By Brody Thibodeau
Combining John’s gospel with the book of Revelation we see a total of 12 metaphorical “I AM” statements that give us a view of the character and purpose of the beloved Son of God. However we would do well not relegate these words exclusively to metaphorical interpretation as the very use of the phrase “I am” is actually a claim to deity. By using this specific language the Lord was drawing on the hearers knowledge of the writings of Moses and conjuring thoughts of Exodus 3:14 as testimony to the fact that Jesus of Nazareth is Jehovah from eternity. I AM THAT I AM!
In considering the last I AM of scripture we will once again see a unique aspect of the Lord’s character and purpose and each reader would do well to thoughtfully consider the implications.
The Root and Offspring of David is quite specific to Israel and God’s purpose to have a king reign on the throne of David forever. We are being reminded of Isaiah 11 and the fruitful Branch from the foundational root of Jesse who will judge all things in complete righteousness when He comes forth. As the Offspring of David being the Shoot or Fruitful Branch that is spoken of, the Lord Jesus Christ is the descendant of David that was promised as the throne sitter in passages such as Psalm 132:11. As the Root of David we are presented with the Lord as the foundational root, or origin of David. So, uniquely we have given to us in one Divine Person the only one who could be spoken of as being both the source of David’s existence, and the descendant of David and rightful heir to his throne. This interpretation is given weight by the Lord’s own words in passages such as Matthew 22:41-46.
The Bright and Morning Star is a title which unfolds its own meaning as we compare and contrast these words with similar passages. First of all we should look at its relationship to New Testament parallels. Peter writes to New Testament believers about a Morning Star, or a Day Star that would arise in their hearts. 2 Peter 1:19. The Lord Jesus Himself speaks of the over comers in the church in Thyatira and says that to them He will give the morning star. Rev 2:28 While these passages may bring up some questions as to interpretation, we can be sure that the terms are being used to encourage and comfort those in the age of the church. So, in keeping with this theme, we can assess that the Bright and Morning Star has significance for the bride, or the church which is His body.
There is another similar passage that should be considered. The words of Malachi chapter four are relevant wherein the day of the Lord is being considered. In this analogy where a furnace is envisioned as burning stubble, root and branch we are being shown a glimpse of the coming tribulation period where during the time of Jacob’s trouble the righteous will be regarded as the Lord’s special treasure and to those who fear His name He shall appear as the Sun of Righteousness with healing in His wings. The Sun’s warm rays bringing an end to the darkness of tribulation is a direct reference to the Lord’s appearing in glory to conclude said tribulation and usher in a kingdom characterized by righteousness.
So, understanding the Sun of Righteousness as being Christ coming to relieve those of the believing remnant at His appearing, we see the Bright and Morning Star in a dispensational view. Simply put, whereas the morning star appears in the sky as a precursor to the rising of the sun, so the Lord Jesus will come to rapture the church as the Bright and Morning Star before the Day of the Lord and the eventual rising of the Sun of Righteousness. In this last “I Am” we have been reassured that in Christ God will fulfill His purpose for the nation of Israel, and effect the pre-tribulation rapture of His bride. The question that should arrest every unbeliever is “will you be ready?”
No responses yet