a sword shall pierce through thine own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” [Luke 2:30-35.]

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 51—“The Light of Life”

DA 465.1

In the words, “I am the light of the world,” Jesus declared Himself the Messiah. The aged Simeon, in the temple where Christ was now teaching, had spoken of Him as “a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.” Luke 2:32. In these words he was applying to Him a prophecy familiar to all Israel. By the prophet Isaiah, the Holy Spirit had declared, “It is too light a thing that Thou shouldest be My servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give Thee for a light to the Gentiles, that Thou mayest be My salvation unto the end of the earth.” Isaiah 49:6, R. V. This prophecy was generally understood as spoken of the Messiah, and when Jesus said, “I am the light of the world,” the people could not fail to recognize His claim to be the Promised One.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 112, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 112, 1897, par. 35

This false Christ was claiming what Satan claimed in heaven—a right to all things. Christ in His humiliation was possessor of all things. In Him was no darkness at all. In the words of Simeon, He was, “A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of my people Israel.” [Luke 2:32.] The light of the sanctuary was to be kept burning before God. It was never to burn dim or go out. God was a light so effulgent, that Lucifer occupied the position of covering cherub, so that the universe could at all times look upon His glory. The light was not needed to give light to the heavenly sanctuary; it was to represent His church, to give light to the world. His chosen Israel was to be the light of the world. That light was never to become extinct.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 25, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 25, 1892, par. 10

“Or sword?” Of Mary, the mother of Jesus, Simeon prophesied, “Behold this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; yea, a sword shall pierce through thine own soul also, that the thoughts of many hearts might be revealed.” [Luke 2:34, 35.] The sword cannot kill the soul for the life is hid with Christ in God. Well may we ask with Paul, “Who shall separate us from the love of God?” And answer, “For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” [Romans 8:38, 39.]

Daughters of God

Mary, the Mother of Jesus

DG 53.3

From the day when she heard the angel’s announcement in the home at Nazareth, Mary had treasured every evidence that Jesus was the Messiah. His sweet, unselfish life assured her that He could be no other than the Sent of God. Yet there came to her also doubts and disappointments, and she had longed for the time when His glory should be revealed. Death had separated her from Joseph, who had shared her knowledge of the mystery of the birth of Jesus. Now there was no one to whom she could confide her hopes and fears. The past two months had been very sorrowful. She had been parted from Jesus, in whose sympathy she found comfort; she pondered upon the words of Simeon, “A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also” (Luke 2:35); she recalled the three days of agony when she thought Jesus lost to her forever; and with an anxious heart she awaited His return.—The Desire of Ages, 145 (1898).

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 15—At the Marriage Feast

DA 145.1

From the day when she heard the angel’s announcement in the home at Nazareth Mary had treasured every evidence that Jesus was the Messiah. His sweet, unselfish life assured her that He could be no other than the Sent of God. Yet there came to her also doubts and disappointments, and she had longed for the time when His glory should be revealed. Death had separated her from Joseph, who had shared her knowledge of the mystery of the birth of Jesus. Now there was no one to whom she could confide her hopes and fears. The past two months had been very sorrowful. She had been parted from Jesus, in whose sympathy she found comfort; she pondered upon the words of Simeon, “A sword shall pierce through thy own soul also” (Luke 2:35); she recalled the three days of agony when she thought Jesus lost to her forever; and with an anxious heart she awaited His return.

DA 146.2

At His visit to the temple in His boyhood, as the mystery of His lifework opened before Him, Christ had said to Mary, “Wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business?” Luke 2:49. These words struck the keynote of His whole life and ministry. Everything was held in abeyance to His work, the great work of redemption which He had come into the world to accomplish. Now He repeated the lesson. There was danger that Mary would regard her relationship to Jesus as giving her a special claim upon Him, and the right, in some degree, to direct Him in His mission. For thirty years He had been to her a loving and obedient son, and His love was unchanged; but He must now go about His Father’s work. As Son of the Most High, and Saviour of the world, no earthly ties must hold Him from His mission, or influence His conduct. He must stand free to do the will of God. This lesson is also for us. The claims of God are paramount even to the ties of human relationship. No earthly attraction should turn our feet from the path in which He bids us walk.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 15—Jesus Attends a Wedding

HLv 90.4

Death had separated Mary from Joseph, who had shared her knowledge of the mystery of the birth of Jesus. Now there was no one in whom she could confide her hopes and fears. She pondered the words of Simeon, “A sword will pierce through thy own soul also.” Luke 2:35. With an anxious heart she awaited Jesus’ return.

HLv 91.4

At His visit to the temple in His boyhood, Christ had said to Mary, “Wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business?” Luke 2:49. Now He repeated the lesson. There was danger that Mary would regard her relationship to Jesus as giving her the right, in some degree, to direct Him in His mission. For thirty years He had been a loving, obedient Son, but now He must go about His Father’s work. As Saviour of the world, no earthly ties must hold Him from His mission. This lesson is also for us. No earthly attraction, no ties of human relationship, should turn our feet from the path in which God bids us walk.

From Heaven With Love

Nature Supplemented the Bible

HLv 41.5

While Jesus was a child, He thought and spoke as a child, but no trace of sin marred the image of God within Him. Yet He was not exempt from temptation. The inhabitants of Nazareth were proverbial for their wickedness. See John 1:46. It was necessary for Jesus to be constantly on guard in order to preserve His purity. He was subject to all the conflicts we have to meet, that He might be an example to us in childhood, youth, and manhood.

From Heaven With Love

As a Carpenter, Christ Honored Work

HLv 43.1

Jesus was an earnest and constant worker. He expected much; therefore He attempted much. He said, “I must work the works of Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” John 9:4. Jesus did not shirk care and responsibility, as do many who profess to be His followers. Because they seek to evade this discipline, many are weak, inefficient, nerveless, and almost useless when difficulties are met. The positiveness and strength of character manifested in Christ are to be developed in us, through the same discipline He endured. The grace He received is for us.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 7—As a Child

DA 68.1

The childhood and youth of Jesus were spent in a little mountain village. There was no place on earth that would not have been honored by His presence. The palaces of kings would have been privileged in receiving Him as a guest. But He passed by the homes of wealth, the courts of royalty, and the renowned seats of learning, to make His home in obscure and despised Nazareth.

DA 68.2

Wonderful in its significance is the brief record of His early life: “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” In the sunlight of His Father’s countenance, Jesus “increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:52. His mind was active and penetrating, with a thoughtfulness and wisdom beyond His years. Yet His character was beautiful in its symmetry. The powers of mind and body developed gradually, in keeping with the laws of childhood.

DA 68.3

As a child, Jesus manifested a peculiar loveliness of disposition. His willing hands were ever ready to serve others. He manifested a patience that nothing could disturb, and a truthfulness that would never sacrifice integrity. In principle firm as a rock, His life revealed the grace of unselfish courtesy.

DA 69.1

With deep earnestness the mother of Jesus watched the unfolding of His powers, and beheld the impress of perfection upon His character. With delight she sought to encourage that bright, receptive mind. Through the Holy Spirit she received wisdom to co-operate with the heavenly agencies in the development of this child, who could claim only God as His Father.

DA 69.2

From the earliest times the faithful in Israel had given much care to the education of the youth. The Lord had directed that even from babyhood the children should be taught of His goodness and His greatness, especially as revealed in His law, and shown in the history of Israel. Song and prayer and lessons from the Scriptures were to be adapted to the opening mind. Fathers and mothers were to instruct their children that the law of God is an expression of His character, and that as they received the principles of the law into the heart, the image of God was traced on mind and soul. Much of the teaching was oral; but the youth also learned to read the Hebrew writings; and the parchment rolls of the Old Testament Scriptures were open to their study.

DA 69.3

In the days of Christ the town or city that did not provide for the religious instruction of the young was regarded as under the curse of God. Yet the teaching had become formal. Tradition had in a great degree supplanted the Scriptures. True education would lead the youth to “seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after Him, and find Him.” Acts 17:27. But the Jewish teachers gave their attention to matters of ceremony. The mind was crowded with material that was worthless to the learner, and that would not be recognized in the higher school of the courts above. The experience which is obtained through a personal acceptance of God’s word had no place in the educational system. Absorbed in the round of externals, the students found no quiet hours to spend with God. They did not hear His voice speaking to the heart. In their search after knowledge, they turned away from the Source of wisdom. The great essentials of the service of God were neglected. The principles of the law were obscured. That which was regarded as superior education was the greatest hindrance to real development. Under the training of the rabbis the powers of the youth were repressed. Their minds became cramped and narrow.

DA 70.1

The child Jesus did not receive instruction in the synagogue schools. His mother was His first human teacher. From her lips and from the scrolls of the prophets, He learned of heavenly things. The very words which He Himself had spoken to Moses for Israel He was now taught at His mother’s knee. As He advanced from childhood to youth, He did not seek the schools of the rabbis. He needed not the education to be obtained from such sources; for God was His instructor.

DA 70.2

The question asked during the Saviour’s ministry, “How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?” does not indicate that Jesus was unable to read, but merely that He had not received a rabbinical education. John 7:15. Since He gained knowledge as we may do, His intimate acquaintance with the Scriptures shows how diligently His early years were given to the study of God’s word. And spread out before Him was the great library of God’s created works. He who had made all things studied the lessons which His own hand had written in earth and sea and sky. Apart from the unholy ways of the world, He gathered stores of scientific knowledge from nature. He studied the life of plants and animals, and the life of man. From His earliest years He was possessed of one purpose; He lived to bless others. For this He found resources in nature; new ideas of ways and means flashed into His mind as He studied plant life and animal life. Continually He was seeking to draw from things seen illustrations by which to present the living oracles of God. The parables by which, during His ministry, He loved to teach His lessons of truth show how open His spirit was to the influences of nature, and how He had gathered the spiritual teaching from the surroundings of His daily life.

DA 70.3

Thus to Jesus the significance of the word and the works of God was unfolded, as He was trying to understand the reason of things. Heavenly beings were His attendants, and the culture of holy thoughts and communings was His. From the first dawning of intelligence He was constantly growing in spiritual grace and knowledge of truth.

DA 70.4

Every child may gain knowledge as Jesus did. As we try to become acquainted with our heavenly Father through His word, angels will draw near, our minds will be strengthened, our characters will be elevated and refined. We shall become more like our Saviour. And as we behold the beautiful and grand in nature, our affections go out after God. While the spirit is awed, the soul is invigorated by coming in contact with the Infinite through His works. Communion with God through prayer develops the mental and moral faculties, and the spiritual powers strengthen as we cultivate thoughts upon spiritual things.

DA 71.1

The life of Jesus was a life in harmony with God. While He was a child, He thought and spoke as a child; but no trace of sin marred the image of God within Him. Yet He was not exempt from temptation. The inhabitants of Nazareth were proverbial for their wickedness. The low estimate in which they were generally held is shown by Nathanael’s question, “Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?” John 1:46. Jesus was placed where His character would be tested. It was necessary for Him to be constantly on guard in order to preserve His purity. He was subject to all the conflicts which we have to meet, that He might be an example to us in childhood, youth, and manhood.

DA 71.2

Satan was unwearied in his efforts to overcome the Child of Nazareth. From His earliest years Jesus was guarded by heavenly angels, yet His life was one long struggle against the powers of darkness. That there should be upon the earth one life free from the defilement of evil was an offense and a perplexity to the prince of darkness. He left no means untried to ensnare Jesus. No child of humanity will ever be called to live a holy life amid so fierce a conflict with temptation as was our Saviour.

DA 72.1

The parents of Jesus were poor, and dependent upon their daily toil. He was familiar with poverty, self-denial, and privation. This experience was a safeguard to Him. In His industrious life there were no idle moments to invite temptation. No aimless hours opened the way for corrupting associations. So far as possible, He closed the door to the tempter. Neither gain nor pleasure, applause nor censure, could induce Him to consent to a wrong act. He was wise to discern evil, and strong to resist it.

DA 72.2

Christ was the only sinless one who ever dwelt on earth; yet for nearly thirty years He lived among the wicked inhabitants of Nazareth. This fact is a rebuke to those who think themselves dependent upon place, fortune, or prosperity, in order to live a blameless life. Temptation, poverty, adversity, is the very discipline needed to develop purity and firmness.

DA 72.3

Jesus lived in a peasant’s home, and faithfully and cheerfully acted His part in bearing the burdens of the household. He had been the Commander of heaven, and angels had delighted to fulfill His word; now He was a willing servant, a loving, obedient son. He learned a trade, and with His own hands worked in the carpenter’s shop with Joseph. In the simple garb of a common laborer He walked the streets of the little town, going to and returning from His humble work. He did not employ His divine power to lessen His burdens or to lighten His toil.

DA 72.4

As Jesus worked in childhood and youth, mind and body were developed. He did not use His physical powers recklessly, but in such a way as to keep them in health, that He might do the best work in every line. He was not willing to be defective, even in the handling of tools. He was perfect as a workman, as He was perfect in character. By His own example He taught that it is our duty to be industrious, that our work should be performed with exactness and thoroughness, and that such labor is honorable. The exercise that teaches the hands to be useful and trains the young to bear their share of life’s burdens gives physical strength, and develops every faculty. All should find something to do that will be beneficial to themselves and helpful to others. God appointed work as a blessing, and only the diligent worker finds the true glory and joy of life. The approval of God rests with loving assurance upon children and youth who cheerfully take their part in the duties of the household, sharing the burdens of father and mother. Such children will go out from the home to be useful members of society.

DA 73.1

Throughout His life on earth, Jesus was an earnest and constant worker. He expected much; therefore He attempted much. After He had entered on His ministry, He said, “I must work the works of Him that sent Me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.” John 9:4. Jesus did not shirk care and responsibility, as do many who profess to be His followers. It is because they seek to evade this discipline that so many are weak and inefficient. They may possess precious and amiable traits, but they are nerveless and almost useless when difficulties are to be met or obstacles surmounted. The positiveness and energy, the solidity and strength of character, manifested in Christ are to be developed in us, through the same discipline that He endured. And the grace that He received is for us.

DA 73.2

So long as He lived among men, our Saviour shared the lot of the poor. He knew by experience their cares and hardships, and He could comfort and encourage all humble workers. Those who have a true conception of the teaching of His life will never feel that a distinction must be made between classes, that the rich are to be honored above the worthy poor.

DA 73.3

Jesus carried into His labor cheerfulness and tact. It requires much patience and spirituality to bring Bible religion into the home life and into the workshop, to bear the strain of worldly business, and yet keep the eye single to the glory of God. This is where Christ was a helper. He was never so full of worldly care as to have no time or thought for heavenly things. Often He expressed the gladness of His heart by singing psalms and heavenly songs. Often the dwellers in Nazareth heard His voice raised in praise and thanksgiving to God. He held communion with heaven in song; and as His companions complained of weariness from labor, they were cheered by the sweet melody from His lips. His praise seemed to banish the evil angels, and, like incense, fill the place with fragrance. The minds of His hearers were carried away from their earthly exile, to the heavenly home.

DA 74.1

Jesus was the fountain of healing mercy for the world; and through all those secluded years at Nazareth, His life flowed out in currents of sympathy and tenderness. The aged, the sorrowing, and the sin-burdened, the children at play in their innocent joy, the little creatures of the groves, the patient beasts of burden,—all were happier for His presence. He whose word of power upheld the worlds would stoop to relieve a wounded bird. There was nothing beneath His notice, nothing to which He disdained to minister.

DA 74.2

Thus as He grew in wisdom and stature, Jesus increased in favor with God and man. He drew the sympathy of all hearts by showing Himself capable of sympathizing with all. The atmosphere of hope and courage that surrounded Him made Him a blessing in every home. And often in the synagogue on the Sabbath day He was called upon to read the lesson from the prophets, and the hearts of the hearers thrilled as a new light shone out from the familiar words of the sacred text.

DA 74.3

Yet Jesus shunned display. During all the years of His stay in Nazareth, He made no exhibition of His miraculous power. He sought no high position and assumed no titles. His quiet and simple life, and even the silence of the Scriptures concerning His early years, teach an important lesson. The more quiet and simple the life of the child,—the more free from artificial excitement, and the more in harmony with nature,—the more favorable is it to physical and mental vigor and to spiritual strength.

DA 74.4

Jesus is our example. There are many who dwell with interest upon the period of His public ministry, while they pass unnoticed the teaching of His early years. But it is in His home life that He is the pattern for all children and youth. The Saviour condescended to poverty, that He might teach how closely we in a humble lot may walk with God. He lived to please, honor, and glorify His Father in the common things of life. His work began in consecrating the lowly trade of the craftsmen who toil for their daily bread. He was doing God’s service just as much when laboring at the carpenter’s bench as when working miracles for the multitude. And every youth who follows Christ’s example of faithfulness and obedience in His lowly home may claim those words spoken of Him by the Father through the Holy Spirit, “Behold My Servant, whom I uphold; Mine Elect, in whom My soul delighteth.” Isaiah 42:1.

From Heaven With Love

Chapter 7—The Child Jesus

HLv 40.1

The childhood and youth of Jesus were spent in a little mountain village. He passed by the homes of wealth and the renowned seats of learning to make His home in despised Nazareth.

HLv 40.2

“The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” In the sunlight of His Father’s countenance, Jesus “increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:52. His mind was active and penetrating, with a thoughtfulness and wisdom beyond His years. The powers of mind and body developed gradually, in keeping with the laws of childhood.

HLv 40.3

As a child, Jesus manifested a loveliness of disposition, a patience that nothing could disturb, and a truthfulness that would never sacrifice integrity. In principle firm as a rock, His life revealed the grace of unselfish courtesy.

HLv 40.4

The mother of Jesus watched the unfolding of His powers, and sought to encourage that bright, receptive mind. Through the Holy Spirit she received wisdom to cooperate with heavenly agencies in the development of this child who could claim only God as His Father.

HLv 40.5

In the days of Christ the religious instruction of the young had become formal. Tradition had in a great degree supplanted the Scriptures. The mind was crowded with material that would not be recognized in the higher school of the courts above. Students found no quiet hours to spend with God, to hear His voice speaking to the heart. They turned away from the Source of wisdom. That which was regarded as “superior” education was the greatest hindrance to real development of the youth. Their minds became cramped and narrow.

HLv 41.1

The child Jesus did not receive instruction in the synagogue schools. From His mother and the scrolls of the prophets He learned of heavenly things. As He advanced to youth, He did not seek the schools of the rabbis. He needed not the education to be obtained from such sources. His intimate acquaintance with the Scriptures shows how diligently His early years were given to the study of God’s Word.

HLv 41.2

Spread out before Him was the great library of God’s created works. He who had made all things studied the lessons His own hand had written in earth and sea and sky. He gathered stores of scientific knowledge from nature—from plants, animals, and man. The parables by which He loved to teach lessons of truth show how He gathered spiritual teaching from nature and the surroundings of His daily life.

HLv 41.3

As Jesus was trying to understand the reason of things, heavenly beings were His attendants. From the first dawning of intelligence He was constantly growing in spiritual grace and knowledge of truth.

HLv 41.4

Every child may gain knowledge as Jesus did. As we try to become acquainted with our heavenly Father, angels will draw near, our minds will be strengthened, our characters elevated and refined. We shall become more like our Saviour. And as we behold the beautiful and grand in nature, our affections go out after God. The spirit is awed, the soul invigorated by coming in contact with the Infinite through His works. Communion with God through prayer develops the mental and moral faculties.

HLv 42.1

From His earliest years Jesus was guarded by heavenly angels, yet His life was one long struggle against the powers of darkness. The prince of darkness left no means untried to ensnare Jesus with temptation.

HLv 42.2

Jesus was familiar with poverty, self-denial, and privation. This experience was a safeguard to Him. No aimless hours opened the way for corrupting associations. Neither gain nor pleasure, applause nor censure, could induce Him to consent to a wrong act. Christ, the only sinless one who ever dwelt on earth, for nearly thirty years lived among the wicked inhabitants of Nazareth. This fact is a rebuke to those who think themselves dependent upon place, fortune, or prosperity, to live a blameless life.

HLv 42.3

Jesus had been the Commander of heaven, and angels had delighted to fulfill His word; now He was a willing servant, a loving, obedient son. With His own hands He worked in the carpenter’s shop with Joseph. He did not employ divine power to lessen His burdens or lighten His toil.

HLv 42.4

Jesus used His physical powers in such a way as to keep in health, that He might do the best work.

HLv 42.5

He was not willing to be defective, even in handling tools. He was perfect as a workman, as He was perfect in character. By example He taught that work should be performed with exactness and thoroughness and that labor is honorable. God appointed work as a blessing, and only the diligent worker finds the true glory and joy of life. The approval of God rests on children and youth who take their part in the duties of the household, sharing the burdens of father and mother.

HLv 43.2

Our Saviour shared the lot of the poor. Those who have a true conception of His life will never feel that the rich are to be honored above the worthy poor.

HLv 43.4

Through those secluded years at Nazareth, His life flowed out in currents of sympathy and tenderness. The aged, the sorrowing, the sin-burdened, children at play, little creatures of the groves, the patient beasts of burden—all were happier for His presence. He whose word upheld the worlds would stoop to relieve a wounded bird. There was nothing beneath His notice, nothing to which He disdained to minister.

HLv 43.5

Thus He grew in wisdom and stature, in favor with God and man. He showed Himself capable of sympathizing with all. The atmosphere of hope and courage that surrounded Him made Him a blessing in every home. Often on the Sabbath day He was called on to read the lesson from the prophets, and the hearts of the hearers thrilled as new light shone out from the sacred text.

HLv 43.6

Yet during all the years at Nazareth, He made no exhibition of miraculous power. He assumed no titles. His quiet and simple life teaches an important lesson: the more free the life of the child from artificial excitement, and the more in harmony with nature, the more favorable is it to physical and mental vigor and spiritual strength.

HLv 44.1

Jesus is our example. In His home life He is the pattern for all children and youth. The Saviour condescended to poverty, that He might teach how closely we in a humble lot may walk with God. His work began in consecrating the lowly trade of the craftsmen who toil for their daily bread.

HLv 44.2

He was doing God’s service just as much when laboring at the carpenter’s bench as when working miracles for the multitude. Every youth who follows Christ’s example of faithfulness and obedience in His lowly home may also claim these words spoken by the Father: “Behold My Servant, whom I uphold; Mine Elect, in whom My soul delighteth.” Isaiah 42:1.

HLv 43.3

Often Jesus expressed the gladness of His heart by singing psalms and heavenly songs. Often the dwellers in Nazareth heard His voice raised in praise and song. As his companions complained of weariness, they were cheered by the sweet melody from His lips.

My Life Today

Jesus as a Youth, October 21

ML 298.1

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40.

Sons and Daughters of God

In Physical Development, May 13

SD 140.1

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8

Chapter 36—How Shall Our Youth Be Trained?

8T 223.1

“The Child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” Luke 2:40.

That I May Know Him

A Light to the Young, January 21

TMK 27.1

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40.

The Faith I Live By

Pattern for Children and Youth, September 14

FLB 263.1

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40.

The Ministry of Healing

A Broad Foundation

MH 400.2

“The Child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” Luke 2:40.

From the Heart

A Model for the Young, August 10

FH 234.1

And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom. Luke 2:40.

From the Heart

Living the Truth, August 11

FH 235.1

The grace of God was upon Him. Luke 2:40.

Christ Triumphant

He Who Made the Worlds Became a Helpless Babe, August 3

CTr 222.1

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 129, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 129, 1903, par. 8

“The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him.” [Luke 2:40.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 232, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 232, 1903, par. 28

He was born a babe in Nazareth and grew as other children grow. The powers of mind and body developed gradually, in harmony with the laws of nature. Of Him we read, “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” [Luke 2:40.]

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Christ’s Example

CT 147.1

In his earth life Christ was an example to all the human family, and He was obedient and helpful in the home. He learned the carpenter’s trade, and worked with His own hands in the little shop at Nazareth.... The Bible says of Jesus, “The Child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” Luke 2:40. As He worked in childhood and youth, mind and body were developed. He did not use His physical powers recklessly, but in such a way as to keep them in health, that He might do the best work in every line....

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Christ as the Example and Teacher of Youth

CT 178.1

The example of Jesus is a light to the young, as well as to those of more mature years, for His was a representative childhood and youth. From His earliest years His example was perfect. As a little child He was obedient to His parents and to the laws of nature, “and the grace of God was upon Him.” Luke 2:40.

Education

Chapter 8—The Teacher Sent From God

Ed 78.1

“The Child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” Luke 2:40.

God’s Amazing Grace

As Jesus Grew, October 1

AG 282.1

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Luke 2:40.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]

MR No. 815—Evangelizing Big Cities From Outposts

10MR 254.1

With the people of that age the value of things was determined by outward show. As religion had declined in power, it had increased in pomp. The educators of the time sought to command respect by display and ostentation. To all this the life of Jesus presented a marked contrast. His life demonstrated the worthlessness of those things that men regarded as life’s greatest essentials. The schools of His time, with their magnifying of things small and their belittling of things great, He did not seek. His education was gained directly from Heaven-appointed sources; from useful work, from the study of the Scriptures and of nature, and from the experiences of life—God’s lesson books, full of instruction to all who bring to them the willing hand, the seeing eye, and the understanding heart. “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him” (Luke 2:40).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 37, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 37, 1898, par. 4

Christ wrought miracle after miracle when He was on this earth. In His work He manifested what God could do for afflicted bodies and souls. This work He commenced when He was but a child. His whole being was the Lord’s, pure and undefiled. Luke testifies of Him, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Him.” [Luke 2:40.] When He was twelve years old, He was lost in the multitude of travellers returning from the Passover. After Joseph and Mary had searched for Him for three days, they found Him in the court of the temple, “sitting in the midst of the doctors, hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.” [Verses 46, 47.] He asked His questions with a grace that charmed these learned men.

13LtMs, Ms 37, 1898, par. 6

When Joseph and Mary found Jesus in the temple, they were amazed, “and His mother said unto Him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto her, How is it that ye sought me?” Pointing heavenward, He continued, “Wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” [Verses 48, 49.] Divinity flashed through humanity. The light and glory of heaven illuminated His countenance. But “they understood not the saying which he spake unto 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.” [Verses 50, 51.]

13LtMs, Ms 37, 1898, par. 10

“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.” [Luke 2:40.] He was an example of what all children may strive to be if parents will seek the Lord most earnestly, and children will co-operate with their parents. In His words and actions He showed compassion [and] tender sympathy. His companionship was as a healing, soothing balm to the disheartened and oppressed.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 53, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 53, 1898, par. 25

Of His childhood we read, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.” [Luke 2:40.] When He was twelve years old, His parents lost Him as they were returning from the Passover. They found Him sitting among the doctors, hearing them, and asking them questions. He asked these questions as a learner, but in each question there were gems of light that gave His hearers thoughts concerning the Messiah that they had never before had. “All that heard him were astonished at his understanding and his answers.” [Verse 47.]

13LtMs, Lt 53, 1898, par. 26

“Son, why hast thou dealt thus with us?” His mother asked. “Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.” He answered, “How is it that ye sought me?” Pointing upward He continued, “Wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” [Verses 48, 49.] The work He was then engaged in was the work He had come to this world to do.

13LtMs, Lt 53, 1898, par. 27

“And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them.” [Verse 51.] This is a lesson for all children and youth. Christ did not, as many today do, devote all His time to amusement. He studied the Word of God, and became better and better acquainted with the truths it contains. He delighted in the beautiful things of nature, and when talking to the people, He drew His illustrations from the great treasure of household affection, and from the things of nature with which they were most familiar. He plucked lilies and, placing them in the hands of children said, “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow [in their natural simplicity and loveliness]; they toil not, neither do they spin: and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” [Matthew 6:28, 29.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 18, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 18, 1893, par. 1

Luke 2:40-51. This brings us to when Jesus was twelve years old. We have had much before our minds since the camp meeting began. And we know the enemy is alive, seeking to efface impressions that the Spirit of God has made. He has great power to work, and he tries to efface the image of God in man, that he may establish his own attributes. We have heard much truth. Christ said, “Walk in the light, while ye have the light.” [John 12:35.] After this there is danger of becoming neglectful of heeding. Truth comes from the Author of truth. It is to be written on the tablets of the heart so as not to be effaced.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 78, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 78, 1893, par. 40

The Lord blessed me in speaking in regard to Joseph and Mary’s losing Jesus on their return from the feast of the Passover. Luke 2:40-51. It was an entire day that Jesus was lost, but although it took one day to lose Him, it took three days to find Him, with deeply sorrowful hearts.

8LtMs, Ms 78, 1893, par. 41

They thought they heard His voice in the temple. “They found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.” His countenance reflected a holy light. He raised His hand to heaven, “and he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” [Verses 46-49.]

8LtMs, Ms 78, 1893, par. 42

In this question was a mild reproof. If there had been a deep insight into the prophecies, with the contemplation of the wonderful events connected with our Saviour’s birth and His childhood and youth, they would have been deeply impressed upon every feast of the Passover, seeing and sensing its solemn significance, and there would have been opened to them a field of thought in tracing the prophecies, link after link of the chain, concerning their entrusted Charge, Jesus of Nazareth. But the Passover to very many had become a mere pasttime, a form, a ceremony, and the absence of Christ, the parents’ sorrowful search, awakened the sense of their responsibility and accountability. “How is it that ye sought me?” [Verse 49.] If you had not lost Me you would not have had any need of trying to find Me.

Child Guidance

Chapter 38—Study Age, Disposition, and Temperament

CG 204.4

In childhood Jesus did the works of an obedient child. He spoke and acted with the wisdom of a child, and not of a man, honoring His parents and carrying out their wishes in helpful ways, according to the ability of a child. But at each stage of His development He was perfect, with the simple, natural grace of a sinless life. The Sacred Record says of His childhood, “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.” And of His youth it is recorded, “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” Luke 2:40, 52.3Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 140, 141.

Special Testimonies On Education

Chapter 11—The Parable of the Growing Seed

SpTEd 68.3

The truths which this parable teaches were made a living reality in his own life. In both his physical and his spiritual nature, he followed the divine order of growth, illustrated by the plant, as he wishes all youth to do. Although he was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, he became a babe in Bethlehem, and for a time represented the helpless infant in its mother’s care. In childhood he did the works of an obedient child. He spoke and acted with the wisdom of a child, and not of a man, honoring his parents, and carrying out their wishes in helpful ways, according to the ability of a child. But at each stage of his development he was perfect, with the simple, natural grace of a sinless life. The sacred record says of his childhood, “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon him.” And of his youth it is recorded, “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:40, 52.

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 5—Child Life of Jesus

SJ 29.4

Of Jesus in His early years the Bible says, “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:40, 52.

SJ 33.6

“How is it that ye sought Me?” Jesus answered. “Wist ye not that I must be about My Father’s business?” Luke 2:48, 49.

SJ 34.2

Though He knew that He was the Son of God, Jesus went home to Nazareth with Joseph and Mary. Until thirty years of age He was “subject unto them.” Luke 2:51.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 40, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, par. 23

Life in the branch grafted into the living vine means growth. God has made every provision that His children shall possess divine strength and power, so that they shall not sink below the level of the brute creation. He designs that through obedience to His laws man shall deserve the report made of John and of Christ. Of John, the pen of inspiration traces the words, “And thou, child, shall be called the prophet of the Highest; for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; to give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit.” Of Jesus we read, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. ... And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” [Luke 1:76-80; 2:40, 52.] This human life may be repeated in the life of every child and youth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 12, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 12, 1898, par. 12

The student of the Word of God will see a wide field in which he can work. Much good has often been done through the humble service of the apparently weakest child of God. The King of Glory as a babe in Bethlehem could only represent the babe in its mother’s arms. In childhood He simply did the works of an obedient child. He obeyed the will and wishes of His parents, His works corresponding with the ability of a child. This is all that children can do, but they should be educated to do this in a manner that will make them a blessing in the home. Christ was subject to His parents. This was His missionary work in the home life, and through His right course of action His wisdom and ability was constantly increasing. It is written, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.” “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” [Luke 2:40, 52.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 11, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 11, 1898, par. 11

“And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.” “And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them.” “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” [Luke 2:40, 51, 52.] Let the brightest example the world has yet seen be your example, rather than the greatest and most learned men of this age, who know not God, nor Jesus Christ whom He has sent. Jehovah, our Father, and His Son Jesus Christ are alone to be exalted. The knowledge of God is eternal life to those who receive it. His holy banner is to stand elevated above all the greatness of the greatest men, above all the honor and glory of the world.

Christ’s Object Lessons

Chapter 6—Other Lessons from Seed-Sowing

COL 82.3

The gradual development of the plant from the seed is an object lesson in child training. There is “first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.” He who gave this parable created the tiny seed, gave it its vital properties, and ordained the laws that govern its growth. And the truths which the parable teaches were made a living reality in His own life. In both His physical and His spiritual nature He followed the divine order of growth illustrated by the plant, as He wishes all youth to do. Although He was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, He became a babe in Bethlehem, and for a time represented the helpless infant in its mother’s care. In childhood He did the works of an obedient child. He spoke and acted with the wisdom of a child and not of a man, honoring His parents and carrying out their wishes in helpful ways, according to the ability of a child. But at each stage of His development He was perfect, with the simple, natural grace of a sinless life. The sacred record says of His childhood, “The child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.” And of His youth it is recorded, “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:40, 52.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

The Parable of the Growing Seed

CT 141.1

In childhood, Jesus did the works of an obedient child. He spoke and acted with the wisdom of a child, and not of a man, honoring His parents, and carrying out their wishes in helpful ways, according to the ability of a child. But at each stage of His development He was perfect, with the simple, natural grace of a sinless life. The Sacred Record says of His childhood, “The Child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon Him.” And of His youth it is recorded, “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Luke 2:40, 52.

A Call To Stand Apart

Chapter 2—Jesus as a Child and Young Adult

CSA 8.1

And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him. Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned, the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother knew not of it. But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went a day’s journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking 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. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto 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 favour with God and man. Luke 2:40-52.

Lift Him Up

Jesus Keeps His First Passover, January 17

LHU 31.1

Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. Luke 2:41, 42.