Beech Tree News Network

    It is certainly a difficult concept to fathom, but consider the question: “What if Christ had not come to earth?” What would that mean?
 
    If Christ did not come to the earth, then there is no New Testament. The very standard by which we live does not exist. This because Jesus is the mediator of a “better covenant established upon better promises.” (Heb. 8:6, 9:15, 12:24). This covenant was promised of God in Jeremiah 31:31-34 and fulfilled in Christ (Heb. 8:5-13).

    If Christ did not come to earth, then Christ did not fulfill prophecy, and the Mosaic law remains in force. Remember, this law was in place “til the seed should come” (Gal. 3:19). If He did not come to earth, then it is still in force! In addition to this, Christ did not make peace for us (Eph. 2:14-15)! It is the greatest tragedy in human history if Christ did not come to this earth and establish His New Testament as the Bible says!
 
    If Christ did not 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 did not 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 did not come to this earth. How sad!
 
    Furthermore, if Christ did not 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 that great 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 did not 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 obvious to us that the world already acts as if Christ did not come to earth! This is seen when people around us act as if there is no authority or 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 committed sin 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 The world thinks the Bible is outdated!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 are living 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)!

-- 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