The outstanding characteristics of the words of Jesus are simplicity and wisdom. The great truths that He teaches are wise and deep, providing food for mind and soul for men and women of all races. And the words that convey those wonderful truths are so simple that he who runs may read. Simplicity and wisdom—this is a combination not commonly found in human utterances. I remember reading in an old book that the excellence of the Scriptures arises from a surprising mixture of simplicity and majesty. And our Lord united these two characteristics in all His teachings. In this age of complexity there is a constant danger that we forsake simplicity and yield to those things that are complicated, involved, and are conducive to controversy and confusion.
The apostle Paul was concerned over this matter, and he reminded the church at Corinth that the simplicity of Christ's gospel was in danger (and it still is) of being lost in a multitude of words and in a maze of controversy and discussion. See 2 Cor. 11:3. The essential elements of the Christian faith are few and easily stated. Paul knew that true Christian religion had to be a very simple thing because it was intended for all classes of people among all nations. We know this is just as true today. The adaptability of the gospel to the universal need of mankind is a proof of its divine inspiration.
"The common people heard him gladly" because He spoke the truth simply. Our Lord taught simple goodness. He was simple goodness personified. Goodness and simplicity dwell together. Sin is a subtle thing, intricate, involved, and leads men and women into a maze of trouble. "The bad are the most sophisticated, and the good the least." Satan is full of subtlety, and is "the father of lies" (John 8:44, R.S.V.).
How simple was Christianity in the days of the apostles! How simple were the words and teachings of the Master! When He came to live among men religion was very complex and elaborate. The leaders of religious thought were much in controversy. The ceremonial services were tedious and burdensome to the people. Many were longing for deliverance from it all. Jesus came and simplified religion. Small wonder that the common people were made glad by His simple declarations of life-giving truth.
Our Lord mingled with the common people, addressing Himself to their common sense and the common need. His words were simple, words with which the people were familiar. He did not use any big theological words. His words were light, life, joy, peace, faith, rest. What vital words! "I am the bread of life," "I am the door," "I am the light of the world." How understandable His words were to all who heard Him—simple words that cover life's great essentials, the things that all hearts desire most.
"The world's Redeemer did not come with outward display, or a show of worldly wisdom. . . . Christ reached the people where they were. He presented the plain truth to their minds in the most forcible, simple language. . . . No one needed to consult the learned doctors as to His meaning."—Gospel Workers, pp. 49, 50.