"Both-And"

Published:
September 1, 2023 (11 months ago)

The idea of “both-and” has many applications. For example, should our meals be delicious or nutritious? Or, should a car be comfortable or work well? Or, should Labor Day be fun or relaxing? The word “or” implies that the answer has to be one or the other. “Both-and” means that two things can be true at the same time. Food can be both delicious and nutritious. Cars can be both comfortable and mechanically sound. Labor Day can be both fun and relaxing. I bring this up here for theological reasons. Historically, theologians have driven into ditches regarding the person and work of Christ. Some emphasize the example of Jesus. Some emphasize His substitutionary death for sinners. Is Jesus our Example or our Savior? Again, the word “or” implies He has to be one or the other. This is dangerous. The Scripture makes it very clear that Jesus is both. He is the ultimate example of humanity. He is the model human. However, as the God-Man, His death provided the sacrifice for our forgiveness. His death was substitutionary, that means He took our place. We need BOTH, we need an Example for what life is about and how to live, AND we need a Savior to deliver us from the penalty and power of sin. Jesus is the One. He is the Great Both-And. Let’s worship Him in spirit and in truth.