How does Matthew 22:31 connect with Exodus 3:6 regarding God's nature? Setting the Scene • In Matthew 22, Sadducees—who deny any resurrection—challenge Jesus. • Jesus answers by rooting His case for resurrection in Exodus 3:6. • He treats Exodus as literal, authoritative, and eternally relevant. The Old Testament Anchor: Exodus 3:6 • “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” • Key observations: – God uses the present tense “I am,” not “I was.” – He identifies Himself by covenant relationship, not by a distant title. – The verse reveals God as eternally self-existent (cf. Exodus 3:14, “I AM WHO I AM”). Jesus’ Use of the Passage: Matthew 22:31 • “But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what God said to you: ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’?” • Jesus stresses: God spoke these words not merely to Moses but “to you,” the listeners centuries later—underscoring Scripture’s living voice. • Present-tense “I am” proves Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are still alive to God; therefore, resurrection is certain. Shared Revelation About God’s Nature 1. God Is the Ever-Living One – He transcends time (Psalm 90:2). – The living God can only have living subjects; death cannot sever relationship with Him. 2. God Is Covenant-Keeping – His promises to the patriarchs remain active because He remains their God (Genesis 17:7). – Hebrews 11:16 notes He is “not ashamed to be called their God,” anticipating a heavenly city. 3. God Is Personal and Present – “I am” expresses immediacy; He speaks in the here-and-now, not only in the past. 4. God Holds Power over Death – By grounding resurrection hope in God’s name, Jesus shows that resurrection flows from who God is (John 11:25). Implications for Us Today • Resurrection is guaranteed by God’s own character; it is not merely a theological add-on. • Relationship with God is everlasting; physical death cannot nullify His covenant promises (1 Corinthians 15:20-22). • Scripture’s authority stands unchanged—what God spoke “then” He speaks “now.” In both Exodus 3:6 and Matthew 22:31, the unchanging, living, covenant-faithful nature of God shines through. The same Lord who called Moses and upheld the patriarchs secures resurrection life for all who belong to Him. |
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