Chapter 65—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
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. The high priest cannot defend
himself or his people from Satan’s accusations. He does not claim that
Israel are free from fault. In his filthy garments, symbolizing the sins
of the people, which he bears as their representative, he stands before
the Angel, confessing their guilt, yet pointing to their repentance and
humiliation, relying upon the mercy of a sin-pardoning Redeemer and
in faith claiming the promises of God.
Then the Angel, who is Christ Himself, the Saviour of sinners, puts
to silence the accuser of His people, declaring: “The Lord rebuke thee,
O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not
this a brand plucked out of the fire?”
Zechariah 3:2
. As the intercession
of Joshua is accepted, the command is given, “Take away the filthy
garments from him,” and to Joshua the Angel declares, “Behold, I
have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee
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