September 9, 2021
“Assuredly, I say to you, among those born of women there has not risen one greater than John the Baptist; but he who is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.” Matthew 11:11
Jesus, the master Teacher, has a way of stating facts that contain more facts behind the obvious facts. The diamond-like, multifaceted statements of Jesus are worthy of a lifetime of pondering. The disciples of Jesus had early on argued among themselves as to who was the greatest. Fortunately, this immature mindset did not cause Jesus to abandon them. His kind, gentle, and good-humored ways among the disciples eventually prevailed, except in the case of Judas . . .
Do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and restraint and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance? Romans 2:4 NASB
If each of us could see the end from the beginning, as does Jesus (see Isaiah 46:10), we would doubtless grasp that He will never lead any of us in a direction other than what we ourselves would choose. It is because we cannot see the entire picture—as He does—that faith is an essential component of our sojourn through this fallen world. It is fascinating to ponder Jesus’ statement about John the Baptist while thinking of Enoch and Elijah. According to Jesus, these two men, who were carried directly into heaven without seeing death, are not considered “greater” or more honored than John the Baptist, who was brutally beheaded after being alone in the dungeon! Beloved, as you navigate the painfully inexplicable, remind yourself that it is a sacred trust and a high honor to have fellowship with Christ in His sufferings (see Philippians 3:10). *Satan was permitted to cut short the earthly life of God’s messenger [John the Baptist]; but that life which is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3), the destroyer could not reach. *THE DESIRE OF AGES by Ellen G. White (page 224)
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us. Romans 5:1-5
For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake. Philippians 1:29