The Story of the The Story of the Lamb of GodLamb of God

The The SymphonySymphony Is Finished Is Finished

IntroductionIntroduction A clear focus is needed to become A clear focus is needed to become

acquainted with the acquainted with the Lamb of GodLamb of God. . The Old Testament ends as an The Old Testament ends as an unfinished unfinished

symphonysymphony.. Ceremonies of worship are unexplained.Ceremonies of worship are unexplained. Purposes were expressed that are not Purposes were expressed that are not

achieved.achieved.

For much of this material I am For much of this material I am indebted to J. Sidlow Baxter, indebted to J. Sidlow Baxter, Explore The BookExplore The Book, (Zondervan , (Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1964 printing), Volume Michigan, 1964 printing), Volume Five.Five.

Purposes were expressed that are Purposes were expressed that are not achieved.not achieved.

Longings among the Hebrews are Longings among the Hebrews are unanswered.unanswered.

Predictions are unfulfilled.Predictions are unfulfilled. Promises are unclaimed.Promises are unclaimed.

The four Gospels have a dominant The four Gospels have a dominant theme of fulfillment.theme of fulfillment.

These four books give the answers These four books give the answers to the Old Testament that are to the Old Testament that are needed.needed.

Else, the Old Testament is like a Else, the Old Testament is like a river lost in the sand.river lost in the sand.

Jesus is the answer to all these Jesus is the answer to all these needs.needs.

He came to be on the throne – Luke He came to be on the throne – Luke 1:31-33. “1:31-33. “He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Most High: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.”

He is the Lamb who takes away sins He is the Lamb who takes away sins – John 1:29.– John 1:29.

““On the morrow he seeth Jesus On the morrow he seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold, coming unto him, and saith, Behold, the Lamb of God, that taketh away the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world!”the sin of the world!”

Is this a reference to Isa. 53:7?Is this a reference to Isa. 53:7? “He was oppressed, yet when he was

afflicted he opened not his mouth; as a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and as a sheep that before its shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth.”

Why a lamb?Why a lamb? Lambs offered every dayLambs offered every day Symbol of meekness, gentlenessSymbol of meekness, gentleness Symbol of innocenceSymbol of innocence Reminder of EgyptReminder of Egypt Jesus our Passover (1 Cor. 5:7)Jesus our Passover (1 Cor. 5:7)

Why the “lamb of God”?Why the “lamb of God”? Provided by GodProvided by God Atonement in realityAtonement in reality Sinless suffering OneSinless suffering One World, not just the JewsWorld, not just the Jews

He is the Savior – Matt. 1:21He is the Savior – Matt. 1:21 The name “Jesus” (Old Testament The name “Jesus” (Old Testament

similarity to “Joshua”) similarity to “Joshua”) /Ihsouj /Ihsouj means means the same as “Savior,” being derived the same as “Savior,” being derived from the verb “to save.”from the verb “to save.”

Jesus saves from sin:Jesus saves from sin: Power of sinPower of sin Pollution of sinPollution of sin Guilt of sinGuilt of sin

Note it is “from” sin, not “in” sin!Note it is “from” sin, not “in” sin!

He is the way, truth, and life – John He is the way, truth, and life – John 14:6 (Notice here that one learns 14:6 (Notice here that one learns the “way” by knowing the “truth,” the “way” by knowing the “truth,” which in turn leads to “life.”)which in turn leads to “life.”)

He claimed that all things about him He claimed that all things about him were fulfilled – Luke 24:44.were fulfilled – Luke 24:44.

Therefore, Jesus invites all to come Therefore, Jesus invites all to come and take his yoke – Matt. 11:28-30.and take his yoke – Matt. 11:28-30.

There are There are seven crisesseven crises in the life in the life of Jesus. of Jesus.

Birth from a virginBirth from a virgin Baptism by John and the coming of Baptism by John and the coming of

the Spiritthe Spirit TemptationsTemptations TransfigurationTransfiguration

CrucifixionCrucifixion ResurrectionResurrection Ascension and coronationAscension and coronation

The four gospels reveal all that is The four gospels reveal all that is needed about the Lamb needed about the Lamb

Matthew, Mark, and Luke present Matthew, Mark, and Luke present the facts of his life.the facts of his life.

Two of the writers were apostles Two of the writers were apostles and the other two were companions and the other two were companions of the apostles.of the apostles.

John, along with some of these John, along with some of these facts, presents the doctrinal import.facts, presents the doctrinal import.

His birth is not mentioned.His birth is not mentioned. His baptism is not recorded.His baptism is not recorded. His temptations are not included.His temptations are not included. His transfiguration is not told.His transfiguration is not told.

His ascension is not described.His ascension is not described. Perhaps the key verse is 1:12.Perhaps the key verse is 1:12. He came to his own people, the He came to his own people, the

Hebrews, as it was promised.Hebrews, as it was promised. The Hebrews generally did not The Hebrews generally did not

receive him.receive him. Some Hebrews did receive him.Some Hebrews did receive him.

Those who Those who receivedreceived him were given a him were given a right (right (e)cousi/ane)cousi/an).).

That right had to be exercised.That right had to be exercised. When exercised, that right made them When exercised, that right made them

spiritual sons of God.spiritual sons of God. This right was given to “even to them This right was given to “even to them

that that believebelieve on his name.” on his name.”

Therefore to “Therefore to “receivereceive” him is the ” him is the same as to same as to believebelieve in him. in him.

A necessary conclusion is that a A necessary conclusion is that a believer is not yet a son of God, but believer is not yet a son of God, but must exercise the right given to him must exercise the right given to him to become a son of God.to become a son of God.

William F. Arndt and F. Wilbur Gingrich, William F. Arndt and F. Wilbur Gingrich, A A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Testament and Other Early Christian LiteratureLiterature, (The University of Chicago , (The University of Chicago Press, Chicago, Illinois, Sixteenth Press, Chicago, Illinois, Sixteenth Impression, 1974), p. 277 defines this use Impression, 1974), p. 277 defines this use as “to indicate the thing that one is able to as “to indicate the thing that one is able to do.” This shows that the right given must do.” This shows that the right given must be exercised. be exercised.

There is something in addition to There is something in addition to believing that makes one a son of believing that makes one a son of God!God!

The believer must still respond.The believer must still respond.

John 1 has many key words and John 1 has many key words and concepts:concepts:

Word, Word, life, life, light, light, Son, Son,

Lamb, Lamb, Messiah, Messiah, Son of Man, Son of Man, King.King.

Four Faces of the LambFour Faces of the Lamb

Why are the gospels in the Why are the gospels in the orderorder that that is found in the New Testament?is found in the New Testament?

Why not place in this order: Luke, Why not place in this order: Luke, Mark, John and Matthew?Mark, John and Matthew?

Is there any cogent reason for the Is there any cogent reason for the order one sees in our New order one sees in our New Testaments?Testaments?

Matthew is placed first because of Matthew is placed first because of the links with the Old Testament.the links with the Old Testament.

The phrase, “that it might be The phrase, “that it might be fulfilled,” is used 12 times.fulfilled,” is used 12 times.

He is obviously writing to the He is obviously writing to the JewsJews who were expecting a Messiah.who were expecting a Messiah.

This book bridges 400 years of This book bridges 400 years of silence.silence.

This book serves to show the This book serves to show the credentials of the promised credentials of the promised Messiah.Messiah.

Mark writes to the Mark writes to the RomanRoman world. world. He gives no genealogy since his He gives no genealogy since his

readers would neither need nor readers would neither need nor understand it.understand it.

He uses “fulfilled” only twice.He uses “fulfilled” only twice. He emphasizes that Jesus was a He emphasizes that Jesus was a

worker of wonders.worker of wonders.

Luke, as a Gentile himself, sends Luke, as a Gentile himself, sends his letter out to the his letter out to the GentileGentile world. world.

He emphasizes the humanity of the He emphasizes the humanity of the Lamb.Lamb.

He uses “Son of Man” more than He uses “Son of Man” more than the others.the others.

John writes at the end of the John writes at the end of the century to the century to the churcheschurches..

He shows the deity of the Lamb.He shows the deity of the Lamb. He portrays the Lamb as Jehovah, He portrays the Lamb as Jehovah,

Messiah, and true God.Messiah, and true God.

Long after the other 3 gospels have Long after the other 3 gospels have circulated John writes as the last circulated John writes as the last living witness of the Lamb and his living witness of the Lamb and his work.work.

John puts the John puts the finale to the symphonyfinale to the symphony of the life of our Lord. of the life of our Lord.

Endings to the books in this Endings to the books in this order seem to be significant. order seem to be significant.

Matthew ends with the Matthew ends with the resurrectionresurrection.. Mark ends with the Mark ends with the ascensionascension.. Luke ends with the promise of the Luke ends with the promise of the

SpiritSpirit.. John ends with the promise of the John ends with the promise of the

2nd coming2nd coming, “tarry till I come….”, “tarry till I come….”

Each book has distinctive Each book has distinctive characteristics. characteristics.

Matthew was a tax collector writing Matthew was a tax collector writing to the Jews.to the Jews.

He proved that the Lamb is the He proved that the Lamb is the promised Messiah – he gave the promised Messiah – he gave the most links to the Old Testament, most links to the Old Testament, there are over 50 quotations from there are over 50 quotations from the Old Testament, 35 times he the Old Testament, 35 times he alone used “Kingdom of heaven,” alone used “Kingdom of heaven,”

MATTHEWMATTHEW

9 times he used “son of David,” and 9 times he used “son of David,” and he detailed 20 miracles. he detailed 20 miracles.

Only the Jews would have Only the Jews would have understood all these.understood all these.

He provided answers to the promise He provided answers to the promise to Abraham and his seed – to Abraham and his seed –

-he gave encouragement to the Jews -he gave encouragement to the Jews to receive the Lamb, so that the new to receive the Lamb, so that the new spiritual Israel could arise out of the spiritual Israel could arise out of the ashes of the old physical Israel.ashes of the old physical Israel.

His genealogy recorded fulfillment His genealogy recorded fulfillment of promises made to Abraham of promises made to Abraham (Gen. 12:1-4), (Gen. 12:1-4),

to King David (2 Sam. 7:12-13; to King David (2 Sam. 7:12-13; 1 Chron. 17:11-12),1 Chron. 17:11-12),

and to King Ahaz of a birth from a and to King Ahaz of a birth from a virgin (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:18ff).virgin (Isa. 7:14; Matt. 1:18ff).

MARKMARK

Mark was the son of Mary Mark was the son of Mary (Acts 12:12), (Acts 12:12),

kinsman to Barnabas (Col. 4:10), kinsman to Barnabas (Col. 4:10), and was a co-worker with Peter and was a co-worker with Peter

(1 Pet. 5:13).(1 Pet. 5:13).

His 683 verses were written to a His 683 verses were written to a Roman audience – Roman audience –

he explained Jewish traditions (7:2-4),he explained Jewish traditions (7:2-4), conditions in Palestine (11:13), conditions in Palestine (11:13), and the coinage of the Jews (12:42).and the coinage of the Jews (12:42).

He has the shortest book but He has the shortest book but records the most number of records the most number of miracles percentage wise (18).miracles percentage wise (18).

He related only one sermon (13:3-He related only one sermon (13:3-37), but detailed the deeds of the 37), but detailed the deeds of the Lamb, portraying him as a wonder-Lamb, portraying him as a wonder-worker.worker.

LUKELUKE

Luke was a Gentile physician Luke was a Gentile physician (Col. 4:14) and his 1152 verses (Col. 4:14) and his 1152 verses emphasize the Lamb’s humanity.emphasize the Lamb’s humanity.

His genealogy followed the blood His genealogy followed the blood line of Mary and goes back through line of Mary and goes back through Abraham to Seth and Adam Abraham to Seth and Adam (Matthew’s account starts with (Matthew’s account starts with Abraham).Abraham).

He gave special emphasis to the He gave special emphasis to the birth from a virgin, using 132 verses birth from a virgin, using 132 verses (2 chapters) to record it. As a (2 chapters) to record it. As a trained scientist with a medical trained scientist with a medical education, the proofs of the virgin education, the proofs of the virgin birth must have been overwhelming birth must have been overwhelming for Luke to accept them.for Luke to accept them.

He is the one who recorded the He is the one who recorded the Lamb weeping (19:41) and Lamb weeping (19:41) and sweating (22:44).sweating (22:44).

He recorded 11 of the 14 recorded He recorded 11 of the 14 recorded prayers that the Lamb prayed while prayers that the Lamb prayed while on earth.on earth.

He mentioned 20 of the miracles He mentioned 20 of the miracles that most list as a total of 34.that most list as a total of 34.

He also introduced the Lamb as He also introduced the Lamb as having cross-racial and international having cross-racial and international purposes – (2:10, 32), and his is the purposes – (2:10, 32), and his is the only account of the helpful only account of the helpful Samaritan (10:25-37).Samaritan (10:25-37).

JOHNJOHN

John was in the “inner circle” of the John was in the “inner circle” of the apostles who saw the apostles who saw the transfiguration and was the brother transfiguration and was the brother of another apostle, James.of another apostle, James.

Writing at the end of the century, he Writing at the end of the century, he looks back across the century to looks back across the century to encourage the church to stand encourage the church to stand steadfast.steadfast.

He re-emphasizes the deity of the He re-emphasizes the deity of the Lamb (1:1-3; 10:30; 20:30-31) lest Lamb (1:1-3; 10:30; 20:30-31) lest the early church falter amid all the the early church falter amid all the terrible Roman persecutions.terrible Roman persecutions.

John recorded the 7 times Jesus John recorded the 7 times Jesus proclaimed “proclaimed “I amI am,” such claims as ,” such claims as could refer only to his deity:could refer only to his deity:

bread bread (6:35), (6:35), lightlight (8:12), (8:12), doordoor (10:7), (10:7),

good shepherd good shepherd (10:14), (10:14), resurrection and the liferesurrection and the life (11:25), (11:25), way, truth, and lifeway, truth, and life (14:6), (14:6), and the and the vinevine (15:1). (15:1).

He gave proofs of such deity by He gave proofs of such deity by recording only 7 representative recording only 7 representative signs.signs.

Power over Power over timetime – turning water to – turning water to wine (2:1-11)wine (2:1-11)

Power over Power over spacespace – healing the – healing the nobleman’s son in absentia (4:46-nobleman’s son in absentia (4:46-54).54).

Power over Power over infirmityinfirmity – the man at – the man at the pool (5:1-180.the pool (5:1-180.

Power over Power over mattermatter – feeding the – feeding the loaves and fish (6:1-14).loaves and fish (6:1-14).

Power over Power over gravitygravity – walking on the – walking on the water (6:16-21).water (6:16-21).

Power over Power over naturenature, congenital , congenital defects – man born blind (9:1-41).defects – man born blind (9:1-41).

Power over Power over deathdeath – raising of – raising of Lazarus (11:1-44).Lazarus (11:1-44).

There is cogency to the order.There is cogency to the order.

Matthew wrote to the Matthew wrote to the JewsJews about about the the FulfillerFulfiller..

Mark wrote to the Mark wrote to the RomansRomans about about the the Wonder-workerWonder-worker..

Luke wrote to the Luke wrote to the GentilesGentiles about the about the ManMan..

John wrote to the John wrote to the churchchurch about about Jesus as GodJesus as God..

The Four Gospels are like the Arc de The Four Gospels are like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France.Triomphe in Paris, France.

That structure memorializes the That structure memorializes the triumphs of Napoleon’s conquests.triumphs of Napoleon’s conquests.

It was built 1806-1836, 160 feet high.It was built 1806-1836, 160 feet high. At the foot of the Arc de Triomphe is At the foot of the Arc de Triomphe is

the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from WW I.from WW I.

MarkMark

Matthew LukeMatthew Luke

JohnJohn

Matthew on the left side.Matthew on the left side. Mark at the top.Mark at the top. Luke on the right side.Luke on the right side. John at the bottom.John at the bottom.

Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell the Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell the historical events.historical events.

John serves as the foundation of all John serves as the foundation of all of Jesus’ life, for He is true Deity.of Jesus’ life, for He is true Deity.

MarkMark

Matthew LukeMatthew Luke

JohnJohn

Put them all together and believers Put them all together and believers have have a triumphal “a triumphal “Arch of Truth.”Arch of Truth.”

This “Arch” has:This “Arch” has: an an empty tomb,empty tomb, but a but a Living Savior!Living Savior!

Facts of Life for Faith Facts of Life for Faith

Major Divisions in the life of Jesus Major Divisions in the life of Jesus ChristChrist 1. The Thirty Years of Private Life: 1. The Thirty Years of Private Life:

From the birth of Jesus until the From the birth of Jesus until the coming of John the Baptist.coming of John the Baptist.

The outlines and events listed here are The outlines and events listed here are from Wm. Arnold Stevens and Ernest from Wm. Arnold Stevens and Ernest Dewitt Burton, Dewitt Burton, A Harmony of the Gospels A Harmony of the Gospels For Historical StudyFor Historical Study, (Charles Scribner’s , (Charles Scribner’s Sons, New York, New York, 1904). This Sons, New York, New York, 1904). This material was originally published in the material was originally published in the Handbook of the Life of ChristHandbook of the Life of Christ, which is no , which is no longer in print. longer in print.

2. The Opening Events of Christ’s 2. The Opening Events of Christ’s Ministry: From the coming of Ministry: From the coming of John the Baptist until the public John the Baptist until the public appearance of Jesus in appearance of Jesus in Jerusalem.Jerusalem.

3. The Early Judean Ministry: 3. The Early Judean Ministry: From the public appearance of From the public appearance of Jesus in Jerusalem until his Jesus in Jerusalem until his return to Galilee.return to Galilee.

4. First Period of the Galilean 4. First Period of the Galilean Ministry: From the return to Galilee Ministry: From the return to Galilee until the choosing of the twelve.until the choosing of the twelve.

5. Second Period of the Galilean 5. Second Period of the Galilean Ministry: From the choosing of the Ministry: From the choosing of the twelve until the withdrawal into twelve until the withdrawal into northern Galilee.northern Galilee.

6. Third Period of the Galilean 6. Third Period of the Galilean Ministry: From the withdrawal into Ministry: From the withdrawal into northern Galilee until the final northern Galilee until the final departure for Jerusalem.departure for Jerusalem.

7. The Perean Ministry: From the 7. The Perean Ministry: From the final departure for Jerusalem until final departure for Jerusalem until the final arrival in Jerusalem.the final arrival in Jerusalem.

8. The Passion Week: From the 8. The Passion Week: From the final arrival in Jerusalem until the final arrival in Jerusalem until the resurrection.resurrection.

9. The Forty Days: From the 9. The Forty Days: From the resurrection until the ascension.resurrection until the ascension.

The Thirty Years of Private Life The Thirty Years of Private Life

Birth of JesusBirth of Jesus The angels and the shepherds visitThe angels and the shepherds visit Circumcision and presentation in Circumcision and presentation in

the templethe temple Wise men from the east.Wise men from the east.

Flight to Egypt and return to NazarethFlight to Egypt and return to Nazareth Childhood in Nazareth, visit to the Childhood in Nazareth, visit to the

temple at age twelvetemple at age twelve

The Opening Events of Christ’s The Opening Events of Christ’s Ministry Ministry

Preparation of John the immerserPreparation of John the immerser Baptism of JesusBaptism of Jesus Temptations in the wildernessTemptations in the wilderness

John’s testimony before the priests John’s testimony before the priests and Levites, Jesus the Lamb of Godand Levites, Jesus the Lamb of God

The first three disciples, then Philip The first three disciples, then Philip and Nathanieland Nathaniel

First miracle: water made into wineFirst miracle: water made into wine Sojourn in CapernaumSojourn in Capernaum

The Early Judean Ministry The Early Judean Ministry

First cleansing of the templeFirst cleansing of the temple Discourse with NicodemusDiscourse with Nicodemus Baptizing in JudeaBaptizing in Judea

John’s testimony to Christ at AenonJohn’s testimony to Christ at Aenon Departure from Judea, discourse Departure from Judea, discourse

with the woman of Samariawith the woman of Samaria The gospel in SycharThe gospel in Sychar

First Period of the Galilean First Period of the Galilean Ministry Ministry

Beginning of the ministry, the Beginning of the ministry, the nobleman’s sonnobleman’s son

First rejection at Nazareth and First rejection at Nazareth and removal to Capernaumremoval to Capernaum

Call of the four disciplesCall of the four disciples Miracles at CapernaumMiracles at Capernaum

First preaching tour of GalileeFirst preaching tour of Galilee The paralytic carried by fourThe paralytic carried by four Call of Matthew, question of fasting Call of Matthew, question of fasting

at his houseat his house

Infirm man at BethesdaInfirm man at Bethesda The disciples plucking grainThe disciples plucking grain The man with the withered handThe man with the withered hand

Second Period of the Galilean Second Period of the Galilean Ministry Ministry

Fame spreads widely, choosing of Fame spreads widely, choosing of the twelvethe twelve

Sermon on the mountainSermon on the mountain The centurion’s servantThe centurion’s servant John the Baptist’s last messageJohn the Baptist’s last message Anointing of Jesus at the house of Anointing of Jesus at the house of

SimonSimon

Warnings to scribes and Pharisees: Warnings to scribes and Pharisees: blasphemy of the Holy Spiritblasphemy of the Holy Spirit

True kin of Christ and parables by True kin of Christ and parables by the seathe sea

Stilling of the tempestStilling of the tempest Demoniacs in GadaraDemoniacs in Gadara

Raising of the daughter of JairusRaising of the daughter of Jairus Two blind men and the dumb Two blind men and the dumb

demoniacdemoniac Second rejection at NazarethSecond rejection at Nazareth Mission of the twelveMission of the twelve

Death of John the BaptistDeath of John the Baptist Feeding of the five thousandFeeding of the five thousand Walking on the waterWalking on the water Discourse of the bread of life and Discourse of the bread of life and

eating with unwashed handseating with unwashed hands

Third Period of the Galilean Third Period of the Galilean MinistryMinistry

Journey toward Tyre and Sidon, the Journey toward Tyre and Sidon, the daughter of the Syrophoenician daughter of the Syrophoenician womanwoman

Return through Decapolis, many Return through Decapolis, many miracles of healingmiracles of healing

Feeding of the four thousandFeeding of the four thousand Pharisees and Sadducees demand Pharisees and Sadducees demand

signs from heavensigns from heaven

Blind man at Bethsaida healedBlind man at Bethsaida healed Peter’s great confession, Christ Peter’s great confession, Christ

foretells his death and resurrectionforetells his death and resurrection The transfigurationThe transfiguration The demoniac boyThe demoniac boy

Further telling of his death and Further telling of his death and resurrectionresurrection

Paying taxes with the shekel from Paying taxes with the shekel from the mouth of the fishthe mouth of the fish

Discourse on humility and Discourse on humility and forgivenessforgiveness

Jesus visits Jerusalem at the Feast Jesus visits Jerusalem at the Feast of Tabernaclesof Tabernacles

The problem of the woman taken in The problem of the woman taken in adulteryadultery

Discourse on the light of the world, Discourse on the light of the world, spiritual freedomspiritual freedom

The Perean Ministry The Perean Ministry

Final departure from GalileeFinal departure from Galilee The mission of the seventyThe mission of the seventy The good SamaritanThe good Samaritan Visit to Martha and MaryVisit to Martha and Mary Healing of the man born blindHealing of the man born blind The Good ShepherdThe Good Shepherd

At the feast of dedicationAt the feast of dedication Discourse on prayerDiscourse on prayer Warnings against the PhariseesWarnings against the Pharisees Discourse on trust in God and the Discourse on trust in God and the

coming judgmentcoming judgment Galileans slain by PilateGalileans slain by Pilate

A woman healed on the sabbathA woman healed on the sabbath Warning against HerodWarning against Herod Discourses at the table of the Discourses at the table of the

PhariseePharisee Three parables of grace for the lost, Three parables of grace for the lost,

parables of warning, teachings on parables of warning, teachings on forgiveness and graveforgiveness and grave

Raising of Lazarus and withdrawal Raising of Lazarus and withdrawal to Ephraimto Ephraim

The ten lepersThe ten lepers The Pharisee and the publicanThe Pharisee and the publican Concerning divorce and remarriageConcerning divorce and remarriage Christ blesses little childrenChrist blesses little children

The rich young rulerThe rich young ruler Ambition of James and JohnAmbition of James and John Blind men near JerichoBlind men near Jericho Visit with ZacchaeusVisit with Zacchaeus Anointing by Mary in BethanyAnointing by Mary in Bethany

The Passion Week The Passion Week

Triumphal entry into JerusalemTriumphal entry into Jerusalem Cursing of the fig treeCursing of the fig tree Second cleansing of the templeSecond cleansing of the temple Confrontations with the Jews, Confrontations with the Jews,

parables of warning, an parables of warning, an unanswerable questionunanswerable question

The widow’s two mitesThe widow’s two mites Gentiles seek Jesus, Jews reject Gentiles seek Jesus, Jews reject

himhim The destruction of Jerusalem and The destruction of Jerusalem and

the end of the worldthe end of the world Conspiracy of the chief priests and Conspiracy of the chief priests and

JudasJudas

The last supper, farewell The last supper, farewell discourses, intercessory prayerdiscourses, intercessory prayer

The agony in Gethsemane, betrayal The agony in Gethsemane, betrayal and arrestand arrest

Trials before Jewish authorities and Trials before Jewish authorities and PilatePilate

The crucifixion and burialThe crucifixion and burial The watch at the sepulchreThe watch at the sepulchre

The Forty Days The Forty Days

The resurrection morningThe resurrection morning Report of the watchReport of the watch Two on the road to EmmausTwo on the road to Emmaus Appearance by Jesus to disciples in Appearance by Jesus to disciples in

Jerusalem, Thomas being absentJerusalem, Thomas being absent

Appearance to disciples with Appearance to disciples with Thomas presentThomas present

Appearance to seven disciples by Appearance to seven disciples by the Sea of Galileethe Sea of Galilee

Appearance to the eleven disciples Appearance to the eleven disciples on mountain in Galileeon mountain in Galilee

Final appearance and ascensionFinal appearance and ascension

The Force of This Person The Force of This Person

Jesus Christ is the one subject that Jesus Christ is the one subject that fills the four gospels, and his deeds fills the four gospels, and his deeds are the basis for all the rest of the are the basis for all the rest of the New Testament. New Testament.

Everything written in the Old Everything written in the Old Testament prior to him pointed Testament prior to him pointed forwardforward to him; everything written to him; everything written after his death pointed after his death pointed backwardbackward to to him, his deeds, his promises, his him, his deeds, his promises, his teachings, and the effect that his teachings, and the effect that his death and resurrection had upon the death and resurrection had upon the entire scope of humanity.entire scope of humanity.

Just who is this person?Just who is this person?

Consider:Consider: His namesHis names His uniquenessHis uniqueness His teachingsHis teachings His solitary stanceHis solitary stance

Look at a few of his names Look at a few of his names

Son of ManSon of Man. . This is the name used This is the name used most often by the Lord himself. In most often by the Lord himself. In ordinary usage, it simply means “the ordinary usage, it simply means “the man.” In the use that Jesus man.” In the use that Jesus employed it meant much more.employed it meant much more.

Herbert F. Stevenson, Herbert F. Stevenson, Titles of the Titles of the Triune GodTriune God, (Fleming H. Revell , (Fleming H. Revell Company, Westwood, New Jersey, Company, Westwood, New Jersey, 1956), pp. 95-96 1956), pp. 95-96

He often used it as a substitute for He often used it as a substitute for the pronoun “I” (Luke 7:33-34).the pronoun “I” (Luke 7:33-34).

He used it to emphasize his human He used it to emphasize his human suffering (Mark 8:31; 9:12; 14:21).suffering (Mark 8:31; 9:12; 14:21).

He used this name to portray He used this name to portray himself as a person completely himself as a person completely involved in humanity (Luke 9:58).involved in humanity (Luke 9:58).

He used it to show exceptional He used it to show exceptional authority, the only man who was authority, the only man who was given such.given such.

He has authority to forgive sins He has authority to forgive sins (Mark 2:10).(Mark 2:10).

He has authority over God’s laws He has authority over God’s laws (Mark 2:28).(Mark 2:28).

He has authority in the coming He has authority in the coming judgment (Mark 13:26; 14:62).judgment (Mark 13:26; 14:62).

It obviously refers to deity since It obviously refers to deity since Stephen saw the Son of Man at the Stephen saw the Son of Man at the right hand of God (Acts7:56).right hand of God (Acts7:56).

Jesus was not merely a man, but Jesus was not merely a man, but representativerepresentative man, the “last Adam” man, the “last Adam” (1 Cor. 15:45).(1 Cor. 15:45).

MessiahMessiah.. His genealogy records that he was His genealogy records that he was

the Christ, Messiah (Matt. 1:16).the Christ, Messiah (Matt. 1:16). When he was asked by the high When he was asked by the high

priest about being the Christ, he priest about being the Christ, he answered “I am” (Mark 14:61-62), or answered “I am” (Mark 14:61-62), or “Thou hast said” (Matt. 26:64).“Thou hast said” (Matt. 26:64).

Peter confessed that he was the Peter confessed that he was the “Christ,” the New Testament Greek “Christ,” the New Testament Greek word (word (xristo\jxristo\j), is a counterpart of ), is a counterpart of the Hebrew word “Messiah” (Matt. the Hebrew word “Messiah” (Matt. 16:16). Jesus accepted this, said it 16:16). Jesus accepted this, said it was revealed from heaven, but he was revealed from heaven, but he wanted the apostles to delay wanted the apostles to delay teaching it at that time.teaching it at that time.

He accepted Andrew’s use of the He accepted Andrew’s use of the name (John 1: 41), and directly name (John 1: 41), and directly declared to the woman at the well declared to the woman at the well that he was the Messiah (John that he was the Messiah (John 4:25-26).4:25-26).

Peter declared that he was made to Peter declared that he was made to be Christ, the New Testament word be Christ, the New Testament word for Messiah (Acts 2:36).for Messiah (Acts 2:36).

Jesus never called himself the Christ, Jesus never called himself the Christ, but he accepted the name. but he accepted the name.

LordLord The word “lord” (The word “lord” (ku/riojku/rioj) has ) has

numerous meanings.numerous meanings. Title of courtesyTitle of courtesy Owner of slaves or propertyOwner of slaves or property

Respect toward a superiorRespect toward a superior Simply a masterSimply a master In regard to Jesus it refers to his In regard to Jesus it refers to his

divine title. divine title.

The Septuagint uses the Greek The Septuagint uses the Greek ku/rioj, ku/rioj, “Lord,” to translate two “Lord,” to translate two divine names: “Adonai” and divine names: “Adonai” and “Jehovah.”“Jehovah.”

An angel announced to the An angel announced to the shepherds that the babe was the shepherds that the babe was the Lord (Luke 2:11).Lord (Luke 2:11).

Do you know import of “LDo you know import of “LORDORD” vs. ” vs. “Lord” in KJV?“Lord” in KJV?

It tells when the sacred name, It tells when the sacred name, JHVH (usually pronounced JHVH (usually pronounced “Yahweh”) is used in the Old “Yahweh”) is used in the Old Testament.Testament.

The ASV uses “Jehovah.”The ASV uses “Jehovah.”

John preached the coming of the John preached the coming of the Lord (Luke 3:4).Lord (Luke 3:4).

Jesus claimed to be “Lord of the Jesus claimed to be “Lord of the Sabbath” (Mark 2:28).Sabbath” (Mark 2:28).

He implied that he was David’s Lord He implied that he was David’s Lord (Matt. 22:41-46).(Matt. 22:41-46).

He directly told his disciples he was He directly told his disciples he was their Lord (John 13:13).their Lord (John 13:13).

Thomas worshipped him as “my Thomas worshipped him as “my Lord and my God” (John 20:28).Lord and my God” (John 20:28).

Truly this use of Lord included all Truly this use of Lord included all the significance of “Jehovah.”the significance of “Jehovah.”

For in the last day all will confess For in the last day all will confess him as Lord (Phil. 2:11).him as Lord (Phil. 2:11).

Son of GodSon of God Gabriel announced the babe was to Gabriel announced the babe was to

be “Son of the Most High…Son of be “Son of the Most High…Son of God” (Luke 1:32, 35).God” (Luke 1:32, 35).

At his baptism the testimony came At his baptism the testimony came from heaven (Mark 1:11).from heaven (Mark 1:11).

The devil chided and challenged his The devil chided and challenged his Sonship (Luke 4:3, 9).Sonship (Luke 4:3, 9).

At the transfiguration the disciples At the transfiguration the disciples heard the truth that he was the Son heard the truth that he was the Son of God (Mark 9:7).of God (Mark 9:7).

He used “Father” in a special sense He used “Father” in a special sense even at age 12 (Luke 2:49).even at age 12 (Luke 2:49).

He taught repeatedly to the Jews He taught repeatedly to the Jews about his Father (John 5:19-47).about his Father (John 5:19-47).

As a result, since they understood As a result, since they understood the term “Son” and “Father” to mean the term “Son” and “Father” to mean deity, they wanted to kill him (John deity, they wanted to kill him (John 10:22-39). 10:22-39).

““The Pharisees, of course, realized The Pharisees, of course, realized the implications of it, and charged him the implications of it, and charged him with blasphemy, ‘making Himself with blasphemy, ‘making Himself equal with God’ (John 5:18).” equal with God’ (John 5:18).”

This term referred not to his earthly This term referred not to his earthly birth, as he is the eternal Son of birth, as he is the eternal Son of God.God.

God sent a “son” (John 3:16; Gal. God sent a “son” (John 3:16; Gal. 4:4). God did not send a person to 4:4). God did not send a person to become a son, He sent “his own become a son, He sent “his own son in the likeness of sinful flesh” son in the likeness of sinful flesh” (Rom. 8:3).(Rom. 8:3).

Jesus used “Father” in a special Jesus used “Father” in a special sense. sense.

How could there be an eternal How could there be an eternal Father if there were no eternal Son? Father if there were no eternal Son?

Was God not a father prior to the Was God not a father prior to the earthly birth of Jesus? earthly birth of Jesus?

Then, the conception of Jesus was by Then, the conception of Jesus was by the Holy Spirit, not the Father (Matt. the Holy Spirit, not the Father (Matt. 1:20; Luke 1:35).1:20; Luke 1:35).

This adds to the concept that Jesus This adds to the concept that Jesus did not become the Son due to his did not become the Son due to his earthly conception.earthly conception.

The world was created by the Son The world was created by the Son (Heb. 1:2). (Heb. 1:2).

John used the term “Word” as the John used the term “Word” as the creator, and no one denies that creator, and no one denies that refers to the eternal state prior to refers to the eternal state prior to the existence of the world (John the existence of the world (John 1:1-3). 1:1-3).

Why then deny the same for the writer’s Why then deny the same for the writer’s use of “Son” in Hebrews 1:1-2?use of “Son” in Hebrews 1:1-2?

“God, having of old time spoken unto the fathers in the prophets by divers portions and in divers manners, hath at the end of these days spoken unto us in (his) Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom also he made the worlds;”

According to flesh he was the seed According to flesh he was the seed of David, but according to eternity of David, but according to eternity he was declared to be the Son of he was declared to be the Son of God (Rom. 1:3-4).God (Rom. 1:3-4).

When Jesus asked what men were When Jesus asked what men were saying about the “Son of Man,” saying about the “Son of Man,” Peter replied that he was “the Son Peter replied that he was “the Son of the living God” (Matt. 16: 13, 16).of the living God” (Matt. 16: 13, 16).

Peter understood the transfiguration Peter understood the transfiguration declaration to refer to special honor declaration to refer to special honor and glory as a Son (2 Pet. 1:16-18).and glory as a Son (2 Pet. 1:16-18).

It is interesting that the demons It is interesting that the demons never referred to him as “Christ,” never referred to him as “Christ,” but they referred to him as the “Son but they referred to him as the “Son of God” (Luke 4:41; 8:28).of God” (Luke 4:41; 8:28).

Consider the uniqueness of Consider the uniqueness of Jesus Jesus

He was unique in his He was unique in his birthbirth.. ““And the Word become flesh and And the Word become flesh and

dwelt among us” (John 1:14).dwelt among us” (John 1:14). Mary was “found with child of the Mary was “found with child of the

Holy Spirit…that which is conceived Holy Spirit…that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit” (Matt. in her is of the Holy Spirit” (Matt. 1:18, 20). 1:18, 20).

In answer to Mary’s question, the In answer to Mary’s question, the angel Gabriel said, “The Holy Spirit angel Gabriel said, “The Holy Spirit shall come upon thee, and the shall come upon thee, and the power of the Most High shall power of the Most High shall overshadow thee” (Luke 1:35).overshadow thee” (Luke 1:35).

The shepherds were told a babe The shepherds were told a babe was born in the city of David who was born in the city of David who would be a “Saviour,” and “Christ would be a “Saviour,” and “Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11-12). the Lord” (Luke 2:11-12).

Wise men from the east worshipped Wise men from the east worshipped the baby: they were looking for “the the baby: they were looking for “the King of the Jews” (Matt. 2:1-2, 11).King of the Jews” (Matt. 2:1-2, 11).

The Son of God shared flesh and The Son of God shared flesh and blood with all mankind in order to blood with all mankind in order to defeat the powers of the devil (Heb. defeat the powers of the devil (Heb. 2:14-15).2:14-15).

The Son of God “emptied himself, The Son of God “emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being taking the form of a servant, being made in likeness of men” (Phil. 2:7).made in likeness of men” (Phil. 2:7).

This incarnation was God becoming This incarnation was God becoming man, not God entering a man.man, not God entering a man.

Jesus did not have a mind of a man Jesus did not have a mind of a man plus a Divine mind, he had one plus a Divine mind, he had one mind.mind.

He was one person.He was one person. Yet he was the “God-man.”Yet he was the “God-man.”

He was unique in his He was unique in his lifelife.. At age 12 he knew and stated his At age 12 he knew and stated his

relation to heaven (Luke 2:49).relation to heaven (Luke 2:49). He “did no sin, neither was guile He “did no sin, neither was guile

found in his mouth” (1 Pet. 2:22), found in his mouth” (1 Pet. 2:22), and he was willing to challenge his and he was willing to challenge his questioners to find sin in him (John questioners to find sin in him (John 8:46). 8:46).

The one who “knew no sin he made The one who “knew no sin he made to be sin on our behalf” (2 Cor. 5:21), to be sin on our behalf” (2 Cor. 5:21), even Pilate confessed he was a even Pilate confessed he was a righteous man (Matt. 27:24), and righteous man (Matt. 27:24), and Judas admitted he had “betrayed Judas admitted he had “betrayed innocent blood” (Matt. 27:4). innocent blood” (Matt. 27:4).

He endured all the temptations of He endured all the temptations of life (Luke 4:1-13), such temptations life (Luke 4:1-13), such temptations as continued to be with him as continued to be with him throughout his life.throughout his life.

In all his prayers he never In all his prayers he never confessed sin, though he taught the confessed sin, though he taught the disciples to pray for forgiveness disciples to pray for forgiveness (Matt. 6:12).(Matt. 6:12).

Critics have never charged Jesus Critics have never charged Jesus with teaching anything that was with teaching anything that was wrongwrong..

Neither have the scholars of the Neither have the scholars of the world ever found anything world ever found anything goodgood for for mankind that Jesus mankind that Jesus omittedomitted..

In a short 33 years of lifetime, his In a short 33 years of lifetime, his influence on all civilizations has influence on all civilizations has been stupendous. been stupendous.

No one else has had the impact that No one else has had the impact that Jesus has.Jesus has.

This fact alone confounds skeptics This fact alone confounds skeptics who deny his deity.who deny his deity.

He was unique in his He was unique in his deathdeath.. His death was not just a martyr’s His death was not just a martyr’s

death, it was: death, it was: vicarious, vicarious, redemptive, redemptive, and substitutionary.and substitutionary.

The sinless Son of God took the The sinless Son of God took the weight of the world’s sins (2 Cor. weight of the world’s sins (2 Cor. 5:21).5:21).

He suffered through six trials, three He suffered through six trials, three each by the Jews and the Romans, each by the Jews and the Romans, and he died as an innocent man, and he died as an innocent man, un-convicted of any wrong.un-convicted of any wrong.

He had often foretold his own death He had often foretold his own death (John 2:19-22) and he knew the (John 2:19-22) and he knew the proper time for it (John 7:6; Matt. proper time for it (John 7:6; Matt. 26:18).26:18).

He endured the cross “for the joy He endured the cross “for the joy that was set before him” (Heb. that was set before him” (Heb. 12:2).12:2).

He offered himself once for all, not He offered himself once for all, not for his own sins, but for the sins of for his own sins, but for the sins of the world (Heb. 7:27).the world (Heb. 7:27).

No one took his life from him, he No one took his life from him, he laid down his life that he might take laid down his life that he might take it again (John 10:17-18).it again (John 10:17-18).

He was unique in his He was unique in his resurrectionresurrection.. The empty tomb stands through The empty tomb stands through

time as the rock against rationalism.time as the rock against rationalism. The angel said, “He is not here; for The angel said, “He is not here; for

he is risen, even as he said, Come he is risen, even as he said, Come see the place where the Lord lay” see the place where the Lord lay” (Matt. 28:6).(Matt. 28:6).

The only ones denying the The only ones denying the resurrection in the first century were resurrection in the first century were those who were paid to lie about it those who were paid to lie about it (Matt. 28:11-15).(Matt. 28:11-15).

Jesus was declared to be the Son Jesus was declared to be the Son of God by the resurrection from the of God by the resurrection from the dead (Rom. 1:4).dead (Rom. 1:4).

No other major religion in history No other major religion in history makes such a bold claim, not the makes such a bold claim, not the Hindus, Islam, or any other has any Hindus, Islam, or any other has any desire to try to prove a resurrection desire to try to prove a resurrection of their founder.of their founder.

The prevailing problem in modern The prevailing problem in modern thought is to try to fit the thought is to try to fit the disappearance and reappearance of disappearance and reappearance of Jesus into the scientific atmosphere Jesus into the scientific atmosphere of our day. of our day.

Such thought assumes that all things Such thought assumes that all things are shut up to the rigid and irrefutable are shut up to the rigid and irrefutable rule of natural law. rule of natural law.

Natural law, however, is not a body of Natural law, however, is not a body of rules that forces compliance, but it is rules that forces compliance, but it is simply the observation of how things simply the observation of how things have been known to occur in our have been known to occur in our time-space universe. time-space universe.

Natural law, as known accurately Natural law, as known accurately today, is merely the knowledge of today, is merely the knowledge of events that can be observed.events that can be observed.

Scientists are confined to observe Scientists are confined to observe known phenomena in the natural known phenomena in the natural realm; the truth of Jesus’ realm; the truth of Jesus’ resurrection is in the spiritual realm. resurrection is in the spiritual realm.

His life, death, and resurrection His life, death, and resurrection span both time and eternity.span both time and eternity.

An adequate view of natural law An adequate view of natural law does not preclude Divine does not preclude Divine intervention.intervention.

Too many proofs were offered by Too many proofs were offered by more than 500 eyewitnesses that more than 500 eyewitnesses that Jesus was alive after his crucifixion Jesus was alive after his crucifixion (1 Cor. 15:3-8).(1 Cor. 15:3-8).

Jesus was brought again from the Jesus was brought again from the dead with the blood of the eternal dead with the blood of the eternal covenant (Heb. 13:20).covenant (Heb. 13:20).

The tomb is still emptyThe tomb is still empty!!

He is unique in He is unique in redemptionredemption.. Jesus stands alone in being an Jesus stands alone in being an

offering for the sins of the world offering for the sins of the world (Tit. 2:11-14).(Tit. 2:11-14).

He freely offered up himself He freely offered up himself (Heb. 7:26-28; 9:11-12).(Heb. 7:26-28; 9:11-12).

He alone could make purification for He alone could make purification for all sin (Heb. 1:3).all sin (Heb. 1:3).

Not only does he serve as Prophet, Not only does he serve as Prophet, Priest, and King, but he is the once-Priest, and King, but he is the once-offered, complete, and final sin-offered, complete, and final sin-bearer (2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 10:10-14).bearer (2 Cor. 5:21; Heb. 10:10-14).

He came that we might have life, He came that we might have life, and have it more abundantly and have it more abundantly (John 10:10).(John 10:10).

The teachings of Jesus stand The teachings of Jesus stand alone as unique to all of history. alone as unique to all of history. The death, resurrection, ascension, The death, resurrection, ascension,

and the bestowal of the Holy Spirit and the bestowal of the Holy Spirit to the apostles unleashed the to the apostles unleashed the kingdomkingdom in all of its power and in all of its power and activity.activity.

Peter and the apostles preached Peter and the apostles preached the kingdom and the coronation the kingdom and the coronation (Acts 2). (Acts 2).

From this time onward, the kingdom From this time onward, the kingdom was preached regularly by the was preached regularly by the apostles.apostles.

Peter continued to preach the Peter continued to preach the kingdom (Acts 3:14-15; 4:11, 27; kingdom (Acts 3:14-15; 4:11, 27; 5:31; 2 Pet. 1:11).5:31; 2 Pet. 1:11).

Paul preached the kingdom (Acts Paul preached the kingdom (Acts 14:22; 19.8; 20:25; 28:23, 31).14:22; 19.8; 20:25; 28:23, 31).

John the Baptist preached the John the Baptist preached the coming of the kingdom, as did also coming of the kingdom, as did also Jesus (Matt. 3:2; 9:35; John 3:5; Jesus (Matt. 3:2; 9:35; John 3:5; 4:1-2; Acts 1:3).4:1-2; Acts 1:3).

This recalled to the mind of the This recalled to the mind of the Jews the visions of Daniel (Dan. Jews the visions of Daniel (Dan. 2:44: 7:13-14).2:44: 7:13-14).

Jesus taught his disciples to pray Jesus taught his disciples to pray for the fulfillment of God’s eternal for the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose in the coming of the purpose in the coming of the kingdom (Matt. 6:10).kingdom (Matt. 6:10).

Jesus taught that this kingdom Jesus taught that this kingdom would come during the lifetime of would come during the lifetime of some of his hearers, and it would be some of his hearers, and it would be with power (Mark 9:1).with power (Mark 9:1).

He also taught that the power was He also taught that the power was to come when the apostles received to come when the apostles received the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8).the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8).

Since the Holy Spirit came upon Since the Holy Spirit came upon them on that first Pentecost them on that first Pentecost following his ascension, they following his ascension, they received power to accomplish the received power to accomplish the work of apostles (Acts 2:1-4).work of apostles (Acts 2:1-4).

The only proper conclusion is that The only proper conclusion is that since the Holy Spirit came and since the Holy Spirit came and brought the power, the kingdom brought the power, the kingdom must also have come.must also have come.

This Pentecost day fits perfectly the This Pentecost day fits perfectly the claim of Jesus that such would claim of Jesus that such would happen during the lifetime of some happen during the lifetime of some of his hearers.of his hearers.

The ethical teaching of Jesus about The ethical teaching of Jesus about the conduct of those in his kingdom the conduct of those in his kingdom was a major part of the Sermon on was a major part of the Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7).the Mount (Matt. 5-7).

Jesus compared the kingdom to the Jesus compared the kingdom to the sower, the tares, the mustard seed, sower, the tares, the mustard seed, leaven, a treasure, a pearl of great leaven, a treasure, a pearl of great price, a net, and a householder price, a net, and a householder (Matt. 13).(Matt. 13).

The great judgment teachings of The great judgment teachings of Jesus (ten virgins, distribution of Jesus (ten virgins, distribution of talents, and the judgment scene) talents, and the judgment scene) portrayed truths about the kingdom portrayed truths about the kingdom (Matt. 25).(Matt. 25).

Thus the apostles could later preach Thus the apostles could later preach and write about the kingdom (Rom. and write about the kingdom (Rom. 14:17; Col. 1:13; 4:11; 1 Thess. 2:12; 14:17; Col. 1:13; 4:11; 1 Thess. 2:12; Heb. 12:28; Rev. 1:6, 9). Heb. 12:28; Rev. 1:6, 9).

The first recorded sermon of the The first recorded sermon of the Lord startled the Jewish world by its Lord startled the Jewish world by its principles,principles, and these principles and these principles continue to amaze all humanity.continue to amaze all humanity.

Jesus taught that the Jesus taught that the meekmeek will inherit will inherit the earth, that is, the meek will find the earth, that is, the meek will find the greatest fulfillment of all joy and the greatest fulfillment of all joy and happiness in this life (Matt. 5:5). The happiness in this life (Matt. 5:5). The Jews expected that their Messiah to Jews expected that their Messiah to be a world conqueror, a mighty king be a world conqueror, a mighty king waging triumphant warfare, and to waging triumphant warfare, and to make the Jews the rulers of the world. make the Jews the rulers of the world.

How this must have upset the ones How this must have upset the ones looking for a physical world looking for a physical world conquest, and how this continues to conquest, and how this continues to be a counter-culture correct be a counter-culture correct principle!principle!

Jesus taught that Jesus taught that mercymercy is the is the highest quality in one’s relationships highest quality in one’s relationships with other human beings (Matt. 5:7). with other human beings (Matt. 5:7). Such concern for others and their Such concern for others and their mistakes startled a culture that was mistakes startled a culture that was aggressive in revenge and the claim aggressive in revenge and the claim of one’s rights.of one’s rights.

Jesus taught Jesus taught purity in heartpurity in heart (Matt. (Matt. 5:8). Rather than brooding on ugly 5:8). Rather than brooding on ugly things, feeding on filth, ranting on things, feeding on filth, ranting on revenge, Jesus described the true revenge, Jesus described the true inner person as being more and inner person as being more and more like God.more like God.

Jesus taught that the better way is Jesus taught that the better way is to be a to be a peacemakerpeacemaker (Matt. 5:9). In (Matt. 5:9). In a world torn apart by successive a world torn apart by successive wars and conquests, Jesus wars and conquests, Jesus announced the best way is to seek announced the best way is to seek peace. In all the horrors of wars in peace. In all the horrors of wars in our own lifetime, the principle is our own lifetime, the principle is surely different even today.surely different even today.

Jesus taught the Jesus taught the control of angercontrol of anger (Matt. 5:22-26). The only way to (Matt. 5:22-26). The only way to cease growing the trees of adversity cease growing the trees of adversity is to cut the root at the source.is to cut the root at the source.

Jesus reinforced God’s wish about Jesus reinforced God’s wish about morality vs. adultery in placing morality vs. adultery in placing emphasis on emphasis on lust in the heartlust in the heart (Matt. (Matt. 5:28). He gave a new meaning to 5:28). He gave a new meaning to self-control, that of the inner man.self-control, that of the inner man.

Jesus taught Jesus taught non-resistancenon-resistance (Matt. (Matt. 5:38-40). Flight from violence only 5:38-40). Flight from violence only feeds the fires of the violent. If one feeds the fires of the violent. If one turns the other cheek, the turns the other cheek, the unprepared enemy is disarmed.unprepared enemy is disarmed.

Crowning the teaching about Crowning the teaching about treatment between persons, Jesus treatment between persons, Jesus taught the taught the love of enemieslove of enemies (Matt. (Matt. 5:43-45). This was unheard of prior 5:43-45). This was unheard of prior to Jesus, and it still calls for the to Jesus, and it still calls for the highest of motives and actions in highest of motives and actions in persons seeking to do the will of persons seeking to do the will of God.God.

The crown of all his teachings is the The crown of all his teachings is the fact that Jesus taught fact that Jesus taught total trust in total trust in GodGod (Matt. 6:25-34). If God cares (Matt. 6:25-34). If God cares for all of His creatures, He will for all of His creatures, He will surely care for those made in His surely care for those made in His image.image.

Jesus Christ stands alone in all Jesus Christ stands alone in all the history of the world.the history of the world.

There is no gospel without Jesus There is no gospel without Jesus Christ.Christ.

The gospel centers in Christ.The gospel centers in Christ. The gospel is Christ.The gospel is Christ. No other person in all of history has No other person in all of history has

had the impact and force of Jesus had the impact and force of Jesus of Nazareth.of Nazareth.

Without the humble man of Galilee Without the humble man of Galilee Christianity is only an empty shell, a Christianity is only an empty shell, a mere corpse overlaid with elaborate mere corpse overlaid with elaborate ritual and extravagant trappings, ritual and extravagant trappings, and spiritually meaningless.and spiritually meaningless.

Jesus Christ is the very heart and Jesus Christ is the very heart and life of salvation.life of salvation.

His claim is unanswerable: “I am the His claim is unanswerable: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no way, and the truth, and the life: no one cometh unto the Father, but by one cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6).me” (John 14:6).

Jesus has provided the Jesus has provided the wayway to to heaven, he has revealed it in the heaven, he has revealed it in the truthtruth of the gospel, and when men put of the gospel, and when men put those two things together, they can those two things together, they can find find life eternallife eternal..

There is a There is a wayway, , there is the there is the truthtruth, , and and eternal lifeeternal life can be the can be the

reward!reward!

One stands is absolute awe!One stands is absolute awe! One can only conclude with One can only conclude with

Thomas: Thomas: ““My Lord and my God” ! My Lord and my God” !

(John 20:28) (John 20:28)