Goodness

Christ’s example is a revelation of Perfect Manhood. It was a manifestation of what human nature was intended to be, and what it can be by the grace of God. “Who did no sin.” This is the negative aspect of His example. “I do always those things which please Him.” This is the positive side. The absence of sin and the presence of righteousness are God’s purpose for us also, and this revelation of our Lord’s perfect life makes a claim on us, and is intended to elicit a response of holy character. “Leaving us an example, that ye should follow in His steps.” Conduct is the expression of character, character the result of goodness, and goodness is the outcome of continual contact with God. “The fruit of the Spirit is goodness,” and nothing can make up for the lack of this all-embracing element. Orthodoxy, privilege, opportunity, are all intended only as means towards goodness, and the example of our Lord is a standing testimony to the demand for and possibility and power of holiness of life and goodness of character.