Eternal Encounters: Healing and Wholeness in Christ
Introduction:
Today, we focus on the profound truth that every person we encounter is eternal. As Matt Chandler reminds us, "Every person you encounter is eternal. You have never met a human not created to image your God." This quote not only challenges how we see others but also how we approach healing and wholeness in Christ.
As image-bearers of God, our value is rooted in Him, and so is our hope for healing and restoration.
Let's explore three truths:
We Are Created for Wholeness.
Christ Brings Healing and Redemption.
We Are Called to Be Instruments of Hope.
Let’s begin by grounding ourselves in God’s Word:
Genesis 1:27 - "So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
Colossians 1:20 - "And through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross."
These verses remind us of our divine design and the redemptive work of Christ.
1. We Are Created for Wholeness
Genesis 1:27 "So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them."
Genesis 1:27 declares a foundational truth: we are made in the image of God. The Hebrew word for "image" (tselem) signifies a reflection or representation. This means every person reflects something of God’s character—His creativity, love, and holiness.
However, sin distorted this image, bringing brokenness into our relationships with God, others, and ourselves. Yet, even in our brokenness, the image of God in us remains and calls us back to Him.
Isaiah 43:7 states, "Bring all who claim me as their God, for I have made them for my glory. It was I who created them." This verse reminds us that our purpose is tied to God’s glory. Embracing our identity as His image-bearers leads us toward wholeness—spiritually, emotionally, and relationally.
Imagine a shattered mirror. Though broken, it still reflects light. Similarly, we may feel fragmented, yet we still bear God’s image. Through Christ, that broken image is restored.
John Piper says, "You are unique, created for a purpose, and loved by a God who heals and restores."
2. Christ Brings Healing and Redemption
Colossians 1:20 "And through him God reconciled everything to himself. He made peace with everything in heaven and on earth by means of Christ’s blood on the cross."
Paul’s letter to the Colossians emphasises the supremacy of Christ in creation and redemption. The Greek word for "reconciled" (apokatallasso) conveys the idea of fully restoring a relationship. Christ’s sacrifice on the cross not only forgives our sins but also brings peace to every aspect of creation.
This peace includes physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. Jesus’ ministry on earth demonstrated this through miracles of healing and acts of compassion, pointing to the ultimate restoration He offers.
Isaiah 53:5 proclaims, "But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed." This prophecy points to Jesus as the ultimate healer. His wounds bring wholeness to our deepest pain.
Think of a broken vase restored by a skilled craftsman. The cracks remain visible, but the vessel is functional and beautiful. In Christ, our scars tell a story of redemption.
Pastor Tim Keller says, "Jesus did not just come to forgive you; He came to make you whole."
3. We Are Called to Be Instruments of Hope
Matthew 5:16 "In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father."
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus calls His followers to live as salt and light. To "shine" means to reflect God’s character through our actions, drawing others to Him. As recipients of healing and wholeness, we are entrusted with sharing that hope.
2 Corinthians 1:4 states, "He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us." Our experiences of God’s healing become testimonies that inspire and encourage others.
Picture a lighthouse guiding ships to safety. We, too, are called to guide others toward Christ, the ultimate source of healing and hope.
Ann Voskamp writes, "You are where you are for such a time as this—to bring light, love, and healing to a hurting world."
Conclusion: Embracing Healing for Today, Hope for Tomorrow
We are created for wholeness as God’s image-bearers.
Christ brings healing and redemption through His sacrifice.
We are called to be instruments of hope in a broken world.
Call to Action:
As we reflect on Matt Chandler’s words, let us remember that every person we encounter carries eternal value. How will you live out this truth today? If you have experienced Christ’s healing, share it with others. If you are seeking healing, know that Jesus invites you to come to Him.
Invitation to Faith:
If you have never trusted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, today is the day. Romans 10:9 assures us, "If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Place your faith in Him and experience the healing and wholeness only He can provide.
Let’s pray together.
