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Jesus, Our Example
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He attended the great yearly festivals of the nation, and to the
multitude absorbed in outward ceremony He spoke of heavenly
things, bringing eternity within their view. To all He brought trea-
sures from the storehouse of wisdom, speaking in simple language
so that they could easily understand. By methods peculiarly His
own, He helped all who were in sorrow or affliction. With tender,
courteous grace He ministered to each sin-sick soul, bringing healing
and strength.
As the Prince of teachers, Jesus presented truth in the context of
people’s own life experiences. Thus, being connected with sacred
memories and emotions, the truth was unforgettable. He taught
in a way that made the people feel that He identified fully with
their interests and happiness. His instruction was so direct, His
illustrations so appropriate, His words so sympathetic and cheerful,
that His hearers were charmed. The simplicity and earnestness with
which He addressed the needy made every word seem sacred.
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Ministering to Both Poor and Rich
What a busy life Jesus led! Day by day He might be seen en-
tering the humble homes of want and sorrow, speaking hope to the
downcast and peace to the distressed. Gracious, tenderhearted, and
full of pity, He went about lifting up the bowed-down and comforting
the sorrowful. Wherever He went, He carried blessing.
While He ministered to the poor, Jesus also studied ways of
reaching the rich. He made friends of the wealthy and cultured
Pharisee, the Jewish nobleman, and the Roman ruler. He accepted
their invitations, attended their feasts, and made Himself familiar
with their interests and occupations, that He might gain access to
their hearts and reveal to them the imperishable riches.
Christ came to this world to show that by receiving power from
on high, human beings can lead lives unstained by sin. With un-
wearying patience and sympathetic helpfulness He met men and
women in their necessities. By the gentle touch of grace He banished
from the soul unrest and doubt, changing enmity to love and unbelief
to confidence.
Jesus could say to whom He pleased, “Follow Me,” and the one
addressed arose and followed Him. The spell of the world’s enchant-