"All who see their own ignorance and sin, will have some appreciation of the great work of redemption, through which man is chosen as the object of God's patience and loving-kindness. As man sees the sinfulness of his nature in the light of the law, he will realize his great need of a Savior.
We all need to search the Scriptures, that we may become acquainted with the conditions of salvation, by which reconciliation may be brought about between man and God. Man must find the path that leads back to the Father's house, and every step away from transgression is a step toward Paradise.
Every step in
--repentance,
--contrition,
--obedience,
--and faith,
is a step toward the Father.
The prophet declares a truth by which we may test all doctrine. He says, "To the law and to the testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." (Is. 8:20)
Many will see beautiful characteristics in Christ, and will admire them; but that love which embraces his entire character,
--will never dwell in a heart filled with self-righteousness,
--will never dwell in a heart that does not abhor its own sinfulness.
Not to see our own deformity, is not to see the beauty of Christ; for it is when the heart is fully aroused to its own state of degradation that Jesus will be appreciated."
E.G.W.