Good Deeds

Jesus Christ:  “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds (light, moral actions) shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:14-16 (NLT)

These verses are part of King Jesus Christ’s augural address to the world, also called the Sermon on the Mount (see Matthew 5:1-Matthew 7:29). The Sermon on the Mount is also Jesus Christ’s longest recorded sermon in the Holy Scriptures. In this Sermon, Jesus Christ explained the heart attitude and deeds that God the Father expects of all people and His blessings that follow obedience to Jesus Christ’s teaching through the help of the God’s Holy Spirit living within one’s heart (Matthew 5:1-16).

Jesus Christ explained that God blesses those who realize their need for Him and live a life surrendered to His will (Matthew 5:3; Luke 1:38). Also, God blesses those who are humble, seeks justice and mercy, works for peace, and do what is right (Matthew 5:5-10). These character traits (e.g., mercy, humility, justice, peace, goodness) are traits of God (God the Father, God the Son – Jesus Christ, and God the Holy Spirit) and summarize God's righteous ways of living that He blesses and rewards with His special favor (grace), both physically and spiritually (Micah 6:6-8; see also Matthew 5:1-16). The Holy Scriptures repeatedly speaks of the faithful obedience to God that brings His blessings (see Psalm 1:1, 3-6; Psalm 106:3; Psalm 112:1; Psalm 119:1-2; Proverbs 8:32-33; Isaiah 56:2).

God (Yahweh) is “merciful and gracious, longsuffering (patient), and abounding in goodness and truth” (Exodus 34:6, NKJV). The Holy Scriptures are filled with deeds of God’s unending mercy, grace, compassion, patience, faithfulness, forgiveness, and fairness (justice) (see Numbers 14:17-19; Nehemiah 9:17; Psalm 86:15; Psalm 103:8; Psalm 145:8; Joel 2:13; Jonah 4:2). Righteousness is good or moral behavior that conforms to God’s character traits. God wants everyone to follow (imitate) His unchanging character traits as a way of living each day (Ephesians 5:1-2). Good living is not an external thing through obeying rules and regulations. Rather, goodness comes from within – internal attitudes and intents of the heart. There is a blessing that comes to all that follows God’s righteous character from their hearts. 

Apostle Paul:  Follow God’s example in everything you do just as a much loved child imitates his father. Be full of love for others, following the example of Christ who loved you and gave Himself to God as a sacrifice to take away your sins. And God was pleased, for Christ’s love for you was like sweet perfume to him. Ephesians 5:1-2 (TLB)

Both God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ, are the Light of the world (see John 1:4; John 8:12; 1 John 1:5). God is the Light (1 John 1:5) and Jesus Christ is also the Light from God that lights the way of life – as the pillar of fire lighted the way for the Israelites in the wilderness (see Exodus 13:21-22; Nehemiah 9:12). God’s Light or presence was visible in the pillar of cloud and pillar of fire in the Israelites wilderness journey, and also came to earth in the symbolism of the Jewish sanctuary (the Tabernacle and Temple). However, God’s Light came in a fuller way in the Person of Jesus Christ, “God with us” (John 1:1-14). God’s Light fills the entire world as the Holy Spirit comes into the lives of every genuine follower of God.

Apostle Paul:  My prayer for you is that you will overflow more and more with love for others, and at the same time keep on growing in spiritual knowledge and insight, for I want you always to see clearly the difference between right and wrong, and to be inwardly clean, no one being able to criticize you from now until our Lord returns. May you always be doing those good, kind things (the fruits of righteousness) that show you are a child of God, for this will bring much praise and glory to the Lord. Philippians 1:9-11 (TLB)

God expects everyone, particular His followers, to carry on His Light through good deeds in the world (Matthew 5:14; Philippians 2:12-15). Our good deeds in the world brings honor and glory to God (Matthew 5:16; 1 Corinthians 10:31). Remember, God did not save us through our good works because salvation comes only through faith in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9). We experience God's mercy, grace, and salvation, when we accept and believe in Jesus Christ’s life and ministry as God’s only begotten Son (John 1:12-13; John 3:16; Ephesians 2:4-7). Through this acceptance and belief, God also gives us a new and clean heart (Acts 15:9) and heart peace within (Romans 5:1). But having received His mercy and grace, God wants us then to share His goodness with others. God saved us to DO good works in the world and to reflect His good light and righteous fruit to others (Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 2:4-10). God’s Holy Spirit enables His people from within to live good, upright, and moral lives for God’s honor and glory (John 14 – 16; Romans 8:1-3; Galatians 2:20). We are to live with positive light – living a loving relationship filled with truth, good deeds and service to others in the world while fleeing sin – selfishness, self-sufficiency, pride, greed, hate, and prejudice (see Matthew 5:13-16; Luke 10:25-37; James 3:13-18; James 4:7-8).

Apostle Peter:  Dear friends, you are like foreigners and strangers in this world. I beg you to avoid the evil things your bodies want to do that fight against your soul. People who do not believe are living all around you and might say that you are doing wrong. Live such good lives that they will see the good things (deeds) you do and will give glory to God on the day when Christ comes again. 1 Peter 2:11-12 (NCV)

 References

Life Application Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005.

NLT Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008.

Zondervan NIV Study Bible. New York: Zondervan, 2008.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary – New Testament. Victor Books, 2001.

The Gift of Goodness

But God is so rich in mercy, and He loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) For He raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. So God can point to us in all future ages as examples of the incredible wealth of His grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all He has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus. God saved you by His grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:4-10 (NLT)

The true and living God (Yahweh) is eternally good, and He is abounding with loving-kindness, faithfulness, and forgiveness (Exodus 34:6-7; Ephesians 2:7). God is so rich in mercy, and He loves us so much (Ephesians 2:4; John 3:16). He wants goodness for our lives, not hurt (Jeremiah 29:11). Through His abundant love, God freely gives us grace, salvation, and forgiveness through faith and acceptance in the life and ministry of Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior (Ephesians 2:5, 8-9).  These gifts from God are not from our works but free gifts from God received by belief through Jesus’ Name (John 1:12-13; Ephesians 2:8-9).  “All who believe in Jesus will be forgiven of their sins through Jesus’ Name” (Acts 10:43, NCV).

God graciously sent His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to earth as a human Baby as a gift to the world because He loves us so much (Luke 1:32-35; John 3:16). Simply by genuinely believing and trusting in Jesus Christ’s life and ministry as an act of God for human sins, we receive God’s gracious gifts (Acts 10:43). Through faith (belief) in Jesus Christ, God graciously gives us an abundance of gifts:  eternal salvation, heart joy, peace with God, and righteousness in God’s sight (Romans 5:1-2). Even more, God gives us His Holy Spirit and His Holy Scriptures (the Bible) to fill our hearts with His love, protection, and goodness (Romans 5:5; 2 Timothy 3:15-17). All of these wonderful gifts from God is NOT a reward for the good things we have done, but so we can be become more like Jesus Christ and continue to Jesus Christ’s good works in the world (Ephesians 2:9-10). Specifically, God gives us all His special blessings, including His Holy Spirit as His special Presences, to do good and help others in the world (Acts 10:38; Ephesians 2:10; Colossians 1:10). “You know about Jesus from Nazareth, that God gave Him the Holy Spirit and power. You know how Jesus went everywhere doing good and healing” (Acts 10:38, NCV).

So, what is good in God’s eyes? Micah 6:8 tells us what God regards as good. “The Lord has told you, human, what is good; He has told you what He wants from you: to do what is right to other people, love being kind to others, and live humbly, obeying your God” (Micah 6:8, NCV). From our hearts, God wants everyone to do what is right, love others with compassion, and walk humbly with Him as the only true and living God of their lives (see also Romans 12:9-10, 21 Deuteronomy 10:12-13). The Holy Scriptures are clear that we are NOT to mistreat, hurt, and harass others. Instead, God wants everyone to do what is good, merciful, and honest towards others (Exodus 20:1-17). Worship is essentially wholehearted love, faith, and obedience to God and love and goodness to others (e.g., see Genesis 15:6; Genesis 17:1, 9; Hosea 6:6; Proverbs 1:7; Matthew 22:34-40). True spirituality and worship is doing good, seeking justice, living the truth, getting rid of oppression, being fair to others, protecting the orphans, and helping the poor (widows and the needy) (see Exodus 22:21-24; Exodus 23:2-12; Deuteronomy 15:4-11; Deuteronomy 24:12-15; Nehemiah 5:1-13; Psalm 140:12; Jeremiah 22:16; Amos 5:7-24; Daniel 4:27; James 1:27). These actions are symbols of God’s own good character (Psalm 146:9; Matthew 11:5). God is the source of all love and goodness (Genesis 1; Exodus 33:19; Exodus 34:6-7; Deuteronomy 12:28; Psalm 136; 1 John 4:16).

Don’t be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:7-10 (NLT)

The opposite of good is sin. There have been many definitions given for sin. Sin essentially means “selfish individual needs” or a “me first” mindset. The “i” in sin focuses on selfish and personal needs, while ignoring God and others. Sin desires a person to place oneself in the center of one’s life and ahead of God and the needs of others (see Luke 4:1-13). Sadly, sin only brings sadness, depression, and death (Romans 8:13). Every action – whether good or bad – has results. If we live to please ourselves, we will reap a crop of sorrow and pain (Galatians 6:7-8).

The Holy Scriptures are very clear that God must be the center and focus of our lives and hearts FIRST (e.g., see Deuteronomy 6:4-9; Matthew 6:33; Matthew 22:37; Mark 12:29-31) and then we are commanded by God to be good and love others (e.g., see Leviticus 19:18; Luke 10:27; John 13:34-35; Romans 13:8-10; Galatians 5:14). The greatest gifts we can give to God and to others are to love and do good in the world, particularly those in need. The Holy Scriptures challenges us to love one another, keep on doing good, and to trust God for the results (Galatians 6:7-10; 2 Timothy 3:17; James 2:8, 14-26). If we do not give up doing God’s goodness in the world, God will causes everything to work together for our good (Romans 8:28).

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. 

1 Corinthians 13:4-7 (NLT)

God wants us to always be ready to lend a helping hand to others, being kindhearted and courteous (Titus 3:1-2). Everyone who has put their trust in God must concentrate on the essentials that are good for everyone (Titus 3:8) and keep on loving each other (Hebrews 13:1). God’s goodness and love will produce kindness to outsiders (Hebrews 13:2), sympathy for those who are in prison and those mistreated (Hebrews 13:3), and gladness with life (Hebrews 13:5).

This is a trustworthy saying, and I want you to insist on these teachings so that all who trust in God will devote themselves to doing good. Titus 3:8 (NLT)

So, let us all make a promise that this coming year and the years thereafter to focus on loving God with all our whole hearts, souls, minds and strengths and being good by genuinely loving one another. The core of Christian living is hating what is evil, holding on to what is good, and loving each other like brothers and sisters (Romans 12:9-10; see also John 13:34-35; 1 John 4:7-21; 1 John 5:18). So, clothe yourself with good acts (Revelation 19:8) and make a commitment to live in goodness (Revelation 2:1-3:22). As we live this good and true life of loving God and loving others, God gives us many blessings to enjoy (Galatians 5:22-23) through His Holy Spirit.  

But what happens when we live God's way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. Galatians 5:22-23 (The Message Bible)

Your love must be real. Hate what is evil, and hold on to what is good. Love each other like brothers and sisters. Give each other more honor than you want for yourselves. Do not be lazy but work hard, serving the Lord with all your heart. Be joyful because you have hope. Be patient when trouble comes, and pray at all times. Share with God’s people who need help. Bring strangers in need into your homes. Wish good for those who harm you; wish them well and do not curse them. Be happy with those who are happy, and be sad with those who are sad. Live in peace with each other. Do not be proud, but make friends with those who seem unimportant. Do not think how smart you are. If someone does wrong to you, do not pay him back by doing wrong to him. Try to do what everyone thinks is right. Do your best to live in peace with everyone. My friends, do not try to punish others when they wrong you, but wait for God to punish them with His anger. It is written: “I will punish those who do wrong; I will repay them,” says the Lord. But you should do this: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him a drink. Doing this will be like pouring burning coals on his head.” Do not let evil defeat you, but defeat evil by doing good. Romans 12:9-21 (NCV)

References

Life Application Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005.

NLT Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008.

Zondervan NIV Study Bible. New York: Zondervan, 2008.

The Amplified Bible. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987.

The Message Bible. Colorado Springs, CO:  NavPress, 2002. 

Revelation’s Christmas Story

A great and wondrous sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet and a crown of twelve stars on her head. She was pregnant and cried out in pain as she was about to give birth. . . . She gave birth to a Son, a male Child, who will rule all the nations with an iron scepter. And her Child was snatched up to God and to His throne. Revelation 12:1-2, 5 (NIV)

John, the beloved apostle and personal eyewitness of Jesus’ ministry, wrote three New Testament literatures inspired by the Holy Spirit: the Gospel of John, the three Epistles, and the book of Revelation. In his book of Revelation, John gives us the Christmas story of Jesus’ birth in heaven (Revelation 12). Many biblical scholars believe Revelation 12 describes our Christmas day.

At Revelation 12, the apostle John describes an extraordinary event or vision in heaven. John sees a woman in heaven clothed with the sun (God’s glory). Through great struggles and pains, she gave birth to a Son, a male Child to rule the nations. Prior to giving birth, this woman struggles with evil and overcame evil to give birth to a Son (Revelation 12:3-4). Evil desperately tried to destroy and prevent the royal birth in this great heavenly conflict of good verse evil. King Herod’s attempt to kill Jesus as a Baby embodied evil’s attempt on earth to destroy Jesus and His heavenly mission (see Matthew 2:7-8, 16).

Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:  “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:8-14 (NKJV)

This Son born is our Messiah – the Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 12:5; see also Psalm 2:2, 7-9)! Even before His arrival to earth, Jesus had overcome and defeat evil in heaven to bring salvation and peace into the world (Luke 2:14). Jesus is the Son who rules all nations of the world (Luke 1:31-33; Luke 2:30-32; see also Psalm 8; Daniel 7:13-14). Amazingly, Jesus’ entire life on earth, from His miraculous birth to His sacrificial death and resurrection, is compressed into this scene from Revelation 12:1-5. The royal Son is born and is then caught up to the throne of God (Revelation 12:5; see also Acts 1:9-11). Most important, the royal Son is the Son of God and our Mighty God (Isaiah 9:6; see also John 1:1, 14) as He is part of the eternal Godhead – God the Father, God the Son, and God the Spirit (Revelation 19:16).

For a Child is born to us, a Son is given to us. The government will rest on His shoulders. And He will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. His government and its peace will never end. He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of His ancestor David for all eternity. The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies will make this happen! Isaiah 9:6-7 (NLT)

Biblical scholars have put forth many views on the identity of the woman from Revelation 12. There are three viewpoints:  (1) the woman is the virgin Mary; (2) she is the church; or (3) the woman is Israel. The majority of biblical scholars find that the woman of Revelation 12 represents Israel (see Isaiah 7:14; Isaiah 9:6; Isaiah 66:7–8; Micah 5:2; and Romans 9:4–5). There is no biblical basis to believe that the virgin Mary experienced Revelation 12:6.  Moreover, the woman cannot be the church as the church did not give birth to Jesus. The Lord Jesus Christ gave birth to the church as He is the master Builder and Foundation of the church — of all believers (see Matthew 16:18; I Corinthians 3:11). Most important, the woman overcame evil by bring forth a Son to “crush” the head of evil (see Genesis 3:15). Now, all believers of Jesus Christ share in this victory over evil (see Romans 16:20).

Matthew and Luke’s Gospel give the human birth of Jesus in the town of Bethlehem just outside of Jerusalem (Matthew 1: 18-2:23; Luke 2:1-20). With human wrinkles and cries, Jesus entered the human world as a Jewish baby Boy to Mary and Joseph. Jesus was wrapped in strips of cloth laid in a manger inside a stable (Luke 2:5-6). Jesus was born a human Baby, died as God’s humble suffering Servant and Passover Lamb on the Cross, and will one day return to earth as the powerful, conquering King and Judge (Psalm 2:8-9; Psalm 110:1-2; Revelation 19:16). Until His return, the Holy Bible, particularly the book of Revelations, reminds all God's people to live righteous (good) lives (Revelation 19:8), fully devoted and faithful to Jesus (Revelation 14:12). 

So be encouraged! Jesus has overcome evil, and He gives victory to His faithful people (Romans 16:20). Christmas is a time for celebration of Jesus’ coming into the human world as the God-Man. “She will have a Son, and they will name Him Immanuel,” which means “God is with us.”  (Matthew 1:23, NCV). Jesus is the “Light to reveal God to the nations, and He is the glory” (Luke 2:32, NLT). With Jesus’ coming (the first advent) to a rustic stable in Bethlehem, He brought the world redemption and salvation for all people who believe (Luke 2:25-38). 

At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and Joseph came to present the Baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was there. He took the Child in his arms and praised God, saying, “Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as You have promised. I have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared for all people. He (Jesus) is a Light to reveal God to the nations, and He is the glory of Your people Israel!” Luke 2:25-32 (NLT)

References:

KJV Bible Commentary. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1994.

Life Application Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005.

New Student Bible. New York: Zondervan,1992.

NLT Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008.

Zondervan NIV Study Bible. New York: Zondervan, 2008.

Come and Follow Jesus

The following day John (the Baptist) was again standing with two of his disciples. As Jesus walked by, John looked at Him and declared, “Look! There is the Lamb of God!” When John’s two disciples heard this, they followed Jesus. Jesus looked around and saw them following. “What do you want?” He asked them. They replied, “Rabbi” (which means “Teacher”), “where are You staying?” “Come and see,” He said. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon when they went with Him to the place where He was staying, and they remained with Him the rest of the day. Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of these men who heard what John said and then followed Jesus. Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means “Christ”). Then Andrew brought Simon to meet Jesus. Looking intently at Simon, Jesus said, “Your name is Simon, son of John—but you will be called Cephas” (which means “Peter”). The next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Come, follow Me.” Philip was from Bethsaida, Andrew and Peter’s hometown. Philip went to look for Nathanael and told him, “We have found the very Person Moses and the prophets wrote about! His Name is Jesus, the Son of Joseph (the legal or earthly father of Jesus) from Nazareth.” “Nazareth!” exclaimed Nathanael. “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” “Come and see for yourself,” Philip replied. As they approached, Jesus said, “Now here is a genuine son of Israel—a man of complete integrity (truth and honesty).” “How do you know about me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus replied, “I could see you under the fig tree before Philip found you.” Then Nathanael exclaimed, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God—the King of Israel!” Jesus asked him, “Do you believe this just because I told you I had seen you under the fig tree? You will see greater things than this.” Then He said, “I tell you the truth, you will all see heaven open and the angels of God going up and down on the Son of Man, the One who is the stairway between heaven and earth.” John 1:35-51 (NLT)

In these brief verses, we learn Jesus’ complete identity. Jesus is the Lamb of God (John 1:36), Rabbi – Hebrew word for “Teacher” (John 1:38), Messiah (John 1:41), Son of God (John 1:14, 18, 34, 49), and King of Israel (John 1:49). Upon meeting Jesus, these first disciples were forever changed. These disciples were so impressed with Jesus that they could not help but tell others, “We have found the Messiah!” Andrew’s “the Messiah” (John 1:41) and Nathanael’s “the Son of God” (John 1:49) together match Peter’s later declaration “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16).

The word “Messiah” is a Hebrew word that means "Anointed One," and the Greek equivalent is “Christ.” For the Jews, Messiah essentially means “Son of God” (see Matthew 26:63-64; Mark 14:61-62; Luke 22:67-70). Later the expression “Son of David” was a synonym for “Messiah” (Matthew 21:9; Mark 10:47-48). There was some confusion among the Jews as to the role of the Messiah. Some believed the Messiah would be a Suffering Sacrifice as described in Isaiah 52:13-53:12, while others believed the Messiah would be King (see Isaiah 9:6-7 and Isaiah 11). Jesus was both the Suffering Servant of God and King. Jesus even explained that His sacrificial death on the Cross had to come before His crowning glory (Luke 24:13-35). But Jesus’ first disciple knew He was indeed “the Son of God, the King of Israel” (see also Psalm 2; John 4:25, 29; John 18:33-37).

Amazingly, Jesus personally called Himself “Son of Man” (John 1:50-51). The title “Son of Man” was one of Jesus’ favorite descriptions of Himself. Jesus used this title eighty-three (83) times in the four Gospels. The Jews knew that “Son of Man” was a title for their Messiah (John 12:34). The title “Son of Man” speaks of Jesus’ kingship, humanity, and divinity. Jesus was both fully God and fully man (John 1:1, 14 see also Daniel 7:13; Matthew 26:64; Mark 8:31). As God, Jesus is our link or “ladder” between heaven and earth to reconcile us to God the Father (John 1:51; see also 2 Corinthians 5:11-21). Jesus is “the Way, the Truth, and the Life” and “No one comes to the Father” except through Him (John 14:6, NKJV). Jesus came down from heaven to bring people to God. The summary of John 1 is clear: Jesus was God in human flesh! “Come and see” (John 1:46) and follow Jesus.

References:

Life Application Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005.

Zondervan NIV Study Bible. New York: Zondervan, 2008.
Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary – New Testament. Victor Books, 2001. 

Jesus, the Lamb of God

The next day John (the Baptist) saw Jesus coming toward him. John said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is the One I was talking about when I said, ‘A Man will come after me, but He is greater than I am, because He was living before me.’ Even I did not know who He was, although I came baptizing with water so that the people of Israel would know who He is.” Then John said, “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven in the form of a dove and rest on Him. Until then I did not know who the Christ was. But the God who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘You will see the Spirit come down and rest on a Man; He is the One who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen this happen, and I tell you the truth: This Man is the Son of God.” John 1:29-34 (NCV)

The Apostle John records another great fact about Jesus:  Jesus is not only the “Son of God” (John 1:34) but Jesus is also the “Lamb of God” (John 1:29, 35-36). As the “Lamb of God” Jesus provides salvation for whoever believes and trusts in Him (John 1:12, 29). Jesus not only takes away the sin of the world but also our personal penalty for sin, evil, and death. God’s commitment to His people in the new covenant is possible only through Jesus’ death as the Lamb of God (see Jeremiah 31:34). Jesus is our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7; see also Exodus 12:13) that cleanses or purifies us of sins and wickedness (Revelation 7:9-10, 14). God sent His one and only Son Jesus Christ as a substitutionary atonement for our sins on the Cross (see Romans 3:25; 1 John 2:2).

The Passover celebrates Israel’s salvation by God from Egyptian slavery and God’s covenant love for His people. As Israel was being saved from Egypt, the blood of a lamb was sprinkled over the doorposts of each Jewish home in Egypt and rescued those inside from death (Exodus 12). Jesus used His final Passover meal (also called the Last Supper) to prove that His sacrificial death on the Cross would give new meaning to the Passover celebration (Mark 14:17-31). The Cross of Calvary became the final sacrificial altar where Jesus as the perfect Lamb of God was crucified for the sin of the world. Just as the Passover lamb in Egypt saved the Jewish families in Egypt, so too, Jesus’ death as the final Lamb of God serves to bring salvation and God’s new covenant of love to all people (Jews and Gentiles). With His death on the Cross, Jesus fulfilled the true meaning of the Jewish sacrifice of the Passover lamb. In fact, Jesus was crucified on Passover day.

In one sense, the message of the Holy Bible can be summarized in Jesus’ title as the sacrificial “Lamb of God”. The sacrificial lamb was discussed at several places in Holy Bible including Genesis 22:7-8 with Abraham and Isaac; the Passover in Egypt (Exodus 12:3-6); the Suffering Servant predicted by the Prophet Isaiah (Isaiah 53:4-8); in the four Gospels; the Apostle Paul’s reference at 1 Corinthians 5:7; and victorious Lamb of Revelation 5:6-14. Particularly in the book of Revelation, the Apostle John repeatedly calls Jesus Christ the Lamb. The book of Revelations uses the word “Lamb” to describe Jesus as our Redeemer, Military Conqueror, and King to finally defeat and destroy all evil and sin at work in the world (e.g. see, Revelation 7:17; Revelation 17:14).

The people of the Bible were familiar with lambs for the sacrifices of sins (see Exodus 29:38-46; see also Hebrews 10). But these Old Testament sacrifices were only temporary and could not take away sins permanently. In other words, these sacrifices were types (foreshadowing) of Jesus’ final and only effective sacrifice. The Apostle John wrote his Gospel to proclaim to the world that Jesus is the final Lamb that shed His blood to permanently take away the sins of the whole world! Jesus takes away our sin by absorbing sin into His perfect God body.

In summary, Jesus Christ is God (Yahweh and the Second Person of the Trinity) in human flesh (John 1:1-5, 14, 34) and the Light of the world (Isaiah 9:2; John 1:4-5). The Holy Bible encourages everyone to faithfully stand firm with Jesus Christ and give our allegiance, love, and trust to Him (Revelation 14:12). Jesus Christ became the sacrificial Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world (John 1:14, 29, 34-35 see also Isaiah 53:7; Luke 12:50; 1 Corinthians 5:7). On the Cross at Calvary, Jesus paid the final price for our personal sins and the sins of the world by His sacrificial and unselfish death on the Cross. Faith in Jesus’ sacrificial death saves us and forgives our personal sins (see Romans 3 and Romans 5).  Jesus Christ gives everyone His free gift of sin removal through wholehearted acceptance, faith, and belief in Him as God and Savior of the world (John 1:1, 12, 14; John 3:16). Even more, Jesus Christ also gives us His Holy Spirit (John 1:33) as He baptizes His wholehearted followers with the Holy Spirit (see also Matthew 3:11; Mark 1:7-8; Luke 3:16).  Finally, Jesus Christ declares us righteous, holy, and children of God through faith in His work as the final Lamb of God (see Romans 3:21-5:21; 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 6:11; Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:5-7). All those who have been faithful to Jesus Christ throughout the ages will stand before His throne in heaven (Revelation 7:17; Revelation 22:1, 3).

But you were saved (redeemed, ransomed) from that useless life. You were bought, not with something that ruins like gold or silver, but with the precious blood of Christ, who was like a pure and perfect Lamb. 1 Peter 1:18-19 (NCV) 

References

Life Application Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005.

NLT Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008.

Zondervan NIV Study Bible. New York: Zondervan, 2008.

Elwell, Walter A. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Second Edition. Grand Rapids, MI:  Baker Book House Company, 2001.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary – New Testament. Victor Books, 2001. 

Jesus’ Gifts to the World

In the beginning there was the Word (Jesus Christ). The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. All things were made by Him, and nothing was made without Him. In Him there was life, and that life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overpowered it. . . . The Word (Jesus Christ) became a human (incarnate) and lived among us (tabernacle). We saw His glory (majesty)—the glory that belongs to the only Son of the Father—and He was full of grace (favor, loving-kindness) and truth. John 1:1-5, 14 (NCV)

The Apostle John, “the disciple whom Jesus loved” (John 13:23; John 19:26), is the author of the Gospel of John as well as the book of Revelation, among others. John begins his Gospel with a profound announcement: Jesus is God (John 1:1, 14, 18; see also Isaiah 9:6). The Gospel explained that Jesus existed originally with God the Father from the beginning of human time (John 1:2). Even more, the Gospel emphasizes that Jesus was not only “with God” but also “was God” (John 1:1). God the Father created the world, set history into motion and made all creation spring to life through Jesus (see also Colossian 1:16). So before anything existed on earth, there was Jesus with God. This statement echoes Genesis 1:1 and links God’s actions in the world through Jesus (John 3:16). Jesus has always been alive and is Himself God. Jesus created everything and nothing would exist without Him. Thus, Jesus is not a created being (John 1:3). Jesus is the eternal God in the fullest sense and He has always existed (see also Mark 1:1; Romans 9:5; and Colossians 2:9). In the Person of Jesus, God’s essences became actual, complete, and historical. Jesus is the Second Person of the Trinity (God the Father, God the Son (Jesus) and God the Holy Spirit).

Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through Him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we cannot see— such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through Him and for Him. He (Christ) existed before anything else, and He holds all creation together. Christ is also the Head of the church, which is His Body. He is the beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead. So He is first in everything. For God in all His fullness was pleased to live in Christ, and through Him God reconciled everything to Himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the Cross. Colossians 1:15-20 (NLT)

Through Jesus, God gives light and life to the world (John 1:4; see also Psalm 36:9). Light and life are Jesus’ gifts unto the world (John 1:4; John 10:28). Jesus is the source of all life (John 1:4; John 6:35; John 11:25) and the light of the world (John 8:12; John 9:5) and of every person (John 1:9). In fact, Jesus is “the Life” (John 14:6) and the “Light of the world” (John 1:4, 9). Jesus stated, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” (John 8:12, NKJV). Thus, Jesus possesses life in Him, and this life gives light to all people. Jesus’ life is the light that shines through the darkness. As the Light and Life of the world, Jesus is the "Sun of righteousness" (Malachi 4:2) that illuminates every person (Isaiah 49:6). Jesus gives the world spiritual illumination and wisdom (see 1 Corinthians 1:30; Colossians 2:30. Even more, by His Holy Spirit, Jesus gives us the “breath of life” (John 3:8; John 20:22), the water of life (John 4:10, 13-14; John 7:37-39), and the living bread of life (John 6:35). “From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another” (John 1:16, NIV).

Jesus is the “Word of God” or “Logos.” In Revelation 19:13, Jesus is specifically called “the Word of God.”  In John’s vision found at Revelation 19, the Apostle John sees Jesus as “Faithful and True, for He judges . . . His title was the Word of God. . . . On His robe at His thigh was written this title: King of all kings and Lord of all lords” (Revelation 19:11-16, NLT). Starting with the New Testament, the Word became flesh (incarnated) as a human being to be the light and life of the world (John 1:4-5; 14). As the Word, Jesus was among humanity as the incarnate speech of God. How did the “Word” become flesh? Through the miraculous virgin birth of Mary by the power of God’s Holy Spirit (see Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:26-38), Jesus took upon Himself human nature. Thus, “the Word” was a real Person who could be seen, touched, and heard (1 John 1:1-4). Jesus is “God with us” and He dwelled among us humans (Matthew 1:23; John 1:14). Therefore, Jesus is both fully God and fully human.

Jesus is the one and only Son of God (John 1:18).  God the Father sent Jesus to finish His work in the world (John 4:34) and to make God the Father known (John 1:18). God’s glory was made visible in Jesus. “No one has ever seen God. But God the only Son is very close to the Father, and He has shown us what God is like” (John 1:18, NCV).  Initially, God's glory had dwelt in the Tabernacle during Moses’ era (Exodus 40:34) and in the Temple built by Solomon (1 Kings 8:10-11). However, God’s glory had departed Israel because of the people’s disobedience and corruption (Ezekiel 9:3; Ezekiel 10:4, 18; Ezekiel 11:22-23). Then, the glory of God returned again to earth with the birth of Jesus (John 1:14). Jesus is now the new Temple of God filled with God’s glory (John 2:19-21). In Jesus, the full grace and truth of God is revealed. “From the fullness of His (Jesus’) grace, we have all received one blessing after another” (John 1:16). Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection do indeed glorify God the Father. While on earth, Jesus revealed His glory to His disciples through the miracles or “signs” He performed (see e.g., John 2:11).

Jesus’ words to Nicodemus nicely summarize the central theme of John’s Gospel:  “For God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16, NLT). The Apostle John wrote his Gospel to clearly state:  “that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His Name” (John 20:31).  Jesus is the Son of the living God. Everyone who wholeheartedly receive and believe Him will receive the gift of light, eternal life, and membership into God’s family (John 1:12-13; John 12:35-36; John 20:31; see also Isaiah 56:5; Ephesians 2:8-9; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Titus 3:5).

The One who is the true Light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world. He (Jesus Christ) came into the very world He created, but the world did not recognize Him. He came to His own people, and even they rejected Him. But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God. So the Word (Jesus Christ) became human and made His home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen His glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son. John (the Baptist) testified about Him when he shouted to the crowds, “This is the One I was talking about when I said, ‘Someone is coming after me who is far greater than I am, for He existed long before me.’” From His abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. No one has ever seen God. But the one and only Son is Himself God and is near to the Father’s heart. He has revealed God to us. John 1:9-18 (NLT)

References

Life Application Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005.

Zondervan NIV Study Bible. New York: Zondervan, 2008.

The Amplified Bible. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987.

Elwell, Walter A. Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Second Edition. Grand Rapids, MI:  Baker Book House Company, 2001.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary – New Testament. Victor Books, 2001.

The Power of Patience

Be patient, then, brothers (and sisters), until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits (expectantly) for the land to yield its valuable crop (harvest) and how patient he is for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm (establish or strengthen your heart), because the Lord's coming is near. Do not grumble (complain) against each other, brothers (and sisters), or you will be judged. The Judge is standing at the door! Brothers (and sisters), as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the Name of the Lord (as His messengers). As you know, we consider blessed (happy) those who have persevered (endured, persisted, steadfast). You have heard of Job's perseverance (endurance) and have seen what the Lord finally brought about (God blessed Job at the end with full restoration). The Lord is full of compassion and mercy. Above all, my brothers (and sisters), do not swear (cuss) – not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. Let your "Yes" be yes, and your "No," no, or you will be condemned. James 5:7-12 (NIV)

The book of James is considered by many the wisdom book of the New Testament. James relied heavily on Jesus Christ’s wisdom teachings, particularly the Sermon on the Mount (see e.g., James 2:14-16 and Matthew 7:21-23; James 3:17- 18 and Matthew 5:9; James 4:11 and Matthew 7:1-2; James 5:2 and Matthew 6:19; James 5:12 and Matthew 5:33-37). One key of wisdom addressed by James is patience (James 5:7-12; see also James 1:1-5).  James reminded his readers that God will right all the wrongs and dismiss all injustices at the Lord Jesus Christ’s return to earth – the "blessed hope" of the Christian (Titus 2:13). Until Christ’s return, Christians (followers of Christ) must patiently endure all things with expectation. The precise date of Christ’s return is uncertainty (Matthew 24:36) but His return to Judge the world is promised throughout the Holy Scriptures (James 5:7-8; see also Romans 13:12; Hebrews 10:25, 30; 1 Peter 4:7; Revelation 22:20).

The book of James used two different Greek words for patience (hypomone and makrothymia). Both of these Greek words are translated by our English word patience. “Hypomone” means endurance under trials, not like a coward or with discouragement, but as an attitude of the heart. “Makrothymia” means longsuffering and is an attitude with respect to people. Thus, patience means endurance, steadfastness, mercy, long-suffering, and self-control within our hearts. James encouraged our patience toward fellow believers as well as unbelievers (non-followers of Jesus Christ). The Holy Scriptures encourage God’s people to face hardship and suffering with patience, obedience, and faith within their hearts to Jesus Christ (Romans 5:3-5; see also Revelation 2:2, 19; Revelation 3:10; Revelation 13:10; Revelation 14:12).  “Meanwhile, the saints stand passionately patient, keeping God's commands, staying faithful to Jesus” (Revelation 14:12, the Message Bible). Christ is the great example of faith, patience and endurance (Hebrews 12:1-3). Christians are to have a heart attitude of self-sacrificing humility, patience, and love for others like Christ (see Matthew 11:9; John 13:12-17; Philippians 2:1-11).

Patience is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and a description for love (1 Corinthians 13:4, 7). God blesses our patience (James 5:11).  If we need patience, we can go to God’s throne of grace and receive from Christ all the grace we need to endure (Hebrews 4:14-16). Christ will send the Holy Spirit – the Helper – to help us develop this fruit (John 14:26; John 15:26; John 16:7; Galatians 5:5-6; Jude 1:20-21). God’s grace is always sufficient during any trial and suffering (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). Christian patience is ultimately a gift from God (Romans 15:5; 2 Thessalonians 3:5).

May God who gives patience, steadiness, and encouragement help you to live in complete harmony with each other—each with the attitude of Christ toward the other. And then all of us can praise the Lord together with one voice, giving glory to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. So warmly welcome each other into the church, just as Christ has warmly welcomed you; then God will be glorified. Remember that Jesus Christ came to show that God is true to His promises and to help the Jews. And remember that He came also that the Gentiles (non-Jews) might be saved and give glory to God for His mercies to them. That is what the psalmist meant when he wrote: “I will praise You among the Gentiles and sing to Your Name.” Romans 15:5-9 (The Living Bible)

But the question remains: How can we as Christians have patience as we wait for Christ’s return? To answer that question, James gave three encouraging examples of patience:  the farmer, the prophets, and Job. The farmer must patiently wait for the crops to grow and he cannot hurry the process, for it takes time for plants to yield their harvest. While he waits, the farmer must live by faith, looking with expectance toward the future reward and harvests for his hard labors of farming. Keep in mind that the farmer does not stand around doing nothing: he is constantly at work. The farmer labors because he believes a day of reaping will be enjoyed. As Christ has instructed His disciples, we Christians are to keep working, remain faithful to God, and patiently wait for Christ’s harvest (Luke 12:42-44).  

As an example of patience in suffering, James reminds the readers of the prophets (James 5:10; see also Matthew 5:12; Matthew 23:31; Acts 7:52). Many prophets suffered and were persecuted as messengers of God, such as Moses, Elijah, and Jeremiah (James 5:10-11). Yet, the prophets remained faithful and loyal to God, suffered for their faith, and now they have received their reward from God (see Hebrews 11). Like the prophets, we must practice faith, prayer, and confession (James 5:13-17).

Job was a man of great endurance because he remained faithful to God throughout his suffering and hardships (Job 1:20-21; Job 2:9-10). He lost his home, property, wealth, family and health. God had no cause against Job (Job 2:3). Job was not patient (see Job 3; Job 12:1-3; Job 16:1-3; Job 21:4) but he persevered (stuck in, persisted, continued, steadfastness and endured) (Job 1:20-22; Job 2:9-10; Job 13:15).  Like Job, we must endure suffering to learn and discover God’s mercy, compassion, and full restoration (James 4:10; James 5:11).

Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:7-10 (NIV)

Evil wants us to get impatient with God and others, for an impatient Christian is a powerful weapon in evil's hands. Moses' impatience robbed him of a trip to the Holy Land; Abraham's impatience led to the birth of Ishmael, the enemy of the Jews; and Peter's impatience almost made him a murderer. When evil attacks us, it is easy to become impatient, run ahead of God and lose God's blessing. We are to faithfully trust God and love others (Galatians 5:14-15). “The important thing is faith—the kind of faith that works through love” (Galatians 5:6, NCV).

While we patiently wait, James also warned against grumbling, judging, complaining, striking out, and blaming others for our miseries (James 5:7-9). We are also to resist resentment and retaliation during our trials and suffering while we patiently wait. Jesus Christ as Lord and Judge will come and individually judge each of us (Matthew 7:1-5; Matthew 25:31-46; Hebrews 10:30). The coming of Christ may not be immediate. However, James encourages Christians to endure by faith with love (James 1:3-4; James 2:8, 14-26) and wait patiently for Christ’s return (James 5:7-8). As Christians, we will receive God’s crown of eternal life (James 1:12) and reap a harvest of righteousness sown by our faithfulness to God (James 3:18). “Repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ” (Acts 20:21) is God's formula for salvation (redemption and deliverance). At Christ’s return, the faithful will receive their just reward (Isaiah 40:10; 1 Corinthians 15:23; 1 Peter 1:17; 1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 22:12).

God is patient. The Holy Scriptures repeatedly note God’s patience and patience with His people (see Numbers 14:18-19, Nehemiah 9:17; Psalm 86:15; Psalm 103:8; Isaiah 48:9; Hosea 11:8-9; Romans 15:5). God is filled with “mercy and grace, endlessly patient—so much love, so deeply true— loyal in love for a thousand generations, forgiving iniquity, rebellion, and sin” (Exodus 34:6-7,  the Message Bible). In spite of our repeated faults, pride, and rebellion, God is always ready to forgive (Nehemiah 9:17). Christ’s parable of the tenants depicted God’s patience with His people (Mark 12:1-11). God’s patience with us (believers and non-believers) allows time for us to repent of our sins and faithfully turn to Christ with our whole hearts (Matthew 6:12; Luke 11:4), especially in the apparent delay of the return of Christ (2 Peter 3:9-10).

References:

KJV Bible Commentary. Nashville, TN: Thomas Nelson, 1994.

Life Application Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2005.

NLT Study Bible. Carol Streams, IL: Tyndale House Pub., 2008.

Zondervan NIV Study Bible. New York: Zondervan, 2008.

Douglas, J.D. and Tenney, Merrill. NIV Compact Dictionary of the Bible. Grand Rapids, MI:  Zondervan Publishing House, 1989.

The Amplified Bible. Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 1987.

Butler, Trent. Holman Bible Dictionary. Broadman & Holman Pub., 1991.

Wiersbe, Warren W. Bible Exposition Commentary – New Testament. Victor Books, 2001.