Read Today's Passage
I love reading this chapter to close out the Journey With Jesus Challenge. Here we see Jesus once again appear to His disciples after He came back to life. Were the disciples just chilling, had some of them gone back to their former lives, or were they simply in between "speaking engagements?" Was Peter fishing naked? Did Jesus conceal His identity from them like He did the travelers on their way to Emmaus, or did the disciples simply not catch on that this was Him?
And I love the symbolism of Jesus asking Peter three times if he loved Him. Peter denied Jesus three times, so Jesus asks for confirmation three times. I can only imagine what was going through Peter's head at this time. And then to be told that he will be killed for his faith, wow. But he does not run away from his responsibility this time. Peter has grown up in his faith.
We should be like Peter. We are fallen, but Jesus asks us to do much. We should follow Him and His example and do it.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Friday, August 29, 2008
John Chapter Twenty - August 29, 2008
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It amazes me that even with everything the 12 were taught by Jesus while He was with them that they still did not get that Jesus had beaten death and was alive. Their first thoughts are that someone stole His body. And they were cowering in fear, locked away in case the Jews decided to come after them to exact some revenge. Where was their faith? It was like they were in the boat on the stormy sea all over again. The forgot that Jesus is in control, and began to rely upon their own strength and their own abilities. It kind of reminds me of us today.
We do the same things. We trust God for a while, but forget about how powerful He is when things get tough. We start to try and do things on our own instead of allowing Him to do things through us. It amazes me that these 12 men were the building blocks for the church, and they were just as flawed as we are today. It is comforting to know that even those men dealt with the same thoughts, feelings, doubts and fears that we do today.
I look forward to someday learning what happened that John did not include in his account...
How about you?
It amazes me that even with everything the 12 were taught by Jesus while He was with them that they still did not get that Jesus had beaten death and was alive. Their first thoughts are that someone stole His body. And they were cowering in fear, locked away in case the Jews decided to come after them to exact some revenge. Where was their faith? It was like they were in the boat on the stormy sea all over again. The forgot that Jesus is in control, and began to rely upon their own strength and their own abilities. It kind of reminds me of us today.
We do the same things. We trust God for a while, but forget about how powerful He is when things get tough. We start to try and do things on our own instead of allowing Him to do things through us. It amazes me that these 12 men were the building blocks for the church, and they were just as flawed as we are today. It is comforting to know that even those men dealt with the same thoughts, feelings, doubts and fears that we do today.
I look forward to someday learning what happened that John did not include in his account...
How about you?
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
John Chapter Eighteen - August 27, 2008
Read Today's Passage
I find it very interesting that the Jews only took Jesus to Pilate when they realized that their laws could not allow them to execute Jesus. Now bear in mind that there were included in the Law crimes and sins that required death. But Jesus had committed none of these. So they tried to convince the people that it would be good for one person to die for all Jews, and to convince Pilate that Jesus was trying to start an insurrection by claiming kingship when the Jewish nation was under the rule of the Roman empire. It's all political jockeying by the Jewish leaders. Jesus was killed because He spoke the truth, and the truth was that the leaders were wrong. And they did not like that so they wanted to be rid of Jesus. How often do we find ourselves trying to find loopholes in Jesus' commands ("it's for a good cause", "it's not sex", "I'll ask for forgiveness later", etc.) when the truth in them commands us to remove ourselves from enticing sin?
And I love Pilate's question to Jesus: "What is truth?" So many people are wondering that today. I get the impression that Pilate would have willingly listened t and been changed by Jesus' message.
What were your thoughts?
I find it very interesting that the Jews only took Jesus to Pilate when they realized that their laws could not allow them to execute Jesus. Now bear in mind that there were included in the Law crimes and sins that required death. But Jesus had committed none of these. So they tried to convince the people that it would be good for one person to die for all Jews, and to convince Pilate that Jesus was trying to start an insurrection by claiming kingship when the Jewish nation was under the rule of the Roman empire. It's all political jockeying by the Jewish leaders. Jesus was killed because He spoke the truth, and the truth was that the leaders were wrong. And they did not like that so they wanted to be rid of Jesus. How often do we find ourselves trying to find loopholes in Jesus' commands ("it's for a good cause", "it's not sex", "I'll ask for forgiveness later", etc.) when the truth in them commands us to remove ourselves from enticing sin?
And I love Pilate's question to Jesus: "What is truth?" So many people are wondering that today. I get the impression that Pilate would have willingly listened t and been changed by Jesus' message.
What were your thoughts?
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
John Chapter Seventeen - August 26, 2008
Read Today's Passage
Wow.
This is prayer. We see so many pastors today trying to deliver the greatest, most wordy, intellectual, spiritual prayer. But here Jesus speaks plainly and directly to God. He yields that God is in control, and He makes requests of Him. Not requests to gain things, or favor. But requests for God to lead, comfort and guide Jesus' disciples, and for all who will become believers to be unified with God as a result of the disciples' efforts. We are still disciples today. Are we fulfilling Jesus' prayer here? Or are we falling short because we are afraid, or lazy? Are we operating in the world, yet not OF the world as Jesus was and as He asked for us to be? Or do we look so much like the world that they cannot tell us apart from themselves?
Wow.
This is prayer. We see so many pastors today trying to deliver the greatest, most wordy, intellectual, spiritual prayer. But here Jesus speaks plainly and directly to God. He yields that God is in control, and He makes requests of Him. Not requests to gain things, or favor. But requests for God to lead, comfort and guide Jesus' disciples, and for all who will become believers to be unified with God as a result of the disciples' efforts. We are still disciples today. Are we fulfilling Jesus' prayer here? Or are we falling short because we are afraid, or lazy? Are we operating in the world, yet not OF the world as Jesus was and as He asked for us to be? Or do we look so much like the world that they cannot tell us apart from themselves?
Monday, August 25, 2008
John Chapter Sixteen - August 25, 2008
Read Today's Passage
I have not much to offer today. Merely my amazement once again at Jesus' skill for prophecy and figurative language, and His disciples' inability to comprehend. But once again they don't ask Him for answers, they ask themselves. We are so much like the disciples. I am so much like the disciples.
How about you?
I have not much to offer today. Merely my amazement once again at Jesus' skill for prophecy and figurative language, and His disciples' inability to comprehend. But once again they don't ask Him for answers, they ask themselves. We are so much like the disciples. I am so much like the disciples.
How about you?
Sunday, August 24, 2008
John Chapter Fifteen - August 24, 2008
Read Today's Passage
Today's reading was actually a part of a church service I was a part of this morning. I was on vacation with some friends from college, and we read through the first part of this chapter as part of a discussion on renewing our Spiritual Passion in our relationships with God. Every time I read this passage, I am struck by how little of God we picture in our minds. We blame God for things that hurt us. We think of Has someone who only does good things for us, but when things go wrong it is His fault for not keeping the painful things away from us. But here we have a picture of God as a gardener. Gardeners cut off dying or fruitless branches as part of their care for the harvest. How many times have you blamed God for something that you did not perceive as being right, but did not stop to think about whether or not you were remaining in Him in the first place? Maybe He was working to prune out something that you were not to be involved in, or to have. Or maybe Has working on you period because you were producing no fruit? How many times has He done this to me and I have missed it?
This passage reminds us once again that to follow Christ is costly, and that we will not be popular if we do follow Him. The world will indeed hate us and our message. They do not understand it. But whose attention is more important? God's? Or the World's?
Today's reading was actually a part of a church service I was a part of this morning. I was on vacation with some friends from college, and we read through the first part of this chapter as part of a discussion on renewing our Spiritual Passion in our relationships with God. Every time I read this passage, I am struck by how little of God we picture in our minds. We blame God for things that hurt us. We think of Has someone who only does good things for us, but when things go wrong it is His fault for not keeping the painful things away from us. But here we have a picture of God as a gardener. Gardeners cut off dying or fruitless branches as part of their care for the harvest. How many times have you blamed God for something that you did not perceive as being right, but did not stop to think about whether or not you were remaining in Him in the first place? Maybe He was working to prune out something that you were not to be involved in, or to have. Or maybe Has working on you period because you were producing no fruit? How many times has He done this to me and I have missed it?
This passage reminds us once again that to follow Christ is costly, and that we will not be popular if we do follow Him. The world will indeed hate us and our message. They do not understand it. But whose attention is more important? God's? Or the World's?
Saturday, August 23, 2008
John Chapter Fourteen - August 23, 2008
Read Today's Passage
Read the first section over again. Does it say that Jesus is preparing a mansion for you in heaven? No. What we fail to understand is that Jesus was speaking of a Jewish tradition of building on a room to an existing house for a new member of the family. (As in weddings. A man would build onto the house to give himself and his bride a place to live for at least the first year). Jesus is telling us that our union with Him on the other side of death will be one of being close, not separation. Not everyone gets their ow space and can hide from others. But a relationship of closeness. Why do we have to feel the need to change what Jesus says here?
Again Jesus is bold and states that the only way to gain this relationship is through Him. Not works. Not Hinduism. But through Jesus Christ, by accepting Him and making Him Lord. Not just praying a prayer, but allowing Him to run our lives. We forget this item when we become Christians. It is a free gift, but it takes a lot on our part to accept because we have to give ourselves up completely to His rule. "If you love Me you will obey what I command." You can't get any clearer than that.
Now, I could go on for days blogging about what the relationship between Loving God, accepting the free gift of salvation and obedience to God's commands is. But I want to hear your thoughts. So tell me, how do these all work together?
Read the first section over again. Does it say that Jesus is preparing a mansion for you in heaven? No. What we fail to understand is that Jesus was speaking of a Jewish tradition of building on a room to an existing house for a new member of the family. (As in weddings. A man would build onto the house to give himself and his bride a place to live for at least the first year). Jesus is telling us that our union with Him on the other side of death will be one of being close, not separation. Not everyone gets their ow space and can hide from others. But a relationship of closeness. Why do we have to feel the need to change what Jesus says here?
Again Jesus is bold and states that the only way to gain this relationship is through Him. Not works. Not Hinduism. But through Jesus Christ, by accepting Him and making Him Lord. Not just praying a prayer, but allowing Him to run our lives. We forget this item when we become Christians. It is a free gift, but it takes a lot on our part to accept because we have to give ourselves up completely to His rule. "If you love Me you will obey what I command." You can't get any clearer than that.
Now, I could go on for days blogging about what the relationship between Loving God, accepting the free gift of salvation and obedience to God's commands is. But I want to hear your thoughts. So tell me, how do these all work together?
Friday, August 22, 2008
John Chapter Thirteen - August 22, 2008
Read Today's Passage
There is so much symbolism in Jesus' washing His disciples' feet. Not only is it a common practice physically in that time, but it is a symbolic act of what He does for our souls on a regular basis. He cleanses us. We have already been washed clean by His sacrifice, but from time to time we need Him to clean us up so we can start walking again. When was the last time that you allowed Jesus to "wash your feet?" Also, when we are commanded to wash the feet of others, Jesus broke with tradition and societal norms to wash His disciples' feet. He lowered Himself to and beyond the disciples' status in society to serve them. We are to do the same, to serve those who we might consider beneath us. When was the last time that you served someone you couldn't stand?
It is refreshing to see John balance Jesus' godhood and His humanness at the same time. Jesus is troubled in His spirit by the betrayal He is about to experience. But He knows what Judas is to do in order to betray Him, and He commands Judas to go ahead and do it. For as we have read up to this point, He knows that He has come to the city to be killed for our reconciliation to God.
What are your thoughts?
There is so much symbolism in Jesus' washing His disciples' feet. Not only is it a common practice physically in that time, but it is a symbolic act of what He does for our souls on a regular basis. He cleanses us. We have already been washed clean by His sacrifice, but from time to time we need Him to clean us up so we can start walking again. When was the last time that you allowed Jesus to "wash your feet?" Also, when we are commanded to wash the feet of others, Jesus broke with tradition and societal norms to wash His disciples' feet. He lowered Himself to and beyond the disciples' status in society to serve them. We are to do the same, to serve those who we might consider beneath us. When was the last time that you served someone you couldn't stand?
It is refreshing to see John balance Jesus' godhood and His humanness at the same time. Jesus is troubled in His spirit by the betrayal He is about to experience. But He knows what Judas is to do in order to betray Him, and He commands Judas to go ahead and do it. For as we have read up to this point, He knows that He has come to the city to be killed for our reconciliation to God.
What are your thoughts?
Thursday, August 21, 2008
John Chapter Twelve - August 21, 2008
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And here we come to the final week of Jesus' life here on earth. We have read it before in two other Gospels this summer. It is different reading it from John's perspective. I especially enjoy Jesus' imagery that He gives the disciples about the wheat needing to fall to the ground in order to produce more plants. And His imagery of being the light and His commands to walk in the light while it is there... wow. It just really grabs me.
When I get to verse 43 I really see that we have come such a little distance in the past 2,000 years. People today still refuse to proclaim God's name because they are afraid to lose the praise of men. What dose that make those that follow through on this process? Those who like Jesus, but won't follow Him because it means they lose their status amongst others? And when He says that one who believes in Jesus has to believe in God. Wow. It really is all or nothing to follow Christ, isn't it?
What grabbed you?
And here we come to the final week of Jesus' life here on earth. We have read it before in two other Gospels this summer. It is different reading it from John's perspective. I especially enjoy Jesus' imagery that He gives the disciples about the wheat needing to fall to the ground in order to produce more plants. And His imagery of being the light and His commands to walk in the light while it is there... wow. It just really grabs me.
When I get to verse 43 I really see that we have come such a little distance in the past 2,000 years. People today still refuse to proclaim God's name because they are afraid to lose the praise of men. What dose that make those that follow through on this process? Those who like Jesus, but won't follow Him because it means they lose their status amongst others? And when He says that one who believes in Jesus has to believe in God. Wow. It really is all or nothing to follow Christ, isn't it?
What grabbed you?
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
John Chapter Eleven - August 20, 2008
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I really love this account of Lazarus. Jesus is close enough with the family that they send word for Him to come. And His statement about how the sickness will not end in death is amazing. True, Lazarus did die. But it was not the end. Jesus came even after 4 days and death was not the end. I just love that statement. And It is true, that death does not have to be the end for us either. We can continue living alongside Jesus after death. Our sicknesses do not have to end in death.
And is it not amazing that when we read John's account here we see that the Priests and Pharisees thought that they were going to crucify Jesus to bring the Jewish nation together? It was them trying to do what they thought right... or was it. Did Caiaphas' prophecy merely happen because he wanted to get Jesus out of the picture so HIS will could guide the Jews?
What do you think?
I really love this account of Lazarus. Jesus is close enough with the family that they send word for Him to come. And His statement about how the sickness will not end in death is amazing. True, Lazarus did die. But it was not the end. Jesus came even after 4 days and death was not the end. I just love that statement. And It is true, that death does not have to be the end for us either. We can continue living alongside Jesus after death. Our sicknesses do not have to end in death.
And is it not amazing that when we read John's account here we see that the Priests and Pharisees thought that they were going to crucify Jesus to bring the Jewish nation together? It was them trying to do what they thought right... or was it. Did Caiaphas' prophecy merely happen because he wanted to get Jesus out of the picture so HIS will could guide the Jews?
What do you think?
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
John Chapter Ten - August 19, 2008
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Jesus once again is bold, simple... and confusing. All at the same time. I sometimes wonder if He truly ever got tired of His disciples just not getting it? I know that at one point He kind of went off on them, asking them if they were really that slow (paraphrased), but think about it. Sharing earth-shattering Truth with them each and every day that they just don't get? That had to be frustrating! I especially love verse 10. Note that Jesus says that He came that we might have life to the full. Not the perfect life. Not so that we can have everything that we want. But to have life to the full. What do you suppose that means? And did you catch the subtle reference that the Jews were not the only people God cared about in verse 16? Such a powerful metaphor, using sheep. Even further on in the chapter when He talks about how God the Shepherd holds all the sheep in His and and no one can take them from Him. Are you a sheep? Or do you follow a thief?
Jesus once again is bold, simple... and confusing. All at the same time. I sometimes wonder if He truly ever got tired of His disciples just not getting it? I know that at one point He kind of went off on them, asking them if they were really that slow (paraphrased), but think about it. Sharing earth-shattering Truth with them each and every day that they just don't get? That had to be frustrating! I especially love verse 10. Note that Jesus says that He came that we might have life to the full. Not the perfect life. Not so that we can have everything that we want. But to have life to the full. What do you suppose that means? And did you catch the subtle reference that the Jews were not the only people God cared about in verse 16? Such a powerful metaphor, using sheep. Even further on in the chapter when He talks about how God the Shepherd holds all the sheep in His and and no one can take them from Him. Are you a sheep? Or do you follow a thief?
Monday, August 18, 2008
John Chapter Nine - August 18, 2008
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I find it very interesting that the disciples assumed that the man could be blind because of sin passed on from his parents. (There is a Biblical precedent for them to expect this). Or he might be blind as a result of his own sins. There are so many instances in Scripture where sin had a negative effect on a person's physical body. Why do we here in America simply assume that someone has physical limitations simply because of nature? And why do so many of us assume that physical problems are not set in place to see God's glory revealed? There are a few who do see this, but why do we pray for healing, but so rarely ask that in this instance God reveal His glory?
And from there, this man takes some of the Pharisees' own words about how a sinful man cannot perform such miraculous signs and throws it back at them! And they refuse to listen to him! The truth is so simple to see, yet impossible or these Pharisees to accept because it would necessitate them stepping aside and admitting that they have been wrong about Jesus. They would have to swallow their pride, and that is something that they are not willing to do. Humility es not grace the Pharisees.
I love how this chapter wraps it all up. Jesus tells the Pharisees that they claim to see, which in fact makes them blind because they do not see who He really is. Wow. So bold again. Jesus certainly was not here to make friends, eh?
What d you walk away from this passage with?
I find it very interesting that the disciples assumed that the man could be blind because of sin passed on from his parents. (There is a Biblical precedent for them to expect this). Or he might be blind as a result of his own sins. There are so many instances in Scripture where sin had a negative effect on a person's physical body. Why do we here in America simply assume that someone has physical limitations simply because of nature? And why do so many of us assume that physical problems are not set in place to see God's glory revealed? There are a few who do see this, but why do we pray for healing, but so rarely ask that in this instance God reveal His glory?
And from there, this man takes some of the Pharisees' own words about how a sinful man cannot perform such miraculous signs and throws it back at them! And they refuse to listen to him! The truth is so simple to see, yet impossible or these Pharisees to accept because it would necessitate them stepping aside and admitting that they have been wrong about Jesus. They would have to swallow their pride, and that is something that they are not willing to do. Humility es not grace the Pharisees.
I love how this chapter wraps it all up. Jesus tells the Pharisees that they claim to see, which in fact makes them blind because they do not see who He really is. Wow. So bold again. Jesus certainly was not here to make friends, eh?
What d you walk away from this passage with?
Sunday, August 17, 2008
John Chapter Eight - August 17, 2008
Read Today's Passage
- Go now and leave your life of sin. Such powerful words to forgive this woman, yet so simple.
- People still don't listen to Jesus, and continue to question Him.
- I laughed out loud when I read that the people were asking if Jesus was going to commit suicide.
- "Everyone who sins is a slave to sin." How true, especially today.
- Again Jesus does not sugar-coat anything and tells the people who are not listening to Him that the belong to the devil. How many churches would run their pastors out of town today if a message like this was given?
- I like how Jesus keeps saying the same thing over and over about who He is to the people. But they still don't get it. And I can't get over how the people just can't get past Jesus' age and claims (that have been backed up).
- Jesus avoids death before His predestined time at the hands of an angry mob yet again.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
John Chapter Seven - August 16, 2008
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Wouldn't it be interesting to be one of Jesus' brothers? To not even believe His claims, yet be related to Him? It is interesting to me to see how Jesus went to the feast in secret. He sticks to the practice that He has kept so far in His ministry to be secretive. Not to make a public showing. And still the disciples want Him to make public displays so that more people will believe Him.
And when Jesus teaches, what studying did He do as a child? Did He study the Torah like every other Jewish boy did growing up? Or did His knowledge of the Law come instinctively? Are they merely referring to that Jesus did not study with a Rabbi, or something else? And how do they know if He has been teaching with the authority of a committed and educated Rabbi? Hmm...
It is interesting to see so many people who are well-versed in the prophecies of the Messiah in this section, but they still are looking for someone else to come and save them .They are still holding out for a military leader to save them from Roman rule, not the Son of God to save them from eternal separation from God.
I enjoyed seeing Nicodemus coming back into play here. He is still in the fold of the Pharisees, yet he is trying to work to change from the inside out. Hmm... I wonder what that might look like today...
What did you think?
Wouldn't it be interesting to be one of Jesus' brothers? To not even believe His claims, yet be related to Him? It is interesting to me to see how Jesus went to the feast in secret. He sticks to the practice that He has kept so far in His ministry to be secretive. Not to make a public showing. And still the disciples want Him to make public displays so that more people will believe Him.
And when Jesus teaches, what studying did He do as a child? Did He study the Torah like every other Jewish boy did growing up? Or did His knowledge of the Law come instinctively? Are they merely referring to that Jesus did not study with a Rabbi, or something else? And how do they know if He has been teaching with the authority of a committed and educated Rabbi? Hmm...
It is interesting to see so many people who are well-versed in the prophecies of the Messiah in this section, but they still are looking for someone else to come and save them .They are still holding out for a military leader to save them from Roman rule, not the Son of God to save them from eternal separation from God.
I enjoyed seeing Nicodemus coming back into play here. He is still in the fold of the Pharisees, yet he is trying to work to change from the inside out. Hmm... I wonder what that might look like today...
What did you think?
Friday, August 15, 2008
John Chapter Six - August 15, 2008
Read Today's Passage
- I love John's account of the feeding of the people with bread and fish. It is the only place where we see Jesus deliberately testing a disciple's faith in the situation. How often does God ask us questions He already knows the answers to?
- Again Jesus withdraws by Himself from the crowd...
- Did Jesus tel His disciples to head to Capernaum by themselves, or did they do this on their own accord?
- The people go to look for Jesus when they realize that He did not get into the boat. Hmm... Could there be some symbolism here about people looking for Jesus where we expect Him to be and not finding Him because our expectations are so limited? Probably not in the original intention, but we can definitely draw that parallel.
- Jesus is not only living water to quench our thirst forever, but also bread to eat and be fulfilled. Notice the foreshadowing of the Last Supper between this chapter and Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman in chapter 4?
- I love how Jesus confuses the Jews utterly. They are unwilling to accept Him as who He says He is, so of course they will not understand what He is telling them. They want a miraculous sign, not a message. Reminds me of modern Americans today. Especially modern American Christians...
- Jesus again makes a hard statement that drives people away from Himself. Why do so many modern pastors and "Christians" say that the Christian life is easy, or that God will bless us physically here and now? Why is there such a call for universalism when the Truth is stated so clearly here? One way to eternal relationship with God, one way only. Hmm...
Thursday, August 14, 2008
John Chapter Five - August 14, 2008
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- I find it interesting that this man does not answer Jesus' question yet Jesus heals him anyway.
- I also find it just plain awful that the people around are more concerned with the letter of the law than the spirit of the law.
- And then the man meets Jesus later on and is told that his sin has a direct impact on his physical status. Hmm... Might our sins impact our physical well-being as well? Or was Jesus merely referring to hell when He spoke to the man? Hmmm...
- I love the way Jesus answers the Jews who are trying to kill Him for "disgracing" the Law and making Himself equal with God.
- I am intrigued by this peek into what happens after death. And Jesus' condemnation of the Jews who were placing their hope on a dead human being. Not on God. Doe we trust God, or is our faith in humans and human practices?
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
John Chapter Four - August 13, 2008
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Notice in verse two how even 2,000 years ago information was still not properly given? I wonder if the Pharisees were misinformed intentionally or not?
I love this passage where Jesus interacts with the Samaritan woman. In fact, I have preached on it twice in the past couple of years. Every time I read through it I get to see the God of the universe ignoring racial lines (the Jews and the Samaritans hated each other, even though they were very similar), class systems, and even breaking the rule of genders (men and women would not freely converse in public) to minister to a broken heart. This woman has no secrets from Jesus and He pulls no punches (again) with her. But He shows her compassion and love, and invites her to His side. And she accepts! He does not berate her for being an adulteress. He does not focus so intently on her sins that she is loaded up to her neck with guilt. He does not tell her that if she does not accept Him tonight she will go to hell. He has a conversation with her. And He shows her genuine love. I think that we need to spend more time emulating Jesus' evangelism style than we do creating our own. It worked for this woman (and most of her village).
And then Jesus returns home (remember in Luke how the town wanted to kill Him after He read Scripture?) to Galilee and heals a man's son. But what really catches me in this passage is what Jesus says in verse 48: "Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders you will never believe." Why can't we believe and trust Him without needing a miraculous sign, without wanting proof? Why can't we just trust and have real faith?
What do you think?
Notice in verse two how even 2,000 years ago information was still not properly given? I wonder if the Pharisees were misinformed intentionally or not?
I love this passage where Jesus interacts with the Samaritan woman. In fact, I have preached on it twice in the past couple of years. Every time I read through it I get to see the God of the universe ignoring racial lines (the Jews and the Samaritans hated each other, even though they were very similar), class systems, and even breaking the rule of genders (men and women would not freely converse in public) to minister to a broken heart. This woman has no secrets from Jesus and He pulls no punches (again) with her. But He shows her compassion and love, and invites her to His side. And she accepts! He does not berate her for being an adulteress. He does not focus so intently on her sins that she is loaded up to her neck with guilt. He does not tell her that if she does not accept Him tonight she will go to hell. He has a conversation with her. And He shows her genuine love. I think that we need to spend more time emulating Jesus' evangelism style than we do creating our own. It worked for this woman (and most of her village).
And then Jesus returns home (remember in Luke how the town wanted to kill Him after He read Scripture?) to Galilee and heals a man's son. But what really catches me in this passage is what Jesus says in verse 48: "Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders you will never believe." Why can't we believe and trust Him without needing a miraculous sign, without wanting proof? Why can't we just trust and have real faith?
What do you think?
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
John Chapter Three - August 12, 2008
Read Today's Passage
I love how Nicodemus starts out his conversation with Jesus. "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who comes from God." Think about that for a minute. A Pharisee who s coming to Jesus and not only is admitting that more than he knows that Jesus is from God, but he is addressing Jesus as Rabbi! (Rabbis were very authoritative teachers, and it would be obscene for Nicodemus to admit that Jesus was such a teacher if others saw him). If someone as highly placed as Nicodemus was could see this in Jesus, why do so many of us have a problem with admitting the teachings are solid and that we should follow them instead of just listening to them?
I especially enjoy the symbolism Jesus uses about the snake being lifted up by Moses to Israel (check it out for yourself). I especially love the verses following 16 here, there is such weight and no fence-sitting whatsoever. Jesus is incredibly blunt. Either you are with Him and love the light, or you are not and love the dark. No gray area. The same with John the Baptist. I love the fact that neither of these men are pulling punches and just laying it down. No hem-hawing, or fidgeting their fingers. Just plain, simple truth. No sugar coating.
I wonder why more of us don't do this today? Are we afraid to lose our status? Our friends? Our jobs? To be honest, this chapter reminded me a little bit of CJ's words on Youth Sunday.
So what did you think?
I love how Nicodemus starts out his conversation with Jesus. "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who comes from God." Think about that for a minute. A Pharisee who s coming to Jesus and not only is admitting that more than he knows that Jesus is from God, but he is addressing Jesus as Rabbi! (Rabbis were very authoritative teachers, and it would be obscene for Nicodemus to admit that Jesus was such a teacher if others saw him). If someone as highly placed as Nicodemus was could see this in Jesus, why do so many of us have a problem with admitting the teachings are solid and that we should follow them instead of just listening to them?
I especially enjoy the symbolism Jesus uses about the snake being lifted up by Moses to Israel (check it out for yourself). I especially love the verses following 16 here, there is such weight and no fence-sitting whatsoever. Jesus is incredibly blunt. Either you are with Him and love the light, or you are not and love the dark. No gray area. The same with John the Baptist. I love the fact that neither of these men are pulling punches and just laying it down. No hem-hawing, or fidgeting their fingers. Just plain, simple truth. No sugar coating.
I wonder why more of us don't do this today? Are we afraid to lose our status? Our friends? Our jobs? To be honest, this chapter reminded me a little bit of CJ's words on Youth Sunday.
So what did you think?
Monday, August 11, 2008
John Chapter Two - August 11, 2008
Read Today's Passage
Jesus shows up at a wedding... keeps the party going! There are a lot of things about first-century Jewish wedding practices that we here in the 21st century do not know about, but really should look into to understand the background behind our text better. (Just for your benefit, check out here, here, or read the first couple of chapters from Rob Bell's SexGod sometime). And we need to know that the wine that Jesus created was not grape juice (how would they keep it from fermenting without refrigeration?) What does this tell us about Jesus? That He approves of and blesses this marriage (and marriage as an institution) and that He is obedient to His mother (as all of us should be). It also shows us that this was His very first public miracle. Pretty interesting, eh?
The rest of the chapter gives us even more insight into Jesus' clearing of the Temple (He made a whip and used it to scare the thieves out. Didn't see that coming, eh?) and fast-forwards into the disciple's reactions to His prophecy about tearing down the Temple and raising it back up. I wonder how many times in our lives God tells us something and we do not understand it until far down the road?
So what did you think?
Jesus shows up at a wedding... keeps the party going! There are a lot of things about first-century Jewish wedding practices that we here in the 21st century do not know about, but really should look into to understand the background behind our text better. (Just for your benefit, check out here, here, or read the first couple of chapters from Rob Bell's SexGod sometime). And we need to know that the wine that Jesus created was not grape juice (how would they keep it from fermenting without refrigeration?) What does this tell us about Jesus? That He approves of and blesses this marriage (and marriage as an institution) and that He is obedient to His mother (as all of us should be). It also shows us that this was His very first public miracle. Pretty interesting, eh?
The rest of the chapter gives us even more insight into Jesus' clearing of the Temple (He made a whip and used it to scare the thieves out. Didn't see that coming, eh?) and fast-forwards into the disciple's reactions to His prophecy about tearing down the Temple and raising it back up. I wonder how many times in our lives God tells us something and we do not understand it until far down the road?
So what did you think?
Sunday, August 10, 2008
John Chapter One - August 10, 2008
Read Today's Passage
Of all the Gospels, for some reason I find that I spend the least amount if time in John. This is not because I dislike it or anything like that. I just wind up in the other three mostly. There is so much great to be found in John though, and I am looking forward to rediscovering it this month.
Of all the Gospels, for some reason I find that I spend the least amount if time in John. This is not because I dislike it or anything like that. I just wind up in the other three mostly. There is so much great to be found in John though, and I am looking forward to rediscovering it this month.
- I like how John refers to Jesus simply as The Word. It really sets the tone for his book. It also shows just a fraction of the power that Jesus has, as nothing can happen without Him.
- Just imagine for a moment just what it took for Jesus to become flesh.
- I love the way that John answered the questions of the people and the Pharisees. Very matter-of-fact and simple, yet loaded with meaning and expectancy.
- It is interesting to see that Jesus stuck in the area for a little while after being baptized, seeing as how He walked by John again after being baptized.
- Isn't it interesting that this is the only place we really get a view into how Philip and Nathanael were called? Interesting...
- Where does this calling fit with the rest of the 12? Obviously Simon James and John have already been called, but after reading Nathanael's admission to Jesus' identity, has Jesus already asked Peter who he thinks that Jesus is?
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Luke Chapter Twenty Four - August 9, 2008
Read Today's Passage
Again, Luke showcases women in his Gospel. The women went to the tomb while the male disciples were hiding! And then the angels (the men in white) reminded the women of the prophecies that Jesus told His disciples about His return to life. And even when Peter views the strips in the tomb, he wonders what happened. Even after all that he saw while Jesus was ministering before His crucifixion, he still does not believe completely that Jesus is back!
It also really amazes me that Jesus kept His identity a secret from the men on the way to Emmaus. Was it merely to hear their thoughts out loud? Or was it to teach them to keep alert when they finally did recognize Him? And how about when He appears to the 11 and one of the first things He does is to ask them for food! I love it.
All of the excitement from this chapter really is getting me interested in reading on into the rest of the story in Acts. Check it out for yourself...
Again, Luke showcases women in his Gospel. The women went to the tomb while the male disciples were hiding! And then the angels (the men in white) reminded the women of the prophecies that Jesus told His disciples about His return to life. And even when Peter views the strips in the tomb, he wonders what happened. Even after all that he saw while Jesus was ministering before His crucifixion, he still does not believe completely that Jesus is back!
It also really amazes me that Jesus kept His identity a secret from the men on the way to Emmaus. Was it merely to hear their thoughts out loud? Or was it to teach them to keep alert when they finally did recognize Him? And how about when He appears to the 11 and one of the first things He does is to ask them for food! I love it.
All of the excitement from this chapter really is getting me interested in reading on into the rest of the story in Acts. Check it out for yourself...
Monday, August 4, 2008
Luke Chapter Nineteen - August 4, 2008
Read Today's Passage
The familiar story of Jesus and Zacchaeus. I could tell this story in my sleep, I have heard it that many times. But if I were to gloss over it I would miss a couple of key elements. Jesus chose to go to Zacchaeus' house because Zacchaeus was a repentant sinner. Not because he was a righteous man. The religious crowd has it so wrong that Jesus came (comes) for we who already know Him. He came to seek and to save the lost, not to make the already knowledgeable more so. Plus, just a thought to ponder, was Zacchaeus short, or was Jesus? The text can be read either way. Could Zacchaeus not see Jesus because he himself was short and could not see over the crowd, or was Jesus too short to be seen over the heads of those listening to Him? Not a salvation issue at all, but one more reason to really pay attention to the text.
And can I just say that I love that the Pharisees could do nothing about Jesus because the crowd loved listening to Him? I love that aspect that the people of God controlled (for a time, anyway) what the leaders could do. Their obedience to God kept the pride of the selfish humans from getting in the way for a while.
So what do you think?
The familiar story of Jesus and Zacchaeus. I could tell this story in my sleep, I have heard it that many times. But if I were to gloss over it I would miss a couple of key elements. Jesus chose to go to Zacchaeus' house because Zacchaeus was a repentant sinner. Not because he was a righteous man. The religious crowd has it so wrong that Jesus came (comes) for we who already know Him. He came to seek and to save the lost, not to make the already knowledgeable more so. Plus, just a thought to ponder, was Zacchaeus short, or was Jesus? The text can be read either way. Could Zacchaeus not see Jesus because he himself was short and could not see over the crowd, or was Jesus too short to be seen over the heads of those listening to Him? Not a salvation issue at all, but one more reason to really pay attention to the text.
And can I just say that I love that the Pharisees could do nothing about Jesus because the crowd loved listening to Him? I love that aspect that the people of God controlled (for a time, anyway) what the leaders could do. Their obedience to God kept the pride of the selfish humans from getting in the way for a while.
So what do you think?
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Luke Chapter Eighteen - August 3, 2008
Read Passage Here
I love reading Jesus' words. It makes me feel like I was right there with the disciples, and I hang on every word! And I have so many questions!!
Like when Jesus is talking about persistent faith, and God doing justice, when He talks about returning, does He mean when He will be resurrected, or the second coming?
I was very convicted by the lesson on prayer. Are we prideful when we pray? Or are we broken and realize we need God? I pray that God helps me to be as humble as the tax collector.
What do you think it means to have the faith of a child?
I always loved the story of the rich man. He has followed the letter of the Law so well through life....BUT he is unwilling to sacrifice his worldly gain to follow Christ. How true of all of us to a certain extent. What haven't we sacrificed to follow Christ fully?
And we end the chapter with a story of persistence, just like the chapter started. Sometimes I feel like I give up too easily in pursuing God. I think God wants us to pursue Him, to seek Him out, so He can meet our needs in a more profound way.
Thoughts?
I love reading Jesus' words. It makes me feel like I was right there with the disciples, and I hang on every word! And I have so many questions!!
Like when Jesus is talking about persistent faith, and God doing justice, when He talks about returning, does He mean when He will be resurrected, or the second coming?
I was very convicted by the lesson on prayer. Are we prideful when we pray? Or are we broken and realize we need God? I pray that God helps me to be as humble as the tax collector.
What do you think it means to have the faith of a child?
I always loved the story of the rich man. He has followed the letter of the Law so well through life....BUT he is unwilling to sacrifice his worldly gain to follow Christ. How true of all of us to a certain extent. What haven't we sacrificed to follow Christ fully?
And we end the chapter with a story of persistence, just like the chapter started. Sometimes I feel like I give up too easily in pursuing God. I think God wants us to pursue Him, to seek Him out, so He can meet our needs in a more profound way.
Thoughts?
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Luke Chapter Seventeen - August 2, 2008
Read Passage Here
There is alot in this chapter. What do you think about what Jesus says about duty? How does that fit into our idea of what Christianity is all about?
I love the story of the ten lepers. I always wonder what the other nine were thinking. Jesus TOLD them to go to the priest.....why would they turn around? But Jesus seems to rebuke them for following orders! I wonder if He is trying to show the Pharisees and even the disciples that letting the Spirit guide us instead of following strict guidelines is a good thing? Maybe He is showing that not only Jews are going to inherit the Kingdom, since the only leper who came back to Jesus was a Samaritan? What do you think?
I love this imagery of the Kingdom. This is proof that the Kingdom is already upon us! I think those who believe that the Kingdom is here NOW, have a totally different perspective of Jesus than people who think the Kingdom is purely after death, awaiting us on the other side. What do you think those differences of perspective may be?
There is alot in this chapter. What do you think about what Jesus says about duty? How does that fit into our idea of what Christianity is all about?
I love the story of the ten lepers. I always wonder what the other nine were thinking. Jesus TOLD them to go to the priest.....why would they turn around? But Jesus seems to rebuke them for following orders! I wonder if He is trying to show the Pharisees and even the disciples that letting the Spirit guide us instead of following strict guidelines is a good thing? Maybe He is showing that not only Jews are going to inherit the Kingdom, since the only leper who came back to Jesus was a Samaritan? What do you think?
I love this imagery of the Kingdom. This is proof that the Kingdom is already upon us! I think those who believe that the Kingdom is here NOW, have a totally different perspective of Jesus than people who think the Kingdom is purely after death, awaiting us on the other side. What do you think those differences of perspective may be?
Friday, August 1, 2008
Luke Chapter Sixteen - August 1, 2008
Read Passage Here
The first part of this chapter was very confusing to me! I really didn't understand what Jesus was saying, at least not completely. I urge you to read this in different translations to get the full meaning behind the text!
Jesus is still talking to the disciples, with the Pharisees around. I think Jesus is really talking more to the Pharisees at this point. He keeps trying to get them to understand the spirit of the law, and they just don't get it! They think they are so self righteous that they are blind to God trying to open their eyes!!
Also, I love the Rich man and Lazarus story. Read the last line.....so powerful. What is Jesus telling us through this parable?
I am looking forward to discussion on this chapter!
The first part of this chapter was very confusing to me! I really didn't understand what Jesus was saying, at least not completely. I urge you to read this in different translations to get the full meaning behind the text!
Jesus is still talking to the disciples, with the Pharisees around. I think Jesus is really talking more to the Pharisees at this point. He keeps trying to get them to understand the spirit of the law, and they just don't get it! They think they are so self righteous that they are blind to God trying to open their eyes!!
Also, I love the Rich man and Lazarus story. Read the last line.....so powerful. What is Jesus telling us through this parable?
I am looking forward to discussion on this chapter!
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