A Biblical Vision, Part II: Mastering the New Testament Witness to Christ

Ses s i on 3: The Gospe l s : The Man i fes tat i on of Chr i s t , Par t I I 69

a. Isa. 53.9 – And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth.

b. 2 Cor. 5.21 – For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

c. Heb. 7.26 – For it was indeed fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, innocent, unstained, separated from sinners, and exalted above the heavens.

d. 1 John 3.5 – You know that he appeared to take away sins, and in him there is no sin.

e. Heb. 4.15 – For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.

II. The Messiahship of Jesus Is Revealed through His Masterful Leadership and Sonship

Jesus expected the men he was with to obey him. They were not required to be smart, but they had to be loyal. This became the distinguishing mark by which they were known. They were called his “disciples” meaning that they were “learners” or “pupils” of the Master. It was not until much later that they started to be called “Christian” (Acts 11.26), although it was inevitable, for in time obedient followers invariably take on the character of their leader. The simplicity of this approach is marvelous if not astounding. None of the disciples were asked at first to make a statement of faith or accept a well-defined creed, although they doubtless recognized Jesus to be the Messiah (John 1.41, 45, 49; Luke 5.8). For the moment all they were asked to do was to follow Jesus. Of course, clearly implied in their initial invitation was a call to faith in the person of Christ and obedience to his Word. If this was not comprehended in the beginning, it would be perceived as they continued in the way with the Master. No one will follow a person in whom he or she has