Thank you for studying with us.
As we are coming to know God we must aim to KNOW HIM. There is no other way to know Him except to spend quality time with Him. We really must reach the point where we are having a daily INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM. This requires talking with Him, one on one regularly. How?, set aside a time everyday to isolate ourselves from all distractions and enjoy a time with Father in solitude.
“I want to, but I can’s find the time.” Well, this is declaring that you prefer other things over God. No matter what your state of life there is always some things that we like to do like a favorite TV show, going to a movie, spending time on the phone, meeting with friends, neighbors, reading, etc. There is somethings that we find time for always. There is NO EXCUSE for failure to have that one on one relationship with God daily. If we do things that we find time to do for pleasure, OR“necessity”we are declaring that everything in our lives is preferable to talking to our creator.
Jesus reminded the rich young man that to love God with all our being is still a COMMAND. Not giving that one on one daily “sit down” with Father is a direct failure to LOVE HIM.
Let us work now to TRULY love God by having a period of time daily to have a genuine “chat” with. THERE IS NO OTHER WAY TO KNOW HIM AND LOVE HIM.
PLEASE ACCEPT HIS COMMAND TO LOVE HIM BY PLACING ALL THINGS IN HIS HANDS, TALK TO HIM IN PRAYER, PRAYER THAT IS CONVERSATIONAL, NOT READ OR ROTE, HE WILL COMMUNICATE WITH YOU AND GIVE YOU WONDERFUL PEACE AND JOY.
GOD LOVES YOU AND HE WANTS YOUR LOVE.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Monday, June 25, 2012
Father and Son
Today's study really will require work. In our efforts to know God we need to spend quality time in the Word of God. This means to dedicate a portion of each day studying and dwelling on the scriptures. Please take all the time you need SLOWLY absorbing the Word so that the love of God for You becomes part of you and in that way we come perfection through His Word. Please read only as much as you can fully comprehend that message for your day. No hurry. Rejoice!!!
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TheBible.net :: God, Christ & the Holy Spirit
Why Did Jesus Come To Earth?
By Jody L. Apple
Introduction
A popular song contains the following lyrics: “Why did my Savior come to earth, and to the humble go? Why did He choose a lowly birth? Because He loved me so.” The second verse continues: “Why did He drink the bitter cup, of sorrow, pain and woe? Why on the cross be lifted up? Because He loved me so?” (song by J.G. Dailey)
Though we are to sing songs that reflect scriptural truths (cf. I Cor 14:15), and even though this song does that, it would be untrue to contend that this, or any other, song teaches all that we really need to know about its subject matter.
Why did Jesus come to this world? Why was He born as He was? Because He loved us? Certainly this is true. Why did he endure the suffering and affliction, and finally, death upon the cross? Because he loved us? Again, this is most definitely the case.
But, as we have already indicated, this is certainly an incomplete explanation. By examining the scriptures in greater detail we can learn much more concerning the divine reasons that lie behind Jesus' entrance into this world, and ultimately - his death, in human form. Perhaps no better place to begin our examination exists than the second chapter of Hebrews. By concentrating our efforts here we will note how the inspired author repeatedly provides us with key truths about the incarnation and death of Christ, among them the following:
Reasons Why Jesus Came To Die
(1) Christ came to be like man because God was “mindful” of h/Him (Heb 2:5ff).
Genesis provides a divine account of creation. God, through Christ (Jn 1:1ff; Col 1:13ff; Heb 1:1ff), created all that exists through the power of his word (Gen 1:3; Ps 33:6-9). He created it all for a purpose (Rev 4:11; Is 46:10), and that purpose centers around the capstone of God's creation, mankind.
God’s mindfulness of man exists for at least two reasons. First, Genesis 1:26ff teaches that the God created man in “our” image (“in the image of God” - vs 27, an obvious reference to the Godhead—Father, Son and Spirit), and that man was given dominion over the rest of creation. It is to this positioning of mankind in God's creation that prompts the Hebrew writer, as did the Psalmist before him (Ps 8:4ff), to ask “what is man?”
Second, though neither the Hebrew writer nor the Psalmist completely answers the question in the immediate context of its asking, more of an answer can be found in the general context of the creation account in Genesis. The continuing account of the creation in Genesis two tells us that God “breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Gen 2:7). Though part of the answer to the question “what is man” is that man was made in God’s image, the “soulness” of man provides additional insight to God's mindfulness of man (cf. Eccl 12: 7; 1 Thess 5:23).
Man as soul, though not eternal as is God, is nonetheless immortal. Man has a beginning (God has none), but man's existence is never ending (Mt 25:46). It is because man is a soul created in the image of God and will continue to exist forever that God is so mindful of him. Of the totality of God’s creation, nothing other than man is depicted as having the potential to exist into eternity. Thus, both the creation of man in the image of God and the soulness of man indicate reasons for God’s mindfulness of man.
(2) Christ came to be like man because in so doing he completed the subjection of all things to himself started by Adam/mankind in Genesis (Gen 1:26ff; Heb 2:8ff).
Mankind was created a “little lower than the angels” (Heb 2:7), but he was set over God's creation (cf Gen 1:26ff mentioned above) to subject it (creation) to himself. Here the Hebrew writer shifts from alluding to mankind generally to one man specifically, that is Jesus (Heb 2:9). The allusion to mankind being created in God's image, and thus God's concern for him, is connected with the incarnation of Christ.
There exists a connection between the incarnation of Christ and the subjection of creation to mankind. Christ, in coming to save mankind (God's ultimate purpose - 2 Pet 3:9; 1 Tim 2:3-4; Mt 1:21; 18:11; Lk 19:10), also came to demonstrate his power and subjugation of all things to himself (cf. 1 Cor 15: 24ff). This provides not only a reason for the miraculous events in his life (i.e., triumphing over the physical world, e.g. Mt 8:1ff; Jn 20:30-31), but also why He came to battle the enemies of this world (Satan, the god of this world [2 Cor 4:4] - Heb 2:14;1 Jn 3:8; worldly powers - Eph 1:21; 6:12; and sin - Gal 1:4; 4:3; et. al. ).
Christ's overcoming of the world (Jn 16:33ff) was accomplished because He was not of this world (Jn 17:14ff). As a result, we are to abstain from worldly things (1 Jn 2:15ff) and keep ourselves unspotted from the world (James 1:27). We are able to do so because He that is in us (Christ) is greater than he that is in the world (1 Jn 4:4; cf. 5:4). All of this is related to the completion of Christ's work of subjugation which started in Adam.
(3) Christ came to be a man so that he could die (Heb 2:9ff).
This is one of the main focal points of Hebrews. Hebrew Christians, familiar with the old testament scheme of forgiveness, understood the necessity of animal sacrifices (cf. Lev 16-17). The Hebrew writer argues convincingly that animal sacrifices, though able to “sanctify to the purifying of the flesh” (9:13), could only do so incompletely (9:9-14; 10:1ff). What really made the offering of sacrifices complete, and thus those who relied upon it perfect, was the sacrifice of the Son of God (Heb 10:10).
But, in order to die, Jesus had to be capable of dying. God is eternal (1 Tim 1:17; Ps 10:16), and so is Christ (Jn 1:1ff; 8:58; Gen 1:1ff). How could the eternal Christ die? Death only applies to this physical world. The answer is obvious.
In order to die a physical death, Jesus had to become part of this physical world. This He did by becoming man (Jn 1:14; Col 1:19; 2:9). As a man, Jesus could die, and thus “taste death for every man” (Heb 2:9).
(4) Christ came to be like man so that he could suffer as a man (Heb 2:10ff).
Though Jesus came in the likeness of man to die, He also came to suffer, and to provide an example for us in doing so (cf. 1 Pet 2:21ff). The Hebrew writer elsewhere argues that Christ demonstrated obedience through his suffering (5:8-9), an element (i.e. obedience) synonymous with righteousness (cf. Rom 5:18-19; Lk 1:6). The suffering that Christ endured was more than just that of the cross.
Christ endured persecution and suffering throughout His life. He was tempted by Satan (Mt 4:1ff; Lk 4:1ff, esp 13). He was called the devil (Mt 12:24; Jn 10:20). He was accused of teaching contrary to the law (Jn 9:29). His life was in physical jeopardy (Mt 21:46; Lk 22:2; Jn 5:18; 7:1). He constantly encountered challenges from religious leaders (Mt 12:10ff; 15:1ff; 21:23ff). All of these things (and more) indicate that Jesus suffered in numerous ways in addition to the physical sufferings involved in His death by crucifixion.
By doing so Jesus provided hope for us. He told us that we would be persecuted (Mt 5:10-12; 10:24-25), a promise mentioned many times in the new testament writings: “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Tim 3:12), and “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you...” (1 Pet 4:12).
Peter informs us that suffering was part of the reason we were called to be Christians (1 Pet 2:21, cf. 2 Thess 2:14). In so doing we follow in the footsteps and example of Jesus as he lived and suffered in bodily form on this earth.
(5) Christ came to be like man so that He could sanctify man (Heb 2:11ff).
In order for man to be sanctified, that is set apart or made holy, Christ had to be like mankind. The Hebrew writer said that the one sanctifying (Christ) and those sanctified (obedient believers) are “all of one.” This simply means that a unique relationship exists between Christ and man that allows for such sanctification to occur. This unique relationship occurred only because Christ became like man.
When Christ died upon the cross in bodily form he provided the avenue of sanctification for mankind (cf Heb 10:10). The process by which this occurs is as follows: (a) Christ was sanctified of God (Jn 10:36); (b) Christ sanctified himself (Jn 17:19); (c) those obedient to Christ’s will (truth) are said to be sanctified by the truth (Jn 17:17, 19; Acts 20:32, esp 2 Th 2:13); and (d) we are thus said to be sanctified in Christ (1 Cor 1:2, 30; 6:11).
All of this was made possible because of the death of Christ.
(6) Christ came to be like man so that man could be in fellowship with Him and the heavenly Father (Heb 2:11-12).
Hebrews 2:11 says that Christ was not ashamed to call mankind “brethren.” Scripture uses the term “brother” (or brethren) in several senses: (a) all men are brothers in the sense that all are flesh and blood (Heb 2:11); (b) men are brothers in the sense of sharing a common ancestral/genealogical background (e.g., Ananias and Paul - Acts 9:17; Stephen and his persecutors - Acts 7:2); (c) men are brothers in the sense of having the same parents [cf. Peter and Andrew (Mt. 4:18; 10:2; Lk 6:14; Jn 1:40; 6:8); James and John (Mt 4:21; 10:2; 17:1; Mk 1:19; 3:17; 5:37; 10:35, 41; Lk 5:10; Acts 12:2)]; and (d) men and women are brothers and sisters when they are obedient to the will of God, thus becoming God’s children (Mt 12:46-50; Mk 3:35; Lk 8:21; Gal 4:1ff; 1 Jn 3:1ff).
The first mention of “brethren” in this context (Heb 2:11) is most likely a reference to the physical relation Christ and man shared because they both existed in bodily form. The latter reference, however, demonstrates the use of “brethren” as it applies to those doing God’s will.When we are obedient to the will of God we are God’s children, and thus in fellowship with Him. John wrote saying that the fellowship Christians had with each other was more than fellowship among men, it was fellowship with God the Father and Jesus Christ (1 Jn 1:1ff).
(7) Christ came to be like man so that we might understand God and worship Him (Heb 2:12).
In this respect Christ is an intricate part of the worship of God’s people. This passage alludes to His being praised in the midst of the church, but other passages speak of the communion (i.e., fellowship) that we have with Christ as we partake of the Lord’s supper (cf. 1 Cor 10:16ff). This is only a small part of the joint participation that we have with God and Christ (cf 1 Jn 1:1ff, point 6), all of which is due to the incarnation of Christ.
(8) Christ came to be like man so that he could die and provide mankind a way of escape from death (Heb 2:9ff).
This is very much related to our third point above. The development of that facet of our discussion was rather broad based. Christ's subjugation of all things, as a continuation of the dominion of creation initially given to mankind in Adam, includes subjugation of death and the power of death. It was as a result of the sin of Eve and Adam that the sentence of death came upon them, and ultimately all mankind (cf. Gen 2:17; 3:1ff; Rom 5:12ff).
But Jesus did not provide a way to escape death and its grasp simply by coming as a man and enduring death Himself. The death of Christ upon the cross certainly confirmed that he really did come in bodily form (cf Col 1-2; 1 Jn 1:1ff; 2 Jn 7), but it was something in addition to his death that destroyed the power of death.
That additional element, of course, is the resurrection of Christ. Paul argued vigorously in 1 Corinthians 15 of the possibility of resurrection generally, and the necessity of Christ's resurrection specifically. If physical resurrection was impossible, and Christ's did not occur, our preaching and our faith is vain. Those who claimed to be witnesses of the resurrection are liars. Those who have already died believing in the resurrection, and thus the “certainty” of their own, are without hope. We are still in our sins, and we are all most miserable (cf. 1 Cor 15:13-19).
Contrary to this position Paul affirms that Christ has not only risen, His resurrection is the guarantee (“the first fruits”) of our own resurrection (15:20). He then declares how it is this occurred, and in so doing, confirms the exclusive relationship that exists between the man Jesus Christ and mankind generally. Paul states: “For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.” (1 Cor 15:21-22)
What does this mean? Simply that it was in order for Christ to die and resurrect from the grave because Adam died. Death was introduced by a man (Adam), and resurrection was introduced by a man (Christ, the second/last Adam -1 Cor 15:45ff; Rom 5:12ff). Death came because of Adam—due to sin, but life came because of Christ—due to His sacrifice for sin.
There is now, therefore, no longer any strength in death. It is “swallowed up in victory” (1 Cor 15:54) because Jesus Christ rose from the grave and conquered it. This could only have been accomplished because Christ came to this world and lived and died as a man.
(9) Christ came to be like man so that He could become the perfect sacrifice. (Heb 2:17)
This facet of the necessity of Christ’s death is tied to the second and third points made above. Jesus’ death and suffering and His existence as a perfect sacrifice are all related.
The old covenant taught that a connection existed between the offering of animal sacrifices and atonement (cf. Lev 16-17). More specifically, that covenant emphasized it was because of the shed blood of those sacrificial animals atonement occurred (cf. Lev 16:14-16, 18-19, 30, 32-34). The focal point of old testament sacrifices and the forgiveness they procured was blood.
The Hebrew writer concurs with that premise, not just because it has old testament application, but because it has new covenant application as well. Without shedding blood, there is no forgiveness of sins (Heb 9:22). Part of the difference between the covenants is their respective sacrifices: the old one required the death of animals, but the new one required the death of Christ. In fact, the old covenant animal sacrifices pre-figured the new covenant sacrifice of Christ (Heb 5-10).
Why the sacrifice of Christ? Because the blood of Christ was the ultimate atoning factor necessary for the forgiveness of sins (cf. Eph 1:7; Col 1:14). While the old covenant stressed the importance of animal sacrifices, the new covenant is just as emphatic in declaring the necessity of the blood of Christ (cf Mt 26:26-28; Rom 3:25; 5:9; 1 Cor 10:16; 11:25-27; Eph 2:13; Col 1:20; Heb 13:12, 20; 12:24; 1 Pet 1:2, 19).
Christ’s death, specifically His blood shed in death, thus provided the perfect sacrifice for man. (Note the interrelation of death, blood and atonement in Rom 5:9-11).
(10) Christ came to be like man so that He could be the perfect High Priest. (Heb 2:17)
Jesus occupies a unique position in God’s plan to save mankind. For example, among other singularities, He is the only mediator between God and man (1 Tim 2:5); He is the Holy one of God (Lk 4:34); He is the only Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor 8:6); He is the only begotten of God (Jn 3:16); He is our only master (Mt 23:8, 10); He is our one means to righteousness (Rom 5:17); He is the singular seed of the promise made to Abraham (Gal 3:16); and He is the only one in whom all things in heaven and earth are gathered together (Eph 1:10).
But, as it relates to our discussion of Christ’s incarnation and death, He is unique in that he alone functioned as both sacrifice (#9) and the one who offered the sacrifice (cf Heb 10:10, 14; 13:12).
A comparison and contrast of Christ’s sacrifice with those of old testament animal sacrifices yields many interesting points. Of special interest in our present discussion is this simple point: the animal sacrifices of old paralleled, and thus prefigured, Christ’s in that both involved death and blood, and both were innocent of sin. Unlike the sacrifice of Christ, however, the animals were offered unwillingly. Jesus willingly offered himself as the only sacrifice that could really provide for the forgiveness of sins (Jn 10:17-18; Mt 26:26ff; Acts 2:38ff).
Because the high priests offered sacrifices under the law of Moses, and because Christ offers Himself in order to establish the new covenant (cf Heb 5:1ff), Christ is referred to as a high priest after Melchizedek’s order (Heb 7:1ff, 17). Christ did not establish himself as high priest, but God the Father, who referred to Christ as “Son” and “begotten,” called Christ a priest like Melchizedek (Heb 5:6).
Thus, Christ was perfectly suited to be both the offerer and the sacrifice that cleanses us from sin.
(11) Christ came to be like man so that He could save man (Heb 2:9ff).
God’s ultimate purpose involves the salvation of mankind through Christ. God doesn’t want anyone to perish (2 Pet 3:9); He wants all to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Tim 2:3-4). In order to accomplish His will God sent His Son - “the grace of God that brings salvation” (Titus 2:11) - so that all the world could know of God’s will.
It is not surprising, then, to learn that the will of Christ was the same as that of the heavenly Father. Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Mt 18:11; Lk 19:10). He came to do the will of His Father (Jn 4:34; 5:19; 6:38).
While on earth Jesus had the power to forgive sins (Mt 9:5-6). But His purpose was not fully realized by forgiving sins only while He lived here. According to God’s plan, Jesus came to this earth to make things ready for the establishment of God’s kingdom (Is 2:1-4; Mic 4;1-2; Dan 2:44), the church which Jesus promised to build (cf Mt 3:1; 4:17; 16:18-19; Col 1:13). Jesus shed His blood for this church (Mt 26:26ff; Acts 20:28), and by that shed blood He would institute a new covenant (Heb 7:22; 8:6-13; 9:15ff) and provide for the remission of sins beyond His life on this earth (cf Mt 26:26ff; Acts 2:38; Heb 7:25; 8:12; 9:14).
The church which Jesus died for was, and is, a body of saved people (Acts 2:47; Eph 5:23). It is God’s ultimate earthly culmination to provide for the salvation of mankind (Eph 1:10; Eph 3:8ff). By obedience to the message of God and Christ, commonly styled the gospel, souls are simultaneously saved (Acts 2:38-42; 11:14; Rom 1:5; 16:25; James 1:22; 1 Pet 1:22) and added to the church, the body of Christ (Acts 2:47; 1 Cor 12:13; Gal 3:26-28).
All of our discussion to this point indicates the extent to which Christ was willing to go to save man. Paul told the Philippians that Christ, though equal to God, became a servant in the likeness of man, and obediently humbled himself, even to the point of His death on the cross (Phil 2:5-8). In similar fashion, Paul told the Corinthians that Christ, though rich, became poor, so that they might be made rich (2 Cor 8:9ff). Christ did everything that He did so that we might have the hope of salvation (cf 1 Tim 4:10; Jn 1:12; 20:30-31; Gal 3:24ff).
(12) Christ came to be like man so that He could succor (aid) man (Heb 2:9ff).
Finally, Christ came to this world to be a man so that he could help us in a way that only He can. The Hebrew writer affirms this in the passage cited here (Heb 2:19), as well as in Hebrews 5:14-16. Christ is a high priest that has been put to the test. He is not one who can’t be touched by our weaknesses. Because he was tempted like we are tempted, and because he endured and overcame that temptation without sin (cf James 1:12ff), He is able to sustain us when we are in need. His willingness to suffer and die for man indicates how much He was willing to be like us so that He could help us. His life and example provide for us a declaration of the true nature of God (Jn 1:18) and His love for us.
Conclusion
As we conclude our discussion of why Christ came and died for us, consider that all of these things were done because it was proper for Christ to do so. The Hebrew writer states that it “behooved” Christ to be made like his brethren (Heb 2:17 - KJV). One translation renders this passage as “in all things he had to be made like His brethren.” (NKJ). The term translated as “behooved” or “had” is the word opheilo. It appears thirty-six times in the new testament, and is usually rendered as some form of owe, debt, duty, or ought. Only here does it appear as “behooved” (KJV). The term has to do with indebtedness, and a sense of duty and obligation.
It appears again in Hebrews with regard to the necessity of Christ’s death in 5:3 where the text reads “and by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.” In this passage opheilo is translated as ought (KJV). In another translation this verse appears as “Because of this he is required as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.” (NKJ). Here opheilo is rendered as oughtand required.
The significance of these passages seems simple enough. Jesus had to die. He was required to do so. There is a sense of oughtness about his death and what it accomplished that could not have been obtained in any other way. Only through the life and death of Christ could the salvation of man be procured. There was never any other way. From the beginning of time, and even before that, Jesus was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Is 53:7; Jn 1:29, 36; Acts 8:32; 1 Pet 1:19; Rev 5:6, 12; 7:14; 13:8).
These few reasons for the incarnation and death of Christ are only those gleaned by one fallible writer from one portion of one chapter of one inspired book in God's word. How much more might we appreciate the love of God and Christ by fully investigating all of His word to know even more about why our Savior came to this earth!
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TheBible.net :: God, Christ & the Holy Spirit
Why Did Jesus Come To Earth?
By Jody L. AppleIntroduction
A popular song contains the following lyrics: “Why did my Savior come to earth, and to the humble go? Why did He choose a lowly birth? Because He loved me so.” The second verse continues: “Why did He drink the bitter cup, of sorrow, pain and woe? Why on the cross be lifted up? Because He loved me so?” (song by J.G. Dailey)
Though we are to sing songs that reflect scriptural truths (cf. I Cor 14:15), and even though this song does that, it would be untrue to contend that this, or any other, song teaches all that we really need to know about its subject matter.
Why did Jesus come to this world? Why was He born as He was? Because He loved us? Certainly this is true. Why did he endure the suffering and affliction, and finally, death upon the cross? Because he loved us? Again, this is most definitely the case.
But, as we have already indicated, this is certainly an incomplete explanation. By examining the scriptures in greater detail we can learn much more concerning the divine reasons that lie behind Jesus' entrance into this world, and ultimately - his death, in human form. Perhaps no better place to begin our examination exists than the second chapter of Hebrews. By concentrating our efforts here we will note how the inspired author repeatedly provides us with key truths about the incarnation and death of Christ, among them the following:
Reasons Why Jesus Came To Die
(1) Christ came to be like man because God was “mindful” of h/Him (Heb 2:5ff).
Genesis provides a divine account of creation. God, through Christ (Jn 1:1ff; Col 1:13ff; Heb 1:1ff), created all that exists through the power of his word (Gen 1:3; Ps 33:6-9). He created it all for a purpose (Rev 4:11; Is 46:10), and that purpose centers around the capstone of God's creation, mankind.
God’s mindfulness of man exists for at least two reasons. First, Genesis 1:26ff teaches that the God created man in “our” image (“in the image of God” - vs 27, an obvious reference to the Godhead—Father, Son and Spirit), and that man was given dominion over the rest of creation. It is to this positioning of mankind in God's creation that prompts the Hebrew writer, as did the Psalmist before him (Ps 8:4ff), to ask “what is man?”
Second, though neither the Hebrew writer nor the Psalmist completely answers the question in the immediate context of its asking, more of an answer can be found in the general context of the creation account in Genesis. The continuing account of the creation in Genesis two tells us that God “breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Gen 2:7). Though part of the answer to the question “what is man” is that man was made in God’s image, the “soulness” of man provides additional insight to God's mindfulness of man (cf. Eccl 12: 7; 1 Thess 5:23).
Man as soul, though not eternal as is God, is nonetheless immortal. Man has a beginning (God has none), but man's existence is never ending (Mt 25:46). It is because man is a soul created in the image of God and will continue to exist forever that God is so mindful of him. Of the totality of God’s creation, nothing other than man is depicted as having the potential to exist into eternity. Thus, both the creation of man in the image of God and the soulness of man indicate reasons for God’s mindfulness of man.
(2) Christ came to be like man because in so doing he completed the subjection of all things to himself started by Adam/mankind in Genesis (Gen 1:26ff; Heb 2:8ff).
Mankind was created a “little lower than the angels” (Heb 2:7), but he was set over God's creation (cf Gen 1:26ff mentioned above) to subject it (creation) to himself. Here the Hebrew writer shifts from alluding to mankind generally to one man specifically, that is Jesus (Heb 2:9). The allusion to mankind being created in God's image, and thus God's concern for him, is connected with the incarnation of Christ.
There exists a connection between the incarnation of Christ and the subjection of creation to mankind. Christ, in coming to save mankind (God's ultimate purpose - 2 Pet 3:9; 1 Tim 2:3-4; Mt 1:21; 18:11; Lk 19:10), also came to demonstrate his power and subjugation of all things to himself (cf. 1 Cor 15: 24ff). This provides not only a reason for the miraculous events in his life (i.e., triumphing over the physical world, e.g. Mt 8:1ff; Jn 20:30-31), but also why He came to battle the enemies of this world (Satan, the god of this world [2 Cor 4:4] - Heb 2:14;1 Jn 3:8; worldly powers - Eph 1:21; 6:12; and sin - Gal 1:4; 4:3; et. al. ).
Christ's overcoming of the world (Jn 16:33ff) was accomplished because He was not of this world (Jn 17:14ff). As a result, we are to abstain from worldly things (1 Jn 2:15ff) and keep ourselves unspotted from the world (James 1:27). We are able to do so because He that is in us (Christ) is greater than he that is in the world (1 Jn 4:4; cf. 5:4). All of this is related to the completion of Christ's work of subjugation which started in Adam.
(3) Christ came to be a man so that he could die (Heb 2:9ff).
This is one of the main focal points of Hebrews. Hebrew Christians, familiar with the old testament scheme of forgiveness, understood the necessity of animal sacrifices (cf. Lev 16-17). The Hebrew writer argues convincingly that animal sacrifices, though able to “sanctify to the purifying of the flesh” (9:13), could only do so incompletely (9:9-14; 10:1ff). What really made the offering of sacrifices complete, and thus those who relied upon it perfect, was the sacrifice of the Son of God (Heb 10:10).
But, in order to die, Jesus had to be capable of dying. God is eternal (1 Tim 1:17; Ps 10:16), and so is Christ (Jn 1:1ff; 8:58; Gen 1:1ff). How could the eternal Christ die? Death only applies to this physical world. The answer is obvious.
In order to die a physical death, Jesus had to become part of this physical world. This He did by becoming man (Jn 1:14; Col 1:19; 2:9). As a man, Jesus could die, and thus “taste death for every man” (Heb 2:9).
(4) Christ came to be like man so that he could suffer as a man (Heb 2:10ff).
Though Jesus came in the likeness of man to die, He also came to suffer, and to provide an example for us in doing so (cf. 1 Pet 2:21ff). The Hebrew writer elsewhere argues that Christ demonstrated obedience through his suffering (5:8-9), an element (i.e. obedience) synonymous with righteousness (cf. Rom 5:18-19; Lk 1:6). The suffering that Christ endured was more than just that of the cross.
Christ endured persecution and suffering throughout His life. He was tempted by Satan (Mt 4:1ff; Lk 4:1ff, esp 13). He was called the devil (Mt 12:24; Jn 10:20). He was accused of teaching contrary to the law (Jn 9:29). His life was in physical jeopardy (Mt 21:46; Lk 22:2; Jn 5:18; 7:1). He constantly encountered challenges from religious leaders (Mt 12:10ff; 15:1ff; 21:23ff). All of these things (and more) indicate that Jesus suffered in numerous ways in addition to the physical sufferings involved in His death by crucifixion.
By doing so Jesus provided hope for us. He told us that we would be persecuted (Mt 5:10-12; 10:24-25), a promise mentioned many times in the new testament writings: “Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Tim 3:12), and “Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you...” (1 Pet 4:12).
Peter informs us that suffering was part of the reason we were called to be Christians (1 Pet 2:21, cf. 2 Thess 2:14). In so doing we follow in the footsteps and example of Jesus as he lived and suffered in bodily form on this earth.
(5) Christ came to be like man so that He could sanctify man (Heb 2:11ff).
In order for man to be sanctified, that is set apart or made holy, Christ had to be like mankind. The Hebrew writer said that the one sanctifying (Christ) and those sanctified (obedient believers) are “all of one.” This simply means that a unique relationship exists between Christ and man that allows for such sanctification to occur. This unique relationship occurred only because Christ became like man.
When Christ died upon the cross in bodily form he provided the avenue of sanctification for mankind (cf Heb 10:10). The process by which this occurs is as follows: (a) Christ was sanctified of God (Jn 10:36); (b) Christ sanctified himself (Jn 17:19); (c) those obedient to Christ’s will (truth) are said to be sanctified by the truth (Jn 17:17, 19; Acts 20:32, esp 2 Th 2:13); and (d) we are thus said to be sanctified in Christ (1 Cor 1:2, 30; 6:11).
All of this was made possible because of the death of Christ.
(6) Christ came to be like man so that man could be in fellowship with Him and the heavenly Father (Heb 2:11-12).
Hebrews 2:11 says that Christ was not ashamed to call mankind “brethren.” Scripture uses the term “brother” (or brethren) in several senses: (a) all men are brothers in the sense that all are flesh and blood (Heb 2:11); (b) men are brothers in the sense of sharing a common ancestral/genealogical background (e.g., Ananias and Paul - Acts 9:17; Stephen and his persecutors - Acts 7:2); (c) men are brothers in the sense of having the same parents [cf. Peter and Andrew (Mt. 4:18; 10:2; Lk 6:14; Jn 1:40; 6:8); James and John (Mt 4:21; 10:2; 17:1; Mk 1:19; 3:17; 5:37; 10:35, 41; Lk 5:10; Acts 12:2)]; and (d) men and women are brothers and sisters when they are obedient to the will of God, thus becoming God’s children (Mt 12:46-50; Mk 3:35; Lk 8:21; Gal 4:1ff; 1 Jn 3:1ff).
The first mention of “brethren” in this context (Heb 2:11) is most likely a reference to the physical relation Christ and man shared because they both existed in bodily form. The latter reference, however, demonstrates the use of “brethren” as it applies to those doing God’s will.When we are obedient to the will of God we are God’s children, and thus in fellowship with Him. John wrote saying that the fellowship Christians had with each other was more than fellowship among men, it was fellowship with God the Father and Jesus Christ (1 Jn 1:1ff).
(7) Christ came to be like man so that we might understand God and worship Him (Heb 2:12).
In this respect Christ is an intricate part of the worship of God’s people. This passage alludes to His being praised in the midst of the church, but other passages speak of the communion (i.e., fellowship) that we have with Christ as we partake of the Lord’s supper (cf. 1 Cor 10:16ff). This is only a small part of the joint participation that we have with God and Christ (cf 1 Jn 1:1ff, point 6), all of which is due to the incarnation of Christ.
(8) Christ came to be like man so that he could die and provide mankind a way of escape from death (Heb 2:9ff).
This is very much related to our third point above. The development of that facet of our discussion was rather broad based. Christ's subjugation of all things, as a continuation of the dominion of creation initially given to mankind in Adam, includes subjugation of death and the power of death. It was as a result of the sin of Eve and Adam that the sentence of death came upon them, and ultimately all mankind (cf. Gen 2:17; 3:1ff; Rom 5:12ff).
But Jesus did not provide a way to escape death and its grasp simply by coming as a man and enduring death Himself. The death of Christ upon the cross certainly confirmed that he really did come in bodily form (cf Col 1-2; 1 Jn 1:1ff; 2 Jn 7), but it was something in addition to his death that destroyed the power of death.
That additional element, of course, is the resurrection of Christ. Paul argued vigorously in 1 Corinthians 15 of the possibility of resurrection generally, and the necessity of Christ's resurrection specifically. If physical resurrection was impossible, and Christ's did not occur, our preaching and our faith is vain. Those who claimed to be witnesses of the resurrection are liars. Those who have already died believing in the resurrection, and thus the “certainty” of their own, are without hope. We are still in our sins, and we are all most miserable (cf. 1 Cor 15:13-19).
Contrary to this position Paul affirms that Christ has not only risen, His resurrection is the guarantee (“the first fruits”) of our own resurrection (15:20). He then declares how it is this occurred, and in so doing, confirms the exclusive relationship that exists between the man Jesus Christ and mankind generally. Paul states: “For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.” (1 Cor 15:21-22)
What does this mean? Simply that it was in order for Christ to die and resurrect from the grave because Adam died. Death was introduced by a man (Adam), and resurrection was introduced by a man (Christ, the second/last Adam -1 Cor 15:45ff; Rom 5:12ff). Death came because of Adam—due to sin, but life came because of Christ—due to His sacrifice for sin.
There is now, therefore, no longer any strength in death. It is “swallowed up in victory” (1 Cor 15:54) because Jesus Christ rose from the grave and conquered it. This could only have been accomplished because Christ came to this world and lived and died as a man.
(9) Christ came to be like man so that He could become the perfect sacrifice. (Heb 2:17)
This facet of the necessity of Christ’s death is tied to the second and third points made above. Jesus’ death and suffering and His existence as a perfect sacrifice are all related.
The old covenant taught that a connection existed between the offering of animal sacrifices and atonement (cf. Lev 16-17). More specifically, that covenant emphasized it was because of the shed blood of those sacrificial animals atonement occurred (cf. Lev 16:14-16, 18-19, 30, 32-34). The focal point of old testament sacrifices and the forgiveness they procured was blood.
The Hebrew writer concurs with that premise, not just because it has old testament application, but because it has new covenant application as well. Without shedding blood, there is no forgiveness of sins (Heb 9:22). Part of the difference between the covenants is their respective sacrifices: the old one required the death of animals, but the new one required the death of Christ. In fact, the old covenant animal sacrifices pre-figured the new covenant sacrifice of Christ (Heb 5-10).
Why the sacrifice of Christ? Because the blood of Christ was the ultimate atoning factor necessary for the forgiveness of sins (cf. Eph 1:7; Col 1:14). While the old covenant stressed the importance of animal sacrifices, the new covenant is just as emphatic in declaring the necessity of the blood of Christ (cf Mt 26:26-28; Rom 3:25; 5:9; 1 Cor 10:16; 11:25-27; Eph 2:13; Col 1:20; Heb 13:12, 20; 12:24; 1 Pet 1:2, 19).
Christ’s death, specifically His blood shed in death, thus provided the perfect sacrifice for man. (Note the interrelation of death, blood and atonement in Rom 5:9-11).
(10) Christ came to be like man so that He could be the perfect High Priest. (Heb 2:17)
Jesus occupies a unique position in God’s plan to save mankind. For example, among other singularities, He is the only mediator between God and man (1 Tim 2:5); He is the Holy one of God (Lk 4:34); He is the only Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor 8:6); He is the only begotten of God (Jn 3:16); He is our only master (Mt 23:8, 10); He is our one means to righteousness (Rom 5:17); He is the singular seed of the promise made to Abraham (Gal 3:16); and He is the only one in whom all things in heaven and earth are gathered together (Eph 1:10).
But, as it relates to our discussion of Christ’s incarnation and death, He is unique in that he alone functioned as both sacrifice (#9) and the one who offered the sacrifice (cf Heb 10:10, 14; 13:12).
A comparison and contrast of Christ’s sacrifice with those of old testament animal sacrifices yields many interesting points. Of special interest in our present discussion is this simple point: the animal sacrifices of old paralleled, and thus prefigured, Christ’s in that both involved death and blood, and both were innocent of sin. Unlike the sacrifice of Christ, however, the animals were offered unwillingly. Jesus willingly offered himself as the only sacrifice that could really provide for the forgiveness of sins (Jn 10:17-18; Mt 26:26ff; Acts 2:38ff).
Because the high priests offered sacrifices under the law of Moses, and because Christ offers Himself in order to establish the new covenant (cf Heb 5:1ff), Christ is referred to as a high priest after Melchizedek’s order (Heb 7:1ff, 17). Christ did not establish himself as high priest, but God the Father, who referred to Christ as “Son” and “begotten,” called Christ a priest like Melchizedek (Heb 5:6).
Thus, Christ was perfectly suited to be both the offerer and the sacrifice that cleanses us from sin.
(11) Christ came to be like man so that He could save man (Heb 2:9ff).
God’s ultimate purpose involves the salvation of mankind through Christ. God doesn’t want anyone to perish (2 Pet 3:9); He wants all to be saved and come to a knowledge of the truth (1 Tim 2:3-4). In order to accomplish His will God sent His Son - “the grace of God that brings salvation” (Titus 2:11) - so that all the world could know of God’s will.
It is not surprising, then, to learn that the will of Christ was the same as that of the heavenly Father. Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Mt 18:11; Lk 19:10). He came to do the will of His Father (Jn 4:34; 5:19; 6:38).
While on earth Jesus had the power to forgive sins (Mt 9:5-6). But His purpose was not fully realized by forgiving sins only while He lived here. According to God’s plan, Jesus came to this earth to make things ready for the establishment of God’s kingdom (Is 2:1-4; Mic 4;1-2; Dan 2:44), the church which Jesus promised to build (cf Mt 3:1; 4:17; 16:18-19; Col 1:13). Jesus shed His blood for this church (Mt 26:26ff; Acts 20:28), and by that shed blood He would institute a new covenant (Heb 7:22; 8:6-13; 9:15ff) and provide for the remission of sins beyond His life on this earth (cf Mt 26:26ff; Acts 2:38; Heb 7:25; 8:12; 9:14).
The church which Jesus died for was, and is, a body of saved people (Acts 2:47; Eph 5:23). It is God’s ultimate earthly culmination to provide for the salvation of mankind (Eph 1:10; Eph 3:8ff). By obedience to the message of God and Christ, commonly styled the gospel, souls are simultaneously saved (Acts 2:38-42; 11:14; Rom 1:5; 16:25; James 1:22; 1 Pet 1:22) and added to the church, the body of Christ (Acts 2:47; 1 Cor 12:13; Gal 3:26-28).
All of our discussion to this point indicates the extent to which Christ was willing to go to save man. Paul told the Philippians that Christ, though equal to God, became a servant in the likeness of man, and obediently humbled himself, even to the point of His death on the cross (Phil 2:5-8). In similar fashion, Paul told the Corinthians that Christ, though rich, became poor, so that they might be made rich (2 Cor 8:9ff). Christ did everything that He did so that we might have the hope of salvation (cf 1 Tim 4:10; Jn 1:12; 20:30-31; Gal 3:24ff).
(12) Christ came to be like man so that He could succor (aid) man (Heb 2:9ff).
Finally, Christ came to this world to be a man so that he could help us in a way that only He can. The Hebrew writer affirms this in the passage cited here (Heb 2:19), as well as in Hebrews 5:14-16. Christ is a high priest that has been put to the test. He is not one who can’t be touched by our weaknesses. Because he was tempted like we are tempted, and because he endured and overcame that temptation without sin (cf James 1:12ff), He is able to sustain us when we are in need. His willingness to suffer and die for man indicates how much He was willing to be like us so that He could help us. His life and example provide for us a declaration of the true nature of God (Jn 1:18) and His love for us.
Conclusion
As we conclude our discussion of why Christ came and died for us, consider that all of these things were done because it was proper for Christ to do so. The Hebrew writer states that it “behooved” Christ to be made like his brethren (Heb 2:17 - KJV). One translation renders this passage as “in all things he had to be made like His brethren.” (NKJ). The term translated as “behooved” or “had” is the word opheilo. It appears thirty-six times in the new testament, and is usually rendered as some form of owe, debt, duty, or ought. Only here does it appear as “behooved” (KJV). The term has to do with indebtedness, and a sense of duty and obligation.
It appears again in Hebrews with regard to the necessity of Christ’s death in 5:3 where the text reads “and by reason hereof he ought, as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.” In this passage opheilo is translated as ought (KJV). In another translation this verse appears as “Because of this he is required as for the people, so also for himself, to offer for sins.” (NKJ). Here opheilo is rendered as oughtand required.
The significance of these passages seems simple enough. Jesus had to die. He was required to do so. There is a sense of oughtness about his death and what it accomplished that could not have been obtained in any other way. Only through the life and death of Christ could the salvation of man be procured. There was never any other way. From the beginning of time, and even before that, Jesus was the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world (Is 53:7; Jn 1:29, 36; Acts 8:32; 1 Pet 1:19; Rev 5:6, 12; 7:14; 13:8).
These few reasons for the incarnation and death of Christ are only those gleaned by one fallible writer from one portion of one chapter of one inspired book in God's word. How much more might we appreciate the love of God and Christ by fully investigating all of His word to know even more about why our Savior came to this earth!
Friday, June 22, 2012
ADAM AND EVE
Adam and Eve
4 This is the account of the heavens and the earth when they were created, when the Lord God made the earth and the heavens.
5 Now no shrub had yet appeared on the earth[a] and no plant had yet sprung up, for the Lord God had not sent rain on the earth and there was no one to work the ground, 6 but streams[b] came up from the earth and watered the whole surface of the ground. 7 Then the Lord God formed a man[c] from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living being.
GOD, who is all above all, created you and me to be with Him to share His creation for all eternity. He wants us to enjoy all that He made and to worship Him by accepting His love. So many do not appreciate who GOD is. This is hard for me to understand. Even without a Bible and teachers, HE is visible in His creation. Some have seen Him in creation and before the Word was made manifest they worshiped GOD through objects of His creation. Today, we have the WORD being preached in so many ways, it is impossible to justify our failure to embrace our GOD. May we, who are blessed by the knowledge of the WORD, lead all in our lives to see God, and to receive and "hug" Him by living for HIM, and to His GLORY.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
THINK ABOUT IT
Taking a few moments to consider that which we have been studying, how Awesome is our God, The main thing I have been reminded of is, ALL That we can see and imagine is the handiwork of GOD.
In our daily walk on this earth, we need only look at everything we can see, hear, detect with our senses, is the creation of incredible complexity of the tiniest to the largest of what we see and sense is created by GOD. I constantly wonder how some folks are blind to HIS presence in EVERYTHING. The evolving things that we can detect is created by GOD. The complexity of HIS CREATION is mind boggling and can only lead us KNOW HOW AWESOME AND POWERFUL IS OUR GOD.
Praise God that modern science is coming to the TRUTH. There is no problem with wondering and questioning creation because the end result of genuinely seeking TRUTH finding GOD. More and more scientists are declaring that all of CREATION started with a power that ALWAYS WAS.
In our daily walk on this earth, we need only look at everything we can see, hear, detect with our senses, is the creation of incredible complexity of the tiniest to the largest of what we see and sense is created by GOD. I constantly wonder how some folks are blind to HIS presence in EVERYTHING. The evolving things that we can detect is created by GOD. The complexity of HIS CREATION is mind boggling and can only lead us KNOW HOW AWESOME AND POWERFUL IS OUR GOD.
Praise God that modern science is coming to the TRUTH. There is no problem with wondering and questioning creation because the end result of genuinely seeking TRUTH finding GOD. More and more scientists are declaring that all of CREATION started with a power that ALWAYS WAS.
Monday, June 18, 2012
KNOWING FATHER
In our search for intimacy with God we need to KNOW GOD. As we are studying the Word we find that to know our Father we need to know the Son. Our Lord has revealed himself in and through Jesus. To know our Father is to know His only begotten Son Jesus. In our study of the first words of Genesis, we are seeing the POWER of GOD, His loving creation and His relating to us HIS Awesomeness. We can only grow in adoration of our DAD by listening to His teachings as He has revealed Himself through His creation. His desire for the way He wants to be worshiped is revealed through His teachings concerning that which He expects of us through His teachings by JESUS. JESUS AND THE FATHER ARE ONE. TO REALLY KNOW THE FATHER IS TO KNOW HIS SON.
"IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD AND TH WORD WAS GOD.
THE SAME WAS IN THE BEGINNING WITH GOD.
ALL THINGS WERE MADE BY HIM; AND WITHOUT HIM WAS NOT ANYTHING MADE THAT WAS MADE." John 1:1-3
"And the WORD was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld Glory, as the only of the Father full of grace and truth."John1:14.
Jesus and the Father are ONE. KNOW JESUS AND YOU KNOW OUR FATHER THE SON of God is called the Word, seems to be, that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world. What the evangelist says of Christ proves that he is God. He asserts, His existence in the beginning; His coexistence with the Father. The Word was with God. All things were made by him, and not as an instrument. Without him was not any thing made that was made, from the highest angel to the meanest worm. This shows how well qualified he was for the work of our redemption and salvation. The light of reason, as well as the life of sense, is derived from him, and depends upon him. This eternal Word, this true Light shines, but the darkness comprehends it not. Let us pray without ceasing, that our eyes may be opened to behold this Light, that we may walk in it; and thus be made wise unto salvation, by faith in Jesus Christ.
"IN THE BEGINNING WAS THE WORD, AND THE WORD WAS WITH GOD AND TH WORD WAS GOD.
THE SAME WAS IN THE BEGINNING WITH GOD.
ALL THINGS WERE MADE BY HIM; AND WITHOUT HIM WAS NOT ANYTHING MADE THAT WAS MADE." John 1:1-3
"And the WORD was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld Glory, as the only of the Father full of grace and truth."John1:14.
Jesus and the Father are ONE. KNOW JESUS AND YOU KNOW OUR FATHER THE SON of God is called the Word, seems to be, that as our words explain our minds to others, so was the Son of God sent in order to reveal his Father's mind to the world. What the evangelist says of Christ proves that he is God. He asserts, His existence in the beginning; His coexistence with the Father. The Word was with God. All things were made by him, and not as an instrument. Without him was not any thing made that was made, from the highest angel to the meanest worm. This shows how well qualified he was for the work of our redemption and salvation. The light of reason, as well as the life of sense, is derived from him, and depends upon him. This eternal Word, this true Light shines, but the darkness comprehends it not. Let us pray without ceasing, that our eyes may be opened to behold this Light, that we may walk in it; and thus be made wise unto salvation, by faith in Jesus Christ.
Commentary on John 1:6-14
Sunday, June 17, 2012
FATHER'S DAY
May we all on this day give honor and glory to our FATHER in heaven as we honor our earthly Dad's. We do this in true gratitude for our families and opportunity to lead them to our GOD, our heavenly FATHER who empowers us to live holy lives. Thank you FATHER.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
AWESOME
As we study these words of wisdom we need to take as much time as necessary to come to an understanding of GOD. Getting to really know Him takes a dedication to our creator and savior. The most satisfying experience of this life is to KNOW GOD. As we launch into our study let us do so in a prayerful mode. We must take the time as we read these comments to concentrate on the content. A quick once over will accomplish nothing. Go at your pace that allows you to absorb, and enjoy our expanding knowledge of GOD.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
<< Introduction to Genesis | Genesis 1 | Genesis 2 >>
(Read all of Genesis 1)
Related Commentaries
Genesis 1
• Matthew Henry’s Commentary
• Wesley’s Explanatory Notes
Related Books
Genesis 1
Encountering the Book of Genesis By Bill T. Arnold
Genesis (Mastering the Old Testament) By Lloyd J. Ogilvie
Life Lessons: Book of Genesis By Max Lucado
Chapter Contents
God creates heaven and earth. (1,2) The creation of light. (3-5) God separates the earth from the waters, and makes it fruitful. (6-13) God forms the sun, moon, and stars. (14-19) Animals created. (20-25) Man created in the image of God. (26-28) Food appointed. (29,30) The work of creation ended and approved. (31)
Commentary on Genesis 1:1,2
(Read Genesis 1:1,2)
The first verse of the Bible gives us a satisfying and useful account of the origin of the earth and the heavens. The faith of humble Christians understands this better than the fancy of the most learned men. From what we see of heaven and earth, we learn the power of the great Creator. And let our make and place as men, remind us of our duty as Christians, always to keep heaven in our eye, and the earth under our feet. The Son of God, one with the Father, was with him when he made the world; nay, we are often told that the world was made by him, and nothing was made without him. Oh, what high thoughts should there be in our minds, of that great God whom we worship, and of that great Mediator in whose name we pray! And here, at the beginning of the sacred volume, we read of that Divine Spirit, whose work upon the heart of man is so often mentioned in other parts of the Bible. Observe, that at first there was nothing desirable to be seen, for the world was without form, and void; it was confusion, and emptiness. In like manner the work of grace in the soul is a new creation: and in a graceless soul, one that is not born again, there is disorder, confusion, and every evil work: it is empty of all good, for it is without God; it is dark, it is darkness itself: this is our condition by nature, till Almighty grace works a change in us.
Commentary on Genesis 1:3-5
(Read Genesis 1:3-5)
God said, Let there be light; he willed it, and at once there was light. Oh, the power of the word of God! And in the new creation, the first thing that is wrought in the soul is light: the blessed Spirit works upon the will and affections by enlightening the understanding. Those who by sin were darkness, by grace become light in the Lord. Darkness would have been always upon fallen man, if the Son of God had not come and given us understanding, 1 John 5:20. The light which God willed, he approved of. God divided the light from the darkness; for what fellowship has light with darkness? In heaven there is perfect light, and no darkness at all; in hell, utter darkness, and no gleam of light. The day and the night are the Lord's; let us use both to his honour, by working for him every day, and resting in him every night, meditating in his law both day and night.
Commentary on Genesis 1:6-13
(Read Genesis 1:6-13)
The earth was emptiness, but by a word spoken, it became full of God's riches, and his they are still. Though the use of them is allowed to man, they are from God, and to his service and honour they must be used. The earth, at his command, brings forth grass, herbs, and fruits. God must have the glory of all the benefit we receive from the produce of the earth. If we have, through grace, an interest in Him who is the Fountain, we may rejoice in him when the streams of temporal mercies are dried up.
Commentary on Genesis 1:14-19
(Read Genesis 1:14-19)
In the fourth day's work, the creation of the sun, moon, and stars is accounted for. All these are the works of God. The stars are spoken of as they appear to our eyes, without telling their number, nature, place, size, or motions; for the Scriptures were written, not to gratify curiosity, or make us astronomers, but to lead us to God, and make us saints. The lights of heaven are made to serve him; they do it faithfully, and shine in their season without fail. We are set as lights in this world to serve God; but do we in like manner answer the end of our creation? We do not: our light does not shine before God, as his lights shine before us. We burn our Master's candles, but do not mind our Master's work.
Commentary on Genesis 1:20-25
(Read Genesis 1:20-25)
God commanded the fish and fowl to be produced. This command he himself executed. Insects, which are more numerous than the birds and beasts, and as curious, seem to have been part of this day's work. The Creator's wisdom and power are to be admired as much in an ant as in an elephant. The power of God's providence preserves all things, and fruitfulness is the effect of his blessing.
Commentary on Genesis 1:26-28
(Read Genesis 1:26-28)
Man was made last of all the creatures: this was both an honour and a favour to him. Yet man was made the same day that the beasts were; his body was made of the same earth with theirs; and while he is in the body, he inhabits the same earth with them. God forbid that by indulging the body, and the desires of it, we should make ourselves like the beasts that perish! Man was to be a creature different from all that had been hitherto made. Flesh and spirit, heaven and earth, must be put together in him. God said, "Let us make man." Man, when he was made, was to glorify the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Into that great name we are baptized, for to that great name we owe our being. It is the soul of man that especially bears God's image. Man was made upright, Ecclesiastes 7:29. His understanding saw Divine things clearly and truly; there were no errors or mistakes in his knowledge; his will consented at once, and in all things, to the will of God. His affections were all regular, and he had no bad appetites or passions. His thoughts were easily brought and fixed to the best subjects. Thus holy, thus happy, were our first parents in having the image of God upon them. But how is this image of God upon man defaced! May the Lord renew it upon our souls by his grace!
Commentary on Genesis 1:29,30
(Read Genesis 1:29,30)
Herbs and fruits must be man's food, including corn, and all the products of the earth. Let God's people cast their care upon him, and not be troubled about what they shall eat, and what they shall drink. He that feeds his birds will not starve his babes.
Commentary on Genesis 1:31
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
GOD
blog for 06/12/12
GOD
We are taught by Jesus that in order to please God we must KNOW HIM. We were we were given specific, detailed teachings that brings us to KNOW GOD.
The Old Testament tells us of God’s creation and His design for ALL of His creation, from the visible Universe to mankind.
The New Testament tells us of His LOVE for His creation and teaches through Jesus Words and example, and the Disciples that He anointed to deliver the GOOD NEWS of salvation.
God does not leave us in the dark to simply wonder about His Person, He has given us specific instructions as to how He wants us to enjoy Him and His creation.
Many times, in the past, I have purchased items that require assembly, and more often than not, my attempts at putting those things together failed. Only when all my efforts fell short , I was“forced” to READ THE INSTRUCTIONS given with the product by the creator of that product. And much to my delight, when instructions were followed the construction happened with great success.
One would assume that reading the instructions would be a natural way to make future projects successful. Wrong!! After many failures I still insisted on doing it my way rather than reading the instructions.
If we do not KNOW GOD, it is our fault. He has provided infinite numbers of evidences of Who He Is, How He wants us to have an intimate relationship with Him, and to EXPERIENCE HIS PRESENCE in our lives. Ignore the INSTRUCTIONS and suffer failure to KNOW HIM. Read and FOLLOW His INSTRUCTIONS AND ENJOY peace and joy that He offers us.
In future blogs we will look at the instructions with intention of following them.
GOD
We are taught by Jesus that in order to please God we must KNOW HIM. We were we were given specific, detailed teachings that brings us to KNOW GOD.
The Old Testament tells us of God’s creation and His design for ALL of His creation, from the visible Universe to mankind.
The New Testament tells us of His LOVE for His creation and teaches through Jesus Words and example, and the Disciples that He anointed to deliver the GOOD NEWS of salvation.
God does not leave us in the dark to simply wonder about His Person, He has given us specific instructions as to how He wants us to enjoy Him and His creation.
Many times, in the past, I have purchased items that require assembly, and more often than not, my attempts at putting those things together failed. Only when all my efforts fell short , I was“forced” to READ THE INSTRUCTIONS given with the product by the creator of that product. And much to my delight, when instructions were followed the construction happened with great success.
One would assume that reading the instructions would be a natural way to make future projects successful. Wrong!! After many failures I still insisted on doing it my way rather than reading the instructions.
If we do not KNOW GOD, it is our fault. He has provided infinite numbers of evidences of Who He Is, How He wants us to have an intimate relationship with Him, and to EXPERIENCE HIS PRESENCE in our lives. Ignore the INSTRUCTIONS and suffer failure to KNOW HIM. Read and FOLLOW His INSTRUCTIONS AND ENJOY peace and joy that He offers us.
In future blogs we will look at the instructions with intention of following them.
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Faith
"For by Grace are we saved through faith, and that not of ourselves, it is a gift of God lest any man should boast." Eph 2:8-9.
Since we are saved and delivered from sin by the Grace of Almighty God, we need to dwell on that gift of everlasting LIFE. God loves us so much that He wants us to be one with Him through Jesus His only begotten Son. The measure of our faith is a GIFT. We must avoid judging the holiness of one another by our experience and perception of faith. When we see that one of our brethren seems to be weak in faith, we need to hold them up to our Lord to increase their faith, and not judge them as to where our Lord has brought them in their walk with Jesus. Since we are saved by the pure GIFT of faith in Christ we need to give thanks for our brothers and sisters in the Lord and lift them up rather than judge them as to their relationship with GOD. As our Lord gives us all good things, we should give good things to our brethren, always. Offer love, peace, joy and hope in Christ our Savior, and our joy will overflow.
Since we are saved and delivered from sin by the Grace of Almighty God, we need to dwell on that gift of everlasting LIFE. God loves us so much that He wants us to be one with Him through Jesus His only begotten Son. The measure of our faith is a GIFT. We must avoid judging the holiness of one another by our experience and perception of faith. When we see that one of our brethren seems to be weak in faith, we need to hold them up to our Lord to increase their faith, and not judge them as to where our Lord has brought them in their walk with Jesus. Since we are saved by the pure GIFT of faith in Christ we need to give thanks for our brothers and sisters in the Lord and lift them up rather than judge them as to their relationship with GOD. As our Lord gives us all good things, we should give good things to our brethren, always. Offer love, peace, joy and hope in Christ our Savior, and our joy will overflow.
Friday, June 8, 2012
Prayer for June
May we pray together:
God of healing mercy, in Jesus your Son you stretch out your hand in compassion, restoring the sinner, healing the sick, and lifting up those bowed down. Embrace us now in your loving care, particularly those afflicted with cancer, for whom this intention is offered. May the Spirit of Jesus bring us all health in soul and body, that with joy and thanksgiving we may praise you for your goodness, through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
LOVE FOR THE DAY IS NEAR
Love, for the Day Is Near
8 Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for he who loves his fellowman has fulfilled the law. 9 The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." 10 Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. 11 And do this, understanding the present time. The hour has come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. 12 The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. 13 Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. 14 Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. Romans 13:8-14
When we are with the Church in felllowship, it is SO important to examine our conscience as to the our relationship with our neighbor that are less than loving God is Offended. Things happen between people that are not always loving. When we do or think things about our neighbor we MUST repent. Otherwise our corporate worship of God is False and becomes a mockery.
As we read from 1John, “If someone says ‘I love God’ but hates his neighbor or sister, that person is a LIAR, for if we don’t love people we can see, how can we love GOD whom we cannot see? And He has given this command. Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters.” 1John1:4:20
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Fellowship
Church? What is it? For one thing it is NOT A building!!!When we say that we go to church we need to say that we are on our way to worship GOD with our brothers and sisters in Christ at St. so and so in (Clermont) (Groveland) (Winter Garden etc.) We designate the location of the building where we will meet WITH the church and fellowship and worship our Lord. The use of Church as a location rather than the place where we worship with fellow saints and seek to learn His perfect will for our individual and corporate lives.
Some time we designate the place with PRIDE, a deadly sin. We sometimes fall into the sin of pride, when the number of fellow Saints with whom we meet becomes a "measure of our Holiness ?", because so many are there each Sunday or our music is "anointed" etc .
The big question is how many souls are reached for Christ? How many are living lives meet unto repentance? How much Spiritual growth is evident each day and week that exhibits the reflection of Jesus in our daily lives
Church must not be construed as a denomination. Denominations simply define our local fellow saints as subscribing to certain doctrines as rules to follow in our quest to know God. The rules when BASED ON SOLID SCRIPTURE EVIDENCE HELP THE ADHERENTS TO LEAD HOLY LIVES as defined by Jesus.
I write these words with prayer, that the words be received in the spirit in which it is written, not to criticize but only to examine ourselves, give some thought to our own growth in Christ.
Some time we designate the place with PRIDE, a deadly sin. We sometimes fall into the sin of pride, when the number of fellow Saints with whom we meet becomes a "measure of our Holiness ?", because so many are there each Sunday or our music is "anointed" etc .
The big question is how many souls are reached for Christ? How many are living lives meet unto repentance? How much Spiritual growth is evident each day and week that exhibits the reflection of Jesus in our daily lives
Church must not be construed as a denomination. Denominations simply define our local fellow saints as subscribing to certain doctrines as rules to follow in our quest to know God. The rules when BASED ON SOLID SCRIPTURE EVIDENCE HELP THE ADHERENTS TO LEAD HOLY LIVES as defined by Jesus.
I write these words with prayer, that the words be received in the spirit in which it is written, not to criticize but only to examine ourselves, give some thought to our own growth in Christ.
Saturday, June 2, 2012
GIVE THANKS TODAY?
It is very important to give thanks, consistently, to our Lord. All things that God gives us is worthy of Praise, Honor, Glory. Giving thanks to HIM in our lives is a powerful recognition of Who He is. a powerful testimony that tells the world of how much He loves each of us every moment of our lives.
"Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done.
Sing to Him; yes, sing His praises. Tell everyone about His wonderful deeds.
Exult in His Holy Name; rejoice, you who worship the Lord. Search for the Lord and His strength; continually seek Him.
Remember the wonders He has performed, His Miracles, and the rulings He has given." Psalm 105:1-5
"Give thanks to the Lord and proclaim His greatness. Let the whole world know what He has done.
Sing to Him; yes, sing His praises. Tell everyone about His wonderful deeds.
Exult in His Holy Name; rejoice, you who worship the Lord. Search for the Lord and His strength; continually seek Him.
Remember the wonders He has performed, His Miracles, and the rulings He has given." Psalm 105:1-5
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