Man’s Existence:
Spirit: The eternal part of man that communicates with God
Soul: Mind (intellect), will (decision –making ability), emotions
Body: Flesh, blood, bones
Heart: Receives input from the spirit and soul of man
Jesus as Savior
Jesus was sent to earth by God to die and sacrifice Himself to restore man to God. This knowledge provides the greatest illumination of the relationship between God and man. Man was created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:26). The first man, Adam was placed in the Garden of Eden and given instructions to enjoy everything there except the fruit of a certain tree. Adam disobeyed God, brought sin into the earth, and severed the intimate relationship between God and man.
The coming of Jesus to earth, His death, sufferings, and resurrection offered to man a second chance at intimacy with God. All of these events are recorded in scripture (Isaiah 7:14, Mark 15:37, Luke 24th chapter). A person must acknowledge their sins, receive forgiveness, and accept the sacrifice of Jesus Christ for their sins to receive salvation or to be saved. With this event, one receives Jesus as Savior. The human spirit of man is changed at this encounter with receiving Jesus as Savior. It is the only part of man that changes.
Receiving Jesus Christ as Savior positions you for an eternal relationship with God. This relationship begins here on earth and exists throughout Eternity unless you revoke it. Jesus is the Savior of all mankind, however all men do not accept Him. It is recorded in scripture that “every knee shall ultimately bow to Him” (Romans 14:11). Those who accept Jesus during their lifetime are assured of being with Him throughout Eternity.
Jesus as Intercessor
Not only did Jesus die to eradicate our sins, He is also our Intercessor for committed sins after we receive him as Savior (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:24-25). After receiving Jesus, a person begins the joy of living for Him according to His word in scripture. This is a process of conforming the mind, will, emotions, and body to the will of God. This transformation takes place over a period of time as the word of God is received, understood, and lived out by a person. During this process, mistakes are made, sins are committed, and hence, an Intercessor is needed to clear our charges of wrong choices and wrong doing.
The key point during the transformation of the will, emotions, mind, and body is to understand the importance of repentance. Repentance to God for wrong choices and wrong actions, show Him that your heart is not corrupted and desires the sin life. God’s word has to gain ground in your heart so that you will increasingly make right decisions and commit right actions. This is a process that takes place as long as we are here on earth. Patience and forgiveness is extended to you from your Savior who is also your Intercessor. A person must choose to study God’s word, obey God’s word, choose right social relationships, and repent when it is necessary.
Jesus as Lord
As your life progresses and your walk with Jesus as Savior and Intercessor are refined, you will come to know Him as Lord. All of the intimate communication of your spirit to Him brings you to the place of love, trust, and obedience. You do not “desire” to make choices in life that will disturb this powerful relationship you have begun with Him. He becomes more and more real every day.
Get started with Jesus and His Lordship will begin to flow.
Marsha Deveaux Johnson
