"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life." - John 6:47

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Monday, June 20, 2011

Jesus Is the Real Deal

One of the basic principles of our faith that we hold dear is our belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. (Acts 8:37; John 8:24) We can see that the theme of the New Testament teaching and preaching is that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

As the apostle John stated his purpose in penning his gospel, he, in reality, was stating the very reasons that all Scripture was revealed; these are: to redeem man and to show that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, the one through whom redemption is possible. (John 20:30-31) Even so, there has always been controversy concerning Jesus’ identity. (John 7:12)

A mistaken view that some people have about Jesus today is that He was not really the Son of God, but He was a very good man. Even during Jesus’ own life on earth many held this view (John 7:12). But, consider this; if Jesus was not the Son of God then He was nothing but a liar. He said that the Father had revealed that He was the Son and the one sent to save the world (John 12:44-50). But, if He was not that one, He lied. And a good man does not lie. What this is saying is that He could not and will not give what He promised to give, eternal life. My friends, it would mean that everything He taught; all of His directives and His promise; were not true. Now I ask you, would a good man do this to anyone?

Certainly not! Personally, I believe that Jesus was much more than simply just a good man. I believe that He is the Son of God, and I believe His promise is true. Why? Because, the testimony supporting His claims and my belief in Him is overwhelming! An impressive amount of evidence can be presented to show that Jesus Christ, as stated in Scripture, is the Son of God.

Allow me to share just a few examples of what I am talking about. First, there is the testimony of men (contemporaries), such as: John the Baptist (Luke 1:17; John 1:29-34); the apostle Peter (Matthew 16:15-17); Nathanael (John 1:43-46; Micah 5:2; John 7:40-42, 52; John 1:47-50); Martha (John11:27); the centurion at His crucifixion (Matthew 27:54). Next, the testimony of the spiritual world, for instance: the angels (Luke 1:26-35; Matthew 1:20-25). The testimony of Jesus’ works (His miracles): (John 11:47-48; John 3:2; John 5:36). The testimony of the Scriptures (prophecy): (Luke 24:25-27; John 5:39-40). Finally, the testimony of the Father: (Matthew 3:17; Matthew 17:5).

Now, I can’t answer for everyone; nor would I even try. But with all of the evidence that God has given, would it be unreasonable to say that no one should doubt that Jesus is the Son of God? If any of this has raised questions, or even doubts in your own mind, I implore you to open a Bible and check it out for yourself. Pray to God and ask for an open mind and an open heart before you do this. I can tell you that it will probably take more than just one reading, or two. Let God’s word sink it, mull it over; question it; but whatever you do, be patient. He will answer you.

So, is Jesus the Son of God? Let me leave you with some commentary about the words of Gamaliel, the Pharisee (Acts 5:30-39): If there had been nothing to Jesus, He would have come to nothing. But this not occur because He was, and is, the Son of God!

Let’s pray:

Holy Father in Heaven, I believe that you sent your only Son to earth to save me from sin. I know that without you in my life, I would truly be lost to the world. Your words are comforting to me in my own days of trouble; and replenishing when I feel my spirit growing weary. Holy Father, I have faith in You and know that there is nothing that can change that. I need only read Your scriptures to calm any feeling of doubt or restlessness. Yes, emptiness unfortunately occupies many souls, but I truly believe that your Word fills in any spiritual gaps that one might have. Therefore, I humbly pray for those who haven’t come to know You yet, and thankfully pray for those who have. Thank you Father for showing me what true, unselfish love really is all about. In Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Amen.

Have a blessed day,

Ronnie

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