CHRIST’S CRUSADE!

Isaiah 49:6 (KJV): “And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.”

ABSTRACT

This article delves into the mission of Jesus Christ as the divine beacon of redemption, examining its prophetic roots, earthly fulfillment through teaching, healing, and compassion, the revelation of God’s infinite love, and the call for us to embrace surrender and service, leading to eternal satisfaction in His victory.

AWAKENING TO DIVINE PURPOSE

The mission of Jesus Christ stands as the cornerstone of hope for humanity, a divine intervention that has shaped the course of history and continues to resonate in the hearts of us. For those dedicated to the work of sharing the Gospel, a deep and comprehensive understanding of this mission is paramount. Unity depends on a vital connection with Christ. It equips us not only with the knowledge of what Christ accomplished but also with the inspiration and guidance for our own ministry. This exploration will trace the magnificent narrative of redemption, from the whispers of prophecy in the Old Testament to the tangible realities of Jesus’ life on earth, revealing the multifaceted work of the Savior and its enduring significance for us today. Scriptures further illuminate this foundation with “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone” (Ephesians 2:20, KJV) and “Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded” (1 Peter 2:6, KJV). Ellen G. White emphasizes this purpose, stating, “It was His mission to bring to men complete restoration; He came to give them health and peace and perfection of character” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 17, 1905). She further notes, “The mission of Christ’s servants is a high honor, and a sacred trust” (The Desire of Ages, p. 680, 1898). But how did ancient prophecies weave the threads of this divine plan?

PROPHETIC PROMISES

The grand tapestry of Jesus’ mission was not spontaneously conceived in the New Testament; rather, its threads were meticulously woven through the pronouncements of prophets centuries before His arrival. Matthew 1:21 declares with celestial authority, “And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.” This pronouncement was more than a mere naming; it was a declaration of purpose. The very name “Jesus,” or Yeshua in Hebrew, encapsulates His entire redemptive undertaking, signifying “Saviour”. Ellen G. White confirms, “Jesus means Saviour. ‘Thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins.’ Jesus was the name given by the angel when he talked with Mary…” (The Story of the Seer of Patmos, p. 17, 1905). While earthly potentates might amass armies to conquer territories, Christ’s mission was to wage war against the insidious enemy of sin that resides within the human heart. His battlefield stretched from the humble manger in Bethlehem to the ignominious cross on Calvary, and His ultimate victory extended from that cross to the glorious crown of eternal life. Scriptures further support this prophetic depth with “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5, KJV) and “Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted” (Isaiah 53:4, KJV). Sr. White adds insight, declaring, “The Saviour’s coming was foretold in Eden. When Adam and Eve first heard the promise, they looked for its speedy fulfillment. They joyfully welcomed their first-born son, hoping that he might be the Deliverer” (The Desire of Ages, p. 31, 1898). She also states, “From the days of Adam to our own time, our transgressors have accumulated. The iniquity of the fathers has been visited upon the children” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 306, 1890). These elements highlight the eternal planning behind Christ’s redemptive role.

Furthermore, the prophetic pronouncements extended beyond His saving name to the very location of His birth and the timeless nature of His existence. Micah 5:2 foretold, “But thou, Beth-lehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.” This ancient word illuminated the divine origin and eternal character of the One who was to come. Sr. White offers profound insight into the long-awaited nature of this promise, stating, “The Saviour’s coming was foretold in Eden. When Adam and Eve first heard the promise, they looked for its speedy fulfillment. They joyfully welcomed their first-born son, hoping he might be the Deliverer” (The Desire of Ages, p. 31, 1898). She further clarifies the cosmic significance of Christ, noting, “In the words of the prophet Isaiah, Christ is called ‘the Prince of Peace.’ Ever He has been the true Light that lighteth every man that cometh into the world” (Prophets and Kings, p. 688, 1917). These prophetic utterances reveal that Jesus’ mission was not a spontaneous response to human failing but a meticulously planned intervention rooted in eternity, fulfilling the hopes of ages and anchoring the future of humanity in divine purpose. Scriptures further affirm this eternal aspect with “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6, KJV) and “The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old” (Proverbs 8:22, KJV). Sr. White elaborates, “The Son of God declares concerning Himself: ‘Before Abraham was, I am’” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 34, 1890). She also writes, “From the days of eternity the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father; He was ‘the image of God,’ the image of His greatness and majesty, ‘the outshining of His glory’” (The Desire of Ages, p. 19, 1898). But what marked the start of this mission in His earthly years?

EARLY DEDICATION

The commencement of Christ’s earthly mission was marked not by displays of miraculous power but by an unwavering commitment to His Father’s will, even in His tender years. Luke 2:41-49 recounts the poignant episode of the twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple, a moment that reveals the foundational principle guiding His entire life. When His concerned mother questioned His actions, His response echoed the very essence of His purpose: “How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?” This was not the petulant reply of a rebellious youth but a clear declaration of His overriding priority. Sr. White elaborates on this pivotal moment, writing, “In all things He brought His wishes into strict abeyance to His mission. He glorified His life by making everything subordinate to the will of His Father” (Gospel Workers, p. 42, 1915). This early submission to divine duty underscores a revolutionary concept: true greatness in the kingdom of God is not found in self-assertion but in humble obedience. Scriptures further highlight this commitment with “But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work” (John 5:17, KJV) and “I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me” (John 5:30, KJV). Sr. White reflects, “Jesus was the commander in the heavenly courts, yet He chose to lay aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and come to this earth as a little child” (Child Guidance, p. 140, 1954). She adds, “From His earliest years, Jesus was guarded by heavenly angels, yet His life was one long struggle against the powers of darkness” (The Desire of Ages, p. 71, 1898). This episode sets the tone for His lifelong devotion.

This early submission to divine duty underscores a revolutionary concept: true greatness in the kingdom of God is not found in self-assertion but in humble obedience. While the world often champions youthful independence and the pursuit of personal ambition, Christ’s example at twelve years old provides a powerful counter-narrative. Sr. White further notes, “His intimate acquaintance with the Scriptures shows how diligently His early years were given to the study of God’s word… He sought to understand the meaning of the ritual service and the mystery of His mission” (The Desire of Ages, p. 70, 1898). Even from His earliest recollections, His focus was not on the typical pursuits of childhood but on understanding and fulfilling His divine assignment. His mother, Mary, observed this singular dedication, noting “His words, His spirit, His willing obedience to her wishes” (Child Guidance, p. 213, 1954). This early discipline and unwavering focus laid the groundwork for the extraordinary ministry that would follow, demonstrating that a life wholly consecrated to God’s purpose, even in youth, holds transformative power. Scriptures further reinforce this humility with “He that shall humble himself shall be exalted” (Matthew 23:12, KJV) and “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up” (James 4:10, KJV). Sr. White explains, “True sanctification means perfect love, perfect obedience, perfect conformity to the will of God” (The Acts of the Apostles, p. 565, 1911). She also states, “The highest evidence of nobility in a Christian is self-control” (The Desire of Ages, p. 301, 1898). But how did He extend this purpose to weary souls?

GRACEFUL INVITATION

To a world weary from the burdens of sin and the anxieties of existence, Jesus extended an invitation of unparalleled grace and comfort. Matthew 11:28-30 records His compassionate plea: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” This was not a call to a new set of rigorous rules or an imposing system of rituals but a gentle beckoning to find solace and peace in Him. In contrast to the intricate and often oppressive religious structures of His time, Christ offered a rest that permeated the very core of the human being—a spiritual respite from the weight of unmet expectations, the gnawing ache of guilt, and the relentless striving for self-sufficiency. Sr. White beautifully captures the essence of this invitation, stating, “The soul that turns to God for its help, its support, its power, by daily, earnest prayer, will have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth and duty, lofty purposes of action, and a continual hungering and thirsting after righteousness” (Messages to Young People, p. 98, 1930). This rest is not a state of inactivity but an alignment with the divine rhythm, a surrender to the One who offers true and lasting peace. “His invitation is a call to a life of peace, a life of liberty and love. The path of obedience to God is the path of virtue, of health and happiness” (Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing, p. 61, 1896). Even the most innocent were drawn to His gentle spirit, as Sr. White observed, “Even little children were attracted to Him. They loved to climb upon His knees, and gaze into the pensive face, benignant with love” (Steps to Christ, p. 13, 1892). Scriptures further echo this rest with “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3, KJV) and “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “All who come to Christ for a clearer understanding of truth will receive it” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 127, 1900). She also writes, “Jesus invites us to come to Him, and He will lift the weights from our weary shoulders and place upon us His yoke, which is easy, and His burden, which is light” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 4, p. 625, 1881). This irresistible invitation highlights the fundamental truth that the gospel is not a burden to bear but a hand reaching out to lift the weary and restore the soul. But what was the core message that demanded change?

CALL TO TRANSFORMATION

The very foundation of Jesus’ public ministry was a clarion call that demanded a radical shift in human perspective. Matthew 4:17 records the pivotal moment: “From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” This message was not merely an announcement of good tidings; it was a profound and often uncomfortable confrontation with the human condition. Repentance, in this context, signified more than just remorse or regret; it called for a fundamental turning away from self-centeredness and sin towards the sovereignty of God. It was a disruptive message, challenging the prevailing notions of how one could attain righteousness and enter the kingdom of heaven. This call to repentance was, in essence, a spiritual revolution, starkly contrasting with any form of political or social uprising. It demanded the dismantling of self-rule, the laying down of arms in the battle against God’s will. Sr. White emphasizes the transformative power of this initial message, noting, “His voice was the first sound that many had ever heard, His name was the first word they had ever spoken. His face the first they had ever looked upon” (Gospel Workers, p. 43, 1915). Repentance, therefore, was not simply an act of contrition but a rebirth, a necessary precursor to the reformation of life and character. Sr. White underscores the depth of this transformation, stating, “The heart must be emptied of every defilement and cleansed for the indwelling of the Spirit. Repentance is the first step that must be taken by all who would return to God” (Selected Messages Book 1, p. 366, 1958). This profound work of the Spirit in the heart is likened to the very creation of the world by the Son of God, highlighting its divine origin and power. Scriptures further bolster this call with “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord” (Acts 3:19, KJV) and “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9, KJV). Sr. White declares, “Repentance includes sorrow for sin and a turning away from it. We shall not renounce sin unless we see its sinfulness; until we turn away from it in heart, there will be no real change in the life” (Steps to Christ, p. 23, 1892). She also notes, “True repentance will lead a man to bear his guilt himself and acknowledge it without deception or hypocrisy” (Steps to Christ, p. 40, 1892). But how did this manifest in His daily work?

HOLISTIC HEALING

The earthly ministry of Jesus unfolded in a remarkable display of comprehensive compassion, flowing in a powerful threefold stream. Matthew 4:23 describes this integrated approach: “And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.” His hands were engaged in teaching profound truths, His voice proclaimed the liberating hope of the kingdom, and His touch restored broken bodies to wholeness. This was not a segmented ministry but a holistic endeavor, addressing the multifaceted needs of humanity—engaging the mind with divine instruction, stirring the heart with the good news, and restoring physical well-being. Sr. White highlights the remarkable emphasis Jesus placed on alleviating suffering, stating, “During His ministry, Jesus devoted more time to healing the sick than to preaching. His miracles testified to the truth of His words, that He came not to destroy, but to save” (Gospel Workers, p. 43, 1915). His miracles were not mere displays of power but tangible evidence of His saving mission and opportunities to impart spiritual lessons. Sr. White explains, “The Saviour made each work of healing an occasion for implanting divine principles in the mind and soul. His miracles were designed to teach the people that He had power on earth to forgive sins” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 20, 1905). Even His teaching methods were characterized by simplicity and relatability, “His sermons were short, His illustrations were drawn from the scenes of nature or the incidents of daily life, and His words were so simple that a child could understand them” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 21, 1900). Scriptures further illustrate this ministry with “And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly” (Mark 5:38, KJV) and “And great multitudes came unto him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus’ feet; and he healed them” (Matthew 15:30, KJV). Sr. White affirms, “Christ’s work was largely made up of conversation. He answered every sincere inquirer who came to Him” (Gospel Workers, p. 188, 1915). She also writes, “The life of Christ was filled with words and acts of benevolence, sympathy, and love” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 9, p. 30, 1909). This integrated ministry model stands in contrast to the often compartmentalized approaches seen today, revealing a Savior who refused to separate the spiritual from the physical, offering a complete restoration of body, mind, and spirit. But who received His special attention?

COMPASSION FOR OUTCASTS

In His earthly sojourn, Jesus deliberately chose to focus His attention and ministry on those whom society often marginalized and disregarded. Matthew 11:5 provides a vivid description: “The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.” He did not seek the accolades of the powerful or the comfort of the wealthy but rather walked the dusty paths leading to the homes of the needy and the sick. His gospel resonated most profoundly with those who had little to offer in return, demonstrating that God’s favor often rests upon the humble and the contrite. Sr. White emphasizes this deliberate choice, noting, “Christ might have occupied the highest place among the teachers of the Jewish nation, but He preferred rather to take the gospel to the poor. He went from place to place, that those in the highways and byways might hear the words of truth” (Gospel Workers, pp. 43–44, 1915). The world often measures success by platform and applause, but Christ measured it by proximity to pain and the willingness to lift the fallen. He found not a distraction in the needy and the sick but the very focus of His compassionate mission. Furthermore, His heart extended to the youngest members of society. Sr. White recounts, “Even little children were attracted to Him. They loved to climb upon His knees, and gaze into the pensive face, benignant with love” (Steps to Christ, p. 13, 1892). In these seemingly unlikely recipients of His attention, Jesus saw not insignificance but infinite potential and the future heirs of His kingdom. Scriptures further emphasize this focus with “But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:14, KJV) and “Then Jesus called them unto him, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?” (Matthew 20:32, KJV). Sr. White observes, “Jesus longed to unfold the deep mysteries of the truth which had been hid for ages, that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs with the Jews, and ‘partakers of His promise in Christ by the gospel’” (The Desire of Ages, p. 402, 1898). She also states, “The poor were regarded with contempt, even among the professed followers of Christ, and were thrust from the synagogues and from the homes of the rich” (Welfare Ministry, p. 170, 1952). But what does this reveal about divine affection?

BOUNDLESS DIVINE LOVE

These profound truths collectively illuminate the boundless and relentless love of God for humanity. Luke 19:10 declares the core of this divine motivation: “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” This was not a passive observation but an active pursuit, a divine initiative to bridge the chasm created by sin. Sr. White eloquently expresses the depth of this love, stating, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Christ’s life was one of continual self-denial. He left the royal courts and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might uplift fallen man” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 4, p. 293, 1881). This act of unparalleled condescension reveals a love that transcends human comprehension. Scriptures further convey this love with “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God” (1 John 4:7, KJV) and “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8, KJV). Sr. White proclaims, “It is our privilege to drink largely at the fountain of boundless love” (Steps to Christ, p. 94, 1892). She also writes, “The love of Christ, manifested in unselfish ministry, will be more effective in reforming the evildoer than will the sword or the court of justice” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 106, 1905). This selfless pursuit embodies God’s heart for the lost.

In His interactions with humanity, Jesus saw beyond outward appearances and recognized the inherent worth of every soul. “Every soul was precious in His eyes. While He ever bore Himself with divine dignity, He bowed with the tenderest regard to every member of the family of God. In all men He saw fallen souls whom it was His mission to save” (Steps to Christ, p. 13, 1892). This love manifested in tangible ways: He wept over the city of Jerusalem, longing for its peace (Luke 19:41, 42); He pleaded for forgiveness for His persecutors even as He hung on the cross (Luke 23:34); and He extended salvation to a repentant thief in His final moments (Luke 23:42, 43). This unwavering commitment to seeking and saving the lost, even amidst immense suffering, underscores the immeasurable depth and breadth of God’s love. Scriptures further affirm this worth with “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36, KJV) and “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:20, KJV). Sr. White stresses, “To every soul that accepts Jesus the cross of Calvary speaks: ‘Behold the worth of the soul’” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 5, p. 634, 1889). She also notes, “Every soul is as fully known to Jesus as if he were the only one for whom the Saviour died” (The Desire of Ages, p. 480, 1898). But what does this love demand from us?

In light of the profound mission of Jesus Christ and the boundless love of God it reveals, each individual bears a significant responsibility. Just as the young Jesus prioritized His Father’s business above all else, so too must we cultivate a life of wholehearted surrender. Sr. White urges, “He glorified His life by making everything subordinate to the will of His Father” (Gospel Workers, p. 42, 1915). This surrender is not a one-time event but an ongoing process of aligning one’s will with the divine will, ordering life according to God’s priorities rather than personal ease or selfish ambition. Scriptures further guide this surrender with “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7, KJV) and “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God” (Romans 6:13, KJV). Sr. White teaches, “The surrender of all our powers to God greatly simplifies the problem of life” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 363, 1905). She also writes, “When the soul surrenders itself to Christ, a new power takes possession of the new heart” (The Desire of Ages, p. 324, 1898). This commitment opens pathways to divine power.

This commitment to surrender, however, is not a passive resignation but an active strategy for spiritual growth and effective service. By placing one’s life entirely in the Father’s hands, as Christ did, individuals open themselves to divine guidance and power. Sr. White emphasizes this, stating, “The life of Christ was a life of complete surrender to the will of God. This surrender was not confined to one great act at the close of His life. Every act was a consecrated act” (Our High Calling, p. 48, 1961). In a world clamoring for autonomy and self-determination, our responsibility is to echo Christ’s prayer in Gethsemane: “Not my will, but Thine be done.” This wholehearted surrender becomes the bedrock of a life that reflects God’s character and effectively participates in His mission. Scriptures further encourage this growth with “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen” (2 Peter 3:18, KJV) and “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1, KJV). Sr. White highlights, “True obedience is the outworking of a principle within” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 97, 1900). She also states, “It is through the mighty agency of the Holy Spirit that the government of Satan is to be subdued and subjected to Christ” (Review and Herald, April 25, 1893). But how does this extend to those around us?

The implications of Christ’s mission extend beyond our personal relationship with God to our interactions with those around us. Our responsibility to our neighbor is a direct reflection of the love and compassion Christ demonstrated throughout His earthly ministry. The gospel that has reached us is not meant to be hoarded but to flow through us to others, manifesting in tangible acts of service and kindness. Sr. White insists, “We are to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and comfort the suffering and afflicted. We are to minister to the despairing and inspire hope in the hopeless” (The Ministry of Healing, p. 104, 1905). This responsibility transcends social barriers and prejudices, mirroring Christ’s inclusive love for all humanity. Sr. White warns, “The world’s Redeemer did not come to our earth to erect barriers between man and his fellow man, but to break down every such barrier” (Welfare Ministry, p. 34, 1952). Like Jesus, we are called to be agents of healing, hope, and restoration in the lives of those we encounter. This “gospel as grit” demands a determined and persevering effort to reach out to those in need, embodying Christ’s hands and feet in a world often marked by indifference and neglect. Scriptures further command this service with “Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord” (Leviticus 19:18, KJV) and “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2, KJV). Sr. White encourages, “Christ’s followers have been redeemed for service. Our Lord teaches that the true object of life is ministry” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 326, 1900). She also writes, “Pure religion and undefiled before the Father is this: to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world” (Testimonies for the Church Volume 2, p. 24, 1871). But what crowns this grand story?

REDEMPTION’S TRIUMPH

The grand narrative of redemption, which began in the womb of prophecy and awakened to divine purpose in the heart of a twelve-year-old boy, reached its zenith on the cross of Calvary. Along its path, it manifested in acts of healing, words of teaching and preaching, expressions of forgiveness, and tears of compassion. This is the story of the Lamb of God who not only saves but also satisfies the deepest longings of the human heart. Isaiah’s prophetic vision foresaw this ultimate reward: “He shall see of the travail of his soul, and shall be satisfied” (Isaiah 53:11). This satisfaction is not found in earthly comfort or personal gain but in the profound joy of having rescued the lost, a joy that Christ shares with all who walk in His footsteps and extend His love to others. Scriptures further depict this redemption with “In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace” (Ephesians 1:7, KJV) and “Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:14, KJV). Sr. White reflects, “The plan of redemption is comprehended in the words, ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son’” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 63, 1890). She also states, “The work of redemption will be complete. In the place where sin abounded, God’s grace much more abounds” (The Desire of Ages, p. 26, 1898). This narrative culminates in divine fulfillment.

The mission of Jesus Christ forms the great arc that connects divine promise, humble service, boundless mercy, and ultimate triumph. His life and work serve as a constant challenge to us, calling for a deeper commitment to prayer, a clearer articulation of the truth, and a more expansive reach in ministry. The invitation He extended still echoes today: “Come unto Me.” But it also continues through those who have answered that call: “Go ye therefore.” Let us, then, with renewed dedication, engage in the work of teaching, preaching, and healing, until the Lamb of God sees the full fruit of the travail of His soul—and is forever satisfied.

John 3:17 (KJV): “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”

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CHRIST’S CRUSADE!

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