Here is a rewritten version of the article:
The Heart of Christ: A Profound Exploration
At the core of Christianity lies a profound question: does God actually like us? Dane Ortlund, author of Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers, delves into this query, shedding light on Jesus’ disposition towards his people. In this thought-provoking discussion, Ortlund highlights what Scripture says about God’s heart and love, and explores what it means that Christ is continually interceding for us before the Father in heaven.
Ortlund emphasizes that our understanding of God’s love is often limited by our own human experiences and relationships. We tend to view love as a noun, rather than a verb, and often assume that God loves us in the same way we love others. However, Scripture presents a different picture, one in which God’s love is boundless, committed, and desires our presence.
The driving passage behind Ortlund’s book is Matthew 11:29, where Jesus says, “I am gentle and lowly in heart.” This astonishing claim reveals a God who is accessible, approachable, and humble. In contrast to the common perception of God as a distant, wrathful being, Jesus’ heart is characterized by tender patience and care.
Ortlund also explores the idea that Jesus’ actions and words towards sinners and sufferers are distinct from his interactions with the religious leaders of his time. While Jesus shows compassion and mercy to those who acknowledge their need for him, he speaks judgment to those who refuse to recognize their sinfulness. This dichotomy highlights the importance of humility and penitence in our relationship with God.
The book of Hebrews provides further insight into Christ’s ongoing role on our behalf. In Hebrews 4:15, we read that Jesus is able to sympathize with our weaknesses, having been tempted in every way as we are. This verse underscores Christ’s deep understanding of human struggle and his ability to deliver us from sin.
Ortlund also addresses the perplexing passage in Hebrews 7:25, where Christ is said to intercede for us in heaven. Rather than threatening the once-for-all nature of Christ’s work on the cross, this intercession applies and accomplishes our salvation in an ongoing way. This truth brings comfort to believers, knowing that Christ is continually delivering us from sin and its consequences.
In conclusion, Ortlund’s exploration of the heart of Christ offers a profound and hope-giving vision of God’s love and care for his people. As we grasp the depths of Christ’s gentle and lowly heart, we are drawn into a deeper, more intimate relationship with him, one that transforms our understanding of prayer, suffering, and discipleship.
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