Am are is will my has - significant words in the account of Jesus. What did Jesus disclose about himself? How much does it matter?
On an August Saturday at the Coburg Mall a team of men were handing out copies of the Koran (Qur'an) and promoting Islam. I had a conversation with Yusuf, who quoted a lot of the Gospels - especially the words of Jesus from the “Red Letter Bible” - it surprised me. He had so much. It matters a great deal indeed..
So I reflected: How really remarkable and telling were the things Jesus said of himself? What did he say and what weight did he put on what he said? Is it clear? Does it really affect me and you?
“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and don’t do the things I say? I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, hears my words, and acts on them: He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. When the flood came, the river crashed against that house and couldn’t shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears and does not act is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The river crashed against it, and immediately it collapsed. And the destruction of that house was great.” (Luke 6:46-49, CSB).
It is crystal clear that Jesus says there is a way to “build” which gives long term “success”; there is an alternative way which leads to personal disaster, in fact, destruction. We may not be forced to think of obliteration for the unwise, but we are compelled to note that our destiny depends on “hearing” and “practising” the words of Jesus - his own words. Is it a bit strong? His words demand our hearing. Weighty words. What Jesus says is of ultimate importance. What words are they? A selection follows below. The words now found in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, with expansion in the remainder of the New Testament (NT) - everything he provided by his Spirit. (Assumption: Today, in your case and mine, to read is equivalent to hear.) A similar report of the house builder parable is found at the end of Matthew chapter 7.
Jesus indeed came not to abolish but to fulfil God's Law. That needs expansion!
Matthew chapter 5 has Jesus laying down his own law, as it were, and fulfilling what had come before. God stipulated God's requirements. Jesus directly lays down his requirements. Following is an abbreviated listing:
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,[a] and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister[b][c] will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’[d] is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell (21-22, NIV). Where did they hear that old rule? In the Old Testament (OT). Jesus has more to say than the people long ago heard. The absence of a corpse does not equal compliance. The superficial is not enough. Attitude is critical - even if not necessarily spoken, as in "is angry".
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart (27-28, NRSV). Very contrary to the culture of the Mediterranean in that day. I dare say all the hearers knew the OT law; did Jesus shock some? Does he shock? Visual adultery indeed! So, attitude or thought is critical to compliance with God; with Jesus.
“Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God (33-34, ESV). We can review Leviticus chapter 19 for the falsity matter. Jesus seems to have been taking up current views and changing their import with a different emphasis - his. (The topic of using oaths in evasion came up again in Matthew 23.) I am reminded of our advertising and sales industry.
You know that you have been taught, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” But I tell you not to try to get even with a person who has done something to you. When someone slaps your right cheek,[a] turn and let that person slap your other cheek (38-39, CEV). No vengeance? Really? Leave things "uneven" he said. And with this prescription from the new "Law-Giver", note also -
“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’[a] and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies![b] Pray for those who persecute you! (43-44, NLT). The two ideas were well represented in the OT but Jesus, on his own “say so”, brings out the higher challenge. Like God, be good to opponents.
Furthermore, Jesus’ made no effort to have his followers comply with Sabbath rules. More Law torn up? Shocking! This behaviour could not be countenanced. So, they told him, and got the answer: Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!” (Mark 2:27-28, NLT). Lord over the Sabbath? Who runs the world, anyway? That would also have been impossible to stomach! (Actually, the problem lay with their teaching...)
John records many of the descriptions Jesus applied to himself. They are best read in their contexts, but here is a summary collection of them in the sequence of the book:
The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When he comes, he will proclaim all things to us.” Jesus said to her, “I am* he,[a] the one who is speaking to you” (John 4:25-26, NRSV). This initial disclosure Jesus made to a woman (!), to an outsider (!), to someone who could be viewed as disreputable! It is strong and quite unique so early in the record. The statement would have been dangerous, in more than one way, if made amongst the Jewish folk.
I am* the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” (6:51, NRSV). Hearers seemed to be mystified - how can this man give us his flesh? Disciples found it difficult! (After his execution it was clearer to those who accepted the salvation benefit of his death.)
Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am* the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (8:12, ESV). Enlightenment for the whole world! Response: Pharisees said he was just big-noting himself. Why remain in the dark?
Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not. That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I AM* who I claim to be,[a] you will die in your sins.” (8:23-4, NLT). Response to this: Who are you? The interaction continued... see following. Taking hold of the real truth about Jesus has eternal significance.
“Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am*!” (8:58, NIV). Response: How can he just say he is God? They picked up stones to throw at him. Accept, or like them, reject?
I am* the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture (10:9, NRSV). But then also -
I am* the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep (10:11, ESV). Response: He’s demon possessed and raving mad! Not only is he the means of entry to God's salvation, he is the one who holds on to his own.
Jesus then said, “I am* the one who raises the dead to life! Everyone who has faith in me will live, even if they die (11:25, CEV). Response from Martha: I believe you are the Christ, the Son of God. She knew!
You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am (13:13, NLT). They did stumble, but this much they were getting right! We can do likewise.
Jesus answered, “I am* the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (14:6, NIV). Response: Philip asked for them to be shown the Father. (See following.) Once again Jesus declares he makes the path open to us that we may go in.
I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves (John 14:11-12, CSB). Weighty words - in time they would sink in.
“I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you. In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live. On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you (14:18-20, NRSV). Response: Judas (the other one) asked how come only they would have this revelation? No doubt much puzzlement with them. Today the believer is fortunate to have the story in full, that is, sufficient for salvation and behaviour.
“I am* the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. — - I am* the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (15:1,5 ESV). He is the source, all depends on him. Then they heard him say he calls them his friends. Still he calls the friends by that name.
I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me (17:21, NLT). Jesus' prayer for us, today? (Seems a bit difficult "out there" in this age.) Nonetheless, he and the Father have full unity.
When Jesus[a] said to them, “I am* he,” they drew back and fell to the ground (John 18:6, ESV). They could seize him and take him, but though their worst was done, he lives!
So many elements to describe just who Jesus is. Strong language too. The implications seem overwhelming, deliberate and relevant.
There must be a reason why people do not want to know what Jesus says about himself. In those final hours we have: But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah,[a] the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am*; and
‘you will see the Son of Man
seated at the right hand of the Power,’
and ‘coming with the clouds of heaven.’”
Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “Why do we still need witnesses? (Mark 14:61-63, NRSV). The meaning was all too crystal clear? They refused to hear that. I can imagine fingers in the ears! Surely, I can say, no evidence there of the presence of the Paraclete in them, nor openness to the truth. They could have known so much...
Jesus has an invitation for the burdened person. It is recorded with remarkable information contained in this thanksgiving Jesus gave: At that time Jesus said, “I thank[a] you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.[b] All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:25-30, NRSV). What could be the burden - was it the concern to truly know God; to really align with God’s way? Jesus - alone - can make the Father truly known, lift the burden. Jesus invites participants. This Suffering Servant wants people to bond with him in harmony and to be infants in God’s ways no more. What Jesus offers is unique and permanent.
On a memorable day, Jesus dealt with a young man’s sins - and his paralysis! But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” (Luke 5:24, ESV). And he did go home!
On another "scandalous" occasion, a needy and despised woman insinuated herself close enough in a party and Jesus spoke to her: Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.” Some other guests started saying to one another, “Who is this who dares to forgive sins?” But Jesus told the woman, “Because of your faith, you are now saved.[e] May God give you peace!” (Luke 7:48-50, CEV). [Earlier, when he saw her come in: The Pharisee who had invited Jesus saw this and said to himself, “If this man really were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is touching him! He would know that she is a sinner.” (v.39) - which leaves unresolved the question of how Pharisee knew her; but see below re "prophet" or not.]
Jesus gave a final commission to his disciples; a task unfinished which he alone could impose: and he said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Messiah[a] is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses[b] of these things (Luke 24:46-48, NRSV). They knew and seemingly accepted the teaching that sin separates the sinner from God. The offence is against God. (There was a problem with the identification of sin - which is seated within - see Jesus' Law exposition above.) Jesus the sin-forgiving carpenter had been an offence in life; the sin-erasing "offence" was to, and does, continue, with no other intermediary.
Later in the text of Matthew we have Jesus talking about forgiveness and prayer. In that place he said: “I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers,[a] I am there among them” (Matthew 18:19-20, NLT). God would be amongst the gathered! He is clearly looking ahead to the future, to now, to people gathering “in his name”. They are not alone; there he is, in the midst of them. Just how can this be? (He said more!)
Early in the time of his ministry Jesus “delegated” spread of his message and exercise of his mission. No easy task, this; not something light-hearted. Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions, caution and assurance:
Stay away from the Gentiles and don’t go to any Samaritan town. Go only to the people of Israel, because they are like a flock of lost sheep. As you go, announce that the kingdom of heaven will soon be here.[a] Heal the sick, raise the dead to life, heal people who have leprosy,[b] and force out demons. You received without paying, now give without being paid. Don’t take along any gold, silver, or copper coins. And don’t carry[c] a traveling bag or an extra shirt or sandals or a walking stick. Workers deserve their food. So when you go to a town or a village, find someone worthy enough to have you as their guest and stay with them until you leave. When you go to a home, give it your blessing of peace. If the home is deserving, let your blessing remain with them. But if the home isn’t deserving, take back your blessing of peace. If someone won’t welcome you or listen to your message, leave their home or town. And shake the dust from your feet at them.[d] I promise you that the day of judgment will be easier for the towns of Sodom and Gomorrah[e] than for that town. I am sending you like lambs into a pack of wolves. So be as wise as snakes and as innocent as doves (Matthew 10:5-16, CEV). Who else could initiate such a mission? On Jesus the responsibility for them being exposed to what lay ahead - he himself was deliberately sending them - with his own message - and depending on their being like non-biting snakes! (Only Matthew uses the snake comparison for the disciple.)
Jesus spoke of himself as a prophet: And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor except in their own country and in their own house.” And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief (Matthew 13:56-58, NRSV). He was sadly unacceptable to “his own”, for they correctly knew he was truly a man like them. In their sad unbelief, they knew right, but they ignored the rest.
As Jesus taught in the Temple he was spoken of by others as a prophet, or more. Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This really is the Prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? (John 7:39-41, ESV). Jesus was teaching in the Temple and his words rang true. Some wondered about him.
Jesus was introduced by someone “more than a prophet”, for he was the predicted messenger preceding the Lord: What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written:
See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you;
he will prepare your way before you.[a] (Luke 7:26-27, CSB). The “written” presumably refers back to words in the Old Testament (OT) that would have been familiar. In our English Bible you find something like it at Malachi 3:1. Strikingly, Malachi says the Lord Almighty will send his messenger before the Lord comes to his temple. This exalted message Jesus takes as referring to himself and sees his forerunner fulfilled in John.
Unwelcome to many, but John’s message had marked a new beginning, for the Lord had indeed come. No one ever born on this earth is greater than John. But whoever is least important in God’s kingdom is greater than John. Everyone had been listening to John. Even the tax collectors[a] had obeyed God and had done what was right by letting John baptize them. But the Pharisees and the experts in the Law of Moses refused to obey God and be baptized by John. Jesus went on to say: What are you people like? What kind of people are you? You are like children sitting in the market and shouting to each other,
“We played the flute,
but you would not dance!
We sang a funeral song,
but you would not cry!”
John the Baptist did not go around eating and drinking, and you said, “John has a demon in him!” But because the Son of Man goes around eating and drinking, you say, “Jesus eats and drinks too much! He is even a friend of tax collectors and sinners.” (Luke 7:28-34, CEV). Sad that responsible people could be compared to querulous children - nothing would do for them. Even though John was so important, anyone who belongs to Jesus is "greater" than John!
There is also a judgement to come, for the living and the dead: Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man.
“Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned (John 5:25-29, NIV). We are accountable to God, to Jesus. No other verdict has this kind of significance. Elsewhere Jesus expanded, in chapter 8 of John, and in: If anyone hears my words and doesn’t keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. The one who rejects me and doesn’t receive my sayings has this as his judge:[a] The word I have spoken will judge him on the last day (John 12:47-48, CSB). Though the verdict is postponed, no neutrality or abstention is possible for those who hear.
The Day of Judgement is a big topic in the Bible. Not everyone will be condemned. Consider a little of what what Jesus had to say on this:
the stars will fall from the sky,
and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.[a]
Then everyone will see the Son of Man[b] coming on the clouds with great power and glory.[c] And he will send out his angels to gather his chosen ones from all over the world[d]—from the farthest ends of the earth and heaven (Mark 13:25-27, NLT). He will come with his glorious majesty plain to see. He will gather the ones he has chosen; he will collect them up from the entire earth and they will be with him. The angels are his messengers. Here I am reflecting the Gospels’ identification of Jesus as “Son of Man”. The Son of Man separates and judges. God separates and judges.
Jesus is here still!
As it became increasingly clear that Jesus was under deadly threat, he spoke words of reassurance to his followers. “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me (John 15:26, NIV). They need not fear being left to wander in the dark. Jesus, Jesus alone, will send the Advocate (or, Paraclete, or, Helper).
He made his future presence by the Advocate even more explicit: But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate[a] won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you....
“There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me. All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever he receives from me’(John 16:7, 12-15, NLT). Neither they, then, nor we, now, need stumble at the mercy of charlatans, wolves or opponents. Jesus' voice is loud today by the Spirit! Thank God! (Being together has become complicated, but the principles remain.)
In the final lines from Matthew, look at the commission Jesus gave after his resurrection: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV). He will always be with his disciples. They are to baptise new disciples in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Of God. All the revelation of God is brought to bear in that phrase. The important, the essential thing, is for people to be given the opportunity to accept God's mercy, adhere to what Jesus said, to become his disciples, to live out what is taught truly. No dead message this, for Jesus is right there.
In the days following his resurrection Jesus continued his work, including instructing the disciples: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8, NLT). The Jesus message was/is for everywhere. The political map of that day is brushed aside. Some days later the momentous happening arrived and with the event much noise. Peter explained to a confused and disturbed Jerusalem crowd: God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear ( Acts 2:32-33, NIV). Jesus’ promises remain valid. He is here by his Spirit.
As to Yusuf: The man said that Jesus is to be respected as one of their line of prophets, from Adam to Mohammad. He spoke of the Islamic claim that Jesus predicted the coming of Mohammad, and that Mohammad is “The Paraclete”! About the first claim only he may sadly be right (see following), but not in the way he thinks.
We have long been warned, even from the OT! Paul once gave a serious caution: Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God[a] that he obtained with the blood of his own Son.[b] I know that after I have gone, savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock (Acts 20:28-29, NRSV). How did Paul know the impending hazard to God's (or, the Lord's) church? I dare say Paul had heard what Jesus himself said towards the end: For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect (Mark 13:22, ESV). So also in Matthew 24 and Luke 17. Earlier on in Matthew: Watch out for false prophets! They dress up like sheep, but inside they are wolves who have come to attack you (7:15, CEV). Wolves wearing sheepskins and false prophets may come from “within”, which is difficult to deal with, and that is an issue included in the preceding. The focus of the later passages is on not being mislead in relation to Jesus' return, which return will happen as "secretly" as a sheet lightning discharge! (Other NT writers also give space to the matter of illusion replacing truth, of "angels of light", who are in fact the opposite, of the non-authentic, who have "another Gospel".) Does Jesus' prediction not apply to Mohammad? The Bible writers assume truth actually exists and does matter!
I hope this is the Jesus you know and belong to - that is Jesus' wish and his sincere invitation to you.
* Note 1. At specific places above I have inserted the symbol *, which marks the Greek ἐγώ εἰμι (ego e-mi), or, “I am”. The grammar does not necessitate the pronoun and where the expression occurs there is an emphasis on "I". You may check the versions for various translations; quite often the rendering is, "I myself". The expression may be connected to the Greek version of the special OT name for God, which is found and expanded on in Exodus 3: God said to Moses, “I am* who I am.”[a] He said further, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘I am has sent me to you.’” God also said to Moses, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘The LORD,[b] the God of your ancestors, 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 my title for all generations (14-15, NRSV). This intriguing revelation was well known amongst Jesus' contemporaries - making their angst at the faintest hint - see above - even more likely in the face of his words. In the text in this paragraph the * marks the Septuagint (Greek OT) use of ἐγώ εἰμι.
The ἐγώ εἰμι expression occurs in other places which do not or, perhaps, may, support translation as the "I AM":
Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” Then the angel said, “I am* Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! (Luke 1:18-19, NLT)
for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I*; do not be afraid” (Mark 6:50, NRSV).
Deeply distressed, each one began to say to him, “Surely not I*, Lord?” (Matt 26:22, CSB)
When Jesus[a] said to them, “I am* he,” they drew back and fell to the ground (John 18:6, ESV).
I am* a Jew, born and raised in the city of Tarsus in Cilicia. I was a student of Gamaliel and was taught to follow every single law of our ancestors. In fact, I was just as eager to obey God as any of you are today (Acts 22:3, CEV).
Note 2. See also previous post/page, "Who?"
Scripture quotations marked (CEV) are from the Contemporary English Version Copyright © 1991, 1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Scripture quotations marked (CSB) are from the Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Note 3. I retain in the publishers' text where they occur the references to footnotes (eg, a., b.), but usually not the notes. You can check them out by viewing the text on-line. Often they are replicated in different translations.
Bible passages accessed via BibleGateway.com
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| How are you building? Crash, or continue? See below. |
So I reflected: How really remarkable and telling were the things Jesus said of himself? What did he say and what weight did he put on what he said? Is it clear? Does it really affect me and you?
“Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and don’t do the things I say? I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, hears my words, and acts on them: He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. When the flood came, the river crashed against that house and couldn’t shake it, because it was well built. But the one who hears and does not act is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The river crashed against it, and immediately it collapsed. And the destruction of that house was great.” (Luke 6:46-49, CSB).
It is crystal clear that Jesus says there is a way to “build” which gives long term “success”; there is an alternative way which leads to personal disaster, in fact, destruction. We may not be forced to think of obliteration for the unwise, but we are compelled to note that our destiny depends on “hearing” and “practising” the words of Jesus - his own words. Is it a bit strong? His words demand our hearing. Weighty words. What Jesus says is of ultimate importance. What words are they? A selection follows below. The words now found in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, with expansion in the remainder of the New Testament (NT) - everything he provided by his Spirit. (Assumption: Today, in your case and mine, to read is equivalent to hear.) A similar report of the house builder parable is found at the end of Matthew chapter 7.
Jesus and the Law of God
Jesus indeed came not to abolish but to fulfil God's Law. That needs expansion!
Matthew chapter 5 has Jesus laying down his own law, as it were, and fulfilling what had come before. God stipulated God's requirements. Jesus directly lays down his requirements. Following is an abbreviated listing:
“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,[a] and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister[b][c] will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’[d] is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell (21-22, NIV). Where did they hear that old rule? In the Old Testament (OT). Jesus has more to say than the people long ago heard. The absence of a corpse does not equal compliance. The superficial is not enough. Attitude is critical - even if not necessarily spoken, as in "is angry".
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart (27-28, NRSV). Very contrary to the culture of the Mediterranean in that day. I dare say all the hearers knew the OT law; did Jesus shock some? Does he shock? Visual adultery indeed! So, attitude or thought is critical to compliance with God; with Jesus.
“Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God (33-34, ESV). We can review Leviticus chapter 19 for the falsity matter. Jesus seems to have been taking up current views and changing their import with a different emphasis - his. (The topic of using oaths in evasion came up again in Matthew 23.) I am reminded of our advertising and sales industry.
You know that you have been taught, “An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” But I tell you not to try to get even with a person who has done something to you. When someone slaps your right cheek,[a] turn and let that person slap your other cheek (38-39, CEV). No vengeance? Really? Leave things "uneven" he said. And with this prescription from the new "Law-Giver", note also -
“You have heard the law that says, ‘Love your neighbor’[a] and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies![b] Pray for those who persecute you! (43-44, NLT). The two ideas were well represented in the OT but Jesus, on his own “say so”, brings out the higher challenge. Like God, be good to opponents.
Furthermore, Jesus’ made no effort to have his followers comply with Sabbath rules. More Law torn up? Shocking! This behaviour could not be countenanced. So, they told him, and got the answer: Then Jesus said to them, “The Sabbath was made to meet the needs of people, and not people to meet the requirements of the Sabbath. So the Son of Man is Lord, even over the Sabbath!” (Mark 2:27-28, NLT). Lord over the Sabbath? Who runs the world, anyway? That would also have been impossible to stomach! (Actually, the problem lay with their teaching...)
Jesus and "I AM"
John records many of the descriptions Jesus applied to himself. They are best read in their contexts, but here is a summary collection of them in the sequence of the book:
The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When he comes, he will proclaim all things to us.” Jesus said to her, “I am* he,[a] the one who is speaking to you” (John 4:25-26, NRSV). This initial disclosure Jesus made to a woman (!), to an outsider (!), to someone who could be viewed as disreputable! It is strong and quite unique so early in the record. The statement would have been dangerous, in more than one way, if made amongst the Jewish folk.
I am* the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.” (6:51, NRSV). Hearers seemed to be mystified - how can this man give us his flesh? Disciples found it difficult! (After his execution it was clearer to those who accepted the salvation benefit of his death.)
Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am* the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (8:12, ESV). Enlightenment for the whole world! Response: Pharisees said he was just big-noting himself. Why remain in the dark?
Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not. That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I AM* who I claim to be,[a] you will die in your sins.” (8:23-4, NLT). Response to this: Who are you? The interaction continued... see following. Taking hold of the real truth about Jesus has eternal significance.
“Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am*!” (8:58, NIV). Response: How can he just say he is God? They picked up stones to throw at him. Accept, or like them, reject?
I am* the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture (10:9, NRSV). But then also -
I am* the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep (10:11, ESV). Response: He’s demon possessed and raving mad! Not only is he the means of entry to God's salvation, he is the one who holds on to his own.
Jesus then said, “I am* the one who raises the dead to life! Everyone who has faith in me will live, even if they die (11:25, CEV). Response from Martha: I believe you are the Christ, the Son of God. She knew!
You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and you are right, because that’s what I am (13:13, NLT). They did stumble, but this much they were getting right! We can do likewise.
Jesus answered, “I am* the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (14:6, NIV). Response: Philip asked for them to be shown the Father. (See following.) Once again Jesus declares he makes the path open to us that we may go in.
I do not speak on my own authority, but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else believe on account of the works themselves (John 14:11-12, CSB). Weighty words - in time they would sink in.
“I will not leave you orphaned; I am coming to you. In a little while the world will no longer see me, but you will see me; because I live, you also will live. On that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you (14:18-20, NRSV). Response: Judas (the other one) asked how come only they would have this revelation? No doubt much puzzlement with them. Today the believer is fortunate to have the story in full, that is, sufficient for salvation and behaviour.
“I am* the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. — - I am* the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (15:1,5 ESV). He is the source, all depends on him. Then they heard him say he calls them his friends. Still he calls the friends by that name.
I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me (17:21, NLT). Jesus' prayer for us, today? (Seems a bit difficult "out there" in this age.) Nonetheless, he and the Father have full unity.
When Jesus[a] said to them, “I am* he,” they drew back and fell to the ground (John 18:6, ESV). They could seize him and take him, but though their worst was done, he lives!
So many elements to describe just who Jesus is. Strong language too. The implications seem overwhelming, deliberate and relevant.
There must be a reason why people do not want to know what Jesus says about himself. In those final hours we have: But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah,[a] the Son of the Blessed One?” Jesus said, “I am*; and
‘you will see the Son of Man
seated at the right hand of the Power,’
and ‘coming with the clouds of heaven.’”
Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, “Why do we still need witnesses? (Mark 14:61-63, NRSV). The meaning was all too crystal clear? They refused to hear that. I can imagine fingers in the ears! Surely, I can say, no evidence there of the presence of the Paraclete in them, nor openness to the truth. They could have known so much...
Jesus invites, forgives and directs
Jesus has an invitation for the burdened person. It is recorded with remarkable information contained in this thanksgiving Jesus gave: At that time Jesus said, “I thank[a] you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will.[b] All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthew 11:25-30, NRSV). What could be the burden - was it the concern to truly know God; to really align with God’s way? Jesus - alone - can make the Father truly known, lift the burden. Jesus invites participants. This Suffering Servant wants people to bond with him in harmony and to be infants in God’s ways no more. What Jesus offers is unique and permanent.
On a memorable day, Jesus dealt with a young man’s sins - and his paralysis! But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins”—he said to the man who was paralyzed—“I say to you, rise, pick up your bed and go home.” (Luke 5:24, ESV). And he did go home!
On another "scandalous" occasion, a needy and despised woman insinuated herself close enough in a party and Jesus spoke to her: Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.” Some other guests started saying to one another, “Who is this who dares to forgive sins?” But Jesus told the woman, “Because of your faith, you are now saved.[e] May God give you peace!” (Luke 7:48-50, CEV). [Earlier, when he saw her come in: The Pharisee who had invited Jesus saw this and said to himself, “If this man really were a prophet, he would know what kind of woman is touching him! He would know that she is a sinner.” (v.39) - which leaves unresolved the question of how Pharisee knew her; but see below re "prophet" or not.]
Jesus gave a final commission to his disciples; a task unfinished which he alone could impose: and he said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Messiah[a] is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third day, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses[b] of these things (Luke 24:46-48, NRSV). They knew and seemingly accepted the teaching that sin separates the sinner from God. The offence is against God. (There was a problem with the identification of sin - which is seated within - see Jesus' Law exposition above.) Jesus the sin-forgiving carpenter had been an offence in life; the sin-erasing "offence" was to, and does, continue, with no other intermediary.
Later in the text of Matthew we have Jesus talking about forgiveness and prayer. In that place he said: “I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers,[a] I am there among them” (Matthew 18:19-20, NLT). God would be amongst the gathered! He is clearly looking ahead to the future, to now, to people gathering “in his name”. They are not alone; there he is, in the midst of them. Just how can this be? (He said more!)
Early in the time of his ministry Jesus “delegated” spread of his message and exercise of his mission. No easy task, this; not something light-hearted. Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions, caution and assurance:
Stay away from the Gentiles and don’t go to any Samaritan town. Go only to the people of Israel, because they are like a flock of lost sheep. As you go, announce that the kingdom of heaven will soon be here.[a] Heal the sick, raise the dead to life, heal people who have leprosy,[b] and force out demons. You received without paying, now give without being paid. Don’t take along any gold, silver, or copper coins. And don’t carry[c] a traveling bag or an extra shirt or sandals or a walking stick. Workers deserve their food. So when you go to a town or a village, find someone worthy enough to have you as their guest and stay with them until you leave. When you go to a home, give it your blessing of peace. If the home is deserving, let your blessing remain with them. But if the home isn’t deserving, take back your blessing of peace. If someone won’t welcome you or listen to your message, leave their home or town. And shake the dust from your feet at them.[d] I promise you that the day of judgment will be easier for the towns of Sodom and Gomorrah[e] than for that town. I am sending you like lambs into a pack of wolves. So be as wise as snakes and as innocent as doves (Matthew 10:5-16, CEV). Who else could initiate such a mission? On Jesus the responsibility for them being exposed to what lay ahead - he himself was deliberately sending them - with his own message - and depending on their being like non-biting snakes! (Only Matthew uses the snake comparison for the disciple.)
Jesus - prophet, and judge to come
Jesus spoke of himself as a prophet: And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?” And they took offense at him. But Jesus said to them, “Prophets are not without honor except in their own country and in their own house.” And he did not do many deeds of power there, because of their unbelief (Matthew 13:56-58, NRSV). He was sadly unacceptable to “his own”, for they correctly knew he was truly a man like them. In their sad unbelief, they knew right, but they ignored the rest.
As Jesus taught in the Temple he was spoken of by others as a prophet, or more. Now this he said about the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive, for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This really is the Prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? (John 7:39-41, ESV). Jesus was teaching in the Temple and his words rang true. Some wondered about him.
Jesus was introduced by someone “more than a prophet”, for he was the predicted messenger preceding the Lord: What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written:
See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you;
he will prepare your way before you.[a] (Luke 7:26-27, CSB). The “written” presumably refers back to words in the Old Testament (OT) that would have been familiar. In our English Bible you find something like it at Malachi 3:1. Strikingly, Malachi says the Lord Almighty will send his messenger before the Lord comes to his temple. This exalted message Jesus takes as referring to himself and sees his forerunner fulfilled in John.
Unwelcome to many, but John’s message had marked a new beginning, for the Lord had indeed come. No one ever born on this earth is greater than John. But whoever is least important in God’s kingdom is greater than John. Everyone had been listening to John. Even the tax collectors[a] had obeyed God and had done what was right by letting John baptize them. But the Pharisees and the experts in the Law of Moses refused to obey God and be baptized by John. Jesus went on to say: What are you people like? What kind of people are you? You are like children sitting in the market and shouting to each other,
“We played the flute,
but you would not dance!
We sang a funeral song,
but you would not cry!”
John the Baptist did not go around eating and drinking, and you said, “John has a demon in him!” But because the Son of Man goes around eating and drinking, you say, “Jesus eats and drinks too much! He is even a friend of tax collectors and sinners.” (Luke 7:28-34, CEV). Sad that responsible people could be compared to querulous children - nothing would do for them. Even though John was so important, anyone who belongs to Jesus is "greater" than John!
There is also a judgement to come, for the living and the dead: Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to judge because he is the Son of Man.
“Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned (John 5:25-29, NIV). We are accountable to God, to Jesus. No other verdict has this kind of significance. Elsewhere Jesus expanded, in chapter 8 of John, and in: If anyone hears my words and doesn’t keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. The one who rejects me and doesn’t receive my sayings has this as his judge:[a] The word I have spoken will judge him on the last day (John 12:47-48, CSB). Though the verdict is postponed, no neutrality or abstention is possible for those who hear.
The Day of Judgement is a big topic in the Bible. Not everyone will be condemned. Consider a little of what what Jesus had to say on this:
the stars will fall from the sky,
and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.[a]
Then everyone will see the Son of Man[b] coming on the clouds with great power and glory.[c] And he will send out his angels to gather his chosen ones from all over the world[d]—from the farthest ends of the earth and heaven (Mark 13:25-27, NLT). He will come with his glorious majesty plain to see. He will gather the ones he has chosen; he will collect them up from the entire earth and they will be with him. The angels are his messengers. Here I am reflecting the Gospels’ identification of Jesus as “Son of Man”. The Son of Man separates and judges. God separates and judges.
Jesus is here still!
As it became increasingly clear that Jesus was under deadly threat, he spoke words of reassurance to his followers. “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me (John 15:26, NIV). They need not fear being left to wander in the dark. Jesus, Jesus alone, will send the Advocate (or, Paraclete, or, Helper).
He made his future presence by the Advocate even more explicit: But in fact, it is best for you that I go away, because if I don’t, the Advocate[a] won’t come. If I do go away, then I will send him to you....
“There is so much more I want to tell you, but you can’t bear it now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future. He will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me. All that belongs to the Father is mine; this is why I said, ‘The Spirit will tell you whatever he receives from me’(John 16:7, 12-15, NLT). Neither they, then, nor we, now, need stumble at the mercy of charlatans, wolves or opponents. Jesus' voice is loud today by the Spirit! Thank God! (Being together has become complicated, but the principles remain.)
In the final lines from Matthew, look at the commission Jesus gave after his resurrection: Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age” (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV). He will always be with his disciples. They are to baptise new disciples in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Of God. All the revelation of God is brought to bear in that phrase. The important, the essential thing, is for people to be given the opportunity to accept God's mercy, adhere to what Jesus said, to become his disciples, to live out what is taught truly. No dead message this, for Jesus is right there.
In the days following his resurrection Jesus continued his work, including instructing the disciples: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8, NLT). The Jesus message was/is for everywhere. The political map of that day is brushed aside. Some days later the momentous happening arrived and with the event much noise. Peter explained to a confused and disturbed Jerusalem crowd: God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear ( Acts 2:32-33, NIV). Jesus’ promises remain valid. He is here by his Spirit.
As to Yusuf: The man said that Jesus is to be respected as one of their line of prophets, from Adam to Mohammad. He spoke of the Islamic claim that Jesus predicted the coming of Mohammad, and that Mohammad is “The Paraclete”! About the first claim only he may sadly be right (see following), but not in the way he thinks.
Jesus did warn
We have long been warned, even from the OT! Paul once gave a serious caution: Keep watch over yourselves and over all the flock, of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God[a] that he obtained with the blood of his own Son.[b] I know that after I have gone, savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock (Acts 20:28-29, NRSV). How did Paul know the impending hazard to God's (or, the Lord's) church? I dare say Paul had heard what Jesus himself said towards the end: For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform signs and wonders, to lead astray, if possible, the elect (Mark 13:22, ESV). So also in Matthew 24 and Luke 17. Earlier on in Matthew: Watch out for false prophets! They dress up like sheep, but inside they are wolves who have come to attack you (7:15, CEV). Wolves wearing sheepskins and false prophets may come from “within”, which is difficult to deal with, and that is an issue included in the preceding. The focus of the later passages is on not being mislead in relation to Jesus' return, which return will happen as "secretly" as a sheet lightning discharge! (Other NT writers also give space to the matter of illusion replacing truth, of "angels of light", who are in fact the opposite, of the non-authentic, who have "another Gospel".) Does Jesus' prediction not apply to Mohammad? The Bible writers assume truth actually exists and does matter!
I hope this is the Jesus you know and belong to - that is Jesus' wish and his sincere invitation to you.
* Note 1. At specific places above I have inserted the symbol *, which marks the Greek ἐγώ εἰμι (ego e-mi), or, “I am”. The grammar does not necessitate the pronoun and where the expression occurs there is an emphasis on "I". You may check the versions for various translations; quite often the rendering is, "I myself". The expression may be connected to the Greek version of the special OT name for God, which is found and expanded on in Exodus 3: God said to Moses, “I am* who I am.”[a] He said further, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘I am has sent me to you.’” God also said to Moses, “Thus you shall say to the Israelites, ‘The LORD,[b] the God of your ancestors, 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 my title for all generations (14-15, NRSV). This intriguing revelation was well known amongst Jesus' contemporaries - making their angst at the faintest hint - see above - even more likely in the face of his words. In the text in this paragraph the * marks the Septuagint (Greek OT) use of ἐγώ εἰμι.
The ἐγώ εἰμι expression occurs in other places which do not or, perhaps, may, support translation as the "I AM":
Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” Then the angel said, “I am* Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! (Luke 1:18-19, NLT)
for they all saw him and were terrified. But immediately he spoke to them and said, “Take heart, it is I*; do not be afraid” (Mark 6:50, NRSV).
Deeply distressed, each one began to say to him, “Surely not I*, Lord?” (Matt 26:22, CSB)
When Jesus[a] said to them, “I am* he,” they drew back and fell to the ground (John 18:6, ESV).
I am* a Jew, born and raised in the city of Tarsus in Cilicia. I was a student of Gamaliel and was taught to follow every single law of our ancestors. In fact, I was just as eager to obey God as any of you are today (Acts 22:3, CEV).
Note 2. See also previous post/page, "Who?"
Scripture quotations marked (CEV) are from the Contemporary English Version Copyright © 1991, 1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Scripture quotations marked (CSB) are from the Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright © 1989 National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Note 3. I retain in the publishers' text where they occur the references to footnotes (eg, a., b.), but usually not the notes. You can check them out by viewing the text on-line. Often they are replicated in different translations.
Bible passages accessed via BibleGateway.com
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