Basic HTML Version
178
Early Writings
Jesus thirsted in His agony, and they gave Him vinegar and gall
to drink; but when He tasted it, He refused it. The angels had viewed
the agony of their loved Commander until they could behold no
longer, and they veiled their faces from the sight. The sun refused
to look upon the awful scene. Jesus cried with a loud voice, which
struck terror to the hearts of His murderers, “
It is finished
“. Then
the veil of the temple was rent from the top to the bottom, the earth
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shook, and the rocks rent. Great darkness was upon the face of the
earth. The last hope of the disciples seemed swept away as Jesus
died. Many of His followers witnessed the scene of His sufferings
and death, and their cup of sorrow was full.
Satan did not then exult as he had done. He had hoped to break
up the plan of salvation; but it was laid too deep. And now by the
death of Christ he knew that he himself must finally die, and his
kingdom be given to Jesus. He held a council with his angels. He
had prevailed nothing against the Son of God, and now they must
increase their efforts and with their power and cunning turn to His
followers. They must prevent all whom they could from receiving
the salvation purchased for them by Jesus. By so doing Satan could
still work against the government of God. Also it would be for his
own interest to keep from Jesus as many as possible. For the sins of
those who are redeemed by the blood of Christ will at last be rolled
back upon the originator of sin, and he must bear their punishment,
while those who do not accept salvation through Jesus will suffer
the penalty of their own sins.
The life of Christ had ever been without worldly wealth, honor,
or display. His humility and self-denial had been in striking contrast
to the pride and self-indulgence of the priests and elders. His spotless
purity was a continual reproof of their sins. They despised Him for
His humility, holiness, and purity. But those who despised Him here
will one day see Him in the grandeur of heaven and the unsurpassed
glory of His Father.
In the judgment hall He was surrounded by enemies who were
thirsting for His blood; but those hardened ones who cried out, “His
blood be on us, and on our children,” will behold Him an honored
King. All the heavenly host will escort Him on His way with songs
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of victory, majesty, and might to Him that was slain, yet lives again,
a mighty conqueror.