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The Spirit of Prophecy Volume 2
the establishment of a temporal kingdom, which they supposed would
reduce the Romans to subjection, and exalt themselves with authority
and power to reign over them. They had made the proud boast to those
to whom they were in subjection, that they were not to oppress them
long; for their reign would soon commence, which would be more
exalted and glorious than even that of Solomon.
When the time was fulfilled, Christ was born in a stable, and
cradled in a manger, surrounded by the beasts of the stall. And is this
indeed the Son of God, to all outward appearance a frail, helpless babe,
so much resembling other infants? His divine glory and majesty were
vailed by humanity, and angels heralded his advent. The tidings of
his birth were borne with joy to the heavenly courts, while the great
men of the earth knew it not. The proud Pharisees and scribes, with
their hypocritical ceremonies, and apparent devotion to the law, knew
nothing of the Babe of Bethlehem. They were ignorant of the manner
of his appearing, notwithstanding all their boasted learning and wisdom
in expounding the law and the prophecies in the schools of the prophets.
They were devising means to advantage themselves. Their study was
as to the most successful manner to obtain riches and worldly honor,
and they were wholly unprepared for the revelation of the Messiah.
They looked for a mighty prince, who should reign upon David’s
throne, and whose kingdom should endure forever. Their proud and
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lofty ideas of the coming of the Messiah were not in accordance with
the prophecies which they professed to be able to expound to the
people. They were spiritually blind, and were leaders of the blind.
In Heaven it was understood that the time had come for the advent
of Christ to the world, and angels leave glory to witness his reception
by those he came to bless and save. They had witnessed his glory
in Heaven, and they anticipate that he will be received with honor in
accordance with his character, and the dignity of his mission. As angels
approach the earth, they first come to the people God had separated
from the nations of the world as his peculiar treasure. They see no
especial interest among the Jews, no eager waiting and watching that
they may be the first to receive the Redeemer, and acknowledge his
advent.
In the temple, which had been hallowed by daily sacrificial offer-
ings, prefiguring his coming, and symbolizing his death, no prepa-
rations are being made to welcome the Saviour of the world. The