Considering Jesus

Jay Horsley

Let us continue to “consider Jesus.” (Heb. 3:1) He is the one that God chose to come to us and help us.

Chosen Of God

Luke 23:35 “And the people stood by, looking on. And even the rulers were sneering at Him, saying, “He saved others; let Him save Himself if this is the Christ of God, His Chosen One. [chosen of God – KJV]”

1 Pet. 2:4 “And coming to Him as to a living stone, rejected by men, but choice [chosen of God – KJV] and precious in the sight of God”

The word “chosen” is also translated as “choice.” The “choicest” is the very best of any class or category. Jesus was chosen by God to the most exalted position than any can imagine. We He came to us as a man He was the very best man. He is the best priest, prophet, king, deliverer, mediator, many other things, and finally the best friend that has ever been.

Christians, who have been called by God to be conformed to the image of Christ are also said to be choice, chosen or elect in this way. Christ was “the chosen,” we are “chosen” (or “elect”) of God. Col. 3:12; 1 Pet. 2:4

Christ

Matt. 1:1 “The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham.”

Matt. 1:16 “and to Jacob was born Joseph the husband of Mary, by whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.”

[and 499 other verses]

By far the most common title or description given to Jesus is “Christ.” In fact, it is some common that many seem that that “Christ” actually is Jesus name. The word “Christ” means “anointed” or “Messiah.” On three different occasions Jesus directly accepted this title, admitting to first the woman at the well (Jn. 4:25,26) and later openly to the Sanhedrin Council that He was the expected Messiah.

The most famous incident of Jesus accepting this title is when He blessed Peter for recognizing and admitting that it was truly so. “Simon Peter answered and said, “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said to him, “Blessed are you, Simon Barjona, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but My Father who is in heaven.” (Matt. 16:16,17)

Consolation of Israel

Luke 2:25-30 “And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon; and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Spirit was upon him.

26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ.

27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to carry out for Him the custom of the Law,

28 then he took Him into his arms, and blessed God...

30 For my eyes have seen Thy salvation”

The word “consolation” is also translated as “encouragement,” “exhortation” and “comfort.” Jesus was all of these things to Israel. Jesus is all of these wonderful and helpful things to us because He is our salvation.

Counselor

Isa. 9:6 “For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; And the government will rest on His shoulders; And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.”

Jesus is the greatest advisor that has ever been. His words have faithfully guided more men in times of trouble than any other. His teaching was so profound that none could argue with it and it amazed all who heard it. After the Sermon on the Mount it says, “when Jesus had finished these words, the multitudes were amazed at His teaching.” (Matt. 7:28) When he preached in Nazareth it says, “He began teaching them in their synagogue, so that they became astonished, and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom?” (Matt. 13:54) Jesus was so effective in His teaching that Mark records, “for all the multitude was astonished at His teaching.” (11:18)

Whenever we are in any need of encouragement or counselor, we should turn to the best and mightiest of teachers and consider His words. We should consider all the words of the God's chosen and anointed One.