Topical Encyclopedia
Awareness of ChristThe awareness of Christ refers to His divine knowledge and understanding of human nature, circumstances, and the spiritual realm. As the Son of God, Jesus possessed an omniscient awareness that was evident throughout His earthly ministry. This awareness is rooted in His divine nature, as described in
John 1:14, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us." His awareness is not limited to the physical realm but extends to the thoughts and intentions of the heart, as seen in
John 2:24-25: "But Jesus did not entrust Himself to them, for He knew all men. He did not need any testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man."
Christ's awareness is also demonstrated in His knowledge of future events and His understanding of the fulfillment of prophecy. In
Matthew 24, Jesus speaks of the signs of the end times with precise detail, showcasing His awareness of God's redemptive plan. Furthermore, His awareness of His impending crucifixion and resurrection is evident in passages such as
Matthew 16:21, where He begins to explain to His disciples that He must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things.
Encouragement from ChristChrist's encouragement is a central aspect of His ministry, offering hope, strength, and comfort to His followers. His words and actions provide assurance of God's love and faithfulness. In
Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus extends an invitation to those who are weary and burdened: "Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light."
The encouragement of Christ is also evident in His promises of peace and presence. In
John 14:27, He assures His disciples, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid." This promise of peace is coupled with the assurance of the Holy Spirit's presence, as seen in
John 14:16-17, where Jesus promises to send the Advocate to be with His followers forever.
Moreover, Christ's encouragement is found in His teachings on prayer and reliance on God. In
Matthew 7:7-8, He encourages persistence in prayer: "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened."
The encouragement from Christ is not only for the present but also for the future. In
John 14:1-3, He comforts His disciples with the promise of eternal life: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am."
Through His awareness and encouragement, Christ provides a model of divine understanding and compassionate support, inviting believers to trust in His wisdom and love.