BEARING THE REPROACH OF CHRIST Thursday November 28, 2013 Moses considered the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Egypt; for he was looking to the reward. By faith he left Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured, as seeing Him who is unseen (Hebrews 11:26-27). How could Moses, who lived 1,500 years before Christ, bear His reproach? Christ is the Greek form of the Hebrew title Messiah, the Anointed One. Many Old Testament personalities were spoken of as being anointed for special service to the Lord. Some have suggested that Moses was thinking of himself as a type of messiah, for he delivered his people from the Egyptian bondage. They would translate verse 26 as, Considering the reproach of his own messiahship as Gods deliverer. However, it seems best to see this verse as a reference to Jesus Himself, the future great Deliverer. We dont know how much knowledge Moses had of Jesus, but certainly it was more than Abraham, of whom Jesus said, Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad (John 8:56). The Messiah has always been identified with His people. When they suffer for righteousness sake, they suffer in His place. Thats why David said, The reproaches of those who reproach Thee have fallen on me (Psalm 69:9). Speaking from a New Testament perspective, Paul made a similar statement: I bear on my body the brand-marks of Jesus (Galatians 6:17). Theres also a sense in which Christ suffers with His people. When Jesus confronted Paul, who was heavily persecuting the church, He said, Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?... I am Jesus whom you are persecuting (Acts 9:4-5). Moses chose to turn his back on Pharaohs household and identify with Gods people because he knew that suffering for Christ was far better than enjoying the riches of Egypt. At some point in time you too will be persecuted for Christs sake (2 Timothy 3:12), so be prepared. When that time comes, follow Moses example of faith and courage, knowing that God will be your shield and your reward (compare Genesis 15:1). Suggestions for Prayer: Follow the examples of the apostles by thanking God for the privilege of bearing a small portion of the reproach that the world aims at Christ (Acts 5:27-41). For Further Study: Memorize Psalm 27:1 as a source of encouragement when facing difficulty. From Drawing Near by John MacArthur. May God continue richly blessing you / Dios continúe bendiciéndole ricamente! Jesús Martín Romero
Posted on: Thu, 28 Nov 2013 13:32:47 +0000
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