Beech Tree News Network

            It is undoubtedly a difficult concept to fathom, but consider the question: “What if Christ hadn’t come to earth?” What would that mean?

             If Christ hadn’t come to the earth, then there is no New Testament. The very standard by which we live doesn’t exist. This is because Jesus is the mediator of a “better covenant established upon better promises.” (Heb. 8:6, 9:15, 12:24). This covenant was promised by God in Jeremiah 31:31-34 and fulfilled in Christ (Heb. 8:5-13).

             If Christ didn’t come to earth, then Christ didn’t fulfill prophecy, and the Mosaic law remains in force. Remember, this law was in place “till the seed should come” (Gal. 3:19). If He didn’t come to earth, then it is still in force! In addition to this, Christ didn’t make peace for us (Eph. 2:14-15)! It would be the greatest tragedy in human history if Christ didn’t come to this earth and establish His New Testament as the Bible says!

             If Christ didn’t come to this earth, then there is no church. Remember, Christ said to Peter, “… upon this rock I will build my church…” (Matt. 16:18). Yet, if Christ didn’t come to this earth, then there is no church to which men were added in Acts 2:47 (and today) because Christ was not here to promise it, nor was He here to purchase it with His blood (Acts 20:28)! There is no relationship in existence where we can call God our Father if Christ didn’t come to this earth. How sad!

             Furthermore, if Christ didn’t come to earth, then there is no salvation. Christ came into this world to “seek and save that which was lost” (Lk. 19:10). His purpose for coming to earth was fulfilled when He died upon the cross and served as the ultimate sacrifice for sin (Matt. 20:28)! His work was completed upon the cross (Jn. 19:30), and by His stripes, we are healed (Isa. 53:5; I Pet. 2:24). Yet, if Christ didn’t come to the earth, then none of these things are true. We are still in our sins and are doomed to die in those sins!

             What is our point? Our point is that it should be evident that many in the world already act as if Christ didn’t come to earth! This is seen when people around us act as if there is no authority or no Lord to whom they must submit (Matt. 28:18; Col. 3:17)! They act as if there is no church God has chosen and purchased (Matt. 16:18; Acts 20:28). After all, to suggest that people today have sinned is “antiquated” and “judgmental,” according to them! The world thinks the Bible is outdated! What will be the result of such thinking and actions? (see Jn. 8:24)

             Are we more concerned about getting our way than we are submitting to the Lord? Be honest! Could it be that we say we believe Christ came to earth, but we live as if He didn’t? Christ came to this world to establish His covenant, build His church, and save sinners (Heb. 8:6, 10:9; Matt. 16:18; I Tim. 1:15). Let us accept the truth, and thank God for His amazing gift – His Son (Jn. 3:16)!

             (Our study on the Holy Spirit continues on January 25. If interested, please contact us at the phone number below.)

 -- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167