I am finally back to reading this book after being distracted from it for almost two weeks. Either the book has gotten better, or where I am at in life has changed my perspective :} Anyway, he has a very interesting statement on page 202 (yes, I made it past page 200 this time!). He has just finished talking about the temple tax and how Jesus had Peter go fishing for it. After observing that Jesus by rights shouldn't have to pay the tax, since he was God in the flesh, says the following:
"The lowly One did not assume this attitude, but gave what was asked without complaint, grudging, or railing; and His conduct conveys a lesson for Christians in all ages, and in our own age in particular. It teaches the children of the kingdom not to murmur because the world does not recognize their status and dignity. The world knew not when He came, even God's eternal Son; what wonder if it recognize not His younger brethren! The kingdom of heaven itself is not believed in, and its citizens should not be surprised at any want of respect towards them individually. The manifestation of the sons of God is one of the things for which Christians wait in hope. For the present they are not the children, but the strangers; instead of exemption from burdens, they should rather expect oppression; and they should be thankful when they are put on a level with their fellow-creatures, and get the benefit of a law of toleration."
<idle musing>
This was written in 1871, how much truer today! As Christians complain that laws don't favor them or discriminate against them, this is a refreshing view. Bruce's perspective is not on the earthly, short-term, but on the heavenly, long-term. As Christians we should be content if we are not persecuted and not demand that society follow our mores. Far cry from Dominion Theology, isn't it?
</idle musing>
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