
The All-Inclusive Christ: A Biblical Exploration of God’s Eternal Plan
The concept of the “all-inclusive Christ” as depicted in the book “The All-Inclusive Christ” by Witness Lee is profound and offers a rich theological framework that resonates deeply with various biblical themes. This article aims to delve into this concept, drawing parallels with other parts of the Bible, and exploring its implications for Christians today.
Introduction
The idea of the “all-inclusive Christ” is rooted in the typology of the land of Canaan as a representation of Christ. This typology is not only central to the Old Testament but also permeates the New Testament, reflecting God’s eternal plan for humanity. The land of Canaan, promised to Abraham and his descendants, symbolizes the fullness and richness of Christ, encompassing all spiritual blessings and provisions for believers.
Christ as the Reality of All Things
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul frequently emphasizes that Christ is the reality and fulfillment of all things. Colossians 2:16-17 states, “Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.” This passage underscores that all Old Testament types and shadows find their fulfillment in Christ.
Similarly, in Hebrews 10:1, the writer declares, “The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming—not the realities themselves.” These scriptural affirmations align with the central theme of Witness Lee’s book: Christ is the embodiment and reality of all that the Old Testament foreshadowed.
The Goodness of the Land: Unsearchable Riches
Witness Lee elaborates on the goodness of the land by discussing its spaciousness, ascendancy, and unsearchable riches, such as water, food, and minerals. Each of these aspects symbolizes different facets of Christ’s fullness.
- Spaciousness: The vastness of the land signifies the boundless nature of Christ’s riches. Ephesians 3:8 refers to “the unsearchable riches of Christ,” indicating the immeasurable and inexhaustible blessings found in Him. Just as the land of Canaan was broad and plentiful, so is Christ’s provision for believers.
- Ascendancy: The land’s elevated position represents the superiority and preeminence of Christ. Colossians 1:18 states, “He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy.” This supremacy of Christ is a key theme in understanding His all-inclusive nature.
- Unsearchable Riches (Water, Food, Minerals): The land’s resources—water, food, and minerals—are types of Christ’s life-giving and sustaining power. John 4:14 says, “Whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Similarly, Jesus declared Himself the “bread of life” (John 6:35) and the “light of the world” (John 8:12), highlighting His role as the source of all spiritual nourishment and enlightenment.
Possessing the Land: A Spiritual Journey
Witness Lee’s exposition on possessing the land through the Lamb, the Manna, the Ark, and the Tabernacle provides a profound insight into the Christian journey of faith and sanctification.
- The Lamb: The Passover Lamb, a type of Christ, is foundational for entering the promised land. John 1:29 identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” This sacrifice is the starting point for the believer’s journey into the fullness of Christ.
- The Manna: As the Israelites were sustained by manna in the wilderness, Christians are sustained by Christ, the true bread from heaven. John 6:49-51 contrasts the manna given to the Israelites with Jesus, the living bread that gives eternal life.
- The Ark and the Tabernacle: These symbols represent God’s presence among His people. The Ark, containing the law, points to Christ as the fulfillment of the law (Matthew 5:17). The Tabernacle, where God dwelt, foreshadows Christ’s incarnation and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in believers (John 1:14, 1 Corinthians 6:19).
The Battle for the Land: Spiritual Warfare
The Old Testament narratives of battles for the land reflect the spiritual warfare Christians face today. Ephesians 6:12 reminds us that “our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” Just as the Israelites contended with physical enemies, believers contend with spiritual adversaries that seek to hinder their full enjoyment of Christ.
Entering and Enjoying the Good Land
The process of entering and enjoying the good land involves overcoming opposition and embracing God’s promises. Hebrews 4:9-11 speaks of a Sabbath-rest for the people of God, urging believers to strive to enter that rest. This rest symbolizes the full appropriation of Christ’s finished work and the enjoyment of His abundant life.
- Faith and Obedience: The Israelites’ entry into Canaan required faith and obedience, as seen in the crossing of the Jordan River and the conquest of Jericho (Joshua 3-6). Likewise, Christians must walk by faith and obey God’s commands to fully experience Christ’s riches.
- Spiritual Nourishment: Just as the land provided physical sustenance, Christ provides spiritual nourishment. 1 Peter 2:2-3 encourages believers to “crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.”
- Community and Worship: The establishment of the temple and the city in the land signifies the importance of community and worship in the life of believers. Ephesians 2:19-22 describes the church as a holy temple in the Lord, built together for God’s dwelling.
The Issue of the Land: The Temple and the City
The ultimate purpose of possessing the land was to build the temple and the city, symbolizing God’s kingdom and His dwelling place among His people. Revelation 21-22 culminates in the vision of the New Jerusalem, where God dwells with His people in a city characterized by His presence and glory. This eschatological vision underscores the fulfillment of God’s eternal plan, where Christ, the all-inclusive land, is fully realized in the new heaven and new earth.
Conclusion
The concept of the all-inclusive Christ as presented by Witness Lee offers a rich and comprehensive understanding of God’s eternal plan for humanity. By seeing Christ as the fulfillment of all Old Testament types and shadows, believers can appreciate the depth and breadth of His provision and blessings. This understanding calls Christians to a deeper experience and enjoyment of Christ, recognizing Him as their true source of life, light, and sustenance. As they journey in faith, overcoming spiritual battles, and embracing their identity as God’s people, they contribute to the building of His kingdom and the manifestation of His presence in the world.
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