Manasseh, a lawyer in Jerusalem
On the Speech and Gesture of Jesus
YES, I USED to hear Him speak. There was always a ready word upon His
lips.
But I admired Him as a man rather than as a leader. He preached something
beyond my liking, perhaps beyond my reason. And I would have no man preach
to me.
I was taken by His voice and His gestures, not by the substance of His
speech. He charmed me but never convinced me; for He was too vague, too
distant and obscure to reach my mind.
I have known other men like Him. They are never constant nor are they
consistent. It is with eloquence not with principles that they hold your
ear and your passing thought, but never the core of your heart.
What a pity that His enemies confronted Him and forced the issue. It was
not necessary. I believe their hostility will add to His stature and turn
His mildness to power.
For is it not strange that in opposing a man you give Him courage? And
in staying His feet you give Him wings?
I know not His enemies, yet I am certain that in their fear of a harmless
man they have lent Him strength and made Him dangerous.
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