Meeting of the Brethren
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with men, and few had discerned how near Heaven came to earth when
Jesus dwelt among them. It was, therefore, very appropriate that the
work of the disciples should begin at Jerusalem. While all minds were
agitated by the thrilling scenes of the past few weeks, it was a most
fitting opportunity for the message to be borne to that city.
As the instruction of Jesus to the apostles was drawing to a close,
and as the hour of his separation from them approached, he directed
their minds more definitely to the work of the Spirit of God in fitting
them for their mission. Through the medium of a familiar intercourse,
he illuminated their minds to understand the sublime truths which
they were to reveal to the world. But their work was not to be entered
upon till they should know of a surety, by the baptism of the Holy
Ghost, that they were connected with Heaven. They were promised
new courage and joy from the heavenly illumination they should then
experience, and which would enable them to comprehend the depth
and breadth and fullness of God’s love.
After being fitted for their mission by the descent of the Holy
Ghost, the disciples were to proclaim pardon for sin, and salvation
through repentance, and the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour,
and to reveal the principles of the kingdom of Christ, beginning at
Jerusalem, and from thence extending their labors throughout Judea,
and into Samaria, and finally to the uttermost parts of the earth. Here is
a lesson to all who have a message of truth to give to the world: Their
own hearts must first be imbued with the Spirit of God, and their labors
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should commence at home; their families should have the benefit of
their influence; and the transforming power of the Spirit of God should
be demonstrated in their own homes by a well-disciplined family. Then
the circle should widen; the whole neighborhood should perceive the
interest felt for their salvation, and the light of truth should be faithfully
presented to them; for their salvation is of as much importance as that
of persons at a distance. From the immediate neighborhood, and
adjoining cities and towns, the circle of the labors of God’s servants
should widen, till the message of truth is given to the uttermost parts
of the earth.
This was the order which Christ instituted for the labors of his
disciples; but it is frequently reversed by the evangelical workers of
this time. They neglect the inner circle; it is not felt to be a necessity
that the quickening influence of the Spirit of God should first operate