| THE LANGUAGE OF CHRISTIANITY VERSUS THE LANGUAGE OF THE CHRIST |
| THE LANGUAGE OF CHRISTIANITY |
What is the purpose of language? Is it to express ideas? Is it to unite, to divide, or
to share truths? Language regardless of its purpose will always identify the
speaker. A friend made this stunning observation about men who returned from the
battlefield suffering from PTSD in that the individual was well trained in the art of
war against those whose language he did not understand. But in the battlefield
there existed a universal language that did not need translation. Among all men
there are three utterances that do not need interpretation: the cry, the laugh, and
the shout for help. These verbal responses are essentially identical for mankind
and when a man hears himself in these vocalizations from the enemy, he then
identifies with humanity in his enemy and thus with every man for he sees and
hears himself.
Christianity is not our savior but it is a set of ideas, understandings, and tenets
developed to identify commonalities but tends to become an instrument instigating
diversity as differing opinions surface. Nor is Christianity the compass that points
us to God for that is Christ. Religion and language are so intertwined in humanity's
path and are similar to a child who is fluent in his birth language and as is someone
who is saturated in religious life; they are adept at defining and communicating from
their particular native religious tongue. If the individual learns another
language/religion later in life it is somewhat difficult to deprogram that which has
been ingrained from birth. Language and religion, namely Christianity because that
is personally my native tongue, contain specific vocabulary to communicate and
reveal one's path to God, therefore, it is impossible to express one's religion without
language.
Many religions have a particular language as the mode of transmitting
understanding and truths; Hebrew for Judaism, Arabic for Islam, Sanskrit for
Hinduism, and so on and it is within these languages that the various religions
obtain their defining characteristics. The vocalizations of a particular language must
be understood to someone before communication can commence and this is also
true in religion. There must be more than one person to communicate, in other
words one person alone cannot be religious. Also, religion forces outward
communication highlighting diversity whereas communion—a coming together
celebrates similarities and if diversities arise they are not the primary focus.
The root word religion is usually traced to the Latin religare (re: back, ligare: to
bind) making the term associated with being bound or being held back. It also
means “to place an obligation on” but from what prospective? Is it bondage to a
God in covenant or bound to rules and rituals established by those who have
supposedly arrived at truth before? Is there any difference? Is the religious person
bound by choice or by commitment to the tenets of a particular faith system? One's
religion then becomes one's way of life and how one lives in light of a particular set
of commitments provide a strong directional force and often the result is pain when
a different path is selected.
Does the religion cause us bondage? Who is being bound in religion? Man puts
God inside a statement of faith box and refuses to hear anything outside of
accepted doctrine. When man sets limits on God in his mind and as he works out
his salvation establishing his relationship with the Creator of Heaven and earth,
God often decides to move outside of doctrinal walls, and man shuts Him down in
His spirit. It is not God being bound but it is man who limits himself and shuts out
the greatest relationship he could ever know. Mankind places religion as a primary
function of existence –even those who do not profess to be religious are by
definition bound also by their belief of being non-religious, and as religion is placed
at the forefront he has limited his relationship both to God and to other men. Is
there a way of escape from this bondage?
THE LANGUAGE OF CHRISTIANITY
Once saved always saved, speaking in tongues, trinity, communion, passover, sin
and others are words or phrases defining or used to define certain attributes of
Christianity, and there are hundreds more. Just as Christianity has its own
language so does each of the other religions. We are not versed in them because
they are not our native language, religion, or specific set of beliefs.
What is Christianity and how is it defined? A follower of
Jesus? Being Christlike? Believe the Bible? When one
seeks a definition of Christianity they are assaulted with
various creeds and definitions and each of them are based
on certain methods of biblical interpretation. All of these
factors make the language of Christianity very difficult to
comprehend. Many just accept its varied tenets and “love
God in the only way they know how and know they will go to heaven when they
die.” Is that all there is to it or is that simply what we have made it? Have we
defined religion as following a set of denominational rules and rituals many of which
are not in the Bible anyway but are simply tradition; all the while most followers
cannot prove or disprove them anyway?
The language of Christianity, and other religions for that matter, is so vague and
seemingly loveless especially to those who express differences in belief. Most
religions are man's attempts at describing a God that is too awesome to be known
by rules and statements of faith. It is in these very rules and statements of faith that
place a box around God and the followers of the particular tenets do not step out of
the box nor expect God to.
The Barna Research Group reported that when a representative group of people
who considered themselves to be non christian were asked to rank a list of people
they distrust the most the image of “evangelicals” rated tenth out of eleventh
beating out only prostitutes. Of late, many “believers” seem to have an aversion to
being called a Christian choosing rather to be a “Christ follower” in hopes of
creating distance from some of the exclusiveness of Christianity and acceptance of
others who are not of the same faith. This is the reason we must also look at the
language of the Christ.
THE EXCLUSIVITY OF CHRISTIANITY / RELIGIONS
How many different religions are there? Which of these are the true religion? Is it
not according to who you ask? It is the usual answer to these questions that hinder
the realization of God. One young student in a philosophy class room sees nothing
but arrogance in a specific religion asserting itself as the one true faith. “Religion
has led to untold strife, division, and conflict. It may be the greatest enemy of peace
in the world. If Christians continue to insist that they have 'the truth' and if other
religions do this as well, the world will never know peace.” As Christians we can
claim we are peace loving and tolerant but that is not the case—look at the number
of divisions in Christianity itself—when something goes against a set belief we
create a new denomination. Timothy Keller in his book “The Reason For God” says
it this way: “Each religion informs its followers that they have 'the truth' and this
naturally leads them to feel superior to those with differing beliefs. Also, a religion
tells its followers that they are saved and connected to God by devotedly
performing that truth. This moves them to separate from those who are less
devoted and pure in life.”
Exclusivity simply put is “my way is the only way” or there is no other faith but mine
leaving no room for expression of diversity. Bishop John Shelby Spong says
“Religion is primarily a search for security and not a search for truth.” Man often
feels secure when he controls who can come in and that is what religion has done—
it acts as the door instead of pointing to the one who really is the door and has let
in everybody. Men feel secure in their similarities but fearful in their diversities.
When asked “Do you think Jesus is the only way” the first response to the question
might be “the only way to where?” Many are adamant that Christ's death, burial,
and resurrection are the only means that sin's penalty is paid and the power of
death is defeated. Adding this question: Is faith in Jesus Christ's atoning work
necessary to become saved?” provides a stunning image of the presumed strength
of Christianity.
Pluralism will answer both questions with a “no” as this idea believes there are
many ways to reach God with Jesus being only one of them. Since this ideology
surmises salvation can came come from other religious leaders then the
assumption is faith in Christ is not necessary.
Inclusivism, on the other hand, will answer the first
question “yes” and the second question “no”. This
aspect accepts it was Christ alone that brought mankind
to God but people can be saved by response to God's
revelation through various avenues all provided by Christ.
And finally Exclusivism, which answers both questions with a “yes”. This view holds
that Scripture and church history testify that Jesus alone accomplished salvation
necessary to save and secondly, knowledge of and faith in Christ is required for
anyone to be saved.
Christianity claims it is the only truth and the God of the Bible is the only real and
true God. Islam also claims it is the only religion and was given to the people by
Mohammed (Qu'ran 5:3 'This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed
my favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.”). This claim is
generally repeated by each of the world's main religions to some degree. Another
claim of Christianity in its presumed ownership of truth is it surmises other religions
are mixed with reason, humanism, and partial truth. One writer states that “If any
religion is true, it must be exclusive. The exclusiveness of Christianity provides
evidence that Christianity is true.” (Why Christianity is Exclusive. Science, World,
and Faith 2007) Christianity asserts as its proof point that it is the only full
revelation from the true God.
“Christianity is an exclusive religion. It does not allow room for other beliefs”.
(Religious Tolerance. Why Christianity is Exclusive: The Only True Religion. By
Kathy LaPan) It seems we hold to a set of beliefs rather than to the one we are to
see in those beliefs. I also believe as the One we worship becomes truly
worshiped—then exclusiveness fades. The statement above is akin to rewriting
John 3:16 to say “For God so loved only Christians...” and it is this perception that
dulls the love of God for us and puts our love for Him on a conditional basis. It is
interesting to note that according to the Barna Poll, 40% of those polled believe that
when Christians, Jews, Buddhists, and others pray to their god, all of those
individuals are actually praying to the same god but simply using different names
for their deity. The odd point here is this view is from those who consider
themselves non religious.
In Christianity or any other religion it seems the members marry to tradition rather
than a viable experience with a real God. Once rules and statements of faith are
established, the freedom for God to move is diminished or limited. Christianity is
also known for its stance as the owner of the voice of God as evidenced by various
denominations stressing theirs is the only way even inside the sect of Christianity.
Christianity is not known to foster unity unless you are the same as I mentality or
you believe the same as I do. What is the question that is asked when you meet
someone in a religious setting? Where do you go to church? Are you a Christian? It
seems we suppose if one is a Christian then everything is copacetic with their soul.
What if we asked “How do you know God” or “What is God saying to you”? Would
that not tell a greater story? As religion has a tendency to create division or
intolerance between diverse groups of people while on the other hand, “the Gospel
leads us to three things: humble service, reconciling behavior that is neither
patronizing nor self-righteous, and a love toward people who hold different beliefs
than we do” (Timothy Keller).
In Rob Bell's book “Love Wins” he describes the many possibilities of inclusion and
exclusion and the work of God and he goes on to say “As soon as the door is
opened to Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Baptists from Cleveland, many
Christians become very uneasy, saying that Jesus doesn't matter anymore, the
cross is irrelevant and it doesn't matter what you believe and so forth. Not true.
Absolutely, unequivocally, unalterably not true. What Jesus does is declare that he,
and he alone is saving everybody. And then he leaves the door way, way open;
creating all sorts of possibilities. He is as narrow as himself and as wide as the
universe. When people use the word “Jesus,” then, it's important for us to ask who
they're talking about. Jesus is both near and intimate and personal, and big and
wide and transcendent.” (Love Wins. Loc 1870-94) We must realize that Jesus is
the Savior and He also gets to set the terms and the terms He has set is there are
no terms.
SACRED TEXTS – THE BIBLE
The Bible is not a single book but a collection of 66 books so designated by two
church councils and two papal decrees (Pope Damascus in 382 AD, Council of
Hippo in 393 AD, Council of Carthage in 347 AD, and Pope St Innocent I in 405 AD
who closed the cannon) and is a Greek word ta biblia meaning “the scrolls” or “the
books”. It was penned by 40 different authors including fishermen, kings,
shepherds, farmers, scribes, poets, priests, and prophets in different languages
over a period of some 1,500 years to different groups who spoke different
languages in different generations. It was divinely inspired but penned by men and
is both God's word to man and man's word about God. Its purpose is to bring
revelation providing a diverse understanding of God. The Bible although inspired
contains contradictions that serve to give different perspectives of how men in
various situations perceived God in different times under different situations. These
contradictions demonstrate a different aspect of God's dealings with man and also
reveals man's understanding of God's plan in time and in varied situations.
Christians claim the Bible is the inerrant Word of God and it is the truth of God
given to man from God through anointed men as they were moved by the Holy
Spirit. One writer stresses that the above statement is not what Christians
necessarily “believe” but what those same Christians
know to be true implying that because it is understood
truth therefore no room for discussion and belief is not
necessary to make it true—a perfect example of
exclusiveness. As some Christians hold to the
infallibility of the Bible and as the Bible implies
Jesus is the only way to God then according to
logic there can be no other religious path that leads to God.
Is this what the Bible states? Does Hebrews 1:1-3 say: The Bible is the image of
the invisible God, for in the Bible all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell and
through the Bible God was pleased to reconcile all things unto Himself? Or, long
ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the Jewish prophets,
but in these last days He has spoken to us through the Christian apostles. Their
writings are the reflection of God's glory and the exact imprint of God's very being.
The Word in John 1:1 did not become the Bible but became the Son of God.
Christianity which for the most part denies any other path to God does so because
to allow a possibility of another path would seemingly deny the power and
greatness of God and His Christ, but is that true? Paul's account in Acts 17 seems
to indicate otherwise. While in Greece he sees the people are very religious and
their demonstration of worship is very outward. The Greek word that is used here is
“deisidaimonesteros” (dice-ee-dahee-mon-es-ter-os) which contains a good and
bad term usually translated religious (NKJV) or superstitious (AV), however the
base words imply “dread of devils”.
Johnathan Mitchell says the type of worship here was animism or the belief that
disembodied spirits inhabit other living beings and inanimate objects—idol worship.
So, these people were not Christians in the modern sense of the term. These
people were worshiping demons or idols and note what Paul says to them. He told
them the One you are worshiping without knowing—Him I am going to proclaim to
you. He did not tell them they were worshiping satan or stop, you need Jesus—
come on say the name Jesus with me right now and get saved. What we have seen
is not that God was insufficient to reach these people but was more than able to
make His presence known in any situation. He is boundless and not limited by man
in anyway—including Christianity or Islam or any other religion.
John tells us in John 3:16 that God loves the world but it is sometimes taken to
mean the Baptist world to Baptists, Church of Christ world to the Church of Christ
folks, Muslim world to Islam or what ever denomination/faith you wish to place
here. John 10:16 indicates Jesus, the Good Shepherd, has other sheep not of the
same fold and whether the additional folds (no indication of two folds only) are
Gentile which could include the other Abrahamic religions being Christianity and
Islam. Jesus is typically seen expanding the concept of whom God expresses His
love for and removes the impression of exclusion. Peter was very clear when he
proclaims "In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation
whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him” (Acts 10:34-35).
This is precisely what the people in Athens were doing when Paul saw their
inscription “to the unknown god”.
Ephesians 1:10 declares that God gathered IN ONE all things IN Christ. It is not
that all have to touch Christ but that Christ has touched all. As God was in Christ
reconciling the world, He touched all and not that all has to touch Him. (2 Cor 5:19,
Eph 1:10). That is what is meant by Acts 4:12 when Paul says “Nor is there
salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men
by which we must be saved." This is not an exclusive text but a very strong
inclusive one as God brought all into the One. God was exclusive in His Son and
inclusive as all were placed IN Him.
Look at Jonathan Mitchell's translation of Acts 4:12 and see where you hear
exclusion. "And thus, the rescue and deliverance – the restoration to health and
wholeness, the safety and salvation, and the return to our original state and
condition – is in absolutely no other person! For neither is there a different name
under the sky (or: heaven) that has been given, and now exists as a gift, among
mankind (or: in the midst of humanity) within which it continues binding and
necessary for us to be saved (restored to health and wholeness; delivered and kept
safe; returned to our original state and condition)!" THE EXCLUSION IS IN
CHRIST NOT CHRISTIANITY as He is the only one salvation comes but He was
so inclusive that it is only through Him that all men, all nations, all ethnic groups,
were gathered in the One and HE WAS THE ONE. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I
am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me”
would be a very exclusive statement, except God gather all into the One and He
was the One.
It seems we forget all that God did for man He did in the man Jesus and the Bible
makes these seemingly exclusive statements that Jesus is the only way and must
be known externally. Because God placed all in Him then what was
done/accomplished in Him was done for the all and to the all—in the One. The all
according to the New Testament is an inclusive term and includes all all nations, all
men, and all ethnic groups—no one left out demonstrating the power of God's
inclusiveness in His exclusive (only begotten) Son.
According to Brian McLaren, there are several problems with our usage of the Bible
in daily living and rightly so for the most part the date of writings are several
hundreds of years old—a different time, a different society, and a different world.
One problem, according to McLaren, is Fundamentalism which forms the Bible as a
divinely dictated science textbook and providing details of the creation, planetary
components and their makeup and other aspects of physical man such as disease
versus demonic possession. Also another issue is ethics for when the Bible is taken
as a book of rules it simply does not offer clear cut paths for many of our current
issues such as abortion, capitalism, communism, mental health, autism, racism and
many other “isms” that has reared up in our time. Nor does it address genetic
engineering, space travel, and various aspects of warfare (nuclear, biological).
The Bible, for the most part, is read and recited every Sunday morning as a legal
document and the Christian church considers itself as its keeper and interpreter.
McLaren says lawyers in the court room quote articles, sections, and paragraphs to
win their case and we do the same with testaments, books, chapter, and verse. We
tend to approach the Bible as a set of rules rather than a book of poems,
prophecies, histories, fables, parables, letters, quarrels, and meditations. The Bible
gives a principle and not a complete list of do's and dont's for modern society” (A
New Kind of Christianity, Loc 1241). This is the reason God gave in the absence of
Jesus another Comforter—the one who teaches us all truth and He does this for
every man. We tend to suppose that God quit speaking after Revelation 22:21 but
that is far from the truth. Is not the Bible's supreme purpose to reveal the Christ who
gives us the most intimate portrait of the character of the living God?
WHAT ABOUT JESUS?
He lived in obscurity until he was about thirty and his ministry essentially lasted only
three years. He demonstrated compassion to those in need and it was noted there
was something different about his teaching methods for he taught as one having
authority and not as the routine teachers of the law. (Mark 1:22)
Scriptures indicate that Jesus was the image of the unseen or invisible God. What
is an image? Is it the original or a visual representation of the original? Since the
word image or copy as it is used indicates a separation from the original in that the
definition indicates that the image is similar in appearance to the original. When
Jesus told the disciples in John 14:9 that anyone who has seen him has seen the
Father; Jesus was indicating they had seen an image, a representation of God, just
like looking in the mirror. This fits with the writer of Hebrews in 1:3 which indicates
he is the expression of God's very nature. The Greek phrase translated as an
“exact representation” indicates a copy based on the original. Hebrews indicates
God spoke to us through His son who is just like Himself and speaks on His behalf.
So, Jesus the son of God is the perfect human reflection of God but he is not God
as He is the sinless second Adam. He is God's representative and stands in God's
stead.
THE BEGOTTEN OF GOD
When was the son begotten? Luke 1:35 indicates it was some 2000 plus years ago
in Palestine. The power of God overshadowed Mary and she conceived and the
person conceived was begotten of the Father (Matt 1:20). Was Jesus eternally
begotten before his birth? The Bible indicates the Son of God was a created
person coming into existence by a miracle without a human father but in a change
of understanding the church suppresses this awesome message and replaced it
with one that states the Son of God did not begin in the womb but was already in
existence before conception implying God became a man. But traditional church
creeds state that He really did not become man but took on human nature—this
removes the truth that He was tempted in all points as we are being just like us—
human. The Son, Jesus was filled with the Spirit of God and it was this spirit that
was given to all men allowing us all to cry “Abba Father” (Gal. 4:4-7)
So, was Jesus fully human and fully God as the Apostolic creeds state or was he
human? Was Mary only a surrogate, a womb for the embryo that God placed in her
who grew into the child Jesus as ancient understanding of reproduction insisted the
newborn was in the male sperm and was simply deposited in the female womb?
Doctrines state that for Jesus to be God and man he must have been mothered by
Mary, in other words, Mary must have contributed the egg for the child. But with
God that was not even necessary for we do not have a problem accepting that
Adam was fully human so why not with Jesus? Is it because we think that a god has
to die for all mankind—well, how can a god die at all?
In the book of Luke the genealogy of Jesus lists Him as being the son of Joseph
(Luke 3:23) not God and follows through his line to Adam listing him—Adam as the
son of God (Luke 3:38). The record serves to link him to his ancestral line and
demonstrating he is human and all men are the sons of God. This would have been
a perfect opportunity to state his Godhood as a forefront of who he is but instead
he is linked to all of us. Scriptures (Luke 4:22, Matt 13:55) seem to link his lineage
and fatherhood to Joseph stating he is Joseph's son instead of God's. This does
not detract from his virginal birth but seems to indicate his humanness to a high
degree and later, Scriptures details him being the Son of God as he begins to fulfill
his destiny as the Savior of the World. The difference between Adam and Jesus is
Adam's life began from the breath of God and Jesus' began in the womb of Mary.
Adam was made from the dust of the earth and Jesus' body was a miracle of God.
But take notice that both Adam and Jesus are called sons of God.
OPINIONS OF WHO JESUS WAS
What are some poplar opinions of Jesus? Mahatma Gandhi says: He was “A man
who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others,
including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act.”
The Koran states “That they said (in boast), ‘We killed Christ Jesus the son of
Mary, the Messenger of Allah’; but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but so it
was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts, with no
(certain) knowledge, but only conjecture to follow, for of a surety they killed him
not.” (Koran, Surah 4:157, Yusuf Ali translation) The father of the Krishna
Consciousness Movement (A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada) says 'Christ' is
another way of saying Krsta and Krsta is another way of pronouncing Krishna, the
name of God…the general name of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, whose
specific name is Krishna. Therefore whether you call God 'Christ', 'Krsta', or
'Krishna', ultimately you are addressing the same Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Another member (Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu) adds God has millions of names, and
because there is no difference between God's name and Himself, each one of
these names has the same potency as God.
Who was Jesus to Christianity and other religions? See the chart below.
Luke 9:20 asks the distinct question of all questions: “Who do you say that I am”?
The account in Luke 9 states Jesus was alone praying and the disciples
approached Him and He asks them who the people consider Him to be. What was
the soberness of His prayer that this was a concern to Him? What was He feeling
that prompted this question from His prayer time? The disciples gave Him answers
of various individuals but at this point He wanted to know what those close to Him,
those to whom He revealed His heart, who do they personally know him to be.
Peter steps to the plate and proclaims: “You are the Christ of God”. Notice He did
not say Jesus but fully recognized His purpose and destiny.
THE CHRIST OF GOD
What was Paul's first message after his conversion? What was his topic? Acts
chapter 9 details his message after the scales fell from his eyes.
Acts 9:17-22
17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands
on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the
road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be
filled with the Holy Spirit."
18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received
his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.
19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent
some days with the disciples at Damascus.
20 Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son
of God.
21 Then all who heard were amazed, and said, "Is this not he who destroyed
those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that
purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?"
22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who
dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.
Obviously his message was not say the name of Jesus and escape hell but his
message was much deeper and far reaching. First he preached Jesus is the Son of
God and second, Jesus is the Christ.
Was Jesus always aware of His purpose from His Father? Was He always the
Word (thought and purpose of God) made Flesh; the motive of God put into visible
action (Jn 1:14) or was there a process in Jesus whose purpose was to be the
Christ (Messiah) of God? Jesus, as the son begotten of the Father was not
prepared for the purpose he was to become. Yes, He stated when asked by His
mother about being in the Synagogue that he must be about His Father's business
but to what extent? The New Testament indicates he progressed as any child
growing to adulthood even thought his life was shielded from view from age twelve
to approximately thirty Luke 2:40 provides some insights of what it was like for him.
Luke indicates the child had to grow in wisdom and verse 52 makes an interesting
statement which says “and Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor
with God and men”. He increased in favor with God, so, He increased in favor with
himself—if he was God the Son and not son of God.
Luke 24 details the resurrection and those looking for the body of Jesus and the
angels asked them why they were seeking the living among the dead. Jesus was
no longer a body but he was now a presence.
The next account in this chapter is the trip on the road to Emmaus as two disciples
were walking and talking that Jesus manifested to them but they were restrained
from knowing who He was. Why and by who? Anyway, Jesus asks why they are
sad and they proceed to tell him of Jesus' crucifixion and how they hoped he would
have redeemed Israel. After they tell Jesus their story He tells them His.
Jesus was here for the few who were near to him but the Christ he became was for
all men, hence his progression of truth of who he is and is to become. He proceeds
to tell them Christ has come and you want me to enter a body again for you. I
cannot be your Jesus anymore – I must be God's Messiah – I must be the Christ of
God. Their eyes were opened as they recognized him and he vanished from their
sight. But what did they say about the road trip? They felt him (Lu. 24:32). Their
hearts burned while He talked and opened the Scriptures about Himself and His
worldwide purpose. Jesus of Nazareth had become the Christ of God. D. E. Paulk
says the gospel is not the person of Jesus but the message of Jesus the person. 2
Corinthians 5:16 says we have known Christ after the flesh which was Jesus the
man but we know him as Jesus the man no longer but we are to know him as
proclaimed in Luke 9:20, "You are the Christ of God." but unlike verse 21 it is time
to tell it.
Jesus learned obedience through the things he suffered according to Hebrew 5:8-
10. After him learning and being made perfect or complete he became the source of
salvation. His path, his growing in stature and grace was a progression of learning
and listening and conforming his will to God's. In Gethsemane Jesus prayed for the
cup of death to pass (Luke 22:42) from Him. We have taught that God the Son was
always one with God the Father but here if God the Son is God He was at odds
with a member of the Godhead. If He was God at this point His will would be the
same as God, although Jesus was a son He had to learn to function as a son (not
unlike us). In this process of learning and becoming who he was to be, Christ was
always present with him and once made perfect, He (Jesus) became the author of
salvation (Heb 5:10) as the Christ of God.
to share truths? Language regardless of its purpose will always identify the
speaker. A friend made this stunning observation about men who returned from the
battlefield suffering from PTSD in that the individual was well trained in the art of
war against those whose language he did not understand. But in the battlefield
there existed a universal language that did not need translation. Among all men
there are three utterances that do not need interpretation: the cry, the laugh, and
the shout for help. These verbal responses are essentially identical for mankind
and when a man hears himself in these vocalizations from the enemy, he then
identifies with humanity in his enemy and thus with every man for he sees and
hears himself.
Christianity is not our savior but it is a set of ideas, understandings, and tenets
developed to identify commonalities but tends to become an instrument instigating
diversity as differing opinions surface. Nor is Christianity the compass that points
us to God for that is Christ. Religion and language are so intertwined in humanity's
path and are similar to a child who is fluent in his birth language and as is someone
who is saturated in religious life; they are adept at defining and communicating from
their particular native religious tongue. If the individual learns another
language/religion later in life it is somewhat difficult to deprogram that which has
been ingrained from birth. Language and religion, namely Christianity because that
is personally my native tongue, contain specific vocabulary to communicate and
reveal one's path to God, therefore, it is impossible to express one's religion without
language.
Many religions have a particular language as the mode of transmitting
understanding and truths; Hebrew for Judaism, Arabic for Islam, Sanskrit for
Hinduism, and so on and it is within these languages that the various religions
obtain their defining characteristics. The vocalizations of a particular language must
be understood to someone before communication can commence and this is also
true in religion. There must be more than one person to communicate, in other
words one person alone cannot be religious. Also, religion forces outward
communication highlighting diversity whereas communion—a coming together
celebrates similarities and if diversities arise they are not the primary focus.
The root word religion is usually traced to the Latin religare (re: back, ligare: to
bind) making the term associated with being bound or being held back. It also
means “to place an obligation on” but from what prospective? Is it bondage to a
God in covenant or bound to rules and rituals established by those who have
supposedly arrived at truth before? Is there any difference? Is the religious person
bound by choice or by commitment to the tenets of a particular faith system? One's
religion then becomes one's way of life and how one lives in light of a particular set
of commitments provide a strong directional force and often the result is pain when
a different path is selected.
Does the religion cause us bondage? Who is being bound in religion? Man puts
God inside a statement of faith box and refuses to hear anything outside of
accepted doctrine. When man sets limits on God in his mind and as he works out
his salvation establishing his relationship with the Creator of Heaven and earth,
God often decides to move outside of doctrinal walls, and man shuts Him down in
His spirit. It is not God being bound but it is man who limits himself and shuts out
the greatest relationship he could ever know. Mankind places religion as a primary
function of existence –even those who do not profess to be religious are by
definition bound also by their belief of being non-religious, and as religion is placed
at the forefront he has limited his relationship both to God and to other men. Is
there a way of escape from this bondage?
THE LANGUAGE OF CHRISTIANITY
Once saved always saved, speaking in tongues, trinity, communion, passover, sin
and others are words or phrases defining or used to define certain attributes of
Christianity, and there are hundreds more. Just as Christianity has its own
language so does each of the other religions. We are not versed in them because
they are not our native language, religion, or specific set of beliefs.
What is Christianity and how is it defined? A follower of
Jesus? Being Christlike? Believe the Bible? When one
seeks a definition of Christianity they are assaulted with
various creeds and definitions and each of them are based
on certain methods of biblical interpretation. All of these
factors make the language of Christianity very difficult to
comprehend. Many just accept its varied tenets and “love
God in the only way they know how and know they will go to heaven when they
die.” Is that all there is to it or is that simply what we have made it? Have we
defined religion as following a set of denominational rules and rituals many of which
are not in the Bible anyway but are simply tradition; all the while most followers
cannot prove or disprove them anyway?
The language of Christianity, and other religions for that matter, is so vague and
seemingly loveless especially to those who express differences in belief. Most
religions are man's attempts at describing a God that is too awesome to be known
by rules and statements of faith. It is in these very rules and statements of faith that
place a box around God and the followers of the particular tenets do not step out of
the box nor expect God to.
The Barna Research Group reported that when a representative group of people
who considered themselves to be non christian were asked to rank a list of people
they distrust the most the image of “evangelicals” rated tenth out of eleventh
beating out only prostitutes. Of late, many “believers” seem to have an aversion to
being called a Christian choosing rather to be a “Christ follower” in hopes of
creating distance from some of the exclusiveness of Christianity and acceptance of
others who are not of the same faith. This is the reason we must also look at the
language of the Christ.
THE EXCLUSIVITY OF CHRISTIANITY / RELIGIONS
How many different religions are there? Which of these are the true religion? Is it
not according to who you ask? It is the usual answer to these questions that hinder
the realization of God. One young student in a philosophy class room sees nothing
but arrogance in a specific religion asserting itself as the one true faith. “Religion
has led to untold strife, division, and conflict. It may be the greatest enemy of peace
in the world. If Christians continue to insist that they have 'the truth' and if other
religions do this as well, the world will never know peace.” As Christians we can
claim we are peace loving and tolerant but that is not the case—look at the number
of divisions in Christianity itself—when something goes against a set belief we
create a new denomination. Timothy Keller in his book “The Reason For God” says
it this way: “Each religion informs its followers that they have 'the truth' and this
naturally leads them to feel superior to those with differing beliefs. Also, a religion
tells its followers that they are saved and connected to God by devotedly
performing that truth. This moves them to separate from those who are less
devoted and pure in life.”
Exclusivity simply put is “my way is the only way” or there is no other faith but mine
leaving no room for expression of diversity. Bishop John Shelby Spong says
“Religion is primarily a search for security and not a search for truth.” Man often
feels secure when he controls who can come in and that is what religion has done—
it acts as the door instead of pointing to the one who really is the door and has let
in everybody. Men feel secure in their similarities but fearful in their diversities.
When asked “Do you think Jesus is the only way” the first response to the question
might be “the only way to where?” Many are adamant that Christ's death, burial,
and resurrection are the only means that sin's penalty is paid and the power of
death is defeated. Adding this question: Is faith in Jesus Christ's atoning work
necessary to become saved?” provides a stunning image of the presumed strength
of Christianity.
Pluralism will answer both questions with a “no” as this idea believes there are
many ways to reach God with Jesus being only one of them. Since this ideology
surmises salvation can came come from other religious leaders then the
assumption is faith in Christ is not necessary.
Inclusivism, on the other hand, will answer the first
question “yes” and the second question “no”. This
aspect accepts it was Christ alone that brought mankind
to God but people can be saved by response to God's
revelation through various avenues all provided by Christ.
And finally Exclusivism, which answers both questions with a “yes”. This view holds
that Scripture and church history testify that Jesus alone accomplished salvation
necessary to save and secondly, knowledge of and faith in Christ is required for
anyone to be saved.
Christianity claims it is the only truth and the God of the Bible is the only real and
true God. Islam also claims it is the only religion and was given to the people by
Mohammed (Qu'ran 5:3 'This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed
my favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.”). This claim is
generally repeated by each of the world's main religions to some degree. Another
claim of Christianity in its presumed ownership of truth is it surmises other religions
are mixed with reason, humanism, and partial truth. One writer states that “If any
religion is true, it must be exclusive. The exclusiveness of Christianity provides
evidence that Christianity is true.” (Why Christianity is Exclusive. Science, World,
and Faith 2007) Christianity asserts as its proof point that it is the only full
revelation from the true God.
“Christianity is an exclusive religion. It does not allow room for other beliefs”.
(Religious Tolerance. Why Christianity is Exclusive: The Only True Religion. By
Kathy LaPan) It seems we hold to a set of beliefs rather than to the one we are to
see in those beliefs. I also believe as the One we worship becomes truly
worshiped—then exclusiveness fades. The statement above is akin to rewriting
John 3:16 to say “For God so loved only Christians...” and it is this perception that
dulls the love of God for us and puts our love for Him on a conditional basis. It is
interesting to note that according to the Barna Poll, 40% of those polled believe that
when Christians, Jews, Buddhists, and others pray to their god, all of those
individuals are actually praying to the same god but simply using different names
for their deity. The odd point here is this view is from those who consider
themselves non religious.
In Christianity or any other religion it seems the members marry to tradition rather
than a viable experience with a real God. Once rules and statements of faith are
established, the freedom for God to move is diminished or limited. Christianity is
also known for its stance as the owner of the voice of God as evidenced by various
denominations stressing theirs is the only way even inside the sect of Christianity.
Christianity is not known to foster unity unless you are the same as I mentality or
you believe the same as I do. What is the question that is asked when you meet
someone in a religious setting? Where do you go to church? Are you a Christian? It
seems we suppose if one is a Christian then everything is copacetic with their soul.
What if we asked “How do you know God” or “What is God saying to you”? Would
that not tell a greater story? As religion has a tendency to create division or
intolerance between diverse groups of people while on the other hand, “the Gospel
leads us to three things: humble service, reconciling behavior that is neither
patronizing nor self-righteous, and a love toward people who hold different beliefs
than we do” (Timothy Keller).
In Rob Bell's book “Love Wins” he describes the many possibilities of inclusion and
exclusion and the work of God and he goes on to say “As soon as the door is
opened to Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Baptists from Cleveland, many
Christians become very uneasy, saying that Jesus doesn't matter anymore, the
cross is irrelevant and it doesn't matter what you believe and so forth. Not true.
Absolutely, unequivocally, unalterably not true. What Jesus does is declare that he,
and he alone is saving everybody. And then he leaves the door way, way open;
creating all sorts of possibilities. He is as narrow as himself and as wide as the
universe. When people use the word “Jesus,” then, it's important for us to ask who
they're talking about. Jesus is both near and intimate and personal, and big and
wide and transcendent.” (Love Wins. Loc 1870-94) We must realize that Jesus is
the Savior and He also gets to set the terms and the terms He has set is there are
no terms.
SACRED TEXTS – THE BIBLE
The Bible is not a single book but a collection of 66 books so designated by two
church councils and two papal decrees (Pope Damascus in 382 AD, Council of
Hippo in 393 AD, Council of Carthage in 347 AD, and Pope St Innocent I in 405 AD
who closed the cannon) and is a Greek word ta biblia meaning “the scrolls” or “the
books”. It was penned by 40 different authors including fishermen, kings,
shepherds, farmers, scribes, poets, priests, and prophets in different languages
over a period of some 1,500 years to different groups who spoke different
languages in different generations. It was divinely inspired but penned by men and
is both God's word to man and man's word about God. Its purpose is to bring
revelation providing a diverse understanding of God. The Bible although inspired
contains contradictions that serve to give different perspectives of how men in
various situations perceived God in different times under different situations. These
contradictions demonstrate a different aspect of God's dealings with man and also
reveals man's understanding of God's plan in time and in varied situations.
Christians claim the Bible is the inerrant Word of God and it is the truth of God
given to man from God through anointed men as they were moved by the Holy
Spirit. One writer stresses that the above statement is not what Christians
necessarily “believe” but what those same Christians
know to be true implying that because it is understood
truth therefore no room for discussion and belief is not
necessary to make it true—a perfect example of
exclusiveness. As some Christians hold to the
infallibility of the Bible and as the Bible implies
Jesus is the only way to God then according to
logic there can be no other religious path that leads to God.
Is this what the Bible states? Does Hebrews 1:1-3 say: The Bible is the image of
the invisible God, for in the Bible all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell and
through the Bible God was pleased to reconcile all things unto Himself? Or, long
ago God spoke to our ancestors in many and various ways by the Jewish prophets,
but in these last days He has spoken to us through the Christian apostles. Their
writings are the reflection of God's glory and the exact imprint of God's very being.
The Word in John 1:1 did not become the Bible but became the Son of God.
Christianity which for the most part denies any other path to God does so because
to allow a possibility of another path would seemingly deny the power and
greatness of God and His Christ, but is that true? Paul's account in Acts 17 seems
to indicate otherwise. While in Greece he sees the people are very religious and
their demonstration of worship is very outward. The Greek word that is used here is
“deisidaimonesteros” (dice-ee-dahee-mon-es-ter-os) which contains a good and
bad term usually translated religious (NKJV) or superstitious (AV), however the
base words imply “dread of devils”.
Johnathan Mitchell says the type of worship here was animism or the belief that
disembodied spirits inhabit other living beings and inanimate objects—idol worship.
So, these people were not Christians in the modern sense of the term. These
people were worshiping demons or idols and note what Paul says to them. He told
them the One you are worshiping without knowing—Him I am going to proclaim to
you. He did not tell them they were worshiping satan or stop, you need Jesus—
come on say the name Jesus with me right now and get saved. What we have seen
is not that God was insufficient to reach these people but was more than able to
make His presence known in any situation. He is boundless and not limited by man
in anyway—including Christianity or Islam or any other religion.
John tells us in John 3:16 that God loves the world but it is sometimes taken to
mean the Baptist world to Baptists, Church of Christ world to the Church of Christ
folks, Muslim world to Islam or what ever denomination/faith you wish to place
here. John 10:16 indicates Jesus, the Good Shepherd, has other sheep not of the
same fold and whether the additional folds (no indication of two folds only) are
Gentile which could include the other Abrahamic religions being Christianity and
Islam. Jesus is typically seen expanding the concept of whom God expresses His
love for and removes the impression of exclusion. Peter was very clear when he
proclaims "In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. But in every nation
whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him” (Acts 10:34-35).
This is precisely what the people in Athens were doing when Paul saw their
inscription “to the unknown god”.
Ephesians 1:10 declares that God gathered IN ONE all things IN Christ. It is not
that all have to touch Christ but that Christ has touched all. As God was in Christ
reconciling the world, He touched all and not that all has to touch Him. (2 Cor 5:19,
Eph 1:10). That is what is meant by Acts 4:12 when Paul says “Nor is there
salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men
by which we must be saved." This is not an exclusive text but a very strong
inclusive one as God brought all into the One. God was exclusive in His Son and
inclusive as all were placed IN Him.
Look at Jonathan Mitchell's translation of Acts 4:12 and see where you hear
exclusion. "And thus, the rescue and deliverance – the restoration to health and
wholeness, the safety and salvation, and the return to our original state and
condition – is in absolutely no other person! For neither is there a different name
under the sky (or: heaven) that has been given, and now exists as a gift, among
mankind (or: in the midst of humanity) within which it continues binding and
necessary for us to be saved (restored to health and wholeness; delivered and kept
safe; returned to our original state and condition)!" THE EXCLUSION IS IN
CHRIST NOT CHRISTIANITY as He is the only one salvation comes but He was
so inclusive that it is only through Him that all men, all nations, all ethnic groups,
were gathered in the One and HE WAS THE ONE. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I
am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me”
would be a very exclusive statement, except God gather all into the One and He
was the One.
It seems we forget all that God did for man He did in the man Jesus and the Bible
makes these seemingly exclusive statements that Jesus is the only way and must
be known externally. Because God placed all in Him then what was
done/accomplished in Him was done for the all and to the all—in the One. The all
according to the New Testament is an inclusive term and includes all all nations, all
men, and all ethnic groups—no one left out demonstrating the power of God's
inclusiveness in His exclusive (only begotten) Son.
According to Brian McLaren, there are several problems with our usage of the Bible
in daily living and rightly so for the most part the date of writings are several
hundreds of years old—a different time, a different society, and a different world.
One problem, according to McLaren, is Fundamentalism which forms the Bible as a
divinely dictated science textbook and providing details of the creation, planetary
components and their makeup and other aspects of physical man such as disease
versus demonic possession. Also another issue is ethics for when the Bible is taken
as a book of rules it simply does not offer clear cut paths for many of our current
issues such as abortion, capitalism, communism, mental health, autism, racism and
many other “isms” that has reared up in our time. Nor does it address genetic
engineering, space travel, and various aspects of warfare (nuclear, biological).
The Bible, for the most part, is read and recited every Sunday morning as a legal
document and the Christian church considers itself as its keeper and interpreter.
McLaren says lawyers in the court room quote articles, sections, and paragraphs to
win their case and we do the same with testaments, books, chapter, and verse. We
tend to approach the Bible as a set of rules rather than a book of poems,
prophecies, histories, fables, parables, letters, quarrels, and meditations. The Bible
gives a principle and not a complete list of do's and dont's for modern society” (A
New Kind of Christianity, Loc 1241). This is the reason God gave in the absence of
Jesus another Comforter—the one who teaches us all truth and He does this for
every man. We tend to suppose that God quit speaking after Revelation 22:21 but
that is far from the truth. Is not the Bible's supreme purpose to reveal the Christ who
gives us the most intimate portrait of the character of the living God?
WHAT ABOUT JESUS?
He lived in obscurity until he was about thirty and his ministry essentially lasted only
three years. He demonstrated compassion to those in need and it was noted there
was something different about his teaching methods for he taught as one having
authority and not as the routine teachers of the law. (Mark 1:22)
Scriptures indicate that Jesus was the image of the unseen or invisible God. What
is an image? Is it the original or a visual representation of the original? Since the
word image or copy as it is used indicates a separation from the original in that the
definition indicates that the image is similar in appearance to the original. When
Jesus told the disciples in John 14:9 that anyone who has seen him has seen the
Father; Jesus was indicating they had seen an image, a representation of God, just
like looking in the mirror. This fits with the writer of Hebrews in 1:3 which indicates
he is the expression of God's very nature. The Greek phrase translated as an
“exact representation” indicates a copy based on the original. Hebrews indicates
God spoke to us through His son who is just like Himself and speaks on His behalf.
So, Jesus the son of God is the perfect human reflection of God but he is not God
as He is the sinless second Adam. He is God's representative and stands in God's
stead.
THE BEGOTTEN OF GOD
When was the son begotten? Luke 1:35 indicates it was some 2000 plus years ago
in Palestine. The power of God overshadowed Mary and she conceived and the
person conceived was begotten of the Father (Matt 1:20). Was Jesus eternally
begotten before his birth? The Bible indicates the Son of God was a created
person coming into existence by a miracle without a human father but in a change
of understanding the church suppresses this awesome message and replaced it
with one that states the Son of God did not begin in the womb but was already in
existence before conception implying God became a man. But traditional church
creeds state that He really did not become man but took on human nature—this
removes the truth that He was tempted in all points as we are being just like us—
human. The Son, Jesus was filled with the Spirit of God and it was this spirit that
was given to all men allowing us all to cry “Abba Father” (Gal. 4:4-7)
So, was Jesus fully human and fully God as the Apostolic creeds state or was he
human? Was Mary only a surrogate, a womb for the embryo that God placed in her
who grew into the child Jesus as ancient understanding of reproduction insisted the
newborn was in the male sperm and was simply deposited in the female womb?
Doctrines state that for Jesus to be God and man he must have been mothered by
Mary, in other words, Mary must have contributed the egg for the child. But with
God that was not even necessary for we do not have a problem accepting that
Adam was fully human so why not with Jesus? Is it because we think that a god has
to die for all mankind—well, how can a god die at all?
In the book of Luke the genealogy of Jesus lists Him as being the son of Joseph
(Luke 3:23) not God and follows through his line to Adam listing him—Adam as the
son of God (Luke 3:38). The record serves to link him to his ancestral line and
demonstrating he is human and all men are the sons of God. This would have been
a perfect opportunity to state his Godhood as a forefront of who he is but instead
he is linked to all of us. Scriptures (Luke 4:22, Matt 13:55) seem to link his lineage
and fatherhood to Joseph stating he is Joseph's son instead of God's. This does
not detract from his virginal birth but seems to indicate his humanness to a high
degree and later, Scriptures details him being the Son of God as he begins to fulfill
his destiny as the Savior of the World. The difference between Adam and Jesus is
Adam's life began from the breath of God and Jesus' began in the womb of Mary.
Adam was made from the dust of the earth and Jesus' body was a miracle of God.
But take notice that both Adam and Jesus are called sons of God.
OPINIONS OF WHO JESUS WAS
What are some poplar opinions of Jesus? Mahatma Gandhi says: He was “A man
who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others,
including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act.”
The Koran states “That they said (in boast), ‘We killed Christ Jesus the son of
Mary, the Messenger of Allah’; but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but so it
was made to appear to them, and those who differ therein are full of doubts, with no
(certain) knowledge, but only conjecture to follow, for of a surety they killed him
not.” (Koran, Surah 4:157, Yusuf Ali translation) The father of the Krishna
Consciousness Movement (A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada) says 'Christ' is
another way of saying Krsta and Krsta is another way of pronouncing Krishna, the
name of God…the general name of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, whose
specific name is Krishna. Therefore whether you call God 'Christ', 'Krsta', or
'Krishna', ultimately you are addressing the same Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Another member (Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu) adds God has millions of names, and
because there is no difference between God's name and Himself, each one of
these names has the same potency as God.
Who was Jesus to Christianity and other religions? See the chart below.
Luke 9:20 asks the distinct question of all questions: “Who do you say that I am”?
The account in Luke 9 states Jesus was alone praying and the disciples
approached Him and He asks them who the people consider Him to be. What was
the soberness of His prayer that this was a concern to Him? What was He feeling
that prompted this question from His prayer time? The disciples gave Him answers
of various individuals but at this point He wanted to know what those close to Him,
those to whom He revealed His heart, who do they personally know him to be.
Peter steps to the plate and proclaims: “You are the Christ of God”. Notice He did
not say Jesus but fully recognized His purpose and destiny.
THE CHRIST OF GOD
What was Paul's first message after his conversion? What was his topic? Acts
chapter 9 details his message after the scales fell from his eyes.
Acts 9:17-22
17 And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands
on him he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the
road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be
filled with the Holy Spirit."
18 Immediately there fell from his eyes something like scales, and he received
his sight at once; and he arose and was baptized.
19 So when he had received food, he was strengthened. Then Saul spent
some days with the disciples at Damascus.
20 Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son
of God.
21 Then all who heard were amazed, and said, "Is this not he who destroyed
those who called on this name in Jerusalem, and has come here for that
purpose, so that he might bring them bound to the chief priests?"
22 But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who
dwelt in Damascus, proving that this Jesus is the Christ.
Obviously his message was not say the name of Jesus and escape hell but his
message was much deeper and far reaching. First he preached Jesus is the Son of
God and second, Jesus is the Christ.
Was Jesus always aware of His purpose from His Father? Was He always the
Word (thought and purpose of God) made Flesh; the motive of God put into visible
action (Jn 1:14) or was there a process in Jesus whose purpose was to be the
Christ (Messiah) of God? Jesus, as the son begotten of the Father was not
prepared for the purpose he was to become. Yes, He stated when asked by His
mother about being in the Synagogue that he must be about His Father's business
but to what extent? The New Testament indicates he progressed as any child
growing to adulthood even thought his life was shielded from view from age twelve
to approximately thirty Luke 2:40 provides some insights of what it was like for him.
Luke indicates the child had to grow in wisdom and verse 52 makes an interesting
statement which says “and Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor
with God and men”. He increased in favor with God, so, He increased in favor with
himself—if he was God the Son and not son of God.
Luke 24 details the resurrection and those looking for the body of Jesus and the
angels asked them why they were seeking the living among the dead. Jesus was
no longer a body but he was now a presence.
The next account in this chapter is the trip on the road to Emmaus as two disciples
were walking and talking that Jesus manifested to them but they were restrained
from knowing who He was. Why and by who? Anyway, Jesus asks why they are
sad and they proceed to tell him of Jesus' crucifixion and how they hoped he would
have redeemed Israel. After they tell Jesus their story He tells them His.
Jesus was here for the few who were near to him but the Christ he became was for
all men, hence his progression of truth of who he is and is to become. He proceeds
to tell them Christ has come and you want me to enter a body again for you. I
cannot be your Jesus anymore – I must be God's Messiah – I must be the Christ of
God. Their eyes were opened as they recognized him and he vanished from their
sight. But what did they say about the road trip? They felt him (Lu. 24:32). Their
hearts burned while He talked and opened the Scriptures about Himself and His
worldwide purpose. Jesus of Nazareth had become the Christ of God. D. E. Paulk
says the gospel is not the person of Jesus but the message of Jesus the person. 2
Corinthians 5:16 says we have known Christ after the flesh which was Jesus the
man but we know him as Jesus the man no longer but we are to know him as
proclaimed in Luke 9:20, "You are the Christ of God." but unlike verse 21 it is time
to tell it.
Jesus learned obedience through the things he suffered according to Hebrew 5:8-
10. After him learning and being made perfect or complete he became the source of
salvation. His path, his growing in stature and grace was a progression of learning
and listening and conforming his will to God's. In Gethsemane Jesus prayed for the
cup of death to pass (Luke 22:42) from Him. We have taught that God the Son was
always one with God the Father but here if God the Son is God He was at odds
with a member of the Godhead. If He was God at this point His will would be the
same as God, although Jesus was a son He had to learn to function as a son (not
unlike us). In this process of learning and becoming who he was to be, Christ was
always present with him and once made perfect, He (Jesus) became the author of
salvation (Heb 5:10) as the Christ of God.
 | |  | |  | |  | |  |