The Uniqueness of Christنموونە

6/Unique in his Presence

Greek mythology has numerous tales of gods visiting the earth and interacting with humanity. But there are huge differences. Sometimes the gods argue with one another about what should be done. They can be jealous or vindictive. On occasion, they set things in motion that they can neither control nor stop. Individual gods have their personal favourites. And they never become truly human.

The story of Jesus is very different.

First, Jesus was God with us when on earth. He was truly human and yet truly God. People say, ‘Oh there’s never been anyone else like that.’ Yes, that is true. 

Or they say, ‘How can someone be both human and divine? It’s impossible.’ Yes, usually it is.  

But John writes, ‘And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth’ (John 1:14).   

Second, Christ is with us now by His Holy Spirit. He promised not to leave us alone but to send us another Helper or Counsellor to be with us forever (John 14:16). The word ‘another’ here in Greek means ‘another of the same kind’, not another of a different kind. So the Holy Spirit is among us to make the presence of Jesus uniquely real to us (John 16:14). 

Wherever we are, and whatever our circumstances, through the Holy Spirit Jesus is with us. We have no need of statue or temple or painting or prayer book or confessional or altar or music or church, helpful as some of these might be, because his presence does not depend on these things. In contrast to mute idols, the Holy Spirit speaks, directs, aids and strengthens us directly (1 Cor 12:2).

Third, Jesus will be visibly and powerfully present at his coming again.

The word ‘presence’ (Greek, parousia) is used in Scripture to describe his second coming (1 Cor 15:22-23; 1 Thess 5:23), when he will reappear in power and glory on earth to establish his kingdom forever.

What a great day that will be! The skies will split with his splendour. There will be thunderous shouting from the heavens, the earth-shattering voice of an archangel and the spine-tingling trumpet call of God, as Jesus comes in the clouds of glory, accompanied by countless myriads of angels. Terror will grip the hearts of the ungodly and joy and celebration will rise among the saints.

Past, present and future—Jesus is unique in his presence!

What next?

Jesus promised to be with us forever (Matt 28:20; Heb 13:5-6). On a scale of one (non-existent) to five (continuous), how would you describe your awareness of his presence with you?  What do you need to do to experience his presence all the time?