Divine Wisdom and Fullness in Christ
Summary
In the Gospel of John, chapter 1, verse 16, we are reminded of the profound truth that all we have as Christians is derived from the fullness of Jesus Christ. This fullness encompasses wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 1:30. The wisdom of Christ stands in stark contrast to the wisdom of the world, which, despite its pursuit of understanding, fails to grasp the spiritual realities that truly matter. The world, in its wisdom, cannot find God, but the Gospel reveals Him to us.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and this wisdom is not something we can achieve through human intellect or effort. It is a divine revelation, a gift from God. The Old Testament was a preparation for the ultimate revelation in Jesus Christ, in whom all fullness dwells. There is no need for additions or intermediaries; Christ is sufficient. The Christian life begins with the acknowledgment of our complete dependence on Christ and the realization that our previous understanding was flawed.
To receive this divine wisdom, we must become like little children, acknowledging our ignorance and bankruptcy before God. This humility allows us to receive the things freely given by God. The wisdom of God, as revealed in Christ, encompasses the entire scope of life, offering a new perspective on everything. It is not merely about personal salvation but about a comprehensive understanding of life and existence.
God is personal, and through Christ, we come to know Him as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Trinitarian understanding is a mystery beyond human comprehension, yet it is revealed to us through Christ. God is not only the Creator and Sustainer of the universe but also the moral governor, concerned with our lives and conduct. His ultimate purpose is the redemption and restoration of His creation, a plan that was established before the foundation of the world.
In Christ, we find the wisdom and knowledge that the world cannot offer. This wisdom assures us that God has not abandoned the world but is actively working to redeem it. As Christians, we rejoice in the fullness we have received in Christ, a fullness that includes a true knowledge of God and the assurance of His love and purpose for us.
Key Takeaways:
- The fullness of Christ is the source of all we have as Christians, encompassing wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. This divine wisdom contrasts with the world's wisdom, which cannot grasp spiritual realities. [01:42]
- True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and is a gift of divine revelation, not human achievement. The Old Testament prepared the way for the ultimate revelation in Christ, in whom all fullness dwells. [06:14]
- To receive divine wisdom, we must become like little children, acknowledging our ignorance and bankruptcy before God. This humility allows us to receive the things freely given by God. [14:41]
- God is personal, and through Christ, we come to know Him as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Trinitarian understanding is a mystery beyond human comprehension, yet it is revealed to us through Christ. [23:40]
- God's ultimate purpose is the redemption and restoration of His creation, a plan established before the foundation of the world. In Christ, we find the wisdom and knowledge that the world cannot offer. [34:01]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:10] - Introduction to Fullness in Christ
- [00:50] - The Gospel's Comprehensive Message
- [01:42] - Christ as Wisdom, Righteousness, Sanctification, Redemption
- [03:14] - Contrast Between Worldly and Divine Wisdom
- [05:57] - Revelation: God's Gift to Us
- [07:20] - Christ: The Fulfillment of Old Testament Shadows
- [09:29] - Dependence on Christ for True Understanding
- [11:40] - The Folly of Worldly Wisdom
- [14:41] - Becoming Like Little Children
- [18:19] - The Personal Nature of God
- [23:40] - The Trinity: A Divine Mystery
- [27:52] - God as Moral Governor
- [31:21] - God's Plan of Redemption
- [34:01] - Assurance in God's Wisdom and Purpose
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. John 1:16 - "And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace."
2. 1 Corinthians 1:30 - "But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption."
3. Psalm 111:10 - "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth forever."
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Observation Questions:
1. According to John 1:16, what have we received from the fullness of Christ? How does this relate to the concept of "grace upon grace"? [00:10]
2. In 1 Corinthians 1:30, what four aspects of Christ's fullness are mentioned? How do these aspects contribute to our understanding of salvation? [01:42]
3. How does the sermon describe the contrast between worldly wisdom and divine wisdom? What are some characteristics of each? [03:14]
4. What does Psalm 111:10 suggest about the relationship between wisdom and the fear of the Lord? How is this concept expanded upon in the sermon? [05:12]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the sermon explain the necessity of becoming like little children to receive divine wisdom? What does this imply about our approach to God? [14:41]
2. The sermon mentions that God is personal and reveals Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. How does this Trinitarian understanding affect our relationship with God? [23:40]
3. What does the sermon suggest about the role of humility in receiving the wisdom of God? How does this humility contrast with the pride often associated with worldly wisdom? [11:57]
4. How does the sermon describe God's ultimate purpose for creation? In what ways does this purpose provide hope and assurance for believers? [34:01]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your current understanding of wisdom. How does it align with the biblical concept of wisdom beginning with the fear of the Lord? What changes might you need to make in your pursuit of wisdom? [05:57]
2. Consider a time when you relied on your own understanding rather than seeking divine wisdom. What was the outcome, and how might you approach a similar situation differently in the future? [11:40]
3. The sermon emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ. Are there areas in your life where you are seeking fulfillment outside of Christ? How can you refocus on His fullness? [08:24]
4. How can you cultivate a childlike humility in your relationship with God? Identify one practical step you can take this week to acknowledge your dependence on Him. [14:41]
5. In what ways can you deepen your understanding of the Trinity and its implications for your faith? Consider setting aside time for study or prayer focused on this mystery. [23:40]
6. Reflect on God's plan for redemption and restoration. How does this understanding impact your view of current world events and your role as a Christian? [34:01]
7. Identify a specific area in your life where you need to trust in God's wisdom and purpose. What steps can you take to surrender this area to Him and seek His guidance? [34:01]
Devotional
Day 1: Christ's Fullness as Our Source
In the Gospel of John, chapter 1, verse 16, we are reminded that all we have as Christians is derived from the fullness of Jesus Christ. This fullness encompasses wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 1:30. The wisdom of Christ stands in stark contrast to the wisdom of the world, which, despite its pursuit of understanding, fails to grasp the spiritual realities that truly matter. The world, in its wisdom, cannot find God, but the Gospel reveals Him to us. As Christians, we rejoice in the fullness we have received in Christ, a fullness that includes a true knowledge of God and the assurance of His love and purpose for us. [01:42]
Colossians 2:9-10 (ESV): "For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority."
Reflection: In what ways can you rely more on Christ's fullness rather than your own understanding in your daily decisions?
Day 2: Divine Wisdom as a Gift
True wisdom begins with the fear of the Lord and is a gift of divine revelation, not human achievement. The Old Testament was a preparation for the ultimate revelation in Jesus Christ, in whom all fullness dwells. There is no need for additions or intermediaries; Christ is sufficient. The Christian life begins with the acknowledgment of our complete dependence on Christ and the realization that our previous understanding was flawed. This divine wisdom contrasts with the world's wisdom, which cannot grasp spiritual realities. [06:14]
Proverbs 2:6-7 (ESV): "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity."
Reflection: How can you cultivate a deeper reverence for God that opens you to receive His wisdom today?
Day 3: Childlike Humility to Receive Wisdom
To receive divine wisdom, we must become like little children, acknowledging our ignorance and bankruptcy before God. This humility allows us to receive the things freely given by God. The wisdom of God, as revealed in Christ, encompasses the entire scope of life, offering a new perspective on everything. It is not merely about personal salvation but about a comprehensive understanding of life and existence. [14:41]
Matthew 18:3-4 (ESV): "And said, 'Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.'"
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to approach God with childlike humility, and how can you do that today?
Day 4: Knowing God Through the Trinity
God is personal, and through Christ, we come to know Him as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Trinitarian understanding is a mystery beyond human comprehension, yet it is revealed to us through Christ. God is not only the Creator and Sustainer of the universe but also the moral governor, concerned with our lives and conduct. His ultimate purpose is the redemption and restoration of His creation, a plan that was established before the foundation of the world. [23:40]
2 Corinthians 13:14 (ESV): "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."
Reflection: How can you deepen your relationship with each person of the Trinity in your prayer life today?
Day 5: Assurance in God's Redemptive Plan
God's ultimate purpose is the redemption and restoration of His creation, a plan established before the foundation of the world. In Christ, we find the wisdom and knowledge that the world cannot offer. This wisdom assures us that God has not abandoned the world but is actively working to redeem it. As Christians, we rejoice in the fullness we have received in Christ, a fullness that includes a true knowledge of God and the assurance of His love and purpose for us. [34:01]
Ephesians 1:9-10 (ESV): "Making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth."
Reflection: What specific step can you take today to align your life with God's redemptive plan for the world?
Quotes
In the Gospel of John, chapter 1, verse 16, we are reminded of the profound truth that all we have as Christians is derived from the fullness of Jesus Christ. This fullness encompasses wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, as highlighted in 1 Corinthians 1:30. [00:00:50]
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and this wisdom is not something we can achieve through human intellect or effort. It is a divine revelation, a gift from God. The Old Testament was a preparation for the ultimate revelation in Jesus Christ, in whom all fullness dwells. [00:05:57]
To receive this divine wisdom, we must become like little children, acknowledging our ignorance and bankruptcy before God. This humility allows us to receive the things freely given by God. The wisdom of God, as revealed in Christ, encompasses the entire scope of life, offering a new perspective on everything. [00:14:41]
God is personal, and through Christ, we come to know Him as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This Trinitarian understanding is a mystery beyond human comprehension, yet it is revealed to us through Christ. God is not only the Creator and Sustainer of the universe but also the moral governor, concerned with our lives and conduct. [00:23:40]
God's ultimate purpose is the redemption and restoration of His creation, a plan established before the foundation of the world. In Christ, we find the wisdom and knowledge that the world cannot offer. This wisdom assures us that God has not abandoned the world but is actively working to redeem it. [00:34:01]
The Christian is a man who looks at the whole of life in an entirely new manner. Now the world is interested in wisdom, as we saw last Sunday morning. That is its greatest interest. The world never gets beyond that. It is the highest attempt of men, this attempt to arrive at wisdom. [00:03:14]
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. You're nowhere until you start there. Oh, you can gather all your knowledge and you can be proud if you like of all your scientific discoveries, but it doesn't give you wisdom, and the modern world proves that. [00:05:57]
The world by wisdom knew not God, and so God has ridiculed the wisdom of this world. When the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching, by the foolishness of the thing preached, to save them that believe. [00:11:40]
Becoming a Christian doesn't just mean that you believe that your sins are forgiven and you then go on thinking as you thought before about everything else. Not at all. It is the greatest revolution conceivable. When a man becomes a Christian, he doesn't think of anything as he thought of it before. [00:12:40]
Except ye be converted and become as little children, ye shall in no wise enter into the kingdom of God. Now that's said to everybody, said to the great philosophers, the great thinkers, the great brains. They've got to become as little children. [00:14:41]
God is personal. He speaks of Him as Holy Father. He speaks of God as a person. God is not the ground of all being. God is not love. God is not goodness. But you say the Bible says God is love. I know it does, but it doesn't only say that. [00:23:40]
God's purpose and plan of redemption, God's great scheme for the restoration of His creation to the condition in which He first made it, that's the great wisdom. And what wisdom it is, and what a comfort it is with this world as it is at the present time. [00:31:21]
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