In John 15:23, it is stated that those who harbor hatred towards Jesus also harbor hatred towards his Father. Jesus mentions that if he had not performed unique actions that no one else had done, those individuals would not be held accountable for their sins. However, since they have witnessed these miracles and still chosen to hate both Jesus and his Father, it fulfills the prophecy in their Law that states they will hate him unreasonably. This sentiment is also echoed in Psalms 69:4, where it is expressed that those who hate without cause outnumber the hairs on one's head, emphasizing the presence of many enemies who hold unjustified animosity.
It is commonly understood that Jesus came to Earth in the form of the incarnation to provide atonement for our sins. Additionally, Jesus came to fulfill the laws that govern religious and moral conduct. While Jesus was disliked during his time on Earth, it is believed that those who follow him will also face similar hostility. However, a closer examination of scripture reveals that Jesus did not simply endure hate without reason. In fulfilling the law, Jesus adhered to its principles and used it to address injustices and abuses. By pronouncing blessings and curses in accordance with the law, Jesus demonstrated his authority and obedience to divine mandates. The Psalmist's lamentation about facing hate from adversaries served as a means to overcome them through righteous pronouncements. Jesus fulfilled the law by denouncing corrupt leaders and upholding the teachings and principles set forth by God. Through his actions and words, Jesus exemplified perfect adherence to the laws, covenants, promises, and decrees laid out by the Father.
The hatred faced by Christ differed from the hatred directed towards us. Christ confronted a level of hatred that sought to destroy His soul, necessitating Him to take on the curse on our behalf to prevent our destruction by Satan. The Psalms highlight the contrast between the curse and God's gifts of joy, kindness, love, sorrow, anger, pain, and loss. Christ's sacrifice reversed the curses of sorrow, pain, and loss, enabling us to overcome them. By taking on the curse for us, Christ prevented Satan from using our corruption to harm our soul and body. Through Christ's sacrifice, we are able to triumph over the trials we face and subdue the curses that seek to harm us.
No comments:
Post a Comment