Scripture: John 12:27-36
Observation: Jesus says that His soul is troubled, as David once also said (Psalm 6:3). Unlike David, though, who was praying for salvation, Jesus knows His own death will bring salvation, and therefore it is necessary. Because of this Jesus accepts His calling, and cries out to God, "Father, glorify Your Name." A voice is heard from heaven: "I have glorified it, and will glorify it again," (v.28), indicating glorification in Jesus before and after His death. Some in the crowd think they heard thunder; others believe an angel has spoken. Jesus tells them this voice is for their benefit, not His (v.30). He is confident the Father hears Him; He wants the crowds to be open to hearing God's voice also. Judgment time is come - the cross will seem like the end of Jesus, but instead it will be the beginning of salvation for mankind. The "prince of this world will be driven out" of the hearts of all believers; the enemy will no longer have control over those who choose to follow Christ (v.31,32). The crowd tries to throw doubt on Jesus' words, by saying it does not follow that the Son of Man should be lifted up if He is to remain forever (v.34). Rather than outright answering their question, Jesus advises them to walk in the light that will only be with them a little longer.
Application: We can plainly see that the devil has not been cast out from earth. He is causing havoc everywhere he goes. But Jesus has driven Satan from our hearts and has replaced him with the Holy Spirit. Even though there is much influence of evil around us, if we keep our eyes on Jesus, He will keep us safe from the attacks of the enemy.
Prayer: Father, I realize the devil is not happy when I'm obedient to You. He would like to see me fall, because his time grows short. I know he will do everything possible to see me crumble. But I also know he can't defeat me as long as I have You to protect me. Keep me near You and near Your word. May I not know a moment when You are not first in my life, my number 1 priority in every thought and action. I praise You and thank You for Your goodness and grace, in Christ Jesus, Amen.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Monday, March 8, 2010
John 12, Part 3
Scripture: John 12:20-26
Observation: Among those who have come to the Passover feast are Greeks. These are not Jews from Greece; they are Gentiles who come to worship God, and want to see Jesus. They go to Philip, who goes to Andrew, probably because it was such an unusual request. They both go together to see Jesus and report the wish of the Greeks. His answer may not have been clear to them at the time. Jesus tells them it is time for the Son of Man to be glorified (v.23). The time for His death and resurrection approaches, and with that the opening of the gates to the Gentiles. Jesus compares the laying down of His life to a seed that must die so that it may bear much fruit. Those who love their life (the life of selfishness and pride of the world) will lose it, and those who hate their life (or are willing to give up everything to live for Jesus) will keep their life for eternity (v.25). Those who serve Jesus must follow Him, even unto death. They will be honored by the Father (v.26).
Application: Jesus does not call us to despise ourselves, or our family, or anything else. Jesus taught us to love as He loves. When Jesus spoke of hating our lives, He was speaking about our sinful nature, that which separates us from God. We are to hate everything that God hates, and put all our focus on Him. When we live a life dedicated completely to God and His will, there will be suffering, as Jesus Himself suffered for us. But in the end, the Father will honor those who give up their lives for Him, and instead will give us eternal life in heaven. There is no loss in following Jesus, only gain.
Prayer: Lord, it is my desire to throw away the old self and put on the new self. I realize, though, that my sinful nature struggles with my heart's desire. As Paul wrote, I don't do that which I know to be right (Romans 7:18-20). I know I must daily surrender myself to You, that You may take Flesh Woman and put her out of me, replacing her with Your Holy Spirit. Take my life Lord, and make me new. Turn me into the woman You want me to be, a woman after Your own heart. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Among those who have come to the Passover feast are Greeks. These are not Jews from Greece; they are Gentiles who come to worship God, and want to see Jesus. They go to Philip, who goes to Andrew, probably because it was such an unusual request. They both go together to see Jesus and report the wish of the Greeks. His answer may not have been clear to them at the time. Jesus tells them it is time for the Son of Man to be glorified (v.23). The time for His death and resurrection approaches, and with that the opening of the gates to the Gentiles. Jesus compares the laying down of His life to a seed that must die so that it may bear much fruit. Those who love their life (the life of selfishness and pride of the world) will lose it, and those who hate their life (or are willing to give up everything to live for Jesus) will keep their life for eternity (v.25). Those who serve Jesus must follow Him, even unto death. They will be honored by the Father (v.26).
Application: Jesus does not call us to despise ourselves, or our family, or anything else. Jesus taught us to love as He loves. When Jesus spoke of hating our lives, He was speaking about our sinful nature, that which separates us from God. We are to hate everything that God hates, and put all our focus on Him. When we live a life dedicated completely to God and His will, there will be suffering, as Jesus Himself suffered for us. But in the end, the Father will honor those who give up their lives for Him, and instead will give us eternal life in heaven. There is no loss in following Jesus, only gain.
Prayer: Lord, it is my desire to throw away the old self and put on the new self. I realize, though, that my sinful nature struggles with my heart's desire. As Paul wrote, I don't do that which I know to be right (Romans 7:18-20). I know I must daily surrender myself to You, that You may take Flesh Woman and put her out of me, replacing her with Your Holy Spirit. Take my life Lord, and make me new. Turn me into the woman You want me to be, a woman after Your own heart. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Friday, March 5, 2010
John 12, Part 2
Scripture: John 12:12-19
Observation: When the crowds hear that Jesus has come to Jerusalem, they go out to meet Him with palm fronds shouting, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord." (v.13). They also shout, "Hosanna!" which was a cry that meant Save or Help, which would be appropriate to ask of their King. Indeed, they refer to Jesus as the King of Israel, giving testimony of their faith. Jesus finds a donkey to ride into Jerusalem; this would not fit their picture of a king, who should enter the city on a great steed. But John tells us that, after His glorification, the disciples remember Zechariah 9:9. Though not completely understanding, the crowd follows Jesus, and more join in, after learning that Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead (v.17-18). The Pharisees' anger and frustration is evident, as they say to one another, "You see, you can do nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him! (v.19)."
Application: How hard-hearted these Pharisees! Their jealous pride would not allow them to experience the joy and freedom the crowds were feeling at the realization of who Jesus was. It wasn't that the crowds had seen anything different than what the Pharisees could see. The Pharisees simply did not want to admit they were in error.
There are many false religions today, teaching things that go against Scripture and spreading these lies (Matthew 24:24). We need to read Scripture ourselves and evaluate whether we are being taught God's truths or men's lies. We cannot be like the Pharisees, who saw all the signs but chose to turn a blind eye rather than repent and follow Jesus.
Prayer: Father, it took me a long time to realize and accept that I was on the wrong path. I didn't want to admit that I'd been deceived and was far from You. But once You revealed Yourself to me, I was free from the huge burden of falsehood and darkness I'd been in. Thank You for releasing me from bondage! Help me to use my testimony to free others who suffer as I did. In Jesus' precious name I pray, Amen.
Observation: When the crowds hear that Jesus has come to Jerusalem, they go out to meet Him with palm fronds shouting, "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord." (v.13). They also shout, "Hosanna!" which was a cry that meant Save or Help, which would be appropriate to ask of their King. Indeed, they refer to Jesus as the King of Israel, giving testimony of their faith. Jesus finds a donkey to ride into Jerusalem; this would not fit their picture of a king, who should enter the city on a great steed. But John tells us that, after His glorification, the disciples remember Zechariah 9:9. Though not completely understanding, the crowd follows Jesus, and more join in, after learning that Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead (v.17-18). The Pharisees' anger and frustration is evident, as they say to one another, "You see, you can do nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him! (v.19)."
Application: How hard-hearted these Pharisees! Their jealous pride would not allow them to experience the joy and freedom the crowds were feeling at the realization of who Jesus was. It wasn't that the crowds had seen anything different than what the Pharisees could see. The Pharisees simply did not want to admit they were in error.
There are many false religions today, teaching things that go against Scripture and spreading these lies (Matthew 24:24). We need to read Scripture ourselves and evaluate whether we are being taught God's truths or men's lies. We cannot be like the Pharisees, who saw all the signs but chose to turn a blind eye rather than repent and follow Jesus.
Prayer: Father, it took me a long time to realize and accept that I was on the wrong path. I didn't want to admit that I'd been deceived and was far from You. But once You revealed Yourself to me, I was free from the huge burden of falsehood and darkness I'd been in. Thank You for releasing me from bondage! Help me to use my testimony to free others who suffer as I did. In Jesus' precious name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
John 12, Part 1
Scripture: John 11:55 - 12:11
Observation: It's Passover time. The chief priests are looking for Jesus in the temple, and the people are wondering if He will show up. But Jesus is in Bethany, at the home of Lazarus where a dinner is given for Him (12:1-2). Martha is serving the meal, but Mary is bolder: she gets very expensive perfume, anoints Jesus' feet, and wipes them with her hair. Judas Iscariot protests at the fact that such expensive perfume was not sold instead to provide much needed money for the poor (12:5). John, however, gives real meaning to Judas' words - he was found out to be a thief. As treasurer Judas was in charge of the group's money and he was regularly stealing from them. Jesus did not reprimand Mary. Instead He pointed out that she was preparing Him for the day of His burial (12:7). After all, they would always have the poor among them, but not Jesus (12:8, see also Deuteronomy 15:11). As this is taking place, a crowd has found out where Jesus is, and they come to see Him and Lazarus, who was raised from the dead. This angers the chief priests, who see many turn to Jesus because of Lazarus, so they plot to kill Lazarus as well.
Application: We see a huge difference between Mary and Judas Iscariot. Mary didn't care that she was "wasting" a costly and precious commodity; it had less value to her than her Lord who had done so much for her and her family. Judas, on the other hand, walked with Jesus, saw the miracles, heard the teachings, but loved money and wealth more. What's important here is not what church we attend or how often. It isn't how many Scriptures we've memorized. While these are necessary, what's most important to have a heart for God. Where is my treasure?
Prayer: Father, Mary has taught me a great lesson. She didn't care about customs or protocol. What mattered to her was worship, and she did so openly and freely because she truly loved Jesus. May I continue to develop a spirit like Mary's, one that is brave and not afraid to let everyone know my love for my Savior. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: It's Passover time. The chief priests are looking for Jesus in the temple, and the people are wondering if He will show up. But Jesus is in Bethany, at the home of Lazarus where a dinner is given for Him (12:1-2). Martha is serving the meal, but Mary is bolder: she gets very expensive perfume, anoints Jesus' feet, and wipes them with her hair. Judas Iscariot protests at the fact that such expensive perfume was not sold instead to provide much needed money for the poor (12:5). John, however, gives real meaning to Judas' words - he was found out to be a thief. As treasurer Judas was in charge of the group's money and he was regularly stealing from them. Jesus did not reprimand Mary. Instead He pointed out that she was preparing Him for the day of His burial (12:7). After all, they would always have the poor among them, but not Jesus (12:8, see also Deuteronomy 15:11). As this is taking place, a crowd has found out where Jesus is, and they come to see Him and Lazarus, who was raised from the dead. This angers the chief priests, who see many turn to Jesus because of Lazarus, so they plot to kill Lazarus as well.
Application: We see a huge difference between Mary and Judas Iscariot. Mary didn't care that she was "wasting" a costly and precious commodity; it had less value to her than her Lord who had done so much for her and her family. Judas, on the other hand, walked with Jesus, saw the miracles, heard the teachings, but loved money and wealth more. What's important here is not what church we attend or how often. It isn't how many Scriptures we've memorized. While these are necessary, what's most important to have a heart for God. Where is my treasure?
Prayer: Father, Mary has taught me a great lesson. She didn't care about customs or protocol. What mattered to her was worship, and she did so openly and freely because she truly loved Jesus. May I continue to develop a spirit like Mary's, one that is brave and not afraid to let everyone know my love for my Savior. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
John 11, Part 5
Scripture: John 11:45-54
Observation: It would be expected that, after seeing the miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead, the people would believe in Jesus. Many did; but some went to the Pharisees to tell them what had been done. This report troubled the Pharisees and they called a meeting of the council (v.47). They were concerned that many were believing in Jesus because of His miracles, and this could cause the Romans to "come and destroy both our holy place and our nation (v.48)." Actually, they were more concerned with their own positions and not that of the people. Caiaphas makes this clear when he tells them that it is better for them if one man dies than the whole nation be destroyed (v.50). Unknowingly, Caiaphas prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation of Israel and for all God's children (v.51-52). The members of the Sanhedrin saw Jesus as a threat, and planned to kill Him (v.53). From that time on Jesus removed Himself from among them (v.54).
Application: Does rejection stop God's will from moving forward? Absolutely not! The chief priests chose to reject the Savior and planned on putting Him to death, not realizing they were doing God's work in the process. God is always in control; the fact that we can't see it is irrelevant. God will use us to bring forth His will if we allow Him to; but even if we go against Him, He will use us. Nothing can stop God. He will triumph each time. I need to always be on the winning side, not like the Pharisees who were too concerned about themselves to see the big picture.
Prayer: Father, I realize my vision is limited. I can only see the here and now, and sometimes even that isn't entirely clear. I don't understand why You are rejected, or why anyone would want to live without You guiding them. But You see beyond what I see. You see people's hearts. Help me to trust You even when my vision is impaired. I want You to be my eyes. I want to see people as You see them, everyone with a potential to change and follow You. Thank You for the clarity You have given me, so that I can see You for who You are, Almighty God, Creator of heaven and earth. In Christ Jesus I pray, Amen.
Observation: It would be expected that, after seeing the miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead, the people would believe in Jesus. Many did; but some went to the Pharisees to tell them what had been done. This report troubled the Pharisees and they called a meeting of the council (v.47). They were concerned that many were believing in Jesus because of His miracles, and this could cause the Romans to "come and destroy both our holy place and our nation (v.48)." Actually, they were more concerned with their own positions and not that of the people. Caiaphas makes this clear when he tells them that it is better for them if one man dies than the whole nation be destroyed (v.50). Unknowingly, Caiaphas prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation of Israel and for all God's children (v.51-52). The members of the Sanhedrin saw Jesus as a threat, and planned to kill Him (v.53). From that time on Jesus removed Himself from among them (v.54).
Application: Does rejection stop God's will from moving forward? Absolutely not! The chief priests chose to reject the Savior and planned on putting Him to death, not realizing they were doing God's work in the process. God is always in control; the fact that we can't see it is irrelevant. God will use us to bring forth His will if we allow Him to; but even if we go against Him, He will use us. Nothing can stop God. He will triumph each time. I need to always be on the winning side, not like the Pharisees who were too concerned about themselves to see the big picture.
Prayer: Father, I realize my vision is limited. I can only see the here and now, and sometimes even that isn't entirely clear. I don't understand why You are rejected, or why anyone would want to live without You guiding them. But You see beyond what I see. You see people's hearts. Help me to trust You even when my vision is impaired. I want You to be my eyes. I want to see people as You see them, everyone with a potential to change and follow You. Thank You for the clarity You have given me, so that I can see You for who You are, Almighty God, Creator of heaven and earth. In Christ Jesus I pray, Amen.
Monday, March 1, 2010
John 11, Part 4
Scripture: John 11:33-44
Observation: Jesus sees Mary and the crowds weeping, and is "disturbed in spirit and deeply moved (v.33)." The word for "disturbed in spirit" actually means angered; Jesus is angered and troubled because of the effect that death has on people. He is actually moved to tears (v.35), not because Lazarus is dead, but because of the sadness his death has caused. Some in the crowd understand his tears to be for Lazarus, as Jesus loved him very much. Others, though, ask why Jesus, who healed the blind man, didn't come in time to save Lazarus (v.37). Jesus and the mourners arrive at the tomb, and Jesus orders the stone removed. This brings a surprised reaction from Martha, who expects the stench of death from the tomb, since Lazarus has been dead four days. But Jesus reminds her that believing is seeing (v.40). The stone is rolled away, and Jesus offers up a prayer of thanksgiving, assured that the Father hears His prayers. He prays this so that the crowd may believe that He is the one sent by God (v.42). Jesus calls out, "Lazarus, come out!" (v.43). To everyone's shock and surprise, Lazarus walks out of the tomb wrapped in burial cloths. Jesus calmly tells them to unbind him and let him go (v.44).
Application: Jesus didn't weep because of Lazarus's death, since He knew what was to be accomplished. Jesus wept because the temporary separation caused by death brings sadness to those left behind. He had compassion for those whose hearts were heavy from the pain of loss, but He provided hope by showing His power and authority over death. For Christians, the same is true. Death still brings sadness, as we are separated from our loved ones for a time. But thankfully, we have a hope and a guarantee in our Lord Jesus Christ, who has overcome death and promised us life everlasting. Praise God!
Prayer: Father, I praise You because Your love is limitless. You provided the Lamb, the ultimate sacrifice to give us hope. Thank You for Jesus, my Lord and Savior, who has overcome death to give us life! May this hope be shared to the masses, and may Your Holy Name be praised forever! In Christ Jesus I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus sees Mary and the crowds weeping, and is "disturbed in spirit and deeply moved (v.33)." The word for "disturbed in spirit" actually means angered; Jesus is angered and troubled because of the effect that death has on people. He is actually moved to tears (v.35), not because Lazarus is dead, but because of the sadness his death has caused. Some in the crowd understand his tears to be for Lazarus, as Jesus loved him very much. Others, though, ask why Jesus, who healed the blind man, didn't come in time to save Lazarus (v.37). Jesus and the mourners arrive at the tomb, and Jesus orders the stone removed. This brings a surprised reaction from Martha, who expects the stench of death from the tomb, since Lazarus has been dead four days. But Jesus reminds her that believing is seeing (v.40). The stone is rolled away, and Jesus offers up a prayer of thanksgiving, assured that the Father hears His prayers. He prays this so that the crowd may believe that He is the one sent by God (v.42). Jesus calls out, "Lazarus, come out!" (v.43). To everyone's shock and surprise, Lazarus walks out of the tomb wrapped in burial cloths. Jesus calmly tells them to unbind him and let him go (v.44).
Application: Jesus didn't weep because of Lazarus's death, since He knew what was to be accomplished. Jesus wept because the temporary separation caused by death brings sadness to those left behind. He had compassion for those whose hearts were heavy from the pain of loss, but He provided hope by showing His power and authority over death. For Christians, the same is true. Death still brings sadness, as we are separated from our loved ones for a time. But thankfully, we have a hope and a guarantee in our Lord Jesus Christ, who has overcome death and promised us life everlasting. Praise God!
Prayer: Father, I praise You because Your love is limitless. You provided the Lamb, the ultimate sacrifice to give us hope. Thank You for Jesus, my Lord and Savior, who has overcome death to give us life! May this hope be shared to the masses, and may Your Holy Name be praised forever! In Christ Jesus I pray, Amen.
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