Christ Is Superior In His Humanity!

The theme of the epistle of Hebrews is the superiority of Christ.In chapter one we have seen that Jesus is superior to Prophets and Angels. Hebrew Christians became believers in Christ from a Jewish background. For Jews the concept of a suffering Messiah was inconceivable and  a stumbling block. In chapter two the Author proves that, Christ in His humanity has become our perfect Savior by enduring suffering and death for us(2:5-18). His humanity enabled Him to regain man's lost destiny and dominion(2:5-9). It also enabled Him to bring many sons to glory and restored our lost unity as brothers in the family of God. (2:10-13). His death and resurrection set us free from the fear of death by His victory over Devil(2:14-15).By becoming human Christ has become our sympathetic High priest.(2:16-18).

Christ is superior to angels because the future world will be subjected to Christ and believers. Many consider the " world to come" is a reference to millennial kingdom. God's original plan of creating man was to rule over earth(Gen 1:26-28). But man forfeited his dominion by disobedience. Chapter 2:6-8 is a quote from Ps.8:4-6.Fallen mankind has become subservient to angels for a short time. Now man is subjected to sickness and death. He is bound by time and space. Man is afraid of animal and not reigning over any thing. But God was mindful of him. God has not given up hope for mankind. He thought of us and willing to care for us.This can not be said about angels(2 pet 2:4; Jude. 6). One day man will be crowned with glory and honour.This follows the example Christ, who was made lower than angel for a little while to taste death but glorified through Resurrection and exaltation.  Christ remembered us in our low estate. What a merciful Savior!

Christ became man to suffer and taste death for us. Cross is an essential part of  the plan of salvation. For God to become truly human, He must suffer and die. He was made perfect or fully qualified to bring many sons to glory through suffering.. Christ was always perfect. But by His perfection salvation was not made possible. We are saved through the death of Christ and not by His sinless life.. Here perfect simply means completely qualified to provide salvation. That was only possible  through His suffering and death. On the cross Jesus cried "it is finished". Thus He became the author and finisher of our salvation. He is the captain of our salvation  to bring many sons unto glory.  What a Savior!

Christ's humanity brought us into the Family of God (Heb 2:11-13). Those who received Christ are the sons of the same heavenly Father(John 1:12). Thus believers are united in Christ as brothers in the family of God, Verses 12 and 13 are quotations from Psalm 22:22 and Isaiah 8:17,18.  In Psalm 22, David foresaw the suffering and the coming glory of Christ(22:22). The risen savior called His disciples brethren to show their family relationship(John 20:17). Never before they were addressed this way. His death and resurrection restored our lost unity in the family of God.

Adam's sin brought fear and death into human race(Rom 5:12). We lived as slaves to the fear of dying. Christ's death and resurrection set us free from that fear(Col 2:14,15). Christ conquered death and  the devil by His death and resurrection. Death could not keep Christ in it's grip(Act 2:24). Jesus said because I live you shall also live(John 14:19).Believers are not afraid of death, because in death we at home with the Lord in glory(2 Cor 5:8). Through His death and resurrection, Christ destroyed the devil who had the power of death. The word destroy simply  means made powerless. Christ holds the keys of hell and death(Rev 1:18).

Christ's humanity enabled Him to become our sympathetic High Priest(2:17-18).He did not come to save fallen angels but to save fallen human race. This is the heart of the message of this epistle. Christ was not under any obligation to do that. He came voluntarily to reconcile us to God by becoming a sin offering(1John 2:2). Christ was faithful to the Father, in that  He did not lower God's holy standard.  He endured God's wrath for our sins on the cross.He is also our merciful High priest, in that He died on our behalf.  He is our compassionate High Priest. Compassion is love in action. Christ is able and willing to help us in our temptations because He experience them all yet with out sin. He can fortify our will and strengthen us in our weaknesses.Christ knows exactly how we feel.  He will provide comfort and strength in times of need. What a wonderful Savior! Do you Know Him? 

The Danger Of Drifting.

In Hebrews chapter one we have seen that Christ is superior to prophets because He is the final and complete revelation from the Father. So we must listen carefully the truth we have heard so that we may not drift away from Christ. Drifting is moving in the wrong direction from where ships are anchored. It is a slow process   We drift not because of ignorance but of carelessness. Salvation is a gift from God and never neglect this precious gift. Christians should avoid drifting by growing in the knowledge of Christ and in His grace. If we are preoccupied with the world and neglect the gathering of believers, prayer, fellowship and the study of the Scriptures, we are prone to drift.

Hebrew Christians came to Christ from Jewish faith and ritualism. After they became followers of Christ, they suffered public ridicule and persecutions from Romans and Jews( 10:32,33). There was shame associated with the name of Jesus of Nazareth.  For Jews the Crucifixion of Jesus was the ultimate disgrace and curse. Christianity was not a recognized religion. So many of them  were tempted to go back to their old religion to avoid persecution and shame. These Christians were not anchored in Christ.  So the author exhort and warn the believers to give more earnest heed to the things they have heard. Other wise they are in danger of drifting away from Christ. The law was given through the mediation of angels(Act 7:53). Disobedience of the law received just punishment. If so, how sever would be the punishment of those who neglect the great salvation proclaimed by Christ.

Christ is the author of the great salvation. It was first announced by Lord Himself. Those who were eye witnesses of Christ passed on this good news to us. It was verified by signs and wonders and various miracles and by giving gifts of the Holy Spirit..  Signs were to attest the divine nature of the message. Wonders show how it effected the people. Power points to God as the source of them. So the author asks, how can we escape if we neglect so great salvation. Why is it so great salvation? Because it cost the life of  the only begotten Son of God (John 3:16). It is the only salvation for mankind(Act 4:12).It is the answer for man's fundamental problem and accessible to rich and poor. This is the great salvation because it is the eternal covenant between man and Holy God.  Salvation is a gift from God and can not be earned by good works. Who ever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved (Rom10:13).

Author warns the readers about the danger of neglecting so great salvation. Those who do not take this Word seriously will drift away from  Jesus Christ(2:1). Drifting can lead to doubting and hardness of heart(3:7-13). This would lead to dullness of hearing and lack of interest in the word of God(5:11).Those who neglect the Word will  despise it sooner of later. This would lead them to sinful life style(10:26). Receiving the knowledge of the truth never save anyone but faith in the revealed truth of Jesus Christ. Those who despise  the Word may refuse even to listen the Word of God and will not escape the judgement of God(12:25).

If you are drifting from Christ, there is no place to go. Jesus is waiting for you. He wants to welcome you and restore you to His fellowship. He is the anchor of our faith and hope. His Word reveals the great plan of salvation. Those who believe Him will be saved. He wants us to grow in the grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ.  And do not neglect the study of the Scripture, the gathering of the believers and prayer. Let us surrender ourselves to Christ and anchored in Him, so that we may not drift from Him. May God help us!.

Christ Is Superior To The Angels.

In the first century Hebrew Christians gave great importance to angels because of their role in the giving of the Law(Act 7:53; Gal 3:19)Some even taught that Christ Himself was an angel, thus able to do miracles. There is evidence in the Scripture that angels were worshiped(Col 2:18). So it became necessary to prove that Christ is superior to angels. From eternity to eternity Christ is the Son of God and Creator of all things including the angels(Col 1:16). They are the heavenly host, serving as messengers and ministering spirits.  In this epistle the author is quoting seven Old Testament passages to prove the superiority of Christ over angels.

1. Christ is superior to angels because He inherited a more excellent name than angels(1:4,5). "Thou art my Son".This is a quotation from Psalm 2:7.Angels are called sons of God collectively but never called Son individually(Job 1:6). Christ has a unique relationship with the Father(John 20:17). The prophecy of Psalm 2:7 was fulfilled in the  resurrection of Christ.(Act 13:32,33). It was a reference of His position at the throne of God, after completing the plan of salvation. He is declared to be the Son of God because He is the eternal Son of God(John 17:5; Rom 1:4).His name is above every name and at His name every name will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is the Lord to the glory of God the Father(Phi 2:9,10). So He is superior to angels. 

2. Christ is superior to angels because they are commanded to worship Him(1:6). The is a quotation from Psalms 97:7. This seems like a reference to Solomon but his throne was not eternal. But Christ will reign over Israel for ever and His kingdom will never end(Luke 1:32).To Mary, Christ was the first born(Luke 2:7). He is the first born among many brethren(Rom 8:29). This is a reference Christ's supreme position and our conformation to His image. He is the first born from the dead, a reference to Christ's resurrection from the dead(Rev 1:5). The universal acknowledgement of His Lordship and worship will take place at His second coming. Angels are also ministering spirits(Heb 1:7). This is a quotation from Psalm 104:4. There are created beings. Scholars suggest that the word spirit can be translated wind.  Elijah was taken up in the whirlwind(2King 2:1). So are the angels serving the Lord. They served Christ in His temptation and passion(Matt4:11;Luke 22:43).As servants, angels are inferior to Christ who created them.

3. Christ is superior because He is God enthroned and anointed(Heb 1:8,9).This a quotation from Psalm 45:6,7.Here Christ is referred to as God(Greek-theos). To the Son, God the Father says"your throne o God is for ever and ever. This is an undeniable proof of the deity of Christ. Those who deny this emphatic statement has an issue withe God and the Bible. Further here it says, His throne is for ever. This speaks of the eternality and majesty of the Son. He has been anointed with the oil of gladness.This speaks of His kingship. Jesus having completed the work of redemption is enthroned in glory and anointed with the oil of  gladness (Psalm 110:1). Jesus is indeed God, otherwise our faith is meaningless.

4.  Christ is superior because He is the creator(Heb 1:10-12).These verses are quoted from Psalm 102:25-27.Angels are created beings. Christ is the eternal creator.Everything is exposed to decay and will perish but He will not change. He is the same yesterday,today and forever(13:8).Those who believe Christ have eternal life and will be with Him for ever.Yes, the one whom we worship never changes. Blessed be His name!

5.  Christ is superior because He is sovereign(1:13-14). This is a quotation from Psalm 110:1. Angels are only servants. He sits at the right hand of the throne majesty. During His incarnation He was not sitting there. After He completed the work of redemption, He sat at the right hand of God making intercession for us(Rom 8:34).On the cross Christ conquered Satan and He is superior over Satan." Making thine enemies thy footstool," is a  reference to an ancient custom of victorious kings placing their feet on the neck of the defeated kings(Joshua 10:24) This also gives us the picture of the ultimate reign of Christ  soon going to take place. (Rev 11:15). This is the beginning of the end. This is the hope of the world . Angels are ministering at the throne of Christ. They are sent to minister to those who are saved(1:14). They are appointed to minister to us in times of trouble(Psalm 91:11,12). Yes. Christ is the sovereign king. He is our Savior. He is our provider and protector.He will never leave us nor forsake us. Do you know Him? He is indeed superior to angels!!  

Is Jesus Prominent or Pre-imminent?

The theme of the epistle of Hebrew is the superiority of Jesus Christ.People ask many questions about Jesus Christ. Why Jesus had to be born? Why He had to die? Why He had to be resurrected? Why Jesus ascended to heaven? The answer is the book of Hebrews. Some call this book the fifth Gospel. The first four Gospels explain what Christ did on earth. Hebrews describes what Jesus is doing in heaven. Hebrews may be compared to Romans. Romans reveals the necessity of the Gospel. Hebrews explains the superiority of the Christian faith. Christ is superior to Old Testament prophets. Hebrews starts with no self identification of the author or greetings. There is a sense of urgency in the writing of this letter. During the Old Testament  period, God spoke to us in different ways and different times.  God  spoke to us through dreams, visions and prophets over a period of many years(2Sam 23:2; 2Pet 1:21). This revelation was incomplete and fragmentary. Old Testament Prophets were testifying of Christ(Lk 23:26; John 5:39;Rom 1:2).To Moses God appeared in a burning bush( Ex 3:2) To Elijah he spoke in still small voice(1 King 19:12 ).To Isaiah God spoke in a vision(Is 6:8).But in these last days God has spoken to us through His Son(Heb 1:2). It is the final and complete revelation from the Father. The period of last days begins with Christ's incarnation and ends at His second coming(Heb 9:26).  This letter was not written to scare but to encourage the readers.  


First,Christ is superior to O.T Prophets because He is the complete revelation of God. He is the Word that became flesh and lived among us. Disciples saw His glory as the glory of the only begotten of the Father full of grace and truth( John 1:1,14). Jesus revealed the Father to us(John 1;18). He is the living Word and the Bible is the written Word . It is the once for all given Word for our faith and holy living(Jude 1:3) So we do not need any further revelation today but illumination on the Word of God to know Christ..


Secondly, Christ is superior to prophets because He is future heir of all things.All things belong to God(Ps 24:1). Since Jesus is the Son He is the rightful heir of all things (2:5-9). All believers are also the part of His inheritance(Eph 1:18). He owns us by creation and redemption.  We are joint heirs with Christ and reign with Him side by side one day. May be it is a reference to millennial reign  in the future. 


Thirdly, Christ is superior to prophets because He is the creator of all invisible and visible things(Jn 1:3). Father delegated the creation process to Son. In Him and by Him and for Him all things were created.(Col 1:15-17). He is the sovereign source, the divine agent, and for His glory all things were created.  He is the first cause of creation(Rev 3:14). We live in a universe that belongs to Christ. In creation we see God's power and wisdom. Scripture says "Christ is the power and wisdom of God"(1Cor 1:24).


Fourthly, Christ is superior over prophets because He is the brightness of God's glory.He represent God exactly. Christ is the radiance of the brightness of God's glory. God is clothed with majesty and glory. He revealed His presence through His glory in the Tabernacle(Ex 40:34).Christ has revealed the invisible God (.John 1:18).Peter said that  we are witnesses of His glory.(2 Pet 1:16-18).No angel or prophet could make that claim. Christ is the express image or the imprint of God. Jesus said " I and my Father are one"(John 10:30).He who has seen Christ has seen the Father(John 14:9).Christ is the true God and eternal life(1John 5:20).Great is the mystery of our faith "God was manifest in the flesh"(1 Tim 3:15).


Fifthly,Christ is superior to prophets because He upholds all things by the word of His power. He carries all things into their final destiny. He does control and guide history. You are not your own. He created all things by His word of power for a purpose. (Is 40:26; Jer 32:17).In  Christ all things consist. 


Sixthly, Christ is superior to prophets because He purged our sins by His atoning sacrifice. Man's sin brought curse and corruption into this world(Gen 3:17). Apart from God , creation is meaningless and heading into decay and death. Christ came to redeem us from the bondage of sin. God sent  His Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to become a sin offering for us.The one who knew no sin was made sin for us(2 Cor 5:21). Old Testament sacrifices could not remove our sins.  But the blood of Christ cleanses us from all our sins(1 John 1:7). Those who believe Christ are declared righteous today upon the merits of Jesus Christ.


Lastly, Christ is superior to prophets because He is the exalted king and the finisher of our faith. He purged our sins once for all and sat down on the right hand of the majesty in heaven. This is in direct contrast to the old testament priestly ministry. They offer repeated sacrifices for sin and continually standing. There was no chair in the Tabernacle and priest were not allowed to sit there.  Christ died only once to take away our sins.  On the cross He said "It is finished". There is nothing left for Him to do for our salvation. Salvation is a gift from God and just receive it by faith. First He came to take away our sins. He will come again for those who wait for Him. Do you know this great Savior? Are you ready to welcome Him? 

HEBREWS: Introduction.

Purpose:  The theme of this letter is the superiority of Jesus Christ. This is the only epistle that begins with the word "God". It was written to encourage the discouraged and weary Hebrew Christians to hold fast  to their faith in Christ and go on to maturity. There were challenged to see the preeminence of Christ over Judaism (13:22). Jewish Christians were persecuted by Romans and fellow Jews for their faith in Jesus Christ(10:32-34). So the author shows in this epistle the superiority of  Christ and the new covenant over Judaism. Christ is superior in His person, purpose, priesthood, and principle. In this epistle  many Old Testament references are quoted  to assures the Jewish Christians of their spiritual heritage of the new convent into which they have entered. Also by contrasting the old and new convent the author shows the superiority of Christ. As some one said "this is an epistle of encouragement, examination, evaluation, expectation and exaltation".


Authorship: No one knows who wrote Hebrews. The author of this epistle remains anonymous. Some call Hebrews the orphan epistle.Most assumes the authorship to apostle Paul. It seems the author was a Jew and had knowledge of Jewish traditions and Levitical priesthood.  The language and the personal reference to Timothy also may attribute the authorship to Paul(13:23). Some think that Barnabas or Apollos or Luke might have written this epistle. As Origen of Alexandria wrote regarding the authorship of Hebrews that "who the author of the epistle is, only God truly knows. But scholars suggest that there is abundance of evidence from the early church that Hebrews was a part of the biblical canon and quoted widely in the early church fathers. There has been little question throughout the centuries about the canonicity of the epistle of Hebrews.


Date: The epistle of Hebrews was written prior to the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70. Throughout the epistle, it is evident that the Jewish sacrificial system was still going on(8:4; 10:8,11). This epistle was written to a second-generation Christians(2:3).They were severely persecuted under Nero for their faith.(12:4). Temple was still standing when Hebrews was written(10:11). There is a mention of Timothy's recent release(13:23). So it would seem logical to assume that this epistle was written between A D 64 and 68.


Readership:  The earliest manuscript shows that this epistle was written "To Hebrews". They were first century Jewish Christians who were in danger of returning to Judaism to escape persecution.  Judaism was a legal religion and Christianity was not. These readers were confirmed in their faith in Christ by those who heard Christ(2:3). They were not poor.So it seems they were not located in Palestine. The author closes the epistle by stating that "those from Italy greet you"(13:24).It implies that Italians outside of Ital were sending greetings back home. So we conclude that Rome was the destination of this epistle. Another possibility is that Hebrews was written from Rome to scattered Jewish believers in the Roman empire. 


Theme: The theme of Hebrews  is the superiority Christ over Judaism. The word superior or better appears thirteen times in this letter. He is superior in His person, priesthood and principles of faith. He is the qualified or perfect High priest to represent us. He is greater than Aaron the high priest. He is the author of eternal salvation. He is our great high priest and eternal mediator. He is superior is His priestly ministry. Christ is superior in His power. His kingdom is unshakable. He is our great Shepherd. He is the same yesterday, today and for ever. Hebrews shows the finality of God's revelation for our salvation and Christian life. Do you know this great Savior. As we continue this study , may the Holy Spirit strengthen us to run the race that is set before us(12:1).May God bless you all!

You Follow Me!!

In the last chapter of John's Gospel we read about our Lord's appearance to seven disciples, the restoration of Peter and the prophecy about the future of Peter, and John the beloved disciple. Jesus appeared again to the disciples by the sea of Galilee.After the resurrection of Jesus, Peter did not know what to do. So  he said I am going for fishing. Though he did not invite them, other disciples volunteered to go with him. There is no indication that Peter intended to return to his old occupation permanently. Beware  that our bad example can influence others negatively. They caught nothing during the night. Peter in particular must have felt worthless as a fisherman. He failed his Lord in the past , now he was a failed fisherman.  Then in the early morning hour they heard a voice from the shore"children, do you have any fish?" They said no. They had no clue who he was. He said "through your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some". They obeyed Him because there was something compelling about this stranger. They caught many fish and could not draw in the net because it was so heavy. Then John  said to Peter "it is  the Lord".How did John recognize Jesus? Because Jesus had done this before(Lk 5:4-11).Immediately Peter jumped in to the water and reached the shore. Other disciples joined Peter. By that time Christ had already prepared a meal consisted of fish and bread for them. Jesus asked them to bring some fish that you have just caught. There were 153 fish, yet the net was not torn. Thus Christ manifested  His glory. Jesus invited them to come and dine. He served them bread and fish. They ate in silence under the weight of their unfaithfulness. What a merciful Savior!

In the following verses we see one of the greatest conversations of restoration in history (21:15-17).  Peter realized he had denied his Lord. And he went out and wept bitterly(Lk 22:62). Peter also knew that Jesus had forgiven him. He denied Jesus three times, now the Lord asks Peter three times about his love for the Lord. The Lord was probing the sincerity of Peter's love. First two times Jesus asked Peter "do you love me with a sacrificial love, God's kind of love(Agapao)? Peter responded with a different word for love(Phileo), which means deep friendship love. Each time Peter responded, Jesus reaffirmed his future ministry by saying, "feed my sheep".Third time Jesus used the same word Peter used for love and asked him do you love me  with friendship love? Peter replied "Lord you know everything, you know that I love you". Thus Peter affirmed his devotion to the Lord before receiving the the call to feed and care for the believers. Jesus is the good Shepherd who gave his life to save us. He is also the good Shepherd who restores the sheep and gives the responsibility. They are the under shepherds. And when the chief Shepherd appears, they will receive the crown of glory for their faithful service(1Pet 5:2-4). We must love God before we can serve Him faithfully. If we love God we long for Him(PS 42:1). Then we love the things He loves and hate what He hates. Those who love the Lord will long for His return. If we love Him we will obey His commandments(John  14:15). Like Peter, you may be tempted to believe that you have failed the Lord and God can never use you in His service again.  Peter, repented  and he was restored.  Come to Christ, He will restore you.  A committed heart leads to committed service.

Jesus' first and the last invitation to Peter was follow me.(Mk 1:17; John 21:19). Following Christ should be a consistent experience. When we fail, be honest with the Lord. He will restore us and use us for His glory. Jesus indicated that Peter will have a long and useful life of service. Peter asked about the future of John. Jesus said  to peter, you just follow me. We must not compare our life with other believer's life. Jesus calls Peter to a life of total commitment to Him. How about you and me? The entire Gospel is the testimony of John about the deity of Jesus Christ. John concludes that he has written only a small portion of all that Jesus did.  Jesus is asking each one of us this question. Do you love me? May God help us to know Jesus personally and follow Him faithfully in the coming days. God bless you all!

Why you seek the living among the dead!!

The death and resurrection of Christ are central to Christianity. Christ died for the sins of the world.  Joseph of Arimathea, a  member of the Sanhedrin asked Pilot  the body of Jesus. He was a devout and brave follower of Jesus. He and Nicodemus, who met Jesus at night, hurried to the cross and tenderly removed  the body  of Jesus. Nicodemus brought about hundred pounds of myrrh and aloes for the burial of Jesus' body. This was equal to the spices fit for the burial of royalty. They carefully wrapped Jesus' body in long strips of cloth mixed in the spices and placed the body in the new tomb that belonged to Joseph of Arimathea.  Thus the prophecy of Isaiah 53:9 was fulfilled in the burial  of Jesus' body.Several women observed this process and knew, where Jesus' body was laid(Lk 23:55).

John's Gospel chapter twenty gives the account of  Jesus' resurrection, His appearance to Mary Magdalene,
His ten disciples and  to Thomas. Also it reveals the purpose of this gospel. The resurrection of Jesus is the essential part of the gospel message. Men have tried to honor their heroes by erecting monuments such as pyramids and Tajmahal for the dead. But the tomb of Jesus remains empty There is nothing comparative to this historical fact. Only Christian faith affirms life, hope and immortality. The resurrection  of Jesus was the climax and conclusion of the gospel narrative. It is the crowning miracle of all miracles. The empty tomb was the theme of the early Church. It is the proof that Jesus is the Son of God(Rom 1:4). Christianity stands or falls on the doctrine of resurrection of Jesus Christ. It has the transforming power to change lives. The tearful Mary Magdalene became the joyful witness of Christ. Fearful disciples became the bold preachers of the Gospel. Doubting Thomas became the confident follower.

The original witnesses of resurrection were women(Mk 16:1).  Early morning  Mary Magdalene went to the tomb with spices to anoint the body of Christ. She was wondering that who would remove the stone at the entrance of the tomb.But nothing could stop her from going to the tomb.There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear(1 John 4: 18). Mary found that the body is missing. She run to tell the news to Peter and John. . They entered the tomb, and saw that the body is missing, but was not sure about resurrection(20:9).
Mary returned to the tomb after Peter and John left. Jesus revealed Himself to her.She was told to go and tell the good news to other disciples. This command given to Mary is given to all of us. Then Jesus appeared to all disciples (except Thomas) and gave them the great commission."As my father has sent me, even so I send you".  Only God can forgive sin. But God gave them the authority to proclaim the gospel that include the forgiveness of sin.Jesus also appeared to Thomas and shown him the nail prints of His hands. Thomas immediately acknowledged Jesus' Lordship. His doubt has turned to assurance.Jesus told Thomas that "blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. What a merciful Savior! Seeing is not believing. Facts are good but faith is better. Those who does not believe, often get stuck in their prideful doubt.

This chapter ends with the purpose of this gospel. The greatest sign found in the gospel is the sign of the resurrection.The empty tomb of Jesus was not hard to prove. If there was a  body in the tomb, it was impossible for the resurrection story to survive. Jews substantiated the fact that tomb was empty because they said disciples have stolen the body of Christ. It was suicidal for disciples to steal the body. where they could hide it?Why they should be killed for it? Women were the first witnesses of this empty tomb. At that time women did not have any voice in that society and were to allowed to bear testimony  in a court of law. Jesus is alive. It is relevant because it answers questions about our past, present and future. There is forgiveness of sin in Him. Our future is secured because He lives. Jesus gives reason for living. Nobody can be neutral to this truth. This Gospel is written so that we may understand the urgency of our choice and believe Christ be saved. Do you know this great Savior? Believe Christ and be saved.

Jesus said"I am thirsty"

The focal point of Christ's earthy life was His death on the cross. The disproportionate chapters in the Gospel account allotted to the final week of His life shows the importance of Christ's death. His death was more than an example of  His obedience to His Father. His death was  not the death of martyr or a death of political criminal.He died for our sins(Rom 5:8). It was the ransom price paid for our redemption. Jesus died in our place as our substitute(Is 53:6; 2 Cor 5:21).  He died to reconcile us to God( 2 Cor 5:18,19).  He died to satisfy the righteous demands of God( Rom 3:25). There is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents(Lk 15:10).  People are of great value to God. Those who do not know Christ are lost in their sins for ever. Christ paid the ultimate price by dying on the cross for their redemption. He came to seek and save those who are lost. So to be found, one must first admit that he is lost.

We have looked at the first four statements of Christ from the cross in our last study. Today I would like to look at the last three statements. Jesus knew that His end is near. To fulfill the Scripture He said"I am thirsty"(John 19:28). Last six hours He was on the cross, wounded,  burning , swollen up and dehydrated. He experienced intense agony  for you and me. This is the only time Jesus spoke of His suffering from the cross. He knows what is physical suffering means. So He is able to help us in our suffering. Do you experience pain in your body. So was Jesus .Are you misunderstood and neglected by dear ones. So is Jesus. In our sufferings, no one can help us like Jesus. He was thirty to fulfill the prophecy that was written a  thousand years before when crucifixion was known to the world(Ps 22:15). He created heavens and earth. Yet heaven denied Him light and earth denied Him water.They gave Jesus vinegar. The one who is the living water became thirty for us. By His death and resurrection Jesus became the smitten rock from where the living water flowed. Those who believe Him will experience His presence through the Holy Spirit and be satisfied.. The living water will flow from them and  they will  become blessing to others.

The sixth statement Jesus made from the cross was "It is finished"(John 19:30). He came through intense suffering and agony. The purpose of His human existence was to do the will of the Father. Now that work is completed. This was the greatest announcement of victory ever made. The decisive battle with Satan is over. By His death He destroyed the devil who had the power of death and released those who were living in the fear of death(Heb 2:14,15).Jesus willingly offered Himself to God. His death met all God's righteous demands. Atonement for our sin was paid in full. What He began, He completed and nothing can be added to it. Believers are complete in Him(Col 2:10).

The seventh and the last statement Jesus made from the cross we find in Luke 23:46. " Father into thy hands I commend my spirit". Having said this Jesus gave up the spirit.. Father is the first and the last word Jesus spoke from the cross.He endured hell on the cross for us and came through it. . Now He calls God as Father in triumph. Jesus died on His own free will. He dismissed His spirit with a loud voice. Usually last words of dying people are weak voice. Jesus last word was loud and victorious. The centurion heard it, gloried God and said certainly this was a righteous man(Lk 23:47). No body died like Jesus( Gal 2:20). Cross is important because of who died there for us. Isaac Watts wrote" When I survey the wondrous cross on which the prince of glory died".  Seeing the cross means, meeting Jesus who died on it. Surveying the cross means, not turning our eyes away from the one who loved us and gave Himself for us. Do you know this great Savior?

"It Is Finished"

Jesus loved us and gave Himself for us. That is the Gospel story. But many people do not know the extend of His love for them. Still Jesus loves them to the uttermost. There was never a love like the love of our dying Savior. The extend of His love is revealed in the seven statements of Jesus from the cross. "Jesus said Father forgive them for they do not know what they do"(Lk 23:34). Our Savior was scourged, mocked, beaten and crucified by His enemies. Our suffering Savior was hanging on the cross, abandoned by all and experiencing excruciating pain in His body and soul. His Father's love was beyond His reach on the cross.Yet He was thinking about us and prayed for you and me. Jesus prayed for them when they had no idea about what they are doing to Him(1 Cor 2:8). He prayed for us because He had compassion on us.When we did not desire any one to pray for us, He prayed. .Jesus prayed for our forgiveness and not for our judgement. He wanted our judgement to fall on Him. You may hate Jesus but He loves you to the uttermost. Only those who are  forgiven  will appreciate the extend of Christ's love. The self righteous are blind to see our Savior's love for them. The greatest sin is the sin against God's love. Yes, Jesus loves us to the end(John 13:1).

Second statement Jesus made from the Cross was "Verily I say unto you, today you shall be with me in paradise"(Lk 23:43).  Jesus was nailed to the cross between two thieves. Christ is always in the center and He alone is able to save sinners from any where. One thief railed at Jesus saying if you are Christ save yourself and us. But the other thief rebuked the one railing and said don't you fear God  even when you are dying? And he asked Christ for salvation and he received it. He was justified and glorified in the same day. Our salvation is based on Christ's work on the cross and not on our good work(Eph 2:8,9). Salvation is by grace alone, faith alone and Christ alone. Christ loves to save sinners. Today you will be with me in paradise. Saved people are not on probation. We serve Jesus because we love Him.  If you are not saved, will you come to Jesus who died for your sins?

John mentions three women who loved the Lord were standing by the cross(John 19:25). one among them was Mary the mother of Jesus. The disciple Jesus loved,John was also there. Jesus saw His mother and said to her "woman behold your son and to John behold your mother(John 19:26,27). Although Mary was His earthly mother, Christ was her Redeemer and Savior. Thus Christ sets an example for us to provide and care for our parents.In this statement we see Christ's humanity and divinity.

The fourth statement Jesus made from the cross was "My God, my God why hast thou forsaken me?( Matt 27:46)Here we see the high cost of our  redemption.From noon until 3:00 P.M. there was darkness. Why Jesus was forsaken?. Because we were not forsaking our sins.Here we see our sin bearer suffering and agonizing for us. Here we see the ugly color of our sin.  On the cross Christ endured our hell. Hell is real as cross. It is a place of  blackness of darkness.On the cross Jesus bore our sin and suffered our judgement. He was separated from the love of God. .Here where the righteousness and mercy of God  met together(Rom 5:8). Also here we see our Savior's total faith in the Father and His plan of salvation.What a picture of hell!!.Will you not flee from hell by receiving Christ today? Those who are saved, let us approach this great God in wonder and worship acknowledging His indescribable love  for us. May God help us!!

"There they crucified Him"

John's Gospel chapter nineteen gives the account of Jesus's trial before Pilot, crucifixion and the burial. From the human stand point this trial was the greatest crime, tragedy and the mockery of Roman law. But from divine stand point it was the fulfillment of the scripture(Act 2:23). Pilot orders Jesus to be flogged, beaten and insulted. The soldiers tortured and forced the crown of throne on His head.  Pilot presented Jesus before Jews saying that 'behold the man". He hoped that Jews would accept this cruel punishment and spare Jesus from execution. But they chanted "crucify  him, crucify him". Jews were so settled in their conviction but were dreadfully wrong.  Pilot again declared Jesus innocent. Pilot would have stood for his conviction. Pilot asked Jesus" where are you from". But Jesus gave no answer. So Pilot  to Him " to me you don't speak?". Jesus replied "you have mo authority over me unless it had been given from above".  Here we see the truth that earthly ruler can only act when God permits. According to the Roman law Jesus was innocent. But the Jews appealed to the law and said that Jesus is guilty of death since he claimed that He is the Son of God. They said if you let go Jesus, you are not a friend of Caesars and Pilot would be guilty of treason against Rome. So Pilot became more fearful  and their fury frustrated  Pilot to the point that he was willing to compromise his conviction and please the people. His wife also told him to do nothing with this innocent man. Pilot was fearful, confused and spiritually blind. Finally Pilot handed Jesus over to Jews to be crucified. What a tortured situation, knowing the right thing and not able to do it because of fear!

Jesus who was weak, beaten and miserable was made to carry His cross by the soldiers. They crucified Jesus between two thieves at Golgotha. Pilot posted a sign over  the cross that reads "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." The chief  priest demanded that title be changed.  Pilot refused his demand  and said "what i have written, I have written". Each soldier took one garment but they cast lot for the inner garment because it was seamless and woven in one piece from top to bottom. Thus the scripture was fulfilled(Ps 22:18). Thus Christ is now left hanging naked before the angry mob on the cross. There were some women, including His mother standing near the cross. Though women considered as weak were to look weak before the cross. When Jesus saw His mother, He told John to take care of His mother. Christ example teaches that everyone has a responsibility to take care of his parents. Jesus knew that everything was now fulfilled and said"I am thirsty". He hung on the cross, wounded, burning,swollen up, dehydrated  and bearing the sin for us. This is the only time Jesus spoke of His suffering and also to fulfill the prophecy(Ps 22:15).No one knows suffering more than Jesus and He is there to help us when we need it. He became thirsty and died to quench our spiritual thirst.

When Jesus had received the sour wine, He said"it is finished" and gave up His Spirit.That was the greatest announcement of victory ever spoken. The long night of His suffering is over. He finished the task the Father has given to Him(John 17:4).His death was no accident.Jesus died according to the scripture.  He gave His life as a ransom  for our salvation. By His death He  has redeemed us from the bondage of sin, Satan and death( Eph 1:7). He death satisfied the righteous demands of God(Rom 3:25). He died in our place and the greatest exchange ever happened. (2 cor 5:21). When soldiers came to Jesus, they did not  break His legs because Jesus was already dead. One of the soldiers took a spear and pierced His side. These happened  so that the scripture might be fulfilled( Ps 34:20; Zech 12:10). Even the wicked soldiers were involved in fulfilling the plan of God in the death Jesus. Do you know this Savior who loved  and died for you?