April 8

"Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."—John 1. 29.

THE Gospel is superior to the law, as the substance is to the shadow, or the sun in his meridian splendor, to the first glimmerings of day. In the one, we catch some faint glimpses of the glory and grace of the Redeemer; in the other, we get a clear and full view of them. Two things may be noticed concerning the Saviour, in the passage before us.

HIS GLORIOUS CHARACTER. "The Lamb of God." Here is

The figure employed. A lamb. Look at its nature; how meek, innocent, and gentle! Will not this apply to Jesus? Its usefulness, for food and clothing. Thus in Christ we have the bread of life, and the robe of righteousness. Its typical reference. Under the law of Moses, a lamb was offered every morning and evening in sacrifice to God.

The designation given. He is called the Lamb of God; and that for several reasons,—because he was chosen, appointed, and accepted by God.

HIS GRACIOUS ACT. "Which taketh away the sin of the world." Here the doctrine of Christ's atonement is clearly taught; and if this be denied, we rob the fabric of Christianity of its foundation; strike at the very roots of the tree of life; attempt to pluck the diadem of glory from Immanuel's brow; mutilate the fair volume of revelation; take the brightest jewel from the cabinet of Scripture; dash the cup of consolation from the lips of the mourner; and leave the sinner without a gleam of hope. Oh! then, let us take our station by the cross, and behold the Lamb of God.