Carpenter Diem (Because Jesus Was a Carpenter and Is Now Preparing a Home for His People)
The resurrection of God the Son, Jesus Christ, is crucial to the Christian faith. In Luke 24:13-35, we read of the resurrected Savior walking the road to Emmaus. This specific geographical reference reminds us of the absolute accuracy of God’s Word in all areas. In verse 27, Jesus begins to teach from the Old Testament; He not only walked the talk but also talked the walk! This passage does not reveal the exact Scriptures Jesus employed to teach these journeying believers, but we do know that He fulfilled the entire Old Testament (Matthew 5:17,18). Fulfilled prophecy is one of the major reasons that we can be certain that our faith in Jesus is not misplaced. (I will be using this opening paragraph for each of the brief messages in this series. The following material will change daily.)
Amos is probably my favorite Old Testament person. A farmer who also became a prophet, a country boy who had to travel to the big city of Jerusalem, he was a sturdy scholar. The book of Amos is quoted frequently in the New Testament. For example, Amos 4:13 is quoted or referred to ten times, primarily in the book of Revelation. Do not be afraid of Revelation; remember, the opening line of the book tells us that it is “the Revelation of Jesus Christ.” Also, it is the only book of Scripture that promises a special blessing to those who read it (1:3). Revelation 1:8 tells us much about Jesus, including that He is “the Almighty.” This designation is the equivalent of “the God of Hosts” (which is translated “God Almighty” in the NIV of Amos 4:13). Certainly this usage affirms the full deity of Jesus Christ. It also reminds us of the absolute power of Jesus, an omnipotence that is employed for our good. Mankind routinely uses its earthly power for nefarious purposes of mental manipulation and corporeal control. Our Almighty Lord utilized His might for our benefit. May we thank God for His merciful exercise of His everlasting authority.