The End-Time Significance
Of The Two Covenants

Flesh-Born Religion Versus Spirit-Born Religion

In Isaiah 24:5, 6, the prophet Isaiah tells us that the curse will devour the earth for 3 reasons:

• the inhabitants have transgressed the laws
• they have changed the ordinance
• the ultimate reason - they have broken the everlasting covenant!

In Isaiah 24:1-6 and 19, 20 the prophet is in fact describing the terrible onslaught of the 7 last plagues. But the Revelator in Revelation 14:10 and 15:1 and 13:11-18 informs us that the curse, the wrath, the seven last plagues will be the direct end-result of enforcing the image and mark of the beast. Therefore we conclude, without fear of contradiction, that the mark of the beast will be the ultimate breaking of the everlasting covenant and since it will be enforced by religious zealots it will be the ultimate expression of the Old Covenant. But this should not surprise us because Paul enlightens us in Galatians 4:29 that flesh-born religion will persecute spirit-born religion. The final crisis will be nothing less than the final persecution of the New Covenant by the Old!

The shaking

Therefore the shaking in the Christian religion in general and Adventism in particular is a shaking which will see professed believers being fixed either in the old covenant or the new covenant! And remember the OLD persecutes the NEW.

Multiple forms of old covenant deception

The old covenant is a spiritual cancer, which can turn up in more than one form. For example, the form of the old covenant with which Satan sought to deceive the Galatians was a more deceptive and deadly form than that with which he ensnared Israel at Sinai. Israel at Sinai knew only the birth of the flesh and without ever knowing the birth of the Spirit they, being ignorant of God's righteousness, sought to establish their own righteousness by their own promises and their own efforts to obey the law of God. The immediate result was the golden-calf idolatry, which included sexual immorality of the most disgusting type and indeed transgression of all Ten Commandments.

The long-term results were failure to enter the Promised Land and a 40-year death-march in the wilderness. On the other hand the Galatians, like the Corinthians, were gentiles who had neither any previous knowledge of God nor His laws (moral, ceremonial or health). Paul preached to them Christ crucified and risen.

Paul explained to them that by His perfect faith, perfect obedience and perfect sacrifice Christ Jesus, the Saviour of the world, had more than satisfied all the conditions and requirements of God for mankind, and moreover, by His infinite sacrifice, had atoned for and taken away all their sins, all because of God's unconditional love for them!

Furthermore Paul told them that this great salvation was the fulfillment of a promise God made to Abraham, 15 centuries before, that in him, through his Seed, all nations of the earth would be blessed.

The Galatians believed the gospel! They put all their trust and confidence in Christ alone for salvation. There was nothing else they could depend on, they had not obeyed any laws or made any reforms, just as they were they truly believed in Jesus and Paul told them that they were justified, saved and had received the Holy Spirit all by faith in Christ.

And, amazingly, as they now studied the word of God and the teachings, the life and death of their Saviour they grew in grace and the righteousness of God was manifested in their lives. They were so overwhelmed with love and joy and gratitude for the free gift of eternal life and righteousness and the forgiveness of all their sins that they surrendered their lives fully to Jesus in genuine faith which worked to transform their lives while all the time their focus was not on their performance but on the Cross of Christ.

This was too much for Satan; he knows only too well that the soul that depends entirely and only on Christ in simple child-like faith is absolutely secure and safe in God's salvation.

And so Satan moved upon the Pharisees who "believed" in Christ to go down to Galatia and to tell the Galatians that it is alright to believe on the Lord Jesus to be justified and to be born of the Spirit, but now having begun in the Spirit, they were to be perfected by strict adherence to the rules, regulations and ceremonies of the Torah (law).

Therefore in Chapter 3 of his letter Paul not only deals with the problem directly but also makes it clear that the salvation of gentiles was provided for in the Abrahamic or NEW Covenant, not in the Sinaitic or Old Covenant! Let us read Gal. 3:1-9. We see therefore that the form of the Old Covenant with which Satan deceived Israel at Sinai was that they could have begun or could have initiated their salvation in and by the flesh.

But the form he infiltrated into Galatia was that Christian growth is begun in the Spirit by faith but matured and perfected by obedience to law (i.e. by the flesh).

And yet another form is to cause those who have started in the Spirit and are being sanctified by the Spirit to believe they can attain to a higher level of righteousness before God by meticulous adherence to man-made regulations regarding standards of Christian living, such as dress and diet. Others pay tithe, attend church, sing, preach, keep the seventh day or the first day and do all the right things under the delusion that they thereby earn merit in the sight of God. But we are saved entirely by the righteousness and sacrifice of Christ!

Opposition to the new

In the Christian era the reason for the opposition to the New Covenant truth has been consistently uniform. There is the argument, the fear, that standards will be lowered, that the law will be ignored, that the previous looseness of "gentile" living will spoil the high "standards" of the "Jews."

And ultimately to make the world a better place, to raise the standard of morals and to bring back God's blessings to the earth modern religious zealots will enforce Sunday sacredness by legislation to ensure that the masses go to church on Sunday. Sabbath keepers will not be tolerated. And worse still, these end-time Sunday-law zealots will declare themselves to be under the New Covenant! But the truth is that "the spirit of bondage is engendered by seeking to live in accordance with legal religion, through striving to fulfill the claims of the law in our own strength. There is hope for us only as we come under the Abrahamic Covenant, which is the covenant of grace by faith in Christ Jesus. The gospel preached to Abraham, through which he had hope, was the same gospel that is preached to us today through which we have hope. Abraham looked unto Jesus, who is the Author and the Finisher of our faith." (Y.I. 1892-09-22)

Righteousness by works can't work

Paul gives another masterful analysis of the difference between New and Old Covenants in Romans 9:30-33. Old Covenant Israel tried to keep the law by trying to keep the law and did not keep the law. Why? They sought for righteousness by works of law, and not by faith in the Promise.

Whereas the Gentiles who never tried keeping the law received genuine righteousness by faith in Christ and lived out the principles of the moral law in their spirit-filled and spirit-led lives by the word of God.

In the new covenant faith works by love

The written code of the moral law demands "THOU SHALT NOT STEAL." The genuine New Covenant person believes, claims and receives genuine HONESTY and BENOVOLENCE in Christ and His righteousness and rather than steal, he gives and shares his time, his means, his resources, because Agape love works his faith in righteousness.

The Christian standard in dress demands MODESTY. The genuine New Covenant child of God believes and claims and receives the promise of meekness, lowliness of heart, humility and crucifixion of the ego in and with Christ and therefore will neither expose her flesh nor wear the ornaments of idolatry. 1 Peter 3:1-7; 1 Timothy 2:9.

The written code demands, "thou shalt not kill." In the New Covenant the reign of Agape love produces a spirit of forgiveness and love even for our enemies! Matthew 5; Romans 12:17-21; 1 Cor. 13.

The formula for reaching the highest standards of Christian living is written down in 2 Cor. 7:1 and 2 Cor. 5:17. If in a congregation the God-given (not man-made) standards are falling, then after using the law to point out sin the only sure remedy is to preach Christ, His righteousness and His Cross ever more fully.

If a congregation is constantly pounded with laws, regulations and standards it may settle down into the Old Covenant syndrome of promising ---> failing ---> "repenting," promising again, failing again, "repenting" again. Or, even more deceptively, it may settle down into outward conformity devoid of living righteousness.

Appeal

Only the New Covenant has the divine power to separate the genuine believer from the flesh, the world and the devil!

Faith in God's promises brings the eternal righteousness, eternal life and eternal inheritance into the believer's soul thereby producing genuine transformation of character.

In contrast, the law, rules and regulations worketh wrath. The law cannot give life or righteousness. The law must be used correctly to point out sin and bring the sinner to Christ. But the secret of victory over sin is abiding in Christ through faith in God's promises.

Young man, young woman you are consistently listening to and enjoying Satan's music, the pleasures of the world, the dress of the world. What you need is to be in Christ, to be born of the Spirit. You are lost with either no covenant or the Old Covenant. You need a New Covenant experience. God gives the faith and it is your privilege to exercise that faith, to trust God, believe His promises and surrender your will-power to be controlled by His Agape love, truth, righteousness and life.

Conclusion

Let us read Hebrews 13:20, 21. The new covenant is the only one that will produce genuine holiness. And the secret of the new covenant success is faith in God's promises which are Yes and Amen in Jesus Christ!

"The thought that the righteousness of Christ is imputed to us, not because of any merit on our part, but as a free gift from God, is a precious thought. The enemy of God and man is not willing that this truth should be clearly presented, for he knows that if the people receive it fully, his power will be broken. If Satan can control minds so that doubt and unbelief and darkness shall compose the experience of those who claim to be children of God, he can overcome them with temptation. The simple faith that takes God at his word should be encouraged. God's people must have that faith which will lay hold of divine power. 'For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.' Those who believe that God for Christ's sake has forgiven their sins should not, through temptation, fail to press on to fight the good fight of faith. Their faith should grow stronger until their Christian life, as well as their words, shall declare, "The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin."

Faith is trusting God, believing that he loves us, and knows best what is for our own good. Thus instead of our own way, it leads us to choose His way. In place of our ignorance, it accepts His wisdom; in place of our weakness; His strength; in place of our sinfulness, His righteousness. Our lives, ourselves, are already His; faith acknowledges his ownership and accepts its blessing. Truth, uprightness, and purity have been pointed out as secrets of life's success. It is faith that puts us in possession of these principles. Every good impulse or aspiration is the gift of God; faith receives from God the life that alone can produce true growth and efficiency. " (R.H 1908-12-24).

Elder E. O. Douglin 2002-08-17

The Power Of The Promise Part I

The Power Of The New Covenant Call

God’s redemptive 7-fold promise to Abraham contained God’s call and God’s election according to His grace. In other words the Father’s eternal call and His eternal purpose are to be found in His promises. And all His promises are comprehended in the Promise.

“Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, and to seeds, as of many; but as of One, And to thy Seed, which is Christ.”

“And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” Gal. 3:16, 29.

“For all the promises of God in Him (Christ Jesus) are yea, and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” 2 Cor. 1:20.

Or as the TEV (Today’s English Version) puts it, reading from verse 19:
“ For Jesus Christ, the Son of God, who was preached among you by Silas, Timothy, and myself, is not one who is “Yes” and “No.” On the contrary He is God’s “YES;” for it is He who is the “Yes” to all of God’s promises. This is why through Jesus Christ our “Amen” is said to the glory of God.” 2 Cor. 1:19, 20.

Abraham’s response was “Amen.” The Hebrew word for “Amen” means “to believe” i.e. a heart-felt appreciation for and surrender to God’s love. Abraham’s faith, when eventually perfected, exercised complete and full confidence in God alone and therefore was a faith which stood, without wavering, upon the naked promise of God!

“He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith giving glory to God; being fully persuaded that, what God has promised, He was able to perform” Romans 4:20,21.

The Power Of The Call In The Promise

The call is a call to come into the Promise by genuine faith. It is the work of the Holy Spirit. And all the power of the Promise is in the call.

“No man can come to Me, except the Father which hath sent Me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.” John 6:44.

“But there are some of you that believe not. (For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray Him) And He said: Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto Me, except it were given unto him of My Father.” John 6: 64, 65.

Therefore it should be clear to everyone that the desire, the ability and the power to come into the Promise are all in the call. Moreover the faith required, to believe the Promise and to come into the Promise, is given by the Promise itself through the call!

“So then faith (cometh) by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” Rom. 10:17.

“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.” Heb. 11:8.

We see in this text (Heb 11:8) that Abraham received the faith and the power to obey in the call itself and the call contained all the power of the promised inheritance which is God and His kingdom!

“For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” Heb. 11:10. “ After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I AM THY SHIELD, AND THY EXCEEDING GREAT REWARD.” Gen. 15:1.

The Call Is Based Entirely On God’s Eternal Choice

“According as He hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will. To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved.” Ephesians 1:4-6.

We should read this passage again, this time from the TEV.

“Even before the world was made God had already chosen us to be His through our union with Christ, so that we would be holy and without blame before Him. Because of His love God had already decided that through Jesus Christ He would make us His sons – this was his pleasure and purpose. Let us praise God for His glorious grace, for the free gift He gave us in His dear Son.” Eph. 1:4-6 (TEV).

Since the call is grounded in God’s eternal decision it cannot be changed, it cannot be defeated and those who oppose it do so not only in vain but to their own destruction! Not even God can rescind His call.

“For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.” Rom. 11:29.

Or as it is better translated in the TEV:

“For God does not change His mind about whom He chooses and blesses.” Romans 11:29. (TEV).

The Apostle Paul further deepens the sweetness of this mystery in Romans 9:10-13 which we shall read in the KJV before reading it in the TEV.

“And this is not all. For Rebecca’s two sons had the same father, our ancestor Isaac. But in order that the choice of one son might be completely the result of God’s own purpose, God said to her, ‘The older will serve the younger.’ He said this before they were born, before they had done anything either good or bad; so God’s choice was based on His call, and not on anything they had done. As the scripture says, ‘I loved Jacob, but I hated Esau.” Rom. 9:10-13. (TEV).

Is Paul teaching that God has predestinated some individuals to be lost and some to be saved? Is God unfair?

NO! Absolutely not!

What then is the Apostle saying? How are we to understand such mysteries?

The Call Is Fixed Unchangeably In The Promise

The mystery unfolds when we understand that the calling and the gifts and the eternal decision and the promises are all in CHRIST the Promised Seed or, as He is indeed, the living Promise.

Individuals can accept the call by faith or reject the call by unbelief but with the call “is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” James 1:17 because the call like the promise is fixed, eternally fixed, in the Seed, Jesus Christ! Read Romans 9:14-16 in the KJV. And listen to it in the TEV.

“Shall we say, then, that God is unjust? Not at all. For he said to Moses, ‘I will have mercy on anyone I wish; I will take pity on anyone I wish. So then, everything depends, not on what man wants or does, but only on God’s mercy.” Rom. 9:14-16. (TEV).

The soul that depends on God’s mercy and believes His promise is safe.

We see then the futility of Israel’s Old Covenant promises at Sinai.

We also see the absurdity of the bewitched Galatians trying to finish by their efforts what was begun by the Spirit.

Our promises are like ropes of sand. God’s promises are as eternal and as secure as His Godhead. God calls and God makes the promises, our response is to believe and therefore to receive His call and His promises in the Seed Christ Jesus. Let us read John 1:12, 13.

The Old Covenant Israelites exerted all their efforts to call themselves to God. Whereas the gentiles who were not trying to be called believed God’s call when they heard it and became the called of God! Let us read Romans 9:25-33.

Called To Be Children Of The Promise

“That is, they which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. Romans 9:8.

Children of the promise! Who are they? They are those who exercise the faith given by the Promise through the call and by exercising this faith they receive the Promise itself; eternal righteousness, eternal life, eternal inheritance. Yea rather they receive the Promise Himself – The Father in Christ by the Holy Spirit! John 17:21-24.

Opposition To The Call And The Promise Swept Away

The call need not vary and cannot vary because all the obstacles, anything or everything that can possibly stand between the transgressor and God is swept away in the sacrifice of Christ.

A T Jones:
“ He took the place of the transgressor: he became flesh, just as is the transgressor: he was made to be sin, just as the transgressor is sin: he bore the sins of men, ‘for the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.’ He took the condemnation, because the sins of the transgressor were imputed to him. And, as to the transgressor himself, the consciousness of sin is accompanied with the consciousness of guilt and condemnation; so when these sins were imputed to Him who knew no sin, it was the sin indeed, with its accompanying sense of guilt and condemnation. He bore the curse, for sin brings the curse; and he bore the curse even unto death, because sin brings the curse even unto death.

“Thus, ‘Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us.’ Thus he redeems them that are under the law. All the penalty, all the curse, all the wrath, all the condemnation, that the law can work upon the transgressor met upon him. And, in the divine sacrifice which he thus made, there was rendered all that the law can ever demand of the transgressor. So that everything that can possibly stand between the transgressor and God is swept away in the sacrifice of Christ.

“In this, God has reconciled the world unto himself so completely that he cannot impute their trespasses unto them (2 Cor. 5:19); and thus is extended freedom – absolute freedom – to every soul in the wide world. And every soul can have it, to the full and to all eternity, merely by accepting it. And, in accepting this redemption from under the law, every soul receives ‘the adoption of sons:’ for, ‘as many as received him, to them gave he power (‘the right, or privilege’ margin) to become the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.’ Gal. 3:26.

“And then, being sons of God, and ‘because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou are no more a servant, but a son; and if a son then an heir of God through Christ.’

“Before this deliverance, we ‘were in bondage under the elements of the world.’ The only elements of the world that there are, are the elements of sin; for ‘all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.’ 1 John 2:16. But, when delivered into the glorious liberty of the sons of God, we ‘have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear,’ but ‘have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself bearing ‘witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God; and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ:’ Romans 8:15 - 17.

“Joint heirs with Christ.’ That is, all that he had falls also to each one of the other sons. The inheritance is not divided up in equal shares among all the sons, as if they were equal heirs. No; all the inheritance belongs to each one of the sons, because they are joint heirs. This because God has no favorites among his sons; but all that belongs to any one, belongs equally to every other one. Accordingly, all that falls to Christ the son and heir falls also to each and every other son and heir. And this wonderful truth Jesus wants the world to know; for, in his great prayer for us all, he prayed, ‘That the world may know that thou has sent me and has loved them, as thou has loved me.” John 17:23.

“And, this wonderful fact: that God has no favorite nor preference among his sons, but that all are equal, and, therefore, that each redeemed soul is, in his estimation, equal to Jesus, and takes his stand on a plane, and in the reward, equal in all things to Christ: it is this wonderful fact that caused John, in beholding it, to exclaim: ‘Behold, what manner of love the Father has bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God….

“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. 1 John 3:1, 2.” R.H May 8, 1900.

Christ therefore is the One who was called and who always responded to the call. He is the Seed in whom is the call and in whom is the promise. But even in His earthly ministry He had to choose to believe in and surrender to His Father’s word. In other words Christ as Representative Man accepted and endorsed God’s eternal choice for the redemption of Adam’s lost race. Therefore God’s eternal call has met its fulfillment in humanity in Christ! The Father therefore draws all human beings to Christ by the same Agapé love which sent Jesus to the Cross and whoever responds to the drawing power of that love by yielding his heart to it will come to Christ and receive Christ and by having Christ will have eternal life!

Only by being in Christ is anyone in God’s call. And only by remaining in Christ does anyone remain in God’s call. Individuals, nations, races or churches which claim that since they were called they must always be the only true people of God irrespective of their acceptance or rejection of gospel truth, deceive themselves.

“The Jews had misinterpreted God’s promise of eternal favour to Israel: ‘Thus saith the Lord, which giveth the sun for a light by day, and the ordinances of the moon and of the stars for a light by night, which divideth the sea when the waves thereof roar; the Lord of host is his name: If those ordinances depart from before Me, saith the Lord, then the seed of Israel also shall cease from being a nation before Me forever. Thus saith the Lord; If heaven above can be measured, and the foundations of the earth searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the Lord.’ Jeremiah 31:35-37. The Jews regarded their natural descent from Abraham as giving them a claim to this promise. But they overlooked the conditions which God had specified. Before giving the promise, He had said, ‘I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people…. For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.’ Jeremiah 31:33, 34.

“To a people in whose hearts His law is written, the favor of God is assured. They are one with Him. But the Jews had separated themselves from God. Because of their sins they were suffering under His judgements. This was the cause of their bondage to a heathen nation. Their minds were darkened by transgression, and because in times past the Lord had shown them so great favor, they excused their sins. They flattered themselves that they were better than other men, and entitled to His blessing.

“These things ‘are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.’ 1 Corinthians 10:11. How often we misinterpret God’s blessings, and flatter ourselves that we are favored on account of some goodness in us! God cannot do for us that which He longs to do. His gifts are used to increase our self-satisfaction, and to harden our hearts in unbelief and sin.

“John declared to the teachers of Israel that their pride, selfishness, and cruelty, showed them to be a generation of vipers, a deadly curse to the people, rather than the children of just and obedient Abraham. In view of the light they had received from God, they were even worse than the heathen, to whom they felt so much superior. They had forgotten the rock whence they were hewn, and the hole of the pit from which they had been dug. God was not dependent upon them for the fulfilling of His purpose. As He had called Abraham out from a heathen people, so He could call others to His service. Their hearts might now appear as lifeless as the stones of the desert, but His Spirit could quicken them to do His will, and receive the fulfillment of His promise.” D.A. p. 106-107.

New Covenant Appeal

“The birth of a son to Zacharias, like the birth of the child of Abraham, and that of Mary, was to teach a great spiritual truth, a truth that we are slow to learn and ready to forget. In ourselves we are incapable of doing any good thing: but that which we cannot do will be wrought by the power of God in every submissive and believing soul. It was through faith that the child of promise was given. It is through faith that spiritual life is begotten, and we are enabled to do the works of righteousness.” D.A. p. 98.

The Power Of The Promise Part II

The Height Of The New Covenant Call

God has a purpose; it works by a process of election; and it cannot fail. In other words, whatever happens, God’s purpose, which operates on the basis of election, stands firm. When viewed from the human side this means that not works but the call of God is decisive. Obviously and evidently calling and faith correspond; faith is the answer to God’s call – as the example of Abraham makes clear (Heb. 11:8).

Not works but faith leads to justification, and faith works!

Not works but God’s call admits to the promise and the faith, which answers the call, works.

These are different ways of expressing the same truth!

It is important to recall here that the seed of Abraham contracted until it became ultimately Christ, and was subsequently expanded to include those who were or are in Christ. This means that election does not take place (as might at first appear from Paul’s examples) arbitrarily or fortuitously; it takes place always and only in Christ. They are elect who are in Him; they who are elect are in Him.

It is failure to remember this fact that causes confusion over Paul’s doctrines of election and predestination.

The High Calling Of God In Christ Jesus (Phil. 3:8-14)

There are two distinct but inseparable dimensions of the call. The first is the call to come into the Promise. The second is the call to reach the highest height within the Promise. In both cases the drawing power is the power of God’s Agapé love and our response is to exercise our God-given faith to believe and surrender completely to Jesus.

The New Covenant principles are clear. God promises all and gives all because God is love. And the same divine self-sacrificing love, which promises all and gives all, calls us to believe and receive the promises and gifts and to let them work in us that miraculous transformation of character which will bring us to the measure of the stature of Christ!

Always remember that all the power of the promise is in the call. In other words; in the New Covenant, the call is the call of God; the drawing-power is the drawing power of God’s infinite Love; the promises are the promises of God; the work is the work of God; the gifts are freely given by God. And the believer’s response from start to finish is the faith-response which lets the call, the promises, the gifts and the works of God accomplish God’s will in the believer’s life.

In the Old Covenant people seek by their own calling, their own promises, their own devisings, their own works, to start (Israel at Sinai) or to complete (the Galatians error) the work of God both in their own lives and in the world. In either case it is the flesh and not the Spirit in control.

As A T Jones puts it:
“ The Old Covenant consisted, and ever consists, of the promises and the works, of the righteousness, of people who know only the birth and the mind of the flesh. The New Covenant consists forever of the promises and the works of righteousness of God in those who know the birth of the Spirit by the promise of God.” R & H. 1900-07-24

The 8 Characteristics Of The Call

1. It is a heavenly calling. Hebrews 3:1

2. It is a holy calling. 2 Tim. 1:9; 1 Thess. 4:7

3. It is a high calling. Phil. 3:14; Rev. 3:21; Rom. 8:37

4. It is an unchangeable calling. Rom. 11:29

5. It is a call to liberty. Gal. 5:13

6. It is a call to peace. 1 Cor. 7:15

7. It is a call to glory and virtue. 2 Peter 1:3; 2 Thess. 2:14

8. It is a call to eternal life.1 Tim. 6:12

Our Responsibilities

1. To walk worthy of our calling. Ephesians 4:1

2. To work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Phil. 2:12

3. To make our calling and election sure. 2 Peter 1:10

But how do we walk worthy of our God-given calling? How do we work out our own salvation with fear and trembling?

We should fear and tremble less we take ourselves out of God’s hands and try, at any stage in our spiritual growth, to do the work ourselves.

“For it is god which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Phil. 2:13.

Oh how easy it is, especially when God is doing a great work in our lives or in our Movement, to transfer our dependence from God to ourselves! The thought of this should make us fear and tremble.

The Apostle Peter tells us that we must always remember that God has already given us all things that are necessary for spiritual life and godliness through the knowledge of Jesus. And the “all things” He has given us, are in His promises! Let us read 2 Peter 1:3,4. Then in verses 5-7 the Apostle tells us that our responsibility is to claim and receive into our character building the following gifts: faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, love.

Finally the Apostle gives his admonition in verses 8-12. Let us read these verses carefully.

Who Does The Work Is Of Crucial And Critical Importance

When God works, self is crucified and buried out of sight and there is rest in the soul. Let us read Galatians 2:20, 21; Romans 4:5; Matt. 11:28-30; Hebrews 4:3.

When self works, God is put out of sight and there is no rest. Romans 4:4; Hebrews 4:1, 2; 3:10, 11.

And yet when God works, the believer is worked by God’s Spirit to manifest good works in the life and to be busy doing God’s work in God’s way in the world. John 14:10; 1 Thess. 2:13; Eph. 3:16-21; 1 Thess. 1:3, 4.

Conclusion

"Know ye not . . . that ye are not your own? for ye are bought with a price." What a price has been paid for us! Behold the cross and the victim uplifted upon it. Look at those hands, pierced with cruel nails. Look at his feet, fastened with spikes to the tree. Christ bore our sins in his own body. That suffering, that agony, is the price of your redemption. Know you not that he loved us, and gave himself for us, that we in return should give ourselves to him? Why should not love to Christ be expressed by all who received him by faith, as verily as his love has been expressed for us for whom he died?

Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ." "There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." Christ the Word, the revelation of God, – the manifestation of his character, his law, his love, his life, – is the only foundation upon which we can build a character that will endure.

We build on Christ by obeying his word. It is not he who merely enjoys righteousness, that is righteous, but he who does righteousness. Holiness is not rapture; it is the result of surrendering all to God; it is doing the will of our Heavenly Father. Religion consists in doing the words of Christ; not doing to earn God's favor, but because, all undeserving, we have received the gift of his love. Christ places the salvation of man, not upon profession merely, but upon faith that is made manifest in works of righteousness. "As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." Not those whose hearts are touched by the Spirit, not those who now and then yield to its power, but they that are led by the Spirit, are the sons of God.

To live by the word of God means the surrender to him of the whole life. There will be felt a continual sense of need and dependence, a drawing out of the heart after God. Prayer is a necessity; for it is the life of the soul. Family prayer, public prayer, have their place; but it is secret communion with God that sustains the soul-life. It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building that was to be the abiding-place of God's glory. It is in the mount with God, – in the secret place of communion, – that we are to contemplate his glorious ideal for humanity. Thus we shall be able so to fashion our character building that to us may be fulfilled his promise. "I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people." R .H. Dec 31, 1908.

Appeal

God in Christ by His Holy Spirit is calling you into the Promise, into Christ. And within the Promise, in Christ, God is still calling you to the highest height of the measure of the stature of Jesus.

Look to Jesus. He is the beginner and finisher of our faith. Believe His promises, surrender to His call. Always be children of the Promise, always be driven by the call.

His love will never fail you.

Do not fail Him through unbelief.

Have faith in God!

The Power of the Promise – Part III

Jacob and Esau – Part I

In the early books of the Bible, after Genesis, God is frequently called the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob (e.g. Exodus 3:15). The Apostle Paul read and studied the life stories of those three great patriarchs. He understood the instruction given in the record of the life stories of the patriarchs as being both factual and allegorical.

In Galatians 4:21-31 Paul uses the story of Abraham and his two sons to explain the two covenants, the Sinaitic old covenant and the Abrahamic New Covenant. And in Romans 9:10-13 he uses the story of Isaac and his two sons to shed further light on the covenants including God’s calling and election.

In the account of Abraham’s life the pivotal point was the promised son. Abraham believed God’s 7-fold promise and was justified by faith (Rom. 4:1-3) and converted. Later on he listened to Sarai’s suggestion and lapsed into Old Covenant unbelief concerning the promised son. Eventually, through triumphant faith in God’s naked promise, they received the son of promise, Isaac.

Isaac married Rebekah. It was like a “dream” marriage at first but difficulties lay ahead. Rebekah gave birth to two sons. These two sons had the same father Isaac, Abraham’s son of promise, and the same mother, Rebekah, God’s chosen wife for Isaac. They received the same instructions, nay, rather Isaac reinforced Esau’s mind with the fact that, being first born, the birthright and covenant blessings were his. Only one of the two sons could receive the birthright and covenant blessings and the first-born was entitled to them. Which one would accept the call and become elected into the Promise? There are wonderful lessons in this story but before we go any further in the analysis let us learn from the account of the mysterious life-story from Patriarchs and Prophets chapter 16.

“Jacob and Esau, the twin sons of Isaac, present a striking contrast, both in character and in life. This unlikeness was foretold by the angel of God before their birth. When in answer to Rebekah's troubled prayer he declared that two sons would be given her, he opened to her their future history, that each would become the head of a mighty nation, but that one would be greater than the other, and that the younger would have the pre-eminence.

Esau grew up loving self-gratification and centering all his interest in the present. Impatient of restraint, he delighted in the wild freedom of the chase, and early chose the life of a hunter. Yet he was the father's favorite. The quiet, peace-loving shepherd was attracted by the daring and vigor of this elder son, who fearlessly ranged over mountain and desert, returning home with game for his father and with exciting accounts of his adventurous life. Jacob, thoughtful, diligent, and care-taking, ever thinking more of the future than the present, was content to dwell at home, occupied in the care of the flocks and the tillage of the soil. His patient perseverance, thrift, and foresight were valued by the mother. His affections were deep and strong, and his gentle, unremitting attentions added far more to her happiness than did the boisterous and occasional kindnesses of Esau. To Rebekah, Jacob was the dearer son.

The promises made to Abraham and confirmed to his son were held by Isaac and Rebekah as the great object of their desires and hopes. With these promises Esau and Jacob were familiar. They were taught to regard the birthright as a matter of great importance, for it included not only an inheritance of worldly wealth but spiritual pre-eminence. He who received it was to be the priest of his family, and in the line of his posterity the Redeemer of the world would come. On the other hand, there were obligations resting upon the possessor of the birthright. He who should inherit its blessings must devote his life to the service of God. Like Abraham, he must be obedient to the divine requirements. In marriage, in his family relations, in public life, he must consult the will of God.

Isaac made known to his sons these privileges and conditions, and plainly stated that Esau, as the eldest, was the one entitled to the birthright. But Esau had no love for devotion, no inclination to a religious life. The requirements that accompanied the spiritual birthright were an unwelcome and even hateful restraint to him. The law of God, which was the condition of the divine covenant with Abraham, was regarded by Esau as a yoke of bondage. Bent on self-indulgence, he desired nothing so much as liberty to do as he pleased. To him power and riches, feasting and reveling, were happiness. He gloried in the unrestrained freedom of his wild, roving life. Rebekah remembered the words of the angel, and she read with clearer insight than did her husband the character of their sons. She was convinced that the heritage of divine promise was intended for Jacob. She repeated to Isaac the angel's words; but the father's affections were centered upon the elder son, and he was unshaken in his purpose.

Jacob had learned from his mother of the divine intimation that the birthright should fall to him, and he was filled with an unspeakable desire for the privileges which it would confer. It was not the possession of his father's wealth that he craved; the spiritual birthright was the object of his longing. To commune with God as did righteous Abraham, to offer the sacrifice of atonement for his family, to be the progenitor of the chosen people and of the promised Messiah, and to inherit the immortal possessions embraced in the blessings of the covenant-here were the privileges and honors that kindled his most ardent desires. His mind was ever reaching forward to the future, and seeking to grasp its unseen blessings.

With secret longing he listened to all that his father told concerning the spiritual birthright; he carefully treasured what he had learned from his mother. Day and night the subject occupied his thoughts, until it became the absorbing interest of his life. But while he thus esteemed eternal above temporal blessings, Jacob had not an experimental knowledge of the God whom he revered. His heart had not been renewed by divine grace. He believed that the promise concerning himself could not be fulfilled so long as Esau retained the rights of the first-born, and he constantly studied to devise some way whereby he might secure the blessing which his brother held so lightly, but which was so precious to himself.

When Esau, coming home one day faint and weary from the chase, asked for the food that Jacob was preparing, the latter, with whom one thought was ever uppermost, seized upon his advantage, and offered to satisfy his brother's hunger at the price of the birthright. "Behold, I am at the point to die," cried the reckless, self-indulgent hunter, "and what profit shall this birthright do to me?" And for a dish of red pottage he parted with his birthright, and confirmed the transaction by an oath. A short time at most would have secured him food in his father's tents, but to satisfy the desire of the moment he carelessly bartered the glorious heritage that God Himself had promised to his fathers. His whole interest was in the present. He was ready to sacrifice the heavenly to the earthly, to exchange a future good for a momentary indulgence.

"Thus Esau despised his birthright." In disposing of it he felt a sense of relief. Now his way was unobstructed; he could do as he liked. For this wild pleasure, miscalled freedom, how many are still selling their birthright to an inheritance pure and undefiled, eternal in the heavens!

Ever subject to mere outward and earthly attractions, Esau took two wives of the daughters of Heth. They were worshipers of false gods, and their idolatry was a bitter grief to Isaac and Rebekah. Esau had violated one of the conditions of the covenant, which forbade intermarriage between the chosen people and the heathen; yet Isaac was still unshaken in his determination to bestow upon him the birthright. The reasoning of Rebekah, Jacob's strong desire for the blessing, and Esau's indifference to its obligations had no effect to change the father's purpose.

Years passed on, until Isaac, old and blind, and expecting soon to die, determined no longer to delay the bestowal of the blessing upon his elder son. But knowing the opposition of Rebekah and Jacob, he decided to perform the solemn ceremony in secret. In accordance with the custom of making a feast upon such occasions, the patriarch bade Esau, "Go out to the field, and take me some venison; and make me savory meat, . . . that my soul may bless thee before I die."

Rebekah divined his purpose. She was confident that it was contrary to what God had revealed as His will. Isaac was in danger of incurring the divine displeasure and of debarring his younger son from the position to which God had called him. She had in vain tried the effect of reasoning with Isaac, and she determined to resort to stratagem.

No sooner had Esau departed on his errand than Rebekah set about the accomplishment of her purpose. She told Jacob what had taken place, urging the necessity of immediate action to prevent the bestowal of the blessing, finally and irrevocably, upon Esau. And she assured her son that if he would follow her directions, he might obtain it as God had promised. Jacob did not readily consent to the plan that she proposed. The thought of deceiving his father caused him great distress. He felt that such a sin would bring a curse rather than a blessing. But his scruples were overborne, and he proceeded to carry out his mother's suggestions. It was not his intention to utter a direct falsehood, but once in the presence of his father he seemed to have gone too far to retreat, and he obtained by fraud the coveted blessing.

Jacob and Rebekah succeeded in their purpose, but they gained only trouble and sorrow by their deception. God had declared that Jacob should receive the birthright, and His word would have been fulfilled in His own time had they waited in faith for Him to work for them. But like many who now profess to be children of God, they were unwilling to leave the matter in His hands. Rebekah bitterly repented the wrong counsel she had given her son; it was the means of separating him from her, and she never saw his face again. From the hour when he received the birthright, Jacob was weighed down with self-condemnation. He had sinned against his father, his brother, his own soul, and against God. In one short hour he had made work for a lifelong repentance. This scene was vivid before him in afteryears, when the wicked course of his sons oppressed his soul.

No sooner had Jacob left his father's tent than Esau entered. Though he had sold his birthright, and confirmed the transfer by a solemn oath, he was now determined to secure its blessings, regardless of his brother's claim. With the spiritual was connected the temporal birthright, which would give him the headship of the family and possession of a double portion of his father's wealth. These were blessings that he could value. "Let my father arise," he said, "and eat of his son's venison, that thy soul may bless me."

Trembling with astonishment and distress, the blind old father learned the deception that had been practiced upon him. His long and fondly cherished hopes had been thwarted, and he keenly felt the disappointment that must come upon his elder son. Yet the conviction flashed upon him that it was God's providence which had defeated his purpose and brought about the very thing he had determined to prevent. He remembered the words of the angel to Rebekah, and notwithstanding the sin of which Jacob was now guilty, he saw in him the one best fitted to accomplish the purposes of God. While the words of blessing were upon his lips, he had felt the Spirit of inspiration upon him; and now, knowing all the circumstances, he ratified the benediction unwittingly pronounced upon Jacob: "I have blessed him; yea, and he shall be blessed."

Esau had lightly valued the blessing while it seemed within his reach, but he desired to possess it now that it was gone from him forever. All the strength of his impulsive, passionate nature was aroused, and his grief and rage were terrible. He cried with an exceeding bitter cry, "Bless me, even me also, O my father!" "Hast thou not reserved a blessing for me?" But the promise given was not to be recalled. The birthright which he had so carelessly bartered he could not now regain. "For one morsel of meat," for a momentary gratification of appetite that had never been restrained, Esau sold his inheritance; but when he saw his folly, it was too late to recover the blessing. "He found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears." Hebrews 12:16, 17. Esau was not shut out from the privilege of seeking God's favor by repentance, but he could find no means of recovering the birthright. His grief did not spring from conviction of sin; he did not desire to be reconciled to God. He sorrowed because of the results of his sin, but not for the sin itself.

Because of his indifference to the divine blessings and requirements, Esau is called in Scripture "a profane person." Verse 16. He represents those who lightly value the redemption purchased for them by Christ, and are ready to sacrifice their heirship to heaven for the perishable things of earth. Multitudes live for the present, with no thought or care for the future. Like Esau they cry, "Let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die." 1 Corinthians 15:32. They are controlled by inclination; and rather than practice self-denial, they will forgo the most valuable considerations. If one must be relinquished, the gratification of a depraved appetite or the heavenly blessings promised only to the self-denying and God-fearing, the claims of appetite prevail, and God and heaven are virtually despised. How many, even of professed Christians, cling to indulgences that are injurious to health and that benumb the sensibilities of the soul. When the duty is presented of cleansing themselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God, they are offended. They see that they cannot retain these hurtful gratifications and yet secure heaven, and they conclude that since the way to eternal life is so strait, they will no longer walk therein.

Multitudes are selling their birthright for sensual indulgence. Health is sacrificed, the mental faculties are enfeebled, and heaven is forfeited; and all for a mere temporary pleasure--an indulgence at once both weakening and debasing in its character. As Esau awoke to see the folly of his rash exchange when it was too late to recover his loss, so it will be in the day of God with those who have bartered their heirship to heaven for selfish gratifications.” P.P. Chapter 16.

Unreserved Surrender

“God will accept nothing less than unreserved surrender. Half-hearted, sinful Christians can never enter heaven. There they would find no happiness; for they know nothing of the high, holy principles that govern the members of the royal family.

The true Christian keeps the windows of the soul open heavenward. He lives in fellowship with Christ. His will is conformed to the will of Christ. His highest desire is to become more and more Christlike, that he may say with Paul: "I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."

Earnestly and untiringly we are to strive to reach God's ideal for us. Not as a penance are we to do this, but as the only means of gaining true happiness. The only way to gain peace and joy is to have a living connection with him who gave his life for us, who died that we might live, and who lives to unite his power with the efforts of those who are striving to overcome.

Holiness is constant agreement with God. Shall we not strive to be that which Christ so greatly desires us to be--Christians in deed and in truth,--that the world may see in our lives a revelation of the saving power of truth? This world is our preparatory school. While here we shall meet with trials and difficulties. Continually the enemy of God will seek to draw us away from our allegiance. But while we cleave to him who gave himself for us, we are safe. The whole world was gathered into the embrace of Christ. He died on the cross to destroy him who had the power of death, and to take away the sin of every believing soul. He calls upon us to offer ourselves on the altar of service, a living, consuming sacrifice. We are to make an unreserved consecration to God of all that we have and are.

In this lower school of earth we are to learn the lessons that will prepare us to enter the higher school, where our education will continue under the personal instruction of Christ. Then he will open to us the meaning of his word. Shall we not, in the few days of probation remaining to us, act like men and women who are seeking for life in the kingdom of God, even an eternity of bliss? We can not afford to miss the privilege of seeing Christ face to face, and of hearing from his lips the story of redemption. Shall we put our whole souls into the work of preparing for admission into the higher school, or shall we trifle away the gracious opportunity, wasting the months and years so rapidly passing into eternity?” R.H. 05-16-1907.

The Power of the Promise – Part IV

Jacob and Esau – Part II

In our last lesson we saw that both Esau and Jacob were initially unconverted but yet had different attitudes to God’s call and election. Esau’s attitude was one of total indifference. His father Isaac had drilled into him the importance of the spiritual blessings of the Birthright and Covenant promises and had emphasized that these blessings were his by virtue of the fact that he was firstborn. But Esau couldn’t care less. He felt that the responsibility required would be too much of a burden and therefore he refused to respond positively even to the call.

Jacob, on the other hand, cherished the desire to have the birthright and covenant blessings. In contrast to Esau, who couldn’t care less, Jacob couldn’t care more. Day by day one thought, and only one, occupied his as yet unconverted mind. He wanted the spiritual blessings of the Promise more than anything else.

Undoubtedly God’s spirit appealed strongly to both hearts. Esau resisted the Spirit’s call until all was lost, whereas Jacob cherished the Spirit’s call and was slowly yielding to the Spirit’s drawing.

The mystery of human choice is mind-boggling. Why would Esau reject the call? One thing is clear, every one has freedom of choice and everyone can choose to believe. There is no explanation for the origin of unbelief just as there is no explanation for the origin of sin. The Bible calls it the mystery of iniquity.

But there is a practical lesson here for us. According to tradition the firstborn should have been the one, but here God shows that His purpose, which works by the process of election and which cannot fail, transcends all human devisings and traditions. The firstborn who was elected by human tradition was not elected by God’s purpose. Why? He refused God’s call into the Promise and rather than making his calling and election sure he made his non-election sure! And therefore the mysterious prediction came true.

That is, they which are children of the flesh these are not the children of god: but the children of the promise are counted for seed. Romans 9:8.

How?

But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name: which was born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man but of God. John 1:12,13.

Therefore:

… when Rebecca also had conceived by one, even by our father Isaac; (For the children being not born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;). It was said unto her, the elder shall serve the younger. As it is written, Jacob I loved, but Esau have I hated. Romans 9:10-13.

To Reject The Call Is To Commit The Unpardonable Sin

Paul calls Esau a profane person, a person who prefers the “so called” fun and pleasures of this world (eat, drink, be merry; indulge the night club life; wine, women and music) to the new covenant blessings of eternal righteousness, eternal life and the eternal throne of God!

Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

For ye know how afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance (no way to change his mind), though he sought it carefully with tears. Hebrews 12:16, 17.

God is calling you at this very moment! Are you resisting or are you yielding?

And the Spirit and the bride say, come. And let him that heareth say, come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely. Rev. 22:17.

Esau could not repent because repentance is given by the promise through the call. To reject the call is to reject the gift of repentance.

Old Covenant Devisings To Obtain New Covenant Blessings?

Jacob’s as yet unconverted heart cherished the call but had not yet reached that level of surrender to be born again. And so, knowing only the birth of the flesh and the carnal mind, he was always scheming and devising ways of obtaining the birthright and New Covenant blessings.

God had promised that the younger Jacob would have had the preeminence over the older Esau and the promise would have been fulfilled by God, in God’s time and in God’s way! But whereas the new covenant experience is characterized by patience, faith, and righteousness (Rev. 14:12), the Old Covenant experience is characterized by impatience, unbelief and unrighteousness!

Jacob’s first piece of scheming is described in Gen. 25:29-34. He bargained with the hungry Esau and managed to get Esau to sell him the birthright, as a matter of fact, scripture says that “Esau despised his birthright.” Gen. 25:34.

In the second piece of scheming Jacob’s mother, Isaac’s wife, Rebekah devised an unrighteous carnal scheme to obtain the birthright New-Covenant blessings by fraud. This parallels Sarah’s scheme in which she told Abraham to go into Hagar to get Ishmael.

The difference between the two old covenant schemes was that Sarah’s scheme produced the wrong result by the wrong method whereas Rebekah’s scheme produced the right result by the wrong method.

In Paul’s analysis of Abraham’s family story he uses Hagar as a symbol of the covenant from Sinai – the Old Covenant (Galatians 4:21-31). In the analysis of the Isaac’s family story who is the symbol of the covenant from Sinai? Undoubtedly the answer is Jacob the fraud, the “con-man”, the schemer. In the Abraham family story Hagar had to go away from the family. Similarly, in the Isaac family story, Jacob, the deceiver, had to go away from the family and when he should later return it would not be Jacob, the Old Covenant deceiver or supplanter, but rather Israel, the New Covenant Victor! Therefore between the going away and the return there would have to be a radical conversion, with a thorough cleansing from Old Covenant methodology and complete commitment to New Covenant principles by faith in the naked promises of God.

In being purged from his Old Covenant sins Jacob would have to undergo much suffering in order to learn the obedience of faith. The suffering would not be arbitrarily inflicted it would be the result of the outworking of the law of sowing and reaping. The same deception be practiced on Isaac to obtain the birthright would be practiced on him by Laban, his uncle, when he, Jacob, sought to marry his true-love Rachel. The Old Covenant definitely produces bondage, suffering, pain, and separation but the suffering is used by God to purge us of Old Covenant unbelief and Old Covenant devisings.

Let us now continue to follow the story in Patriarchs and Prophets Chapter 17.

“ Threatened with death by the wrath of Esau, Jacob went out from his father's home a fugitive; but he carried with him the father's blessing; Isaac had renewed to him the covenant promise, and had bidden him, as its inheritor, to seek a wife of his mother's family in Mesopotamia. Yet it was with a deeply troubled heart that Jacob set out on his lonely journey. With only his staff in his hand he must travel hundreds of miles through a country inhabited by wild, roving tribes. In his remorse and timidity he sought to avoid men, lest he should be traced by his angry brother. He feared that he had lost forever the blessing that God had purposed to give him; and Satan was at hand to press temptations upon him.

The evening of the second day found him far away from his father's tents. He felt that he was an outcast, and he knew that all this trouble had been brought upon him by his own wrong course. The darkness of despair pressed upon his soul, and he hardly dared to pray. But he was so utterly lonely that he felt the need of protection from God as he had never felt it before. With weeping and deep humiliation he confessed his sin, and entreated for some evidence that he was not utterly forsaken. Still his burdened heart found no relief. He had lost all confidence in himself, and he feared that the God of his fathers had cast him off.

But God did not forsake Jacob. His mercy was still extended to His erring, distrustful servant. The Lord compassionately revealed just what Jacob needed--a Saviour. He had sinned, but his heart was filled with gratitude as he saw revealed a way by which he could be restored to the favor of God.

Wearied with his journey, the wanderer lay down upon the ground, with a stone for his pillow. As he slept he beheld a ladder, bright and shining, whose base rested upon the earth, while the top reached to heaven. Upon this ladder angels were ascending and descending; above it was the Lord of glory, and from the heavens His voice was heard: "I am the Lord God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac." The land whereon he lay as an exile and fugitive was promised to him and to his posterity, with the assurance, "In thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed." This promise had been given to Abraham and to Isaac, and now it was renewed to Jacob. Then in special regard to his present loneliness and distress, the words of comfort and encouragement were spoken: "Behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of."

The Lord knew the evil influences that would surround Jacob, and the perils to which he would be exposed. In mercy He opened up the future before the repentant fugitive, that he might understand the divine purpose with reference to himself, and be prepared to resist the temptations that would surely come to him when alone amid idolaters and scheming men. There would be ever before him the high standard at which he must aim; and the knowledge that through him the purpose of God was reaching its accomplishment, would constantly prompt him to faithfulness.

In the vision the plan of redemption was presented to Jacob, not fully, but in such parts as were essential to him at that time. The mystic ladder revealed to him in his dream was the same to which Christ referred in His conversation with Nathanael. Said He, "Ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man." John 1:51. Up to the time of man's rebellion against the government of God, there had been free communion between God and man. But the sin of Adam and Eve separated earth from heaven, so that man could not have communion with his Maker. Yet the world was not left in solitary hopelessness. The ladder represents Jesus, the appointed medium of communication. Had He not with His own merits bridged the gulf that sin had made, the ministering angels could have held no communion with fallen man. Christ connects man in his weakness and helplessness with the source of infinite power.

All this was revealed to Jacob in his dream. Although his mind at once grasped a part of the revelation, its great and mysterious truths were the study of his lifetime, and unfolded to his understanding more and more.

Jacob awoke from his sleep in the deep stillness of night. The shining forms of his vision had disappeared. Only the dim outline of the lonely hills, and above them the heavens bright with stars, now met his gaze. But he had a solemn sense that God was with him. An unseen presence filled the solitude. "Surely the Lord is in this place," he said, "and I knew it not. . . . This is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven."

" And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it. "In accordance with the custom of commemorating important events, Jacob set up a memorial of God's mercy, that whenever he should pass that way he might tarry at this sacred spot to worship the Lord. And he called the place Bethel, or the "house of God." With deep gratitude he repeated the promise that God's presence would be with him; and then he made the solemn vow, "If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that I come again to my father's house in peace; then shall the Lord be my God: and this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be God's house: and of all that Thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto Thee."

Jacob was not here seeking to make terms with God. The Lord had already promised him prosperity, and this vow was the outflow of a heart filled with gratitude for the assurance of God's love and mercy. Jacob felt that God had claims upon him which he must acknowledge, and that the special tokens of divine favor granted him demanded a return. So does every blessing bestowed upon us call for a response to the Author of all our mercies. The Christian should often review his past life and recall with gratitude the precious deliverances that God has wrought for him, supporting him in trial, opening ways before him when all seemed dark and forbidding, refreshing him when ready to faint. He should recognize all of them as evidences of the watchcare of heavenly angels. In view of these innumerable blessings he should often ask, with subdued and grateful heart, "What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me?" Psalm 116:12.

Our time, our talents, our property, should be sacredly devoted to Him who has given us these blessings in trust. Whenever a special deliverance is wrought in our behalf, or new and unexpected favors are granted us, we should acknowledge God's goodness, not only by expressing our gratitude in words, but, like Jacob, by gifts and offerings to His cause. As we are continually receiving the blessings of God, so we are to be continually giving.

" Of all that Thou shalt give me," said Jacob, "I will surely give the tenth unto Thee." Shall we who enjoy the full light and privileges of the gospel be content to give less to God than was given by those who lived in the former, less favored dispensation? Nay, as the blessings we enjoy are greater, are not our obligations correspondingly increased? But how small the estimate; how vain the endeavor to measure with mathematical rules, time, money, and love, against a love so immeasurable and a gift of such inconceivable worth. Tithes for Christ! Oh, meager pittance, shameful recompense for that which cost so much! From the cross of Calvary, Christ calls for an unreserved consecration. All that we have, all that we are, should be devoted to God.

With a new and abiding faith in the divine promises, and assured of the presence and guardianship of heavenly angels, Jacob pursued his journey to "the land of the children of the East." Genesis 29:1, margin. But how different his arrival from that of Abraham's messenger nearly a hundred years before! The servant had come with a train of attendants riding upon camels, and with rich gifts of gold and silver; the son was a lonely, footsore traveler, with no possession save his staff. Like Abraham's servant, Jacob tarried beside a well, and it was here that he met Rachel, Laban's younger daughter. It was Jacob now who rendered service, rolling the stone from the well and watering the flocks. On making known his kinship, he was welcomed to the home of Laban. Though he came portionless and unattended, a few weeks showed the worth of his diligence and skill, and he was urged to tarry. It was arranged that he should render Laban seven years' service for the hand of Rachel.” P.P. 188.

Conclusion

God is merciful. He does not forsake his own because they are in the Old Covenant condition but He patiently, tenderly works with them to bring them into the beautiful victorious New Covenant experience. Both Abraham and Jacob had to learn the lessons of implicit faith in God’s promises. And they learnt the hard way. We have their example. Shouldn’t it be easier for us?

Faith is the victory!

Appeal

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost, which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour." Let no one try to carry his own sins, for they have been atoned for by the great sin-bearer. The only begotten Son of God voluntarily met the claims of God's violated law. He was stricken of God and afflicted in our behalf. One with the Father, he was fully able to bear the penalty of our disobedience. By connecting his divinity with our humanity, Christ has exalted the human family. His divinity grasps the throne of the Infinite in behalf of man. As our substitute, he took our sins upon himself, and now he intercedes before the Father in our behalf. "In all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of his people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted."

It is impossible for us to save ourselves. Only by the efficacy of the blood of Jesus Christ can we be saved. He died on Calvary's cross for us, and we may be complete in him; for his sacrifice is all-sufficient. Why will you keep your eyes fastened on self, when your Saviour stands beside you, saying, "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light"? "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Lay your sins on me.

Satan will come to you, saying, "You are a sinner;" but do not allow him to fill your mind with the thought that because you are sinful, God has cast you off. Say to him, Yes; I am a sinner, and for that very reason I need a Saviour. I need forgiveness and pardon, and Christ says that if I will come to him, I shall not perish. In his letter to me I read, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." When Satan tells you that you are lost, answer, Yes; but Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost. "A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench." The greater my sin, the greater my need of a Saviour.

The moment you grasp God's promises by faith, saying, I am the lost sheep Jesus came to save, a new life will take possession of you, and you will receive strength to resist the tempter. But faith to grasp the promises does not come by feeling. "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." You must not look for some great change to take place; you must not expect to feel some wonderful emotion. The Spirit of God alone can make a lasting impression on the mind.

Christ longs to see his people resist the adversary of souls; but only by looking away from self to Jesus can we do this. Cease to bemoan your helpless condition; for your Saviour is touched with the feeling of your infirmities, and to-day he says to you, Be not discouraged, but cast your burdens upon me. I will take them all, and will bring to pass that which is good for your soul. Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, we shall be inspired with hope and shall see the salvation of God; for he is able to keep us from falling. When we are tempted to mourn, let us force our lips to utter the praises of God; for he is worthy of praise. "They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." "Trust ye in the Lord forever; for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength."

Never has a soul that trusts in Jesus been left to perish. "I, even I, am he," the Lord declares, "that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Put me in remembrance; let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified." "I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, Seek ye me in vain; I the Lord speak righteousness, I declare things that are right. . . . Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is none else." Respond to the calls of God's love, and say, I will trust in the Lord, and be comforted; for he has loved me. I will praise the Lord, for his anger is turned away.” R.H. 15-09-1896.

The Power of the Promise – Part V

Lessons from Esau and Jacob – Part III

Twenty years had passed since Jacob had left the house of his father Isaac and had repented of his sin at Bethel. The life-experiences he enjoyed and endured in Padan-aram were the outworking of the principles of sowing and reaping but were overruled by God’s mercy. The years of toil and labour amidst the selfish scheming of his uncle Laban had taught Jacob precious lessons of faith, discipline, patience, endurance and, above all, absolute dependence upon God’s word.

But, like Abraham before him, he had to undergo one last terrible test to forever fix and confirm his mind and heart in the New Covenant.

We continue now with the story from Patriarchs and Prophets Chapter 18.

The Night Of Wrestling

“Though Jacob had left Padan-aram in obedience to the divine direction, it was not without many misgivings that he retraced the road which he had trodden as a fugitive twenty years before. His sin in the deception of his father was ever before him. He knew that his long exile was the direct result of that sin, and he pondered over these things day and night, the reproaches of an accusing conscience making his journey very sad. As the hills of his native land appeared before him in the distance, the heart of the patriarch was deeply moved. All the past rose vividly before him. With the memory of his sin came also the thought of God's favor toward him, and the promises of divine help and guidance.

As he drew nearer his journey's end, the thought of Esau brought many a troubled foreboding. After the flight of Jacob, Esau had regarded himself as the sole heir of their father's possessions. The news of Jacob's return would excite the fear that he was coming to claim the inheritance. Esau was now able to do his brother great injury, if so disposed, and he might be moved to violence against him, not only by the desire for revenge, but in order to secure undisturbed possession of the wealth which he had so long looked upon as his own.

Again the Lord granted Jacob a token of the divine care. As he traveled southward from Mount Gilead, two hosts of heavenly angels seemed to encompass him behind and before, advancing with his company, as if for their protection. Jacob remembered the vision at Bethel so long before, and his burdened heart grew lighter at this evidence that the divine messengers who had brought him hope and courage at his flight from Canaan were to be the guardians of his return. And he said, "This is God's host: and he called the name of that place Mahanaim"--"two hosts, or, camps."

Yet Jacob felt that he had something to do to secure his own safety. He therefore dispatched messengers with a conciliatory greeting to his brother. He instructed them as to the exact words in which they were to address Esau. It had been foretold before the birth of the two brothers that the elder should serve the younger, and, lest the memory of this should be a cause of bitterness, Jacob told the servants they were sent to "my lord Esau;" when brought before him, they were to refer to their master as "thy servant Jacob;" and to remove the fear that he was returning, a destitute wanderer, to claim the paternal inheritance, Jacob was careful to state in his message, "I have oxen, an asses, flocks, and menservants, and womenservants: and I have sent to tell my lord, that I may find grace in thy sight."

But the servants returned with the tidings that Esau was approaching with four hundred men, and no response was sent to the friendly message. It appeared certain that he was coming to seek revenge. Terror pervaded the camp. "Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed." He could not go back, and he feared to advance. His company, unarmed and defenseless, were wholly unprepared for a hostile encounter. He accordingly divided them into two bands, so that if one should be attacked, the other might have an opportunity to escape. He sent from his vast flocks generous presents to Esau, with a friendly message. He did all in his power to atone for the wrong to his brother and to avert the threatened danger, and then in humiliation and repentance he pleaded for divine protection: Thou "saidst unto me, Return unto thy country, and to thy kindred, and I will deal well with thee: I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which Thou hast showed unto Thy servant; for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am become two bands. Deliver me, I pray Thee, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he will come and smite me, and the mother with the children."

They had now reached the river Jabbok, and as night came on, Jacob sent his family across the ford of the river, while he alone remained behind. He had decided to spend the night in prayer, and he desired to be alone with God. God could soften the heart of Esau. In Him was the patriarch's only hope.

It was in a lonely, mountainous region, the haunt of wild beasts and the lurking place of robbers and murderers. Solitary and unprotected, Jacob bowed in deep distress upon the earth. It was midnight. All that made life dear to him were at a distance, exposed to danger and death. Bitterest of all was the thought that it was his own sin which had brought this peril upon the innocent. With earnest cries and tears he made his prayer before God. Suddenly a strong hand was laid upon him. He thought that an enemy was seeking his life, and he endeavored to wrest himself from the grasp of his assailant. In the darkness the two struggled for the mastery. Not a word was spoken, but Jacob put forth all his strength, and did not relax his efforts for a moment. While he was thus battling for his life, the sense of his guilt pressed upon his soul; his sins rose up before him, to shut him out from God. But in his terrible extremity he remembered God's promises, and his whole heart went out in entreaty for His mercy. The struggle continued until near the break of day, when the stranger placed his finger upon Jacob's thigh, and he was crippled instantly. The patriarch now discerned the character of his antagonist. He knew that he had been in conflict with a heavenly messenger, and this was why his almost superhuman effort had not gained the victory. It was Christ, "the Angel of the covenant," who had revealed Himself to Jacob. The patriarch was now disabled and suffering the keenest pain, but he would not loosen his hold. All penitent and broken, he clung to the Angel; "he wept, and made supplication" (Hosea 12:4), pleading for a blessing. He must have the assurance that his sin was pardoned. Physical pain was not sufficient to divert his mind from this object. His determination grew stronger, his faith more earnest and persevering, until the very last. The Angel tried to release Himself; He urged, "Let Me go, for the day breaketh;" but Jacob answered, "I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me." Had this been a boastful, presumptuous confidence, Jacob would have been instantly destroyed; but his was the assurance of one who confesses his own unworthiness, yet trusts the faithfulness of a covenant-keeping God.

Jacob "had power over the Angel, and prevailed." Hosea 12:4. Through humiliation, repentance, and self-surrender, this sinful, erring mortal prevailed with the Majesty of heaven. He had fastened his trembling grasp upon the promises of God, and the heart of Infinite Love could not turn away the sinner's plea.

The error that had led to Jacob's sin in obtaining the birthright by fraud was now clearly set before him. He had not trusted God's promises, but had sought by his own efforts to bring about that which God would have accomplished in His own time and way. As an evidence that he had been forgiven, his name was changed from one that was a reminder of his sin, to one that commemorated his victory. "Thy name," said the Angel, "shall be called no more Jacob [the supplanter], but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed."

Jacob had received the blessing for which his soul had longed. His sin as a supplanter and deceiver had been pardoned. The crisis in his life was past. Doubt, perplexity, and remorse had embittered his existence, but now all was changed; and sweet was the peace of reconciliation with God. Jacob no longer feared to meet his brother. God, who had forgiven his sin, could move the heart of Esau also to accept his humiliation and repentance.

While Jacob was wrestling with the Angel, another heavenly messenger was sent to Esau. In a dream, Esau beheld his brother for twenty years an exile from his father's house; he witnessed his grief at finding his mother dead; he saw him encompassed by the hosts of God. This dream was related by Esau to his soldiers, with the charge not to harm Jacob, for the God of his father was with him.

The two companies at last approached each other, the desert chief leading his men of war, and Jacob with his wives and children, attended by shepherds and handmaidens, and followed by long lines of flocks and herds. Leaning upon his staff, the patriarch went forward to meet the band of soldiers. He was pale and disabled from his recent conflict, and he walked slowly and painfully, halting at every step; but his countenance was lighted up with joy and peace.

At sight of that crippled sufferer, "Esau ran to meet him, and embraced him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him: and they wept." As they looked upon the scene, even the hearts of Esau's rude soldiers were touched. Notwithstanding he had told them of his dream, they could not account for the change that had come over their captain. Though they beheld the patriarch's infirmity, they little thought that this his weakness had been made his strength.

In his night of anguish beside the Jabbok, when destruction seemed just before him, Jacob had been taught how vain is the help of man, how groundless is all trust in human power. He saw that his only help must come from Him against whom he had so grievously sinned. Helpless and unworthy, he pleaded God's promise of mercy to the repentant sinner. That promise was his assurance that God would pardon and accept him. Sooner might heaven and earth pass than that word could fail; and it was this that sustained him through that fearful conflict.” P.P. Chapter 18, page 195-201.

The Keeping Power Of God's Love

"Now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. . . . Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honorable, and I have loved thee: therefore I will give men for thee, and people for thy life. . . . I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth; even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him."

The Lord loves every one of those for whom he gave his Son, and he does not wish us to spend our days mourning over our sins. Everything that God could do he has done to manifest his great love and mercy to us. He "so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Then rest in the assurance of the love of God. Open the door of your heart, and let the sunbeams of Christ's righteousness drive away the shadow of sadness and grief.

Not because we first loved him, does God love us; but "while we were yet sinners," Christ died for us, making full and abundant provision for our redemption. Although by our disobedience we have merited God's displeasure and condemnation, he has not forsaken us; he has not left us to grapple with the power of the enemy in our own finite strength. Heavenly angels fight our battles for us; and co-operating with them, we may be victorious over the powers of evil. Trusting in Christ as our personal Saviour, we may be "more than conquerors through him that loved us."

"Thus saith God the Lord, he that created the heavens, and stretched them out; he that spread forth the earth, and that which cometh out of it; he that giveth breath unto the people upon it, and spirit to them that walk therein: I the Lord have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles: to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house." This precious assurance of God to Christ embraces all who receive Jesus Christ; for John says, "As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." As we draw nigh to him by faith, he draws nigh to us, adopting us into his family, and making us sons and daughters of the Most High.

By disobeying the commands of God, man fell under the condemnation of his law. This fall called for the grace of God to appear in behalf of sinners. We should never have learned the meaning of this word "grace" had we not fallen. God loves the sinless angels, who do his service, and are obedient to all his commands; but he does not give them grace. These heavenly beings know naught of grace; they have never needed it; for they have never sinned. Grace is an attribute of God shown to undeserving human beings. We did not seek after it, but it was sent in search of us. God rejoices to bestow this grace upon every one who hungers for it. To every one he presents terms of mercy, not because we are worthy, but because we are so utterly unworthy. Our need is the qualification which gives us the assurance that we shall receive this gift.” R.H. 1896-09-15.

The Power of the Promise – Part VI

Esau and Jacob – Part II

Tests Of Faith

God’s people in their anxiety to receive His promises have always been prone to rely on their own devisings and schemes and works to achieve what can only be received and achieved by faith in the naked promise of God. God must permanently cure his people of this tendency, the tendency to either slip into, or deliberately adopt, Old Covenant devisings rather than develop and exercise strong faith in the naked promises of God.

Abrahams's Final Test in Genesis 22:1-18.

“Returning to his tent, he went to the place where Isaac lay sleeping the deep, untroubled sleep of youth and innocence. For a moment the father looked upon the dear face of his son, then turned tremblingly away. He went to the side of Sarah, who was also sleeping. Should he awaken her, that she might once more embrace her child? Should he tell her of God's requirement? He longed to unburden his heart to her, and share with her this terrible responsibility; but he was restrained by the fear that she might hinder him. Isaac was her joy and pride; her life was bound up in him, and the mother's love might refuse the sacrifice.

Abraham at last summoned his son, telling him of the command to offer sacrifice upon a distant mountain. Isaac had often gone with his father to worship at some one of the various altars that marked his wanderings, and this summons excited no surprise. The preparations for the journey were quickly completed. The wood was made ready and put upon the ass, and with two menservants they set forth.

Side by side the father and the son journeyed in silence. The patriarch, pondering his heavy secret, had no heart for words. His thoughts were of the proud, fond mother, and the day when he should return to her alone. Well he knew that the knife would pierce her heart when it took the life of her son.

That day--the longest that Abraham had ever experienced-- dragged slowly to its close. While his son and the young men were sleeping, he spent the night in prayer, still hoping that some heavenly messenger might come to say that the trial was enough, that the youth might return unharmed to his mother. But no relief came to his tortured soul. Another long day, another night of humiliation and prayer, while ever the command that was to leave him childless was ringing in his ears. Satan was near to whisper doubts and unbelief, but Abraham resisted his suggestions. As they were about to begin the journey of the third day, the patriarch, looking northward, saw the promised sign, a cloud of glory hovering over Mount Moriah, and he knew that the voice which had spoken to him was from heaven.

Even now he did not murmur against God, but strengthened his soul by dwelling upon the evidences of the Lord's goodness and faithfulness. This son had been unexpectedly given; and had not He who bestowed the precious gift a right to recall His own? Then faith repeated the promise, "In Isaac shall they seed be called"--a seed numberless as the grains of sand upon the shore. Isaac was the child of a miracle, and could not the power that gave him life restore it? Looking beyond that which was seen, Abraham grasped the divine word, "accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead." Hebrews 11:19.

Yet none but God could understand how great was the father's sacrifice in yielding up his son to death; Abraham desired that none but God should witness the parting scene. He bade his servants remain behind, saying, "I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you." The wood was laid upon Isaac, the one to be offered, the father took the knife and the fire, and together they ascended toward the mountain summit, the young man silently wondering whence, so far from folds and flocks, the offering was to come. At last he spoke, "My father," "behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" Oh, what a test was this! How the endearing words, "my father," pierced Abraham's heart! Not yet--he could not tell him now. "My son," he said, "God will provide Himself a lamb for a burnt offering."

At the appointed place they built the altar and laid the wood upon it. Then, with trembling voice, Abraham unfolded to his son the divine message. It was with terror and amazement that Isaac learned his fate, but he offered no resistance. He could have escaped his doom, had he chosen to do so; the grief-stricken old man, exhausted with the struggle of those three terrible days, could not have opposed the will of the vigorous youth. But Isaac had been trained from childhood to ready, trusting obedience, and as the purpose of God was opened before him, he yielded a willing submission. He was a sharer in Abraham's faith, and he felt that he was honored in being called to give his life as an offering to God. He tenderly seeks to lighten the father's grief, and encourages his nerveless hands to bind the cords that confine him to the altar.

And now the last words of love are spoken, the last tears are shed, the last embrace is given. The father lifts the knife to slay his son, when suddenly his arm is stayed. An angel of God calls to the patriarch out of heaven, "Abraham, Abraham!" He quickly answers, "Here am I," And again the voice is heard, "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son, from Me."

Then Abraham saw "a ram caught in a thicket," and quickly bringing the new victim, he offered it "in the stead of his son." In his joy and gratitude Abraham gave a new name to the sacred spot--"Jehovah-jireh," "the Lord will provide."

On Mount Moriah, God again renewed His covenant, confirming with a solemn oath the blessing to Abraham and to his seed through all coming generations: "By myself have I sworn, saith Jehovah, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son, that in blessing I will bless thee, and in multiplying I will multiply thy seed as the stars of the heaven, and as the sand which is upon the seashore; and thy seed shall possess the gate of his enemies; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed My voice."

Abraham's great act of faith stands like a pillar of light, illuminating the pathway of God's servants in all succeeding ages. Abraham did not seek to excuse himself from doing the will of God. During that three days' journey he had sufficient time to reason, and to doubt God, if he was disposed to doubt. He might have reasoned that the slaying of his son would cause him to be looked upon as a murderer, a second Cain; that it would cause his teaching to be rejected and despised; and thus destroy his power to do good to his fellow men. He might have pleaded that age should excuse him from obedience. But the patriarch did not take refuge in any of these excuses. Abraham was human; his passions and attachments were like ours; but he did not stop to question how the promise could be fulfilled if Isaac should be slain. He did not stay to reason with his aching heart. He knew that God is just and righteous in all His requirements, and he obeyed the command to the very letter.

"Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: an he was called the friend of God." James 2:23. And Paul says, "They which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham." Galatians 3:7. But Abraham's faith was made manifest by his works. "Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect.?" James 2:21, 22. There are many who fail to understand the relation of faith and works. They say, "Only believe in Christ, and you are safe. You have nothing to do with keeping the law." But genuine faith will be manifest in obedience. Said Christ to the unbelieving Jews, "If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham." John 8:39. And concerning the father of the faithful the Lord declares, "Abraham obeyed My voice, and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My laws." Genesis 26:5. Says the apostle James, "Faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone." James 2:17. And John, who dwells so fully upon love, tells us, "This is the love of God, that we keep His commandments." 1 John 5:3.

Through type and promise God "preached before the gospel unto Abraham." Galatians 3:8. And the patriarch's faith was fixed upon the Redeemer to come. Said Christ to the Jews. "Your father Abraham rejoiced that he should see My day; and he saw it, and was glad." John 8:56, R.V., margin. The ram offered in the place of Isaac represented the Son of God, who was to be sacrificed in our stead. When man was doomed to death by transgression of the law of God, the Father, looking upon His Son, said to the sinner, "Live: I have found a ransom."

It was to impress Abraham's mind with the reality of the gospel, as well as to test his faith, that God commanded him to slay his son. The agony which he endured during the dark days of that fearful trial was permitted that he might understand from his own experience something of the greatness of the sacrifice made by the infinite God for man's redemption. No other test could have caused Abraham such torture of soul as did the offering of his son. God gave His Son to a death of agony and shame. The angels who witnessed the humiliation and soul anguish of the Son of God were not permitted to interpose, as in the case of Isaac. There was no voice to cry, "It is enough." To save the fallen race, the King of glory yielded up His life. What stronger proof can be given of the infinite compassion and love of God? "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?" Romans 8:32.

The sacrifice required of Abraham was not alone for his own good, nor solely for the benefit of succeeding generations; but it was also for the instruction of the sinless intelligences of heaven and of other worlds. The field of the controversy between Christ and Satan--the field on which the plan of redemption is wrought out--is the lesson book of the universe. Because Abraham had shown a lack of faith in God's promises, Satan had accused him before the angels and before God of having failed to comply with the conditions of the covenant, and as unworthy of its blessings. God desired to prove the loyalty of His servant before all heaven, to demonstrate that nothing less than perfect obedience can be accepted, and to open more fully before them the plan of salvation.

Heavenly beings were witnesses of the scene as the faith of Abraham and the submission of Isaac were tested. The trial was far more severe than that which had been brought upon Adam. Compliance with the prohibition laid upon our first parents involved no suffering, but the command to Abraham demanded the most agonizing sacrifice. All heaven beheld with wonder and admiration Abraham's unfaltering obedience. All heaven applauded his fidelity. Satan's accusations were shown to be false. God declared to His servant, "Now I know that thou fearest God [notwithstanding Satan's charges], seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from Me." God's covenant, confirmed to Abraham by an oath before the intelligences of other worlds, testified that obedience will be rewarded.

It had been difficult even for the angels to grasp the mystery of redemption--to comprehend that the Commander of heaven, the Son of God, must die for guilty man. When the command was given to Abraham to offer up his son, the interest of all heavenly beings was enlisted. With intense earnestness they watched each step in the fulfillment of this command. When to Isaac's question, "Where is the lamb for a burnt offering?" Abraham made answer, "God will provide Himself a lamb;" and when the father's hand was stayed as he was about to slay his son, and the ram which God had provided was offered in the place of Isaac-- then light was shed upon the mystery of redemption, and even the angels understood more clearly the wonderful provision that God had made for man's salvation. 1 Peter 1:12.” P.P. 148 – 155.

End-Time Application Of Jacob’s Test Of Faith

“Jacob's experience during that night of wrestling and anguish represents the trial through which the people of God must pass just before Christ's second coming. The prophet Jeremiah, in holy vision looking down to this time, said, "We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace. . . . All faces are turned into paleness. Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it." Jeremiah 30:5-7.

When Christ shall cease His work as mediator in man's behalf, then this time of trouble will begin. Then the case of every soul will have been decided, and there will be no atoning blood to cleanse from sin. When Jesus leaves His position as man's intercessor before God, the solemn announcement is made, "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still." Revelation 22:11. Then the restraining Spirit of God is withdrawn from the earth. As Jacob was threatened with death by his angry brother, so the people of God will be in peril from the wicked who are seeking to destroy them. And as the patriarch wrestled all night for deliverance from the hand of Esau, so the righteous will cry to God day and night for deliverance from the enemies that surround them.

Satan had accused Jacob before the angels of God, claiming the right to destroy him because of his sin; he had moved upon Esau to march against him; and during the patriarch's long night of wrestling, Satan endeavored to force upon him a sense of his guilt, in order to discourage him, and break his hold upon God. When in his distress Jacob laid hold of the Angel, and made supplication with tears, the heavenly Messenger, in order to try his faith, also reminded him of his sin, and endeavored to escape from him. But Jacob would not be turned away. He had learned that God is merciful, and he cast himself upon His mercy. He pointed back to his repentance for his sin, and pleaded for deliverance. As he reviewed his life, he was driven almost to despair; but he held fast the Angel, and with earnest, agonizing cries urged his petition until he prevailed.

Such will be the experience of God's people in their final struggle with the powers of evil. God will test their faith, their perseverance, their confidence in His power to deliver them. Satan will endeavor to terrify them with the thought that their cases are hopeless; that their sins have been too great to receive pardon. They will have a deep sense of their shortcomings, and as they review their lives their hopes will sink. But remembering the greatness of God's mercy, and their own sincere repentance, they will plead His promises made through Christ to helpless, repenting sinners. Their faith will not fail because their prayers are not immediately answered. They will lay hold of the strength of God, as Jacob laid hold of the Angel, and the language of their souls will be, "I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me."

Had not Jacob previously repented of his sin in obtaining the birthright by fraud, God could not have heard his prayer and mercifully preserved his life. So in the time of trouble, if the people of God had unconfessed sins to appear before them while tortured with fear and anguish, they would be overwhelmed; despair would cut off their faith, and they could not have confidence to plead with God for deliverance. But while they have a deep sense of their unworthiness, they will have no concealed wrongs to reveal. Their sins will have been blotted out by the atoning blood of Christ, and they cannot bring them to remembrance.

Satan leads many to believe that God will overlook their unfaithfulness in the minor affairs of life; but the Lord shows in His dealing with Jacob that He can in no wise sanction or tolerate evil. All who endeavor to excuse or conceal their sins, and permit them to remain upon the books of heaven, unconfessed and unforgiven, will be overcome by Satan. The more exalted their profession, and the more honorable the position which they hold, the more grievous is their course in the sight of God, and the more certain the triumph of the great adversary.

Yet Jacob's history is an assurance that God will not cast off those who have been betrayed into sin, but who have returned unto Him with true repentance. It was by self-surrender and confiding faith that Jacob gained what he had failed to gain by conflict in his own strength. God thus taught His servant that divine power and grace alone could give him the blessing he craved. Thus it will be with those who live in the last days. As dangers surround them, and despair seizes upon the soul, they must depend solely upon the merits of the atonement. We can do nothing of ourselves. In all our helpless unworthiness we must trust in the merits of the crucified and risen Saviour. None will ever perish while they do this. The long, black catalogue of our delinquencies is before the eye of the Infinite. The register is complete; none of our offenses are forgotten. But He who listened to the cries of His servants of old, will hear the prayer of faith and pardon our transgressions. He has promised, and He will fulfill His word.

Jacob prevailed because he was persevering and determined. His experience testifies to the power of importunate prayer. It is now that we are to learn this lesson of prevailing prayer, of unyielding faith. The greatest victories to the church of Christ or to the individual Christian are not those that are gained by talent or education, by wealth or the favor of men. They are those victories that are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power.

Those who are unwilling to forsake every sin and to seek earnestly for God's blessing, will not obtain it. But all who will lay hold of God's promises as did Jacob, and be as earnest and persevering as he was, will succeed as he succeeded. "Shall not God avenge His own elect, which cry day and night unto Him, though He bear long with them? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily." Luke 18:7, 8. P.P. 201 – 203.

Comparison And Contrast Between The Two Stories

The Abraham–Sarah Story	The Esau-Jacob Story
The Call: Abram heeded	The Call: Jacob heeded, Esau rejected
The Promise: Abram believed, converted	The Promise: Esau sold it, Jacob “bought” it, but not yet converted.
The Delay: Sarai’s scheme	The Delay: Rebekah’s scheme.
The Old Covenant: Hagar obtains Ishmael	The Old Covenant: Jacob the supplanter obtains blessing.
Family Troubles Begin: Hagar flies in the face of Sarai	Family Troubles Begin: Esau determines murder, Jacob flees.
Renewal of the Promise: Names changed; Abram to Abraham; Sarai to Sarah. Circumcision given.	Renewal of the Promise: At Bethel Jacob repents. God renews Abrahamic Covenant to him.
The Promise Given: Isaac is born.	The Promise Given: Repentant Jacob has the promise.
Family Trouble Comes to a Head: Ishmael mocks Isaac. Hagar and Ishmael expelled.	Family Trouble Comes to a Head: Esau marches with 400 men to attack Jacob.
The Supreme Test and the Triumph of Faith: The command to sacrifice Isaac Abraham sealed in victorious New Covenant righteousness.	The Supreme Test and the Triumph of Faith: The night of wrestling; Jacob’s name changed to Israel. He will not let go until he is blessed and sealed in victorious New Covenant righteousness.
End-Result: Isaac is the sole heir, in complete possession of the New Covenant.	End-Result: New Covenant Israel returns home. Esau leaves. Jacob, now Israel, is sole heir in complete possession of the New Covenant.

Conclusion

“Abraham had greatly desired to see the promised Saviour. He offered up the most earnest prayer that before his death he might behold the Messiah. And he saw Christ. A supernatural light was given him, and he acknowledged Christ's divine character. He saw His day, and was glad. He was given a view of the divine sacrifice for sin. Of this sacrifice he had an illustration in his own experience. The command came to him, "Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, . . . and offer him . . . for a burnt offering." Gen. 22:2.

Upon the altar of sacrifice he laid the son of promise, the son in whom his hopes were centered. Then as he waited beside the altar with knife upraised to obey God, he heard a voice from heaven saying, "Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from Me." Gen. 22:12. This terrible ordeal was imposed upon Abraham that he might see the day of Christ, and realize the great love of God for the world, so great that to raise it from its degradation, He gave His only-begotten Son to a most shameful death.

Abraham learned of God the greatest lesson ever given to mortal. His prayer that he might see Christ before he should die was answered. He saw Christ; he saw all that mortal can see, and live. By making an entire surrender, he was able to understand the vision of Christ, which had been given him. He was shown that in giving His only-begotten Son to save sinners from eternal ruin, God was making a greater and more wonderful sacrifice than ever man could make.

Abraham's experience answered the question: "Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? Shall I come before Him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my first-born for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?" Micah 6:6, 7. In the words of Abraham, "My son, God will provide Himself a lamb for a burnt offering," (Gen. 22:8), and in God's provision of a sacrifice instead of Isaac, it was declared that no man could make expiation for himself. The pagan system of sacrifice was wholly unacceptable to God. No father was to offer up his son or his daughter for a sin offering. The Son of God alone can bear the guilt of the world.

Through his own suffering, Abraham was enabled to behold the Saviour's mission of sacrifice. But Israel would not understand that which was so unwelcome to their proud hearts. Christ's words concerning Abraham conveyed to His hearers no deep significance. The Pharisees saw in them only fresh ground for caviling. They retorted with a sneer, as if they would prove Jesus to be a madman, "Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast Thou seen Abraham?"

With solemn dignity Jesus answered, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I Am." D.A. 468-469.

The Power of the Promise – Part V

Lessons from the Life of Joseph - Part I

Abram’s slide into the Old Covenant led to trouble, discord and bitterness in his family. Eventually Hagar and Ishmael had to depart leaving Isaac, the son of promise, as the sole heir. Both Abraham and Isaac were eventually sealed in New Covenant faith by the terrible test at Mount Moriah.

“By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.” Hebrews 11:17-19.

Jacob’s Old Covenant scheming led to even more horrible consequences. He had to depart from his father’s tent and during his absence he suffered under the law of sowing and reaping and was thereby purged of the Old Covenant and sealed in the New Covenant as Israel the conqueror!

The children of Israel (Jacob’s sons and daughters) knew the history of Abraham and Isaac and Jacob but in general learnt nothing. We say in general because there were individuals in each succeeding generation who demonstrated outstanding New Covenant faith.

In Paul’s list of the outstanding heroes of New Covenant faith he mentions Joseph next after Jacob in Hebrews II.

“By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff. By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.” Hebrew 11: 21, 22.

Whereas in the stories of Abraham and Jacob, Sarah and Rebecca respectively sought by human devising to obtain, what God had promised, by their own works of the flesh, in the story of Joseph his own brothers sought to prevent a promise from being fulfilled by their iniquitous evil devising and sinful works of their carnal minds. But before we examine this lowest level of religious unbelief we need to consolidate the new Covenant straight–line of truth.

The Abrahmaic Covenant Is The New Covenant

God’s promise to Abraham was God’s covenant with Abraham and is the everlasting covenant! God’s promise or covenant with Abraham being the New Covenant was confirmed of God in Christ and was, infact, is unalterable and could not be displaced or replaced by any other covenant! Let us and Galatians 3: 16-18; Romans 4:13, 14; Hebrews 11:8-19 and 2 Peter 3:13, 14.

It is clear from these texts of scripture that the ultimate inheritance will be the New Jerusalem in the New Earth. But to live in the New Earth a person must have two qualifications: eternal righteousness and eternal life. And these are also given in the New Covenant promise.

So Abraham, by faith in God’s promise, received God’s righteousness and God’s life in order to be qualified to receive God’s kingdom with its capital city the New Jerusalem. Now it is also clear from the above scriptures that the promises were made to two persons (Gal. 3:16) Abraham and Christ, and Abraham could have received the promises only through Christ, (Heb. 9:14, 15).

So what about the others?

Well, remember that Christ and his body are one (1 Cor. 12:12, 27). Therefore all who are in Christ are one with Christ and are heirs according to the promise (Gal. 3: 29)! Read also John 15:1-4.

Therefore nothing can be against God’s promises and nothing can replace or displace God’s promises. When God later on was obliged to give his law in spoken and written form it was not to establish a different covenant, it was not to offer a new way of salvation, rather it was to “conclude” or “shut up” all humans under sin so that all humans might see their need of the promise and exercise faith in the Seed (Gal.. 3:21, 22). But most people, like Israel of Old, misunderstand the function of the law and either try to get salvation through the law or try to change the law so as to fit themselves with their sins into the New Covenant. But neither of these can work. The law must bring us to Christ to receive righteousness and life, and must then bear witness that the righteousness received in Christ is the very righteousness which the law demanded but could not give. Therefore the New Covenant gives the same, not a different, righteousness as described in the law. Read Romans 8:1-4.

The New Covenant And God’s Eternal Purpose

The New Covenant and God’s eternal purpose are in fact one and the same thing. It is what Paul calls “the mystery which was kept secret since the world began,” and yet it is the Gospel and preaches Christ and produces the obedience of faith. Let us read Romans 16:25-27!

Nothing can stand in the way of the New Covenant-eternal purpose. Open your Bibles and read 2 Cor. 13:8 and Romans 8:28 and 31.

When people attack God’s New covenant by trying to fulfill God’s promises in the efforts of their flesh or by trying to make the promise of non-effect, the only result is that the New Covenant emerges victorious in an even more glorious way!

“God had a knowledge of the events of the future, even before the creation of the world. He did not make His purposes to fit circumstances, but He allowed matters to develop and work out. He did not work to bring about a certain condition of things, but He knew that such a condition would exist. The plan that should be carried out upon the defection of any of the high intelligences of heaven--this is the secret, the mystery which has been hid from ages. And an offering was prepared in the eternal purposes to do the very work which God has done for fallen humanity (ST March 25, 1897). 6BC 1082.

Jacob's Turbulent Family Life

After the mysterious and victorious outcome in his meeting with Esau Jacob, now Israel, crossed the river Jordan and settled for a while in Schechem. It was here that Simeon and Levi slaughtered the males of Schechem in retaliation for their sister’s Dinah’s defilement (Genesis 34). This event caused Jacob much anguish and grief and much humiliation. Cruelty and falsehood were manifest in the character of his sons and false gods were being worshipped by them in the camp. Jacob was terribly grieved at the behaviour of his children and while thus bowed down with trouble the Lord directed him to journey southward to Bethel. Jacob directed all his camp to put away all false gods. He repeated the story of his first visit to Bethel and the hearts of his children were touched and subdued. Genesis 35:1-6. Here we see the close connection between the wearing of jewelry, like earrings, and idolatry and we understand quite clearly that the New Covenant has no place for earrings or any other kind of idolatrous jewelry.

At Bethel Rebekah’s nurse Deborah died. Thereafter in the journey from Bethel to Ephrath Rachel also died while giving birth to her second son, Benjamin. All of this grieved Jacob with inexpressible sorrow. And as if this were not enough Reuben, the first-born son, committed the terrible sin of having sexual intercourse with Bilhah his father’s concubine and thereby forfeited the privileges and honors of the birthright.

At last Jacob arrived at his father’s encampment in Mamre. Here he remained during the closing years of Isaac’s life. To Isaac, infirm and blind, the kind attentions of this long-absent son were a comfort during his last years of loneliness and bereavement. Eventually Isaac died at the ripe old age of 180 years and Esau and Jacob buried him in Abraham’s burial ground.

The sin of Jacob, and the train of events to which it led had not failed to exert an influence for evil – an influence that revealed its bitter fruit in the character and life of his sons. As these sons arrived at manhood they developed serious faults. The terrible results of polygamy were manifest in the household. The jealousy of the several mothers had embittered the family relation, the children had grown up contentious and impatient of control and Jacob’s life was darkened with anxiety and grief. His sons, with the exception of one, showed little interest in the things of God and they departed widely from the Abrahamic faith and covenant.

Introducing Joseph

There was one son, however, of a widely different character to the others – the elder son of Rachel, Joseph, whose rare personal beauty seemed but to reflect an inward beauty of mind and heart. He listened to his father’s instructions, cherished the Abrahamic promise and loved to obey God. And Jacob loved him more than all his children (Genesis 37:3). Israel’s love for Joseph evoked jealousy amongst his brethren and they hated Joseph.

A New Manifestation Of Unbelief – Trying To Prevent The Fulfilment Of A Promise By Human Works

In Genesis 37: 5-10 Joseph told his family about the dreams he had been given. The dreams contained a promise that he would be in a position of honour and power above his brethren. They hated him and resolved to kill him. Eventually they sold him into slavery. They were making sure that the promise contained in his dreams would never come true. Israel was heartbroken yet again.

After the selling of Joseph into slavery, Judah fell into terrible immorality and deception, again this added more grief and sorrow to Israel.

The New Covenant Arrives In Egypt

Meanwhile, Joseph was going to Egypt. As he saw the hills of his father’s tents in the distance he wept bitterly and remembered the stinging insulting words of his brothers when he begged for mercy. In the space of a few hours he had been changed from the favourite son to a despised and helpless slave. His heart was broken with uncontrolled grief and terror.

“Meanwhile, Joseph with his captors was on the way to Egypt. As the caravan journeyed southward toward the borders of Canaan, the boy could discern in the distance the hills among which lay his father's tents. Bitterly he wept at thought of that loving father in his loneliness and affliction. Again the scene at Dothan came up before him. He saw his angry brothers and felt their fierce glances bent upon him. The stinging, insulting words that had met his agonized entreaties were ringing in his ears. With a trembling heart he looked forward to the future. What a change in situation--from the tenderly cherished son to the despised and helpless slave! Alone and friendless, what would be his lot in the strange land to which he was going? For a time Joseph gave himself up to uncontrolled grief and terror.

But, in the providence of God, even this experience was to be a blessing to him. He had learned in a few hours that which years might not otherwise have taught him. His father, strong and tender as his love had been, had done him wrong by his partiality and indulgence. This unwise preference had angered his brothers and provoked them to the cruel deed that had separated him from his home. Its effects were manifest also in his own character. Faults had been encouraged that were now to be corrected. He was becoming self-sufficient and exacting. Accustomed to the tenderness of his father's care, he felt that he was unprepared to cope with the difficulties before him, in the bitter, uncared-for life of a stranger and a slave.

Then his thoughts turned to his father's God. In his childhood he had been taught to love and fear Him. Often in his father's tent he had listened to the story of the vision that Jacob saw as he fled from his home an exile and a fugitive. He had been told of the Lord's promises to Jacob, and how they had been fulfilled--how, in the hour of need, the angels of God had come to instruct, comfort, and protect him. And he had learned of the love of God in providing for men a Redeemer. Now all these precious lessons came vividly before him. Joseph believed that the God of his fathers would be his God. He then and there gave himself fully to the Lord, and he prayed that the Keeper of Israel would be with him in the land of his exile.” P.P. 213.

Final Appeal

“There are those who have known the pardoning love of Christ and who really desire to be children of God, yet they realize that their character is imperfect, their life faulty, and they are ready to doubt whether their hearts have been renewed by the Holy Spirit. To such I would say, Do not draw back in despair. We shall often have to bow down and weep at the feet of Jesus because of our shortcomings and mistakes, but we are not to be discouraged. Even if we are overcome by the enemy, we are not cast off, not forsaken and rejected of God. No; Christ is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Said the beloved John, "These things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." 1 John 2:1. And do not forget the words of Christ, "The Father Himself loveth you." John 16:27. He desires to restore you to Himself, to see His own purity and holiness reflected in you. And if you will but yield yourself to Him, He that hath begun a good work in you will carry it forward to the day of Jesus Christ. Pray more fervently; believe more fully. As we come to distrust our own power, let us trust the power of our Redeemer, and we shall praise Him who is the health of our countenance.

The closer you come to Jesus, the more faulty you will appear in your own eyes; for your vision will be clearer, and your imperfections will be seen in broad and distinct contrast to His perfect nature. This is evidence that Satan's delusions have lost their power; that the vivifying influence of the Spirit of God is arousing you.

No deep-seated love for Jesus can dwell in the heart that does not realize its own sinfulness. The soul that is transformed by the grace of Christ will admire His divine character; but if we do not see our own moral deformity, it is unmistakable evidence that we have not had a view of the beauty and excellence of Christ.

The less we see to esteem in ourselves, the more we shall see to esteem in the infinite purity and loveliness of our Saviour. A view of our sinfulness drives us to Him who can pardon; and when the soul, realizing its helplessness, reaches out after Christ, He will reveal Himself in power. The more our sense of need drives us to Him and to the word of God, the more exalted views we shall have of His character, and the more fully we shall reflect His image.” S.C. 64-65.

The Power of the Promise – Part VI

Lessons from the Life of Joseph – Part II

Joseph became a born-again new covenant believer on his way to Egypt. He arrived in Egypt as the shining New Covenant light God would have him to be. Meanwhile his brothers back home had time to reflect on their terrible behaviour and on the ever increasing heartache and grief which they caused their father to have to endure every passing day.

The New Covenant Light Reveals The New Covenant God To Egypt

Joseph was a teenager of 17 years of age when he arrived in Egypt. He was sold to Potiphar, cap-tain of the King’s guard, in whose service he remained ten (10) years. He was surrounded by the vice and sinful pleasures of idolatry; its music, fetes, sexual immorality and godlessness, but he kept his thoughts on the God of his fathers and openly worshipped Jehovah! By faith in God and by believing God’s promises Joseph remained loyal to the Abrahamic Covenant!

Let us read now from the TEV.

“He lived in the house of his Egyptian master who saw that Jehovah was with Jo-seph and had made him successful in everything he did. Potiphar was pleased with him and made him his personal servant; so he put him in charge of his house and everything he owned. From then on, because of Joseph the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian and everything that he had in his house and in his fields. Potiphar turned over everything he had to the care of Joseph and did not concern himself with anything except the food he ate.” Gen. 39:2-6.

The shining success of a New Covenant life amidst a satanic stronghold of paganism stirred Satan’s anger and he planned an all-out assault on Joseph.

We continue now with the account in the Bible (TEV).

“Joseph was well-built and good-looking and after a while his master’s wife began to desire Joseph and asked him to go to bed with her. He refused and said to her ‘look my master does not have to concern himself with anything in the house be-cause I am here. He has put me in charge of everything he has. I have as much au-thority in this house as he has, and he has not kept back anything from me except you. How then could I do such an immoral thing and sin against God!” Although she asked Joseph day after day, he would not go to bed with her.” Gen. 39:6-10.

Joseph’s answer reveals the power of new covenant principle. Joseph’s first thought was of the love and glory of God and, motivated by God’s love and possessing God’s righteousness by faith, he submitted his will to God’s will. This is the formula for victory over sin!

“Joseph's answer reveals the power of religious principle. He would not betray the confi-dence of his master on earth, and, whatever the consequences, he would be true to his Master in heaven. Under the inspecting eye of God and holy angels many take liberties of which they would not be guilty in the presence of their fellow men, but Joseph's first thought was of God. "How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" he said.” P.P. 217.

Satan’s plan had a two-fold strategy. He knew that if Joseph sinned he would dishonor God and be separated, at least partially, from God’s protection. On the other hand if Joseph refused to sin Satan would have him cast into prison.

Let us return to the Biblical account in TEV.

“But one day when Joseph went into the house to do his work, none of the house servants was there. She caught him by his robe and said, ‘come to bed with me.’ But he escaped and ran outside, leaving his robe in her hand. When she saw that he had left his robe and had run out of the house, she called to her house servants and said ‘Look at this! This Hebrew that my husband brought to the house is in-sulting us. He came into my room and tried to rape me, but I screamed as loud as I could. When he heard me scream he ran outside, leaving his robe beside me.” Gen. 39:11-15.

She repeated this false charge to her husband when he came home and Potiphar had Joseph ar-rested and imprisoned in the prison where the King’s prisoners were kept.

But little did Satan know that by imprisoning Joseph he (Satan) was but in fact accelerating God’s eternal purpose! Romans 8:28; 2 Cor. 13:8.

The New Covenant In Prison

The Old Covenant “gendereth to bondage” but the New Covenant liberates! Hallelujah! So the New Covenant in jail meant trouble for Satan! The account in Genesis 39 does not give all the de-tails for we are simply told there that:

“The LORD JEHOVAH was with Joseph and blessed him, so that the jailer was pleased with him.” Gen. 39:21.

But over in Psalm 105:18, 19 we are informed that Joseph was initially treated with great severity by his jailers. Yet he remained kind, patient and submissive. He did not brood upon his own hardships but tried to help others. This is New Covenant character! What about us? Do we for-get our hardships by trying to help others? Or are we always focused on self? In other words are we Old Covenant or New Covenant believers?

God was preparing Joseph in the school of affliction for greater usefulness, and he did not refuse the needful discipline. In the prison, witnessing the results of oppression, tyranny, and sin and the consequences of crime, he learned lessons of justice, sympathy and mercy, that prepared him for the Prime Ministerial post to which he would soon be elevated.

Dreams Again?

The chief baker and chief butler of Pharoah were imprisoned and were put under Joseph’s charge. Joseph by now had won such favour that the Superintendent of prisons put him in charge! You can’t keep down a New-Covenant believer! Oh praise the Lord!

The baker and butler had dreams. Dreams again? Joseph’s dreams had made his brothers jealous and caused him to be sold into slavery. Now his interpretation of these dreams would eventually lead to his elevation to supreme executive power in the world’s number one kingdom! Satan’s at-tack on the New Covenant would be signally defeated!

The dreams are described in Genesis 40. In three days the butler was to be reinstated into his po-sition but the chief baker would be put to death. In both cases the event occurred as foretold!

The butler forgot all about Joseph who therefore spent two more years in jail amidst increasing trials.

The New Covenant God Opens The Prison Doors

But a divine hand was about to open the prison gates. The Pharoah had two dreams in one night. The dreams troubled him so much he could have no peace of mind. Some great calamity seemed to be foretold. Egypt’s experts could not help the king. At last the chief butler remembered Jo-seph and informed the king. Joseph was sent for. A whole chapter in Genesis, Genesis 41, is de-voted to the account. There were going to be seven years of plenty followed by seven years of ex-treme famine. Egypt needed a man! A man who would so manage the affairs of the nation as to prevent the collapse of the government and the death of the people. Pharoah could find no such man among the Eqyptians, but God had a man!

The New Covenant In Control Of Egypt

After much deliberation. Pharoah and his governmental officials and advisers decided to appoint Joseph to the highest position (under the King) in all Egypt.

“The interpretation was so reasonable and consistent, and the policy which it recom-mended was so sound and shrewd, that its correctness could not be doubted. But who was to be entrusted with the execution of the plan? Upon the wisdom of this choice depended the nation's preservation. The king was troubled. For some time the matter of the ap-pointment was under consideration. Through the chief butler the monarch had learned of the wisdom and prudence displayed by Joseph in the management of the prison; it was evi-dent that he possessed administrative ability in a pre-eminent degree. The cupbearer, now filled with self-reproach, endeavored to atone for his former ingratitude, by the warmest praise of his benefactor; and further inquiry by the king proved the correctness of his re-port. In all the realm Joseph was the only man gifted with wisdom to point out the danger that threatened the kingdom and the preparation necessary to meet it; and the king was convinced that he was the one best qualified to execute the plans which he had proposed. It was evident that a divine power was with him, and that there were none among the king's officers of state so well qualified to conduct the affairs of the nation at this crisis. The fact that he was a Hebrew and a slave was of little moment when weighed against his evident wisdom and sound judgment. "Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is?" said the king to his counselors.

The appointment was decided upon, and to Joseph the astonishing announcement was made, "Forasmuch as God hath showed thee all this, there is none so discreet and wise as thou art: thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy word shall all my people be ruled: only in the throne will I be greater than thou." The king proceeded to invest Joseph with the insignia of his high office. "And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; and he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried be-fore him, Bow the knee."

"He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance: to bind his princes at his pleasure; and teach his senators wisdom." Psalm 105:21, 22. From the dungeon Joseph was exalted to be ruler over all the land of Egypt. It was a position of high honor, yet it was be-set with difficulty and peril. One cannot stand upon a lofty height without danger. As the tempest leaves unharmed the lowly flower of the valley, while it uproots the stately tree upon the mountaintop, so those who have maintained their integrity in humble life may be dragged down to the pit by the temptations that assail worldly success and honor. But Jo-seph's character bore the test alike of adversity and prosperity. The same fidelity to God was manifest when he stood in the palace of the Pharaohs as when in a prisoner's cell. He was still a stranger in a heathen land, separated from his kindred, the worshipers of God; but he fully believed that the divine hand had directed his steps, and in constant reliance upon God he faithfully discharged the duties of his position. Through Joseph the attention of the king and great men of Egypt was directed to the true God; and though they adhered to their idolatry, they learned to respect the principles revealed in the life and character of the worshiper of Jehovah.

How was Joseph enabled to make such a record of firmness of character, uprightness, and wisdom?--In his early years he had consulted duty rather than inclination; and the integrity, the simple trust, the noble nature, of the youth bore fruit in the deeds of the man. A pure and simple life had favored the vigorous development of both physical and intellectual powers. Communion with God through His works and the contemplation of the grand truths entrusted to the inheritors of faith had elevated and ennobled his spiritual nature, broadening and strengthening the mind as no other study could do. Faithful attention to duty in every station, from the lowliest to the most exalted, had been training every power for its highest service. He who lives in accordance with the Creator's will is securing to him-self the truest and noblest development of character. "The fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding." Job 28:28.

There are few who realize the influence of the little things of life upon the development of character. Nothing with which we have to do is really small. The varied circumstances that we meet day by day are designed to test our faithfulness and to qualify us for greater trusts. By adherence to principle in the transactions of ordinary life, the mind becomes accus-tomed to hold the claims of duty above those of pleasure and inclination. Minds thus disci-plined are not wavering between right and wrong, like the reed trembling in the wind; they are loyal to duty because they have trained themselves to habits of fidelity and truth. By faithfulness in that which is least they acquire strength to be faithful in greater matters.

An upright character is of greater worth than the gold of Ophir. Without it none can rise to an honorable eminence. But character is not inherited. It cannot be bought. Moral excel-lence and fine mental qualities are not the result of accident. The most precious gifts are of no value unless they are improved. The formation of a noble character is the work of a life-time and must be the result of diligent and persevering effort. God gives opportunities; suc-cess depends upon the use made of them.” PP. 221 – 223.

Appeal

“In no other way can Christ's disciples be cleansed but by obedience to the truth. The apostle Paul writes: "Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; that he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." And Peter writes: "Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently; being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever." "Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as new-born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious."

As the branch derives its nourishment from the vine, so all who are truly converted draw spiritual vitality from Christ. "Verily, verily, I say unto you," he declared, "Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drin-keth my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live forever. . . .

"Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God."

Thus Christ presents the false union with himself in contrast with the true. Those who have not a living connection with Christ may to outward appearance be in fellowship with him. Their names may be enrolled on the church books, but they are not members of his body. They do not bear fruit to the glory of God. "Ye shall know them by their fruits," Christ said. "Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree can not bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."

Christ has provided means whereby our whole life may be an unbroken communion with himself; but the sense of Christ's abiding presence can come only through living faith. There must be a personal consecration to him. Self must be hid with Christ in God; then the grace received will be constantly imparted as a grateful offering to God. In this union Christ identifies himself with man before God and the heavenly universe. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." Our sins are reckoned to Christ. His righteousness is imputed to us, and we are made the righteousness of God in him. Because of his atoning sacrifice, our prayers go up to the Father, laden with the fragrance of Christ's character, and, one with Christ, we are accepted in the Beloved.

Christ's connection with his believing people is illustrated by this parable as by no other. We should study the lesson, that we may know what the parent stock is to the branch, and in what light the Lord regards those who believe and abide in Christ. Let all contemplate the completeness it is their privilege to have, and ask themselves the ques-tion, Is my will submerged in Christ's will? Is the fullness and richness of the Living Vine--his goodness, his mercy, his compassion and love--seen in my life and character?” R.H. September. 18, 1900.

The Power of the Promise Part Vii

Lessons From the Life of Joseph – Part III

Joseph and His Brothers

At the very beginning of the seven fruitful years Joseph, in full New Covenant faith and filled with the wisdom which is from above, began preparation for the approaching famine. He gave orders for the erection of immense storehouses in the main centres throughout Egypt. Ample arrange-ments were made for preserving the surplus of the expected harvest. This same policy was contin-ued during the seven years until the amount of grain stored up was beyond computation!

We too right now live in a time of plenty. But a famine, even more severe than Egypt’s seven-year famine, is ahead of us.

“Behold, the says come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord: and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord and shall not find it. In that day shall the fair virgins and young men faint for thirst.” Amos 8:11-13.

Who are these virgins that will faint for thirst in the coming spiritual famine? The answer is given in Matthew 25:1-13.

“When that day comes, the kingdom of Heaven will be like this. There were ten girls, who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five prudent; when the foolish ones took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the others took flasks of oil with their lamps. As the bridegroom was late in coming they all dozed off to sleep. But at midnight a cry was heard: “Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.” With that the girls all got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish said to the pru-dent, “Our lamps are going out; give us some of your oil.” “No,” they said; “There will never be enough for all of us. You had better go to the shop and buy some for yourselves.” While they were away the bridegroom arrived; those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. And then the others came back. “Sir, sir,” they cried, “open the door for us,” But he answered, “I declare, I do not know you.” Keep awake then; for you never know the day or the hour.” Matthew 25:1-13 from the New English Bible.

Right now like Joseph, in full New Covenant faith, we are to be storing up the abundant oil of the Spirit by storing up the word of God, His truth and His promises, in the spirit of our minds. Why? Because a time is coming when our Bibles will be taken away by the Mark of the Beast au-thorities and, even more deadly, the Holy Spirit will be withdrawn from the world. Before that time we must have our souls and spirits filled with the Truth and Spirit of God! The remnant of the Third Angel’s Movement of true Adventism will be the storehouses of spiritual “grain” during the final crisis of spiritual “famine!”

Joseph Tests His Brothers (Genesis chs 42 – 45)

In their youth Joseph’s brothers were wicked, selfish, jealous, and full of vice. They sold Joseph into Egypt in order to prevent the promise of his mysterious dreams from coming true. Little did they realize that by selling him into slavery they were making sure that the dreams, of their having to bow down before him, would be absolutely fulfilled!

The famine extended to the land of Canaan and was severely felt in that part of the country where Jacob dwelt. Hearing of the abundant provision made by Egypt’s Pharaoh, Jacob advised his sons to go down to Egypt to buy grain. On their arrival they came before Joseph and bowed before him with their faces to the ground. Joseph knew his brethren but they did not recognize the now full grown Prime Minister of Egypt whom they had sold as a stripling about 22 years before. As Jo-seph saw his brothers stooping and bowing, his dreams came to his mind and the scenes of the past rose vividly before him. He saw that Benjamin was not among them and he proceeded to test them to ascertain whether they had changed any at all over the two decades since he was sold.

The rest of the story is well known. We shall list the main events:

• Joseph accused them of being spies.
• They pleaded not guilty.
• They explained that they were twelve brothers. The sons of one man, one brother being dead the other being at home.
• Joseph told them to send one to fetch the youngest brother.
• They refused, and chose to “stick it out” together in prison.
• On the third day he brought them out and told them that their lives would be spared only on condition that they bring back the youngest brother. Simeon is held in prison as surety.
• Joseph ordered each man’s money to be put back in his sack and food for the trip to be given.
• They returned to Canaan to Jacob and related every detail to the Patriarch.
• Jacob is grieved, he said, “Do you want to make me lose all my children? Joseph is gone: Simeon is gone; and now you want to take away Benjamin. I am the one who suffers!” Genesis 42:36 (TEV)
• Jacob refused to send Benjamin.
• The famine got worse, the grain was nearly exhausted.
• The ten brothers simply waited.
• The point of desperation is reached.
• Jacob gave the command, “Go again, buy us a little food.”
• Judah answered up and said that they could not return without Benjamin.
• Jacob at last consented. He bade them to take back presents and double monies.
• The ten sons journeyed to Egypt (Trip No. 2)
• Joseph’s eye fell upon Benjamin and he was deeply moved.
• He ordered them to be taken to the Governor’s palace.
• Simeon was released.
• All eleven bowed again before Joseph.
• He enquired about their father.
• They were seated in chronological order.
• Joseph hid and cried.
• Benjamin was given five times more food, to test whether the brothers were still envious.
• He sent them back having put the Governor’s silver cup in Benjamin’s sack.
• At the outskirts of the city they were overtaken by the Governor’s steward.
• The accusation was laid, the search was made and the cup found in Benjamin’s sack.
• They are taken back to Egypt.
• Benjamin must be enslaved for the “crime.”
• Judah pleaded once, in fact, twice.
• Joseph ordered all others but his brothers to remain in the room.
• With loud weeping Joseph made himself known to his brethren. He hugged them and wept upon their shoulders.

“Joseph was satisfied. He had seen in his brothers the fruits of true repentance. Upon hear-ing Judah's noble offer he gave orders that all but these men should withdraw; then, weep-ing aloud, he cried, "I am Joseph; doth my father yet live?"

His brothers stood motionless, dumb with fear and amazement. The ruler of Egypt their brother Joseph, whom they had envied and would have murdered, and finally sold as a slave! All their ill treatment of him passed before them. They remembered how they had despised his dreams and had labored to prevent their fulfillment. Yet they had acted their part in fulfilling these dreams; and now that they were completely in his power he would, no doubt, avenge the wrong that he had suffered.

Seeing their confusion, he said kindly, "Come near to me, I pray you;" and as they came near, he continued, "I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt. Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life." Feeling that they had already suffered enough for their cruelty toward him, he nobly sought to banish their fears and lessen the bitterness of their self-reproach.

"For these two years," he continued, "hath the famine been in the land: and yet there are five years, in the which there shall neither be earing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance. So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God: and He hath made me a father to Phar-aoh, and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt. Haste ye, and go up to my father, and say unto him, Thus saith thy son Joseph, God hath made me lord of all Egypt: come down unto me, tarry not: and thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast: and there will I nourish thee; for yet there are five years of famine; lest thou, and thy household, and all that thou hast, come to poverty. And, behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth that speaketh unto you." "And he fell upon his brother Benjamin's neck, and wept; and Benja-min wept upon his neck. Moreover he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them: and af-ter that his brethren talked with him." They humbly confessed their sin and entreated his forgiveness. They had long suffered anxiety and remorse, and now they rejoiced that he was still alive.” P.P. 230.

Jacob In Egypt

“The sons of Jacob returned to their father with the joyful tidings, "Joseph is yet alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt." At first the aged man was overwhelmed; he could not believe what he heard; but when he saw the long train of wagons and loaded animals, and when Benjamin was with him once more, he was convinced, and in the fullness of his joy exclaimed, "It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive: I will go and see him before I die."

Another act of humiliation remained for the ten brothers. They now confessed to their fa-ther the deceit and cruelty that for so many years had embittered his life and theirs. Jacob had not suspected them of so base a sin, but he saw that all had been overruled for good, and he forgave and blessed his erring children.

The father and his sons, with their families, their flocks and herds, and numerous atten-dants, were soon on the way to Egypt. With gladness of heart they pursued their journey, and when they came to Beersheba the patriarch offered grateful sacrifices and entreated the Lord to grant them an assurance that He would go with them. In a vision of the night the divine word came to him: "Fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation. I will go down with thee into Egypt; and I will also surely bring thee up again."

The assurance, "Fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great na-tion," was significant. The promise had been given to Abraham of a posterity numberless as the stars, but as yet the chosen people had increased but slowly. And the land of Canaan now offered no field for the development of such a nation as had been foretold. It was in the possession of powerful heathen tribes, that were not to be dispossessed until "the fourth generation." If the descendants of Israel were here to become a numerous people, they must either drive out the inhabitants of the land or disperse themselves among them. The former, according to the divine arrangement, they could not do; and should they mingle with the Canaanites, they would be in danger of being seduced into idolatry. Egypt, how-ever, offered the conditions necessary to the fulfillment of the divine purpose. A section of country well-watered and fertile was open to them there, affording every advantage for their speedy increase. And the antipathy they must encounter in Egypt on account of their occu-pation--for every shepherd was "an abomination unto the Egyptians"--would enable them to remain a distinct and separate people and would thus serve to shut them out from partici-pation in the idolatry of Egypt.” P.P. 231.

Conclusion

What an amazing story!

Oh how powerful is the eternal purpose of God’s everlasting (New) Covenant!

Paul saw in all these stories the beauty of the Gospel! He wrote with exultation:

In view of all this what can we say? If God is for us, who can be against us? Certainly not God, who did not even keep back His own son but offered Him for us all! He gave us His Son – will he not freely give us all things?

We know that in all things God works for good with those who love him, those whom he has called according to His purpose.

Appeal

Commit the keeping of your soul to God, and trust in Him. Talk and think of Jesus. Let self be lost in Him. Put away all doubt; dismiss your fears. Say with the apostle Paul, “I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me” Gal. 2:20. REST IN GOD. He is able to keep that which you have committed to Him. If you will leave yourself in His hands, He will bring you off more than conqueror through Him that has loved you. (SC 72) Amen!