The Forensic Contrast
“Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to-day, and for ever.” — Hebrews 13:8 (KJV)
The First Advent: The Lamb
The Manner: He came in lowliness, wrapped in swaddling clothes, laid in a manger.
“And she brought forth her firstborn son… and laid him in a manger;” (Luke 2:7, KJV)
The Mission: To seek and to save that which was lost through the shedding of blood.
“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10, KJV)
The Reception: He was despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows.
“He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief:” (Isaiah 53:3, KJV)
The Second Advent: The Lion
The Manner: He comes in glory, riding a white horse, with eyes as a flame of fire.
“And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True…” (Revelation 19:11, KJV)
The Mission: To judge the nations and rule them with a rod of iron.
“And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations:” (Revelation 19:15, KJV)
The Reception: Every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess that He is Lord.
“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow… and that every tongue should confess…” (Philippians 2:10-11, KJV)
THE VERDICT: The Cross paid the debt; the Crown claims the Kingdom.
Stand fast, for the King is at the door.