The Significance of Christ's Resurrection: The Foundation of Christianity.
Understanding the Profound Impact of Christ's Resurrection on Humanity
The resurrection of Jesus Christ holds immeasurable significance for Christianity. Without it, the very essence of the faith loses its meaning. The resurrection not only demonstrates God's unparalleled power but also fulfills ancient prophecies and addresses fundamental human concerns. This article aims to shed light on the profound reasons behind the resurrection, offering a glimpse into its transformative impact on our lives.
Revealing God's Power: While we are already aware of God's power through various extraordinary acts, such as creating galaxies or parting the Red Sea, the resurrection of Christ is a remarkable testament to His limitless power. By raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus showcased the divine authority over life and death.
Fulfilling Prophecy: The Hebrew Bible and the Old Testament contain numerous prophecies about the coming of Christ. These ancient writings foresaw both the crucifixion and the subsequent resurrection. Notably, Isaiah 53 portrays Christ as the suffering servant who would be pierced for our transgressions, while Psalm 16:10 assures that Christ's body would not undergo decay.
Overcoming the Fear of Death: Death often instills profound fear within us, leaving us uncertain about what lies beyond. However, through His resurrection, Christ offers freedom from the enslavement to this fear. Hebrews 2 teaches that by sharing in our humanity, Jesus broke the chains of the fear of death, providing assurance and comfort to all who believe.
Salvation through the Resurrection: While the cross is commonly associated with salvation, it primarily atones for our sins. However, it is the resurrection of Christ that grants us the opportunity for redemption and a new self. By conquering death, Jesus imparts grace and allows us to become children of the resurrection (Luke 20:36). Romans 5:10 affirms that we are reconciled by Christ's death, but our salvation is truly fulfilled through His life.
Justification and New Birth: Jesus' resurrection is intertwined with our justification before God. It goes beyond the forgiveness of sins achieved through the cross, for through the resurrection, we are genuinely made right with God. Our old selves are transformed, and we are reborn into newness of life. Romans 4:25 declares that Jesus was raised for our justification, signifying our true righteousness in God's sight.
Participation in God's Resurrection: The resurrection of Christ not only ensures His victory over death but also includes us in this triumph. Just as Christ rose from the dead, we, too, are raised to new life. According to 1 John 3, we have been born of God, inheriting His divine characteristics. This truth goes beyond symbolism; it is a present reality we possess.
A Heart Renewed by Resurrection: God's promise, as mentioned in Ezekiel 36, is to give us a new heart and spirit. Romans 6:17 emphasizes that through grace, our hearts are transformed into hearts of obedience. It is crucial to recognize that if we are in Christ, we possess a resurrected and obedient heart, contrary to the belief that we are inherently wicked.
Embracing the New Way of Grace: Through Christ's resurrection, we are joined with a living Savior, not a deceased teacher or a founder of a religion. This union grants us power over sin and death, rendering the Law unnecessary. Romans 7:4 affirms that we died to the Law and are now connected to the risen Christ, enabling us to live by the Spirit.
Liberation from Sin: The absence of Christ's resurrection renders everything futile and leaves us trapped in our sins. However, His resurrection brings life and freedom. It resurrects us from spiritual death and removes the weight of sin from our lives. We can rejoice in the knowledge that through Christ, we have been made alive and redeemed from our sins.
United with Christ in Heavenly Places: Ephesians 2 illuminates the truth that Christ raised us up and seated us with Him in heavenly realms. Consequently, we need not strive to draw closer to God, for we are already inseparably joined to Him through Christ's resurrection. This eternal connection assures us of perpetual intimacy with God, irrespective of life's circumstances.
In essence, the resurrection of Jesus Christ encompasses the heart of Christianity. It offers a profound relationship with the resurrected Christ, emphasizing our unity with Him and the transformative power of His resurrection. This truth brings hope, redemption, and eternal life, forever shaping the faith and lives of believers across the globe.
What is NOT a True & Free Grace Church or Ministry:
They teach salvation through religious works or human effort, rather than God's grace and man's faith. (Ephesians 2:8, 1 John 5:13)
They teach that salvation must be earned or maintained through personal righteousness or good deeds, denying the gift of righteousness through faith. (Colossians 1:12, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Colossians 1:22)
They emphasize the need for continual confession of sins to obtain forgiveness, disregarding the complete forgiveness achieved through Jesus' sacrifice. (Hebrews 10:11-12,14)
They place excessive emphasis on confessing sins to God for forgiveness, instead of trusting in the finished work of Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:19, Colossians 1:20, Hebrews 10:12, Colossians 2:13, 1 John 2:2)
They focus on a believer's carnal actions and behavior rather than their identity in Christ. (Romans 12:5, 1 Corinthians 1:2, 1 Corinthians 15:22)
They promote a lifestyle marked by guilt and condemnation, rather than living in the freedom provided by the finished work of Christ. (Romans 8:1)
They impose Old Covenant laws and regulations on New Covenant believers, disregarding the freedom found in Christ. (Romans 8:2, Galatians 5:1)
They fail to recognize the transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant with the resurrection of Jesus Christ, treating the four Gospels as part of the Old Covenant. (Romans 10:3-4, Hebrews 10:8-10, Hebrews 10:16-17)
They neglect to teach believers about the abundant spiritual blessings they have received in Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 1:3, 2 Peter 1:3, Romans 8:32)
They emphasize adherence to the Ten Commandments or other Old Testament laws as the means of living righteously, instead of relying on the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:2)
They disregard the transformative power of grace and fail to teach believers how to live godly lives in the present age. (Titus 2:11-12, Romans 6:1-2)
They promote fear, guilt, and condemnation among believers, rather than encouraging them to embrace their freedom in Christ. (Galatians 5:1)
Paul's Revelation: The Liberating Power of the Gospel of Grace.
What is the Grace Gospel?
The gospel of grace is the Good news that comes from God's love for us. It is by God's grace that we are saved, made holy, and kept secure until the end.
But what is grace? Grace is the way God's love reaches us through Jesus, enabling us to become the people God intended us to be.
So could we just say Grace is a person? Which person? Grace is Jesus? Why?
Because when we see Jesus, we see what grace truly looks like. Grace is not just a message or a sermon; it is a living Person. Jesus embodies God's grace, and when we allow Him to live through us, His grace shines in our lives.
Perceptions of the Gospel:What are the Different Views?
There are indeed various views among people regarding the relationship between the gospel of grace that Paul preached and the teachings of Jesus, James, and Peter. These views often arise from different interpretations and emphases placed on certain aspects of the teachings found in the New Testament. Here are some common perspectives:
Harmonious Perspectives:
Many Christians believe that the gospel of grace preached by Paul is in complete harmony with the teachings of Jesus, James, and Peter. They see the different labels used to describe the gospel as emphasizing different aspects or angles of the same message. From this perspective, Jesus, as the central figure, is viewed as the embodiment of grace and the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies, while Paul and the other apostles build upon Jesus' foundation, providing further understanding and application of his teachings.
Progressive Revelation:
Some people perceive a progression in the revelation of the gospel throughout the New Testament. They suggest that while Jesus primarily focused on announcing the coming kingdom of God during his earthly ministry, Paul received a deeper understanding of the implications of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection. According to this view, Paul's teachings on grace and justification by faith are seen as further developments and explanations of the gospel, expanding upon the foundation laid by Jesus.
Contextual Differences:
Another perspective acknowledges that Jesus' ministry was primarily directed towards the Jewish audience, whereas Paul's ministry focused on the Gentiles. This view suggests that Jesus' teachings often addressed the specific religious and cultural context of his time, while Paul's writings, particularly his letters, dealt with the challenges and questions faced by the early Christian communities outside of a predominantly Jewish context. While the central message of grace remains consistent, the emphasis and application may differ due to the different contexts.
Alleged Contradictions:
Some individuals perceive contradictions or tensions between the teachings of Jesus and Paul, particularly regarding topics such as faith, works, and the role of the Law. They argue that James' emphasis on the importance of works in his letter appears to contradict Paul's emphasis on faith and grace. However, others argue that these apparent contradictions can be reconciled when understanding the different perspectives and contexts in which these authors wrote.
Or God's dispensation, were to one time it's works plus Jesus, then to another it's Jesus plus no works. Is there conditions on your salvation or is there absolutely none only to believe on the Lord Jesus. You Decide.
Ultimately, it is important to note that various theological perspectives exist within Christianity, and the understanding of the relationship between Jesus' teachings and Paul's gospel of grace may vary. While there may be different emphases and perspectives, many Christians see the gospel of grace as a unified message centered on Jesus Christ, revealing different facets of his redemptive work and the abundant grace offered to humanity.
Here's an example of dispensation:
The gospel of the kingdom primarily emphasized the identity of Christ, while the Lord bestowed upon Paul a distinct message of salvation. Paul's gospel centered not on the identity of Christ, but on His redemptive work—His death for our sins and resurrection from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). This gospel was directly revealed to Paul by the Lord Himself (Galatians 1:11-12). It came to be known as the "gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24), distinguishing it from the "gospel of the kingdom." The content of Paul's gospel was a "mystery" (μυστήριον) that the exalted, heavenly Lord disclosed to him (Romans 2:16, 16:25; 1 Corinthians 9:17; 1 Timothy 1:11). Paul's gospel required faith alone, with no involvement of works. It did not entail adherence to the Mosaic Law, water baptism, or circumcision. No works were involved, as one simply needed to believe in Christ's death for their sins and resurrection. This gospel was purely a manifestation of Gods divine grace. The book of Revelation points to a Jewish Revival. As a believer in dispensation will view the New Testament.
I personally believe, that they all taught the Grace Gospel. That is from Jesus Peter James John and Paul.
Jesus and Paul both emphasized the same thing, just in different ways. When Jesus spoke of the kingdom, he was talking about a King named Grace. Grace is the language, culture, and economy of the kingdom. Jesus told us to seek his kingdom and righteousness, which means to seek him and his righteousness. We find his righteousness in the gospel of grace.. Luke 17:21,22. Matt 6:33,34. Romans 1:16,17
My discussion on this topic.
Talking God's Grace YouTube channel.
https://youtu.be/ER4qwO2ZYd8
Examining One's Religion and Finding the Key to Truth
In matters of spirituality, individuals are faced with a plethora of faiths, each teaching different beliefs and practices. Many people adhere to the faith they were born into without critically examining its teachings. However, taking the time to weigh the evidence, reason on the Scriptures, and seek guidance from Jesus can lead one to discover the truth that sets them free.
While skepticism may have its merits, investing time in reading material that challenges one's faith may seem counterproductive.
But is it wise to shy away from examining one's religion? In this presentation, we will explore the importance of examining one's faith, determining the truth, and discovering how Jesus can be the key to truth.
I. The Importance of Examining One's Religion
A. Avoiding Blind Faith: Merely accepting beliefs without scrutiny can limit personal growth and understanding.
B. Strengthening Faith: Examining one's religion fosters a deeper understanding of its teachings and principles.
C. Personal Responsibility: Taking ownership of one's beliefs allows for a more authentic and meaningful spiritual journey.
II. How to Determine the Truth
A. Weighing the Evidence: Assessing the historical, philosophical, and moral aspects of one's faith.
B. Reasoning on the Scriptures: Engaging in critical analysis and interpretation of religious texts.
C. Seeking Gods Guidance: Humbling oneself and seeking wisdom from a Jesus through prayer and meditation, the in dwelling Spirit & the Bible itself.
III. An Illustration: The Parable of the Wise Builder (Matthew 7:24-27)
A. The Two Builders: One wise builder who laid a foundation on rock and one foolish builder who built on sand.
B. The Testing of Faith: When the storms came, the house built on the rock stood firm, while the one on sand collapsed.
C. The Lesson: Building our faith on a solid foundation of truth ( Jesus) the cornerstone-ensures its endurance in the face of adversity.
IV. The Benefits of Seeking the Truth
A. Personal Transformation: Discovering the truth can lead to spiritual growth, character development, and a deeper sense of purpose. Your Identity Is Important.
B. Inner Peace: Knowing that one's beliefs are grounded in truth brings a sense of peace and stability.
C. Authentic Worship: Worshiping in spirit and truth (John 4:24) allows for a genuine connection with the Father.
V. Jesus: The Key to Truth
A. Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6): Embracing Jesus' teachings and example leads to spiritual enlightenment. Accepting Jesus brings us unity and closeness.
B. His Divinity: Exploring the evidence and prophecies regarding Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
C. His Transformative Power: Jesus' teachings and sacrifice provide a path to salvation, forgiveness, and eternal life if one believes and becomes a born again believer!
Conclusion:
In the pursuit of truth, it is crucial to examine one's religion. By critically analyzing beliefs, weighing evidence, and seeking heavens guidance, individuals can discover a faith grounded in truth. The parable of the wise builder reminds us of the importance of building our faith on a solid foundation(Jesus)
The benefits of seeking the truth include personal transformation, inner peace, and authentic worship becoming a child of God. Ultimately, Jesus emerges as the key to truth, offering wisdom, salvation, and a deeper understanding of the Father. May your search for truth be guided by sincere exploration, thoughtful analysis, and an open heart
Apostate Vs Antichrist
In the New Testament, the terms "apostate" and "antichrist" are distinct and refer to different concepts.
Apostate: An apostate is someone who renounces or abandons their previously held religious beliefs or faith. The term "apostate" is not explicitly used in the New Testament, but the concept of falling away from the faith is mentioned. For example, in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, it is written, "Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition." This refers to the idea that before the return of Christ, there will be a great apostasy or falling away from the faith.
Antichrist: The term "antichrist" is mentioned in the New Testament and refers to individuals or forces that oppose or act against Christ and his teachings. The concept of antichrists is found in the letters of John, specifically in 1 John 2:18-22 and 1 John 4:3. These passages describe antichrists as those who deny that Jesus is the Christ and the Son of God. The term "antichrist" can be understood as someone who is against Christ or in opposition to his teachings.
As for which one is worse, it is subjective and depends on one's beliefs and interpretation. Both apostasy and being an antichrist are considered serious from a Christian perspective, as they involve rejecting or opposing core principles of the faith. However, the severity or consequences of these actions may vary depending on individual beliefs and doctrines.
So fallen away from what exactly?
In the context of the New Testament, the phrase "falling away" or "apostasy" refers to a departure or abandonment of the Christian faith or the teachings of Jesus Christ. It suggests a turning away from the truth and a rejection of essential doctrines or beliefs.
The concept of apostasy can be found in several passages of the New Testament, particularly in the writings of the apostle Paul and the letters addressed to various Christian communities. For example, in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4, Paul writes:
"Let no one deceive you by any means; for that Day will not come unless the falling away comes first, and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, who opposes and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped, so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God."
Here, Paul is referring to a future event known as the "Day of the Lord" and suggests that before that day comes, there will be a significant falling away from the faith. This falling away is associated with the revealing of the "man of sin" or the "son of perdition," who is seen as a figure embodying rebellion against God.
The exact nature and specific details of this falling away and the identity of the man of sin have been the subject of interpretation and debate among scholars and theologians. Different interpretations have been proposed, ranging from understanding it as a future apostasy preceding the end times to more symbolic or metaphorical interpretations.
Exegesis, or the interpretation and critical analysis of biblical texts, varies among scholars and theologians. Different theological traditions may have distinct perspectives on the meaning and significance of apostasy. Therefore, the understanding and context of apostasy may differ based on individual interpretations and theological frameworks.
Watch This Space For Future topics including The Rapture.
Talking God's Grace Ministry Guide
Title: Islam's Basic Beliefs and Views on Jesus
Islam is one of the world's major religions, with over 1.8 billion followers worldwide. At its core, Islam encompasses a set of fundamental beliefs and principles that shape the worldview of its adherents. While Islam acknowledges Jesus Christ as a prophet, it diverges from Christian beliefs concerning his divinity and role. This article explores the basic beliefs of Islam and provides an insight into the Islamic perspective on Jesus.
The Basic Beliefs of Islam:
The foundation of Islam rests upon the "Five Pillars of Islam," which form the basis of a Muslim's faith and practice. These pillars are Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage). Beyond these pillars, Muslims adhere to a comprehensive belief system that encompasses monotheism, divine revelation, and the accountability of human actions.
Monotheism:
Islam staunchly upholds the concept of monotheism, known as Tawhid. Muslims believe in the existence of one supreme deity, Allah, who is eternal, omnipotent, and merciful. This belief emphasizes the oneness and uniqueness of God, rejecting the notion of any partners, associates, or incarnations.
Divine Revelation:
Muslims regard the Qur'an as the literal word of Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel over a period of 23 years. The Qur'an serves as the ultimate source of guidance for Muslims, containing moral and legal principles that govern every aspect of their lives.
Prophethood:
Muslims believe that Allah sent numerous prophets throughout history to guide humanity. These prophets include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and Jesus, among others. Islam considers Prophet Muhammad as the final and most significant messenger, tasked with delivering the message of Islam to all of humanity.
Islamic Views on Jesus:
In Islam, Jesus holds a position of utmost reverence as one of the greatest prophets, commonly referred to as Prophet Isa or Jesus son of Mary. Muslims believe that Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary as a miraculous sign from Allah, without the need for a human father.
Non-Divinity:
While Christians consider Jesus as the Son of God and part of the Holy Trinity, Islam categorically rejects the concept of Jesus' divinity. Islamic teachings maintain that Jesus was a human being and a servant of Allah, possessing great wisdom and performing miracles by the will of God.
Prophetic Mission:
Muslims believe that Jesus was appointed by Allah to convey His message to the Israelites. Like other prophets, Jesus called people to worship Allah alone, to follow righteous conduct, and to seek salvation through obedience to God's commandments. His primary mission was to guide the Children of Israel back to the true teachings of monotheism.
Crucifixion and Resurrection:
Islamic belief differs from the Christian narrative regarding the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. According to Islam, Jesus was not crucified nor killed on the cross. Instead, it is believed that he was raised to the heavens by Allah, sparing him from death. Muslims anticipate that Jesus will return to Earth in the future, as a sign of the Day of Judgment.
Islam, with its emphasis on monotheism, divine revelation, and prophethood, shapes the beliefs and practices of its adherents. While recognizing Jesus as a prophet of great significance, Islam diverges from Christian beliefs concerning his divinity, crucifixion, and resurrection. Understanding these differing views contributes to interfaith dialogue and promotes mutual respect and understanding among diverse religious communities.
Qur'an references:
Surah Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112) emphasizes the concept of Tawhid (monotheism): Qur'an 112:1-4.
The story of Jesus' birth and his status as a prophet: Surah Al-Imran (Chapter 3): Qur'an 3:45-51.
Hadith references:
Hadiths are the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad. They provide additional insights into Islamic beliefs. For example:
Prophet Muhammad's statement on the Five Pillars of Islam: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 2, Hadith 7.
The importance of the Qur'an as divine revelation: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 61, Hadith 507.
The return of Jesus in the future: Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 60, Hadith 243.
Islamic scholars and commentators:
"The Study Quran: A New Translation and Commentary" by Seyyed Hossein Nasr et al. provides in-depth commentary and explanations of various Quranic verses related to Islamic beliefs and the role of Jesus.
"The Noble Qur'an: English Translation" by Dr. Muhammad Taqi-ud-Din al-Hilali and Dr. Muhammad Muhsin Khan offers a widely recognized translation of the Qur'an along with footnotes explaining the context of certain verses.
Please note that the Qur'an, Hadiths, and works by Islamic scholars are commonly referenced within the Islamic tradition. These sources provide a comprehensive understanding of Islamic beliefs and the view of Jesus within the faith.
Talking God's Grace Ministry Guide
The Certainty of Salvation: Knowing vs. Doubting.
Introduction:
Brothers and sisters in Christ, today I want to talk to you about a topic that is of utmost importance for every believer: the assurance of salvation. It is a subject that often brings about questions and doubts in our hearts. We may wonder, "How can I know for sure that I am saved?" or "What if I'm not truly saved?" Today, we will explore the differences between doubting and knowing, and discover how we can have a firm and unshakable confidence in our salvation.
I. The Struggle of Doubt:
Many of us have experienced seasons of doubt and uncertainty regarding our salvation. We may question the authenticity of our faith or wonder if we have done enough to earn God's favor. These doubts can be distressing, leading us into a cycle of fear and anxiety. But let me assure you, my dear friends, that faith is not meant to be blind, and God desires for us to know with certainty that we belong to Him.
II. The Assurance of Knowing:
Scripture encourages us to examine ourselves and test our faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). However, this does not mean that we search for sin or rely on our works to determine our salvation. Instead, it means that we can have a genuine knowledge, a firm conviction that Christ is in us. How do we know this? Let us turn to the Word of God for answers.
Knowing Salvation with Certainty
Knowing and Not Doubting Your Salvation
I. The Importance of Knowing:
A. The exhortation to examine ourselves (2 Cor 13:5) is not about searching for sin to see if we are still saved but to ensure we are in the faith.
B. While belief is essential, knowing is different from merely believing. Many Christians have faith, but they lack the assurance of their salvation.
C. Without knowing, we may fall prey to the lies of religion that burden us with works-based salvation, exhausting us and leading us away from the grace of God.
Transition: So, how can we move from doubting to knowing? Let's delve into the Scriptures and discover the truth.
II. Assurance Through the Spirit:
A. The Holy Spirit's work in our lives is a key aspect of knowing our salvation (1 Cor 12:3).
B. The Spirit enables us to confess Jesus as Lord and believe in Him, affirming His indwelling presence within us.
C. Through the Holy Spirit, we become temples of God, and this truth gives us a firm foundation for our assurance.
A. Confessing Jesus as Lord:
The apostle Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 12:3, "No one can say, 'Jesus is Lord,' except by the Holy Spirit." When we sincerely confess Jesus as Lord, it is the work of the Holy Spirit in us. This confession is not a mere recitation of words; it is a declaration of our heartfelt belief in Jesus' lordship over our lives. Through the Spirit's prompting, we can confidently affirm that Jesus is our Lord and Savior.
B. The Testimony of Scripture:Faith knows
Throughout the Bible, we find assurance of our salvation. For example, John writes in 1 John 5:13, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life." God wants us to know that we have eternal life, and He has given us His Word as a testimony to this truth. As we study and meditate on Scripture, the Holy Spirit will confirm within us the reality of our salvation.
There are many scriptures about believing, but this one is about knowing.
Two illustrations.
III. Illustration: The Unshakable Foundation:
Imagine, if you will, a mighty oak tree standing tall in a storm. The winds blow fiercely, but the tree remains firmly rooted in the ground. Its branches sway, but its foundation holds steadfast. In the same way, our assurance of salvation is like a solid foundation that withstands the storms of doubt and uncertainty.
Doubting one's salvation is like being tossed back and forth by every wind of doubt, unsure of our standing with God. But knowing, truly knowing that we are saved, is like being firmly rooted in the unshakable truth of God's love and grace.
Here's another illustration that demonstrates the difference between doubting and knowing.
Illustration:
Imagine a traveler on a stormy night, desperately seeking shelter. He stumbles upon a beautiful mansion and knocks on the door. The owner warmly welcomes him in and says, "You are safe here. You have found refuge." The traveler, though relieved, starts to doubt. "What if this is all a dream? What if I imagined the shelter?" The owner, seeing the traveler's distress, takes him to a room with a mirror and says, "Look at your reflection. See the reality of where you are now." As the traveler gazes into the mirror, his doubts vanish, and he says with confidence, "I am truly safe. I see the evidence before me."
Transition: In the same way, God offers us assurance and evidence of our salvation. Let's explore the scriptural foundation for this truth.
III. Faith that Knows:
In the Bible there’s no such thing as blind faith. Biblical faith is believing and knowing:
Peter said, “We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God” (John 6:69)
John wrote so that you may “believe in the Son of God and know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13)
Paul spoke of those “who believe and know the truth” (1 Tim 4:3)
What do we learn from this texts
A. Faith is not blind; it is both believing and knowing (Heb 11:1).
B. Examples from Scripture emphasize the importance of both believing and knowing (John 6:69, 1 John 5:13, 1 Tim 4:3).
C. Our knowledge of salvation is not based on our own experiences alone but on the truth of God's Word and the Holy Spirit's revelation to us.
Transition: Now that we understand the biblical basis for knowing, let us consider embrace this assurance in our lives.
IV. Embracing the Assurance:
A. Seek the Holy Spirit's help in knowing your salvation (James 1:5). He is the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, eager to reveal the truth to you.
B. Meditate on the Scriptures that declare God's promises of salvation and eternal life (Rom 10:9, John 3:16). Let the truth saturate your heart and mind.
C. Remind yourself of God's faithfulness and the evidence of His work in your life (Psalm 103:2-5). Reflection on the above texts and knowing will help.
Conclusion:
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, our faith is not blind; it is rooted in the reality of Jesus Christ. We can have assurance and confidence in our salvation because of the work of the Holy Spirit within us. Doubt may creep into our hearts, but we have the power to overcome it with the truth of God's Word and the witness of the Spirit.
Let us hold fast to the truth that we can know, with unwavering certainty, that we are saved. May our lives be a testimony of God's grace and love as we walk in the confidence of our salvation.
Understanding the Jewish Belief of the Messiah and Its Relevance to Jesus
The concept of the Messiah is a central theme in Jewish theology and has been a topic of debate and discussion for centuries. In the Jewish belief system, the Messiah is a promised deliverer and savior who will come to redeem Israel and usher in a new era of peace and justice. However, the question of whether Jesus could be Yahweh's Messiah or if they are expecting someone else is a topic of ongoing discussion and interpretation within the Jewish community.
According to Jewish tradition, the coming of the Messiah is foretold in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Torah and the prophetic writings. The Messiah is believed to be a human being, a descendant of King David, who will be chosen by God to bring about the redemption of the Jewish people and establish a kingdom of peace and justice. In the Jewish tradition, the Messiah is not considered divine, but rather a mortal leader who will restore the Jewish people to their rightful place.
One of the key characteristics of the Messiah in the Jewish belief is the ability to bring about the ingathering of the exiles, which refers to the return of the Jewish people to their homeland. This is described in the book of Isaiah, where it says, "In that day the Lord will reach out his hand a second time to reclaim the surviving remnant of his people from Assyria, from Lower Egypt, from Upper Egypt, from Cush, from Elam, from Babylonia, from Hamath and from the islands of the Mediterranean" (Isaiah 11:11).
In addition, the Messiah is expected to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem and restore the Jewish religious practices. The book of Zechariah describes the Messiah's role in this, stating, "This is what the Lord Almighty says: 'I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the Faithful City, and the mountain of the Lord Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain'" (Zechariah 8:3).
However, there is debate within the Jewish community as to whether Jesus could be the Messiah. Many Jews reject the notion that Jesus fulfilled the prophecies of the Messiah, arguing that he did not fulfill the requirements for the Messiah as described in the Hebrew Bible. As Rabbi Shraga Simmons of Aish.com explains, "According to Jewish tradition, the Messiah must accomplish certain tasks before he can be acknowledged as the Messiah, including the rebuilding of the Temple, ingathering of the exiles, and the reestablishment of the Sanhedrin."
In conclusion, the Messiah is a central figure in Jewish theology and a source of ongoing debate and discussion within the Jewish community. While there is no consensus on whether Jesus could be Yahweh's Messiah, the Jewish belief in the Messiah and its characteristics provide a framework for understanding the expectations and requirements for the Messiah's arrival. Whether or not Jesus is considered the Messiah, the concept of the Messiah remains a powerful symbol of hope and redemption in Jewish theology.
How does one become a Christian?
Becoming a Christian entails believing in the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ as the means for forgiveness and eternal life. The term "Christian" originated in Acts 11:26 and denotes individuals who embrace this belief (John 3:16; Romans 6:23; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:1; Romans 10:13). To become a Christian, one must acknowledge the same message about Jesus and welcome Him into their life.
The term "Christian" has been subject to various interpretations and misuses, causing it to hold different meanings for different people. However, the biblical understanding of a Christian is rooted in faith and not based on religious rituals, good deeds, or specific political ideologies.
According to Scripture, Christians are those who have placed their trust in Jesus' sacrificial death, burial, and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life (John 3:16; Romans 6:23; Romans 10:13; Galatians 2:20; Colossians 3:1). Christians are individuals who have received salvation through faith as a gift of God's grace (Ephesians 2:8-9).
So, how does one become a Christian? The process remains the same as it did during the early days of the church (Acts 11:26). Salvation is attained by believing in Jesus as the Son of God, accepting His sacrificial death for our sins, and acknowledging His resurrection that brings new life. When we open our hearts to Him, we receive His resurrected life as a free gift.
From the moment we believe, we become Christians, righteous and blameless children of God (2 Corinthians 5:21; Colossians 1:22).