A study of John 10:1-10 reveals a shepherd that leads his sheep, Jesus is the door to heaven who protects and secures our faith, and Jesus offers abundant life.
A study of John 10:1-10 reveals a shepherd that leads his sheep.
Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber. But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. (ESV, John 10:1-2)
This parable is based on daily Jewish life during that time period. The story begins In the context of a small, Jewish village where families commonly owned a few sheep. Mostly for wool rather than food. The Greek word for “sheepfold” is aulē, which means court or courtyard. It was an enclosed, outdoor area of the home where the sheep were kept with walls up to six feet high. The shepherd was a designated family member or someone hired who went house to house through the neighborhood to gather a herd.
The gatekeeper was a home resident who opened the courtyard door to let the shepherd in to gather the sheep. Any thief seeking to steal sheep had to climb in and carry them over the wall to do so. The shepherd actually built a relationship with the sheep and gave them all names. Rather than drive the herd from behind, he led them by calling their names. And the sheep followed because they recognized their shepherd’s voice. But ran from anyone with a voice they didn’t recognize.
Today, we also hear many voices that want our attention. But the one we must listen to and follow is our shepherd. The Lord Jesus Christ. As his flock, we recognize and faithfully follow his voice by studying his word. And its truth cuts through the babble of competing voices.
A study of John 10:1-10 reveals Jesus is the door to heaven who protects and secures our faith.
So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the door. If anyone enters by me, he will be saved and will go in and out and find pasture. (ESV, John 10:7-9)
In V.6 Jesus used a “figure of speech” they didn’t understand. The Greek word used is paroimia, which means an enigmatical or fictitious illustration. parable, or proverb. And “they” are likely the Pharisees and Jews that Jesus spoke to in chapter nine when he taught in the Jerusalem temple during the Feast of Tabernacles.
They were the intellectual elites. The most knowledgeable in Old Testament scriptures. And they should have been first to recognize, accept, and follow Jesus as the Messiah. Instead, they rejected him and led the people in rejecting him too. It illustrates the fact that people seldom reject Jesus based on intellectual knowledge. But rather a hard heart. It also emphasizes the grave responsibility placed on spiritual leaders. To carefully steward God’s word and proclaim its truth will diligence.
The parable makes a scene change in V.7. After gathering their herd of sheep in the village, shepherds led them out into the open fields to graze. And in the warm summer stayed out overnight. In that event, sheep were kept in hand built stone-walled enclosures. The top wall was covered with thorns to fend off wild animals. And since there was no enclosure door, the shepherd slept in the opening as guard. In the same manner, Jesus both leads the sheep and is the door that protects them.
A study of John 10:1-10 reveals that Jesus offers abundant life.
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. (John 10:10)
The Greek word for “life” is zoe. Its meaning extends beyond simply biological existence which would normally use the Greek word bios. John uses zoe to mean regenerated and eternal life with God. And the Greek word for “abundantly” is perisseúō, which means superabundant and beyond measure. It represents quality of life not an accumulation of material goods.
In other words, abundance in way of full, complete, and a lacking nothing spiritual life. But it does not guarantee unending happiness, well being, comfort, wealth, or success. Life presents challenges and hardships to everyone. And followers of Jesus Christ are not shielded from those experiences. Although Jesus walks with us through them.
We end with Jesus affirming a critical spiritual truth. He is the only entrance to eternal life. As savior and Lord, he guides and protects our faith. And we are further secured by the Holy Spirit.
And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee. ( ESV, 2 Corinthians 1:21-22)
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
A study of John 9:1-41 reveals a question and miracle, an investigation and disbelief, certain but fearful parents, a spiritually insightful blind man, and a pursuing savior.
A study of John 9:1-41 reveals a question and miracle.
Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be displayed in him (ESV, John 9:3)
Jesus had been teaching and engaging with hostile Jewish leaders in the Jerusalem temple during the Feast of Tabernacles. After leaving the temple he encounters a man blind from birth. We’re not told how this information is obtain or why it’s relevant. Scholars suggest that John, the author, uses it to symbolically represent the spiritual blindness of Israel. And the disciples ask Jesus a question. Was the man blind because of his parents’ sin or his own sin? The question expressed a common belief that people suffered as a consequence of sin.
This belief is also expressed in the story of Job. When Job’s friends gather to support him in his physical affliction, they suggest he is guilty of sin. But Job insisted he was righteous before God. We know, of course, that sinful actions can result in consequences. But here, Jesus dispels the belief it is true for every case of human suffering. He tells the disciples this man’s blindness is an opportunity to display the works of God.
Jesus then mixes his saliva with dirt to make mud and applies to the man’s eyes. Then tells him to wash in the pool of Siloam. And when the man returns is he able to see. The man’s neighbors and friends are amazed and asked how it happened. And he tells them Jesus healed him.
A study of John 9:1-41 reveals an investigation and disbelief.
They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a Sabbath day when Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. (ESV, John 9:13-14)
The people take the healed blind man to the Pharisees to report the miracle without saying why. Perhaps they felt the Pharisees should be up to speed on the latest miraculous news. The man repeats his story and credits Jesus for the miracle. However, rather than praise God and celebrate, the Pharisees are divided in their response. Kneading was an act of work that violated the sabbath according to Pharisee tradition. And since Jesus spat on dirt and kneaded it into mud as an ointment for the blind man’s eyes, he was guilty of violating it.
Even though the man didn’t disclose any of these details in his story, it didn’t matter. The Pharisees considered Jesus a known sabbath breaker. And to those diligent to the law, anyone who broke it couldn’t possibly be from God. On the other hand, others said only someone from God could perform such a miracle.
Therefore, further investigation was needed. Perhaps they might unravel the story.
A study of John 9:1-41 reveals certain but fearful parents.
His parents answered, “We know that this is our son and that he was born blind. But how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. (ESV, John 9:20-21)
After the miracle, some people questioned if the seeing man was even the same person as the blind beggar. Why? Perhaps because there are physical differences in someone blind who can suddenly see. Or maybe the people spent so many years completely ignoring a blind beggar, they never really looked at him before. The man insisted he was the same person. But the Pharisees demanded more proof. So they called in his parents for questioning.
The parents confirmed the seeing man was their son who was born blind, but didn’t know how he gained his sight. And suggested the Pharisees ask him to explain since he was old enough to answer for himself. They were clearly intimidated by the angry Pharisees out to harm Jesus. Best to avoid saying anything that further angered them and risked being put out of the synagogue.
But the facts were undeniable. The healed man was their son. He was born blind but now could see. And Jesus was the one who performed the miracle.
A study of John 9:1-41 reveals a spiritually insightful blind man.
We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does his will, God listens to him (ESV, John 8:31)
Now desperate, the Pharisees called the man in for one more lame attempt (pun intended) to discredit the story. When people lie, their story often changes when it is retold. No such luck with the former blind man. When asked to retell his story, he repeats the exact same version and wonders why the Pharisees want to hear it again. Did they want to be Jesus’ disciples?
It’s hard to capture the man’s tone of voice, but possibly directed as a cynical jab at the Pharisees and their attitude of superiority. To suggest they wanted Jesus as their teacher was insulting. And perhaps a bit risky on the man’s part. But then, he probably didn’t fear exclusion from the synagogoe like his parents. Since as a blind beggar up to now, he didn’t hang out there much anyway.
And yet, the man highlights a truth the Pharisees most certainly knew, but refused to acknowledge.
Never since the world began has it been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” (ESV, John 9:32-33)
The ironic contrast is evident. A formerly blind beggar speaks with spiritual insight to spiritual leaders blind to God’s truth. The religious elite schooled by a common sinner. And those who should have eagerly embraced Jesus as the messiah committed the unpardonable sin. Rejecting the Son of God.
A study of John 9:1-41 reveals a pursuing savior.
Jesus said to him, “You have seen him, and it is he who is speaking to you.” He said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. (ESV, John 9:37-38)
Jesus sought out and found the former blind man when he heard the Pharisees made him leave the temple. Rejected by the religious leaders, but pursued by Jesus who now challenges the man in his faith. And when Jesus identified himself as the Son of God, the man believes in and worships him.
He demonstrated what scripture consistently teaches about God and man. God pursues and extends his redeeming love to all mankind. But we must all individually believe in and personally confess Jesus Christ as savior and lord. But the Pharisees, who thought they saw with spiritual clarity, were actually blind and their guilt remained.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
A study of John 8:48-59 reveals hostility by those who reject truth, the difference between a physical and spiritual life, and a divine claim by Jesus.
A study of John 8:48-59 reveals hostility by those who reject truth.
The Jews answered him, “Are we not right in saying that you are a Samaritan and have a demon?” (ESV, John 8:48)
When Jesus taught in the Jerusalem temple during the Feast of Tabernacles, he engaged in dialogue with Jews, who at first, believed in him. But it turned out their belief was superficial and they weren’t committed to an ongoing relationship with him. They rejected Jesus’ instruction to abide in his word because they already considered themselves children of Abraham and children of God. Jesus replied he was sent by God and spoke the words of God. And to reject him meant they were actually children of the devil.
This infuriated the Jews. A common reaction when people lose an argument. And Jesus made it worse by challenging them to prove him guilty of even one sin, which they couldn’t do. So in growing hostility, fueled by the frustration they couldn’t refute Jesus, they began calling him names. Another common reaction when God’s word is proclaimed. It will convict and lead to repentance those who accept it and believe. But often cause hostility among those who reject it and prefer darkness over light.
They called Jesus a Samaritan and demon possessed
Jews had a low view of Samaritans who they considered ethnically and morally impure. So they used the name as a racial slur to insult Jesus. Calling him demon possessedaccused him of serving Satan rather than God. Hurtful words for sure, but they also fulfilled prophecy.
He was despised and rejected by mankind, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain. (ESV, Isaiah 53:3)
Here’s another spiritual reality. Accepting Jesus involves an act of humility and submission. Self-righteous pride rejects humility and exalts yourself as a god in place of the Almighty God.
A study of John 8:48-59 reveals the difference between physical and spiritual life.
Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps my word, he will never see death.” The Jews said to him, “Now we know that you have a demon! Abraham died, as did the prophets, yet you say, ‘If anyone keeps my word, he will never taste death.’ (ESV, John 8:51-52)
Using truly, truly at the beginning was intended to get their attention. It was like saying, “Listen up. I’m about to announce something that is really important.” But the Jews assumed Jesus was talking about physical death. And the physical deaths of Abraham and the prophets were all recorded and affirmed in scripture. Therefore, such an outrageous claim proved their point. He was either demon possessed or out of his mind.
Furthermore, the claim Jesus could overcome what their revered patriarch Abraham could not was insulting. So they angrily deminded, “Who do you think you are?” However, the Jews misunderstood. Jesus was not talking about physical death, but the eternal, spiritual death that follows physical death. How do we know? Because Jesus would never contract the truth of scripture. And he more clearly distinguishes between physical and spiritual death later in this gospel.
I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die. (ESV, John 11:25-26)
How well do you know God?
Rather than answer their angry demand, Jesus shifts the conversation and identifies the key to eternal life. A relationship. He says in V.55 they don’t know the father. And the Greek word for “know” that he uses is ginōskō, which means to know relationally and by experience. It is the kind of knowing represented by saving faith because it grows over time through interaction and obedience. But the Jews were counting on their physical relationship with Abraham and completely missed the spiritual one with God the father.
Jesus, on the other hand, knows the father. The Greek word for “know” here is oida, which means absolute, innate, and perfect knowledge. In other words, they never developed an actual relationship with the father, but he has an eternal relationship with the father as the divine son.
A study of John 8:48-59 reveals a divine claim by Jesus.
Your father Abraham rejoiced that he would see my day. He saw it and was glad. (ESV, John 8:56)
Since the Jews kept insisting on a priviledged status as Abraham’s descendents, Jesus shifted the conversation back to him. He describes his relationship with Abraham like someone who knew him intimately. And Abraham, likewise, knew Jesus and looked forward to seeing his day. A statement that made no sense to them. Abraham lived 2,000 years ago and they pointed out the obvious.
So the Jews said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” (ESV, John 8:57)
From a human perspective, Jesus was a young, upstart. Perhaps if he was 50 rather than 30, he might possess some wisdom from lived experience and deserve greater respect. You can almost hear the condescension in their voices. “Come back when you grow up.”
But Jesus was much more than that.
Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” So they picked up stones to throw at him, but Jesus hid himself and went out of the temple. (ESV, John 8:58-59).
The Greek word for “before Abraham was” is gínomai, which means to be born. In other words, Abraham was a created being with a beginning. The words “I am” that Jesus used to describe himself are the Greek egṓ eimí, which literally means I am. It is used throughout scripture to describe the eternal God.
Jesus used it in his I am statements throughout the Gospel of John. Furthermore, it goes back to when Moses asked God for what to say when he presented himself to Israel as God’s chosen leader.
God said to Moses, “I am who I am.” And he said, “Say this to the people of Israel: ‘I am has sent me to you. (ESV, Exodus 3:14)
In other words, Abraham had a beginning as a created being, but Jesus existed as the eternal God. This time the Jews understood exactly what Jesus was claiming. And their thoughts turned murderous. To them Jesus was just a man. And claiming to be God was blasphemy with a penalty of death by stoning. So they gathered rocks to carry out the sentence. But Jesus hid and then left the temple.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
A study of John 8:39-47 differentiates between physical and spiritual relationships, reveals the scriptural claim to a spiritual relationship, and that we demonstrate the actions of the one we follow.
A study of John 8:39-47 differentiates between physical and spiritual relationships.
They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing the works Abraham did, but now you seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. (ESV, John 8:39-40)
Jesus taught in the Jerusalem temple during the Jewish festival of Tabernacles. And following an adversarial exchange with Pharisees (V.12-29), he instructed a group of believers (V.31) on discipleship. He said true disciples abide in his word and are set free. Surprisingly, the believers rejected his teaching. Their reason? They were already free because they were physical descendents of Abraham.
Jesus answered by addressing a spiritual realty. Those who reglularly practice sin are slaves to it (V.34). However, as the Son, he sets them free. He also speaks the words of his father and then suggests they have a different father since his word finds no place in them (V.37-38).
The Jews stubbornly repeated Abraham was their father like it was a final answer (V.39). As if shouting louder or with greater conviction makes something true. It doesn’t. And Jesus made another spiritual observation. The children of Abraham should also follow his spiritual example (V.39). In other words, Abraham was a man of faith. He demonstrated his faith through righteous actions and so should his children. Instead, they were listening to and doing the work of their real father.
A study of John 8:39-47 reveals the scriptural claim to a spiritual relationship.
They said to him, “We were not born of sexual immorality. We have one Father—even God. (ESV, John 8:40)
The Jews finally moved from insisting on a physical connection with Abraham as their forefather to a spiritual one. They claim to be children of God. And they specifically mention the purity of their conception unblemished by sexual immorality. The Greek word used for “sexual immorality” is pornia from which we get pornography. Other translations may use the word “fornication” and “illegitimate.”
Scholars differ on what the Jews meant. There was an obvious inference to the questionable circumstances around Jesus’ potentially illegitimate birth as a personal attack. Illustrating even in ancient times, the destructive power of gossip. They were all born in lawful wedlock and Jesus was not.
Furthermore, Exodus 4:22, Jeremiah 31:9 and Deuteronomy 14:1-2 mention God as Israel’s father and them a treasured posession. So there was scriptural support to spiritually claim they were children of God. As legitimate Hebrews and not heathen idolaters, they were true worshipers of God who were special to him.
A study of John 8:39-47 reveals that we demonstrate the actions of the one we follow.
Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and I am here. (ESV, John 8:42)
Jesus doesn’t refute their scripturally supported claim. Instead, he points out another connection. His eternal relationship to the father. He was the son sent by the father and speaks the words of the father. Therefore, if they really love, worship, and know the father, they should love him and abide in his word.
But they don’t. Why? Because their real father was the devil, a murderer and the father of lies. And their will was to do his desires. Therefore, they didn’t hear or understand Jesus’ word. They didn’t believe him because he spoke the truth (V45).
The point is the one we genuinely believe and follow is demonstrated by our actions. Followers of Jesus will pursue his righteousnes. Followers of the devil will pursue their own sinful desires. And eventually, the evil desires of the people Jesus confronted would demonstrate themselves when they supported the religious leaders with calls to crucify him.
Jesus issues a brazen challenge.
Which one of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God. (V.46-47)
No other person in human history has made such an audacious claim. Even more amazing? No one has ever identified one sin Jesus ever committed. And many have tried.
Now the chief priests and the whole Council kept trying to obtain false testimony against Jesus, so that they might put Him to death. They did not find any, even though many false witnesses came forward.” (ESV, Matthew 26:59-60)
The apostle Paul both confirms this truth and explain its importance.
He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. (ESV, 2 Corinthians 5:21)
Jesus came to offer himself as a perfect sacrifice for our sins. And that required the sinless life that he accomplished.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
A study of John 8:31-38 reveals the key to discipleship and truth that sets you free, the enslaving power of sin, and the differece between truth and lies.
A study of John 8:31-38 reveals the key to discipleship and truth that sets you free.
So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free. (ESV, John 8:31-32)
Jesus taught in the Jerusalem temple during the Jewish festival of Tabernacles. And in V.12-29 he dialogued in an adversarial exchange with Pharisees who rejected him. But V.30 says other people did believe in him. So Jesus instructed the believers on discipleship.
As true disciples they should abide in his word to know the truth that sets them free. (V.31)
The Greek word for “abide” is meno, and means to stay in expectancy, to continue, dwell, endure, and remain. In other words, believing in Jesus required more than intellectual knowledge, but involved a relationship with him. To accept him as Lord and obey his teachings.
And the result? It would set them free.
A study of John 8:31-38 reveals the enslaving power of sin.
Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (ESV, John 8:34-36)
However, the believers reacted in a surprising manner to these instructions. They insisted that as descendents of Abraham, they had never been enslaved and rejected the need to be set free. What prompted this reaction? Apparently, their belief in Jesus was superficial and excluded messing with their lifestyle. Not unlike today. People are quick to accept Jesus as an intellectual acknowledgement or entrance into heaven. But balk when it includes submitting to him as Lord.
Enslavement of sin
Although they probably didn’t mean they had never been physically enslaved. The Festival of Tabernacles was itself, a reminder of the temporary shelters Israel lived in during their wilderness journey after leaving slavery in Egypt. Furthermore, they currently lived under Roman occupation and their history included multiple times of captivity, exile, and oppression by other civilizations.
Rather, they felt entitled as descendents of Abraham that earned them automatic entrance into the Kingdom of God. Another misunderstanding that seeps into modern thinking. There is no heavenly inclusion because your parents are believers or through membership in a church or denomination. Every person must choose to believe in and follow Jesus.
So Jesus shifts to explaining spiritual enslavement. Those who practice sin are slaves to it. The word “practices” is the Greek poiōn. It means the one who is continually doing and represents a habitual or ongoing action. In other words, an ongoing, sinful lifestyle will also enslave you. The Apostle Paul also affirms this truth.
Do you not know if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? (ESV, Romans 6:16)
Furthermore, the truth Jesus refers to is not a concept but himself–Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Jesus sets us free from sin and judgement. Accepting him as Savior and Lord sets us free indeed.
A study of John I:31-38 reveals the difference between truth and lies.
I know that you are offspring of Abraham; yet you seek to kill me because my word finds no place in you. I speak of what I have seen with my Father, and you do what you have heard from your father.” (ESV, John 8:37-38)
John the Baptist warned the Jewish people in Matthew 3:9 and Luke 3:8 not to assume they entered the kingdom of God because they were Abraham’s descendents. And Jesus addressed it as well in Matthew 8:11-12. Now he draws a distinction from family life between slaves and sons to further illustrate. Slaves were often considered part of a household but lacked the status of a son. They were often valued and loved, but still temporary. A son, however, was permanent. And the spiritual application? Sons have an eternal legacy and slaves do not.
Jesus affirmed the Jews’ standing as the offspring of Abraham. But they lacked the more important spiritual component. They didn’t imitate Abraham’s faith. He cites as proof, the absence of his word in their hearts that instead, were filled with murderous thoughts. He further distinguished between believers and non-believers by identifying them with their fathers. Jesus’ words and actions reflected his obedience to his heavenly father, and their words and actions reflected their father, the devil.
We’re reminded that who you listen to matters. Do you fill your hearts with God’s truth or Satan’s lies? Each is followed by corresponding actions. God’s truth promotes lives that pursue righteousness. And Satan’s lies promotes lives enslaved by sin.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
Is Christmas a Hoax? A mass dilusion of spiritual deception? An elaborate scheme of manipulation? A religious fable? If so, where does that leave Christians today?
In moments of reflection, many Christians have asked this question. I have. Because times of doubt are common in the Christian faith. And a favorite tool of our adversary.
Some people suggest that if the Christmas story isn’t true, the Christian lifestyle still presents a meaningful, moral framework for life. And therefore, worth following. But the Apostle Paul rejects that idea.
And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 15:14, 19)
In other words, if the birth of Jesus Christ two thousand years ago is simply a feel good story with a moral lesson, a Santa Claus inspired holiday celebration, and a menu of new Hallmark movies, Christians should be pitied. Because we follow a lie. A worthless faith. And the hope of eternal redemption is a grave illusion.
Therefore, I am all in on Jesus Christ and celebrating the meaning of his birth. And hold on to three reminders for Christmas hope.
Is Christmas a hoax? Christmas is faith in a historical event
“And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” (ESV, Hebrews 11:6)
The birth of Jesus Christ is a historical event. It was prophesied 700 years before it occurred and the historical facts surrounding it are undisputed. The Christian faith supplies the “why.”
It’s because humanity is relationally separated from God because of sin. And we cannot fix or save ourselves. So Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came to live a perfect life and die as a sacrifice for those sins. Those who believe in Jesus and confess him as savior and lord are forgiven of their sins and granted eternal life in heaven.
Still, it requires faith. Either you believe or don’t. Furthermore, Jesus shouldn’t be considered simply a good man or moral teacher. Because he claimed to be God. So if he wasn’t, he was something else. Since history factually records Jesus’ birth it can’t be dismissed as a fairy tale. But your response to those events involves faith.
Is Christmas a hoax? The Word of God is Absolute truth
All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (ESV, 2 Timothy 3:16)
God’s Word is absolute truth. A solid foundation to build your life on. And a common point of reference for everyone. Otherwise it’s your truth versus my truth and how do we ever agree on anything? Because eventually our truths will collide and then what? The truth backed by the biggest gun wins?
Without absolute truth life is a potpourri of human opinion riding a cultural tide that pulls you into a choppy sea of confusion. With nothing to hold you fast.
The absolute truth of Scripture anchors my beliefs. And provides sure footing that informs my faith. Its message is consistent and reliable for purposeful living. And while I must still exercise faith, it is not blind but based on evidence. And offers an eternal future.
Is Christmas a hoax? A Community of Faithful Followers Offers Assurance
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the people of old received their commendation. By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible. (ESV, Hebrews 11:1-3)
Rather than ask, “How can so many people be deceived?” I ask, “How can so many people be wrong?” And, “why would anyone suffer or die for a something that isn’t true?”
In addition, I gather weekly with a local body of fellow believers. Broken and imperfect. Yet, positive and uplifting. A community driven by love and seasoned with grace that gives and receives assurance. Furthermore, we are unified by worship. Bonded in the fellowship of God’s Spirit in mutual encouragement and support. In short, doing life together.
And Christmas brings it all together with joy and hope.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (ESV, Luke 2:11)
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
The Christian faith in simple words
Christianity for the Average Joe explains the core beliefs of Christianity in clear, everyday language—without theological jargon or confusing religious talk. But in a friendly, conversational tone of voice.
Join my list and I'll notify you of new blog posts and send you a monthly newsletter. It features inspirational thoughts, writing tips, and a peek into writing projects. I'll also include my article: Exaggerate to Make Your Presentations Funny. It shows you how to punch up presentations with humor and make them more compelling.
