Chapter 4—The First Advent of Christ
Then I was carried down to the time when Jesus was to take
upon himself man’s nature, humble himself as a man, and suffer the
temptations of Satan.
His birth was without worldly grandeur. He was born in a stable,
cradled in a manger; yet his birth was honored far above any of the
sons of men. Angels from heaven informed the shepherds of the
advent of Jesus, while the light and glory from God accompanied their
testimony. The heavenly host touched their harps and glorified God.
They triumphantly heralded the advent of the Son of God to a fallen
world to accomplish the work of redemption, and by his death bring
peace, happiness, and everlasting life to man. God honored the advent
of his Son. Angels worshiped him.
Angels of God hovered over the scene of his baptism, and the Holy
Spirit descended in the shape of a dove, and lighted upon him, and as
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the people stood greatly amazed, with their eyes fastened upon him,
the Father’s voice was heard from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved
Son, in thee I am well pleased.
John was not certain that it was the Saviour who came to be bap-
tized of him in Jordan. But God had promised him a sign by which he
should know the Lamb of God. That sign was given as the heavenly
Dove rested upon Jesus, and the glory of God shone round about him.
John reached forth his hand, pointing to Jesus, and with a loud voice
cried out, Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the
world.
John informed his disciples that Jesus was the promised Messiah,
the Saviour of the world. As his work was closing, he taught his
disciples to look to Jesus, and follow him as the great teacher. John’s
life was without pleasure. It was sorrowful and self-denying. He
heralded the first advent of Christ, and then was not permitted to
witness the miracles, and enjoy the power manifested by him. He
knew that when Jesus should establish himself as a teacher, he must
die. His voice was seldom heard, except in the wilderness. His life was
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