Wednesday: The Principles of the Kingdom
Perhaps the most radical teaching of Jesus is found in Matthew 5:48. Read the text. How are we, especially as sinners, supposed to do that?
Of all the teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, this has to be one of the most amazing, the most “extreme.” To be as perfect as “your Father in heaven”? What does that mean?
Image © Providence Collection from GoodSalt.com
A crucial component in understanding this text is found in the first word of it, “therefore.” That is, it implies a conclusion, an inference from what came before it. What came before?
Read Matthew 5:43-47. How do these verses, which are then brought to a close with Matthew 5:48, help us to understand better what Jesus meant by Matthew 5:48? See also Luke 6:36.
This isn’t the first time an idea like this is seen in the Bible. Way back in the book of Leviticus 19:2, the Lord says to His people, “‘ “You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy” ’” (NKJV). In Luke 6:36, Jesus said: “Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful.” (NKJV).
The whole context here, in Matthew 5:43-48, is not about an outward conformity to rules and standards, however important that may be. Instead, the whole focus on this section deals with loving people, not just those whom anyone could love but those whom, by the world’s standards, we would not generally love (again, this is about the standards of God’s kingdom, not man’s).
The important thing to remember here is that God does not ask of us anything that He cannot accomplish in us. If left to ourselves, if dominated by our sinful and selfish hearts, who would love their enemies? That’s not how the world works, but are we not now citizens of another kingdom? We have the promise that if we surrender ourselves to God, then “He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 1:6, NKJV), and what greater work could God do in us than to get us, in our own sphere, to love as He loves us?
| How different would your life be, right now, were you to love your enemies? |
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I was very touched by this lesson today, when I was a teenager I didn't understand how deep was Jesus' commandments. I thought God is really strict, however years passed by and now I am mature Christian person and my old perspective about God's standards was completely changed by God's love. I went through many experiences in life to really understand how deep is God for me. Now after experiencing that it is possible with God's help to reach His standards based on His love to us sinners.
Its so wonderful and amazing how God expects us to live a heavenly standard the standard of HIMSELF. He would have said be ye holy as Abraham, Isaac, Enoch etc. were holy but He knows their holiness was just through his grace it was just like filthy rags but through faith in Christ who was made sin, they were made righteous 2 corinthians 5:21.
We are to turn our eyes to God to search for the standard of righteousness we are expected to have not our pastor evangelist who ever who is made of fresh.
And by turning our eyes to Jesus we posses that blessed hope "that when he will appear we shall be like him for we will see him as he is" 1 John 3:2
Turn your eyes upon Jesus look full in his wonderful face, and the things of this world will glow strangely dim in the light of HIS glory and grace.
Jesus is not visible to people on Earth. What does it, practically, mean to "turn your eyes upon Jesus"?
Thank you for that question Jim . By turning your 'spiritual eyes'by looking into His life , His character , and the Way he dealt with people while He was on earth , we are contemplating , beholding Him, which should result in a change taking place in us and becoming like Him reflecting Him . In so doing making Him visible here on earth . Hope this help to lead you in the right direction to your question Jim .
For me it means practically to surrender your life totally to Christ. If we have to take any action in life our example is Jesus. By faith in His Word we make decisions with total reliance upon Him regardless of the cost to us. That what it means \"To turn your eyes upon Jesus\" (Philippians 4:13)(Galatians 2:20 & 3:11)
Jim, Jesus is the word, John 1:1-3,14; Luke 24:44; Matthew 4:4; So we practically turn our eyes upon Jesus by "searching the Scriptures daily; for in them ye think ye have eternal life:and they are they which testify of me." Jesus said. Hope this answer your question.
Jim,whatever thing you desire you can shape it in your mind. However,this can be somehow difficult when you have not yet seen that thing. Forturnately, we are surrounded by him in the scriptures,nature and everywhere. Our mind can be impressed by his incarnation and therefore contemplating him every time. We are even told that when we reach heaven it will not be our first time to see him because we were familiar of his Holly presence.
Jim God wants us to have a relationship with Him
We see God in His word and in His love for us
He lives with us and cares for us just as He takes care of the sparrows
We can daily seek Him and pray for His guidance
When we look at others with their faults and problems we get discouraged but when we look to Jesus were strong to overcome sin
He promised to be with us always
Jim as we read John chapter one, we understand how Jesus is the Word thay dwelt among us. And even if we may not see him, scripture says all things by him consist thus Colossians 1. So nature also helps us to behold Jesus everyday if u just survey you and me and remember how we are fearfully and wonderfully made, we will see Jesus again and again.
jim bob the question is practical reasoning and fair. I am not sure there is a Biblical text to support the question directly. The thought of seeing through. Spiritual minds eye will most likely be a proposition.
Actually Paul, there are several, perhaps many such passages. Consider when Jesus said "unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood..." one would not find eternal life. Then He added that His words were "spirit" and "life", meaning not literal but spiritual and living. Didn't He tell the woman at the well that all who would worship God must worship "in spirit and in truth"?
Also, when offering help to the sinner, Jesus said "come unto me and rest", and what follows tells us how when He states "Take My yoke upon you and learn of me". The study given to learn is taking the yoke. This would answer Jim's question as well. Study gives us a knowledge of Him. What do we study? The record of His life and also the Law and testimony, since Jesus taught that "they are they which testify of Me", referring to the scriptures of the Old Testament. Proverbs 2:1-5 reveal this clearly. See also Ps 16:8 in relation to Ps 18:22.
It is possible to be perfect and live righteous like Christ but we need to have the will not to conform to worldly standards and through him who created us we shall overcome
I am not sure that the reference text Matt5:48 Is not misunderstood by some.. Trying to accomplish that text as a stand alone text needs to look at Matt.5:44,46,and Matt.22:37-40,as well. I think Jesus was explaining what was important.
After all are we not now citizens of another kingdom? It is only through His supernatural power that he grants us the intelligence to fully understand this concept. And not only to understand it, which is mind-blowing enough, but to fully grasp the feeling in our mind and heart. My soul dances and my cross is light (however, it so heavy the past few days I wanted out of this world). Wow, He answered my gut-wrenching prayer. Hallelujah.
The Bible says what is impossible with man is possible with God Luke 18:27
With our own means and understanding it is impossible to be as perfect as our Father in Heaven, let us look unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith he is able to accomplish the good work in us
"How different would your life be, right now, were you to love your enemies?" My life will be more joyful, since I would not have any negative and bitter feelings in my heart. May the Lord bless me with the gift of mercy and love toward those who had been rude and hurtful in my life. Amen.
Esther
Turning our eyes upon Jesus is to seek Him with our whole heart and our whole soul. Seek after Him as though your life depends on it, because it does. You will not be disappointed. There is nothing so fulfilling as to look full in the face of our precious Jesus.
We cannot depend on our own righteousness we must look to Jesus for righteousness. When we, "behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." John 1:29. The light shining from the cross reveals the love of God. His love is drawing us to Himself. If we do not resist this drawing, we shall be led to the foot of the cross in repentance for the sins that have crucified the Saviour. Then the Spirit of God through faith produces a new life in our soul. The thoughts and desires are brought into obedience to the will of Christ. The heart, the mind, are created anew in the image of Him who works in us to subdue all things to Himself. Then the law of God is written in the mind and heart, and we can say with Christ, "I delight to do Thy will, O my God." Psalm 40:8.
Now we can also say not I but Christ in every thing. We now have the righteousness of Christ, which He was talking about in Matthew 5:48. Be he perfect, as your Father in heaven is perfect. Look unto Jesus, sinless is He. It is when we look to ourselves to be perfect that we fail. We have to make an effort to look to Jesus, because it is human nature to look to ourselves. Though if we look at it from the prospective that we will die if we don't look to Jesus, it becomes easy.
The Israelites did not have any trouble looking to the bronze serpent, a representation of the Cross, to live. Numbers 21:9. John 3:14. God works in misterious ways. Sometimes we are bitten, sometimes we are shocked, sometimes shaken, and bricks fall on us, what ever it takes us to wake up, look to Jesus, and live. Deuteronomy 30:19. Deuteronomy 30:20. Hey it is love that wrenches our stiff necks to turn to the Cross. It is love that warns us of danger. Romans 2:8. Romans 2:7. The Love of God, how great and mighty. How great Thou art.
Sipho some Adventist would disagree with your comment. but Jude 24 tells us the He is able to keep us from falling ............
Thanks to those who responded to my question about eyes on Jesus. Notice the variety of answers. Why is this so? Some replied with bible verses and some did not. Some got their concept/insight from pastors and some supported with bible.
I came into Adventism from a bible thumping non-SDA mega-church where there was much exposure to the bible. The pastor would answer questions about life by saying...:"What does the bible say about that?"
The focus of this week's lesson is on MATT 5-7 also some of MATT 13.There are 111 verses in Matt 5-7 that can be read in 10 minutes. I have volunteered to read one of those chapters for this Sabbath's Sabbath school program (before the SS lesson). I will choose Matt 7.
I promote this reading because very little Bible gets exposure in Sabbath school. Usually there is discussion with a variety of input like what is above on a single question and the responses are religious but not supported by the authority/truth of the bible.
I challenge any reader to find out who/how many even reads the chapters on Matthew. Each one can be read in a few minutes. Are churchgoers reading the bible (eyes on Jesus) or are the eyes mostly on news, politics, entertainment media?
Recently,I found a survey result in a church lobby that indicated that 90% of churchgoers have never read the whole bible once.
How many SDA are not going to even read Matthew by June 30th?
"As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:" 1 Pet 2:2
Can one be SDA or Christian and not born again? Does one have to be born again to enter into eternal life?
Jim you are so right I always question the lack of bible references in ss.We are missing the word and now some don't want to memorize.How will the holy spirit bring back to us what we didn't put God's word there.Don't give up the word
Sanctify them through thy word for it is truth John17:17
Myrtle
Thanks..not a chance.
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. PS 119:11
It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. JN 6:63
Already you are clean by reason of the word that I have spoken to you. JN 15:3
The word of Christ must live in you richly. Teach and warn each other with all wisdom by singing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. Sing to God with gratitude in your hearts. Col 3:16
to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God's word. Eph 5:26
He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, Tit 3:5
But don't just listen to God's word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves JAS 1:22
We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, who is given by God to those who obey him." Acts 5:32
Jim Bob,
Your comment stayed with me all night until the morning. Especially,
"How many SDA are not going to even read Matthew by June 30th?"
I plan to be one of those that read it by June 30th, and surely before. In our sermons and Sabbath school teaching we use the Bible. At home I read the Bible and other books but don't read the Bible as much as I should.
Thank you for raising this issue of Bible reading and its importance.
Jane,
Replies like yours just thrill my heart and I know that Jesus and the angels rejoice too.
O earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD.
Jer 22:29
Can you tell why Jeremiah said Earth..3 times?
jim bob, two reasons for the word Earth 3 times in Jerimiah. It'a s nice word. It was one that that God preferred right from the beginning.
jim bob I like your choice of bible verses for this SS lesson, MATT 7. Yes there are a number of verses to choose from. I am drawn to study as compared to reading to get the most meaning from the scriptures. The question, do you have to be born again to enter eternal life? No. Eternal life is demonstrated in multifaceted ways from the Scripture. The word have to be, is a nomenclature of sorts.
Paul, we must be born ‘again’ (from above). John 3:3-8; 1:12,13; 1 Pt 1:3,23; 1 John 3:9; 4:7; 5:1,4,5,11-13,18.
Whoever believes in the Lord Jesus has eternal life (John 3:15,16,36; 5:24; 6:40,47; Acts 13:48; 1 Tim 1:16).
“Whoever *believes* that Jesus is the Christ is *born of God*...” (1 John 5:1)
And, of course, next we have to ask what kind of "believing" makes one a chid of God, since James says "Even the demons believe and tremble.” (James 2:19)
I don't think James was saying that the demons are born of God or are children of God. So there must be two different kinds of "believing."
Inge, there is only one faith that's related to salvation, the faith of Jesus Christ, which is a gift of God. The devil's faith is not from God. Jesus told some who were listening to Him that although they were present actually *hearing* Him, they could not believe because they were "not of God". John 6. So believing to salvation comes from God.
Thanks, Kenny, but the word under discussion was "believe" not "faith."
You mentioned that to "believe" means to "have eternal life" and to "be born of God."
Some equate this "belief" with mental assent. And I believe James counters that with the observation that the demons "also believe and tremble." The demons know that Christ is the Son of God, but that doesn't save them. Instead, it just makes them tremble.
James goes on to explain that so-called "faith" is dead if it has no works. A belief, in itself, saves no one. It is only the kind of belief that results in accepting Jesus as Lord that is saving. If we truly believe that Jesus is God, then we will trust Him enough to do what He asks of us. That kind of "belief" is the evidence of conversion/the new birth/entering into eternal life.
It is interesting I think, that in Romans 11:30-31 KJV where the word "believed" is used, the Bible margin has "believed: or, obeyed". Belief here seems to be synonymous with obedience.
Paul, I find your comment confusing. Are you really saying that one does *not* have to be born again to enter eternal life? That would mean that sinful humanity is good enough to live eternally.
By contrast, Jesus distinctly said to Nicodemus, a devout and honest religious leader:
In other words there is only ONE way to enter eternal life, and that is through being born again of the Spirit.
Ing the question was Do I have to be born again to gain eternal life? The question is saying Being born a
gain is the only way to eternal life. There are many other verses that pertain to Jesus' admonitions for eternal life. How about a tuff one Jn.3:16, or Jn.1:12, or Jn.6:40,or Jn5:24 just a quick few in John. There are many, many more that refer to other admonitions that result in eternal life other than what some focus on as Gosplel truth.
Paul, these are all expressions referring to the same event. When we have Jesus saying one thing and the apostles apparently saying another, it is reasonable to take Christ's words as normative. He is the One who said unequivocally that it takes a being "born again" to enter the Kingdom. There is no other way.
The principle of love, personified by the Savior, was fully and perfectly demonstrated on the cross when Jesus looked in pity upon His murderers and prayed to His Father for their forgiveness. I can see clearly why the prophetess of God encourages us to DAILY take a fresh look at Jesus upon the cross. "It would be well for us to spend a thoughtful hour each day in contemplation of the life of Christ. We should take it point by point, and let the imagination grasp each scene, especially the closing ones." - The Desire of Ages p.83.
Jesus was radical, not only in His teaching but more so in His living. He is our perfect Exemplar, hence, the only Way by which we can love others, even the unlovable, as God loves. "Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven in perfect" (Matt 5:48). It is only by fixing our gaze - not just turning our eyes - upon Jesus, that we will become changed into His likeness. "Looking unto Jesus we obtain brighter and more distinct views of God, and by beholding we become changed. Goodness, love for our fellow men, becomes our natural instinct." - COL 355.
"He who beholds the Saviour's matchless love will be elevated in thought, purified in heart, transformed in character. He will go forth to be a light to the world, to reflect in some degree this mysterious love." -The Desire of Ages, p.661.
I can testify that just by taking time to read these councils, in conjunction with the Bible, I am transfixed by the powerful rays of light that shine in my heart, as if coming straight from the Savior. I thank God for providing us with these inspiring these words.
Sing them over again to me,
Wonderful words of life,
Let me more of their beauty see,
Wonderful words of life;
Words of life and beauty
Teach me faith and duty.
Claudette I have read all Four Gospel Accounts of Jesus' days before the trials and crucifixion, and have come to tears. I don't see any more motivation than what the Bible explains. I see that source as supplied by the Holy Spirit.
That's all the motivation we need Paul. Just to look upon the cross and behold Jesus each day, taking a good look in His wonderful face.
The complete Hymn - Hope you are all uplifted by these words!
Have a great day everyone!!
Wonderful Words of Life
Sing them over again to me,
Wonderful words of life,
Let me more of their beauty see,
Wonderful words of life;
Words of life and beauty
Teach me faith and duty.
Refrain:
Beautiful words, wonderful words,
Wonderful words of life;
Beautiful words, wonderful words,
Wonderful words of life.
2 Christ, the blessed One, gives to all
Wonderful words of life;
Sinner, list to the loving call,
Wonderful words of life;
All so freely given,
Wooing us to heaven. [Refrain]
3 Sweetly echo the Gospel call,
Wonderful words of life;
Offer pardon and peace to all,
Wonderful words of life;
Jesus, only Savior,
Sanctify us forever. [Refrain]
In a nutshell, what is this week's lesson teaching us?
Jesus alone can save us
We are to choose Jesus as our savior
The life we live must be in accordance with His word
We can only know Him when we study the word and tell others of His marvelous love and grace
These are my thoughts from this lesson
I'm also following revived by his word and my soul is being watered daily.I recommend it to everyone
May God help me to daily commune with my lovely Jesus
This is my prayer for all the saints of God
Have a blessed Sabbath
Michael,
In my view the Lesson is teaching that the words, "Be you therefore perfect...", are linked to what Jesus has said previously.
In describing what real Christian maturity is, Jesus teaches --- love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you. These things describe what it is to be “perfect” or “mature”, in the same way that our Father in heaven is “perfect” or “mature”.
When we can truly love people that are deliberately mean and offensive toward us; when we can seek for ways to bless those that are foul-mouthed and spiteful; when we are genuinely kind and generous to those that would use us and take advantage of us... then it is that Jesus' admonition toward us is fulfilled.
The Father loves everyone [including His most personal enemies] with "an everlasting love", and when we have that same kind of love, then we will be "sealed".
A brief note on the word "perfect".
The word translated “perfect” is defined in Strong’s Greek dictionary (#5046) as “completeness”, or “of full age”. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon defines it as “full grown, adult; of full age, mature.”
And so it should not be surprising to find the same Greek word translated "full age" in Hebrews 5:14 KJV, and "men" (in contrast to "children") in 1Corinthians 14:20 KJV.
_______________
Also a comment from Mrs. White.
"Christ is our model. He was meek and lowly. Learn of Him, and imitate His example. The Son of God was faultless. We must aim at this perfection and over come as He overcame..." (3Testimonies p.336)
To be without fault before God... Rev 14:5. Not by proxy, but in reality! When God can look at us and see only Jesus' character reflected in our lives... Oh wow, what a high calling we have!
I doubt any are saying proxy = God, or is make believe? The reality of the people in Revelation are those long before the second coming. Perfection however you want to describe it, is not something to struggle for after the fact. To dwell on this text because of its special importance, certainly will find many more texts as equal in importance when ones' salvation is questionable. We just finished studying the book of revelation and need to remember the book is filled with symbols and expressions that are not taken as literal per the authors of the Andrews KJV.
Michael, the beginning of this sermon by Jesus summed up the whole presentation as He laid out in those 8* blessings the path of the Christian experience. The rest of the sermon elaborates on practical and various facets of this growing in grace experience.
That's the smallest nutshell I can pack it into. 🙂
* some will count the 9 times "Blessed are..." is mentioned, but fail to see the 8th is repeated to emphasize; "you will suffer for your faith in this life".
Robert Whiteman I agree with the comment regarding the practicality of the many facets found in the sermon. If only this could be as important as some understand this as fact.
As God is good to the just and unjust He expects of us to treat everyone with much love, care, loving- kindness and mercy. If we were to do this in resolute determination and continuously, this would so transform our lives that society would be revolutionalised that our fellowship would be a continual joyful experience. Of course the impact would also be felt throughout the nation/world. There would be no devastation as a result of wars. If we were to love like God, we would be like Him. Christ gives purpose to this in Matthew 5:38 - 45 "so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven." Therefore Jesus presents forgiveness as a central virtue in a child of God's growing and maturing spiritual life. As we forgive others we experience improved psychological health. We experience less stress, anxiety, depression ect and profound spiritual transformation. Christ died on the Cross with forgiveness edged deeply in His mind. He did this even though humanity refused to accept His love and proceeded to kill Him. He is a living example of a life of love, forgiving and caring. Help me Lord to be like You.
Thank you so much Stewart
I appreciate those few words Frederick, but the concept will always be divisive (and unpopular) in the churches.
Few will accept that God is capable (and willing) to bring people to a point where they are truly faultless before His throne. Most professed Christians are unwilling to believe that God can actually do it. They seem to say, "He can do all things... except that."
I admit to a feeling of unease whenever I see a lot of focus on human perfection rather than Christ's perfection. That's because, in my observation over many decades, such a focus immediately leads to
1) a focus on perfecting self, which is necessarily a focus on self
2) a comparing of self to others to determine levels of perfection.
A focus on self - no matter for what reason - is antithetical to the spirit of Christ and can thus never lead to the kind of "perfection" that heaven values.
And, of course the comparing of self to others leads to a critical spirit which, again, is the very opposite of the character of Christ.
Some statements from Ellen White have been cited. She encourages Christians to strive for perfection - the kind of perfection of which Jesus spoke, namely the self-renouncing love that Christ demonstrated in His character. The lesson author is correct in tying the being 'perfect" to the preceding verses which focus on the love of God.
Now here's a balanced statement from Ellen White:
Note that she says two things:
1) We are to strive to imitate the Pattern - i.e. we are to strive to be like Jesus.
2) We cannot equal the Pattern. (In other places she writes "we can never equal the Pattern."
So the old song is right:
Inge,
Are we able to say that Gabriel, standing in the presence of God, has ever been able to equal the Pattern? Hasn't even he fallen short of the glory of God?
Throughout eternity, as the Redeemed contemplate and comprehend more and more of the love of God, will any of them come to the point where they have equaled the Pattern? I think we must admit that this will not happen. But it is not so much an admission of futility, as a realization that throughout eternity, God's people will continue to advance and develop.
"Heaven is a ceaseless approaching to God through Christ." (DA 331) Through eternal ages the people of God will be coming closer and closer to Him who is infinite in wisdom and glory.
Amen! Thanks for rounding out the picture. 🙂
Now let's take another look at Rev. 14:5:
Notice whose job it is to ensure that we are "faultless" before the throne:
It is Christ's job to present us as "faultless before the throne." Thus, if we commit ourselves to him in trusting obedience, He will make sure that we are presented "faultless before the throne." We don't have to make sure we are "perfect," nor do we have to make sure that our church is "perfect." We only need to trust and obey, for there's no other way ... "
Christ makes Himself responsible for our perfection.
Furthermore, I believe that it is only Christ's righteousness that saves us. His righteousness covers our sins of the past, and His righteousness transforms us into loving and lovable Christians. But it is His righteousness from start to finish, never our own. As soon as we lay claim to righteousness of our own, we have none of His, and we are not saved.
Inge,
Linking Rev 14:5 and Jude 24,25 is really good. Christ has clearly taken on the responsibility and the task of presenting us before God in that state. But doesn't He look to us for our co-operation in that work? Isn't it true that the more we understandingly yield and obey, the further He will take us?
I must agree that it is only Christ's righteousness that saves us. And isn't it for that very reason that Jesus says,
"Seek ye first the kingdom of God and HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS" (Matt 6:33)?
His righteousness is something that we may have in us... can have in us... must have in us. We are commanded to seek for it as a matter of first priority in all that we do.
Indeed.
So how does that look in everyday life? How do we "seek His righteousness"?
When Jesus spoke of "righteous Abel" (Matt 23:35), He did not imply that Abel was self-righteous, did He?
Abel is called righteous because he sought [and found] the righteousness of God. In practical terms he forsook his own way, and his own thoughts (Isa 55:7), and he did what he knew to be RIGHT. We see this righteousness manifest in the way he worshiped God, in spite of his brother's hostility toward him.
But righteousness is progressive, just as faith is progressive.
"Many prophets and righteous men" [including Abel, I expect,] desired to see and hear the things that the disciples saw and heard. (Matt 13:17.) But of course they didn't, and for that reason they could not comprehend the Lord's Way as fully as they might have. Righteousness, ultimately, is Christ-likeness, but they could not see Him as clearly as we might today.
Even Lot (while he was in Sodom) is called a "righteous man" (2Pet 2:8) - a truly righteous man -- even though his reluctance and his "unbelief cost him the life of his wife." (4T 111.)
Stewart, what those prophets and righteous men desired to see and hear was the One who was the desire of all ages, after the promise given to Adam and Eve; the Redeemer of earth. Like many today, those people desired to see sin removed for good and the kingdom of God restored on the earth as at the beginning.
Did what the disciples saw during those brief years make them more righteous than the people of times past? We read that Enoch and Noah walked with God, but there were others as well who are not mentioned in scripture. We have the few examples that God wanted us to study.
To answer Inge's question: we take up our cross and follow Jesus wherever He leads. Or, we sell everything to buy the pearl of great price. Or we sell everything and purchase the field with it's great treasure.
Many more ways to define the surrender of self so the Holy Spirit can fill the soul with Christ (Eph 3:14-20). No other way to have His righteousness than to have Christ abiding within. Self must first be crucified.
Robert, I'm guessing that many of our readers would benefit from a practical illustration of what it means to "take up ou cross" or to "buy the pearl of great price" or even how to "surrender all."
Can you help with that, avoiding all religious jargon? (Drawing from personal experience is most effective.)
Inge, doesn't my last paragraph spell it out more specifically?
However, it has been my conviction that the "religious jargon" which I quoted from Jesus is understood by all who are seeking to know and follow God's word. Jesus often used the visible to illustrate the invisible, leaving it's meaning to the convictions brought through the Holy Spirit. If we try to define specifics, we might miss the specific meaning for someone else.
When describing the act of following Him, Jesus said "if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross and follow me". Right there in the middle of the counsel is the key element of denying oneself. His example in Gethsemane is where He took up His cross for saving humanity. The humanity of Jesus was horrified at the prospect before Him of taking the wrath of God for those seeking to kill Him, yet He surrendered to His Father's expressed will and obeyed rather than follow His own inclination.
When a person makes all other interests in life secondary to God's specific leading, they are seeking first the kingdom of God and it's righteousness. It is speaking about daily choices made for self or Christ, which are seldom in harmony. The Wise man tells us "in all your ways acknowledge Him", and Paul tells us "whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do ALL to the glory of God". Can it get any more specific or precise than this? As for what I have experienced, what is that to anyone else? Jesus never said "Follow Bob"(John 21:22).
There is no way to describe the many ways this is made practical in the life as for each it will be different from others. However, it affects what we eat, drink, read, watch, say, think and act out. As each studies to show their self approved unto God, He will "instruct and teach" them the specifics. If we seek, we'll find.
Robert, you may be right that "that the "religious jargon" which I quoted from Jesus is understood by all who are seeking to know and follow God's word."
I was, in fact, thinking more of Christ's commission to share the Good News with all the world. In other words, how do we communicate these spiritual truths in today's world, where the only crosses people know are those on graves or on necklaces? How do we best communicate with those who are not yet at the place where they "are seeking to know and follow God's word." (It seems to me that the latter are already converted.)
Robert, in response to your question : "Did what the disciples saw during those brief years make them more righteous than the people of times past?"
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No, the mere fact that the disciples saw and heard Jesus, did not make them more righteous. (Many of the Pharisees saw and heard as well, but it only made them more determined, hardened, sinners.)
But by seeing and hearing Jesus, the disciples had opportunity to know [and to understand (Jer 9:24)] God better than before... and potentially better than any other created beings had known Him. (Because even the angels were seeing and understanding aspects of God's character which they had not previously seen.) And if the disciples could know Him better, then they were in a position where they could reflect His character better.
It is this reflecting of His character that is righteousness.
One of the definitions I hold, with regards to righteousness, is : "Righteousness is holiness, likeness to God, and "God is love." ... and love is the fulfilling of the law (Rom 13:10). Righteousness is love..." (Mount of Blessing p.18)
I believe the most Christ-like (and therefore the most righteous) people will be revealed at the end of this world's history, just prior to Jesus' Second Coming.
Inge, I think your question is how do the lost see the revelation of Jesus?
What do we find in Psalm 40:1-3? What is the result of the Gospel in the one who believes and receives it by faith? "Many shall see, and fear, and trust in the Lord". The transformed life will bring the very presence and likeness of Jesus to those that are brought into association with them. This is how we are "witnesses" of Him. Not by talking about Him, but by demonstrating His attributes.
Notice also in the Beatitudes that the result of this "path" of Christian experience is being a "peacemaker". This speaks of a life that naturally leads others to believe in God and through Christ, making peace with Him. When our experience is of such likeness to Him, we will then feel the persecution of the ungodly that Jesus and Paul tell us will come without fail. Satan will not overlook those who are robbing him of his victims. Not for a moment. The spirit of Cain will live until Satan is reduced "to ashes upon the earth"
No Robert, my question was not "how do the lost see the revelation of Jesus."
Your comment appears to presuppose that there are only two classes of people on this earth - either the "lost" or the "saved." And it presupposes that the "lost" have no choice to be different. We usually call that predestination. If this were so, Christ's commission to "preach the gospel and teach" would make no sense.
Rather, my question is how do we make the salvation offered by Christ real to those who know Him not. I believe that the most powerful argument we can offer is our own experience if we, indeed, know Christ ourselves. Theological arguments may persuade to a belief that even the devils have (propositional truth), but that will not save anyone.
And, since we are discussing this on a very public forum, personal testimonies like that of Jeffrey and many others who have testified through their comments have real potential of moving readers towards a saving knowledge of Jesus.
Stewart, the only scriptures Jesus and the first century church had to teach from was the Old Testament. These scriptures prove Jesus was the Christ. They prove His life in harmony with God's will and righteousness. Men from those times walked with God, even before those were written. Jesus was misunderstood by many in His day, and His example, while a light to those with faith, was the undoing of many who were blinded by sin in their lives. Jesus said those scriptures "testify of [Him]" and they still do. All that Jesus demonstrated was contained in those scriptures which He followed, living by "every word" that came from God.
Did't Jesus say that "Abraham saw my day..."? This was before Genesis was written.
We need more "light" today due to our greater unbelief.
I agree, the last generation (144,000) are those who follow Jesus "whithersoever He goeth". Those verses go on to say: " These were redeemed from among men, [being] the firstfruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God."
Amen, praise the Lord!
Now here's another thought about perfection: When Balaam was supposed to curse Israel, he said this, under the influence of the Holy Spirit:
If the Lord cannot see neither "iniquity" nor "perverseness" in people, doesn't that sound like they are perfect? Go back, read the story, and ponder ...
Inge, keep in mind that Balaam was shown a vision of the redeemed of all the ages. He saw all who would gain the victory by faith as did Jacob who then was called Israel, which will be all who have faith in the righteousness of Christ. He was even shown the resurrection of the just at the last day, and longed to "die the death of the righteous", at least for short while.
I'm sorry to confuse. But to "believe" does not mean "to have eternal life". What the Scripture says is "he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life..."John 5:24 and "Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God..."1 John 5:1. The equivalence is between "believing in Jesus" and "being born of God". Both the believing and the birth are from God. Whoever is born of God overcomes the world through faith and loves the brethren. 1 John 5:1-5
Perhaps the most radical teaching of Jesus is found in Matthew 5:48. Read the text. How are we, especially as sinners, supposed to do that?
The way this is accomplished is given in the Beatitudes. Follow them in the order given and see how God works in the soul that acts on Faith. See also Matt 7:24. The first words of Jesus in this whole sermon reveal the true work and results of the Gospel in the life and its Blessings. No command comes from the Lord without the means to fulfill it. We might also consider the creation of this world, and recognize the power available to create in anyone a clean heart, and renewing of a right spirit. The Beatitudes reveal the working of this Divine Power in the life. The sinner only needs to crucify self, and God does the rest as we die daily to His “good pleasure” which He will work in us “to will and do”. Faith is the victory.
Read Matthew 5:43-47. How do these verses, which are then brought to a close with Matthew 5:48, help us to understand better what Jesus meant by Matthew 5:48? See also Luke 6:36.
Yet how do we love our neighbor perfectly unless we love God perfectly? This requires a new heart/mind doesn't it? Isn't this the results of the Path revealed for the faithful in the Beatitudes?
Like I posted near the top of Sunday's portion of this lesson....MAT 5:48 is probably the most controversial verse of the sermon on the mount.
The sermon on the mount gives clues to the attitude, behavior and character required for living in the kingdom of God/new Earth.
The meek shall inherit the Earth, and those who are not meek will be annihilated/exterminated and before that will warp what MATT 5:48 means.
He who wills to do His will ..will know of the doctrine....
I already have a number of different opinions so will just ask this one. If jim bob, you have the clues to how we become perfect. who can raise their hand to show evidence of being perfect human beings?
Jesus us able to present us "faultless" before the presence of God. So, yes, it is possible for Jesus to do. It's up to us to choose to cling closely to Jesus. He will perfect His children.
But any who consider themselves perfect (to comply with your request to "raise their hand to show evidence of being perfect), demonstrate that they are far from perfect.
The closer we come to Christ, the more sinful we shall appear in our own eyes. Thus the most "perfect" persons will be keenly conscious of coming short of the glory of God. Their sense of needing the righteousness of Christ is actually their most powerful argument for their own justification.
Yes indeed!
And with regards to sinlessness/holiness, the Spirit of Prophecy also has this comment:
"Let God write it in His books if He will, but you should never utter it." (3SM p.354)
If we "SAY", if we claim, "that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves..." (1Jn 1:8) To be without sin IS possible [God can do it!], but we will never be in a position [this side of glory], where we can claim it. Only God can see the reality of our souls.
Agreed Inge, anyone asking for show of hands is asking the wrong question.
The only question on this matter we might even ask is "can Christ accomplish His purpose in ME?" But even then, why ask if He has promised?
Inge you've answered my question . 1st John chapter 2 verses 1 & 2 says: my little children these things I write unto you that ye sin not and if any man sin we have an advicate with the father Jesus Christ the righteous. And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, butt also for sins of the whole world . As Christians we spend our lifes confessing and turning away from sin. We continue to do this until the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Reason being that we are still living in the presence of sin.
Inge, continuing here, I find your idea that seems to suggest more that two classes on the earth rather interesting. What is the 3rd class? Is there more than 3?
Jesus only taught of 2 classes: wheat/tares, wise/foolish, sheep/goats, just/unjust, wheat/chaff, fruitful/unfruitful, keep the commandments/worship the beast, etc.
I think what I shared is the best I can share. The life filled with the Holy Spirit will live as Jesus lived, and as with His life, many will be drawn to Him by the goodness of God in those who exhibit His goodness to others. This is what the Bible teaches, while the examples of men too often fall short.
"And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all unto me." John 12:31.
Robert, the key in my statement is that your comment "presupposes that the "lost" have no choice to be different." That is, that the "lost" and the saved are predestined to be lost or saved and cannot change.
By contrast, Christ gave us the commission to go into all the world to preach and teach the gospel so that the ones currently in a "lost" condition would turn to Him and be saved. That presupposes persons who are not irretrievably/eternally "lost" but only "lost" as in not yet having found Christ.
I do agree with your statement that "The life filled with the Holy Spirit will live as Jesus lived, and ... many will be drawn to Him by the goodness of God in those who exhibit His goodness to others." But I think there's more: Those who live by the Spirit will have a testimony to share of what God has done and is doing in their lives. I believe that is how Christ is lifted up in the world today.
I have never believed that anyone is unchangeable, and only God would know the truth for every individual. If we have not received Christ as our Lord and Savior, we remain lost.
Some will argue about those who will never hear the name of Jesus, yet most should understand that by the Holy Spirit, they can be led to receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior by responding to the light given them, even though they never learn His name.
Inge, the examples I gave you from scripture say exactly that: if saved, our life will show it. I thought it was very clear(Ps 40:3)
Why did Jesus start out His sermon the way He did with several "blessed" (makarios) intros?
Why the emphasis on happy, fortunate, benefited, well off??
What was his goal, purpose, and agenda? Great speakers use an attention getter for their speech/sermon opener. Who was a better speaker than Jesus?
Matthew 7:28 And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine:
another support:
John 7:46 The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.
Jesus knew, like any perceptive person..that
"The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation." Henry David Thoreau
Here is a group of people, in His audience, who are oppressed by Romans, tax collectors, Pharisees and other clergy; who have dysfunctional family/neighbor relationships,; who are unhealthy and therefore ...unhappy.
Jesus presents principles that when embraced/ implemented promote righteousness /holiness with a byproduct of joy, peace, contentment and happiness.
An example-- ..notice how many times He talks about "worry" Can one be happy worrying about the future?
Can anyone be happy as they hate their enemy?
The system of the world and warped Christianity does not promote this and so people substitute amusements, fun, entertainment, pleasure, thrills and euphoria.
When Christianity is irrelevant, superficial, shallow and obscure with continual parroted clichés at church, attenders lapse back into the cheap thrill mode.
The flesh is fed and the spiritual nature is starved and so people do not have an appreciation or interest in spiritual principles and transition to theoretical theology or bail out becoming a passive weekend warrior.
People who are sad sick medicate themselves with dope, booze, smoking, TV
I challenge any reader to get any happy/satisfaction survey taken at your local church.
Laodiceans are not happy.
Who wants to reach out and invite someone, who is sad, to another sad group?
An anger management seminar would be more beneficial.