Is Jesus Christ God?

There is much debate and confusion regarding the identity of Jesus Christ. This confusion is not limited to nonbelievers, but extends to Christians as well. Was Jesus a prophet? Was He the messiah? Was He God Himself? Let's look at a couple scriptures and attempt a clear answer to the question- Is Jesus Christ God?

After leaving Egypt, Moses is in the desert and sees a bush consumed with fire but not burned. From the bush, God Almighty instructs him to return to Egypt and free His people- the Israelites.

'Then Moses said to God, “Indeed, when I come to the children of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they say to me, ‘What is His name?’ what shall I say to them?”

And God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And He said, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.’” Moreover God said to Moses, “Thus you shall say to the children of Israel: ‘The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever, and this is My memorial to all generations.’ Exodus 3:13-15

Here, God proclaims His unique name to Moses. God calls Himself 'I AM.'

Now let's go to the book of John, written by the Apostle John; the same John who wrote 1,2,3 John, and The Revelation of Jesus Christ. In Chapter 8, Jesus is questioned about who He is. He responds with an interesting statement:

"Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad." Then the Jews said to Him, "You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?" Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM." John 8:56-58

Here Jesus gives Himself God's name. The name given to Moses in the desert- I AM. The Jews reacted to this proclamation strongly by attempting to stone Jesus (verse 59).

Is believing that Jesus is God required for salvation? Let's look again at John chapter 8.

Starting in verse 24, Jesus says, "Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins."

The listeners respond by asking "Who are You?"

And Jesus said to them, "Just what I have been saying to you from the beginning…  when you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He…" John 8:24-28.

In verses 24, and 28, we see the words 'I am He.' However, the word He is italicized, which means it has been added and is not in the original language. What Jesus actually said in these two verses was "I AM." Jesus calls Himself God, and tells them that unless they believe Him to be God, they will die in their sins. This leaves us with the obvious answer- Yes, believing that Jesus is God is required for salvation.

How do His hearers respond to this? Did they understand the significance of His statement? We see their response clearly in John 8:59: 'they took up stones to throw at Him.'

Let's look at another usage of this Name by Jesus.

In John chapter 18, 'a detachment of troops and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees [show up] with lanterns, torches, and weapons.'

'Jesus therefore, knowing all things that would come upon Him, went forward and said to them, “Whom are you seeking?” They answered Him, “Jesus of Nazareth." Jesus said to them, “I am He.” 

Again, the word He has been added. How did the troops bearing weapons respond?

Now when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground.

Had Jesus simply stated, Yes I am Jesus of Nazareth, would the entire fleet of troops had fallen to the ground? Why did they fall to the ground? Because Jesus called Himself God. Because Jesus proclaimed to be the I AM.

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For it is written:

“As I live, says the Lord,
Every knee shall bow to Me,
And every tongue shall confess to God."

Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name

 which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

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Did Jesus' disciples believe He was God? We find an answer in the book of John. (Don't you just love John? That man had a clear message to share with us!) After Jesus died on the cross, and then rose from the dead, we find Thomas, one of Jesus' twelve disciples doubting the resurrection.

"Unless I see in His hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe." (John 20:25)

Eight days later, Jesus shows up, and says to Thomas, "Reach your finger here, and look at My hands; and reach your hand here, and put it into My side. Do not be unbelieving, but believing." And Thomas answered and said to Him, "My Lord and my God!"

Jesus did not rebuke Thomas. Jesus did not correct Thomas. Instead Jesus said to him, "Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Jesus proclaimed to be God, and His disciples believed Him to be God. Is it enough to simply believe Him to be a prophet? Can we merely accept Him as a great teacher or even the Son of God, and not believe Him to be God Almighty? C.S. Lewis offers an answer better than any I've heard.

“I am trying here to prevent anyone saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don’t accept his claim to be God. That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic — on the level with the man who says he is a poached egg — or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God, or else a madman or something worse. You can shut him up for a fool, you can spit at him and kill him as a demon or you can fall at his feet and call him Lord and God, but let us not come with any patronizing nonsense about his being a great human teacher. He has not left that open to us. He did not intend to.” ~C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

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The Seat of Mercy {Bible Study}

Oh ladies, I'm so excited about this one! If you are one that stays as far away from the Old Testament books as possible, always flipping to the last three-quarters of the Word, you are not alone. Honestly, it's tiresome and tedious work- perusing through exhaustive genealogies, gruesome battles, endless laws, and difficult commands. It makes a girl grow weary. And goodness, don't we all want to open the Word and be inspired and encouraged.

Well, if that's what you are seeking- inspiration and encouragement- then you MUST turn to the book of Exodus. Yes, I realize it's an Old Testament writing full of stiff-necked broods, but you absolutely must go there! Treasures await you!!!

Please start by reading Exodus 25:18-22

We covered this a little in my last (and very first!) bible study on this blog, Dwelling Among Men {Bible Study}. If you haven't completed that one, then go there now. Otherwise press on, sisters! It's a long road, but I promise you, the result will be worth the tedious journey.

In Exodus 25, God is giving Moses precise instructions on constructing the tabernacle- specifically the Ark of the Covenant. God's purpose for this divine declaration was simple, yet profound: The God of eternity desired to dwell among sinful men of flesh. That's you and me, girls!

Let's look at a couple other arks in the scriptures. Read Genesis 6:17-19, and Exodus 1:22, 2:2-3. Now look again at Exodus 25:16. What were these three arks used for?

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The arks were created to preserve and protect God's precious cargo. God established His covenant with Noah by preserving him, his family, and selected beasts of the earth from the destruction of floodwaters with the shelter of the ark. Jochebed fashioned an ark of bulrushes for her son, safeguarding him from Pharaoh's slaughter. Eventually the one sheltered in an ark would be given orders to assemble another kind of Ark; an Ark that would preserve and testify unlike anything else of its kind.

Moses wasn't instructed to build just another ark. In fact, the word for ark mentioned in Genesis 6:17-19 and Exodus 1:22, 2:2-3 is the Hebrew word tebah which simply means box or vessel. However, the word for Ark used for the Ark of the Testimony in Exodus 25:16 is an entirely different Hebrew word: arown.

Read Genesis 50:26. Read it a couple times if necessary to decipher how the Hebrew word arown is used in this passage.

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You guessed it! It's used in reference to a coffin. In fact, this is the first usage of this specific word in the scriptures and refers to Joseph's coffin. The Ark of the Covenant was in actuality a coffin. In the King James Bible this Hebrew word is translated as coffin one time, chest six times, and Ark one hundred ninety-five times.  And this Ark always refers to the Ark of the Covenant.

According to Hebrews 9:3-5, what was eventually placed inside this coffin?

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This ark or coffin contained some very specific and meaningful items: the golden pot of manna (Exodus 16:33-34), Aaron's rod that budded (Numbers 17:1-10), and the tablets of the covenant, also known as the ten commandments (Exodus 25:16).

Ladies, these items illustrate a glorious revelation of the work of Christ! Stay with me here. Don't quit now! We've only looked at the coffin and its contents. Let's not stay in this place of death. Flip back to Exodus chapter 25. 

According to verse 10, what were the measurements of the Ark of acacia wood? ___________________________________________________________________

What else did God command they make and what was its measurements according to verse 17? 
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Through the Levitical Law, God gave Moses the purpose and instructions for the Mercy Seat. It was to be the exact same dimensions as the Ark, and was placed upon the Ark as a lid, or covering. The High Priest, the only one given divine permission to enter into the Most Holy Place, was to come before the Ark of the Covenant  on the Day of Atonement and sprinkle blood from a bull and a goat onto the Mercy Seat. This would make atonement for himself, for his household, and for all the assembly of God (Leviticus 16:17).

What do Colossians 2:16-17 and  Hebrews 10:1-4 teach us about these Old Testament laws and regulations?

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Who does Luke 24:44 tell us the Law of Moses teaches about?

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The writings of Moses, the Old Testament Law, and the tabernacle regulations and requirements all pointed to one gloriously magnificent Being- Jesus the Christ. The Lamb slain before the foundation of the world. The One who was and is and is to come. The Almighty.

So what is this Mercy Seat? The more accurate question might be WHO is this Mercy Seat? Let's look more closely at the Hebrew word for Mercy Seat: kapporeth meaning covering. We've seen it as a lid placed on top of the coffin, or Ark, containing holy Old Testament items. However, the Mercy Seat represented much more than this. The Mercy Seat represented the coming Mercy Giver-Jesus Christ.

Open up to Hebrews 9:1-5 to find a New Testament reference to the Old Testament Mercy Seat. What were the cherubim overshadowing according to verse 5? 
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Please read Romans 3:24-25.  What did God send Christ Jesus as, according to this passage?
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Some translations use the words sacrifice of atonement or sacrifice for sin in verse 25, but most translate it as propitiation. Christ is the Propitiation. I can't help it. I have to go to the Greek definition again, and I think you're going to enjoy it as much as I did! Ready for it? This Greek word hilasterion means an atoning victim, or the lid of the Ark, or the Mercy Seat. Did you catch that? The word for Mercy Seat in Hebrew 9:5 and the word for propitiation in Romans 3:25 are identical. They are one and the same. Christ is our Mercy Seat.

The Old Testament coffin depicted a New Testament death. The covenant of death, the covenant that could save no man, the covenant that brought only condemnation- this covenant was placed into a coffin, sealed, and covered by the Mercy Seat. Over one-thousand years later, Jesus Christ, our Mercy Seat came to cover sin by conquering the death of the grave.

Let's close with one last magnificent Old Testament , New Testament correlation. I pray this leaves you just as awestruck as it has me.

Look closely at Exodus 25:18-20 and answer the following questions:

Where were the cherubim to be precisely placed?

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What did these cherubim look like?

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Verse 20 tells us specifically what direction they faced and exactly what they were to look upon. What was it?

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Now turn to John 20:11-12.

Where is Mary looking in verse 11? ___________________________________________

What did Mary behold in verse 12? ___________________________________________

Where exactly where these angels seated? ______________________________________
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Can you fathom it? I wonder if Mary envisioned the Mercy Seat at that very moment. I wonder if she imagined the implications of what had taken place, of what she was witnessing. Do you think she grasped the sum of it all? Certainly we cannot, as even the apostles couldn't speak in detail (Hebrews 9:5).  But put yourself there for just a moment and visualize those angelic beings. Can you imagine one at the head, and the other at the foot of the place where the perfect, yet crushed body of Christ lay? Wings outstretched above that Mercy Seat, touching one another and protecting the Propitiation with every ounce of authority bestowed upon them. Their eyes never left the Appointed One. And then He rose. They couldn't keep it to themselves, but shared with any who dared approach, "He is not here, He is risen!"

He's risen, ladies! The One who poured out blood and water, the One who lay in a tomb for three days, the one who showed His resurrected Self to over five-hundred at one time- He lives!  He's living as your Mercy Seat, covering your sins, making intercessions, having abolished death. This Man of Mercy is now seated at the right hand of the Father. Now it's your turn. Go spend time with the Giver of Life, Grace, and Mercy.

Write your prayer to Him here

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Dwelling Among Men {Bible Study}

God's Word absolutely amazes me. There's nothing more I can say except that. Some days I just sit absorbing it, and for no reason at all am overwhelmed. Maybe it's the Spirit of the Word ministering to my spirit in a way I cannot comprehend or grasp. Maybe it's a whispering taking place between my God and my soul that penetrates on a level my mind cannot wrap itself around, yet my senses are completely aware of and stimulated by.

Have you ever experienced the Word penetrate and pierce your innermost being, but have no mental perception of what's occurring? You know there's a stirring, and you want to seize it, guard it, and then enlighten everyone else with it. But you can't. Because you have no concrete understanding of what's taking place.

I crave and savor these moments with this living and powerful Word that pierces even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. The things the Word does within us, no one can understand. And it's the jewels of the Word that leave me awestruck, humbled, and not only craving more, but longing to share with you. Treasures! And who doesn't enjoy a good treasure hunt?

Here are a few of previously dug up gems that I hope to somehow impart to you! Grab your map, detective cloak and hat, and a magnifying glass and let's get diggin! You may also want writing utensils for taking notes. J

In the book of Exodus we observe God calling Moses to the top of Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:20). Here He gave him the Ten Commandments and numerous other laws concerning servants, animals, property, feasts, etc.  In chapter 25, God gets more personal in His instructions.

Read Exodus 25:8.

What did God command they make?__________________________________

According to this same verse, what was the purpose behind this construction? _______________________________________________________________________

Prior to God giving Moses these instructions, what do we find the Israelite children repeatedly doing?

Read Exodus 14:10-12 _______________________________________________

Read Exodus 15:22-24 _______________________________________________

Read Exodus 16:1-3 _________________________________________________

Read Exodus 17:1-4 _________________________________________________

Do all of your answers have a similar response? This multitude indeed was a stiff-necked people! Who could possibly please them? And why would God desire to meet personally with them? Not only did He want to meet with them, Exodus 25:8 tells us He wanted to dwell among them. This Hebrew word dwell is shakan and literally means to lodge, settle down, abide with, reside with.

Did He fully understand how truly wicked these people were. Maybe after calling Moses upon the Mount, He came to His senses and changed His mind. After all, they did fashion and worship a golden calf, proclaiming "This is your god, O Israel, that brought you out of the land of Egypt!" (Exodus 32:4). Sisters, our God is a God of covenants and promises; the same God that ministered to Abraham's mistress in her distress (Genesis 21) and forgave an adulterous woman (John 8:11) caught in the act of sin. God knew exactly what He was getting Himself into desiring to dwell among sinful men.

Is there something keeping you from dwelling with God? Even following such acts of idolatry and wickedness God still desired to live among His people. No matter who you are or what act you have committed, nothing can separate you from God's love, and His desire to be with you. Jesus left throne and glory to meet with wretched men and women. What is keeping you from Him? Seek God's magnificent face. Ask Him to search you and know you, to see if there is any wicked way in you, and to lead you in confession and cleanse you with forgiveness. Write out your prayer and confession to Him now. __________________________________________________________________________

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Now Read Exodus 25:1-9.

When God met with Moses, He gave him precise instructions on constructing the tabernacle. Within these commands were clear, specific details regarding design, size, colors, materials, and placement. He even declared who would be responsible for what concerning carving, sewing, and building. The tabernacle would not be a simple tent.

According to verse 2, where did the materials come from that would be used to construct the tabernacle?

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Read Exodus 12:35-36

After four-hundred and thirty years of bondage, God loosed His people from slavery (Ex 12:40). According to these verses, what did the children do on their way out of captivity? 

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What kinds of gifts did God grant His beloved, yet stiff-necked children?

Exodus 28:3 __________________________________________________________

Exodus 35:30-35 ______________________________________________________

Psalm 105:37 _________________________________________________________

What has God given us who call on His Name today?

Ephesians 1:3 ________________________________________________________

Psalm 112:3 _________________________________________________________

Proverbs 3:16 ________________________________________________________

These gifts were not limited to physical items stored on shelves and fingers. God's gifts are also given as talents and skills. And the Gift Giver continues to shower these gifts upon us today. The Bestower of gifts is in the business of blessing His beloved bride.

Besides the ones listed above, what are some other gifts God commits to His children?                                                                                                             

Romans 12:6-8 _____________________________________________________

1 Corinthians 12:8-10 _______________________________________________

1 Corinthians 12:28 _________________________________________________

Ephesian 4:11 ______________________________________________________

To be loosed from the bondage of this world and become a slave to the Perfect Master is another study for another day, but know this- Just as the Israelites were released from the oppression of Pharaoh and Egypt, so God liberates His people from the bondage of sin and death. And with this liberation comes treasures and riches only a King can bestow.

What did the Israelites do with the riches God gave them?

Exodus 32:2-4 ______________________________________________________

Exodus 35:5,21 _____________________________________________________

God blessed the Israelites abundantly as they danced out of Egypt with Egyptian jewels and gems. Casting off their yoke of oppression, they replaced it with another burden: golden rings and glistening riches. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes down from the Father of lights. We have choices to make with these gifts, ladies: bless God by using them for His purpose and glory, or waste them through fulfilling our own selfish lusts and desires. 

What are four purposes God has for bestowing Gifts to His people?

Matthew 7:11 ______________________________________________________

1 Corinthians 12:7, 14:12 ____________________________________________

1 Peter 4:10-11 _____________________________________________________

Exodus 25:2-8 ______________________________________________________

God grants His children riches and precious gifts most importantly, because it pleases Him. It is His character to give good things to those He loves; it is His nature to bestow blessings on His precious children. He showers us with gifts so that we may Glorify Him, edify one another and the entire body of Christ, and offer them back to Him for the purpose of meeting Him face to face.

What specific gifts has the Father of lights given you? Don't be general here ladies, but give precise answers. Some of your gifts will replicate another's, but God gives each one as He sees fit- you being the eye, while your sister is the hand, and your daughter the ear (Romans 12). List your numerous and unique God given gifts here: 

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Now, dear sister, what are you using these gifts for? Spend some time seeking God and asking Him bluntly. Are you using them for any of the four reasons listed above, or are you selfishly wasting them on your own pleasure and gratification? 

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God gave Aaron a gift of leadership. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say I believe He also bestowed on him an artistic gift. How else could you throw gold into a fire and miraculously get a golden calf out of the deal (Exodus 32:24)? This man had talent! However, Aaron used His unique gifts to lead thousands into idolatry and wicked rebellion. Oh that we use God's gifts for their intended purpose! Search them out, sisters, and use them to Christ's satisfaction! Because the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable! You never know, God may meet you face to face through your obedient usage of His bestowed gift!

Still hungry for God's bread? Thirsty for His Living water? Go here and be fed! Allow yourself to be washed in His Word.

(Ok, this is my first 'bible study format' post. Please give some useful critique and feedback. Also, please, even if you already know everything there is to know in the Word, take the time to go through these scriptures and answer the questions. You may be surprised at what God through His Holy Spirit shows you! And then please, please, please come back and share!)

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