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We have seen that Jesus came to bring salvation from sin, not political freedom from military oppression. But this does not mean that his authority is restricted to dealing with personal sins. Having died in humiliation for the sins of the world, he was raised from the dead and exalted to the position of ultimate rule in the universe. Read how Paul describes this in Philippians 2:6-11. Jesus is the King of kings and the Lord of lords (Revelation 19:16)
1. The book of Acts describes what happened after Jesus died, rose again and ascended to heaven. How was Jesus’ authority proved? (Acts 2:22)
2. What had the Jews done to Jesus? (Acts 2:23). Did their terrible actions mean that God had lost control of what was happening in human history?
3. David had died about 1000 years earlier. But he had known what would happen to the Messiah. What was David’s expectation? (Acts 2:25-31). How has that expectation been fulfilled? (Acts 2:32,33)
4. Who has God made to be Lord and Messiah? (Acts 2:36)
5. Because God has given Jesus total authority as Lord, what is going to happen to his enemies? (Acts 2:35)
6. What effect did this revelation of Jesus’ lordship have on the individuals who heard about it? (Acts 2:37). What did Peter say they should do? (Acts 2:38)
7. Read Luke 6:46-49. What did Jesus say was wrong with some people who call him "Lord"? (Luke 6:46)
8. What three things must we do if we are to relate to him properly as Lord? (Luke 6:47)
9. Read Psalm 2. Jesus is not only the Lord of individuals. He is also the King of kings and the Lord over nations. How do the kings and nations relate to Jesus? (Psalm 2:1-3)
10. What is God’s reaction to this? (Psalm 2:4-6)
11. What will the outcome in history eventually be? (Psalm 2:7-12)
Remembering that Jesus expects those who call him Lord to do what he tells them, is there anything Jesus has told you to do that you have not obeyed? As God has made Jesus "Lord", we have no option but to obey him. Determine to put right whatever God brings to your mind. Also spend time praising God that despite so many terrible things happening in the world, it remains true that God has installed his King. His ultimate victory is sure as he is in the process of making his enemies to be his footstool in human history.
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