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Beulah Baptist Church
Saturday, February 29, 2020
Doctrine of Christ
I. Prophecies and Life of Christ
A. Introduction
Long before Jesus was born it was prophesied that He would come [Gen. 3:15]. The, her seed is a prophecy to Jesus Christ who came in the fullness of time according to [Gal. 4:4]. Our faith under-girded by fulfilled prophecy stands firm and unmovable.
B. Prophecies Concerning Christ's Origin
In [Num. 24:17-19] the Bible describes a star that shall arise out of Israel and its talking about, Jesus Christ. A scepter is something that speaks of kingship. Christ was to be born of the family of David and the tribe of Judah [Gen. 49:10]. There shall come a rod out of the stem of Jesse [Is. 11:1] and these prophecies were fulfilled in Jesus Christ [Luke 1:31-33] We see the prophecy that Christ would be born in Bethlehem [Micah 5:2] and we see the fulfillment of this in [Luke 2:4-7]. We are told that Christ would be born of a virgin [Is. 7:14] and we see the fulfillment of this in [Matt. 1:18, 22-23]. We see the time of Christ's coming was specified in [Dan. 9:24-26] and of course in the 69th week of Daniel's prophecy that Christ would be crucified. And so we see that the time of Christ's coming was specified, Christ was crucified or cut off 483 years after the building of Jerusalem. Christ was crucified at the precise time so that no one crucified earlier or later could be Christ. Then we Christ coming was announced by a forerunner [Is. 40:3] and this prophecy was fulfilled in John the Baptist [Matt. 3:3]. Also we see that the Messiah would be God [Is. 9:6] and the fulfillment of this is found in [John 1:14].
C. Prophecies Concerning Christ's Life
We're told that He would spend part of His childhood in Egypt [Hosea 11:1] and we see the fulfillment of this in [Matt. 2:13-15]. We see that He would suffer and make atonement for sin [Is. 53:4-6] and [II Cor. 5:21] is the fulfillment of this prophecy. In [Zech. 9:9] we're told that Christ would come riding on the foal of an ass and we see the fulfillment of this in [Matt. 21:2-5]. We see that he would be given gall and vinegar while he was on the cross [Psalm 69:21] and we this fulfilled in [Matt. 27:34]. We're told that not a bone would be broken contrary to Roman practices in [Ps. 34:20] and we this fulfilled in [John 19:33-36]. In Exodus 12:46 we see that concerning the Passover Lamb that a bone was not to be broken and Christ is our Passover Lamb [I Cor. 5:7]. It was prophesied in [Ps. 22:18] and we see this fulfilled in [Matt. 27: 35]. We're told in [Ps. 22:1] that Christ would utter precise words from the cross and we this fulfilled in [Mark 15:34]. In [Ps. 16:10] tells us that Christ would rise from the dead and we see this fulfilled in [Acts 1:2-3, 2:27].
D. The Life Of Christ
His pre-incarnate state as God we see that Jesus always existed [Col. 1:17]. Jesus was circumcised at the age of days [Luke 2:21] and we see that Jesus was taken to the temple at the age of 12 [Luke 2:41-48]. Then we're told that Jesus spent the early years of his life in Nazareth as a carpenter [Mark 6:3]. Jesus first miracle was performed in Cana [John 2] and his second miracle was Capernaum in [John 4:46-54]. Forty days after the resurrection Jesus ascended bodily into heaven [Acts 1:10-11].
E. The Miracles Of Jesus
A miracle is a setting aside of a lower law by a higher law. A lower law is a natural physical law of earth and nature and only God can do things contrary to this law. If Jesus performed miracles then He is God for man cannot perform true miracles. The Lord Jesus performed miracles to prove His Deity and cause men to believe in Him, His message and His person [John 2:11; 20:31]. Jesus performed credible miracles over nature [Matt. 8:26-27; 14:25]. Jesus performed miracles over devils [Matt. 8:28-32], casting them out from people. He performed miracles over sickness [Matt. 8:3; 12:10-13] and over death. He raised the dead contrary to human law, which says that a dead man must remain dead [John 11:43-44; Matt. 9:23-25; Luke 7:12-15]. Our Lord's miracles were restrained and are completely believable. His miracles were performed openly in the presence of many witnesses and recorded by Divine inspiration to read and believe.
F. Conclusion
The life of Christ on earth can be summarized in the words of [Acts 10:38]. All who, are not saved today, are oppressed by the devil. Christ left us with an example that we should follow day, by day [I Peter 2:22]. Christ came to do God's will and we should to as well [John 8:29].
II. The Virgin Birth Of Christ
A. Introduction
In the Christmas story we see that God became man and He took upon Himself the likeness of man [Phil. 2:5-8]. We believe that since Adam sinned that all born thereafter inherit a sin nature from there parents. How then was Jesus born without a sin nature? The Psalmist wrote in [Ps. 51:5; 58:3], if Christ inherited a sin nature then he was a sinner and died for his own sins. Even though Christ lived a sinless life He would be unable to save one soul. If Christ was born without a sin nature how was this accomplished? God solved this difficult problem by what is called the Virgin Birth. The mystery of the Virgin Birth is to be believed, adored and accepted by Christians. The only logical answer is that the sin nature passed from the father to the child and not from the mother to the child. Jesus did not have a human father the Holy Ghost was His Father. Mary as his mother did not pass on the sin nature to the child. This is how we have a Savior who can die for the sins of all mankind.
B. The Virgin Birth Foretold In The Old Testament
In Genesis 3:15 we see the promise of a Savior. In Genesis 12 we God calls Abraham to be a father to the children of Israel. In [Gen. 49:10] the blessing of a redeemer would come from the tribe of Judah. In [II Sam. 7:8-16] that the Savior will be a son of David. In [Is. 7:14] we have the actual prophecy of the Virgin Birth and the fulfillment of this is seen in [Matt. 1:21]. Then we have the prophecy that Jesus the human one was to be born but Jesus the Divine God was to be given for Jesus as Divine God was eternal and could not be born.
C. The Historic Fulfillment Of This Prophecy
In [Matt. 1:18-25; Luke 2:4-7] we see that it was a Virgin Birth because Joseph did not know his wife until after Jesus was born. Mary was engaged to Joseph but they were not married yet. Christ was born of a virgin but a betrothed virgin so she could be married to protect her good name. Mary's conception was definitely from the Holy Ghost and not from Joseph or any other man. God guarantees this to give us a perfect Savior. The Lord encouraged Joseph to marry Mary to be a companion and guide to her in order to protect her from the extremity of the law [Lev. 20:10]. Joseph married to protect her because they lived under the law and if any believed that Mary had conceived by the Holy Ghost she would deserve death. Of course they wouldn't believe that anyway but Joseph married to protect her. Though Joseph and Mary were married they never lived together until after the birth of Jesus [Matt. 1:25]. God takes special care with this intimate verse to show us that the unborn child could not be contaminated by, a human father.
D. The Virgin Birth Is Taught In Scripture
There are those who maintain that Paul did not teach the Virgin Birth of Christ. It is true that Paul did not use the exact expression but Paul knew the Risen Christ [I Cor. 15:8] and recognized Him as the One fulfilling the prophecy of [Is. 7:14]. Paul's writing in [Col. 1:15-17] gives a picture of the greatness of the Lord Jesus Christ. Luke a medical doctor would be most interested in this medical phenomenon every child must have a father. Who was the Father of the baby Jesus? If the father had a sin nature and we're yet in our sins. Luke carefully explains the unusual conception [Luke 1:27, 31, 34-35]. Mary in [v 34] asks the question how can I have a child when I'm not married? It inferred that she was a virgin abhorring immorality. And in [v 35] we see the angel explain that the Holy Ghost would be the Father.
E. The Purpose Of The Virgin Birth
Number one to reveal God. Jesus came to reveal the Father to humanity [John 1:18]. Secondly was to bridge the chasm between God and man [I Tim. 2:5]. Third, was to save men and this was the basic purpose that brought Christ to earth [Heb. 2:14, 16]. Fourth was to rescue the whole creation [Rom. 8:18-22].
F. The Importance Of The Doctrine Of The Virgin Birth
Modernists and liberals attack this doctrine today as they attack the doctrines of the total depravity of man, the Deity of Christ and the inspiration of scriptures. If man is totally depraved then he needs a Savior to redeem him. The savior must be pure and capable and Christ is the only possible savior of the world. The only way that Jesus could become man without a sin nature is by the virgin birth. A virgin is a lady who has not known a man in or before marriage and Mary remained a virgin until after the birth of Jesus. Salvation is closely linked with this doctrine. If Jesus was not born of a virgin then I am a lost sinner and so are you. It is the undeniable truth taught in the Bible. This doctrine stands with the inspired Word of God and does not change with the changing times, thoughts and theories of mankind. Without a virgin born savior the salvation of one's soul is impossible. [I Cor. 4:1] This is a mystery of God and it is an unconditional truth.
G. The Significance Of The Virgin Birth
Jesus was not a phantom he was a real human being born of our bone and flesh of our flesh [Phil. 2:7]. He became our older brother.
H. Objections To This Doctrine
First one of the objections is that it is only found in a few places in scripture. One scripture is sufficient amen? But it is confirmed, by Isaiah, Matthew and Luke three inspired writers. Jesus did not claim to be virgin born but he inferred it in [John 6:51]. Another objection to this doctrine is scientists do not accept it for it is not biologically true. Jesus did not come by natural conception He came by a miraculous conception. Others reject it because it is miraculous. Finally modern theologians do not accept this doctrine but this does not change the fact that it is true for it is contained in scriptures.
III. The Deity Of Christ
A. Introduction
This fundamental doctrine, is consistently attacked by the Jehovah's Witnesses and many other groups, however this doctrine is essential to salvation [Rom. 10:9] and a study of Bible conversions will reveal that many occurred when they recognized Jesus as Lord [Acts 9:5]. To deny the Deity of Christ is to rob mankind of a Savior and condemn us eternally. This lesson presents fifteen proofs of Christ's Deity.
B. Jesus Christ Is Referred To As Lord
[Ps. 110:1; Matt. 22:41-46; Mark 12:36; Luke 20:39-44] Christ is referred to as Lord and Peter references this in Acts 2:34-35] the prophecy was the Messiah Savior would be the Divine Lord Himself.
C. The Virgin Birth Would Be God Coming To Live With Men
The second proof is the virgin birth, God coming to live with men [Is. 7:14] and we see the interpretation of Immanuel in [Matt. 1:23].
D. The Messiah, The Lord Jesus Christ Was Given A Divine Name In Prophecy
The third proof is that the Messiah was given Divine Names in prophecy [Is. 9:6-7] and only God could fulfill these names [Luke 18:19]. In the name Counselor only the omniscient God could fulfill this [Psalm 16:7].
E. The Christ Who Was Prophesied To Come Was To Be From "Everlasting"
The fourth proof of Christ's deity is that He was prophesied to be from everlasting [Micah 5:2].
F. God And Christ Both Gave Their Personal Names As "I Am"
In [Exodus 3:14] God is speaking to Moses and then we see in [John 8:58] the Jews understood Jesus perfectly and thought that He had committed blasphemy for ascribing the name of God to Himself. They promptly attempted to stone Jesus and death by stoning was the proper penalty for this particular sin [Lev. 24:12-17]. But Jesus had not sinned for He is the Great I Am in person.
G. Jesus Christ Forgave Sins
[Mark 2:5, 7] the Jews were correct for only God can forgive sin and sin is a transgression against the law and only the aggrieved person can forgive. Jesus was God and can forgive sin.
H. Jesus Claimed Equality With The Father And The Holy Spirit
This is evident in the baptismal formula in [Matt. 28:19] and the benediction found in II Cor. 13:14].
I. Jesus Claimed Omnipresence
This is a characteristic of God only not of angels or of men note what it says in [Matt. 18:20]
J. Jesus Claimed Omniscience
Omniscience is to know all things and only God can know all things and this fact is evident in [Mark 11:2-6], we see that Christ knew this was going to happen, so Jesus had the characteristic of being omniscient, knowing everything because He was God. We see that Jesus exercised the gift of prophecy too in [Matt. 12:40; 24:3-31].
K. Jesus Claimed Omnipotence
Jesus claimed to be omnipotent meaning all-powerful and this is an exclusive attribute of God in [Matt. 28:18] and this claim supersedes the power of man, spirit, angels, demons or supermen.
L. Jesus Christ Had Creative Power
To bring something into being from nothing creation is only possible to God. Jesus Christ was active in creation and continues to maintain the world [John 1:1-3; Heb. 1:3; Col.1:16]
M. Jesus Christ The True God Had Power Over The Elements
[Lk. 8:24; Mark 4:39; Matt. 14:24-25]
N. Jesus Christ Received Worship Due Only To God
[John 9:38] Jesus as God rightly received this worship because He was God. [Lk. 4:8] to worship anyone but the Lord God is a terrible sin and when Jesus accepted worship He was saying to the world I am the Lord. That's why He said to the devil get thee behind me satan thou shall worship the Lord thy God only and Him only shall thou serve.
O. Jesus Christ Accepted The Testimony Of Thomas
[John 20:26-28] if Thomas had made a mistake, an overstatement Jesus would have corrected it. Thomas told the truth for Jesus was the Lord God the eternal pre-existent One.
P. The Fact Of Jesus' Resurrection
This is the strongest and capstone argument that Jesus was God [Rom. 1:4]. This verse specifically states that the resurrection declares Jesus as the Son of God. If Jesus were a fake, a liar, an imposter, a mere man or super man God would have left him in the grave until the day of final judgment and condemned him to hell. [Rom. 6:4] according to this verse it was God the Father that raised Jesus from the dead. God the Father thus proclaims conclusively to the world the Deity of Jesus Christ.
Q. Conclusion – Jesus Is God
Jesus is God for He possesses the 10 exclusive attributes of God.
#1 – He is eternal [Micah 5:2; John 8:58; Col. 1:17; Rev. 1:8]
#2 – God and Jesus are unchangeable [Heb. 13:8]
#3 – He is omnipotent [Lk. 8:24; Matt. 28:18]
#4 – Jesus is omnipresent [Matt. 18:20; John 1:48; 3:13; Matt. 28:20]
#5 – Jesus is omniscient [Mark 11:2-6; Matt. 24:3-31; John 2:24-25; Lk. 5:22]
#6 – Jesus possessed the attribute of being holy [Mark 1:24; I Peter 2:22; John 19:4]
#7 – Jesus was just [John 2:14-17; Acts 17:31]
#8 – Jesus is, loving [John 15:13; 11:35-36]
#9 – Jesus is, merciful [Titus 3:5]
#10 – Jesus is, faithful [II Tim. 2:13]
The five works of God are ascribed to Jesus. What are those? Creation, preservation, forgiveness, raising the dead and judgment [John 1:3; Heb. 1:3; Lk. 7:48; John 6:39; 5:22]
IV. The Deity Of Christ (Arguments Against It)
A. Introduction
This is an addition to the previous lesson because the Deity of Christ is attacked mercilessly in this country and these scriptures will help us to know how to defend against them and give an apologetic for the doctrine of Christ Deity.
B. Twenty Arguments Against The Deity Of Christ Examined
Argument #1 – Christ is not God because He had flesh and bones and God being a Spirit had neither flesh nor bones. Jesus as man had both flesh and bones but as God He was spirit. This objection rises from the dual nature of the Savior. In order for the invisible God to become visible He must become flesh and bone [I Tim. 2:5; Lk. 24:39; I Tim. 3:16]
Argument #2 – Christ is not God because Christ had a beginning and God had no beginning [John 8:42; Psalm 90:2] How do we refute this? Well Jesus as a man had a beginning when He was conceived of the Holy Ghost but Jesus as God is without beginning and without end. [John 8:56-59; Col. 1:17; John 1:18; Is. 9:6]
Argument #3 – Christ is not God because he has been created and God has no beginning [Col. 1:15; Rev. 3:14 - Jehovah Witnesses use these verses to show that Christ is not God because He's been created and God has no beginning. Really what we are seeing that Jesus was a witness of creation not a creation and then we see in Proverbs 8:22-23 and it is speaking of wisdom personified in the person of Jesus Christ.
Argument #4 – [Hosea 11:9; Ezekiel 28:2] the argument against the Deity of Christ in this particular situation is Christ is not God because [Hos. 11:9] says that God is not a man while [Ezek. 28:2] says man is not God. While Hosea does not say that God could not assume human flesh and according to God nothing is too hard for God [Jer. 32:17-18]. So God can be manifest in the flesh.
Argument #5 says that Christ is not God because He called God His Father [Matt. 27:46; John 20:17]. Jesus as the human person called God His Father, however God in [Heb. 1:8] calls Jesus God but that does not lessen the Father's position of Deity.
Argument #6 says Christ is not God because the Father sent Him to earth [John 8:42]. The argument against the Deity of Christ is because the Father sent Him to earth. Now the Father sending the Son to earth does not lessen His position as being the Almighty God [Luke 19:10]. Only God can save that which was lost [I Tim. 1:15], God is the only One who can save sinners [Gal. 4:4-5], God is the only who can redeem a lost sinner.
Argument #7 says Christ is not God because he appeared with flesh and since Jesus is flesh, bones and blood he is merely a man and no more. [I John 4:2-3] this scripture says that Christ did come in the flesh. [II John 7] tells us that Christ came in the flesh and He assumed flesh, bones and blood merely for the incarnation. As God He is eternal Spirit but to be our Redeemer it was necessary that He become partaker of humanity.
Argument #8 says Christ is not God because God is head according to [I Cor. 11:3]. In the triuneverate it is necessary that one be the chairman but that does not mean that he is greater than the other two. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are equal but for administrative purposes the Father acts as the executive administrator.
Argument #9 Christ is not God because He is called man in [John 8:40; I Tim. 2:5]. Jesus was both true God and true man in one person without an intermingling of two natures. In fact we are told his name would be Immanuel, which means God with us. It is a mystery that we can't fully explain but we can accept it by faith.
Argument #10, which, says, Christ is not God but He is a Son of God just as we may become sons of God. By, conversion we become a, son, of God [John 1:12] but Jesus Christ is the only begotten Son of God [John 3:16]. God's son is equal to the Father [Phil. 2:6] and the saint can become an heir.
Argument #11 says Christ is not God because the Father gave Him power according to [Matt. 28:18]. We refute this by using [Phil. 2:5-8] the Son surrenders His power and God returns or restores it to Him after the resurrection. It was always His He just voluntarily yielded that power so that He could be the sacrifice for the sins of the world.
Argument #12 says that Christ is not God, because, He was made Lord, by God in [Acts 2:36]. It is not made in the sense of a promotion for though he always was God the Father takes this opportunity to proclaim this fact to all humanity.
Argument #13 says Christ is not God because He is subject to God according to [I Cor. 15:28]. This does not refer to Christ's nature but rather to His position. Christ voluntarily chose subjection it was not imposed on Him against His will.
Argument #14 says Christ is not God because Christ died and God is immortal and cannot die. Let's refute this [I Tim. 1:17] says God is immortal and cannot die; [Luke 23:46] says Jesus died and commanded His spirit to God and [Acts 2:32] again this shows Christ died as man but Jesus has God could not and did not die according to [Heb. 2:9, 14] and it is the physical body that dies but the spirit returns to God.
Argument #15, which says, Christ is not God because he was conceived by the Holy Ghost and as a creature of the Holy Spirit He is therefore neither God nor creator [Matt. 1:18-20]. How do we refute that? Well the humanity of Jesus Christ was conceived of the Holy Spirit the Deity of Christ has always existed. Christ existed long before the Virgin Mary according to [John 1:1-2].
Argument #16 says Christ is not God because He prayed to the Father and addressed Him as the only true God [John 17:3; I Cor. 8:6]. Well this objection ignores the fact that the Son co-exists with the Father, they are one in nature and eternal spirit but distinct as to the office and responsibilities. The Father and Son are indivisibly linked together according to [Matt. 11:27; Luke 10:22; John 12:45]
Argument #17 says Christ is not God for if He were then there would be more than one God and what refutes that is the Trinity, three persons in one being.
Argument #18 says Christ is not God because He was only an idea, will or purpose of God having no material existence or material form in the beginning. [John 1:1] answers this authoritatively Jesus was God.
Argument #19 says Christ is not God because in [John 14:28] he says My Father is greater than I. How do we refute this argument? Again this is referring to Christ' position and not to His being or nature. Positionally Jesus has chosen a position in submission to the Father.
Argument #20 says Christ is not God for though He is one with God that refers merely to one in pasturing, shepherding, teaching and judgment but not one in the Godhead. How do we refute that? By saying that the Father and Son, are, One God, but two persons co-existing as One God. The Father was Jehovah in the OT and Jesus is Jehovah in the NT. [Ps. 23:1; John 10:11; Heb. 13:20; I Peter 2:25; Rev. 7:17]
C. Conclusion
We can refute all arguments against the Deity of Christ.
V. The Relationship Of The Son To The Father
A. Introduction
This is a controversial point with many cults who deny the deity of Jesus. They say that Jesus like us is a, son of God but not God. They maintain that he is a son who is subservient to the Father. How do we answer their arguments? In brief as God Jesus in His pre-incarnate state was, is, and always will be equal to the Father. However in His incarnate state He is in submission to the Father. [Phil. 2:5-8]
B. Jesus Christ As God Is Equal To The Father
[I John 2:23; John 5:18; Deut. 6:4] The Jews recognized but one God and they considered Christ claims as blasphemous and worthy of stoning [Lev. 24:16], but in [John 10:30] Jesus, says, He and the Father are One. [John 14:8-9; Col. 1:15] Jesus is a reflection of the invisible God and God is invisible because He is a spirit. [John 10:33] Jesus was trying to prove to them that He was God but they stubbornly refused to believe Him. [John 17:5; 1:1] John in both his gospel and general epistles states the fact repeatedly that Jesus is God. In Titus 2:13, Paul concurs with John's testimony are the same and that God the Father and His Son are the same Person. We see this again in [Hebrews 1:8]. Jude in his great benediction calls the Savior God [Jude 25]. [Col. 2:9] with our finite minds is difficult to understand the immenseness of but in Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead. To say that Jesus is only a, son, of God is to blaspheme the Savior. In [Matt. 17] we get a glimpse of the pre-incarnate Christ. Whoever refuses to accept Jesus Christ, as equal with the Father is guilty of rejecting the Word of God because as we see in these verses it is very easily understood that Christ is equal to the Father. Let us glory in the fact that He emptied Himself of His glorious garments of Divinity for our sakes.
C. Jesus Christ As Man Is Subordinate To The Father
When Jesus became man He voluntarily took the lower place a place of humility and subordination to God the Father. In [John 14:28] Jesus in the form of man is speaking of the eternal God. When Jesus was conceived of the Holy Ghost then He entered into a new relationship with God, note what it says in [Heb. 1:5] and this occurred in [Luke 1:35]. [John 3:16] refers to Jesus as the only begotten Son and this, was prophesied in [Psalm 2:7]. Does this begetting of the Son refer to the origin of the eternal God the Lord Jesus? Certainly not for as God He was never born He always existed in [Is. 9:6-7], the begetting occurred in [Lk. 1:35] when the Holy Ghost came upon the Virgin Mary in the human Jesus was conceived.
Some ways in which, the Son was subordinated to the Father. Jesus earthly life was lived because of the Father [John 6:57] in other words the Father sustained the Son. Then we see that Jesus could not do anything independently of the Father [John 5:19]. Then we see that, Jesus, was sent to earth, by the Father [John 6:29]. In [John 8:29; 42] shows again that God the Father sent the Son to earth. We also see that the Father gave the Son authority and directions [John 10:18; 13:3]. Also we see that Jesus received His messages from the Father [John 8:26] and the Father gave to the Son certain works to accomplish [John 5:36; 17:4]. The Father assigned a kingdom to the Son [Lk. 22:29] and during the present church age Jesus is subjected to the headship of the Father [I Cor. 11:3], thus Christ has become the way in which, men can approach God [Heb. 7:25]. Jesus is the only way of salvation [John 14:1-6]. Jesus referred to the Father as my God [John 20:17; Matt. 27:46]. How long, will, this subordination last? We've seen in Luke that the Father gave the Son a kingdom but the Son will return this kingdom to the Father [I Cor.15:24] The period of subordination extends beyond the consummation of this age and even beyond the Great White Throne Judgment because we read in [I Cor. 15:27-28].
D. Conclusion
If we understand the scriptures aright there is no conflict here. The pre-incarnate Christ is and always has been equal to God the Father. The human incarnate Christ laid aside this position and in His self-humiliation chose a place of subordination to His Father as a child to his parent. The more we study the seven-fold humbling of Christ in [Phil. 2:5-8], the more we see His love manifested for us while we were yet unloving sinners. Let us hasten this wonderful message to the masses of the earth.
VI. The Humanity Of Christ
A. Introduction
In order to be the Savior Jesus has to be not only divine and virgin born but He also must be a true man. He was like us in every respect except He was without sin [I Tim. 2:5]. Jesus had to be made like unto us in order to be a faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God [Heb. 2:17]. Jesus was born under the law in order the He might redeem us from the law [Gal. 4:4-5].
B. Jesus Was Given Human Names
[Matt. 1:21, 23-25] we see that Jesus is given a human name Jesus. In [I Tim. 2:5] we see that Jesus is called distinctly a man. Then we see the phrase "Son of Man," which emphasizes Jesus' humanity occurs 77x [Luke 19:10; Acts 7:56]
C. Jesus Had Human Ancestry
For Jesus to be human He must have a human parent, which He did in the person of His mother Mary [Luke 2:7]. Jesus was born of the seed and lineage of David [Acts 13:23] and the genealogy [Matt. 1:1-16] traces the ancestry from Abraham to Christ. Then we read in [Heb. 7:14] that Jesus came from the tribe of Judah.
D. Jesus Possessed A Physical Nature
In [John 1:14] is saying that Jesus was given a human nature and in [Heb. 2:14] we see that Jesus possessed a physical nature. In fact we're told that not to confess that Jesus came as a man, is a mark of the anti-Christ [I John 4:3].
E. Jesus Was Subject To The Laws Of Human Development
[Luke 2:40] we are told that the child grew like a normal human being and we see that he also asked questions [Lk. 2:46] and from [Lk. 2:52] we see that Jesus grew in wisdom and he also learned obedience [Heb. 5:8]. Also he suffered like every human being suffers according to [Heb. 2:18]. We see also that He worked as a carpenter until the age of 30 according to [Mark 6:3; Luke 3:23]. We know that He was tempted and we have the temptations of Christ in [Matt. 4:1-11].
F. Jesus Was Moved By The Instincts Of Normal Human Beings
For example he hungered [Matt. 4:2; 21:18] and he thirsted [John 4:7; 19:28] and he also became weary [John 4:6] and we see that he slept like any normal human being would [Matt. 8:24] and we see that he loved [Mark 10:21; John 11:36] and had compassion [Matt. 9:36; 23:37]. We also see that he was angry and grieved [Mark 3:4; John 2:16; Matt. 23:13-36]. We also see the he manifested reverential trust [Heb. 5:7] and we see that he groaned [John 11:33, 35; Luke 19:41] and wept. We see that he prayed [Matt. 14:23].
G. Jesus Possessed Body, Soul, And Spirit
First of all Jesus had a body [John 1:14; Heb. 2:14; Matt. 26:12; Luke 23:52-56]. Secondly, Jesus also had a soul [Matt. 26:38; Luke 23:43]. Third Jesus had a spirit that returned to the Father at death [Luke 23:46].
H. Jesus Died
The biological culmination of life is death. Man is born to die [Heb. 9:27] and Jesus met His death by crucifixion at Calvary in the prime of life [Lk. 23:33; Heb. 2:9].
I. Conclusion
Jesus still possesses a body even after resurrection because he said in [Lk. 24:39] and he told Thomas [Jn. 20:27] and in [Acts 7:55-56] Stephen saw Jesus standing. Jesus was human and like us in all but two points he did not possess a sin nature and he was sinless for he never committed one sin.
VII. The Sinlessness Of Christ
A. Introduction
Jesus was born without a sin nature because He was born of a virgin without a human father. In this lesson we go one step farther to prove that Jesus lived and died without a taint of sin in His life. It is true that Jesus was not a hybrid, half God and half man He was true man and true God without being a mixture of the two natures. The two natures of the Savior were separate and distinct in every aspect. The manhood of Jesus is essentially one with ours. It is a distinctive human phenomenon He was an ideal man, a perfect and normal man. Jesus is unique because of His life of sinlessness a completely unspotted life.
B. The Meaning Of The Sinlessness Of Christ
Sinfulness is a want of conformity to the will of God; sinlessness is complete conformity to the will of God [Heb. 10:7]. Christ came to do God's will [John 17:4]. Christ had sinlessness because He was completely conformed to the will of the Father. Sinfulness is antagonism to the will of God in deviating toward the path of sin. Sin is both external and internal [Matt. 15:19] the thoughts of the heart are the roots of sin. Jesus was sinless both externally and internally because He completely conformed to that which is holy good all the time [Heb. 7:26; I Peter 1:19; Heb. 9:14]
C. The Fact Of The Sinlessness Of Christ
[Acts 4:27, 30] we see the expression "holy child Jesus" twice here signifying that from birth He was holy, pure, sinless and free from defilement. The devils recognized Jesus has the holy one of God also [Mark 1:23-24; Luke 4:33]. The strongest proof of the sinlessness of Christ is not the testimony of the devils but the plain inspired Word of God. [I Peter 2:21-22; I John 3:5; II Cor. 5:21; Heb. 4:15; I John 3:3]
D. Testimony Regarding The Sinlessness of Christ
Jesus's own testimony, He saw sin in others but did not see sin in Himself [John 8:46] No evil thought ever lodged in His perfect holy mind. Then we have the testimony of Pilate in [John 18:38; 19:4, 6] and we have the testimony of Pilate's wife who really had no real interest in Christ either favorably or otherwise. She had a dream and sent her husband the following message in [Matt. 27:19]. The testimony of the thief on the cross [Lk. 23:41] The testimony of Judas Iscariot [Matt. 27:3-4] Then we have the testimony of the Roman centurion [Luke 23:47]
E. Arguments Against The Savior's Sinlessness
Some deny that sinlessness if possible the fact that sinlessness is contrary to reason avails little in view of the stated facts of scripture He is sinless. Man with his finite mind cannot comprehend how a person could ever be sinless but thank God we don't have to rely on the reasoning of man Christ was sinless according to the Word of God. Secondly some think because of the fact that He was tempted he must have been susceptible to sin. We must remember that temptation in itself is not a sin it is yielding to temptation that is a sin. Third some argue regarding the temptation in [Matt. 4:1-11] that if Jesus were perfect the temptations would be unreal how can, a perfect person be tempted? Adam and Eve were created perfect and they were tempted and yield to that temptation proving that temptation is real even to a perfect person. Fourth some say how could evil enter when there is neither bias toward evil or weakness toward sin. To answer that Adam and Eve sinned because they desired to become like God with the idea of maturity and development the temptation was real and they sinned. Jesus victory was absolute and complete for He did not once yield to sin. He was allowed to be, tempted so that He could feel the temptation and the reason for that was so that He could feel what you and I go through when we are tempted to sin. If we would rest on His power then we would not be giving in to sin.
F. Consequences Of Denying Christ's Sinlessness
If Christ were sinful He had to die on Calvary for His own sins and we are yet dead in our trespasses and sin. If Jesus were sinful then He was not the Son of God or the Savior. If Christ were a sinner the church is established on sinking sand and soon to be destroyed. To deny the sinlessness of Christ is to deny man of a Savior in salvation.
G. Results Of Christ's Sinlessness
First, being sinless He was the perfect revelation of God to mankind. Second being human and sinless it guarantees a perfect mediator. Third being human and sinless He became an acceptable sacrifice on Calvary for our sins. Four He set before us a perfect example for us to follow [I Peter 2:21-22]. The fifth result of Christ's sinlessness is it opens the door of heaven for us and grants us access to God.
H. Conclusion
We should be praising God that we as Christians can take the people bound by sin and bring them to a perfectly victorious Savior and they can find freedom and liberty from their bondage to sin. The reason we can do that is because there is a sinless Savior waiting to set them free.
VIII. The Character Of Christ
This lesson is an attempt to tell what kind of person Jesus really was. R. A. Torrey, in his book what the Bible teaches gives 56 pages to this subject. We often sing or pray I want to be like Jesus, what do we mean by this? This desire is most noble but we need to emulate Him in more than one point. He is our example. [I Peter 2:21; Rom. 8:29]
A. Jesus Christ Was Holy
He was absolutely holy for He was without a sin nature and always did that which was correct and pure. Notice how Peter refers to Jesus in [Acts 3:14]. Peter refers to Him as the holy and just One. The Savior manifested His holiness in loving righteousness and hating iniquity this is clearly seen in His cleansing of the temple and His denunciation of sin and hypocrisy. He hates sin so much that He was willing to die on Calvary to defeat sin and offer righteousness to all who will believe on Him [Gal. 3:13]. [Rom. 4:6; Rev. 19:8] tells us that God imputes righteousness to those who receive Jesus Christ as their Savior.
B. Jesus Christ Was Loving
The Savior's love was manifested in two ways. Number one to His Father and number two to mankind [John 14:31]. He manifested this love by obedience to the Father [John 6:38]. We see also in [John 14:31] the same point there reinforced. Jesus finished the work that the Father gave Him to do [John 17:4; 19:30]. We also see that Christ loved the church [Eph. 5:25] because He gave Himself for it. Next we see that Jesus has a special love for His own [John 13:1] and we see that Jesus also loves sinners [Luke 19:10]. [Matt. 9:13; 5:44; Luke 23:44] from these three verses we see that Jesus obeyed His teaching and loved His enemies. We also see that Jesus loved children [Mark 10:13-16]. Jesus demonstrated His love by becoming poor in order that we might become rich [II Cor. 8:9]. The supreme proof, of His love was voluntarily dying for us [John 15:13] and Jesus continues to manifest His love for us by daily care and sustenance [Matt. 6:33]
C. Jesus Christ Love For Soul's
Let us follow our Savior for in His never dying love for the souls of men wandering in sin. He came as the Good Shepherd to seek lost sheep both of the Jews and the Gentiles [John 10:16]. Jesus loved the multitudes and He came to die for all mankind [John 3:16].
His ministry was mostly reaching souls one, by one, [John 1] records His dealings with two of His disciples. In John 3 he deals with Nicodemus and in John 4 with the woman at the well and in John 9 with a man born blind and in Luke 15:4 He bared His heart to go an search for the lost. Jesus entered into the joy of finding the lost sinner [Luke 15:5-7,24]. Likewise He was deeply grieved at every soul that rejected Him [Luke 19:41-42].
D. Jesus Christ Was Compassionate
[John 11:35; Mark 6:34; John 6:5; 9:1-38; Matt. 20:34; Mark 9:25; 5:1-13; Luke 4:31; Mark 1:40-41; Luke 5:12-15] He wept for a friend, had compassion on the multitudes, healed the blind and had compassion for those held by demons and for the lepers. Often we say we have compassion but Jesus demonstrated His with actions. Let us love in word and deed as Jesus did.
E. Jesus Christ Was Prayerful
The four gospels give us a glimpse into the prayer life of the Savior but none as strong as Hebrews 5:7. It was not uncommon for Jesus to pray all night [Luke 6:12; Mark 1:35; Luke 3:21; John 6:15]. [Matt. 14:19; John 11:41-42] we see Him praying openly to the Father for miracles. Jesus ended His earthly life with a prayer on His lips to the Father [Luke 23:46]. Jesus often sought to pray alone [Matt. 14:13] and sometimes He prayed with His disciples [Luke 9:28; 22:39-46]. Jesus prayed for individuals [Luke 22:31-32] and He prayed for His own [John 17:9, 20; Matt. 26:42] and He taught His disciples to pray and He taught us to do likewise. By prayer He overcame temptation, wrought miracles, escaped death and glorified God.
F. Jesus Christ Was Meek
What we mean by meekness is that He was totally committed to do the Father's will. He was totally submitted to the Father's will. We see meekness manifests itself in gentleness and tenderness toward others [Matt. 11:29; 12:20]. Paul asked the Corinthians this question in [I Cor. 4:21]. As Christians we are to learn meekness in fact look what it says in [Gal. 6:1; II Tim. 2:24-25].
G. Jesus Christ Was Humble
Jesus was humble because He sought not His own glory but the Father's glory [John 8:50]. The Savior shunned publicity and advertising, which caters to pride. The humility of Jesus allowed Him to associate with publicans and sinners [Luke 15:1-2]. His humility kept Him silent under outrageous charges [Is. 53:7; I Peter 2:23]. Jesus demonstrated His humility by washing His disciples feet giving us an example to follow [John 13]. [Phil. 2:8]
H. Conclusion
[Phil. 2:5] let us not imitate but reproduce the holiness, love, compassion, meekness and humility of the Savior. To be, like Jesus, not just, outwardly, but more important inwardly, pure, true, and prayerful as He is. He longs to live this life of character again in us as we yield ourselves to Him [Rom. 6:19].
IX. The Teachings Of Christ
A. Introduction
In this lesson we attempt to summarize the main teachings of Christ while on earth. Christ in His earthly ministry gave three long discourses. Number one the Sermon on the Mount [Matt. 5-7]. Number two the Olivet Discourse in [Matt. 24-25]. Number three the discourse in the Upper Room [John 13-17]. Some one has said that Jesus touched on 18 subjects in the Sermon on the Mount [Matt. 7:28; Luke 4:32, 22].
B. Jesus' Teaching About Salvation
In His conversation with Nicodemus he told him that he had to be born again [John 3:1-6]. Here we have Nicodemus a very religious man, well educated in the laws of the Jews and he comes to Jesus and he says we know there is something different about you, but Jesus wasn't impressed. He told Nicodemus that he couldn't see God if he wasn't born again. Not a physical birth but a spiritual birth. Individually a person has to be born from above. See also [John 4, 6; Luke 7:47-48; John 10:9-11; Matt. 11:28-30; Luke 14:16-24]
C. Jesus' Teaching About Daily Christian Living
In His sermon on the mount [Matt. 5:33-48] we are taught not to swear, taught to turn the other cheek and taught to love our enemies. In [Matt. 6:1-4, 19-21] we are taught about giving. Jesus also taught about prayer [Matt. 6:5-13; Luke 11:1-13; John 14:13-14; 16:23-24] in this He teaches us that it is to be done in secret, it is to be continuous and it is to be unlimited in scope and power. Jesus also taught that we must forgive others before He will forgive us [Matt. 6:14-15; 5:23-24]. We also see that Jesus through us His example practiced and taught us about fasting [Matt. 6:16-18; Luke 4:2]. Jesus also cautioned about setting our thoughts on the daily needs of life but would be provided by the Lord if we first sought the kingdom of God [Matt. 6:25-34]. Jesus taught that it was necessary to confess Christ openly before men [Matt. 10:32-33; John 9:39] He also instructed His converts to go home and tell their relatives first [Mark 5:19]. Jesus teaching also rang with the assurance of salvation to the saved [John 3:16, 18, 36, 5:24]. A great deal of the Upper Room discourse deals with the Holy Spirit who guides, conducts, energizes and strengthens the believer [John 14:16-26]. Jesus did not promise His believers and disciples an easy time but mentioned persecution freely and promised help and grace for every trial [John 16:1-6, 31-33; Luke 12:11-12].
D. Jesus' Teaching About Pharisees And False Teachers
Jesus was very loud in His denunciation of false teachers and hypocrites [Matt. 23:13-36]. He says woe unto to you scribes and Pharisees eight times calling them fools and blind guides. In [John 8:44] Jesus tells them they are of their father the devil. In [Matt. 16:6] He warns His disciples of the false doctrine of the Pharisees and Sadducees who deny the resurrection. Jesus taught that these false church leaders did the utmost to make converts more the child of hell than they were [Matt. 23:15]. In [Matt. 7:15-20] Jesus gives a warning to beware of false prophets who appear in sheep's clothing. In [Luke 20:45-47] Jesus warns to beware of the scribes.
E. Jesus' Teaching About Stewardship
Jesus taught the right use of money and treasure in [Luke 12:16-34] The treasure was not for the rich man's gratification for he was a fool, the true treasure in [vv 33-34] was that which was sent to the Lord ahead of time. When the widow gave her two mites in [Mark 12:41-44] He commended her very highly for she had not given of her abundance but of her poverty. It is more of a sacrifice for this woman sacrificed of what she had to give to the work of the Lord. In [Matt. 25:14-30] Jesus taught us to use our God given talents for His glory. In [Luke 19:11-27] Jesus gave His disciples the command to occupy till I come by using the pounds that He gave us for the Lord's glory and extension of the kingdom. Christians are stewards of their money, time, talent, and gifts and opportunities these things all belong to God and what we have He has given us of His to use while we are here doing business till He comes and a steward is to be found faithful [I Cor. 4:2].
F. Jesus' Teaching About Heaven And Hell
Our Lord spoke of hell and eternal punishment at least 70x in the gospel. [Matt. 25:41] hell was prepared for the devil and his angels. In the context here it is speaking of the judgment of the nations at the end of the Tribulation. It was Jesus who gave us the clearest picture of hell in [Luke 16:19-31]. In [Mark 9:42-48] is a stern warning not to end up in hell where the worm dieth not and the fire is not quenched. Heaven and hell are real and hell is beneath our feet in the center of the earth. In the Upper Room discourse Jesus said he was going away to prepare the mansions for us [John 14:1-3]. Jesus has prepared a place for each one who has believed on Him. Heaven is a home with the Father, God [Matt. 6:9; Luke 11:2; Heb. 2:10]
G. Jesus' Teaching About Fruit Bearing
In [John 15:1-17] you have the heart of the Upper Room discourse and it deals with the vine and the branches with the desire that we should bear fruit, more fruit and much fruit. Christ is the true vine and we as Christians are the branches and we are here to bear fruit and without Him we can do nothing. In [Matt. 7:16-20] Jesus teaches that by their fruits you shall know them speaking about false prophets. Then we see in the parable of the sower and the seed in [Matt. 13:3-9, 19-23] Jesus expresses His desire that each Christian should bear fruit. In the parable of the barren fig tree in [Luke 13:6-9] the tree being Israel that does not bear fruit was to be cut down and destroyed and cast into the fire. As Christians we should be purged in order that we would bear more fruit. The purging is a bitter experience of digging and dunging as it says in [Luke 13:8] but essential if we are to produce fruit. In [Luke 6:43-46] we as Christians are to bear the fruit of the Spirit and win souls for Him. The fruit of a Christian is another Christian.
H. Jesus' Teaching On Prophecy
The Olivet Discourse [Matt. 24-25] deals mostly with prophetic subjects. For example, in [Matt. 24:1-3] deals with the destruction of Jerusalem which took place in AD 70. In [Matt. 24:4-14] deals with the deterioration of the age in which, we live. [Matt. 24:15-26] these verses deal with the Tribulation. [Matt. 24:27-31] tells of the return of the Lord in glory and further details are added in the parable of the fig tree in [Matt. 24:32-51]. [Matt. 25:1-13] tells the story of the ten virgins and [Matt. 25:31-46] speaks to the judgment of the nations for their treatment of the nation of Israel during the Tribulation.
I. Conclusion
The teachings of Christ could be summed up in one word love. He summarized the 613 commandments to two commandments. Love God first and if you love God first then you will love your fellow man. [Matt. 22:37-39] Jesus demonstrated the greatest love possible by fulfilling [John 15:13] and praying for us [John 17:11, 21, 24].
X. The Commands Of Christ
A. Introduction
B. Twenty Commands Of Christ Examined
Command #6 – The Christian's life is to be characterized by prayer. Christ is our example throughout the gospels [Luke 21:36; 22:40; 10:2; 6:28]
Command #7 – the saint of God is made great because he has faith in a great God [Mark 11:22; John 20:27; Matt. 14:27]
Command #8 – the Lord commands us to search the scriptures [John 5:39; 15:20]
Command #9 – Letting your light shine and each Christian must daily let His light shine because we have the light of the world indwelling us [Matt. 5:16; John 15:16; Mark 5:19]
Command #10 – Christians are to love and serve God completely [Mark 12:30; Matt. 4:10]
Command #11 – Our duty to men in authority, Christians are to love and obey them [Mark 12:13-17] as long as they don't go counter to the Word of God [I Tim. 2:1-2]
Command #12 – concerns our duty to our neighbors and our neighbor is the man in need [Matt. 19:19; Luke 6:31]
Command #13 – has to do with coveteousness our lives are to be heaven centered and not earth centered [Luke 12:15] because this will put up a false God in our heart and Paul reminds of this in [Col. 3:1-2].
Command #14 – is a commandment of Christ regarding hypocrisy and He tells us to beware of becoming a religious hypocrite [Luke 12:1; Matt. 23:2-3]. Our walk should match our talk.
Command #15 – is a command about meekness. Let's be like Christ in lowliness and humility [Matt. 11:29-30; Mark 10:44; Luke 17:10]
Command #16 – has to do with our love for the brethren we are to love, forgive and forbear condemnation [John 15:12; Matt. 18:10; 5:24; Luke 17:4; 6:37]
Command #17 – we have a command to be perfect, not sinless, when Christ says to be perfect Jesus is speaking about maturity the Christian is to confess his sins and get right with God and strives to live a life for Christ [Matt. 5:48; Luke 6:36]
Command #18 – concerns wisdom [Matt. 10:16; 7:6] our wisdom comes from God and we know that a dog in the scripture speaks of an unsaved man and a swine of an unsaved woman and so we have to wisdom in speaking to the unsaved in knowing what to say and not to say.
Command #19 – concerns preaching the gospel and each believer is to preach the gospel where he is [Mark 16:15; Luke 24:47; Matt. 28:18-20]
Command #20 – we must be ready for the Second Coming of Christ [Luke 12:40]
C. Conclusion
Jesus reminds us in [John 14:23] that if we love Him we will keep His commandments.
XI. The Miracles Of Christ
A. Introduction
This subject has been for centuries a battleground on which men have fought. The scientific mind of our century has attempted to solve this dispute. Today there seems to be two schools of thought some accept them and others reject them. The scientist rejects them because he cannot understand or prove them. The evangelical accepts them because he has faith in a miracle working God. The word miracle is used very loosely today. Someone escapes death in an automobile accident and states emphatically it was a miracle. Actually it was an act of divine providence the protection of guardian angels.
B. Definition Of The Word "Miracle"
A miracle is the setting aside of a lower law by a higher law. The higher law is the law of God that superseded earth's laws. A more scholarly definition of a miracle would be: a miracle is an affect in nature not attributable to any of the recognized operations in nature, nor to the act of man but indicative of superhuman power in serving as a sign of witness thereof. [Acts 4:16, 22]
C. Uniqueness of Jesus' Miracles
The Lord's miracles were performed to prove His Deity and accredit His message [John 2:11]. The prophets Moses, Aaron, Elijah, Peter and Paul performed miracles by delegated power, power given to them by God. But Jesus performed His miracles by His own power to prove His Deity. In all Jesus performed 35-40 miracles at least those recorded in the gospels of various types because all power was His to use at His discretion [Matt. 28:18]. Jesus in [Luke 4:3-4] refused to perform a miracle in order to obey the devil or to satisfy His hunger after 40 days and nights of fasting.
D. The Scope Of Jesus' Miracles
He performed miracles over nature [Matt. 8:25-27]. He performed miracles more than once over devils casting them out [Mark 5:12-13; Matt. 8:28-32, 9:32-33, 15:22-28; 17:14-18; Mark 1:23-27]. He also healed disease [Matt. 9:6; John 5:5-9; Matt. 12:10-13; Luke 13:10-13; Matt. 9:20-22; Luke 14:2-4; Matt. 8:14-15, 9:32-33; John 9:1-7; Matt. 11:4-5; 8:1-3] Jesus healed at least ten different kinds of diseases. In [John 11:43-44; Mark 5:21-24, 35-42; Luke 7:12-15] we see that He could raise the dead. Some miscellaneous miracles [John 2:1-11], feeding of the 5000 [John 6:1-14], walking on the sea [John 6:15-21], feeding of the 4000 [Matt. 15:32-39], the curse of the fig tree [Matt. 21:18-22], Peter's finding the coin in the fishes mouth [Matt. 17:27], the miraculous catch [Luke 5:1-11; John 21:6].
E. Credibility Of Jesus' Miracles
The records of these miracles are not sensational or even glowingly presented. These miracles were performed openly in the presence of many witnesses for all to see. The miracles of, healing, have never been disproved, by scientists or doctors neither has anyone ever been able to reproduce any of them, Jesus miracles were unique. He never performed miracles for immoral or unworthy purposes his motives were always right. In all of these accounts the healing was instantaneous and supernatural. [Matt. 11:2-6] To attempt to explain the miracles is an insult to the power and integrity of Christ.
F. Objections To Jesus' Miracles
Some say that Jesus' personality was so strong that His healings were by strong influences that could cure certain nervous disorders. Foolish suggestions to explain miracles only make the speaker ridiculous and unbelieving. Another objection the sea was shallow and Jesus really walked on the ground. Or when the lad gave the loaves and fishes everybody really dug into their lunches and gladly shared them. And the dead weren't really quite dead just sleeping. Materialism refuses to recognize divine forces and acknowledge only physical forces so rejects miracles outright. To the pantheist who recognizes the laws of nature only miracles are impossible. Agnosticism denies miracles for it denies the source of miracles God, Himself. The naturalist, say, that the uniformity of nature, excludes miracles. Philosophy argues that miracles interrupt the continuity of thought and so are not desired. To the optimist or idealist things are so good that miracles are not necessary. Others reject the miracles simple for insufficiency of evidence. The believer accepts them because of the veracity of scripture.
G. Value Of Jesus' Miracles
To the believer the miracles are the credentials that identify Jesus as savior. He proved His person and deity by the miracles He performed. Miracles are evidence of a superhuman power. In fact the antichrist power will come from Satan [II Thess. 2:9]. Jesus received His superhuman power from God. Miracles will not save anyone but miracles should lead one to faith [John 12:37; Matt. 8:27] however miracles certainly strengthen the faith of those who already believe.
H. The Possibility Of Miracles Today
If miracles are wrought in the power of God and God never changes then miracles are possible today. However, one thing has changed miracles were often performed to accredit the messenger and the need for that is greatly reduced. Why? Back in the OT, Jesus' day, and the time of Peter and Paul, they did not have the full revelation which is the Word of God as we have it today and neither did they until Acts 2 have the Indwelling Spirit of God as we have today that can show them what the scriptures are saying. The work of the apostles was primarily to the house of Israel and we know for the Bible tells us that the Jews require a sign. A lot of the miracles were for the unbelieving Jews. We do not need miracles today to prove that Jesus is God for the inspired Word of God shows us that Jesus is God.
XII. The Death Of Christ
A. Introduction
The two doctrines most opposed by fallen man are incarnation and expiation. According to Dr. Sapphire these two doctrines show the marvelous and inconceivable love of God to poor sinful humanity. Substitution is the great doctrine of Peter, Paul, James and Philip in the Book of Acts. D. L. Moody said there is not a ray of hope for man outside of substitution. Death was the supreme work of the Lord Jesus. We come to live and death ends our work. Jesus came to die His purpose could be gained in no other way. Sin involves the death penalty someone must bear either the sin bearer or a suitable substitute. There is no possibility of bribery at heavens court. Atonement is the heart of Christianity and atonement settles the sin question. Sin and the atonement is the central Bible issue. The red line of blood passes right through the Bible from Genesis through Revelation.
B. The Doctrine Of His Death
Concerning, Christ's death it was foretold, by God [Is. 53:8; Dan. 9:26; Zech. 13:7]. His death was, appointed, by God [Is. 53:6, 10; Acts 2:23]. Now we want to look at the meaning of Christ's death and some of the terms that are used describing His death. The first is atonement and it is used 77x and means a covering for sin. It is an OT word that only occurs once in the NT in [Romans 5:11]. The next word is propitiation and it carries the thought of a mercy seat [I John 2:2] The next word is substitution and carries the idea of one taking the place of another, the innocent taking the place, and punishment for the guilty [John 10:11]. The next word is redemption the sinner in bondage is bought back by God for a certain purchase price [I Peter 1:18-19]. Another word connected with Christ's death is reconciliation [Romans 5:10]. The next word is ransom, in other words the price paid for the release of the sinner [Matt. 20:28; John 19:18; Luke 23:42]. He died by crucifixion [Matt. 27:35; Mark 15:24; Luke 23:33]. As we look at the mode of His death it was pre-figured as we see from [Num. 21:8; John 3:14]. His death was an ignominious death [Heb. 12:2] and it was an accursed death [Gal. 3:13]. Christ volunteered to die for us He was not coerced by anyone including God the Father [John 10:18] The reason for Christ's death was to satisfy the justice of a holy God in heaven. Only Christ could pay this death in full because all the attributes of God must be in harmony to make salvation possible. God's loving nature could not forgive sin until His legal nature was satisfied in Calvary all the attributes of God found a perfect solution [II Cor. 5:21]. The result of Christ's death provided salvation to all mankind who will accept Him as a substitute [I Tim. 4:10]
C. Objections To The Substitutionary Death Of Christ
Can man suffer for his own sins? Yes, but the full penalty is eternal death and eternity will not be long enough to pay the complete debt. Can man atone for his own sins? No, eternal suffering is not enough [Heb. 9:22] Only death can satisfy the demands of God and the soul never succeeds in dying in hell. Someone as defined hell as dying forever and never being able to die. Another objection is that the doctrine of the atonement, was invented, by Paul and of course it wasn't for it was preached by Jesus while He was still on the earth [Matt. 16:21; John 12:24]. Another objection, will this doctrine not make men feel hopeless and sin even more? No the cross teaches God's great hatred for sin [Rom. 6:1-2]. Is it not unfair to make the innocent suffer for our sins against His will? Well it would be if Jesus were forced to suffer for our sins against His will however Jesus volunteered to die for us. It was His, own, desire and choosing to do so. Another objection is: could God not just forgive the sinner without the terrible death on Calvary? Sin has been committed against God why couldn't God just blot it out? The reason for that is He could not for the law of God must be satisfied. [Gen. 2:17; Ezekiel 18:4; Rom. 6:23] you see repentance does not remove the need for the punishment for sin. Sin has been committed and sin must be dealt with according to God's own precepts. The justice and honor of God are at stake and must be preserved. The holiness of God demands the death penalty for sin. Another objection is this: is it not possible to transfer guilt from a guilty one to an innocent one? Well human courts punish only the guilty one but they could punish a substitute if such were desired because a substitute voluntarily assumes the guilt of the other [Is. 53:4, 5; I Peter 2:24]. If each sin requires eternal death how could Christ suffer an innumerable number of deaths in a few short hours of Calvary? To answer that objection it was not the amount of suffering that counted but the justice of God that had to be satisfied. The fact that a holy sinless one suffered made the difference.
[I Tim. 2:5; Is. 52:14; Luke 23:44]
D. Conclusion
The death of Christ is sufficient for every sinner He died for the sins of the whole world and He died for your sins and my sins. This is a very personal thing and He purchased the church with His own blood.
XIII. The Resurrection Of Jesus Christ
A. Introduction
The doctrine of the resurrection is the foundation of the NT. The resurrection is mentioned 104x in the NT. Christianity is the only religion with a living originator. Buddha is dead, Hinduism, Mohammed, Communism are all dead. The boast and glory of Christianity is the empty tomb. Jesus is risen [I Cor. 15:16-19; Matt. 16:21]. If the resurrection is true then Jesus is the Son of God and this is the miracle on which all other miracles stand or fall.
B. Evidence Of The Resurrection
Number one is the empty tomb [Matt. 28:6; Luke 24:3]. Secondly we have the testimony of the angels [Matt. 28:6; Luke 24:5-7]. Third we have the testimony of those who talked with Him such as Peter, Mary and Thomas and Cleoptas. A, fourth evidence is that Jesus ate and drank and showed His wounds. We also have the testimony of the five hundred who saw Him at one time [I Cor. 15:6]. Another evidence was by His appearance to Stephen at his martyrdom [Acts 7:56] and by His appearance to Paul [Acts 5:9]. Also, by the testimony of millions who have proved Him to be a living savior and finally by many infallible proofs [Acts 1:3].
C. Explanations Of Jesus' Resurrection
The fraud theory as some say the whole story of the resurrection is a hoax but scripture and history deny such a thing. Another theory is the swoon theory that Jesus only fainted for the soldiers did not kill Him and that the cool tomb and spices caused Him to revive and come back to life. On the contrary the spices were poisonous and would have killed Him instead. The hallucination theory says the disciples wanted to see Jesus and thought that He would arise and so they in their imaginations saw Him. However the scriptures tell us that the disciples were steeped in unbelief and would scarcely believe after seeing Him. Thomas wouldn't believe without touching Him. The disciples were incredulously unbelieving for which Jesus rebuked them [Luke 24:25]. Then we have the ghost theory, which says they only saw His ghost and thought it was Jesus. A ghost however does not have flesh and bones or eat and drink as we see Jesus did after His resurrection [Luke 24:39-43]. The next theory is the myth theory, which says it is a wild story handed down by the ancients without truth and of course the whole canon of scripture shows the lie to this theory. The true explanation is that Jesus rose bodily from the grave as He said that He would [Acts 2:24].
D. His Resurrection Body
His resurrected body had flesh and bones [Luke 24:39-43] and it was a glorious body [Phil. 3:21] and when we are resurrected Christ will change our bodies to be a glorious body like His. His body was also an immortal body one that will never die and all of these things will apply to the believer when he is resurrected. His resurrected body was also a spiritual body [I Cor. 15:44] and His body also had the ability to pass through a solid wall [John 20:19].
E. How Did Jesus Rise From The Dead
He rose from the dead by the power of the Father [Acts 2:23-24; 3:15; 5:30] and by the power of Christ Himself [John 2:19; 10:18] and by the power of the Holy Spirit [I Peter 3:18].
F. Results Of The Resurrection
First of all it proves the existence of God. If there is no God how did Christ rise from the dead? He rose because a living God resurrected Him. Secondly it proves the deity of Jesus Christ [Rom. 1:4]. Third it means that salvation is an accomplished act. Fourth the resurrection guarantees that everyone else shall rise [John 5:29] and it speaks of two resurrections. Fifth, it prepares Jesus to fulfill His next promise that He will come again [John 14:1-3]. Sixth, the power of His resurrection is an experience that we may enjoy now [Phil. 3:10] and it means living in the newness of life that comes to us of the resurrected Christ living His life through us [Gal. 2:20; Rom. 6:1, 3-5].
G. Conclusion
Resurrection is the greatest power in the world outside of prayer. The resurrection surpasses the power of the atom, hydrogen, cobalt or uranium. They have the power to destroy the resurrection has power to give life to the dead.
An atheist dies and has placed in his will the following clause which says my body is to be cremated and my ashes taken by plane and scattered in the seven seas. But my dear friend, the Word of God says that a thousand years later in the resurrection when the trump of God sounds the body will come together and stand at the Great White Throne judgment in the presence of Christ where all the unsaved dead will come up. We need to allow the resurrection power to keep us from sin now and forevermore. Because Christ rose, materialism, communism and atheism must fall. Today the mightiest conqueror is death who strides across the land digging a trench across the hemispheres and filling it with the dead but the resurrection is a greater power for it breaks the power of the grave [I Cor. 15:55-58].
IVX. The Ascension Of Christ
A. Introduction
The life of Jesus Christ can be foretold as four great miracles the incarnation, the resurrection, the ascension and the second coming. The ascension is that event in which Christ departed visibly and returned to the third heaven. He came to earth as a humble baby and He left the earth as the exalted conqueror. When His earthly work was complete He entered into His heavenly ministry of preparing the mansions and His high priestly work of intercession.
B. The Story Of The Ascension
[Acts 1:9-11] can be summarized in two words Christ ascended visibly and bodily.
C. The Ascension Was Prophesied And Taught In The Scriptures
[Ps. 68:18; 110:1; Luke 9:51; John 6:62; 14:28; 20:17] the OT spoke of it and Jesus taught freely of His ascension.
D. The Ascension Occurred Forty Days After The Resurrection
Jesus delayed going back to His Father to remain on earth for several reasons. First, to, prove, beyond a shadow of a doubt that He had risen from the dead. This was essential for the establishment of the faith for the believers. Secondly, He tarried in order to give the disciples more instructions in the Christian faith. In the post-resurrection period Jesus was able to explain much of His past teaching in the light of that which had occurred in His death, burial and resurrection [Acts 1:3].
E. The Manner Of The Ascension
[Luke 24:51; Eph. 1:20] God's right hand is not a figure of speech but a literal geographic location for Stephen at his stoning saw Christ there [Acts 7:56].
F. The Necessity Of The Ascension
Why was it necessary for Jesus to ascend? Heaven was His home so it was logical then that when His work was completed that He would return home again [John 14:28]. Prophecy had to be fulfilled. The Divine plan was that the Holy Spirit would not come to indwell believers until after the ascension of Christ. The ascension in other words must precede Pentecost [John 16:7]. His ascension was a prerequisite for His further work of preparing mansions [John 14:1-3]. Jesus ascended to complete the redemptive work that was required [John 20:16-17] and Christ ascension enabled His followers to do the greater works [John 14:12]. Jesus ascended to begin His ministry of intercession and his ascension makes His ministry worldwide not localized in Palestine [Matt. 28:18]. Finally the ascension becomes a strong proof and explanation of the resurrected body.
H. The Purpose Of The Ascension
Jesus ascended to glorify the Father [John 17:1] and He ascended to become a prince and a savior [Acts 5:31]. A third purpose was that Christ ascended as a forerunner to open the pathway for us [Heb. 6:20]. Another purpose was that He ascended to prepare our heavenly abode. He ascended to be our priest [Heb. 9:21-24]. Jesus ascended to take His appropriate seat [Heb. 10:12-13].
I. The Results Of The Ascension
Number one He gave gifts to men [Eph. 4:8, 11-13]. Because He ascended the Holy Spirit descended [John 16:7; Acts 2:33]. He demonstrated, that sins were purged, by sitting down, and showing completed action [Heb. 1:3]. Because of His ascension we as believers can come boldly before the Lord in prayer [Heb. 4:14-16]. Because He has ascended He can now save to the uttermost [Heb. 7:25] and His presence in heaven causes us to draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience [Heb. 10:22]. Jesus now stands on the portals of heaven beckoning us to look unto Him [Heb. 12:2]. As a result of the ascension we as believers are now seated with Him in heavenly places [Eph. 2:6] positionally, physically we are here in our bodies but spiritually we are seated in heaven and someday after the resurrection the body will be with the spirit. He ascended that He might fulfill all things [Eph. 4:10]. Now that He has ascended angels, authorities, and powers are now subject to Him [I Peter 3:22]. The ascension becomes one of the six articles of godliness [I Tim. 3:16]
J. Conclusion
Because of the exaltation of Jesus Christ one day every knee shall bow and every tongue shall confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of the Father [Phil. 2:9-11]. His praise should be continually on our lips for He has secured a great future for the believer eternally forever with Him.
XV. The Intercessory Work Of Christ
A. Introduction
Someone may ask the question is Christ idle today? What is he doing right now? Does He spend all His time preparing mansions for the redeemed? [John 14:1-3] yes this is one of His tasks today. In addition to this ministry Jesus is actively engaged in the ministry of intercession [Heb. 7:25; 9:24]. A priest is a mediator one who intercedes with a just God on behalf of guilty sinners [Lev. 4:16-18]. Job's desire was for a daysman or a mediator in his day [Job 9:33]. We need to be thanking God for His intercession on our behalf each and every day.
B. Christ's Atoning Work Was Finished On Earth
At the cross Jesus said it is finished [John 19:30] in other words salvation is complete there is nothing left to be done. Sin was righteously dealt with at the cross, Jesus will never die again [Heb. 9:24-28] shows the sin and error of Roman Catholic and this is blasphemy for it goes against the Holy Scriptures. Christ died once for all and the sacrifice does not have to be repeated ever again.
C. Christ Met The Conditions Of Becoming A Priest
First He was taken from among men [Heb. 5:1]. Secondly He was ordained or appointed to the task [Heb. 3:1-2]. Third, He was called of God to the task [Heb. 5:4-5]. Fourth, He served in things pertaining to God [Heb. 2:17]. Fifth, He offered gifts and sacrifices for sins [Heb. 5:1].
D. Christ Was Made A Priest After The Aaronic Pattern
On earth Jesus never acted as a priest, He never entered the Holy of Holies, however Jesus publicly offered Himself at Calvary. So we see in comparison with the Aaronic pattern that both offered sacrifices, both appeared in God's presence for the people, both came out to bless the people, however Aaron as a man died Jesus ever lives to intercede for us. In this respect Jesus follows the Melchisedec pattern a priest without end [Heb. 5:6].
E. Christ Offered Himself As The Sacrifice On Calvary
While we were yet sinners Christ died for us [Rom. 5:8] upon the cross of shame. As we look at His sacrifice we first of all that it was voluntary of a free will [Heb. 10:5-10]. Secondly His sacrifice was substitutionary He died for all men [Heb. 7:24-28]. Third, His sacrifice was spotless [Heb. 9:14]. Fourth, His sacrifice was with blood [Heb. 9:12; Acts 20:28]. It was divine blood that was shed for us. Fifth, we see that His sacrifice was final [Heb. 7:27].
F. Christ Now Appears In The Presence of God For Us
[Heb. 9:1-8] this passage tells of the responsibilities of the priest and we see the setup of the Tabernacle and we see that this is just a picture of what takes place in heaven as Christ took His blood and sprinkled it on the mercy seat for our sins. See also [Heb. 9:11-12] Christ went into a better tabernacle the one in heaven and Christ as entered into heaven itself [Heb. 9:24] Christ now appears in the presence of God for us [Heb. 7:24-25]. He intercedes for those who come to God through Him. In [John 17:1-26] we have Christ high priestly prayer and now we have the actual plea He makes before the Father in [II Cor. 12:9] and the plea is for grace to the saints and strength to the weak [John 17:11] and that we may be kept from sin and temptation [John 17:15] and He pleas to the Father that we be forgiven when we confess our sins [I John 1:9]. Another plea is that we would have the power to witness for Christ [Acts 1:8]. Another plea to the Father for us is that we would be conformed to the image of Christ [Rom. 8:29]. The purpose of the plea is to sustain life [Heb. 9:24], Christ appears in the presence of God to sustain our life in order that we can live a holy, separated life for Him. Secondly the purpose is to give cleansing [I John 2:1]. Third, to give grace and help, to us [Heb. 4:15-16], and the fourth reason would be to give us victory [Heb. 2:17-18].
G. Christ Is Our Advocate Now
We know that Satan is the accuser of the brethren at the throne of God [Job 1:6-12]. To counteract the accusations of Satan we have a lawyer/advocate at the court of heaven. Our lawyer/advocate is the Lord Jesus Christ after the accuser of the brethren accuses you and I [I John 2:1]. Jesus is the only advocate a man can have for He is the only One that God the Father will listen to Him. Why will the Father listen to the Son? Because of Christ's blood we are washed clean and all God sees is His Son's blood covering us. The sacrifice Himself becomes our lawyer who pleads our cause when Satan comes and accuses us before God the Father. As a result the saint then receives the Father's forgiveness for the sake of the Savior and we see this glorious promise in [I John 1:9].
H. Christ Offers To Be Your Intercessor Today
If we do not ask for forgiveness we will not receive it. In times of severe trial we ought to be glad for a true friend at court. The Savior stands ever ready at the court of heaven to assist us. He is willing to be our personal representative to the Father. As we pray we place our case in His hands for His divine care. As a true man He was tempted in all points like we are yet He was without sin. He overcame sin and now offers that overcoming power to us. We do not know the accusations that Satan is constantly bringing to the Father against us some of them may be true but many, many may be false. [Rev. 12:10] says that the accuser of the brethren is cast down. Only our Lord and Savior can be our advocate [I Tim. 2:5].
I. Conclusion
[Luke 22:31-32] this is Christ present ministry on our behalf. See also [Rom. 8:29] the intercessory work of Christ provides strong motives for consistent and impressive Christian living. The resurrected Christ watches over us. The Christian soldier reckons on Jesus the captain fighting the same battle but on a higher plane in heaven. [Eph. 6:12] The humblest believer now rests in the love of the unseen friend whose faithful care is unaffected by time or events.
XVI. The Second Coming Of Christ
A. Introduction
There are three Greek words used to reveal this fact. First word is parousia, which is the personal presence. The second word is apokalupsis, which means revelation and then there is the word epiphaneia, which means appearing. These three words signify that there will come a time when Christ will return in a public personal revelation of Himself to the world. [Acts 1:10-11], here we have a description of the ascension of Christ 40 days after the resurrection and these verses describe the Lord's return as in the same manner as His ascension. It will be personal, bodily, visible and with power. The Savior's first coming was in humiliation, but, the second, advent will be glorious. There are three major viewpoints respecting His coming. Viewpoint #1 is post-millennial which teaches that the Second Coming will follow, rather than, precede the thousand year, reign, of Christ. Viewpoint #2 is the ammillennial view. An amillennialist does not believe in a period of a thousand year reign but that when Christ comes everything ends quickly. The third view is the pre-millennial view the Lord comes and then follows the millennium. The Second coming is in two stages the rapture, which is in secret, is when the Lord comes for His saints and we meet Him in the air [I Thess. 4:15-17]. The second part is the revelation of Jesus Christ, which is public when the Lord comes with His saints to set up the millennium [Rev. 1:7; I Thess. 3:13].
B. Prophecies Concerning Christ's Second Coming
His first coming was prophesied and those prophecies came to pass literally, this gives us confidence that the prophecies of the Second Coming will also be fulfilled literally and not in a figurative or spiritual sense. First of all, it was foretold, by, the prophets, [Dan 7:13; Matt. 25:31; I Tim. 6:14; Acts 1:10-11], and by Jesus, Paul and the angels and none of these prophecies were fulfilled at His first coming.
C. Time Of Christ's Coming
Jesus Christ has man did not know that date but Jesus Christ as God is omniscient and certainly knows when it will occur [Matt. 24:36].
D. Purpose Of Christ's Coming
Number one to complete the salvation of the saints. He has delivered us from the power and penalty of sin but then He will deliver us from the presence of sin [Heb. 9:28]
Number two to be glorified, in His saints [II Thess. 1:10]. Number three to bring to light the hidden things of darkness [I Cor. 4:5]. Number four to judge [II Tim. 4:1]. Number five is to reign [Rev. 11:15]. Number six, is to receive us to be with Himself [John 14:3]. Number seven is to destroy death [I Cor. 15:25-26].
E. How Is Christ Coming?
First of all secretly at the rapture [I Thess. 5:2; Matt. 24:44, 50], but publicly at the revelation [Rev. 1:7; Matt. 24:30; Titus 2:13]
F. Where Is Christ Coming To?
At the rapture we will meet Him in the air all believers who have believed in Christ from Pentecost will meet Him at the rapture [I Thess. 4:17]. At the revelation when the church comes back with Him we will descend with Him to the earth and He will stand on the Mount of Olives [Zech. 14:4].
G. Manner Of His Coming
[Matt. 24:30] His coming will be in the clouds and secondly in the glory of His Father [Matt. 16:27] and third in His own glory [Matt. 25:31] and fourth in flaming fire [II Thess. 1:8] and five in power and great glory [Matt. 24:30], six He will come just as he ascended [Acts 1:10-11], seven with a shout and a voice of the archangel [I Thess. 4:16], eight with His saints [I Thess. 3:13], nine accompanied by angels [Matt. 16:27], ten it will be suddenly [Mark 13:36].
H. Signs Of Christ's Coming
[II Tim. 3:1-7] lists some 23 signs of His coming, most of them it not all are very evident today in the age we live. These are the characteristics of the people who will be living in the day of His second coming. Also, in Matt. 24:5-7, 12-38 lists ten signs of His coming.
Ten signs that shall be in place at the Lord's coming:
False Christ [Matt. 24:5]
Wars and rumors of wars [Matt. 24:6]
Famines [Matt. 24:7]
Pestilences [Matt. 24:7]
Earthquakes [Matt. 24:7]
Iniquity will abound [Matt. 24:12]
Love of many waxing cold [Matt. 24:12]
Eating [Matt. 24:38]
Drinking [Matt. 24:38]
Marrying [Matt. 24:38]
Other signs that will be included is the destruction of Jerusalem [Lk. 21:20-24] and then also the completion of the church [Romans 11:25]. God will again deal with Israel after the rapture of the church. Also the gospel of the kingdom is preached everywhere [Matt. 24:14]. Another sign will be the coming of the antichrist [II Thess. 2:3-8].
I. Conclusion
Be not a scoffer like those in [II Peter 3:3-4] for His coming is sure and certain. We ought to plan and work as if He were not coming for another century but live as if He were coming today [I Thess. 3:12-13]. The doctrine of the second coming should affect our lives by keeping us busy working for the Lord until He returns.
XVII. The Result Of His Return
A. Introduction
The Second Coming of Christ is said to be mentioned 318x in the 260 chapters of the NT. It occupies one in every 25 verses of the NT. From [I Thess. 4:18] we learn that we are to comfort one another with the fact of His soon return. The hope of the world for four millenniums was the coming of the promised Messiah. The hope of the NT is the eminent return of the Lord Jesus, in fact the last prayer of the Bible [Rev. 22:20] even so, come quickly Lord Jesus. This doctrine draws the wrath of Satan for he hates this final glorious event. The worldly church and carnal Christians also hate this purifying doctrine. The fact of His return leads us to live a life of watchfulness, fidelity, wisdom, activity, simplicity, self-restraint, prayer and abiding in Christ. Special blessings are promised for those who watch faithfully according to [Luke 12:37; II Tim. 4:8].
B. With Regard To God
[Is. 40:5] when Christ returns the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and everyone shall see it.
C. With Regard To The Church
At the coming of Jesus the dead in Christ shall rise first [I Thess. 4:13-18] and then we which are alive shall rise up after and our bodies will be changed into immortal bodies our bodies will be changed to be like His [Phil 3:20-21; I John 3:2; I Cor. 15:51-53]. We will meet the Lord in the air and continue to be with the Lord forever. Then comes the Judgment Seat of Christ for believers [I Tim. 4:8; I Peter 5:4] and finally the church will live and reign with Christ [Rev. 20:4].
D. With Regard To Israel
Number one the second coming of Christ will be preceded by the re-gathering of Israel [Is. 11:11-12; Ezek. 36:24]. Now immediately after the rapture there will be even a greater re-gathering at His second coming the nation of Israel all 12 tribes will be reunited [Ezek. 37:19-24] and then also Jesus Christ, David's son will reign as king as prophesied [Jer. 23:5-6] and also Israel will be judged and cleansed at this time [Romans 11:26; Ezek. 37:23; 36:25-29]. Israel and Palestine shall prosper tremendously at this time [Jer. 31:31-34; Ezek. 36:37-38, 33-36; Zech. 8:23; Is. 49:22-23] and we will see at this time that Israel will take the message of the kingdom to all nations [Is. 66:19].
E. With Regard To The Nations And Unregenerate Individuals
The coming is a happy day for the church and for Israel but a sad day for the rest [Matt. 24:30; Rev. 1:7] and the judgment of the nations will follow the revelation of Christ when He comes in His glory [Matt. 25:31-40] this judgment of the nations will be based upon this; how the nations treated the Jews during the tribulation. Here we see it is very works oriented and the nations who, did good to Israel, will be allowed to enter into the millennial kingdom. The goat nations on the other hand [Matt. 25:41-46] will not enter into the millennial kingdom instead they will go into everlasting punishment.
It seems likely that the sheep nations will follow the Lord [Is. 2:2-3] and go up to the house of the Lord at Jerusalem. Now the goat nations will go into everlasting punishment [II Thess. 1:7-9]. Those remaining on earth will be forced to serve Christ for He will rule with a rod of iron [Ps. 2:9; Zech. 9:10; Rev. 11:15] and these nations will cease war and live in peace [Micah 4:3-4; Is. 2:4].
F. With Regard To Society As A Whole
The earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the water covers the sea [Is. 11:9].
G. With Regard To The Antichrist And The Devil
The antichrist will be revealed after the rapture, his reign of terror will be culminated with the coming of Christ with his saints [II Thess. 2:8; Rev. 19:20]. The devil at this time will be chained and cast into the bottomless pit for a thousand years at the coming of Christ [Rev. 20:1-3]
H. With Regard To The Physical Universe
First of all creation shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption [Rom. 8:19-21] and part of the curse will be removed [Is. 55:13] and it will mean peace to the animal world [Is. 65:25] and the wilderness shall become fruitful [Is. 32:15; 35:1]
I. Conclusion
We are warned to watch and be ready [Mark 13:33; Matt. 24:42] and to take care of the stewardship the Lord has given us [Luke 19:11-27] and we are to be faithful in that responsibility until He comes. We must be careful to maintain a worthy character [I John 3:1-3]. In view of His near return we must hasten to carry out the great commission [Matt. 28:18-20].


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Updated on June 3, 2018 by admin
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subset: commoncrawl


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Rochester, N.Y., Feb. 10, 2019 – The Washington University in St. Louis men's basketball team found themselves down early on and could not respond in a 78-48 loss at the University of Rochester Sunday in Rochester, N.Y.
Rochester won its fourth-straight game to improve to 18-4 and 8-3 in the University Athletic Association (UAA), while WashU suffered its second-straight defeat and dropped to 14-8 and 7-4 in the conference. Rochester is in a tie with Emory for first place in the UAA standings, while WashU and Chicago is a game back.
WashU shot a season-low 33.3 percent (17-51) from the field, and the 48 points were also a season low. Freshman forward Justin Hardy led WashU with 10 points, while sophomore guard Payden Webb had a career-high nine points off the bench.
WashU started the game 0-for-6 from the field with four turnovers and trailed 11-0 in the opening five minutes of play. Nolan's three-pointer with 14:54 to play ended the drought. Hardy's three-point play and a bucket by junior forward Hank Hunter trimmed the Rochester advantage to 20-16.
Rochester went on a 14-4 run to end the half to take a commanding 37-21 lead. Hardy led the Bears with seven points as WashU shot 29.2 percent (7-24) from the field and hit just 4-of-10 from the free-throw line. Rochester also had a 13-3 advantage in points off turnovers.
The Yellowjackets had an 10-2 run early in the second half to open up a 22-point lead (47-25) with 15:16 to play.
Ryan Clamage led Rochester with 23 points. The Yellowjackets shot 60.4 percent (32-53) from the field and hit 10-of-20 three-pointers.
WashU return home to entertain New York University (7-15 1-10 UAA) on Friday, Feb. 15, at 8 p.m. The Bears will be hosting Eliot Night and is designated as a #RedOut.
BEAR NOTEBOOK: WashU leads the all-time series with Rochester 40-26, and the teams split the season series … Nolan had his streak of 29-straight free-throws made come to an end in the first half.


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1st Stage 15 minutes
With eyes closed sit quietly, preferably with gentle music playing.
2nd Stage: 15 minutes
Keeping your eyes closed, start making nonsense sounds, for example 'la. . . la. . . la. . .', and continue until unfamiliar word-like sounds arise. These sounds need to come from the unfamiliar part of the brain used as a child, before words were learned. Allow a gentle conversational intonation; do not cry or shout, laugh or scream.
3rd Stage 15 minutes
Keeping your eyes closed, stand up and continue to speak, allowing your body to move softly in harmony with the sounds. If your body is relaxed the subtle energies will create a Latihan outside your control.
4th Stage 15 minutes
Keeping your eyes closed, lie down and be silent and still.
"The only thing to be remembered is that those sounds or words should not be of any language that you know. If you know English, German, and Italian, then they should not be Italian, German, or English. Any other language that you don't know is allowed – Tibetan, Chinese, Japanese! But if you know Japanese then it is not allowed – then Italian is wonderful
. Speak any language that you don't know. You will be in a difficulty for a few seconds only for the first day, because how do you speak a language you don't know ? It can be spoken, and once it starts, any sounds, nonsense words just to put the conscious off and allow the unconscious to speak, will happen.
When the unconsciousness speaks, the unconscious knows no language. It is a very, very old method. It comes from the old testament. In those days it was called glossolalia. A few churches in America still use it. They call it 'talking in tongues'. And it is a wonderful method, one of the most deep and penetrating into the unconscious.
Don't make it feverish, let it be a deep deep comforting energy, nourishing, sing-song. Enjoy, sway, if you feel like dancing, dance. But everything has to be very graceful, that you have to remember. It has not to become cathartic."
OSHO "The Orange Book"


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This chapter contains miscellaneous reference tables that might be useful to a boater. Tables include time zones of major cities in North America and the world, national holidays in the United States and Canada, air pressure and boiling point of water versus elevation, decibel ratings, blood alcohol percentages, boat loan interest, currency conversion, numbered days of the year, measurement conversion tables, and weight and volume of liquids.
Anchor Cove Publishing, Inc.
PO Box 270588, Littleton, CO 80127-0010
Tel: 303-972-0099
Fax: 303-265-9119
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com


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Tortilla Bites
Layer your kids' favorite ingredients on a tortilla, roll it up and slice it into bite-sizes pieces. Spreadable ingredients work well -- salsa, mashed beans, cheese, hummus, or even cranberry sauce (after Thanksgiving you can use up leftovers like cranberry sauce and turkey). Other things that roll well are flat ingredients like lunchmeats and sliced cheeses -- try a ham and cheese wrap spread with mustard. There's no need to bulk these up into burrito-sized wraps; the small, tight rolls with just a thin layer of ingredients are flavor-filled and easy to eat, kind of like finger sandwiches but more fun.


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So this is how the story goes: A Californian surf babe leaves the waves behind to move to the Lower East Side, where she promptly joins an ironically Eighties electro-rock band. In the course of this personal odyssey, our heroine also decides to cut up and customize every single piece of clothing in her closet. In all honesty, I have no idea if she really exists, but she was definitely present in the Unique spring 2010 collection. The point of this Topshop line is to show that it keeps pace with runway fashion, not lagging behind it—and this season it did just that. And that means that early next year will be a time of looks like this, grey biker leather over a faded denim jacket, worn with cream track pants that were studded death metal style.
Vogue Daily
The best new culture, style, and beauty stories from Vogue, delivered to you daily.


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19 Nov New Building Project Completed
Posted at 21:13h in Uncategorized 0 Comments
Our construction crew just finished a little building project at camp to house some of our 'toys'. A storage shed for our boats, jet ski & facility vehicles was just completed this week. There's always something happening at camp!


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Advance 3419; ca. 1964; ? Junior and Misses' Dress, Blouse, Skirt, Pants. Sleeveless slim dress with back zipper, slim below knee skirt with side zipper, shirt/blouse with button front and long sleeves gathered into buttoned cuffs, and tapered pants with seam pockets and side zipper.
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