From Matthew 11:25–30 and Luke 10:21–24, we've noted how that God’s good news is hidden from those who are not willing to hear and receive it, and it is revealed to those are humble enough to hear and received it.
Continuing a little further into the same text of Scripture, let us consider some fundamental principles of God’s good news revealed to man.
Jesus said, "All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him" (Matthew 11:27; Luke 10:22).
First, God's revelation can only originate with God. Jesus said, “All things are delivered unto me of my Father” (Matthew 11:27; Luke 10:22). The revelation that Jesus was the Christ—the Savior of the world—and that His disciples' teachings were confirmed by miracles all originated from God. Yet, many claim to have revelation and power that God has not given them.
Second, Jesus is Deity. "And no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son." Jesus was reiterating the fact that He is the Son of God—God in the flesh (see also John 1:1–3, 14). This is absolutely fundamental to the gospel, as it is the foundation of the gospel being good news.
Third, we can only know God if we know Jesus. "Neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him” (Matthew 11:27; Luke 10:22).
Fourth, we can only know Jesus if we know His Word. "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light" (Matthew 11:28–30).
The "yoke" mentioned here is teaching. Therefore, we must look to Jesus' teachings so that we may "learn of" Him and know Him.
What a blessing to have God's revelation written down for us to read!
As we consider these fundamental principles of the good news of Jesus Christ, let us answer the questions of the refrain of a hymn co-authored by Vep Ellis and W.F. Lakey: "Do you know my Jesus? Do you know my friend? Have you heard, He loves you, and that He will abide 'til the end?” What is your response to these questions?
Clifton Angel preaches for the Coldwater church of Christ in Coldwater, Miss.
