According to the Bible, the root cause of human problems is sin. Sin is not just a single action, but rather it is an ongoing pattern of behavior that results in separation from God.
The story of Adam and Eve illustrates this idea well. When Adam and Eve ate from the tree of knowledge, they were banished from the Garden of Eden, which was a place where they could commune directly with God. Their choice to eat from that tree resulted in their banishment and their separation from God, who had previously been their direct source of wisdom and guidance.
There will always be some degree of mystery and that we will never entirely understand his thoughts.
What Is The Root Cause Of Human Problems According To The Bible
According to the Bible, suffering is a result of the fall of humanity and the sin that entered the world through Adam and Eve. Romans 5:12 states, “Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned.” This verse emphasizes that suffering is a product of human sin against God.
1 Corinthians 15:21 further reinforces this idea by stating, “For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.” This verse highlights the connection between sin, suffering, and death, all of which are consequences of the fall.
Suffering is a product of the fall, a consequence of human sin against God (Romans 5:12; 1 Corinthians 15:21). Suffering is in our lives because we are living in a broken world. Some suffering is due to our sinful and wrong choices, but some is due simply to the world being fallen.
Another reason for suffering in our lives is the brokenness of the world we live in. The world we reside in is no longer the perfect creation that God intended it to be, but rather a fallen and sinful place. As a result, we experience pain, sorrow, and hardship in various forms.
Psalm 34:19 affirms this truth by stating, “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” This verse acknowledges that suffering is a reality in the lives of even the righteous, but ultimately God can deliver us from our troubles.
Types of Suffering
Some suffering we endure is due to our sinful and wrong choices. Proverbs 13:15 warns, “Good judgment wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful leads to their destruction.” This verse reminds us that our actions have consequences, and when we choose to disobey God, we may experience suffering as a result.
However, there is also suffering that is simply a consequence of living in a fallen world. Romans 8:22 states, “We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.” This verse paints a vivid picture of the brokenness of the world and the suffering that accompanies it.
| Verse | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| James 1:2-4 | “Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” |
| 1 Peter 4:12-13 | “Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.” |
| 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 | “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.” |
| Philippians 4:6-7 | “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” |
With six people in our family, we’ve had lots of opportunities to visit the doctor. We have experienced everything from colds, flus, and ear infections all the way to viral meningitis, serum sickness-like reaction, and life-threatening allergies. And I’m not even talking about the injuries! We have had our share of doctor visits.
When I go to the doctor, I have a pretty simple agenda. I want to know the answer to two questions: “What is wrong and how can I get healthy?” I’m not feeling well, and I need help. In order to accurately treat a sick patient, the doctor’s first goal is to determine what is causing the unhealthy symptoms. Sometimes it’s an easy diagnosis, and sometimes tests, x-rays and scans are required. But, no matter what, the root of the symptoms must be revealed. This is true for our physical bodies and it’s true for our spiritual lives.
We have to get to the root.
When we are sick, the symptoms of our illness tend to show up way before the root is exposed. We may face symptoms such as paralyzing anxiety, anger out of control, marriage in distress, financial chaos, and much more. We lack peace and long for relief. Where does this pain originate? Our Great Physician offers us great clarity and help.
Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23 (NLT)
Your heart determines the course of your life. God reveals that the condition of our hearts will determine the course of our lives. What is inside your heart is taking you somewhere!
Sick heart = sick life. Healthy heart = healthy life.
Your heart is highly valuable. We don’t guard something that’s worth nothing. When I take out my trash, I’m fine with walking away. As long as it’s gone, I’m not too concerned with who comes and gets it.
However, I would never intentionally leave my wedding ring sitting on the street corner or cash my paycheck and give it all to my five-year-old to play “store.” When something is valuable, we guard it. We protect it. Your heart is of HUGE VALUE. And God says guard it! But why would we need to guard our hearts?
Your heart is under attack. Just like a bacteria can attack our physical bodies, there is a real assault on your heart and my heart. The very nature of the words “guard your heart” indicate that there is something we have to guard against. The Bible is clear that we have enemies.
Stay alert! Watch out for your great enemy, the devil. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 (NLT)
For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12 (NLT)
Your heart is sick. Not only do we face the enemies around us, God reveals perhaps the greatest battle lies within us.
The human heart is the most deceitful of all things, and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? Jeremiah 17:9 (NLT)
We have a HEART PROBLEM.
14 Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “All of you listen,” he said, “and try to understand. 15 It’s not what goes into your body that defiles you; you are defiled by what comes from your heart… 21 For from within, out of a person’s heart, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, 22 adultery, greed, wickedness, deceit, lustful desires, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. 23 All these vile things come from within; they are what defile you.” Mark 7:14-15, 21-23 (NLT)
I believe if we misunderstand the root of our problem, we will miss TRUE and COMPLETE healing! It’s like trying to treat cancer with a Band-Aid. In many well-meaning Christians, our first line of attack is to address our thoughts. Yet Jesus just told us that our sinful, unhealthy thoughts originate from our sick hearts! Our hearts are ground zero.
If not careful, we can make the common mistake of tackling the thoughts but missing the heart. We become aware of our messed up thinking, but we never stop to examine what’s behind the messed up thinking! We set out on a mission to deal with our thoughts and if not careful we may fall into two common traps.
The “More Knowledge” Trap
We set out on a knowledge quest. We read every book we can get our hands on. We are seeking content, content, content. Just give me the information so I can follow it. We may even turn to the Bible and attend multiple Bible studies, but we see no results. Now hear me, knowledge of God’s word is CRUCIAL. We must be people who discover the truths God has for us so we can learn to identify the false beliefs that lead us to pain and heartache. But more knowledge is not the ultimate answer.
The “More Willpower” Trap
When it comes to our thought life, we determine that we must have more self-control. We begin the quest to obey God and “take captive every thought” as it comes into our head. We fight to replace the false with the truth. We determine we will not give in to the destructive patterns and behaviors of our past. Yet we continue to fail.
We cry out in desperation wondering why am I still failing? Why do I keep repeating the same behaviors? Until we deal with the root of our problems, we fill find ourselves exhausted, frustrated and defeated.
We have to get to the root!
But if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. 1 John 1:9 (NLT)
God is our Creator and the Great Cardiologist of the soul. He has the ability and power to forgive our sins and heal our lives. He loves us and desires that He be our first love. We must go to Him with our sick places. We must ask Him to reveal the ROOT of pride, lust, selfishness, envy, bitterness, idolatry, or any other sin making our hearts sick. Confession of sin unlocks healing in our lives. God wants our hearts. God wants our love. God wants our healing.
When it comes to living this life, I’ve come to believe that…
The healthiest people realize how sick they are.
And they run to the Savior. He is our Healer. There is no more room for wallowing in shame and condemnation. I’m sick, and that’s a fact. So, let’s allow God to shine the light on our sick places, deal with it, and move on, healed in Jesus’ Name!
Bible Verses on Suffering and Trials
Throughout the Bible, there are numerous verses that speak to the reality of suffering and trials in the life of a believer. These verses provide comfort, encouragement, and hope to those going through difficult times. Here are 12 Bible verses that address the topic of suffering and trials:
1. Romans 5:3-4
“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”
2. James 1:2-4
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
3. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
4. 1 Peter 4:12-13
“Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.”
5. Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
6. 2 Timothy 3:12
“In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.”
7. Psalm 119:71
“It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees.”
8. John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
9. 1 Peter 5:10
“And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.”
10. Isaiah 43:2
“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.”
These Bible verses serve as a reminder that suffering and trials are a natural part of the Christian journey. They encourage believers to persevere, trust in God’s faithfulness, and find hope in the midst of difficult circumstances.
What is the solution to human problems according to the Bible
Reasons for Human Suffering?
- We might cause ourselves pain. Unhappy outcomes result from dissipation and a lack of discipline. Diseases can arise from long-term mistreatment of our bodies. Making poor decisions comes back to bite us. “Do you think this is happening to you because of your own bad judgment or intemperate actions?” is a question you can ask the caller. How can I help you feel less pained?”
- Because of sin and disobedience, God occasionally acts in a corrective manner. God will punish and reprimand His own. He demonstrates His love and ownership of us with chastisement (Hebrews 12:5-11).
- God may allow suffering so that we might develop biblical problem-solving techniques. According to Hebrews 5:8, the New International Version, Jesus “learned obedience from what he suffered.” Our objective should be to learn to please God by being receptive and obedient to Him and His Word, not just to get respite from pain (see Romans 12:1, 2).
- God sometimes allows suffering in order to teach us that suffering is a natural aspect of existence. The Bible makes no mention of a Christian not facing hardship! It is “given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake,” as Paul notes in Philippians 1:29, KJV. Adversity may be a divine blessing.
Christ did not run away from the Cross to avoid pain. He “endured the cross, despising the shame,” according to Hebrews 12:2. “For the joy that was set before him,” is the reason. He understood that resurrection (win) would ultimately triumph over crucifixion (suffering).
We might have moments of suffering or endure it for the rest of our life. But let’s resist giving up on life and refraining from self-pity or resentment. What excites us all is the outcome in the end. Everything will make sense when you are with the Lord in paradise!
- Pain may be allowed by God in order for us to get healed. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28, NIV). We must have trust in this and ask God to use our pain for His best good. Some of life’s more profound truths can only be discovered via hardship. Put our faith in God to accomplish His plan and will in us so that we can become more like Christ (see Romans 8:29).
There is no redeeming value in our suffering as there was in that of Jesus, but if we are faithful under adversity we may be able to partake in “the fellowship of his sufferings” (Philippians 3:10, KJV).
- God occasionally allows pain to influence our lives and serve as a consoling witness for others. Jesus explained that the sufferings of the blind man in John 9 were so “that the work of God might be displayed in his life” (NIV).
God may use your suffering to teach others by your example of perseverance in the face of hardship. Adversity makes it easier for a person to empathize and connect with other people’s suffering. In the same way that we are consoled, we comfort others. In order for us to be able to console people in need by drawing from the comfort we have experienced from God, we must give thanks to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the compassionate and all-consoling God who comforts us in all of our sorrows (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4, NIV).
(1984), World Wide Publications, Minneapolis, The Billy Graham Christian Worker’s Handbook, pp. 223-225
Nobody who is sane likes to suffer. It restricts our potential and frequently results in discomfort, either bodily or psychological. The Bible provides valuable insight into the range of reasons why people suffer and how they respond to it, but it also asserts that God alone is the source of knowledge for many of our inquiries into why specific people suffer.
In a hospital bed, a woman is lying. Her breast cancer spread to other parts of her body. She needs large dosages of painkillers to dull her senses because her bones and vertebrae are now rife with illness. Her three-year-old daughter, perplexed as to why Mummy has changed so much in just a few weeks, stands quietly and holds Mummy’s hand tenderly.
In a different scene, a little child’s parents watch in utter helplessness as a soldier pulls the trigger of a gun, blowing a hole through the child’s brain.
There is human suffering. For those who reject the existence of a deity, it is simply another characteristic of this meaningless and frequently cruel reality. Those who worship multiple gods interpret this as a sign that some are good and others are wicked; err on the side of an evil deity and you will face consequences.
However, pain is a challenge for Christians. How is suffering possible for an all-knowing, all-loving God? Why did he create the cosmos in a way that makes pain conceivable, and why doesn’t he act to stop suffering when it becomes unbearable?
Many individuals endure various types of pain that develop for a wide range of reasons throughout the Bible, and people react to it in a variety of ways. By examining a few of them, we can learn more about God’s perspective on suffering while acknowledging that th
The Bible As The Basis For Solution To Problems In The Society
There is no perfect society. Each society has one or more problems that they are posed with which negatively impact her and needs to be curbed. Originally, this was not so because God made everything very good (Genesis 1:31). However, the first two people, Adam and Eve, chose to rebel against God. That choice introduced sin into the world and led to many other sinful choices by their descendants; their son murdered his brother out of jealousy (Genesis 4:8–12). Few generations later, Lamech took on two wives (Genesis 4:19) contrary to God’s design of marriage between one man and one woman; the world became so corrupt. These problems were the results of mankind acting on his sinful nature, passed down from Adam. The problems our society face today come from the same root cause — sin (Matthew 15:19, Romans 3:23).
Corruption is one of the problems prevalent in the society which has eaten deep into the marrows of most leaders and followers alike. It has broken down a system meant to function as one. This is very visible on every level, from the intricate part of the government to the corners of the street. The integrity of many are questionable; people engage in corrupt practices in a bid to survive, escape justice or become prominent yet justice is perverted. This is uncalled for but it has spread like a viral infection in the society today. The traits are exhibited even in primary schools today and some of these things emanate from the home; children being exposed to corrupt scenes in home videos, nudity of their parents, or beholding their parents in some of these corrupt acts and thinking that it is the right way to go.
There has been a rapid decline in the standard of education majorly due to irresponsible leadership. Education is essential in a person’s success in the society, yet a lot of government owned schools lack basic infrastructures needed to impact the educational sector. Some are under-staffed while others have unqualified teachers primarily employed due to their connections. How can this help the society? Most of these students exposed to unfavourable learning conditions turn out half-baked and cannot address the public with proper English.
Moreover, those privileged to graduate with good grades are faced with unemployment issues with the population rising daily. A sizable number of Nigerians are living in poverty. Most cannot afford to eat three good meals in a day let alone being able to live in good condition and in a healthy environment. Some are even homeless and engage in any means to survive. This is a big problem and a factor resulting in other societal problems such as drug abuse, prostitution, child abuse, secret societies, fornication etc. Nearly everywhere seems to be spinning out of control. Oil, school fees, health care, housing prices and other amenities keep skyrocketing daily. Food shortages, riots, hunger and starvation, floods and drought claim lives of many leaving more homeless. Diseases are everywhere and people’s health keep deteriorating. Terrorism is just like a norm.
Irrespective of all these problems prevalent in our society today, we can still become a nation after God’s heart (2 Chronicles 7:14), he has a sincere concern for His creation (Genesis 1:26–27), He calls unto us to lay our burdens at his feet (Matthew 11:28). Leaders and followers must submit to God’s Word as contained in the Bible (Logos) for therein lies the basis for solutions to these innumerable problems. Trying to solve it by the application of wisdom acquired over the years may fail but in accordance with the Scripture, the solution is found (Proverbs 3:4–5). God’s interest in our welfare is expressed in John 3:17: “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.” We need salvation from death and destruction currently ravaging our society, we need to be saved from the way we think, speak and act towards each other. We need to be saved from our lack of self-control and from the selfishness that plagues our relationships. The moral principles and precepts contained in the Scripture ought to form the basis of all our civil constitutions and laws. All the miseries and evils which men suffer from; crime, racism, injustice, oppression, slavery, and war, proceed from their despising or neglecting the precepts contained in the Bible (Noah Webster, 1843). It ought to be our anchor and guide (Psalm 119:98–105). It offers protection, comfort, wisdom, guidance, conflict resolution etc.
Leaders of today yearn for political power as opposed to servanthood (Phil 2:7). Christ invented the notion that the way to lead is by serving the needs of others (Faith Facts). Good leaders respond to the concerns of the people (Mark 10:42–45) as Christ instituted in the Bible but in our society, selfishness is evident amongst them. If we all know the principles stated in the Bible, this will not be the case. When electing leaders, their Spiritual stance should be considered (Acts 6:3). The life of Peter is a good example of what leadership should be like. During his government, the needy amongst them were well cared for, the wealthy amongst them brought what they had so that others would benefit from their wealth (Acts 4:34–37). Good governance and responsible leadership was also portrayed by Joseph during his term as the prime minister in Egypt. He ruled with godly wisdom and saved his people from famine.
Joseph also had to flee from fornication which most people will gladly accept if they had the offer. He chose not to give up his relationship with God for pleasure that last for few minutes; he saw it as an abominable thing before the eyes of the Almighty God (Genesis 39:4–10, Psalm 119:11). The rate of prostitution would reduce drastically if we all walk according to God’s precepts and know that He sees everything we do in secret. Many in our society today would want to fornicate if money or fame is involved.
Lots of cases are taken to the court daily, minor conflicts within the family supposed to be resolved amicably are taken to court. If only people are aware of the right way of conflict resolution stated in the Bible (Psalm 50:15), killings would have stopped and value placed on human life because every human being is created in the image of God (Foley, 2015). And He has commanded us not to murder (Exodus 20:13), so the taking of an innocent human life is wrong. Some bear false witnesses in various court cases today contrary to God’s instruction in Exodus 20:16, Exodus 23:1 and Ephesians 4:25. Knowing the consequences of lying (Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1–11) could curb this. Barrenness was also addressed in the Bible; Sarah, Elisabeth and Hannah were comforted (1 Samuel 1:11,20, Deut. 7:14).
Love towards God and one another is an essential factor (Matthew 22:29, Mark 12:30–31, 1 John 4:7,11). If we love our neighbours, we will always empathize with them. We have the poor amongst us and yet some would rather live in luxury than give a helping hand to these ones. Tabitha also known as Dorcas in the Bible was of immense help to widows in Joppa (Acts 9:36–39), making garments for them. Love existed in her heart and was felt by the people in her immediate environment. If only this love exists in our society, the homeless would have been sheltered by the government, tribal wars would not be heard of, the less privileged would have been well taken care of and public schools would not be neglected but standardized like schools abroad where most wealthy people send their children to gain knowledge. Wickedness should not have been found amongst us if we are aware of Jezebel’s way of life and how she ended. These should have been enough lesson for everyone. In challenging times, the society should call on God as the Israelites did when they were pursued by the Egyptians (Exodus 14:10–31) and when they needed food (Exodus 16:3–15).
Biblical values need to be instituted in the society starting with the family which is the smallest unit. If these values are understood and inculcated in children by their parents, they turn out to lead a society focused on godly principles (Proverbs 22:6) knowing that everything is under God’s authority (Ps. 24:1, Ps 83:18) and institute in followers the obligation to participate in civil government (Matthew 22:21). The society benefits when biblical truth is the basis for the law.
We need to pray (1 Tim 2:1–2) continuously for the leaders because when they are endowed with godly wisdom, they would be able to pilot the affairs of the nation according to God’s will and societal problems will be eliminated. It is the responsibility of every member of the society. Together we can effect change like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego did (Daniel 2,3). It begins with you!
Dealing With The Root Problem
Our God is a God of strategy and whatever the Lord does, the enemy tries to imitate and duplicate. Being the father of lies, he never tells anyone an absolute lie. He begins by distorting the truth. Strategically, in stages, your enemy sows seeds that distort your perception. And before you know it, you are trapped in the clutches of sin.
When we begin to free ourselves the clutches of sin, we must always start from its root. If you do not understand where it began then chances are, you will never be able to deal with it effectively. Over time, it will continue to grow.
No one decides to commit a major bank heist overnight. They start with small robberies and when they found that they did not get caught over the multiple times they stole, their confidence grew and they let the clutches of sin grip them entirely.
So it is with all kinds of problems or blessings in our life. Everything begins with a seed. In Genesis 8: 22, we see the Word of God mentions that “as long as the earth remains there will be seed time and harvest.”
Seeds of Trouble
If your problem has roots then it is evident that it began with a seed. While you are waiting to deal with the seed, maybe in the meanwhile you are watering it with your continual thoughts, words and actions. Begin by identifying the seed. What is the source of your problem? And then destroy the seed that the enemy has sown.
The problem is that every time an issue takes root, it looks so small that you want to take the small risk believing that the consequence will be little. But what you then ignore is that seed which grows and so does the consequences.
Interestingly, the Bible says, “Do not let your anger set in, before night” Why? Because, it is in that night that the seed germinates and in that time of silence, is when the roots go deeper. And the more the roots grow deeper, the harder it becomes to deal with the issue.
1 Timothy 4:2 talks about, “having conscience seared with a hot iron.” When your skin is burnt with hot iron, the cells die and cease to have any sort of feelings in that area. Sin takes over and you no longer feel guilty about it.
Let’s read, 2 Corinthians 10: 4-6, “For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy the strongholds. We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ, being ready to punish every obedience, when your obedience is complete.”
Sin has power to take you captive unless you decide to take it captive. You have the power of God that is already in you. You make it active when you identify the stronghold and deal with it. Show no mercy to sin. Block the source of sin every day.
Rise up every morning and ask God to cleanse you and surrender every area of your life into the hands of God. If you are ready to deal with the source and begin to flee from it then the power of God will be your strength.
From issues of any kind, find out what the source of your issue is. If it is words then it must the source is your thoughts and if it is thoughts, what has caused you think them? Is it a person, a blog or a movie? Find the seed and dig it out. Give no foothold to the enemy.
Seeds of God
After you have dealt with seeds the enemy has sown, now enrich your heart and mind with the seeds of God. Refresh yourself in the company of with godly, humble and loving God seekers. Enjoy and consume the Word of God. Soak in that Word of God in prayer. Let the seeds of God take root and sprout.
When Jesus was talking about seed growth, He spoke about three wrong environments that caused the seeds to die. (Mark 4)
1. Seed Fallen in the Pathway
These were exposed to birds that devour. Who are the people that surround you? Do they help you get closer to God or away from God? Protect your seed from those people today. You need to re-strategize your seed’s environment to be among those who help you pursue God with all your heart.
2. Seed Fallen on the Rocks
This environment is that lie of self-righteousness, contentment and emotionalism. This has no roots and therefore will be easily uprooted in the midst of storm. Lack of spiritual maturity. Surround yourself with people that challenge you to grow higher than where you are.
3. Seed Fallen on Thorns
This environment is filled with the cares of the world, deceit of riches and desires for carnal things of the world that master you and pulls you away from the reality of God.
Protect the things of God that is sowed in you. Guard your heart. Show no mercy to the lies of the enemy. Believe what the Bible says and dare to live it out LOUD!
And remember to sow seeds of love, peace and joy into someone’s life today.
You can, we can, live like Jesus, as more than conquerors on this planet.
What is the solution to human problems according to the Christian worldview?
- Restoration: What is the solution to human problems according to the Christian worldview? What role do grace, faith, and repentance play in Christian salvation? How do Christians think that the transformation of self and society happen?
- Christian Foundation: How the concepts of the gospel essentials work? (nature of God, nature of humanity, nature of Jesus, and restoration) constitute the foundation of the Christian worldview. In other words, how are these concepts essential to the Christian worldview?
- Analysis of the Implications of the Christian Worldview: Analyze the implications of the Christian worldview by addressing each of the following questions:
- What are the benefits or strengths of the Christian worldview as it relates to human value and dignity?
- Compare the Christian concept of salvation in contrast to any other worldview perspective.
- How the Christian worldview influence a person’s thinking and behavior?
- What do people find troublesome or confusing about Christianity and why?
What Is Jesus True Identity
The Biblical Evidence For Deity and Humanity of Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ was one person with two natures, a divine nature and a human nature. He was both fully God and fully man.
I. Jesus Christ was fully God, the second person of the Trinity.
A. Jesus claimed that he is God.
1. Jesus claimed to be the messiah, the Son of God
Mat.16:15-17
“Son of God” describes his deity in terms of his separate personhood from and his love relationship with the Father within the Trinity and describes his role in redemption as the one sent in submission to the Father to die on the cross for sin. It is not meant to convey any form of inferiority.
2. Jesus claimed to be one with the Father
Jn.10:30-33 These are claims of
Jn.14:6-11 one essence and nature.
3. Jesus accepted worship as God
Mat.4:10 (Jesus says only God is to be worshipped)
Jn.20:25-28
4. Jesus claimed to pre-exist as God before He became a man
Jn8:58-59
5. Jesus claimed to have God’s authority
a. to forgive sins c. to save
Mat.9:6 Isa.43:11
Exod.34:6-7 Jn.12:47
b. to judge d. to speak truth
Jn.5:22, 27 Isa.43:12
Gen.18:25 Jn.5:19, 24, 25; Mat.7:24-29
B. The apostles claimed that Jesus is God.
1. The apostles stated it.
Titus 2:13
2 Pet.1:1
2. The apostles’ claimed that Jesus existed before he became a man.
John 1:1
“The Word (the second person of the trinity, the Son) was with God (the first person of the trinity, the Father), and the Word was God (same divine nature and being as the first person). This is a trinitarian statement, not a polytheistic statement.” See Jn.10:30, Jn.14:9-11
Jn.1:15, 30
Col. 1:16
C. The Bible claims that Jesus has God’s titles of divine honor
1. Savior 4. The first and the last
Isa.43:3, 10-11 Isa.41:4
Lu.1:47 Isa.44:6
Jn.4:42 Rev.1:17
Tit.1:3-4 Rev.2:8
2 Pet.1:1 Rev.22:12-16
2. Creator 5. King of Kings, Lord of Lords
Isa.40:28 1 Tim.6:15
Isa.42:5 Rev. 17:14
Jn.1:3 Rev.19:16
Col.1:16 Deut.10:17, Ps.136:2-3
3. Shepherd 6. Glory and Honor
Ps.23:1 Isa.42:8; 48:11
Ps.80:1 Mat.28:19 (“name”=honor)
Jn.10:11 Rev.5:11-14
II. Jesus Christ is fully man; he has a human nature and body.
A. Jesus claimed that he was a man.
Jn.8:40
Mat.16:15-16
Mat.16:27-28; 17:22
“Son of Man” = Jesus uses this title of himself as the human messiah who came to redeem all mankind
Isa.9:6
Dan.7:9-14
Mk.14:61-62
B. The apostles claimed that he was a man.
1 Tim.2:5
Mat.1:1
Abraham
C. Jesus’ earthly life showed that he was a man. His human characteristics were true of his human nature (and body).
Lu.2:40-52 Jesus grew
John.4:6 Jesus became tired
Mat.4:12 Jesus was hungry
Jn.19:30-34 He died
The Union of the Two Natures in Christ and Its Interpretation
Jesus Christ was one person with two natures, a divine nature and a human nature. He was both fully God and fully man. Christ’s two natures are united and yet distinct an unmixed.
III. Jesus took on the role of submission as redeemer of mankind and placed himself under the authority of the Father
The Scriptures refer to Jesus in His redemptive/messianic role as the one person who submitted himself as both God and man to the Father’s will.
Jesus’ messianic titles, Redeemer, Prophet, Priest and King refer to Him as the God-man.
A. He became a man and only exercised His divine attributes (he still possessed his divine nature) as the Father willed him for the plan of redemption.
Jn.6:48 I came to do His will.
Matt. 26:42
Jn.4:34
He did not use them to live his life, only to accomplish the plan of redemption and thus reveal His deity.
B. As the God-man, messiah and redeemer, he was granted authority by God the Father to act as redeemer both to reveal Himself and to save and judge mankind.
1. The Father is working through Jesus as he accomplishes redemption.
Jn.5:19-30
I am like an “apprentice” son who watches his Father do His work and then copies it. The Father is doing His work of redemption and I am doing it, following Him and doing My work. We are both working. But I am merely following Him.
Jn.10:38 The Father is in me and I in the father.
Jn.12:49-50
For I did not speak on my own accord, but the father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it. So whatever I say is just what the father has told me to say.
Jn.14:10
The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in Me, who is doing His work.
Jn.10:31, 38
When I do miracles, the father is doing miracles.
2. The Father is working through the power of the Holy Spirit in Jesus.
Mat.12:28
Lu.4:14-18
3. After Jesus ascended into heaven, the Father granted him divine glory and honor as the God-man.
Jn.17:5
The Son’s own glory was restored when he returned to heaven.
Phil.2:9-11
God the Father exalted and honored Him as the God-man to his right hand.
As God he did not need to receive glory and honor (he already had it), as the God-man he did need to receive it. It is now as the God-man that He is at the right hand of God the Father.
How do we answer various specific passages that seem to support their concept that Jesus is not the same being as God the Father?
Use this two-fold strategy
1. Show that the Bible clearly states that Jesus was both God and man.
2. Then, say that we should not be surprised that some passages refer to Jesus’ deity and some refer to Jesus’ humanity and his role in submission to the Father. We determine which is which by choosing an explanation that does not contradict the clear statements that Jesus is both God and man. Otherwise the Bible is contradicting itself.
Below are Some Responses to Questions on Specific Verses Relating to Jesus Christ as the God-man
1. Mat.24:36 How can Jesus not know the hour if He is God who knows all things?
Mat 24:36 Jesus does not know the hour
Jn.21:17 Jesus knows all things
When Jesus became a man, he only exercised His divine attributes (he still possessed his divine nature) as the Father willed for the plan of redemption. That is why he can know all things (his divine knowledge), know that Nathaniel was sitting under a tree (Jn.1:48) and yet not know the hour of his coming (his human mind did not know).
Jn.4:34; Jn.6:48 Jesus came to do the Father’s will.
Jn.12:49-50 Jesus spoke divine truth as the Father directed him
Jn.5:19 Jesus only did divine miracles the Father revealed to him to do, “the Son can only do what the Father does.”
Only the Father knows the time of the second coming in terms of Jesus human mind.
Therefore, at times He did not exercise His divine omniscience as He did not exercise His divine omnipotence. Here as a human being he certainly did not know and His divine omniscience was not activated in His human mind to reveal that to Him.
Even the angels didn’t know.
Acts 1:7 Jesus says that the date was fixed by the father’s authority as the sending person and in the plan of redemption is was not for the Son to know while he was on earth.
It was part of the divine plan of redemption for Jesus as a human being not to exercise His divine attribute to know the hour.
So this refers to his human nature and its limitations.
Rev.1:17-18
Jesus appears in His glory – the full use of His divine attributes are restored and Jesus knows the future. he will be there.
2. Jn.5:20-23, Matt.28:19 How can Jesus be granted power and authority by the Father when he already possesses it as the Son in His deity?
It is a result of his submission as the Son of God to the father’s will in the plan of redemption.
Jesus refers to Himself in His redemptive/messianic role as the one who submitted himself as both God and man to the Father’s will.
As the God-man, messiah and redeemer, he was granted authority to act as redeemer both to reveal Himself and to save and judge mankind.
See above Scriptures.
Jn.17:3
Jn. 10:14-18
3. Lu.6:12 How can Christ who is God pray to God?
Jn.17:1
Christ prayed to the Father as man, the same way that we pray to the Father.
His divine and human natures were united, but distinct. Jesus only exercised His divine attributes to show His deity according to the Father’s will.
He did not daily exercise intertrinitarian communication as a way of life, or he would cease to live as a man.
The Son of God took the form of a bondservant, submissive to the father and dependent on the Father as a way of life.
Praying was part of that submission and dependence on the Father.
Mat.27:46 Christ cried out to God as a man in his human nature.
Mat. 26:38 My soul (human) is exceedingly sorrowful even unto death.”
Jn.13:21 He was troubled in spirit as a man.
4. Mat.27:46 How could Jesus be forsaken if He is one with the Father?
Jn.10:30 Jesus said he was one with the Father.
1 Pet.2:24 Jesus bore sin on his body – it was his human nature that bore the sin and it was his human nature that was forsaken.
At that moment of bearing sin when Jesus was paying the penalty for sin, in judgment of sin, the Father rejected Jesus as a human being and Jesus felt it as a human and cried out to God.
5. Mat.4:1-11 How can Jesus be tempted if Jesus is God?
Jas.1:3 God cannot be tempted.
Heb.4:15 Jesus was tempted.
He was tempted as a man, in his human nature. Not as God. God cannot be tempted.
Adam and Eve did not have a fallen nature and were tempted.
6. Jn. 14:28 How can the Father be greater than Jesus if Jesus is also God?
The real issue “greater in terms of what?” “Greater” is used in a comparison. What is being compared? How is Jesus comparing himself to the Father?
In terms of his nature, his role, his authority, his powers, his what?
In putting together the above Scriptures concerning Jesus, his deity, his humanity, and his role in redemption, he obviously is speaking about his role in redemption.
Jesus is speaking of himself in his submitted role as the redeemer, both in relationship to the Father’s authority over him and in his humanity.
Clearly the Father was greater in authority as Jesus was in submission and greater in his divine nature in comparison to Jesus’ human nature.
We can see this from the context in v.28 where Jesus speaks of his redemptive role of becoming a man when he says that he is going away and coming back.
Why does Jesus mention that the Father is greater than Him?
So his disciples would rejoice for Him. He was now going back to the Father where he would again experience the full blessings of being God. He would again be equally “great” with the Father experiencing his full glory.
I believe that this is a parallel statement to John 17:5 where Jesus mentions the glory he had before the world began (enjoying his glory in heaven as God).
In his deity, Jesus had equal glory and greatness while on earth he did not experience that glory and greatness fully. He was now about to return to experiencing that fully again. His disciples should be happy for Him.
Summary: When interpreting these Scriptural passages with the cults, use this two-fold strategy:
1. Show that the Bible clearly states that Jesus was both God and man.
2. Then, say that we should not be surprised that some passages refer to Jesus’ deity and some refer to Jesus’ humanity and his role in submission to the Father. We determine which is which by choosing an explanation that does not contradict the clear statements that Jesus is both God and man. Otherwise the Bible is contradicting itself.