 If we’re to have a proper understanding of people, we must have a proper understanding of Christ.
Those who have any church experience whatsoever are likely aware of evangelism. Whether we engage in evangelism or not is a different story. Even still, if a preacher encourages us to share the gospel with people, we probably know what he means. But here’s the thing: unless there’s a right understanding of who Christ is, evangelism won’t happen. If we don’t know who Christ is, how are we supposed to make Him known?  Last week, I wrote on 2 Corinthians 5:1-7 where the apostle Paul talks about our heavenly home. He ends the passage by saying, “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (v. 7 ESV). This week, I want to continue Paul’s train of thought by focusing on verses 8-10.
 I’m slowly coming to terms with the realities of adulthood. In the past year, I’ve found myself paying for things like a cell phone and car insurance. And in four months, I’ll be getting married. Which means I’ll soon be paying for a home, electricity, water/sewer, and—well, you get it.
 His body abused. His hands hammered into wood. Feet smashed against a splintery cross. Blood pouring down His arms and legs. A crown of thorns poking into His forehead. And insults being thrown at Him left and right.
This is Jesus. The King of the Jews. Murdered on a cross for the sins of humanity. And on this Good Friday, we remember His perfect sacrifice unto the Father. We reflect upon the beauty of Christ’s perfect life and substitutionary death.  Here’s how Esther begins: “Now in the days of Ahasuerus, the Ahasuerus who reigned from India to Ethiopia over 127 provinces, in those days when King Ahasuerus sat on his royal throne in Susa, the citadel” (v. 1-2 ESV).
This king reigns over the vast Persian Empire where numerous Jews live as exiles. King Ahasuerus soon throws a massive party. The Bible says, “… in the third year of his reign he gave a feast for all his officials and servants. The army of Persia and Media and the nobles and governors of the provinces were before him, while he showed the riches of his royal glory and the splendor and pomp of his greatness for many days, 180 days” (v. 3-4 ESV). |