I heard Perry Noble speak at The City Church in Kirkland, WA yesterday (my daughter Caitlin attends there). His message was moving - great morning of worship & encouragement. One of the things he said was "we talk to God like we do because we don't know who he is..." He shared an example of a woman in his town who hadn't met him yet and was asking about what the pastor was like, and concluded by saying that she'd be the judge of whether he was good or not.
I think that sometime we talk to God like he's a politician; we voted for him, but we don't agree with all the things he does. We don't realize how great God is, how good God is, how loving God is! There is too little fear of God amongst us. Let's press in to know who God is and then talk with him in light of who he really is!
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and instruction" (Prov 1:7)
Monday, May 30, 2011
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 48
John 21
Luke 5:4-10 records the calling of Peter, which involved throwing the fishing net and bringing in a big haul. Peter realized that Jesus was holy and felt unworthy to be in his presence, but Jesus said to him, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men” (v10). In this passage in John 21, Jesus appeared to the disciples again when they were out fishing. He showed up at daybreak, and the disciples hadn’t caught any fish. He told them to cast their net on the right side of the boat, and like 3+ years prior, they caught a big haul of fish – 153 big ones (to be exact!).
Peter was the one who initiated the fishing trip, and I wonder if he was heading back to his old career instead of continuing the work that Jesus taught him to do. The similarities between the first haul of fish and Jesus commissioning Peter and this haul of fish must have caught his attention. After they finished a breakfast of bread and bbq’d fish, Jesus took Peter for a walk and re-commissioned him for the ministry, telling Peter to feed and tend his sheep.
Our calling from Jesus too is to “fish for men” and to “tend his sheep.” Matthew recorded the final commission of Jesus to the disciples, and I leave it with you as our call to be led more by Jesus, to lead more like Jesus, and to lead more people to Jesus:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matt 28:19-20)
Luke 5:4-10 records the calling of Peter, which involved throwing the fishing net and bringing in a big haul. Peter realized that Jesus was holy and felt unworthy to be in his presence, but Jesus said to him, “Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men” (v10). In this passage in John 21, Jesus appeared to the disciples again when they were out fishing. He showed up at daybreak, and the disciples hadn’t caught any fish. He told them to cast their net on the right side of the boat, and like 3+ years prior, they caught a big haul of fish – 153 big ones (to be exact!).
Peter was the one who initiated the fishing trip, and I wonder if he was heading back to his old career instead of continuing the work that Jesus taught him to do. The similarities between the first haul of fish and Jesus commissioning Peter and this haul of fish must have caught his attention. After they finished a breakfast of bread and bbq’d fish, Jesus took Peter for a walk and re-commissioned him for the ministry, telling Peter to feed and tend his sheep.
Our calling from Jesus too is to “fish for men” and to “tend his sheep.” Matthew recorded the final commission of Jesus to the disciples, and I leave it with you as our call to be led more by Jesus, to lead more like Jesus, and to lead more people to Jesus:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matt 28:19-20)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 47
John 20:24-31
Thomas gets a bad rap for being skeptical. "Doubting Thomas" we call him. But would the other disciples have believed in the resurrection if Jesus hadn't yet appeared to them? Jesus didn't reject Tom for questioning his return. instead, he deliberately appeared again to the disciples when Tom was with them, then singled him out and invited him to touch the wounds from the nails and spear.
When Tom saw him (& it doesn't say that he did touch the wounds), he exclaimed "My Lord and my God!" in answer to Jesus invitation. This wasn't a statement of astonishment, which would have been taking the Lord's name in vain. He was talking directly to Jesus, and rather than rebuking Tom, Jesus affirmed this statement of faith. If Jesus wasn't God, he would have corrected Tom and refused to be worshiped... but he didn't!
John goes on to write that the reason he wrote the gospel and recorded all the miraculous things that Jesus did was that the reader would likewise believe, and by believing have true life in Jesus. Jesus really did come to earth, live as a human, heal the sick, restore sight to the blind, cast out demons and raise the dead. He truly is my Lord and my God, the incarnate creator of the universe and my savior! Praise and thanks be to such a loving and gracious God!!!
Thomas gets a bad rap for being skeptical. "Doubting Thomas" we call him. But would the other disciples have believed in the resurrection if Jesus hadn't yet appeared to them? Jesus didn't reject Tom for questioning his return. instead, he deliberately appeared again to the disciples when Tom was with them, then singled him out and invited him to touch the wounds from the nails and spear.
When Tom saw him (& it doesn't say that he did touch the wounds), he exclaimed "My Lord and my God!" in answer to Jesus invitation. This wasn't a statement of astonishment, which would have been taking the Lord's name in vain. He was talking directly to Jesus, and rather than rebuking Tom, Jesus affirmed this statement of faith. If Jesus wasn't God, he would have corrected Tom and refused to be worshiped... but he didn't!
John goes on to write that the reason he wrote the gospel and recorded all the miraculous things that Jesus did was that the reader would likewise believe, and by believing have true life in Jesus. Jesus really did come to earth, live as a human, heal the sick, restore sight to the blind, cast out demons and raise the dead. He truly is my Lord and my God, the incarnate creator of the universe and my savior! Praise and thanks be to such a loving and gracious God!!!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 46
John 20:1-23
If I had planned the post-resurrection publicity strategy, I would have done it differently than Jesus did… good thing I wasn’t in charge! Jesus didn’t show up in the temple courts and smite the unbelieving Pharisees. He didn’t overthrow the Roman oppression of his people. He didn’t hold mass campaigns to win the masses over to himself. According to 1 Cor 15, Jesus appeared to Peter, then to the twelve, then to more than 500 of the brothers. Jesus strategy was to reveal the resurrection to his followers only, and then commissioned them to spread the word and start his church.
In this passage (John 20), Peter and John came to the tomb and saw that it was empty and they went back home. Mary Magdalene had been with them and stayed at the tomb, and the two angels in the tomb appeared and spoke to her. Then she encountered Jesus – she thought he was the gardener, but he called her by name and she recognized him. That evening he appeared to the disciples when they were behind locked doors. Seems that his post-resurrection body wasn’t limited by walls, doors, or locks! When he spoke to the disciples, he told them that he was sending them, just like the Father had sent him. They were to go into the world to do his will and to accomplish the mission he assigned to them.
Being led more by Jesus: we too are sent by Jesus into the world. We aren’t here to please ourselves, but to please the Father. “Lord, may I hear from you like Jesus heard from you. And may I obey you like Jesus obeyed you and only did what he saw you doing. Build your kingdom through me! For your honor and glory, amen!”
If I had planned the post-resurrection publicity strategy, I would have done it differently than Jesus did… good thing I wasn’t in charge! Jesus didn’t show up in the temple courts and smite the unbelieving Pharisees. He didn’t overthrow the Roman oppression of his people. He didn’t hold mass campaigns to win the masses over to himself. According to 1 Cor 15, Jesus appeared to Peter, then to the twelve, then to more than 500 of the brothers. Jesus strategy was to reveal the resurrection to his followers only, and then commissioned them to spread the word and start his church.
In this passage (John 20), Peter and John came to the tomb and saw that it was empty and they went back home. Mary Magdalene had been with them and stayed at the tomb, and the two angels in the tomb appeared and spoke to her. Then she encountered Jesus – she thought he was the gardener, but he called her by name and she recognized him. That evening he appeared to the disciples when they were behind locked doors. Seems that his post-resurrection body wasn’t limited by walls, doors, or locks! When he spoke to the disciples, he told them that he was sending them, just like the Father had sent him. They were to go into the world to do his will and to accomplish the mission he assigned to them.
Being led more by Jesus: we too are sent by Jesus into the world. We aren’t here to please ourselves, but to please the Father. “Lord, may I hear from you like Jesus heard from you. And may I obey you like Jesus obeyed you and only did what he saw you doing. Build your kingdom through me! For your honor and glory, amen!”
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 45
John 19
Jesus remained steadfast in his pursuit of his mission, even at great personal cost. The soldiers mocked and beat him, and although he could have destroyed them with a word, he submitted to their abuse. The Jewish leaders were false shepherds, claiming to represent God, but they in fact were violently opposed to God. Jesus could have revealed his glory and demonstrated his deity by calling down fire from heaven and consuming them, but he didn’t.
Jesus mission was to die for our sins, and he willingly took the pain, suffering, and ultimately death because of his love for humanity. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Even in the midst of the agony of the cross, he served others: He saw his mother and John the disciple and entrusted her to his care. “And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home” (v27).
Leading more like Jesus: We may be called on to sacrifice much for the sake of the kingdom, just like Jesus did. When the personal price gets too high, don’t bail on the mission that God gives you! Remember the sacrifice of Jesus and realize that you are like him when you set aside your comfort and desires to fulfill the will of the Father.
Jesus remained steadfast in his pursuit of his mission, even at great personal cost. The soldiers mocked and beat him, and although he could have destroyed them with a word, he submitted to their abuse. The Jewish leaders were false shepherds, claiming to represent God, but they in fact were violently opposed to God. Jesus could have revealed his glory and demonstrated his deity by calling down fire from heaven and consuming them, but he didn’t.
Jesus mission was to die for our sins, and he willingly took the pain, suffering, and ultimately death because of his love for humanity. “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). Even in the midst of the agony of the cross, he served others: He saw his mother and John the disciple and entrusted her to his care. “And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home” (v27).
Leading more like Jesus: We may be called on to sacrifice much for the sake of the kingdom, just like Jesus did. When the personal price gets too high, don’t bail on the mission that God gives you! Remember the sacrifice of Jesus and realize that you are like him when you set aside your comfort and desires to fulfill the will of the Father.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 44
John 18:12-40
During the questioning of Jesus, Peter carried out the denial that Jesus said he would do. Throughout the previous three years, Peter was the bold one, often first to speak and always ready to take a risk. Within a span of a few hours, he went from warrior to wimp! He had drawn a sword and used it to protect Jesus when arrested, but now at least two of the three denials were to servants, people who probably posed no threat to him at all.
How could a strong and bold person, who knew Jesus personally, face to face, have denied him? Perhaps a better question is, could I deny him? Peter allowed fear to turn him away from Christ, and if Peter could, so could I! The amazing thing was that later, after the resurrection, Jesus restored Peter. He extended grace to Peter and didn’t condemn him for the denial.
Be on guard against fear! When it raises its ugly head, take it to God and confess it. Yield anew to the Holy Spirit and ask him for the courage to do the right thing!
During the questioning of Jesus, Peter carried out the denial that Jesus said he would do. Throughout the previous three years, Peter was the bold one, often first to speak and always ready to take a risk. Within a span of a few hours, he went from warrior to wimp! He had drawn a sword and used it to protect Jesus when arrested, but now at least two of the three denials were to servants, people who probably posed no threat to him at all.
How could a strong and bold person, who knew Jesus personally, face to face, have denied him? Perhaps a better question is, could I deny him? Peter allowed fear to turn him away from Christ, and if Peter could, so could I! The amazing thing was that later, after the resurrection, Jesus restored Peter. He extended grace to Peter and didn’t condemn him for the denial.
Be on guard against fear! When it raises its ugly head, take it to God and confess it. Yield anew to the Holy Spirit and ask him for the courage to do the right thing!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 43
John 18:1-11
On the night of Jesus’ arrest, it’s amazing the Peter wasn’t killed! Judas went to the garden of Gethsemane to betray Jesus, and was accompanied by soldiers and temple officers (police?). When they came up to seize Jesus, Peter pulled a sword and cut off a servant’s ear. Jesus quickly intervened and told Peter to put the sword away – perhaps because the soldiers drew their swords and were ready to attack. Peter’s move was courageous but foolish. Did he think he was going to take on a whole band of soldiers?
When the crowd first arrived, Jesus pulled back the veil of his deity for a brief moment, displaying his power. He asked who they were looking for and the reply came, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus answered them, “I Am” and they all drew back and fell down. The revelation of Jesus’ identity literally knocked them off their feet! Perhaps this reaction from the crowd is what emboldened Peter to draw the sword and attack.
Jesus remained resolute toward his purpose throughout the encounter. He could have easily defeated the crowd and left if that was the Father’s plan, but instead he accepted the fact that the Father’s purpose was for Jesus to suffer and die: “shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” (v11). Thank you, Lord Jesus, for staying faithful to your mission and enduring the cross, that I might be forgiven and have life!
On the night of Jesus’ arrest, it’s amazing the Peter wasn’t killed! Judas went to the garden of Gethsemane to betray Jesus, and was accompanied by soldiers and temple officers (police?). When they came up to seize Jesus, Peter pulled a sword and cut off a servant’s ear. Jesus quickly intervened and told Peter to put the sword away – perhaps because the soldiers drew their swords and were ready to attack. Peter’s move was courageous but foolish. Did he think he was going to take on a whole band of soldiers?
When the crowd first arrived, Jesus pulled back the veil of his deity for a brief moment, displaying his power. He asked who they were looking for and the reply came, “Jesus of Nazareth.” Jesus answered them, “I Am” and they all drew back and fell down. The revelation of Jesus’ identity literally knocked them off their feet! Perhaps this reaction from the crowd is what emboldened Peter to draw the sword and attack.
Jesus remained resolute toward his purpose throughout the encounter. He could have easily defeated the crowd and left if that was the Father’s plan, but instead he accepted the fact that the Father’s purpose was for Jesus to suffer and die: “shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” (v11). Thank you, Lord Jesus, for staying faithful to your mission and enduring the cross, that I might be forgiven and have life!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 42
John 17:1-26
Before Jesus headed out to the garden where he would be betrayed, Jesus prayed to the Father. His prayer contained three parts:
Leading more to Jesus: our unity is key in being a positive witness to the world. Follow Jesus’ example in prayer by asking the Father to unify his people and shine his light and love through us. Our witness begins on our knees!
Before Jesus headed out to the garden where he would be betrayed, Jesus prayed to the Father. His prayer contained three parts:
v1-5: Jesus prayed for himself, reporting that he accomplished the work assigned to him and asking for a restoration to glory.
v6-19: Jesus prayed for the disciples, for their protection in God’s name and from the evil one. He prayed for their unity and states that they are sent into the world like the Father sent him into the world.
v20-26: Jesus prayed for us and for all who would believe, that we would be unified so that the world would know who Jesus is and know the Father’s love.
Leading more to Jesus: our unity is key in being a positive witness to the world. Follow Jesus’ example in prayer by asking the Father to unify his people and shine his light and love through us. Our witness begins on our knees!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 41
John 16:16-33
Once again, Jesus tells the disciples that he will be leaving and then coming back. He knew what the coming hours held because the Father revealed it to him. And once again, he returns to the topic of prayer and tells the disciples to go directly to the Father in Jesus’ name and he will give what they asked. “Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full” (v24). There is fullness of joy in prayer and in the responses of answered prayer!
He also warned them of coming tribulation: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (v33). As followers of Christ, we aren’t to be discouraged when hard times come. They will come and we should expect them. We can be courageous and uplifted during difficulties because Jesus has already won the battle – he has “overcome the world.” Later, his brother James would tell us to “Consider it pure joy…” (James 1:2-5).
Once again, Jesus tells the disciples that he will be leaving and then coming back. He knew what the coming hours held because the Father revealed it to him. And once again, he returns to the topic of prayer and tells the disciples to go directly to the Father in Jesus’ name and he will give what they asked. “Ask and you will receive, that your joy may be full” (v24). There is fullness of joy in prayer and in the responses of answered prayer!
He also warned them of coming tribulation: “In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (v33). As followers of Christ, we aren’t to be discouraged when hard times come. They will come and we should expect them. We can be courageous and uplifted during difficulties because Jesus has already won the battle – he has “overcome the world.” Later, his brother James would tell us to “Consider it pure joy…” (James 1:2-5).
Monday, May 16, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 40
John 16:5-15
Why would Jesus say that it was more advantageous for the Holy Spirit to be with the disciples than to have Jesus with them in the flesh? When Jesus was on earth, he was limited by a physical body – he could only be at one place at a time. His presence was encouraging and growth-producing in his followers, but restricted in geography.
The Holy Spirit’s presence is internal, not external. He indwells all believers, and ministers in and through each one separately as well as corporately. We see the impact of the Holy Spirit’s presence in Acts 2 when the he came on the disciples and ministry was multiplied.
According to this passage in John 16, here is some of the Holy Spirit’s work:
• Toward the world: conviction of sin, righteousness, and judgment
• He will guide us into truth
• He will reveal “things to come”
• He will declare the things of Christ
Being led more by Jesus: I will embrace the Holy Spirit's presence within me and allow him to instruct, direct, and empower me for world-impact!
Why would Jesus say that it was more advantageous for the Holy Spirit to be with the disciples than to have Jesus with them in the flesh? When Jesus was on earth, he was limited by a physical body – he could only be at one place at a time. His presence was encouraging and growth-producing in his followers, but restricted in geography.
The Holy Spirit’s presence is internal, not external. He indwells all believers, and ministers in and through each one separately as well as corporately. We see the impact of the Holy Spirit’s presence in Acts 2 when the he came on the disciples and ministry was multiplied.
According to this passage in John 16, here is some of the Holy Spirit’s work:
• Toward the world: conviction of sin, righteousness, and judgment
• He will guide us into truth
• He will reveal “things to come”
• He will declare the things of Christ
Being led more by Jesus: I will embrace the Holy Spirit's presence within me and allow him to instruct, direct, and empower me for world-impact!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 39
John 15:18-16:4
Expect opposition! God doesn’t call us to be popular or well-liked by the world. In fact, Jesus said that we will be hated because we’re not like them. Sadly, we are too often motivated by the desire to fit in, and then we pursue looking like the world. Not that we are to be obnoxious like the campus preachers who yell at the crowd and declare that they’re going to hell. But, how often do we care more for our comfort and success at the expense of being a witness for Jesus?
Jesus warned the disciples of coming persecution so they wouldn’t get discouraged and fall away. There is an unseen realm of spiritual war that we too easily ignore. We’re not called to peace-time living but war-time readiness.
Being more led by Jesus: Pray, watch, and pursue opportunities to be a witness for Jesus – even if it involves persecution and rejection as a result!
Expect opposition! God doesn’t call us to be popular or well-liked by the world. In fact, Jesus said that we will be hated because we’re not like them. Sadly, we are too often motivated by the desire to fit in, and then we pursue looking like the world. Not that we are to be obnoxious like the campus preachers who yell at the crowd and declare that they’re going to hell. But, how often do we care more for our comfort and success at the expense of being a witness for Jesus?
Jesus warned the disciples of coming persecution so they wouldn’t get discouraged and fall away. There is an unseen realm of spiritual war that we too easily ignore. We’re not called to peace-time living but war-time readiness.
Being more led by Jesus: Pray, watch, and pursue opportunities to be a witness for Jesus – even if it involves persecution and rejection as a result!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 38
John 15:12-17
Jesus returns to the idea of answered prayer: “whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you” (v16). He spoke of abiding in him and the natural outflow being fruit-bearing, then goes on to say, “so that whatever you ask in my name…” Herein he presents another condition to the great prayer promise and reveals what it means to ask in his name – abiding in Christ.
When we abide in Christ, and his words abide in us, we will:
When we abide in Christ, our requests won’t be selfishly motivated, but will be surrendered to the will of the Father. Then we will be asking according to his will, and whatever we ask according to his will, he hears us and gives the requests we ask (1 John 5:15).
Jesus returns to the idea of answered prayer: “whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you” (v16). He spoke of abiding in him and the natural outflow being fruit-bearing, then goes on to say, “so that whatever you ask in my name…” Herein he presents another condition to the great prayer promise and reveals what it means to ask in his name – abiding in Christ.
When we abide in Christ, and his words abide in us, we will:
• Bear much fruit (v4,5,8,16)
• Keep his commands (v10,14)
• Love each other as Jesus loved us (v12,17) (which is the command of Christ! 13:34-35)
• Ask according to his will and in his name (v7,16)
• Receive what we ask for (v7,16)
• Keep his commands (v10,14)
• Love each other as Jesus loved us (v12,17) (which is the command of Christ! 13:34-35)
• Ask according to his will and in his name (v7,16)
• Receive what we ask for (v7,16)
When we abide in Christ, our requests won’t be selfishly motivated, but will be surrendered to the will of the Father. Then we will be asking according to his will, and whatever we ask according to his will, he hears us and gives the requests we ask (1 John 5:15).
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 37
John 15:1-11
Jesus shares insight into relationship with himself through the metaphor of the vine and the branches. In the analogy, Jesus is the vine, the Father is the gardener, and we are the branches connected to the vine. God’s purpose for us is to bear much fruit. How do we bear fruit? And what is fruit?
While the passage doesn’t specify what the fruit is, Jesus says twice that by abiding in him we will bear much fruit (v5,8), and that bearing fruit is why he chose us (v16). Fruit bearing must be related to God accomplishing his kingdom puposes through us – doing good works for his glory. Fruit probably varies from person to person, depending on the spiritual gifts and how God is at work in us.
How do we bear fruit? Abiding in Christ and Christ abiding in us (v4,5,7—8). Also, the Father prunes us (disciplines us – Hebrews 12:5-11) to cause us to be more fruitful. Abiding – Jesus says that his words abide in us, so abiding involves a regular intake and retention of his word.
Being led more by Jesus: Pursue a daily relationship of walking with Jesus through his Word, through prayer, and obedience to his commands (v10). The result will be a life of bearing fruit for God’s glory and his joy in our lives (v11).
Jesus shares insight into relationship with himself through the metaphor of the vine and the branches. In the analogy, Jesus is the vine, the Father is the gardener, and we are the branches connected to the vine. God’s purpose for us is to bear much fruit. How do we bear fruit? And what is fruit?
While the passage doesn’t specify what the fruit is, Jesus says twice that by abiding in him we will bear much fruit (v5,8), and that bearing fruit is why he chose us (v16). Fruit bearing must be related to God accomplishing his kingdom puposes through us – doing good works for his glory. Fruit probably varies from person to person, depending on the spiritual gifts and how God is at work in us.
How do we bear fruit? Abiding in Christ and Christ abiding in us (v4,5,7—8). Also, the Father prunes us (disciplines us – Hebrews 12:5-11) to cause us to be more fruitful. Abiding – Jesus says that his words abide in us, so abiding involves a regular intake and retention of his word.
Being led more by Jesus: Pursue a daily relationship of walking with Jesus through his Word, through prayer, and obedience to his commands (v10). The result will be a life of bearing fruit for God’s glory and his joy in our lives (v11).
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 36
John 14:15-31
Three times in this passage, Jesus says that our love for him is demonstrated by our obedience. There’s also a reciprocal relationship between our obedience and the presence of God in our lives: “…and I will love him and manifest myself to him” (v21); “…and we will come to him and make our home with him” (v23). The danger in interpreting this passage would be drawing the conclusion that God’s love and presence is dependent on our performance.
A better approach concludes that a true follower of Jesus will truly love him, and love will be demonstrated in obedience. Jesus also said that those who don’t love him won’t obey him. I think the bigger issue is love. God’s presence in our lives is related to our love for him. And when we truly love God, we’ll want to obey and follow him – not out of guilt or fear, but out of love.
Our perspective on who God is and what he wants for us shapes our motivation for how we relate to him. When we can embrace God as loving, gracious, good and giving, our response to him is rooted in love and thankfulness. Look at all that John describes in these verses as coming from God: his presence (v18 & 23), the Holy Spirit (v16 & 26), peace (v28), and so much more!
Three times in this passage, Jesus says that our love for him is demonstrated by our obedience. There’s also a reciprocal relationship between our obedience and the presence of God in our lives: “…and I will love him and manifest myself to him” (v21); “…and we will come to him and make our home with him” (v23). The danger in interpreting this passage would be drawing the conclusion that God’s love and presence is dependent on our performance.
A better approach concludes that a true follower of Jesus will truly love him, and love will be demonstrated in obedience. Jesus also said that those who don’t love him won’t obey him. I think the bigger issue is love. God’s presence in our lives is related to our love for him. And when we truly love God, we’ll want to obey and follow him – not out of guilt or fear, but out of love.
Our perspective on who God is and what he wants for us shapes our motivation for how we relate to him. When we can embrace God as loving, gracious, good and giving, our response to him is rooted in love and thankfulness. Look at all that John describes in these verses as coming from God: his presence (v18 & 23), the Holy Spirit (v16 & 26), peace (v28), and so much more!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 35
John 14:12-14
In these few verses, Jesus makes some pretty fantastic promises. Are they really true? Or is he using hyperbole to pump up his team before they take the field?
• “greater works that these will he do” (v12)
• “whatever you ask in my name, this will I do” (v13)
Jesus just finished telling them that they can believe in him because of both his words and his miracles. A few days later he rose from the dead, another fantastic miracle and demonstration of his deity and power. So I don’t think that Jesus is sensationalizing here. He’s speaking truth, but a truth that I’m afraid most Christians don’t embrace or experience.
Because of the sequence and proximity of these promises, they probably go together. Looking at the broader context indicates both the purpose and conditions for their fulfillment:
1. Condition: “Whoever believes in me…”
2. Cause: “because I am going to the Father…” The next passage speaks of Jesus sending the Holy Spirit; Jesus goes to the Father and sends the Holy Spirit who will empower believers to do greater works! I don’t think the reference to greater works includes Jesus’ death and resurrection though; that was his greatest work which provided the whole context for Christianity!
3. Condition: “in my name…” Jesus doesn’t promise to answer every prayer in a positive way, but specifically those that are asked in his name, and those that will glorify God -->
4. Purpose: “that the Father may be glorified…”
God’s plan for those who believe in Jesus is to engage in God’s work and accomplish more ministry for his glory that even Jesus did! We go to the Father in Jesus’ name and those things that will result in God’s glory will be accomplished.
In these few verses, Jesus makes some pretty fantastic promises. Are they really true? Or is he using hyperbole to pump up his team before they take the field?
• “greater works that these will he do” (v12)
• “whatever you ask in my name, this will I do” (v13)
Jesus just finished telling them that they can believe in him because of both his words and his miracles. A few days later he rose from the dead, another fantastic miracle and demonstration of his deity and power. So I don’t think that Jesus is sensationalizing here. He’s speaking truth, but a truth that I’m afraid most Christians don’t embrace or experience.
Because of the sequence and proximity of these promises, they probably go together. Looking at the broader context indicates both the purpose and conditions for their fulfillment:
1. Condition: “Whoever believes in me…”
2. Cause: “because I am going to the Father…” The next passage speaks of Jesus sending the Holy Spirit; Jesus goes to the Father and sends the Holy Spirit who will empower believers to do greater works! I don’t think the reference to greater works includes Jesus’ death and resurrection though; that was his greatest work which provided the whole context for Christianity!
3. Condition: “in my name…” Jesus doesn’t promise to answer every prayer in a positive way, but specifically those that are asked in his name, and those that will glorify God -->
4. Purpose: “that the Father may be glorified…”
God’s plan for those who believe in Jesus is to engage in God’s work and accomplish more ministry for his glory that even Jesus did! We go to the Father in Jesus’ name and those things that will result in God’s glory will be accomplished.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 34
John 14:1-11
“Christians are so narrow – they think they have the corner on truth and that Jesus is the only way to God!” Perhaps you’ve heard that statement or something similar to it. Our culture frowns upon claims to have the right way to the exclusion of others. So do we deserve the accusation of being narrow? Ya, sure, ya betcha! But not because of what we say, it’s because of what Jesus says, and here in John 14 is a great example of clarity from him. If we believe that Jesus is truly God in the flesh (and I do!), and we believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, containing the actual words that Jesus spoke, then we’ve got to take this passage seriously!
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (v6). There is no other way to interpret this saying, other than Jesus claiming to be the only way into relationship with God. Competing teachings from other religions therefore are wrong. There are not other ways to heaven, other ways to salvation. God designed the system, and we’ve got the choice to embrace his way or reject it. Creating our own way won’t work – he is God and we’re not and he gets to make the rules.
But rather than castigating God as being harsh and unloving, this is the ultimate expression of God’s love. Jesus came from heaven to live on earth as a human, and sacrificed himself so that we might be forgiven and have relationship with God. Because Jesus is God in the flesh, when you trust in Jesus, you are trusting in God.
“Christians are so narrow – they think they have the corner on truth and that Jesus is the only way to God!” Perhaps you’ve heard that statement or something similar to it. Our culture frowns upon claims to have the right way to the exclusion of others. So do we deserve the accusation of being narrow? Ya, sure, ya betcha! But not because of what we say, it’s because of what Jesus says, and here in John 14 is a great example of clarity from him. If we believe that Jesus is truly God in the flesh (and I do!), and we believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, containing the actual words that Jesus spoke, then we’ve got to take this passage seriously!
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (v6). There is no other way to interpret this saying, other than Jesus claiming to be the only way into relationship with God. Competing teachings from other religions therefore are wrong. There are not other ways to heaven, other ways to salvation. God designed the system, and we’ve got the choice to embrace his way or reject it. Creating our own way won’t work – he is God and we’re not and he gets to make the rules.
But rather than castigating God as being harsh and unloving, this is the ultimate expression of God’s love. Jesus came from heaven to live on earth as a human, and sacrificed himself so that we might be forgiven and have relationship with God. Because Jesus is God in the flesh, when you trust in Jesus, you are trusting in God.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 33
John 13:21-38
For a third time in three chapters, John records that Jesus was “troubled” in his spirit. He experienced the internal anguish of the betrayal that was to come in the hours ahead, and then expressed his sorrow to the disciples, telling them that one of them would betray him. Yet even when one of his own was turning against him, Jesus remained focused on his mission and didn’t shrink back from his calling.
After Judas left to cut his deal, Jesus spoke to the disciples, giving them the new command of loving one another. The mark of being a disciple of Jesus is love, and love is demonstrated in selfless service of one another. We are most like God when we live a life of love – for God is love.
For a third time in three chapters, John records that Jesus was “troubled” in his spirit. He experienced the internal anguish of the betrayal that was to come in the hours ahead, and then expressed his sorrow to the disciples, telling them that one of them would betray him. Yet even when one of his own was turning against him, Jesus remained focused on his mission and didn’t shrink back from his calling.
After Judas left to cut his deal, Jesus spoke to the disciples, giving them the new command of loving one another. The mark of being a disciple of Jesus is love, and love is demonstrated in selfless service of one another. We are most like God when we live a life of love – for God is love.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Led by Jesus... like Jesus... to Jesus: 32
John 13:1-20
I love this passage on Jesus washing the disciples’ feet! It turns all the conventional wisdom about leadership on its head, and sets an example for us to follow as servant leaders. What struck me today was the preface to the beginning of the foot washing – a listing of things that Jesus was aware of at that moment:
• His hour had come to depart out of this world
• Judas was already on the course of betrayal (being led by the devil)
• The Father had given him all things
• That he had come from God
• That he was going back to God
John was setting the context for Jesus’ humbling himself as a servant leader. This was no random act of kindness; it was a deliberate act that Jesus engaged in when the heaviness of the upcoming trial and crucifixion weighed on his heart.
So why did he wash their feet? John wrote that “having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” “His own” probably referred to his disciples, since this took place in a private setting where only Jesus and his disciples were there. The act of washing their feet was not only an act of humility and model of servant leadership, it was supremely a demonstration of selfless love. Judas was still with the disciples, and it appears that Jesus washed all their feet, Judas included! Even though his upcoming suffering and Judas betrayal were intertwined, he still loved Judas and demonstrated it through washing his feet.
Leading like Jesus: our calling is not to the pedestal of power and prestige; our calling is to become like Jesus with the servant’s towel and loving heart. Even when others turn against us, we are to entrust ourselves to God’s higher purposes and continue to serve others in love.
I love this passage on Jesus washing the disciples’ feet! It turns all the conventional wisdom about leadership on its head, and sets an example for us to follow as servant leaders. What struck me today was the preface to the beginning of the foot washing – a listing of things that Jesus was aware of at that moment:
• His hour had come to depart out of this world
• Judas was already on the course of betrayal (being led by the devil)
• The Father had given him all things
• That he had come from God
• That he was going back to God
John was setting the context for Jesus’ humbling himself as a servant leader. This was no random act of kindness; it was a deliberate act that Jesus engaged in when the heaviness of the upcoming trial and crucifixion weighed on his heart.
So why did he wash their feet? John wrote that “having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” “His own” probably referred to his disciples, since this took place in a private setting where only Jesus and his disciples were there. The act of washing their feet was not only an act of humility and model of servant leadership, it was supremely a demonstration of selfless love. Judas was still with the disciples, and it appears that Jesus washed all their feet, Judas included! Even though his upcoming suffering and Judas betrayal were intertwined, he still loved Judas and demonstrated it through washing his feet.
Leading like Jesus: our calling is not to the pedestal of power and prestige; our calling is to become like Jesus with the servant’s towel and loving heart. Even when others turn against us, we are to entrust ourselves to God’s higher purposes and continue to serve others in love.
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