As we open this Gospel we feel the wealth of a new age. The country was full of anarchy, misrule and wild passion, but there were many who “spoke often one to another,” Mal. 3:16. They were the quiet in the land, who “were looking for the redemption of Israel,” Luke 2: 38.

The separation of the Nazirite was in ordinary cases temporary and voluntary; but Samson, Samuel and John the Baptist were Nazirites from their birth. As the leper was the living symbol of sim, so was the Nazirite of holiness. No alcohol, no razor, no ceremonial defilement, Num. 6. The mission of the Baptist was to bring

back the ancient spirit of religion and prepare Messiah’s way.