1. The way of Cain is creature arrogance that rejects divine policy for both life and worship and tries to relate to God through one's own policies. Thus, the viewpoint and practice of religion.

2. Cain's creature arrogance first expressed itself in the area of his chosen profession.

A. The farmer who rejects dependence on the laws of nature.
B. Arrogance that defies these laws and prides itself in self-achievement.
C. Agriculture can either teach creature humility or promote creature arrogance. It all depends on the proper response to the realities of the whole agricultural process.

D. Cain viewed the success of his farming as "self-accomplishment."
E. Cain had a "creator complex" which claimed personal possession of the power demonstrated in the growth cycle.

F. Instead of recognizing the grace of God as the source, he claims his own abilities as the source.

G. His accomplishments were from his own hard work and he became independent and self-sufficient in his own mind.

3. The next step is to advance his own accomplishments as the basis for relationship and fellowship with God. Gen. 4:3

A. He rejects divine policy for relating to God. Thus, negative volition toward the gospel.

B. He rejects the meritless sacrifice of a lamb and advances his own work as the basis for spiritual reality.

C. Then when creature policy is rejected by the creator, arrogance becomes depressed and angry. Gen. 4:5

D. If the creature does not recover by adjusting to divine standards, he will begin to persecute the truth as it is evidenced in others. Gen. 4:7; 1 John 3:12

4. The distorted soul that results from creature arrogance (Ezek. 28:17) will then start to express and justify immorality in every are of life.

A. Attack on individuals: murder and various forms of social oppression. Gen. 4:23

B. Marriage: polygamy and the phallic cult. Gen. 4:23
C. Family: phallic cult activity, child abuse both in the area of authority and the body. (Illustrated by child sacrifice and the attitude of Gen. 19:8 and Judges 19:22-24)

D. Society: Operation "inquisition," blue laws, unjustified war, dictatorship and popism. (illustrated by Nimrod).

5. Cain's creature arrogance never changed its mind, but complained and argued with God about His policy of punishment as being unfair. Gen. 4:13-14

A. This is simply a reflection of Satan's own viewpoint on the subject as expressed in Job 4:12-13

B. As an unbeliever, Cain was "of the evil one" according to 1 John 3:12 and after the pattern of John 8:44, "of your father the devil."

C. Thus, it is understandable that being in such a situation, he will express the same viewpoint as Satan. John 8:44, "want to do desires of your father," "speaks the lie," "murderer."

6. The way of Cain, expressed in religion will manifest itself in two distinct ways.

A. Elevation of the physical creature above the creator. Rom. 1:23,25
B. Elevation of the heavens above the creator. Sun, moon, stars - Deut. 4:19
C. But behind it all are demons: 1 Cor. 10:20
D. Thus, it becomes more and more involved, because once you establish yourself independent from God, you open yourself up to all kinds of things. From the occult to self-deification and many combinations of the two. Col. 2:18

7. The way of life that results will fluctuate or standardize itself in 2 areas.

A. Lasciviousness: Rom. 1:24, 26-27; Lev. 18:3-25
B. Asceticism: 1 Tim. 4:1-3; Col. 2:20-23

8. So the way of Cain, as independence from God, is man trying to find himself, answers and purpose for his life in any way other than divine policy.

A. But all he can find is chaos, frustration and misery. Is. 57:21
B. And in the end -

1. As an unbeliever: death and judgment - Heb. 9:27
2. As a believer: production burned and himself barely saved - 1 Cor. 3:10-15

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CAMELS AND NEEDLES

1. Mat. 19:24, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." Mark 10:25; Luke 18:25

2. This is a figure of speech used by Jesus to illustrate the impossibility of adjusting to God WHILE clinging to darkness, materialistic values.

3. Jesus uses a similar figure of speech in Mat. 23:24 to illustrate the extreme in spiritual blindness.

A. Blind guides: Mat. 15:14, both fall into the ditch
B. Strain out a gnat: the religious custom of straining wine to avoid eating any uncleanness (such as a bug).

C. The gnat represents the smallest animal in the land which they try so hard to avoid through their religious legalism.

D. The camel represents the largest animal in the land and is symbolic of the greater spiritual error.

E. This is explained by v. 25-28, and specifically, v. 28, "on the inside they are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness."

4. There is suggestion that this was a common proverbial expression but there is no record in other literature.

A. Examples of a similar proverb occur in the rabbinical writings of the Talmud.
Ber 55b; BM 38b, "elephant through the eye of a needle."

B. This was used to illustrate something that is an impossibility.

C. It is best to take the figure as it stands rather than thinking that Jesus quoted a cultural proverb.

5. The problem with the figure is that for a long time scholars thought that needles did not exist at the time.

A. But they did exist as demonstrated by the finds of archaeologists.
B. As well as the fact that 2 words are used by the gospel writers. This indicates the existence of two types of needle.

6. The 2 words used:

A. Mat and and Mark use "raphis" which refers to a regular sewing needle.
B. Luke uses "belonä" which is a surgical needle.
C. Some have claimed that "raphis" refers to a small gate in a walled city but there is no evidence of the existence of such a thing.

D. The fact that 2 words are used also indicates that no corresponding proverb existed in Greek culture.

E. So once again, the figure should be taken as it stands, and not as a proverb.

7. Another problem with the figure is the genuine impossibility of a camel going through the eye of a "sewing" needle. In fact it is considered absurd.

A. The disciples express this problem and also try to indicate to us that the idea of impossibility is what they heard form Jesus. Mat. 19:25

B. But that is the very issue. v. 26, "It is impossible for man."

1. Jesus used the word "adunatos" to indicate exactly what He meant.

2. Man is helpless: Rom. 5:6

C. But with god all things are possible.

1. John 1:13
2. God is able to save completely - Heb. 7:25, eis to panteläs: adjective= complete, perfect, absolute.
pas + telos, qualitative and temporal = absolutely
The prepositional phrase is adverbial in function - so the idea is "absolutely."

8. To deal with the absurdity of the figure, scholars have played with the word for camel.

A. The word for camel is, "kamälos".
B. There are several later manuscripts which have the word, "kamilos."

C. Some scholars claim that "kamilos" is the original and means "rope."
D. This reduces the absurdity and impossibility to a difficulty but still "possible" act.

E. The problem is that no such word exists in NT Greek. Kamilos may indeed be a later addition to the language, and truly ancient "to us," but non-existent before 150 AD.

F. The rise of kamilos for kamälos can be explained by the evolution of the pronunciation of the language.

G. As early as AD 150, the "eta" was being pronounced like an "iota." So it is not a surprise to see the form kamilos in place of kamälos. Robertson, page 191.

H. Also, there is no need to try to compromise the severity of the figure since Jesus used such severity elsewhere as in Mat. 23:24.

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CAPITAL PUNISHMENT: Principles from Israel

1. Regulations for protection of Israel's social stability and national heritage.
These are mandates for the nation of Israel and not for any other nation, nor are these mandates for the church.

A. The church is never authorized to administer capital punishment. The church administrates discipline through instruction and "separation."

B. These principles serve other nations as a pattern for a national structure. Maximum social and moral stability will only be realized in a national entity as it adopts and follows the principles God gave.

2. The potential for social chaos through various immoral activities is recognized by the severity of punishment that God mandates for those activities.

3. So then, if there are not severe punishments for these activities, people without moral character will have no restraint to the expression of that immoral character. Ec. 8:11

4. To the extent that these immoralities are overtly controlled through severe punishment, moral stability will be realized and preserved. Proverbs 29:4

5. List of capital offenses:

Murder: Num. 35:16-21, 29-31
Kidnapping: Ex. 21:16
Rebellion against parents: Ex. 21:15, 17
Sorcery: Ex. 22:18
Bestiality: Ex. 22:19
Adultery: Lev. 20:10
Incest: Lev. 20:11-12
Homosexuality: Lev. 20:13
Rape: Deut. 22:23-29
Idolatry: Deut. 13:6-11

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CAPITAL PUNISHMENT

1. Capital punishment is when the ruling body of a society executes a person who has flagrantly destroyed the life of another person.

2. The divine mandate for capital punishment is first found at Gen. 9:6 in connection with murder.

3. This is a moral guideline designed to preserve freedom and stability within a society. Ec. 8:11

4. The purpose of capital punishment:

A. To punish the offender so that he can't participate in societal life blessings since he ruined those blessings for someone else.

B. For the protection of others: So that he does not do it again.

C. As a deterrent to others: Ec. 8:11

Principle at Deut. 21:22-23, hanging on a tree after execution.

5. Capital punishment as a moral policy designed by God, functions as a fulfillment of man's need for personal vengeance.

A. For the unbeliever:

1. The policy only works if it is utilized by society. Prov. 20:28
2. Otherwise, revenge anarchy will occur.
3. In Israel: The blood avenger - Num. 35:19-21
4. The cities of refuge: Numbers 35:9-28

B. For the believer:

1. It is a matter of faith rest through understanding the character and plan of God. Rom. 12:17-21

2. Technically, it does not matter whether society is fulfilling its role or not. The justice of God is always on the side of the functional believer so that Romans 8:28 always applies.

6. When a society fails to follow the moral mandate for capital punishment, the result is anarchy. Ec. 8:11

A. Example of Lamech: Gen. 4:19-24
B. Example of Sodom: Gen. 19:4-9
C. Apply Numbers 35:31 - no ransom for the murderer

7. The only exception to this moral mandate is when Divine intervention deals with the person in another manner.

A. The first such example recorded in the Bible is Cain, an unbeliever.

1. The murder of Abel was a spiritual issue. It was persecution because of a believer's righteous testimony. 1 John 3:12

2. God has never authorized capital punishment as a policy for the spiritual warfare. 2 Cor. 10:3-4

3. Cain's life was spared so that his "existence" would be a teaching aid in the spiritual conflict.

B. Another example is David, a believer. His life was spared so that divine discipline could make a spiritual impact in his life and provide a teaching aid for other believers. Job 33:29-30; Heb. 12:10-11; 1 Cor. 10:6, 11; Rom. 15:4

8. Paul supports the divine morality mandate for capital punishment at Romans 13:1-7.

9. Accordingly, there is a possibility that the carnal believer might come under the moral mandate of capital punishment for his sins. 1 Peter 4:14-15

10. Jesus' "turn the other cheek" doctrine has nothing to do with capital punishment. Mat. 5:38-39

The issue there is "personal conflicts" and "persecution conflicts."

11. Comments on "cruel and unusual" punishment.

A. The concern about C. and U. comes from human viewpoint.
Misdirected social zeal and the misconception that the criminal offender has rights.

B. He lost his rights the very moment that he usurped the rights of another person.

C. God's method of capital punishment given to Israel was designed to cause a great deal of pain to the offender and therefore a personal consciousness of the crime he committed.

D. That method was stoning: Lev. 20:2

And after stoning, the offender was publicly displayed on a tree for everyone to see. Deut. 21:22-23

E. We will probably never sway those who are "hung up" on this C. and U. thing, but for the one who is positive to Bible Truth, we can at least present the divine viewpoint.

12. The example of Israel: The instructions given to Israel serve as a divine viewpoint pattern for other nations, but they are not mandated for other nations.

A. Personal responsibility: Deut. 24:16
B. List of capital offenses.

1. Murder: Num. 35;16-21, 29-31
2. Kidnapping: Ex. 21:16
3. Rebellion against parents: Ex. 21:15, 17; Deut. 21:18-21
4. Sorcery: Ex. 22:18; Lev. 20:27
5. Bestiality: Ex. 22:19
6. Adultery: Lev. 20:10
7. Incest: Lev. 20:11-12
8. Homosexuality: Lev. 20:13
9. Rape: Deut. 22:23-29
10. Idolatry: Deut. 17:5-7; (13:6-11-teaching idolatry)
11. Violation of sanctuary sanctity: Num.1:51; 3:10; 3:38; 18:7
12. Blasphemy: Lev. 24:16
13. Child sacrifice: Lev. 20:2
14. False prophet: Deut. 18:20
15. Deception of a bride: Deut. 22:21
16. Not abiding by the ruling of the court: Deut. 17:8-13
17. Violation of sabbath ritual: Ex. 31:14-15; 35:2

C. TWO WITNESSES REQUIRED: Numbers 35:30; Deut. 17:6

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CELIBACY

1. God's evaluation in Gen. 2 of "not good for the man to be alone," does not deny happiness to someone who lives in single status.

2. That evaluation is indeed applicable to all men, but only in a context of perfect environment.

3. Perfect environment has not existed in the human race sine the fall of man in the garden.

A. Man now lives in a world of imperfection.
B. Therefore the blessing of marriage is not equally available to all men.
C. There are birth defects and diseases.
D. There are oppressive humans.
E. There exists a spiritual conflict that takes priority over the details of life.
F. Each one of these factors may require that someone live in a celibate status for all or part of his life.

4. The existence of "eunuchs." Mat. 19:10-12

A. V. 10, the disciples respond to Jesus' teaching on the permanence of marriage.

1. Relationship . . . like this: the rigidity of the marriage bond - thinking of it as a bondage rather than a grace provision from God.

2. Better not to marry: states the principle of benefit related to celibacy, but for the wrong motives.

B. v. 11, Jesus confirms the principle of benefit, but relates it to spiritual viewpoint.

1. Not all men accept: chöreö means to have room for. (present active indicative) Ie, To relate to and accept the spiritual principle of benefit.

2. those to whom it has been given: didomi - perfect passive part. -
Spiritual capacity to understand truth and to recognize its superior value over everything else in life.

3. Cf. Mat. 13:10-13

4. And specifically, a "voluntary eunuch." One who sacrifices participation in marriage in order to devote a maximum amount of time to the cultivation and promotion of God's truth.

C. v. 12, there are 3 types of eunuch.

1. The congenital eunuch: born that way; no normal experience of libido or a birth defect that prevents physical activity.

2. Castrated eunuch: done by man

3. Voluntary eunuch:

a. made themselves: eunouchidzö - aorist active indicative.

b. for the kingdom of God: dia + accusative = because of. ie, promotion of kingdom viewpoint and policy.

4. He who is able: present active participle - dunamai - spiritual capacity.

5. to accept: chöreö- present active infinitive - understand and receive.

6. Let him accept: present active imperative - let that one make the personal application to his own life.

D. The example of Paul: 1 Cor. 9:3-6, 23

5. The existence of single status:

A. The your prior to marriage: apply the doctrine of courtship.

B. The widow:

1. The older: 1 Tim. 5:9-10
2. The younger: 1 Tim. 5:11-15

C. Widower: Apply doctrine of courtship

D. Divorced as per Mat. 19:9: right to remarry
Apply doctrine of courtship

E. Divorced as per 1 Cor. 7:10-11 - no right of remarriage.

F. Divorced as per 1 Cor. 7:12-15

G. The voluntary eunuch as with Paul. 1 Cor. 9:3-6

6. Prinicple of undistracted devotion to God. 1 Cor. 7:32-35

7. Resolution: 1 Cor. 7:28, "not sinful to marry."

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THE LIFE OF CHRIST

I. Introduction

1. The life of Jesus is the copy book from where we find the secret to the imitation of God. 1 Peter 2:21; Matthew 11:29

2. He is our example in growth: Luke 2:40, 52; Hebrews 5:8
The humility of teachability - Isaiah 50:4-5

3. He is our example in fellowship: John 8:29; 15:10; Matthew 3:13-17

4. He is our example in temptation: Matthew 4:1-10; Hebrews 4:15 Psalm 119:11; 1 Corinthians 10:13

5. He is our example in witnessing: John 4:27-38

6. He is our example in humility: John 13:12-17

7. He is our example in self sacrifice:
Romans 15:1-3; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Ephesians 5:2

8. He is our example in persecution: 1 Peter 2:22-23

9. He is our example in forgiving others:
Luke 23:34; Colossians 3:12-13

10. Not only do we learn the character expressions of Jesus, but we also learn details about the plan of God. Jesus is the focal point for fulfilling the plan of the Godhead and in Him dwells all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Colossians 2:3).

11. Thus, in conjunction with the apostolic writings, we progress in growth to the fulfillment of Ephesians 3:14-19.

II. The Incarnation

1. John 1:1-18
2. Philippians 2:6-8
3. The virgin birth

CHRIST: His Earthly Life and Example From the Perspective of His Attitudes and Actions.

1. The value of this study is based on 1 Peter 2:21.

Jesus is our Example. The word, example, translates the Greek word, hupogrammos which occurs only here in the New Testament. The word is formed from the preposition, "hupo," which means under, and "grammos" which means, writing or letter.

For example, the word scribe, is grammateus
and means one who is skilled in letters or writing.

This word means a "copybook" like what was used as an education tool. It provided either some image or letter to trace over, or a letter or image to "copy" underneath.

Jesus is our copybook. We focus on His image written on the pages of Scripture and seek to write it in our own life through the ministry of the Holy Spirit. As we imitate the copybook of Christ's life by "underwriting" His character in our soul, we will learn to follow in His steps and reflect His love and righteousness.
See Topic: Christ Our Copybook for article and a second study outline

2. Christ's humility dependence on the Father is the first point of focus. Jesus did nothing out from Himself. He depended completely on God the Father and the sustaining presence of the Holy Spirit to accomplish the plan of the Godhead for his earthly life.

A. John 5:19, Jesus therefore answered and was saying to them,

"Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself,
unless {it is} something He sees the Father doing;
for whatever {the Father} does, these things the Son also does in like manner.

B. John 5:30, "I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear,

I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will,
but the will of Him who sent Me.

C. John 10:18; John 12:49-50; 14:9-12

3. Jesus was always totally obedient to the viewpoint and policy of God the Father.

A. John 8:29,
"And He who sent Me is with Me;
He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him."

B. John 4:34; 6:38; 15:10

4. Promotion of the truth. John 18:37, "For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth.

A. Diligence in growth: Luke 2:40, 52; Isaiah 50:4-5
B. Conformity to God's will: Matthew 3:15-17; 26:39
C. Consistent application: Matthew 4:1-10; 1 Peter 2:21-23
D. Proclamation of truth: John 3:31-34
E. Evangelistic minded: Matthew 4:17; Mark 1:14-15; Luke 19:10
F. Not isolationist: Matthew 9:36-38
G. Compassion: Matthew 9:36-38
H. Discerning: Matthew 7:29; Luke 4:32

5. Jesus was always authoritative. Matthew 7:29; Luke 4:32

A. No compromise: Matthew 10:34-39; Mark 3:20-35
B. No watering down of justice: Matthew 11:20
C. Exposed legalism: Matthew 12:9-14
D. Exposed man's sin nature: Matthew 12:34-37; Mark 7:21-23
E. Exposed error: Luke 6:6
F. Exposed emotionalism: Luke 11:27-28
G. Exposed false teachers: Matthew 16:5-12; 23:1-15, 23-31; 7:15-28
H. Exposed rich mindedness: Luke 18:18-27

6. Genuine sorrow toward man's hardness of heart. Mark 3:5; John 11:30-45.
But also proper anger and rebuke - Mark 8:14-21 and 6:52.

7. Compassion toward discomfort, disease and oppression

A. Matthew 14:14; 15:32; 20:29-34
B. But in the context of fulfilling prophecy.

1. Luke 7:11-23 with Isaiah 35:5-6
2. Matthew 8:16-17 with Isaiah 53:4

8. Forgiving of those who committed personal injury to Him.
Luke 23:33-34 with Matthew 12:32

9. No ritual enslavement: Matthew 11:1-8 (9-14); 15:1-2, 10-20; Mark 7:5-13

10. Consistent in prayer: Luke 5:16, 6:12

11. Control over detail of life distractions.

A. Family: Matthew 12:46-50
B. Food: Matthew John 4:31-34; Matthew 4:4
C. Sensitive about necessity details of life. Matthew 15:32
D. Social life: Luke 7:36f; 11:37; 19:1-7
E. Interaction with children: Luke 18:15-16
F. Time:

1. With the multitudes:
2. With the 12
3. With the THREE: Matthew 26:36-46; 17:1-9; Luke 8:51
4. Alone: Mark 1:35

G. Politics: Matthew 17:24-27; 22:17-21

12. The issue of credentials: Luke 20:1-8; John 7:14-18

13. No cultural or racial prejudice: John 4:1-26

14. Common sense approach to danger: John 7:1 with 4:1-3
But applied doctrine of timing: John 14:31; 18:1-11, 36-40; John 7:30; 8:30; 19:1-11

15. Humility and service: John 13:12-16

16. Endurance under undeserved suffering: 1 Peter 2:21-23

17. Application of beneficent love: John 13:1, 33-35; 15:10-14; Ephesians 5:1-2;

CHRIST: What Jesus said on the cross

A. The first three hours on the cross:

1. The first phrase: Luke 23:34

a. Father forgive them:

1. From His priesthood: he is going to pay for that sin.

2. From His character: he has no axe to grind. 1 Pet. 2:22-23

b. For they do not know what they are doing:

1. Know: oida - perfect active indicative plus negative, ou

2. But Jesus had told them many times. Jn. 8:12; 11:25

2. The second phrase: Luke 23:43

a. Both thieves turned against Him at first. Mt. 27:44

b. But one later believed: Luke 23:41-42

c. The certainty of our salvation is represented by this incident.

3. The third phrase: John 19:26-27

a. v. 26, He said to His mother, Woman behold your son: Turning her care and protection over into the hands of John, whom he could trust with the task.

b. His brothers were not yet believers (Jn. 7:5-6) although we know that at least James and Jude became believers after the resurrection. Acts 1:14

c. So it is not expedient that he leave the care of his mother in the hands of unbelieving brothers.

d. Then he said to the disciple, behold your mother: application to us based on Eph. 6:1-2

B. The last three hours on the cross: (actually, at the end of the last hour)

1. The fourth phrase: My God, My God, Why have you forsaken me?

Mt. 27:46; Mk. 15:34; Ps. 22:1

a. The agony of His spiritual sacrifice: Is. 53:11a

b. Separation from God as payment for sin. Jn. 1:29; 1 Pet. 2:24; Mt. 10:28

2. The fifth phrase: Jn. 19:28 - I thirst -

a. It reminds us of his true humanity:

1. He is the savior: Heb. 2:14-15

2. He is the priest: Heb. 2:17-18

3. He is the king: the seed of David (Luke 1:32-33)

b. It reminds us of the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His word. Cf. Psalm 69:21; 22:15

3. The sixth phrase: John 19:30 - it is finished

a. It is finished: teleioo - perfect passive indicative

b. Stamped on the "paid" bills to indicate the release of further obligation.

c. Communicates the completion of salvation. The once and for all sacrifice of Heb. 10:12, 14.

4. The seventh phrase: Luke 23:46

a. Father: indicates that he is no longer separated from contact with Him.

b. This communicates propitiation: God is satisfied with Christ's work. Rom. 3:25; 1 Jn. 2:2

c. into your hands I dismiss: paratithemi - present middle indicative (place beside)

d. my spirit: the human spirit of Jesus leaves the body and the body dies. Ec. 12:7; Job 34:14-15;

e. The physical death of Christ provides for the Resurrection as a proof of Christ's character and work. Acts 17:31

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CHRIST: Prophecies of the Messiah's first coming.

1. The plan of God from eternal past: Eph. 3:11; 1:4; 1 Pet. 1:20; Acts 2:23

2. The time of His coming: Dan. 9:25; Gal. 4:4
(483 years from the decree to rebuild Jerusalem)

3. His humanity

A. The seed of the woman: Gen. 3:15; fulfilled @ Gal. 4:4
B. Seed of Abraham: Gen. 12:7; 13:15; fulfilled @ Gal. 3:16
C. From Israel: Numbers 24:17 fulfilled @ Mat. 1:1-17
D. From Judah: Gen. 49:10 fulfilled @ Mat. 1:1-3
E. From David: Isaiah 11:1, 10 fulfilled @ Luke 1:31-33
F. Virgin birth: Isaiah 7:14 (600 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 1:18

4. Born in Bethlehem: Micah 5:2 (600 years before) fulfilled @ Luke 2:4-7

5. Time in Egypt: Hosea 11:1 (700 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 2:14-15

6. His herald: Isaiah 40:3 (600 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 3:3

7. Sustainment by the Holy Spirit: Isaiah 61:1 fulfilled @ Jn. 1:32-34; Lk. 4:16-21

8. Healing ministry: Isaiah 53:4a fulfilled @ Mat. 8:17

9. Despised and rejected: Isaiah 53:3 fulfilled @ Mat. 26:15

10. Sold for 30 pieces of silver: Zech. 11:12 (400 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 26:15

11. Betrayed by a friend: Ps. 41:9 (900 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 26:49-50; Jn. 13:18

12. Forsaken by his disciples: Zech. 13:7 (400 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 26:31

13. Spit upon and scourged: Isaiah 50:6 (600 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 26:67-68; 27:30

14. Nailed to the cross: Psalm 22:16 (900 years before) fulfilled @ Luke 23:33

15. Mocked on the cross: Ps. 22:7-8 (900 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 27:39-40

16. Crucified with criminals: Isaiah 53:9-12 (600 years before) fulfilled @ Mk. 15:27-28

17. Buried as a rich man: Isaiah 53:9 (600 years before) fulfilled @ Mat. 27:57-60

18. Raised from the dead: Psalm 16:10 (900 years before) fulfilled @ Acts 2:24-33; 17:31

19. Ascension and session: Ps. 110:1 (900 years before) fulfilled @ Rom. 8:34; Eph. 1:20-23

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CHRIST THE MESSIAH Provided:

1. The Word became flesh: Jn. 1.14

A. 1 Tim. 3.16

B. Phil. 2.6-8

2. God gave:

A. Jn. 3.16

B. Acts 2.23 - delivered up by the plan of God

C. Gal. 4.4 - sent forth

3. God sent:

A. Him who sent me: Mk. 9.37; Lk. 9.48; 10.16; Jn. 5.23, 24, 30, 36-38

B. Luke 4.18 - to proclaim release to the captives

C. Luke 4.18 - recovery of sight to the blind

D. - set free those who are downtrodden

E. - To proclaim the favorable year of the Lord.

F. Luke 4.43 - to proclaim the kingdom

G. Jn. 3.17 - not to judge the world but to save it.

H. Jn. 3.34 - He whom God sent.

I. Acts 3.26 - God sent him to bless you, by turning you from your wicked ways.

4. Messiah -- came:

A. Mt. 5.17 - To fulfill the law

B. Mt. 10.34-35 - I came to bring a sword

C. Mk. 1.38 - To proclaim (the gospel)

D. Jn. 1.9 - The true light coming into the world, enlightens every man

E. Jn. 3.19 - light has come into the world

F. Jn. 6.38, 41 - came down out of heaven

G. Jn. 6.51, 58 - the bread that came down out of heaven

H. Jn. 8.42 - I have come from God

I. Jn. 9.39 - for judgment I came ( to expose spiritual deficiency)

J. Jn. 10.10 - That they might have life and abundance

K. Jn. 12.27 - Came to fulfill His hour

L. Jn. 12.46 - as light into the world

5. He appeared:

A. 1 Jn. 3.5 - to take away the sins

B. 1 Jn. 3.8 - to destroy the works of the devil

C. Heb. 9.11 - as a high priest

D. 1 Peter 1.20 - in these last times for the sake of you (believers)

E. 1 Jn. 1.2 - the life was manifested to us

F. Heb. 9.26 - to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself

6. Jesus gave himself:

A. Gal. 1.4 - for our sins

B. 1 Tim. 2.6 - a ransom for all

C. Titus 2.14 - for us

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CHRIST: The Beginning of the Creation of God - Rev. 3:14

1. The word creation: ktisis - occurs 19 times and has 5 uses.

A. physical creation: 13 times
B. Positional creation (In Christ): 2 times, 2 Cor. 5:17
Gal. 6:15, emphasizes reflection of the new creation into the Christian life. cf. Eph. 5:8.
C. A creature or created thing: 2 times - Rom. 1:20; 8:39
D. A human ordinance of government: 1 time - 1 Pet. 2:13
E. The 5th use occurs at Rev. 3:14.

1. There are 2 choices for the usage in this verse.

a. Christ is the beginning of the (physical) creation of God. In this case "beginning" would have to mean first cause rather than first created.

b. Christ is the beginning of the (resurrected) creation of God. (ktisis is not used elsewhere in that way).

2. But the fact that Christ is the first, beginning and firstborn of the resurrected "creation" is clearly taught.

a. Firstborn: prötotokos - Rom. 8:29; Col. 1:18; Rev. 1:5 (Very clearly referring to resurrection).

b. CF. firstfruits in 1 Cor. 15:20

c. Col. 1:15: prötotokos - firstborn of all creation
Two titles mentioned in the verse.

1. The Image of the invisible God: reference to both inner and outer essence. The overt activity that conforms to the character of the Father is the act of creation - explained in v. 16-17.

2. The firstborn of all creation: reference to His preeminence in the resurrected creation - explained in v. 18 - firstborn "from the dead."

d. So also at Rev. 3:14, "the beginning of the resurrected creation of God."

2. Beginning: archä occurs 57 times and 5 uses.

A. beginning: 44 times (any kind of beginning)
B. Ruler, authority: in a political organization either human or satanic. 7 times.
C. Rule, domain or sphere of influence: 4 times
D. First cause: no examples of this in the NT unless Rev. 3:14.
E. Corner or edge: 2 times.

3. If the word creation is taken to refer to "resurrected" creation, then "beginning" makes total sense and coincides with the verses under point 1 E. For Christ is indeed the "first one" to have been resurrected.

4. Also, the three titles in Rev. 3:14 make the third one to logically refer to resurrected creation, which is the ultimate in the Messiah's career until the 2nd coming.

A. The Amen: Divine nature of absolute truth. John 14:6
B. The Faithful and true witness: Total righteousness as demonstrated in His earthly ministry.
C. The beginning of the creation of God: Physical resurrection as proof of His successful ministry and a demonstration of the Father's approval and total acceptance.

5. If the word beginning is taken as "first cause" or "originating source" or "creator":

A. Then creation refers to the physical creation.
B. No conflict: Christ is the creator. John 1:3; Col. 1:16; Heb. 1:2
C. But in no other place is He called "archä" to designate His creatorship.
D. He is called archä in Col. 1:18 but clearly in connection with resurrection.
E. At Rev. 1:5, He is called archön "ruler" which is related to archä, but definitely means ruler.
F. He is called archä, 2 times to indicate His absolute existence and equality with Yahweh of Isaiah 44:6 - Rev. 21:6; 22:13, "beginning and the end."

6. So then, all factors point to the translation, "beginning of the resurrected creation of God," as being what best conforms to the rest of scripture.

7. At Rom. 8:29, "firstborn among many brethren" MUST refer to resurrection.
Christ is not the first one "born again" among many brethren.
Christ is not the first one "physically" born among many brethren.
But Christ is certainly the first one to have received a resurrection body.
Thus, "firstfruits" at 1 Cor. 15:20.

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CHRIST: The Messiah is Deity

1. All Messianic passages indicate that the Messiah is Yahweh.

2. John 12:37-41 with Isaiah 6:1-13

3. Psalm 102:16-27 with Heb. 1:8-12

4. Zechariah 14:3-9; 12:1-10

5. Jeremiah 23:5-8

6. Isaiah 8:13-15 with 1 Peter 2:6-8 and Isaiah 28:16

7. Isaiah 48:1-16

8. Isaiah 44:6

A. Yahweh, the King of Israel = the Father.
B. And His Redeemer, Yahweh of the armies = the Messiah
C. Both say, "I am the first and the last."
D. See Rev. 1:8, 17; 22:13

9. Matthew 16:13-17 with John 10:30-39

10. The Last Straw: Mat. 26:63-66; Mark 14:61-64; Luke 22:66-71

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CHRIST: Deity characteristics

1. Honor: Isaiah 42:8
John 5:23; Col. 1:19; 2:9; Heb. 1:3; 2 Pet. 3:18

2. Eternal: Micah 5:2; Heb. 1:8; John 8:58; Is. 44:6 cf. Rev. 1:17-18; John 1:1

3. Sovereign: Rom. 9:5; Phil. 2:9-11; John 5:21-22

4. Omnipotent: Col. 1:16-18; John 1:3; Is. 44:24; Heb. 1:3

5. Omnipresent: Mat. 28:20

6. Omniscient: John 21:17; Mat. 11:27; Col. 2:3

7. Immutable: Heb. 13:8; 1:8, 10, 12

8. Truth: John 14:6; Deut. 32:4

9. Righteous: 1 Pet. 2:22; 1 John 2:1; Deut. 32:4

10. Christ is called God: Rom. 9:5; Titus 2:13; Heb. 1:10-12; Jn. 20:28-29; 2 Pet. 1:1

11. Title, The Rock: Deut. 32:4; 1 Cor. 10:1-4

12. Title, The Glory: reference to the Shekinah presence of God in the tabernacle of Israel.
James 2:1 (Greek), "My brethren, be holding the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, The Glory, not with an attitude of personal favoritism."

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CHRIST: Deity in the Gospel of John

1. Verse 1:1 - Absolute existence of the Word.

A. In the beginning refers to the beginning of the universe as per Genesis 1:1.

B. The starting point is "the beginning" because that is as far back as man's mind can conceive.

C. At that time, the Word was in existence because He had always been in existence.

2. Verse 1:1 - Intimate association and actual equality with God = deity.

3. Verse 1:2 - Repeat for emphasis

4. Verse 1:3, 10 - Omnipotence in creation: Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2; 1 Corinthians 8:6; Isaiah 42:5.

5. Verse 1:4 - Source of everlasting life: 1 John 5:11-12

6. Verse 1:16 - Through impartation of salvation, we have received from His fullness. His fullness is the essence of deity. Colossians 1:19; 2:9

7. Verse 1:18 - Jesus Christ is the visible expression of deity.
No man has ever seen God except through Christ, whether in the Old Testament or New. Colossians 1:15; 2:9; Hebrews 1:3

(See Topic: Angel of the Lord)

8. Verse 1:22-27 - John the Baptizer, the herald of the Messiah, puts Him on the same level as Yahweh through quoting Isaiah 40:3.

9. Verse 1:32 - Spirit upon Him is sign of being the Messiah.
Isaiah 11:2; 42:2; 61:1-2; 48:12-16

10. Verse 1:34, 49 - Testimony that He is the Son of God:
A title that confessed equality with God (John 5:18).

11. Verse 1:49 - King of Israel: Reference to the Messiah

12. Verse 2:16 - My Father's house:
a claim to equality with the Father according to John 5:18.

13. Verse 3:16-18 - Only begotten Son of God

A. Again - equality with God (John 5:18)
B. Only begotten: Reference to the incarnation - a human birth.

14. Verse 4:25-26 - Personal claim to be the Messiah

15. Verse 5:17-18 - Title Son of God establishes equality with God.

16. Verse 5:23 - Jesus receives the honor of Yahweh because He is Yahweh come in the flesh. Isaiah 42:8

17. Verse 5:21-29 - Jesus has the authority of deity in judgment and in resurrection.

18. Verse 8:12 - Another claim to be the Messiah

19. Verse 8:58 - Claim to be Yahweh and therefore absolute existence.

20. Verse 9:38 - And he worshipped Him: not rebuked by Jesus,
but God is the only object of worship. Isaiah 42:8

21. Verse 10:27-33 - Jesus claims to be equal to God:
And the Jews understood what He meant for they tried to kill Him.

22. Verse 11:27 - Martha confesses Him to be the Messiah

23. Verse 12:15 - Another claim to be the Messiah.

24. Verse 12:37-41 - John claims that what Isaiah wrote about Yahweh-Messiah, he was writing about Jesus.

25. Verse 16:13-15 - All things that the Father has are also Christ's.

26. Verse 16:25-33 - Jesus came forth from the Father:
He is the promised "presence" of Yahweh on the earth.

27. Verse 20:26 - Thomas' confession, "My Lord and my God," is not rebuked by Jesus nor denied by Jesus.

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CHRIST: The Son of God

1. Technical title referring to the God-man from the time of his incarnation.

A. He is not the Son until the incarnation. Meaning of only begotten.

monogenes-only 5 times for Christ: Jn. 1.14,18; 3.16, 18; 1 Jn. 4.9

1. genes: from gennao - to generate via procreation; men - beget, women - bear

2. monos - only one of a kind or only time of occurrence.

3. Son - male offspring via procreation

B. Adam is the son of God via the act of creation. Luke 3.38; Gen. 2.7

1. Adam's offspring are sons of Adam, not of God

(They are still considered offspring of God, but not sons-Acts 17.28-29)

2. Sons ideally, is a term of direct descent. Jn. 1.12-13

3. Adam's sons are born after his own image with a sin nature.

Gen. 5.3; Ps. 51.5

C. Angels are also sons of God via creation: Job 1.6; 38.7

1. Angels have no physical offspring except the one time violation of God's created design. Gen. 6.1-4;Jude 6-7; 1 Pet. 3.18-20; 2 Pet. 2.4

2. This has not been permitted to happen again as is suggested by the extreme punishment assigned by God. Jude 6

3. The designed "sexless" status of all angels is indicated by Jesus at Mt. 22.30.

4. However, Satan does have spiritual offspring. Gen. 3:15

John 8:44; 1 John 3:8-10; Mt. 13:38

D. Therefore, no one can be called a genes of God wherein God reproduces himself except the one who is so designated in scripture.

E. Monogenes indicates that God has reproduced himself one time in the person of Jesus Christ.

1. but this was not a generating of a "new god," but a transfer of essence from the spiritual realm into the physical.

2. The logos is his official title before the incarnation - Jn. 1:1

3. Then the word became flesh -Jn. 1:14 (ginomai, aorist middle indicative) and is called the only begotten of the Father.

4. So it is not only a relationship issue which is perpetuated. Jn. 3:16 - Son

5. But it is a deity issue which is perpetuated - Jn. 1:18 only begotten God - theos. Col. 2:9

6. Accordingly, the virgin conception by-passes the image of Adam to produce a sinless human body. 2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Jn. 3:5

7. And at the moment of physical birth, the 2nd member of the Godhead (the logos) joined Himself with the soul life and the human spirit and "entered" the body and Jesus became a living soul (nephesh chAyAh); Heb. 10:5

F. Thus, that which was conceived and born by the Holy Spirit was to be called The Son of God. Luke 1.30-35

2. The title Son of God indicates deity equality in a Messianic context. Jn. 5:18; 10:30-36

3. From a prophetic standpoint, the title is used in the Old Testament to speak of Messiah's career.
Ps. 2:7-12 ; Is. 9:6

4. The personal relationship is acknowledged by the Father. Mt. 3.17; 17.5; Luke 9.35

5. The title is acknowledged by Satan. Mt. 4.1-7

6. The title is acknowledged by demons. Mt. 8.29; Mk. 3.11-12; Lk. 4.41

7. The baptist's testimony: John 1.34

8. Nathaniel's testimony: John 1.49

9. The title is acknowledged by the disciples: Mt. 14.33

10. Peter's acknowledgment: Mt. 16.16

11. Martha's acknowledgment: Jn. 11.27

12. Christ's claim to the title: Jn. 11.4

A. The use of the term "My Father:" Jn. 10.30

B. He makes no denial or correction when others acknowledge Him.

C. Christ's statement at the trials: Mt. 27.63-64; Mk. 14.61-64

13. The intimacy of the relationship: Mt. 11.27;

A. Jn. 7.29; 17.25; 3.35

B. "Own Son" - Romans 8.3, 32

14. The centurion's testimony: Mt. 27.54

15. Testimony of the resurrection: Romans 1.4

16. Paul's testimony: Acts 9.20; 2 Cor. 1.19; Gal. 4.4

17. The scripture teaches that there will be a return to the pre-incarnate status of the Godhead. 1 Cor. 15.28

A. John 1:1 cf 17:5

B. In the book of the Revelation, the title Son of God occurs only 1 time (v. 2:18).

The issue is KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS and the Alpha and Omega.

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CHRIST: The Only Begotten Son

1. monogenes - only 5 times for Christ: Jn. 1:14, 18; 3:16, 18; 1 Jn. 4:9

A. genes-from gennao - to generate via procreation

men - beget; women - bear

B. monos - only one of a kind or only time of occurrence.

C. Son - male offspring via procreation

2. Adam is the son of God via the act of creation. Luke 3:38; Gen. 2:7

A. Adam's offspring are sons of Adam, not of God

(They are still considered offspring of God, but not sons-Acts 17:28-29)

B. Sons ideally, is a term of direct descent. Jn. 1:12-13

C. Adam's sons are born after his own image with a sin nature. Gen. 5:3; Ps. 51:5

3. Angels are also sons of God via creation: Job 1:6; 38:7

A. Angels have no physical offspring except the one time violation of God's created design. Gen. 6:1-4; Jude 6-7; 1 Pet. 3:8-20; 2 Pet. 2:4

B. This has not been permitted to happen again as is suggested by the extreme punishment assigned by God. Jude 6

C. The designed "sexless" status of all angels is indicated by Jesus at Mt. 22:30.

D. However, Satan does have spiritual offspring. Gen. 3:15

1. John 8:44 2. 1 John 3:8-10 3. Mt. 13:38

4. Therefore, no one can be called a genes of God wherein God reproduces himself except the one who is so designated in scripture.

5. monogenes indicates that God has reproduced himself one time in the person of Jesus Christ.

A. but this was not a generating of a "new god," but a transfer of essence from the spiritual realm into the physical.

B. The logos is his official title before the incarnation - Jn. 1:1

C. Then the word became flesh -Jn. 1:14 (ginomai-aorist middle indicative) and is called the only begotten of the Father.

D. So it is not only a relationship issue which is perpetuated Jn. 3.16 - Son

E. But it is a deity issue which is perpetuated - Jn. 1:18 only begotten God - theos. Col. 2:9

F. Accordingly, the virgin conception bypasses the image of Adam to produce a sinless human body. 2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Jn. 3:5

G. And at the moment of physical birth, the 2nd member of the Godhead (the logos) joined itself with the soul life & the human spirit and entered the body and Jesus became a living soul-nephesh chAyAh. Heb. 10:5

H. The term, "own son" is used at Rom. 8:3, 32 to indicate uniqueness.

6. The old testament type or teaching aid concerning the only begotten Son is found in Isaac. Heb. 11:17-19; Gen. 22:1-19

7. The term firstborn of all creation in reference to Christ, refers to resurrection and not his incarnation. Col. 1:15,18; Romans 8:29; Rv. 1:5; 31:4

See CHRIST: The Beginning of the Creation of God

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CHRIST: Lordship Deity

1. Greek word, kurios: indicates the status and function of divine sovereignty in Christ's humanity.

2. Demonstrated by functional judgment: John 5:22-23; Mat. 28:18; 2 Tim. 4:8

3. Confirmation of His Lordship through resurrection: Romans 14:6-9; Philip. 2:9-11

4. Designated as Lord by the decree of God the Father: Acts 2:36

5. His Lordship deity is recognized at Heb. 1:10 by the status of "creator."

6. His Lordship deity is recognized at Heb. 1:11-12 by his absolute existence.

7. Peter's acknowledgment of His sovereignty: Acts 10:36

8. Christ's Lordship deity related to salvation: Rom. 10:9-15

9. Through all this, is established the principle of "equal honor."
John 5:23, "in order that all may honor the Son, even as they honor the Father."

10. Equal-honor status must be viewed from the perspective of Isaiah 42:8, "I will not give my glory to another."
And Isaiah 45:21-25, "Is it not I, Yahweh (the LORD) And there is no other God besides me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none except me.

11. Equal-honor status is "restoration" to the place of pre-incarnate glory. John 17:5

12. That pre-incarnate glory is indicated as equal "essence" at Philip 2:6

13. both the Father and the Son receive the praise indicated by the technical construction,
"the Glory." Rom. 11:36; 2 Pet. 3:18

14. Both are given equal-honor at Rev. 5:13

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JESUS CHRIST: The Rock

1. The ROCK is a title to reflect the dependability of the Godhead on behalf of those who trust in Him. Deut. 32:3-4

A. V. 3: The Character (name) of The LORD (Yahweh)

B. V. 4: Ascribe greatness to our God (elohim)

C. V. 4: a God of faithfulness (el)

2. This revelation of God as THE ROCK is actually the "pre-incarnate" Messiah as the revealed member of the Godhead. 1 Cor. 10:4

3. He is the ROCK of physical deliverance for Israel: Deut. 32:5-18; Genesis 49:24

4. He is the ROCK of salvation for the nation of Israel:

A. Is. 28:16;

B. But when He is rejected by the nation, the ROCK becomes a stone of judgment for them and the blessing is extended to others. Psalm 118:22; Mat. 21:42-44

5. Thus He becomes the foundation for the church: Eph.2:20-22; 1Cor. 3:11

6. He is the ROCK of experiential provision for believers:

A. Isaiah 26:3-4

B. Psalm 144:1-4

C. 1 Cor. 10:1-4

7. He is the ROCK of stumbling and judgment for the unbeliever. Isaiah 8:14; 1 Pet. 2:8

8. He is a ROCK of judgment at His 2nd coming. Daniel 2:34-35

9. The symbolism of the rock carries a double focus in the Old test.

A. Exodus 17:1-7 salvation provision

B. Numbers 20:1-13 experiential provision based on salvation

10. Christ is The Rock upon which the church is built. Matthew 16:13-20

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CHRIST: Shepherd and guardian

1. 1 Peter 2:25 refers to God the Father based on the word, "return." But Jesus is also our shepherd and protector.

2. Jesus is the good shepherd. John 10:11, "kalos" = honorable and efficient.

3. The guide to spiritual truth and spiritual life reality. Jn. 10:1-6; Mat. 11:28-30

4. As the spiritual guide, He also becomes the door to status and function in God's kingdom of light. John 10:7-10

5. As the spiritual shepherd, He provides what the sheep need for spiritual sustenance.
John 10:11-18, 27-30

A. v. 11, 17-18: He lays down His life for the sheep.

1. For = huper = substitution AND benefit.
2. The death of the shepherd does not help the sheep unless that death secures the deliverance of the sheep.

B. v. 16: He provides oneness and unity for the sheep.
CF. 1 Cor. 12:13 and Eph. 2:13-19

C. Eternal life provision: v. 28a

D. Eternal life security: v. 28b and Rom. 8:38-39, "in Christ."

E. Intercession: Rom. 8:34; 1 John 2:1-2 with v. 1:7; High priesthood activity.

F. Spiritual food: John 14:23; 15:10-11, 14-15

6. All these provisions are based on Christ's resurrection. Heb. 13:20; Jn. 10:17-18; 1 Cor. 15:12-20.

7. Prophecy of Christ's shepherd status: Zech. 13:7-8; Mat. 26:31

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CHRIST: Sinlessness of Jesus

1. 1 Peter 2:22

A. Who committed no sin: aorist active indicative of poieö + negative = who did not commit sin (hamartia).

B. Neither was there found: aorist passive indicative of heuriskö to indicate that never at any time was deceit (dolos) expressed by Him either mentally or verbally.

C. So this indicates no overt sin or mental attitude sin from a summary viewpoint of Christ's life. It is quoted from Isaiah 53:9.

2. Christ is designated in scripture as the Holy and Righteous One. Acts 3:14

A. Holy is hagios: in itself the word does not mean "sinless," but indicates sinlessness of nature through the unique status acquired through the virgin birth.
Set apart as unique and special.

B. Righteous is diakaios and indicates the perfect reflection of divine righteousness in everything He did. He always did what was pleasing to the Father, John 8:29.

C. Isaiah 53:11, "The Righteous One, My Servant"

D. 1 John 2:1, 29, "Jesus Christ the Righteous."

3. The issue of sinful by nature:

A. Adam was not created sinful: Gen. 1:31, "very good."
B. But all of Adam's progeny are born sinful.
Romans 5:12 with Psalm 51:5 and Genesis 8:21 indicate that all are born with a sin nature.

C. In order to be an effective savior-priest, it was necessary for the Messiah to be born as true humanity. Heb. 2:17

D. But He must not have Adam's curse, the sin nature. The human race is "helpless" (Rom. 5:5) and a sinner cannot free another sinner.

E. Therefore, the virgin birth was necessary to bypass the curse from Adam so that Jesus was born free of a sin nature. Luke 1:35, "Holy Offspring."

4. Then throughout His entire life, Christ lived in total righteousness without any personal sin.

A. 2 Cor. 5:21, "He who did not know sin." (not at any time)
ginOskO - aorist active participle + negative (not) + sin (hamartia)

B. 1 John 3:5, "and sin is not in Him."

C. Heb. 4:15, "without sin."

D. John 8:29, Always did what was pleasing to the Father.

E. 1 Tim. 3:16, "declared righteous by the Spirit."

5. So this qualified Him as savior. Heb. 5:8-9; 7:25-28; 1 Tim. 2:5-6

6. And as our helper and intercessor. Heb. 2:18; Rom. 8:34; Heb. 9:24

7. And our example: 1 Pet. 2:21; 4:1; Philip. 2:6

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CHRIST: Sustainment by the Holy Spirit

1. Definition: The ministry of the Holy Spirit to the humanity of Christ for teaching, guiding and empowering during His earthly ministry.

2. Prophesied over 700 years before by Isaiah: Isaiah 11:2-3; 42:1-4; 61:1-2

3. The Holy Spirit at the birth of Christ: Mat. 1:18-21; Luke 1:35

4. The Holy Spirit at the baptism of Jesus. Mat. 3:16-17; Mk. 1:9-10

5. The Holy Spirit guided Him to and through the temptation in the wilderness.
Mat. 4:1; Mk. 1:12; Luke 4:1

6. All during His life and ministry He depended entirely on the Holy Spirit and Divine viewpoint in His soul for stability and fulfillment of the plan of the Father for His life.

A. Growth: Luke 2:40, 52;
B. Application: Hebrews 5:7-8

7. Jesus Christ was sustained by the Holy Spirit only in His "humanity."

A. In His deity, He is co-equal with both the Father and the Spirit.

B. As the perfect "God-man," Jesus Christ revealed the character of the Godhead to the human race. Heb. 1:3; Jn. 1:14, 18; 14:8-10; Col. 2:9

C. As perfect humanity, he relied on the ministry of the Spirit and was led and guided by the Spirit.

D. He did not depend upon His divine attributes to perform His ministry. Phil. 2:6-8.

E. He subordinated His deity attributes to the will of the Father. He did not use the characteristics of His deity independent from the Father's plan.

F. He did not give up His divine essence, but he set aside the independent us of that essence during the incarnation. He walked as a man and as true humanity.

1. He was never commanded to be filled with the Spirit.
2. He was always filled with the Spirit because the Spirit was given to Him without measure. John 3:34.

8. The Holy Spirit empowered the humanity of Christ during His ministry in His teaching and performing of miracles. Luke 4:14, 15, 18; Mat. 12:18, 28

9. Jesus Christ gave himself for crucifixion in the power of the Spirit. Heb. 9:14

10. The ministry of the Spirit as well as of the Father, ceased when Jesus was bearing the sins of the world on the cross. Ps. 22:1-3; Mat. 27:46

11. The Holy Spirit had a part in the resurrection of Jesus. Rom. 8:11; Rom. 1:4

12. The sustaining ministry of the Spirit to Christ is perpetuated in the church age as He glorifies Christ in and through the life of the believer whom he fills. John 16:14; Gal. 5:16-25; 2 Cor. 3:18

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CHRIST: Temptation - 40 days

1. The testing of Jesus was designed to confirm His dedication to the Father's plan.

A. From Satan's perspective, it was temptation. That is, the intent to bring Him down.

B. From the Father's perspective, it was testing. That is, the intent to showcase the truth content in His soul.

2. The temptation activity took place over a 40 day period. Luke 4:1-2a

A. v. 2a - being tempted: peiradzö = present passive participle
B. v. 13 - every temptation: pas peirasmos
C. Heb. 4:15, tempted in all things, yet without sin. (peiradzö)

3. At the end of that 40 day period, the culmination of Satan's attack is expressed in three major categories of independence from God. Mat. 4:3-10

A. Mat. 4:3, Dedication to divine policy.

1. In this case it is whether Christ will maintain His part in the Father's plan for the incarnation.

2. To be specific, adherence to the attitude and status of "kenösis."
Philip. 2:7-8, kenoö, aorist active indicative, "He emptied Himself."

3. The attack comes in the area of necessity details as Jesus is extremely hungry.

4. But He remains faithful to policy and does not "independently" express His deity omnipotence by making bread from stone.

5. And what He uses to maintain His faithfulness is the knowledge of divine truth in His soul. v. 4, "It is written."

6. Our lesson: Nothing is more important than following the policy God had designed for His people. John 14:23-24

7. And details (normal activities in human life) will be the greatest area of attack.

A. Demas: 2 Tim. 4:10
B. Martha: Luke 10:38-42
C. Teachers: 2 Cor. 2:17
D. The love of money: 1 Tim. 6:9-10
E. Marriage details: 1 Cor. 7:25-35
F. Distraction from growth: Luke 8:14

8. So Jesus recognizes and applies the principle that truth must always have priority over details.

9. We learn from Him that even in the greatest detail crisis, the issue is not the crisis, but spiritual truth.

10. And as we see how Jesus deals with the temptations, we learn once again the fantastic value in having Truth in our soul - as a sword ready to pierce every expression of human viewpoint. 2 Cor. 10:3-6

B. The 2nd major category of independence from God: Living by SIGHT rather than by FAITH.

1. God has made promises to His people based on His perfect character and plan. Ps. 138:2; 119:138

2. Therefore He is faithful to fulfill all that He has promised.

a. In general: Heb. 10:23; 1 Pet. 4:19; Rom. 8:32
b. Specific: Over 7000 promises for us to claim here on earth.

3. Our experience of the abundant life (peace, joy and confidence) depends on claiming that faithfulness and applying His promises in every area of life. Rom. 15:4, 13

a. CF Abraham: Rom. 4:20-21
b. CF David: 1 Sam. 17:37, 45-47
c. CF Joshua and Caleb: Num. 13:25-33; 14:1-9

4. The issue then is to live by FAITH not by SIGHT.

a. Salvation faith: Lk. 16:27-31 cf. Jn. 20:29
b. Christian life faith: 2 Cor. 5:7; Rom. 14:23b

5. The Lord Jesus in His humanity also operated on the principle of faith/trust in the character and plan of the Father. Heb. 5:7; 1 Pet. 2:23

6. And so, at the beginning of His ministry, he faced a major temptation to test the Father by trying to see "visible" evidence of His plan instead of taking it by FAITH.

a. Mat. 4:6, the temptation: God has promised you special protection. Let's see if He really means it.

b. A serious subtlety in this test is the fact that the tempter actually quotes scripture even though out of context.

c. Mat. 4:7, the answer: IT IS WRITTEN, "you shall not put God to the test."

d. quoted from Deut. 6:16 which refers to the incident at Ex. 17:1-7

e. The people doubted the promises of God, even in the face of fantastic food provision, Ex. 16:11-15.

f. They wanted to see some more physical evidence of His promise to go with them and take care of them. EX. 17:7

g. This is called, putting God to the test, and is living by SIGHT rather than by FAITH.

h. The seriousness of the issue is discussed at Heb. 3:7-15

i. Jesus did not fail this test because He had total trust in every aspect of the Father's plan and was content with whatever God chose to do as a visible manifestation of His character and plan.

7. And so, as always, Jesus provides for us the perfect example for relating to God's character and plan.

a. The issue is faith: Heb. 11:1-3
b. the way to please God is faith: Heb. 11:6
c. And the believer must always be prepared to compare scripture with scripture so that he not be deceived by mis-quotes and mis-applications.

C. The third major category of independence from God: failure to worship Him.
Ie, acknowledge and serve Him.

1. The temptation: Mat. 4:8-9a with Lk. 4:6; Make something attractive in order to get you to make some gesture of independence from God.

a. In Jesus' case, the temptation is to possess now what God has promised to give at a later time.

b. thus, to take things into your own hands because you don't think God is doing a good enough job.

c. Application to us: This also caters to power lust.

d. v. 8, "all the kingdoms of the world"
political authority, wealth and power.

e. v. 9a, "I will give them to you."

1. They are in Satan's hands to give.
Lk. 4:6 with 1 Jn. 5:19; Jn. 12:31

2. But they have been promised to Christ in Messianic prophecy at Ps. 2:8

2. The Purpose: v. 9b, get Jesus to reject the sovereign authority of the Father and elevate someone else to the place of Godhood.

a. If you will: 3rd class condition "if" recognizes the volition of Jesus in His humanity.

b. fall down: overt expression of dedication to the plan of Satan.

c. And worship me: proskuneö, aorist active subjunctive. (to kiss face to face)
To place maximum value on someone
To recognize him as the authority in the universe
To recognize him as the source of all things.

3. The answer: Mat. 4:10

a. Be gone: hupagö, aorist active imperative - get out of here!

b. Satan: Jesus recognizes the source of this temptation and addresses him personally.

c. For: gar - indicates the basis for resisting the devil. 1 Pet. 5:9 with James 4:7

d. It is written: graphö, perfect passive indicative
e. You shall worship the Lord your God: Deut. 6:13
f. And serve Him only: amplifies worship.
Service as at Rom. 14:7-8

4. This 40 day period was only an initial temptation.

A. Satan left at the end but only until a "later" time as seen at Luke 4:13.
B. Satan continued to tempt Christ all throughout His earthly ministry but it was through the agency of the religious leaders of Israel rather than any more personal confrontations.

5. At the end of the 40 day period of testing and temptation, angels ministered to Jesus' physical needs. Mat. 4:11

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CHRISTIAN: Why Become a Christian

1. Because of the quality of life of the non-Christian:

A. Isaiah 57.21 - no peace to the wicked

The world provides an inadequate peace - John 14.27b

B. Soul frustration: Ecclesiastes 1.8 - wearisome

1. Ecclesiastes 1.2 - all is vanity

2. Matthew 11.26 -- weary and under a burden (frantic search for happiness)

C. Spiritual blindness: John 12.35; 1 John 2.11 (no direction in life)

D. Slavery to fear: Hebrews 2.15

E. Slavery to the old sin nature: Ephesians 2.3

1. Genesis 8.21 ------ evil

2. Ecclesiastes 9.3 --- insanities

3. Jeremiah 17.9 ------ deceptive and sick

2. Because of the indictment of Divine justice:

A. Hebrews 9.27 -- appointment with judgment

B. Romans 3.23 --- all have sinned and come short of God's glory.

C. Romans 6.23 --- The wages of sin is death (perpetual separation from God)

D. Romans 5.6-10 -The condition of the human race (H.U.S.E.)

1. V. 6 -- Mankind is ungodly: attitude of creature independence which will not give to God the worship He demands.

2. V. 8 -- Mankind is a group of sinners: they express their independence from God by violating His righteous standards.

3. V.10 --Mankind is the enemy of God: ungodly and sinners = enmity which God cannot tolerate.

4. V. 6 -- Mankind is helpless: we can do nothing in and of ourselves to resolve the problem.

E. John 3.36 -- The wrath of God

F. 2 Thessalonians 1.6-10 - eternal ruin away from the presence of the Lord.

G. The lake of fire: Revelation 20.15; 14.9-11 --- forever and ever

3. Because there is only one way of salvation: John 14.6

A. Acts 4.12 - there is no other name

B. John 1.12-13 - the new birth

1. Not from heredity

2. Not from the will of the flesh (personal attempts from the old sin nature)

3. Not from the will of man (collective attempts through religion and philosophy)

C. Acts 13.39 - Not according to any system of human law .

D. Isaiah 45.20-21: idolatry fails

E. Not from any system of human works: Ephesians 2.8-9; Titus 3.5

4. Because of the reality of total deliverance from eternal judgment: Romans 8.1

"There is therefore now no judgment to those who are in Christ Jesus."

5. Because of the potential for true blessing: John 10.10 - a new and better quality of life

A. Matthew 11.29 - rest

B. John 15.10-11 - joy

C. John 16.1 ----- personal stability and courage

D. John 16.33 ---- peace

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CHRISTIANITY: Orientation

1. Christianity is the medium by which God promotes His viewpoint and policy in a world of darkness.

A. Darkness entered the universe when Lucifer, through his pride, expressed independence from God and His policies. (sin)

B. It entered the human race when Lucifer (now Satan) got Adam and IshAh (Eve) to act independently from God in the garden.

C. Now God's plan concerning darkness (which can be defined as any expression of independence from Divine viewpoint and policy) is to allow it to run its natural course by which it will progressively (in time) and ultimately (at the end of time) be exposed as totally non-beneficial and inadequate in providing any true fulfillment in life.

2. The origin of Christianity is recorded in Gen. 3.15-21 as the promise of a savior who will provide a solution to the sin problem and defeat the forces and influence of darkness.

3. Thus, throughout history, man is the focal point for promoting light in the world through the Messianic promise.

4. But we need to recognize that not only is Christianity designed to promote light over darkness in general, but it is also designed to provide for mankind a solution to the effects of darkness which have corrupted and distorted every factor in man's life.

5. First then, True Christianity provides the solution to the spiritual depravity of the human race which is described by the four words found in Rom. 5.6-10. (H.U.S.E.) Helpless, ungodly, sinners & enemies.

A. The 4-fold problem mentioned here is offset by the 4-fold provision described at 1 Cor.1.30. wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption.

B. Utilization of the provision is through personal trust in the person and work of Christ as savior.

Ephesians 2.8-9; John 1.12-13

6. Secondly, it provides the solution to all the frustration and misery produced by man's sin nature which is the channel for independence from God in each and every person.

A. Genesis 8.21

B. Ec. 9.3

C. Jer. 17.9

D. Gal. 5.19-21

7. Thus, the abundant life of peace, joy and inner stability is provided by Jesus. Jn. 10.9-10

8. The proper approach to God and life is found in Proverbs 3.5-6 - His viewpoint, not ours.

9. The issue of spiritual growth: 1 Peter 1.2; 2 Peter 3.18

A. We have seen the basic purpose of Christianity --

1. To promote light over darkness

2. Broken down into 2 areas

a. Deliverance from the kingdom of darkness

b. Deliverance from the influence of darkness.

B. Since the beginning of Christianity at Gen. 3.15-21, God has provided the solution to the distorted influence of the nature of sin (OSN).

1. That solution is knowledge and application of Divine viewpoint in every area of life.

2. The OSN tires to relate to self, others and God on its own terms.

a. Gen. 3.7 - operation fig leaves

b. Prov. 14.12; 16.2; 12.15 - his own way

c. Ec. 7.29 - many devices

3. But God's solution provides what darkness viewpoint cannot.

a. Coats of skin: Gen. 3.21, represents Divine provision in the spiritual area as well.

b. Proverbs 3.5-6

c. Proverbs 8.32-36

d. Proverbs 1.24-33

C. So the issue is for us to get God's viewpoint in the soul where it can benefit us and promote light in the world. Proverbs 2.1-15

1. Wisdom's invitation: Prov. 9.1-6

2. The house in the soul: Prov. 24.3-4

3. Edification in the New Testament: oikodomeö - to build a house, or structure.

a. In general: Acts 20.32; 1 Peter 2.5; Col. 2.7; Jude v.20

b. Ministering to one another: Romans 14.15

c. The local church: 1 Cor. 14.12, 26

D. Recognition of maturity and immaturity: Heb. 5.10-14

1. 3 levels of growth: 1 Jn. 2.12-14

2. Mt. 13.18-23

E. The progress of growth: 2 Peter 1.5-8 to build and reflect Christ's character in your life.

1. Two factors that promote peace in the soul: Jn. 14.27; 16.33; Phil. 4.6-7

a. Self control: patience, control of details of life (material things and pleasures) moral stability. Humility factors - Mt. 11.29

b. Endurance: spiritual stability that promotes light in the pressures of the conflict between darkness and light. (Rom. 5.3; James 1.3)

2. Then godliness: dedication and consistency in following the policies of God for worship and service. (eusebeia -- good worship) 1 Tim. 4.6-7

3. Two factors that promote joy in the soul: (Ps. 1.1-2; Jn. 13.17; 15.10-11)

a. brotherly love: faithfulness and dedication directed toward the family of God. total objectivity and optimism toward other believers. 1 Pet. 1.22

b. The Love: agapä - the ultimate in reflecting the character of Christ. Everything in your life is directed toward seeking the benefit of others.

4. V. 8 -This is a progressive, on-going process which builds little by little the character qualities demonstrated by Jesus while He was here on earth, and results in consistent productivity which is evidenced by the 3 factors of the abundant life.

F. Romans 15.13 - peace and joy through believing (knowing and using God's word) will result in inner stability (hope, confidence)

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CHRISTIAN WAY OF LIFE: Orientation via 1 John one

1. We must understand about the person of Christ. v. 1 - Rom. 1.3-4

A. Deity: Jn. 1.1-3; 8.58; Heb. 1.3

B. Humanity: Jn. 1.14; Phil. 2.5-8

2. We must understand about his work. V. 2 -

A. Romans 5.6-10

B. 2 Cor. 5.21

3. We must understand the basis for fellowship with one another and with God. V. 3

V. 3 - Knowledge and application of bible truth: Hebrews 3.13-15

4. We must understand the issue of the true inner joy of the abundant life. V. 4

A. The abundant life is mentioned by Jesus at John 10.10-"life and abundance."

B. Peace: Jn. 14.27

C. Joy: Jn. 15.11

D. Inner stability: Jn 16.1

5. We must understand the absolute nature of God's character. V. 5

"God is light and in Him there is not darkness at all."

A. Two opposing viewpoints exist in the universe. Is. 55.8-9

B. 10 absolute attributes: Eternal, Sovereign, Love, Justice, Righteousness, all-power, all-present, all-knowing, Truth and Unchanging.

6. We must understand our volitional responsibility to follow God's policies. v 6-7

A. 1 Jn. 5.3: "And this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments, and his commandments (policies) are not burdensome."

B. 1 Jn. 2.6: "The one who says he abides in him, ought himself to walk in the same manner as he walked."

7. We must understand the presence of the old sin nature. (OSN) V. 8

A. Gen. 8.21: "The inclination of man's heart is evil from his youth."

B. Ec. 9.3: "The hearts of the sons of men are full of evil, and insanity is in their hearts throughout their lives."

C. Psalm 51.5: "I was brought forth in iniquity, and in sin my mother conceived me."

D. Romans 7.14-23: "--But the sin which indwells me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is in my flesh."

8. We must understand the mechanics for restoration to fellowship. V. 9

Confession of sin to God the Father.

A. Proverbs 28.13

B. Psalm 51.2-4

C. Psalm 32.5

9. We must understand the real potential for personal sin. V. 10

A. I Jn. 2.1: "---But if any one does sin."

B. Gal. 5.17 with 1 Peter 2.11

C. James 1.14-15

D. Psalm 119.11

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CHRISTIAN WAY OF LIFE: the Alien Mentality

1. The unbeliever is a citizen and child of Satan's kingdom.

A. John 8:44a, 38, 41
B. According to the course of this world. Eph. 2:2
C. Dominion of Satan. Acts 26:18
D. Dominion of Darkness. Col. 1:13

2. The believer has been transferred out and into God's kingdom of light. Jn. 12:46

A. Col. 1:13; Acts 26:18
B. Ephesians 5:8
C. Not of this world. John 17:16
D. Citizenship in heaven. Phil. 3:20

3. Therefore, we have an alien status in this world.

A. Sojourner: parepidämos - 1 Pet. 1:1

1. Emphasis on visitor or stranger: one who is just passing through
2. But moving in a specific direction - toward a specific goal: ambassadorship.

B. Aliens: paroikos - citizenship in a foreign country: 1 Pet. 2:11
C. Old Testament anticipation: Heb. 11:13-16
D. So we must ask the question, "Why are we here?"
For pleasure or for business?

4. Our purpose for being here is to represent divine truth to the world. Jn. 17:18; 20:21

A. Mat. 28:18-20
B. Acts 1:8
C. 2 Cor. 5:20
D. 1 Peter 2:9

5. Because of our alien status we live in an antagonistic environment.

A. Spiritual conflict:

1. Satan and the forces of darkness.

a. Eph. 65:12; 2 Cor. 10:3-5
b. Doctrines of demons: 1 Tim. 4:1

2. Humans under darkness delusion.

a. Darkness hates the light: Jn. 3:19-20
b. The world hates believers: Jn. 15:18-20; 17:14

B. Sin nature conflict: 1 Pet. 2:11
From "dead IN sin" (Eph. 2:1) to "dead TO sin" (Rom. 6:11-13).

6. Furthermore, since we have a natural physical affinity to this world, there will be natural physical distractions to our ambassadorship purpose through the details of life.

A. 1 Cor. 7:29-35
B. 1 Tim. 6:9-10

7. Therefore, to endure the antagonism and distractions, we must cultivate the alien mentality.

A. 1 Pet. 1:17, conduct yourselves in reverence during the time of your sojourn (paroikia).
B. Col. 3:1-3, focus your mind on your heavenly home - the things above.

8. The alien mentality requires maximum utilization of time in order to fulfill our spiritual purpose.

A. Eph. 5:16, redeem the time because the days are evil
B. Ps. 90:12, to build wisdom in the soul, "that we may gain a heart of wisdom."
C. 1 Cor. 7:35, benefit, S.O.P. for Christian way of life; undistracted devotion.

9. Our ultimate trust must not be in the country and resources or our visitation.

A. 1 Cor. 7:31, the form of this world
B. Mat. 6:19, treasures on earth
C. 1 Tim. 6:17, uncertainty of riches
D. 2 Cor. 4:17-18 with v. 5:7, "the things which are seen" and "walk by sight."

10. Our trust must be in the country of our citizenship.

A. Mat. 6:20, treasures in heaven
B. 1 Tim. 6:17, but in God

11. Accordingly, human resources are only temporary to sustain physical life.

A. Minimum requirements: food, beverage and covering - 1 Tim. 6:8
B. We are to be content with minimum requirements because our purpose on earth is spiritual not physical.

12. Everything else beyond minimum requirements is surplus and is provided for enjoyment above and beyond spiritual service. 1 Tim. 6:17b, enjoyment = apolausis

13. But in order to keep balance and control in details of life, the alien mentality pursues character growth in self-control. 2 Peter 1:6

14. And thus we fulfill our purpose for remaining on earth by our consistent testimony.

A. Eph. 5:20
B. 1 Pet. 3:15-16
C. 1 Pet. 2:11-12

15. See topic: Amba

TOPICAL BIBLE STUDIES ARCHIVE C

INDEX:

Christ Our Copybook: article

TOPICAL BIBLE STUDIES
ARCHIVE C