peoples were accustomed to learn the great truths of religion by a "symbolic," or allegorical method of instruction. Christ Himself knew this,—for "He taught them many things by parables."
We shall do well to keep this spirit of Eastern symbolism in mind when considering the "miraculous" manner of Christ's birth. Note the extreme poverty, humility, well-nigh shame attending it! Joseph doubted Mary, and was "minded to put her away privily." Mary herself doubted the Angelic Annunciation, and said, "How shall this be?"
Thus, even with those most closely concerned, a cloud of complete disbelief and distrust environed the very thought, suggestion, and announcement of the God-in-Man.
It should be remembered that the Evangelists, Mark and John, have no account of a "miraculous" birth at all. John, supreme as a Symbolist, the "disciple whom Jesus loved," wrote, "The WORD was made flesh and dwelt among us."
Securing this symbolic statement for ourselves, we find that two of the chief things to which we attach importance in this world—namely, birth and position—are altogether set aside in this humanizing of the WORD, and are of no account whatever. And, that the helpless Child lying in a manger on that first Christmas morning of the world, was,—despite poverty and humility,—fore-destined to possess more power than all the kings and emperors ever born in the purple.
Thus, the first lessons we get from the birth of Christ are—Faith and Humility—these are indeed the whole spirit of His Divine doctrine.
