August 28

"Of a truth this is the Prophet." — John 7:40.

WHILE some treated our Lord as an impostor and deceiver of the people, others acknowledged his Divine credentials, and received him as a true prophet. In contemplating the prophetical character of Christ, let us notice

THE SUBJECTS OF HIS TEACHING. It consisted of several parts. There was

The exposition of the law. He gave to the people the original intent of the lawgiver, in order to prepare their minds for the better reception of the Gospel. This is a model for all preachers. In the hands of Jesus, says one, the science of morality is simplified and complete; a single prohibition is so planted by him, that, like a piece of ordnance, it may be said to enfilade and sweep a whole territory of sin; nothing can come within its range without challenging its thunder and courting death. The proclamation of the Gospel. He came to unfold the riches of Divine grace, as displayed in the recovery of lost and fallen man. The prediction of future events. He foretold accurately the destruction of Jerusalem, the dispersion of the Jews, false Christs, his own death and resurrection, and the scattering of his disciples.

THE CHARACTER OF HIS TEACHING. Observe

Its authority. His hearers were particularly struck with this. "The people were astonished at his doctrine." There was no timidity or hesitation about him. He was not to be diverted from his work by the mistaken kindness of his friends, or intimidated by the threatening of his enemies. He beautifully combined majesty with simplicity, severity with gentleness.

Its efficacy. True, many of his hearers were only enraged and exasperated at him; but others were cut to the heart, and his words, like a two-edged sword, pierced them to the quick.

Its perfection. After the revelation of the Gospel, we are to expect nothing further in reference to the way of salvation. It is the ministration of the Spirit, and Gospel times are "the last times." If there is not enough to make you as wise as angels, there is enough to make you wise unto salvation. If there is not enough to make you wise talkers, there is enough to make you holy livers.

Its confirmation. He proved his doctrine to be Divine by the holiness of his life, the miracles he performed, the fact of his death, and the triumph of his resurrection and ascension. If God has raised up such a prophet, let us submit to his teaching. The best posture in which we can be found, is sitting at the feet of Jesus.