John 12:37-50
"Look, the whole world has gone after him" declared the Pharisees in their frustration (v19). Yet John said that even though Jesus did many miracles, "they" still didn't believe (v37). Others did believe, but kept it secret because they feared retribution from the Pharisees.
I wonder if the latter group was really saved. They saw and believed, but chose to remain in the culturally safe zone of Judaism. Verse 43 indicates they weren't saved, because they chose human accolades over God's accolades.
How many attend church, hear the message and believe with their head, but refuse to embrace with their heart & life for fear of what others think? Jesus didn't chase after these pseudo-believers, but instead kept sowing the seed and revealing his glory to any who would respond.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 30
John 12:12-36
At the triumphal entry the crowd celebrated and honored Jesus as the coming Messiah who would deliver them from oppression. The Pharisees saw him as a threat to their power and believed that this display set their cause back. Only Jesus had the correct understanding of the situation, knowing that the week would end with his death and the adoring crowds would turn against him.
Jesus chose to continue to surrender to the Father and to glorify him. As he review the purpose that he came for and declared, “Father, glorify your name,” the Father responded with a voice out of the heavens. Jesus declared that his soul was troubled – he wasn’t having peaceful, good feelings. Because he surrendered and obeyed, God was honored.
Jesus didn’t let the crowd’s accolades, his critics’ opposition, or his upcoming torture dissuade him. He continued to follow the Father’s vision for his life on earth. Our worship of God isn’t on our terms and it’s not measured by how we feel. It’s about honoring God, obeying him and fulfilling his purposes.
At the triumphal entry the crowd celebrated and honored Jesus as the coming Messiah who would deliver them from oppression. The Pharisees saw him as a threat to their power and believed that this display set their cause back. Only Jesus had the correct understanding of the situation, knowing that the week would end with his death and the adoring crowds would turn against him.
Jesus chose to continue to surrender to the Father and to glorify him. As he review the purpose that he came for and declared, “Father, glorify your name,” the Father responded with a voice out of the heavens. Jesus declared that his soul was troubled – he wasn’t having peaceful, good feelings. Because he surrendered and obeyed, God was honored.
Jesus didn’t let the crowd’s accolades, his critics’ opposition, or his upcoming torture dissuade him. He continued to follow the Father’s vision for his life on earth. Our worship of God isn’t on our terms and it’s not measured by how we feel. It’s about honoring God, obeying him and fulfilling his purposes.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 29
John 12:1-11
Jesus returned to Bethany and enjoyed a dinner with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mary honored Jesus by pouring expensive perfume on his feet. When Judas objected, Jesus rebuked him, because her sacrifice was appropriate in light of his upcoming death and burial, and the fact that as God in the flesh, he was worthy to receive honor. In this simple but costly act, Mary worshiped Jesus, expressing her love and devotion to him.
Being led more by Jesus involves worshiping him, and by example, could we say that true worship always involves a cost to us? Be it our time, our pride, our financial resources, our sleep…? When King David sinned by numbering Israel, God sent word to David to build an altar and offer sacrifices at the threshing floor of Ornan. But when Ornan offered to give the property and the supplies to worship God, David refused, “No, but I will buy them for the full price. I will not take for the LORD what is yours, nor offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” (1 Chronicles 21:24, ESV).
Does my worship of God cost me anything? Am I willing to linger at Jesus feet in the morning instead of rushing off to a busy day of tasks and meetings? Lord, may I be more like Mary, willing to sacrifice what is precious to me in order to worship you!
Jesus returned to Bethany and enjoyed a dinner with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mary honored Jesus by pouring expensive perfume on his feet. When Judas objected, Jesus rebuked him, because her sacrifice was appropriate in light of his upcoming death and burial, and the fact that as God in the flesh, he was worthy to receive honor. In this simple but costly act, Mary worshiped Jesus, expressing her love and devotion to him.
Being led more by Jesus involves worshiping him, and by example, could we say that true worship always involves a cost to us? Be it our time, our pride, our financial resources, our sleep…? When King David sinned by numbering Israel, God sent word to David to build an altar and offer sacrifices at the threshing floor of Ornan. But when Ornan offered to give the property and the supplies to worship God, David refused, “No, but I will buy them for the full price. I will not take for the LORD what is yours, nor offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” (1 Chronicles 21:24, ESV).
Does my worship of God cost me anything? Am I willing to linger at Jesus feet in the morning instead of rushing off to a busy day of tasks and meetings? Lord, may I be more like Mary, willing to sacrifice what is precious to me in order to worship you!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 28
John 11:45-57
I wonder if the chief priests and Pharisees would have seen that Jesus was truly the Messiah, if they had paid attention to Jesus’ miracles and the message he spoke. Verse 48 exposes the motives of these leaders – they convened a meeting of the Council and expressed fear of the Romans taking away “both our place and our nation.” The reference to the nation would mean the Romans not allowing them to govern themselves any longer, perhaps dispersing them through other nations like the Babylonians had done centuries before. But what does “taking away our place” refer to? Is it the removal of the temple and their worship, or is it the power and authority they wielded over the people? Perhaps the two were intertwined and they were blinded by the religious and political system it created.
Those who were supposed to shepherd the people toward God had become so wrapped up in their rules and own authority that they missed it when God himself showed up. May we not fall into the same deception! Don’t miss God in the structure and busyness of church, or when success comes our way and people think well of us. We are not called to lord it over others, but to lead as humble, servant-hearted shepherds.
I wonder if the chief priests and Pharisees would have seen that Jesus was truly the Messiah, if they had paid attention to Jesus’ miracles and the message he spoke. Verse 48 exposes the motives of these leaders – they convened a meeting of the Council and expressed fear of the Romans taking away “both our place and our nation.” The reference to the nation would mean the Romans not allowing them to govern themselves any longer, perhaps dispersing them through other nations like the Babylonians had done centuries before. But what does “taking away our place” refer to? Is it the removal of the temple and their worship, or is it the power and authority they wielded over the people? Perhaps the two were intertwined and they were blinded by the religious and political system it created.
Those who were supposed to shepherd the people toward God had become so wrapped up in their rules and own authority that they missed it when God himself showed up. May we not fall into the same deception! Don’t miss God in the structure and busyness of church, or when success comes our way and people think well of us. We are not called to lord it over others, but to lead as humble, servant-hearted shepherds.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 27
John 11:1-44
Jesus intentionally delayed going to Bethany when Mary and Martha sent word that Lazarus was ill. We could say that strategic procrastination is leading like Jesus, but since he had divine knowledge of the plan to raise Laz from the dead, it would be presumptuous of us to think that we should do the same, unless God specifically reveals that he wants us to delay.
The thing that impresses me is Jesus’ display of emotion as he ministers to this family. When he arrives, Laz is already dead, and Jesus knows that he will bring him back to life, so it would seem that he would maintain a joyful and positive emotion. When Mary came out to meet him and was weeping, Jesus “was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled.” He didn’t remain detached, but entered into the pain that the sisters felt. Right after this Jesus wept, joining in the mourning at a visible level.
As they went to the tomb, John says that Jesus was “deeply moved again.” Three times in this scene we read that Jesus was emotionally engaged. This gives a glimpse into the tremendous love and compassion that our God has for us!
Leading like Jesus: allow myself to enter into the joys and pains of those I minister to. Don’t be cold and detached – I am God’s emissary of compassion and grace to those in need!
Jesus intentionally delayed going to Bethany when Mary and Martha sent word that Lazarus was ill. We could say that strategic procrastination is leading like Jesus, but since he had divine knowledge of the plan to raise Laz from the dead, it would be presumptuous of us to think that we should do the same, unless God specifically reveals that he wants us to delay.
The thing that impresses me is Jesus’ display of emotion as he ministers to this family. When he arrives, Laz is already dead, and Jesus knows that he will bring him back to life, so it would seem that he would maintain a joyful and positive emotion. When Mary came out to meet him and was weeping, Jesus “was deeply moved in his spirit and greatly troubled.” He didn’t remain detached, but entered into the pain that the sisters felt. Right after this Jesus wept, joining in the mourning at a visible level.
As they went to the tomb, John says that Jesus was “deeply moved again.” Three times in this scene we read that Jesus was emotionally engaged. This gives a glimpse into the tremendous love and compassion that our God has for us!
Leading like Jesus: allow myself to enter into the joys and pains of those I minister to. Don’t be cold and detached – I am God’s emissary of compassion and grace to those in need!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Jesus’ “I AM” statements
Slight diversion today… have you ever looked at all the “I am” statements that Jesus made? John records seven different “I am” metaphors that Jesus used, plus some absolute “I am” statements. Sometimes the text translates it as "I am he," but the Greek states "I am." Here are a couple of examples of the absolute statements:
Here are the metaphors from the Gospel of John that Jesus used in describing himself - implicit in these statements are the claims to deity:
6:35 “I am the bread of life”
8:12, 9:5 “I am the light of the world”
10:7, 9 “I am the door of the sheep”
10:11, 14 “I am the good shepherd”
11:25 “I am the resurrection and the life”
14:6 “I am the way, the truth and the life”
15:1 “I am the true vine”
8:58 “Before Abraham was, I am.” The wording of this is similar to Yahweh’s statement to Moses in Exodus 3, “I AM WHO I AM.”
18:5-6 When Jesus was being arrested and asked who they were seeking, “They answered him, ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’ Jesus said to them, ‘I am (he).’… When Jesus said to them ‘I am he,’ they drew back and fell to the ground.” In this passage, Jesus announcement of “I AM” causes the band of soldiers, officers, chief priests, and Pharisees were literally knocked off their feet! Makes you wonder if Jesus answered with the proper name of God, Yahweh, which the Jews wouldn’t pronounce.
Here are the metaphors from the Gospel of John that Jesus used in describing himself - implicit in these statements are the claims to deity:
6:35 “I am the bread of life”
8:12, 9:5 “I am the light of the world”
10:7, 9 “I am the door of the sheep”
10:11, 14 “I am the good shepherd”
11:25 “I am the resurrection and the life”
14:6 “I am the way, the truth and the life”
15:1 “I am the true vine”
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 26
John 10:22-42
Here’s a controversial passage! Is Jesus really God, or is he a lesser being, merely a ‘god’ like the Psalmist recorded in Psalm 82?
Jesus claims to be one with the Father in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” In response, the Jews pick up stones and are ready to kill him, because they said that he was claiming to be God. Jesus then makes a reference to human judges being called ‘gods,’ and asks if it isn’t right for him to be called “The Son of God,” since the Father sent him. This reference from Psalm 82 was to unrighteous leaders who were not dispensing justice. Some would construe this to be a claim from Jesus to be less than diety; a ‘god’ like the human leaders of old. The Bible Knowledge Commentary points out that Jesus is following a method of Rabbinic argument by appealing to Old Testament and making a logical connection to their current discussion.
Jesus included a brief statement of the inerrancy of Scripture in verse 35, “and Scripture cannot be broken…” In other words, God allowed humans who were not divine to have the title ‘god’ which is proved by the inerrant statement in Psalm 82. The same God sent his Son to earth and it is not blasphemy for him to claim to be the Son of God, one who is divine, far above the unrighteous human judges.
Also found in the John 10 passage is the reference to eternal security. Once a person comes into relationship with Jesus, they become a part of his flock, and he becomes their Good Shepherd. No thief is able to snatch them out of God’s hand! We belong to him and are secure as his eternal possession.
Leading more to Jesus: As we share the gospel with unbelievers, our message includes pointing them to Jesus’ true identity as God. When a person comes to faith in Christ, we can assure them of security in God because our new owner protects and keeps us as our Good Shepherd.
Here’s a controversial passage! Is Jesus really God, or is he a lesser being, merely a ‘god’ like the Psalmist recorded in Psalm 82?
Jesus claims to be one with the Father in John 10:30, “I and the Father are one.” In response, the Jews pick up stones and are ready to kill him, because they said that he was claiming to be God. Jesus then makes a reference to human judges being called ‘gods,’ and asks if it isn’t right for him to be called “The Son of God,” since the Father sent him. This reference from Psalm 82 was to unrighteous leaders who were not dispensing justice. Some would construe this to be a claim from Jesus to be less than diety; a ‘god’ like the human leaders of old. The Bible Knowledge Commentary points out that Jesus is following a method of Rabbinic argument by appealing to Old Testament and making a logical connection to their current discussion.
Jesus included a brief statement of the inerrancy of Scripture in verse 35, “and Scripture cannot be broken…” In other words, God allowed humans who were not divine to have the title ‘god’ which is proved by the inerrant statement in Psalm 82. The same God sent his Son to earth and it is not blasphemy for him to claim to be the Son of God, one who is divine, far above the unrighteous human judges.
Also found in the John 10 passage is the reference to eternal security. Once a person comes into relationship with Jesus, they become a part of his flock, and he becomes their Good Shepherd. No thief is able to snatch them out of God’s hand! We belong to him and are secure as his eternal possession.
Leading more to Jesus: As we share the gospel with unbelievers, our message includes pointing them to Jesus’ true identity as God. When a person comes to faith in Christ, we can assure them of security in God because our new owner protects and keeps us as our Good Shepherd.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 25
John 10:1-21
Jesus revealed himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. In the Old Testament, David referred to God as “my Shepherd” in Psalm 23, and prophets referred to God as the Shepherd of his people (Is 40:11, Ez. 34:11-31). No doubt the religious leaders were familiar with these prophesies and references to God as Shepherd, so once again, Jesus is claiming to be God, and they get offended.
At the same time, he rebukes two categories of others: the thief and the hireling. The thief’s agenda is to steal, kill and destroy. The hireling is more concerned about self than the sheep and runs away when danger shows up. There is no doubt that Jesus thinks of the Jewish leaders in one of these categories!
Leading like Jesus: motives in shepherding will include putting the needs of others before our own and being willing to make sacrifices for the sake of our “sheep.” Ultimately, we realize that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and we are his under-shepherds; not hirelings, but apprentice shepherds.
Jesus revealed himself as the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. In the Old Testament, David referred to God as “my Shepherd” in Psalm 23, and prophets referred to God as the Shepherd of his people (Is 40:11, Ez. 34:11-31). No doubt the religious leaders were familiar with these prophesies and references to God as Shepherd, so once again, Jesus is claiming to be God, and they get offended.
At the same time, he rebukes two categories of others: the thief and the hireling. The thief’s agenda is to steal, kill and destroy. The hireling is more concerned about self than the sheep and runs away when danger shows up. There is no doubt that Jesus thinks of the Jewish leaders in one of these categories!
Leading like Jesus: motives in shepherding will include putting the needs of others before our own and being willing to make sacrifices for the sake of our “sheep.” Ultimately, we realize that Jesus is the Good Shepherd, and we are his under-shepherds; not hirelings, but apprentice shepherds.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 24
John 9:13-41
The blind man who Jesus healed was brought before the Pharisees and they questioned him. Because of the miracle, his life was transformed and he believed that Jesus was a prophet from God. The Pharisees rebuked the man and threw him out (of the temple?) because they didn’t believe. Later, Jesus found the man and asked if he believed in the Son of Man (which was a Messianic title taken from Daniel 7:13-14). When the man heard that Jesus was the Messiah, he proclaimed, “Lord, I believe!” and worshiped Jesus.
The Pharisees tried to control the religious life of Israel and excommunicated any who believed that Jesus was the Messiah. This man was willing to be shunned and broke free from religious tradition because God-in-the-flesh met him at his point of need and revealed the Messiah to him.
Being led more by Jesus: In the religious culture of Jesus day, the expectation was to follow the law and traditions handed down by the educated leaders. In our secular culture today, the pressure from the “educated leaders” is to marginalize following Christ because it is unscientific and intolerant. Instead of being intimidated, we must be ready and willing to face rejection in order to follow Jesus, our Messiah.
The blind man who Jesus healed was brought before the Pharisees and they questioned him. Because of the miracle, his life was transformed and he believed that Jesus was a prophet from God. The Pharisees rebuked the man and threw him out (of the temple?) because they didn’t believe. Later, Jesus found the man and asked if he believed in the Son of Man (which was a Messianic title taken from Daniel 7:13-14). When the man heard that Jesus was the Messiah, he proclaimed, “Lord, I believe!” and worshiped Jesus.
The Pharisees tried to control the religious life of Israel and excommunicated any who believed that Jesus was the Messiah. This man was willing to be shunned and broke free from religious tradition because God-in-the-flesh met him at his point of need and revealed the Messiah to him.
Being led more by Jesus: In the religious culture of Jesus day, the expectation was to follow the law and traditions handed down by the educated leaders. In our secular culture today, the pressure from the “educated leaders” is to marginalize following Christ because it is unscientific and intolerant. Instead of being intimidated, we must be ready and willing to face rejection in order to follow Jesus, our Messiah.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 23
John 9:1-12
Jesus challenged a religious myth when he healed a blind man. Apparently the Jews believed that bad things such as blindness were the direct result of sin – either the parent’s sin or the person’s sin. That left no room for other explanations. It also made God out to be vengeful, bringing punishment on unborn children for the parents’ choices. There is no doubt that some children suffer greatly because of parents’ bad choices, but those are natural consequences, not the judgment of God.
In this particular case, Jesus said that the purpose was that God’s work might be accomplished. Although this man had lived many years with blindness and made his living as a beggar, he was blessed beyond many others because he received God’s grace of both healing and faith.
Sometimes God uses suffering and tragedy to dispense his grace and to reveal his glory. We know that God is always good and always loving. When we don’t understand why bad things happen, we can still trust that God knows why, and believe that he is acting in line with his holy character.
Jesus challenged a religious myth when he healed a blind man. Apparently the Jews believed that bad things such as blindness were the direct result of sin – either the parent’s sin or the person’s sin. That left no room for other explanations. It also made God out to be vengeful, bringing punishment on unborn children for the parents’ choices. There is no doubt that some children suffer greatly because of parents’ bad choices, but those are natural consequences, not the judgment of God.
In this particular case, Jesus said that the purpose was that God’s work might be accomplished. Although this man had lived many years with blindness and made his living as a beggar, he was blessed beyond many others because he received God’s grace of both healing and faith.
Sometimes God uses suffering and tragedy to dispense his grace and to reveal his glory. We know that God is always good and always loving. When we don’t understand why bad things happen, we can still trust that God knows why, and believe that he is acting in line with his holy character.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 22
John 8:31-59
“You will know the truth and the truth will set you free” (v32). I think this is the most famous and most often misquoted saying of Jesus. On the banner over the graduation platform from my secular university it said, “The truth will set you free!” In a movie I watched recently the villain made the same statement about someone knowing who killed her father. But this is no general statement about truth and falsehood.
Right before Jesus said these words, he said that if we abide in his word (1) we are truly his disciples, and (2) we will know the truth which sets us free. Knowing the truth begins with abiding in his word. To abide means to remain and continue in something, so Jesus is saying that true disciples take in his word, believe (and continue to believe), and put his word into practice by obedience. As we live an obedient and faith-filled life, we will know truth and be set free from the bondage of practicing sin.
The truth that we will know is the testing and proving that God and his word is true by the practice of his word (see also Romans 12:1-2). Truth is not merely an accumulation of right knowledge, but hearing, believing, and obeying Jesus.
Being led more by Jesus always involves consuming more of his word and allowing his word to consume us!
“You will know the truth and the truth will set you free” (v32). I think this is the most famous and most often misquoted saying of Jesus. On the banner over the graduation platform from my secular university it said, “The truth will set you free!” In a movie I watched recently the villain made the same statement about someone knowing who killed her father. But this is no general statement about truth and falsehood.
Right before Jesus said these words, he said that if we abide in his word (1) we are truly his disciples, and (2) we will know the truth which sets us free. Knowing the truth begins with abiding in his word. To abide means to remain and continue in something, so Jesus is saying that true disciples take in his word, believe (and continue to believe), and put his word into practice by obedience. As we live an obedient and faith-filled life, we will know truth and be set free from the bondage of practicing sin.
The truth that we will know is the testing and proving that God and his word is true by the practice of his word (see also Romans 12:1-2). Truth is not merely an accumulation of right knowledge, but hearing, believing, and obeying Jesus.
Being led more by Jesus always involves consuming more of his word and allowing his word to consume us!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 21
John 8:12-30
The conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees continued… Jesus claimed to be the light of the world; “Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (v12). Jesus introduced several metaphors to describe who he was: the source of Living Water, the Bread of Life, and now the Light of the World. Three essentials for human life: water, food, and light. Jesus is essential for spiritual life and is the source of life!
Those who were steeped in the Jewish religion couldn’t believe what he said. It didn’t square with their worldview, and so they rejected it. Jesus told them that the reason they wouldn’t believe was that they didn’t belong to the Father. Those who were the most religious had the hardest time believing in Jesus. Is that true in our day too? Are there many religious people who have missed who Jesus really is? How many follow the rules of Christianity but miss the person of Christ?
Those who were the least religious are the ones who found Christ and believed in him. He extended grace and life to an adulteress Jewish woman, a half-breed adulteress Samaritan woman, a Gentile oppressor, and a handicapped man that society had forgotten. Who do we extend grace to?
The conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees continued… Jesus claimed to be the light of the world; “Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life” (v12). Jesus introduced several metaphors to describe who he was: the source of Living Water, the Bread of Life, and now the Light of the World. Three essentials for human life: water, food, and light. Jesus is essential for spiritual life and is the source of life!
Those who were steeped in the Jewish religion couldn’t believe what he said. It didn’t square with their worldview, and so they rejected it. Jesus told them that the reason they wouldn’t believe was that they didn’t belong to the Father. Those who were the most religious had the hardest time believing in Jesus. Is that true in our day too? Are there many religious people who have missed who Jesus really is? How many follow the rules of Christianity but miss the person of Christ?
Those who were the least religious are the ones who found Christ and believed in him. He extended grace and life to an adulteress Jewish woman, a half-breed adulteress Samaritan woman, a Gentile oppressor, and a handicapped man that society had forgotten. Who do we extend grace to?
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 20
John 8:1-11
Jesus’ ministry was built on a foundation of grace. He had harsh confrontation for the religious leaders who had no faith, but great compassion for those in the snare of sin. The teachers of law and Pharisees wanted to trap Jesus, so they brought an adulteress and asked him if they should kill her.
Jesus turned the tables on them, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” After all had left, and he asked where her accusers were, he said that he didn’t condemn her either. WHAT? But she was guilty! Why didn’t he pronounce judgment on her? Mercy... Grace!
It seems like a stark contrast to how God dealt with people in the Old Testament – punishment was swift and severe. But now God in the flesh was showing compassion to the sinner. God is just and holy, but he also loves. Jesus hadn’t died for sin yet, but was already extending grace and forgiveness.
Notice that he then called her to “go and sin no more.” His mercy isn’t permission to sin! He still calls us to a life of obedience and holiness. But he forgives.
Leading more like Jesus: extend grace to others! Don’t condemn people when they sin. The Lord’s kindness leads to repentance, and we need to follow his example and be kind and forgiving as well. He extended kindness and grace to me, how can I not show the same to others?
Jesus’ ministry was built on a foundation of grace. He had harsh confrontation for the religious leaders who had no faith, but great compassion for those in the snare of sin. The teachers of law and Pharisees wanted to trap Jesus, so they brought an adulteress and asked him if they should kill her.
Jesus turned the tables on them, “Let him who is without sin cast the first stone.” After all had left, and he asked where her accusers were, he said that he didn’t condemn her either. WHAT? But she was guilty! Why didn’t he pronounce judgment on her? Mercy... Grace!
It seems like a stark contrast to how God dealt with people in the Old Testament – punishment was swift and severe. But now God in the flesh was showing compassion to the sinner. God is just and holy, but he also loves. Jesus hadn’t died for sin yet, but was already extending grace and forgiveness.
Notice that he then called her to “go and sin no more.” His mercy isn’t permission to sin! He still calls us to a life of obedience and holiness. But he forgives.
Leading more like Jesus: extend grace to others! Don’t condemn people when they sin. The Lord’s kindness leads to repentance, and we need to follow his example and be kind and forgiving as well. He extended kindness and grace to me, how can I not show the same to others?
Monday, April 11, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 19
John 7:1-52
What is God calling you to do with your life?
Jesus’ brothers didn’t believe in his deity, yet they urged him to go public and build his popular following. His agenda wasn’t worldly, but divinely given. Even those who grew up with him and had known him for their whole lives misunderstood and doubted his claims. The crowds were confused about who he was as well. Some believed, but others doubted because they knew that he was from Galilee.
When you come to know clearly the mission that God has for your life, some will misunderstand. Some good and well-meaning people may try to redirect you away from pursuing God’s path of ministry, especially if it challenges culture and sacrifices comfort.
When William Carey felt God calling him to leave England to be a missionary to India, he shared his vision for mission work with a group of ministers. An older pastor spoke up and shouted, “Young man, sit down: when God pleases to convert the heathen, he will do it without your aid or mine.” Carey went to India anyway and God used him in mighty ways. Many came to faith in Christ, he led the translation of the scriptures into 40 languages, and he established schools (including a Bible College), churches, and mission stations. One of his famous sayings is “Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God!”
What is God calling you to do with your life? Have you asked him? Earnestly seek, surrendering to his will and then following what he shows you. When you discover that unique vision from God, pursue it tenaciously, regardless of who opposes you! Do it for His glory and the furthering of His Kingdom!
What is God calling you to do with your life?
Jesus’ brothers didn’t believe in his deity, yet they urged him to go public and build his popular following. His agenda wasn’t worldly, but divinely given. Even those who grew up with him and had known him for their whole lives misunderstood and doubted his claims. The crowds were confused about who he was as well. Some believed, but others doubted because they knew that he was from Galilee.
When you come to know clearly the mission that God has for your life, some will misunderstand. Some good and well-meaning people may try to redirect you away from pursuing God’s path of ministry, especially if it challenges culture and sacrifices comfort.
When William Carey felt God calling him to leave England to be a missionary to India, he shared his vision for mission work with a group of ministers. An older pastor spoke up and shouted, “Young man, sit down: when God pleases to convert the heathen, he will do it without your aid or mine.” Carey went to India anyway and God used him in mighty ways. Many came to faith in Christ, he led the translation of the scriptures into 40 languages, and he established schools (including a Bible College), churches, and mission stations. One of his famous sayings is “Expect great things from God, attempt great things for God!”
What is God calling you to do with your life? Have you asked him? Earnestly seek, surrendering to his will and then following what he shows you. When you discover that unique vision from God, pursue it tenaciously, regardless of who opposes you! Do it for His glory and the furthering of His Kingdom!
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 18
John 6:16-71
Jesus’ signs testified to his divinity (5:36) and the crowds were following him because of those signs (6:2). Yet when they ate the bread and fish when he did the miracle of multiplying food, their motive changed to seeking him because of the good food, not the miracles. Their focus shifted from heavenly to earthly, from discovering the wonder of who Jesus was to what he could do for them.
They were the original “consumer” Christians – Jesus was popular with them because he met their needs and filled their bellies (and I bet that was some good bread!). When they asked for bread, he used that theme to communicate who he was – the bread of life, the true bread from heaven (which is a parallel to the manna from heaven that the crowds mentioned that Moses gave them). Many were offended at this, and even some who were considered disciples were grumbling about the words he said and quit following. Why? The truth was too difficult for them to believe. And perhaps they didn’t want the truth, they wanted a warm loaf of bread instead!
Jesus wasn’t distracted from his mission by popularity. He saw that the motives of the crowds were selfish and spoke blunt truth to them, calling them to faith in himself.
Seek Jesus not for what he can do for you, but for who he is, the only true source of life, the bread from heaven!
Jesus’ signs testified to his divinity (5:36) and the crowds were following him because of those signs (6:2). Yet when they ate the bread and fish when he did the miracle of multiplying food, their motive changed to seeking him because of the good food, not the miracles. Their focus shifted from heavenly to earthly, from discovering the wonder of who Jesus was to what he could do for them.
They were the original “consumer” Christians – Jesus was popular with them because he met their needs and filled their bellies (and I bet that was some good bread!). When they asked for bread, he used that theme to communicate who he was – the bread of life, the true bread from heaven (which is a parallel to the manna from heaven that the crowds mentioned that Moses gave them). Many were offended at this, and even some who were considered disciples were grumbling about the words he said and quit following. Why? The truth was too difficult for them to believe. And perhaps they didn’t want the truth, they wanted a warm loaf of bread instead!
Jesus wasn’t distracted from his mission by popularity. He saw that the motives of the crowds were selfish and spoke blunt truth to them, calling them to faith in himself.
Seek Jesus not for what he can do for you, but for who he is, the only true source of life, the bread from heaven!
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 17
John 6:1-15
Perhaps the most famous of Jesus’ miracles, Jesus fed 5000 men, plus the women and children with them, with five loaves and two fish. How did he do it? First, he recognized the need. Although he had the ability to meet the need on his own, he chose to involve his disciples, in order to develop their faith. He turned to Philip and asked where they would buy enough bread to feed the crowd. Philip’s response indicated that the thought of providing a meal was too overwhelming. Andrew responded that there was a boy with five loaves and two fish; what was Andrew thinking? Was it a statement of faith in Jesus? Or (more likely) was it a random statement of 'here’s a little food…'?
After Jesus did the miraculous and turned the small meal into a feast for 10,000, he had the disciples pick up the leftovers. The crowds were amazed and wanted to make Jesus king (so he went and hid in the mountain).
Lessons on Leading More Like Jesus:
Perhaps the most famous of Jesus’ miracles, Jesus fed 5000 men, plus the women and children with them, with five loaves and two fish. How did he do it? First, he recognized the need. Although he had the ability to meet the need on his own, he chose to involve his disciples, in order to develop their faith. He turned to Philip and asked where they would buy enough bread to feed the crowd. Philip’s response indicated that the thought of providing a meal was too overwhelming. Andrew responded that there was a boy with five loaves and two fish; what was Andrew thinking? Was it a statement of faith in Jesus? Or (more likely) was it a random statement of 'here’s a little food…'?
After Jesus did the miraculous and turned the small meal into a feast for 10,000, he had the disciples pick up the leftovers. The crowds were amazed and wanted to make Jesus king (so he went and hid in the mountain).
Lessons on Leading More Like Jesus:
1. Involve others in carrying out ministry – never do it alone! When Jesus asked Philip what they should do, it says that he already knew what he would do. Give faith-stretching assignments to those you lead and let them wrestle with the solution.
2. When the crowd wants to put you on a pedestal, DON’T! We are called to be servant leaders, not celebrities!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 16
John 5:30-47
In John 20, the author states the purpose of the book: “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” This passage in John 5 is a continuation of Jesus revealing these things to the Jewish leaders, stating that there are four witnesses who bear testimony to his identity:
1. John (the Baptist) “has borne witness to the truth” (v33)
How did they miss it? The fourfold witness of prophet, miracles, the Father, and Scripture, all point to the fact that Jesus is God-in-the-flesh; deity dwelling in human form. He was the fulfillment of God’s divine plan from before the foundation of the earth, come to be the Messiah, our deliverer, our Savior!
All praise to you, Lord Jesus, for you have revealed the Father to us! Thank you that we have life through faith in you. AMEN!
In John 20, the author states the purpose of the book: “so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” This passage in John 5 is a continuation of Jesus revealing these things to the Jewish leaders, stating that there are four witnesses who bear testimony to his identity:
1. John (the Baptist) “has borne witness to the truth” (v33)
2. His miracles: “For the works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness about me that the Father has sent me” (v36)
3. The Father “has himself borne witness about me” (v37)4. The Scriptures: “You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me, yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life” (v40-41)
How did they miss it? The fourfold witness of prophet, miracles, the Father, and Scripture, all point to the fact that Jesus is God-in-the-flesh; deity dwelling in human form. He was the fulfillment of God’s divine plan from before the foundation of the earth, come to be the Messiah, our deliverer, our Savior!
All praise to you, Lord Jesus, for you have revealed the Father to us! Thank you that we have life through faith in you. AMEN!
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 15
John 5:19-46
One of the hardest things to do is fully surrender to Christ. Our human nature doesn’t want to be dominated by anyone, and we want to be the master of our lives. Yet surrendering our will over to Jesus is the key to becoming more like him, and to discovering the abundant life that he promised.
In this passage, Jesus reveals his deity through a profound succession of statements:
• The Son sees the Father doing
• He does what the Father does
• The Father raises the dead and gives them life – the son also gives life
• The Father doesn’t judge – all judgment is given to the Son
• Honor the Son just as they honor the Father
• Whoever hears his word and believes has eternal life
• In the future, the dead will rise when they hear the voice of the Son
• The Son has life in himself, just like the Father does
• He has the authority to judge…
So while he reveals that he is God, at the same time he states that he is surrendered to the Father and orders his life and ministry around the directives of the Father:
“I can do nothing on my own… I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me” (v30).
“The works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness…” (v36).
Jesus, God in the flesh, humbled himself and set aside his will in order to fulfill the will of the Father. For me to be led more by Jesus, I will follow his example and seek to “do what the Father does” and pursue the “works the Father has given me to accomplish.”
Lord, may I fully surrender to your directives and follow your will for my life and ministry. May I have eyes to see what you are doing around me, and to know your agenda for my days. Amen.
One of the hardest things to do is fully surrender to Christ. Our human nature doesn’t want to be dominated by anyone, and we want to be the master of our lives. Yet surrendering our will over to Jesus is the key to becoming more like him, and to discovering the abundant life that he promised.
In this passage, Jesus reveals his deity through a profound succession of statements:
• The Son sees the Father doing
• He does what the Father does
• The Father raises the dead and gives them life – the son also gives life
• The Father doesn’t judge – all judgment is given to the Son
• Honor the Son just as they honor the Father
• Whoever hears his word and believes has eternal life
• In the future, the dead will rise when they hear the voice of the Son
• The Son has life in himself, just like the Father does
• He has the authority to judge…
So while he reveals that he is God, at the same time he states that he is surrendered to the Father and orders his life and ministry around the directives of the Father:
“I can do nothing on my own… I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me” (v30).
“The works that the Father has given me to accomplish, the very works that I am doing, bear witness…” (v36).
Jesus, God in the flesh, humbled himself and set aside his will in order to fulfill the will of the Father. For me to be led more by Jesus, I will follow his example and seek to “do what the Father does” and pursue the “works the Father has given me to accomplish.”
Lord, may I fully surrender to your directives and follow your will for my life and ministry. May I have eyes to see what you are doing around me, and to know your agenda for my days. Amen.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 14
John 5:1-19
When Jesus healed an invalid who was lying by the pool of Bethesda, there were many others who were also infirm, but it doesn’t indicate that Jesus healed them. Why did he single this man out? And why didn’t he heal all of the sick there? The man had been an invalid for thirty-eight years, and he had been at Bethesda pool for a long time.
The Jewish leaders were ticked off because it was the Sabbath and after being healed, the man was carrying his bed. When they found out that it was Jesus who healed him, they confronted him. When Jesus responded “My Father is working until now, and I am working,” they began to seek to kill him because he was “making himself equal with God” (v18).
In this narrative, Jesus was intentionally confronting the religious culture of the day. The Jews were more concerned about the rules than people, but Jesus loved people more than the rules…
“Leading more like Jesus” observations:
When Jesus healed an invalid who was lying by the pool of Bethesda, there were many others who were also infirm, but it doesn’t indicate that Jesus healed them. Why did he single this man out? And why didn’t he heal all of the sick there? The man had been an invalid for thirty-eight years, and he had been at Bethesda pool for a long time.
The Jewish leaders were ticked off because it was the Sabbath and after being healed, the man was carrying his bed. When they found out that it was Jesus who healed him, they confronted him. When Jesus responded “My Father is working until now, and I am working,” they began to seek to kill him because he was “making himself equal with God” (v18).
In this narrative, Jesus was intentionally confronting the religious culture of the day. The Jews were more concerned about the rules than people, but Jesus loved people more than the rules…
“Leading more like Jesus” observations:
1. Ministry is about people – love them and serve them!
2. Deliberately seek the Father’s direction and do the ministry HE calls you to do (v19) – I believe that’s why Jesus didn’t heal all the sick at Bethesda, the Father didn’t direct him to do that, and he was doing what the Father revealed to him to do.
3. Opportunity does not equal obligation (thanks to Dave Workman for that memorable quote). Jesus could have stayed at Bethesda and healed all the sick. He had the ability and the opportunity, but wasn’t compelled to act because the Father didn’t direct him to.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 13
John 4:39-54
Jesus went from Sychar to Cana, and while there, an official (probably a Gentile centurion or other Roman official) sought out Jesus. He was from Capernaum, about 16 miles away, so he made quite a trip to find Jesus, because his child was dying. Jesus’ reputation for healing must have spread with those who returned from Jerusalem, for it was there that Jesus had been doing miracles (2:23).
Jesus challenged the man, “Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.” I think that he was testing this man’s motives – was he seeking Jesus or miracles? When the man pleaded for Jesus to go with him before his child died, Jesus told him to “Go; your son will live.” The man believed what Jesus said and left and his child was healed right then. It doesn’t say that Jesus shared the gospel, rather it says that he met a need; but it was in the context of already knowing who Jesus was.
Notice that Jesus’ encounters began with a religious Jew (ch. 3), next with a Samaritan woman of ill repute (ch. 4), and in this passage with a Gentile oppressor. His ministry wasn’t confined to “the chosen people,” but was expanding from the Jews to the world. Although the majority of his ministry was to the Jews, his love and ministry extended beyond race and culture to encompass any who would come to him in faith.
Jesus went from Sychar to Cana, and while there, an official (probably a Gentile centurion or other Roman official) sought out Jesus. He was from Capernaum, about 16 miles away, so he made quite a trip to find Jesus, because his child was dying. Jesus’ reputation for healing must have spread with those who returned from Jerusalem, for it was there that Jesus had been doing miracles (2:23).
Jesus challenged the man, “Unless you see signs and wonders you will not believe.” I think that he was testing this man’s motives – was he seeking Jesus or miracles? When the man pleaded for Jesus to go with him before his child died, Jesus told him to “Go; your son will live.” The man believed what Jesus said and left and his child was healed right then. It doesn’t say that Jesus shared the gospel, rather it says that he met a need; but it was in the context of already knowing who Jesus was.
Notice that Jesus’ encounters began with a religious Jew (ch. 3), next with a Samaritan woman of ill repute (ch. 4), and in this passage with a Gentile oppressor. His ministry wasn’t confined to “the chosen people,” but was expanding from the Jews to the world. Although the majority of his ministry was to the Jews, his love and ministry extended beyond race and culture to encompass any who would come to him in faith.
Being led more by Jesus: Seek Jesus for who he is, not for what he can do for me.
Leading more to Jesus: Be alert to the divine appointments that God brings into my life, even if they’re not on my agenda or my “target audience.”
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