GETTING TO KNOW " THE MIND OF CHRIST"

Conclusion of What Jesus Was Like as a Person

Jesus was a Master Teacher. Much of his teaching reflected the realities of everyday life, with which he was well acquainted. (Matthew 13:33; Luke 45:8) His manner of teaching was matchless-ever clear, simple, and practical. Even more significant is what he taught. His teachings reflected his heartfelt desire to acquaint his listeners with the thoughts, feelings, and ways of Jehovah. -John 17:6-8.

Often using illustrations, Jesus revealed his Father with vivid word pictures that could not be easily forgotten. It is one thing to talk in general terms about the mercy of God. It is quite another to liken Jehovah to a forgiving father who is so deeply moved at the sight of his returning son that he 'runs and falls upon his son's neck and tenderly kisses him.' (Luke 15:11-24) Rejecting a rigid culture in which religious leaders looked down on common people, Jesus explained that his Father was an approachable God who preferred the pleas of a humble tax collector to the showy prayer of a boastful Pharisee. (Luke 18:9-14) Jesus portrayed Jehovah as a caring God who knows when a tiny sparrow falls to the ground. "Have no fear," Jesus reassured his disciples,' "you are worth more than many sparrows." (Matthew 10:29,1) Understandably, people were astounded at Jesus' "way of teaching" and were drawn to hm. (Matthew 7:28, 29) Why, on one occasion "a big crowd" remained near him for three days, even going without food! -Mark 8:1, 2.

We can be thankful that Jehovah has revealed in his Word the mind of Christ! How, though, can we cultivate and demonstrate the mind of Christ in our dealings with others? This will be discussed in the next article.

Next time: DO YOU HAVE "THE MIND OF CHRIST"?

Watchtower, 2000