The Knowledge

John 2 Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs that He was doing. But Jesus on His part did not entrust Himself to them, because He knew all people and needed no one to bear witness about man, for He Himself knew what was in man.

This verse has always intrigued me because it seems to have such underlying messages, almost a play on words.

Jesus knew what was in man because He created man. Designed man. Understood man. He knew as it were, our blueprint. But it is one thing to design something, a computer or a car, and to know and understand all the intricate details of it, but it is quite another to become that which you have created.

Our Lord does all things well. He goes all the way. He becomes man.

We will never know all that was accomplished in Jesus becoming flesh but some things we are told in Scripture. Jesus became a physical embodiment of the living God, allowing us to see the spiritual in the physical. He became a God who could be touched, seen and enjoyed. He could say, If you want to see what God is really like, look at me. So we see Jesus laughing, crying, enjoying life while still maintaining His holiness and deity.

Scripture says He also came to offer a physical sacrifice for sin. A perfect lamb, slain once and for all time. An offering to the Father for the sin of the whole world. He paid the ultimate price for all to see. By hanging on the cross He became the God who shows us just how far He is willing to go to save His children.

But the Bible also says He came to share in our suffering, to bear the weight of the flesh and by doing so He is able to fully understand the temptation of the flesh because He bore the burden of it Himself. He knows what is in man because He became man.

It intimidates me that all that I am or think is laid bare before a holy God. He knows my thoughts, my intent and my behaviors. It shames me most of the time. It also comforts me that I have a high priest who understands me. Because He has been there. He is not just the God of the heavens, He is the God who draws near.

What a wonderful Savior is Jesus our Lord. He became acquainted with our struggles by bearing them in His own flesh. Healing us with His own stripes. Redeeming us with His own blood. And leaving us with this promise....It won't always be this way. I am coming back for you and will make all things.....new.