A Jot from John (Genesis 28:10-17)
This beautiful vision came to Jacob at Bethel. Not only was it an encouragement to the lonely pilgrim; but also, a forecast of far-reaching consequence. Near the beginning of his ministry, Jesus alludes to it. Unto Nathanael he said, “Verily, Verily, I say into you, Ye shall see the heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” (John 1:51).
What is the meaning of it?
A ladder is an instrument by which we may climb to greater heights. Jesus is our spiritual ladder, the gracious means by which we may ascend. Concerning himself he said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6.) By means of him, the lowest man may climb.
What is the length of it?
It reaches from earth to heaven, “from lowly earth to heights sublime.” In his human nature he is “set up on the earth,” in his divine nature he reaches “to heaven.” He extends all the way – and what a long way it is! (1 Timothy 3:16)
What is the width of it?
It is wide enough for all good men to climb together, yet too narrow for any sinful man. (Matthew 7:13-14.) It is both a wide gauge and a narrow gauge ladder – it is wide enough to accommodate all righteous men, yet too narrow for even one wicked man.
What are the rounds by which we may climb?
Though the ladder is sound and strong and altogether dependable, it profits only those people who climb it – “mount it round by round.” 1) Faith in the Lord. (Heb. 11:6; Rom. 10:17.) 2) Repentance – man cannot ascend with a weight of sin on his back. (Lk. 13:3-5; Acts 17:30.) 3) Confession of faith. (Matt. 10:32-33; Rom. 10:10.) 4) Obedience in baptism. (Mk. 16:15-16; Rom. 6:3-4.) 5) Christian character. This is attained by growth. (2 Pet. 1:5-7; 3:18.)
What are the lofty heights to be attained?
“The eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” This is heaven, the highest of heights to be attained by the sons of men. Sin drags men downward, but by means of the ladder (“the Son of man”) they may climb. (Rom. 6:23; 1 Thess. 4:16-17.)
What are some hints for climbing the ladder? 1) Do not lug the world on your back; it is too heavy. 2) Do not pick a fight with a fellow-climber. A fight with a brother will result in a fall. 3) Do not go to sleep. This is very dangerous. (Heb. 2:3.) 4) Stick fast, else you will be blown off by the winds of temptations, false teachings, etc. 5) Keep your eye on Him who stands at the top.
Associate Minister, John B. Daniels
