“Recognizing that Jesus goes beyond our expectations, we’d be wise to do a regular inventory of our habits and rituals to ensure that they’re focused upward, not inward. Put another way, we need to make sure that we elevate Jesus to CEO of our lives and that we’re reporting to him, not the other way around.”- Kyle Idleman and Mark E. Moore
Kyle Idleman and Mark E. Moore conclude Chapter 7 of The Missing Messiah with final thoughts on the second stunning surprise about the Messiah Jesus.
Surprise #2 (cont.): Messiah Jesus embodies the symbols of Judaism. First, Kyle and Mark note, the Sabbath day of rest defines Jewish identity. In addition, this quintessential Jewish tradition was established in the Garden of Eden. Rather than through Mosaic law. Above all, Jesus claims that He is the Judge of the Sabbath.
Furthermore, we find clear parallels between the tenth plague in Exodus — the death of Egyptian firstborn son — and Jesus. So clear, in fact, that at His Passover meal the night before Jesus died, He established the Lord’s Supper. And with His own death, Jesus replaced the entire Old Testament sacrificial system.
Finally, the Jewish people see the law of God as a divine privilege for the people. Therefore, they held the Torah in high regard. Also, even today, people treat the Torah with great reverence in the synagogue. And regard it as an object of divine beauty.
So, Jesus provoked a fierce reaction when He compared His words and life to the Torah. Nonetheless, Jesus’ teachings:
- clarified the law (see Mark 2:27-28).
- expanded the law (see Matthew 5:21-28)
- in some cases, modified the law (see Mark 7:19)
Moreover, Jesus’ sinless life perfectly embodied the law — and His death fulfilled its requirements (see Matthew 5:17). Hence, Jesus’ words serve as the foundation for a successful life (see Matthew 7:24-27).
Today’s question: What Bible verses keep you focused upward, not inward? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Messianic radar – Suffering Servant?”