Have you ever wondered about what sonship, or being a “joint heir” with Christ means? The early disciples were touched by God in a real and deep way. They experienced His power and the reality of the Kingdom of God so much that it propelled them forward to be living instruments of the living God—light in a dark and desperate world. How did they view the reality of the reign of the Lord compared to how we do today?
They related to Jesus as Messiah representing the ultimate will of God. He gave them a strong sense of purpose and a real connection to God. He represented the thread that connects humanity to divinity. They saw Him as the personification and embodiment of God’s redemption and grace; His mercy and truth.
To them He modeled something more than the political king, religious leader, teacher or prophet many had been expecting. He came as a true shepherd in the likeness of David; one of genuine compassion, courage, humility and love. He came in the power of God; in the likeness of the Son of God. He related to their humanity.
RELEVANCE
The LORD instilled in them a real sense that life in relationship with God could be expressed in real ways beyond the practice and performance of rituals that held generations captive: some in conformity; others in constraint; others in curiosity. He demystified the concept of God. He manifested the reality of God.
Even greater, He revealed the heart of the Father. He made real the concept of sonship; and He conveyed a real sense of what it meant to be joint heirs with the Son of God. With that new knowledge they could live as kin with the King.
“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together” (Romans 8:16-17).
REFLECT AND RELATE
How close do you feel to the Lord? Do you believe you can become closer? Do you really want that? Ask Him what it will take to bridge any gap you may feel.
REFERENCES
John 17:1-26; Philippians 3:12-16