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We Have Found the Messiah
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Many Today Fail to “See” Christ
Many of those gathered at the Jordan had been present at the
baptism of Jesus, but the sign then given had been manifest to but few
among them. During the preceding months of the Baptist’s ministry,
many had refused to heed the call to repentance. Thus when Heaven
bore testimony to Jesus at His baptism, they perceived it not. Eyes
that had never turned in faith to Him beheld not the revelation of
the glory of God; ears that had never listened to His voice heard not
the words of witness. So it is now. Often the presence of Christ and
ministering angels is manifest in the assemblies of the people, yet
many know it not. They discern nothing unusual. But to some the
Saviour’s presence is revealed. They are comforted, encouraged,
and blessed.
The deputies from Jerusalem had demanded of John, “Why
baptizest thou?” and they were awaiting his answer. Suddenly, as
his glance swept over the throng, his face lighted up, and his whole
being was stirred with deep emotion. With outstretched hands he
cried, “I baptize with water; but among you stands One whom you
do not know, even He who comes after me, the thong of whose
sandal I am not worthy to untie.” RSV.
The message was distinct and unequivocal, to be carried back to
the Sanhedrin. The Messiah was among them! In amazement priests
and rulers gazed about them, but He of whom John had spoken was
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not distinguishable among the throng.
At the baptism of Jesus, John’s mind was directed to the words
of Isaiah, “He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter.”
Isaiah 53:7
.
During the weeks that followed, John studied with new interest the
prophecies and the sacrificial service. He saw that Christ’s coming
had a deeper significance than priests or people had discerned. When
he beheld Jesus among the throng on His return from the desert, he
waited almost impatiently to hear the Saviour declare His mission;
but no word was spoken, no sign given. Jesus did not respond to the
Baptist’s announcement of Him, but mingled with the disciples of
John, taking no measures to bring Himself to notice.
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him. With the light
of the glory of God resting on him, the prophet stretched out his
hands, declaring, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the