True Representation - Part 2

.... In our previous posting we described how the subjectivity of Christ is revealed through His words. This was based on Luke 6:45: "Out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks." Through a process of inversion, Jesus’ words may be thoughtfully pondered, retraced through His terms of thought, and back to the heavenly character that produced them.

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.... In a similar way, we can learn of His subjectivity through His conduct. For in the same passage, Jesus told us that "A tree is known by its fruits" (Luke 6:44; see also Psalm 9:16). As the perfect example of this metaphor, Jesus Himself would act from the basis of His character, so that His actions would always represent Him truly:

.... "He put on righteousness as a breastplate, and a helmet of salvation on His head; He put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak."

(Isaiah 59:16-17; Psalm 40:7)

.... In other words, based on Jesus’ conduct we may ask ourselves, "What sort of Person is He, and therefore He did what He did? Or what can be seen of His character through His deeds?" (Psalm 9:16). As we approach this study prayerfully, the Holy Spirit will assist us by bringing His subjectivity into view.

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.... Or again, in a respectful, exploratory way, we may seek further definition through contrast: "Why did He do this, instead of doing something else?" As we consider the alternatives in this way, the Holy Spirit will vindicate the subjectivity of Christ by illuminating the flaws that were avoided. In a back-door sort of way this highlights His character and shows us the principles that were upheld, which can help us understand the wisdom in Jesus’ decisions.

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.... Each time Jesus spoke or acted, another and another facet of His character was expressed and focused into application-- revealed from glory to glory (2 Corinthians 3:18). These are the proofs of His inward nature, and this approach will help us focus on Him as the object of our Christian growth. In fact, in the same passage where these tools were described, Jesus anticipated this purpose:

.... "A disciple is not above his teacher, but everyone who is perfectly trained will be like his teacher."

(Luke 6:40)

.... In other words, Jesus is more than a Masterful Teacher. By intention, He is the very lesson. To be perfectly trained is to become like Him. Jesus is the pattern for Christian growth, both individually and corporately within His body, the church (Ephesians 4:15-16).

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.... When the lessons of His character are taken to heart and transformation occurs, Christlike conduct will flow from our own hearts naturally, just as fruit would grow naturally from a tree (Jeremaih 31:33-34; Romans 3:31).

.... "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

(Romans 12:2)

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Daily Bible Reading: John 15