Okay, first of all, please excuse the infrequent and sporadic posts. My schedule remains …hectic. But here I am. Thanks to those who are sticking it out with me through this trying time. Now, on with the good stuff!
My pastor’s reminded us recently of our purpose specifically -from generally loving the Lord with all of our hearts, revering him, and keeping his commandments, and loving others: Spreading the gospel (Ecc 12:13; Lk 10:27; Mt 28:19-20).
With my pastor’s help, I’ve identified eight important aspects of the gospel:
1) Virgin Birth
The first chapter of Matthew explains that Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph (v. 18). Jewish custom dictated that there were no sexual relations during the betrothal period (NIV note v. 18). In verse 19 Joseph is called righteous, and to be called so by Jews meant that he was zealous in keeping the law (NIV note). So, one can assume that Joseph, in his righteousness, has chosen a righteous spouse. But all speculation aside, the Lord himself confirms that Mary was still a virgin in verse 20, saying ‘What is conceived of her is from the Holy Spirit’ (Mt 13:55; Lk 8:19).
2) Life
Jesus’ life can be summed up as perfect. Jesus lived a sinless life (Mt 4:1-11; Lk 3:22; 23:39-41; 1Pe 2:22; 1 Jn 3:5). He performed countless miracles during his time on earth (Jn 21:25; Mt 4:23; 8:14-17, 23-27, 28-34; 9:1-8, 18-26, 27-34). He taught (Mt 5, 6, 7; 13:1-52). He comforted (Lk 6:20-23; Jn 14:16).
3) Death
It wasn’t the crucifixion that killed Jesus, but he willingly gave up his life three hours after they were finished (Mt 27:45-50).
4) Burial
Jesus’ body was buried in a borrowed, guarded, secured, and sealed tomb (Mt 27:57-66).
5) Resurrection 6) Appearance
There was an earthquake, an angle rolled back the stone, Jesus sat up shining like lightening, and Pilate’s guards (nor anyone else) could do nothing about it (Mt 28:1-6). And it was then that Jesus charged Mary Magdalene and the other Mary as the first preachers of the gospel (v. 5-10). (My co-pastor, who is a woman, uses this as the biblical basis of God’s approval of female preachers.) He then appeared to his disciples, Thomas, and many others (Jn 20:10-21:25)
I love how the haters (Pilate’s guards) are the first to see that Jesus has risen though. Ha! (This is the same God, after all, that the Psalter testified would prepare a table before him in the presence of his enemies; Ps 23:5.)
7) Ascension
He was taken up into heaven (Mk 16:19; Lk 24:50-53).
8) Promised Return
Jesus said he was coming back, and not even he knows when. But we are to be ready (Mt 24:36-42; Mk 13:32-33).
*(See similar post from April 20th, titled ‘From Sunday to Sunday’ detailing Jesus’ week before his crucifixion.)
