Seeing Christ: The Heart of Scripture and Life

 

Summary

Seeing Christ in all of Scripture is not just a theological exercise but a vital practice for understanding the Bible and living out the Christian faith. The Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, is a unified story that points to Jesus Christ. This perspective is not only biblical but foundational and practical for our spiritual growth. Jesus and the apostles themselves modeled this approach, interpreting the Old Testament in light of Christ's life, death, and resurrection. For instance, Jesus, on the road to Emmaus, explained to the disciples how the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings all pointed to Him. Similarly, the apostles, like Peter and Paul, preached Christ from the Old Testament, showing that the gospel is not a new invention but the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

Understanding the Bible with Christ at the center helps us see the forest and the trees. Each story, poem, and prophecy in the Bible contributes to the grand narrative of God's salvation through Jesus. Without this Christ-centered lens, the Bible can become a collection of moral tales or historical accounts, missing the transformative power of the gospel. The gospel is not about what we must do but about what God has done through Jesus. It is the good news that must be proclaimed, not just a set of teachings or moral guidelines.

This approach is also eminently practical. The gospel is not just the entry point into Christianity or a comfort at the end of life; it is the power for living the Christian life every day. By seeing Christ in all of Scripture, we are reminded daily of our need for Him and His sufficiency for us. This continual reminder fuels our spiritual growth, helping us to become more like Christ. Therefore, preaching and teaching Christ from all of Scripture is essential for nurturing a vibrant, Christ-centered faith.

Key Takeaways:

1. Christ in All Scripture: Seeing Christ in all of Scripture is essential because Jesus and the apostles modeled this approach. They interpreted the Old Testament in light of Christ's life, death, and resurrection, showing that the gospel is the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. This perspective is not only biblical but foundational for understanding the entire Bible. [10:13]

2. Unified Story of Redemption: The Bible is a unified story that points to Jesus Christ. Each part of Scripture, whether a story, poem, or prophecy, contributes to the grand narrative of God's salvation through Jesus. Without this Christ-centered lens, the Bible can become a collection of moral tales, missing the transformative power of the gospel. [19:27]

3. Gospel-Centered Living: The gospel is not just the entry point into Christianity or a comfort at the end of life; it is the power for living the Christian life every day. By seeing Christ in all of Scripture, we are reminded daily of our need for Him and His sufficiency for us, fueling our spiritual growth. [28:13]

4. Practical Implications: Preaching and teaching Christ from all of Scripture is practical because it helps us grow as Christians. The gospel is not about what we must do but about what God has done through Jesus. It is the good news that must be proclaimed, not just a set of teachings or moral guidelines. [24:42]

5. Daily Need for the Gospel: The gospel is not only necessary for becoming a Christian or for assurance before death; it is essential for the in-between. The more we recognize who we are in Jesus and what He has done for us, the more we grow in likeness to Him, repenting and believing daily. [28:58]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:12] - Introduction to Seeing Christ in Scripture
- [00:53] - Preaching from the Old Testament
- [02:04] - The Story of David and Goliath
- [03:18] - Common Interpretations
- [06:02] - What's Missing Without Christ
- [07:42] - Preaching Christ Faithfully
- [09:32] - Three Reasons to See Christ in Scripture
- [10:13] - Biblical Basis for Christ-Centered Interpretation
- [11:05] - Jesus on the Road to Emmaus
- [12:24] - Jesus' Sermon in John 6
- [15:11] - Apostles Preaching Christ
- [18:10] - Foundational Understanding of the Bible
- [20:25] - The Unified Story of the Bible
- [24:42] - Practical Implications of Preaching Christ
- [28:13] - The Gospel's Daily Relevance

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Seeing Christ in All of Scripture

Bible Reading:
1. Luke 24:13-27 - Jesus on the Road to Emmaus
2. John 6:25-59 - The Bread of Life Discourse
3. Acts 2:14-36 - Peter's Sermon at Pentecost

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Observation Questions:

1. In Luke 24:13-27, how does Jesus explain the Scriptures to the disciples on the road to Emmaus? What is the significance of His approach? [10:13]

2. What are the key elements of Jesus' teaching in the Bread of Life discourse in John 6, and how does He connect it to the Old Testament? [12:24]

3. During Peter's sermon in Acts 2, which Old Testament prophet does he quote, and how does he relate it to Jesus' life and work? [16:26]

4. According to the sermon, why is it important to see Christ in all of Scripture, and how did Jesus and the apostles model this approach? [09:32]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does understanding the Bible as a unified story centered on Christ change the way one reads and interprets individual passages? [18:10]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that seeing Christ in all of Scripture is foundational for understanding the Bible? How does this perspective impact one's faith journey? [19:27]

3. The sermon mentions that the gospel is not just the entry point into Christianity but also the power for daily living. How does this understanding affect one's daily spiritual practices? [28:13]

4. What are the practical implications of preaching and teaching Christ from all of Scripture, as discussed in the sermon? How does this approach nurture a vibrant, Christ-centered faith? [24:42]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a recent Bible passage you read. How might viewing it through a Christ-centered lens change your understanding or application of it? [20:25]

2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of the gospel for daily living. What specific steps can you take this week to remind yourself of your need for Christ and His sufficiency? [28:13]

3. Consider a challenge or "giant" you are currently facing. How can the story of David and Goliath, when viewed through a Christ-centered perspective, offer you hope and guidance? [03:18]

4. How can you incorporate the practice of seeing Christ in all of Scripture into your personal Bible study or family devotions? What changes might this bring to your spiritual growth? [24:15]

5. The sermon suggests that the gospel is not just for the beginning and end of life but for the "in-between." How can you apply this truth to a specific area of your life where you need transformation? [28:58]

6. Identify one person in your life who might benefit from understanding the Bible as a unified story centered on Christ. How can you share this perspective with them in a meaningful way? [17:28]

7. Reflect on your current understanding of the gospel. How can you deepen your grasp of its transformative power and share it with others in your community? [27:25]

Devotional

Day 1: Christ-Centered Interpretation of Scripture
Seeing Christ in all of Scripture is essential because it aligns with how Jesus and the apostles approached the Old Testament. They interpreted it in light of Christ's life, death, and resurrection, demonstrating that the gospel is the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. This perspective is foundational for understanding the entire Bible, as it reveals the continuity and unity of God's work throughout history. By adopting this Christ-centered lens, believers can gain a deeper appreciation of the Bible's message and its relevance to their lives today. [10:13]

Luke 24:27 (ESV): "And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself."

Reflection: How can you begin to see Christ in the Old Testament stories you read this week, and what difference might this make in your understanding of God's plan for redemption?


Day 2: The Unified Story of Redemption
The Bible is a unified story that points to Jesus Christ. Each part of Scripture, whether a story, poem, or prophecy, contributes to the grand narrative of God's salvation through Jesus. Without this Christ-centered lens, the Bible can become a collection of moral tales, missing the transformative power of the gospel. Recognizing the Bible as a cohesive narrative helps believers see the overarching theme of redemption and understand how each part fits into God's plan. This understanding enriches personal study and deepens one's relationship with God. [19:27]

Hebrews 1:1-2 (ESV): "Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world."

Reflection: As you read the Bible this week, how can you trace the theme of redemption through different books and passages, and how does this enhance your understanding of God's work in the world?


Day 3: Gospel-Centered Living
The gospel is not just the entry point into Christianity or a comfort at the end of life; it is the power for living the Christian life every day. By seeing Christ in all of Scripture, believers are reminded daily of their need for Him and His sufficiency for them, fueling their spiritual growth. This perspective encourages a life that is continually transformed by the gospel, as it becomes the foundation for daily decisions and actions. Embracing this truth leads to a vibrant and dynamic faith that impacts every aspect of life. [28:13]

Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV): "Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving."

Reflection: In what specific ways can you allow the gospel to shape your daily routines and interactions with others this week?


Day 4: Practical Implications of Preaching Christ
Preaching and teaching Christ from all of Scripture is practical because it helps believers grow as Christians. The gospel is not about what we must do but about what God has done through Jesus. It is the good news that must be proclaimed, not just a set of teachings or moral guidelines. This approach to Scripture emphasizes the transformative power of the gospel and its ability to change lives. By focusing on what God has accomplished through Christ, believers are encouraged to live out their faith with confidence and joy. [24:42]

1 Corinthians 1:23-24 (ESV): "But we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God."

Reflection: How can you share the message of what God has done through Jesus with someone in your life this week, and what impact might this have on their understanding of the gospel?


Day 5: Daily Need for the Gospel
The gospel is not only necessary for becoming a Christian or for assurance before death; it is essential for the in-between. The more believers recognize who they are in Jesus and what He has done for them, the more they grow in likeness to Him, repenting and believing daily. This ongoing process of transformation is fueled by a continual reliance on the gospel, which provides the strength and motivation needed to live a life that honors God. By embracing this truth, believers can experience the fullness of life that God intends for them. [28:58]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to rely more on the gospel this week, and how can you actively seek transformation in that area through Christ's power?

Quotes


Jesus and the apostles, one of the earliest can we say Christian preachers, believed in it because remember they didn't have the New Testament available to them right the New Testament is compiled much later so what are the apostles in Jesus preaching from about the go the gospel the good news they're preaching the Good News from places like the Psalms, Deuteronomy, Israelite stories. [00:51:43]

Once you take Christ out of the picture it's all about what you what you must do and last time I checked the gospel is not about what you must do the gospel is about what God has done. God has done it Jesus says it is finished he doesn't say I'm going to go halfway would you meet me. [06:43:28]

I have to be reminded every day of what Jesus has done for me what he continues to do for me by his spirit I need Jesus every day so my first answer is all right so he got to Jesus it could be a lot worse but preaching Christ seeing Christ interpreting Christ from the Old Testament doesn't mean you don't preach the text. [08:18:40]

Jesus is walking after his resurrection he goes to the cross and he dies he he raises from the dead and he meets these two discouraged disciples on the road to emus from Jerusalem it's about a s mile Journey from Jerusalem to EMAs and these two dejected discouraged disillusioned disciples are walking along Jesus appears and say why are you so down what's going on. [10:21:28]

Jesus uses the same designation and he goes did you know that the Tanakh is All About Me Jesus himself says that but then he also demonstrates it if you have some time I'd like to encourage you to take a look at John chapter 6 in John chapter 6 Jesus feeds the 5,000 and after the feeding of the 5,000 he begins to preach and teach. [11:57:20]

Jesus is preaching using a rinic sermon form are you following me so far and he does that he he uses Exodus 16 to describe the bread of the Mana that came down for Israelite remember that story in Exodus 16 and he says that Mana came down from heaven and the second verse he uses in Isaiah said and you will all be taught by God. [13:22:40]

The Bible makes no sense without Jesus at the center think of all the different stories think of all the different poetry think of all the different visions and dreams think of all the different languages it wasn't just all in Hebrew there's Hebrew Aramaic Greek think of the time span of the Bible think of all the various people places tribes tongues Nations that are involved. [18:15:52]

The unified story of the Bible doesn't start at Genesis and go chronologically in order what do you do with the Psalms for example right you get to the Psalms you're like trying to read it chronologically and it kind of makes sense with the history of Israel and then you get to this big poetry section like whoa different genre I got to slow down here. [19:36:24]

The cross becomes Central to our understanding of the entire Bible otherwise the Bible doesn't make sense if you look at it in this little disperate parts now remember what I said earlier we still need to study those disparate Parts those unique sections and study them carefully but you can't miss the forest when you're when you're studying the leaves on a tree. [20:14:36]

Seeing Christ preaching Christ is not only biblical it is also foundational but lastly it is practical the last reason why we should see Christ in all the scriptures is because it's practical simply put you cannot become a Christian nor grow as a Christian without Christ I know in a setting like this that shouldn't shock you. [24:36:00]

The gospel is not only the portals but also for the power of the in between the more you recognize who you are in Jesus what Jesus has done for you by his Spirit the more you grow in likeness of him the more you daily repent the more you daily believe the more you grow in likeness of him friends if you want to be more Christlike. [28:56:28]

My Hope and my prayer is that you'll continue to preach Christ and him crucified all the days of your life thank you. [29:36:76]

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Transcript
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