Made in Whose Image?

Philippians 2:5-7 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.
Every Christmas, we celebrate the First Advent, or First Coming of our Lord Jesus. Obviously, there is much emphasis placed on His Virgin birth, which reveals His immense humility, to say the least. Many people sing Happy Birthday to Jesus, along with a plethora of carols. The wonderful thing about this tradition is it elevates an awareness of our Lord to humanity at large. Along with Resurrection Sunday (commonly known as Easter), it presents opportunities to share the Gospel.
Not to get lost in the various nuances of this tradition, let’s focus on how we view Him. Even though, all of us are aware He is no longer the Baby in the manger, nor is He still hanging on the Cross, each of us has an image in our mind of Who He is right now. The question is: how accurate is that image? How biblically based it?
We can embrace certain aspects of His nature, while not fully appreciating the others. We could inadvertently create in our minds a Jesus who matches our liking, but doesn’t encapsulate His true nature. The later would be far superior to anything we could conceptualize. It’s not that we desire a false Jesus; although, some do (see Romans 1:1-23). Those who do, want to create God into the image of their choosing, which means they want to be Him. Let’s leave that subject for another time.
There are some things to consider in relation to how we view Him. One, is we could limit Him in our life. God is an infinite God Whose nature is quite mind-blowing, which is an understatement. A second consideration is that we could actually limit ourselves in becoming who were meant to be, since we are to be conformed to His image. For instance, some still confuse meekness with weakness. As a result, they fail to be bold when they should be.
 Remember, while on earth, Jesus called the religious leaders out, using strong language. When He found those who sold oxen, sheep and doves, along with money changers in the temple, He made a scourge of chords, and drove them out. Moreover, he poured out their coins and overturned their tables (see John 2:13-17). Does that sound weak? Of course, Jesus was gentle and compassionate. In short, He was Who He needed in every situation. If we try to pick and choose what we like, we may not be who we need to be in the moment. Of course, a key to conforming to His image is submitting to Holy Spirit.

Some Snapshots

Philippians 2:8-11 And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Jesus is the Lamb of God, but He is also the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. While He did go to the Cross, He rose the dead in total triumph. At this moment in time, people have a choice as to whether they will bow their knees before Him, and confess He is Lord. However, either in death or when He returns, none will have a choice in the matter. They will bow and confess He is Lord to the glory of the Father! Period! End of discussion. In fact, there will be no discussion.
By the way, it is better to meet Jesus as the Lamb of God and receive His forgiveness, before meeting Him as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah!
Revelation 19:11-16 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and He that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns; and He had a name written, that no man knew, but He Himself. And He was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of His mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations: and He shall rule them with a rod of iron: and He treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And He hath on His vesture and on His thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS.
Because He is both the Lamb Who takes away the sins of the world, and the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, we have cause to rejoice!
Revelation 5:9-10 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

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Be Merciful

Everyone wants mercy and understanding when they morally fail, but how many are willing reciprocate when others fail? There probably isn’t a human alive who has not done something wrong in spite of knowing better (excluding infants of course). That’s the nature of fallen man. We can talk about personal responsibility later. We cannot afford to get all sanctimonious when people do fail. “They should get what they have coming, they knew better!” Come on Christian, are you telling us that you haven’t done something wrong, even while knowing better? Even as a Blood-bought, born again Christian? Let’s get real!

 Yes, it can be very difficult to be kind and forgiving to someone who might be considered despicable. It is easier to give a nice person a pass, but a jerk who can forebear? What does Jesus say about this?

 Matthew 5:44-48 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in Heaven: for He maketh His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect.

Do you see how our Father extends love and kindness to the unjust? Were you once unjust, yourself?  Think about this: Ephesians says we were formerly darkness; not in darkness (see Ephesians 5:8). We don’t want to live in the past; however, we don’t want to forget from whence we came.

Romans 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

Keep Your Eye On the Goal

When Jesus came to the earth, what was His mission? To seek and save the lost (see Matthew 18:11; Luke 19:10). In the Great Commission (see Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15;), He pretty well handed us the same mission. Part of making disciples of all nations includes reconciling the lost onto God.  Do you desire the lost to be saved or condemned?  There is an attitude to maintain when it comes to reconciling others onto God. If we fail to keep it at the forefront of our mind, we start from behind.

2 Corinthians 5:18-19 And all things are of God, Who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

Think Like a Surgeon, and Detach

When a surgeons remove tumors from their patients, do they hold the tumors against them? Generally, they are emotionally detached from the situation, and take care of business. In relation to the patients, they may feel some apprehension, because they do not want to cause further damage, or even death. That’s because they have concern for the patient.

What if we viewed sin and failure from the same standpoint? In other words, are we more concerned about people’s welfare and where they spend eternity, than the sin itself? More importantly, what about being concerned with how it affects God’s heart? They were (and are) important enough to Him to send Jesus to die for their sins. His concern is removing the sin, so they can spend eternity with Him. Love should move us to compassion for the sinner, and believers who stumbled.

Sin and failure do not belong in humans, but it’s there anyway. It is the result of the fall. Nonetheless, sin and failure do not have to remain. People have a choice, and we as disciples can make them aware of it. Apart from Jesus Christ, they are powerless over sin. How can we hold sin against them, especially since we’ve been forgiven of ours?

In the grand scheme of things, our focus should be the salvation of others; not their shortcomings.

James 5:19-20 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.  

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Beware of Self-Deception

Proverbs 14:12 There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.

It is easy to rationalize our thoughts and behaviors, but that leads to self-deception. As the saying goes, “There’s no one more blind than the one who refuses to see.” Of course, self-deception leads to self-destruction. Perhaps, it would behoove all of us to audit ourselves with the help of Holy Spirit. Be willing to see what’s hiding beneath the surface, and actually do something about it. Like repent and make some changes.

1 Corinthians 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

While it’s true we are saved by grace (see Ephesians 2:8-9), we cannot afford to abuse it, or attempt to hide behind it. If we decide to just go about our “merry way,” hoping grace will keep us from driving off a cliff, we could be in for a rude awakening. Here’s a passage of Scripture that might get one’s attention.

Matthew 7:19-23 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in Heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have cast out devils? and in Thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.

Fruits refers to our ways. Actions don’t always reveal what’s in the heart. Read Matthew 6, where Jesus talks about the hypocrites who seek the honor of men by doing by their public display of “good works,” for example. People have a misconception that signs and wonders are signs of God’s stamp of approval on their life; however, they are there to confirm His Word and bring Him glory. Gifts work, regardless of the person. For instance,

And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one Man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not. And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation (John 11:49-51).

Notice, Caiaphas did not speak of himself, but it was the office of the high priest that worked through him. Later, he would cry, “Crucify Him!” Was his heart right before God? There are numerous lessons to be learned from Matthew 7; but for now, let’s narrow the focus.

2 Corinthians 10:18 For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

One Example: Forgiveness

There are many areas of which to audit, so we’ll look at just one major area (not to dimmish any other). How do we view forgiveness? How many Christians hold grudges? Is that okay? Yes, it’s a rhetorical question, but a lot of people talk out of both sides of their mouth when it comes to this subject. On one side, they’ll proclaim the forgiveness of God, and the merits of forgiveness. On the other, they talk of retaliation when someone does something offensive to them. That manifests in different ways, and at the center of it is pride. You can hear it in their voice when they talk about how they would deal with someone who should do them wrong. A lot of the ways they mention are what they learned from others while growing up (parents, close relatives, friends). Regardless of the source, it’s still unbiblical.

Matthew 6:14-15 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.

Jesus makes it very clear: if you will not forgive others, God will not forgive you. Read Matthew 18:21-35, in which Jesus refers to the importance of being merciful. Verse 35 serves as another stark warning: So likewise shall My heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not everyone his brother their trespasses. Those who fail to extend mercy, will not have mercy extended to them.

The intent is not to use fear and torment to motivate anyone to action. The fear of the Lord is appropriate, but let’s not forget love. Perhaps, think about it this way: if a person refuses to forgive others, does he or she actually walk in love? 1 Corinthians 13:5 tells us, love is not easily provoked, nor takes into account a wrong suffered. This leads us back to Matthew 7:23 where Jesus said, “And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from Me, ye that work iniquity.”

1 Corinthians 8:3 But if any man love God, the same is known of Him.

One aspect of those who practice iniquity is they do not love God. He knows those who love Him. They are intimate with Him. Love extends mercy for the sake of God and the individual. Being in right standing includes forgiveness! By the way, His grace enables us to forgive when it seems impossible.

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Are You Willing to Understand?

Most want to be understood, but how many seek to understand others? Most want to be shown mercy, but how many actually extend mercy? Everyone has struggles of various sorts and degrees. Every individual has a unique background; and yet, many have experiences that mirror others. All make mistakes, say and do things they regret, and wish they could take them back. Since they can’t, they would like to right the wrongs. Sometimes they can, and sometimes they cannot.

Perhaps, some have difficulty understanding others, because they don’t understand themselves. Have you ever said or done something you regretted, and didn’t even know why? There are numerous influences that shape the way think, which effects our speech and behavior. We will not drill down on the specifics behind those influences at this point. The bottom line is we are all human. We all need mercy, but we are also required to give it. Are you willing to understand? Do you extend mercy to others?

Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (see also Matthew 5:43-48; 18:21-35).

By the way, being willing to understand goes a long way ridding one’s self from self-deception, and becoming self-aware. Moreover, it gives Holy Spirit the greenlight to show you what you need to see about yourself, and others. If you are willing to understand others, you’ll be able to get past negative words and behavior much easier. In fact, it may very well lead you to have compassion for them. Who knows, it may even help you be merciful to yourself, so you can move on in life.

Jesus Understood

When Jesus came into the world, He understood humanity and extended mercy. He went about doing good, revealing the love of the Father. Though He was merciful to those around Him, many were not merciful to Him. In fact, they nailed Him to the Cross. But then, that’s the reason He came. Out of love, He went to the Cross bearing our sins, so that we may be reconciled onto God. He perfectly understood our condition; in fact, He experienced our humanity. The Bible tells us that He was tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin (see Hebrews 11:5).

Hebrews 2:14-18 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same; that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily He took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took on Him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that He Himself hath suffered being tempted, He is able to succour (aid, help or deliver) them that are tempted.

Maybe it feels like no one understands you. You might even feel stuck in a place you are desperate to escape. As cliché as this may sound, it is nevertheless true: Jesus understands you, and He is the One Who can you get you unstuck. You’re the reason He came to this earth. He loves you. He is our Reason for living.

Merry Christmas!

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   There’s a dichotomy at play when it comes to Christmas. On one side, it provides opportunity for lavish generosity. On the other, selfishness. It offers an awareness of Jesus Christ to those who don’t know Him; and yet, the very opposite for those who do know Him. Can you say, “distractions?” Stating the obvious, we say we give gifts one to another in remembrance of Whom God gave for us; but in reality, many lose sight of the Gift.

   The dichotomy continues in other forms. It’s supposed to be a season of love, and yet, some Christians get offended at non-believers who say “Happy Holidays,” instead of Merry Christmas. We are called to confess Christ, but militancy doesn’t necessary express His love to those who need it the most.

   Here’s one: we are called to rest in Jesus, but then get all stressed out over the Christmas Season. That stress is wide-ranging as many are aware. God intended peace on earth, but for many it’s not exactly peaceful.

   Luke 2:14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

   Do you have a Christmas wish list? So what’s on it? Have you ever asked Jesus what’s on His?

To Have Christmas, You Need Jesus

   Many have seen the bumper sticker that says, “No Jesus, No Peace. Know Jesus, Know Peace.” The same could be said for Christmas: No Jesus, No Christmas. Know Jesus, Know Christmas. I’ll try not to get cliché here, but if you truly want a meaningful Christmas, you might want to try things God’s way.

   So, what does God actually want? One thing on His list is you and your loved ones. In fact, He wants everyone. Does He have all of you, or part of you?

   It’s easy to become me-focused, and always come asking God for things. In some cases, people demand their own way instead of His. What did Jesus say about following Him?

   Matthew 16:24-25 Then said Jesus unto His disciples, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

   Moreover, when Jesus started teaching us about prayer, one of the first things He emphasized was the will of the Father: “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done in earth as it is in Heaven” (Matthew 6:10). With the desire for His will, comes obedience, and with obedience, joy and peace.

   Why did Jesus come to the earth? To reconcile us onto God, and provide the way to our Father. There’s more to it, but that’s a start.

   Matthew 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.

   Non-believers haven’t had a true Christmas. Oh sure, many have experienced warmth and love that accompanies the season, but they have yet to experience the depth of true love. That’s the one part of Christmas they lack, which is why many feel an emptiness during the Season. Truthfully, the same could be said for many Christians. How so? They have disconnected themselves from Him. They’ve neglected the relationship.

   If you fall in these later two categories, you can do something about it. If you’ve never knew Him, you can enter into relationship with Him. Receive Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Call on His Name and ask Him to come into your heart. Receive God’s forgiveness for your sins. “Please forgive me, in Jesus’ Name. Jesus, please be my Lord and Savior.” This is an introduction to Him. Merely mouthing words of a prayer won’t cut it. With sincerity, comes a new life. The past is in the past.

   2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

   If you have fallen away or have been distant, repent. Change the way you think, and return to Him. It’s not too late, nor are you too far gone.

    So, what or perhaps, Who do you want for Christmas?

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