Category: The Gospel

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The Gospel of John begins with words so profound that they reverberate across the entire canon of Scripture, drawing a direct line from creation to redemption: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1). These verses form one of the clearest declarations that Jesus Christ is not only a man, prophet, or teacher but the eternal God of the Old Testament and the ruler of the cosmos. Using the Gospel of John as a foundation, this article will argue that Jesus is the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—the great “I AM”—and that He reigns as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer of all things.

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1. The Eternal Word: Creator and Sustainer of All Things

From the outset, John introduces Jesus as “the Word” (Logos), emphasizing His preexistence and active role in creation. The opening verses deliberately parallel Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” John writes:

“All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made” (John 1:3).

This clearly identifies Jesus as the Creator, the same God who spoke the universe into existence in Genesis 1. The unity of the Triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is on full display here. Jesus, the divine Word, is the agent through whom God created everything. This truth echoes Psalm 33:6: “By the word of the Lord the heavens were made.”

Not only is Jesus the Creator, but He also sustains the cosmos. Hebrews 1:3 declares that He “upholds the universe by the word of His power.” This unites the God of the Old Testament with the Christ of the New Testament. The God who stretched out the heavens in Isaiah 44:24 is the same Word made flesh in John 1:14.

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2. The True Light: Revelation and Redemption

John identifies Jesus as the “true light, which gives light to everyone” (John 1:9). This connects directly with the Old Testament’s descriptions of God as the source of light and salvation:

• “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1).
• “The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2).

When Jesus declares in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life,” He directly claims the role of God Himself. This statement is bold and undeniable, linking Him with the God who leads His people out of darkness and into salvation.

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3. “I AM”: The Divine Name

Few passages in Scripture are as profound as John 8:58, where Jesus says, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.” This statement ties Jesus to the God of Exodus 3:14, where God revealed His name to Moses: “I AM WHO I AM.”

By claiming the divine name I AM, Jesus declares Himself to be the eternal, self-existent God of the Old Testament. The reaction of the Jewish leaders—picking up stones to kill Him (John 8:59)—underscores their understanding of His claim. Jesus was not speaking metaphorically; He was identifying Himself as the God of Israel.

The divine name I AM encapsulates God’s sovereignty, independence, and eternity—all of which belong fully to Jesus. This is one of the clearest and most explicit claims to His deity.

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4. Signs and Miracles: Revealing Divine Authority

John structures his Gospel around seven miraculous “signs,” each revealing Jesus’ divine power and authority. These signs are not merely acts of compassion but deliberate demonstrations of Jesus’ identity as the God of the Old Testament. Consider a few examples:

• Turning Water into Wine (John 2:1–11): This first sign demonstrates Jesus’ creative power, echoing the God who provided wine as a blessing in the Old Testament (Psalm 104:14–15).
• Feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1–14): By multiplying loaves and fish, Jesus parallels God’s provision of manna in the wilderness for Israel.
• Walking on Water (John 6:16–21): Jesus’ control over the sea recalls the God of Exodus parting the Red Sea, demonstrating authority over nature.

These signs point beyond the immediate miracle to the deeper truth of Jesus’ divine identity. Each act ties Him to the God who revealed Himself throughout the Old Testament.

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5. The Good Shepherd: Fulfilling Old Testament Imagery

In John 10:11, Jesus declares, “I am the good shepherd.” This statement connects directly to Old Testament imagery, where God is described as the shepherd of His people:

• “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).
• “I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep” (Ezekiel 34:15).

Jesus fulfills these promises, presenting Himself as the shepherd who not only leads but also lays down His life for His sheep. This ultimate sacrifice demonstrates a covenantal love that only the God of Israel could provide.

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6. Oneness with the Father

One of the most compelling declarations of Jesus’ deity comes in John 10:30: “I and the Father are one.” This statement affirms not just functional unity but shared essence between the Son and the Father. The response of the Jewish leaders—picking up stones for blasphemy—shows their clear understanding of what Jesus was claiming.

In John 14:9, Jesus makes this unity even clearer when He tells Philip, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” This reinforces the truth that Jesus is the visible manifestation of the invisible God, a truth also echoed in Colossians 1:15.

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7. The Cross and Resurrection: Vindicating His Divinity

The ultimate demonstration of Jesus’ deity is His death and resurrection. In John 10:18, Jesus declares His authority over His own life and death: “No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again.” Only God has such authority over life and death.

The resurrection vindicates every claim Jesus made about His identity. Peter’s words in Acts 2:36 encapsulate this truth: “God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.”

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8. Jesus as the Cosmic Christ

Finally, John’s Gospel shows that Jesus is not only the God of Israel but the Lord of the entire cosmos. In John 1:10–11, John writes:

“He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, yet the world did not know Him.”

This cosmic scope reveals Jesus as the Creator and Redeemer of all creation. His redemptive work extends to all nations, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham in Genesis 12:3 that through his seed, all nations would be blessed.

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Conclusion: Worshiping Jesus as the God of the Bible

The Gospel of John provides an unshakable foundation for the belief that Jesus is the God of the Old Testament. From His role as Creator and Sustainer to His use of the divine name I AM, from His miraculous signs to His ultimate triumph in the resurrection, every page testifies to His deity.

This truth demands worship. The Jesus of the New Testament is the same God who covenanted with Abraham, delivered Israel from Egypt, and spoke through the prophets. He is the Logos, the I AM, the Good Shepherd, and the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. My prayer is that this understanding leads to a greater reverence for who Jesus is: the eternal God of the Old Testament and the ruler of the cosmos.

By Grace, to the Glory of His Name

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From the beginning, God’s redemptive plan has been global in scope, reaching beyond the boundaries of Israel to embrace people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. The promise to redeem the Gentiles is not a New Testament innovation but a thread woven throughout Scripture, demonstrating God’s eternal purpose. From the curse pronounced upon Canaan, the descendant of Ham, to the declarations of the Gospel of Luke, we see the consistent revelation of God’s intent to glorify Himself by redeeming the nations.

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1. The Curse of Ham and the Seeds of Redemption

The narrative of Noah’s curse upon Ham’s son, Canaan, in Genesis 9:25–27, has often been read as a moment of divine judgment. After Ham’s dishonor toward his father, Noah declares:

“Cursed be Canaan; a servant of servants shall he be to his brothers. He also said, ‘Blessed be the Lord, the God of Shem; and let Canaan be his servant. May God enlarge Japheth, and let him dwell in the tents of Shem, and let Canaan be his servant.’”

At first glance, this curse appears to isolate Canaan and the descendants of Ham to perpetual servitude. Yet, nestled within this pronouncement is a glimmer of hope for the Gentiles. Japheth, whose descendants would populate much of the Gentile world, is blessed with the promise of enlargement and inclusion in the “tents of Shem.”

This prophecy anticipates the eventual incorporation of Gentiles into the covenant blessings mediated through Shem’s lineage, culminating in Jesus Christ. The curse upon Canaan underscores the reality of sin’s consequences, yet it also highlights God’s providential plan to extend grace and redemption even to the nations descended from Japheth and Ham.

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2. The Promise to Abraham: A Blessing for All Nations

The next significant moment in God’s redemptive plan for the Gentiles comes with the call of Abram in Genesis 12. God declares:

“I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing… in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:2–3).

Here, God sets apart Abraham and his descendants to be His covenant people. Yet, from the beginning, the scope of this covenant is universal. The promise to Abraham is not restricted to Israel alone but includes the Gentiles, as Paul later emphasizes in Galatians 3:8: “And the Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, ‘In you shall all the nations be blessed.’”

Throughout the Old Testament, glimpses of this promise appear. Ruth, a Moabite, becomes part of the lineage of Christ. Rahab, a Canaanite, is redeemed and brought into God’s covenant family. These examples reveal that God’s purpose has always been to use Israel as a light to the nations, drawing Gentiles into His saving grace.

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3. The Prophets: Proclaiming God’s Glory Among the Nations

The prophets of Israel consistently affirm God’s intention to redeem the Gentiles. Isaiah declares:

“It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to bring back the preserved of Israel; I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth” (Isaiah 49:6).

This Servant, whom we recognize as Christ, is not merely the Redeemer of Israel but the Savior of the world. Similarly, in Isaiah 19:24–25, Egypt and Assyria—nations often hostile to Israel—are included in God’s covenant blessings:

“In that day Israel will be the third with Egypt and Assyria, a blessing in the midst of the earth, whom the Lord of hosts has blessed, saying, ‘Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel my inheritance.’”

These passages challenge any notion that God’s plan was ever limited to one ethnic group. Instead, they reveal a God whose purposes are global and eternal.

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4. Jesus and the Gospel of Luke: The Fulfillment of God’s Purpose

The Gospel of Luke is particularly rich in showing how Jesus fulfills God’s plan to redeem the Gentiles. Luke, often writing to a Gentile audience, emphasizes the universality of the Gospel, demonstrating that Christ is the Savior of all peoples.

A Savior for All People

In Luke’s account of Jesus’ birth, the angel announces to the shepherds:

“Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10).

Simeon’s words in the temple echo this universality:

“My eyes have seen your salvation that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel” (Luke 2:30–32).

From the very beginning of Jesus’ life, His mission is framed as one that extends to the Gentiles.

Jesus’ Ministry to the Outsiders

Throughout Luke’s Gospel, Jesus engages with Gentiles and those considered outsiders by Jewish society. He heals the servant of a Roman centurion, praising the centurion’s faith as greater than any in Israel (Luke 7:1–10). He casts out demons from the Gerasene demoniac, a Gentile living in the Decapolis (Luke 8:26–39). He commends the Samaritan leper for his gratitude and faith (Luke 17:11–19).

These interactions reveal that Jesus’ ministry was not restricted to the lost sheep of Israel but extended to all who would believe in Him.

The Parables of Inclusion

Luke’s Gospel contains parables that underscore God’s purpose to include the Gentiles in His kingdom. The Parable of the Great Banquet (Luke 14:15–24) vividly illustrates this:

When the invited guests (symbolizing Israel) refuse to come, the master commands his servant to bring in the poor, crippled, blind, and lame. Finally, he sends the servant to compel people from the highways and hedges—symbolizing the Gentiles—to fill his house. This parable reflects God’s determination to gather a people for Himself from every nation.

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5. The Cross: The Culmination of God’s Redemptive Plan

The ultimate fulfillment of God’s purpose to redeem the Gentiles is found in the cross of Christ. In Luke 23:47, a Roman centurion witnesses Jesus’ death and declares, “Certainly this man was innocent!” This confession foreshadows the faith that many Gentiles would later place in the crucified and risen Christ.

Paul’s writings affirm that through the cross, Christ has broken down the dividing wall between Jew and Gentile:

“For He Himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in His flesh the dividing wall of hostility… that He might create in Himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace” (Ephesians 2:14–15).

Through His death and resurrection, Jesus secures redemption for all who trust in Him, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham and the prophecies of the Old Testament.

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6. The Great Commission and the Church’s Mission

The Great Commission, recorded in Luke 24:46–47, explicitly calls for the Gospel to be preached to all nations:

“Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance for the forgiveness of sins should be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem.”

The church, empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, carries forward this mission. When Peter preaches in Acts 2, people from across the Gentile world hear the Gospel in their own languages—a foretaste of the global harvest to come.

Paul’s ministry further exemplifies this mission, as he becomes the apostle to the Gentiles, proclaiming the unsearchable riches of Christ to those outside Israel.

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Conclusion: To the Praise of His Glorious Grace

God’s eternal purpose in redeeming the Gentiles is a testament to His sovereign grace and His desire to glorify Himself through the salvation of all peoples. From the curse of Canaan to the covenant with Abraham, from the prophetic declarations of Isaiah to the ministry of Jesus in the Gospel of Luke, Scripture reveals a God whose redemptive plan encompasses the entire world.

This plan reaches its climax in the cross and resurrection of Christ, where Jew and Gentile are united in one body, reconciled to God through the blood of Jesus. The church’s mission is to carry this Gospel to the ends of the earth, proclaiming the glory of the God who redeems sinners from every nation.

As we marvel at God’s work, let us join in the song of the redeemed, crying out with the heavenly chorus:

“Worthy are you to take the scroll and to open its seals, for you were slain, and by your blood you ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9).

May God continue to fulfill His eternal purpose, drawing the nations to Himself, to the praise of His glorious grace.

In the hallowed pages of the Gospel of Mark, we find a profound and vivid portrayal of the servitude of Christ. Mark’s narrative is one of action, humility, and devotion, emphasizing Christ as the suffering servant and the perfect model of obedience to the will of God. Furthermore, through the lens of Peter’s account, as transcribed by Mark, we are led to a deeper understanding of our own failings and the abundant mercy of our Lord.

Let us meditate, dear reader, on these twin themes—Christ’s servitude and Peter’s testimony—that we might glean the spiritual nourishment necessary for our pilgrim journey.

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The Servitude of Christ: The Perfect Servant

Mark’s Gospel opens not with the genealogy of Christ or a poetic prologue but with a declaration: “The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God” (Mark 1:1, ESV). From the outset, Mark emphasizes Christ’s divine authority and mission. Yet, this divine authority is wielded not in the trappings of earthly power but in the humble servitude of a faithful laborer in His Father’s vineyard.

The Servant’s Mission

Mark’s swift and purposeful narrative immediately plunges us into the work of the Savior. Jesus is baptized by John, signifying His readiness to fulfill all righteousness (Mark 1:9-11). From this moment, Christ begins His ministry, calling sinners to repentance, healing the sick, and casting out demons. His every action reveals the heart of a servant who has come “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45, ESV).

We see in Christ’s servitude an unceasing zeal for the will of God. He withdraws to pray early in the morning (Mark 1:35), heals multitudes despite His own weariness (Mark 6:31-34), and willingly sets His face toward Jerusalem, knowing that suffering and death await Him (Mark 8:31-33). His life is a living sacrifice, poured out for the salvation of sinners.

The Servant’s Suffering

Mark uniquely captures the humanity of Christ in His suffering. The Gospel records the anguish of Gethsemane, where Christ prays, “Abba, Father, all things are possible for you. Remove this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what you will” (Mark 14:36, ESV). Here, we witness the Servant of God submitting entirely to the will of His Father, even unto death.

Christ’s suffering is not only physical but also spiritual and relational. He is betrayed by one of His own, abandoned by His disciples, mocked by the authorities, and forsaken on the cross (Mark 14:50; 15:34). Yet, He endures it all with a steadfast obedience that fulfills the prophecy of Isaiah: “He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth” (Isaiah 53:7, ESV).

In Christ’s servitude, we find the ultimate example of humility and submission. He does not seek His own glory but the glory of the Father and the redemption of the lost. How, then, shall we respond to such a model? Shall we not take up our own cross and follow Him (Mark 8:34, ESV)?

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Peter in the Gospel of Mark: A Mirror for Us All

The Gospel of Mark bears the fingerprints of Peter, for it is widely held that Mark recorded Peter’s firsthand testimony. Peter’s presence in the narrative is particularly instructive, for he serves as both a warning and a comfort to us as disciples.

Peter’s Boldness and Failings

Peter’s character is vividly displayed in Mark’s Gospel. He is the first to confess Jesus as the Christ (Mark 8:29, ESV), demonstrating a bold and zealous faith. Yet, moments later, he rebukes Christ for speaking of His coming suffering, earning a stern correction: “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man” (Mark 8:33, ESV).

Peter’s most infamous failure comes on the night of Jesus’ arrest. Despite his earlier protestation, “Even though they all fall away, I will not” (Mark 14:29, ESV), Peter denies Christ three times before the rooster crows (Mark 14:66-72, ESV). This heartbreaking moment reveals the weakness of even the most devoted disciple when relying on his own strength.

Peter’s failures are a mirror for us all. How often do we, like Peter, make bold declarations of faith, only to falter when trials arise? How often do we trust in our own wisdom or strength, rather than leaning wholly on Christ?

Peter’s Restoration and Hope

Yet Peter’s story does not end in failure. Mark’s Gospel includes a subtle yet profound note of hope in the angel’s message to the women at the empty tomb: “But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you” (Mark 16:7, ESV). Even in his moment of deepest failure, Peter is not forsaken. Christ’s love and grace extend to him, offering restoration and renewed purpose.

Peter’s restoration is a testament to the boundless mercy of Christ. It reminds us that no failure is beyond the reach of His redeeming love. As Peter himself would later write, “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you” (1 Peter 5:10, ESV).

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Lessons for the Church

What lessons, then, can we as a church draw from the Gospel of Mark, particularly concerning the servitude of Christ and the account of Peter?

1. Embrace Humble Service

As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His servitude. This means setting aside our own desires and ambitions to serve God and others. It means enduring trials with patience, forgiving those who wrong us, and laboring for the spread of the Gospel, even at great personal cost. Let us remember the words of our Lord: “But whoever would be great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43, ESV).

2. Guard Against Spiritual Pride

Peter’s story warns us of the danger of spiritual pride. Confidence in our own abilities can lead to catastrophic failure. Instead, we must approach our walk with humility, acknowledging our dependence on Christ for strength and guidance.

3. Trust in God’s Grace

Finally, Peter’s restoration reminds us of the inexhaustible grace of God. When we stumble and fall, we must not despair but turn back to Christ, who is ever ready to forgive and restore. His mercies are new every morning, and His love never fails (Lamentations 3:22-23, ESV).

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Conclusion: Christ, the Perfect Servant and Our Hope

The Gospel of Mark presents us with a Savior who is both mighty and meek, a Servant who conquers through suffering and death. In Christ, we see the perfect fulfillment of God’s will and the ultimate example for our own lives. Through Peter, we see a reflection of ourselves—frail, faltering, yet redeemed by grace.

Dear reader, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2, ESV). Let us walk in His footsteps, serving God and one another with humility and zeal. And when we fail, let us remember the mercy shown to Peter, trusting in the unfailing love of our Savior.

May the words of the Gospel of Mark stir us to greater faith, deeper repentance, and more fervent service. For as Christ Himself has said, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45, ESV). Amen.

In the fullness of time, when God’s eternal decree unfolded in the incarnation of Christ, the Gospel of Matthew begins with a resounding proclamation: the coming of Jesus Christ fulfills the long-anticipated promises of the Jewish Scriptures. To understand this fulfillment is to grasp the beauty and unity of the Word of God, as the Old Testament’s covenants, prophecies, and types find their completion in the person and work of Jesus.

Matthew, writing primarily to a Jewish audience, masterfully demonstrates how Jesus is the Messiah foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures. His Gospel is a symphony of fulfillment, where each theme of the Old Testament reaches its crescendo in Christ. Let us explore this truth as Puritans, with hearts aflame for the glory of God and minds disciplined by Scripture.

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1. Genealogy: The Seed of Promise

Matthew begins his Gospel with a genealogy (Matthew 1:1-17), which to modern readers might seem tedious but is, in truth, a treasure trove of theological richness. By tracing Jesus’ lineage through Abraham and David, Matthew declares that Christ is the promised Seed of Abraham through whom all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3; Galatians 3:16). Furthermore, as the Son of David, Jesus is the rightful heir to the throne, the eternal King prophesied in 2 Samuel 7:12-13.

The genealogy also testifies to God’s providence and grace. It includes figures like Rahab, a Gentile harlot, and Ruth, a Moabite, showing that the promise of salvation extends beyond Israel to the nations. Even in the midst of human sin and failure, God sovereignly worked to bring forth His Messiah.

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2. Birth of Christ: Emmanuel, God with Us

The prophecy of Isaiah 7:14 finds its fulfillment in the birth of Jesus: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel” (Matthew 1:23). This declaration is staggering—God Himself has come to dwell among His people. The holy and transcendent Lord takes on human flesh, entering the world not in power but in humility.

This fulfillment is not mere coincidence but the unfolding of God’s eternal purpose. The promise of God’s presence, seen throughout the Old Testament in the tabernacle, the temple, and the Shekinah glory, now takes on its fullest meaning in Christ, who is the true temple (John 2:19-21). He is the ultimate manifestation of God dwelling with His people.

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3. Jesus as the New Moses

Matthew portrays Jesus as the New Moses, a fulfillment of Deuteronomy 18:15, where God promises to raise up a prophet like Moses. Consider the parallels:

• Moses delivered Israel from bondage in Egypt; Jesus delivers His people from the greater bondage of sin.
• Moses received the Law on Mount Sinai; Jesus expounds the Law in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), revealing its true spiritual intent.
• Moses interceded for Israel; Jesus is the greater Mediator who offers Himself as the perfect sacrifice for sin.

In every way, Jesus surpasses Moses, bringing the final and perfect revelation of God’s will.

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4. Fulfillment of Prophecies

Matthew repeatedly uses the formula “This was to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet…” to show how Jesus fulfills specific Old Testament prophecies. For example:

• Born in Bethlehem (Matthew 2:6): Micah 5:2 foretold the birthplace of the Messiah.
• Called out of Egypt (Matthew 2:15): Hosea 11:1 speaks of Israel’s exodus, which is typologically fulfilled in Christ.
• Weeping in Ramah (Matthew 2:18): Jeremiah 31:15’s lamentation finds its ultimate resolution in the hope of the Messiah’s coming.
• The Ministry in Galilee (Matthew 4:13-16): Isaiah 9:1-2 foretells the light of the Messiah shining in Galilee.

These fulfillments demonstrate that Jesus is not a mere teacher or prophet but the culmination of God’s redemptive plan.

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5. The Kingdom of Heaven

Matthew’s Gospel emphasizes the “Kingdom of Heaven,” a theme rooted in the Old Testament expectation of God’s reign. Daniel 7:13-14 speaks of the Son of Man receiving an everlasting dominion, and this prophecy comes to fruition in Jesus, who inaugurates the Kingdom through His ministry.

Jesus’ miracles, teachings, and authority all testify that He is the King. His parables reveal the nature of the Kingdom—unexpected, yet glorious. He calls sinners to repentance and faith, inviting them into this Kingdom that fulfills the covenantal promise of blessing and dominion (Genesis 1:28; 12:3).

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6. The Atoning Work of Christ

The sacrificial system of the Old Testament pointed to the necessity of atonement for sin, yet these sacrifices could never fully cleanse the conscience (Hebrews 10:1-4). In Christ, the true Lamb of God (John 1:29), the once-for-all sacrifice is made.

Matthew 26:28 records Jesus’ words at the Last Supper: “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Here, Jesus fulfills the covenantal promises of Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Isaiah 53, offering His life as a ransom for many. His death brings reconciliation between God and man, satisfying divine justice and displaying divine mercy.

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7. The Resurrection: God’s Seal of Approval

The resurrection of Jesus is the climax of Matthew’s Gospel and the ultimate fulfillment of Old Testament hope. Psalm 16:10 and Isaiah 53:10-12 spoke of the Messiah’s triumph over death. In rising from the grave, Jesus demonstrates that His atoning work is complete and accepted by the Father.

The resurrection also inaugurates the new creation, where Christ reigns as the firstfruits of those who will be raised (1 Corinthians 15:20). It confirms His identity as the Son of God and the fulfillment of all Messianic prophecies.

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8. The Great Commission: The Nations Blessed in Abraham

The Gospel of Matthew concludes with the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20), where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations. This fulfills the promise to Abraham that through his seed, all nations would be blessed (Genesis 12:3).

The inclusion of the Gentiles is not an afterthought but the realization of God’s redemptive plan. The Gospel of the Kingdom is for all peoples, and Jesus is the King to whom all authority in heaven and on earth belongs.

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Conclusion: The Gospel’s Unified Story

In the book of Matthew, the Old Testament finds its fulfillment in Christ. Every promise, prophecy, type, and shadow converges in Him, revealing the wisdom and sovereignty of God’s plan of redemption. The Scriptures testify to Christ (John 5:39), and in Him, they are made complete.

As we reflect on this truth, let us marvel at the harmony of God’s Word and the glory of His Gospel. The promises of old are not forgotten but are fulfilled with divine precision in Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.

In understanding God’s Law and its place within the Gospel, we must see it as both a mirror of God’s perfect holiness and a guide for Christian living. The Law of God reveals His character, showing us our own fallenness, and ultimately, directing us to Christ. Today, many are perplexed about how the Law relates to the life of a believer—especially those saved by grace through the work of Christ. However, to understand this fully, we must dive deeply into both the Law’s demands and the rich mercy God provides in the Gospel.

God’s Law as a Mirror and Standard of Holiness

The Law given by God is nothing less than a perfect reflection of His own nature. It is holy, just, and good (Romans 7:12). This means that the Law, at its core, tells us what is morally right, showing us God’s standard for all people. The Ten Commandments, which serve as the foundation of God’s Law, are not arbitrary rules but direct expressions of His will. Each commandment reveals something about the nature of God—His truthfulness, His purity, His justice, and His love.

When we look into the mirror of the Law, we are forced to see our own imperfections. Just as a mirror shows a smudge on the face, so the Law exposes our sin. It’s uncomfortable but necessary, for without this realization, we would see no need for a Savior. The Law brings us to the knowledge of sin (Romans 3:20), and it presses us to seek forgiveness, which we find in Christ alone.

The Law and the Gospel: Distinct Yet Harmonious

While the Law tells us what is righteous, the Gospel proclaims how righteousness is fulfilled on our behalf. The Law demands perfection—“Be holy, for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). The Law gives no power to fulfill these demands; instead, it leaves us with a weight too heavy to bear. But the Gospel answers this problem by showing us Christ, who has fulfilled the Law’s demands in our place. Christ did not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17).

Now, some may think that because Christ has fulfilled the Law, it has no further claim upon the believer. This is a dangerous error. Christ’s fulfillment of the Law on our behalf does not mean that we are now free to disregard it. Rather, it has transformed our relationship to the Law. As believers, we no longer look to the Law for justification; that has been accomplished fully by Christ. But we look to the Law as the guide for holy living.

John Owen on the Law and Christ’s Death

To deepen this understanding, let us consider the words of our friend and fellow theologian, John Owen, from his profound work The Death of Death in the Death of Christ. Owen explains that Christ’s death does not make the Law obsolete; instead, it upholds the Law while providing mercy. In Christ’s death, we see God’s justice and mercy meet. Owen writes, “The death of Christ…is a great evidence of the everlasting continuance of the Law. For in the gospel, there is a substitution of Christ in our stead, so that the righteousness and holiness of God’s Law might be preserved while mercy is extended to the sinner.”

Owen’s words reveal that God’s Law is eternally holy and just. Its demands must be satisfied—either by us or, as the Gospel gloriously declares, by Christ in our place. Because the Law’s demands are met in Christ, believers are free from its condemnation (Romans 8:1). We are saved, not because we kept the Law, but because Christ kept it for us and bore its penalty in our stead. This is the heart of the Gospel.

However, as Owen further notes, the Law still “guides us unto obedience, that we may walk worthy of our calling.” This means that while we are not justified by the Law, we are still called to honor it as the standard of holy conduct. Owen emphasizes that the Law, fulfilled in Christ, remains the foundation for our ethical life. Freed from its penalty, we are now empowered by the Spirit to walk in newness of life, following the Law out of love and gratitude.

The Law and Christian Living: Obedience Flowing from Gratitude

For the believer, the Law is not a burden but a delight, for it is now written on our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Jeremiah 31:33). The Spirit within us makes obedience possible and joyful, not because we are earning God’s favor, but because we already have it. Our obedience, therefore, is a response of gratitude. Just as Christ loved the Father and obeyed Him perfectly, we too, out of love for Christ, seek to obey His commandments (John 14:15).

Obedience is not a legalistic attempt to earn God’s grace. Instead, it is the natural response of one who has received God’s grace. Christ’s yoke is easy, and His burden is light (Matthew 11:30). While the Law, apart from Christ, can only condemn, within the Gospel, the Law becomes a source of wisdom, guiding us in the way of life.

How Modern Christians are Commanded to Live by the Law and the Gospel

For today’s believers, these principles remain just as vital. Modern Christians are called to live according to the pattern Christ has set. The Apostle Paul tells us that the Law is fulfilled in love (Romans 13:10). In obeying the commandments, we reflect Christ’s own love and fulfill His purposes in the world.

First, we are called to honor the Law by loving God and our neighbor. This is the essence of the Ten Commandments, which Christ summarized as loving God with all our heart, soul, and mind and loving our neighbor as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-40). Our love for others is a testimony to the God who has loved us, and by showing this love, we fulfill the righteous requirement of the Law.

Second, we are commanded to reject sin and pursue holiness. Though we live in a culture that often dismisses God’s commands, we are called to be holy as God is holy (1 Peter 1:16). This means saying no to sin and yes to righteousness in every area of life—our thoughts, words, and deeds. Holiness is not optional for the Christian; it is the inevitable fruit of our union with Christ.

Third, we are to rely upon the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to live in obedience. God does not leave us to obey on our own. The Spirit enables us to follow God’s Law, not out of duty alone, but with a willing and joyful heart. This reliance on the Spirit is what differentiates Christian obedience from mere legalism.

Finally, we are to view our obedience as a response of worship. When we obey God’s Law, we are offering our lives as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to Him (Romans 12:1). In every act of obedience, we are worshiping the God who saved us and fulfilling His purpose for our lives.

Conclusion: The Law and Gospel in Harmony

In conclusion, God’s Law and the Gospel are not at odds but are beautifully united in Christ. The Law reveals God’s standard, the Gospel meets that standard through Christ, and believers are called to honor both in their lives. As John Owen reminds us, the death of Christ upholds the Law, allowing mercy to flow while maintaining God’s justice. And as we live in the freedom purchased by Christ, we are called to keep His commandments—not as a way to earn salvation, but as a joyful response to the grace we have received.

Modern Christians, then, are commanded to live in a way that honors both the Law and the Gospel: with hearts of gratitude, obedience empowered by the Spirit, and lives that shine the light of Christ in a dark world. This is the way of holiness, the calling of every believer. And as we walk this path, we fulfill God’s purpose, bearing witness to the power of the Gospel and reflecting the glory of the One who saved us.

May we live with hearts that delight in His Law, even as we rest in His grace. For in Christ, we find both the perfect fulfillment of the Law and the boundless mercy of God, transforming our lives into a testament of His love and righteousness.

Genesis 1–3 serves as more than just the story of creation and humanity’s earliest days; it reveals profound themes of creation, sin, and redemption—the very foundations of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Let’s delve into these chapters with a theological lens, examining their timeless truths and practical implications.

Creation: The Gospel’s Foundation (Genesis 1–2)

God’s Sovereignty and Goodness in Creation

The Bible opens with a bold statement of divine power: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Gen. 1:1). In this single line, we see God as the absolute Creator, bringing forth the universe from nothingness. Every element of creation, every detail, was spoken into existence by His command. Here we are reminded that life itself, and all within it, exists under God’s authority. Our existence is grounded in His will, making every breath a gift and every day a call to live under His sovereignty.

Creation unfolds with God’s repeated affirmation, “And God saw that it was good.” With each stage, God’s creative work is marked by order, beauty, and purpose. This “goodness” not only declares His craftsmanship but also establishes the inherent value of the created world. Practically, as beneficiaries of His creation, we’re called to honor and care for it, reflecting the glory of its Maker by being stewards of the world around us.

Humanity: Created in God’s Image

Unlike anything else in creation, humans are made in God’s own image (Genesis 1:26–27). This image isn’t about physical form; rather, it reflects spiritual and moral likeness—our ability to reason, love, and pursue righteousness. It is this divine imprint that gives humanity unique dignity, worth, and purpose. Practically speaking, being made in God’s image means our lives are to mirror His character. In every act of kindness or justice, we reflect His nature to the world.

The Covenant of Works

Genesis 2 introduces the covenantal relationship between God and humanity. God places Adam in the Garden of Eden, providing him with every good thing but restricting access to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. This covenant of works symbolizes that obedience is the basis for fellowship with God. Although this covenant was broken, it foreshadows a greater covenant of grace fulfilled by Jesus Christ, who would keep this obedience on our behalf. The covenant reminds us of humanity’s original purpose and God’s holy standard.

The Fall: Humanity’s Desperate Need for Redemption (Genesis 3:1–7)

Temptation and the Nature of Sin

The third chapter of Genesis recounts a devastating event—the fall of humanity. Through the subtle deception of the serpent, Satan sows doubt in Eve’s mind, leading her to question God’s command and ultimately disobey. This act of defiance introduces sin and rebellion, severing humanity’s relationship with God. Here, we observe the deceptive nature of sin; it often begins as a simple doubt or questioning of God’s truth. Just as Eve was led astray by deception, we too are warned to guard our hearts and minds against sin’s enticing lies.

Consequences of Sin

Immediately after eating the forbidden fruit, Adam and Eve experience shame, fear, and guilt, trying to hide from God (Gen. 3:7–8). Sin always brings separation—from God and from each other—leading to a cycle of guilt and broken fellowship. Their disobedience ushers in a curse upon all creation, resulting in suffering, toil, and ultimately death (Gen. 3:14–19). This passage serves as a reminder of sin’s pervasive and destructive nature. It also underscores the dire need for a Savior, one who would restore what was lost and reconcile us to God.

The Protoevangelium: The First Gospel Promise (Genesis 3:15)

The Seed of the Woman and the Defeat of the Serpent

Amidst the judgment, there is a glimmer of hope. In Genesis 3:15, God promises enmity between the serpent and the seed of the woman: “He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” Known as the protoevangelium, or “first gospel,” this verse prophesies a future Redeemer. Christ, the promised seed, would ultimately crush the serpent’s head, even though it would come at the cost of His own suffering. The implications are profound—Christ’s suffering on the cross, His “bruised heel,” would secure victory over Satan, symbolizing the crushing defeat of sin and death.

Christ’s Suffering and Victory

This early promise in Genesis points directly to Christ’s redemptive work, showing us that God’s plan of salvation was present from the very beginning. This first gospel promise assures us that God’s mercy is greater than our sin and that He has provided a path to redemption. For believers, this assurance allows us to live in the hope and security that sin has been defeated through Christ.

God’s Provision and the Covenant of Grace (Genesis 3:21–24)

God’s Covering for Sin

In a merciful act, God provides Adam and Eve with garments of skins, symbolizing atonement and foreshadowing the sacrificial system to come (Gen. 3:21). Their own fig-leaf coverings were inadequate; only God’s provision could truly cover their shame. Here we see a type of Christ’s sacrifice: just as blood was shed to cover their sin, Christ’s blood covers ours. Practically, this teaches us that we cannot cover our own guilt and shame; only through Christ’s righteousness and His atoning blood are we justified before God.

Exile and the Hope of Restoration

Adam and Eve are banished from Eden, a sign of the separation between God and humanity brought on by sin. Yet, their exile is not without hope. The rest of the biblical narrative unfolds God’s plan to restore humanity to Himself through Jesus. The promise of a new creation, a restored heaven and earth, assures us that despite our present separation, believers will one day experience eternal life with God. This hope transforms how we view our lives, our trials, and our future.

Christ Foreshadowed in Genesis 1–3

Adam as a Type of Christ

In Romans, Paul calls Adam a “type” of Christ (Romans 5:12–21). While Adam’s failure brought sin and death, Christ’s obedience brings righteousness and life to all who believe. Christ is the true and better Adam, fulfilling the covenant of works on our behalf. This typology reminds us that salvation does not depend on our merit but rests solely on Christ’s righteousness imputed to us.

Eden as a Shadow of the New Creation

Eden represents paradise lost, but in Revelation, paradise is restored through Christ’s redemptive work. The new heaven and earth will be a place where God dwells with His people, free from sin, death, and suffering. Eden foreshadows the eternal paradise to come, calling us to live in hope, knowing that God’s promises are sure and His purpose is to restore all things.

Practical Reflections

1. Reflecting God’s Image in Our Lives
   Being made in the image of God calls us to live lives that mirror His character. Whether in our relationships, work, or choices, we are to pursue holiness, kindness, and justice. Every act of righteousness, mercy, or love reflects God’s image to a watching world.
2. Guarding Against Sin’s Deception
   Just as the serpent’s deception led to humanity’s fall, sin today often begins subtly. We must guard our minds, trust in God’s Word, and pray for discernment. By anchoring ourselves in Scripture and seeking God’s wisdom, we stand firm against sin’s enticing lies.
3. Living in the Hope of Redemption
   The gospel was present even in the aftermath of the fall, pointing to Jesus as the promised Redeemer. As believers, we live in the assurance that our sins are forgiven and that one day we will be with God forever. This hope should shape every part of our lives, transforming us from despair to joy, from guilt to gratitude.
4. Responding with Repentance and Faith
   God sought Adam and Eve in their sin, a picture of His pursuit of us. Our response must be one of repentance, turning from sin, and placing our faith in Christ. Only in Him do we find true covering and lasting peace.
5. Honoring Creation as Stewards
   Humanity’s role in creation, described in Genesis 1–2, reminds us to honor and care for God’s world. By treating creation responsibly, we reflect our reverence for its Creator and honor His work.

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Conclusion

Genesis 1–3 introduces God as Creator, humanity as fallen, and Christ as Redeemer. Through creation, fall, and redemption, we see the essence of the gospel laid bare. These chapters call us to live as stewards of God’s creation, as followers of His Word, and as believers in His promise. The gospel of Jesus Christ is woven into these first pages, urging us to embrace its truth, live in hope, and trust in God’s ultimate plan for restoration and eternal life with Him.

Thank You for Your Support!

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