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S.D.A. Bible Commentary Vol. 5
sin in the light of God’s commands, holding up the law as a mirror
which reflected light upon wrong. It was this keen discrimination
between right and wrong that often provoked Christ’s brothers to
anger. Yet His appeals and entreaties, and the sorrow expressed in
His countenance, revealed such a tender, earnest love for them that
they were ashamed of having tempted Him to deviate from His strict
sense of justice and loyalty (
The Youth’s Instructor, September 8,
1898
).
40, 52. Growth in Knowledge and Service
—Though He in-
creased in knowledge, and the grace of God was upon Him, yet He
did not become lifted up in pride, or feel that He was above doing
the most humble toil. He took His share of the burden, together with
His father, mother, and brethren. He toiled to sustain the family, and
shared in the work that would meet the expenses of the household.
Though His wisdom had astonished the doctors, yet He meekly sub-
jected Himself to His human guardians, bore His part in the family
burdens, and worked with His own hands as any toiler would work.
It is stated of Jesus that (as He advanced in years) He “increased in
wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”
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 temp-
tations 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. He maintained perfect filial obedience; but His spotless
life aroused the envy and jealousy of His brethren. His childhood
and youth were anything but smooth and joyous. His brethren did
not believe on Him, and were annoyed because He did not in all
things act as they did, and become one of them in the practice of
evil. In His home life He was cheerful, but never boisterous. He ever
maintained the attitude of a learner. He took great delight in nature,
and God was His teacher (
The Signs of the Times, July 30, 1896
).
The Light and Joy of the Family
—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