Word Studies around the Resurrection
Pastor Mike Quimby - Session 1 - Matthew 28: 18-20 - April 3, 2010
Matthew 28:20 contains the word: “ALWAYS”!
Most people view this series of events as follows:
Jesus was crucified;
He rose from the dead after three days;
He appeared to many over a few days;
He then left and went back to Heaven via the Ascension!
Then we see the Holy Spirit coming at Pentecost. But Jesus’ own words seem to paint a different reality.
“WITH YOU ALWAYS” in the original language seems to paint a different picture. Used here to communicate that Jesus was here to stay and be Actively involved in the ministry he had just established. I would compare it to a situation like this: A relative arrives at your home after a member of your household is a victim of an illness or accident that puts them in the hospital. You have invited them to come and be there for
support. At the door, you exchange hugs and greetings. Then the guest says to you, “I am going to run upstairs and freshen up and change so that we can head to the hospital. I am here to be with you throughout this ordeal until our loved one can come home.”
They disappear upstairs and within a few minutes they come back down; changed and ready to go with you.
Jesus did not Leave us after the Resurrection! He merely went to get changed so that he could be with us ALL THE TIME!
A better rendering of this passage is found in The Message Bible: 18-20Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: "God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I’LL BE WITH YOU AS YOU DO THIS, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age."
If we celebrate Easter as a historical event, then we have missed it! It is not past! It is a celebration of His PERMANENT ARRIVAL!!!!
See you next week! In the meantime, Jesus is standing at your door, ready to go to work!
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Good thought dad! Love you
ReplyDeleteI personally believe Jesus was the God of the Old Testament. This God came and went; He was not with anyone "always". Because no blood had been shed, the way to God was under constant interference. The blood of bulls and goats could never take away sins, but was a mere reminder of sins. Once the blood of the sinless lamb was shed, the way to God was permanently opened for all those who would answer His salvation call. Jesus is God Who is the Holy Spirit. Of course He is with us always...even to the end of the age. It was finished at the cross and demonstrated at the tomb. He is wonderful.
ReplyDeleteWendy, thanks for your comment! Good thoughts!
ReplyDelete