READ JOHN 14:8-21
In the previous verses Jesus gave a promise that He will return. In these verses Jesus is give us two more promises:
Promise of answered prayer: Ask in Jesus name and it will be done. It is by the authority of Jesus that our prayers are listened to and answered. Jesus takes our prayers and presents them to the Father. (See also John 15:16)
Promise of a helper: I will not leave you orphans, but give you a helper, the Spirit of Truth. One who will abide with us and be in us.
Why can Jesus make these promises? Because He is one with the Father. He is the evidence that God exists and if you, Philip, do not believe my words than believe my works. But what is more amazing: His works will increase:
1) He will represent us before the Father with our prayers.
2) He will help us keep His commandments through the enabling of the Holy Spirit.
3) He will bring all of us, chosen in Him, into eternal life.
4) He discloses Himself to us and those whom He loves will be loved by the Father as His own possession.
THANK YOU MOST GRACIOUS AND LOVING FATHER FOR YOUR SON, WHO IS ONE WITH YOU AND CAN BE FULLY TRUSTED, LOVED AND BELIEVED. HIS WORKS ARE MARVELOUS! AMEN
Monday, February 18, 2008
Monday, February 04, 2008
JESUS, THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE
READ JOHN 14:1-1-7
1-7) Jesus continues His discourse with His disciples in this chapter. His emphasis here: don't be troubled, don't worry, don't be scared, don't lose heart! BELIEVE IN THE GOD AND IN ME! You have a place in heaven, a place that I am preparing for you and I will return to receive you to Myself. What good news and encouraging words!
Jesus Himself is going to prepare that place for us. What is about to take place on the cross is just a beginning to the wonderful resurrection when Jesus returns to the Father and believers, through Him, are able to enter into the very abode of God. In the Old Testament, God dwelt among His people in the tabernacle or temple, but only the High Priest one day a year could enter into the very presence of God, the Holy of Holies. Now through Jesus we can not only enter into the very presence of God, but abide, make it our home. The old way was good and a shadow of what was to come, but the new way is much better.
The best news is that He is coming again. Right now we spiritually abide in Christ and God, but there will come a time when we will also physically abide in the presence of Jesus and the Heavenly Father. Best of all it is forever!
Where is the evidence, you may ask as Thomas did? Look at Me, Thomas, I am the Way the Truth and the Life. I am the evidence!
FATHER, IT IS BECAUSE OF JESUS THAT WE CAN HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT MORE ABUNDANTLY. HELP US KEEP OUR EYES FOCUSED UPON HIM, THE AUTHOR AND PERFECTER OF OUR FAITH. AMEN
1-7) Jesus continues His discourse with His disciples in this chapter. His emphasis here: don't be troubled, don't worry, don't be scared, don't lose heart! BELIEVE IN THE GOD AND IN ME! You have a place in heaven, a place that I am preparing for you and I will return to receive you to Myself. What good news and encouraging words!
Jesus Himself is going to prepare that place for us. What is about to take place on the cross is just a beginning to the wonderful resurrection when Jesus returns to the Father and believers, through Him, are able to enter into the very abode of God. In the Old Testament, God dwelt among His people in the tabernacle or temple, but only the High Priest one day a year could enter into the very presence of God, the Holy of Holies. Now through Jesus we can not only enter into the very presence of God, but abide, make it our home. The old way was good and a shadow of what was to come, but the new way is much better.
The best news is that He is coming again. Right now we spiritually abide in Christ and God, but there will come a time when we will also physically abide in the presence of Jesus and the Heavenly Father. Best of all it is forever!
Where is the evidence, you may ask as Thomas did? Look at Me, Thomas, I am the Way the Truth and the Life. I am the evidence!
FATHER, IT IS BECAUSE OF JESUS THAT WE CAN HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT MORE ABUNDANTLY. HELP US KEEP OUR EYES FOCUSED UPON HIM, THE AUTHOR AND PERFECTER OF OUR FAITH. AMEN
Friday, January 25, 2008
WHAT I LEARNED FROM CHAPTER 13
TIME OF REFLECTION:
The Book of John gives us a portrait of Jesus as God/Diety. In Chapter 13 this theme is very important to notice.
For it is only God:
1) Who can serve with a pure motive. (Washing the disciples feet)
2) Who knows the heart and mind of man. (the purpose and plan of Judas)
3) Who has authority over Satan's plan. (v27-31)
4) Who institutes the New Commandment, which is a new aspect of the Old Commandment (see Lev. 19:18) (v33-34)
5) Who knows the future. (Peter is told that he would deny Jesus)
6) Who is love and through Him we can love others. (washing another's feet and loving one another)
WHAT DID YOU REFLECT ON THIS CHAPTER? FATHER, THANK YOU THAT YOU GAVE YOURSELF TO REDEEM FOR YOURSELF A PEOPLE. AMEN
The Book of John gives us a portrait of Jesus as God/Diety. In Chapter 13 this theme is very important to notice.
For it is only God:
1) Who can serve with a pure motive. (Washing the disciples feet)
2) Who knows the heart and mind of man. (the purpose and plan of Judas)
3) Who has authority over Satan's plan. (v27-31)
4) Who institutes the New Commandment, which is a new aspect of the Old Commandment (see Lev. 19:18) (v33-34)
5) Who knows the future. (Peter is told that he would deny Jesus)
6) Who is love and through Him we can love others. (washing another's feet and loving one another)
WHAT DID YOU REFLECT ON THIS CHAPTER? FATHER, THANK YOU THAT YOU GAVE YOURSELF TO REDEEM FOR YOURSELF A PEOPLE. AMEN
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
THE LAST SUPPER
READ JOHN 13:21-38
21-30) The time has come for the last supper with the disciples. He has washed their feet, is now sending Judas on his way to do his evil deed, and has come to the greatest work for which Jesus has been called to do. Judas is here signaled out as the betrayer by our Lord, yet the disciples seem ignorant of what was happening. It isn't until the crucifixion that the full realization of Judas' act penetrates their minds.
31-38) In His death the Father will be glorified (v31). In the resurrection and exaltation the Father will glorify Christ and make valid all His claims. In verse 33Jesus addresses the disciples as little children, not to belittle them, but to show the intimate kindness and love that He has for them. How do we continue to show that love now? Verse 35, by loving one another! Our mutual love would be the strongest possible argument for the Christian faith.
FATHER, HELP US TO LOVE WHEN IT IS HARD TO LOVE. LOVE THROUGH US. AMEN
21-30) The time has come for the last supper with the disciples. He has washed their feet, is now sending Judas on his way to do his evil deed, and has come to the greatest work for which Jesus has been called to do. Judas is here signaled out as the betrayer by our Lord, yet the disciples seem ignorant of what was happening. It isn't until the crucifixion that the full realization of Judas' act penetrates their minds.
31-38) In His death the Father will be glorified (v31). In the resurrection and exaltation the Father will glorify Christ and make valid all His claims. In verse 33Jesus addresses the disciples as little children, not to belittle them, but to show the intimate kindness and love that He has for them. How do we continue to show that love now? Verse 35, by loving one another! Our mutual love would be the strongest possible argument for the Christian faith.
FATHER, HELP US TO LOVE WHEN IT IS HARD TO LOVE. LOVE THROUGH US. AMEN
Monday, December 24, 2007
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
SERVANTHOOD
READ JOHN 13:1-20
Here is a picture of the Hands of God reaching down and washing the dirty feet of the disciples. There are two Greek Words for washing, 1) nipto which donates "washing of the feet and hands," 2)louo which denotes a "complete washing." "In speaking to Peter, Jesus used both nipto and louo to convey these two different kinds of washings. The two washings, one initial and the other continual, are very important to the Christian life...According to customs of those times, once a person had "bathed" his body, he needed only to "wash" his feet before partaking of a meal. Jesus was going around to all the disciples washing their feet until Peter protested. In His response to Peter, Jesus appropriately used both words, in order to advance a precious truth; as he who has been "bathed" needs only to "wash" his feet daily, so he who has been "bathed" by the Lord, needs only to "wash" himself day by day from the filth and defilement which he accumulates by his contact with the world. All the disciples except Judas, the betrayer, had been cleansed by Jesus. This cleansing probably indicates the washing of regeneration through Jesus' Spirit and word (John 15:3; Titus 3:5; Eph. 5:25-26). All true believers have received the same cleansing." (Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words.) He who is greatest among you will be willing to serve others in the same manner as Jesus did. This calls for discipling and point others to Jesus who "washes away" the defilement of the world they live in, whether it be the complete washing through salvation or through daily washing as a believer.
What is the key to Servanthood? HUMILITY - willing to humble yourself and obey God.
1) A true servant does not wait to be asked - there is a sensitivity to the needs of others and volunters to serve.
2) A true servant does not critize others for not serving.
3) A true servant serves without expectation of a blessing in return - content with the joy of giving.
4) A true servant learns to receive as well as give.
5) A true servant IS willing to serve those who will reject them. (See Col. 3:22-24)
6) A true servant lets the Lord choose who is to be served.
FATHER THANK YOU THAT WE CAN SERVE OTHERS, BECAUSE YOU SERVE US! AMEN
Here is a picture of the Hands of God reaching down and washing the dirty feet of the disciples. There are two Greek Words for washing, 1) nipto which donates "washing of the feet and hands," 2)louo which denotes a "complete washing." "In speaking to Peter, Jesus used both nipto and louo to convey these two different kinds of washings. The two washings, one initial and the other continual, are very important to the Christian life...According to customs of those times, once a person had "bathed" his body, he needed only to "wash" his feet before partaking of a meal. Jesus was going around to all the disciples washing their feet until Peter protested. In His response to Peter, Jesus appropriately used both words, in order to advance a precious truth; as he who has been "bathed" needs only to "wash" his feet daily, so he who has been "bathed" by the Lord, needs only to "wash" himself day by day from the filth and defilement which he accumulates by his contact with the world. All the disciples except Judas, the betrayer, had been cleansed by Jesus. This cleansing probably indicates the washing of regeneration through Jesus' Spirit and word (John 15:3; Titus 3:5; Eph. 5:25-26). All true believers have received the same cleansing." (Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words.) He who is greatest among you will be willing to serve others in the same manner as Jesus did. This calls for discipling and point others to Jesus who "washes away" the defilement of the world they live in, whether it be the complete washing through salvation or through daily washing as a believer.
What is the key to Servanthood? HUMILITY - willing to humble yourself and obey God.
1) A true servant does not wait to be asked - there is a sensitivity to the needs of others and volunters to serve.
2) A true servant does not critize others for not serving.
3) A true servant serves without expectation of a blessing in return - content with the joy of giving.
4) A true servant learns to receive as well as give.
5) A true servant IS willing to serve those who will reject them. (See Col. 3:22-24)
6) A true servant lets the Lord choose who is to be served.
FATHER THANK YOU THAT WE CAN SERVE OTHERS, BECAUSE YOU SERVE US! AMEN
Monday, November 26, 2007
WHY DID THEY NOT BELIEVE HIM?
READ JOHN 12:37-50
37-43) Quote from Isaiah 53:1. Isaiah 53 is a prophecy about Jesus and His death on the cross. John was reminding the readers of what had been prophesied and yet the Jews did not listen or believe; a fulfillment of prophecy. The second quote, Isaiah 6:10, is the vision Isaiah had of God on His throne. Isaiah heard the call of God, but Isaiah was to realize that the people would not listen and will refuse to see. For this cause, because they have refused to believe the Old Testament, they are also now doomed not to believe in Jesus. v. 41 gives a look into some who did believe, but kept it to themselves in fear of the rulers of their day. Why? Because they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God.
44-50) HEAR JESUS CRY! BELIEVE IN ME! The Jews did not believe the fathers and the prophets and now they were gulty of not believing Jesus. The cause and effect here is if you reject Him, you will be judged. The very Word that they refused to believe well be there judge on the last day. Jesus spoke with authority: He was given commandment of what to speak and the commandment is eternal life, therefore He spoke just as God had commanded Him.
FATHER, MAY WE HEAR YOUR WORDS AND DRAW THEM TO OUR HEARTS IN BELIEF. HELP US TO HERE THE CRY OF JESUS TO BELIEVE UPON HIM FOR ETERMAL LIFE. AMEN.
37-43) Quote from Isaiah 53:1. Isaiah 53 is a prophecy about Jesus and His death on the cross. John was reminding the readers of what had been prophesied and yet the Jews did not listen or believe; a fulfillment of prophecy. The second quote, Isaiah 6:10, is the vision Isaiah had of God on His throne. Isaiah heard the call of God, but Isaiah was to realize that the people would not listen and will refuse to see. For this cause, because they have refused to believe the Old Testament, they are also now doomed not to believe in Jesus. v. 41 gives a look into some who did believe, but kept it to themselves in fear of the rulers of their day. Why? Because they loved the approval of men rather than the approval of God.
44-50) HEAR JESUS CRY! BELIEVE IN ME! The Jews did not believe the fathers and the prophets and now they were gulty of not believing Jesus. The cause and effect here is if you reject Him, you will be judged. The very Word that they refused to believe well be there judge on the last day. Jesus spoke with authority: He was given commandment of what to speak and the commandment is eternal life, therefore He spoke just as God had commanded Him.
FATHER, MAY WE HEAR YOUR WORDS AND DRAW THEM TO OUR HEARTS IN BELIEF. HELP US TO HERE THE CRY OF JESUS TO BELIEVE UPON HIM FOR ETERMAL LIFE. AMEN.
Friday, November 16, 2007
JESUS ANSWERS HIS CRITICS
READ JOHN 12:16-36
16-28) Was Jesus really doing good?
Jesus' response: The hour is coming when the Son will be glorified, but first He must die just as a seed first dies and than bears much fruit. His goodness will be shown for what it is, bearing the fruit of salvation to many. His act of dying open the door for us as believers to enter into the very presence of God. As we follow Him the word spreads and the church grows. (Compare Gen. 15:5, the promise to Abraham with Rev. 7:9, the raptured church) Jesus' death was the purpose of His coming and the Father's name was to be glorified.
Notice in v28 the response from the Father: "I have both glorified it and will glorify it again." God is faithful and true to His word!
29-33) Where did that voice come from?
Jesus' response: The voice was for their sake. Judgment has come! The cross is the condemnation, the judgment upon those who reject it. The cross is also the basis for the ultimate victory over Satan. He being lifted up will draw all men to Himself. Draw means to draw by inward power, lead, impel, in other words, Jesus, by moral and spiritual influence will win over to Himself the hearts of all. He has the ability and the power to draw all to Him, but not all will come.
34-36) Who is this Son of Man?
Jesus' response: He contrast light and darkness Cause: walk in the light, Effect: darkness will not overtake you; Cause: walk in darkness, Effect: know not where you are going. QUOTE: "The reference to "light" recalls 8:12, where Jesus identified himself as the Light of the world, and expecially 3:19-21, where the judgment consists of the Light (i.e. Jesus) coming into the world and provoking a response from men to come either to the light or shrink back into darkness. Here the same imagery is amplified, because we are reminded that Light is in the world only for a limited time (i.e. there is a limited time in which to repond to the light, or as here, by "walking in that light."). Those who refuse or delay will be "overtaken" by the darkness, which is coming after the light is taken away. The person who tries to walk in the darness is unable to see and thus "does not know where he is going." (The Bible Knowledge Key Word Study)
16-28) Was Jesus really doing good?
Jesus' response: The hour is coming when the Son will be glorified, but first He must die just as a seed first dies and than bears much fruit. His goodness will be shown for what it is, bearing the fruit of salvation to many. His act of dying open the door for us as believers to enter into the very presence of God. As we follow Him the word spreads and the church grows. (Compare Gen. 15:5, the promise to Abraham with Rev. 7:9, the raptured church) Jesus' death was the purpose of His coming and the Father's name was to be glorified.
Notice in v28 the response from the Father: "I have both glorified it and will glorify it again." God is faithful and true to His word!
29-33) Where did that voice come from?
Jesus' response: The voice was for their sake. Judgment has come! The cross is the condemnation, the judgment upon those who reject it. The cross is also the basis for the ultimate victory over Satan. He being lifted up will draw all men to Himself. Draw means to draw by inward power, lead, impel, in other words, Jesus, by moral and spiritual influence will win over to Himself the hearts of all. He has the ability and the power to draw all to Him, but not all will come.
34-36) Who is this Son of Man?
Jesus' response: He contrast light and darkness Cause: walk in the light, Effect: darkness will not overtake you; Cause: walk in darkness, Effect: know not where you are going. QUOTE: "The reference to "light" recalls 8:12, where Jesus identified himself as the Light of the world, and expecially 3:19-21, where the judgment consists of the Light (i.e. Jesus) coming into the world and provoking a response from men to come either to the light or shrink back into darkness. Here the same imagery is amplified, because we are reminded that Light is in the world only for a limited time (i.e. there is a limited time in which to repond to the light, or as here, by "walking in that light."). Those who refuse or delay will be "overtaken" by the darkness, which is coming after the light is taken away. The person who tries to walk in the darness is unable to see and thus "does not know where he is going." (The Bible Knowledge Key Word Study)
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
ENTRANCE INTO JERUSALEM
READ JOHN 12:12-15
12-15) What did the multitude do when they heard that Jesus was coming? Compare their cries with Psalm 118:22-29.
v. 22 - the stone "Christ" which the builders (Israel) rejected has become the chief corner stone. (Upon His death He will build His church, Matt. 16:18)
v. 24 - this is the day that the Lord has made. This is the day of Jesus' death where He takes upon Himself the sins of the world.
v. 26 - blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord. Jesus came to do the will of the Father and to glorify Him who sits on the throne.
v. 27 - The Lord has given us light, prepare the altar. The light of the world had just ridden through the gates as a humble servant, for He came to die for our sin.
v. 28-29 - give thanks, the Lord is good and His loving kindness is everlasting. The New Covenant is an everlasting covenant that can never be broken. The Old Covenant is a progression of revelations given by God, picturing the Lord Jesus Christ. The Messiah now is bringing in the New Covenant and has ridden into His city Jerusalem ready to do the one thing that only He could do. "He (God) made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." (2 Cor. 5:21)
FATHER, THANK YOU THAT JESUS WAS WILLING NOT ONLY TO DIE FOR US BUT TO DIE TO HIS OWN WILL AND SOUGHT TO ONLY FULFILL YOUR WILL. THANK YOU THAT HE WAS OBEDIENT UNTO DEATH, SO THAT WE CAN CLOTHE OURSELVES IN HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND ENTER INTO YOUR THRONE ROOM OF GRACE. AMEN!
12-15) What did the multitude do when they heard that Jesus was coming? Compare their cries with Psalm 118:22-29.
v. 22 - the stone "Christ" which the builders (Israel) rejected has become the chief corner stone. (Upon His death He will build His church, Matt. 16:18)
v. 24 - this is the day that the Lord has made. This is the day of Jesus' death where He takes upon Himself the sins of the world.
v. 26 - blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord. Jesus came to do the will of the Father and to glorify Him who sits on the throne.
v. 27 - The Lord has given us light, prepare the altar. The light of the world had just ridden through the gates as a humble servant, for He came to die for our sin.
v. 28-29 - give thanks, the Lord is good and His loving kindness is everlasting. The New Covenant is an everlasting covenant that can never be broken. The Old Covenant is a progression of revelations given by God, picturing the Lord Jesus Christ. The Messiah now is bringing in the New Covenant and has ridden into His city Jerusalem ready to do the one thing that only He could do. "He (God) made Him (Jesus) who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." (2 Cor. 5:21)
FATHER, THANK YOU THAT JESUS WAS WILLING NOT ONLY TO DIE FOR US BUT TO DIE TO HIS OWN WILL AND SOUGHT TO ONLY FULFILL YOUR WILL. THANK YOU THAT HE WAS OBEDIENT UNTO DEATH, SO THAT WE CAN CLOTHE OURSELVES IN HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND ENTER INTO YOUR THRONE ROOM OF GRACE. AMEN!
Friday, August 31, 2007
JESUS IS ANOINTED
READ JOHN 12:1-11
1-2) SETTING: Bethany at the house of Lazarus. six days before the Passover. CHARACTERS: Jesus, Mary, Martha, Lazarus and the disciples.
3) Mary is here anointing Jesus' feet with very costly fragrant oil, "NARD": "...a extremely fragrant oil made from the root and head...of the nard plant...from northern India. Because this had to be imported it was enormously expensive." (The Bible Knowledge Key Word Study) This perfume filled the room with its fragrance and filled Judas' heart with greed and contempt.
(4-8) Who was Judas? Judas is only mentioned one time before this event, see 6:71, but from now on he will be mentioned 8 times. His surname is Iscariot and he was from Kerioth (see Joshua 15:25). He is always listed last whent he disciples names are mentioned and was evil from the beginning but his evil emanated in John 13:27 where he betrays our Lord. His motive is uncertain, other than he was in bondage to the devil himself. How does Jesus handle Judas in v.7? Jesus comes first above all things - even the poor.
9-11) Why did the multitude come to see Jesus? How did the chief priest respond and what was their concern?
FATHER, THANK YOU THAT YOU HAD ANOINTED YOUR SON TO COME IN THE FORM OF A MAN TO DIE FOR ALL. MAY WE BE AS MARY, "FIXING OUR EYES ON JESUS, THE AUTHOR AND PERFECTER OF FAITH, WHO FOR THE JOY SET BEFORE HIM ENDURED THE CROSS DESPISING THE SHAME AND SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF THE THRONE OF GOD." (HEB. 12:2)
1-2) SETTING: Bethany at the house of Lazarus. six days before the Passover. CHARACTERS: Jesus, Mary, Martha, Lazarus and the disciples.
3) Mary is here anointing Jesus' feet with very costly fragrant oil, "NARD": "...a extremely fragrant oil made from the root and head...of the nard plant...from northern India. Because this had to be imported it was enormously expensive." (The Bible Knowledge Key Word Study) This perfume filled the room with its fragrance and filled Judas' heart with greed and contempt.
(4-8) Who was Judas? Judas is only mentioned one time before this event, see 6:71, but from now on he will be mentioned 8 times. His surname is Iscariot and he was from Kerioth (see Joshua 15:25). He is always listed last whent he disciples names are mentioned and was evil from the beginning but his evil emanated in John 13:27 where he betrays our Lord. His motive is uncertain, other than he was in bondage to the devil himself. How does Jesus handle Judas in v.7? Jesus comes first above all things - even the poor.
9-11) Why did the multitude come to see Jesus? How did the chief priest respond and what was their concern?
FATHER, THANK YOU THAT YOU HAD ANOINTED YOUR SON TO COME IN THE FORM OF A MAN TO DIE FOR ALL. MAY WE BE AS MARY, "FIXING OUR EYES ON JESUS, THE AUTHOR AND PERFECTER OF FAITH, WHO FOR THE JOY SET BEFORE HIM ENDURED THE CROSS DESPISING THE SHAME AND SAT DOWN AT THE RIGHT HAND OF THE THRONE OF GOD." (HEB. 12:2)
Monday, August 13, 2007
ONLY GOD CAN RAISE THE DEAD!
READ JOHN 11
SETTING: Lazarus is sick and Jesus is sent for by Mary and Martha. Because Jesus delays, Lazarus dies.
REASON FOR THIS EVENT: Bring glory to God and Jesus. Jesus' delay in going did not mean He did not love Lazarus, but He was waiting for the right time so that He can glorify God in raising Lazarus from the dead. Proving again that He is God.
9-10) Jesus uses the analogy of light (day) and dark (night) as an example of those who believe and those who refuse to believe. If we abide in Him we are in the light and will not stumble, but if we do not abide in Him we walk in darkness and stumble. Jesus is the stumbling stone that people stumble over when they refuse to believe and be obedient to His Word. (See I Peter 2:6-10)
21-27) DIALOGUE BETWEEN JESUS AND MARTHA
MARTHA: Knew that Jesus could heal the sick
JESUS: Lazarus will rise again.
MARTHA: Knew Lazarus would rise on last day.
JESUS: I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. (WHAT A WONDERFUL PROMISE!)
MARTHA: Believed that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God, the one who comes into the world.
28-36) JESUS SHOWS HIS COMPASSION Jesus was struck by the grief of Mary and the Jews. So much so that Jesus also wept. His compassion even though He knew what was about to happen is very comforting. Even the Jews saw that Jesus held much love for Lazarus, but Jesus weeping went beyond Lazarus. He wept for the suffering that people endure here on earth. He understands our grief and He grieves with us.
37-46) Lazarus is raised from the dead! THE REACTION? Some believed, but some rain to tell the chief priests and Pharisees. (Probably hoping for some kind of a reward.)
47-53)CHIEF PRIEST AND PHARISEES CALL A MEETING! Caiaphas speech is prophetic. Caiaphas hardly realized the full meaning of his own words. He was simply expressing the thought of a polictical collaboration with Rome - yet his words expressed the central doctine of the Chrisitan faith - Jesus' true mission, to die for the salvation of people and the nation of Israel. (The nation's salvation will take place at the second coming.)
54-57) JESUS CLOSES OUT HIS PUBLICE MINISTRY! The third Passover is coming and they are looking for HIm. He is now going to prepare His disciples for His death and departure.
FATHER, WE LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY WHEN YOU WILL COME BACK AND RAISE ALL BELIEVERS FROM THE GRAVE TO ETERNITY WITH YOU. AMEN
SETTING: Lazarus is sick and Jesus is sent for by Mary and Martha. Because Jesus delays, Lazarus dies.
REASON FOR THIS EVENT: Bring glory to God and Jesus. Jesus' delay in going did not mean He did not love Lazarus, but He was waiting for the right time so that He can glorify God in raising Lazarus from the dead. Proving again that He is God.
9-10) Jesus uses the analogy of light (day) and dark (night) as an example of those who believe and those who refuse to believe. If we abide in Him we are in the light and will not stumble, but if we do not abide in Him we walk in darkness and stumble. Jesus is the stumbling stone that people stumble over when they refuse to believe and be obedient to His Word. (See I Peter 2:6-10)
21-27) DIALOGUE BETWEEN JESUS AND MARTHA
MARTHA: Knew that Jesus could heal the sick
JESUS: Lazarus will rise again.
MARTHA: Knew Lazarus would rise on last day.
JESUS: I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me shall live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me shall never die. (WHAT A WONDERFUL PROMISE!)
MARTHA: Believed that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God, the one who comes into the world.
28-36) JESUS SHOWS HIS COMPASSION Jesus was struck by the grief of Mary and the Jews. So much so that Jesus also wept. His compassion even though He knew what was about to happen is very comforting. Even the Jews saw that Jesus held much love for Lazarus, but Jesus weeping went beyond Lazarus. He wept for the suffering that people endure here on earth. He understands our grief and He grieves with us.
37-46) Lazarus is raised from the dead! THE REACTION? Some believed, but some rain to tell the chief priests and Pharisees. (Probably hoping for some kind of a reward.)
47-53)CHIEF PRIEST AND PHARISEES CALL A MEETING! Caiaphas speech is prophetic. Caiaphas hardly realized the full meaning of his own words. He was simply expressing the thought of a polictical collaboration with Rome - yet his words expressed the central doctine of the Chrisitan faith - Jesus' true mission, to die for the salvation of people and the nation of Israel. (The nation's salvation will take place at the second coming.)
54-57) JESUS CLOSES OUT HIS PUBLICE MINISTRY! The third Passover is coming and they are looking for HIm. He is now going to prepare His disciples for His death and departure.
FATHER, WE LOOK FORWARD TO THE DAY WHEN YOU WILL COME BACK AND RAISE ALL BELIEVERS FROM THE GRAVE TO ETERNITY WITH YOU. AMEN
Saturday, July 28, 2007
I AM THE SON OF GOD
READ 10:31-42
31-39) Why did the Jews want to stone Jesus? For blasphemy and making Himself out to be God. Jesus used the Scriptures to prove them wrong. Psalm 82:6 (v.34 "I SAID, YOU ARE GODS"), gods here means judges. These judges were called "gods" because they brought forth the Word of God, they had a quasi-divine function. Jesus, who is the Word incarnate, the one who the Father sanctioned and sent into the world, has every right to call Himself God. (Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words) Quote from Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words: "Jesus argued that it was not blasphemous to call Himself the "Son of God" when, in fact, He was the One the Father consecreated and sent into the world. Furthermore, on occasions God had called the judges of Israel "gods," inasmuch as they were His agents of God. If God called them "gods," why was it blasphemous for Jesus, the One consecrated by the Father and sent into the world, to say "I am God's Son." The Jews could not argue against this because it stands written in "the Scriptures." But Jesus was greater than those men who received messages from God, for He Himself was the very message from God to represent Him, the Son of God came from heaven as the consecrated one, dedicated to do God's will one earth."
40-42) Jesus leaves Jerusalem and goes to the place where John was baptizing. The people there realized that all that John the Baptist had said about Jesus was true and many believed.
31-39) Why did the Jews want to stone Jesus? For blasphemy and making Himself out to be God. Jesus used the Scriptures to prove them wrong. Psalm 82:6 (v.34 "I SAID, YOU ARE GODS"), gods here means judges. These judges were called "gods" because they brought forth the Word of God, they had a quasi-divine function. Jesus, who is the Word incarnate, the one who the Father sanctioned and sent into the world, has every right to call Himself God. (Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words) Quote from Holman Treasury of Key Bible Words: "Jesus argued that it was not blasphemous to call Himself the "Son of God" when, in fact, He was the One the Father consecreated and sent into the world. Furthermore, on occasions God had called the judges of Israel "gods," inasmuch as they were His agents of God. If God called them "gods," why was it blasphemous for Jesus, the One consecrated by the Father and sent into the world, to say "I am God's Son." The Jews could not argue against this because it stands written in "the Scriptures." But Jesus was greater than those men who received messages from God, for He Himself was the very message from God to represent Him, the Son of God came from heaven as the consecrated one, dedicated to do God's will one earth."
40-42) Jesus leaves Jerusalem and goes to the place where John was baptizing. The people there realized that all that John the Baptist had said about Jesus was true and many believed.
Friday, July 20, 2007
ABUNDANT LIFE
READ 10:1-30
ENEMIES OF JESUS CHRIST
1-10a) There are enemies who wish to pull people away from the truth or confuse the message of the truth.
1)Their method is defective (v.1), instead of entering through the door, which is Jesus Christ, they seek to come in through "some other way." These deceivers become thieves and a robbers.
2)Their message is deceptive(v.5). A true believer will seek to know and follow the voice of the Lord. A deceiver, according to 2 John 7, is one who does not acknowledge Jesus Christ and is against Him. We as believers are to flee from the deceiver.
3)Finally their motive is destructive (v.10a). They come to steal, kill and destroy.
JESUS CHRIST IS OUR ABUNDANT LIFE
15-16,10b) Where the deceivers want to steal, kill and destroy, (v.10a) Jesus came to give His life for His sheep, (v.15,17). Where the deceivers would leave you when things get difficult, (v.12-13), Jesus came to sanctify our life by being our anchor and unify us as one with Him, (v.16). Where the deceivers cannot satisfy, (v.8a), Jesus came to satisfy completely, (v.10b).
THIEF/ROBBER/HIRELING
Counterfeit doors
Comes to steal, kill, destroy
Not a shepherd
Not an owner of the sheep, hireling
Face of danger - leaves the sheep
Not concerned about the sheep
JESUS/GOOD SHEPHERD
Door of the sheep
Enter through Jesus=Salvation
Go in and out and find pasture
(freedom, safety, sustenance)
Have life abundantly
Good Shepherd/lays down life
Knows the sheep/sheep knows Him
One flock under One Shepherd
17-30) Because of what Jesus has done we can know with certainty that we have abundant life. We possess it, (v.10b) and no one will snatch us out of His hand, (v.27-30) In the light of this truth, we can live our lives with our heads held high and our confidence assured.
FATHER, THANK YOU FOR JESUS CHRIST WHO GAVE HIS LIFE FOR US AND THAT WE ARE SAFE AND SECURE IN HIS LOVING ARMS. ANCHORed FOREVER, NEVER TO BE SEPARATED. AMEN
ENEMIES OF JESUS CHRIST
1-10a) There are enemies who wish to pull people away from the truth or confuse the message of the truth.
1)Their method is defective (v.1), instead of entering through the door, which is Jesus Christ, they seek to come in through "some other way." These deceivers become thieves and a robbers.
2)Their message is deceptive(v.5). A true believer will seek to know and follow the voice of the Lord. A deceiver, according to 2 John 7, is one who does not acknowledge Jesus Christ and is against Him. We as believers are to flee from the deceiver.
3)Finally their motive is destructive (v.10a). They come to steal, kill and destroy.
JESUS CHRIST IS OUR ABUNDANT LIFE
15-16,10b) Where the deceivers want to steal, kill and destroy, (v.10a) Jesus came to give His life for His sheep, (v.15,17). Where the deceivers would leave you when things get difficult, (v.12-13), Jesus came to sanctify our life by being our anchor and unify us as one with Him, (v.16). Where the deceivers cannot satisfy, (v.8a), Jesus came to satisfy completely, (v.10b).
THIEF/ROBBER/HIRELING
Counterfeit doors
Comes to steal, kill, destroy
Not a shepherd
Not an owner of the sheep, hireling
Face of danger - leaves the sheep
Not concerned about the sheep
JESUS/GOOD SHEPHERD
Door of the sheep
Enter through Jesus=Salvation
Go in and out and find pasture
(freedom, safety, sustenance)
Have life abundantly
Good Shepherd/lays down life
Knows the sheep/sheep knows Him
One flock under One Shepherd
17-30) Because of what Jesus has done we can know with certainty that we have abundant life. We possess it, (v.10b) and no one will snatch us out of His hand, (v.27-30) In the light of this truth, we can live our lives with our heads held high and our confidence assured.
FATHER, THANK YOU FOR JESUS CHRIST WHO GAVE HIS LIFE FOR US AND THAT WE ARE SAFE AND SECURE IN HIS LOVING ARMS. ANCHORed FOREVER, NEVER TO BE SEPARATED. AMEN
Saturday, July 07, 2007
READ JOHN 9:8-41
Answer the Questions as you read. Get a sense of what this story is all about: Believing in Jesus or believing in a religion.
8-12) 1. Who is the man questioned by?
13-16) 2. To whom was the former blind man taken?
3. On what day did Jesus perform this miracle?
4. What was the Pharisees objection?
5. What were some others saying?
6. What was the result of their discussion?
17-23) 7. What did the blind man believe about Jesus?
8. How did the Jews respond?
9. What were the parents afraid of?
24-29 10. How did the Jews question the former blind man the second time?
11. How did the man answer?
12. What was the Jew's hang-up about this man's healing?
30-33)14. What are the main points of this man's teaching?
34) 15. How did the Jews respond to him?
35-38) The physical healing of the blind man now becomes a spiritually healing as well. Praise God that his eyes were open, not only to see the earth, but also to see his Savior. His example is one we can all learn from, believing in the truth no matter what the cost.
39-41) Jesus teaches here about judgment (Judgment does not contradict that Jesus came into the world to save, remember back in John 1:5, 10-11 and Romans 1:16-19)
Cause: those who do not see Effect: they may see
Cause: those who see Effect: may become blind (the become here does not mean that they were not blind before, but that their already blind state is fulfilled, it is an aorist tense which states a fact and in this case that fact can be changed by belief in Jesus.) Jesus is telling the Jews that if they were to admit that they were blind, that would not be in sin, but the fact that they do not admit their blindness they are sinning. The Pharisees' insistense that they could see made their sin willfil. We are all born blind spiritually and when we meet Jesus we either believe in Him and the blinders are removed or we reject Him and the blinders are tighted.
FATHER, HOW INCREDIBLE ARE YOU WAYS AND HOW MERCIFUL IS YOUR DESIRE FOR ALL TO COME TO BELIEF IN YOUR SON. MAY YOU CONTINUE TO OPEN THE EYES OF THE BLIND. FOR CHRIST'S SAKE, AMEN.
Answer the Questions as you read. Get a sense of what this story is all about: Believing in Jesus or believing in a religion.
8-12) 1. Who is the man questioned by?
13-16) 2. To whom was the former blind man taken?
3. On what day did Jesus perform this miracle?
4. What was the Pharisees objection?
5. What were some others saying?
6. What was the result of their discussion?
17-23) 7. What did the blind man believe about Jesus?
8. How did the Jews respond?
9. What were the parents afraid of?
24-29 10. How did the Jews question the former blind man the second time?
11. How did the man answer?
12. What was the Jew's hang-up about this man's healing?
30-33)14. What are the main points of this man's teaching?
34) 15. How did the Jews respond to him?
35-38) The physical healing of the blind man now becomes a spiritually healing as well. Praise God that his eyes were open, not only to see the earth, but also to see his Savior. His example is one we can all learn from, believing in the truth no matter what the cost.
39-41) Jesus teaches here about judgment (Judgment does not contradict that Jesus came into the world to save, remember back in John 1:5, 10-11 and Romans 1:16-19)
Cause: those who do not see Effect: they may see
Cause: those who see Effect: may become blind (the become here does not mean that they were not blind before, but that their already blind state is fulfilled, it is an aorist tense which states a fact and in this case that fact can be changed by belief in Jesus.) Jesus is telling the Jews that if they were to admit that they were blind, that would not be in sin, but the fact that they do not admit their blindness they are sinning. The Pharisees' insistense that they could see made their sin willfil. We are all born blind spiritually and when we meet Jesus we either believe in Him and the blinders are removed or we reject Him and the blinders are tighted.
FATHER, HOW INCREDIBLE ARE YOU WAYS AND HOW MERCIFUL IS YOUR DESIRE FOR ALL TO COME TO BELIEF IN YOUR SON. MAY YOU CONTINUE TO OPEN THE EYES OF THE BLIND. FOR CHRIST'S SAKE, AMEN.
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