|
|
||
Christ’s human body, which was inhabited by the fullness of God, was typified by the tabernacle and the temple, both of which were inhabited by the majesty of God. "Christ has already come as
the High Priest of the good things that are already here. The human
body of Christ is greater than the tabernacle of Moses, not in size
or cost, "For you know what was paid to set you free from the worthless manner of life handed down by your ancestors. It was not something that can be destroyed, such as silver or gold; it was the costly sacrifice of Christ, who was like a lamb without defect or flaw." (1Pe 1:18-19) Through it things and persons are brought to perfection. "But after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who calls you to share his eternal glory in union with Christ, will himself perfect you and give you firmness, strength, and a sure foundation." (1Pe 5:10) The body of Jesus was perfectly human, but was not created through natural generation. Instead, He was conceived supernaturally in the womb of a virgin by the power of the Holy Spirit. She consequently became the first surrogate mother in the world. Mary said to the angel, "I am a virgin. How, then, can this be?" The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come on you, and God's power will rest upon you. For this reason the holy child will be called the Son of God. (Luk 1:34-35) We can now also serve as priests in God's Kingdom."He made us a kingdom of priests to serve his God and Father." (Rev 1:6) He makes us priests to offer up the spiritual sacrifices of prayer and praise: "Come as living stones, and let yourselves be used in building the spiritual temple, where you will serve as holy priests to offer spiritual and acceptable sacrifices to God through Jesus Christ." (1Pe 2:5) by proclaiming the Gospel . . . "But you are the chosen race, the King's priests, the holy nation, God's own people, chosen to proclaim the wonderful acts of God, who called you out of darkness into his own marvelous light." (1Pe 2:9) "I serve like a priest in preaching the Good News from God." (Rom 15:16) . . . and by presenting our souls as holy, living, and acceptable sacrifices unto God. "So then, my friends, because of God's great mercy to us I appeal to you: Offer yourselves as a living sacrifice to God, dedicated to his service and pleasing to him. This is the true worship that you should offer." (Rom 12:1) The robe of the high priest, just like the rest of the
armor of God,
|