128
The Retirement Years
The Best Time of John’s Life
The history of John affords a striking illustration of the way in
which God can use aged workers. When John was exiled to the isle of
Patmos, there were many who thought him to be past service, an old
and broken reed, ready to fall at any time. But the Lord saw fit to use
him still. Though banished from the scenes of his former labor, he did
not cease to bear witness to the truth. Even in Patmos he made friends
and converts. His was a message of joy, proclaiming a risen Saviour
who on high was interceding for His people until He should return
to take them to Himself. And it was after John had grown old in the
service of his Lord that he received more communications from heaven
than he had received during all the former years of his life.—
The Acts
of the Apostles, 572, 573
.
In his old age John revealed the life of Christ in his life. He lived to
be nearly one hundred years old, and over and over again he repeated
the story of the crucified and risen Saviour. Persecution came upon the
believers, and those young in experience were often in danger of losing
their hold on Christ. But the old, tried servant of Jesus steadfastly
maintained his faith.—
The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:947
.
Comfort From Experiences of Bible Characters
In the experience of the apostle John during his persecution, there
[177]
is a lesson of wonderful strength and comfort for the people of God.
God does not prevent the plottings of wicked men, but He causes their
devices to work for good to those who in trial and conflict maintain
their faith and loyalty. Often the gospel worker carries on his work
amid storms of persecution, bitter opposition, and unjust reproach. At
such times let him remember that the experience to be gained in the
furnace of trial and affliction is worth more than all the pain it costs.
Thus God brings His children near to Him, that He may show them
their weakness and His strength. He teaches them to lean on Him.
Thus He prepares them to meet emergencies, to fill positions of trust,
and to accomplish the great purpose for which their powers were given
them.
In all ages, God’s appointed witnesses have exposed themselves
to reproach and persecution for the truth’s sake. Joseph was maligned