Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe concept of "Being With Jesus" is central to Christian theology and spirituality, emphasizing the intimate relationship between believers and Christ. This relationship is foundational to the Christian faith, as it encompasses both the earthly ministry of Jesus and the ongoing spiritual communion believers experience with Him. Biblical Foundations 1. The Call to Discipleship: The Gospels recount Jesus' invitation to His disciples to follow Him, which is the initial step in being with Jesus. In Mark 3:14, it is written, "He appointed twelve to be with Him and to be sent out to preach." This passage highlights the dual purpose of being with Jesus: personal transformation and mission. 2. Abiding in Christ: In John 15:4, Jesus instructs His followers, "Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. Just as no branch can bear fruit by itself unless it remains in the vine, neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me." This metaphor of the vine and branches illustrates the necessity of a continuous, life-giving connection with Jesus. 3. The Presence of Jesus: Matthew 28:20 records Jesus' promise, "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." This assurance of His presence provides comfort and strength to believers, affirming that Jesus is with them in all circumstances. Theological Implications 1. Union with Christ: Being with Jesus signifies a profound spiritual union. The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of being "in Christ," a phrase that encapsulates the believer's identity and position. In Galatians 2:20, Paul declares, "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." 2. Sanctification and Transformation: The presence of Jesus in a believer's life is transformative. As believers spend time with Jesus through prayer, Scripture, and fellowship, they are progressively sanctified. Romans 8:29 states, "For those God foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son." 3. Empowerment for Service: Being with Jesus equips believers for service and witness. Acts 4:13 notes the boldness of Peter and John, recognizing "that they had been with Jesus." This association with Jesus empowered them to speak and act with authority. Practical Aspects 1. Prayer and Devotion: Engaging in regular prayer and devotion is a primary means of being with Jesus. Through these practices, believers cultivate a deeper relationship with Him, seeking His guidance and strength. 2. Community and Fellowship: The Christian community plays a vital role in experiencing the presence of Jesus. Matthew 18:20 promises, "For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them." Fellowship with other believers fosters spiritual growth and mutual encouragement. 3. Obedience and Imitation: Being with Jesus involves obedience to His teachings and imitation of His character. In John 14:15, Jesus says, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." This obedience is a reflection of a genuine relationship with Him. Eschatological Hope The ultimate fulfillment of being with Jesus is found in the eschatological hope of eternal life. Revelation 21:3 proclaims, "And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, 'Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.'" This future reality assures believers of an everlasting communion with Jesus in the new creation. Topical Bible Verses 1 Thessalonians 4:17Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Topicalbible.org John 14:3 Revelation 1:7 Philippians 3:20 Luke 21:27 Greek 3686. onoma -- a name, authority, cause ... Thus "praying in" means to pray () , bringing revelation that flows out of being . "Praying in Jesus' name" therefore is not a "religious formula" just to end ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/3686.htm - 7k 935. basileus -- a king 4561. sarx -- flesh 3850. parabole -- to expose oneself to danger 993. Boanerges -- Boanerges, an epithet applied to the two sons of ... 3781. opheiletes -- a debtor Library Jesus Christ, Being the Only Son of God, is at the Same Time Man. "Jesus Christ that Doeth Good against Evil is Our Very Mother: we ... "But," Continues Celsus, "What Great Deeds did Jesus Perform as ... The Humanheartedness of Jesus. The Christian Man Jesus Christ in his Incarnation and Work a More Imitable Example ... Pray for Me. Jesus Christ an Example of Prayer Jesus, Pilate and Herod. The Yoke of Jesus. Resources In what ways is being a Christian difficult? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a good student? | GotQuestions.org Is being drunk in the Spirit a biblical experience? | GotQuestions.org Being: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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