The Subjectivity of Christ

.... In our previous posting we discussed how the teachings of Jesus can always be understood at two different levels: the objective and the subjective (meaning His subjectivity, not ours). The objective level offers instruction for governing our outward conduct; the subjective has to do with learning the heart and mind of Christ, and seeks to cultivate the same heart and mind within us. Through this, a very close relationship with Him is formed.

.... Jesus used this dual approach in teaching the apostles, so let’s use their lives as an example to demonstrate the concept. When Jesus taught the twelve, He told them all things that the Father had shown Him (John 15:15). As He expounded on those topics, they learned about them. This was the objective level of teaching. But now let’s recall the context in which their learning took place:

.... "Then He appointed twelve, that they might be with Him and that He might send them out to preach."

(Mark 3:14)

.... As the apostles walked with Jesus they continued with Him in His trials (Luke 22:28). Through this they came to know Him in a very personal way, which formed a living framework for His meaning. We use the same concept today when we say of a close friend, "I’ve known him for a long time; I think I know what he meant by that."

.... Furthermore, the relation- ship transformed them. The rightness of His own heart and mind won them over progressively, from glory to glory, as they came to appreciate each new facet of character they perceived in Him (Colossians 3:10). As they absorbed these living lessons through the trials and hardships they shared, they found highly similar applications which helped in their transformation. Soon, those aspects of His character were ingrained into their own characters was well (2 Corinthians 3:18).

.... "And you also will bear witness, because you have been with Me from the beginning."

(John 15:27x26)

.... By the end of their lessons, it was evident that the apostles had been with Jesus, for the mark of His character was upon them (Acts 4:13). Through their own ministry now, Jesus would be preached as the Holy Spirit Himself spoke of Him -- bearing witness with familiarity -- so that the effects and impressions of His life would be reproduced in those who heard them. In this way they became living epistles of Christ, as the same process continued through them, toward others (John 14:27x26; 2 Corinthians 3:3; 2 Timothy 2:1-2).

.... The apostle’s curriculum remains a model for our learning today (1 Corinthians 11:1). In the next postings we’ll explore this perspective through a series of precepts that will help us focus on the Divine nature of Christ, as it is faithfully conveyed through His lessons.

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Daily Bible Reading: John 12