THE INTERRELATIONSHIPS OF TRUTH

" . . . If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free . . . If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed." (John 8:31-36)

Devotion 16 of 20

ANGELS, AUTHORITIES, AND POWERS MADE SUBJECT TO HIM

Why are heavenly powers subject to Christ? Is that an end of itself? Indeed not! The subjection of all power in heaven and earth to Christ is necessary for the implementation of the "eternal purpose." For that purpose to be fulfilled, inimical powers must be subjugated and controlled, while holy powers must be employed for the salvation of the people. From our perspective, remove the purpose of God, and there is no reason for powers to be subject to Jesus. "Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto Him" (1 Pet 3:22).

Intercedes for us

Deterministic theology notwithstanding, we need an Intercessor to be saved! It was not enough that Jesus died! His resurrection and ascension are not adequate to bring us home to God! Jesus is alive today, interceding for us because we need that intercession. What is more, God needs it in order to fulfill His purpose! "Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them" (Heb 7:25). The sad lack of preaching on the intercession of Christ is but another indication of the general ignorance of divine intent that prevails in the professed church. In another striking affirmation of the case, the Spirit says, "Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us" (Rom 8:34).

Coming again for us

And what of Christ's return? Is it essential for the fulfillment of divine objective? The very thought of Jesus dying for us and not returning for us is absurd. Of what good is His death if we are not "ever with the Lord?" What significance is found in the resurrection if Jesus does not gather us to Himself? Will Christ's ascension satisfy the purpose of God if Jesus does not return? And, will His intercession amount to anything if we are not "caught up to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord?" It is no wonder that Jesus said, "And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also" (John 14:3).

The power of these aspects of Christ's ministry is realized in their unity. They are all related to the objective of God, finding their sole significance in His eternal purpose. Divine purpose has united them together, thus affecting our salvation.

PRAYER POINT: Father, my heart yearns to dwell in Your courts, to behold Your beauty, and inquire in Your temple. I know this longing has been kindled by faith in the risen and glorified Christ. In Jesus name, accept my praise for such a "great salvation."

--TOMORROW: A PRACTICAL ILLUSTRATION --