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 COPYRIGHT DEPOSm 
 
R. M. MATSOKT 
 
Tlie Story of tKe Cnrist 
 As Told by Axe Evangelists 
 
 A Versification of 
 
 Ql\e Life and Teachings of Our Sa\)ior 
 
 as set fortK in ^e Four Gospels 
 
 R. U. MATSOKf 
 
 Author and PublisKer 
 
 Piess of 
 
 Spirit Publishing Company 
 
 Punxsutawney, Pa. 
 

 Copyright 1916 
 By R. M, Matson 
 
 NOV 22 1916 
 
 IC1,A446556 
 
y^ 
 
 PREFACE 
 
 In launching this little book on the stream of litera- 
 ture, I do so with a great deal of timidity. I wonder, as 
 it floats down the stream, if it shall go unnoticed until it 
 reaches the great sea of forgotten things, or whether it will 
 eddy and swirl in the nooks and bayous until found by 
 some lover of the simple story of ' ' The Christ. ' ' 
 
 Those who are interested in the "Man of Sorrows," I 
 hope, may find something herein to recommend the work. 
 Mayhap they may find in this story that which will repay 
 them for the time spent in its perusal. If anyone who 
 reads this poem will derive one-half as much pleasure and 
 satisfaction in the reading as I did in the writing I shall 
 be satisfied that my labor has not been in vain. 
 
 I am aware that as poetry it will not rise to a very 
 great height or be pronounced by critics as a classic, still 
 I do not believe anyone can read this book and not notice 
 how closely it follows the text of the Scriptures, and tells 
 the story without detracting therefrom or adding thereto 
 anything other than that told by the evangelists them- 
 selves. 
 
 E. M. M. 
 
THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 THE shepherd's VISION. 
 
 From Jesse's root the Saviour sprang, 
 
 While the morning stars together sang. 
 
 The shepherds on Judea's plain 
 
 The information first obtain. 
 
 While watching o 'er their flocks by night, 
 
 The heavens above were filled with light. 
 
 An angel of the Lord appeared. 
 
 And said to them, "be not afraid; 
 
 Good tidings of great joy I bear 
 
 To all the people everywhere, 
 
 For there is born this day to them, 
 
 In David's city, Bethlehem, 
 
 A Saviour who is Christ the Lord, 
 
 A great Eedeemer, 'tis God's word. 
 
 And in a manger you may view 
 
 The Babe I now proclaim to you." 
 
 THE angel's song. 
 
 And suddenly a mightj^ throng, 
 
 An Angel host, burst forth in song — 
 
 "Peace be on earth, good will," they sing, 
 
 ' ' For now to you is born a King ; 
 
 A Saviour, too, the Prince of Peace, 
 
 Whose reign on earth shall never cease. ' ' 
 
 Their song now sung, their story told, 
 The visitors their wings unfold, 
 
THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And back to Heaven take their flight; 
 The shepherds gaze till lost to sight. 
 
 THEY GO TO BETHLEHEM. 
 
 Amazed, surprised, as in a dream, 
 They start at once for Bethlehem, 
 And there in swadling clothes arrayed 
 They find the babe in manger laid. 
 With joy they then to all unfold, 
 The many things the angels told; 
 Surprise and wonder was most keen 
 At all the things they'd heard and seen. 
 But Mary uttered ne'er a word; 
 She pondered on the things she heard. 
 The shepherds to their flocks returned, 
 Still praising Grod for all they'd learned. 
 
 JOURNEY OF THE WISE MEN. 
 
 Three wise men journeyed from afar, 
 
 Claiming they had seen a star 
 
 That bade them leave their Eastern home, 
 
 To see and worship when they came. 
 
 While in Jerusalem they stayed, 
 
 Of various ones they inquiry made, 
 
 ' ' Where is this child, come tell us, pray, 
 
 That will the Jewish scepter sway?" 
 
 This strange proceeding we infer, 
 
 Throughout the city made a stir, 
 
 For Herod when he hears the news 
 
 Calls all the chief men of the Jews 
 
 In council, and demands of them 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 
 
 If Christ should come in Bethlehem. 
 They answer yes, and straightway show 
 The prophecy of long ago. 
 
 HEROD COUNSELS WITH THE WISE MEN 
 
 King Herod now the wise men sought, 
 And had them to the palace brought. 
 He many questions asks of them, 
 And bids them go to Bethlehem 
 And search with diligence and care 
 For this young child reported there, 
 And when he's found to let him know. 
 That he may worship with them too. 
 
 THE WISE MEN GO TO BETHLEHEM 
 
 Once more their journey they pursue, 
 Once more the search for Christ renew; 
 Again the star to them appears ; 
 To see its light their spirit cheers. 
 This star had been to them a guide 
 O'er hill and dale and desert wide; 
 They'd traveled many a day and night, 
 Relying safely on its light. 
 Nor had it ever failed to show 
 The proper way for them to go. 
 But look! what's happened to the star, 
 It moves no longer through the air, 
 But hovers o'er yon small abode; 
 No doubt there dwells the son of G-od. 
 And there it was the Saviour lay 
 Upon his lowly bed of hay. 
 
10 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 No room for him the Inn affords, 
 Though King of kings and Lord of lords; 
 Where beasts are sheltered from the storm 
 His mother wraps his youthful form 
 In swadling clothes, and lays him there. 
 Though born the. conqueror's crown to wear. 
 They enter in and there behold 
 The child by prophets long foretold. 
 And falling down with one accord 
 They own and worship him their Lord. 
 With joy and reverence they bring 
 Their treasures to this youthful king, 
 And make him presents, we are told, 
 Of myrrh, frankincense, and much gold. 
 And now these men without delay 
 Prepare to go their homeward way; 
 They thought to go to Herod's court. 
 And make to him a full report, 
 But in a dream they're warned of God, 
 To home return another road. 
 
 JOSEPH GOES TO EGYPT 
 
 Soon Joseph also had a dream. 
 
 In which an angel came to him 
 
 And bade him take his child and wife 
 
 And flee to Egypt for his life. 
 
 So Joseph takes them both by night, 
 
 And to that country takes his flight. 
 
 There in security to stay 
 
 Till God King Herod takes away. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 11 
 
 HEROD MOCKED BY THE WISE MEN 
 
 For two years Herod waits in vain; 
 The wise men come not back again ; 
 Then was his heart with anger filled; 
 He orders all the children killed, 
 In hope this child would thus be slain, 
 And he in safety left to reign. 
 
 Joseph's dream 
 
 As Joseph lay upon his bed 
 
 He dreamed God's angel to him said, 
 
 "Arise and take your child and wife, 
 
 For they are dead that sought his life, 
 
 And go at once to Israel's land, 
 
 And have no fear of any hand." 
 
 So Joseph started to obey. 
 
 And being still upon his way, 
 
 He hears that Herod's eldest son, 
 
 Is sitting on Judea's throne. 
 
 Although his dream had come from God, 
 
 He feared to further keep that road. 
 
 But turns aside to Galilee, 
 
 And thus fulfilled the prophecy 
 
 As told by those of days agone, 
 
 "He shall be called a Nazarene." 
 
 JESUS LOST from HIS PARENTS 
 
 Passover feast was drawing near, 
 'Twas in Jerusalem held each year. 
 The Jews went there their vows to pay 
 As was the custom of that day ; 
 
12 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And Jesus being twelve years old, 
 Went with his parents, we are told. 
 And when the feast comes to an end 
 His parents' footsteps homeward bend. 
 Supposing Jesus still to be 
 One of the traveling company. 
 They journeyed homeward, all day long. 
 Before they missed him from the throng. 
 
 IN THE TEMPLE DISPUTING WITH LEARNED MEN 
 
 Back to the city then they turn. 
 
 With anxious hearts the truth to learn. 
 
 They search the city o'er and o'er, 
 
 Each street and by-way they explore ; 
 
 In vain they search both far and near, 
 
 No tidings come their hearts to cheer. 
 
 At last in grief and deep despair. 
 
 They to the Temple both repair. 
 
 No doubt in prayer to ask of God 
 
 To help them bear this heavy load. 
 
 But in the Temple he is found. 
 
 With doctors, la'wyers gathered round; 
 
 This lad of twelve there puts to shame 
 
 Those men of learning and of fame. 
 
 They were astonished at his questions ; 
 
 They hear with joy his least suggestions; 
 
 Surprised they were their son to see 
 
 Disputing with such company. 
 
 His mother said, ' ' What hast thou done ? 
 
 Why hast thou dealt so with us, son? 
 
 For three days long continually 
 
 We both in sorrow sought for thee. ' ' 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 13 
 
 Then Jesus said, "Didst thou not know 
 I to my Father 's work must go ? " 
 
 So Jesus grew. And filled with grace, 
 The light of heaven was in his face. 
 In Spirit strong with wisdom blessed, 
 Each day in stature he increased. 
 In Nazareth he to manhood grew, 
 With God in favor, and man too. 
 
 APPEARS WHERE JOHN WAS BAPTIZING 
 
 No more we hear for eighteen years. 
 On Jordan's bank he then appears, 
 Where John stood clothed in camel's hair, 
 And cried, "the way of God prepare; 
 Confess your sins, make straight his path. 
 Now be baptized and flee God 's wrath. ' ' 
 And people came from far and near, 
 This gospel preached by John to hear. 
 Their sins confessing, ask of him, 
 To be baptized in Jordan's stream. 
 To be baptized Christ too applies. 
 But John forbade with much surprise; 
 "Why is it thou dost come to me. 
 When I should be baptized of thee?" 
 But Jesus answered, "do my will, 
 And thus all righteousness fulfill." 
 
 DESCENT OF THE HOLY GHOST 
 
 When consecrated by this rite 
 
 The heavens were opened to his sight; 
 
14 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 The Holy Ghost in form of dove, 
 Was seen descending from above, 
 And lighting on the Son of man, 
 Thereby approving this God's plan; 
 A voice was heard by every one, 
 ''This is my well beloved son, 
 If you would walk in wisdom's ways 
 Be mindful now of what he says. ' ' 
 
 THE TEMPTATION 
 
 Now to the wilderness he strays 
 To strive with Satan forty days, 
 And night and day he fasted there, 
 No doubt engaged in earnest prayer ; 
 And when an hungered, Satan said, 
 "Command these stones to be made bread." 
 " 'Tis not by bread alone," said he, 
 "That man may live and strengthened be. 
 But by each word that doth proceed, 
 From God, for that is meat indeed." 
 
 Up to the holy city then 
 
 The devil taketh him, and when 
 
 He'd set him on the temple fair. 
 
 He bade him cast himself from there, 
 
 "For if God's only son thou be 
 
 No harm can ever come to thee," 
 
 For it is written bold and large, 
 
 "The angels have thee in their charge, 
 
 Their hands shall bear thee up alone 
 
 Lest thou shouldst dash against a stone." 
 
 Then Jesus answering Satan, said, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 15 
 
 "Tempt not the Lord thy God, I've read." 
 
 Next on a mountain high they stand ; 
 He bids him look o'er all the land, 
 At all the empires of that day — 
 O'er these the scepter thou shalt sway, 
 Their glory now I offer thee, 
 If thou fall down and worship me. 
 One withering look the Saviour cast, 
 And answers then as in the past, 
 ''I tell thee, Satan, now be gone, 
 For man must worship G-od alone." 
 
 ANGELS MINISTER UNTO HIM 
 
 Full forty days the Lord withstands 
 Alone, temptation's fiery brands; 
 The battle o'er, the danger past, 
 His human nature sinks at last, 
 When angels come and comfort bring 
 To him they gladly call their king. 
 
 HE GOES TO ZEBULON 
 
 Now Jesus leaves his native town. 
 And goes to dwell in Zebulon, 
 Where Gentiles sat in darkest night 
 Till by his coming they have light; 
 For Jesus taught throughout the land, 
 Repent, God's kingdom is at hand. 
 
 Now by the sea of Galilee 
 
 He says to Peter, "follow me," 
 
16 THE STORJ OF THE CHRIST 
 
 The same to Andrew, Peter's brother, 
 
 For they were fishing there together. 
 
 To follow Jesus at his call, 
 
 They left their nets, their boats, their all. 
 
 And going thence along the sea. 
 
 He calls the sons of Zebedee 
 
 To follow him, and straightway they 
 
 Leave all and his command obey. 
 
 PREACHES THROUGH GALILEE 
 
 Now Jesus goes through Galilee, 
 
 To preach the gospel full and free ; 
 
 Disease of body and of soul 
 
 Alike are under his control, 
 
 And thousands come from far and near, 
 
 His cures to test, his words to hear. 
 
 HIS FIRST MIRACLE TURNING WATER INTO WINE 
 
 A choice selected company 
 Were met in Cana, Galilee, 
 To celebrate a marriage feast, 
 Where Mary was an honored guest. 
 Christ and his friends were bidden there, 
 With other guests, the joys to share. 
 Now when the meal was being served, 
 There was no wine, it was observed; 
 But Mary knew she could rely 
 Upon her son this to supply; 
 With faith in Jesus' power divine 
 She simply said, "they have no wine." 
 Then Jesus said "why do you think 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 17 
 
 That I for all should furnish drink — 
 
 What have I got to do with thee? 
 
 Mine hour has not yet come to me." 
 
 She turns to where the servants stand, 
 
 And bids them heed his least command. 
 
 Six water pots were sitting by, 
 
 Where guests themselves could purify; 
 
 More than two firkins each, we're told, 
 
 Was what these water pots would hold. 
 
 What would he do, they wait to see — 
 
 The guests with some anxiety. 
 
 The servants asking want to know. 
 
 If to a dealer they should go. 
 
 Or will some friend enough provide 
 
 That all may drink till satisfied. 
 
 But Jesus had a different thought; 
 
 He tells them, fill each water pot 
 
 With water, which they do for him, 
 
 And fill each one up to the brim. 
 
 Now to the ruler bear away. 
 
 And they make haste him to obey. 
 
 And when the ruler tastes this wine. 
 
 He says at once, 'tis very fine; 
 
 He had no idea how 'twas made, 
 
 But all the servants knew, 'tis said. 
 
 He called the bridegroom in to say, 
 
 ''You have reversed things here today. 
 
 It 's been the custom, here at least, . 
 
 For everyone that gives a feast, 
 
 When all the guests begin to dine. 
 
 To serve the very best of wine. 
 
 But when they've drunk both full and well 
 
 And good from bad they cannot tell, 
 
18 . THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Then of the wine to serve the worst, 
 But you this custom have reversed. 
 The bad was served at first, I trow, 
 The good is kept for us till now." 
 In Cana, a town of Galilee, 
 In this first miracle we see, 
 Christ manifests his power divine, 
 By turning water into wine, 
 And his disciples faith received, 
 And from that day on him believed. 
 
 SERMON ON THE MOUNT 
 
 Now on the mount he takes his seat 
 With his disciples at his feet. 
 And taught -that those in spirit poor 
 Are blessed, they'll enter heaven's door. 
 The mourning soul in shadow cast, 
 Is blessed, for comfort comes at last. 
 The meek of earth he'll ever bless. 
 The hungry fill with righteousness; 
 The merciful shall mercy get, 
 The pure in heart shall see God yet ; 
 The peaceful man is richly blessed, 
 For he shall gain a heavenly rest. 
 When men revile and evil speak 
 Against you falsely, for my sake, 
 Rejoice, be glad at such a fate. 
 For your reward in heaven is great. 
 For so the prophets you must know 
 Were persecuted long ago. 
 
 Of earth ye are the salt, the light 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 19 
 
 That shineth in the world so bright; 
 But if the salt should prove not good, 
 Men do not use it then for food, 
 But cast it out upon the ground 
 Because no use for it is found. 
 Or if a candle, used for light. 
 Is hid away and not in sight, 
 Such foolishness would never tend 
 To accomplish the desired end; 
 Then let your light shine out abroad. 
 That men may see you've been with God, 
 And thus be led by your behaviour 
 To gloryify your Lord and Saviour. 
 
 Think not I come the law to kill. 
 But rather all things to fulfill; 
 The earth may pass, the heavens pale. 
 But not one word of God can fail, 
 Till all the law has been fulfilled, 
 For thus it is that God has willed. 
 Break not the least command, therefore, 
 And think to enter heaven's door; 
 Your righteousness must that exceed 
 Of scribes and Pharisees indeed. 
 
 The law of old has ever taught. 
 Who kills shall be to judgment brought. 
 But now to thee I give this rule — 
 Thou shalt not call thy brother fool. 
 If to the altar a gift you bring. 
 And there remembrest anything 
 That made thy brother to complain, 
 Be reconciled to him again; 
 
20 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Leave there thy gift, and offer not 
 
 Until his friendship thou hast sought; 
 
 Thy gift accepted then will be, 
 
 If made in love and charity. 
 
 Who e'er thine adversary be, 
 
 While in the way with him agree. 
 
 Lest to the judge he thee shouldst hale, 
 
 And thou be cast into the jail; 
 
 I say thou shalt not come out thence 
 
 Till thou hast paid the utmost pence. 
 
 The adulterous woman pass thou by, 
 Nor lust upon her with thine eye ; 
 And if thine eye shall thee offend. 
 Pluck it out and from thee send; 
 Or if thy hand offending be. 
 Then cut it off and cast from thee. 
 'TAvere better these from thee to rend 
 Than lose thy body in the end. 
 It hath been said divorce you may 
 Your lawful wife at any day; 
 Let none I say in all his life. 
 Save for one cause divorce his wife. 
 
 It has been said in olden day. 
 Unto the Lord your vows to pay ; 
 Swear not by heaven, it is God's throne, 
 Nor yet by earth, where he is known. 
 SAvear not at all, no need to swear. 
 Thou canst not change a single hair ; 
 But let your words be few indeed, 
 For more than this may evil breed. 
 
 An eye for eye, and tooth for tooth. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 21 
 
 Has been the teaching from our youth ; 
 But now I say resist no man; 
 If smitten turn thou not again ; 
 If any man at law will sue, 
 And take thy coat, give cloak also; 
 From him that asks turn not away, 
 And to the borrower ne'er say nay; 
 If any one should say to you 
 "Come, go a mile," then go thou two. 
 
 To love your neighbor j^ou are free, 
 
 And also hate your enemy : 
 
 Do good I say and pray for those 
 
 That curse, and hate, and evil use. 
 
 And God in heaven then will own 
 
 You for his children, every one, 
 
 For God sends rain and morning dew 
 
 Upon the just and unjust too, 
 
 And makes the sun shine bright and clear 
 
 The good and evil heart to cheer. 
 
 If you have only love for those 
 
 That are your friends and none for foes, 
 
 What more is that than others do — 
 
 Both publicans and sinners too. 
 
 Now sinners love, but love each other ; 
 To Christians every man is brother. 
 Then be ye perfect in your love. 
 As God your Father is above. 
 
 When doing alms most careful be 
 Thou do them not for men to see ; 
 And do not sound a trumpet loud, 
 
22 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 To call about a gaping crowd, 
 But give thine alms in secrecy, 
 And God will pay thee openly. 
 
 And when thou prayest do not stand 
 In public places in the land; 
 For hypocrites so love to pray, 
 On corners of the public way. 
 They pray to men, not to the Lord, 
 And so they have their sought reward. 
 But when thou prayest do not so, 
 But rather to thy closet go, 
 And when the door is closed you then 
 Must pray to God, and not to men. 
 And he that doth in secret see 
 Will then reward you openly. 
 The heathen man, like one insane. 
 His words of prayer repeats in vain; 
 He thinks God's hearing in the end 
 On his much speaking will depend; 
 Before you ask or think or speak, 
 God knows the blessings you would seek ; 
 Then be not like the heathen man. 
 But rather follow this, my plan: 
 
 OUR lord's prayer 
 
 Our Father which in heaven art, 
 Thy name we hallow in each heart. 
 Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, 
 In heaven, in earth, — in both as one. 
 Give food each day on which to live. 
 Forgive our debts as we forgive. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 23 
 
 From all temptations keep us free; 
 From evil rescued may we be; 
 For thine the kingdom and the power, 
 And glory too, for ever more. Amen. 
 Forgive the wrong that's done to you, 
 And then for pardon you can sue. 
 And when from food ye do abstain, 
 Do not be sad as if m pain; 
 Annoint your bead and wash your face, 
 And with your Father leave the case. 
 Do not appear to fasting be ; 
 God will reward you openly. 
 Treasures of earth will surely fade. 
 For moth and rust and thieves invade ; 
 Let heavenly treasures be your care. 
 For thieves can never enter there. 
 And moth and rust cannot corrode 
 The treasure that you leave with God. 
 For where your treasure is I know 
 Your heart's affection you'll bestow. 
 No man can on two masters wait; 
 He'll love the one, the other hate — 
 Hope not to do both good and evil; 
 You cannot serve both God and devil. 
 Say not what shall we drink or eat, 
 Is not the life worth more than meat? 
 And for your raiment be at ease, 
 Far more the body still than these. 
 Behold the fowls that cleave the air. 
 The subject of your Father's care; 
 They neither reap nor stow away. 
 And yet God feeds them day by day. 
 And why take thought for dress and show ; 
 
24 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Consider how the lilies grow; 
 They toil not, spin not, yet I say, 
 King Solomon in all his day. 
 Though richly robed was not arrayed 
 Like one of these that God has made. 
 If God then clothe the grass so green. 
 Which but for one short day is seen, 
 Have faith and trust in him alone ; 
 He'll feed and clothe you every one. 
 And take no thought for meat and drink, 
 Nor of your raiment ever think, 
 For God from whom all comfort springs 
 Knows very well you need these things. 
 So take no thought, nor trouble borrow; 
 Care for today and not tomorrow. 
 Seek first God's kingdom pure and true. 
 And all these things he'll add to you. 
 
 Thou shalt not for a motive seek. 
 Or let thy lips in judgment speak. 
 The measure that you mete to men 
 To you shall measured be again. 
 And why beholdest thou the mote 
 That in thy brother's eye doth float; 
 And dost not think to look and see 
 If thine own eye from dirt is free? 
 First cast the beam from thine own eye, 
 And then the mote thou may'st espy. 
 Give not the holy things I say 
 Unto the dogs, nor cast away 
 Your pearls to swine, that trample down 
 Alike the worthless and the crown. 
 
 Ask what you will it shall be given ; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 25 
 
 Seek and you'll find the way to heaven. 
 Knock at the door and entrance gain. 
 None ask, or seek, or knock in vain. 
 What man is there whom if his son 
 Ask bread will give to him a stone? 
 Or if he ask him for a fish 
 Will with a serpent grant his wish? 
 If being evil then, ye know 
 How on your children to bestow 
 Good gifts, how much more easy task 
 For God to give to those that ask. 
 
 GOLDEN RULE 
 
 Whatever then may be your view, 
 Of how all men should act to you. 
 First put yourself in that man 's place ; 
 What would you do in such a case? 
 Whatever things ye ask of men, 
 The same to do be willing then. 
 Do unto all as you want done. 
 Thus saith the prophets every one. 
 
 Straight is the gate that leads to God, 
 While wicked ways are smooth and broad. 
 Few find the first, while many go 
 The way that leads to death and woe. 
 All prophets false and teachers fair 
 Are ravening wolves; of such beware. 
 Men do not gather grapes of thorns. 
 And figs the thistle ne'er adorns. 
 A good tree bringeth forth good fruit. 
 An evil tree the same in suit; 
 
26 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 A tree can never change its kind; 
 
 Like tree like fruit you always find. 
 
 So by its fruit each tree is shown, 
 
 And men by actions may be known. 
 
 Not every one that says to me 
 
 "Lord, Lord," shall ever heaven see, 
 
 But he that strives in faith and love 
 
 To do my Father's will above. 
 
 And many when to judgment brought, 
 
 Will say, ' ' Lord, Lord, thy ways we 've taught, 
 
 And in thy name have prophesied. 
 
 And wondrous works have done beside." 
 
 Then will I plainly say to them, 
 
 I know not even whence you come — 
 
 I know you not, depart from me 
 
 All ye that work iniquity. 
 
 HOUSE BUILT ON A ROCK 
 
 The man that heareth now these things, 
 
 And to the wisdom of them clings, 
 
 Is likened to a man of sense. 
 
 Who built his house as for defense; 
 
 And when the rains and floods descend, 
 
 And all the powers of darkness lend 
 
 Their strength ; and all the winds are brought 
 
 To beat on it, it quivers not. 
 
 No wonder it withstands the shock. 
 
 For it is founded on a rock. 
 
 HOUSE BUILT ON THE SAND 
 
 But he that heareth and doth not heed, 
 Is like the foolish man indeed. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 27 
 
 He built his house when all was fair, 
 And for foundation did not care. 
 The rains descend, the winds arise, 
 The lightning shoots across the skies. 
 The floods surround, it cannot stand. 
 For it is built upon the sand. 
 So is the man with conscience hushed; 
 His house is gone, his soul is crushed. 
 These sayings ended, people thought 
 They never heard such doctrines taught, 
 For Jesus taught, as they could see, 
 As one who had authority. 
 
 HEALS A LEPER 
 
 Now from the mountain they descend. 
 While multitudes on them attend; 
 And as the people throng around, 
 A leprous man with them is found. 
 Adoring Jesus he is seen. 
 And crying, "Lord, now make me clean." 
 Then Jesus reaching forth his hand 
 And touching, says, "I now command 
 Disease and sin to leave thy soul," 
 And quick as thought the man is whole. 
 Then Jesus tells him, "Go thy way, 
 And show thyself this very day 
 Unto the priests, and offer there 
 The gifts the law bids thee prepare. 
 And see thou tell not any one 
 Of this thy cure that has been done." 
 
28 THE 8T0BY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 HEALS THE ROMANES SERVANT 
 
 A Roman, too, a man of strife, 
 Besought him for his servant's life: 
 ''Lord, I'm unworthy thou shouldst come, 
 Or place thy foot within my home. 
 But only speak and bid him rise. 
 For all disease before thee flies. 
 I have authority, and say, 
 To this man go, to that man stay. 
 Disease is but thy servant Lord, 
 And instantly obeys thy word." 
 Then Jesus said to them around, 
 "Such faith in Israel I've not found. 
 For many come from west and east, 
 And in my kingdom they shall feast, 
 With Abraham and those of old. 
 While ye remain outside the fold." 
 Then Jesus said, "Go now thy way, 
 Thy servant shall be healed this day." 
 Thus Jesus shows his mighty power; 
 The sick was healed that selfsame hour. 
 
 RAISING THE WIDOW 'S SON 
 
 It came to pass that he next day 
 To Nain, a city, made his way. 
 And his disciples went along, 
 With many others in the throng. 
 As they came nigh the city's gate. 
 There was a dead man carried out; 
 He was a widow's only son, 
 And much beloved by every one. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 29 
 
 So many people went with her 
 
 The much-loved son to help inter. 
 
 When Jesns all the facts had heard, 
 
 His heart was with compassion stirred; 
 
 He said to her, "Weep thou no more, 
 
 For I thy dead son will restore." 
 
 He touched the bier, and gave command 
 
 That all the multitude should stand. 
 
 And looking at the corpse, he cries, 
 
 ' ' Young man I say to thee arise. ' ' 
 
 He that was dead for near one week 
 
 Sat up and there began to speak. 
 
 Then Jesus to the mother said, 
 
 "Behold thy son no longer dead." 
 
 How quickly joy can take the place 
 
 Of sorrow on a mother's face. 
 
 And all the people there rejoice. 
 
 And praise the Lord with heart and voice. 
 
 To them the fact was true and plain, 
 
 That God had visited again 
 
 His people Israel, for now we see 
 
 A prophet with authority. 
 
 A VISIT TO MARY AND MARTHA 
 
 He to a certain village came. 
 Where Martha took him to her home ; 
 Her sister Mary and her brother 
 And she were living there together. 
 The sisters loved each in her way, 
 And loved to have him with them stay. 
 Now Mary always took her seat 
 Upon a stool at Jesus' feet, 
 
30 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Where she his every word could hear 
 And look upon his face so dear; 
 While Martha was with care oppressed, 
 For here her friend and much loved guest, 
 With many others she observed 
 Were waiting till the meal was served. 
 She goes to him and asks him there, 
 "Now, Master, do you think it fair? 
 See what my sister now hath done; 
 She's left me here to serve alone; 
 Bid her to help me to prepare 
 The meal for all the people here." 
 But Jesus, answering, said to her, 
 "Martha, Martha, why this stir? 
 Thy righteous soul is sorely vexed. 
 With household cares thou art perplexed; 
 These things are necessary 'tis true 
 But they should never trouble you; 
 One thing is needful, this is plain. 
 And that is strength reward to gain ; 
 And Mary hath with all her heart 
 Chosen here that better part; 
 What you have done will pass away, 
 But what she learns will with her stay?" 
 
 HEALS Peter's wife's mother 
 
 And when in Peter's house he saw 
 The sickness of his mothei'-in-law. 
 He touched her hand, the fever fled, 
 And she with joy the cure received. 
 And rising up at once began 
 For each one's comfort there to plan. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 31 
 
 MANY PERSONS CURED 
 
 And when the eve was fully come, 
 They brought to him the deaf and dumb, 
 The blind, the lame, the sick and sore, 
 For he our sins and sickness bore. 
 He healed them all as 'twas foretold 
 By bard and seer in days of old. 
 
 TAKES SHIP TO THE OTHER SIDE 
 
 Now when he saw the crowd at hand, 
 To his disciples he gave command: 
 "Depart unto the other side, 
 And we will there awhile abide." 
 A certain scribe to Jesus came, 
 Who having heard of his great fame, 
 Said to him, "Master, thou knowest 
 I'll follow thee where e'er thou goest. " 
 But Jesus answering him did say, 
 "The foxes have a place to stay; 
 Nests have the birds that cleave the air. 
 To lay my head I have not where." 
 Another spoke to him and said, 
 "Let me but bury first my dead; 
 This duty done and free from care. 
 Thee will I follow anywhere." 
 But Jesus answered him and said: 
 "The dead must bury now their dead; 
 Follow thou and to me cleave, 
 And father, mother, brother leave." 
 
32 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 A STORM AROSE AND JESUS ASLEEP 
 
 A ship they take to cross the deep, 
 
 And Jesiis lays him down to sleep. 
 
 A storm arose upon the sea, 
 
 The winds beat on them furiously; 
 
 The ship with waves is covered o'er; 
 
 In vain they strive to reach the shore; 
 
 And he asleep, he who can save. 
 
 "We sink," they cry, "beneath the wave; 
 
 Ho, Jesus, carest thou to sleep 
 
 While we may perish in the deep? 
 
 Oh master, save us or we die!" 
 
 Thus to the Lord for help they fly. 
 
 He asks of them, "Why do you fear? 
 
 Have faith in God, for help is near." 
 
 Then he rebukes with "Peace, be still," 
 
 And winds and sea obey his will. 
 
 TWO MEN FROM THE TOMBS ARE HEALED 
 
 And when they reach the other side. 
 Two men that in the tombs abide 
 Are met; with devils they're possessed. 
 (Here was a case his power to test) 
 They were so wild, and fierce and strong. 
 None could in safety pass along. 
 And night and day they were the same ; 
 No man could bind them, much less tame. 
 Now seeing him they loudly cry, 
 "Thou art the Son of God most high; 
 And art thou come us to torment 
 Before the time of punishment?" 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 33 
 
 THE DEVILS ENTER THE SWINE 
 
 Then Jesus bids the devils leave, 
 And swine there feeding them receive, 
 Which herd of swine ran down the steep. 
 And quickly perished in the deep. 
 The men that kept the swine then fled, 
 And told the owners all were dead. 
 'Twas then the people rose as one. 
 And went to see what had been done. 
 And when they saw the men possessed 
 Were clothed, and with their senses blessed, 
 They asked what this great change had made. 
 And hearing all, were sore afraid. 
 
 And now two prayers we here record, 
 Each in its turn made to the Lord ; 
 The G-ergasenes with all their heart 
 Beseech the Lord now to depart; 
 The other prayer by those possessed. 
 But now with reason once more blest ; 
 They pray with Jesus now to stay. 
 That they may follow him alway. 
 But Jesus plainly tells them no, 
 But to their friends at once to go, 
 And tell, what God for them has done — 
 How their disease and sin are gone. 
 They go and tell it far and near, 
 And all men marvel when they hear. 
 Now how with you Avho read today, 
 Will you ask him to go or stay? 
 
34 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 HEALS A PALSIED MAN BORNE OP POUR 
 
 So Jesus turns from them his face, 
 
 And seeks again his native place. 
 
 And when 'twas noised that he was there, 
 
 Much people came from far and near; 
 
 They fill the house while many stand 
 
 Outside and wait on every hand. 
 
 And as he preached, one sick and sore 
 
 Upon his bed comes borne of four. 
 
 But through the press they strive in vain 
 
 An entrance for the man to gain. 
 
 Thus hindered then, they raise the bed. 
 
 And tear the roof up overhead, 
 
 And down they let the bed that way, 
 
 Whereon the sick of palsy lay. 
 
 When Jesus saw their faith,^ he said 
 
 Unto the sick man on the bed, 
 
 "Be of good cheer, thy sins are all 
 
 Forgiven thee, both great and small." 
 
 THE SCRIBES PIND FAULT 
 
 But certain scribes among the crowd 
 
 Thus reasoned in their hearts, and said, 
 
 ''Who is this man that thus blasphemes? 
 
 And acts like God himself, it seems. 
 
 For God alone can man repreive. 
 
 And He alone can sins forgive." 
 
 When Jesus knew their thoughts he spoke : 
 
 "Which blessing now would you invoke? 
 
 Thy sins are all forgiven thee. 
 
 Or, rise, take up thy bed, go free? 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 35 
 
 That ye may know the Son of Man, 
 
 Hath, power on earth to loose sin's ban, 
 
 I to the sick of palsy say, 
 
 'Take up thy bed and go thy way.' " 
 
 The palsy from the man took flight, 
 
 And he arose before their sight, 
 
 Took up the bed whereon he lay. 
 
 And to his house did make his way. 
 
 All glory there he gives to God, 
 
 And Jesus' fame he spreads abroad. 
 
 The people, too, rejoice to see 
 
 The man from sin and pain set free ; 
 
 And all were filled with fear, and said, 
 
 ' ' Strange things this day we 've seen and heard. ' ' 
 
 LEVI CALLED AND HE DINES WITH HIM 
 
 A man named Levi then he calls. 
 While working in the custom halls; 
 He left the work of handling gold. 
 To follow Jesus, we are told. 
 To Levi's house to be his guest. 
 Then Jesus goes at his request. 
 And as he sat with them at meat. 
 Where publicans and sinners ate. 
 The scribes and Pharisees all say, 
 "With sinners why eat here to-day?" 
 Then Jesus hearing what they said. 
 Addressed to them this earnest word: 
 "The whole need not physician's skill. 
 And I am called to cure the ill. 
 But go and learn what meaneth this, 
 Mercy I'll have, not sacrifice; 
 
36 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 I came the righteous not to call 
 But to repentance sinners all." 
 
 JOHN SENDS TWO DISCIPLES 
 
 The friends of John now ask to know 
 If what they hear is really so: 
 "It has been told us in the past, 
 That thy disciples never fast; 
 The Pharisees, as all can see. 
 Fast very oft, as well as we." 
 Now Jesus answers in this wise: 
 "How can they fast with such supplies? 
 Can children mourn while with them here 
 The bridegroom stays their souls to cheer? 
 But when the bridegroom goes away 
 Then fasting will begin straightway. ' ' 
 
 PARABLE OF NEW CLOTH AND NEW WINE 
 
 This parable to them he spake: 
 
 "A piece of new cloth never take 
 
 To mend a garment that is old; 
 
 The place so mended will not hold; 
 
 The new and old will not agree; 
 
 A contrast every one can see. 
 
 With new wine ne'er old bottles fill; 
 
 For they will break, the wine will spill ; 
 
 But put new wine in bottles new. 
 
 Then both will be preserved to you." 
 
 JAIRUS ASKS HIM TO HEAL HIS DAUGHTER 
 
 A ruler, Jairus by name. 
 
 Who'd heard much said of Jesus' fame, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 37 
 
 Came to the Lord with grief most wild, 
 And asked that he would heal his child. 
 ''My little daughter, now at home, 
 Is lying sick, I pray thee come 
 And lay thy hand on her, and then 
 She will receive her strength again." 
 
 HEALS THE WOMAN THAT TOUCHED HIM 
 
 So Jesus went at his request, 
 
 While many people round him pressed. 
 
 A certain woman in the throng, 
 
 Had suffered much for twelve years long; 
 
 Her living spent, an empty purse. 
 
 And nothing bettered, rather worse. 
 
 When Christ she saw she came behind 
 
 And touched his clothes, a cure to find — 
 
 "Of this one thing I am assured. 
 
 If I but touch I shall be cured." 
 
 The moment she had touched his dress. 
 
 She knew she 'd met with great success, 
 
 For in her body and her soul. 
 
 She felt that she had been made whole. 
 
 But Jesus, knowing what was done, 
 
 Looked round and asked "if any one 
 
 Had touched his clothes," when all denied. 
 
 He looked at Peter, who replied: 
 
 "Why, Lord, the people crowd on thee; 
 
 Why should 'st thou ask then, 'who touched me?' " 
 
 But Jesus said, "One thing I know. 
 
 Virtue from me I felt to go. " 
 
 The woman knowing what she did. 
 
 And seeing too she was not hid, 
 
38 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 With fear and trembling down did fall 
 Before the Lord the truth to tell. 
 Before them all she there confessed, 
 How when she touched she had been blessed. 
 He said, ' ' Thy faith hath made thee whole, 
 Now go, and peace shall fill thy soul." 
 
 THEY TELL HIM THE CHILD IS DEAD 
 
 While he yet spake one came, who said, 
 "Why trouble him? Thy child is dead." 
 When Jesus of her death had heard, 
 He to the ruler spake this word: 
 "Be not afraid, but now believe, 
 And thy dead child shall life receive. ' ' 
 To follow him he allows none other. 
 Than Peter, John, and James, his brother. 
 They came at length within the place 
 Where lay the dead, with up-turned face. 
 
 RAISES THE CHILD FROM THE DEAD 
 
 He asks the mourners, "Why this weeping? 
 The child's not dead; she's only sleeping." 
 They laugh with scorn when Jesus said, 
 "She is asleep." "We know she's dead." 
 He bids them leave, then enters in 
 Where just before stern death had been. 
 As Peter, James, and John, his brother. 
 Stood round the bed with father, mother, 
 He takes the damsel by the hand. 
 And she arose at his command. 
 He orders them to bring some meat. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 39 
 
 And set before the child to eat. 
 
 The parents then with thankful hearts 
 
 The dead receive, the Lord departs. 
 
 HEALS TWO BLIND MEN 
 
 As Jesus there to leave assayed, 
 Two blind men follow, seeking aid; 
 And crying loudly as they go, 
 "Thou, David's son, relieve our woe; 
 Have mercy, Lord, and us relieve, 
 Grant that we may our sight receive." 
 They hurry on, they travel fast. 
 They come to where he stops at last. 
 He asks of them, "Are ye quite sure 
 That I this day your sight can cure?" 
 They answer, "Yes," with one accord, 
 "We know that you are able. Lord." 
 "According now as ye believe 
 Ye shall the gift of sight receive." 
 Then Jesus reached and touched each one; 
 No sooner touched than it was done. 
 "I charge you now let no man know, 
 What I this day on you bestow." 
 But they when gone told every one 
 Of what the Lord for them had done. 
 The blind men gone, then others come. 
 And bring to him one stricken dumb ; 
 With other ills he is oppressed. 
 For evil spirits him possessed. 
 When Jesus cast the devil out 
 The dumb man spake, and those about. 
 Astonished said, "What does this mean? 
 
40 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 The like in Israel ne'er was seen." 
 But others said, "This don't convince; 
 He casts them out, but by their prince. ' ' 
 Then Jesus went from place to place, 
 And taught his kingdom was of grace; 
 He healed disease of every kind. 
 Of soul, and body, likewise mind. 
 And on the people scattered wide. 
 Without a shepherd them to guide, 
 While wandering here and there abroad. 
 He had compassion like a God. 
 To His disciples then he spoke: 
 "The Lord of Harvest now invoke. 
 And pray that he will laborers send 
 Into the harvest ere it end. 
 The harvest now is great, indeed. 
 And many laborers we need." 
 
 The twelve now gather round their friend, 
 And to his words they all attend; 
 He gives them power disease to cure. 
 To cast out spirits most impure. 
 
 NAMES OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES 
 
 The twelve apostles and their names. 
 Are John and Peter, Andrew, James, 
 Then Philip and Bartholomew, 
 With Thomas next, and Matthew too. 
 And James who's often called the less. 
 And one whose name was Thaddeus, 
 And Simon now completes the lot, 
 With Judas, called Iscariot. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 41 
 
 This last is he who Christ betrayed 
 For thirty silver pieces paid. 
 
 HE SENDS THEM TO PREACH 
 
 These twelve he sends throughout the land, 
 
 To preach, ''the kingdom is at hand. 
 
 Ye shall not go in Gentile's way. 
 
 Nor in Samaria's cities stay, 
 
 But carry rather now the news 
 
 Unto the lost among the Jews. 
 
 The leper cleanse, the dead restore. 
 
 And heal the sick; what ask ye more? 
 
 As freely as ye now receive, 
 
 I charge you just as freely give. 
 
 Provide not for your journey gold. 
 
 Nor let your purses silver hold. 
 
 Nor scrip, nor coats ye must not take. 
 
 Nor yet with staves your journey make; 
 
 No extra shoes to ease your feet. 
 
 The workman truly earns his meat. 
 
 When to a city ye repair, 
 
 Inquire who is worthy there. 
 
 And if such people there reside. 
 
 While in that place with them abide. 
 
 If in a house you stop to rest, 
 
 Salute that place and wish it blest. 
 
 When to a worthy house you go. 
 
 Your peace upon that place bestow. 
 
 And should it prove not worthy, then 
 
 Let peace return to you again. 
 
 And if they will not you receive, 
 
 Then of the dust your feet relieve, 
 
42 THE STOBY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 For Sodom and Gomorrah's land 
 Will in the judgment better stand 
 Than any city of this day, 
 That from their gates turn you away. 
 As sheep among the wolves you go; 
 At least the world will treat you so. 
 Be harmless like the dove I say, 
 And wise as serpents all the day. 
 Beware of men, for they will take 
 You to the council, for my sake; 
 And then from there before the kings, 
 And make you suffer many things. 
 The scourge they likewise will apply. 
 Which shall against them testify. 
 And when you're to the council brought. 
 Of what to speak take ye no thought. 
 For in that hour it shall be given 
 What ye shall say, direct from heaven. 
 
 A brother shall rise up indeed, 
 And to the death his brother lead; 
 And father, too, his children dear 
 Shall put to death for very fear; 
 And children will their influence lend 
 Their parents to the death to send. 
 And this your fate will surely be; 
 Men will you hate because of me ; 
 But he that to the end holds fast 
 Will gain a home in heaven at last. 
 If badly used in any place, 
 Then to some other turn your face. 
 The Son of Man will come before 
 The cities you have traveled o 'er. 
 The true disciple's not above 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 43 
 
 The master whom he serves in love, 
 
 Nor is the servant now, I say. 
 
 Above the lord he serves each day ; 
 
 It is enough they're satisfied 
 
 To stand together side by side. 
 
 If Beelzebub the lord is called, 
 
 How much more they of his household. 
 
 Be not afraid, for all concealed 
 
 Or covered things, shall be revealed. 
 
 For what I tell you in the night, 
 
 That shall ye speak of in the light. 
 
 And what I say now in the ear 
 
 That from the housetop shall they hear. 
 
 Of those that kill be not afraid. 
 
 For after that their power is stayed. 
 
 But fear thy God, who can as well, 
 
 Cast soul and body into hell. 
 
 Two sparrows for a farthing bought. 
 
 Of such small things the Lord takes thought; 
 
 If Grod so notes a sparrow's fall, 
 
 Will He not then protect you all? 
 
 The very hairs upon your head, 
 
 Are numbered all by Him, 'tis said. 
 
 Then do not fear, you're more by far 
 
 To God than many sparrows are. 
 
 Whoever will to men below 
 
 The Son of Man confess to know, 
 
 Those persons I'll confess above, 
 
 Before my father whom I love. 
 
 But if I am denied by men, 
 
 I will deny all these again. 
 
 Before the father, God alone. 
 
 And all the angels round the throne. 
 
44 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Thiiik not I come to bring you peace, 
 Or with my coming war shall cease, 
 But rather since I'm come 'twill be 
 That families can no more agree j 
 The father will the son oppose, 
 And those you love will be your foes. 
 
 If any, then, my friend would be. 
 He must love family less than me. 
 And he that taketh not his cross 
 To follow me, shall suffer loss ; 
 And he that loseth life for me 
 Shall live throughout eternity. 
 
 If any one will thee receive, 
 
 And at the time thy wants relieve. 
 
 For kindness thus bestowed on thee, 
 
 He '11 be received by God and me. 
 
 Whoe'er a prophet doth receive, 
 
 Or righteous person's wants relieve. 
 
 Shall be remembered by the Lord, 
 
 Nor shall he lose his just reward. 
 
 If any one will help extend. 
 
 Or give because you are my friend, 
 
 A cup of water though it be, 
 
 Unto the least that loveth me. 
 
 That kindness shown and freely given, 
 
 Shall not be overlooked in heaven." 
 
 JOHN SENDS TO ASK 
 
 Now John, confined in prison, heard 
 What had been done by Jesus' word; 
 He sends to Him and asks direct, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 45 
 
 ''Art Thou the One the Jews expect? 
 
 Art Thou the promised of the book, 
 
 Or shall we for another look?" 
 
 Then Jesus answering bade them go 
 
 And what they'd seen and heard, John show. 
 
 The dead are raised, the dumb can talk, 
 
 The blind can see, the lame can walk, 
 
 And better still, than man to cure. 
 
 The gospel's preached unto the poor; 
 
 And blessed every one shall be 
 
 "Whose 's not offended now in me. 
 
 HE SPEAKS CONCERNING JOHN 
 
 Now when the messengers were gone. 
 
 He spake to them concerning John: 
 
 ' ' The wilderness ! what took you there ? 
 
 To see a reed moved by the air ? 
 
 Or see a man with raiment fine? 
 
 Such folks among the rich recline. 
 
 Or was a prophet there to see? 
 
 Yea more than prophet, for 'twas he 
 
 Of whom 'twas prophesied of yore. 
 
 My messenger shall go before. 
 
 And shall the way of God prepare 
 
 For one that's mightier by far. 
 
 The world has truly never known 
 
 A greater man than John is shown. 
 
 But the least in heaven's kingdom are 
 
 Greater still than him by far. 
 
 And since the days of John commenced 
 
 The kingdom suffers violence. 
 
 And earnest men resolved to win, 
 
46 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Use force to get themselves within; 
 For all the prophets and the law 
 Have prophesied till John they saw. 
 And if ye will receive my word, 
 This is Elias, said the Lord. 
 The one among you that hath ears, 
 Let him retain now what he hears. 
 
 CHILDREN IN THE MARKET PLACE 
 
 I liken now this present race 
 To children in the market place: 
 They call and to their fellows say 
 "Why do you not respond today? 
 While we have piped, and played also, 
 No dancing has been done by you ; 
 And when we mourned with good intent. 
 Ye heeded not, did not lament." 
 As John to fast was much inclined, 
 They said, "'He hath an evil mind." 
 The Son of Man came not that way. 
 And yet this evil people say, 
 "Behold a man that's fond of wine; 
 With sinners too he loves to dine." 
 "But wisdom now is," Jesus cried, 
 "Of all her children justified." 
 
 UPBRAIDS THE CITIES FOR THEIR UNBELIEF 
 
 Those cities where his works were done 
 He now upbraids each in its turn. 
 "Woe unto thee, Chorazin, woe, 
 And thou, Bethsaida, also; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 47 
 
 For if the works that you have seen 
 In Tyre and Sidon had been done, 
 They long ago would have repented, 
 And in sackcloth their sins lamented. 
 Capernaum, exalted well. 
 Shall be brought down as low as hell. 
 If Sodom had thy chance enjoyed, 
 It never would have been destroyed; 
 And Sodom in the judgment day. 
 Will better stand than thee, I say." 
 
 JESUS PRAYS 
 
 'Twas then that Jesus praying, said, 
 "I thank thee, Father, Lord, and Head 
 Of heaven and earth; in wisdom Thou 
 Hast all things guided until now; 
 From sages Thou hast them, concealed, 
 But unto babes hast now revealed; 
 All things in heaven and earth and sea 
 Are by the Father given me. 
 The Father only knows the son 
 He calls Him His anointed One, 
 And no man now the Father knows, 
 Except the Son, and also those 
 To whom the Son, when e'er He will, 
 The Father to them shall reveal. 
 Come, weary, heavy laden soul. 
 And on the Lord your burden roll; 
 Come with your worldly cares oppressed 
 And I will surely give you rest. 
 Come, take my yoke and learn your part, 
 For I'm of meek and lowly heart; 
 
48 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And coining thus yon shall be blessed 
 And to your souls ye shall find rest. 
 My yoke's an easy one to wear; 
 My burden is not hard to bear. 
 
 PLUCKING CORN ON THE SABBATH DAY 
 
 Now Jesus, passing on his way, 
 
 Went through the corn one Sabbath day, 
 
 And his disciples lacking meat. 
 
 Did pluck the ears of corn and eat. 
 
 But when the Pharisees this saw. 
 
 They said, ' ' These now do break the law. ' ' 
 
 But Jesus answered, "Have you read 
 
 What David when anhungered did? 
 
 He and his comrades, we are told. 
 
 To eat the shew bread did make bold, 
 
 Which was for them unlawful meat. 
 
 But only for the priests to eat. 
 
 And in the law ye must have read. 
 
 That in the temple, it is said, 
 
 The Sabbath day the priests at will 
 
 Profane, and yet are blameless still. 
 
 But greater than the temple far, 
 
 Is one now standing with you here. 
 
 What meaneth this, if you are wise? 
 
 Mercy I'll have, not sacrifice. 
 
 If you but understood the same. 
 
 The guiltless then you would not blame; 
 
 The Son of Man is lord I say. 
 
 E'en of the Holy Sabbath day." 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 49 
 
 HEALS A MAN WITH A WITHERED HAND 
 
 Departing thence, he enters near, 
 
 A Synagogue of praise and prayer. 
 
 Among the many seated round, 
 
 One with a withered hand is found. 
 
 The Jews were pleased, for now they thought, 
 
 This fellow will be surely caught. 
 
 We'll ask if lawful 'tis this day 
 
 To heal, and hear what he may say. 
 
 If he refuse the man to heal, 
 
 For human woes he cannot feel; 
 
 And if he heals, why, then we'll say, 
 
 He works upon the Sabbath day. 
 
 They say to Him, '^Now are you sure 
 'Tis lawful on this day to cure?" 
 But he at once the trap foresaw, 
 And quotes to them their Jewish law, 
 Where it is said, ''You may indeed 
 Relieve distress in time of need. 
 What man is here among you all, 
 If in a pit his sheep should fall. 
 But would it extricate straightway. 
 Although upon the Sabbath day? 
 If then assistance you may give 
 Unto a beast, that it may live, 
 Then why should you refuse to aid 
 The best creation God hath made ? ' ' 
 He says to him with withered hand, 
 ''Rise up and in their presence stand." 
 Then Jesus asks of each to say, 
 "What now is lawful on this day; 
 Should we do good, or rather ill? 
 
50 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Should life be saved, or should we kill ? ' ' 
 Although these questions they all heard, 
 None answered him a single word. 
 Then Jesus looked with grief around, 
 Because their hearts so hard were found; 
 He said to the afflicted one, 
 ' ' Stretch forth thy hand, ' ' and it was done ; 
 And as he stretched it forth 'twas found, 
 Like as the other, whole and sound. 
 
 THEY COUNSEL TO KILL HIM 
 
 Their hearts with anger being filled, 
 They counselled how he might be killed; 
 But Jesus, when these things he knew. 
 With his disciples thence withdrew; 
 And many people with him go. 
 Whose ills he cures, and every woe. 
 His kindness thus to all is shown; 
 He asks them not to make Him known; 
 And thus the truth is 'stablished there 
 Of what Esaias did declare : 
 "Behold my servant, him alone, 
 Whom I have chosen for my own, 
 So well beloved in my sight. 
 In whom my soul doth take delight; 
 On him my spirit I'll bestow. 
 He '11 mercy to the Gentiles show ; 
 From clamor and contentions free, 
 Nor yet in strife shall ever be; 
 Nor shall his voice aloud be heard 
 Upon the streets in angry word; 
 He will not break the bruised reed. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 51 
 
 Nor quench the smoking flax indeed, 
 Till he send forth both full and free 
 His judgment unto victory; 
 And in his name, which is most just, 
 Shall all the world of Gentiles trust." 
 
 CURES THE BLIND AND DEAF AND DUMB 
 
 Then once again the people come, 
 
 And bring him one both blind and dumb. 
 
 And of the devil, too, possessed. 
 
 A case his utmost power to test; 
 
 But Jesus bids the devil leave, 
 
 And makes blind eyes their sight receive; 
 
 He makes deaf ears to hear his voice, 
 
 And all the people to rejoice. 
 
 They were amazed at what was done, 
 
 And said, "Is not this David's son?" 
 
 Now when the Pharisees had heard 
 
 That devils left at Jesus' word. 
 
 They said, "This fellow we must own, 
 
 Could never do this work alone; 
 
 But then, we know what he's about; 
 
 By Satan's power he casts them out." 
 
 A DIVIDED HOUSE CANNOT STAND 
 
 But to these words the Son replied, 
 "Would you destroy, then first divide; 
 Divided kingdoms soon must fall. 
 And houses rent ne'er stand at all. 
 If Satan then cast Satan out, 
 His forces soon are put to rout; 
 He's weakened thus on every hand, 
 And how can such a kingdom stand! 
 
52 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 If I cast out in Satan's name, 
 By whom then do your sons the same? 
 We'll call them now, and yon shall see, 
 For they your judges here shall be; 
 But if God's spirit lends me aid, 
 And through His power I am obeyed. 
 And if He helps me cure the dumb. 
 Then is His kingdom to you come ? 
 How can one enter, I would kaow. 
 The strong man's house to overthrow, 
 Except the strong man first be bound. 
 Then he may spoil whatever found. 
 Now he that gathereth not with me, 
 Scattering then abroad must be, 
 And he that doth not with me stand 
 Is 'gainst me found on every hand. 
 
 SIN AGAINST THE HOLY GHOST 
 
 All kinds of sin against high heaven, 
 I say to men may be forgiven ; 
 But who blasphemes the Holy Ghost, 
 No pardon finds at any cost. 
 A word against the Son of Man, 
 May be forgiven as other sin. 
 But words against the Holy One, 
 Forgivenness never will obtain; 
 Not in this present world below, 
 Nor in the world to which we go. 
 
 A GOOD TREE BRINGETH FORTH GOOD FRUIT 
 
 Then good or evil make the tree. 
 For like the tree the fruit will be. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 53 
 
 Of every fruit it may be known 
 
 The kind of tree on which 'twas grown. 
 
 Ye vipers all, who evil seek, 
 
 How can you here of good things speak? 
 
 The mouth may speak, but all thoughts start 
 
 From out the abundance of the heart. 
 
 The heart holds treasure good and bad, 
 
 And either from it may be had. 
 
 Good men good treasures forth will bring, 
 
 Bad men produce the evil thing. 
 
 Hear! Every idle word you say 
 
 Shall rise up in the judgment day; 
 
 For by your words you shall be tried. 
 
 By them condemned or justified." 
 
 THEY ASK A SIGN 
 
 The scribes and Pharisees combine. 
 
 And ask of Him to show a sign. 
 
 But Jesus, answering, thus did speak, 
 
 "This evil race a sign would seek; 
 
 The Lord to you no sign will show 
 
 But that of Jona's long ago. 
 
 That prophet three days lay for sin. 
 
 The belly of the whale within. 
 
 And so the Son of Man, I say. 
 
 For three days in the earth must lay. 
 
 The men of Nineveh shall rise 
 
 In judgment 'gainst this people, wise, 
 
 And shall condemn them, for they heard 
 
 And did repent at Jona's word. 
 
 The Queen of Sheba too will come. 
 
 And on the judgment day condemn 
 
54 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 This people, for she came from far, 
 The words of Solomon to hear. 
 But now to you behold I say, 
 A greater far is here today. 
 Than ever prophet was of old, 
 Or Solomon with all his gold. 
 
 THE MAN TAKES SEVEN SPIRITS 
 
 When from a man the unclean go, 
 He walketh then both to and fro ; 
 Through places dry he takes his way. 
 And seeks for rest from day to day. 
 But finding none in any place. 
 Towards his home he turns his face. 
 He finds by none the place is kept. 
 For it is empty, garnished, swept. 
 He taketh seven spirits more. 
 Far worse than he had been before. 
 They of the house possession take, 
 And in that place their home do make. 
 And thus the last state of this man 
 Is worse than when he first began. 
 So it shall be unto this nation. 
 And to this wicked generation." 
 
 HIS FAMILY DESIRE TO SPEAK TO HIM 
 
 While he was saying all these things. 
 Word from outside to him one brings ; 
 "Your mother, and your brethren, too, 
 Are waiting now to speak to you." 
 Then Jesus asks, "Who is my brother, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 55 
 
 Or, do you know who is my mother?" 
 
 Toward his friends he stretched his hand, 
 
 ' ' Behold my brethren here do stand ; 
 
 For whosoever now of you 
 
 The will of Grod shall surely do. 
 
 That one I count then as my brother, 
 
 Yea, as my sister, and my mother, ' ' 
 
 PARABLE OF THE SOWER 
 
 He leaves the house on this same day, 
 And to the seaside makes his way, 
 While multitudes from everywhere 
 Are gathered to the saviour there. 
 He sat within a ship once more, 
 With all the people on the shore. 
 And there, while seated by the lake. 
 To them this parable he spake: 
 ' ' Behold, a sower, now I say. 
 Went forth to sow his seed one day ; 
 And as he sowed, and scattered well. 
 Some seeds beside the wayside fell; 
 But it was trodden, as it lay, 
 And carried by the birds away. 
 And some there fell on stony ground. 
 Where no great depth of earth was found; 
 And soon the seed sprang into birth, 
 Because it had no depth of earth, 
 And when the sun was risen high. 
 It soon was scorched, and left to die; 
 It could not stand the heat of day; 
 For want of root it fades away. 
 Some seeds among the thorns were cast. 
 
56 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 But thorns grew up both thick and fast ; 
 They choke the seed, and crowd the root, 
 And thus prevent the yield of fruit. 
 But other seeds it soon was found, 
 Were cast by him on better ground, 
 And they sprang up and bore much fruit, 
 For they had soil in which to root; 
 Some thirty, sixty, we are told, 
 And even some an hundred fold. ' ' 
 
 WHY SPEAK IN PARABLES 
 
 Then his disciples ask of him: 
 "Why speak in parables to them?" 
 He says, "Because to you 'tis given, 
 To know the mysteries of heaven; 
 While unto them it is not so, 
 Thus heaven's mysteries to know. 
 For now to him that hath in store, 
 The Lord will give, that he have more; 
 While he that hath not now to-day, 
 E 'en what he hath he takes away. 
 In seeing they see not, I fear. 
 And hearing they seem not to hear. 
 Therefore in parables I speak, 
 To understand they do not seek. 
 For in this people you may see 
 Fulfilment of the prophecy. 
 In which Esaias prophesied. 
 This people have the truth denied; 
 They hear and shall not yet believe. 
 They see and yet do not perceive. 
 This people's heart is wicked through; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 57 
 
 Their ears are dull of hearing, too. 
 
 Lest they should see, their eyes are closed; 
 
 To use their ears they are opposed, 
 
 Lest with their hearts they comprehend. 
 
 And thus to change them all should tend; 
 
 Lest they conversion, too, should feel, 
 
 And I their sorrows all should heal. 
 
 But blessed are your eyes, I say. 
 
 That ye can see these things today. 
 
 And blessed are the ears, I know. 
 
 That they may hear these things also ; 
 
 To you this fact I now recall 
 
 That righteous men and prophets all. 
 
 Desired much to hear and view. 
 
 These very things observed by you. 
 
 PARABLE OF THE SOWER EXPLAINED 
 
 Now hear, therefore, while I explain 
 The sower and the seed again: 
 The seed is now the word of God, 
 Which by the sower is cast abroad; 
 Those by the way are such as hear. 
 But do not understand, nor fear; 
 For Satan comes and takes apart. 
 That which was planted in their heart; 
 He takes from them what they receive, 
 Lest they be saved, if they believe. 
 And those on stony ground are they. 
 That hear with joy, and do obey. 
 But cannot long be kept alive; 
 They have no root on which to thrive; 
 If persecution for my sake 
 
58 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Or tribulation them o'ertake, 
 They are offended by and by, 
 And fall away to droop and die. 
 The seed that in the thorns is found, 
 Is he that 's hedged with cares around ; 
 Pleasures of life, and lusts of sin. 
 To choke the seeds do soon begin; 
 Some signs of fruit, 'tis true, they show. 
 But naught can to perfection grow. 
 The seed that in the good ground fell, 
 Is he that understandeth well. 
 And layeth all the truths to heart. 
 And does in life perform his part; 
 It beareth fruit in heat and cold. 
 And yieldeth some an hundred fold." 
 
 PARABLE OB' THE TARES 
 
 Another parable spake he: 
 
 ''The kingdom now, shall likened be 
 
 Unto a man who in his field. 
 
 Did sow good seed in hopes 'twould yield; 
 
 But while he slept, another came 
 
 And there sowed tares among the same; 
 
 And when the wheat began to grow, 
 
 The tares with it were seen also. " 
 
 Then on this man his servants wait, 
 
 And thus to him the case they state : 
 
 ''Didst thou not sow thy field, indeed, 
 
 With what thou knew to be good seed? 
 
 Or was it bad, and unawares 
 
 With the good seed you sowed some tares ? ' " 
 
 'Twas then he spoke to every one : 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 59 
 
 "An enemy this thing has done." 
 Wilt thou that we should go today, 
 And gather up the tares, they say. 
 But he said ' ' Nay, for if ye do, 
 Some wheat you'll surely uproot too; 
 But let them grow together there 
 Until the harvest time is here; 
 Then in the harvest I will say, 
 Unto the reapers day by day, 
 'Gather first all tares ye find. 
 And into bundles tightly bind. 
 So I can burn them, when I may. 
 But put my wheat with care away.' " 
 
 PAEABLE Q^ THE MUSTARD SEED 
 
 Again the kingdom's like, indeed, 
 A little grain of mustard seed, 
 Placed by a man within the ground, 
 The least of all the seeds 'twas found; 
 But when the plant was fully grown. 
 As greatest of the herbs 'twas shown ; 
 In fact it then became a tree. 
 So that the birds of air were free 
 To lodge, and stay, and go and come. 
 And in its branches find a home. 
 
 THE LUMP OP LEAVEN 
 
 Again the kingdom here of heaven 
 Is like a little lump of leaven, 
 Which once a woman hid with care 
 In meal she would for bread prepare ; 
 
60 THE STOEY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Though hid it worketh silently, 
 Till all the meal shall leavened be. 
 In parables was every word 
 Of all these sayings of our Lord, 
 That it might be fulfilled by him, 
 In parables he spake to them; 
 His words will open up to man 
 Things hidden since the world began. 
 
 THE TARES EXPLAINED 
 
 Then Jesus sent them all away, 
 And went into the house straightway, 
 Where his disciples ask to know 
 If he the parable would show. 
 The field, the tares, also the grain, 
 They ask if he will all explain: i 
 
 "The one that soweth here the seed, 
 ■ Is Christ, the son of man, indeed ; 
 The field is this our world so broad, 
 The seed are children of our God; 
 The wicked children everywhere. 
 Are represented by the tares; 
 The one that sowed and spread the evil. 
 Is our arch enemy, the devil; 
 The harvest, can you comprehend, 
 Will be of this fair world the end ; 
 The reapers are the angels, come 
 To gather all God's children home. 
 As tares are in the fire burned 
 The wicked into hell are turned. 
 The Son of Man will angels send, 
 And gather all that do offend, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 61 
 
 With all that have done wrong in past, 
 
 And in the fire them will cast. 
 
 There shall they wail and gnash their teeth, 
 
 For great indeed shall be their grief. 
 
 But at the coming of our Lord 
 
 The righteous shall have their reward; 
 
 For they shall shine forth as the sun 
 
 When in full day his course is run." 
 
 THE BARREN FIG TREE 
 
 Another parable he made: 
 
 A certain man a vineyard had; 
 
 Amidst the vines he planted there 
 
 A fig tree, hoping it would bear. 
 
 But when the time for figs came round, 
 
 Upon this tree no figs were found; 
 
 He to the vineyard keeper said: 
 
 "I'm disappointed much indeed; 
 
 This tree looks healthy to my mind, 
 
 And yet no fruit thereon I find ; 
 
 For full three years each year I've come 
 
 Expecting fruit, and finding none. 
 
 It is no good, so cut it down ; 
 
 'Tis only cumbering here the ground." 
 
 The dresser said, "Lord, wilt thou hear? 
 
 Let it alone another year ; 
 
 If I but dig around the root. 
 
 And fertilize, it may bear fruit. 
 
 If it will bear we '11 all be glad, 
 
 And be well paid for trouble had. 
 
 But should it still be barren found 
 
 Thou shall remove it from the ground." 
 
62 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 A HIDDEN TREASURE 
 
 The heavenly kingdom now, I say, 
 Is like a treasure hid away 
 For years, in some neglected field. 
 From fortune-hunting eyes concealed; 
 Though many men that field had trod, 
 They never looked beneath the sod; 
 But one to signs of wealth gave heed 
 And found the field a prize indeed. 
 And when this treasure he had found, 
 It caused his heart with joy to bound; 
 He guards the secret with great care, 
 Not even with his friends doth share. 
 But quickly goes he to arrange 
 His goods for money to exchange ; 
 And when he had the last thing sold. 
 He for this field gave all his gold. 
 
 THE LARGE PEARL 
 
 Again 'tis like unto a man 
 Who once to seek for pearls began, 
 Who, when he found one large and fair. 
 Sold all he had and bought it there. 
 
 IS LIKE A NET 
 
 "Again, the kingdom's like a net, 
 Which in the sea for fish is set. 
 It catches many, and you'll find 
 It gathers in of every kind; 
 And when 'tis full they draw to shore, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 63 
 
 And then sit down to look them o'er; 
 The good are saved for food for men, 
 The bad are all thrown back again. 
 So shall it be when time shall end, 
 And God the angels here will send; 
 They'll take the wicked from the just. 
 And in the furnace them will thrust ; 
 There in that place they'll weep and wail, 
 And gnash their teeth without avail." 
 Now of the twelve who round him stood 
 He asks, ''Have ye this understood?" 
 They answer him and say, "Yea, Lord, 
 We understand your every word." 
 ' ' The scribes who know these things today 
 And are instructed in this way. 
 Are like a man that daily drew 
 Out of his treasures old and new." 
 
 GOES TO HIS OWN COUNTRY 
 
 "When he was done Christ left this place. 
 And to his country turned his face ; 
 And as he preached to them the word. 
 They were amazed at what they heard. 
 "Whence hath this man such wisdom noAV? 
 He does these things we know not how; 
 His father is the carpenter. 
 His mother, Mary, we know her; 
 His brethren, too, we know their names, 
 They're Joses, Simon, Judas, James; 
 And all his sisters, too, we know — 
 Then how does he such wisdom show?" 
 They were offended then at him. 
 
64 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 But Jesus, speaking, says to them: 
 
 ''You know a prophet has no worth 
 
 In his own home, and place of birth; 
 
 But all his honor's far from home, 
 
 And all his praise from thence must come." 
 
 Not many Avorks could he do there, 
 
 For unbelief was everywhere. 
 
 HEROD HEARS OF JESUS AND THINKS JOHN HAS RISEN 
 
 About this time to Herod came 
 
 A wide report of Jesus' fame; 
 
 So to his servants all he said, 
 
 "Now John is risen from the dead. 
 
 And all these mighty works, 'tis plain, 
 
 Are done by him whom I had slain." 
 
 For Herod had the Baptist cast 
 
 Into the prison, and there made fast; 
 
 He did this sin, and John did seize. 
 
 His brother Philip's wife to please; 
 
 For John had said, at risk of life, 
 
 "Thou shalt not have thy brother's wife." 
 
 Now Herod would have killed him there. 
 
 But all the people everywhere 
 
 Did look on John as a prophet good, 
 
 And Herod feared the multitude. 
 
 HERODIAS DANCED FOR HEROD 
 
 Now on the day of Herod's birth. 
 The palace being filled with mirth, 
 Herodias' daughter danced that day 
 And pleased King Herod much, they say. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 65 
 
 "Ask what you will," the king then swore, 
 "And I will grant, to half my store." 
 She asks her mother, "Now what thing 
 Had I best ask for of the king." 
 Her mother straightway to her said, 
 "You ask for John the Baptist's head." 
 She tells the king, "This is my wish: 
 You give me John's head in a dish." 
 
 JOHN IS BEHEADED 
 
 The king was sorry when he heard 
 
 The kind of gift that she preferred; 
 
 But there's his guests — and for their sake — 
 
 The oath he took he will not break. 
 
 The executioner he sought, 
 
 And gave command John's head be brought. 
 
 He to the prison takes his way. 
 
 And John beheads that very day. 
 
 His head was on a charger laid, 
 
 And by him given to the maid ; 
 
 The trophy, she in triumph scans 
 
 And places in her mother's hands. 
 
 HIS FRIENDS TAKE THE BODY 
 
 Possession now John's friends assume. 
 And place the body in the tomb; 
 They go at once and Jesus tell 
 Of all these things which John befell. 
 
 HE GOES TO THE DESERT 
 
 They now depart by ship from there, 
 And to a desert place repair; 
 
66 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And when the news was spread around, 
 That Christ was for the desert bound, 
 There many follow him on land, 
 From all the cities near at hand ; 
 They run on foot and come before, 
 And wait there till he comes on shore ; 
 And when he saw the multitude. 
 And how in need of help they stood, 
 Them with compassion he received, 
 And all the sick at once relieved. 
 
 FEEDS FIVE THOUSAND 
 
 Now as the eve comes on apace. 
 They still are in this desert place; 
 So his disciples come and say, 
 ' ' Now send the multitude away, 
 And let them go into the town, 
 And also to the country round. 
 That they may lodge, and all be fed, 
 For in this place there is no bread." 
 But Jesus answering said, ''Not so; 
 No need for any one to go. 
 Why should they go to purchase meat 
 "When you can give them here to eat?" 
 They say, "Would ye that we buy bread. 
 That all this people may be fed 1 ' ' 
 He says to them, "Now go and see 
 How many loaves of bread have we." 
 And when they know, they answer "Five, 
 And two small fishes, all we have." 
 "It is enough," the Saviour said, 
 * ' Arrange that all may here be fed. ' ' 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 67 
 
 At Ms command they all sit down 
 
 In ranks of fifty on the ground; 
 
 And when to him the loaves were given, 
 
 He raised his eyes and looked to heaven, 
 
 And blessed, and brake the loaves, and then 
 
 To his disciples gave again; 
 
 "While they in turn the feast did spread. 
 
 And all the multitude was fed. 
 
 The little fishes, though so small. 
 
 Divided he among them all; 
 
 The wants of all were thus supplied, 
 
 And all did eat till satisfied. 
 
 It took twelve baskets to contain, 
 
 The many fragments that remain. 
 
 Besides the women, and children there. 
 
 Five thousand men this feast did share. 
 
 SENDS THE DISCIPLES AWAY WHILE HE CLIMBS 
 THE MOUNTAIN TO PRAY 
 
 Now his disciples he constrains 
 To take the ship, while he remains. 
 And to the other side repair. 
 While he dismissed the people there; 
 And when he'd sent them all away, 
 He climbed the mount apart to pray; 
 And there from friends and all apart. 
 Out to his Father pours his heart. 
 The eve comes on both dark and chill, 
 But he is on the mountain still; 
 While they are tossed on every hand. 
 And vainly strive to reach the land. 
 He sees them on the raging sea. 
 
68 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Toiling, rowing, constantly ; 
 He saw from where he knelt in prayer, 
 The wind and wave against them there. 
 The first watch passes, still he prays. 
 And through the second watch he stays, 
 And through the third watch of that night, 
 The saviour prays for help and light ; 
 And while he prays, still in the boat. 
 They helpless midst the waves do float. 
 
 WALKS ON THE WATER 
 
 But as the fourth watch wears away. 
 And all are M^aiting for the day, 
 They see one walking on the wave ; 
 It is the Lord, he will them save. 
 But when they saw him walking near. 
 They all cried out in mighty fear, 
 "It is a spirit, for we know 
 None else can tread the water so." 
 At once the saviour spake and said, 
 "Behold, 'tis I, be not afraid; 
 And of the waves have not a fear ; 
 When I am nigh be of good cheer." 
 Another speaks, 'tis Peter now. 
 He says, "If it indeed be thou. 
 To come unto my Lord bid me. 
 And I will quickly go to thee. ' ' 
 
 PETER TRIES IT 
 
 ' ' Yes, come, ' ' the Lord at once replied. 
 And Peter steps down on the tide. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 69 
 
 He walks, to reach the Son of Grod; 
 Upheld by faith the waves he trod; 
 But when he saw the waves run high, 
 His faith relaxed, for help did cry, 
 And sinking slowly in the tide, 
 ' ' Lord save me, save me. Lord ! " he cried. 
 Then Jesns stretches forth his hand, 
 And bids the sinking Peter stand; 
 "0, thon of little faith today. 
 Now wherefore didst thou doubt, I say." 
 The ship receives them now once more. 
 And soon they come abreast the shore. 
 'Twas easy now the course to keep. 
 While he was with them in the ship ; 
 The waves had ceased, the winds gone down. 
 For all is peace where he is found. 
 They all were sore amazed, and said, 
 "This is the Son of God indeed." 
 
 THEY BRING THE SICK 
 
 To go on shore they now prepare. 
 And all the people knew him there; 
 And soon they ran that region round. 
 And all the sick that could be found. 
 Were brought to him, no case too bad, 
 He cured whate'er disease they had. 
 And to what place he went each day. 
 The people followed him straightway. 
 The sick were laid in every street. 
 That he in passing should them meet; 
 In other sick, faith higher rose. 
 They begged of him to touch his clothes. 
 
70 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And all tliat touched knew in their soul, 
 That they were made entirely whole. 
 
 EATING WITH UNWASHED HANDS 
 
 The Pharisees, those wicked men, 
 
 And scribes approach the Lord again; 
 
 These persons from Jerusalem came, 
 
 Attracted hither by his fame; 
 
 They said to him, ''You must confess. 
 
 That your disciples do transgress 
 
 The old tradition which commands, 
 
 Thou shalt not eat with unwashed hands; 
 
 And your disciples, it is said. 
 
 Wash not their hands when they eat bread. ' ' 
 
 But Jesus, answering, said to them: 
 
 "Your words do you yourselves condemn? 
 
 You make God's word of no account; 
 
 If your tradition doth surmount ; 
 
 While God's command says this is right. 
 
 Tradition says another quite. 
 
 Now God commanded long ago. 
 
 All honor to thy parents show; 
 
 And he that cursed them e'en in thought. 
 
 Let him unto the death be brought. 
 
 But your tradition is this way: 
 
 Now he that doth to parents say, 
 
 'It is a gift and profits thee. 
 
 He need not honor, he is free;' 
 
 And thus God's word ye do reject. 
 
 And His command has no effect. 
 
 Ye hypocrites, of you 'twas said 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 71 
 
 By an old prophet long since dead, 
 This people draweth nigh to G-od, 
 And with their mouth confess aloud ; 
 They honor with their lips each day, 
 And yet their hearts are far away; 
 And so they worship me in vain, 
 Though my commandments are all plain; 
 They teach for doctrines when they can, 
 Not my commands but those of men." 
 
 TO EAT WITH UNWASHED HANDS DEFILETH NOT 
 
 Then Jesus called the people near 
 
 And said, ''Now understand, and hear, 
 
 What goeth in the mouth of man 
 
 Defiles him not, it never can; 
 
 But words that from the heart proceed. 
 
 They do defile the man indeed." 
 
 "Now knowest thou not," they say to him, 
 
 "Thou hast offended some of them." 
 
 The Pharisees that these things heard. 
 
 Were all offended by his word. 
 
 But Jesus said, "Let them alone, 
 
 For they are blind, yea, every one, 
 
 And if the blind doth lead the blind, 
 
 Both in the ditch you'll surely find; 
 
 And every plant, and doctrine too. 
 
 Which does not come from God to you, 
 
 Though they be Scribe or Pharisee, 
 
 All such by him shall plucked up be. ' ' 
 
 Then Peter said to him while there, 
 
 "This parable to us declare:" 
 
 "How does it come," thus speaks the Lord, 
 
72 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 "That you don't understand this word? 
 
 That which the mouth each day takes in, 
 
 Defileth not, and is no sin, 
 
 And good or bad if eaten then, 
 
 Is cast into the draught again; 
 
 But what the mouths of men impart, 
 
 Proceeds directly from the heart. 
 
 And of the heart is direct fruit, 
 
 And such it is that doth pollute ; 
 
 For in the heart you evil find. 
 
 Evil thoughts, and words unkind, 
 
 Lies, murders, thefts and blasphemies. 
 
 False witness, and adulteries; 
 
 With these things in the human heart, 
 
 Man is defiled in every part; 
 
 To eat with unwashed hands will not 
 
 The soul defile, nor stain, nor blot." 
 
 GOES TO TYRE AND SYDON 
 
 And now from thence the Lord arose. 
 
 And near to Tyre and Sidon goes. 
 
 Into a house he goes with care. 
 
 He would that none should know he's there; 
 
 But everywhere, whate'er he did. 
 
 The Lord from man could not be hid; 
 
 And every place it was the same, 
 
 All those with trouble to him came. 
 
 THE WOMAN OF CANAAN 
 
 A certain woman in the town, 
 
 Came there, and at his feet fell down. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 73 
 
 She was from Canaan, and a Greek, 
 And thus she to the Lord did speak: 
 ^'0, Lord, have mercy on my care, 
 Thou son of David, hear my prayer; 
 My daughter, Lord, is filled with evil. 
 For she's possessed, sure, of the devil." 
 And thus beseeching him, she prayed 
 Her daughter's illness might be stayed. 
 But Jesus answered not a word. 
 Though all she said by him was heard. 
 Then his disciples to him come 
 And asked of him to send her home ; 
 They say "Her cry by us is heard 
 Where'er we turn along the road." 
 Then Jesus told her, this is true, 
 "My mission does not reach to you; 
 I was not sent in any case. 
 But to the lost of Israel 's race. ' ' 
 Then she came near and worshipped him, 
 And cried, "Save me, along with them," 
 But Jesus said, "Let first the Jew 
 Be filled, before we give to you; 
 For you must know it is not meet 
 To take what children have to eat, 
 Or give to dogs the children's bread. 
 When they themselves need to be fed." 
 The woman, answering, said, "Yea, Lord, 
 I know there 's truth in every word ; 
 Yet, Lord, whene'er the children eat, 
 They drop some crumbs beneath their feet. 
 And as they from the table fall. 
 The dogs are free to eat them all." 
 Then Jesus, answering, to her said, 
 
74 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 ^'Oh., woman, great thy faith indeed, 
 And for this saying go thy way; 
 Thy daughter shall be healed this day. ' ' 
 To reach her home she turns about, 
 And finds the devil has gone out. 
 The daughter on the bed was laid, 
 Free from disease, as she had prayed. 
 
 MANY CURES HE PERFORMS 
 
 The next of Jesus that we see, 
 Is near the coast of Galilee; 
 A mountain side he then ascends. 
 And seated there some time he spends; 
 And now again the people come, 
 And bring with them the deaf and dumb, 
 With many others, needing aid; 
 At Jesus' feet they all were laid. 
 And when he saw what had been done. 
 He cured and healed them every one. 
 And all the people wondered when 
 The dumb was made to speak again. 
 The lame to walk, the bound made free. 
 The deaf to hear, the blind to see; 
 The people tell these things abroad, 
 And praises give to Israel's God. 
 
 FEEDS FOUR THOUSAND 
 
 Now in those days, as all relate, 
 
 The multitude was very great; 
 
 And having there with them no bread. 
 
 Then he to his disciples said, 
 
 '*I have compassion on this throng; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 75 
 
 They have been with me three days long, 
 And all that time have had no food. 
 To send home hungry, I'm afraid, 
 Lest they may faint while on the way, 
 For many come from far, they say." 
 Then his disciples say again, 
 "We cannot feed so many men. 
 For how can any man obtain 
 Enough to feed this mighty train; 
 How in this wilderness supply 
 Enough each one to satisfy?" 
 Then Jesus said, "Now go and see 
 How many loaves of bread there be. " 
 They answer seven, that is all, 
 And a few fishes, very small. 
 He seats them all upon the ground. 
 They pass the loaves and fishes round, 
 And though the stock was small, indeed. 
 There was enough for every need; 
 And all did eat till satisfied, 
 And there was plenty left beside ; 
 For seven baskets full of meat. 
 They gather up that was not eat. 
 And now we see that he again. 
 Did feed at least four thousand men. 
 Besides the women and children too. 
 With seven loaves and fishes few; 
 And more remained when all were done. 
 Than had they when the feast begun. 
 Then Jesus sends them all away. 
 And he takes ship that very day. 
 Next in .Magdala 's coasts we find 
 This gracious friend of all mankind. 
 
76 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 THE PHARISEES AND SADDUCCEES ASK A SIGN 
 
 The Pharisees then come to him, 
 Also the Sadducees with them, 
 And tempting him they ask to know. 
 If he a sign from heaven would show. 
 He answers thus : "At eve you say 
 It will be fair another day; 
 To this conclusion you are led, 
 Because you see the sky is red; 
 And in the morning then you say. 
 The weather will be foul today ; 
 For now behold the lowering sky 
 Is streaked with red, and rain is nigh. 
 Ye hypocrites, ye read full well 
 What of the day the skj^ can tell. 
 The face of heaven ye can discern, 
 But of the times ye cannot learn. 
 This wicked people seek of me, 
 That they from heaven a sign may see. 
 But unto them no sign from heaven, 
 But that of Jona's shall be given." 
 Thus he rebukes them to their face, 
 Then takes the ship to leave that place. 
 And when they reach the other side, 
 With bread they were not well supplied ; 
 The amount they had was very small. 
 One little loaf among them all. 
 
 BEWARE OF THEIR DOCTRINE 
 
 Then Jesus said to them, "Take care. 
 And of the Pharisees beware; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 77 
 
 So of the Sadducee take heed, 
 The leaven of both is bad indeed." 
 They thought among themselves, and said, 
 ''It is because we have no bread." 
 But Jesus, knowing what they thought, 
 Said, "Not because no bread ye brought; 
 0, ye of faith so very small. 
 Ye know that I can feed you all. 
 Have ye so soon forgotten, then. 
 How with five loaves five thousand men. 
 And how with seven loaves of bread, 
 Four thousand hungry men were fed? 
 And how there, after all did sup, 
 So many baskets took ye up 1 
 When of the leaven I spoke to you, 
 'Twas of two sects among the Jews. 
 Do ye not know that what I said 
 To you was not concerning bread?" 
 His meaning now they understood, 
 'Twas not the leaven then of food. 
 But of the doctrine, and the creed, 
 Of these two sects they should take heed. 
 
 WHOM DO PEOPLE SAY THAT I AM.^ 
 
 And now when they were coming nigh 
 To Caesarea, Phillipi, 
 He asked of them while on the way, 
 "Of me what do the people say? 
 I call myself the Son of Man, 
 Whom say the people that I am?" 
 They say to him, ' ' Some say Elias, 
 And some say John, some Jeremias, 
 
78 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And still by others it is said 
 
 A prophet is risen from the dead." 
 
 Then Jesus turns and asks of them, 
 
 "But whom do ye say that I am?" 
 
 The answer comes from Peter then, 
 
 He's always first among those men, 
 
 ' ' Thou art the Christ, the only One ; 
 
 Of the living God thou art the Son." 
 
 And Jesus, answering, said again, 
 
 ' ' Blessed thou art among all men. 
 
 By men this knowledge was not given. 
 
 But by my Father now in heaven; 
 
 Again, I say to thee alone, 
 
 Peter thou art, which means a stone. 
 
 On that same rock by you confessed, 
 
 I'll build my church, which shall be blessed; 
 
 Against it all the gates of hell, 
 
 Shall never in this worl d prevail ; 
 
 And of this kingdom, too, of heaven, 
 
 The keys shall unto you be given ; 
 
 And what by you on earth is bound 
 
 The same in heaven shall be found; 
 
 And whatsoe'er on earth is loosed 
 
 The same in heaven shall be used. 
 
 Be careful not to spread abroad 
 
 That I am Christ, the Son of Ood." 
 
 SHOWS THEM HOW HE MUST SUFFER 
 
 From that time forth the Lord began 
 To show them how the Son of Man 
 Must to Jerusalem repair, 
 And suffer many things while there; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 79 
 
 How all the elders, those elect, 
 
 "With priests and scribes, would him reject, 
 
 How they should take his life away, 
 
 But he would rise on the third day. 
 
 Then Peter, taking him aside, 
 
 Began at once the Lord to chide: 
 
 ''My Lord, it must not ever be 
 
 That all these things shall happen thee." 
 
 But Jesus, when he heard the thought, 
 
 Said to Peter, "Tempt me not. 
 
 But get thee, Satan, from me hence; 
 
 Thou art to me a great offense ; 
 
 I see thou dost not comprehend 
 
 That this will to my glory tend; 
 
 The things of Grod thou savorest not, 
 
 But only those by earth begot. 
 
 DENIAL OF SELF 
 
 The one that follows in this way. 
 Let him deny himself each day; 
 If he would my disciple be 
 Take up his cross and follow me. 
 Whoever in this world of strife 
 Doth seek to save, shall lose his life ; 
 And whosoever for my sake 
 Shall lose his life, shall new life take. 
 What profit then, or how man bless. 
 If he could all this world possess, 
 And after having gained the whole 
 That man should lose his precious soul ? 
 If man to purchase could arrange, 
 What for his soul would he exchange? 
 
80 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 With glory of the Father crowned 
 The Son shall come, with angels round, 
 And then he will regard each one 
 According to the work he's done. 
 And truly now, I say to you, 
 That standing here there are a few 
 "Who shall not come to death's dark hour, 
 Until my kingdom comes in power." 
 
 THE TRANSFIGURATION 
 
 Now when six days had come and gone, 
 He taketh Peter, James and John, 
 And with these three he leads the way 
 High up a mountain, there to pray. 
 And as the Saviour knelt in prayer. 
 He was transfigured, then and there. 
 His face was filled with heavenly light, 
 His raiment was exceeding white ; 
 'Twas white and glistening, like the snow; 
 No one on earth could make it so. 
 Two other men in raiment fair 
 Appeared and talked with Jesus there; 
 Of his decease he spake to them. 
 It would be at Jerusalem. 
 Now, Peter, James and also John, 
 Whose eyes with sleep had heavy grown. 
 But being still awake did see 
 The glory of this heavenly three. 
 Then Peter speaking, said, ''I fain, 
 My Lord, with thee would here remain. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 81 
 
 PETER WANTED TO BUILD THREE TABERNACLES 
 
 Let US three tabernacles build, 
 
 That one by Moses may be filled, 
 
 One for Elias there will be, 
 
 The other one, my Lord, for Thee." 
 
 But Peter, being sore afraid. 
 
 Knew not, or thought not, what he said. 
 
 Surrounded then as with a cloud. 
 
 They heard a voice that spake aloud, 
 
 ' ' This is my Son, well loved indeed, 
 
 And what he says 'twere well to heed. ' ' 
 
 Again the heavens testify 
 
 Christ is the Son of God most high. 
 
 With fear and trembling, filled with dread, 
 
 Down on the ground they fall as dead. 
 
 But Jesus gently on them laid 
 
 His hand and said, "Be not afraid." 
 
 And having lifted up their eyes. 
 
 He stood alone, to their surprise. 
 
 And as they from the mount descend, 
 
 He bids them to his words attend: 
 
 "Tell not the vision which you've seen. 
 
 Till I am risen from the tomb." 
 
 Then his disciples, asking say, 
 
 "What's this the scribes do tell each day. 
 
 That bold Elijah first must be, 
 
 Before thy kingdom we can seel" 
 
 He answers, "He will come before. 
 
 And truly all things will restore. 
 
 And thus all prophesy unfold 
 
 That has concerning me been told; 
 
 But now to you I do declare, 
 
82 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Elijah is already here, 
 And was not known among the Jews, 
 Who've done to him whate'er they choose. 
 They did his life with suffering fill. 
 Likewise the Son of Man they will. ' ' 
 Then understood they, by his word. 
 To John the Baptist he referred. 
 
 A FATHER ASKS HE HEAL HIS SON 
 
 And now behold a multitude, 
 
 Had gathered where the Saviour stood. 
 
 A certain man to Jesus came. 
 
 And kneeling, called upon his name — 
 
 ''Oh, Lord, have mercy on my son. 
 
 In torment from the evil one ; 
 
 He's sorely vexed, and lunatic, 
 
 Have mercy, Lord, and heal him quick. 
 
 I him to thy disciples brought. 
 
 To cast it out, but they could not." 
 
 ''How long shall I then with you be? 
 
 Now bring the boy at once to me." 
 
 To Jesus then the lad was brought, 
 
 And straightway by the spirit caught, 
 
 And he, so long by Satan bound, 
 
 Fell wallowing, foaming to the ground. 
 
 The Sa^dour asked, "How long ago 
 
 Since he was first afflicted so?" 
 
 And looking at the face so mild, 
 
 The father answers, "Of a child; 
 
 And often too in days gone past, 
 
 Into the fire he has been cast, 
 
 And in the waters, to destroy, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 83 
 
 He's often cast the afflicted boy; 
 
 But if thoTi cans't do anything 
 
 To help us now, and healing bring, 
 
 Lord, hear our prayer, grant our request, 
 
 And let this boy with health be blest." 
 
 Then Jesus said, ' ' Canst thou believe 
 
 That thy distress I can relieve? 
 
 All things are possibly brought nigh, 
 
 To those who on the Lord rely. ' ' 
 
 The father, filled with doubts and fears. 
 
 Cried out to him, with many tears, 
 
 "Lord, thou canst soon assuage my grief, 
 
 Oh, help thou now my unbelief." 
 
 When Jesus saw them gather near 
 
 He thus rebuked the spirit there : 
 
 "Thou spirit foul, and deaf and dumb, 
 
 I charge thee out of him to come. 
 
 And enter into him no more. 
 
 But leave him as he was before." 
 
 'Twas then he rent him sore, 'tis said. 
 
 And left him lying there half dead; 
 
 But Jesus took him by the hand. 
 
 And bade the fainting youth to stand. 
 
 EXPLAINS WHY THEY COULD NOT CAST THE DEVIL OUT 
 
 Now when the multitude had gone. 
 And they with Jesus were alone. 
 They asked why they had no success, 
 In casting out this wickedness. 
 "The reason is," said he, "in chief. 
 Because you're filled with unbelief; 
 If ye had faith, I say indeed, 
 
84 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Like to a grain of mustard seed, 
 Ye might then to this mountain say, 
 'Remove to yonder place away.' 
 Your faith would then prevailing prove. 
 And mountains would at once remove. 
 To do all things and thus prevail, 
 Be full of faith, you 11 never fail ; 
 But now this kind of Satan's woes. 
 By prayer and fasting only goes." 
 
 TELLS OF HIS BETRAYAL 
 
 In Galilee they still remain, 
 And Jesus speaks to them again: 
 "The Son of man (be not dismayed). 
 By wicked men shall be betrayed; 
 And they shall take his life away. 
 But he will rise on the third day." 
 And when he spoke this warning word. 
 They all were sad at what they'd heard. 
 
 PAYS TRIBUTE MONEY 
 
 Now as the Saviour traveled round, 
 Next in Capernaum he is found. 
 Those who receive the tribute say, 
 "Doth not your master tribute pay?" 
 Says Peter, "Yes, indeed, 'tis true, 
 He gives to every one his due." 
 Then Jesus thus to Peter said, 
 "What think you, Simon, on this head — 
 Must strangers then their tribute bring 
 And pay to every earthly king? 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 85 
 
 Or is it otherwise a fact 
 From all a tribute lie '11 exact ? ' ' 
 He answers, "Did not Moses say 
 The stranger is the one to pay." 
 Then Jesns answers, "Thus, you see. 
 The children all should then go free; 
 But lest we should some one offend. 
 Now to the sea I will you send, 
 And when your line and hook you cast. 
 Then take the fish that first gets fast; 
 And open up his mouth, and mind 
 A piece of money thou shalt find; 
 Then bring this money here I say. 
 And with it tribute for us pay. ' ' 
 
 WHO SHALL BE GREATEST " 
 
 Among themselves they next dispute, 
 Which one was greatest of his suite; 
 ' ' Who is the greatest one, ' ' they say, 
 "In heaven's kingdom now today?" 
 This question asked, he answered them, 
 "The one that will be great with men, 
 And have the world upon him call — 
 Let him be servant then, of all; 
 The first shall be the last, I say. 
 Likewise the last, the first, some day." 
 Then Jesus called a child to him. 
 And sat him in the midst of them, 
 And said, "I truly say to you, 
 Except ye be converted, too, 
 And be like children free from sin. 
 Ye ne'er can heaven's kingdom win. 
 
86 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 He, therefore, that is humble, mild. 
 The same as is this little child. 
 And from ambition's power free, 
 Shall greatest in the kingdom be. 
 And whosoever in my name, 
 Shall one such child receive, the same 
 Shall me receive, and him I'll bless. 
 For 'tis a deed of righteousness; 
 But whosoever shall offend. 
 One of these little ones I send, 
 'Twere better far he'd ne'er been born 
 Than bring the least of these to scorn; 
 Or better far, that he should be. 
 With millstone cast into the sea. 
 
 AVOID GIVING OFFENSE 
 
 Offence will come by natural laws. 
 But woe to him who is the cause; 
 For if thy hand, or foot offend 
 Then cut it off, and from thee send, 
 By loss of hand, or foot or eye, 
 Thou mayest save thy life on high. 
 When by retaining all you choose 
 You in the end your life may loose; 
 Take heed that ye do not despise. 
 The child, least in your Father's eyes; 
 For to their angel guards 'tis given 
 To view the Father 's face in heaven ; 
 The Son of Man, at any cost. 
 Has come to seek and save the lost. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 87 
 
 PARABLE OF THE LOST SHEEP 
 
 How think ye, if a man should own 
 An hundred sheep, and only one 
 Should leave the fold, while he's away, 
 And from his kindness go astray. 
 Doth he not leave the others there, 
 And search the mountain far and near? 
 He seeketh day and night to find, 
 Forgetting those he left behind; 
 And if in time the lost be found, 
 His heart with joy does truly bound; 
 And o'er that one that thus did roam, 
 He has more joy than those at home; 
 E'en so, 'tis not thy Father's will. 
 That one of these should suffer ill. 
 
 PARABLE OP THE LOST COIN 
 
 Or if a woman had in all 
 
 Ten silver pieces e'er so small. 
 
 Suppose one little piece she'd drop. 
 
 All other work at once would stop. 
 
 Would she not light a candle too. 
 
 And search the corners through and through? 
 
 She'd take a broom and cleanly sweep 
 
 The dirt all in a little heap, 
 
 And this she'd sift and stir around. 
 
 In hopes the coin might there be found. 
 
 Her search would not a moment cease, 
 
 Until she'd found that one lost piece. 
 
 And when 'tis found she straightway sends 
 
 For all her neighbors and her friends. 
 
88 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And says to them, "Rejoice with me, 
 For I am now from worry free; 
 The piece I lost the other day, 
 I since have found and laid away." 
 Thus when one sinner doth repent 
 There is joy in heaven o'er the event. 
 
 THE PRODIGAL SON 
 
 A certain man made much ado 
 About his sons ; he had just two ; 
 They both were raised with equal care, 
 And in all tasks were made to share. 
 They both were taught to reap and sow 
 And proper care on all bestow. 
 The elder boy was steady, strong. 
 And loved to work the whole day long. 
 Not so the younger, but we find 
 To slight his work he was inclined. 
 This younger brother said one day, 
 ' ' Father, I 'd like to go away ; 
 To stay here I'm not satisfied, 
 So pray your goods to us divide; 
 Give me the portion, large or small. 
 That should to me hereafter fall. ' ' 
 So he his goods divided there 
 And gave to each an equal share. 
 And now for days this man we see 
 As busy as a man could be. 
 He brought together in one spot, 
 All of his goods, the entire lot. 
 The bulky stuff, no doubt, he sold, 
 And all he could turned into gold. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 89 
 
 All things arranged to suit his mind, 
 
 He leaves his home and friends behind. 
 
 He did not want his kin to know 
 
 Where he'd locate, or where he'd go. 
 
 From all restraint he wanted free. 
 
 So chose a strange far country; 
 
 And when he reached that far-off place, 
 
 Began to run a furious pace. 
 
 With this fast life he kept right on, 
 
 Till all his wealth was spent and gone. 
 
 About this time, we understand. 
 
 Arose a famine in that land; 
 
 And as his substance was all spent. 
 
 He soon began to be in want. 
 
 He found if life he would sustain, 
 
 He'd have to go to work again; 
 
 So with a citizen agreed 
 
 For wages small his swine to feed. 
 
 No meaner work he full well knew 
 
 Was ever offered to a Jew. 
 
 This citizen was well aware 
 
 The kind of life he'd led while there. 
 
 And also knew his shaking hand, 
 
 Had not the strength hard work to stand. 
 
 So to the fields this man was sent 
 
 That 'mong the swine he might repent. 
 
 How different this from other sights; 
 
 No gilded halls, no flashing lights. 
 
 No ribald songs, not even wine; 
 
 There's nothing there but filthy swine. 
 
 Look where he would in all that place 
 
 'Twas naught but filth that he must face. 
 
 His food was coarse, not half enough; 
 
90 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 At times he could not eat the stuff. 
 
 The pangs of hunger were so great 
 
 He sometmies felt that he could eat 
 
 The very husks the swine were fed; 
 
 But to his wants no man gave heed. 
 
 When he came to himself he said, 
 
 "Why am I starving here for bread, 
 
 While father's servants have to spare? 
 
 For no one wants or hungers there. 
 
 I will arise this very day. 
 
 Go to my father and will say: 
 
 ' Father, I have sinned, and wrong have done, 
 
 I'm not worthy to be thy son. 
 
 Give me a servant's place,' I'll say, 
 
 'Where I may earn my bread each day.' " 
 
 When he to this conclusion came, 
 
 He lost no time in starting home. 
 
 The road was rough, his feet were sore ; 
 
 Oh, how he yearns for home once more. 
 
 How different is his case today, 
 
 Than 'twas when first he went away ! 
 
 He rode a camel then in style. 
 
 And drivers walked beside the while; 
 
 With money plenty he could buy 
 
 And all his wishes gratify. 
 
 But now he walked with naked feet, 
 
 While on his head the hot sun beat. 
 
 But all these hardships could not shake 
 
 His firm resolve his home to make. 
 
 His father looking out one day 
 
 Sees one approaching far away. 
 
 And when he knew it was his son, 
 
 He never thought of what he 'd done, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 91 
 
 But fell upon his neck with joy, 
 
 And kissed again his wayward boy. 
 
 But now this young man starts to say, 
 
 What he had thought of all the way : 
 
 "Father, I've sinned 'gainst thee and heaven, 
 
 And now I pray to be forgiven; 
 
 My life to thee has been a shame, 
 
 I should no longer bear thy name. ' ' 
 
 The servants gather round to see 
 
 What the result of this would be; 
 
 And one is sent a robe to bring. 
 
 Another one to get a ring; 
 
 A third is told to wash his feet, 
 
 And put on shoes that fit complete. 
 
 The fatted calf they bring and kill, 
 
 And eat and drink each one his fill. 
 
 The father says, "Let's merry be. 
 
 For now my son's restored to me; 
 
 He lives again that once was dead; 
 
 The lost is found, for this I 'm glad. ' ' 
 
 The elder son was far away; 
 
 Out in the fields he'd spent the day. 
 
 As he drew nigh where he could hear. 
 
 Strange sounds came floating to his ear. 
 
 He stopped and listened most intent; 
 
 He could not think what all this meant. 
 
 He plainly heard the music's chime, 
 
 While dancing feet were keeping time. 
 
 He asks a servant, "Come, tell me 
 
 The cause of all this revelry. ' ' 
 
 The servant said, "I'll all explain; 
 
 Thy brother has come home again; 
 
 The fatted calf thy father killed, ' 
 
92 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And all the house with joy is filled. 
 
 Thy father's heart with joy did bound, 
 
 When he received him safe and sound." 
 
 Then he was angry, hurt and sore, 
 
 And would not enter through the door. 
 
 And when his father did entreat. 
 
 That he would come and join the feast, 
 
 He shook his head and answered, "No, 
 
 Inside the house I will not go; 
 
 I've served thee faithful many years, 
 
 Through joy and sorrow, hopes and fears; 
 
 Thy least command I ne'er transgressed, 
 
 And always tried to do my best; 
 
 And yet you never said to me, 
 
 ''Son, here's a kid, now merry be. 
 
 Or even ever said I might 
 
 Here to the house my friends invite; 
 
 But just as soon as this, thy son, 
 
 Who his debauching course has run, 
 
 And hath abroad with bad intent, 
 
 His living all with harlots spent, 
 
 Returns again, a feast is made, 
 
 And in fine raiment he's arrayed, 
 
 You kill the fatted calf, that he 
 
 May eat and drink and merry be." 
 
 The father said, ''The way you speak 
 
 Shows no compassion for the weak; 
 
 Thou dost not well to angry be. 
 
 For all I have belongs to thee. 
 
 'Twas meet that I should celebrate 
 
 A son's escape from such a fate; 
 
 For he was dead in sin and shame, 
 
 But now his life he may reclaim; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 93 
 
 And he was lost in darkest night, 
 But now is found and in the light." 
 
 THE UNJUST STEWARD 
 
 A certain rich man lived in style, 
 And kept a steward all the while, 
 "Who had in charge all his accounts, 
 And paid out money in large amounts. 
 He to his master was accused 
 Of wasting goods, and trusts abused. 
 When this was to the master told, 
 He sent and had the steward called; 
 ''What is this I hear of thee? 
 Thou art accused of robbing me ; 
 Gro get your books, and give account 
 Of all my moneys, each amount. 
 If what I hear is true of thee 
 Thou canst no longer steward be. ' ' 
 Within himself this steward said, 
 "What shall I do to earn my bread? 
 I cannot dig, that much I know, 
 I am ashamed to beg, and so 
 This course I am resolved to take, 
 And friends for me I think 'twill make." 
 He thought he would his lord forestall. 
 So to each debtor sent a call 
 To meet him, and their bills to bring, 
 So they could settle everything. 
 To one he said, "I'd like to know 
 How much thou to my lord dost owe?" 
 He said, "This bill you gave to me. 
 One hundred measures oil I see." 
 
94 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 He said, "Sit down and quickly fill 
 
 In fifty measures in the bill." 
 
 Then to the second man did say, 
 
 ' ' How much is it you '11 have to pay ? 
 
 One hundred measures wheat, no more. 
 
 Then take thy bill and write four score. 
 
 The lord this undjust man commends 
 
 For his shrewed way of making friends. 
 
 For ofttimes worldly people show 
 
 More wisdom than the righteous do. 
 
 If in small things a man is true. 
 
 In greater things he '11 be also ; 
 
 If in the least he is unjust. 
 
 With larger things you dare not trust. 
 
 THE RICH MAN AND LAZARUS 
 
 A certain rich man was arrayed. 
 In purple clothes, the finest made, 
 And in fine linen fresh and clean 
 Each day upon the streets was seen. 
 His table, too, was well supplied 
 With richest food, and wine beside, 
 And all the time was kept that way. 
 For he fared sumptuously each day. 
 A certain beggar living near 
 His name was Lazarus, Ave hear, 
 Was very sick and covered o'er 
 From head to foot with putrid sores. 
 He at the rich man's gate was laid, 
 From passers-by was asking aid. 
 Desiring that he might be fed 
 With crums the rich man's table shed. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 95 
 
 The dogs, moreover, for him feel; 
 
 They lick his sores, the wounds to heal. 
 
 The rich man had of wealth untold, 
 
 The beggar was naked, hungry, cold. 
 
 After awhile the beggar died, 
 
 With angels standing by his side, 
 
 "Who carry him with loving care 
 
 To Abra'm's bosom, and place him there. 
 
 And soon the rich man passed away, 
 
 With mourners round, and much display. 
 
 No angels for his soul did call — 
 
 He's simply buried, that is all. 
 
 In hell he lifted up his eyes. 
 
 In torment there he helpless lies. 
 
 And seeing Abr'am far away, 
 
 As Lazarus in his bosom lay, 
 
 "My Father Abraham," he cries, 
 
 "Have mercy on me, and besides. 
 
 Send Lazarus quick that he may dip 
 
 In water now his finger tip. 
 
 And on my tongue may place the same. 
 
 For I 'm tormented in this flame. ' ' 
 
 But Abraham to him replied, 
 
 "Remember, son, before you died 
 
 You all the good things did enjoy. 
 
 While evil things did him annoy; 
 
 But now all this is just reversed : 
 
 He has the good, and you the worst. 
 
 Besides all this, you also know. 
 
 From us to you no one can go, 
 
 Nor can you come to us; alas, 
 
 A gulf is fixed that none may pass." 
 
 Again he said, "Now, Father, pray. 
 
96 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Send to my father's house straightway, 
 
 So my five brethren he can tell 
 
 How I 'm tormented in this hell. ' ' 
 
 But Abr 'am said let them be true 
 
 To Moses, and the prophets too. ' ' 
 
 But he said, ' ' Nay, if one were sent 
 
 Right from the dead, they will repent." 
 
 But he said unto him again, 
 
 "The law and prophets both are plain: 
 
 If what they know they will not do. 
 
 Or to their better self be true. 
 
 To righteousness they'll not be led 
 
 Though one was sent straight from the dead." 
 
 BE RECONCILED TO YOUR BROTHER 
 
 Now if thy brother wrong has done. 
 Go tell his fault to him alone. 
 And if he does with patience hear. 
 Thou then hast gained thy brother dear; 
 But if he will make no amend. 
 Then let two more with thee attend, 
 With witnesses then, two or three. 
 Each word established well will be; 
 And if he still to wrong will cling. 
 Then to the church the matter bring. 
 And if to church he pays no heed. 
 He's like a heathen man indeed. 
 Whatever then on earth is bound. 
 The same in heaven, too, is found, 
 And what on earth by thee is loosed 
 The same in heaven it shall be used. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 97 
 
 POWER OF PRAYER 
 
 Again I triily say to thee, 
 If two of you on earth agree 
 As touching anything you ask, 
 Your Father shall perform the task; 
 For where but two or three, forsooth, 
 Are met to worship God in truth, 
 If come together in my name, 
 There am I in the midst of them." 
 
 FORGIVEN SEVENTY TIMES 
 
 Peter next an answer seeks. 
 And on this wise to Jesus speaks: 
 "When my brother wrongs me sore, 
 And my forgivenness doth implore, 
 Shall I just seven times bestow 
 Forgiveness when he treats me so f " 
 "Not that alone, I say to thee, 
 But seven times by seventy. ' ' 
 
 THE KING V^HO FORGAVE HIS DEBTORS 
 
 This likeness now of heaven I bring, 
 'Tis likened to a certain king 
 Who called his servants from abroad. 
 And asked of each how much he owed. 
 The first one came and viewed the charge. 
 He stood appalled, the sum was large; 
 For when the king cast up the account, 
 Ten thousand talents was the amount. 
 Condemned before his lord that day, 
 
98 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 He stood without one cent to pay; 
 The lord commanded then, we 're told, 
 Hhnself, and wife, and children sold, 
 He on his goods embargo laid, 
 That payment of the debt be made; 
 The servant, helpless, then fell down 
 Before his lord upon the ground, 
 Besought the patience of the king, 
 And he would pay him everything. 
 The prayer at once effectual proved; 
 The lord was with compassion moved. 
 He made the man a happy soul, 
 Freely forgiving him the whole. 
 
 THE SERVANT WHO DID NOT FORGIVE 
 
 And now this servant goes about, 
 To seek his own small debtors out; 
 He sees, while walking to and fro. 
 One that an hundred pence does owe. 
 And straightway takes him by the throat, 
 And makes demand for every groat. 
 This fellowservant, seized with fear, 
 Did ask for time, another year; 
 "Have patience, just a little, brother, 
 And I will pay you altogether." 
 But he would not, and had him cast 
 Into the prison and there made fast. 
 And gave his orders there that day, 
 To be released he first must pay. 
 
 THE KING SENDS FOR HIM 
 
 Now when his fellow servants saw 
 This man abuse his fellow so, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 99 
 
 They felt indignant every one, 
 And came and told what had been done ; 
 And then the king called him again, 
 And said to him, ''Thou wicked man, 
 Because thou didst request of me, 
 I did forgive and set thee free; 
 Shouldst thou not have compassion shown 
 Unto this debtor of thine own? 
 Couldst thou not pity shown him too 
 The same as I had shown to you?" 
 The lord was wroth and there decreed 
 Him to the torments, for that deed, 
 There to be kept in chains each day 
 Till he should every penny pay. 
 So likewise shall my father do, 
 Unto the very last of you. 
 If ye forgive not from the heart, 
 Each trespass on your brother's part." 
 These sayings ended, next we see, 
 The Saviour goes from Galilee, 
 Along by Jordan's winding stream. 
 That unto Judah he may come. 
 The multitude still follow on. 
 And Jesus heals them every one. 
 
 THE RAISING OF LAZARUS 
 
 In Bethany there lived together, 
 Mary, Martha, and their brother, 
 Lazarus was the brother's name. 
 And he was very sick at home. 
 A messenger was sent to tell. 
 The one thou lovest is very ill. 
 
100 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 When Jesus hears the news he saith, 
 
 ''This sickness is not nnto death, 
 
 But that God's work on earth be done, 
 
 To glorify His only Son." 
 
 Although he dearly loved them all, 
 
 He heeded not their urgent call ; 
 
 But for two days he still remained 
 
 Away from his beloved friend. 
 
 At last he said, "Now I must go 
 
 And waken Lazarus. He sleeps, you know." 
 
 They thought he spoke of taking rest, 
 
 But he another thought expressed. 
 
 For soon to them he plainly said, 
 
 "Lazarus is already dead; 
 
 And I am glad I was not there. 
 
 That in my glory you may share, 
 
 And strengthen your belief in me. 
 
 Come, let us go, the end to see." 
 
 That he was coming went abroad 
 
 "While he was still upon the road, 
 
 And Martha went to meet her friend. 
 
 But Mary still remained behind. 
 
 Now Martha, as she met him, cried, 
 
 "Had you been here he had not died; 
 
 And yet I know ask what you will 
 
 And Grod your wishes will fulfill. ' ' 
 
 But Jesus said, "To me 'tis plain. 
 
 Thy brother shall arise again." 
 
 Martha answered, "I know he may 
 
 Upon the resurrection day." 
 
 But Jesus unto Martha said, 
 
 "I'm the resurrection of the dead. 
 
 He that on me doth now believe, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 101 
 
 Though he be dead shall life receive. 
 He that believes shall never die. 
 Canst thou on this great truth rely?" 
 Then Martha said, "I trust thy word; 
 Thou art the Christ, the living Lord; 
 Thou art the great, the promised one, 
 By prophets told, God's only Son." 
 When this she said she started home. 
 To where her sister mourned alone. 
 To Mary she said secretly, 
 "The Master's here, and calls for thee." 
 When Mary of this fact had heard 
 She rose at once without a word. 
 With hasty steps the road she trod 
 Until she reached the Son of God; 
 And falling at his feet she cried, 
 "Hadst thou been here he had not died." 
 Now when he saw her weeping so, 
 And those that came with her also. 
 He groaned in spirit deep and loud ; 
 His tender head with sorrow bowed. 
 "Where have ye laid him, let me see." 
 And Jesus wept in sympathy. 
 Then said the Jews to one another, 
 "Behold he loved him like a brother; 
 He made the dumb man speak and talk, 
 The blind to see, the lame to walk; 
 Could he not have his mission proved 
 And saved from death the one he loved?" 
 But soon they reach the new made grave 
 Where Lazarus slept; it was a cave. 
 And with a stone was covered o'er. 
 Which served the purpose of a door. 
 
102 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 ''Take ye away the stone," he said. 
 ''Why he's four days already dead; 
 Lord, no one here will want to see; 
 The body will offensive be." 
 'Twas Martha spoke, and when he heard 
 He turned to her, his heart was stirred; 
 "I told thee, Martha, thou shouldst see 
 The glory of the Lord through me." 
 For him the stone was rolled away 
 From where the dead man's body lay, 
 And Jesus lifted up his eyes 
 And to his God for help applies: 
 "Father, I thank Thee, here once more 
 That thou hast heard me heretofore. 
 I know thou hearest me alway. 
 But for the people here I pray 
 That they believe when this they see. 
 That I am truly sent of Thee." 
 The prayer is ended, help is given 
 Straight from the throne of God in heaven. 
 ■With mighty voice the Saviour cries, 
 "Lazarus, come forth, I bid thee rise." 
 Him that was dead from death arose. 
 Bound hand and foot with his grave clothes, 
 As was the custom of the place, 
 A napkin bound around his face. 
 Then Jesus said God's power to show 
 "Now loose the man and let him go." 
 Now many Jewish friends had come 
 Out with the sisters to the tomb. 
 And when they saw what had been done 
 A few believed he was God's Son, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 103 
 
 But others to the priests repair 
 And tell the story to them there. 
 
 THE PHARISEES TEMPT HIM 
 
 Then came the Pharisees once more 
 To tempt him, as they had before; 
 They ask this question, on the laws, 
 ' ' Should we divorce for every cause ? ' ' 
 Then Jesus answered them and said, 
 "Now what wrote Moses on that head?" 
 They answer, ''Moses held these views. 
 Men might divorce whene'er they choose." 
 Then Jesus said, " 'Twas thus in part. 
 Because of hardness of your heart; 
 But from the first it was not so. 
 As the account will clearly show. 
 But male and female them we find, 
 Of every race and every kind; 
 And for this cause a man shall leave 
 All else and to his wife shall cleave ; 
 And they no longer shall be twain 
 But through this life one flesh remain. 
 What God hath joined together, then, 
 Must not be rent apart by men." 
 
 BLESSES LITTLE CHILDREN 
 
 While many persons round him pressed. 
 They brought young children to be blessed. 
 And each one eagerly besought. 
 The Lord to bless the child they 'd brought ; 
 To lay hands on, and offer prayer 
 
104 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST > 
 
 For all the little children there. 
 But the disciples, irmch annoyed, 
 Kebuked them all for what they did. 
 But when Christ saw what they had done. 
 He was displeased with every one, 
 And speaking said, "Forbid them not, 
 But let the little ones be brought, 
 For only of such ones as they 
 God's kingdom is composed today; 
 And truly now, I say to you. 
 Unless you seek God's kingdom true. 
 As little children free from sin. 
 Ye shall in no case enter in." 
 Then to the Saviour's loving breast 
 Each little one was gently pressed. 
 He laid his hands on each in prayer. 
 And all received his blessing there. 
 
 THE YOUNG RULER WHO WAS RICH 
 
 As Jesus now his way pursues, 
 
 A certain young man of the Jews, 
 
 Who also held a ruler's place, 
 
 Came running after him apace, 
 
 And having gained where Jesus stood. 
 
 He knelt at once and called him good; 
 
 He said, "Good Master, tell me plain. 
 
 How I may life eternal gain?" 
 
 Then answered Christ, "Why call me so. 
 
 For none is good but God, you know. 
 
 If life eternal you would reap 
 
 Then the commandments you must keep. 
 
 The same as were received on stone, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 105 
 
 Thou doubtless knowest every one." 
 The young man answered, ' ' Yes, indeed, 
 To each of these I've given heed, 
 Yea, from my youth to do God's will 
 I've striven hard, what lack I still?" 
 Now as these words so earnest fell 
 The Saviour looked, and loved him well. 
 But said to him, ''One thing I see, 
 Thou lackest yet to perfect be; 
 Go sell thy goods to feed the poor. 
 And heavenly treasure thus secure; 
 And when from all these you are free 
 Come take your cross and follow me." 
 When this advice the man received 
 He turned from Jesus sadly grieved; 
 And sorrow filled the young man's heart, 
 When told with all his wealth to part; 
 To give up all, oh, cruel fate. 
 When his possessions were so great. 
 
 HOW CAN A RICH MAN BE SAVED .^ 
 
 Then he to his disciples said: 
 
 "How very hard 'twill be indeed. 
 
 For those to whom great wealth is given 
 
 To ever enter into heaven; 
 
 That is, for those who trust therein, 
 
 They never can God's kingdom win. 
 
 The camel this can easier do, 
 
 The needle's eye to go clear through. 
 
 Than for a rich man e 'er to gain 
 
 The glory of the heavenly plain." 
 
 Which when they heard they were amazed, 
 
106 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And they at once this question raised: 
 
 If all the rich by him are waived, 
 
 Then who of men can e 'er be saved ? 
 
 But Jesus answered them again, 
 
 ' ' 'Tis not with God as 'tis with men ; 
 
 This is impossible with you. 
 
 But then the Lord all things can do." 
 
 PETER ASKS HOW HE IS TO BE REWARDED 
 
 Then Peter, speaking to the Lord, 
 Said, "What shall now be our reward? 
 For we've forsaken all, that we 
 Might follow and be led by Thee." 
 And Jesus, answering them, did say, 
 "Who has thus folloAved me alway. 
 And loved the Son of Man alone. 
 When he shall sit upon his throne. 
 You on twelve thrones shall also dwell. 
 To judge the tribes of Israel. 
 And he that hath forsaken all. 
 To follow at the gospel's call. 
 An hundred fold, if ye believe. 
 He shall throughout this life receive. 
 And in the world to come secure 
 Eternal life for ever more." 
 
 PARABLE OF THE RICH MAN 
 
 One of the company to him said, 
 "Lord, ask my brother to divide, 
 And with the inheritance be fair, 
 So each can have an equal share." 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 107 
 
 But Jesus said, "Man, who made me 
 
 Judge or divider here for thee? 
 
 Of covetousness beware, take heed. 
 
 For it will surely evil breed. 
 
 Much of this world a man may own — 
 
 Life don't consist of things alone. 
 
 To illustrate this point and view 
 
 This parable I give to you: 
 
 There was a very wealthy man. 
 
 Who had much ground, so laid his plan 
 
 That he would sow and plant it all 
 
 And have large crops to reap next fall. 
 
 Now when the harvest time drew near 
 
 He saw he had no cause for fear. 
 
 For as he went from field to field 
 
 He knew he'd have an abundant yield. 
 
 But soon the truth to him was plain. 
 
 His barns v/ould not the half contain. 
 
 He thought within himself, and said, 
 
 'This is a serious thing indeed. 
 
 It seems the thing for me to do 
 
 Is to pull all down and build anew ; 
 
 I'll build them large enough to hold 
 
 All of my crops, and goods and gold. 
 
 Then to my soul this will I say. 
 
 Soul, thou hast goods now laid away. 
 
 So eat and drink and have no fear 
 
 For thou hast goods for many a year; 
 
 So take thine ease and merry be. 
 
 For thou hast none to please but thee.' 
 
 But God said, 'Foolish man, indeed. 
 
 To think thy soul on these could feed. 
 
 Thou fool, thou canst not all control; 
 
108 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 This night I will require thy soul; 
 Then who shall get thy store of gold, 
 And who shall have thy wealth untold ; 
 And who shall eat thy golden grain 
 Thou gavest thy life and soul to gain?' 
 So is he that seeketh treasure, 
 That he may spend in sinful pleasure. 
 Better far to wealthy be 
 Toward God and for eternity." 
 
 HIRING MEN TO WORK IN THE VINEYARD 
 
 The kingdom now is like a man 
 Who in the early morn began 
 To look for laborers to hire 
 To do what work he might require; 
 A contract with each one he made. 
 How much per day he should be paid; 
 A penny each for ev^ery day 
 Was what he did agree to pay. 
 The matter settled, all content, 
 The men into his vineyard went. 
 At nine o'clock, while going round. 
 He others at the market found. 
 And said, into my vineyard go. 
 And what is right I '11 give to you. 
 Also at twelve, and three, he came 
 And, finding others, did the same. 
 At five o'clock he goes again 
 And finds a crowd of idle men. 
 And asks them why it is that they 
 Are standing idle all the day. 
 They answer him, as true they must. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 109 
 
 'Because no man hath hired ns.' 
 
 He saith to them, 'Go, all of you 
 
 Into my field, and labor do. 
 
 And whatsoever shall be right 
 
 That shall ye each receive tonight.' 
 
 So when the evening was at hand 
 
 He gave the steward his command, 
 
 To call the workmen, every one. 
 
 And pay them for the work they 'd done ; 
 
 And also this I do require, 
 
 The last shall first receive his hire. 
 
 So when the workmen all came in, 
 
 To pay the last he did begin; 
 
 And though they'd but one hour wrought, 
 
 A penny 'twas that each man got. 
 
 And when they of the morning came, 
 
 They every man received the same. 
 
 As they had seen those paid before, 
 
 They now supposed theirs would be more ; 
 
 And when they had received their share 
 
 They murmured at the good man there — 
 
 ' These last have worked one hour in shade. 
 
 And thou hast them our equal made, 
 
 While we have borne till now,' they say, 
 
 'The burden and the heat of day.' 
 
 The man then answered one of them, 
 
 'Why do you now this thing condemn? 
 
 My friend, I do no wrong to thee, 
 
 Didst thou not thus with me agree? 
 
 Was not our contract made this day, 
 
 That I a penny each should pay? 
 
 Take that thine is and from me go, 
 
 I'll give this last as much as you; 
 
110 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Is it unlawful, if I choose, 
 What is mine own this way to use? 
 Is thine eye evil, now, my friend, 
 Because that I on good attend? 
 The first with last shall be reversed. 
 Likewise the last shall be the first ; 
 For many truly hear the call 
 But few are chosen from them all. ' ' ' 
 
 TELLS HOW HE SHALL BE CRUCIFIED 
 
 Now as they journey from that place, 
 They to Jerusalem turn their face. 
 He took the twelve and told them all 
 What things while there should him befall- 
 As now we to this place repair. 
 The Son of Man shall suffer there ; 
 By scribes and priests he'll be betrayed. 
 To suffer many things be made. 
 And him to death will they condemn, 
 As was foretold concerning him. 
 They shall deliver, I repeat. 
 Him to the Gentiles to ill treat; 
 And they shall spit upon him then, 
 And mock before a crowd of men. 
 And beat, and scourge and at him cry. 
 And then at last him crucify; 
 And three days from the time he dies, 
 The Son of Man again will rise. 
 Now they were sore amazed, 'tis said. 
 At all they heard, and were afraid. 
 It was not understood by them 
 How all these things could happen him. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 111 
 
 JAMES AND JOHN SEEK PREFERRED PLACES 
 
 Then James and John, desiring fame, 
 To Jesus with their mother came ; 
 And worshiping, of him inquire. 
 If he would grant them their desire. 
 Then Jesus, speaking, asked the three, 
 ''What is it you desire of me?" 
 She answered, "Grant this prayer, Lord, 
 Whene'er thy kingdom is restored, 
 That James and John, these sons of mine, 
 May with Thee, in Thy glory shine, 
 That one may sit on Thy right hand, 
 The other at Thy left may stand." 
 But Jesus answered them and said, 
 "Ye know not what ye ask, indeed; 
 Are ye now able, do you think. 
 To drink the cup that I shall drink? 
 Or are ye able to endure 
 The baptism that awaits me sure?" 
 They answer him "Yes, Lord, we can 
 Drink of this cup with any man." 
 Then Jesus said, "It yours shall be 
 To drink the cup of woe with me, 
 And both of you, be not surprised. 
 Shall with my baptism be baptized; 
 But then to sit on either hand 
 I cannot grant, nor yet demand, 
 But to the ones it shall be given, 
 For whom it is prepared in heaven." 
 
 THE OTHERS ARE ENVIOUS 
 
 Now when the ten disciples heard, 
 
 What James and John had asked the Lord, 
 
112 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Then with ambition they were seized, 
 And with the two were much displeased. 
 He knew the jealous thoughts of each, 
 And calling them, began to teach: 
 "The Gentile princes, ye all know, 
 Love their authority to show. 
 And exercise dominion too, 
 Over the Gentile and the Jew; 
 But be not envious of their fame, 
 It shall not be with you the same; 
 But whosoever will be great, 
 Upon his fellows let him wait. 
 And whosoever chief you'd call. 
 Let him be servant then of all. 
 The Son of Man came not in state, 
 To have the world upon him wait. 
 But rather came, as you will find, 
 To minister to all mankind; 
 And also came his life to give, 
 A ransom that the world might live." 
 
 ZACCHAEUS AND THE LORD 
 
 And Jesus passed through Jericho, 
 Where Zacchaeus lived so long ago. 
 Of publicans he was the chief. 
 And he was rich beyond belief. 
 He sought to get a sight or word 
 Of him of whom so much was heard, 
 But could not for the press at all; 
 He was of stature very small. 
 He was so anxious Christ to see, 
 He ran before and climbed a tree ; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 113 
 
 He had inquired of one who knew 
 
 The street that Jesus would pass through, 
 
 And when he reached that certain tree 
 
 The Lord looked up this man to see : 
 
 "Zacchaeus, come down, make haste, I say. 
 
 For at your house I'll stop today." 
 
 And Zacchaeus came down at Jesus' word 
 
 And joyfully received the Lord. 
 
 The multitude now seeing this, 
 
 Thought surely something was amiss. 
 
 They were not pleased nor thought it meet 
 
 That he with sinners thus should eat. 
 
 Now when they reached Zacchaeus' place. 
 
 He stood up there the Lord to face : 
 
 "Behold, my Lord, the half I'm sure, 
 
 Of all my goods I'll give the poor. 
 
 Or if I've taken any thing, 
 
 Or any one a proof can bring 
 
 That I by word, or act untrue, 
 
 Have taken more than was my due. 
 
 Or wrong have done, to young or old, 
 
 To each one I'll restore fourfold." 
 
 Then Jesus said, ''Salvation's come 
 
 To dwell within this house and home ; 
 
 For is he not of Abram's seed. 
 
 And does he not salvation need? 
 
 The Son of Man from heaven came 
 
 To seek the lost and save from shame." 
 
 CURES TWO BLIND MEN 
 
 They being now in Jericho, 
 
 He turns his steps from there, to go 
 
114 THE STOBY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 The road towards Jerusalem, 
 
 While thousands follow after them. 
 
 Two blind men sitting near the way, 
 
 Were asking alms of all that day; 
 
 Bartimeus is the name of one. 
 
 The other's name has not been shown. 
 
 And when they heard the passing throng, 
 
 That moved from Jericho along. 
 
 One asks, ''What means this noise, I pray. 
 
 Why all this multitude today?" 
 
 One stops and says, "Why, don't you know. 
 
 That Jesus now this way doth go?" 
 
 And when they heard the people cry, 
 
 That Jesus Christ was passing by. 
 
 Then they began to cry aloud, 
 
 To Jesus, in the passing crowd. 
 
 But many charged to hold their peace, 
 
 And that their crying they should cease; 
 
 But then they only cried the more, 
 
 "Thou, David's son, our sight restore." 
 
 Then Jesus bids the throng to stand, 
 
 To bring the blind men, gives command. 
 
 They say to them, "Ye need not fear; 
 
 The Master calls, be of good cheer." 
 
 And they, then casting off their clothes, 
 
 To go to Christ at once arose. 
 
 And when they came where Jesus stood, 
 
 In presence of the multitude. 
 
 He asked Bartimeus to say 
 
 What he could do for them that day. 
 
 "Oh Lord, our sight we would receive. 
 
 We know thou canst our wants relieve." 
 
 He with compassion touched their eyes, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 115 
 
 And healing power at once applies, 
 And said to them, ''Now go your way; 
 Your faith hath made you whole this day." 
 And quick as lightning sent from heaven, 
 Sight to the sightless eyes was given; 
 And blind Bartimeus, now restored, 
 Resolved to follow Christ the Lord. 
 
 CLEANSING TEN LEPERS 
 
 Now as he journeyed to and fro. 
 
 He to Jerusalem would go; 
 
 The way he went led through, we see, 
 
 Samaria and Galilee. 
 
 In a small village on the way 
 
 As he was entering, one day, 
 
 He found a leprous crowd of men; 
 
 To be exact, there were just ten. 
 
 They lifted up their voices loud. 
 
 And called to Jesus in the crowd, 
 
 "Jesus, Master, show thy power 
 
 And make us whole this very hour." 
 
 When Jesus heard he said, ' ' Now, go 
 
 Unto the priests yourselves to show." 
 
 They started all, and as they went 
 
 Each one was healed of his complaint. 
 
 Now one of them turned right about 
 
 When he was cleansed, and found it out, 
 
 The joyful news he spread abroad; 
 
 With loudest voice he worshiped God, 
 
 He ran with joy his Lord to meet 
 
 And kneeled at once at Jesus' feet. 
 
 He thanked the Lord, this new-made man, 
 
116 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Although he was a Samaritan. 
 Then Jesus, answering, said again, 
 "Were there not other lepers, ten? 
 Where are the nine who help received, 
 And were of leprosy relieved? 
 They come not back to say a word, 
 Or render praises to the Lord; 
 None save this stranger; he alone 
 Appreciates what I have done. 
 Now go thy way, peace to thy soul; 
 Thy faith in me hath made thee whole." 
 
 JESUS SENDS AFTER THE COLT 
 
 Now as they near Jerusalem came. 
 
 They reached the town, Bethpage by name. 
 
 It stands high up on Olive's brow; 
 
 A place where figs and olives grow. 
 
 There Jesus called disciples two. 
 
 And said, "Into the village go. 
 
 And ye shall find a colt there tied. 
 
 On which no man did ever ride. 
 
 To loose the colt ye need not fear, 
 
 And bring him with you to me here. 
 
 If any man say aught to you. 
 
 Or ask you why this thing you do. 
 
 Then say, ' The Lord of him hath need, ' 
 
 And they will send him then with speed," 
 
 Thus was the prophesy made true 
 
 That years before was told the Jew : 
 
 Behold thy King shall come to thee 
 
 In meekness and humility. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 117 
 
 THE OWNERS OF THE COLT ALLOW THEM TO TAKE IT 
 
 Those who were on this errand sent 
 
 At once into the village went; 
 
 And where two ways together led, 
 
 They found the colt as Jesus said. 
 
 As they began the colt to untie, 
 
 The owners, speaking, ask them why? 
 
 In Jesus' words they answer them, 
 
 "Because the Lord hath need of him." 
 
 They now the colt to Jesus bring, 
 
 And on his back their garments fling; 
 
 And, having set the Lord thereon, 
 
 They went before to praise His name. 
 
 And many people there that day 
 
 Did spread their garments in the way, 
 
 While some cut branches from the trees, 
 
 And strewed his pathway thick with these; 
 
 So all the people did rejoice 
 
 And praised the Lord with heart and voice. 
 
 And those who went before them vied 
 
 With those who came behind; all cried 
 
 "Hosanna, to the Lord our King; 
 
 Hosanna, let the highest ring; 
 
 Hosanna to the Lord alone; 
 
 Hosanna now to David's son! 
 
 Praise ye the Lord with loud acclaim, 
 
 And he that cometh in His name. 
 
 Peace be on earth, let all agree 
 
 And glory in the highest be!" 
 
 And when he to Jerusalem came. 
 
 The people shouted still his fame. 
 
 And all were asking now this thing, 
 
118 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 ''Who is this man they call a king?" 
 The multitude with one accord 
 Said, ''This is Jesus Christ, the Lord, 
 A prophet too, as all can see. 
 Of Nazareth and of Galilee." 
 
 CASTS FROM THE TEMPLE TH^ DESECRATORS 
 
 He goes into the temple, too, 
 
 A place reserved for worship true. 
 
 But now, alas, sad to behold, 
 
 A place where goods are bought and sold. 
 
 His soul with indignation burned. 
 
 And he their tables overturned. 
 
 And as the throng before him flies, 
 
 He scatters all their merchandise. 
 
 He'd not consent in any case, 
 
 To carry vessels through the place. 
 
 "Is it not written," Jesus said, 
 
 "By prophets speaking on this head. 
 
 How by all nations everywhere. 
 
 My house is called a house of prayer? 
 
 But now, behold, as all can see, 
 
 A den of thieves 'tis made to be." 
 
 CURES ALL MANNER OF DISEASES 
 
 The sick, the blind, the halt, the lame. 
 
 All to him in the temple came; 
 
 And he their every ill did cure, ^ 
 
 For he our sins and sickness bore. 
 
 When priests and scribes both saw and heard 
 
 The many wonders of our Lord, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 119 
 
 And children in the temple cry, 
 
 "Hosanna, to the Lord most high! 
 
 Hosanna now to David's son!" 
 
 Then they were sore displeased each one. 
 
 They said to him, ' ' Hearest what these say ? 
 
 And Jesus, answering them, said, ' ' Yea, 
 
 Have ye not read the place which says, 
 
 From babes thou hast perfected praise? 
 
 Should I forbid them to rejoice. 
 
 The very stones would raise their voice." 
 
 GOES TO BETHANY TO LODGE 
 
 The day now being near its close, 
 He from the crowd and city goes; 
 He with the twelve alone would be, 
 So goes to lodge in Bethany. 
 As they returned again next day 
 The Saviour hungered by the way; 
 A great way off the Lord perceives 
 A fig tree by the road, with leaves. 
 
 CURSED THE FIG TREE 
 
 He came expecting there to see 
 Enough his wants to satisfy; 
 But when he underneath it stood, 
 And found there nothing fit for food. 
 Then Jesus said unto that tree, 
 "Let no man henceforth eat of thee." 
 When this was said the twelve were by. 
 Now soon the tree began to die. 
 And the next morning as they passed. 
 
120 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 They saw the tree was dying fast. 
 Then Peter calling it to mind, 
 Said, "Master, look; behold we find 
 The tree you cursed the other day 
 Its leaves are withered almost away." 
 Then Jesus said, ' ' Have faith in God, 
 And doubt not He will prayer reward. 
 If ye have faith and do not doubt, 
 Much greater things will come about. 
 - Ye can unto this mountain say 
 Be thou removed from here away: 
 It shall be done if ye believe; 
 What things ye ask ye shall receive. 
 Therefore whate'er you ask in prayer. 
 Believe, and ye receive them there; 
 And if your faith proves always true, 
 They shall be given unto you. ' ' 
 
 THE PUBLICAN AND THE PHARISEE 
 
 This parable he spake again 
 
 Unto some self-conceited men, 
 
 Who righteous were in their own eyes. 
 
 And other persons would despise: 
 
 "A publican went up one day 
 
 Into the temple, his prayers to say; 
 
 A Pharisee came through the gate, 
 
 Also the Lord to supplicate. 
 
 Now when the Pharisee began. 
 
 He looked around at every man; 
 
 He knew he'd make a real good prayer 
 
 And wanted every one to hear. 
 
 He prayed, 'I thank Thee, God, again, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 121 
 
 That I am not as other men ; 
 They are extortioners, unjust, 
 Adulterers, too, and full of lust; 
 This publican will not compare 
 With me, for I am better far. 
 The law's command I do obey. 
 Fast twice a week, as well as pray. 
 And I give tithes, the church to bless. 
 Of all the goods that I possess." 
 The other standing far away. 
 Felt he'd not very much to say. 
 He would not even raise his eyes. 
 But smiting on his breast, he cries, 
 'Oh, God, have mercy, if you can. 
 For I'm a very sinful man.' 
 This man went home from sin set free 
 Rather than the Pharisee. 
 Whoe'er exalts himself should know, 
 He '11 be abased and brought down low ; 
 The humble one you all will see, 
 Exalted in the end will be." 
 
 THE UNJUST JUDGE 
 
 He spake a parable while there. 
 To illustrate the need of prayer; 
 That men should with persistence pray. 
 Not in a fainting, halting way. 
 A judge within a city dwelt, 
 He had no fear of God, nor felt 
 The least regard for. any man. 
 What he might say, or do, or plan. 
 A certain widow living there. 
 
122 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Annoyed the judge with her one prayer; 
 When e'er she met him, day or night, 
 She always said the same outright : 
 'Of mine adversary. Judge, I pray, 
 Have me avenged this very day.' 
 Full many times she asked in vain. 
 But not discouraged, came again. 
 At length he said, 'I'll change my plan. 
 Though I fear neither God nor man; 
 Because this woman troubleth me 
 I will avenge her speedily; 
 Continuous coming and no rest 
 Will surely weary me at last.' 
 Then Christ remarked, "I say to you, 
 God will avenge His chosen few. 
 Who night and day cry unto Him, 
 Though He bear patiently with them; 
 And when the Son comes back again 
 Will He find faith here among men?" 
 
 BACK INTO JERUSALEM 
 
 The city being gained at last, 
 
 He to the temple straightway passed ; ' 
 
 And priests and scribes, and rulers, too. 
 
 All sought with him an interview. 
 
 For they all sought with one accord 
 
 How they might there destroy the Lord. 
 
 They said to him, "We wish to know 
 
 vVhat right thou hast such power to show' 
 
 By what authority art sent. 
 
 To bring about this discontent? 
 
 And thou art teaching, too, we see; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 123 
 
 Who gave thee this authority?" 
 But Jesus sees beneath the mask, 
 And says, "One question I will ask, 
 Which, when you truly answer me, 
 I'll give you my authority. 
 The ministry of John, now say. 
 Was it of heaven, or men, I pray?" 
 They reasoned long, for now they found 
 Their question on themselves rebound; 
 If John from heaven his power received, 
 He'll say, 'Why have ye not believed.' 
 And if we say it was of men, 
 The people all will stone us then; 
 For all the people boldly say, 
 John was the prophet of his day." 
 So now they answer, very slow, 
 ''We cannot tell, we do not know." 
 Then Jesus says, "You ask in vain 
 For my authority; I'll not explain." 
 
 THE TWO SONS THAT WERE REQUESTED TO WORK IN THE 
 VINEYARD 
 
 "What think ye now," the Saviour said, 
 
 "A certain man just two sons had; 
 
 The father had a vineyard, too. 
 
 Where there was work for both to do. 
 
 He found one son and thus did say, 
 
 'Son, in my vineyard work today.' 
 
 The young man spoke, with little thought. 
 
 And answered quickly, 'I will not.' 
 
 But afterward he did repent, 
 
 And to labor in the vineyard went. 
 
124 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 The other son the father meets, 
 And his request to him repeats. 
 He said, with seeming good intent, 
 'I go, sir;' but he never went. 
 Which of these sons now would ye say, 
 Fulfilled his father's will that day? 
 They say to him the first, for he 
 His father surely did obey. 
 So verily I say to you 
 That publicans and harlots, too, 
 God's kingdom fair shall enter in 
 Before an entrance you shall win; 
 For John to you in mercy came, 
 And ye believed not in his name, 
 But publicans and harlots heard. 
 And did believe his every word; 
 But ye, who saw and heard his call. 
 Repented nor believed at all." 
 
 A HOUSEHOLDER PLANTS A VINEYARD AND LETS IT OUT 
 
 They having answered not a word, 
 
 Christ next in parables is heard: 
 
 "An householder there was who planned 
 
 To plant a vineyard on his land; 
 
 With well made fence he hedged it round, 
 
 And digged a winepress in the ground ; 
 
 And also built a tower, and then 
 
 Did let it out to husbandmen. 
 
 Thus to his mind all things arranged. 
 
 He then his place of living changed ; 
 
 And as the season of the year 
 
 When he expected fruit, drew near. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 125 
 
 He sent his servant to them there 
 
 That they might send to him his share. 
 
 But when the servant reached the place, 
 
 They all against him set their face; 
 
 They caught him, beat him, told him nay, 
 
 And sent him empty quite away. 
 
 Another servant sent he then. 
 
 With orders to those husbandmen. 
 
 But when he came to them at last. 
 
 They all were wroth and stones did cast, 
 
 And wounded in the head was he, 
 
 And handled there most shamefully. 
 
 Another servant sent he still. 
 
 And him those wicked men did kill; 
 
 And many others sent he, too. 
 
 And some they beat, and some they slew. 
 
 Until the fact to him was plain 
 
 To send more servants would be vain. 
 
 The master to his household said, 
 
 To send my servants I'm afraid, 
 
 'My well beloved son I'll send; 
 
 Perhaps to him they will attend; 
 
 Surely now they'll reverence do. 
 
 To this, my son, so good and true.' 
 
 But when the son was seen afar. 
 
 They reasoned thus : ' This is the heir ; 
 
 Come, let us kill him, so that we 
 
 The owners of this place may be. ' 
 
 This counsel of those wicked men 
 
 Is promptly carried out, and when 
 
 The son that asked his father's share. 
 
 To the vineyard comes, he's murdered there. 
 
 Now when the Lord returns again, , 
 
126 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 "What Avill he do to all those men? 
 They said to him, 'He'll them destroy, 
 And others shall his land enjoy. 
 Who unto him will gladly yield 
 The fruit, in season, of his field. ' ' ' 
 Then Jesus, speaking to them, said, 
 ''Have ye not in the scriptures read, 
 The builders did reject a stone 
 The which is now the head become? 
 This is God's doing, and is wise. 
 As well as marvelous in our eyes. 
 The Lord, I truly say to you, 
 Shall take His kingdom from the Jew, 
 And give to nations that shall learn 
 To him the fruits they must return. 
 Now he that falleth on this stone, 
 Shall broken be, by it alone; 
 But he on whom it falls will find. 
 That it will him to powder grind." 
 Now when this parable was done. 
 The priests were angry, every one. 
 The Pharisees also condemn. 
 For they perceived he spoke of them. 
 And now they grow so very bold. 
 They think on Jesus to lay hold. 
 But then the multitude they fear, 
 For all as prophet him revere. 
 
 MARRIAGE, OR THE KING'S SUPPER 
 
 Then Jesus speaks to them once more, 
 
 In parables as done before: 
 
 ''This likeness now of heaven I bring; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 127 
 
 'Tis likened to a certain king, 
 
 Who called his servants to his aid, 
 
 And for his son a marriage made. 
 
 He sent the messengers to call, 
 
 Them that were bidden, one and all; 
 
 The servants went, and now, behold, 
 
 They all refused to come when told. 
 
 Once more his servants sent he then. 
 
 And said, 'Now say to them again. 
 
 Behold, my part is now fulfilled, 
 
 My oxen and my fatlings killed— 
 
 All things are ready, come, I say. 
 
 Come to the marriage now today.' 
 
 The servants went, when every man 
 
 To make excuse at once began; 
 
 The first one said among the lot, 
 
 'A piece of ground I just have bought; 
 
 I must inspect the same today. 
 
 So have me now excused, I pray.' 
 
 Another said, 'To go I'd thought. 
 
 But now ten oxen I have bought, 
 
 I go to see how they are used, 
 
 I pray that thou have me excused.' 
 
 Another said, 'I'd like to go. 
 
 But I 'm just married, and you must know 
 
 As such I'll have to stay at home, 
 
 So therefore now I cannot come.' 
 
 So of the supper some made light, 
 
 All to his kindness offered slight; 
 
 One to his farm himself applies. 
 
 Another to his merchandise; 
 
 And others yet more spiteful still, 
 
 His servants beat, and some do kill. 
 
128 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Now when the king of these things heard 
 His wrath against these men was stirred, 
 He sent his armies and o'erturned 
 Those murderers, and their city burned. 
 Then to his servants spoke the king, 
 'The wedding's ready, everything. 
 But they whom I had bidden come, 
 Were all unworthy of my home; 
 Go quickly, therefore, in the street, 
 And lanes and ways, where'er they meet. 
 And bring the poor, and mained, and blind, 
 All others, too, that you can find.' 
 The servants go, at his request. 
 And soon secure him many a guest. 
 'Lord, thy commands we did fulfill. 
 And yet there's room for others still.' 
 The lord then to his servants says, 
 'Go into hedges and highways. 
 And there compel all that you see, 
 That filled at once my house may be.' 
 And now the servants forth did go 
 Into the highways, to and fro. 
 To gather all that they could find, 
 The bad, as well as good inclined. 
 And never once their efforts ceased. 
 Till all were bidden to the feast; 
 And having with his wish complied, 
 The wedding was with guests supplied. 
 Now as the king came in that he 
 The guests together all might see, 
 He saw 'mong those assembled there. 
 One that no wedding robe did wear, 
 And straightway said to him, 'My friend, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 129 
 
 Why dost thou thus this feast attend, 
 Without a wedding garment clad?' 
 And he was speechless, downcast, sad. 
 The king his servants then commands, 
 To bind his feet, also his hands, 
 And from the house convey him fast 
 And into outer darkness cast. 
 There shall he weep, lament, and wail, 
 And gnash his teeth without avail; 
 For truly many called shall be 
 But few are chosen finally." 
 
 THEY TRY TO CATCH HIM IN HIS TALK 
 
 The Pharisees now set a watch, 
 
 If possible his words to catch. 
 
 They their disciples to him sent, 
 
 And Herodian spies with this intent, 
 
 Who feigned themselves just men, we're told, 
 
 That they might of his words take hold. 
 
 And have him in his talk condemn 
 
 The rulers of Jerusalem. 
 
 They say, "Thy teaching from thy youth 
 
 Has been the word of God, and truth; 
 
 We know for man thou dost not care, 
 
 Nor of man's person have a fear; 
 
 Then tell us, Master, now we pray, 
 
 Should we to Caesar tribute pay?" 
 
 But he their craftiness could see, 
 
 And also their hypocrisy. 
 
 "Ye hypoerits, " to them he said, 
 
 "To tempt me thus why are ye led? 
 
 Show me now the tribute money." 
 
130 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And they brought to him a penny. 
 ''Whose image now hereon is found? 
 Whose superscription runneth round?" 
 Then someone answers from the throng, 
 ''Those both to Caesar do belong." 
 Then Jesus, standing in full view. 
 Said, ' ' Give to every one his due ; 
 Whatever things are Caesar's then 
 The same return to him again. 
 And unto God, and Him alone. 
 Return the things that He doth own." 
 Now when they had this answer heard, 
 ( 'Twas filled with wisdom, every word) , 
 They marvelled much, had naught to say, 
 But left him there, and went their way. 
 
 THE SADDUCEES TRY 
 
 And when the Pharisees had failed, 
 
 The Sadducees next him assailed. 
 
 They taught the doctrine, it is said, 
 
 No resurrection of the dead. 
 
 "Now, Master, Moses wrote," they say, 
 
 ' ' That if a m an shall childless die. 
 
 His wife shall to his brother come, 
 
 And thus perpetuate his name. 
 
 Now there were seven brethren here, 
 
 The first was married scarce a year. 
 
 When he died childless, but the wife 
 
 The second brother took for life ; 
 
 But he soon died, and left her there, 
 
 Without a child his name to bear; 
 
 And now the third, and fourth," they say, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 131 
 
 ''Likewise the seventh in his day; 
 All with one wife did thus abide, 
 And last of all the woman died. 
 Now on the resurrection day, 
 Whose wife is she of these?" they say. 
 Then Jesus said, "Ye do err, each, 
 Not knowing what the scriptures teach; 
 Ye do not comprehend God's power — 
 For in the resurrection hour, 
 They are not there in marriage given, 
 But like the angels are, of heaven. 
 The resurrection of the dead, 
 As touching it, have ye not read? 
 That which was spoken unto you, 
 I am the God of Abra'm, too. 
 The God of Isaac I'm indeed, 
 Also of Jacob, and his seed; 
 Thus He is not, God of the dead, 
 But of the living. He hath said." 
 The people wondered at his word; 
 Such doctrine they had never heard. 
 
 THE GOOD SAMARITAN 
 
 Now when the Pharisees found out. 
 The Sadducees were put to rout. 
 They met again with but one thought, 
 'Twas how the Saviour might be caught. 
 A certain lawyer in the crowd, 
 To ask a question is allowed : . 
 He said, "Which, Master, do you call 
 The great commandment of them all?" 
 Then Jesus answered, "This I find. 
 
132 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 To love the Lord with all thy mind, 
 
 With all thy heart, and all thy soul. 
 
 This is the sum, this is the whole ; 
 
 This is the duty that you owe 
 
 To God, 'tis all you can bestow. 
 
 The second, I will also name. 
 
 Is like the first, almost the same; 
 
 Thy neighbor thou shalt lov§ each day, 
 
 As thou dost love thyself, I say. 
 
 On these commandments do depend 
 
 The law and prophets to the end." 
 
 The scribe then answered, "Yea, forsooth. 
 
 My Master, thou has said the truth; 
 
 To love the Lord in every part, 
 
 "With all the soul, with all the heart, 
 
 Is more than whole burnt offerings are, 
 
 Or other sacrifice, by far. ' ' 
 
 And now when Jesus saw that he 
 
 Had answered him so prudently. 
 
 He said to him, "It doth appear, 
 
 That to God's kingdom thou art near." 
 
 But he himself to justify, 
 
 "Who is my neighbor," did reply. 
 
 Then Jesus, answering, said to him, 
 
 "Some time ago a certain man 
 
 From Jerusalem assayed to go 
 
 Along the road to Jericho, 
 
 And on the way fell in with thieves. 
 
 Who of his raiment him relieves; 
 
 They wounded him and from him fled, 
 
 And left him lying there half dead. 
 
 And now by chance on that same day, 
 
 A certain priest came down that way. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 133 
 
 And when he saw, with haughty pride 
 
 He passed by on the other side. 
 
 A Levite next with easy grace, 
 
 Is seen approaching to the place, 
 
 "Who looked at him as he drew nigh. 
 
 But on the other side passed by. 
 
 A Samaritan then came along, 
 
 And when he saw just what was wrong. 
 
 He had compassion on the man, 
 
 And to bind his woands at once began. 
 
 He poured in oil, and wine, nor ceased 
 
 Till he had set him on his beast. 
 
 And had him to an inn conveyed. 
 
 And cared for while at it he stayed. 
 
 Before departing the next day 
 
 He gave the host two pence in pay. 
 
 And said to him, "Do all you can 
 
 And give good care to this sick man, 
 
 And should you spend more than this sum 
 
 I will repay you when I come." 
 
 Which one was neighbor would you say. 
 
 To him that fell 'mong thieves that day? 
 
 The lawyer answered very fair, 
 
 ''He that showed mercy to him there." 
 
 Then Jesus said: "I say to you. 
 
 Go forth, and always likewise do." 
 
 THE PHARISEES CONFOUNDED 
 
 The Pharisees now standing round. 
 He with one question does confound: 
 "What think of Christ? Whose son is he?" 
 They say, "Of David he must be." 
 
134 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 He saith to them, "Doth that accord 
 
 Where he in spirit calls him Lord?" 
 
 Have ye not this from David read, 
 
 The Lord hath unto my Lord said. 
 
 The seat on my right hand now take, 
 
 Till I thy foes thy footstool make? 
 
 If he then call him Lord, yon see. 
 
 Then David's son how can he be?" • * 
 
 Although they everyone had heard. 
 
 They could not answer him a word. 
 
 From that day forth no man was found 
 
 That to him questions would propound. 
 
 EXHORTS TO BEWARE OP THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES 
 
 He spoke to his disciples then, 
 And to the multitude again : 
 "The Scribes and Pharisees, we're told, 
 Now sit in Moses' seat of old; 
 Whate'er you're bid observe by them, 
 Observe and do, and not condemn, 
 But follow not their works, for they 
 Themselves do not the half they say ; 
 And grievous burdens now we find. 
 On other shoulders they will bind; 
 But they themselves no help will lend. 
 Or touch them with their fingers' end. 
 That men may see all that they do, 
 Is the chief end they have in view. 
 Large borders on their robes they wear. 
 And broad phylacteries they bear; 
 They love at feasts the topmost room. 
 In synagogues chief seats assume; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 135 
 
 And greetings in the market place, 
 By men called Rabbi to their face; 
 As Rabbis be not ye addressed, 
 One is your master, even Christ; 
 To call men father, be not driven. 
 One is your Father now in heaven; 
 And masters ye be called no more. 
 For Christ is such, as said before ; 
 But he among you that is great, 
 Let him on all as servant wait. 
 Who'er exalts himself must know 
 He'll be abased, and brought down low; 
 But he that is of humble mind. 
 Will be exalted in the end. 
 
 DENOUNCES THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES 
 
 Woe to you, Pharisees, now woe, 
 To scribes and hypocrits, also. 
 For now ye shut up heaven's door 
 Against all men, the rich and poor; 
 For ye yourselves strive not to win. 
 And hinder those that would go in; 
 Woe to you, Pharisees, this hour, 
 For Mddows' houses ye devour. 
 Ye hypocrits, from widows take. 
 And for a pretense long prayers make; 
 Therefore, my words, if ye believe, 
 G-reater damnation ye receive; 
 Woe to you Scribes, and Pharisees, 
 And hypocrits, that live at ease; 
 Ye compass land and sea with might 
 That ye may make one proselyte, 
 
136 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And when ye have him made, behold 
 He's worse than you, yea, by twofold. 
 "Woe, blind guides, by you 'tis taught. 
 Who by the temple swears 'tis naught. 
 But whosoever will be found 
 Swearing by the gold, then he is bound. 
 Ye hypocrits, and fools and blind, 
 Which is the greater to your mind. 
 The gold that gives the temple fame. 
 Or that which sanctifies the same? 
 And by the altar if men swear. 
 Ye say 'tis nothing he should fear. 
 But whoso by the gift shall curse, 
 You deem him guilty, that is worse. 
 The gift is greater in your eye. 
 Than that which does it sanctify. 
 Now he that by the altar swears 
 Includeth too, the gift it bears, 
 And whosoever now of men 
 • Shall by the temple swear again. 
 He swearing thus commits a sin 
 Against the God that dwells within. 
 And he that swears by heaven alone. 
 Does thus make oath by Grod 's great throne, 
 And swearing thus, to all 'tis plain, 
 'Gainst God Himself he is profane. 
 Woe to the Pharisees today, 
 The Scribes and hypocrits, I say, 
 For ye pay tithe of mint and rue. 
 Of anise and of cummin too; 
 But still ye do omit indeed 
 The weightier matters from your creed. 
 Your faith in God, the world to show. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 137 
 
 Mercy and judgment here below, 
 These things ye should do, every one, 
 Neither the other leave undone. 
 Ye blind, which at a gnat do strain. 
 And camel swallow without pain, 
 Woe Scribes and Pharisees, now you 
 And hypocrites, your lives review. 
 For ye to make the outside clean, 
 Of cup and platter, oft do plan. 
 But they are fiUed with filth within, 
 Extortion and excess of sin. 
 
 WHITED SEPULCHRES 
 
 Blind Pharisees, reverse, I say. 
 
 First clean the inside filth away; 
 
 The outside of the dish will then. 
 
 All bright and clean appear to men. 
 
 Woe to you, Scribes and Pharisees, 
 
 And hypocrites, that love to please, 
 
 For ye are like, and will compare 
 
 With sepulchers, so white and fair; 
 
 How beautiful the outside stones. 
 
 But filled with stench and dead men's bones. 
 
 Now even so ye also are, 
 
 Ye righteous unto men appear; 
 
 But ye are full of guilt within. 
 
 Hypocrisy, and other sin. 
 
 Woe scribes and Pharisees, again, 
 
 And hypocrites, ye worst of men, 
 
 For ye the tombs of prophets build, 
 
 The sepulchers of righteous guild; 
 
 If ye had lived, ye think and say, 
 
138 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 In olden time — your father's day — 
 With them ye would not have been led 
 The blood of prophets thus to shed. 
 But witnesses yourselves are ye, 
 That children of the same ye be, 
 Of them who did the prophets kill. 
 And now their measure you fulfill. 
 A race of serpents, you, I call, 
 A viperous generation all; 
 You can't escape, you know full well. 
 The just damnation of a hell. 
 
 SENT AS SHEEP AMONG WOLVES 
 
 Therefore, behold I send to you, 
 
 Scribes and prophets, and wise men too ; 
 
 But some of them you soon will kill, 
 
 And crucify, yet others still; 
 
 And some of them you'll scourge, no doubt, 
 
 And from your synagogues thrust out; 
 
 Against them all will set your face. 
 
 And persecute from place to place, 
 
 That all the righteous blood e'er shed. 
 
 On earth may come down on your head; 
 
 From that of Abel long since slain, 
 
 Whose blood was first the earth to stain. 
 
 To that of Zacharias true. 
 
 Whom ye so near the altar slew. 
 
 Now verily to you I say. 
 
 The generation of today. 
 
 Shall these calamities endure. 
 
 For all these things shall happen sure. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 139 
 
 HE WEEPS OVER JERUSALEM 
 
 Jerusalem, Jerusalem! 
 
 That killed the prophets, those good men; 
 
 Jerusalem, I weep for thee, 
 
 When all thy wretchedness I see; 
 
 As if on thy destruction bent 
 
 Thou stonest them unto thee sent. 
 
 How oft would I have gathered near, 
 
 Thy children all together here. 
 
 Yea even as a hen doth bring 
 
 Her chickens underneath her wing; 
 
 But ye would not, and now, behold 
 
 Your house left desolate and cold. 
 
 Ye shall not see me from this day. 
 
 Till in the future ye shall say, 
 
 Oh, blessed be he, in deed and word, 
 
 "Who brings a message from the Lord." 
 
 THE widow's mites 
 
 These sayings ended Him we see 
 Sitting over 'gainst the treasury, 
 And many people, young and old, 
 Into the treasury cast their gold; 
 And many that were rich, that day 
 Gave to the Lord most liberally. 
 A certain woman in the throng 
 Towards the treasury moves along; 
 Two mites she gives from her scant store. 
 Which make a farthing, nothing more. 
 Now Jesus their attention calls, 
 And speaking, said to one and all, 
 
140 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 That this poor widow gave much more 
 Than all the rest had done before ; 
 Abundantly they gave, indeed, 
 But what they gave they did not need. 
 Although the sum she gave was small. 
 It was her living, yes, her all. 
 
 DESTRUCTION OF THE TEMPLE FORETOLD 
 
 Now from the temple he withdrew. 
 And his disciples with him, too. 
 One speaking to him said, "Behold, 
 These goodly stones and gifts of gold." 
 Then Jesus said, "They soon shall fall. 
 The temple and these buildings all; 
 The days shall come when not one stone, 
 But what shall here be overthrown." 
 
 THEY ASK WHEN 
 
 On Olive's mount he sat, while they 
 Come to him privately and say, 
 "Pray tell us when these things shall be, 
 A sign thereof shall we all see?" 
 Then Jesus said, "Take heed, I say, 
 That none deceive you in that day; 
 For many in my name shall come. 
 And say, 'I'm Christ,' deceiving some. 
 Of wars and rumors thou shalt hear, 
 But be not troubled — do not fear — 
 For all these things must come to pass. 
 But yet the end is not, alas; 
 Then nation shall 'gainst nation rise, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 141 
 
 And kingdoms all will peace despise, 
 
 And pestilence, and famine sore, 
 
 With earthquakes, yea, and sorrows more. 
 
 GTreat signs shall then to men be given, 
 
 And fearful sights be seen from heaven. 
 
 They shall deliver you up then 
 
 To be betrayed by wicked men. 
 
 All nations then delight will take, 
 
 To hate you, yea, for my name's sake. 
 
 Offended some will be that day. 
 
 And one another shall betray; 
 
 False prophets, many, shall arise. 
 
 And will deceive men with their lies; 
 
 Because iniquity is bold, 
 
 The love of many shall wax cold; 
 
 But him that to the end holds fast. 
 
 In heaven he shall be saved at last. 
 
 This 'gospel banner' now unfurled 
 
 Must first be preached to all the world ; 
 
 Yea, for a witness all shall hear. 
 
 And then the end thereof draws near. 
 
 The abomination then you'll face. 
 
 Standing within the holy place. 
 
 Let them who in Judea be 
 
 Unto the mountains quicldy flee; 
 
 Let him on top the house not come 
 
 To take out anything therefrom, 
 
 Nor he that's in the field that day 
 
 Return to take his clothes away; 
 
 But woe to them, for how much worse. 
 
 Who are to children giving nurse; 
 
 But that your flight be not, then pray, 
 
 In winter nor on Sabbath day. 
 
142 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Great tribulation then for man, 
 As was not since the world began 
 Up to this time, nor e'er will be, 
 Prom now to all eternity. 
 
 Except those days be shortened, then 
 
 Who can be saved in Jerusalem? 
 
 But God will shorten their effect, 
 
 Yes, for the sake of his elect. 
 
 If any man shall to you say, 
 
 'Lo, here is Christ,' turn not away. 
 
 Or if they say 'He's in yon spot,' 
 
 Be not deceived, believe it not ; 
 
 For many shall pretend to you 
 
 That they are Christs and prophets true; 
 
 They will great signs and wonders show, 
 
 And many, after them, shall go. 
 
 If possible, in this respect. 
 
 They will deceive God's own elect. 
 
 But take ye heed, for now behold 
 
 You all these things I have foretold; 
 
 Therefore, if they shall say to you, 
 
 'He's in the desert,' 'tis not true, 
 
 Or if in secret rooms they say 
 
 Believe it not, or turn that way. 
 
 As lightnings from the heavens start. 
 
 And shine to earth's remotest part, 
 
 From east to west, that all may see 
 
 The coming of the Son shall be ; 
 
 For where the carcass shall be found 
 
 There will the eagles gather round." 
 
 And then soon after, Jesus says. 
 The tribulation of these days 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 143 
 
 "The sun shall darken, and overhead 
 The moon refuse her light to shed, 
 The stars shall from their moorings break, 
 Yea, all the powers of heaven shall shake; 
 Distress of nations there shall be. 
 With roaring waves, and tossing sea, 
 And many hearts shall quake with fear, 
 While looking for these things to appear. 
 And then to men there shall be given. 
 Signs of the Son of Man in heaven; 
 Then all the tribes of earth shall mourn. 
 And they shall see the Son return, 
 With clouds of heaven for his throne, 
 And power and glory all His own. 
 Then He will send His angels all; 
 With sound of trumpets He will call 
 His people from the farthest end 
 Of heaven and earth, Him to attend. 
 When on the fig tree leaves appear 
 Ye know that summer draweth near; 
 And when ye see these things before. 
 Know it is near, yea at your door. 
 Then lift your heads, look up on high. 
 For your redemption draweth nigh. 
 This people shall not pass, I'm willed. 
 Till all these things shall be fulfilled; 
 Yea, heaven and earth shall pass away, 
 But still my words shall with you stay. 
 But of the time, or day or week. 
 No man on earth can tell or speak; 
 Nor to the angels is it given. 
 My Father only knows, in heaven. 
 As in the days of Noah past. 
 
144 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 So shall my coming be at last; 
 
 For in those days they marriage sought; 
 
 They ate and drank with little thought, 
 
 And wickedness their course did mark, 
 
 Till Noah entered in the ark, 
 
 And knew not till the flood burst forth, 
 
 And drowned all upon the earth. 
 
 And so it was in days of Lot, 
 
 They ate and drank, and sold and bought ; 
 
 They planted and they builded, too, 
 
 Up to the day that Lot withdrew, 
 
 When fire and brimstone rained from heaven, 
 
 And to destruction all were driven. 
 
 And so shall come this day, concealed. 
 
 When the Son of Man Avill be revealed. 
 
 So swiftly comes that day and hour. 
 
 When you shall see this mighty power, 
 
 That where two women grind the grain, 
 
 One will be taken, one remain. 
 
 Take heed, therefore, and watch and pray, 
 
 For none shall ever know the day. 
 
 The Son of Man when He shall come 
 
 Is like a man that goes from home; 
 
 His house he left in servants' care. 
 
 And gave of work each one his share, 
 
 And to the porter gave command. 
 
 To watch the gate, with careful hand; 
 
 Then watch ye, therefore, who can say ? 
 
 The master may return today. 
 
 Yes, in the morning's early light; 
 
 At evening shade, or at midnight, 
 
 Lest coming suddenly he find. 
 
 You sleeping Avith contented mind. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 145 
 
 For if the man who had a home, 
 
 Had known the hour the thief would come, 
 
 He would have watched, and him have foiled, 
 
 And saved his goods from being spoiled. 
 
 The Son of Man will come again 
 
 When ye think not, be ready then. 
 
 Where is the faithful servant whom 
 
 His lord left ruler in his room. 
 
 To give to every one his due. 
 
 And guide his house with wisdom true? 
 
 Blessed is that servant whom his lord 
 
 Shall find that thus fulfilled his word. 
 
 I surely think He'll give him charge 
 
 O'er all he hath, his goods at large. 
 
 But if that evil servant say, 
 
 'My lord his coming doth delay,' 
 
 And shall begin, in wrath and might, 
 
 His fellow servants all to smite, 
 
 And eat, and drink, and drunken be 
 
 And spend his days in revelry, 
 
 Then when he looketh not for him. 
 
 That servant's lord will surely come; 
 
 Yea, when he least expects him there, 
 
 In day and hour he 's not aware ; 
 
 His trust betrayed, abused his love, 
 
 By one he thought would faithful prove. 
 
 He will at once that man depose. 
 
 And punish him with all his foes, 
 
 Where shall be weeping sad and sore. 
 
 And gnashing teeth forevermore. 
 
 That servant who his lord's will knew. 
 
 But ne'er prepared the same to do. 
 
 For his refusal and neglect, 
 
146 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Full many stripes he may expect; 
 "While lie that never knew his will, 
 Yet many wrongs committed still, 
 Although he merit punishment, 
 With fewer stripes will be content. 
 To whomsoever much is given 
 Much shall required be by heaven; 
 To whom men do commit in store, 
 Of him they will but ask the more. 
 
 PARABLE OF THE TEN VIRGINS 
 
 Once more the kingdom I compare, 
 
 And liken to ten virgins fair, 
 
 Who took their lamps and trimmed the same. 
 
 To meet the bridegroom as he came. 
 
 Two classes in this virgin lot, 
 
 For five were wise and five were not. 
 
 That five were foolish could be seen. 
 
 Although their lamps were bright and clean. 
 
 And were well trimmed and neat outside, 
 
 With oil they were not well supplied. 
 
 The wise this course did not pursue, 
 
 For each had filled her lamp anew. 
 
 Their vessels too, in case of need. 
 
 Were filled with oil, their lamps to feed. 
 
 So thus we see each in their way. 
 
 Prepared to meet the groom that day. 
 
 But they were all compelled to wait. 
 
 Because the bridegroom tarried late. 
 
 So long in waiting they were kept, 
 
 That there they slum.bered all, and slept. 
 
 At midnight hour they hear a cry. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 147 
 
 'Behold the bridegroom draweth nigh!' 
 
 This midnight cry, so loud and deep, 
 
 Aroused those virgins all from sleep. 
 
 They hastily arose and trimmed 
 
 Their lamps, which in the night had dimmed. 
 
 And here behold a contrast now; 
 
 Five lamps produced a steady glow. 
 
 While five a dim and flickering light, 
 
 Cast through the shadows of the night. 
 
 The first with oil were well supplied; 
 
 The others, lacking fuel, died. 
 
 Then said the foolish virgins there. 
 
 Unto the wise, 'Now with us share. 
 
 Grive of your oil,' they each one shout, 
 
 'For our lamps are all gone out.' 
 
 The wise then answering, said, 'Not so, 
 
 But rather to a merchant go. 
 
 Where you can purchase all you need, 
 
 For we have none to spare, indeed.' 
 
 And while they went to buy the same, 
 
 Behold the bride and bridegroom came; 
 
 And they that had filled lamps with them, 
 
 Unto the marriage feast went in. 
 
 And when they'd passed the threshold o'er 
 
 The master rose and shut the door. 
 
 The foolish virgins now drew near, 
 
 But that the door is shut soon hear; 
 
 And they begin to call and say, 
 
 'Open, lord, to us, we pray;' 
 
 But answering from within, he said 
 
 To them, 'I know you not indeed.' 
 
 Then watch ye, therefore, for I say. 
 
 Ye neither know the hour nor day 
 
148 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 In which the Son of Man shall come 
 To call you from your earthly home. 
 
 PARABLE OF THE TALENTS 
 
 Again the kingdom is, I say, 
 
 Like one who travels far away; 
 
 He called his servants to him there, 
 
 And all his goods placed in their care. 
 
 His money, too, he did divide ; 
 
 Each servant was with some supplied; 
 
 To one he gave five talents then. 
 
 Another two, another one; 
 
 To each a sum of money gave, 
 
 As his ability to save. 
 
 And having thus his money lent. 
 
 He straightway on his journey went. 
 
 He that received five talents then 
 
 At once in business did begin; 
 
 He watched and kept his trade alive. 
 
 And soon he gained him talents five. 
 
 And he that got the talents two. 
 
 Of thus increasing much his store. 
 
 Did trade with the same end in view 
 
 And soon he gained two talents more. 
 
 But he that had received the one, 
 
 Ne'er used it when his lord was gone, 
 
 But digged a place with greatest care, 
 
 And hid the money safely there. 
 
 And now when many days had passed, 
 
 The traveling lord returned at last. 
 
 And did his servants to him call 
 
 That he might reckon with them all. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 149 
 
 He came that had five talents got, 
 
 And with him five more talents brought — 
 
 Here are the five thou gavest me, 
 
 And here are five I've gained for thee. 
 
 His lord said unto him, "Well done, 
 
 My servant, good and faithful one. 
 
 As thou liast faithful proved to me. 
 
 In the few things I gave to thee, 
 
 I'll make thee ruler from this day, 
 
 To rule o'er many things, I say, 
 
 And still I further thee reward, 
 
 The joy now enter of thy lord." 
 
 Next he that had received but two 
 
 Presents four talents for his view. 
 
 'Thou gavest me but two before, 
 
 Behold I've gained for thee two more.' 
 
 'Well done,' the lord unto him said. 
 
 'Faithful thou has proved indeed. 
 
 Thy increase hath well pleased thy lord, 
 
 Receive the joys of his reward.' 
 
 Then he that had received but one 
 
 Came next, and told what he had done; 
 
 That thou wast hard, to me was known. 
 
 Thou reap est where thou hast now sown, 
 
 As gathering where thou hast not strewed. 
 
 Your character by all is viewed. 
 
 I was afraid when this I found 
 
 And hid thy talent in the ground; 
 
 Lo, here's thy talent, just the same, 
 
 And good as when to me it came.' 
 
 The lord then answered him and said, 
 
 'Thou wicked, slothful man, indeed! 
 
 Thou knewest I reap where I've not sown, 
 
150 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And gather where I had not strewn, 
 Thou knewest all of this, I say, 
 And yet my money hid away. 
 Thou shouldst have all my money lent, 
 Or to the bank the same have sent ; 
 You then to me could have returned, 
 Mine own, with all the interest earned. 
 Take ye the talent from him, then. 
 And give to him that hath the ten. 
 To him that hath shall given be 
 And he shall have abundantly; 
 But he that hath and will not use. 
 E'en what he hath he soon shall lose. 
 This servant into darkness east 
 Where shall be weeping for the past. 
 
 DESCRIPTION OF THE JUDGMENT 
 
 The Son of Man with glory crowned 
 Shall come again with angels round. 
 Then shall he sit upon a throne 
 Composed of glory all his own; 
 The nations all both far and near, 
 Before him shall be gathered there; 
 And he shall separate them wide, 
 As shepherds do their flocks divide. 
 The sheep he'll place on his right hand; 
 The goats upon his left shall stand; 
 Then shall the king, the lord of might, 
 Say unto those upon his right, 
 'Ye blessed of my Father, eome^ 
 Inherit your eternal home; 
 The kingdom for the righteous made. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 151 
 
 When God the world's foundation laid. 
 When I was hungry, lacking meat, 
 Ye gave me food that 1 might eat; 
 When I was thirsty, for love's sake 
 Ye gave me drink my thirst to slake. 
 And when a stranger in your land 
 Ye took me in, with willing hand; 
 When naked, famishing, and cold, 
 Ye took me then and had me clothed. 
 When I was sick, and racked with pain, 
 Ye came to visit me again; 
 When I in prison was confined, 
 Ye came and comforted my mind. 
 Then shall the righteous, answering say. 
 When saw we thee an-hungered, pray? 
 Or when of thirst didst thou complain. 
 Or we with meat and drink sustain? 
 Or when a stranger did we see 
 And take thee in through charity? 
 Or when in want of dress or care. 
 Did we attend to thy welfare? 
 Or when in sickness wast thou laid. 
 And when did we extend thee aid? 
 Or when in prison didst thou lie. 
 And we thy wants at all supply?' 
 Then shall the king this answer make : 
 'Ye oft have done so for my sake, 
 For inasmuch as ye have given 
 Thus to my brethren, least in heaven. 
 It is the same as done to me. 
 When done in love and charity." 
 To those then on the left he'll say, 
 'Depart, ye cursed, far away, 
 
152 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 To everlasting fire of hell, 
 Where devils and their angels dwell. 
 When I was hungry, thirsty, too, 
 No meat or drink I had from you; 
 A stranger and ye helped me not; 
 Though naked ye no clothing brought; 
 When I was sick ye came not there, 
 Nor offered comfort anywhere; 
 And when in prison I would be. 
 Ye never came to visit me.' 
 Then shall they thus the king address : 
 'When, Lord, saw we thee in distress? 
 When hungry, thirsty and outcast. 
 Or naked, or in prison fast. 
 Or ever sick, when did we see, 
 And did not minister to thee?' 
 Then shall he answer them anew, 
 'Now verily I say to you. 
 That inasmuch as ye did not, 
 For fellow beings have a thought. 
 Or to the least a kindness show, 
 Ye did it not to me below.' 
 These shall be from my presence sent 
 To everlasting punishment. 
 But all the righteous, I reward 
 With life eternal from the Lord." 
 
 These sayings finished, Jesus then 
 
 To his disciples spoke again: 
 
 "Ye know that in two days, 'tis said. 
 
 Will come the feast of unleavened bread, 
 
 When I shall be betrayed and tried. 
 
 And afterwards be crucified." 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 153 
 
 Now many people came each year, 
 
 To attend these feasts from far and near. 
 
 The chief priests there together came, 
 
 With scribes and rulers to their shame. 
 
 They in the palace of the priest, 
 
 In council met before the feast, 
 
 And held a consultation there, 
 
 On how the Lord they might ensnare, 
 
 And on the course they'd best pursue 
 
 To reach the end they had in view. 
 
 That he must die they all agreed. 
 
 But how, or when, should they proceed. 
 
 To talk of murder some made free, 
 
 While others counseled strategy; 
 
 Still others said, not on feast days, 
 
 The people may an uproar raise. 
 
 MARY ANOINTS HIS FEET 
 
 With his disciples Christ we see, 
 At Simon's house in Bethany. 
 As he with others sat at meat, 
 There came a woman from the street. 
 She came her sympathy to show. 
 Her eyes with tears did overflow. 
 Behind the Lord she weeps, but fears. 
 And bathes his feet with silent tears. 
 There kneeling, with a weary sigh. 
 She with her hair his feet wipes dry; 
 An alabaster box she brought. 
 Of precious ointment she had bought. 
 She broke the box, no word she said, 
 But poured it on the Saviour's head; 
 With tenderness and loving touch 
 
154 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 She kissed his feet, she loved him much. 
 The oil of spikenard's rich perfume 
 Its fragrance shed throughout the room. 
 With indignation some are seen, 
 One said, "This waste, what does it mean' 
 And for what purpose is this now, 
 And why doth he this waste allow? 
 This ointment might have well been sold, 
 For full three hundred pence in gold, 
 And given to the poor in need, 
 And thus a blessing proved indeed." 
 Then Jesus said, ' ' Let her alone ; 
 Why trouble her with what she's done? 
 For she this day, although unsought. 
 On me a righteous work has wrought. 
 The poor are always here with you. 
 And when ye will ye good can do. 
 The poor shall always with you stay, 
 But me ye shall not have alway. 
 She came before, with this perfume, 
 To anoint my body for the tomb. 
 And, verily, I say to you 
 Where'er this gospel's brought to view. 
 Throughout the world, yea, for all time, 
 In every nation, every clime, 
 Where'er this gospel doth unfold, 
 What she hath done shall there be told; 
 For her memorial it shall stand, 
 In every kingdom, every land." 
 
 PARABLE OF THE TWO CREDITORS 
 
 Now Simon thought, "I cannot see 
 How this man can a prophet be; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 155 
 
 For if he was a prophet, sure 
 
 He'd know this woman's character; 
 
 For she's a sinner, that is clear. 
 
 And known to all the people here. ' ' 
 
 But Jesus knew his thoughts full well, 
 
 And said to him, "Now can you tell? 
 
 There were two creditors, I'm told. 
 
 Who owed a certain man some gold; 
 
 The one owed him a large amount, 
 
 The other was a small account. 
 
 But both were poor, and many ways 
 
 Had labored hard the amounts to raise; 
 
 And when the man found out this same, 
 
 He fjeely cancelled each man's claim. 
 
 Now, of these men, which of the two 
 
 Should love him most? How thinkest thou? 
 
 And Simon answered, with a boast, 
 
 "The one whom he forgave the most." 
 
 Then Jesus said, "I quite agree; 
 
 Thou hast well answered this for me. 
 
 Sees thou this woman, when I came 
 
 Within the portals of thy home ; 
 
 For me no water thou didst have, 
 
 My dusty, swollen feet to lave ; 
 
 But she hath ministered to me 
 
 With tears of deepest sympathy. 
 
 With tears she bathed my weary feet. 
 
 And wiped them with her hair complete. 
 
 The custom is, thou knowest this, 
 
 To greet thy guest with kindly kiss. 
 
 You kissed me not, but she began , 
 
 To kiss my feet when she came in; 
 
 You poured no oil upon my head. 
 
156 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 But she my feet with ointment spread. 
 Now, therefore, this I say to thee, 
 A sinner though this woman be, 
 She loveth much, in sight of heaven, 
 Therefore her sins are all forgiven; 
 But he whose pardon is but small, 
 Will often scarcely love at all." 
 To Mary then the Saviour said, 
 "Thy sins are pardoned, every deed; 
 With God their memory shall cease; 
 Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace." 
 They wondered all, and thought within 
 "Who is this man, forgiving sin?" 
 
 JUDAS BARGAINS TO BETRAY HIM 
 
 Now Judas, a disciple, went 
 
 Unto the priests, with foul intent. 
 
 He had resolved that very day 
 
 He would the Lord of life betray ; 
 
 He asked the priests, "What will ye give 
 
 If I deliver Him alive?" 
 
 They all were glad when this they heard. 
 
 And promised him a small reward; 
 
 And there a bargain with him made. 
 
 He thirty pieces should be paid; 
 
 And from that time he sought a way 
 
 How he the Saviour might betray. 
 
 FEAST OF UNLEAVENED BREAD 
 
 On the first day of unleavened bread. 
 Speaking, his disciples said: 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 157 
 
 "Where wilt thou, Master, that we meet. 
 The passover with thee to eat?" 
 He two disciples sent from there 
 Into the city to prepare. 
 "When ye are to the city come, 
 A man shall meet yon going home 
 With water pitcher in his hand; 
 Then follow him, is my command, 
 And when he enters anywhere. 
 Do ye then also go in there, 
 And to the good man say for me, 
 'Behold the Master saith to thee, 
 My time is now at hand, yea, near. 
 For me to keep the feast this year; 
 In thy guest chamber I will meet, 
 And there with my disciples eat.' 
 Then he will gladly show to you 
 An upper room, all furnished, too." 
 So those disciples went their way, 
 And found as he had said that day, 
 And they made ready all things then, 
 To celebrate the feast again. 
 And in the evening all were there 
 The supper with their Lord to share. 
 With strong desire, now Jesus said, 
 "I have desired to break this bread. 
 To celebrate this feast so high. 
 Once more with you before I die ; 
 For I shall eat no more with you 
 Until God's kingdom come anew. 
 And truly now to you I say. 
 That one of you shall me betray." 
 Exceeding sorrow filled each heart, 
 
158 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 When lie this knowledge did impart, 
 And they began at once to cry, 
 ''Lord, is it I? Lord, is it I?" 
 
 ASKS WHO SHOULD BETRAY HIM 
 
 And so they asked till all had said, 
 
 "Lord, is it I shall do this deed?" 
 
 Then Jesus said, "To grant your wish, 
 
 He dippeth with me in the dish; 
 
 The hand is on the table laid 
 
 By which the Son shall be betrayed. 
 
 The Son of Man shall go, I know, 
 
 As it was written long ago, 
 
 But woe be to the man that laid 
 
 The snare by which I am betrayed. 
 
 Far better for that man today. 
 
 If he had ne'er been bom, I say." 
 
 Now the disciples looked about; 
 
 Of whom he spake they were in doubt; 
 
 As there was leaning on his breast. 
 
 One whom he loved more than the rest, 
 
 Bold Peter beckoned him to ask. 
 
 Who should perform this dreadful task. 
 
 Then he who on his breast did lay. 
 
 Said, "Lord, who is it? Tell me, pray?" 
 
 Then Jesus said, " 'Tis he to whom 
 
 I give a sop within the room." 
 
 And when the sop the Saviour got, 
 
 He gave to Judas Iseariot, 
 
 Then Judas said, "Lord, is it I?" 
 
 "So thou hast said," he did reply. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 159 
 
 THE LAST SUPPER 
 
 As they were eating he took bread, 
 And blessing first, he brake and said, 
 "This is my body given for you; 
 In memory now of me this do." 
 Likewise he took the cup, and when 
 He had returned his thanks again, 
 He gave it to the little band. 
 And all received it from his hand. 
 ''Drink ye of it," the Saviour said, 
 "This is my blood, for many shed. 
 The testament by which begins 
 The full remission of all sins. 
 To you I say the vineyard's store 
 Shall furnish drink to me no more. 
 Until the day when I, with you. 
 Shall drink it in God's kingdom new." 
 
 WASHING ONE ANOTHER'S FEET 
 
 The supper ended, then we see 
 A lesson in humility. 
 Then Jesus from the table rose, 
 And laid aside his outer clothes, 
 With water he straightway began 
 To wash the feet of every man. 
 But Peter asked him, "Lord, I'd know 
 If thou dost wash my feet also?" 
 Then Jesus said, "I'll not explain; 
 Hereafter 'twill to you be plain." 
 Then Peter said, "I'll not permit 
 That you shall ever wash my feet." 
 But Jesus said, "If I wash not thee 
 
160 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Thou canst not have a part with me." 
 
 The impetuous Peter then demands 
 
 He wash his feet, his head, his hands. 
 
 ''He that is washed need not repeat 
 
 For he is clean, all save his feet. 
 
 To wholly wash he hath no call; 
 
 Now ye are clean but yet not all." 
 
 Now this is why he spoke that way : 
 
 He laiew that one should him betray, 
 
 Therefore he said, "You're not all clean; 
 
 One has a devil, that is plain." 
 
 So after he had washed their feet, 
 
 He dons his clothes and takes his seat. 
 
 "Now do you understand or know 
 
 The reason why I've served you so? 
 
 Ye call me Lord, and Master, too, 
 
 And ye do well ; I 'm both to you. 
 
 If I your Master and your Lord, 
 
 To wash your feet can thus afford. 
 
 Then do the same ; 'tis right and meet 
 
 That you should wash each other's feet. 
 
 'Tis an example for each one 
 
 That you should do as I have done ; 
 
 The servant cannot rise, I say. 
 
 Above the lord he serves each day. 
 
 Which one is greater of the two, 
 
 The sender or the sent, think you? 
 
 Great happiness will come to him 
 
 Who knows these things and doeth them." 
 
 HE GOES TO MOUNT OLIVET 
 
 They sang a hymn to end the feast, 
 And to Mount Olivet then passed ; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 161 
 
 And as they went he said: ''All ye 
 
 My friends, shall sure offended be. 
 
 Yea, very soon, this very night. 
 
 For it is written, I will smite 
 
 The shepherd, and the sheep shall be 
 
 Scattered wide because of me; 
 
 But though the flock be scattered then, 
 
 Yet after I am risen again. 
 
 Then I will go, as you shall see 
 
 Before you into Galilee." 
 
 But Peter said, "Though all men fly. 
 
 And be offended, ne'er will I." 
 
 ''Simon, Simon, this is true. 
 
 The devil hath desired you. 
 
 He hath desired." I here repeat, 
 
 "That he may sift you as the wheat; 
 
 But I have prayed for you, indeed, 
 
 That faith fail not in time of need; 
 
 And when thou art converted true. 
 
 Then strengthen thou thy brethren, too." 
 
 Then Peter answered, "Lord, I know 
 
 I'm ready now with thee to go 
 
 To prison, or for sake of thee 
 
 My life lay down most willingly." 
 
 Then Jesus made him this reply — 
 
 "This very day thou shalt deny, 
 
 This night, before the cock crows twice 
 
 Thou shalt, I know, deny me thrice." 
 
 He more vehemently now spake, 
 
 "If I should die, I'll not forsake. 
 
 Nor will I thee much less deny." 
 
 And so they all did make reply. 
 
162 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 IN THE GAEDEN 
 
 With his disciples now did he 
 
 Go forth to dark Grethsemane. 
 
 ''Now sit you here and wait," I say, 
 
 ' ' While I go over there to pray. ' ' 
 
 And taking Peter, James and John, 
 
 He went with these some farther on. 
 
 Great sorrow he began to show. 
 
 As if o'erwhelmed with some great woe. 
 
 "Exceeding sorrow, now," he saith, 
 
 "Doth fill my soul e'en unto death. 
 
 Here tarry, watch and pray with me. 
 
 That from temptation you be free." 
 
 He went still farther from that place, 
 
 And kneeling, fell upon his face, 
 
 And while the others waited there. 
 
 The Saviour was engaged in prayer: 
 
 ' ' 0, Father mine, if it can be, 
 
 I pray this hour may pass from me. 
 
 All things are under Thy control; 
 
 Thou canst remove this from my soul, 
 
 But not my will, most Holy One, 
 
 But let Thy will in this be done." 
 
 An angel now appeared from heaven. 
 
 And strength for him from God was given; 
 
 And being in an agony. 
 
 He prayed still much more earnestly. 
 
 His sweat, like to great drops of blood, 
 
 Fell from his face in copious flood. 
 
 THE DISCIPLES SLEEP 
 
 Then coming back to where they were, 
 He found all sleeping, none astir, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 163 
 
 And said to them, ' ' Had ye not power 
 "With me to watch, for one short hour? 
 Now watch and pray, that ye be not 
 By any weak temptation caught. 
 The spirit's willing, now to seek. 
 But still the flesh is very weak. ' ' 
 A second time he goes away. 
 And as before, he goes to pray: 
 "My God and Father, if it be 
 This cup will never pass from me, 
 Except I drink it all today, 
 Thy will be done, not mine I say." 
 Once more he found them all asleep, 
 For they had failed the watch to keep. 
 He leaves them and retires once more 
 To pray, and say the same words o'er. 
 The third time he returns from prayer, 
 And finds them all still sleeping there; 
 Then speaking, Jesus them addressed: 
 "Now sleep ye on, and take your rest, 
 It is enough, the die is cast; 
 Behold, the hour has come at last!" 
 The hour in which, with Satan's aid, 
 The Son of Man has been betrayed; 
 Arise, and let us go away; 
 He is at hand that doth betray. ' ' 
 
 HE IS ARRESTED 
 
 Now he had scarcely spoke these words. 
 When lo, a multitude with swords, 
 And staves and torches, being led 
 By Judas, who came on ahead. 
 
164 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 This rabble band came to arrest 
 
 The Lord, at scribes' and priests' behest. 
 
 Now Judas gave a sign like this, 
 
 ''That same is he whom I shall kiss. 
 
 Whom when ye see, hold fast I say, 
 
 And safely lead with you away." 
 
 And on they come, this multitude, 
 
 To reach the place where Jesus stood. 
 
 But Judas, stepping front again, 
 
 Said, ' ' Master, hail, ' ' and kissed him then. 
 
 But Jesus said, ' ' Canst thou do this, 
 
 Betray me, Judas, with a kiss? 
 
 Why are you here, whom do you seek?" 
 
 ' ' Jesus of Nazareth, ' ' they speak. 
 
 "Then I am he," the Saviour said, 
 
 And they fell backward all, as dead. 
 
 "If ye seek me, I therefore pray. 
 
 You let these others go their way." 
 
 His friends then spake, and cried, "My Lord, 
 
 Now let us smite them with the sword." 
 
 As they laid hands on Jesus there 
 
 Bold Peter did his sword prepare. 
 
 And striking out without a fear. 
 
 Cut off the High Priest's servant's ear. 
 
 To Peter Jesus turns his face. 
 
 And says, ' ' Your sword put in its place, 
 
 For they that take the sword shall all 
 
 Thus perish with the sword and fall. 
 
 Don't think you now I cannot pray. 
 
 And this before my Father lay. 
 
 And He would presently me send 
 
 Legions of angels to defend. 
 
 But this must be, for it was willed 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 165 
 
 So that the scripture be fulfilled." 
 Though He himself was suffering sore, 
 Yet others' suffering touched Him more. 
 It to His tender heart appealed; 
 He touched the ear and it was healed. 
 Then Jesus said unto the chief, 
 ''Why are ye come as 'gainst a thief? 
 I daily in the temple taught, 
 Which ye allowed, and took me not." 
 Now came to pass what he had said. 
 They all forsook him there and fled. 
 A young man followed to the last, 
 With linen round his body cast, 
 But when the men laid hold on him 
 He left the cloth and fled from them. 
 
 GOES TO CAIAPHAS 
 
 Now to Caiaphas he was led. 
 He was High Priest that year, 'tis said. 
 There were assembled priests and scribe's, 
 And rulers, too, from all the tribes. 
 Now Peter followed far behind; 
 To see the end he was inclined. 
 He followed to the palace door 
 Where Jesus had gone in before. 
 And boldly stepped within the hall 
 And sat and warmed before them all. 
 
 And now behold a scene indeed. 
 That all the world cannot exceed! 
 The Lord of Heaven arraigned and tried. 
 By wicked men for whom he died. 
 
166 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Before a court of priests composed 
 
 Where all the evidence disclosed, 
 
 A tale of innocence and truth, 
 
 A perfect life, yea, from his youth. 
 
 Behold a court in search of lies. 
 
 And bribing witnesses and spies. 
 
 False witnesses are asked and found. 
 
 But true ones are not wanted round; 
 
 They bought and paid for men to lie 
 
 So they might him condemn to die. 
 
 Though many did their falsehoods state. 
 
 Yet no two did corroborate. 
 
 At last there came together there 
 
 Two perjured men, who falsely swear. 
 
 Let all the world now hear, while they. 
 
 The mandate of the priests obey. 
 
 Let all the world stand back appalled, 
 
 While they a "fellow" Jesus called. 
 
 "This fellow said," they both relate, 
 
 "I can destroy God's temple great; 
 
 And I am able, too," he says, 
 
 "It to rebuild within three days." 
 
 Although they gave this statement free 
 
 Their evidence did not agree. 
 
 As no two witnesses were found. 
 
 They thought it best to change their ground. 
 
 The law was sacredne'ss to them. 
 
 On less than two they none condemn; 
 
 The oath of two enough was quite 
 
 E 'en if they both were bought outright. 
 
 When these their evidence had ceased, 
 
 Then up arose the great High Priest — 
 
 "Hast thou no answer or no plea, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 167 
 
 Concerning what they charge 'gainst thee?" 
 
 But Jesus no attention paid, 
 
 He held his peace ; no answer made. 
 
 THE TRIAL 
 
 The council now was so enraged 
 
 The great High Priest at once engaged 
 
 To prosecute the case with care, 
 
 And put the Lord on oath to swear. 
 
 "I adjure thee by the Lord alone, 
 
 ''Art thou the Christ? The Holy One?" 
 
 He said, "If now T say 'tis so, 
 
 Ye won't believe, or let me go." 
 
 But they all asked him once again, 
 
 "Art thou the Christ, now tell us plain?" 
 
 Then Jesus answered, ' ' Thou hast said, 
 
 I am the Son of God indeed; 
 
 And ye hereafter all shall view 
 
 The Son of Man return to you 
 
 On the right hand of power and love. 
 
 And coming in the clouds above." 
 
 Now the high priest again arose; 
 
 Astonished much, he rent his clothes ; 
 
 He had succeeded, as he thought. 
 
 At last in having Jesus caught. 
 
 And now what joy spread through the room. 
 
 When Jesus thus had sealed his doom. 
 
 "What further witnesses need we, 
 
 For he hath spoken blasphemy. 
 
 No need for evidence to seek, 
 
 For we ourselves have heard him speak. 
 
 What think ye now?" the high priest saith, 
 
168 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 They answer him, "Guilty of death." 
 
 JESUS IS RAILED AT 
 
 Now see again this priestly court; 
 
 Where of a prisoner all make sport. 
 
 Some are allowed on him to spit 
 
 And mock at him, with low, coarse wit. 
 
 They blindfold him, and standing by, 
 
 They ask of him to prophesy. 
 
 They smite him on the face and say, 
 
 "Who was it smote thee? Tell us, pray?" 
 
 The servants joined this rabble band, 
 
 And struck him with their open hand. 
 
 In such a court was Jesus tried. 
 
 By such a court condemned to die; 
 
 A court where perjured men abound, 
 
 A court wherein no truth is found; 
 
 A court in nothing but in name, 
 
 A court where justice hid for shame. 
 
 PETER IN THE HALL 
 
 A silent witness through this all 
 Peter remains within the hall. 
 A servant girl came walking by, 
 And when on him she fixed her eye. 
 She spoke to him and said, "I see 
 Thou wast with him in Galilee." 
 
 PETER DENIES HIM 
 
 Now Peter, taken by surprise, 
 Before them all the fact denies. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 169 
 
 He said to her, "Why should you say 
 
 That I have been with him, 1 pray 1 
 
 For I came here tonight alone. 
 
 Thy language is to me unknown." 
 
 Unable longer there to stay, 
 
 Out to the porch he makes his way; 
 
 But he's no more than out, when lo. 
 
 At once the cock is heard to crow; 
 
 But Peter, waiting still around. 
 
 Soon by another maid is found. 
 
 She looks at him, begins to stare. 
 
 And said to others standing there, 
 
 "This fellow I have often seen 
 
 With Jesus Christ, the Nazarene. " 
 
 But he denied the fact again, 
 
 Denied before those wicked men. 
 
 Denied it with an oath, and said, 
 
 "I do not know that man indeed." 
 
 Now shortly those that had stood by 
 
 When Peter did before deny, 
 
 Did come again and say to him, 
 
 "Now surely thou are one of them; 
 
 That thou art come from Galilee 
 
 We know; thy speech betray eth thee." 
 
 Then he began to curse and swear, 
 
 "I know him not, nor do I care; 
 
 Why do you charge me thus once more? 
 
 I never saw the man before." 
 
 Now Peter scarce had finished, when 
 
 The cock to crow was heard again. 
 
 Then Peter called to mind once more 
 
 What Christ had said to him before: 
 
 "This night the cock shall not crow twice 
 
170 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Before thou shalt deny me thrice." 
 Then he remembered what he 'd said, 
 How he would not forsake his Lord; 
 How he had said he'd sooner die 
 Than e'er his Lord, the Christ, deny. 
 He thought of all the scenes just past ; 
 They came before his mind at last. 
 He knew his vow he had not kept. 
 And when he thought thereon he wept; 
 Now for his sin he would atone, 
 And shed his bitter tears alone. 
 He turned himself, and walked away, 
 To weep most bitterly they say. 
 
 JUDAS BRINGS BACK THE MONEY 
 
 Now Judas, standing somewhere near, 
 Stood watching all these things in fear, 
 And when he heard the council cry 
 That Jesus was condemned to die 
 He then repented of the aid 
 He gave to have this man betrayed. 
 So he the thirty pieces got, 
 And to the priests and elders brought. 
 And said to them, "My sin is deep, 
 And I this money cannot keep ; 
 I've sinned, and at my door is laid 
 The blood of innocence betrayed." 
 The priests then said, "Why this ado? 
 What do we care ? It is for you ; 
 If you in this sin did commit 
 Why trouble us? See you to it." 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 171 
 
 CASTS THE THIRTY PIECES IN THE TEMPLE 
 
 But Judas in the temple cast 
 
 The silver pieces at the last, 
 
 And went in haste from there away 
 
 And hanged himself that very day. 
 
 And now the priests took up with care, 
 
 The silver pieces lying there. 
 
 They said, "Unlawful it will be 
 
 To put them in the treasury, 
 
 For Moses' law does so forbid, 
 
 Because it is the price of blood. ' ' 
 
 Those sticklers for the law of old 
 
 Do now another council hold. 
 
 The price the Saviour's life did yield. 
 
 They use to buy the Potter's field. 
 
 They buy thus with the price of sin 
 
 A place to bury strangers in; 
 
 Wherefore that field was called, they say. 
 
 The "Field of Blood" until this day. 
 
 Thus was fulfilled that which was said 
 
 By Jeremiah, long since dead. 
 
 SENT TO PILATE 
 
 The trial lasting near all night. 
 
 They came again at early light. 
 
 The priests, and scribes, and rulers all. 
 
 And met in council in the hall. 
 
 They talked and argued with much strife, 
 
 How they might safely take his life. 
 
 They never could agree, they found, 
 
 And so they Jesus quickly bound. 
 
172 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 With vengeance in each word and thought 
 They had him straight to Pilate brought. 
 There they began him to accuse, 
 And say, "This fellow tells the Jews 
 They Ceasar tribute need not bring. ■ 
 That he himself is Christ, a king." 
 Then Pilate asked him, ' ' Art thou, then, 
 A King to rule the Jews again?" 
 And Jesus answered, "Thou hast said, 
 I truly am a King indeed." 
 The priests and rulers of the Jews 
 Now still more fiercely him accuse; 
 But Jesus still no answer made 
 To all the charges 'gainst him laid. 
 Then Pilate said, "Dost thou not hear 
 What witness they against thee bear?" 
 But he made no reply to that, 
 Which Pilate greatly marveled at. 
 Now Pilate having heard the case, 
 'Gainst condemnation set his face ; 
 And judgment gave within the hall, 
 "I find no fault in him at all." 
 Then what a clamor there arose! 
 The priests more fiercely still oppose; 
 They said, "His teaching is corrupt; 
 He stirreth all the people up. 
 He has been teaching through our land 
 From Galilee, to where we stand." 
 Then Pilate asked them, ' ' Does he come 
 From Galilee? Is that his home?" 
 And when from them he learned this truth, 
 That Jesus there had spent his youth, 
 And that he thus belonged of right 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 173 
 
 To Herod's jurisdiction, quite, 
 -He then sent Jesus unto him, 
 For he was at Jerusalem. 
 
 SENT TO HEROD 
 
 They now to Herod Jesus led. 
 Who was exceeding glad, 'tis said, 
 For he was curious to behold 
 The man of whom so much was told. 
 And then, again, he hoped to view 
 Some miracle that he might do. 
 Then Herod many questions brought. 
 And many answers of him sought. 
 But no reply to one was heard. 
 For Jesus answered not a word. 
 The priests vehemently accused, 
 And many falsehoods, too, were used: 
 And Herod joined this rabble band 
 To Christ annoy on every hand. 
 His men of war, that with him fought, 
 All joined in setting him at naught. 
 In gorgeous robes they him arrayed, 
 And then mock homage to him paid ; 
 They heaped insults upon his head. 
 And then to Pilate had him led. 
 From Herod, Pilate was estranged; 
 But soon a meeting was arranged, 
 And so a common cause oft tends. 
 Of enemies to make good friends; 
 For in this case it worked that way. 
 For they made friends that very day. 
 
174 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 BACK TO PILATE 
 
 When Pilate called the rulers all 
 And priests together in the hall, 
 He said, "This man to me is brought 
 And judgment on his case is sought. 
 You represented from the first, 
 Of criminals he was the worst : 
 As one that did pervert, forsooth. 
 The people from the way of truth. 
 Before you all I have at large 
 Examined him on every charge; 
 Your accusations have no ground, 
 For I no fault in him have found; 
 And when you urged again so strong 
 That you were right and I was wrong, 
 Nor with my judgment was content, 
 I then to Herod had him sent; 
 And he for death did find no cause 
 Nor violation of the laws. 
 You have a custom at this feast, 
 That then a prisoner be released ; 
 This man I will chastise, and then 
 Release him unto you again. 
 
 DEMAND BARRABAS 
 
 There lay a prisoner at this time, 
 Bound in the city for a crime. 
 An insurrection he had led. 
 By which the blood of men was shed. 
 Then Pilate said, "What shall I do? 
 Whom will you I release to you? 
 Is Barrabas the one you choose. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 175 
 
 Or is it Christ, King of the Jews?" 
 
 He knew the Saviour's death was sought 
 
 Through eiiyj, which controlled the lot. 
 
 pilot's wife's dream 
 
 When he sat on the judgment seat, 
 His wife sent word to be discreet. 
 She said, "Have nothing more to do 
 With that good man, both just and true; 
 For I this day have, in a dream. 
 Suffered much because of him." 
 The priests and rulers standing by 
 Persuade the multitude to cry, 
 And ask the robber be released, 
 But Jesus slain will please them most. 
 But Pilate said to them again, 
 "Which one release you of the twain?" 
 They say, "Barrabas, him we choose. 
 For that's the wish of all the Jews." 
 He said, "If I should do this thing. 
 What shall I do then with your King ? ' ' 
 And they more loudly still all cry, 
 "Him crucify! Him crucify!" 
 Again he asked, for the third time, 
 "What evil hath he done? What crime? 
 No cause of death in him you show; 
 I '11 chastise him and let him go. ' ' 
 But yet more loudly still they cried, 
 And asked that he be crucified. 
 
 PILATE WASHED HIS HANDS 
 
 When Pilate saw that right would fail. 
 
176 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And reason was of no avail, 
 
 To all he said no heed was paid, 
 
 But rather was a tumult made. 
 
 He then took water and prepared 
 
 To wash his hands, while he declared: 
 
 "I wash my hands of this man's blood 
 
 In presence of this multitude , 
 
 Three times I've said within the hall, 
 
 I find no fault in him at all . 
 
 Three times my judgment you've refused 
 
 And cried, 'Barrabas should be loosed.' 
 
 I'm innocent in every way 
 
 Of this just person's blood today. 
 
 See ye to it, if blood be shed. 
 
 Alone it rests upon your head." 
 
 The people answered, "Let it be 
 
 Upon our heads, and not on thee ; 
 
 And on our children through all time, 
 
 If this man's death should prove a crime." 
 
 JESUS SCOURGED 
 
 Barrabas Pilate then released, 
 
 Who was preferred by them to Christ. 
 
 To Christ the scourge was then applied, 
 
 And he was given to be crucified. 
 
 It was the custom thus to apply 
 
 The scourge to those condemned to die. 
 
 In Jesus' case they thought it best 
 
 That he should suffer like the rest. 
 
 The fact that Pilate said three times 
 
 He found him guiltless of all crimes 
 
 Could make no difference in their eje ; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 177 
 
 He must be scourged, to satisfy 
 
 Their envy, malice, hate intense, 
 
 Their thirst for blood of innocence. 
 
 They Jesus stripped, the scourge one brings. 
 
 That represents a thousand stings. 
 
 Each stroke the flesh is cut and torn; 
 
 Each time the painishment is borne 
 
 In silence, though the cut is deep ; 
 
 Yet Jesus is not seen to weep. 
 
 And as the blood drops to the floor 
 
 The Saviour calmly looks them o'er. 
 
 No word or sound the Christ Man spoke. 
 
 Though smarting under every stroke; 
 
 But pity in his face is seen; 
 
 Yes, pity for those wicked men. 
 
 JESUS MOCKED 
 
 And now behold a scene occurs 
 
 That every heart on earth should stir; 
 
 The Lord of life is taken in hand 
 
 By Pilate's wicked soldier band 
 
 And led into the common hall 
 
 To be insulted by them all. 
 
 By some his coat aside is laid. 
 
 And then in scarlet he's arrayed. 
 
 A crown of thorns they plait and bring, 
 
 And then in sport crown him a king. 
 
 By others that beside him stand 
 
 A reed is placed within his hand, 
 
 While all before him bow the knee 
 
 And homage pay in mockery. 
 
 And some this salutation bring: 
 
178 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 "All hail, all hail, the Jewish king!" 
 But others were more spiteful still, 
 And spat upon the Lord at will. 
 One took the reed from him, 'tis said. 
 And with it smote him on the head. 
 At length they ceased at him to scoff; 
 The scarlet robe is taken off, 
 And with his own again supplied, 
 He's led out to be crucified. 
 
 BEARS HIS CROSS 
 
 His cross he bears along the road, 
 Till, almost sinking 'neath the load, 
 A countryman nearby is seen, 
 'Tis Sturdy Simon of Cyrene. 
 Him they seized, and there compelled 
 To bear the cross that Christ upheld. 
 Oh, blessed privilege, indeed, 
 To bear the cross for one in need. 
 And many people with him go ; 
 They follow up the end to know. 
 The women also him attend. 
 Lamenting sadly for his end. 
 But Jesus turned and said to them, 
 "0, daughters of Jerusalem, 
 Weep not for me ; your pity keep. 
 And for yourselves and children weep. 
 Behold the days will come, I say. 
 In which you shall begin to pray 
 For mountains on yourselves to fall, 
 And for the hills to cover all." 
 Two malefactors led beside 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 179 
 
 With Jesus to be crucified. 
 With weary footsteps sad and slow, 
 Up Calvary's hill the people go, 
 Without one chance on all the road 
 To rest beneath the heavy load. 
 Though weak from hunger, thirst and pain, 
 They pause not till the top they gain ; 
 And there for him a drink they stir 
 In which was mingled wine and myrrh. 
 Although near death, just on the brink. 
 He tastes thereof but would not drink. 
 The work of death they now prepare. 
 And crucify the Saviour there. 
 
 TWO THIEVES CRUCIFIED 
 
 Two thieves were also crucified 
 With Jesus, one on either side. 
 Then Jesus cried, "Forgive, I say; 
 They know not what they do today. ' ' 
 The soldiers took the clothes he wore 
 And them divided 'mongst the four. 
 All but his coat they thus divide. 
 And each was with some part supplied 
 Now in his coat no seam was found; 
 'Twas woven whole, entire, sound. 
 And when they saw his coat was fair 
 They said, " It is to good to tear. ' ' 
 Soon- on another plan they hit; 
 They sit and gamble there for it ; 
 And thus fulfilled upon that ground 
 The prophecy, in Psalms 'tis found 
 ' ' My raiment they divide at last, 
 
180 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And for my vesture lots are cast. ' ' 
 Tlie deed was done, each one his share, 
 Then all sat down and watched him there. 
 
 Pilate's superscription 
 
 Now on the cross above his head, 
 A title Pilate wrote, which read: 
 ''Jesus of Nazareth, here we see, 
 King of the Jews, nailed to this tree." 
 Now this was written, we are told, 
 In Hebrew, Greek and Latin bold. 
 By many Jews 'twas read that day 
 As they were passing by that way. 
 At once the priests to Pilate go 
 And ask, "What made you write it so?" 
 They say, ' ' Write not that he is king. 
 But rather write, 'He said that thing.' " 
 But Pilate said, ' ' It now shall stand 
 As I have written with my hand. ' ' 
 
 A few good women standing by 
 Are watching with him till he die. 
 His mother with the rest is seen. 
 And Also Mary Magdalene. 
 When Jesus saw his mother there 
 To John he delegates her care. 
 And from that time until she died 
 He everything for her supplied. 
 
 THEY RAILED ON HIM 
 
 Now Jesus, hanging there to die, 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 181 
 
 Was railed at by the passers by. 
 
 They wagged their heads, and said with joy, 
 
 "Couldst thou the temple great destroy, 
 
 And in three days rebuild the same? 
 
 Then save thyself this death of shame. 
 
 If thou the Son of Grod art still, 
 
 Thou canst descend from there at will," 
 
 The priests and scribes and elders there 
 
 All join in mocking, and declare, 
 
 "He others saved and gave relief. 
 
 But now he cannot save himself; 
 
 If he indeed be Israel 's King, 
 
 Why does he to the cross still cling? 
 
 Let him but from the cross go free. 
 
 We will believe if this we see. 
 
 He trusts in G-od, let God then save. 
 
 And now deliver from the grave. 
 
 If he will have him why not own? 
 
 He' said he was Grod's only son. 
 
 Now truly this can never be. 
 
 Or God at once would set him free. ' ' 
 
 ONE THIEF ASKS TO BE REMEMBERED 
 
 One thief, while hanging by his side. 
 Joined in with others to deride. 
 He said : "If thou be Christ, then why 
 Dost thou permit us all to die?" 
 The other thief at once began 
 To chide, and to rebuke the man. 
 He said : "Of God hast thou no fear, 
 When we are all to death so near? 
 Dost thou not know, or have no care 
 
182 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 What condemnation now we share? 
 We were condemned, and justly too 
 And now receive but our just due. 
 We merit such reward as this, 
 But he has nothing done amiss. ' ' 
 He then to Jesus turned his head, 
 "Remember me, Lord," he said; 
 "And when thy kingdom thou dost see, 
 Then Jesus, Lord, remember me. ' ' 
 Then Jesus said, ' ' It shall be so ; 
 Forgiveness I on thee bestow ; 
 And further, thou shalt be, I say, 
 With me in Paradise today." 
 
 DARKNESS AND EARTHQUAKES 
 
 The sun in sympathy withdrew, 
 
 While darkness hid the scene from view. 
 
 The sun at midday hid his face. 
 
 Ashamed to witness such disgrace. 
 
 Yes, darkness gross on every hand 
 
 Had settled o 'er Judea 's land. 
 
 A piercing cry now rends the air; 
 
 It came from Jesus hanging there; 
 
 The painful way which long he trod, 
 
 Wrung from his lips this cry to God: 
 
 "My God, My God, and can it be, 
 
 Thou hast this day forsaken me?" 
 
 In agony he must atone. 
 
 And tread the winepress all alone. 
 
 Now some of them still standing by 
 
 Said, "For Elias he doth cry." 
 
 Another ran and quickly brought 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 183 
 
 A sponge of vinegar he'd got, 
 
 Upon a reed securely tied 
 
 And to the Saviour's lips applied. 
 
 Some sympathizing friend, we think. 
 
 Had offered Jesus this to drink. 
 
 But others said, "No, let him be; 
 
 He called Elias, let us see 
 
 If this Elias will appear 
 
 To save him from a death so near." 
 
 Then Jesus said, "Into Thy hand 
 
 My spirit. Father, I commend." 
 
 " 'Tis finished," with loud voice he cried; 
 
 ' ' 'Tis finished, ' ' bowed his head and died. 
 
 The Saviour's dead, high priest rejoice. 
 Ye scribes and rulers raise your voice; 
 With Pilate and the soldiers, too. 
 And all the hellish Jewish crew. 
 Yes, he is dead, through envy slain, 
 That malice might supremely reign. 
 Rejoice, conspirators, and swell 
 The anthem of the damned in hell. 
 Rejoice, Earth, that he is slain, 
 For now salvation's way is plain. 
 Rejoice, ye Heavenly Hosts, and sing. 
 For JESUS CHRIST is now crowned King. 
 
 THE VEIL IS RENT IN TWAIN 
 
 The temple's vail that hid from view 
 The holy place, is rent in two; 
 The earth in sympathy awakes. 
 In joy its firm foundation shakes. 
 
184 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 The rocks behold the great event, 
 And are for joy asunder rent; 
 - And many graves were opened wide 
 When Christ the Lord was crucified. 
 And many saints appeared again, 
 And on the streets were seen of men; 
 But not till after, it is said, 
 The Christ was risen from the dead. 
 
 THE CENTURIAN PRONOUNCES HIM RIGHTEOUS 
 
 The Roman captain, watching him, 
 Beheld the noonday sun grow dim. 
 He saw the earthquake, felt the shock. 
 And heard the sound of rending rock. 
 He was afraid and trembled there. 
 And to the soldiers did declare : 
 "This was a righteous man, I know. 
 And was the Son of God also. ' ' 
 
 WOMEN STAND AFAR OFF 
 
 Now all the people that had come 
 
 To witness Jesus' death of shame. 
 
 Beholding all these things take place. 
 
 Smiting their breasts, their steps retrace. 
 
 The friends of Jesus in a band 
 
 With many women far off stand ; 
 
 Some from the city came to see, 
 
 While others were from Galilee. 
 
 They followed him while he was there 
 
 And ministered to his welfare; 
 
 And to their credit be it said 
 
 They ne'er forsook or from him fled. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 185 
 
 HIS SIDE IS PIERCED 
 
 Now as 'twas near the evening shade, 
 
 Due preparation must be made 
 
 For Sabbath, which began at night; 
 
 It must be strictly kept and right. 
 
 The Jews were in a fearful state; 
 
 The day they dare not desecrate. 
 
 These bodies hanging there, they say. 
 
 Will desecrate the Sabbath day. 
 
 So they seek Pilate in the hall 
 
 And request he break the legs of all, 
 
 So death might sooner claim his right, 
 
 And they be taken down from sight. 
 
 And Pilate gave the order then 
 
 To break the legs of those three men. 
 
 Then came the soldiers, nothing loath 
 
 To the thieves, and broke the legs of both. 
 
 But when they were to Jesus led 
 
 They saw he was already dead. 
 
 Although his legs they did not break, 
 
 A soldier there his spear did take ; 
 
 To gratify his wicked hate, 
 
 A lifeless form would mutilate. 
 
 With devlishness the spear to guide, 
 
 He thrust it in the Saviour's side. 
 
 And straightway there was seen to come 
 
 Both blood and water forth therefrom. 
 
 He but fulfilled, in doing so, 
 
 The prophecy of long ago; 
 
 No bones in him shall broken be. 
 
 And whom they pierced they all shall see. 
 
186 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 JOSEPH BEGS THE BODY 
 
 From Arimathea Joseph came; 
 
 He was counsellor, and in shame 
 
 He had opposed the council's plan 
 
 To crucify the Son of Man. 
 
 He long had waited to behold 
 
 God's kingdom promised them of old. 
 
 This man was rich, and good, and true, 
 
 And one of Christ's disciples, too. 
 
 Yet secretly, for fear the Jews 
 
 Might criticise him for his views. 
 
 Now as the Sabbath day drew nigh 
 
 To Pilate, Joseph did apply. 
 
 And boldly Jesus' body crave. 
 
 That he might place it in the grave. 
 
 And Pilate marveled when he said 
 
 That Jesus was already dead. 
 
 He called the captain and inquired 
 
 If Jesus really had expired; 
 
 And when the soldier answered, "Yes," 
 
 He granted Joseph his request. 
 
 Then hastily he did prepare 
 
 And take the body down with care. 
 
 He had brought linen, so 'tis said, 
 
 In which to wrap the blessed dead. 
 
 Now, Nicodemus came in sight; 
 
 He came to Jesus first by night; 
 
 One hundred pounds of spice he brought ; 
 
 'Twas myrrh and aloes he had bought. 
 
 They bind a napkin round his face 
 
 And with the linen him encase; 
 
 And of the spices, too, they use, 
 
 As was the custom of the Jews. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 187 
 
 LAID IN THE SEPULCHRE 
 
 Then silently those noble men 
 
 Took up the lifeless form again 
 
 And bore it with them from the place 
 
 Where he had suffered such disgrace. 
 
 Now Joseph had a new tomb made, 
 
 In which no man had yet been laid. 
 
 It had been hewn from solid stone 
 
 And was intended for his own; 
 
 But for his friend, he gave the best, 
 
 And here they laid the Lord to rest. 
 
 To make the sepulcher secure 
 
 A stone was rolled against the door. 
 
 Two Marys had beheld this scene — 
 
 The one was Mary Magdalene, 
 
 The other Mary was His friend 
 
 Who had stayed by to see the end. 
 
 They each the sepulcher surveyed, 
 
 And noticed how the corpse was laid. 
 
 Returning home they each took care 
 
 The spice and ointment to prepare, 
 
 With which to embalm their now dead friend. 
 
 This kindness shown, it all would end; 
 
 And resting on the Sabbath day, 
 
 They thus the law of old obey. 
 
 ASKS THE TOMB TO BE SEALED 
 
 One would suppose, since Christ was dead, 
 The priests would now be satisfied ; 
 When he was laid to rest in peace 
 Their persecutions then would cease; 
 
188 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 But no, they feared that through some plot 
 
 Their wicked work would come to naught. 
 
 They call to mind that he had said 
 
 He would arise soon from the dead. 
 
 So after preparation day 
 
 They hastily to Pilate say: 
 
 "Sir, we remember to have heard 
 
 This vile deceiver pass his word 
 
 That when by us he should be slain, 
 
 He in three days would rise again; 
 
 We think, therefore, it would be wise 
 
 To set a watch against surprise. 
 
 Command the sepulcher made fast, 
 
 At least, till three full days are past, 
 
 Lest his disciples come by night, 
 
 And steal away with him outright; 
 
 When to the people 'twill be said, 
 
 *Lo, he is risen from the dead!' 
 
 The last mistake will be the worst, 
 
 And more disastrous than the first. ' ' 
 
 Then Pilate said, "Take your own plan. 
 
 And make secure as best you can." 
 
 A band of soldiers is allowed 
 
 To guard his tomb against the crowd. 
 
 "Take ye of them to serve your ends. 
 
 And guard the place against his friends. ' ' 
 
 And so they went, and to make secure, 
 
 They set a watch before the door 
 
 And fixed a seal upon the stone. 
 
 So all would leave the place alone. 
 
 The guard was cautioned not to sleep, 
 
 But through the night a strict watch keep. 
 
 At last convinced that all was right 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 189 
 
 They then departed for the night. 
 They felt and knew no one would steal — 
 'Twas death to break the Roman seal. 
 
 MARY COMES TO THE TOMB 
 
 The Sabbath day drags slowly past, 
 
 The weary night is gone at last; 
 
 But in the early dawn is seen 
 
 The faithful Mary Magdalene; 
 
 And other women with her come 
 
 To weep in sorrow at his tomb. 
 
 They bring sweet spices with them there 
 
 The Saviour's body to prepare; 
 
 They walk together side by side 
 
 And talk of Jesus crucified. 
 
 They wondered who would roll away 
 
 The heavy stone from where it lay; 
 
 But when they came upon the ground, 
 
 The stone was rolled away, they found. 
 
 Strange things were happening in the land, 
 
 Earthquakes and signs on every hand. 
 
 An angel came from out the skies 
 
 And struck the keepers with surprise. 
 
 In fear of him they shook with dread 
 
 And sank as men already dead. 
 
 Back from the door he soon had thrown. 
 
 And sat upon the mighty stone. 
 
 His face was like the lightning's glow. 
 
 His raiment, too, was white as snow. 
 
 AN ANGEL IS SEEN 
 
 But looking now within the tomb 
 
 They saw a young man through the gloom ; 
 
190 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 They saw him sitting on the right, 
 And clothed in garments long and white. 
 They were afraid when him they found, 
 And bowed their faces to the ground. 
 "Be not afraid," to them he said, 
 "Ye seek the living 'midst the dead; 
 Ye seek," the angel, too, replied, 
 "For Jesus who was crucified. 
 He is not here, for now behold. 
 He 's risen as you were foretold ; 
 Yes, risen from the dead today — 
 Come, see the place where Jesus lay. 
 But go and his disciples tell 
 That he hath triumphed over hell. 
 Yes, tell them all he is not dead. 
 And Peter, too," the angel said; 
 "And tell them he will go and be 
 Before them all in Galilee." 
 And they went quickly out and fled. 
 And trembled, for they were afraid. 
 With fear and joy at what they heard 
 They ran to bring the disciples word. 
 
 JOHN AND PETER GO TO SEE 
 
 Now Mary Magdalene soon meets 
 With John and Peter, and thus greets : 
 "They've taken him away," she said, 
 "And we know not where he is laid." 
 "What! gone?" said Peter in surprise. 
 "Yes, gone;" with sadness she replies. 
 "I have just come from there," she cried, 
 "And he is gone, I'm satisfied. 
 
AS TaLB BY THE EVANGELISTS 191 
 
 I searched the tomb and o'er the ground, 
 
 But he was nowhere to be found." 
 
 Astonishment at every word 
 
 Was plainly seen at what they heard. 
 
 They doubted if the truth she told, 
 
 For how could any be so bold? 
 
 And who would dare to break the seal 
 
 The body of the Lord to steal? 
 
 No one could carry him away ; 
 
 "How could they pass the guards?" they say; 
 
 But still they said, "We'd better go 
 
 And see; perhaps it may be so." 
 
 No sooner had they thus agreed 
 
 Than both ran thither with all speed. 
 
 Though Peter had some start, they say. 
 
 Yet John soon passed him on the way. 
 
 The distance he had soon traversed, 
 
 And reached the sepulcher the first. 
 
 The door thereof was open wide. 
 
 He stopped and stooped and looked inside ; 
 
 The linen clothes lay on the floor. 
 
 But still he stood without the door. 
 
 PETER ENTERS THE TOMB 
 
 Now Peter had by this time come, 
 And boldly goes within the tomb. 
 The linen in one place he found 
 In which the body had been wound. 
 The napkin that was on his face 
 Was folded in another place. 
 Then John went in, and both with care 
 Examined through it everywhere. 
 
192 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 They were convinced, and both confessed, 
 That Mary had the truth expressed; 
 And, coming forth from out the tomb, 
 They went their way, each to his home, 
 
 MARY MEETS JESUS 
 
 Now Mary, too, had come behind. 
 If possible the Lord to find; 
 And while they all go to their home, 
 She lingers still beside the tomb, 
 And loath to leave where He had slept, 
 She stood outside the door and wept. 
 And as she wept she looked within, 
 Where Jesus had so lately lain. 
 Ah, what a vision greets her eyes, 
 And fills her soul with great surprise : 
 She sees two angels sitting there, 
 Both clothed in raiment white and fair ; 
 One at the feet, one at the head, 
 "Where Jesus' body had been laid. 
 Intently gazing through her tears 
 A sympathizing voice she hears; 
 It came in tones both soft and low, 
 "Why, woman, art thou weeping so?" 
 She said, while striving to be calm, 
 "I came this morning to embalm 
 The body of my Lord, most dear, 
 Whom friends had laid to rest in here. 
 But when I came, lo, He had gone, 
 By some one borne away at dawn. 
 Though I a thorough search have made 
 I cannot find where He's been laid." 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 193 
 
 She turns in sorrow from the place 
 And meets with Jesus face to face. 
 But still she never even thought 
 That this was He for whom she sought. 
 "Whom seekest thou?" the Saviour said, 
 ''And why those tears of sorrow shed?" 
 ' ' Perhaps this man has something learned, ' ' 
 The weeping Mary thought, and turned. 
 She raised to Him her tear-dimmed eyes, 
 But still she did not recognize; 
 For she supposed he had some care, 
 Or maybe was the gardner there. 
 "Oh, sir," she said, "do tell me, pray. 
 If thou hast borne Him hence away? 
 Give me some hope, some joy, some aid, 
 That I may find where He is laid. 
 If thou hast hid Him, tell me where, 
 That I may carry Him from there." 
 Her love for Him indeed was strong. 
 Had she not followed Jesus long? 
 Upon His words had she not hung, 
 Through poverty to Him had clung? 
 And for His comfort she had cared, 
 In all His sorrows, too, had shared. 
 Had she not come from Galilee 
 And followed Him to Calvary? 
 When all the rest from Him had fled, 
 She still stood by till He was dead. 
 She watched while Joseph laid to rest 
 The form of Him she loved the best. 
 She came the first in morning gloom 
 To weep in sorrow at His tomb; 
 She was the first with spices there, 
 
194 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 "With wMch His body to prepare. 
 She first discovered He was gone, 
 And told to Peter, likewise John. 
 She last remained beside the tomb, 
 When all the rest had sought their home. 
 Among them all she only stayed, 
 And tried to find where He was laid. 
 The only one of all the lot 
 That had for information sought; 
 The only one among them all 
 That let her tears of sorrow fall. 
 Now such devotion to her Lord 
 Must surely merit rich reward. 
 Ah, weeping woman, lift thy head, 
 For thy reward is near, indeed; 
 Jor Jesus standing at her side. 
 Saw how her heart was sorely tried. 
 He saw her tears, beyond control; 
 He saw the sorrow of her soul. 
 And each emotion of her face 
 To honest motives He could trace. 
 He saw all this, and much more, too ; 
 He saw a friend both tried and true; 
 He saw through all the sorrows past, 
 That she had loved Him to the last. 
 
 MAKES HIMSELF KNOWN 
 
 At length the silence Jesus broke, 
 'Twas but a single word He spoke, 
 But with what tenderness it fell 
 From lips she loved to hear so well, 
 'Twas naught but "Mary" that He said. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 195 
 
 And yet it came as from the dead. 
 How soon it all her anguish stilled, 
 And how with joy her heart it thrilled. 
 How soon it does her fears control, 
 And permeates her very soul. 
 So quickly now she turns her head, 
 ''Rabboni, Master mine," she said; 
 What great delight once more to see 
 This, her best friend, from death set free. 
 How eagerly she starts to meet 
 And clasp the Saviour by the feet. 
 What joy to feel, and see, and know 
 That Jesus still could love her so. 
 He spoke again with loving heart. 
 That she would let Him now depart : 
 "Cling not to me nor hold me fast. 
 Or think you see Me for the last. 
 I am not yet to Heaven gone; 
 My work on earth is not yet done. 
 Again you'll see me here below, 
 Before I to my Father go. 
 But to my brethren now attend, 
 And tell them I will soon ascend 
 Unto my Father, good and true, 
 And to My God and your God too. ' ' 
 
 MARY GOES TO TELL HIS DISCIPLES 
 
 Then Mary went and told those men 
 How she had seen the Lord again; 
 That they had spoken face to face, 
 And what He told her in that place ; 
 But all she said did not avail; 
 
196 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 It seemed to them an idle tale. 
 
 Yes, Mary, great is thy reward, 
 
 The first to see the risen Lord; 
 
 The first to hear the Saviour's voice, 
 
 That makes the sorrowing heart rejoice; 
 
 The first to spread the good news round 
 
 Of a Redeemer lost and found. 
 
 HE APPEARS TO TWO WOMEN 
 
 The other women that had come 
 With Magdalene to Jesus' tomb, 
 Did run to bring His friends the word 
 Of all the things that had occurred; 
 But as they went with speedy feet, 
 They on the way with Jesus meet. 
 "All hail," said Jesus, greeting them, 
 At which they come and Avorship Him. 
 Some on the ground His feet caressed, 
 While others close around Him pressed. 
 ''Be not afraid," was what he said, 
 ''Go tell my brethren I'm not dead. 
 Tell them to go to Galilee, 
 For there they will their Master see." 
 Then they remembered what He'd said — 
 He would arise free from the dead. 
 They go and His disciples tell 
 How He hath triumphed over hell. 
 And how the grave and death are slain, 
 And Jesus will in glory reign. 
 
 Into the city soon they start, 
 
 To bring the word that fills each heart. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 197 
 
 They speed along the road so fast 
 
 Some of the guards are quickly passed. 
 
 To tell the priests the guards had come 
 
 Of what had happened at the tomb ; 
 
 Of how an angel came in power, 
 
 And rolled the stone back from the door, 
 
 "While there was seen a glorious light. 
 
 Which struck them blind and dumb with fright ; 
 
 Of how an earthquake shook the ground. 
 
 And they as dead men all were found. 
 
 'Midst this confusion, just at dawn, 
 
 The body of the Lord had gone. 
 
 AGREE TO BRIBE THE SOLDIERS 
 
 Another council now was called. 
 This thing they saw must be forestalled. 
 So they agreed, by all accounts, 
 To pay the soldiers large amounts. 
 And counsel them to tell and say, 
 ''His friends had stolen Him away. 
 And if the Governor should hear 
 "We'll try and make you all secure; 
 We will persuade him that 'tis best 
 For him to let the matter rest." 
 So at the bribe they quickly caught. 
 And told the tale they had been taught. 
 
 TWO DISCIPLES WALK AND JESUS JOINS THEM 
 
 Out from Jerusalem that day 
 Went two disciples, on the way 
 That to the town Bmmaus led, 
 
198 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Some sixty furlongs, it is said. 
 As 'long the road they slowly walk 
 And think of all these things, and talk, 
 While they communed together there, 
 And all rehearsed again with care, 
 A stranger joined them on the road 
 And listened while they talked aloud. 
 'Twas Jesus, but by them unknown. 
 For He in other form was shown. 
 At length He asked of what they talked, 
 Why filled with sadness as they walked? 
 Cleopas, answering Jesus, said: 
 ''Art thou a stranger here, indeed? 
 Hast thou not known or even heard 
 The things that have the people stirred?' 
 Then Jesus said, "What things, I pray. 
 Are now transpiring do you say?" 
 "Concerning Jesus," they replied, 
 "A prophet we are satisfied; 
 For many miracles he wrought. 
 And years the people, too, he taught; 
 A mighty man in deed and word, 
 He was a prophet, God preferred; 
 A prophet filled with wisdom too 
 And with the people good and true. 
 But then the priests, the envious lot. 
 Set spies on him to have him caught. 
 And at the wicked priests' behest 
 A rabble did the man arrest. 
 And in the council he was tried, 
 Condemned to death and crucified. 
 But we had trusted this was he 
 Long promised us, by prophecy. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 199 
 
 Through him we thought the light would gleam, 
 
 That he all Israel would redeem. 
 
 But now he's dead, and all is gone, 
 
 And we may still keep hoping on. 
 
 Besides all this today's the third 
 
 Since all these wonders have occurred; 
 
 And certain women of our set 
 
 Made us astonished when we met, 
 
 For they went early to the tomb, 
 
 With spices rich and sweet perfume. 
 
 They went his body to prepare, 
 
 But then they found it was not there. 
 
 An angel, too, they saw, which said 
 
 He was alive, no longer dead.- 
 
 Then certain men said they would go 
 
 Unto the tomb and see, when lo. 
 
 They found it as the women said, 
 
 But him they saw nowhere indeed." 
 
 Then Jesus said, "I now perceive 
 
 Your hearts are slow this to believe. 
 
 If to the prophets you attend 
 
 This thing you could then comprehend. 
 
 Was it not necessary, say, 
 
 For Christ to suffer just that way? 
 
 And thus for all full pardon win, 
 
 And enter then His glory in?" 
 
 And then at Moses He began 
 
 To explain the prophets every one. 
 
 And from the scriptures showed to them 
 
 All these things concerning Him. 
 
200 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 MAKES HIMSELF KNOWN 
 
 When to the callage they drew nigh 
 He made as though He would pass by, 
 Which when they saw they both invite 
 To stop and stay with them that night. 
 "The day is spent, 'tis eventide; 
 So you had better here abide." 
 When they constrained Him thus to come, 
 He turned to tarry at their home. 
 And now it came to pass that when 
 He sat at meat with those two men. 
 He took the bread and blessed it there, 
 And brake, and gave to each a share. 
 Amazement plainly was expressed. 
 For now they knew who was their guest; 
 And while they sat filled with surprise. 
 He vanished from before their eyes. 
 They ask each other in their turn, 
 ''Did not our hearts within us burn? 
 And what a feeling it awoke. 
 While on the way with us He spoke? 
 How many things, both new and old, 
 He from the scriptures did unfold?" 
 
 THEY GO BACK TO JERUSALEM 
 
 And now they have no time to waste, 
 And to Jerusalem come in haste. 
 To His disciples soon they come, 
 With others met inside a room, 
 And all were saying, "Have you heard, 
 The Lord to Simon hath appeared?" 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 201 
 
 And then Cleopas tells how they 
 Were met by Jesus on the way; 
 ' ' But then we knew Him not, ' ' both said, 
 "Until we saw Him breaking bread." 
 
 HE APPEARS TO THE ELEVEN 
 
 While they yet spake, behold, once more. 
 
 The Lord appears, though shut the door. 
 
 Yes, suddenly He's seen to stand 
 
 Forth in the midst the frightened band. 
 
 He said, ' ' The peace of heaven be yours, 
 
 And all the blessings it secures. ' ' 
 
 "It is a spirit," some one cried. 
 
 And all with fear were terrified. 
 
 ' ' Why are ye troubled ? ' ' Jesus said, 
 
 "For I have risen from the dead. 
 
 Why in your hearts do doubts arise. 
 
 Or thought of fear or e'en surprise? 
 
 Behold my feet and see my hand. 
 
 For I myself before you stand. 
 
 Come, place your hands upon me here 
 
 And handle me without a fear. 
 
 Come satisfy yourselves and see 
 
 A spirit hath not flesh like me." 
 
 To make the evidence complete 
 
 He showed to all His hands and feet. 
 
 What joy now spread throughout the room; 
 
 How quickly He disperses gloom. 
 
 'Twas joy indeed their Lord to view; 
 
 Too good they thought to be all true. 
 
 But Jesus makes their joy complete 
 
 By asking, "Have you any meat!" 
 
202 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 They make all haste at once to spread 
 Before their Lord and Master bread. 
 They set before Him at His wish 
 Some honeycomb, and also fish. 
 And Jesus took their scanty fare 
 And in their presence ate it there. 
 He said, "While I with yon remained 
 The prophecies I then explained; 
 How all these things in scripture willed, 
 Concerning me must be fulfilled." 
 Then understanding gave He them 
 Of all the scriptures said of Him. 
 Thus it was written long ago 
 That Christ must suffer all this woe. 
 The death and shame were all told plain, 
 The third day He should arise again; 
 "That ye repentance might proclaim. 
 And preach salvation in my name." 
 
 THOMAS DOUBTS 
 
 Now Thomas was not with the rest, 
 When they were with His presence blest; 
 And when they brought to him the word 
 He could not think he had appeared. 
 He said, "Except His hands I view. 
 See where the nails were driven through. 
 Yea, I must see Him face to face. 
 My finger to each nail print place; 
 Unless to each 'tis thus applied 
 And my hand is thrust within his side, 
 I'll not believe what you have said 
 That He is risen from the dead." 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 203 
 
 APPEARS TO ALL 
 
 In eight days after this, once more 
 
 (They met together with closed door) 
 
 Of Him they had another view. 
 
 He came and said, ''Peace be to you." 
 
 And turning toward where Thomas stands. 
 
 He said, "Come, now, behold my hands; 
 
 Come reach your finger, do not fail, 
 
 To touch the print of every nail; 
 
 And thrust your hand within my side, 
 
 And of the truth be satisfied. 
 
 Here, let your waivering, doubting mind 
 
 Believing strength and firmness find." 
 
 But Thomas stood in glad surprise 
 
 And viewed the Lord with wondering eyes; 
 
 And being sure there was no fraud 
 
 He simply said, "My Lord, my God." 
 
 With but a word he thus makes known 
 
 That Jesus was the Christ alone. 
 
 Then Jesus said, "Thou hast believed 
 
 Because it was by sight revealed; 
 
 But those, I say, are much more blessed 
 
 Though seeing not, in faith they rest; 
 
 Those who believe when they have heard 
 
 That I am Christ the living Lord." 
 
 ON LAKE TIBERIAS 
 
 He now appeared to them once more. 
 This time on Lake Tiberias' shore. 
 A few disciples there had gone 
 To fish with Peter, James and John; 
 
204 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 With Thomas and Nathaniel too, 
 
 Just seven members in the crew. 
 
 At eve they to their ship repair 
 
 To spend the night in fishing there. 
 
 Although they cast with care and skill 
 
 Their nets with fishes did not fill; 
 
 They toiled all night and rested not 
 
 But not a single fish was caught. 
 
 Discouraged as the night wore on, 
 
 They hailed with joy the signs of dawn; 
 
 And when the daylight came once more 
 
 Some one was seen upon the shore. 
 
 It was a stranger, each one thought ; 
 
 Twas Jesus, but they knew Him not. 
 
 He called in a familiar way, 
 
 ''Friends, have you any meat today?" 
 
 They all look up and answer, "No, 
 
 For last night's work we've naught to show." 
 
 MIRACULOUS DRAFT OF FISHES 
 
 And now this stranger speaks again. 
 And good advice doth give to them: 
 "If on the right your net you throw 
 You'll meet with great success, I know." 
 At once they heed the stranger's wish. 
 When lo, the net is filled with fish. 
 So many did the net contain 
 They could not draw it in again. 
 
 PETER SWIMS TO SHORE 
 
 A sudden thought to John occurred, 
 Who said to Peter, "Tis the Lord." 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 205 
 
 Then Peter all things else forgot; 
 
 E'en of the fishes took no thought, 
 
 But girding up his fisher's coat 
 
 Did cast himself out of the boat, 
 
 And swam to shore his Lord to greet — 
 
 The first to kneel at Jesus ' feet. 
 
 The others turn the boat about, 
 
 (It was two hundred cubits out), 
 
 And while some row, the shore to win, 
 
 The rest drag nets and fishes in. 
 
 As soon as they were come to land 
 
 There was a fire of coals at hand. 
 
 And fish were laid thereon to roast, * 
 
 And bread provided by the host. 
 
 Then Jesus spake, ''Bring now, I pray, 
 
 Some of the fish you 've caught today. ' ' 
 
 Then Simon went with steady hand, 
 
 To draw the net up to the land. 
 
 They found it full, and none v/ere small, 
 
 One hundred fifty-three in all. 
 
 For all they had so many caught. 
 
 The net withstood, 'twas broken not. 
 
 Then Jesus speaking as before 
 
 Said, ' ' Come and dine with me once more. ' ' 
 
 And none of them dared ask a word. 
 
 Knowing he was Christ the Lord, 
 
 He took the bread and gave to each. 
 
 And likewise also of the fish. 
 
 ASKS PETER IP HE LOVES HIM 
 
 When all had eaten of this food. 
 
 He looked around where Peter stood. 
 
206 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 And asked him, ' ' Dost thou love me near 
 As much as all thy brethren here?" 
 And Peter said, "Thou knowest full well 
 I love Thee more than tongue can tell." 
 Then Jesus said, "To this give heed, 
 When I am gone my lambs to feed. ' ' 
 
 THE SECOND TIME 
 
 A second time He calls his name, 
 Repeats the question just the same: 
 "Simon Peter, dost thou love me. 
 This second time I ask of thee?" 
 But Peter does not hesitate ; 
 He says, "My love for Thee is great." 
 Then Jesus answered, "Feed my sheep, 
 And thus my friendship you will keep." 
 Now Peter thought, "I've twice replied; 
 He surely will be satisfied." 
 But in a moment more is heard 
 The very question, word for word, 
 
 THE THIRD TIME 
 
 "Simon Jonas' son thou art. 
 Dost thou love me with all thy heart?" 
 Then Peter's heart was filled with woe 
 To think the Lord would doubt him so. 
 His face was sad, he hung his head; 
 He pondered well before he said: 
 "My Lord, my God, to Thee 'tis given. 
 To know all things in earth and heaven. 
 And knowing thus, thou knowest too 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 207 
 
 My love for Thee is great and true." 
 Then Jesus for the third time said, 
 "My sheep I leave for thee to feed." 
 
 TELLS OF Peter's death 
 
 "Again I truly say to thee, 
 
 When thou wast young and fancy free, 
 
 Thou girdest thyself to please thy mind, 
 
 And walkest where thou felt inclined; 
 
 But when thou'rt old 'twill not be so — 
 
 Thou It not be free to come and go; 
 
 To stretch thy hands thou wilt be found, 
 
 Another one will gird thee round. 
 
 Thou shalt be carried to some spot 
 
 Whither to go thou wouldst not." 
 
 These words were meant to signify 
 
 The kind of death that he should die. 
 
 Now Peter, having heard his fate. 
 
 Asks Him John's future to relate. 
 
 But Jesus, answering, said to all: 
 
 "Suppose he tarry till I call. 
 
 What difference does it make to thee? 
 
 I say again, come, follow me." 
 
 Now by this talk they all conclude 
 
 That John some way would death elude. 
 
 Perhaps they thought that he might be 
 
 Like Enoch, taken bodily. 
 
 But Jesus never meant they'd take 
 
 Such meaning from the words He spake; 
 
 Nor did He say John should not die, 
 
 But "If he tarry here till I 
 
 Shall come again, what's that to thee? 
 
208 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 Your duty is to follow me." 
 
 Now this disciple, loved the best, 
 
 The one that leaned on Jesus' breast, 
 
 This same disciple now is he 
 
 That of these things doth testify. 
 
 We know his testimony's true; 
 
 He tells the things he saw and knew. 
 
 THEY GO TO GALILEE 
 
 They now remembered Jesus said, 
 
 (On the same day He was betrayed) 
 
 That after He would risen be. 
 
 He'd go before to Galilee; 
 
 Also the angel at the tomb 
 
 Had to the women said the same. 
 
 They now to Gralilee repair 
 
 To meet their Lord and Master there. 
 
 He had appointed there a place 
 
 "Where He would meet them face to face. 
 
 His followers had been notified, 
 
 The place was on a mountain side; 
 
 They there assembled, we are told, 
 
 Five hundred people, young and old; 
 
 And when He comes to keep His word. 
 
 They own and worship Him their Lord. 
 
 SENDS THEM TO PREACH 
 
 Then Jesus, drawing very near, 
 Spake unto them so all could hear : 
 "Behold, all power to me is given, 
 Upon the earth, also in heaven; 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 209 
 
 Go ye, therefore, all nations teach, 
 And in my name this gospel preach. 
 Let every creature, far or near, 
 In all the world this good news hear; 
 Baptize them in this name you must. 
 Of Father, Son and Holy Ghost. 
 Who is baptized and does believe. 
 Shall this salvation then receive. 
 But he that doth the truth reject 
 Must condemnation then expect; 
 And signs shall follow to attest. 
 The truth of this by you expressed. 
 With new tongues they shall proclaim 
 And cast out devils in my name; 
 Or if a serpent should them sting, 
 Or if they drink a deadly thing, 
 Fear not, the poison will not kill. 
 Or for a moment make you ill. 
 If on the sick your hand is laid 
 Disease and death shall both be stayed. 
 Be strong, therefore, to all attend, 
 For I am with you to the end. 
 But do not from the city go, 
 But tarry there till I bestow, 
 For I'll endue you, by and by. 
 With mighty power from on high." 
 Thus many things Christ did unfold, 
 And yet the half has not been told; 
 For He was teaching forty days, 
 And guiding them in wisdom's ways. 
 And giving them to understand 
 The heavenly kingdom was at hand. 
 But to this thought they still do cling 
 
210 THE STORY OF THE CHRIST 
 
 That He would soon be Israel's king. 
 They ask Him, "Wilt Thou now restore 
 The kingdom as it was before 1 ' ' 
 He said, " 'Tis not for you to know 
 The Father's power here below. 
 As witnesses I will rely 
 On you, for Me to testify 
 In all the cities here around. 
 Also to earth's remotest bound." 
 
 • LEADS OUT TO BETHANY 
 
 These teachings ended, next we see 
 Him lead them out to Bethany. 
 This town was not so far away. 
 The journey of a Sabbath day. 
 While on Mount Olivet He stands. 
 To bless them He lifts up His hands, 
 And while He speaks, to their surprise. 
 His form is seen to slowly rise. 
 Each voice is hushed, with one accord 
 Each eye is fixed upon the Lord. 
 "Impossible," they all declare, 
 "That one could rise thus in the air." 
 They did not know, or comprehend, 
 How Christ from earth could thus ascend; 
 And yet 'twas evident to them 
 They fast were losing sight of Him. 
 
 HIS ASCENSION 
 
 A cloud He enters in His flight, 
 And disappears thus from their sight. 
 
AS TOLD BY THE EVANGELISTS 211 
 
 But still they gaze with upturned face. 
 
 No move was made to leave the place. 
 
 They did not realize He 'd gone ; 
 
 They thought perhaps He would return. 
 
 At length they turn their eyes again, 
 
 And standing by them see two men. 
 
 They both are clothed in garments white; 
 
 Their faces shine with heavenly light, 
 
 And speaking there, they said, "We see 
 
 You men are come from Galilee ; 
 
 Why stand you gazing in the sky? 
 
 This Jesus who has gone on high, 
 
 Will come again to all below, 
 
 In manner like you've seen Him go." 
 
 Their hearts are cheered when thus they learn 
 
 Their Friend and Master will return; 
 
 And all with joy His praises sing, 
 
 And worship Him their Lord and King. 
 
 THEY RETURN TO THE CITY 
 
 With much rejoicing they retrace 
 Their steps to Judah's holy place. 
 Some go to the now well known room 
 Where a few disciples make their home; 
 And to the temple some repair, 
 There to engage in praise and prayer. 
 With mind and heart they all agree 
 And praise the Lord continually. 
 
 Amen,