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For Us Christ Endured the Cross, August 23
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and
became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
Philippians 2:8
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For the joy that was set before Him, Christ endured the cross, despising
the shame, and is forever set down at the right hand of God. He died on
the cross as a sacrifice for the world, and through this sacrifice comes the
greatest blessing that God could bestow,—the gift of the Holy Spirit. This
blessing is for all who will receive Christ.
The fallen world is the battle-field for the greatest conflict the heavenly
universe and earthly powers have ever witnessed. It was appointed as the
theater on which would be fought out the grand struggle between good
and evil, between heaven and hell. Every human being acts a part in this
conflict. No one can stand on neutral ground. Men must either accept
or reject the world’s Redeemer. All are witnesses, either for or against
Christ. Christ calls upon those who stand under His banner to engage in
the conflict with Him as faithful soldiers, that they may inherit the crown
of life. They have been adopted as sons and daughters of God. Christ has
left them His assured promise that great will be the reward in the kingdom
of heaven of those who partake of His humiliation and suffering for the
truth’s sake.
The cross of Calvary challenges, and will finally vanquish, every
earthly and hellish power. In the cross all influence centers, and from it
all influence goes forth. It is the great center of attraction, for on it Christ
gave up His life for the human race. This sacrifice was offered for the
purpose of restoring man to his original perfection; yea, more. It was
offered to give him an entire transformation of character, making him
more than a conqueror. Those who in the strength of Christ overcome
the great enemy of God and man, will occupy a position in the heavenly
courts above angels who have never fallen
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The General Conference Bulletin, April 1, 1899
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