April 5

Manifested to take away our sins. — 1 JOHN iii 5.

As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. — JOHN x. 15.

THESE words illustrate the kind and quality of knowledge the good Shepherd has of his own, and they of him. Surely none but the eternal Son would or could use such a sublime comparison. This knowledge is not information concerning persons and their characters only; but it implies recognition, acknowledgment, approbation, confidence, and love. It indicates the close and affectionate intimacy of friends who know each other so well that there is a perfect understanding between them.

The import of these words of Jesus is that as between the Father and the Son, who are the same in nature, will, and purpose, this peculiar knowledge exists, so between Jesus and the believer, who are in a sense one in nature, will, and purpose, there is similar knowledge. And of this, the voluntary death of Christ is the grandest proof on his part, and the faithful imitation of his spirit and example is one of the best evidences on the part of the believer.

What a privilege is yours, O believer! — to know your Saviour, and to be known by him, as he knows the Father, and the Father knows him.

Let your life prove that you gratefully appreciate this sacred intimacy.

William Harvey

So shall the world believe and know That God hath sent thee from above, When thou art seen in us below, And every soul displays thy love.

C. WESLEY.