Chapter 53—Joshua and the Angel
If the veil which separates the visible from the invisible world could
be lifted, and the people of God could behold the great controversy
that is going on between Christ and holy angels and Satan and his evil
hosts concerning the redemption of man; if they could understand the
wonderful work of God for the rescue of souls from the bondage of
sin, and the constant exercise of His power for their protection from
the malice of the evil one, they would be better prepared to withstand
the devices of Satan. Their minds would be solemnized in view of the
vast extent and importance of the plan of redemption and the greatness
of the work before them as colaborers with Christ. They would be
humbled, yet encouraged, knowing that all heaven is interested in their
salvation.
A most forcible and impressive illustration of the work of Satan
and the work of Christ, and the power of our Mediator to vanquish
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the accuser of His people, is given in the prophecy of Zechariah. In
holy vision the prophet beholds Joshua the high priest, “clothed with
filthy garments,” standing before the Angel of the Lord, entreating
the mercy of God in behalf of his people who are in deep affliction.
Satan stands at his right hand to resist him. Because Israel had been
chosen to preserve the knowledge of God in the earth, they had been,
from their first existence as a nation, the special objects of Satan’s
enmity, and he had determined to cause their destruction. He could do
them no harm while they were obedient to God; therefore he had bent
all his power and cunning to enticing them into sin. Ensnared by his
temptations they had transgressed the law of God and thus separated
from the Source of their strength, and had been left to become the prey
of their heathen enemies. They were carried into captivity to Babylon,
and there remained for many years. Yet they were not forsaken of the
Lord. His prophets were sent to them with reproofs and warnings.
The people were awakened to see their guilt, they humbled themselves
before God, and returned to Him with true repentance. Then the Lord
sent them messages of encouragement, declaring that He would deliver
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