An Allegory of Christ’s Victory

The Peacock and the Snake and the Tree of Life

Triumph Over Evil

Victory Through Humility

Christ as the Peacock Overcoming the Serpent

At the heart of the Gospel’s culmination lies a striking allegory: a bird locked in combat with a snake beneath the branches of a fruitful tree. This image, preserved in ancient manuscripts like the Gerona Beatus, is rich with Christological significance. The bird’s battle with the serpent encapsulates the victory of Christ over the devil—a vivid reminder of the Incarnation and the triumph of divine humility over the power of sin.

The image begins with the tree, echoing Christ’s parable of the mustard seed in Matthew 13:31-32. Here, the small seed becomes a towering tree offering shelter to the birds of the air. St. Jerome, in his Commentary on Matthew, sees the tree as the Kingdom of Heaven, while the birds represent the redeemed souls finding rest. It sets the stage for the climactic struggle between good and evil.

The bird, interpreted variously as a peacock (a symbol of eternal life) or an eagle, is seen piercing the head of the serpent with its beak. Alexander Maclaren emphasizes, “The essence of Christ’s work was not mere conquest, but conquest by sacrifice.” The bird’s humble posture mirrors Christ’s self-emptying, as described by Paul in Philippians 2:7-8: “He made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant… and became obedient to death—even death on a cross!”

Matthew Henry, reflecting on Genesis 3:15, connects this image with the Protoevangelium: “The serpent’s head is crushed, but it is through the bruising of the Redeemer’s heel. The victory was costly, yet complete.” The peacock’s resplendent tail, dulled by the mud it uses to disguise itself, recalls the humility of Christ, who took on human flesh to defeat sin.

Humility as a Weapon

In the allegory, the bird’s muddying of its feathers symbolizes Christ’s willingness to be clothed in human weakness. Eugene Peterson notes, “God’s glory was revealed not in a display of power, but in vulnerability.” Similarly, N.T. Wright emphasizes in The Day the Revolution Began that Christ’s victory was achieved not by force, but by submitting to the cross, turning the serpent’s weapon of death into a means of redemption.

John Calvin adds depth to this understanding, explaining that “Christ veiled His divinity in humanity so that He might draw near to us without overwhelming us.” The bird’s act of confronting the serpent recalls Christ’s earthly ministry, where He walked among sinners, touched the untouchable, and ultimately bore the sin of the world.

The Defeat of the Serpent

The bird’s sharp beak penetrating the serpent’s head is a vivid image of Christ’s ultimate victory. Charles Spurgeon writes, “Christ does not merely wound the serpent; He destroys it utterly.” David Guzik highlights the symbolic nature of this act: “By attacking the serpent’s head, the bird demonstrates that sin and death are not merely neutralized but decisively defeated.”

Walter Brueggemann and Derek Prince both emphasize the eschatological dimension of this victory. Brueggemann writes, “This is not only a past event but an ongoing reality. Christ’s victory empowers His people to live in the freedom of the Kingdom of God.” Prince adds, “The serpent’s venom of sin is countered by the bird’s divine antidote: the Word of God made flesh.”

The allegory of the bird defeating the serpent mirrors the ultimate victory of Christ over death. As Paul declares in 1 Corinthians 15:54, “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” The serpent, long a symbol of sin and death, is utterly defeated by Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection.

Martin Lloyd-Jones emphasizes, “The resurrection is God’s public declaration that Christ’s work on the cross is sufficient.” In this victory, believers are no longer enslaved to fear of death. Derek Kidner writes, “The death that once held dominion is now a defeated foe, a shadow passing over eternal life.” Through Christ, death is transformed from an end into the doorway to eternal glory. His victory becomes ours.

The Tree of Life

The allegory returns to the tree, which serves as a backdrop to the battle. C.S. Lewis, in The Great Divorce, speaks of the Kingdom of God as “a tree that grows in every dimension, not just upward but inward, expanding its roots deep into eternity.” The tree, rooted in the promises of God, nourishes and shelters those who seek refuge in Christ.

William Barclay reminds us that the fruit of the tree, like the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), sustains believers as they live out their victory in Christ. “The fight is not ours to win, but the fruits are ours to bear,” he writes.

A Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus,

You are the victorious One, the bird who crushed the serpent’s head. In Your humility, You veiled Your glory to save us. Help us to live in the light of Your triumph, clothed in Your righteousness and nourished by the fruit of Your Spirit. May we always find shelter in Your Kingdom and the courage to confront the powers of darkness in Your name.

Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

The Right Hand of God

Held by the Right Hand of God

Strength for Every Season

A Symbol of Power, Grace, and Redemption

The “right hand of God” is a profound and recurring theme throughout Scripture, rich with symbolism and meaning. It represents not only His power and authority but also His intimate care, compassion, and faithfulness to His people. To speak of God’s right hand is to speak of His active involvement in the world—delivering justice, offering protection, and extending grace. It is at God’s right hand that we find refuge from life’s storms, strength in our weakness, and ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ. This theme weaves through both the Old and New Testaments, revealing the consistent character of a God who is both mighty to save and tender in His love. The right hand of God is not a distant symbol but a living reality that invites us into relationship and anchors us in His unchanging promises.

The Right Hand of Power

The psalmist declares, “Your right hand, O Lord, glorious in power, your right hand, O Lord, shatters the enemy” (Exodus 15:6, ESV). This verse celebrates God’s unmatched power to deliver His people, as demonstrated in the Exodus when He led Israel out of slavery with miraculous displays of His might. God’s right hand is both a weapon against the forces of evil and a shield for those who trust in Him.

Matthew Henry writes, “When God exerts His power, He does so in ways that astonish His enemies and strengthen His people. His right hand is always mighty to save.” This dual action—bringing judgment on the wicked while ensuring the salvation of His people—shows that His power is both just and redemptive. Alexander Maclaren similarly observes, “In the right hand of God lies not only strength but the assurance of victory for all who trust in Him.” To trust in God’s right hand is to rest in the certainty of His ultimate triumph over evil.

This power is fully realized in Christ, as the New Testament confirms. Jesus told the high priest, “You will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of Power and coming with the clouds of heaven” (Mark 14:62, ESV). Here, the “right hand of Power” signifies Jesus’ authority, not just as Savior but as the reigning King who will return in glory. Eugene Peterson explains, “The right hand of God becomes the position where Jesus, fully victorious, intercedes for us. It is the source of unshakable hope.” For believers, this means that God’s power is not distant or abstract—it is present, active, and deeply personal, assuring victory, intercession, and hope in every circumstance.

The Right Hand of Grace

The right hand of God also extends His grace to His people, offering not only strength but the gift of joy and intimate fellowship. Psalm 16:11 declares, “At your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” This verse points to the unparalleled satisfaction found in God’s presence—a joy that transcends the fleeting happiness of this world and anchors the soul in eternal delight.

C.S. Lewis captures this beautifully: “The joy at God’s right hand is not just happiness, but a deep, eternal satisfaction found in His presence alone.” This joy is not rooted in circumstances but in the unchanging character of God, who invites His people into communion with Him. Similarly, Charles Spurgeon reflects on the privilege of this invitation: “What higher honor could God bestow than to place us at His right hand, as He does with His beloved Son?” Being at God’s right hand signifies a position of favor, belonging, and love—a reality made possible through Christ.

John Calvin adds depth to this understanding: “To be at God’s right hand is to be upheld and preserved by His grace. It is not earned, but freely given to those who trust in Him.” This grace underscores the unmerited nature of the relationship God offers. We are upheld not by our own efforts but by His steadfast love and mercy. The right hand of God, therefore, is a place where divine grace overflows, drawing us into a life marked by joy, security, and unshakable hope in His eternal promises.

The Right Hand of Redemption

The ultimate expression of God’s right hand is seen in the redemptive work of Christ. Hebrews 1:3 proclaims, “After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.” This signifies the completion of Christ’s mission on earth and His exaltation to a position of eternal authority. Timothy Keller highlights the profound significance of this, stating, “The right hand of God is the place of finished work. Jesus’ declaration, ‘It is finished,’ is completed as He takes His seat at God’s right hand.” At the cross, Christ accomplished what no human effort could achieve, and His enthronement ensures the permanence of His victory.

Derek Prince adds, “The cross was not the end but the gateway to the throne, where Christ reigns eternally at the right hand of God.” This truth reframes the crucifixion not as a defeat but as a prelude to Christ’s eternal reign, where He intercedes for His people and rules with divine authority. The right hand of God, therefore, becomes the ultimate symbol of His triumph over sin and death.

Patrick Miller emphasizes how this impacts believers: “Because Jesus is at God’s right hand, we are assured of our salvation, secure in His love, and confident in His justice.” Knowing that Christ sits at the right hand of God gives believers an unshakable foundation for faith. It assures us that salvation is complete, our relationship with God is secure, and His justice will prevail. The redemptive work of Christ at God’s right hand provides not only eternal hope but also daily confidence to live as His redeemed people.

God’s Right Hand in Our Lives

David Guzik notes, “God’s right hand is not just a distant reality; it is a present help. As Psalm 73:23 says, ‘Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand.’” This verse beautifully illustrates the intimacy of God’s presence. His right hand is not merely a symbol of His authority but also a personal touch of His care, guiding us through every challenge and uncertainty.

N.T. Wright expands this idea: “To be held by God’s right hand is to be guided, protected, and empowered to live in His kingdom. It is both a comfort and a call to action.” In other words, God’s right hand doesn’t just shield us from harm but also equips and inspires us to fulfill His purposes on earth. This dual role of comfort and empowerment reminds us of our identity as co-laborers in Christ.

Walter Brueggemann reflects on the assurance of this promise, “When we walk through the uncertainties of life, the right hand of God steadies us, reminding us of His unchanging faithfulness.” In a world that often feels unpredictable, the steadfastness of God’s right hand provides a secure foundation, assuring us that we are never left alone. This unchanging faithfulness is not only a reason for personal peace but also a testament to God’s unrelenting commitment to His people. Together, these insights remind us that the right hand of God is always reaching out to strengthen, guide, and uphold us in love.

A Short Prayer

Father God, thank You for the strength, grace, and redemption found in Your mighty right hand. Help us to trust in Your power when we feel weak, to rest in Your grace when we feel unworthy, and to rejoice in Your victory when we feel defeated. Guide us daily with Your right hand, that we may walk in faith and glorify You in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

From Death to Life

Breathing New Life

The Valley of Dry Bones

God’s Power to Restore

Hope in God’s Spirit and Promise

The God Who Restores

A Vision of Renewal and Unity

New Life for Dry Bones

The Transformative Power of God’s Spirit

Reflections on Ezekiel 37

Ezekiel 37 stands as one of the most vivid and hope-filled passages in Scripture, presenting a vision of God’s ability to restore life to what appears utterly dead. Through the imagery of dry bones coming to life and the uniting of two sticks, God promises physical, spiritual, and communal restoration for His people. This vision offers encouragement not only for the exiles of Ezekiel’s time but for believers today who long for renewal in their own lives, churches, and communities.

The Valley of Dry Bones: A Vision of Restoration (Ezekiel 37:1-14)

In the vision, Ezekiel is led by God to a valley filled with dry bones, symbolizing Israel’s spiritual death in exile. God’s question to Ezekiel, “Can these bones live?” invites reflection on the seemingly impossible. As Matthew Henry observes, “We are not only naturally dead in sin, but spiritually dry, barren, and lifeless; yet God can raise us to newness of life by His Spirit.”

Eugene Peterson reminds us that God’s power transforms desolation into vitality. “Ezekiel spoke God’s word over the bones, and life stirred where there was only death. This is what God does with His word and Spirit.”

Charles Spurgeon emphasizes that the Word of God must be faithfully proclaimed even in seemingly hopeless situations: “Preach to the bones; for while human effort is useless, God’s power is sufficient.” David Guzik notes that the breath entering the bones mirrors the breath of life given at creation, illustrating God’s ongoing creative and redemptive power.

Unity in Restoration: The Two Sticks (Ezekiel 37:15-28)

The second part of the chapter depicts two sticks, symbolizing the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, being joined together into one. This unity points to God’s ultimate plan for reconciliation and harmony among His people. C.I. Scofield writes, “The two sticks represent not only the reunification of Israel but also the greater unity of God’s people under Christ.”

Walter Brueggemann highlights that this vision points to both historical and eschatological hope: “The restoration is both a present call to faithfulness and a future promise of God’s ultimate reign.”

John Calvin underscores the Messianic promise in verses 24-25: “David’s greater Son will unite His people under one banner, shepherding them in righteousness and peace.” N.T. Wright echoes this, connecting the prophecy to the work of Christ, the true King who reconciles and restores.

Applications for Today

The dry bones of Ezekiel’s vision remind us that no situation is beyond God’s power to renew. Churches, families, and individuals may feel lifeless or fragmented, but God specializes in bringing life where there is death. Derek Prince writes, “When God’s Spirit moves, revival is inevitable; He breathes life into what was once dead.”

Blaise Pascal reflects that “God’s power to restore is not limited by human weakness but magnified by it.” Rick Warren encourages believers to pray boldly for renewal: “God can take what is broken and make it beautiful. But it begins with our willingness to ask for His Spirit to move.”

As C.S. Lewis puts it, “Miracles are not the suspension of the natural order but the restoration of it.” The miracle of restoration in Ezekiel 37 is a testament to God’s desire to make all things new through the Spirit.

Short Prayer

Lord, You are the God who brings life to dry bones and restores hope to the hopeless. Breathe Your Spirit into us and into Your church. Unite us in love and faith under Christ, our King. May we live as a testimony to Your power and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria

A New Heart and a New Spirit

God’s Promise of Restoration

From Ruins to Renewal

God’s Transformative Work in Israel and Us

God’s Glory and Our New Beginning

Restoration and Renewal

The God Who Makes All Things New

Reflections on Ezekiel 36

Ezekiel 36 is a profound chapter that unveils God’s heart for restoration—not just for His people Israel but for all who turn to Him in faith. It reveals His sovereignty, His holiness, and His unwavering commitment to His promises. Through Ezekiel, God speaks hope to a discouraged people in exile, assuring them that what seems impossible to man is entirely possible with Him.

God’s Concern for His Name (Ezekiel 36:21-23)

God’s first priority in this passage is His holy name. As Matthew Henry notes, “The profanation of God’s name is an injury to His glory; His people’s sins have brought dishonor upon Him, but He will sanctify His name by sanctifying them.” God’s restoration of Israel is not merely for their benefit but to display His glory and faithfulness before all nations.

N.T. Wright adds that God’s redemptive plan always aims at the reconciliation of the world to Himself. The restoration of Israel foreshadows the ultimate redemption in Christ, where God’s glory is fully revealed to the nations.

A Promise of Restoration (Ezekiel 36:25-27)

God promises to cleanse His people, give them a new heart, and place His Spirit within them. This spiritual renewal speaks of the new covenant, ultimately fulfilled in Christ. Charles Spurgeon highlights, “What a change is here! From a stone-cold heart to a tender, responsive one; from rebellion to obedience. This is the work of divine grace.”

David Guzik points out that this transformation is both individual and corporate. God restores His people not just physically to their land but spiritually to Himself. Calvin emphasizes that this new heart and spirit are the works of God’s sovereign grace, entirely unmerited by human effort.

The Call to Repentance (Ezekiel 36:31-32)

God calls His people to remember their sins, despise them, and repent. As Derek Kidner notes, “Repentance is not merely regret over consequences but a profound turning from sin to God.” Eugene Peterson echoes this, reminding us that repentance is essential to spiritual renewal: “Repentance prepares the way for God’s transformative power to take root in our lives.”

John Wesley stresses that repentance involves a holy sorrow that leads to a transformed life, while Blaise Pascal warns that callousness to sin deadens the soul, making repentance all the more urgent.

The Power of Prayer (Ezekiel 36:37-38)

God invites His people to ask for His help, promising to hear and respond. Martin Lloyd-Jones writes, “The greatest hindrance to prayer is not God’s unwillingness to act but our unwillingness to ask.” Rick Warren encourages believers, saying, “Prayer is the key that unlocks God’s blessings. He waits for us to ask so He can pour out His mercy and grace.”

Walter Brueggemann reflects on the communal aspect of prayer in this passage: God’s promise to multiply His people and make them flourish is a call to collective intercession and trust in His faithfulness.

Application for Today

Ezekiel 36 reminds us that God is in the business of making all things new. His promise to give a new heart and His Spirit is fulfilled in Christ, who cleanses us and transforms us into His likeness (2 Corinthians 3:18). Timothy Keller reminds us, “Only through the gospel can we truly change—not through moral effort but by grace.”

For believers, the call is clear: represent God faithfully in the world, repent of sin, and trust in His transforming power. As C.S. Lewis puts it, “God is not merely mending, not simply restoring a ruined world. He is creating all things new.”

Short Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise of restoration and renewal. Cleanse our hearts, fill us with Your Spirit, and empower us to live for Your glory. Help us to repent of sin and trust in Your transforming grace. May our lives reflect Your holiness and love to the world around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Soli Deo Gloria