We Are Becoming

Sifting Wheat

2012-03-12T06:07:00.001-07:00

Luke gives us an insight into Peter’s denial that John does not address. Just before Jesus told Peter that he would deny the Lord, he said to him, “…indeed, Satan has asked for you that he may sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, hat your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to me, strengthen your brethren” (Luke 22:31-32).

In other words Jesus not only knew Peter would deny him, but that he would also return to his faith. Yet again we see that God uses our failures to sift us. Sifting is a process of getting rid of the empty husks of wheat. When we fail the things that are empty in our life become obvious. We then cry out to God to remove them and he takes us another step toward being like him.

Notice also that Jesus said he was praying for Peter. God answers every request that Jesus makes to his Father. Did you know that scripture says Jesus is praying for you? (Romans 8:34).

Life Style vs Failure

2012-03-09T06:15:00.001-08:00

Jesus was very specific about the timing of Peter’s denial. “…Most assuredly, I say to you, the rooster shall not crow till you have denied me three times” (John 13:38: Luke 22:34).

God knew before you failed him exactly when and how you would fail. Yet, knowing this he still called you to himself. If he called you when you were his enemy, is he going to stop loving you now that you are his child and you failed? (Romans 5:6-11).

We cannot choose to continue to live in sin and expect to inherit the kingdom of God. But remember, a failure is not a life style (Galatians 5:19-21; Proverbs 28:13)

The Gifts and Calling

2012-03-08T06:31:00.001-08:00

One of the most important lessons we can learn from Peter’s failure is that God does not give up on us when we fail. God did not withdraw his call from Peter because he denied him. He used Peter’s failure to strengthen the call on his life (John 21:15-19; Romans 12:28-29).

A Strange Teaching Technique

2012-03-07T06:20:00.001-08:00

We said yesterday that God will always give us the strength to resist Satan’s temptations, yet Peter failed. Why?

We said his experience teaches us that we cannot resist temptation without relying on God. That is true, but I think there is more to learn here. Scripture tells us God had the Children of Israel go by way of the Red Sea lest when they saw war they might change their minds and go back to Egypt (Exodus 13:17). Which begs the question, if God protected Israel from facing a temptation that would cause them to fail why did God allow Peter and the rest of the disciples face a temptation that caused them to fail?

One answer is that God uses even our failures to teach us our need for him (Romans 8:28-29; I John 3:19-20; I John 1:9).

Secondly, God did not promise we would not fail, but that he would provide what we need not to fail. It is up to us to use it

Three Truths

2012-03-06T06:09:00.003-08:00

Peter sincerely thought he was ready to give his life up for Christ when he said to Jesus, “Why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for your sake” (John 13:37). In a matter of hours he denied even knowing Jesus (John 18). Yet we know from history that Peter did indeed give his life for the gospel.

Peter’s experience tells us at least three basic truths.

1. We can never remain true to God by our own self determined will

2. We must always rely on God to supply the strength to resist Satan’s temptations (James 4:7)

3. God makes sure we have what we need to resist sin (I Corinthians 10:13).

See Him Now

2012-03-05T06:08:00.001-08:00

When Jesus was about to leave he told his disciples that they would not see him for a short while (John 13:33). Peter could not understand why he couldn’t come with Jesus. He did not wish to wait for Jesus to return (John 13:36).

There have been many times in my life when I could not spiritually see Jesus. It felt like he had gone away. I too did not wish to wait to see him. I wanted to see what he was doing in my circumstance.

The truth is waiting increases our character (James 1:1-4).

Now is the Time

2012-03-02T06:12:00.001-08:00

Jesus is facing an excruciating death. Being fully man, feeling everything we would feel (Heb 5:7-9) he knew the kind of physical pain he was about to suffer. He had seen crucifixions before. Yet he told his disciples, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself and glorify him quickly” (John 13:31-32).

If I were facing such a death, I would be in a panic trying my best to find a way out of it. How could Jesus be so calm about his death? Actually he dreaded what was about to happen. The writer of Hebrews tells us that Jesus agonized over his coming death (Hebrews 5:7).

He could speak of God glorifying him because he knew what would come afterward. He knew because of what he was about to go through we would become his children (Hebrews 12:2).

If you are facing something you fear will destroy you, focus on God being in control of the outcomes in your life (Hebrews 12:2; Ephesians 1:4-5, 11-12). He will not abandon you (John 14:18; Mt 28:20). God will be glorified.

Value of Silver

2012-03-01T06:26:00.000-08:00

The disciples were so caught up with their own self doubt that they missed Jesus’ plain declaration that Judas was the betrayer (John 13:26). They assumed Judas was going out to buy supplies or give money to the poor (John 13:29).

Judas had already been to the high priest to initiate a deal, money for delivering Jesus into their hands (Mt 26:14). Seems appalling, doesn’t it? Riches had so consumed Judas that he had lost all sight of who Jesus was and of eternal values.

Is that not what we do when we take moral short cuts? We forget his pain to free us from bondage to the values of this world.

Get it Over With

2012-02-29T06:48:00.002-08:00

After Jesus handed the piece of bread over to Judas, he was ready to get this ordeal behind him. He told Judas, “What you do, do quickly” (John 13:27).

There are times when we know something negative is about to happen and we simply want it behind us. God does not required that we enjoy our trials, only that we trust him while living through them (Hebrews 12:2; 1 Peter 2:23).

Money, Money, Money

2012-02-28T06:32:00.001-08:00

“Then leaning back on Jesus,’ breast, he said to him, “Lord who is it?” Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give a piece of bread when I have dipped it.” And having dipped the bread, he gave it o Judas Iscariot, he son of Simon. Now after the piece of bread, Satan entered him” (John 13:23-27).

Judas had been living a dishonest life (John 12:6). He loved money. It consumed him to the point of being willing to betray anyone, even the Savior. It was only after a lifetime of deceit and betrayal that Satan changed from influencing Judas to actually entering into him. When that happened he led Judas to his death (Mt 27:5).

There is a way that seems right unto a man, but that way leads to death (Proverbs 14:12).

Self Examination

2012-02-27T08:18:00.000-08:00

We tend to see Peter as self assured pointing to the fact that he got out of the boat and walked on the water. He is the one who swore he would give his life for Jesus. But Peter also struggled with self doubt.

When Jesus told the disciples that one of them would betray him, they were all perplexed (John 13:22). Each one, including Peter, asked the Lord, "Is it I?" (Mt 26:22).

Peter warns us all to be aware of the deceptiveness of evil lest we are lead astray by the error of the wicked (2 Peter 3:17; 1 Cor 11:28-31)

Losing a Friend

2012-02-24T05:51:00.002-08:00

Contrary to what people want to tell themselves, these things were not easy for Jesus. People say, but he was the Son of God, or “He was God, of course he could resist sin”. But the scripture says Jesus was tempted in like manner as we are (Hebrews 4:14-16). He felt the pain of being betrayed. John writes that when Jesus thought about Judas, “He was troubled in his spirit (Jn 13:21).

We are not failures as Christians when we sorrow over the loss of a friendship. We are rightto grieve. We are never right to be revengeful (Romans 12:17-21)

Just and Unjust

2012-02-23T06:44:00.001-08:00

There is no indication that Jesus treated Judas any differently than he did the rest of the disciples, even though he knew from the beginning that Judas would betray him (Mt 5:45; John 6:64, 13:11).

My tendency is to pull back and hide myself from those I sense will betray me. Certainly we need to be wise in whom we place our trust, but scripture tells us to remain kind to those who are not kind to us (Mt 5:44; Romans 12:14, 18-21).

We will be able to do this only as long as we rely on God to do it through us.

Too Important

2012-02-22T06:01:00.001-08:00

Jesus, Son of God, God, Creator, Lord of the universe washed men’s feet. These were the men whom he taught, the men who would forsake him, even the man who had already betrayed him and would complete the transaction that very night.

Are we so important that we cannot we serve others (John 13:12-15)?

Peter Keeps Trying

2012-02-21T06:00:00.000-08:00

Peter was shocked that Jesus wanted to wash his feet. Jesus told Peter, “What I am doing you do not understand now, but you will know after this (John 13:7). When Jesus told Peter if he did not allow Jesus to wash his feet that he would have no part of him, Peter quickly changed his mind. “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head!” (John 13:9).

Jesus knew Peter was enthusiastic but clueless. So he addressed Peter where he was, “He who is bathed needs only to wash his feet, and is completely clean…” But he again connected the physical world to the spiritual when he said “and you are clean but not all of you” (John 13:9-10). He was speaking of Judas who would betray him.

Forgive my presumption as I put it in modern vernacular. If it looks like a duck, walks like a duck, quacks like a duck, it isn’t necessarily a duck. It might be a costume.

Peter Missed It

2012-02-20T06:44:00.000-08:00

Jesus washed the disciples’ feet. But Peter could only see the humiliation of being a servant so he protested, “Lord you will NEVER wash my feet” (John 13:8).

Peter felt unworthy to have the Son of God wash his feet. He was right, none of us are. But that is the very point Jesus is making. If he who is perfect serves us who are so unworthy, then for goodness sakes we can serve one another.

Jesus is teaching, he who chooses manipulation over service values himself over the Son of God.

The Servant's Towel

2012-02-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

One of the most amazing truths is hidden in the story of Jesus washing the Disciples’ feet. It is right at the end of the last supper and the beginning of chapter 13. The treasure is in these simple words, “Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that He had come from God and was going to God… began to wash the disciples’ feet , and to wipe them with the towel with which he was girded” (John 13:2-6).

Because Jesus knew his power and his position in God he was not afraid to be a servant. Are we?

Let's Be Careful

2012-02-16T06:26:00.000-08:00

We are beginning to see the culmination of Judas’ life. When he first came to Jesus, he worked miracles along with the other eleven disciples (Mt 10:5-10; Mk 3:14-19). But he was overcome with his lust for wealth (John 12:4-6) until is corrupted his soul to the point of listening to Satan (John 13:2). He acted to fulfill that burning thirst in his spirit making a contract with the Pharisees to betray Jesus (Mt 26:14-16).

Judas sealed his fate when he took the bread from Jesus’ hand at the last supper. It was at that moment Judas became possessed by Satan (John 13:27).

It was a long tedious process for Judas to fight against the Truth and give himself over to his lusts which ultimately lead to his spiritual and physical death (Mt 27:1-5). Scripture tells us if we sew to the flesh we will reap corruption.

Let’s be careful out there (1 Peter 1:13-21)

Affected by Our Pain

2012-02-15T06:29:00.000-08:00

Jesus deeply loved his family, his disciples and his friends. He knew it was getting close to the time that he would have to give his life. He thought about those whom he loved and how they would be affected by what was about to happen (John 13:1-2).

God allows us to go through painful experiences for his glory (James 1:2-4; I peter 4:12-13). As we pray for ourselves (James 1:5) Let’s not forget those close to us will also be affected and pray for them as well (john 17; Ephesians 6:18).

Father's Command - The Real Valentine

2012-02-14T05:59:00.000-08:00

Jesus said he did not come to judge the world but to save the world (John 12:47). Be careful not to attempt to use this single sentence as a means to justify rebellion. Jesus did not say people would not be judged. In fact he said, “He who rejects me, and does not receive my words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day” (John 12:48).

Jesus told us the way to God both through his actions and through his words. He spoke all that the Father commanded him to speak and his words lead to eternal life (John 12:49).

We have received the same commission (Mt 28:20).

Which Way?

2012-02-13T05:52:00.000-08:00

There are difficult circumstances that cause us to feel isolated, unsteady and confused. We wonder what to do next. Which decision is the correct one? The Disciples were about to face that kind of a dark hour. Yet Jesus said to them, “I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in me should not abide in darkness” (John 12:46).

The light of Jesus permeates every part of our lives. Even when life seems at its darkest, we have hope that God will direct our steps (Isaiah 30:21; Ps 37:23-24; Romans 8:28-29; 34).

If you are not sure what to do, stand still, wait. Listen to that still small voice. Then trust that God is directing you steps and move forward.

Valuing Self Judgement

2012-02-10T06:32:00.000-08:00

When I was a young girl I heard that Jesus’ sacrifice saved us from the wrath of God. Though this statement is true, I misunderstood. I thought it meant God the Father was angry and mean to people who had not yet accepted Christ. I thought of God as angry and Jesus as loving.

I did not understand that who Jesus is exactly as God the Father. If the Father is angry at sin, so is the Son. If they Jesus loves us, so does the Father. If Jesus wanted to save us, so did the Father.

God’s wrath is only against those who abuse his Son. Jesus took our sins upon himself, willingly suffering for us so that we could become one with him and his Father (John 17:20-23). When we refuse to accept Jesus’ forgiveness, we are valuing our judgment over God’s grace. We are worshiping ourselves and saying Jesus died for no purpose. Is it any wonder the Father would be angry?

Love of Praise

2012-02-09T06:17:00.000-08:00

John tells us many of the Pharisee rulers did believe that Jesus was the messiah. But they did not openly confess him because they were afraid of being kicked out of the synagogue. Then John gives us this sad commentary, “For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God” (John 12:43).

Following God can mean the loss of respect from some people. Occasionally it may even mean the loss of social position. Jesus said we must love him more than any other person, position or possession. Whenever there is a conflict between God’s ways and the ways of our family, friends, or society, we choose to respond as Jesus would (Mt 10:37-39; 1 John 1:6).

Lest They Repent

2012-02-08T06:15:00.000-08:00

Before we leave this difficult passage about God hardening hearts and blinding eyes, we need to address the phrase, “lest they should understand with their hearts and turn, so that I should heal them” (John 12:40). Why would God be upset if they would repent and he heal them? Isn’t God interested in all coming to repentance? (2 Peter 3:9). Yes, that is why I do not believe he is speaking of individuals. He is speaking of the Nation as a whole.

This passage is better understood when we read Romans 11:25-32. I encourage you to read the entire passage. But in summary, the Nation of Israel was blind to who Jesus was so that the message would be taken to the Gentiles. But God will not leave them blind (Romans 11:31). God teaches both Jews and Gentiles that we all need his mercy.

And what we need, he supplies (Jeremiah 9:24).

Stubborn Rebellious Hearts

2012-02-07T06:54:00.000-08:00

“He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, lest they should see with their eyes, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn so that I should heal them” (John 12:40).

Someone will say, “If God blinds people’s eyes so they cannot see the truth, I want nothing to do with him.” It is not easy to reconcile a loving God with one who will deliberately blind people’s eyes and harden their hearts. Yet are there not times when we too have to cut people out of our lives. When it becomes clearly evident an individual is not interested in a healthy relationship but only wish to manipulate or hurt us, it is time to end the acquaintance.

Yes, God is love. Yes God is merciful. He is also just. He will not continue to allow the abuse of his Son (Genesis 6:3; Proverbs 2:22; Proverbs 29:1).

It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of a living God” (Hebrews 10:31).

Difficult Words

2012-02-06T06:07:00.000-08:00

We have come to a very difficult passage. How can we understand his next words? “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts, lest they should see with their eyes, lest they should understand with their hearts and turn so that I should heal them” (John 12:40).

Jesus is quoting Isaiah’s prophecy in Isaiah 6:10. The nation of Israel had known the truth for centuries and had refused to obey it. So the light they did have was removed and their nation was eventually taken captive.

So those who continually refuse the light that has been given them will eventually lose even that light (Luke 8:16-18).

Demands of Man

2012-02-03T06:30:00.000-08:00

During a discussion in a philosophy class in college a student speculated angrily, “Maybe if God came to earth, I might believe.” That student would more than likely be like the Pharisees. “Although he had done so many signs before them, they did not believe in him” (John 12:37).

If we honestly ask God to reveal himself to us, he will. But he is never coerced into doing things man’s way. He will reveal himself in his own way, in his own time. Not because he is like rebellious man who insists on his own way, but because he is loving and knows precisely what we need and when we need it.

To Believe in the Light

2012-02-02T06:40:00.000-08:00

Look at Jesus’ instruction about the light again. “While you have the light, believe in the light that you may become sons of light” (John 12:36).

What does it mean to believe in the light? Webster defines to believe as “to take as true, real, etc. 2 to trust a statement or promise of (a person) 3 to suppose or think, to have trust, faith or confidence in.”

To believe in the light is to make all our decisions based on that light. To live everyday according to what Jesus taught; to avoid what he told us to avoid; to act as he told us to act; to speak as he told us to speak; to be what he told us to be; in other words, to have the Character of Christ.

Blinding Light

2012-02-01T06:31:00.000-08:00

“While you have the light, believe in the light that you may be sons of light” (John 12:36). In Mathew 5:14 Jesus said we are the light of the world. When Christ lives in us we become sources of light to people around us.

Some people are blinded by the light. It is like being in the dark and someone flips on and off a light suddenly. We are aware that a light has been present, but we cannot see to move until our eyes either adjust to the dark again or the light remains on.

That is partly why some respond negatively to believers. Just make sure they are reacting to the light within you and not to any annoying traits of self righteousness.

Blindfolded

2012-01-31T06:17:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been in your living room and tried to walk blind folded or with your eyes closed? You most likely did not walk far before stumbling over something.

Jesus was the master of word pictures. “Walk while you have the light lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in the dark does not know where he is going” (John 12:35).

Attempting life without the Spirit of God working in us is like walking blindfolded. The wisest of us is a fool compared to the wisdom of God(Proverbs 1:7).

Confusing Prophecy

2012-01-31T05:53:00.000-08:00

People were confused when Jesus said he was to be crucified. “We have heard from the law that the Christ remains forever; and how can you say, ‘The Son of Man must be lifted up?’ Who is this Son of Man?” (John 12:34).

Prophecy in the Old Testament spoke both of Jesus suffering and his glorious eternal reign. The prophecies were scattered through different books and hundreds of years apart. Many details were interspersed in passages dealing with current events as well as future events. So it was no surprise that people who depended on priests to interpret the Law and the prophets were confused. Naturally people focus on the coming Messiah’s power rather than his suffering.

Do we also focus so much on the promises of eternal joy and freedom from suffering that we miss passages like 1 Peter 4:12-13; James 1:1-3; and Galatians 4:13-14?

Draw All to Himself

2012-01-30T06:48:00.000-08:00

Jesus said that he would draw all to himself. Most translations add the word “men”. The News Kings James adds the word “peoples”. But neither word is in the original texts. He simply states, “I will draw all to myself.”

The Truth is clearly stated in the original text. Jesus draws all to himself. In other words every person at some point in his life is drawn to God because of Jesus sacrifice for our sin.

Lift Jesus Higher

2012-01-27T06:33:00.000-08:00

Sometimes we sing songs that make no doctrinal sense. There was on old Chorus that said, “Lift Jesus higher, lift Jesus higher. Lift him up for the world to see. He said if I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men unto me.” You would think by the words of this song that we should talk about Jesus more often and as we exalt his name in our conversations that he will draw all men to him.

This chorus is based on John 12:32. But Jesus is not speaking about conversations among people when he says, “If I am lifted up from the earth I will draw all men unto me.” He is talking about his crucifixion. So if the song were taken literally, we would be chanting, “Lift that cross with Jesus on it, higher up on that hill. Make the pole higher!” (John 12:33)

It is important that we take the time to know what scripture actually teaches. To neglect the accurate study of God’s word leads to either confusing people or chasing people away from knowing the truth. Neither option is pleasing to God.

A Ruler Cast Out

2012-01-26T06:21:00.000-08:00

Jesus told the crowd, “Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out” (John 12:31). Once again we are puzzled at Jesus words when we see the injustices in life and the obvious working of Satan among men. How could he say the ruler of this world is cast out, when obviously he is still at work here?

The point is Satan has only the power that people give him. He cannot murder, steal or destroy without human actions. He has quite literally been defeated but human give him back his power.

Let’s agree that for at least this day we will make him flee by resisting his temptations (James 4:7-8).

A Prayer for the Death of Dreams

2012-01-25T06:11:00.000-08:00

Jesus prayed, “Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven saying, “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again” (John 12:28).

Jesus was about to face physical death. He felt every fear we would experience if we were about to face such an horrendous death. He told his disciples, “My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? “Father, save me from his hour?” But for this purpose I came to this hour.”

When we face either physical death or death of our dreams, we are wise to join in Jesus’ prayer, “Father, glorify your name.”

My Father Will Honor

2012-01-24T06:55:00.000-08:00

I know of people whom have received public honors. They have usually done something extraordinary for the community or for a hurting people. It is not unusual for the recipient of such honors to make it into the local newspaper. Few are honored so publicly that the nation is aware of them such as the first man to step on the moon, Neil Armstrong.

But those who follow Christ receive the greatest honor. Jesus said, “If anyone serves me, him my Father will honor” (John 12:26).

What grace! Who are we that God should honor us?

Divine Imitating

2012-01-23T06:04:00.000-08:00

Shortly before Jesus was to go to the cross he told his disciples, “If anyone serves me, let him follow me: and where I am, there my servant will be also” (John 12:26).

We know he was not referring to his physical body, because that was about to be crucified. His disciples would not all be on the cross with him or in the grave with him. So what did he mean?

First, we follow Jesus by living according to his teaching. Secondly, when we notice God is doing something in a particular situation, we join in. If we do not see God working, we step back and become very cautious. It is much like what Jesus told the Pharisees early on in his ministry. “Most assuredly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of himself, but what he sees the Father do…the Son also does in like manner” (John 5:19).

Secondary Preservation

2012-01-20T08:54:00.000-08:00

What did Jesus mean when he said, “…he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life”? (John 12:25). Are we to hate our life? Is God only pleased with us when we are miserable? I suppose most of us have met people who seemed to think so.

But Jesus is giving us a comparison. If we love our life in this world to the point that we refuse to lay down our life for his will, then we are cherishing ourselves above God. We must always remember that our life is temporary at best. Our physical bodies are mere seeds. Unless that seed dies, there can be no fruit produced.

Our love for God is so great that self preservation becomes secondary.

Self Preservation

2012-01-19T06:34:00.000-08:00

We all have the natural instinct to live. It is a gift from God to protect us from doing foolishly dangerous things. We not only protect our physical bodies, we also protect our egos.

Jesus establishes a new way of viewing life. He tells us to lay down our lives for the sake of following him. Unless we die to ourselves, we will bear no fruit. If we deny our selfish tendencies God will produce much spiritual fruit through us. If we hold onto our self-centered rights, we remain alone.

Jesus put it this way, “He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life” (John 12:24-25).

Greeks Want to Interview Jesus

2012-01-18T06:33:00.000-08:00

The people who saw Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead spoke freely about what they had seen. As a result the crowds around Jesus once again began to increase. The excitement was mounting until the Pharisees were frustrated accusing one another of not doing enough to stop this religious rebellion (John 12:17-19)

The stories about the miracles reached as far as Greece so that certain men made the trip to Jerusalem to find Jesus. They approached Philip telling him they wanted to speak with Jesus. Philip told his close friend Andrew and the two of them approached Jesus. I am quite sure they expected Jesus to take the time to speak with these men. Instead, Jesus talks to the disciples about sacrificing their lives for the sake of following him (John 12:20-27).

It may seem counter intuitive, but there are times when we are to focus on those following God than those who simply want to talk about him.

Uneducated Disciples

2012-01-17T06:20:00.000-08:00

It is important to remember that the disciples were not religiously educated men. Many were fishermen by trade. One was a tax collector. They were not familiar with prophecies of the Old Testament about the Messiah. They only held a generic knowledge that a Messiah would come. The only disciple that has anything said about him relating to religious education was Philip when he told Nathaniel, “We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and prophets, wrote about – Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph” (John 1:45).

So while they retrieved the donkey for Jesus to ride on, they had no idea that they were fulfilling prophecy (John 12:16). We do not have to have a degree, or understand all the fine details of scripture before God can use us. God is fully capable of fulfilling his will through you just as you are today.

Later the disciples studied scripture intently, but for now, they simply obeyed.

The Colt

2012-01-16T06:08:00.000-08:00

John is focused on demonstrating to the reader that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, so that believing you might have life in Jesus name (John 20:31). This intense focus causes him to sometimes skip over particular details. We have now reached one of these brief descriptions.

John writes, “Then Jesus, when he had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written; Fear not, daughter of Zion: Behold, you King is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt” (John 12:14).

The rest of the gospel writers give us a little more detail. Jesus instructs two of his disciples to go into town where they will find a colt tied in front of a doorway. Jesus did not tell them to ask permission from anyone in particular, but if anyone should ask what they were doing, they were to simply respond “The Lord needs it and will send it back shortly” (Mt 21:2-7; Mk 11:2-7; Lk 19:30-35).

This story points to at least two things. One that Jesus was known well enough that whoever owned the donkey would immediately know to whom the two disciples were referring when the said “The Lord” needs it. Secondly the disciples trust Jesus enough to do what would seem very contrary to acceptable behavior.

Political Climate

2012-01-13T06:33:00.000-08:00

The general public quite naturally responded to the news of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead by hailing Jesus as the promised Messiah. They took to the streets chanting and singing Jesus’ praises (John 12:12-13). “Hosanna blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! The King of Israel!”

It would not be long until some of those same people would be chanting, “Crucify him, Crucify him” (John 19:14-15). Those who sang his praises then turned against him just a few short days later had based their praise on what was popular at any given time.

Only those who are truly born again by the Spirit of God worship regardless of the political climate.

Wise in Their Own Eyes

2012-01-12T06:17:00.000-08:00

Lazarus had died from an illness. After four days of being in the grave, Jesus restored him to life. As a result the Jews who saw this miracle came to believe that Jesus was the Messiah. They told their friends, who told their friends until the news spread throughout the entire region. Crowds began coming to Lazarus’ house to see the two men with their own eyes (John11:45; 12:17, 12).

But the Pharisees did not worship God for this amazing miracle. Instead they saw it as a threat to their political power (John 11:47-48) and began to plot to kill both Jesus and Lazarus (John 12:10-11).

Political power seems to have the ability to blind us to logic. If they succeeded in killing Lazarus, why wouldn’t Jesus just raise him from the dead again? Why didn’t they understand that if Jesus was powerful enough to raise Lazarus from the dead would he not have enough power to raise himself from the dead? The Pharisees were blinded by their opinion of themselves.

Heavenly Incense

2012-01-11T06:36:00.000-08:00

There are particular times when our love for our Savior overwhelms us and we yearn to touch him as Mary and the other two women did when they poured out their fragrant perfumes.

The wonderful news is that we can do this. Revelation 5:8 explains that our prayers are a literal part of the heavenly worship that is going on in heaven this very moment.

Anointing Oil

2012-01-10T06:26:00.000-08:00

Spikenard oil was extremely expensive. We understand from Judas’ comment that a pound of spikenard would cost the equivalent of one year’s wages of a worker. In today’s economy at minimum wage it would cost approximately, $16,640.

Jesus said when Mary washed his feet with it she was doing it for his burial (John 12:7-8). A couple of days later another woman did a similar thing, but in that case she also anointed Jesus’ head (Mark 14:3-5) In both cases the women were criticized, and in both cases Jesus defended their actions as part of the process of his burial (Mark 14:6-9).

In the beginning of his ministry a woman anointed Jesus’ feet with fragrant oil, her tears washing his feet. She also used her hair to dry them (Luke 7:37-39). She also was criticized by onlookers.

In the Old Testament the priests were anointed with fragrant perfume before they began their ministry (Exodus 29:29; 40:12-15). Jesus’ ministry began with anointing and ends with anointing. He was and is our High Priest (Hebrews 5:1-6).

Some Listening

2012-01-09T06:29:00.000-08:00

We read last Friday about Judas suggesting the perfume be sold and the money given to the poor. Jesus certainly had to know that Judas was stealing from him. He knew Judas’ motive for the sale of the perfume, yet Jesus did not address that issue. He simply responded, “Let her alone; she has a kept this for the day of my burial. For the poor you have with you always, but me you do not have always” (John 12:7-8).

Judas’ words sounded pious. His comment might have confused the rest of the disciples so Jesus addressed himself to his true followers. “The poor you have with you always, but me you do not have always” (John 2:7-8).

There are times when we need to address an issue, not to help the one who brought it up, but to help those who are listening to the conversation.

A Judas Heart

2012-01-06T06:05:00.000-08:00

While Martha, Mary and Lazarus were busying offering their gifts of love, there was one onlooker who was more concerned about himself. His self focus was exposed by his critical spirit against Mary.

When she worshiped Jesus with her sacrifice, Judas responded, "Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii (one year’s wages) and given to the poor?" Scripture tells us he said this because he was a thief and used to stealing from the treasury box (John 11:5-6).

God focus pours out worship. Self focus pours out criticism.

Gifts of Love

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

It was just six days until Jesus would face his worst trial. The emotional stress was nearly unbearable. He turned to his best friends, Martha, Lazarus, and Mary (John 12:1).

Each of his friends ministered to him the best way they knew how. Martha enjoyed cooking and serving, so she prepared him a meal. Lazarus knew he needed someone to talk to so he joined him reclining at the table. And Mary brought her favorite, expensive perfume and washed his feet with it then dried them with her hair (John 12:1-3).

Jesus accepted each gift graciously in the manner it was intended, as expressions of love.

What gift would you like to offer him today?

Accepting Our Responsibility

2012-01-04T06:04:00.000-08:00

Often we read in John the words, "Therefore they sought to take him; but no one laid a hand on him, because his hour had not yet come" (John6:30). These scriptures indicate God's divine intervention to protect Jesus until his appointed crucifixion.

But there are also verses that speak of a decision by Jesus to avoid those who sought to kill him (John 7:1; 8:59; 10:39; 11:53-54). Jesus was aware of the plot to kill him so he took appropriate steps to hide himself from them.

We both trust God and do what we need to do to protect ourselves. If we are doing what we need to do and are still harmed, then we can receive it from the Father's hand for his glory and our testing of faith.

The Cost

2012-01-03T06:42:00.000-08:00

It is more difficult for some of us to understand the pressure by the religious leaders to reject Jesus. The man whom Jesus healed was thrown out of the synagogue. That did not mean he could not attend church on the one day. It meant he could never again enter the house of worship. That meant no more animal sacrifices which in turn meant no forgiveness of sin. It meant eternal damnation, or so they thought.

It was not small sacrifice to become a follower of Jesus.

After the resurrection of Lazarus the pressure increased to the point that all were held accountable to report it if they so much as saw Jesus (John 11:57).

Christians in other countries now face the same persecution. Becoming a believer means losing family, friends and in some cases, life. Let’s pray for God to encourage them today.

Completed Jews?

2012-01-02T06:06:00.000-08:00

I recently had a discussion with someone about whether we are Jews as Christians. Since all of the Old Testament came through the Jews, and since Jesus and his disciples were Jews by nature, I argued that Christians are actually completed Jews. But through our discussion and scriptures I realized I was wrong. We are a completely new people.

John wrote, “But that he would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad” (John 11:52). Paul wrote, “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). He also wrote, “…Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances so as to create in himself one new man from the two, thus making peace” (Ephesians 2:15). Peter writes, “…Who were once not a people but are now the people of God” (1 Peter 2:10).

Though in this world we are descended from Jews, Germans, Americans, Swedes, etc, as believers we are a new people. We are the people of God.

Prophets and Messages

2011-12-30T06:48:00.000-08:00

When we think of prophets we usually think of writers of the Old Testament like Isaiah, Hosea and Joel. We think of righteous men of God. But there are at least two incidents in the Bible when men who were not in good standing with God prophesied the truth. One man was Saul the king who tried to kill David (I Samuel 19:19-24). The second man is Caiaphas, the high priest who would be responsible for having Jesus crucified.

“You know nothing at all, nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should died for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” Now this he did not say on his own authority, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, only, but also that he would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad” (John 11:49-52).

A message from God is not intended to glorify the messenger. It is to glorify God.

Cross Purposes

2011-12-29T06:28:00.000-08:00

Friends of Lazarus came for his funeral. The event was not like ours only lasting a couple of hours. The funerals of that day lasted for days. The mourners knew Lazarus had been in the tomb for four days, because they had been part of the burial process. So when they saw Lazarus come hopping out of that tomb, they believed that Jesus was indeed the Messiah (John 11:45).

Some of them went immediately to the Pharisees to tell them what Jesus had done. Perhaps they thought the Pharisees had to believe if they knew what had happened. But the Pharisees were more interested in their political positions of power and Jesus was getting in their way. They decided to get serious about having him murdered (John 11:48, 53).

The people needed a savior, but the Pharisees needed the approval of the Romans. So the needs of the people to whom they were responsible to minister were easily set aside in favor of maintaining power.

It is a good reminder to examine our own motives in our service to others.

Lazarus Couldn't Do It Alone

2011-12-28T06:21:00.000-08:00

Lazarus’ death and resurrection was a prelude to Christ’s resurrection. Please note that Lazarus came out of the tomb “bound hand and food with grave-clothes” and “his face was wrapped with a cloth.” Jesus had to tell the people to unwrap Lazarus (John 11:44). It would have been impossible for Lazarus to unwind himself. He needed help.

If Jesus was only a man like Lazarus, he too would have needed help to unwind the linen strips that bound him at his burial. Scripture tells us he was buried in linen strips mixed with about 100 pounds of spices (John 19:38-39). It would be impossible for anyone who had been tortured and crucified, and his hands bound to his sides to break through the 100 pound strips of linen and spices. Yet his strips were left in the empty tomb and the head pieces folded up in a place by itself (John 20:3-7).

Jesus raised himself from the Dead (John 10:18).

Power Over Death

2011-12-26T06:04:00.000-08:00

The people were about to see proof positive that God had sent Jesus to rescue them. “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. And I know that you always hear me, but because of the people who are standing by I said this, hat they may believe that you sent me.” (John 11:41-42).

Jesus says those famous words, “Lazarus, come forth!” (John 11:43).

“And he who had died came out bound hand and foot with grave-clothes, and his face was wrapped with a cloth.” Jesus said, “Loose him, and let him go.” (John 11:43-44).

Jesus had the power over death, physical and eternal.

The symbolic Christmas Tree

2011-12-25T06:24:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Tree is symbolic of all Christ has done for us.

It is evergreen - we receive eternal life through him.
It is a tree - Jesus died on a tree for our sins
The Bulbs - represent the fruit of the spirit
The lights - He is the light of the world and we carry his light to the world
The gifts - He gave us the greatest gift, eternal life
The gifts - we share his gift and love to others
The tree - points to heaven where we will live with him forever.

shortest Verse

2011-12-23T06:55:00.000-08:00

Jesus did not attempt to explain things to Mary. He simply responded by asking where they had put the body. Then we read the shortest verse in the Bible that contains volumes of information. “Jesus wept” (John 11:35).

We know he was not weeping for Lazarus because he knew that he would be a live again in a matter of minutes. But he wept for Martha and Mary (John 11:33-34).

Jesus bore our grief and carried our sorrows (Isaiah 53:4). Though God knows what good will eventually come out of our sorrow, he does not lightly dismiss us. He had compassion for our confusion and what we must suffer in the moment.

Who's at Fault

2011-12-22T06:47:00.000-08:00

Mary responded in much the same way as her sister. She ran out to Jesus and fell at his feet. “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:32).

When tragedy hits, we are all prone to question the wisdom of God. But when something happens during the Christmas Holiday we are especially vulnerable to criticize God. How could a loving God allow this to happen, especially now?

We forget that it was mankind that brought sin into the world, and when sin was introduced death, suffering, disappointment and senseless tragedy came with it.

The marvelous thing is God did not leave us in this hopeless state. He sent his son so that regardless of the physical tragedy that comes into our lives, we are comforted by knowing God will work all things for everyone’s good who loves him; even “senseless tragedies”.

Went Her Way

2011-12-21T06:29:00.000-08:00

Jesus told Martha that her brother would rise again. She was too angry to contemplate his words. She could only respond, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day” (John 11:24). She must have been thinking, “I don’t know why you are telling me this now. The last day is a long way off and I am hurting now,” so she brushed him off.

Jesus again attempted to reach past her anger. “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me, though he may die, he shall live. And whoever lives and believes in meet shall never die. Do you believe this”? (John 11:25-26).

Martha was finished with what she thought was a pointless discussion. “Yes Lord I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world.’ Then she turned and “went her way” (John 11:27).

When we find ourselves in pain, let’s not flippantly answer the questions burning in our hearts. Let’s ponder and wait to see what God will do.

Angry Disappointment

2011-12-20T06:28:00.000-08:00

Many people had come out for Lazarus’ funeral and the grieving process that would follow. Some late comers must have told Martha that they had passed Jesus on their way to the sisters’ home. Martha immediately runs out to meet Jesus, leaving her sister in the house with the rest of the guests (John 11:17-20). Why? Jesus would eventually arrive. Lazarus was already dead. What was the point?

We know from her responses to Jesus’ words that she certainly did not expect Jesus would raise Lazarus from the dead (John 11:38-39). So what did she mean when she said to Jesus, “…even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you”? (John 11:22).

I think we are seeing her angry disappointment in Jesus. In our language she might be saying. “I sent you a message in plenty of time to get here and heal my brother. God gives you whatever you want; couldn’t you have found the time to come a little faster?” She still believes he is the Messiah (John 11:22-28). She just was angry with him.

Are you?

The Twin

2011-12-19T06:26:00.000-08:00

Thomas has gotten a bad rap by many Christians. He has been nicked named by some as doubting Thomas because he did not believe the disciples that they had seen the Lord alive after his resurrection. The disciples didn’t call him that. They called him the Twin.

Read what Thomas said in response to Jesus insisting on going to Judea, “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (John 11:16). He knew the Jews were out to kill Jesus and anyone associated with him. The death would not be as easy as being bludgeoned by a sword. It would mean crucifixion.

True, he eventually fled when the soldiers came into the garden, but he and the rest of the disciples had every intention following Jesus to the death. They would later gain the strength through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, but for now it is good to honor their intent.

Let’s not be so quick to judge Thomas, or anyone else for that matter.

What if He Had Been There?

2011-12-16T06:08:00.000-08:00

Jesus told the disciples, “Lazarus is dead. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, hat you may believe. Nevertheless let us go to him” (John 11:14-15).

Besides the fact that Jesus was going to raise Lazarus from the dead, what was the correlation between Jesus not being there and his disciples believing? Would he have healed his friend if he had been there when Lazarus was near death? If he had been there and allowed Lazarus to die and be buried how would that have affected all of his friends? How would it have affected those who had been curious about him? How about his enemies?

Jesus did all things well and at perfect timing. He allowed everyone to go through a grieving process so that that would believe in God.

Stumbling About

2011-12-15T06:55:00.000-08:00

Jesus often spoke in figurative speech (John 16:25). His answers to some of their questions sounded off track like he had not heard their question. This is one of those instances. Jesus had told the disciples that he was going to return to Judea to see Lazarus. The Disciples were rightfully worried. “Rabbi, lately the Jews sought to stone you, and are you going there again?” (John 11:7-8).

Jesus’ answer seemed to ignore their question. “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” (John 11:9).

I wonder if he is not saying, “Right now the light is not in you, but I am going to be the sacrifice so that the light may be in you and you will no longer stumble about in spiritual darkness” (John 12:35-36, 46).

Not unto Death

2011-12-14T06:21:00.000-08:00

When Jesus hears of Lazarus’ illness, he says something that must be confusing to first time readers of this story. “This sickness is not unto death” (John 11:4) yet just a few short verses later we find out Lazarus does indeed die. So why his comment?

Jesus is speaking of the eventual outcome. He sees beyond the moment into the eternal. He saw that the illness was for the glory of God. God had allowed both the sickness and the death to occur so that people would see the glory of Jesus (John 11:4).

We will see that Martha and Mary still had to experience the grief of their brother’s death. Sometimes God allows us to experience grief for a while, but his joy will return (1 Peter 1:6-7; Ps 30:5; James 1:2).

Our trial is not unto our death but for God’s glory.

Introduction to Lazarus

2011-12-13T06:05:00.000-08:00

We now come to the story of Lazarus whom Jesus raised from the dead. It was by design that this occurred right before the crucifixion of Jesus. It was a kind of picture of what was about to happen. It showed that Jesus had the power of life within himself. There are several lessons within the chapter that we will explore.

Martha, Mary and Lazarus were good friends of Jesus. Scripture specifically points out that Jesus dearly loved them (John 11:5). When it became apparent that Lazarus was seriously ill, the sisters’ first thought was to send for Jesus (John 11:3). They felt confident he would come in time.

But he did not…or least they thought he didn’t. But God had a different plan. There is a song that says, “When you can’t see his hand, trust his heart.”

A Question

2011-12-12T06:50:00.000-08:00

Jesus told the Pharisees who were angry that he was “making himself out to be God” (John 10 33), “If I do not do the works of my father, do not believe me; but if I do, though you do not believe me, believe the works that you may know and believe that the Father is in me, and I in him” (John 10:37-38).

He will later tell his disciples, “If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would have no sin…”(John 15:24). Not only his works, but the abundance of his works testified that he was the Messiah.

Let me ask a question. If everyone did the same amount of miracles as Jesus did, how would people know which person was the Messiah? Could that be why no one has ever accomplished the number of miracles Jesus did?

We will see this question again in John 14.

Mocking God

2011-12-09T06:36:00.000-08:00

The Jews knew exactly who Jesus was saying he was. Look at John 10:31-33. “We don’t stone you for good works but we stone you because you make yourself out to be God.” (Paraphrase).

How then can we be cavalier about what he has taught us? Do we really have the option to take it or leave it? If we casually follow when we want but chose our own way when it conflicts with his, are we not putting ourselves in a perilous situations?”

James writes “When desire has conceived it gives birth to sin, and when sin is full grown it produces death. Don’t be deceived” (James 1:15-16). Paul writes, “Do not be deceived. God is not mocked: for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption …(Galatians 6:7-8).

Don’t try sin. You won’t like it in the long run..

Misplaced Salvation

2011-12-08T06:19:00.000-08:00

You are not going to wake up one morning and find you have misplaced your salvation. You will not one day be walking down the street and your salvation accidently fall out of your pocket or purse. No one is able to come up to you and rob you of your salvation. How do we know this?

We know it because Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of my hand. My father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of my father’s hand. I and the Father are one.” (John 10:27-30).

Your salvation is secure. You may choose to walk away, but you will never accidently lose your relationship with God.

Standing Firm

2011-12-07T06:12:00.000-08:00

The Jews surrounded Jesus while he was taking a walk on Solomon’s porch. “How long do you kep us in doubt If you are he Christ, tell us plainly” (John 10:24).

I’m not sure how much more plainly Jesus could say it. “Before Abraham was, I am” (John 8:58). “I am the bread of life. He who comes to me shall never hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst” (John 6:35). “My doctrine is not mine, but his who sent me” (John 7:16). “For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father” (John 5:22-23). “I am the light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12).

If someone does not want to believe, no amount of miracles, words or works will convince him. Therefore Jesus gave them the following answer to their question.

“I told you and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me. But you do not believe, because you are not of my sheep, as I said to you “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10;25-27).

Jesus set his limits and did not conform to their demand for more proof. There comes a time when we need to stop convincing and simply stand firm.

Demented Miracle Worker?

2011-12-06T06:54:00.000-08:00

It was a very confusing time for many of the Jews. Here was a man who did unbelievable miracles. And he didn't just do them now and then; he was continually healing people of diseases, raising the dead and casting out demons. Yet their "ministers" were telling them this man was a heretic and anyone associated with him could forfeit their lives.

Some told themselves that he was crazy and had a demon (John 10:19). Others argued that the accusation didn't make sense. "These are not the words of one who has a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?" (John 10:20).

That is pretty descriptive of what men must decide today. They must convince themselves that Jesus was a demented fool who happened to do miracles or he was who he claimed to be.

Other Sheep

2011-12-05T06:49:00.000-08:00

John 10:16 is especially important to those of us who are biologically Gentiles. Jesus said, “And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear my voice, and there will be one flock and one shepherd.”

Jesus first came physically to the Hebrew people, but he also calls to the Gentiles to be his sheep (Mathew 15:22-28; 27:34; John chapter 4; Acts chapter 11; Romans 9:22-26; 11:25-28).

Under Shepherds

2011-12-02T06:35:00.000-08:00

John 10:-13 compares the good shepherd with the hireling. Jesus is the shepherd of the sheep, but he also has under-shepherds. They are commissioned to take care of the flock until the Shepherd returns. Some hirelings pretend to be shepherds but when they see the wolf coming they high tail it out of there and leave the sheep to tend to themselves.

Peter wrote to the elders of the church, “Shepherd the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but willingly, not for dishonest gain but eagerly; nor as being lords over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock; and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away” (1 Peter 5:2-4).

Those who pretend to be shepherds but have a hireling mentality forsake sheep when the sheep are hurting. They may verbally abuse the sheep, continually insist on financial control, and demand strict adherence to their rules. Good shepherds walk the talk, are compassionate and are examples of the Shepherd who gave his life for the sheep.

Hirelings

2011-12-01T06:54:00.000-08:00

When we read that Jesus gives his life for the sheep we usually think of the crucifixion. But if we look at what he says about the hireling we may get a broader and deeper understanding of what he means.

“The hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep” (John 10:11-13).

Wolves do attach the flock, but Jesus gives his sheep his life to his sheep.

When the wolf comes to temp you, to rip your assurance out of your heart and devour your faith, Jesus is there to fight off his ferocious attack. He will give you his life so that you are able to avoid spiritual eternal death. He gives you life the moment you need it.

One Among Many?

2011-11-30T06:19:00.000-08:00

Jesus said he gives his life for the sheep (John 10:11).

Unfortunately we tend to think of the entire flock when we read those words. We say to ourselves, “He died for everyone and I can come because everyone can come. I am not special.” We find it difficult to remember he also said the shepherd “calls his own sheep by name.”

When we have our first child we cannot imagine loving another child like we do the first. Yet no matter how many children we give birth to, each one is special to us. We note their differences and joy when we see them mature. Why would we think God is unable to feel less than we feel?

Remember, he did die specifically for you, so that you would no longer be forced to live outside of his peace. He knows your name and care deeply for who you are.

Thieves

2011-11-29T08:04:00.000-08:00

If we could only get it into our hearts that thieves come to steal, kill and destroy, we would find it much easier to resist temptation to do things our way.

Adultry, lying, deceiving, judging, condemning, gossiping, greed, lewdness, and all other manner of self seeking fulfillment, cannot help but end in death. These actions cause death in relationships, trust, honor, compassion, love, joy, peace and gifts of righteousness.

How much better it is to eat in God's green pastures and live in peace, though it may mean sacrifice of momentary comfort.

Fresh Pastures

2011-11-28T06:21:00.000-08:00

Jesus said he is the door of the sheepfold. Those who enter into a relationship with him will have “eternal life and will go in and out and find pasture” (John 10:9).

Can you imagine what the sheep fold would be like if the sheep simply stayed inside the four walls. The odor would be enough to make your eyes water. The sheep would most likely become emaciated and die from lack of fresh water and food. At beast they might become diseased. At worst, they would die.

But sheep go out to the pasture to eat and have cool running water to drink. They need the sunlight and fresh air.

Jesus said the sheep will go in and out and find pasture. There is activity among his sheep. They are secure in their relationship with their shepherd and are not afraid to follow him into new places.

Confused

2011-11-25T06:12:00.000-08:00

We know that Jesus often spoke in parables to hide the meaning from those he did not want to know the truth (Mk 4:11-12). But if someone truly wanted to understand Jesus would explain further (John 10:6).

We also need to be patient with those who honestly do not understand. If we forget how many years it took us to reach the point of maturity where we are at the moment, we can become harsh and judgmental toward less mature believers.

Voice of Strangers

2011-11-24T06:55:00.000-08:00

Jesus said his sheep will not follow a stranger because they do not know the voice of strangers (John 10:5). When we hear of a teaching that contradicts God’s Word, there is a kind of emotional red flag that rises in us, our breath kind of catches in our throat.

Unfortunately some people are so afraid of hearing a stranger’s voice, that the refuse to listen or consider any new thoughts. I knew a woman who refused to read any other book than the Bible, even though it was a Christian author. She was fearful of being fooled. What she did not take into account was her own human tendency to distort the truth.

We all need to consider what a fellow believer has to say since scripture makes it clear that each child of God has something to contribute to others ( Romans 12: 1-10; I Corinthians 12:1-11; Galatians 6:6;); Ephesians 4:11-16)

Ungodly Counsel

2011-11-23T06:04:00.000-08:00

We said yesterday that some people are so fearful of strange teaching that they will not even consider what another brother or sister has to say. But the other end of that spectrum is just as unhealthy. We do not need to listen to ungodly counsel about godly matters (Psalm 1:1-3).

We need to do what Jesus said his sheep would do, flee (John 10:5).

By Name

2011-11-22T06:35:00.000-08:00

There are precious treasures in chapter ten. Don’t miss them. Hold them in your hand. Examine them. Meditate on what they mean to you personally. There is much hope and encouragement for you in these specific words of Jesus.

Look at John 10:3. Jesus calls his sheep by name. He knows your name, intimately knows your name. He specifically called you by your name. He said I want _____ (fill in your name).

Yes, I know you are not worthy. Neither am I. None of us are. That is what makes his love so great.

Opening Doors

2011-11-21T06:28:00.000-08:00

The Shepherd, Jesus, enters the sheepfold by the door and says the doorkeeper opens the door (John 10:1-2). Who then is the doorkeeper?

There are two ways in which to look at the doorkeeper. One interpretation is that Jesus is also the doorkeeper. In Romans 3:11-18 we learn that we would have no desire to know God unless the Father himself placed that desire in our hearts (John 6:44-45). He must open the door of our hearts.

The second interpretation is that we are the doorkeepers of our own hearts (John 6:37; Hebrews 11:6; Revelation 3:20).

You can be assured God wants you as his child, because you would have no interest in him unless he revealed himself to you. You also are required to respond (open the door).

Thieves and Robbers

2011-11-18T06:15:00.000-08:00

We will begin chapter 10 of John by saying that Jesus is the door to salvation and the shepherd of the sheep of God (John 10:7, 11).

Jesus tells us that if anyone tries to come to God any other way than through him, that person is a thief and robber (John 10:1, 10). How does attempting to get to heaven another way than through Jesus make one a thief and robber?

First we need to understand that Jesus and the Father are one (John 10:30). Jesus is God (John 1:1-3, 14; Hebrews 1:1-2, 8). So to try to get to God without coming to God is impossible.

Secondly God is the source of love, joy, peace, righteousness, forgiveness, strength and all good things. Therefore to reject God (Jesus) is to reject the source of all that is good (James 1:17; Galatians 5:22; Ephesians 6:13-17).

Thirdly, what we do and say influences those close to us. When we reject Jesus, we are helping the enemy to steal all the good things Jesus offers from the very ones we love. Therefore we are thieves and robbers.

Harsh Words

2011-11-17T06:19:00.000-08:00

At first glance Jesus’ comment about that “those who see will be made blind” appears mean spirited. Why would God blind anyone? (John 9:38; 12:37-40).

If your son or daughter were continually made fun of, ridiculed, rejected and a victim of adults who plotted to kill him or her, what would be your response? (11:53)

The Pharisees knew who Jesus claimed to be, saw his miracles and knew that he fulfilled scripture to be the Messiah (John 10:33), but they were more concerned for their political power, than humbling themselves before God. They did not want to see, so God granted their wish (John 11:46-48, 53, 12:42)

Made Blind

2011-11-16T06:01:00.000-08:00

In the story of Jesus healing the man who was born blind is a small phrase that is extremely important. It is only four words and easily read without a second thought. The phrase is “And he worshiped him” (John 9:38).

This simple phrase carries the doctrine of the deity of Jesus. Scripture continually instructs us not to worship anyone or anything but the only true God. Yet when this man worships Jesus, Jesus does not correct or rebuke him. He accepts his worship and in fact confirms it, not only with his absence of rebuke but his following comment.

“For judgment I have come into this world, that those who do not see may see, and hat those who see may be made blind” (John 9:39). Since there is no recording of Jesus ever striking someone physically blind, we understand he is referring to spiritual sight. The healed man saw Jesus for who he was and responded appropriately.

Take a moment now and follow his example.

Sickness and Sin

2011-11-15T06:52:00.000-08:00

The disciples and the Pharisees both thought the man was blind because someone sinned (John 9:2, 34). Why? Maybe they thought this because Psalm 66:18 says “If I regard wickedness in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” And in Exodus 15:26 God told Israel, “If you will give earnest heed to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in His sight, and give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of the diseases on you which I have put on the Egyptians; for I, the LORD, am your healer.”

Yet Jesus clearly stated the blindness was not caused by the sin of the parents or the man (John 9:3).

We need to be careful not to build doctrines on assumptions. God’s promise to Israel regarding diseases was not a blanket promise they would have no illnesses or diseases, but a promise to protect them from Egypt’s diseases and to safeguard them until they reached the promise land.

God is definitely our healer (Psalm 103:3; James 5:16). But, don’t we first need healing in order to be healed? Didn’t James tell us some of us would become ill? (James 5:14). And yes, some illnesses are because of sin (John 5:14; James 5:16). But it is dangerous to try to see into another person’s heart (Isaiah 16:7; Mt 7:1; 2 Cor 10:12)

Let’s not try to guess about the cause of brother’s illness. Let’s ask God to help us examine our own hearts (I Cor 11: 28-32; Romans 14:12-13).

Believing Pharisees

2011-11-14T06:32:00.000-08:00

Not all Pharisees refused to believe. Some of the men reasoned, “How can a man who is a sinner do such things?” (John 9:16). A seed had been planted deep in their hearts. We saw one of these men in Nicodemus in chapters 3 and 7. We will see him again in chapter 19 along with Joseph of Arimathea. The believing Pharisees are also mentioned in John 12:42-43.

Those who did believe were divided into two groups; the group that followed Jesus, even if it was in secret (John 3:1; 7:50-53; 19:38) and those who believed but did nothing about it (John 12:42).

It is not enough to believe. We must act (James 2:17, 22-25). However, we cannot see into other people’s hearts. We can recognize most mature believers but other persons remain a mystery. Was the seed recently planted or is it about to pop through the soil of faith?

Paul gives us excellent advice. “Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God” (1 Corinthians 4:5).

Stubborn Unbelief

2011-11-11T06:56:00.000-08:00

The Pharisees believed that God would not hear the prayer of a sinner. They believed certainly did not believe a heathen could perform miracles. So when Jesus healed the man who was born blind they were faced with a problem. If they admitted he did a miracle, he had to be from God. If he was from God that meant they were rebellion against Jehovah. That simply was not acceptable. They had to come up with an excuse, some reason this was not a miracle.

A group of Pharisees said making clay on the Sabbath was work, therefore it could not be a miracle from God(John 9:16). Other men refused to believe the man had been born without his sight (Vs 18). I supposed if he was not born blind it could be a trick.

The difficulty was that the blind man had been begging so long that all his neighbors and everyone who frequented the temple recognized him. They all knew he was blind. Then his parents admitted that he had been born blind. The Pharisees were backed into a corner. So they did the only thing they knew how to do. They kicked the man out of the temple.

Stubborn unbelief makes one unreasonable.

Cast Out

2011-11-10T06:45:00.000-08:00

Jesus spat on the ground, made clay with the saliva and then put it on the blind man’s eyes. “Go wash in the pool of Siloam” he told the man. The man went and washed in the pool just as Jesus directed him and he immediately was given his eye sight.

John points out that the name Siloam meant Sent. That is exactly what happened. The blind man was sent, first to a pool, then afterwards to witness to his neighbors and then to the Pharisees. What was the result of his obedience? Were people saved? Were the Pharisees convinced of who Jesus was because of the miracle?

No, actually his parents were put in danger of being kicked out of the temple (John 9:18-23) and he was thrown out (John 9:34).

In our culture if we were cast out of a church, we would simply join another. But there was no other. For them to be barred from worshiping in the Temple meant you could not worship God. It was paramount to being eternally lost. If you could not bring sacrifices to God, you could not be forgiven.

But the former blind man came to know something the Pharisees did not understand. He had met God (John 9:1-38).

Born Blind

2011-11-09T06:03:00.000-08:00

When the blind man received his sight his appearance completely changed so that his former acquaintances barely recognized him (John 9:1-9). If you have ever spoken with someone who has a weak eye, your natural tendency is to stare. A blind person sometimes covers his or her eyes with dark glasses so that people can focus on what they are saying and not on his or her inability to see.

Imagine that person now being able to see. Their entire appearance would change. He or she could look right at you, his or her gaze hungrily observing every facial expression. We who have seen all our lives have become much less observant. The intense stare of the recently healed may be unsettling.

So it is spiritually. When we first come to Christ everything is alive in us. We are keenly aware of every comment or insight into spiritual things. In time we learn that this intensity is not appreciated by most people and we may tone down our zeal.

May we learn wisdom and still never lose our enthusiasm for God.

While it is Day

2011-11-08T06:25:00.000-08:00

Jesus told his disciples, “I must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.”

This statement applies to us as well as to Christ. We have tasks appointed to us by our Heavenly Father. We are to clearly, lovingly represent him to those who walk in darkness. When the life goes out of our bodies, we will no longer be lights in the world. All of our opportunities to share the love and acceptance of God will be gone.

We also must work while it is still day.

Light of the World

2011-11-07T06:23:00.000-08:00

Now that we have pondered Friday’s questions over the weekend, let’s take a stab at understanding at least a part of what Jesus said. “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:5).

Jesus, as The Word (John 1:1-3) has always been the Light because the Father is Light and they are one (James 1:17). While Jesus was physically in the world, the Light was in the world in physical form. When Jesus ascended into heaven the Light was no longer physically in the world. Instead, small lights of God were sent all over the world manifested in his people (John 12:13).

In a very real since, we are now the bearers of the Light of the World shining in its darkness. How clear is our light? Is it made dull by condemnation and rejection or is it made clear with compassion, forgiveness and patient.

No One Can Work

2011-11-04T05:51:00.000-07:00

Reading Jesus’ words in John 9:4 and 5 puzzle me. “I must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

Did he mean it would be darkness after he left? If it is dark, and no one can work, why do we see miracles in the book of Acts after Jesus was no longer on the earth? If he was the light of the world as long as he was in the world, is there no light now that he is gone?

The truth is Jesus did not always speak in ways we can fully understand. Does this trouble you? Maybe that is why Jesus said it the way he did, because we are too eager to be wise in our own eyes.

Blame the Blind Man

2011-11-03T05:49:00.000-07:00

Jesus told the disciples that the man had been born blind, not because of sin. They needed to get their focus off of blaming people and onto the glory of God working through people. God would be revealed to people because of the healing of this man (John 9:1-3).

I am not sure why we are driven to find the reason for everything. Curiosity is not evil, but pointing fingers is. Why not look for God even in the difficult circumstances.

Fickle People

2011-11-02T06:25:00.000-07:00

I think one of the most puzzling questions asked by the disciples was when they passed by a blind man. “And his disciples asked him, saying, “Rabbi, who sinned this man or his parents ha he was born blind?” (John 9:2).

Really? The man was blind when he came out of his mother’s womb. That has to mean they believed a baby could sin before it was born. It could not mean the sinful nature, or everyone would be blind at birth. We may be tempted to laugh at such superstitious thinking, until we examine our own process of believing.

Are there things you used to believe that you have now rejected as an error? Did you ever condemn someone for something only to repeat that very act yourself? We are fickle people, quick to take up our own defense and quick to judge others.

Heart Language

2011-11-01T06:04:00.000-07:00

After Jesus called himself, “I AM”. The Pharisees picked up stones to stone him. They knew exactly who he was proclaiming to be.

Human responses to Jesus' claim fall into two categories; those who believe and follow and those who do not believe and do not follow.

Those who follow do not usually follow perfectly but their focus is on that goal. They may be like Peter who struggled at first, but grew to follow even to his death. Others may be like Paul who followed from the moment he met Jesus till he was murdered.

Those who do not follow may claim they believe, but their lives say otherwise. Others reject his claims outright.

Either way, we will live what we truly believe. Our actions speak the language of our hearts.

What Does It Mean?

2011-10-31T06:03:00.000-07:00

Jesus called himself, “I AM” (John 8:58). What does that name mean?

It reflects eternity. At any point in history, in the present or in the future his name is I AM.

I am life
I am your creator
I am the one who sees you
I am your healer
I am your provider
I am your Savior
I am your God
I am your defender
I am your bread
I am your breath
I am the way
I am the Truth
I am the Life
I am the Word
I am who I am

(Genesis Chapters 1,2; Genesis 16:13; Exodus 15:26; Ps 147:8; 2 Samuel 22:3; Isaiah 43:3; Exodus 14:14; John 6:35; Genesis 2:7; John 14:6; John 1:1-3; Exodus 3:14).

Who is Watching

2011-10-28T06:36:00.000-07:00

Many people think that saints in heaven are completely unaware of what is happening on earth. Others think their loved ones who have died are constantly watching over them. The truth lies somewhere between these two views. We see here in John 8 54-58 that Abraham was aware of Jesus coming to earth. Angels came to announce Jesus’ birth and to comfort him both at the begging of his ministry and the end of his life (Lk 2:13-15; Mk 1:13; Lk 22:42). And in Hebrews 12:1 scripture mentions that we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses.

We, however, do not interact with those who have gone on before us. Their focus and our focus is on God. If they see us, they are rejoicing over what God is accomplishing in and through us. We glorify God by doing all the Father has given us to do, obeying his commands and loving him. (Ephesians 2:10; John 15:9-10).

God gets all the glory.

A Holy Invitation

2011-10-27T06:08:00.000-07:00

Jesus did all that the Father told him to do and kept his word always (John 4:34; 8:54-56; 15:10; 17:4). He knew the Father and the Father knew him (John 10:15). He loved the Father and the Father loved him (Mt 3:17; John 15:9).

You have been invited into this relationship. There will never be a more important invitation in your existence than the one you have been given to join in the union between our Heavenly Father and his Holy Son. Don’t miss walking in it today.

I AM

2011-10-26T06:04:00.000-07:00

The Jewish leaders had the same reaction as we did to Jesus’ promise that those who kept his word would not see death. Everybody dies. Even the most righteous people like Abraham and the prophets died. None of it made sense. Then Jesus takes it a step further, “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day, and he saw it and was glad” (John 8:56).

The Pharisees were infuriated. “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” Jesus could have explained, “Abraham is in heaven. He saw me leave heaven to come to earth and knew why I came. He was glad because I am bringing the good news of God’s forgiveness and mercy.” Instead Jesus infuriated them further by using the name of God to describe himself.

“Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM” (John 8:58). Jesus always existed and will always exist. Before coming in the form of man he was known as the Word (John 1:1-3). At his birth he took on the name Son of God, and Jesus (Luke 1:31, 35). He was God, is God and will always be God (Hebrews 1:8; Revelation 1:8, 17-18; 22:12, 16).