But God did not leave him to himself. When man hid himself, God sought him, called him, promised him redemption, and, at once, began that great redeeming and reconciling work which was finished in Christ when the fullness of the time had come. Thus God first came to fallen man, through His calling, enlightening, and saving Word. That Word of Reconciliation was first brought to man by God Himself. He Himself was the first shepherd or pastor to go out after the lost sheep. So we find Him dealing directly