We think much of the meek and gentle side of Christ's character.
Perhaps we do not think enough of the strength of it. We trace His
great sacrifice to His love, and we can never sufficiently adore that
incomparable manifestation of a love deeper than our plummets can
fathom. But probably we do not sufficiently realise what gigantic
strength went to the completion of that sacrifice. We know the solemn
imagining of a great artist who has painted a colossal Death
overbearing the weak resistance of a puny Love; but here love is the
giant, and his sovereign command brings Death obedient to it, to do his
work. Yes, that weak man hanging on the Cross is therein revealed as
'the power of God.' Strange clothing of weakness which yet cannot hide
the mighty limbs that wear it!
And if we think of our Lord's life we see the same combination of
gentleness and power. His very name rings with memories of the captain
whose one commanded duty was to 'be strong and of a good courage.'
In Him was all strength of manhood--inflexible, iron will, unchanging
purpose, strength from consecration, strength from righteousness. In
Him was the heroism of prophets and martyrs in supreme degree.
In Him was the strength of indwelling Divinity. He fought and conquered
all man's enemies, routed sin, and triumphed over Death.
In the Cross we see divine power in operation in its noblest form, in
its intensest energy, in its widest sweep, in its most magnificent
result. He is able to save, to save all, to save any.
He is mighty to save, and is able to save unto the uttermost, because
He lives for ever, and His power is eternal as Himself.