(tm) The First Three Visitations.

Back to What comes after Pentecost?

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God’s point of view is understandable in terms of human experience. He desires to rule, bless, and live with people—to be a merciful and gracious King and Father to His children. The accomplishment of God’s desire is not as easy as it might seem.

God lived as a neighbor with Adam and Eve in the garden. This condition was not successful because Adam and Eve did the one thing God told them not to do. The result was panic on Adam’s part and judgment on God’s part.

God came down in majesty on Mount Sinai. But the holiness of God was outraged by the behavior of the people and the children of Israel were terrified by the awful thundering and lightning. Such a display does not lead to the loving obedience and fellowship God is seeking.

God walked among men in Christ, His Son. But the guardians of the Jewish faith would not accept Him. Christ told them plainly that He is the God of their fathers. They laughed in His face, spat on Him, yanked the hair from His beard.

Finally they crucified Him—the thundering God of Sinai. Again, not an acceptable basis for ruling, blessing, and living with people.