[The Grounds of Christianity Examined by Comparing The New Testament with the Old by George Bethune English]@TWC D-Link bookThe Grounds of Christianity Examined by Comparing The New Testament with the Old CHAPTER IX 2/16
It is remarkable, that he never claimed to be the Messiah, till encouraged to assume that character by Peter's declaration.
And it is observable, that in assuming that name, he could not assume the characteristics of the august personage to whom it belongs; but infused into the character all that softness, meekness, humility, and passive fortitude, which were so eminently his own.
The natural disposition, and character of Jesus, could not permit him to attempt the character of a princely Messiah, a mighty monarch, the saviour of an oppressed people, and the benefactor of the human race.
He could not do this, but he could act as much of the character as was consistent with his own. He could not indeed bring himself to attempt to be the saviour of his countrymen from the Romans, their fleshly foes; but he undertook to save them from the tyranny of their spiritual enemies. He could not undertake to set up his kingdom upon earth; but he told them that he had a kingdom in another world.
He could not pretend to give unto his followers the splendid rewards of an earthly monarch: but he promised them instead thereof, forgiveness of sins, and spiritual remuneration. In a word, he was not a king fit for the, then, 'carnal Jews,' but he was, from his mildness, and compassionate temper, worthy of their esteem, at least, of their forbearance.
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