Series 2 - Lesson 3 - Annotation 18
How should the Scriptures be "divided" in interpreting the use of the term man?
18. The term man is used in the Scriptures with two references. In some instances the reference is made to manifest man, the human being, the evolutionary man, the outpicturing of the unfolding soul of man. In other instances, it is made to the unmanifest man, the spirit of man, the Christ, the involutionary image. Statements that otherwise appear contradictory are reconcilable in this framework of reference.
As an example of this, "man" is sometimes referred to as being of the earth, earthy, no health in him. Again he is referred to as the image-likeness of God, alive forevermore as the Son of God. Jesus sometimes referred to Himself from the two levels of His nature, the human and the divine. John 5:30 records His saying, "I can do nothing on my own authority." But Matt. 28:18 quotes His stating, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me."
The Scriptural references to man that proclaim his limitations are made from the human viewpoint without consideration of spiritual possibilities. The references that proclaim his divine potentialities are made from the viewpoint that sees man as primarily a spiritual being, expressing and manifesting through a soul and body.
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Preceding Entry: What is the way to build a consciousness of eternal life?
Following Entry: What is Christ? Explain fully how Christ is man's salvation. (See Col. 1:27.)
