The church of Christ on McDermott Road

Before we explore Jesus’ role as the “Son of Man,” perhaps it is best to understand that all the sons and daughters of man were intended to rule the world. From the very beginning, the Garden of Eden, God created humanity to be crowned with glory and honor. However, we abdicated our rulership and the creation is as much in rebellion to our rule as we are in rebellion to God’s rule. Thankfully, Jesus has re-established the rule of humanity and we will share his glory and honor. (Scripture: Psalms 8)

How appropriate that our minds would once again be drawn to the resurrection of Jesus on the week of Thanksgiving, because there is nothing in the world for which we ought to be more thankful than the resurrection of the Messiah. As Jesus himself told Thomas, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” We are the people who have not seen and yet have believed and we are “blessed” indeed. (Scripture: John 20:24-29)

Colossians 3:22-25

From the trial to the cross, Jesus continues to press on until he accomplishes all the Father has given him to accomplish, until he drinks the cup down to the dregs. John masterfully weaves together several passages from the Hebrew Scriptures in order for his readers to understand what Jesus is accomplishing by giving his life. The lamb of God is being slain, so that the world can experience freedom, reconciliation, and forgiveness. (Scripture: John 19:14-18)

Romans 8

John wants his readers to know that even though it looks like Jesus is on trial, it’s actually the ruler of the world who is on trial. Satan and all those who are in league with him are guilty and their guilt is evident by their determination to put an innocent man to death. They think they are trying Jesus, but they are actually trying themselves. Similarly, we are all on trial. Will we join forces with the kingdoms of this world or with the King whose kingdom is not of this world? (Scripture: John 18:28-32)

1 Corinthians 15

John wants his readers to understand that even though Jesus is being betrayed and arrested, he is the one who is very much in charge of the situation. Even the soldiers who come to arrest him involuntarily bow before him. Jesus is determined to drink the cup the Father has given to him. Jesus’ determination and calmness should fill us with a similar determination and calmness as we follow him. (Scripture: John 18:1-11)

In the Lord’s prayer, Jesus taught his disciples to pray, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.” In John 17, Jesus prayed this prayer himself on behalf of his disciples. Do we recognize the power and presence of evil in the world? Are we intentionally praying against the powers of evil and darkness? Do our prayers reflect the fact that we are engaged daily in spiritual warfare? (Scripture: John 17:12-19)

1 Peter 4:12-19