The third truth in this series: Jesus carefully calibrated the occasion he clearly taught the violence personally experienced. Only when Simon confessed the Twelve’s combined agreement of his Deity and Messianic identity did he explain his coming crucifixion and resurrection.
That threat hit them squarely between the eyes. And so shocked them it hardened them to the promise. It defied cultural expectation John 12:34; it also defied humanity’s treasured opinions I Corinthians 1:22-23. That Jesus waited for the disciples to confess his Deity teaches us that the facts, truth and reality of Jesus Christ, while altogether reasonable, can be understood only by FAITH, not by REASON! People who now say they need answers to some questions before accepting Christ have a long wait. For, by way of extension, Christ assures us that doubts, questions, reservations (D.Q.R.) expressed by prospects can best be resolved within FAITH, not outside in D.Q.R. All of them are like the veil over Jewish minds now. In turning to Christ it’s removed; it’s only removed AFTER turning to Christ, not BEFORE! By faith Noah saw rainbows before RAIN fell; David saw Goliath a CORPSE before flinging his smooth stone; Abraham saw Isaac’s RESURRECTION even though he would slay him. Faith in God, not Reason, explained those victories. And God’s spiritual truth conquering all satanic lies, claims and possessions still rules by FAITH today! The key for the believer is: we want to KNOW God by faith, not merely God’s benefits. Many people seek his benefactions but do not want him. Christian want God in Christ. Whatever they may get from it, whatever price they may pay to possess him, whatever negative replies God may give our prayers, we want to KNOW HIM and HIS CHRIST! End Part IV
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