The Divinity of the Lord Christ Part 4 at the Monastery
Main Idea
The lecture presents a deep theological explanation of the meaning of Christ’s statement about the Son not knowing that day and hour, clarifying that this does not deny His divinity or full knowledge, but is understood within the framework of biblical language and divine economy.
Theological Explanation
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains that the Son is the hypostasis of wisdom and knowledge, and He is the Logos, meaning the speaking mind of God. Therefore, ignorance cannot be attributed to Him, because all treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Him. Also, His unity with the Father means His full participation in divine knowledge.
Interpretation of the Verse
The statement that the Son does not know the hour is not understood literally as ignorance, but as not declaring it. The knowledge exists, but the declaration is under the authority of the Father. Here appears the difference between knowledge and declaration.
Language of the Bible
His Holiness explains that the word “know” in the Bible does not always mean mere mental awareness, but may mean acceptance, worthiness, or relationship. Like Christ saying “I do not know you,” meaning they are not accepted in fellowship with Him, not that He is ignorant of them.
Illustrative Examples
Many examples show that God may speak as if He does not know, such as asking Adam or Cain, not out of ignorance but for teaching or rebuking purposes. Also, the phrase “I did not know” in the Old Testament means lack of approval or participation.
Spiritual Dimension
The knowledge of the time of the Lord’s coming is kept and sealed, not because God does not know, but so that man remains in a state of constant readiness without negligence.
Incarnation and Redemption
It is also pointed out that Christ, in His incarnation, took a human nature that may appear as if it does not know, while in union with divinity it knows. But this knowledge is hidden according to divine economy.
Spiritual Message
Man is called to watchfulness and readiness, because the timing of the Lord’s coming is not declared, which encourages a life of repentance and spiritual vigilance.
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