Light Through Darkness
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nations the glorious gospel of their risen Lord. It was to prepare them
for this work, that the experience which seemed to them so bitter had
been permitted.
After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples on the way to
Emmaus, and “beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded
unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [
Luke
24:27
.] The hearts of the disciples were stirred. Faith was kindled.
They were “begotten again unto a lively hope,” even before Jesus
revealed himself to them. It was his purpose to enlighten their under-
standing, and to fasten their faith upon the “sure word of prophecy.”
He wished the truth to take firm root in their minds, not merely be-
cause it was supported by his personal testimony, but because of the
unquestionable evidence presented by the symbols and shadows of
the typical law, and by the prophecies of the Old Testament. It was
needful for the followers of Christ to have an intelligent faith, not only
in their own behalf, but that they might carry the knowledge of Christ
to the world. And as the very first step in imparting this knowledge,
Jesus directed the disciples to “Moses and the prophets.” Such was the
testimony given by the risen Saviour to the value and importance of
the Old-Testament Scriptures.
What a change was wrought in the hearts of the disciples, as they
looked once more on the loved countenance of their Master! [
Luke
24:27
.] In a more complete and perfect sense than ever before, they
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had “found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did
write.” The uncertainty, the anguish, the despair, gave place to perfect
assurance, to unclouded faith. What marvel that after his ascension
they “were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” The
people, knowing only of the Saviour’s ignominious death, looked to
see in their faces the expression of sorrow, confusion, and defeat;
but they saw there gladness and triumph. What a preparation these
disciples had received for the work before them! They had passed
through the deepest trial which it was possible for them to experience,
and had seen how, when to human vision all was lost, the word of
God had been triumphantly accomplished. Henceforward what could
daunt their faith, or chill the ardor of their love? In the keenest sorrow
they had “strong consolation,” a hope which was as “an anchor of
the soul, both sure and steadfast.” [
Hebrews 6:18, 19
.] They had been
witness to the wisdom and power of God, and they were “persuaded,