The angels knew something of the glad purport of their words. Likely
they saw this day of grace beyond the bourne of time. I cannot conceive
of any other basis on which the words would be true. It was the gladdest
message that ever fell on mortal ears, if we take it in this wide
application. Likely these angels were able to exult in the prospect of
every human soul being redeemed.
In harmony with the passage referred to, we have the intimation that
Christ will draw all men to Himself. That promise cannot be restricted
to the present life. Christ has not drawn all men to Himself. He has not
drawn more than a moiety of the human race. But He says He will draw all
mankind. That was the prospect that sustained Him. He had a full view
of all future ages as well as the present; and He knew what means He
would use through all coming time for the accomplishment of His purpose.
The present is only one small part of His administration. He gives no
hint of the means that He will use in future aeons for the fulfillment
of His designs. That is not for us to know in this life. Indeed such a
revelation would only confuse and bewilder us. For consider how such a
revelation might involve the revelation of a great many other things far
beyond us to understand.
We are confused enough as it is, with the revelation that we have.
Witness the unfolding meaning of revelation from age to age. We realize
that enough has been revealed to tax the growing powers of the race. How
completely all our thoughts would be drowned if we were given the
programme of the ages beyond.