Part 7

What further reason does Scripture give us for Jesus’ offering of Himself for mankind? We’ve just learned of the glorious new pedigree He’s secured, but what other fruit has our Lord’s cross grown for creation? Our answer can be seen in one word: victory. Jesus embraced His humble descent into flesh so that true and total victory over Satan would be won. Most ironically, what the devil thought would be the dire destruction of our Lord was, in fact, the greatest of all triumphs over evil, even triumph on a corporate scale!

“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham” (Heb. 2:14-16).

Jesus became a man so that He could die as one: He embraced humanity to die in humanity’s stead, and to defeat Satan as humanity’s representative. And why was this detail so needful? Because it was a man which gave up mankind’s dominion, and so it must likewise be a man who wins it back (). The first Adam, as a man, surrendered his domain when he rebelled against God and was evicted from Eden (Lk. 4:6). Satan gained the influence over humanity that Adam forfeited. The devil was thereby declared “father” (Jn. 8:44). He became the “prince of this world” (Jn. 12:31; Eph. 2:2), and mankind was made servant to sin:

“They [Jews] answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham…Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God. Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me… Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it” (Jn. 8:39, 41-44).

Most thankfully, the Lord Jesus changed the whole story! He came to alter the awful pit man was speeding toward (Ps. 30:3)! He came to “destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil” (Heb. 2:14)! The Greek word used here for “destroy” in Hebrews 2 is “katargeo“, which means, “To bring to naught, to nullify, to make of no effect, to render entirely useless.” John tells us that this was our Lord’s prominent purpose:

“For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil” (1 Jn. 3:8).

Because our defeat by the devil came by the offense of one federal man (Adam), so must the victory to later be won. Jesus took upon Him the form of a human servant. This was not a weakness, as so many Jews did suppose! Rather, it was the necessary vehicle of our triumph over Satan!

“For since by man came death, by man also came resurrection of the dead” (1 Cor. 15:21).

Because the sin problem was instituted by a human offense, there was therefore need for equal human participation in our redemption. The Lord Jesus, by making an atonement while clothed in human nature, has made provision for the restoration that Adam’s same nature gave up. No mere sinful human man could have ever paid such a price, nor would he have ever wanted to. So God Himself became flesh, in order to perform that which was so necessary, but could not be accomplished by anyone else. And what was the result? The complete eradication of Satan’s power!

“I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O death, I will be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction…” (Hos. 13:14).

“And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him” (Rev. 12:9).

To be continued…

Part 6

Paul continues his expert exhortation with a needful lesson on the “first Adam“. He focuses his instruction on the awful corporate heritage Adam has won for all of humanity (1 Cor. 15:45). Why was such a lesson so needful? Because the Jews despised our Lord’s willing humiliation. They often saw His descent into human flesh as an excuse to ignore His divine claims, and a reason to refuse His Gospel message. Paul sought to correct such error by explaining the principal reasons for Jesus’ humble earthly trek, and the great fruit born as a result.

First and foremost, it was to reverse the many ails of the first Adam’s folly, and thereby win humanity a superior heritage from which it could spring. Contrary to Jewish assumption, our Lord’s descent into the troubles of humanity was not at all a portrait of His supposed weakness, but rather of His selfless love! Despite the torture that would no-doubt be felt, Jesus embraced His earthen bonds in order to reverse the failure wrought by our human ancestry. Such an act was the only able tool for federal reversal and redemption. And why? Because both Adam and Jesus are said to be federal men: Adam is called the “first Adam” and Jesus is called the “last Adam” (1 Cor. 15:45). These two men are declared federal because both they and their actions are corporate in nature: committed on behalf of all humanity, both born and unborn. Creation was said to be “in Adam” when he sinned and died, and similarly, believers were “in Christ” as He won victory and resurrected (1 Cor. 15:21-22, 45, 48; 1 Jn. 1:8-10; 5:20; Rom. 5:12, 14, 17-19, 21).

As a result, both men are linked to creation’s inward pedigree and outward fruit. In other words, they set the boundaries of mankind’s inward nature and spiritual disposition, whether good or bad. Adam leads humanity toward death and destruction, while Jesus leads those redeemed toward victory and rich harvest. The first Adam was given the influence over federal heritage simply because he was given dominion over all the earth (Ps. 8:4-6; Gen. 1:26-31). Adam forfeited his dominion when he gave-in to sin. Mankind was thereby “delivered unto” Satan as its new authoritative head, and the earth now lies in ruin as a result (Jn. 8:44; 12:31; Lk. 4:6). We have been force-fed Adam’s awful fruits: it’s an altogether-involuntary feast. We’ve been born into his likeness whether we like it or not, for his authoritative “seed” is duly-required for birth’s conception  (Ps. 51:5; 58:3; Prov. 22:15; Eph. 2:3; Job 5:7).

Most thankfully, man’s story does not end there. Paul declares the Lord Jesus to be the last federal Adam, and thus our only hope for a contrary fate! Jesus enables such a different fate because He did not partake of Adam’s fallen seed. He was born by virgin birth, which means the Holy Spirit was the authoritative source of His conception (Lk. 1:35). As such, our Lord could partake of both human and divine nature, and be declared both God and man (Rom. 1:4). He was tempted by sin, yet free from its innate influence (Jn. 14:30; 1 Pet. 1:19, 22). As a result, Jesus now seeks to impart a radical opposition to the first Adam’s dismal failure! He too arrived as a federal and corporate man, and, much like the first Adam, his humanity made him just-as-fitting to alter the human condition. The Jews were sorely mistaking if they saw Jesus’ condescension as a pollution to His deity. His humanity was not a cause for salvific concern, but rather a cause for salvific mediation (1 Tim. 2:5). His humanity was a necessary ingredient for our redemption. Therefore, men should never stumble over the Lord’s earthly demeanor, for He embraced human flesh in order to perfectly “ransom” human flesh (1 Tim. 2:6). Amazingly, Jesus was willing to suffer the reproach that the first Adam initiated, and thought it not robbery to set aside His divine reputation (Phil. 2:5-9). As a man, Jesus redeems men, and, as God, He does so free from human stain or fleshly error. He is the only “Son of Man” and “Son of God” to ever exist (Matt. 18:11; Mk. 1:1). He is both 100% earth and 100% heaven, and therefore His death is the only right mediation to reconcile between both parties (Heb. 9:15). In offering His own body on the cross, Jesus allows creation to feast upon an alternative federal bloodline, one that’s wholly free from the first Adam’s seed (Lk. 1:35), and therefore wholly pure and efficacious. It was well-shed and is thus well-able to repair our innate troubles. As we respond to this gracious offer, our “last Adam” most-powerfully reverses the manner of fruit so well-grown by the first. As we believe and receive Jesus by faith, our initial corporate sway is altered, our first inheritance is dis-annulled, and a glorious exchange is made: We’re now “in Christ” instead of “in Adam” (Rom. 5:15-19, 21; 1 Cor. 1:30; 15:21, 45, 48). And if we’re “in Christ” we’re “in” His triumph and resurrection too: It is the federal fruit birthed by the new federal “Head” (Eph. 1:10, 22; 1 Cor. 11:3; Col. 2:10, 19; Jn. 17:21-23; 2 Cor. 5:17).

Eventually, the men of earth will one-day stand and marvel at the rich bounty of fruit that our Lord’s bloody cross has grown in and among us. Jesus reigns over an altogether different family tree, and feeds His branches from an altogether different vine and holy spring. Reader, it is for this reason that Paul proclaims the superiority of Jesus. He is the more fruitful of earth’s two federal men, and He allows for a far-greater heritage. Jesus doesn’t merely cover over our evil symptoms, but rather, He entirely reverses our innate condition of “madness” (Eccl. 9:3)! He wholly renews our inward nature (2 Pet. 1:4), and He “much more” furnishes a better kind of heart (Ezek. 11:19). Jesus’ fruit proves “much more” abundant, “much more” infiltrating, and “much more” efficacious! Instead of clouds of gray, our Lord’s gift disperses clouds of glory (Rom. 5:1-2). Instead of trials that yield death and torment, we now endure trials that birth goodly fruits (Rom. 5:2). Instead of much shame and constant regret, our Lord furnishes us with the fruit of abounding hope (Rom. 5:4-5). Jesus richly towers over Adam and rebukes his seed’s worldwide reproduction. We no longer have to feast on fallen crops. We can now enjoy God’s freedom, and we can enjoy it “much more” than our sin ever was (Rom. 5:9). God, in His humanity, has rescued creation to a far-greater degree than Adam or Satan were ever able to depress it. He declares “many [to] be made righteous” who before were made well-condemned (Rom. 5:15-21; 8:1-3). Oh reader, what wondrous fruit! What beautiful and flourishing crops we can now eat!

To be continued…

Part 5

The apostle Paul now directs us toward our Lord’s superiority over God’s angels. It was common Jewish thought in his day to casually dismiss the Lord Jesus as but an angelic manifestation, appearing in human form. To believe any other testimony about our Lord’s identity would be to refute widespread religious dogma. Such a recognition would be quite difficult, again, due to the cultural pride that proved so prominent (Jn. 4:22; Rom. 9:4-5). Paul seeks to refute such a dangerous dismissal as he declares the superior fruitfulness of Jesus. How exactly does he do it? By contrasting the name, position, and nature of both parties. Each of these qualities lends toward far-differing degrees of worthiness and admiration.

Firstly, Paul shows Jesus’ to have a superior name. He’s obtained the greatest of all names, far greater than any angel, even despite His humble condescension into the weakness of human flesh (Heb. 1:4; 2:7). Our Lord should be more-highly exalted simply because He is called “Lord” (Heb. 1:10; Acts 2:36; Ps. 110:1). He alone is named the “firstbegotten” Son, whom the angels do worship (Heb. 1:4). As the first-begotten, Jesus receives a very-well-deserved inheritance. Reader, this can never be said of mere angels!

“Unto which of the angels said [God] at any time, Thou art My Son…?” (Heb. 1:4).

Secondly, Jesus is seated upon a far-better seat, that is, He has a far-better position in the heavens, even at the right hand of God, His Father. Jesus sits upon an eternal throne, and angels simply do not (Heb. 1:7-8; Ps. 11:4). As such, He is “far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come” (Eph. 1:20-21). All things, including the angels of God, have been put “under His feet”, as He is “Head over all”, and He triumphs over all lesser fruit (Eph. 1:22; Col. 2:15; Rom. 8:38-39; Col. 1:15-18).

Third, Jesus has a greater nature than that of angels. Jesus is He in whom God’s fullness dwells (Col. 1:19; 2:9). Can this ever be said of angels? Not at all. The angels of God are likened to messengers and are said to be ministering spirits, sent forth to minister to the “heirs of salvation” (Heb. 1:14; Gen. 19:15-16; 32:1-2). While this is quite wonderful, it is not the pinnacle, for Jesus Himself is the very fountain from which such richness flows. All grace and goodness is found only “in Christ” (Eph. 1:3; 1 Cor. 1:30).

And finally, because of Jesus’ superior name, position, and nature, Paul shows Him to receive far-greater admiration. The simple fact that angels worship Him is sufficient evidence of this better fruit. Would angels worship angels? Of course not. God would not allow it, for He alone deserves all praise (Col. 2:18; Rev. 22:8-9; 19:10). Jesus knows a far-better rank and a far-greater dignity. His name, position, and nature have ensured it: He is God! And as God, He is given credit for all of creation (Heb. 1:2, 10), and He rules with a scepter as the King of all kingdoms (Jn. 1:1-3, 10; Eph. 3:9; Heb. 1:8; Isa. 11:4). This is something angels simply cannot declare (Heb. 1:8; Matt. 16:28; Dan. 4:3). As God, the Lord Jesus is declared eternal, while the angels have been created (Heb. 1:11-12; Jn. 1:2). Jesus has been anointed above all lesser “fellows”, even those dwelling in heaven (Heb. 1:9; Jn. 3:34).

To be continued…

Part 4

In seeing the superior nature of Jesus’ own fruitfulness, we are led to the first chapter of the Hebrew Epistle. Again, this is Paul’s treatise of our Lord’s far-finer harvest, and an exhortation for all men to follow after it.

Paul’s very first exhortation  is related to the many famed Old Testament prophets. Such prophets were instrumental in the Jewish religion and were therefore held in very high esteem. As such, the Judaizers of Paul’s day were intent on elevating them over Jesus: They were exalting the testimonies of far-less fruitful men, and it was hindering their spiritual progress (Heb. 2:1). Paul refutes this common misconception and uses it an opportunity to declare the better fruitfulness of the Lord Jesus. And how does he do it? By contrasting the natures of the “word” that both speak. The “words” of Jesus and the prophets prove to differ on several counts, namely, in their revelation, their certainty, their kindness, their clarity, their power and their authority. Observe:

Firstly, Jesus speaks a Word of fuller revelation. The many prophets of old, as wonderful as they were, only spoke the Word of God, while the Lord Jesus is become the very Word of God made flesh (Jn. 1:1). The prophets only spoke of God’s glory, while Jesus is the actual “brightness of His glory” and “the express image of His person” (Heb. 1:3). All Old Testament prophets spoke a veiled word, while Jesus speaks “the Word of His power” (Heb. 1:3; 9:1-10; 1 Pet. 1:10). He is the better revealing of God’s mystery (Jn. 17:6). He is God’s greatest communication to mankind because He, unlike earthly prophets, most-accurately reads the Father’s heart to us (Jn. 14:7-10). There is no better example of the Father’s nature, for Jesus is God’s open book! He doesn’t merely point the way to God, but rather, He points the way, leads the course, and pays for the gas in our tanks (Jn. 14:6)! He doesn’t just retell a secondhand account of God’s many promises, but rather displays them deep within Himself and pours them forth from His own wounds (2 Cor. 1:20; Heb. 11:39). All of the treasures of God’s wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Him (Col. 2:3)!

“But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear. For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them” (Matt. 13:16-17).

Secondly, Jesus speaks a Word of better certainty. The words of the prophets were often ignored, dismissed, or rebuked (Isa. 30:15; Jer. 6:16), while Jesus speaks a Word that men will ultimately “hearken” (Deut. 18:15; Jn. 6:29). His Word will prove to be ever-efficacious and His fruit will prove to be abundant (Phil. 2:9-11). And why? Because He speaks as God (Heb. 1:2; Lk. 10:16)!

Next, Jesus speaks a Word of greater kindness. Old Testament prophetic ministry often focused on words of impending judgment. The words that Jesus speaks are better simply because they are the words of God’s mercy (Heb. 1:3).

“For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (Jn. 1:17).

Fourthly, Jesus speaks a Word of sharper clarity. Even though God often spoke to His prophets in an audible or sensory way, the words He spoke came and went. Jesus, on the other hand, is God speaking to us via eternal indwelling, and is therefore far-superior (2 Cor. 5:19; 1 Tim. 3:16).

Next, Jesus speaks a Word of greater power. He is declared to be the “Heir of all things” and His word is that which powerfully “made the worlds” (Heb. 1:3; Gen.1-2). His speech is glorious speech, and it far outshines that of all Old Testament prophets. Jesus is said to “[uphold] all things” with the word of His power (Heb. 1:3; Eccl. 8:4; Ps. 107:20).

And finally, the Lord Jesus speaks a Word of far-greater authority. While on the Mount of Transfiguration, God the Father highlighted Jesus above the law (Moses) and the prophets (Elijah). God called Him “beloved” above all else, and tells us to “Hear ye Him” above all others, even Moses and Elijah:

“And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him” (Matt. 17:1-5).

What a superior word our Lord spoke and yet still speaks! How else is our Lord’s crop so superior?

To be continued…

Part 3

Apart from the divine aspect of Jesus’ own wrought-bounty, how else can the nature of His fruitfulness be described? How else does the Word of God portray it? Not surprisingly, the second aspect of His fruitfulness is very closely related to the first: Because our Lord’s fruit is divine, it can therefore be seen as superior. Yes, He bears most-superior fruit!

The many blessed details surrounding our Lord’s superior bounty will be most well-understood as we turn our attention to the Hebrew Epistle. Most scholars recognize this letter as “The Book of Better Things”, or likewise, “The Book of Better Fruit”. The writer of the Hebrew Epistle, most believe it to be Paul, goes to great and exhaustive lengths to give King Jesus the endless honor and glory that are due Him. He does this by expertly contrasting Jesus’ paramount fruitfulness to the far-lesser crop grown upon Judaism.

The apostle Paul was a man quite fitting for such a gruesome task: The Jewish economy was and is a point of much national pride and religious elitism: Even Jesus Himself noted such proud and stubborn resistance (Matt. 3:9; Jn. 8:33). To loosen such a tight grasp would no-doubt require much wisdom, insight, and effort! It’s no wonder, therefore, that Paul was the man God chose for the job. He was uniquely familiar with the varied aspects of the Jewish religion, having grown up in such dogma himself. Before his powerful conversion to Christianity, Paul lived as a Jew, even a Pharisee of the “most straitest sect” (Acts 26:5), and a Hebrew of Hebrews (Phil. 3:5). He was discipled by renowned Jewish scholars, possessed intense confidence in the wisdom of his flesh (Phil. 3:4), and felt great religious zeal for God and His laws (Acts 22:3). Paul’s zeal was so fervent, in fact, that it lead him to persecute any offenders “unto the death” (Phil. 3:6; Deut. 17:7).

Almighty God has wisely capitalized on Paul’s intellect and former profession: He was sent to accredit and defend the claims of Christianity (Acts 22:1), and to pronounce Jesus’ vast preeminence over dead and dying Jewish tradition. Paul bravely met Judaism head-on: He used their own love for religious intellect against them. Line upon line, precept upon precept, from Adam to Moses, Paul rebukes the prideful details of Judaism, and shows us how and why they’re deemed far-less fruitful than the crop grown by Jesus. By the time he’s finished addressing his Hebrew audience, the far-dominant profitability of the Lord Jesus is entirely irrefutable! The Hebrews are given a divine “word of exhortation”: Exhortation towards the better spirituality one finds in Jesus, and the better fruit one may grow upon His better vine (Heb. 13:22; Jn. 15:1). Why should the Hebrew saints return back unto that vine turned toward degeneracy (Jer. 2:21)? Simply said, they should not! Paul showed that to refuse Judaism’s mere outwardly-religious trappings is to, in fact, heal and ripen all before-withered fruit and to realign our attachment to the only true source of harvest! We’ll continue with the very first chapter of Hebrews.

To be continued…

Part 2

We’ve just seen the varied details related to the Lord Jesus as our pattern for fruitfulness. He was and is and forever will be the chiefest One we must gaze upon as we seek to grow our own fruit unto God. Yet, as we’ve said, our discovery is not over yet! If all of these aforementioned thoughts are indeed true, we must now ask a series of important questions. Firstly, what is the nature of Jesus’ own fruitfulness? How did it appear during His earthly ministry, and how does it continue to show up today? These are vital thoughts for us to reflect on, for Jesus’ own richness is that which will supply our own.If Jesus truly is God’s divinely-set pattern, we would do well to turn our thoughts more-fully toward the many details of His fruit-bearing. As we ponder our Lord’s example, the many ways that He budded and bloomed, I pray pondering we will witness the abundant provision He now disperses to allow our own harvests to flourish! Dear reader, we must daily remind ourselves of one certain fact: We’re not sparsely attached to a weak earthen vine or upon a lame, helpless root! Rather, we’re privileged to be fixed upon God’s only “true vine”, and the root that girds us is the surest of all foundations (Jn. 15:1)! The sweet sap which our Lord well-dispenses toward us daily is unlike any life-source the world has ever seen (Ps. 104:16)! Truly, Jesus is the most precious cornerstone, the most well-tried foundation, and the surest of all assurances (2 Tim.  2:19). Those humble branches that rely on Him for their own rich harvests will by no means leave empty-handed!

“Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste” (Isa. 28:16).

Jesus Bears Divine Fruit

First and foremost, the nature of Jesus’ own fruitfulness is that of divinity: He alone bears divine fruit, and thus He alone can furnish bounty that meets divine expectation. Over and over the Scriptures declare His bounty to be the truest of the true, and the one-and-only perfect harvest amidst a vast sea of feeble counterfeits:

“This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:11-12).

Firstly, the Bible calls Jesus the “true light” (Jn. 1:4, 9). He’s called “true” because He shines a perfectly-fruitful display of God’s glory, and thereby perfectly-directs us unto completion. He shows mankind the brightness of God’s face, and, as a result, He repels all shadows and darkness (2 Cor. 4:6). His light is perfect and thus perfectly reveals the hidden depths of man’s heart. The Bible tells us that “darkness is past” and “the true light now shineth” (1 Jn. 2:8). This is but one aspect of the perfect harvest Jesus bears!

Next, Jesus is called the “true bread from heaven”, that is, the only fruit-bearing diet that gives life to those who will sup (Jn. 6:32). He feeds us with a perfectly-substantial provision, even manna from heaven (Rev. 2:17). Those who feast will be very well-fed, and those who drink will taste true living water (Jn. 4:10; 6:35). These saints will need no other meat, and they’ll have no real craving for earth’s far-lesser wine (Eph. 5:18). They will be full and overflowing because they’ve eaten divine fruit (Jn. 4:13-14).

Thirdly, Jesus is called the “true vine” (Jn. 15:1). He perfectly cares for and nurtures His branches, and thereby grows them up into fruit-bearing trees (Ps. 1:1-3). As the true vine, Jesus is perfectly-submitted to the Husbandman, His Father. His sap and life-blood can therefore flow perfectly-unhindered.

Similarly, Jesus is also said to be the only truly-fruitful “way” (Jn. 14:6). He is the only right course to trod, and the only true highway to God’s heart. He leads and directs us to a perfect glimpse of God’s great nature, and the only accurate depiction of His loving care for mankind (Jn. 14:7-9; 1:18; 1 Jn. 5:20). All other counterfeit paths will birth but rot and wind!

Next, the Bible declares King Jesus to be the only perfectly-personified “truth” (Jn. 14:6). He disperses the most-fruitful of all knowledge, the most-needful of all understanding, and the most-profitable of all wisdom (1 Tim. 1:17; 2 Tim. 2:7; Ps. 119:73; Eph. 1:17-18). He is the only true Word of God made flesh, that is, the only perfect message sent from God and read to men (Jn. 1:14). He is the most-fruitful message ever to be declared, and God is speaking unto mankind by Him even now (Heb. 1:1-2)! He is the only fully-truthful Son of Man, and His is the only fully-truthful Word to hear (Tit. 1:2). His Word of truth is a perfect “seed” (1 Pet. 1:23); it is most-eternal and of utmost power (Gen. 1:3; Jn. 1:1-3).

Moreover, the Bible portrays Jesus’ as the only fully-fruitful “life” (Jn. 14:6). He alone defeated hell and death, and thus He alone provides us with a thriving existence: Jesus graciously shares His lifeblood with His body, and now we too can live His life to the fullest (Gal. 2:20; 2 Cor. 4:11). The life of God has been deposited within us; we are heartily invited to grab hold of His well-watered vine (Jn. 4:10), bathe in His life-giving blood (Lev. 17:11; Jn. 6:54), and feast on the sap of His glories (Ps. 22:26; 104:16).

Jesus also serves as the only truly perfect “door of the sheep” (Jn. 10:7). This is the fruit that He bears! He is the one and only proper entrance into the blissful realms of God. He is our only door of “access unto the Father” (Eph. 2:18) and our only valid permission within that final veil (Heb. 6:19-20). Jesus is our door into glory (Rom. 5:1-2; Col. 1:27) and our only right toward the Spirit’s comfort, fellowship and communion (Rom. 8:15; Phil. 2:1; Jn. 16:7). Any other lesser route will no doubt end in dismal failure: It will prove quite fruitless, vain, and altogether barren.

Next, Scripture reveals Jesus as the only “true tabernacle”, that is, the truest of all true dwelling places, and the most-loving of all visitations from God (Heb. 8:2; 9:11). Jesus willfully came to “tabernacle among us” (Jn. 1:14), and He did so by the truest of motives. He came to meet our needs and wholly win a people unto Himself (Eph. 5:25-27, 32). He came with an altogether proper aim, never self-serving or self-indulgent (Jn. 3:16; 9:4). He simply sought to shine the true face of God, and to provide a “tabernacle” for our communion (Jn. 8:19; 9:5). He lived here in perfect obedience (Phil. 2:5-9), and with a vehement desire for the contents of man’s heart. This tabernacle proves to be so fruitful because it’s pitched by God rather than men (Heb. 8:2). It was to show God to the world and to tell of countless “good things to come” (Heb. 9:11). This visit declared God’s glory, and it revealed the nature of His grace and unfeigned love. It was a far-greater and most-perfect dwelling because it arrived upon most-special shoulders (Jn. 1:27; Col. 1:16-19), with a most-divine witness (Jn. 5:36; Matt. 3:17), and wrought a most-fruitful work (Jn. 17:4; 19:30; Col. 2:15).

Next, we learn that Jesus offered the only divinely-fruitful sacrifice to God, His Father (Heb. 9:23-24). Yes, His body was the only divine offering ever to be presented to the Father: It alone meets divine demands and holy standards (Heb. 10:4-9; Jn. 17:4-26). Jesus therefore becomes the one and only answer to man’s sin-problem, the only fitting solution for our uncleanness (Job 14:4), and the only hopeful assurance for an inward, fruitful washing. Jesus is the very substance that all other weak and earthly sacrificial shadows pointed to (Heb. 10:1). He is the best of all offered lambs, for He takes away the sins of all the world, rather than merely cover them (Heb. 10:10-11; Jn. 1:29).

Jesus also showed the most-fruitful reaction to trouble and the wisest response to earthly temptation and wilderness (Jn. 4:6). When He grew weary He decided to sit on a well of living water (Jn. 4:6), and when tempted He chose to cling to God’s truth (Lk. 4). What a needful example for us to behold and consider! What great fruit He has grown for us to eat! He knew the value of communion with His Father, and the protection found under the shadow of His wings (Ps. 23:1-6). Jesus lived His whole life with this state of mind: It sponsored all of His actions and protected Him from apathy. It proved to be a most-fruitful response to earth’s troubles, because it now equips us for our own trials.

Next, Jesus is seen as the most-fruitful of all Forerunners (Heb. 6:19-20). He entered into the Most Holy Place and fully displayed how we can follow His steps. He’s our fruitful example because He finished His trek and paved the whole way (Jn. 19:30).  His preeminent lead and prime entrance into glory is our very anchor toward the same harvest! He is personified hope that we will one-day follow in His priestly footsteps (Jn. 2:12; Heb. 2:10)!

Jesus is also the greatest of all “captains”, even the “Captain of our salvation” (Heb. 2:10). He has shown us how to bear much fruit in tribulation and thereby yield a perfect harvest. He is so fruitful simply because His example will bring many more sons unto glory (1 Jn. 3:1-2).

And finally, Jesus’ death and resurrection showed the most-fruitful love and most-generous gift (Jn. 3:16; 15:13). It was the highest expression of devotion and the truest revelation of His care for us. His resurrection is deemed ever-fruitful because it “hath begotten us” unto the same “lively hope” (1 Pet. 1:3). It proved to spoil all hindering principalities and powers, making a shew of them openly, and winning much triumph (Col. 2:15)! What fruit!

Oh reader, what more must be said! What further hope do we require? What more encouragement do we need? The pages of holy writ well-declare the wondrous and eternal fruit Jesus’ divinity has grown! His perfections have prepared us a feast! As we obey such wise counsel and do eat of His life, we can be sure that our own gardens will flourish, for to feast on our Lord’s fruit is to nurture our own. Will we take our place at His table today? Will we allow His perfection to grow us a similar harvest of “fruit unto God” (Rom. 7:4)!

To be continued…

Part 1

I’ve been studying Christian fruitfulness lately, and it’s led me to examine the immense fruitfulness that King Jesus wrought and displays. Without a doubt, He was and is and forever will be the truest of all Vines which render total bounty for God’s Kingdom (Jn. 15:1). Over and over again, we’re given great glimpses of His fruit’s sweetness and abundance: He shines as God’s pattern that all barren branches should mimic.

If we truly believe that all of Scripture has been given “for our learning” and “admonition“, then the fruitful testimony of King Jesus should be very well-considered and reflected on (1 Cor. 10:11; Rom. 15:4; 4:23-24; 1 Cor. 9:9-10; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 1:20-21). How did He bear such perfect fruit, and what was the key to His own wrought abundance? As we well-meditate on such wonder, we will be shown an utmost and perfect example for us to follow after. Jesus is the most fruitful “Branch of the Lord“, and whatever He reaps is “beautiful… glorious… excellent… and comely” (Isa. 4:2). As such, He is the only perfect “Root” that will furnish our true sweetness, and the only “Branch” upon which all other ripeness must grow (Rev. 22:16; Isa. 11:1; 53:2).

The Bible calls King Jesus an “ensign of the people” (Isa. 11:10). The original word Isaiah used here is “nace” and it means, “A signal or token; a standard; a banner or sign”. It comes from a root word that means, “To serve as a signal; to raise a beacon; to set a standard”. What a worthy title! And how true we know it to be! The Lord Jesus is the only perfect “ensign”, “signal”, and “standard” of anything worth having, including that lasting fruitfulness to be born upon the heart’s branches. We’re told to “hear ye” the trumpet that this great “ensign” is blowing (Isa. 18:3). And why? Because this trumpet points us in the right direction. Yes, the highway that it leads us down is the only path which God has divinely accredited, and thereby the only trek that will bear proper fruit. Jesus truly is our chiefest standard. This is why Paul called Him the “Firstborn of many brethren”, because a right view of His trodden path will further the trek down our own (Rom. 8:29; Jn. 1:12; 2 Cor. 3:18).

The Biblical record overflows with such counsel: Over and over it teaches us the value of our Lord’s firstborn pattern, and the mimicked response that God expects from us as a result! Jesus brought the first fruit to perfection, and He is the “Captain” of our journey toward similar rich bounty (Heb. 2:10). He is the Master that all fruitful servants should mimic (Lk. 6:40). We’re admonished to look “unto Jesus” (Heb. 12:1-2), to “consider Him” well (Heb. 12:3), and to ponder His greatness (Heb. 7:4). We’re told to examine His ministry (Heb. 3:1), allow His mind as our own (Phil. 2:5-9), and pursue like perfection (Heb. 6:1; Matt. 5:48). We must ponder His costly wounds (Jn. 20:27), wait upon His design (Isa. 8:17), and look unto His holiness (Isa. 31:1). We’re encouraged to look upon the One who was pierced (Zech. 12:10), to rightly behold Him and His good deeds (Jn. 1:29), and to see and believe His example (Jn. 6:40). We’re to look for His day (Jn. 8:56), to search out His ways (Jer. 29), and to declare Him as the truest foundation (1 Cor. 3:11).  Scripture teaches us to hear Him, to handle His words of life, and to follow Him wherever He goes (Matt. 4:19). We’re told to come after Him (Mk. 1:17), to hearken unto Him (Deut. 18:15, 19), and to heed what we’ve heard Him say (Matt. 24:4). We must never neglect Him (Heb. 2:1-3) nor refuse “Him that speaketh” (Heb. 12:25-26), for even His suffering serves as an exemplary pattern (Heb. 5:9), and we would be foolish to ignore it. Let’s learn of Him (Matt. 11:29), and be like-minded (Rom. 15:5). Let us love as He fervently loved (1 Pet. 1:22; Jn. 13:34; 15:13), walk with God as He faithfully walked (Eph. 5:2; 1 Jn. 2:6), and teach as He lovingly taught (Matt. 28:19). If He truly is our pattern, then let us give as He gave (Matt. 7:10; 1 Jn. 3:16), let us hate what He hates (Eph. 4:26-27), and let us be humbled as He was humbled Himself (Phil. 2:5-6). If we’re those looking for a fruitful crop, we must be willing to pattern His suffering (1 Pet. 3:17-18) and remain in His steps (Ps. 85:13). And why? Because to share in the likeness of His death is to thereby share in the likeness of His resurrection (Phil. 3:10-11; Rom. 6:5)!

Reader, this is how we can be fruitful! Simply consider Jesus: He is the sample of the whole harvested lot; He is the original copy of countless yet to be made (Isa. 1:3; 5:12; 41:20; Ezek. 18:28; Hag. 1:5). God is speaking in these last days “by His Son”, so why should we refuse it (Heb. 1:1-2)? Jesus is our mirror and our truest lesson toward fruitfulness. But are we examining His reflection? Are we listening to His voice? Are we seeking to grow patterned after His “ensign” of abundant life (Rev. 12:11; Rom. 15:2-3; Ps. 119:35; Matt. 20:27-28; Jn. 13:14-16; Jn. 13:34; 2 Cor. 3:18; Gal. 2:20; 4:19; Eph. 5:1-2; 1 Pet. 4:1)?

Oh the great import of these thoughts! Jesus is the one and only true route to the sort of fruit that God wants to eat! He is the very truest “door” into all produce and pasture (Jn. 10:7-9). He is the invitation for us to grow entire gardens, where before only few branches bud!

“For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you” (Jn. 13:15)

And yet, dear reader, what can this all mean for us today? In what direction does such a grand truth now aim us toward? I believe it should point us toward a very specific and thoughtful discussion: Let us now ask, what sort of fruit does our Lord bear, past and present? Yes, if Jesus truly is to be our divine pattern and chief example, it would be ever-wise to consider His fruit’s nature, motive, and process.

To be continued…

Part 2 of 2

As we have just seen, New Covenant Mount Zion is indeed a special place, a saint’s most-special seat, and a special realm of great glory. Spiritual Zion refers to a company of people too: It’s composed of all those who choose to reside there. Those saints who make Mount Zion their most-perpetual abode will surely be free from regret. Though the door leading inside it is one opened only by humble submission, the fruits grown upon heaven’s Zion are simply indescribable to the limited, carnal mind! They are worth every proverbial penny a man can hope to spend. Undoubtedly, “There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise…” (Prov. 21:20)!

Upon Mount Zion, our Lord has set forth the sweetest of all banqueting tables: we’re offered the finest of spiritual luxuries that the palate could ever hope to crave! Zion is a place where the grateful hearts of blood-washed men do well-collide with worshiping angels! It’s the one and only realm of truly satisfying communion: It is the deepest of fellowship with the Lover of our souls, and the place where divine delight is wholeheartedly reciprocated! Zion is a place where the senses are ruined for anything less! I wonder, have you been there, dear reader? God has arranged this feast with you in mind: won’t you come inside and grab a seat? Won’t you march with me up to Zion, and make it your home of all homes? Won’t you let this realm utterly wreck you for anything less to be offered? Let’s forsake our present, fragile, earthly realm, and as Abraham, set our hearts toward a heavenly city, one “whose builder and maker is God” (Heb. 11:10)! We won’t be sorry!

We could go on forever about the endless glories of Mount Zion: The Bible tells us that it super-abounds with rich blessing (Ps. 128:5; 135:21; 134:3). But what are these glories specifically and in particular? What certain fruits will we find to appear upon those branches rooted deep within Zion’s fertile soil (Jn. 15:1-2)? What great effect does a habit for such glory have upon the human heart? And what bounties will be seen by our continual march through Zion’s gates? Thankfully, Psalm 132 sheds much light. It shows us Zion’s blessing – a blessing unlike any other! Observe:

“For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation. This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it. I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread. I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy. There will I make the horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed. His enemies will I clothe with shame: but upon himself shall his crown flourish” (Ps. 132:13-18).

“… [Zion] is my rest for ever: For here will I dwell…” At the very first we see Zion to be the place of God’s chosen rest. In my humble opinion, this particular fruit is the very sweetest. What more could we ask for? What more could the heart possibly long for, but this inexpressible communion offered lovingly to our redeemed race? Reader, there is simply no greater place to be, no greater guest to house, and no greater honor to possess! Jesus wants to find His rest among you! And why? Because He will be deemed dearest to those called Zion (Song. 2:2; Rev. 21:2). His longing heart can “safely trust in her“, for “she will do him good and not evil all the days of her life” (Prov. 31:11-12). The heavenly Husband will be well-known within her gates (Prov. 31:23), and our Lord’s cry will finally be answered:

“Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me? and where is the place of my rest? For all those things hath mine hand made, and all those things have been, saith the Lord: but to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word” (Isa. 66:1-2).

“… I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread…” Next, we discover the sure provision found in Zion. There are no carnal worries there, for God is enthroned. The heart simply does not have time to fret over worldly strife, carnal cares, and need for provision – it’s too busy lavishing adoration upon Jesus! And rightly so, for in Zion our earthly needs will always be well-met. There is no doubt! We simply set our eyes upon first seeking the Kingdom of God, and watch in wonder as our earthen baskets remain full (Matt. 6:33). Mount Zion bears the saint much trust for God’s supply. Thankfully, Zion grows the faith to focus on that “meat which endureth“, rather than on earthly and perishing wants (Jn. 6:27). In Zion we hear the words, “all [things] are yours” (1 Cor. 3:22)! This is true not only for natural bread, but for spiritual sustenance too. Mount Zion is the place where the spirit’s belly is made most-fat with divine luxury: The heart will be ever increased (Ps. 119:32)! Zion furnished rich communication, even a feast on the bread and meat of God’s Word (Heb. 5:12-14; Lk. 4:4). Those abiding in Zion will no doubt grow ears that well-hear the Spirit’s cry (Matt. 11:15; Rev. 2:7; 1 Cor. 2:9-10). Because of Zion’s fertile field, God will have a people who join with Him in His proclamations (Rev. 22:17)!

“… I will also clothe her priests with salvation…” Next, we learn of the garments that Zion provides: We become clothed with salvation! We grow the faith to believe for total soulish deliverance, utmost sanctification, victory over sin and rich, eternal profit! Who wouldn’t want to march up toward such a realm? Who wouldn’t want to habitually dwell there and partake of such gracious glories? We have been declared God’s “holy priesthood” (1 Pet. 2:5; Rev. 5:10), and thus these goodness’s are to be our own! Only here, upon spiritual Zion, are we perfectly preserved from the “wicked… violent man” of sin: The enemy who has vilely “purposed to overthrow [our] goings” (Ps. 140:4). Friends, Zion’s priests are clothed with sin-resistant “fine linen” (Rev. 19:7)! They are wrapped up in “the bundle of life” (1 Sam. 25:29), and they’re arrayed with God’s salvific assurance, “Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved” (Ps. 66:9)! Zion affords certain deliverance, completion, and safety (Heb. 6:1; Gal. 4:19)!

“I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels” (Isa. 61:10)!

“… And her saints shall shout aloud for joy…” Next, we learn of the true worship that Zion furnishes deep within its residents. Our passion for Jesus and our pursuit of His pleasing will only grow more and more toward fruition. Only Zion can grow such needy fruit! It shows us great reason to shout, great reason to worship, and great reason to throw ourselves lovingly at the feet of the worthy One! The joy tasted in this heavenly realm is unlike anything the world can offer. It affords rich spiritual “drink“, and thereby causes “a noise as through wine” (Zech. 9:15; Eph. 5:18). It is here, in Zion, that the human heart is most-happily at home, and what grows in that realm is that which makes one’s joy to “be full” (Jn. 16:24). True joy and worship arrive simply because of the presence of true exaltation.

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass” (Zech. 9:9).

“Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for GREAT is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee” (Isa. 12:6)!!

“… There will I make the horn of David to bud…” There, upon Zion, will the horn of David most fully-bud! David’s “horn” serves as a symbol of his power, anointing, strength and defense. A habitual trek upon spiritual Zion will prove to “bud” these fruits in their fullest measure, for only in Zion do planted seeds flourish (Ps. 18:2; Hab. 3:4; Lk. 1:69; Rev. 17:12; 5:6; 13:1; Ps. 22:21; 75:10; 68:1-2; 89:17)! It is here that one’s “horn” of anointing oil will be fully poured out, for this realm alone will equip an immersion into God’s Spirit. When we sew to the Spirit we shall “of the Spirit reap life” (Gal. 6:8). The loving bliss we find upon Mount Zion will better-yield our “instruments” toward true righteousness (Rom. 6:13). Fruitfulness will be inevitable! Those seeking God’s service must make this trek a daily route. Mount Zion is waiting for you to trample it’s gates!

“But my horn shalt thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil” (Ps. 92:10).

“… [There] I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed…” Next, we learn of Zion’s bright-shining lamp. The Bible uses “light” and “lamps” to symbolize guidance, direction, illumination, vision, correction, and understanding (Ps. 18:28; 19:8; 43:3; Job 29:3; Eph. 5:13; 2 Pet. 1:19). These are the fruits that will bud and blossom in God’s glory! Zion’s realm will “ordain” our spiritual vision (1 Sam. 3:1), grow us eyes that “mayest see” (Rev. 3:18), correct any potential sin or misstep (Prov. 6:23), direct our present and future plans (Ps. 119:105), and render an enlightened understanding where mere worldly wisdom used to rule (1 Cor. 2:9-16; Eph. 1:17-19). Mount Sinai proved quite inadequate in this respect. After years and years of wandering, the Hebrew children saw only God’s outward acts, while never growing eyes that were enlightened to His intimate ways (Ps. 103:7). Mount Zion is far different! Mount Zion’s glory brings liberal sight and deep revelation. Who would refuse Zion’s offer of heavenly wisdom? Who would reject Zion’s eye for God’s Word? This realm allows endless deep and intimate views of our Creator, so much vision, in fact, that the heart finds itself wrecked at every turn and smitten by every glimpse! Dear friends, it’s only amidst the fiery glories of Mount Zion that such an intricate sight will be birthed! This realm will shine the brightest of all lights, even “a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel” (Lk. 2:32).

“For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Cor. 4:6).

“… [There] his enemies will I clothe with shame: but upon himself shall his crown flourish…” And finally, we learn of Zion’s promised crown! Those residing upon this blessed spiritual mount will obtain a flourishing crown. Scripturally, a “crown” refers to one’s reward, honor, eternal life, authority, kingship and ruler-ship (2 Sam. 12:30; Isa. 23:8; Rev. 6:2; 13:7; 19:20; 2:10; 1 Cor. 9:25; Jas. 1:12; Prov. 12:4; Est. 8:15; Job 19:9; 2 Tim. 4:7-8). We see, therefore, that Zion’s glory will prove to render the richest reward, the greatest honor, a most-fruitful life, and rich authority and dignity! We’ll find true maturity, divine virtue and regal sonship as we faithfully trek Zion’s hill. Our spiritual authority will be well-recognized, potential ministries will be birthed, and many great and fruitful works will be accomplished throughout the earth! No other realm will ever bring forth such sweetened fruit (Obad. 21). The fires of Zion are purging God’s people of all that would seek to spoil such vintage. As we trek, God’s furnace chips away at our stubborn carnality, and well-prepares the way of the Lord (Isa. 48:10). In the fires of Zion the heart is better-molded, and eventually a crown will come forth and “flourish“. Great reward will be waiting for these saints (Gen. 15:1), while sorrow and “shame” will be the covering that rots the fruit born of their enemies.

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” (2 Tim. 4:7-8).

Dear reader, the several glories that we’ve just seen are but a meager taste of the rich ripeness that Mount Zion affords the children of God. To exhaust all the goodness grown from a life lived in that glory realm would be an impossible task! We can but take small glimpses here and there, as God sees fit, for had we a full view of Zion’s inwardly-furnished abundance, the heart would surely burst in total bewilderment! Yet, nonetheless, I pray that this unfinished glimpse will be enough to remind us of our weighty potential, to encourage us toward a richer journey, and to birth renewed hunger for God and for His most-blessed Son! Amen.

Part 1 of 2

What can be meant by the Bible’s use of the word “Zion”? Naturally and geographically speaking, Zion most-commonly refers to a specific mountain near Jerusalem, on which stood a Jebusite fortress by the same name, which was conquered by King David. The term “Zion” later became a metonym for Solomon’s Temple, and even for the city of Jerusalem itself. It was often the locale of God’s holy Ark, a symbol of His throne (1 Kgs. 8:1; 2 Chron. 5:2). This was Zion’s natural significance, as referenced under various old covenants, for natural Jews. But what about today? What has Zion come to represent for the New Covenant people of God, that is, for spiritual Jews and for the “Jerusalem which is above” (Gal. 4:26). Let’s find out!

Most modern saints, upon seeing the word “Zion”, will automatically revert to the natural and earthly hill near Jerusalem. Yet, as students of the Word of God, we are directed toward Zion’s far-deeper truth, that is, truth upon a spiritual plane. The Bible assures us of such heavenly significance:

“For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest, And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard entreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more: (For they could not endure that which was commanded, And if so much as a beast touch the mountain, it shall be stoned, or thrust through with a dart: And so terrible was the sight, that Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:) But ye are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel” (Heb. 12:18-24).

Despite this clear and substantial distinction, many Christians continue to force mere natural and geographical qualities upon Zion’s New Covenant meaning and application. They insist that the natural mount, though earthly, must be declared as the eternal dwelling place of God, and therefore chiefly directed toward earthly Jews and an earthly Jerusalem. The Bible does say, in fact, that Mount Zion is the hill which God “will dwell in… for ever” (Ps. 68:16). However, as we work to compare Scripture with Scripture, “rightly dividing the Word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15), we recognize the certain avenue by which Mount Zion can be deemed truly eternal: It is by elevation, not by abolition. This is true for many Old Testament truths.

Earthly and geographical Zion has been elevated to a higher and spiritual plane under the New Covenant. It hasn’t been abolished, as so many assume. Rather, it has simply been lifted up out of the strict boundaries of the earthly and temporal, now to be identified according to its heavenly, spiritual, and eternal significance. Though we should of course give honor wherever honor is due, it should never direct us toward a “cherry-picking” of the Scriptures. While we appreciate the varied significance of earthly Mount Zion, we must acknowledge Scripture’s clear direction toward the superior truth in the heavens. Paul declared such a stubborn adherence to the earthly to be “bondage” (Gal. 4:25). What was once a literal and natural location has become a superior locale in the Spirit: Earthly mounts have now hermeneutically morphed into spiritual and heavenly mounts. In fact, the earthly is said to be but the pattern and “shadow” of superior heavenly things (Heb. 8:5). This method of spiritual elevation is the only means by which Zion can ever be deemed eternal and forever, for earthly hills and mounts will one-day pass away (1 Jn. 2:17; 1 Pet. 4:7; 2 Pet. 3:13; Rev. 21:1). We no longer approach a mere literal mountain of literal fire and literal touch (Heb. 12:18). Our God is so much bigger than that! The Lord Jesus cut a new covenant upon His bloody cross; He now makes “all things new” (Rev. 21:5). The lesser, literal, and earthly has been absorbed by the better, spiritual, and heavenly: The shadow has been consumed by the better substance that it pointed to (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11). Paul instructs us toward such truth by comparing spiritual Zion to earthly Sinai. He tells how Mount Sinai has given way to Mount Zion, that is, the earthly has given way for the heavenly, and the temporal has given way for the eternal. Literal fire becomes spiritual flame, mere natural smoke becomes thick glory, legal bondage becomes adoption, fear of death gives way to liberty, and external Law moves aside for a better and inward engraving upon the heart (Deut. 5:22-26; Rom. 6:14; 8:15; Ps. 119:120)! Mount Sinai was the place of restricted communion, and now Mount Zion points us toward bountiful communion by the Spirit (Exod. 19:12-19; 20:18; 24:17; Ps. 103:7). We now feast upon a New Covenant mountain found in a New Covenant Jerusalem (Heb. 12:22; Rev. 14:1).

So what does New Covenant Zion represent? It has come to represent a few things, being referenced more than 150 times throughout the Bible. It represents the dwelling place of God (Ps. 135:21), the object of God’s attention (Ps. 87:2), the object of God’s blessing and favor (Ps. 133:3), as well as the object of God’s judgment (Jer. 26:18). Throughout Scripture, Zion is seen as the focus of God’s presence and promises (Ps. 48:1-14), and as a symbol of spiritual Israel, that is, the church of the New Testament (Heb. 12:22-23; 11:16; Rom. 9:33; 1 Pet. 2:6; Isa. 8:14; 28:16; Rev. 14:1). Today, for the sake of brevity, we will observe only two principle points about spiritual Zion’s identity and locale: (1) Zion represents the realm of God’s out-poured glory, and (2) Zion represents a people of God’s glory.

ZION REFERS TO THE REALM OF GOD’S TANGIBLE GLORY

The Bible defines spiritual Zion as the place where the Lord dwells: “Sing praises unto the Lord which dwelleth in Zion…” (Ps 9:11). This is where God abides and “appears” in His glory (Ps. 102:16; 74:2; 76:1-2; Joel 3:16, 21; Isa. 8:18). Experimentally, we march up Mount Zion as we worship King Jesus in spirit and in truth (Jn. 4:24). Every time the manifest presence of God breaks forth, you are in spiritual Zion: the place of God’s enthronement and the realm of His glory! Sadly, most of Christendom doesn’t even realize this realm exists! For most, Zion remains but a natural hill in the Middle East. Why should we cling to the shadow when the true substance is beckoning us onward? Friends, Zion is a spiritual place! It is the realm of God’s weighty presence, and, as such, has become a source of much strength for God’s people:

“Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion…” (Ps. 20:2-3 with Ps. 84:4-7).

Zion’s glory is the place of joy (Ps. 48:2, 11; 97:8; 149:2; Isa. 61:3), the place of singing, shouting, fellowship and comfort (Isa. 12:5-6; 51:11; 35:10; Zech. 1:17; 2:10; Joel 2:1, 15, 23). Zion is the place where Jesus reigns supreme (Ps. 99:1-2), the place where He is truly worshiped (Ps. 65:1; 147:12), and the place from whence His great goodness shines forth:

“Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined” (Ps. 50:2; Lam. 2:15)!

Zion is where the glory cloud abides (Isa. 4:5-6). It’s called the place God loves (Ps. 78:67-68)! In fact, Zion is the place (and the people) which God loves more than any other:

“The LORD loveth the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob” (Ps. 87:1-3).

In Zion, the realm of God’s glory, true sons are born and established (Jn. 1:12). And why? Because Zion bears much fruit (Ps. 87:5)… “As soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children” (Isa. 66:8).

From this place of glory, the sons of God will shine and come forth (Obad. 21; Neh. 9:27). These sons will be manifested in the very image of King Jesus, to a dead and dying world (Rom. 8:18-20; 2 Cor. 3:18). They will be the human vessel by which the glory of God moves in the earth:

“And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call” (Joel 2:32; Acts 2:21).

It should be quite evident that the fullness of Zion’s significance simply cannot be restricted to the geographical mount. Who can fail to recognize the deeper spiritual identity? Zion is God’s realm of glory!

ZION REFERS TO A PEOPLE OF GOD’S GLORY

Finally, Scripture tells us that Zion is a people. We know God dwells in Zion (Joel 3:21; Isa. 8:18; Zech. 2:10-11; Ps. 9:11; Num. 35:34; Ps. 74:1-2; Isa. 33:5), and we know God dwells within the believer too (Ps. 22:3; Eph. 2:22; 1 Cor. 3:16; 1 Jn. 4:16). Our conclusion, therefore, is that Zion refers to a people and a place: They are called holy people, the redeemed of the Lord, the city not forsaken (Isa. 62:11-12). Glorious things are spoken of them who choose to dwell in Zion’s midst (Ps. 87:3; Zech. 8:8)! Those who live there have become Zion itself: they are God’s abiding glory in the earth (Col. 1:27; Acts 3:6; Rom. 12:1-2)! And why? Because they’ve chosen to partake of Zion’s resident glory.. God is now enthroned upon them, exalted within them, and shining brightly among them:

“…And say unto Zion, thou art My people” (Isa. 51:16).

“But thou art holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel” (Ps. 22:3).

What was once but a natural hill has now morphed into the fleshy hills of human hearts! You and I are now people of Zion: We’re the place where God is enthroned, and the place where God’s holy Ark dwells (1 Sam. 4:4; Isa. 60:14)! Such honor will be the testimony of all those who overcome (Rev. 3:12) because they will have made Zion their chiefest home and identity. God will be fully-sanctified and exalted among them!

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts…” (1 Pet. 3:15).

To be continued…