John 10:31-42
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Claims to Be The Son of God
31 Once again the people picked up stones to kill him. 32 Jesus said, “At my Father’s direction I have done many good works. For which one are you going to stone me?”
33 They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.”
34 Jesus replied, “It is written in your own Scriptures that God said to certain leaders of the people, ‘I say, you are gods!’ 35 And you know that the Scriptures cannot be altered. So if those people who received God’s message were called ‘gods,’ 36 why do you call it blasphemy when I say, ‘I am the Son of God’? After all, the Father set me apart and sent me into the world. 37 Don’t believe me unless I carry out my Father’s work. 38 But if I do his work, believe in the evidence of the miraculous works I have done, even if you don’t believe me. Then you will know and understand that the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.”
39 Once again they tried to arrest him, but he got away and left them. 40 He went beyond the Jordan River near the place where John was first baptizing and stayed there awhile. 41 And many followed him. “John didn’t perform miraculous signs,” they remarked to one another, “but everything he said about this man has come true.” 42 And many who were there believed in Jesus.
The ‘seminary’ definition of blasphemy is speech which is defamatory of Devine Majesty. Jesus spoke (Matt. 12:31-32) of anyone with evidence before their eyes of this Devine Majesty, who gives credit for it to Satan, as being beyond God’s reach and hopeless.
Jesus was no blasphemer. When He spoke of the good works He did, He was quick to give credit to His Father … my Father’s direction … the Father set me apart … I carry out my Father’s work … I do His work … the Father is in me, and I am in the Father.
When we do a good work, let us be careful and quick to give God the glory, just as Jesus did!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
IN GOD’S HAND
John 10:22-30
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God
22 It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. 23 He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”
25 Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name. 26 But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, 29 for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.”
Max Lucado titled one of his books “In The Grip of Grace”. When you come to God, through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, He gets a hold on you that the devil and all his demons cannot break. When you are in the grip of grace, nothing and no one can snatch you away.
The assurance of my salvation comforts my spirit as I face trials, tribulation, sickness, weakness, grief, disappointment or heavy burdens. You pick a word that describes where you are. When you are in Christ, wherever your external circumstances has you, the eternal grip of God holds you.
“No on can snatch them from the Father’s hand.”
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Claims to Be the Son of God
22 It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. 23 He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 The people surrounded him and asked, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”
25 Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe me. The proof is the work I do in my Father’s name. 26 But you don’t believe me because you are not my sheep. 27 My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from me, 29 for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.”
Max Lucado titled one of his books “In The Grip of Grace”. When you come to God, through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, He gets a hold on you that the devil and all his demons cannot break. When you are in the grip of grace, nothing and no one can snatch you away.
The assurance of my salvation comforts my spirit as I face trials, tribulation, sickness, weakness, grief, disappointment or heavy burdens. You pick a word that describes where you are. When you are in Christ, wherever your external circumstances has you, the eternal grip of God holds you.
“No on can snatch them from the Father’s hand.”
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
THE VOLUNTEER
John 10:17-21
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
17 “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”
19 When he said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him. 20 Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?” 21 Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
In my mind, I can imagine this conversation.
God the Father says, “I need a perfect sacrifice, an unblemished lamb … one that will satisfy the sin debt once and for all.”
Jesus speaks up and says, “I’ll go.”
God says, “I’m going to perform this sacrifice in a way never done before. I’ll raise the lamb from the dead.”
Jesus replies, “Fine by me.”
God says, “So be it.”
God expresses His will. Jesus volunteers. God commands it be as they discussed. No committee meetings … no debate … no argument … no vote. A simple conversation between the Father and The Son and the plan for the salvation of humankind is finished.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
17 “The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again. 18 No one can take my life from me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what my Father has commanded.”
19 When he said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about him. 20 Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of his mind. Why listen to a man like that?” 21 Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
In my mind, I can imagine this conversation.
God the Father says, “I need a perfect sacrifice, an unblemished lamb … one that will satisfy the sin debt once and for all.”
Jesus speaks up and says, “I’ll go.”
God says, “I’m going to perform this sacrifice in a way never done before. I’ll raise the lamb from the dead.”
Jesus replies, “Fine by me.”
God says, “So be it.”
God expresses His will. Jesus volunteers. God commands it be as they discussed. No committee meetings … no debate … no argument … no vote. A simple conversation between the Father and The Son and the plan for the salvation of humankind is finished.
Monday, July 28, 2008
NOT ABOUT GETTING RICH
John 10:6-16
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
6 Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, 7 so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. 9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.
14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, 15 just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
Despite what you may hear from what I call ‘prosperity preachers’, the Christian life is not about getting rich. When Jesus states His “purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life”, He is not talking about filling our bank accounts. If it was all about money, the hired hand would not run away in the face of an attack.
Jesus gives other indications here of the Christian life for us to consider. It is a life lived in the presence of the Lord (v.8 … all who come before me). It is a life of freedom, not bondage (v.9 … they will come and go freely). It is a life with security (v.11,12 … the good shepherd sacrifices his life … when he sees a wolf coming). It is a life in fellowship with like believers (v.16 … there will be one flock with one shepherd).
A life lived following Christian beliefs and values may lead to financial riches but that is not God’s sole purpose. The Christian life is “rich and satisfying” in ways far greater than a bank balance.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
6 Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what he meant, 7 so he explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them. 9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures. 10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep. 12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock. 13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.
14 “I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, 15 just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. 16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.
Despite what you may hear from what I call ‘prosperity preachers’, the Christian life is not about getting rich. When Jesus states His “purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life”, He is not talking about filling our bank accounts. If it was all about money, the hired hand would not run away in the face of an attack.
Jesus gives other indications here of the Christian life for us to consider. It is a life lived in the presence of the Lord (v.8 … all who come before me). It is a life of freedom, not bondage (v.9 … they will come and go freely). It is a life with security (v.11,12 … the good shepherd sacrifices his life … when he sees a wolf coming). It is a life in fellowship with like believers (v.16 … there will be one flock with one shepherd).
A life lived following Christian beliefs and values may lead to financial riches but that is not God’s sole purpose. The Christian life is “rich and satisfying” in ways far greater than a bank balance.
Friday, July 25, 2008
WHICH VOICE?
John 10:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! 2 But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. 5 They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.”
We remember the cartoons with a character being drawn by two opposing forces. They picture the red devil with a pitch fork on one shoulder and an angel dressed in white robes on the other. If only it were so easy to differentiate in real life. We are constantly being courted by the opposing forces of good and evil. How do we know which voice we hear is the one to which we should listen?
In this parable of the good shepherd, Jesus emphasizes that where there is relationship, there is recognition. The sheep know the voice of their shepherd because they have a close relationship. They won’t follow the voice of a stranger.
We grow close in our relationship to the Lord through prayer, Bible study, worship and Christian service. When we are actively and regularly growing our relationship to Jesus, we won’t have a problem recognizing His voice. The Holy Spirit in us won’t let us be fooled by the voice of a stranger. Our spirit will be drawn to the familiar voice of our Savior and be repulsed by the evil voice of the deceiver.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Good Shepherd and His Sheep
“I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber! 2 But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice. 5 They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.”
We remember the cartoons with a character being drawn by two opposing forces. They picture the red devil with a pitch fork on one shoulder and an angel dressed in white robes on the other. If only it were so easy to differentiate in real life. We are constantly being courted by the opposing forces of good and evil. How do we know which voice we hear is the one to which we should listen?
In this parable of the good shepherd, Jesus emphasizes that where there is relationship, there is recognition. The sheep know the voice of their shepherd because they have a close relationship. They won’t follow the voice of a stranger.
We grow close in our relationship to the Lord through prayer, Bible study, worship and Christian service. When we are actively and regularly growing our relationship to Jesus, we won’t have a problem recognizing His voice. The Holy Spirit in us won’t let us be fooled by the voice of a stranger. Our spirit will be drawn to the familiar voice of our Savior and be repulsed by the evil voice of the deceiver.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
SPIRITUAL BLINDNESS
John 9:35-41
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Spiritual Blindness
35 When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”
36 The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”
37 “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”
38 “Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.
39 Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”
40 Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”
41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.
There is spiritual blindness with guilt attached. This was NOT the problem of the man born blind. This problem belonged to the Pharisees.
The man born blind received his physical sight and wanted to believe in the One who performed this miracle in his life.
The Pharisees had physical sight, were learned men in the Law and claimed to be enlightened. Yet when the One of whom they had learned about from the prophets … the One whom they were waiting to come … the One they were searching for … arrived, their spiritual blindness would not allow them to see Him.
They were guilty because they were depending on sight that came from the eyes (head knowledge) instead of sight that comes from the heart (belief).
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Spiritual Blindness
35 When Jesus heard what had happened, he found the man and asked, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”
36 The man answered, “Who is he, sir? I want to believe in him.”
37 “You have seen him,” Jesus said, “and he is speaking to you!”
38 “Yes, Lord, I believe!” the man said. And he worshiped Jesus.
39 Then Jesus told him, “I entered this world to render judgment—to give sight to the blind and to show those who think they see that they are blind.”
40 Some Pharisees who were standing nearby heard him and asked, “Are you saying we’re blind?”
41 “If you were blind, you wouldn’t be guilty,” Jesus replied. “But you remain guilty because you claim you can see.
There is spiritual blindness with guilt attached. This was NOT the problem of the man born blind. This problem belonged to the Pharisees.
The man born blind received his physical sight and wanted to believe in the One who performed this miracle in his life.
The Pharisees had physical sight, were learned men in the Law and claimed to be enlightened. Yet when the One of whom they had learned about from the prophets … the One whom they were waiting to come … the One they were searching for … arrived, their spiritual blindness would not allow them to see Him.
They were guilty because they were depending on sight that came from the eyes (head knowledge) instead of sight that comes from the heart (belief).
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
GOD IS READY
John 9:24-34
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
24 So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this, because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.”
25 “I don’t know whether he is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!”
26 “But what did he do?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”
27 “Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?”
28 Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29 We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”
30 “Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31 We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32 Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.”
34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
The Jewish leaders were not ready to acknowledge Jesus Christ. They, being good Jews, followed their traditions. The three mainstays of this tradition were Moses, the Levitical priesthood and a belief in angels. Jesus didn’t fit their tradition and they were unwilling … not ready … to break with their tradition.
The man born blind had a life changing experience. Through the hands of Jesus (and a little spit and mud), he could now see. Old traditions could no longer hold him. He had an encounter with the living God. He became a disciple, a follower, one ready to do His will. He gave God the praise and worship due Him. Why? Because God showed Himself ready to hear and respond to the desires of his heart.
Hear the testimony of this man born blind. God is ready to meet you at the point of your need if you will only worship Him and do His will.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
24 So for the second time they called in the man who had been blind and told him, “God should get the glory for this, because we know this man Jesus is a sinner.”
25 “I don’t know whether he is a sinner,” the man replied. “But I know this: I was blind, and now I can see!”
26 “But what did he do?” they asked. “How did he heal you?”
27 “Look!” the man exclaimed. “I told you once. Didn’t you listen? Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples, too?”
28 Then they cursed him and said, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses! 29 We know God spoke to Moses, but we don’t even know where this man comes from.”
30 “Why, that’s very strange!” the man replied. “He healed my eyes, and yet you don’t know where he comes from? 31 We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but he is ready to hear those who worship him and do his will. 32 Ever since the world began, no one has been able to open the eyes of someone born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, he couldn’t have done it.”
34 “You were born a total sinner!” they answered. “Are you trying to teach us?” And they threw him out of the synagogue.
The Jewish leaders were not ready to acknowledge Jesus Christ. They, being good Jews, followed their traditions. The three mainstays of this tradition were Moses, the Levitical priesthood and a belief in angels. Jesus didn’t fit their tradition and they were unwilling … not ready … to break with their tradition.
The man born blind had a life changing experience. Through the hands of Jesus (and a little spit and mud), he could now see. Old traditions could no longer hold him. He had an encounter with the living God. He became a disciple, a follower, one ready to do His will. He gave God the praise and worship due Him. Why? Because God showed Himself ready to hear and respond to the desires of his heart.
Hear the testimony of this man born blind. God is ready to meet you at the point of your need if you will only worship Him and do His will.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
A LITTLE LEAVEN IN THE LOAF
John 9:17-23
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
17 Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this man who healed you?”
The man replied, “I think he must be a prophet.”
18 The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19 They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?”
20 His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21 but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23 That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”
Leaven or sour dough was used during Old Testament days to make bread. This was a lengthy process. The Israelites were forbidden from using leaven during the Passover, a reminder to them that the Lord brought Israel out of Egypt in haste. The high state of fermentation in the leavening process came to represent corruption in their religious practice and therefore unleavened bread was used in their offerings. In the New Testament, reference to leaven became metaphorical to corrupt doctrine (Mark 8:15a).
The parents of the man born blind told the Pharisees enough truth (he is our son, he was born blind), mixed with enough leaven (we don’t know how he can see or who healed him), to keep themselves of the hot seat. Mixing lies with truth corrupts the entire statement.
Their son could see because Jesus healed him. In Matthew 10:33 Jesus warns those who deny Him will themselves be denied before God. I’d rather be on the hot seat before men than denied before the Father.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
17 Then the Pharisees again questioned the man who had been blind and demanded, “What’s your opinion about this man who healed you?”
The man replied, “I think he must be a prophet.”
18 The Jewish leaders still refused to believe the man had been blind and could now see, so they called in his parents. 19 They asked them, “Is this your son? Was he born blind? If so, how can he now see?”
20 His parents replied, “We know this is our son and that he was born blind, 21 but we don’t know how he can see or who healed him. Ask him. He is old enough to speak for himself.” 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders, who had announced that anyone saying Jesus was the Messiah would be expelled from the synagogue. 23 That’s why they said, “He is old enough. Ask him.”
Leaven or sour dough was used during Old Testament days to make bread. This was a lengthy process. The Israelites were forbidden from using leaven during the Passover, a reminder to them that the Lord brought Israel out of Egypt in haste. The high state of fermentation in the leavening process came to represent corruption in their religious practice and therefore unleavened bread was used in their offerings. In the New Testament, reference to leaven became metaphorical to corrupt doctrine (Mark 8:15a).
The parents of the man born blind told the Pharisees enough truth (he is our son, he was born blind), mixed with enough leaven (we don’t know how he can see or who healed him), to keep themselves of the hot seat. Mixing lies with truth corrupts the entire statement.
Their son could see because Jesus healed him. In Matthew 10:33 Jesus warns those who deny Him will themselves be denied before God. I’d rather be on the hot seat before men than denied before the Father.
Friday, July 18, 2008
WORKING ON THE SABBATH
John 9:11-16
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
11 He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”
12 “Where is he now?” they asked.
“I don’t know,” he replied.
13 Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14 because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15 The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!”
16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them.
The issue of Jesus working on the Sabbath came up back in chapter 7 and now the Pharisees raise the issue again. The Jewish leaders and followers were very rigid in following the Law given to them by God through Moses. In practice, it would appear that Jesus was not so rigid. When He saw a need, Jesus moved by grace and mercy rather than the strict rules of the Old Testament schoolmaster. The Law was a schoolmaster given by God to guide people until Jesus came. When Jesus came, by His own words (Matt. 5:17), He came to fulfill the Law.
We are living in the dispensation of grace. The law has not been abolished but it has been fulfilled. We follow Christ.
The Sabbath was establish by God as a holy day to honor God. It is a day where the Christian church practices the worship we will do everyday when we are gathered around the throne in heaven. We are encouraged not to neglect this practice (Heb. 10:25).
Let us not respond as the Pharisees did to those who work on Sunday. The only result from such as response appears to be division … deep division … among themselves. Let us respond with a heart of grace as Jesus did.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
11 He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”
12 “Where is he now?” they asked.
“I don’t know,” he replied.
13 Then they took the man who had been blind to the Pharisees, 14 because it was on the Sabbath that Jesus had made the mud and healed him. 15 The Pharisees asked the man all about it. So he told them, “He put the mud over my eyes, and when I washed it away, I could see!”
16 Some of the Pharisees said, “This man Jesus is not from God, for he is working on the Sabbath.” Others said, “But how could an ordinary sinner do such miraculous signs?” So there was a deep division of opinion among them.
The issue of Jesus working on the Sabbath came up back in chapter 7 and now the Pharisees raise the issue again. The Jewish leaders and followers were very rigid in following the Law given to them by God through Moses. In practice, it would appear that Jesus was not so rigid. When He saw a need, Jesus moved by grace and mercy rather than the strict rules of the Old Testament schoolmaster. The Law was a schoolmaster given by God to guide people until Jesus came. When Jesus came, by His own words (Matt. 5:17), He came to fulfill the Law.
We are living in the dispensation of grace. The law has not been abolished but it has been fulfilled. We follow Christ.
The Sabbath was establish by God as a holy day to honor God. It is a day where the Christian church practices the worship we will do everyday when we are gathered around the throne in heaven. We are encouraged not to neglect this practice (Heb. 10:25).
Let us not respond as the Pharisees did to those who work on Sunday. The only result from such as response appears to be division … deep division … among themselves. Let us respond with a heart of grace as Jesus did.
Thursday, July 17, 2008
UNCLEAN MEANS
John 9:6-11
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
6 Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and spread the mud over the blind man’s eyes. 7 He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing!
8 His neighbors and others who knew him as a blind beggar asked each other, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some said he was, and others said, “No, he just looks like him!”
But the beggar kept saying, “Yes, I am the same one!”
10 They asked, “Who healed you? What happened?”
11 He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”
If you have had to visit a hospital ICU (Intensive Care Unit), you probably know that upon entering the unit you are required to wash your hands. Upon leaving, the same washing requirement exists. They do everything they can to protect the patients and protect the visitors.
It doesn’t appear that Jesus had these same concerns. He used spit and mud to heal. We probably find that repulsive. The blind beggar couldn’t see what Jesus was doing. I suspect he heard Jesus clear His throat and spit but his concern was not about being that. He just wanted to be healed and see. He obediently followed Jesus’ instructions and received his sight. In giving his testimony, the mud is there but there is no mention of the spit.
The means God uses to heal are up to Him. Doctors … nurses … hospitals … labs … lasers … miracles … or mud and spit. We praise God for being The Healer!
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
6 Then he spit on the ground, made mud with the saliva, and spread the mud over the blind man’s eyes. 7 He told him, “Go wash yourself in the pool of Siloam” (Siloam means “sent”). So the man went and washed and came back seeing!
8 His neighbors and others who knew him as a blind beggar asked each other, “Isn’t this the man who used to sit and beg?” 9 Some said he was, and others said, “No, he just looks like him!”
But the beggar kept saying, “Yes, I am the same one!”
10 They asked, “Who healed you? What happened?”
11 He told them, “The man they call Jesus made mud and spread it over my eyes and told me, ‘Go to the pool of Siloam and wash yourself.’ So I went and washed, and now I can see!”
If you have had to visit a hospital ICU (Intensive Care Unit), you probably know that upon entering the unit you are required to wash your hands. Upon leaving, the same washing requirement exists. They do everything they can to protect the patients and protect the visitors.
It doesn’t appear that Jesus had these same concerns. He used spit and mud to heal. We probably find that repulsive. The blind beggar couldn’t see what Jesus was doing. I suspect he heard Jesus clear His throat and spit but his concern was not about being that. He just wanted to be healed and see. He obediently followed Jesus’ instructions and received his sight. In giving his testimony, the mud is there but there is no mention of the spit.
The means God uses to heal are up to Him. Doctors … nurses … hospitals … labs … lasers … miracles … or mud and spit. We praise God for being The Healer!
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
DAYS ARE NUMBERED
John 9:1-5
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
1 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2 “Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”
3 “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. 4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. 5 But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”
If you ever thought the crucifixion caught Jesus by surprise, forget that. Jesus knew His days were numbered. He knew the nighttime of His life was fast approaching. As Jesus walked the roads and taught His disciples, He was focused on the task which His Father had sent Him to accomplish. He was about His Father’s business … The Cross!
The same is true for each one of us. Our days are also numbered. Unlike Jesus, we don’t have the divine knowledge to know the number of our days but just like Jesus, we should be focused on the task … be about our Father’s business. Don’t put off for tomorrow that which should be done today. Share the love of Jesus Christ with those you come in contact with.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
1 As Jesus was walking along, he saw a man who had been blind from birth. 2 “Rabbi,” his disciples asked him, “why was this man born blind? Was it because of his own sins or his parents’ sins?”
3 “It was not because of his sins or his parents’ sins,” Jesus answered. “This happened so the power of God could be seen in him. 4 We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work. 5 But while I am here in the world, I am the light of the world.”
If you ever thought the crucifixion caught Jesus by surprise, forget that. Jesus knew His days were numbered. He knew the nighttime of His life was fast approaching. As Jesus walked the roads and taught His disciples, He was focused on the task which His Father had sent Him to accomplish. He was about His Father’s business … The Cross!
The same is true for each one of us. Our days are also numbered. Unlike Jesus, we don’t have the divine knowledge to know the number of our days but just like Jesus, we should be focused on the task … be about our Father’s business. Don’t put off for tomorrow that which should be done today. Share the love of Jesus Christ with those you come in contact with.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
SEE IT COMING
John 8:54-58
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
54 Jesus answered, “If I want glory for myself, it doesn’t count. But it is my Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,’ 55 but you don’t even know him. I know him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know him and obey him. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.”
57 The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?”
58 Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!”
Hundreds of years before Jesus came, in his spirit Abraham was able to see the coming of the Messiah. This prophetic revelation was a source of joy to Abraham.
Over two thousand years ago, it was revealed to John that Jesus was coming again and it would be soon (Rev. 22).
Today, as we look at the signs of the Old and New Testament prophecies, we can see it coming. Time is winding up. We are living in the last days that Peter, Luke and Paul wrote about. Jesus is coming back again.
Like Abraham, do you see it? Are you glad?
Come Lord Jesus!!!
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
54 Jesus answered, “If I want glory for myself, it doesn’t count. But it is my Father who will glorify me. You say, ‘He is our God,’ 55 but you don’t even know him. I know him. If I said otherwise, I would be as great a liar as you! But I do know him and obey him. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced as he looked forward to my coming. He saw it and was glad.”
57 The people said, “You aren’t even fifty years old. How can you say you have seen Abraham?”
58 Jesus answered, “I tell you the truth, before Abraham was even born, I AM!”
Hundreds of years before Jesus came, in his spirit Abraham was able to see the coming of the Messiah. This prophetic revelation was a source of joy to Abraham.
Over two thousand years ago, it was revealed to John that Jesus was coming again and it would be soon (Rev. 22).
Today, as we look at the signs of the Old and New Testament prophecies, we can see it coming. Time is winding up. We are living in the last days that Peter, Luke and Paul wrote about. Jesus is coming back again.
Like Abraham, do you see it? Are you glad?
Come Lord Jesus!!!
Monday, July 14, 2008
THE LANGUAGE OF HATE
John 8:48-53
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
48 The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that you were possessed by a demon?”
49 “No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father—and you dishonor me. 50 And though I have no wish to glorify myself, God is going to glorify me. He is the true judge. 51 I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!”
52 The people said, “Now we know you are possessed by a demon. Even Abraham and the prophets died, but you say, ‘Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!’ 53 Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”
You may think because civil authorities have begun to classify certain crimes as hate crimes, that this type of behavior is something new and unique. Today’s passage again points out that there is nothing new under the sun.
When the crowd of people got worked up at Jesus’ rebuke, they resorted to racial slurs. “You Samaritan devil!” The Jews hated the Samaritans.
Why, when we get angry … when the debate does not go our way, do we resort to playing the race card? Race had nothing to do with the discussion these people were having with Jesus. Isn’t is interesting that just days before (John 7), the people had declared that they knew where Jesus came from and that they knew that the Messiah would not come from Galilee. Now some of what may have been the same crowd were labeling Jesus as a hated Samaritan. And remember, the demon-possession charge grew out of Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath day. How quickly the crowd sank to this low level of hate language!
As Christian believers, let us harness our tongues and never be guilty of the language of hate. Even in jest, racial jokes are hurtful and inappropriate for followers of Christ.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
48 The people retorted, “You Samaritan devil! Didn’t we say all along that you were possessed by a demon?”
49 “No,” Jesus said, “I have no demon in me. For I honor my Father—and you dishonor me. 50 And though I have no wish to glorify myself, God is going to glorify me. He is the true judge. 51 I tell you the truth, anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!”
52 The people said, “Now we know you are possessed by a demon. Even Abraham and the prophets died, but you say, ‘Anyone who obeys my teaching will never die!’ 53 Are you greater than our father Abraham? He died, and so did the prophets. Who do you think you are?”
You may think because civil authorities have begun to classify certain crimes as hate crimes, that this type of behavior is something new and unique. Today’s passage again points out that there is nothing new under the sun.
When the crowd of people got worked up at Jesus’ rebuke, they resorted to racial slurs. “You Samaritan devil!” The Jews hated the Samaritans.
Why, when we get angry … when the debate does not go our way, do we resort to playing the race card? Race had nothing to do with the discussion these people were having with Jesus. Isn’t is interesting that just days before (John 7), the people had declared that they knew where Jesus came from and that they knew that the Messiah would not come from Galilee. Now some of what may have been the same crowd were labeling Jesus as a hated Samaritan. And remember, the demon-possession charge grew out of Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath day. How quickly the crowd sank to this low level of hate language!
As Christian believers, let us harness our tongues and never be guilty of the language of hate. Even in jest, racial jokes are hurtful and inappropriate for followers of Christ.
Friday, July 11, 2008
HONEY vs. VINEGAR
John 8:43-47
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me! 44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me! 46 Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me? 47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.”
My grandmother used to tell us that we could catch more flies with honey than we could with vinegar. Her point was that soothing words were easier for people to swallow than harsh, confrontational arguments. There is wisdom in the things that our parents and grandparents teach us.
Today, however, we find Jesus being very straight forward in His words. You might even say His words seem harsh. If someone were to say these words to you, how would you feel and how would you respond? “… you are the children of your father the devil …” There is no honey in those words. Jesus found it necessary to confront His audience with the truth and as the old folks say, sometimes the truth hurts.
The next time you are confronted with words that hurt, before you lash back, check and see if there is any truth in the words. Vinegar is know to have many healing qualities.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me! 44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies. 45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe me! 46 Which of you can truthfully accuse me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe me? 47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.”
My grandmother used to tell us that we could catch more flies with honey than we could with vinegar. Her point was that soothing words were easier for people to swallow than harsh, confrontational arguments. There is wisdom in the things that our parents and grandparents teach us.
Today, however, we find Jesus being very straight forward in His words. You might even say His words seem harsh. If someone were to say these words to you, how would you feel and how would you respond? “… you are the children of your father the devil …” There is no honey in those words. Jesus found it necessary to confront His audience with the truth and as the old folks say, sometimes the truth hurts.
The next time you are confronted with words that hurt, before you lash back, check and see if there is any truth in the words. Vinegar is know to have many healing qualities.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
FOLLOWING THE EXAMPLE
John 8:37-43
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
37 Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill me because there’s no room in your hearts for my message. 38 I am telling you what I saw when I was with my Father. But you are following the advice of your father.”
39 “Our father is Abraham!” they declared.
“No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example. 40 Instead, you are trying to kill me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing. 41 No, you are imitating your real father.”
They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.”
42 Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me. 43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me!
One thing commonly found in children is that they are imitators. They see examples in those close to them and they follow those examples. As parents, we need to be attentive to the example we set.
Jesus saw the actions of these descendants of Abraham but could not link them. What they were doing, Abraham never did. They claimed Abraham in word but imitated their real father in their actions.
When you look in the mirror of your life, what is the example you are setting? Who are you really imitating?
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
37 Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill me because there’s no room in your hearts for my message. 38 I am telling you what I saw when I was with my Father. But you are following the advice of your father.”
39 “Our father is Abraham!” they declared.
“No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example. 40 Instead, you are trying to kill me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing. 41 No, you are imitating your real father.”
They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God himself is our true Father.”
42 Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on my own, but he sent me. 43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear me!
One thing commonly found in children is that they are imitators. They see examples in those close to them and they follow those examples. As parents, we need to be attentive to the example we set.
Jesus saw the actions of these descendants of Abraham but could not link them. What they were doing, Abraham never did. They claimed Abraham in word but imitated their real father in their actions.
When you look in the mirror of your life, what is the example you are setting? Who are you really imitating?
Wednesday, July 09, 2008
FROM SLAVERY TO SONSHIP
John 8:31-36
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
31 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?”
34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.
Distinguished historian, John Hope Franklin, wrote a detailed history of the African-American quest for equality and titled it “From Slavery to Freedom”. People of many cultures … Native Americans, Hispanics, Chicanos, South Africans, Jews, Arabs, or Asians, etc. … have experienced similar struggles for freedom. These cultural or nationalistic struggles, all to varying degrees, are different experiences with common elements.
Common to all mankind is the struggle with sin. “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23). The path from slavery-to-sin to freedom-in-the-Son only passes through the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus and Abraham
31 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?”
34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. 36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.
Distinguished historian, John Hope Franklin, wrote a detailed history of the African-American quest for equality and titled it “From Slavery to Freedom”. People of many cultures … Native Americans, Hispanics, Chicanos, South Africans, Jews, Arabs, or Asians, etc. … have experienced similar struggles for freedom. These cultural or nationalistic struggles, all to varying degrees, are different experiences with common elements.
Common to all mankind is the struggle with sin. “All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23). The path from slavery-to-sin to freedom-in-the-Son only passes through the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Whom the Son sets free is free indeed.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
I AM
John 8:21-30
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Unbelieving People Warned
21 Later Jesus said to them again, “I am going away. You will search for me but will die in your sin. You cannot come where I am going.”
22 The people asked, “Is he planning to commit suicide? What does he mean, ‘You cannot come where I am going’?”
23 Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not. 24 That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I Am who I claim to be, you will die in your sins.”
25 “Who are you?” they demanded.
Jesus replied, “The one I have always claimed to be. 26 I have much to say about you and much to condemn, but I won’t. For I say only what I have heard from the one who sent me, and he is completely truthful.” 27 But they still didn’t understand that he was talking about his Father.
28 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I Am he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me. 29 And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him.” 30 Then many who heard him say these things believed in him.
Exodus 3:14 says, “God replied to Moses, “I AM Who I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I Am has sent me to you.”” Jesus used these same words, “I AM” (v. 24), to refer to himself. You would think that these people, especially the Jewish leaders, would catch the reference. Jesus had to use the same words again in verse 28 before some, many, began to believe.
I AM is all we need to know about God … about Jesus. The ‘all’ of the Father and the Son is wrapped up in these two little words … I AM.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
The Unbelieving People Warned
21 Later Jesus said to them again, “I am going away. You will search for me but will die in your sin. You cannot come where I am going.”
22 The people asked, “Is he planning to commit suicide? What does he mean, ‘You cannot come where I am going’?”
23 Jesus continued, “You are from below; I am from above. You belong to this world; I do not. 24 That is why I said that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I Am who I claim to be, you will die in your sins.”
25 “Who are you?” they demanded.
Jesus replied, “The one I have always claimed to be. 26 I have much to say about you and much to condemn, but I won’t. For I say only what I have heard from the one who sent me, and he is completely truthful.” 27 But they still didn’t understand that he was talking about his Father.
28 So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of Man on the cross, then you will understand that I Am he. I do nothing on my own but say only what the Father taught me. 29 And the one who sent me is with me—he has not deserted me. For I always do what pleases him.” 30 Then many who heard him say these things believed in him.
Exodus 3:14 says, “God replied to Moses, “I AM Who I AM. Say this to the people of Israel: I Am has sent me to you.”” Jesus used these same words, “I AM” (v. 24), to refer to himself. You would think that these people, especially the Jewish leaders, would catch the reference. Jesus had to use the same words again in verse 28 before some, many, began to believe.
I AM is all we need to know about God … about Jesus. The ‘all’ of the Father and the Son is wrapped up in these two little words … I AM.
Monday, July 07, 2008
THE FAITHFUL WITNESS
John 8:12-20
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Light of the World
12 Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
13 The Pharisees replied, “You are making those claims about yourself! Such testimony is not valid.”
14 Jesus told them, “These claims are valid even though I make them about myself. For I know where I came from and where I am going, but you don’t know this about me. 15 You judge me by human standards, but I do not judge anyone. 16 And if I did, my judgment would be correct in every respect because I am not alone. The Father who sent me is with me. 17 Your own law says that if two people agree about something, their witness is accepted as fact. 18 I am one witness, and my Father who sent me is the other.”
19 “Where is your father?” they asked.
Jesus answered, “Since you don’t know who I am, you don’t know who my Father is. If you knew me, you would also know my Father.” 20 Jesus made these statements while he was teaching in the section of the Temple known as the Treasury. But he was not arrested, because his time had not yet come.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Light of the World
12 Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
13 The Pharisees replied, “You are making those claims about yourself! Such testimony is not valid.”
14 Jesus told them, “These claims are valid even though I make them about myself. For I know where I came from and where I am going, but you don’t know this about me. 15 You judge me by human standards, but I do not judge anyone. 16 And if I did, my judgment would be correct in every respect because I am not alone. The Father who sent me is with me. 17 Your own law says that if two people agree about something, their witness is accepted as fact. 18 I am one witness, and my Father who sent me is the other.”
19 “Where is your father?” they asked.
Jesus answered, “Since you don’t know who I am, you don’t know who my Father is. If you knew me, you would also know my Father.” 20 Jesus made these statements while he was teaching in the section of the Temple known as the Treasury. But he was not arrested, because his time had not yet come.
How do you stack up as a witness for Jesus Christ? Even though the Pharisees questioned Him, Jesus remained a faithful witness to His Father.
Three character traits of a faithful witness:
- Truthful, it is easy to get the facts straight when you hold to the truth.
- Agreeable, also linked to truth, it is easy to find the common ground with like witnesses.
- Follower of the light, when you live your life in the light, others can easily see your good witness.
Friday, July 04, 2008
THE TRUE LIGHT
John 8:12
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Light of the World
12 Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
On this day when we celebrate the independence of our nation, many of us will enjoy sitting in the darkness and enjoying the fireworks light show. As you watch the colorful explosions in the sky, let it remind you that while these lights are fun to watch, they are not the true light.
The True Light is Jesus Christ. Follow Him and even when there is darkness all around, you will live in light.
Happy 4th of July!
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
Jesus, the Light of the World
12 Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”
On this day when we celebrate the independence of our nation, many of us will enjoy sitting in the darkness and enjoying the fireworks light show. As you watch the colorful explosions in the sky, let it remind you that while these lights are fun to watch, they are not the true light.
The True Light is Jesus Christ. Follow Him and even when there is darkness all around, you will live in light.
Happy 4th of July!
Thursday, July 03, 2008
IN THE DUST
John 8:1-11
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Woman Caught in Adultery
Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, 2 but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. 3 As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.
4 “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”
6 They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. 7 They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” 8 Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.
9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. 10 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”
11 “No, Lord,” she said.
And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”
Have you ever wondered what Jesus was writing in the dust? Scripture does not tell us. Imagine if Jesus, in His all-knowing divinity, was beginning to chronicle the sins of mankind. He could do that you know.
Cain killed Abel.
Moses got drunk.
Canaan looked on his fathers nakedness
Abraham lied about his true relationship to Sarah.
David committed adultery with Bathsheba and had Uriah killed.
In response to the Pharisees demand for an answer, Jesus says, “… let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone…”. As Jesus begins to write in the dust again, He begins to write sins that are more current events. Maybe they were the sins of the parents and grandparents of those standing around watching Jesus write in the dust.
Jethro used unfair weights in his business dealings.
Laura had a problem with a gossiping tongue.
Neither Cathy nor Jimbo were virgins when they got married as they claimed.
I can imagine that they would slip away quickly before their own sin was exposed.
I am also thankful for the promise that my sins have be covered by the blood of Christ (Romans 4:7) and cast in the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19), never to be brought up again.
Holy Bible. New Living Translation copyright © 1996, 2004 by Tyndale Charitable Trust.
A Woman Caught in Adultery
Jesus returned to the Mount of Olives, 2 but early the next morning he was back again at the Temple. A crowd soon gathered, and he sat down and taught them. 3 As he was speaking, the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in the act of adultery. They put her in front of the crowd.
4 “Teacher,” they said to Jesus, “this woman was caught in the act of adultery. 5 The law of Moses says to stone her. What do you say?”
6 They were trying to trap him into saying something they could use against him, but Jesus stooped down and wrote in the dust with his finger. 7 They kept demanding an answer, so he stood up again and said, “All right, but let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone!” 8 Then he stooped down again and wrote in the dust.
9 When the accusers heard this, they slipped away one by one, beginning with the oldest, until only Jesus was left in the middle of the crowd with the woman. 10 Then Jesus stood up again and said to the woman, “Where are your accusers? Didn’t even one of them condemn you?”
11 “No, Lord,” she said.
And Jesus said, “Neither do I. Go and sin no more.”
Have you ever wondered what Jesus was writing in the dust? Scripture does not tell us. Imagine if Jesus, in His all-knowing divinity, was beginning to chronicle the sins of mankind. He could do that you know.
Cain killed Abel.
Moses got drunk.
Canaan looked on his fathers nakedness
Abraham lied about his true relationship to Sarah.
David committed adultery with Bathsheba and had Uriah killed.
In response to the Pharisees demand for an answer, Jesus says, “… let the one who has never sinned throw the first stone…”. As Jesus begins to write in the dust again, He begins to write sins that are more current events. Maybe they were the sins of the parents and grandparents of those standing around watching Jesus write in the dust.
Jethro used unfair weights in his business dealings.
Laura had a problem with a gossiping tongue.
Neither Cathy nor Jimbo were virgins when they got married as they claimed.
I can imagine that they would slip away quickly before their own sin was exposed.
I am also thankful for the promise that my sins have be covered by the blood of Christ (Romans 4:7) and cast in the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19), never to be brought up again.
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