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Testimonies for the Church Volume 4
These two men alike had the opportunities and privileges of the
continual lessons and example of Christ to correct their sinful traits of
character. While they heard His withering rebukes and denunciations
against hypocrisy and corruption, they saw that those so terribly de-
nounced were the objects of solicitous and unwearied labor for their
reformation. The Saviour wept because of their darkness and error. He
yearned over them with unbounded compassion and love, exclaiming
to Jerusalem: “How often would I have gathered thy children together,
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as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not!”
Peter was prompt and zealous in action, bold and uncompromising;
and Christ saw in him material that would be of great value to the
church. He therefore connected Peter with Himself, that all which
was good and valuable might be preserved, and that by His lessons
and example He might soften whatever was harsh in his temper and
smooth whatever was rugged in his deportment. If the heart were
indeed transformed by divine grace, an external change would be seen
in true kindness, sympathy, and courteousness. Jesus was never cold
and unapproachable. The afflicted often broke in upon His retreat
when He needed refreshment and rest, but He had a kind look and an
encouraging word for all. He was a pattern of true courtesy. Peter de-
nied his Lord, but afterward repented and was deeply humbled because
of his great sin; and Christ showed that He forgave His erring disciple
in condescending to mention him by name after His resurrection.
Judas yielded to the temptations of Satan and betrayed his best
friend. Peter learned and profited by the lessons of Christ, and carried
forward the work of reform which was left to the disciples when their
Lord ascended on high. These two men represent the two classes that
Christ connects with Himself, giving to them the advantages of His
lessons and the example of His unselfish, compassionate life, that they
may learn of Him.
The more man views his Saviour and becomes acquainted with
Him, the more he will become assimilated to His image and work the
works of Christ. The age in which we live calls for reformatory action.
The light of truth which shines upon us calls for men of determined
action and sterling moral worth to labor diligently and perseveringly to
save the souls of all who will hear the invitation of the Spirit of God.
The love which should exist between church members frequently
gives place to criticism and censure; and these appear, even in the