Christianity has something to offer that no other religion does – Jesus Christ. This study explores the person of Jesus Christ, who He is, and what He has done for us.

All of the following are PDF files

How Much do You Know About Jesus?

1. Jesus is Preeminent

2. Jesus is Pictured in the Old Testament

3. Jesus is Present in the Old Testament

4. Jesus is Prophesied of in The Old Testament

5. Jesus and the Incarnation

7. Jesus – God in the Flesh (His Deity)

8. Jesus – God in the Flesh (His Humanity)

9. Jesus and the New Covenant

10. Jesus and Our New Relationship

11. Jesus and our New Freedom

12. Jesus our Substitute

13. Jesus our Redeemer

14. Jesus our Risen Saviour

15. Jesus our Coming Lord

16. Jesus our Righteous Judge

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In 1893 the World’s Columbian Exposition was held in Chicago, among many other things, this exposition hosted what was called the “World Parliament of Religions”. This organization was comprised of leaders from many different religions. Their goal was to meet and to share common beliefs, perhaps even to come up with a new religion. D.L. Moody chose not to take part in this meeting. When Moody’s friends asked him to attack the “World parliament of Religions”, he refused. Moody said “I am going to make Jesus Christ so attractive that men will turn to Him”. Moody decided to appoint preachers at strategic locations to preach the gospel, and he even rented the circus tent to hold revival meetings! Of the over two million people in attendance at the Exposition, many thousands came to Christ under the preaching of D.L. Moody.

While many religions share similarities and common beliefs, no religion offers what Christianity does – Jesus Christ. He does not belong in a world parliament of religions and he does not belong in a comparative religions class. Jesus Christ stands apart as the preeminent son of God, by whom all things were created and consist.

Through these Bible studies we will learn who Jesus Christ is, what position he holds, what he has done for us, and how this affects our lives day to day. I can think of no nobler task then to delve into God’s word seeking to learn all about Jesus and then appropriating and obeying the things learned. For the next few months we will take on this task and I believe it will prove to be a blessing to our church and to us as individuals.

• Colossians 1:18 And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the ______________________________.

This verse tells us that Christ is to have the “preeminence”. The word preeminence means Superior to all others.

There were men and women in Colosse who were attempting to lead the Colossian church astray. These folks were Gnostics. They believed that Christ was simply one of many spirits which came from God, each successive generation of spirits being less godlike then the previous. Paul took the occasion of this letter to set the Colossians straight. Christ was not to be put in a line of succession because he is above all (John 3:31, Eph 1:22). For the remainder of this study we will examine some reasons why Christ should be given all preeminence.

His Nature Displays His Preeminence

• Col 1:15 Who is the __________________ of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:

• Col 2:9 For in him dwelleth __________ the _______________ of the _________________ ______________.

Q. With these verses in mind, how would you describe Jesus?

Christ by his very nature is the preeminent one. His preeminence is not something that we give Him, it is simply something that we acknowledge and respond to.

All other major religions may have teachings, tenets, rituals, or regulations but none of them have an originator who claimed to be God and then affirmed his divinity by the resurrection from the dead.

• Romans 1:3-4 Concerning _______ _________ Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; And declared to be the ___________________________ with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the __________________________ from the dead:

Jesus Christ was God clothed in human flesh. He possessed all the power and majesty of God the Father yet he took on human form.

• 1 Timothy 3:16. Q. How was God manifest on earth?

• John 14:9, John 10:30. Q. Who does Jesus claim to be?

Jesus has been given preeminence not because of anything he has done, but because of his very nature. To do anything other than place Jesus in his proper place as preeminent Lord and God is to deny his deity. Any teaching which attempts to place Jesus on the same level as other religious figures ignores the clear teachings of scripture, the testimony of Jesus himself, the historic fact of the resurrection, and the witness of millions of Christians since his death on the cross.

Christ did not claim to be a teacher, philosopher or religious leader; he claimed to be God in the flesh. Jesus’ divine nature makes him preeminent over all of creation. How should his preeminence affect your daily life?

His Works Declare His Preeminence

Not only does Christ have preeminence because of his divine nature, but he declared his superiority over all, by his works.

His Work of Creating

Do you know what the first recorded words of Jesus are in the Bible? In Genesis 1:3 it says And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. According scripture, these words were spoken by Jesus Christ himself!

• Hebrews 1:2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by _____________, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, ______________________ also he ______________________________;

Q. According to that verse by whom were the worlds made?

• Colossians 1:16 For by him were ______________________________, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: ________________ _____________________________, and for him:

When Jesus Christ walked the earth 2000 years ago, he was actually stepping into his own creation. He is the creator of all things.

His Work of Sustaining

Not only did the Lord Jesus Christ create all things, but he actively sustains and upholds all of his creation.

• Colossians 1:17 And he is before all things, and ___________________

___________________________________.

• Hebrews 1:3. Q. According to this verse, how are all things upheld?

His Work of Redeeming

• Colossians 1:20 And, having made peace through the _____________ ______________________, by him to ________________ _______ things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.

Not only did Jesus create all things, and not only does he uphold all things, but he has also redeemed all things. Jesus has purchased all of creation with his blood, and has redeemed it from the curse of sin. (Rom 8:22-23, Acts 20:28). Jesus’ preeminence is displayed by his works. Can you think of a way that our society has robbed Jesus of his preeminence in creation?

His Position Demands Preeminence

• Colossians 1:18. Q. What is Christ’s position in the church?

Q. For what reason does he hold this position?

Jesus is the head of the church. This means that all that is said and done within the church should be done in recognition that He is in charge! All of our preaching, programs and planning should exalt Jesus Christ into his rightful position as Head of the church.

Q. Whether it is preparing a sermon, planning a program, or setting an agenda how can we operate in a way which recognizes Christ as the head of the church?

Q. According to Colossians 2:10 and Ephesians 1:21, what also is Christ the head of?

All principality and power speaks of the angelic world. Not only is Christ the head of the church, but he is far above all the angelic hosts. Christ position of headship demands preeminence. When we fail to submit to Christ within the church we violate his preeminence and set ourselves up in his place.

In 3 John 1:9 we read of such a case. • 3 John 1:9 I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the __________________________ among them, _________________________________

We must always beware of men, movements or methods that fail to put Christ first and recognize His preeminence.

John the Baptist said He must increase, but I must decrease. Paul said in 1 Cor 2:2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. Both these men were in submission to Christ’s preeminence. Lastly, let’s consider that…

His Commission Depends on His Preeminence

Speaking of his death, Jesus said in John 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. The same is true today in the way in which we present Christ. The church must always lift him up into his proper place of preeminence. Making much of his person and his work on the cross will see men drawn to Him. We must always decrease and make him first in our church, our homes and our lives. Christ displays, declares, and demands the preeminence in all things.

Review

1. What truth did Moody illustrate by remaining separate from the world parliament of religions and holding his own revival services?

2. What does it mean when we say “Christ is preeminent”?

3. What are some things that set Christianity apart from other religions?

4. What affect do you think a belief in evolution might have on the preeminence of Christ?

5. Compare Genesis 1:3 and Hebrews 1:3, what is similar about the way everything was created, and the way it is upheld?

6. How can we keep Christ preeminent in our church?

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Last week we learned that Jesus Christ is preeminent.  That is, God has given him power and authority over all of Creation until all things are put under his feet.

• 1 Corinthians 15:27-28 For he hath put ____________________ under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.

All the power and authority of the Godhead is present in Jesus Christ, yet Christ’s ultimate purpose in his work is that God the father would be glorified as all in all.

1 Cor 15:28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.

Today we will see that the life of Jesus Christ and his substitutionary death on the cross were not only in God’s plan from the beginning, but that they are clearly foreshadowed throughout the Old Testament.

• Luke 24:25-27. In these verses, the resurrected Christ is speaking to men on the road to Emmaus. Q. According to verse 25, who did Jesus say they were slow to believe?

Q. According to verse 26, what facts did all the prophets speak of?

Q. v27. What portions of Scripture did Jesus use to teach these men about himself?

Jesus indicated that the Old Testament scripture, and all the prophets testified of himself and his suffering on the cross.  Jesus repeated this in John 5 while speaking to the Jews.

• John 5:39 Search _________________________________; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which _____________________________

Whether we are reading the Old Testament or the New, Jesus Christ is the common theme.  While reading the Bible, we ought always look for Christ, whether pictured, prophesied of, or present, all of the scriptures are about Him!

Pictures of Christ in the Old Testament

• Colossians 2:16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17 Which are a _________________;but the body is of Christ.

Although the Old Testament scriptures are replete with foreshadowings, or types of Jesus Christ, time and space will permit us to only look briefly at a few examples.

Adam

The Bible indicates that Adam is both a type and a contrast of Jesus Christ. Today we will deal with the areas in which Adam typified Christ.

• Romans 5:14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam’s transgression, who is the ______________________________.

His unique birth and position

Adam was the firstborn, and had dominion over all of creation (Gen 1:26).  Christ is the only begotten of the father and has dominion over all (Eph 1:20,21).

His headship over the human race

Adam was the progenitor of the fallen human race.  Jesus entered his creation to become the head of a new creation.

• 1 Cor 15:22 For as in ___________ all _______, even so in __________ shall all be made ____________________

His bride taken from his wounded side.

In Gen 2 we are told that God caused a sleep to fall upon Adam.  At which time God opened Adams side in order to make Eve his wife.  This is a direct picture of our relationship to Jesus Christ.  Like Adam, Jesus was wounded for us (Isa 53:5), his side was opened (John 19:34), and all for the purpose of bringing his bride to Him. This is the allusion in Ephesians chapter five.

• Eph 5:25 Husbands, love your _________________________ even as Christ also loved the _________________,and gave himself for it;

• Ephesians 5:27 That he might ________________________ a glorious church….

Q. What similarities are there between Eph 5:30, and Gen 2:23?

Jesus, our Ark of Safety

Another Old Testament picture of the coming savior is that of Noah’s ark.

The Ark was the Means of Salvation from Coming Judgment

• Genesis 6:13-14 And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, ___________________________________ with the earth. 14 Make thee _____________________ of gopher wood…

• Hebrews 11:7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the _____________________ of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the _________________________which is by __________________________.

Noah, warned of the coming judgment, obeyed God by faith.  His acceptance of God’s plan by faith, made him the heir of righteousness.  Compare this to • Romans 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for ___________________________to every one that __________________________.

The Ark was Planned by God

We read in Genesis 6, God’s instruction to Noah regarding the ark. Genesis 6:15 begins “And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of”.  The ark, God’s means of salvation from the coming judgment, was planned entirely by the Father. Not one element of design was left for Noah’s creation.

The Ark was Sealed. Noah sealed the ark with pitch (Gen 6:14), making it impenetrable by the judgment waters.  We are sealed in Christ by the Holy Spirit of God. • 2 Corinthians 1:22 Who hath also _____________ us, and given the earnest of the________________________in our hearts.

The Ark had Only one Door. Gen 6:16 tells us the ark was designed with only one means to enter.  Jesus Christ alone is the way to the Father (John 14:6). • John 10:9 I am the ______________: by me if any man ________ in, he shall be ____________, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

The Ark Ushered in the Rainbow Covenant. Once God’s watery judgment ceased, he gave man the rainbow covenant, signifying his promise never again to judge the world in such a manner. Rev 10:1, speaking of Christ says:  And I saw another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a ___________________ was upon his head, and his face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire:. Jesus bears the rainbow of peace, reminding his church that Judgment has passed.

Noah and his family were safe in the ark of salvation.  He found grace, obeyed by faith and became an heir of righteousness. What a clear picture of our salvation in Jesus Christ!

Other Old Testament Pictures of Christ

The types and pictures of Jesus in the Old Testament are far too numerous to deal with in this small study.  See if you can answer the following questions regarding a few more foreshadowings of Jesus.

What are the Old Testament pictures of Christ as recorded in these passages? What are some ways you think they are related?

Manna

Q. John 6:32-35. (Exodus 15 – )

The Brazen Serpent

Q. John 3:14,15 (Number 21:8,9)

The Passover Lamb

Q. 1 Cor 5:7 (Exodus 12:21 – )

Jonah

Q. Matthew 12:40

Melchisedec

Q. Hebrews 7

Joseph

By reading through Genesis 37,39-41,45-46 you can see many similarities between Joseph and Jesus. Considering reading these chapters and recording your observations.

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Last week we learned that there are many types and pictures of Jesus Christ throughout the Old Testament. This week we will see that Jesus is not only pictured in the Old Testament but that he is also present within it.

Before we can understand Christ’s role in the Old Testament we must first understand the nature of God the Father.

• 1 Timothy 1:17 Now unto the King eternal, immortal, ______________, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

• 1 Tim 6:16, 1 John 4:12. According to these verses, who has seen, or who can see God?

The Bible teaches that God the Father is a spirit (John 4:24) and that He is the eternal, immortal, and invisible God. Due to God’s spiritual nature, we as finite human beings are incapable of seeing His face.

• Exodus 33:20 And he said, Thou ______________ see my face: for there shall _____________________ see me, and live.

Now there is what appears to be a glaring contradiction between the above teaching and some Old Testament scripture. Look up Numbers 12:8 where God the Father is speaking to Aaron and Miriam about Moses.

• Num 12:8 With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even ___________ and not in dark speeches; and the ___________________ of the LORD shall he ______________…

If God is an invisible spirit, and if no man has or can see Him, how is it that Moses was able to behold Him? For the answer, consider these verses:

• Col 1:15 [Jesus] Who is the _________ of the ________________ God, the firstborn of every creature:

• John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten ________, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath____________ him.

Jesus Christ is the image of the invisible God. Jesus said to Philip he that hath seen me hath seen the Father (John 14:9). Truly God the Father is the invisible, unseeable God. He has chosen, since the beginning of time to manifest himself to mankind through the second person of the Godhead – God the Son. Even before Jesus was manifest in the flesh he had an active role in God’s dealings with man. Remember the statement for which the Jews desired to stone Jesus, “Before Abraham was, I am”.

Jesus Appears to Moses

There are certain peculiar occasions in the Old Testament where we find men and women interacting with one known as The Angel of the Lord. This particular angel allowed both Joshua and Manoah to bow down before Him. In both Rev 19:10 and 22:8,9 we see angels refusing worship. In Col 2:18 we are commanded not to worship angels. What made the Angel of the Lord different?

The word translated angel throughout the Bible simply means messenger or one who declares a message. This word is used in Rev 2,3 to describe pastors (men who declared the message of the gospel). Likewise, in referring to the Angel of the Lord, we see one who is declaring God`s message to man. Now look up John 1:18 which is speaking about Jesus.

• John 1:18 No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­_______________________.

Before and after his incarnation, Jesus as God the son, has had the role of declaring God the Father to man. It seems quite probable that the special messenger in the Old Testament known as the Angel of the Lord, who received worship, was none other than God the Son before his incarnation.

Now let`s look at the interaction which Moses had with the Angel of the Lord.

• Exodus 3:2. Q. Who appeared to Moses in the burning bush?

• Exodus 3:4. Q. Who spoke to Moses through the bush?

Q. What conclusion can you draw by comparing Exodus 3:2 and 3:6?

• Ex 3:14. Q. What title did God claim for Himself while speaking to Moses from the bush?

• John 8:58. Q. What did God the Son say of himself in this verse?

Moses had an encounter with God in the desert. God the Son, as the angel of the Lord spoke to Moses from the burning bush. So we see that even before his incarnation, Jesus had the role of declaring God to man. In this instance he reveals for the first time, God as the great I AM, the unchanging, eternal and self-sustaining God.

Jesus Appears to Abraham

For this portion of our study we will look at Genesis 18 and 19, where we find Abraham and Sarah interacting with the angel of the Lord.

• Gen 18:1. Q. Who appeared to Abraham in the plains of Mamre?

• Gen 18:2. Q. In what form did Abraham see the Lord?

In Genesis 18 we see the Lord appearing to Abraham in the form of a man. The Bible says that three men met him by his tent. Pay close attention to the conversation which Abraham had with these men. Q. According to verses 13, 17, 20, who was speaking to Abraham?

God delivered the distressing news to Abraham that Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed because they had become overrun with sexual immorality. And then the Bible says in Gen 18:22 And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom….

In the following chapter we see the account of the destruction of Sodom. • According to Genesis 19:1, how many angels came into the city? _____.

Q. How many angels were there originally? _________. By comparing these verses we find that one of the angels was not a mere angel. Apparently only two of the three angels left Abraham and entered into Sodom. In Genesis 18:22 we see the identity of the third “angel”.

• Genesis 18:22 And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet _________________________.

Abraham immediately began to beg God to spare the city for the sake of his nephew Lot. What follows (Gen 23-33) is the amazing account of Abraham’s intercessory prayer. He stood boldly before God and petitioned him to spare the city if at least twenty righteous men could be found. God the Son received Abraham’s prayer and promised not to destroy the city if twenty righteous could be found. Unfortunately for Abraham and for Lot, the city had so corrupted itself that God did not find even this small amount of righteous men.

The eternal Son mediated between Abraham and God the Father. According to Hebrews 7:25 Jesus continues his ministry of intercession for us today. In Hebrews 4:16 we are encouraged to, like Abraham, come boldly before God to obtain mercy in times of need. Have you failed to bring some distress before Jesus Christ?

Jesus Appears to Joshua

You probably know the story in Joshua 6 about Jericho very well. But have you ever paid much attention to the preceding verses at the end of Joshua 5? In these few short verses we see an amazing meeting between Joshua and the captain of the Lord’s host.

• Read Joshua 5:13-15.

Q. Who did this man claim to be?

Q. What was Joshua’s reaction to the revelation that this was the Captain of the Lord’s host?

Q. Considering Joshua’s reaction, could this have been an ordinary angel? Why or Why Not?

The captain of the Lord’s host did not refuse Joshua’s worship. This indicates that he was not an angel, but God himself appearing in human form. The title which he used for himself “captain of the Lord’s host” is in reference to God’s legion of angels. This man was the head of all the heavenly army of angels. Compare this to Matthew 25:31 which describes Jesus coming for the final judgment.

• Matthew 25:31 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and _____________________________________ with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: (also 2 Th 1:7,8)

There is no doubt that the miraculous victory Joshua and Israel gained over Jericho was due to Jesus and his heavenly host battling on their behalf!

Q. Lastly, what similarities do you see between Josh 5:15 and Ex 3:5?

As we study the word of God it should become increasingly clear that Jesus Christ is the central figure. Though he took on human flesh in Bethlehem, he has always existed and has always been the express image of the Father. God has chosen to reveal himself to mankind in the person of the Son. Truly no man has ever seen the Father, but the son has declared him. Remember that not only is Jesus pictured in the Old Testament but he is also present! Whenever you read the Bible, never fail to look for Jesus in its pages.

Review

1. What are two reasons that man has never seen the Father?

2. What did Jesus tell Philip about “seeing” God?

3. How do we know that the angel of the Lord was not a mere angel?

4. In its strictest sense, what does the word angel mean?

5. What did God the son do for Abraham that he also does for us?

6. What is Jesus’ relationship to the angels?

7. What did God the Son do before he took on Human flesh at Bethlehem?

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So far in our studies concerning the Lord Jesus Christ, we have seen that he is pictured, and present in the Old Testament. This week we will see that there are many Old Testament prophecies concerning Christ.

• Matthew 5:17,18. What did Jesus say he would do concerning the law and prophets?

The birth, life, death, resurrection and eternal state of Christ are all fulfillments of Old Testament prophecies. For this reason, it is common to see the phrase “that it might be fulfilled” in connection with events in the life of the Lord Jesus. Immediately following the use of this phrase in the New Testament we generally read a quotation of an Old Testament prophecy that has been fulfilled by the life of Christ.

An example. • Matthew 1:18-23. According to verse 22, why did the events in the preceding verses take place?

Prophecies Concerning his Ministry

• Luke 4:16-21. When Jesus began his preaching ministry he stood in the synagogue and read from Isaiah 61:1,2. What did Jesus say in verse 21 concerning the passage in Isaiah?

Q. What 6 things did Isaiah 61:1,2 say that Jesus would do in his ministry?

1.	2,
3.	4.
5.	6.

Jesus, with a Jewish audience, claimed that this prophecy would be fulfilled by his life and ministry.

Q. Comparing the prophecy in Ps 78:2 with it’s fulfillment in Matt 13:34,35, what did the Old Testament say about the way in which Jesus would teach?

Jesus’ disciples were unaware that this passage spoke of Christ. They asked him in Matt 13:10 Why speakest thou unto them in parables? For the disicples, to walk side by side with Christ was to see the mysteries and vague prophecies of the Old Testament come to life, and be clarified as his life, ministry and very person fulfilled them.

Prophecies of His Birth

• Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a __________; Behold, a _________________ shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name ______________________.

The Jewish people were given this very peculiar prophecy 700 years before the birth of Christ. Immanuel means “God with us”, this was to be a title of Christ and not a proper name (see Isa 9:6). As we saw yesterday, this prophecy was fulfilled in Matthew 1:18-23. Matthew 23 is a direct quotation of Isaiah 7:14.

Not only do we find a prophecy regarding the nature of his birth, but we also see a direct prophecy regarding the place of his birth. When the wise men inquired of Herod Where is he that that is born King of the Jews? The priests and scribes answered by quoting the prophet Micah. (Matt 2:2-6)

• Micah 5:2 But thou, ________________________ Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ________________ in Israel; whose goings forth have been from ______________________ from ____________________________.

It was this prophecy that sent the wisemen on their way to Bethlehem to worship Jesus. Herod was troubled at the prospects of the Jews following another King, so he set out to destroy every child two years and younger in Bethlehem and the surrounding coasts. Q. What does Matthew 2:17 say regarding this cruel decree? Jeremiah 31:15

At this time, Joseph, Mary and Jesus were no longer in Bethlehem, they were warned by an angel to flee into Egypt. Q. What do Matt 2:14, 15 indicate about this move? Hosea 11:1

Think • Discuss. How do you think John 3:16 relates to the verse below? What should have the titles at the end of this verse told the Jews about the Messiah? What did they overlook?

• Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a _________________ is______________, unto us a ________________ is ___________________; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

All throughout the narrative of the life of Christ we see the fulfillment of prophecy. It is no wonder that Jesus in Luke 24 was able to expound unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself!

Jesus – That Prophet

Did you know that the Bible not only contains prophecy regarding the birth of Christ, but also the ministry of his forerunner, John the Baptist?

When the priests and Levites came to John to inquire about his identity, he responded by quoting Isaiah 40:3.

Isaiah 40:3 – Prophecy	John 1:23 – John the Baptist
The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.	He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias.

In seeking who John was, the Jews asked him in John 1:21 Art thou that prophet? John answered and said no. This seemingly vague reference to that prophet was not so vague to a student of the scriptures! They were right to be awaiting that prophet but were wrong in thinking it was John.

• Deut 18:18. Speaking to Moses, what did God say he would do for Israel?

It was the coming of this prophet, promised all the way back in Deut 18, which the Jews were referring to. They were unaware that Jesus Christ also fulfilled this prophecy. Although the priests and Levites did not make the connection, those who witnessed Christ’s miracles did:

• John 6:14 Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Jesus did, said, This is of a truth ____________________ that should come into the world.

Peter makes all of this very clear in • Acts 3:22, 23.

Q. From which people would God raise up this prophet?

Q. Who would this prophet be like?

Q. What would happen to those who did not listen to this prophet?

Think • Discuss. The Jews were given ample prophecy concerning the coming Messiah. Why do you think the Jews did not accept Christ as the Messiah? Why did they not make the connections between the prophecies and Christ as the fulfillment?

Jesus and His Suffering

There are two Old Testament chapters that seem to explicitly detail the suffering of Christ. Both Isaiah 53 and Psalm 22 offer so many details fulfilled by Christ, that it leaves little doubt to the honest reader that they were divinely inspired prophecies regarding Jesus.

Read Isaiah 53, and consider how clearly it is reflected in the New Testament.

V1	Who has believed our report?	John 12:37-38, Rom 10:16
V3	Despised and rejected	Luke 17:25, John 1:10-11, 1 Peter 2:4
V4	He has borne our infirmities	1 Peter 2:24, Matt 8:16-17
V4	Considered smitten by God	Gal 3:13, Matt 27:38-44, Luke 23:35
V5	Wounded for our transgressions	Rom 4:25, 1 Pet 2:24
V5	We are healed by his stripes	1 Peter 2:24
V5	Jesus was scourged	Mark 15:15, Luke 22:63-65, John 19:1
V7	Silent before His accusers	Matt 26:62-63, 27:12-14, Mark 14:60-61, 15:3-15, John 19:9, Acts 8:32-35
V8	Christ died for our sins	1 Cor 15:3
V9	Died with the wicked	Mat 27:38, Mar 15:27,28, Luke 23:32-33
V9	Buried with the rich	Matt 27:57-60, Mark 15:43-46, Luke 23:50-53, John 19:38-42
V9	Lived a sinless life	1 Peter 2:22, Heb 4:15
V10	Jesus was an offering for sin	1 Cor 15:3, Hebrews 10:12-14
V11	He would justify many	Acts 13:38-39, Rom 5:17-19
V12	He will be great	Matt 28:18, Luke 24:27
V12	Numbered with transgressors	Matt 27:38, Mark 15:27-28
V12	Made intercession for sinners	Luke 23:34, 39-43, Rom 8:34

Now read Psalm 22. What similarities to the New Testament do you see in the following verses?

Q. Verse 8:

Q. Verse 16:

Q. Verse 18:

Tomorrow we will look up a few more verses to conclude this study.

Review

When John protested at the idea of baptizing Jesus, why did Jesus say it must be done? (Mat 3:15)

When the band of soldiers came to arrest Jesus, Peter cut off one of their ears. For what reason does Jesus tell Peter to put away his sword (Matt 26:54)?

Write from memory what you think these Old Testament verses are referring to. For a real challenge, use your concordance to try to find their New Testament counterparts!

1. Zech 9:9

2. Psalm 41:9

3. Zech 11:12,13

4. Zech 12:10

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So far in our studies All About Jesus we have seen that he is pictured, present, and prophesied of in the Old Testament.  This week we will enter into the New Testament, where we will begin to look at the life of our Lord Jesus Christ as he walked here on earth.

The Biblical teaching of God the Son coming to earth in the flesh is what we call the incarnation.  This simply means “The act of clothing with flesh” [Webster 1828]. One of the clearest teachings of the incarnation can be found in John chapter 1.

• John 1:1 In the beginning was the ______________, and the Word was with God, and the _________________________.

Comparing this verse with its context, especially verse 14, we learn that the Word is a title given to the Lord Jesus Christ.

• John 1:14 And the _______________ was made _____________, and ____________ among us, (and we ______________ his glory, the glory as of the ________  _________________ of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Q. Why can we assume that John 1:14 is referring to Jesus Christ?

• 1 Tim 3:16. Q. Who was manifest in the flesh? ____________.

Q. By the description listed in the remainder of 1 Tim 3:16, who does this verse seem to refer to?

The Incarnation – An Essential Doctrine
Believing that Jesus Christ was in fact God robed in human flesh is not an optional doctrine for the Christian. • Look up 2 John 1:7,9.

Q. How does the Bible describe one who denies Jesus came in the flesh?

Q. Considering verse 9, do you think a belief that Jesus was God in the flesh is required for someone to be saved?

• 1 John 4:1-3. In these verses we are given a test for false prophets. How can we be sure that a spirit is NOT of God?

The Virgin Birth – God’s Means for the Incarnation

Essential to the incarnation of Jesus Christ, is the virgin birth.  In order for God the Son to manifest himself on earth, in human flesh, he could not have been born of both a human Mother and Father.

• Romans 5:12. Q. This verse, speaking of Adam, indicates that he brought ___  ___  ___ into the world.

Q. What passed upon all men as a result of sin? _______________.

Q. What other impact did Adam’s sin have on all people?

• 1 Cor 15:22. Q. What happens to all those in Adam? _______________.

All descendants of Adam since this first sin have been born spiritually dead and separated from God.  In order for Jesus Christ to be the sinless saviour of the world,  he could not be born as a direct descendant of Adam.  God, through the virgin Mary, provided Jesus a human body (Heb 10:5), yet prevented him from receiving only a fallen, fleshly nature by ensuring that Joseph was not the earthly father.

• Matthew 1:20. Q. How was Jesus conceived?_______________________.

• Isa 7:14, Matthew 1:23, Luke 1:27, Q. Mary was a __________________

A sinless mother was not required for the incarnation to take place. Nor was Mary a perpetual virgin. Matthew 1:25 indicates Mary and Joseph consummated their marriage sometime after the birth of Christ. Matthew 13:55,56 indicates that Jesus had 4 brothers and at least 2 sisters.

The miracle of the virgin birth was that God interceded in the generations of man and produced a child that was not a partaker of Adam’s flesh.  Jesus was born not in the line of Adam, but as the progenitor of a new line of spiritual men and women.

• Look again at 1 Cor 15:22. In Adam all die, what happens to those in Christ?________________________.

• 2 Cor 5:17. What are those who are in Christ?____________________________.

The virgin birth was necessary for Jesus to be God incarnate. He was not born as a descendant of Adam, and through the new birth, allows us to escape the cursed line of Adam and enter into the line of Christ, as new spiritual creatures.

Reasons for the Incarnation

We have seen that a belief in the incarnation is essential for the Christian, and that the virgin birth was necessary for the incarnation to take place.  For the remainder of this study we will look at some reasons for the incarnation.

It was necessary to destroy Sin, Death and the Devil

The Devil
• Hebrews 2:14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of ___________ and _____________, he also himself likewise ___________________________________; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

Q. According to that verse, for what purpose did Jesus become flesh?

• 1 John 3:8. According to this verse, why was Jesus manifested?

Sin
• Romans 8:3. Q. What did Jesus do in his flesh?

Death
• 1 Cor 15:54-57. Q. What will happen to death at the resurrection?

Q. According to v57, how have we obtained victory over death?

Although God can do anything, he has chosen to govern himself according to His law and justice.  Jesus took on flesh so that he could fulfill the law.  If Christ did not become flesh, he could not have satisfied the penalty which the law sought to exact on mankind. Because he came in the likeness of sinful flesh, he was able to destroy sin, death and the devil by overcoming them in the flesh.

It was necessary to fulfill God’s covenant with David

• Psalm 89:3,4. Q. What was God’s promise to King David?

•Acts 2:30. Q. Who did David know would sit on his throne?

God promised David that his throne would be built up to all generations and that the one who sat on that throne would be of his seed.  There was only one possible way for this covenant to be fulfilled and that was through the person of Jesus Christ, manifest in the flesh.

• Luke 2:4. Q. Who was Joseph descended from? ________________.

• Luke 1:32. Q. What did the angel tell Mary God would give to Jesus?

• Rom 1:3. Q. Whose seed was Jesus according to the flesh?___________

Jesus is the rightful heir to the throne of David and the only one who could fulfill God’s covenant with David.  He was born in the line of David (his seed), and through the resurrection of the dead, will reign forever.

The Incarnation was necessary for us to be redeemed.

• Gal 4:4. Q. How did God send forth his son?

• Gal 4:5. Q. For what reason did God send his Son in this manner?

When Adam sinned all flesh was cursed by God.  All men became lost and in need of redemption.  Jesus, as God in the flesh, was the only one who had the right and ability to redeem us from that curse.

• Galatians 3:13 Christ hath ___________________ us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us…

It was necessary to make Christ our advocate.

• According Heb 2:17, why did Jesus become like his brethren?

• According Heb 2:18, what is Jesus able to do for us?

As our high priest Jesus intercedes on our behalf, is our advocate to the father, and helps us when we are tempted. (Succour means, help, aide or relieve).  The incarnation is essential to our Christian faith.  If Jesus did not come in the flesh, then we are still in our sins, death and the devil are undefeated, we have no advocate with the father, and we look forward to no resurrection! 1 John 4:2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:

Review

1.    What does Incarnation mean?

2.    Why do you think the incarnation is an essential doctrine?

3.    Why was the virgin birth necessary?

4.    How many other children do we know Mary had? _________.

5.    What are some reasons for the Incarnation of Christ?

6.    Why do you think Jesus is referred to as the Last Adam in 1 Cor 15:45?

Tags: bethlehem, covenant, incarnation, jesus, redemption, virgin
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Last week we looked at the doctrine of the incarnation. That is, the fact that Jesus, as God, took on human flesh and dwelt on earth. In this study we will continue to consider this doctrine, specifically regarding the Lord jesus Christ and his human nature.

Like the doctrine of the trinity, men have tried diligently to explain the incarnation in a clear and concise manner, making it easily understood.  In this effort many false ideas have arisen, and sometimes, more confusion then clarity has been created.  The fact is, according to Isaiah 55:9, God’s thoughts and his ways are far above our ability to comprehend them.  He has allowed us to grasp many eternal truths, but some remain somewhat mysterious.

Although we may have to acknowledge that the mixture of deity and humanity at the incarnation is far above our ability to understand, one thing can be certain, the Bible clearly teaches that Jesus was both man and God at the same time.

• Phil 2:6-7.  Q. Who did Jesus claim to be equal to?___________.

Q. What was Jesus made in the likeness of? ________.

We refer often to Jesus as the Son of God, and rightfully so, since Jesus claimed to be eternal (John 8:58), to be one with the Father (John 10:30), and to be the image of the Father (John 12:45), but Jesus’ preferred title was “the Son of man”. This title, used by Jesus thirty times in the book of Matthewhew alone, refers to his humanity.

Although Jesus was fully God and fully man, he did not avail himself to his divine power in much of his earthly ministry.

• John 3:34. Q. What did God give Jesus not by measure? (that is, he gave it fully) ________________________.

• John 14:12. Q. What did Jesus say regarding his works?

Although fully divine, Jesus did not avail himself to his deity in much of his earthly ministry, choosing instead, as our example to use the power of the Holy Spirit.  Look up these verses and list characteristics of Jesus that reflect his humanity. Matthew 26:37, Luke 2:40, Luke 4:2, Luke 8:23, John 4:6

Jesus Our Example

One reason why it was absolutely necessary for Jesus Christ to be fully human was so that he could be our example.  Though he came to do far more than to set an example, it remains one purpose of the incarnation.

•1 Peter 2:21. Q. What did Jesus leave us? _______________________.

Q. What should we do with this example? _______________________.

Consider the following verses and indicate in what areas we are to follow Christ’s example.

• Matthew 6:9-13)  ________________________________________.

• Col 3:13  ___________________________________________.

• Matthew 20:27-28  _______________________________________.

• John 15:10  _________________________________________.

• Matthew 11:29  _________________________________________.

• 1Pet 1:15-16________________________________________.

• 1John 3:3  _________________________________________.

• Phil 2:5-8  _________________________________________.

Although there are certain aspects of Jesus’ life that we could never duplicate, the Bible is clear that we are to try to live like Jesus lived. We can forgive others, serve others, have a humble spirit, and practice obedience, holiness, and purity.  All these things reflect the human life of Jesus as he lived in the power of the Spirit. God has given us the same Spirit and desires us to become like Christ.

• Write out 1John 2:6 ____________________________________

________________________________________________________.

Some years ago, it became popular in Christian circles to ask, What would Jesus do? Although this is a valid question, we must be careful not to relegate the life of Jesus to that of  just an example. He is our example and so much more. Remember, it is only by our surrendering to His influence in our lives by His Holy Spirit that we can be like Him. He did not come simply to show us how to live, but to give us life! (John 10:10, Rom 5:10)

Jesus Our Kinsman Redeemer

As we stated in an earlier study, although God can do anything, he has chosen to govern himself according to his justice and his law.  One portion of the law that God demands be fulfilled is that of the Kinsman Redeemer. This law is found in • Leviticus 25:47-49.

v 47. Q. Why has the man in this verse sold himself?

v 48. Q. Who can redeem or “buy back” this man?

v 48. Q. Under what conditions could he redeem himself?

This man, due to his poverty has sold himself as a slave to his debtor.  Only a near of kin could pay the debt that this man could not pay.  Once this payment was made, this man was freed from his service to his debtor and is made free.

This is the exact position in which the lost sinner finds himself.

• Rom 7:14 …. I am carnal, ________________________.

All of mankind is spiritually bankrupt and sold under sin. As a result we find ourselves as servants of sin (Rom 6:6). We do not possess the means to redeem ourselves, as the cost is death in Hell (Rom 6:23).  Thankfully we can appeal to God’s law of the kinsman redeemer and seek one to deliver us from our servitude! • John 8:34-36.

v 34. Q. What is one who commits sin? ________________________.

v 36. Q. Who can make us free? _____________________________.

Jesus fulfilled all the requirements of the kinsman redeemer when he took on human form. 1. He was able to pay the price (Rom 8:3), 2. He was willing to pay the price (Gal 1:4), 3. He himself was free (Heb 4:15), and lastly 4. He was our kinsman (Heb 2:17).

Had the incarnation not taken place, we would remain sold under sin.  From the first sin of Adam until the birth of Christ, there was never born one who could fulfill the requirements for redemption.  Jesus and he alone could be the kinsman redeemer, thus fulfilling God’s law and redeeming us from sin.

Think • Discuss Romans 6:18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.

Jesus Our High Priest

Lastly, let’s consider the role that the humanity of Christ played in his office as our high priest.

• Hebrews 2:17. Q. According to this verse, what did Jesus have to do before he could become our high priest?

• Hebrews 7:26 For such an high priest _________________, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;

Before Jesus could become our high priest he had to become like us. Now let’s look at some of the duties he performs as our high priest.

• Hebrews 2:18. Q. What does our high priest do for us?

Q. How is it that he is now able to perform this duty?

• Hebrews 7:25. Q. As a high priest, what does Christ live to do for us?

• Hebrews 10:5, 10:10. Q. As a high priest, what has Jesus offered for us?

• Hebrews 4:15,16. Q. What can we now do, since He has become our high priest?

One duty of the Old Testament priest was to enter into the holy of holies within the tabernacle in order to offer sacrifice for the sins of the people once a year.  This sacrifice did not take away sin, but acted as a temporary covering. • Hebrews 9:11-14. Q. With what did our high priest enter the holy of holies in Heaven?

Q. What was our high priest able to obtain for us, with his blood?

Jesus is our example, our kinsman redeemer, and our high priest.  None of these things could have been possible had Jesus not taken on true humanity at Bethlehem.  Though we may not fully understand it, the Bible is clear, Jesus was fully human and fully divine.

Review

1. How is it possible that we could do works like Jesus did?

2. How could Jesus be our example if he was divine?

3. How is Jesus MORE than an example?

4. Which requirement of the law of the kinsman redeemer absolutely required that Jesus become man?

5. What are some advantages that we have since Jesus is our high priest?

Tags: flesh, God, high, holy spirit, humanity, incarnation, jesus, priest, redeemer
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This is the last in our series of three lessons regarding the incarnation of Jesus Christ.  As we learned in a previous study, a belief in the incarnation is absolutely necessary for the Christian. We’ve seen Biblical proof for the humanity of the Lord Jesus Christ, and in this study we will examine the Biblical proof for his Deity.

The first proof that I would like to consider is that…

Jesus Claimed to be Divine

• John 5:23. Q. How did Jesus claim He should be honoured?

• John 10:30,31. Q. What did Jesus claim about He and the Father?

Q. Considering the Jews reaction, how did they interpret Jesus’ claim?

In John 5 we read about Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath at the pool of Bethesda. The Jews immediately began to accuse Jesus of not keeping the Sabbath.  • Q. How did Jesus answer them in John 5:17?

• John 5:18. Q. After hearing this response, the Jews “sought the more to kill Him”. Why?

If Jesus did not claim to be God, he could very easily have quelled the anger of the Jews by explaining what he really meant. The fact is, during his earthly ministry Jesus made it very clear that he was God in the flesh.  He even claimed one of the most revered names of God in the Old Testament for himself (John 8:58).

• John 14:7. Q. According to Jesus, if we know Him, whom also do we know?

• John 17:5 And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the ___________ which I had with thee ___________________.

• Read Phil 2:5-8. Write verse 6 below:

Jesus Is Worshiped

Next in our consideration of the deity of Jesus Christ we will look at the fact that Jesus Accepted Worship as God.

• Acts 10:25,26. Q. What did Peter do when Cornelius worshiped him?

• Rev 22:8,9. Q. Who did John attempt to worship? _________________.

Q. How did the angel react to this? Who did the angel tell John to worship?

From the above verses we see that it is God and God alone who deserves worship.  The Bible shows us that neither man, nor angels deserve or should accept worship.  With this in mind consider the following verses.

	Who worshiped?	Who was worshiped?
Matthew 2:11
Matthew 8:2
Matthew 9:18
Matthew 14:33
Matthew 15:25
Matthew 28:9
Matthew 28:17
Mark 5:6
Luke 24:52

Q. Did Jesus refuse worship in any of the above passages? _________.

• Exodus 34:14. Q. In your own words, what does this verse say?

The Bible is clear that Jesus never refused to be worshiped. In fact, the Bible teaches that the worship of the Lord Jesus Christ glorifies the Father.

• Phil 2:10 That at the __________________________ every knee should __________, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; 11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, ______________________________________________.

Jesus was more than a man.  He accepted worship because he deserved worship as the son of God! Think & Discuss. How can we worship Jesus in our own lives?

Jesus Possessed Divine Attributes

We have seen that Jesus claimed to be God and he accepted worship that is due only to God.  Next let’s look at the fact that Jesus Possessed Divine Attributes.

He is Eternal

• John 1:1,2 In the _________________ was the Word, and the Word was ____________________, and the Word ___________________.  The same was in the beginning with God.

• Hebrews 1:8 But unto the __________ he saith, Thy throne, O __________, is for ________  ______  ________: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.

• Rev 1:8. Q. What conclusions do you draw regarding the nature of Jesus from this verse?

• Col 1:17. And he is ______________  _______   ______________.

• John 17:5. Q. Jesus existed “before _______   ________  _________.”

He is Unchanging

• Malachi 3:6, speaking of God the father says “I am the Lord, I ________________  ___________.

• Heb 13:8. Q. How does this verse compare with Malachi 3:6?

He is Omnipotent (All Powerful)

• Heb 1:3. Q. How are all things upheld?__________________________.

He is Omnipresent (Always Present)

• Matt 18:20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, ___________________________________________.

• John 14:23. Q. How does this verse teach Jesus’ omnipresence?

• Matt 28:20. Q. Jesus said “I am with you ____________, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

These are but a few of the divine attributes exhibited by Christ during his earthly ministry. As a man Jesus did not always avail himself to his divine attributes, but as God he did always possess them. T•D. Why do you think Jesus did not always avail himself to his abilities as God?

Other Proofs of Christ’s Deity

Lastly, let’s consider three more Biblical proofs for the deity of Christ.

1. He Did Things Only God Can Do.

Write the action which Christ performed beside the verses below.

John 1:3, Col 1:16, Heb 1:10. _______________________________.

Heb 1:3, Col 1:17 ________________________________________.

John 10:28, John 17:2_____________________________________.

2. Old Testament Statements Regarding God are Ascribed to Him

By comparing the following passages you will see that Old Testament scriptures clearly referring to God are applied to Jesus in the New Testament.

• Psalm 102:24-27                Hebrews 1:8-12

Q. According to v24 in Psalms, who is the psalmist addressing?__________

Q. In Heb 1:8, who is this prophecy ascribed to? __________________

• Isaiah 40:3-4                      Matt 3:3, Luke 1:76

Q. How do these verses in Isaiah and Matthew prove that Jesus is God?

• Isaiah 8:13-14                    1 Peter 2:7,8

Q. Why does the fulfillment of the prophecy in Isaiah 8:13,14 prove that Jesus is God?

3. Divine Names are Given to Him

Find and write the divine names given to Jesus in the verses below.

• Acts 3:13   __________________________.       (21x’s)

• Acts 3:14   _____________________.     (4x’s)

• Matthew 14:23 _____________________.     (40x’s)

• 1 Cor 2:8   _____________________.     (2x’s)

• Matthew 1:23   _____________________.

• John 20:28 _____________________.

• Titus 2:13  _____________________.

Although men may argue or discuss the nature of Jesus, one thing is sure, the Word of God teaches clearly that Jesus claimed to be God, was worshiped as God, did things only God could do, fulfilled Old Testament scriptures regarding God, and was given titles only due God!

Jesus – God in the Flesh (His Deity)

1.    On multiple occasions the Jews sought to stone Jesus. If Jesus were not God in the flesh, how could he have easily prevented them from doing so?

2.    In your own words, what do you think worship means?

3.    In a practical sense, how can we worship Jesus?

4.    Which do you think best describes the nature of Jesus?

a.    On earth he was all man and part God

b.    On earth he laid aside his divine nature

c.    On earth he was all man and all God

d.    On earth he was all God and part man

5.    What are some consequences if Jesus was not God?

Tags: Deity, flesh, God, jesus
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In the last few lessons that we’ve completed, we dealt with the question of How Jesus Came.   We learned that he came to earth as fully human and as fully God.  This week we are going to consider one aspect of Why Jesus Came, that is, Jesus came to bring a new covenant.

Before we look at the new covenant, we should first look at a history of the old covenant.  The word covenant means a contract or league. It is the same word that is translated testament. We find the birth of the Old Testament or covenant in Gen 15:18 where God extended his promise to Abraham.

• Gen 17:7. The covenant which God made with Abraham was an _______________________ covenant. One aspect of this covenant is that He would be a _________ unto Abraham.  God promised Abraham that this covenant would pass from him to his next generation and so on.  It was an everlasting covenant.

Q. Who did God confirm this covenant to in • Gen 17:19,  Gen 28:13-16?

1. ___________________  2. ___________________

Jacob and his sons eventually settled in Egypt while Joseph was second in command.  Sometime after Joseph’s death, a new Pharaoh assumed power who did not know Joseph (Ex 1:8), the children of Jacob began to be oppressed and enslaved. At this time it is quite possible that the number of descendants of Jacob had reached over two million. In • Exodus 2:24 we read about this oppression:

And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his _______________ with _____________, with _____________, and with __________.

It was the covenant which God made with Joseph’s great-grandfather Abraham that caused God to bring the children of Israel (Jacob) out of Egypt. Three months after their exodus from Egypt God called Moses into Mount Sinai, not to reconfirm his Covenant to Moses, but to make this covenant with all the people of Israel. The children of Israel would become a nation governed by this covenant.

• Ex 19:5,6. Q. What were the Israelites required to do in order to benefit from God’s covenant?

Q. What were some of the benefits of this covenant?

In the chapters following we read of many judgments which God would require the Israelites to abide by, and then in Ex 24:12 we read of a Law which God gave to Moses for Israel.  Moses wrote these laws on 2 tables of stone. According to Exodus 34:28, these Ten Commandments were also called the ____________ of the ______________________.

God’s promise to Israel, starting with Abraham is that he would be a God to them, and that they would be a peculiar treasure unto him….. above all people. As Israel would discover over the next one thousand years, fulfilling God’s requirements under this covenant was no easy task.

It was under this covenant that the Tabernacle was built.  A veil was erected shutting out anyone other than the high priest from entering into the direct presence of God.  A myriad of rules, regulations and rituals stood as roadblocks to an intimate relationship with a holy God.

The history of Israel attests to the grievous nature of this covenant.  Throughout the entire Old Testament we see a people trying and failing to satisfy the righteousness required by the law.  The fact remained that under this covenant, a sinful people and a holy God could never have full and complete fellowship.

So, how could a perfect God institute what appeared to an imperfect covenant with his people?  For the answer to this look up • Heb 10:1.

For the _________ having a __________________ of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, ___________________ with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually ________________________________________________

The fact is, God’s original covenant was never intended to make his people righteous, or holy, but to show them that they could not attain righteousness or holiness by their own works.  God’s first covenant was not imperfect or incomplete; it was simply a shadow of things to come.  As we will see for the remainder of this study, the Old Covenant was made to cause God’s people to realize their need for a savior.  They could never fulfill God’s requirements of righteousness by their own efforts (Ro 9:31,32).  This is a hard lesson for mankind to learn. But the Old Testament legal system was the perfect teacher.

• Galatians 3:24,25. Q. What was the law? _______________________.

Q. Why did man need a schoolmaster? ______________________________________.

Speaking of the priesthood under the Old Covenant, Hebrews 8:5 says:

• Heb 8:5 Who serve unto the ____________________ and ____________________ of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.

God was very particular about the design of the tabernacle, why? Because it was modeled after the heavenly tabernacle.  The earthly system was an example and a picture of better things to come.

• Col 2:16, 17. Q. These verses mention some ordinances and laws.  According to verse 17, what were these things?

The concept of one dying as a sacrifice in order to atone for sin would have made no sense had God not illustrated it through the Law.  All of the Old Covenant was meant to teach and re-teach the holiness of God and the sinfulness of man.  It paved the way for the acceptance of a savior who could once and for all deliver man from his utter inability to please God. When the lesson of the Old Covenant was complete God sent his son made of a woman, made under the law (Gal 4:4), to usher in a new and better covenant for his people.

Many Jews understood the need for a savior and for a better covenant; they believed and accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. On the other hand, many Jewish people did not grasp the lessons taught by the Old Covenant.  They were determined that they could attain righteousness by their own works and the outward ceremony of the Law.

• Rom 9:31. Q. What could Israel not attain through the law?

• Rom 9:32. Q. Why could Israel not attain righteousness?

• Rom 9:33. Q. Who do you think is the stumblingstone spoken of here?

Jesus Brings a New Covenant

• Mat 5:17. Q. What did Jesus come to do? _______________________.

Jesus did not come to destroy the old covenant.  He came to fulfill it.  All the types and pictures of the old covenant pointed to the Lord Jesus Christ. The New Testament did not destroy the Old Testament,  it was the Old Testament coming to fruition in the person of Jesus Christ.

• Mat 26:28 Q. At the last supper, what did Jesus call his blood?

• Heb 12:24 Q. What is Jesus the mediator of?

• Heb 10:29 Q. What is the blood of Christ called in this verse?

A New Covenant for All People

The concept of a new covenant should not have been entirely foreign to the Jews, since the Old Testament scripture prophesied of it (Jer 31:31-34). But still most Jews rejected Jesus Christ and this new covenant.  As a result the covenant was opened to the Gentiles.  Now all men everywhere are able to enter into this covenant with God by faith.

• Jer 31:31-34. Q. What would God make with Israel?________________

Q. v33. What 4 aspects of the new covenant are found in this verse?

1.                                                            2.

3.                                                          4.

Q. v34. Under this covenant, what would God do with sin and iniquity?

All the above aspects of the new covenant were made possible by the life, death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.  He fulfilled all the requirements of the law by living a sinless and perfect life. It was his death on the cross and the shedding of his perfect blood that sealed the new covenant for us.  Man no longer has to attempt to keep the law, but rather to believe on Jesus Christ (the only one who could keep the law) for salvation.

The righteousness that God once demanded is now accomplished in us by the indwelling Holy Spirit when we come to Christ by faith.

• Rom 10:4. Q. What is Christ the end of? ________________ .

Q. What does Christ offer that the law could not?____________________.

Q. Who can have this righteousness?_____________________________.

• Rom 3:20-22. Q. What cannot happen by the deeds of the law?

Q. v 21 What type of righteousness is now manifest?__________________

Q. v 22 Who can have this righteousness? How?

• Rom 8:1-3. Q. What has made us free from the law?

Q. How did God overcome the weakness of the law?

Q. What is now fulfilled in those that walk in the spirit?

The New Covenant – By Grace Through Faith

• Galatians 2:16. Q. How is a man NOT justified?

Q. How IS a man justified?

• Galatians 3:13. Q. What has Christ redeemed us from?

As Christians we can be thankful that our relationship with God is not a legal relationship, but a love relationship.  When Jesus died on the cross, the Bible says Mark 15:38 And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom. The veil, set up under the old covenant, which separated everyone except the high priest from the direct presence of God, was ripped in half.  T•D. What does this event mean for believers in Christ?

God the Father now accepts us on his Sons behalf.  Christ is acceptable in His sight.  When we accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour we are given his righteousness, and are thereby also accepted by the Father.  The rules, regulations and rituals of the Old Testament are done away with.

1.      Can you think of a denomination or religion that still seeks to keep the law?

2. Consider Gal 2:21.  If we continue to try to keep the law in order to find favour with God, what are we saying about Christ?

Conclusion

What is the new covenant? Jesus Christ, the sinless Lamb of God gave himself a sacrifice for our sin (1 Pet 2:24).  He rose from the grave after three days and ascended into heaven where he presented his blood to the Father (Heb 9:24).  God accepted this perfect sacrifice and his blood made way for a new covenant (Heb 12:24).  Now, all those who come to Jesus Christ in faith, believing who he is and what he has done (Rom 10:9,10),  will receive the righteousness of God in the form of the Holy Spirit (Eph 1:13). God will claim all believers as his people (1 Pet 2:9), and he will be their God and Father (1 John 3:1, Gal 4:6).  Through this new covenant God has fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah 31:33-34 I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people…for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. All holiness and righteousness is now attained through a life surrendered to the Lord Jesus Christ as he influences us through his word and spirit (Heb 13:20,21).

Tags: covenant, jesus
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Last week we learned that Jesus Christ, through his life, death and resurrection has ushered in a New Covenant.  This covenant has freed us from the legal demands of the Old Covenant which were contrary to us (Col 2:14), and has opened the way of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.  In our previous study we learned mainly about the theological aspects of the covenants, this week we will examine the practical aspects of the New Covenant, that is – through the new covenant we have a New Relationship.

Remember the main aspects of this new covenant as given in Jeremiah 31 and quoted twice in the book of Hebrews. Heb 10:16-17 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.

First, we will consider the last phrase in the above passage, it indicates that this new relationship is a Fully Secure relationship.

• Heb 10:11-14. In these verses we see a contrast between the continual offering of sacrifices in the Old Testament with the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross.             Q. v12. How many sacrifices did Jesus offer for sins?_________.

Q. v12. For how long will this sacrifice be sufficient?___________.

Q. v14. Who has been perfected by his sacrifice?

The word sanctified means “to make holy or to set apart for a holy purpose”.  When we accept Christ as our Lord and Saviour we become sanctified in Him. We are cleansed and set apart for his purpose (1 Cor 6:11). The word perfected in these verses means “consecrated or complete”.

Q. v14.  For how long will these people be perfected?_______________.

• Heb 10:10. Q. For how long are we sanctified by the offering of Christ?

Under this new covenant we are given eternal life which is eternally secure.  When we give our lives to Jesus Christ, believing that he is the Son of God and that he has given himself for us on the cross (1 Pet 2:24), we are perfected and sanctified forever.  Our salvation now rests in the unchanging person of Jesus Christ.  If we believe that salvation can be lost, then we must also believe that Christ’s sacrifice on the cross was insufficient or dependent upon our own works (Heb 6:6, Gal 2:21).

Every Christian struggles with an inward conflict between the flesh and the spirit (Gal 5:17). This inward struggle should never be confused with a lack of salvation or losing our salvation.  The fact that the struggle exists in us is actually evidence that we are saved. (Rom 7:22-25, 1 John 1:8,9)

No Christian could serve God boldly and faithfully if He did not know with assurance that He were saved. The writer of Hebrews was making this very point in Hebrews 10.  In verses 10,14,17 we read about Christ’s sufficient sacrifce and the fact that we are sanctified forever.  Now look at the beneficial consequence of this fact in verse 19.

• Heb 10:19 Having therefore, brethren, _________________ to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

It is because of the blood of Jesus that we can be assured of our salvation, and it is because we can be assured of our salvation that we can approach God with boldness.  Look at verse 22 to see this message reemphasized.

• Heb 10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in _______   _____________  ______   ____________…

Now look at verse 23, Q. What reason is given for holding fast the profession of our faith without wavering?

The fact that we can be assured of our salvation is a key benefit of the New Covenant and was mentioned all the way back in Jeremiah 31 where God said And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. God desires that his children have full assurance of their faith.  Without this assurance his people would lose their boldness, their desire to draw near to Him, and the perserverance to maintain unwavering faith. It is the suffiency of Christ’s sacrifice and the faithfulness of his promises that keeps us saved.  This is all made possible by the new covenant.

The Indwelling Holy Spirit

Although the assurance of our salvation is made possible by the new covenant,  in a real and practical sense it is accomplished by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Every Christian, upon salvation, is given the Holy Spirit to dwell within him.

• John 15:26, 16:7. Who did Jesus say he would send to earth?

After Jesus ascended into Heaven he sent the Holy Spirit to earth to dwell within all those who had accepted Him as their Lord and Saviour.

• 2 Tim 1:14. Q. According to Paul, where does the Holy Spirit dwell?

• Eph 1:12,13. Q. What happens after one believes in Jesus?

• Eph 4:30. Q. What has the Spirit done for us? For how long?

Unlike the Old Testament saints, the Holy Spirit dwells in us continually and until the day of redemption.  This is also a fulfillment of Jeremiah’s prophecy concerning the New Testament.  It is through the indwelling Holy Spirit that God has fulfilled the words I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them. We now have an intimacy with God that could never be accomplished before.  Consider a few of the benefits of the indwelling Spirit.

The Spirit Convicts us of Sin

• John 16:8 And when he is come, he will ____________________________, and of righteousness, and of judgment:

The Spirit Teaches and Helps us Remember God’s Truth

• John 14:26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall __________________all things, and bring all things to your _________________, whatsoever I have said unto you.

It is through the Holy Spirit that we can understand the Scripture.  Although it is possible for the Bible to be read like any other book, the Christian, indwelt by the Holy Spirit will learn spiritual truths and be changed by it’s transforming power. (1 Cor 2:13,14, Heb 4:12)

The Spirit Gives us Boldness to Witness

• Acts 1:8 But ye shall receive _______________, after that the __________  ____________ is come upon you: and ye shall be _______________ unto me…

The Spirit ___________________________________________________

• Romans 8:26. Q. Write above what you believe this verse teaches us about the Holy Spirit.

The Spirit Assures us of Our Salvation

• Romans 8:16. Q. What does the spirit bear witness of?

•1 John 3:24. Q. How can we know that God abides in us?

Q. Considering the last series of Bible studies we did based on Gal 5:22,23.  What else does the Holy Spirit do in us?

You may have filled in some of the above answers and found that you do not recognize these things in your life. The Bible teaches that it is possible to quench and grieve the Holy Spirit (1 Th 5:19, Eph 4:30).  When we live a life of unrepented sin, or where we do not avail ourselves to God’s tools for spiritual victory (the word of God, prayer, preaching, fellowship with Christians) then we grieve and quench the spirit.  His presence can be ignored and his influence diminished as we live a life unyielded to Him.

• Galatians 5:16 This I say then, _________________________, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

To experience the benefits of the indwelling Holy Spirit one must obey the word of God and seek to live for Christ.  This of course applies to those who know for sure that they have accepted Jesus Christ as the son of God, and are trusting his sacrifice on the cross for their salvation.

Lastly, let’s consider that the new relationship given us through the new covenant is a Father-Child Relationship.

• 2 Cor 6:17,18 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a ________________ unto you, and ye shall be my ______ and ________________, saith the Lord Almighty.

• Gal 4:5-6. Q. What might we receive now that God has sent his Son?

• Rom 8:15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of _______________, whereby we cry, Abba, _______________.

• John 1:12. Q. What has God given to them that receive Christ?

Jesus taught us when we pray to address God as our Father (Mat 6:9).  Nowhere in the Old Testament except in Isaiah 9:6 where it is referring to the coming Christ, is God referred to as a Father in this sense.  This is a special, intimate relationship for all believers which has come as a result of the New Covenant.

As our Father we can approach him at any time and ask him anything (John 14:13,14). We can trust him to provide for us (Mat 7:8-11, Matt 6:31-33) and we can be sure that he will never leave us (Heb 13:5, Matt 28:20).

Because God is our Father and we are his children we now have claim to an eternal inheritance.

• Gal 4:7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an _______________________________________________.

As a child and an heir, we will one day inherit eternal life in heaven (Mat 19:29) and an eternal right to the new earth (Rev 21:21,24).  All of this is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s first covenant with Abraham (Gal 3:29). These are but a few of the benefits of God’s New Covenant. Let us learn to thank God for it!

Tags: assurance, boldness, indwelling, jesus, relationship, salvation, spirit, witness
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