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Seven Better Things Than This World Offers – Part 2

Seven Better Things Than This World Offers – Part 2

Part 1

 
More Than Symbols

 

3. A Better Sacrifice

It was necessary, then, for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these sacrifices, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these (Hebrews 9:23 NIV84, emphasis mine).

What made Jesus’ sacrifice better than the animal sacrifices, and how is it that Jesus’ sacrifice cleanses heavenly things?

Again, all of the animal sacrifices were merely symbols, theater, object lessons meant to teach the reality that Jesus accomplished, but what did His sacrifice accomplish?

The gifts and sacrifices being offered were not able to clear the conscience of the worshiper. They are only a matter of food and drink and various ceremonial washings—external regulations applying until the time of the new order. … But those sacrifices are an annual reminder of sins, because it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins (Hebrews 9:9, 10; 10:3, 4 NIV84, emphasis mine).

Wax fruit can represent real fruit, but we can never get life, nutrition, or health from eating wax fruit. Likewise, the sacrifices of animals can represent the real sacrifice of Christ, but we can never get life, spiritual nurturing, and healing of our souls from animal sacrifices—it is only through Jesus.

And why is Jesus’ sacrifice effective? Because Jesus provides the reality-based solution to the sin problem, one that restores trust and recreates sinners in righteousness.

Jesus’ incarnation into humanity, His sinless life, His sacrificial death, and His resurrection:

  1. Revealed the truth about God that destroys the lies that Satan has told about God, thus removing all doubt from the loyal angels and solidifying them in eternal loyalty.

For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross (Colossians 1:19, 20 NIV84, emphasis mine).

  1. Destroyed the power of Satan and freed us from death.

Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might destroy him who holds the power of death—that is, the devil—and free those who all their lives were held in slavery by their fear of death (Hebrews 2:14, 15 NIV84, emphasis mine).

Jesus, God in humanity, revealed the truth about God that destroys the lies of Satan and wins us back to trust. Life eternal is that we know God and Jesus Christ. It is in Jesus that God is revealed.

Life eternal = knowing God (John 17:3).

Eternal death, then, is not knowing God. Therefore, Satan’s power of death is the lies he tells about God that, when we believe them, keep us from knowing God. Jesus destroyed this power by His life of selfless love and sinless death. But more than this, Jesus also frees us from the fear of death by providing the remedy that heals us and gives us eternal life. This is symbolized by His sinless blood. His sinless blood represents His sinless life that we receive when we trust Him. As Leviticus states, “The life is in the blood” (17:11). And Christ’s perfecting, healing, and restoring of the species human is described in Hebrews 5:

Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him (vv. 8, 9 NIV84, emphasis mine).

But wasn’t Jesus always perfect?

Jesus was always sinless, but biblical perfection is about the maturity of character. Jesus, as a human using only human abilities, was tempted in all points just like we are (Hebrews 4:15), but He chose with His human mind, heart, and will to say no to every temptation and, ultimately, destroyed the infection of fear and selfishness with which Adam infected humanity. Thus, Jesus destroyed the death-causing principle He partook of through Mary, purging it from the humanity He assumed, and restored the life-causing principle He received from the Father of His humanity (the Holy Spirit) and became the source of salvation for all who love and trust Him.

Therefore, Jesus’ sacrifice is better than the animal sacrifices because it accomplishes what was necessary to destroy death and bring life and immortality to light (2 Timothy 1:10), to defeat Satan, to restore love and trust in God, and to heal God’s creation. (For more on how Jesus cleanses us from sin, see our blogs Salvation and the Cleansing of Our Spirits, Part 1 and Part 2.)

 

4. Better Possessions

You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, because you knew that you yourselves had better and lasting possessions (Hebrews 10:34 NIV84, emphasis mine).

What are the better and lasting possessions? Jesus said,

For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? (Mark 8:36 NKJV).

The world focuses on money, precious metals, jewels, cars, houses, lands, stocks, fame, social media “clicks” and followers, but what does any of that matter if one dies eternally? What do riches and fame matter if one is tormented in heart, mind, and soul, if one doesn’t have peace within? How many rich and famous people die by suicide because they don’t have mental, emotional, or spiritual health?

We possess something much more valuable, something that results in eternal life. We have the remedy of Jesus! We have God’s love, mercy, grace, forgiveness, and Spirit that heals us and recreates us in righteousness.

  • “Better a little with righteousness than much gain with injustice” (Proverbs 16:8 NIV84, emphasis mine).
  • “How much better to get wisdom than gold, to choose understanding rather than silver!” (Proverbs 16:16 NIV84, emphasis mine).
  • “Better to be lowly in spirit and among the oppressed than to share plunder with the proud” (Proverbs 16:19 NIV84, emphasis mine).

What is the better and lasting possession? A clear conscience, a mature Christlike character, wisdom, a humble heart, clarity in thinking, good judgment, self-control, love for God and others, and a gentle and kind spirit. And these are only possible through Jesus Christ. And when we possess these, we become God’s trusting and trustworthy friend (John 15:15), a person like Job, Daniel, or the three worthies—someone whom God can trust to be faithful to Him and say of Him what is right.

What could be more precious than that?

 

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Testimony 37

Hearing Dr. Jennings’ presentations in person came at a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey that began about nine months ago, when the fault lines inherent in my belief system began to crack under questions that most reasonable people end up asking about God and His nature. These were questions I couldn’t find answers to, and they shook my faith. I was unable let it go any longer and be satisfied. My Christian experience became distant. I was afraid; the fear in me rose like thorns, pushing me away from Jesus. And then someone heard my questions and introduced me to this ministry, and my life has totally changed.

I can tell you that this new, “present truth” message is far grander and life-changing than when I shifted from being an agnostic and then a nominal Christian. It has radically altered my worldview, because it reveals a God that makes sense. It is a revolution. I believe that Dr. Jennings’ message is the final message that must go to the world. If any message could be called “righteousness by faith,” as abused as that term is by the right and the left, this is that message, because Jennings’ biblical message identifies a God who is different, whose character isn’t an impossible contradiction.

I walk this path now without fear. I see people differently, and the Holy Spirit burns in my heart. Many call Dr. Jennings’ message false and compromising, but it isn’t false, because I’ve seen the fruits within my mind and body. It is not compromising, because in this message is the only road to holiness that makes any sense. No longer do I behold a pagan god who is always angry and suspicious. Instead, I behold a God who is freeing and loving, always working for our good, and giving me every reason to love my enemy even to my own death, just as Jesus pleads with us. God is good.

Anthony L., CA, USA

 

Testimony 8

Thank you for the ministry you are sharing with us, it is a real blessing to us and especially to my husband and myself! You are encouraging us to think for ourselves and not just to except everything, without thinking it through, with God’s word!

M.K., USA

 

Testimony 10

I personally download and listen to each of Come And Reason Ministries Bible study class lessons and PDF study notes to use when teaching my class. Really appreciate the class especially when Dr. Jennings is teaching. Thank God there are persons like him doing His work and traveling to share His beliefs.

B. L.M., North Plains, OR, USA

 

Testimony 48

I just want to tell you how blessed I have been reading “The Remedy!” It has become a daily part of my devotional relationship with God. In it I have found a God of love and a God that loves me! The bible has come alive for me! It is the first time that I can say that I have felt hope fill my heart as I have read God’s word. This is good news I can share! Thank you, Dr Jennings! Thank you for your heart for others. I can’t put into words how this has set me free! It has strengthened my trust and love for God.

Jason H.

 

Testimony 33

I was invited over a friend’s house to see the “God and Your Brain” seminar today. I became [a christian] 36 years ago at the age of 19, but have struggled with the concept of God taking His ‘pound of flesh’ out on His Son to be appeased. Wow. Your seminar has been an incredible revelation and breath of reason and fresh air! I have your book, “The God Shaped Brain,” and it is SO eye opening. Finally, after 36 years enlightenment has come! Praise the Good Lord! What can I say, but that the Real Gospel is truly “Good News!” Thank you for your efforts in giving the Gospel a clear sound!

Paul C.,  Springfield, MA, USA

 

Testimony 3

My husband is a pastor and I listen to your lesson almost every week. Thank you for helping me in my study life and to help me love the “real” God more.

C. F., NC, USA

 

Testimony 4

I’m a youth leader in South Africa. We as a youth group are currently using a lot of the material on the Come and Reason site. Since we’ve started using the material, our youth group has grown.

R. V. N., South Africa

 

Testimony 73

I have been truly blessed by your blogs and other resources. They have helped me to see things in a much brighter light and to reason things out better. Thank you so much for your ministry. Whenever I have the opportunity I pass along your material to my friends.

R. Noseworthy, Newfoundland, Canada

Testimony 64

I’ve been reading the bible and walking with Jesus since I was around 16. I’m 42 now. I’ve mostly been alone in my walk although I went to several churches in different denominations. For the past 3 years God has been showing me His character of agape. It’s been a blessing and changed how I view God and my walk with Jesus. About a year ago I came across the power of love and the principles of design law. These teachings changed how I read scripture and have been such a beautiful blessing. I’m very excited and grateful for these truths. We share these truths of agape, design law and the reality of the principles of the two trees in the garden of Eden with people on Facebook and YouTube. People all over are learning to trust God and His agape design law which makes life possible. Thank you for everything you shared with me. May God continue to bless your ministry and lives.

Bradley M., Hinsdale, NY, USA

 

Testimony 45

I have been confused for years about what [christianity] calls [its] most disgusting teaching. It has never made much sense to me and for that reason has been evermore empty. I have listened to your class off and on and have struggled determining what is truth, because of the resistance design law encounters in the church. So, I thank God for your ministry. What you teach makes sense. It’s logical and backed up by the power of love. I have never seen that in Christ until now. I am astounded by the insight that is found when we look at God’s ministry through design law. All strength to this message, as I believe it to be the power of God.

Brendon S.

 

Testimony 19

I truly believe that to know who God really is the first step to understand ourselves in a balanced and kind way, so the healing can take place. Your approach really makes sense – Thank you for your ministry!

A.M., Pittsburg, PA, USA

Testimony 70

I have been watching you for many years and have learned to love God with all my heart. I was raised by a loving Christian mother that had been lied to about who God really was, so our religious upbringing was hell fire and damnation. As soon as I was old enough and moved out, I not only left the church, I ran as fast as I could to get away from it. Sad to say, it wasn’t until the past couple of years that I learned and understand who my Father really is and how much He loves me. I understand God’s Design Laws (which make sense) and when I’m teaching my church Bible study class, I’m able to really put to use the things I’ve been learning and Holy Spirit is leading. Thank you for introducing me to my Father of true, pure love. Everyday with Him is new and exciting. One thing that breaks my heart is that I didn’t know Him sooner. God Bless you and your ministry!

Judy Phelps, Reno, NV, USA

Testimony 34

I was introduced to Come and Reason Ministries by accident, via a passing comment made in a bible study class we were visiting. I checked this website out and my life was changed. The understanding of the truth of God’s character, and how we apply it, is so right. The tricky part is consistently applying which “lens” to look through. As I began to understand, I started sharing the basics of this understanding with a discussion group I was leading and, suddenly, a lot of things started to make sense that never used to. At the same time, I enjoyed an amazing opportunity. I was able to conduct a full bible study at WORK! What an amazing experience! It is such a joy to share the truth about God and to share how it all fits in the war between God and Satan. So many people benefit when we have a correct understanding about how God works and who He really is! Thank you for this transformational understanding. Keep up the good work! God Bless you!

Tony P., CA, USA

 

Testimony 5

We listen to your bible studies lessons in our class in Montana. You actually were the main reason I decided to get a laptop, so I can go to your site and listen, read, learn, and print the class notes. I am so grateful to learn the correct view of God and his character. Now, to just have others have an interest in knowing, so I can share it with them. Good thoughts your way.

R. N., MT, USA

 

Testimony 28

I have been following your Bible study class for about a year now. I must say I am impressed with how your ministry has grown. I took it upon myself to listen to all your lesson podcasts from the past and they have both enriched me physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. I have learnt a lot from this class. I have also noticed how the class has grown in spiritual strength. One of the things that benefited me is that now I am not afraid of God. I use to be, but now it has melted away. The second thing is that you helped me to have a real life relationship with God. Now He is my friend that was always there and I love having him with me all the time. Thirdly, because of this class, it inspired me to take over and lead a class. I have called it “Let Us Reason Together,” adapting your inquisitive style and creating a class of free thinkers.

T. Banda, Malawi, Africa