Year 1: Module 2 – The Proceeding Word

Introduction:

Unless otherwise noted, the KJV, NKJV, and ASV translations of the Bible are used. The Bible is divided into two parts: the Old Testament, which can be summarized as Christ concealed, and the New Testament, which can be summarized as Christ revealed. To understand the Old Testament in context, we need to look for types and shadows that refer to the coming Christ in every scripture. Text taken out of context is misleading. Text taken out of context is a CON. In philosophical, exegetical, systematic, and practical theological discussions, theologians agree that although not all scripture was written TO us, all scripture was written FOR us. For example, when Jesus instructed Judas to do what he must and do it quickly, He was referring to Judas betraying Him. This illustrates the difference between what is written FOR us versus what is written TO us. The instruction to Judas serves no relevance to us today, but it holds historical significance. However, when Jesus said, ‘go and make disciples,’ that was written for us AND to us.

Matthew 8:20 (AFV): “Then Jesus said to him, ‘Foxes have holes, and birds of heaven have nests; but the Son of Man has no place to lay His head.’”

In this scripture, Jesus was not referring to a physical lodging place but to a body strong enough to bear the weight of His Headship. Jesus was looking for a body mature enough to support His Head. Salvation is part of the redemption plan, but it is just the beginning. It is not enough to be saved from; you must also be saved to! We move beyond convenience to covenant.

Isaiah 7:14: “Therefore, the LORD Himself will give you a sign: The virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and they shall call His name Immanuel.”

The virgin birth was a sign, and a sign points to a destination. The word ‘Bible’ means a ‘collection of texts.’ It consists of 66 books written by various authors inspired by God, giving us many signs that point to a higher reality. Christ is the Word made flesh and is the ultimate reflection of the image of God. He is the ultimate Word of God.

There is more to come. The destination can be summarized by the words of the Apostle Paul:

Galatians 4:19 (AMP): “My little children, for whom I am again in [the pains of] labor until Christ is [completely and permanently] formed within you…”

The Virgin Birth also signifies that God will raise up a church untouched by human and carnal interference. In this way, no man can claim the glory for what God accomplishes through His church. God has placed something in us that is not of our own doing. Thus, no man will take the credit for the works God is doing through His church.

The Virgin Mary was ‘overcome’ by the power of God. The term overcome means ‘to be taken by force.’

God doesn’t ask for permission… We cannot escape His purposes… As Amos said: “I was not a prophet, but God took me…” God reached me before I could reach Him!