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The Ideal for All Humanity, January 24
And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God
and man.
Luke 2:52
.
Christ lived the life of a toiler from His earliest years. In His youth
He worked with His Father at the carpenter’s trade, and thus honored all
labor. Though He was the King of glory, yet by His practice of following a
humble employment He rebuked idleness in every member of the human
family, and dignified all labor as noble and Christlike.... From childhood
He was a pattern of obedience and industry. He was as a pleasant sunbeam
in the home circle....
Though His wisdom had astonished the doctors, yet He meekly sub-
jected Himself to His human guardians.... The knowledge He was daily
obtaining of His wonderful mission did not disqualify Him for performing
the most humble duties. He cheerfully took up the work that devolves upon
youth who dwell in humble households pressed by poverty. He understood
the temptations of children, for He bore their sorrows and trials. Firm
and steadfast was His purpose to do the right. Though enticed to evil, He
refused to depart in a single instance from the strictest truth and rectitude
Christ is the ideal for all humanity. He has left a perfect example for
childhood, youth, and manhood. He came to this earth, and passed through
the different phases of human life. He talked and acted like other children
and youth, except that He did no wrong. Sin found no place in His life.
Ever He lived in an atmosphere of heavenly purity....
In the sanctuary of the home, Jesus received His education, not merely
from His parents, but from His heavenly Father. As He grew older, God
opened to Him more and more of the great work before Him. But notwith-
standing His knowledge of this, He assumed no airs of superiority. Never
did He by disrespect cause His parents pain or anxiety. He delighted to
honor and obey them. Although He was not ignorant of His great mission,
He consulted their wishes, and submitted to their authority
[31]
48
Signs of the Times, July 30, 1896
.
49
S.D.A. Bible Commentary 5:1117, 1118
.
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