n
had seven husbands one after another because they died one after
another. If they all rise from the dead the woman would have seven
husbands at once, each is her lawful husband, and yet she may only have
one."

There was immense eagerness to hear what He would say, for the problem
seemed insoluble. And Jesus said: "He who asks that question knows
neither the Scriptures nor the power of God. The Scriptures promise us
resurrection, and the power of God the eternal life of the soul. There
is no marriage between souls, so the question falls to the ground."

There was fresh shouting and applause, and kerchiefs were waved from
all sides. The teachers of the Law drew back in ill-humour, and
dismissed the police who were waiting in the back court.

CHAPTER XXVIII

After the excellent reception in Jerusalem, and the victory in the
Temple on the first day, the disciples ventured to walk about the city
fearlessly and openly. Jesus remained grave and silent. They put up
in a quiet inn by the gate. The disciples did not see why He should
not have lodged them in a palace. They would have liked occasionally
to accept the invitation of rich people, and enjoy the homage that
would be paid them, but Jesus would not permit it. The festival of the
Passover was at hand; there was something else to do than to be feted
and have their heads turned, they would soon need to have their heads
very cool. If He accepted any of the invitations it would be the one
from Bethany, where He knew He had truer friends than in Jerusalem.
But meanwhile He had something more to say in the Temple.

When He went there the next day the hall was filled to overflowing with
people, Rabbis, and expounders of the Law. Some had come in order to
witness His glorification, others to try and ruin Him.

One of the Pharisees came up to Him and asked Him without any
preliminaries which was the greatest commandment.

Jesus ascended the pulpit and said; "I have just been asked which is
the greatest commandment. Now, I am not come to give new commandments,
but to fulfil the old ones. The greatest commandment is: Love God
above all, and thy neighbour as thyself. Those who asked Me, your
teachers and interpreters of the Law, say the same, but their actions
do not square with their words. You may believe their words, but you
must not imitate their deeds. They exact the uttermost from you, but
do not themselves stir a finger. And what good they do,