Man’s Sin and the “Fullness of the Time”

When Adam and Eve in Eden first heard the promise of the Savior’s coming, they expected it to be fulfilled very soon. They welcomed their firstborn son, hoping he might be the Deliverer. But those who first received the promise died without seeing it fulfilled. The promise was repeated through patriarchs and prophets, keeping alive the hope of His appearing, yet He did not come. The prophecy of Daniel revealed the time of His advent, but not all interpreted the message correctly. Century after century passed. Occupying nations oppressed Israel, and many were ready to exclaim, “The days are prolonged, and every vision fails.” Ezekiel 12:22.HH 13.1

But like the stars that cross the sky in their appointed path, God’s plans know no haste and no delay. In heaven’s council, the hour for the coming of Christ had been set. When the great clock of time pointed to that hour, Jesus was born in Bethlehem.HH 13.2

“When the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son.” Galatians 4:4. The world was ripe for the coming of the Deliverer. The nations were united under one government. One language was widely spoken. From all lands the Jews who had been scattered gathered to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. As these returned to their homes in foreign lands, they could spread the news throughout the world about the Messiah’s coming.HH 13.3

The heathen systems were losing their hold on the people. People longed for a religion that could satisfy the heart. Those looking for light were craving for a knowledge of the living God, for some assurance of life beyond the grave.HH 13.4