Scripture: John 9:39-41
Observation: Jesus makes a statement that explains His reason for healing the blind man: He came to give sight to the blind, but also to cause blindness to those who can see (v.39). The Pharisees catch on right away to what Jesus is saying - they say to Him, "What, are we blind too (v.40)?" Jesus' answer gives them reason to think: "If you were blind you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains (v.41)." The issue for these religious leaders is their pride - they do not recognize their need because they trust in their knowledge.
Application: Light can be helpful. It can illuminate and make things clear. But it can also be so bright it blinds. Jesus told truth both to the religious leaders and to the crowds. For the humble, the light made everything clear; to the proud it was burning and stinging. The sin in this story is not the physical blindness of the man but the spiritual blindness of the Pharisees, who believed themselves above all because of their knowledge of the law. We have Scripture today, more than the Jews had at that time, yet the same truth remains: if we have knowledge of Scripture but not a relationship with Jesus, if we see what our sins are but do not repent of them, then we are like the prideful Pharisees who remained blind in their spirituality. Knowing the laws did them no good because they refused to surrender to the One who fulfilled the law.
Prayer: Father, Scripture clearly states that eternal life comes from knowing You (John 17:3), not just acquiring knowledge. I can read my Bible each day, but if I don't put in practice what I learn and apply it to my life, it's just empty knowledge like the Pharisees had. Please show me how to live the Word, not just read it or memorize it. Let it penetrate into my being, so that in all my walk, in all my decisions and my thoughts, I will refer back to what I've learned from You and default into Your Holy mode and not my flesh mode. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
John 9, Part 6
Scripture: John 9:35-38
Observation: Jesus goes out looking for the now healed blind man when He hears the man was thrown out of the temple. Jesus asks him, "Do you believe in the Son of Man (v.35)?" The man asks who He is, that he may worship Him. He shows a great desire and longing to know who the Son of Man is, and Jesus tells him, "You have now seen Him; in fact, He is the one speaking with You (v.37)." Initially, the blind man thought Jesus was a prophet (v.17), but now with his spiritual eyes opened as well as his physical eyes, he sees Jesus for who He is. He believes, and worships Him (v.38).
Application: Despite all that has happened, this once blind man does not immediately see Jesus for who He is. He goes from calling Him his healer, to a prophet, to one coming from God (v.33), to the Son of God. His physical sight came instantaneously, but his spiritual sight came in steps. We are like this man who was once blind. Jesus reveals Himself to us a little more each day. If we are like the Pharisees, we will shut our eyes to Him, but if we are humble like this man was, Jesus will make our sight clearer and clearer until the day we stand before Him. What do we need to do? Believe in Him (v.35) and seek Him with all our heart.
Prayer: That is my desire Lord, to see You and know You more each day. At one time I thought I knew You so well; yet the more I study the Scriptures the more I realize I'm just beginning to know You. I want more than just a superficial knowledge of You. I want to know You intimately and completely (John 17:3). I want to think like You, feel like You, love like You. Draw me closer to You Lord, that I may know You more. For it is in Your name Jesus that I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus goes out looking for the now healed blind man when He hears the man was thrown out of the temple. Jesus asks him, "Do you believe in the Son of Man (v.35)?" The man asks who He is, that he may worship Him. He shows a great desire and longing to know who the Son of Man is, and Jesus tells him, "You have now seen Him; in fact, He is the one speaking with You (v.37)." Initially, the blind man thought Jesus was a prophet (v.17), but now with his spiritual eyes opened as well as his physical eyes, he sees Jesus for who He is. He believes, and worships Him (v.38).
Application: Despite all that has happened, this once blind man does not immediately see Jesus for who He is. He goes from calling Him his healer, to a prophet, to one coming from God (v.33), to the Son of God. His physical sight came instantaneously, but his spiritual sight came in steps. We are like this man who was once blind. Jesus reveals Himself to us a little more each day. If we are like the Pharisees, we will shut our eyes to Him, but if we are humble like this man was, Jesus will make our sight clearer and clearer until the day we stand before Him. What do we need to do? Believe in Him (v.35) and seek Him with all our heart.
Prayer: That is my desire Lord, to see You and know You more each day. At one time I thought I knew You so well; yet the more I study the Scriptures the more I realize I'm just beginning to know You. I want more than just a superficial knowledge of You. I want to know You intimately and completely (John 17:3). I want to think like You, feel like You, love like You. Draw me closer to You Lord, that I may know You more. For it is in Your name Jesus that I pray, Amen.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
John 9, Part 5
Scripture: John 9:24-34
Observation: The blind man is called for a second interrogation. The Pharisees tell him to "Give glory to God!" (v.24), or to tell the truth, confessing himself a liar and a sinner. But all along he has been telling the truth. So he answers plainly, "I do not know whether he is a sinner. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see." (v.25). They have no retort, so instead they ask again how he was healed. Now the former blind man is becoming exasperated, and tells them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear again? Do you also want to become his disciples?" (v.27). Furious, they answer that they are disciples of Moses, whom they know spoke to God, unlike Jesus, whom they don't even know where He's come from (v.28, 29). The blind man's testimony is his greatest answer, and he shows them their ignorance in the fact that Jesus has healed him, a man born blind; if He were not of God it could never have been done. Rather than answer him, the Pharisees kick him out.
Application: These Pharisees could argue about the Torah. They could argue about the law. They could argue about their traditions. But when it came to this man's personal testimony, they were dumb-struck. The proof was there, it was clear. They did the only thing they could think of - remove him from their presence. What they couldn't do, was contradict him. Even today, some will try to use Scripture against us, twisting God's Word to their advantage. They can speak of their teachings, and their interpretation. But what they can't do, is overturn our testimony. God works in our lives, changing us, molding us, doing miracles in us and through us. Those who don't wish to hear can deny and turn away as the Pharisees did, but the one thing they can't do, is disprove us.
Prayer: Father, my testimony is really a testimony of Your greatness. My life has changed because Your Holy Spirit has come and made me see things in a new light. I've watched Your hand in my life and the lives of others. May all see Your glory through my testimony, and may it serve to influence and change lives for You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: The blind man is called for a second interrogation. The Pharisees tell him to "Give glory to God!" (v.24), or to tell the truth, confessing himself a liar and a sinner. But all along he has been telling the truth. So he answers plainly, "I do not know whether he is a sinner. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see." (v.25). They have no retort, so instead they ask again how he was healed. Now the former blind man is becoming exasperated, and tells them, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear again? Do you also want to become his disciples?" (v.27). Furious, they answer that they are disciples of Moses, whom they know spoke to God, unlike Jesus, whom they don't even know where He's come from (v.28, 29). The blind man's testimony is his greatest answer, and he shows them their ignorance in the fact that Jesus has healed him, a man born blind; if He were not of God it could never have been done. Rather than answer him, the Pharisees kick him out.
Application: These Pharisees could argue about the Torah. They could argue about the law. They could argue about their traditions. But when it came to this man's personal testimony, they were dumb-struck. The proof was there, it was clear. They did the only thing they could think of - remove him from their presence. What they couldn't do, was contradict him. Even today, some will try to use Scripture against us, twisting God's Word to their advantage. They can speak of their teachings, and their interpretation. But what they can't do, is overturn our testimony. God works in our lives, changing us, molding us, doing miracles in us and through us. Those who don't wish to hear can deny and turn away as the Pharisees did, but the one thing they can't do, is disprove us.
Prayer: Father, my testimony is really a testimony of Your greatness. My life has changed because Your Holy Spirit has come and made me see things in a new light. I've watched Your hand in my life and the lives of others. May all see Your glory through my testimony, and may it serve to influence and change lives for You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
John 9, Part 4
Scripture: John 9:18-23
Observation: So beyond the understanding of the Pharisees is the possibility God would heal on the sabbath, they now believe the man who claimed to have been blind was never blind at all! To prove this, they call his parents in for interrogation. They ask if this is their son, if he was indeed born blind, and if so, how did he regain his sight (v.19)? The parents verify his identity and that he was born blind, however they say they do not know how or by whom he has been granted sight (v.21). They tell the Pharisees to ask their son how this has taken place. Their reason? They are afraid of confessing Jesus and being put out of the temple (v.22).
Application: These parents must have felt joy at seeing their son healed from blindness. In a culture that would have blamed their sins for their child's misfortune, having him healed could potentially clear them of wrongdoing. They should have been praising God for this miracle. Instead, they buckled down under the pressure of the religious leaders, and rather than confess Jesus as their son's healer, they turned around and played ignorant. How many times don't we do this too! We know the miracles God has done in our lives, yet when the opportunity to share it comes, we stay quiet for fear of being called crazy, a religious fanatic, a Jesus freak. Rather than praise God for His miracles, we run, scared of what others might think of us. Remember, we have only One audience that matters! It's what He sees that counts, because He can see our hearts.
Prayer: Father, my testimony can help many people. Remind me of this any and every time the opportunity to share it comes along. Some won't care to hear it; but there's always someone who may benefit. Since I don't know who that someone is, I must share with everyone. Give me courage and the right words to speak at the right time. May it be for Your glory. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: So beyond the understanding of the Pharisees is the possibility God would heal on the sabbath, they now believe the man who claimed to have been blind was never blind at all! To prove this, they call his parents in for interrogation. They ask if this is their son, if he was indeed born blind, and if so, how did he regain his sight (v.19)? The parents verify his identity and that he was born blind, however they say they do not know how or by whom he has been granted sight (v.21). They tell the Pharisees to ask their son how this has taken place. Their reason? They are afraid of confessing Jesus and being put out of the temple (v.22).
Application: These parents must have felt joy at seeing their son healed from blindness. In a culture that would have blamed their sins for their child's misfortune, having him healed could potentially clear them of wrongdoing. They should have been praising God for this miracle. Instead, they buckled down under the pressure of the religious leaders, and rather than confess Jesus as their son's healer, they turned around and played ignorant. How many times don't we do this too! We know the miracles God has done in our lives, yet when the opportunity to share it comes, we stay quiet for fear of being called crazy, a religious fanatic, a Jesus freak. Rather than praise God for His miracles, we run, scared of what others might think of us. Remember, we have only One audience that matters! It's what He sees that counts, because He can see our hearts.
Prayer: Father, my testimony can help many people. Remind me of this any and every time the opportunity to share it comes along. Some won't care to hear it; but there's always someone who may benefit. Since I don't know who that someone is, I must share with everyone. Give me courage and the right words to speak at the right time. May it be for Your glory. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Monday, January 18, 2010
John 9, Part 3
Scripture: John 9:13-17
Observation: The people bring the formerly blindman to the Pharisees, since this is such an unusual occurance which they cannot explain. It was probably their hope that the religious leaders could shed light on this miracle. Sadly, the Pharisees are more focused on the fact that the healing took place on the sabbath, than on the miracle itself. The Pharisees are divided on the issue: some believe He cannot be from God because He doesn't observe the sabbath. Others insist a sinner could not perform such signs (v.16). They then turn to the man himself and ask his opinion, since he is the one who has been healed. The man answers, "He is a prophet" (v.17).
Application: Talk about not seeing the forest for the trees! Jesus is doing amazing things which some Pharisees rightly credit to God Himself. Others, however, can't take their eyes off the fact that these miracles are being done on the sabbath. Rather than see God's goodness and grace, they focus on rules and regulations, twisting the law till it no longer resembles what God intended. Do we do this? Do we twist God's word to fit what we believe to be right? Or do we seek to be like Jesus, showing love and compassion? Do we set our eyes on everything that's wrong with the world, with the church, with our families and our lives, or do we choose to focus on the good, and on giving testimony of Jesus in our lives?
Prayer: Father, this is something I know I struggle with. I look at everything with a negative eye instead of looking at people and circumstances thru Your eyes. Your Word says that in everything You work for the good of those who love You (Romans 8:28). Help me to see the good, even in that which doesn't appear to be so. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: The people bring the formerly blindman to the Pharisees, since this is such an unusual occurance which they cannot explain. It was probably their hope that the religious leaders could shed light on this miracle. Sadly, the Pharisees are more focused on the fact that the healing took place on the sabbath, than on the miracle itself. The Pharisees are divided on the issue: some believe He cannot be from God because He doesn't observe the sabbath. Others insist a sinner could not perform such signs (v.16). They then turn to the man himself and ask his opinion, since he is the one who has been healed. The man answers, "He is a prophet" (v.17).
Application: Talk about not seeing the forest for the trees! Jesus is doing amazing things which some Pharisees rightly credit to God Himself. Others, however, can't take their eyes off the fact that these miracles are being done on the sabbath. Rather than see God's goodness and grace, they focus on rules and regulations, twisting the law till it no longer resembles what God intended. Do we do this? Do we twist God's word to fit what we believe to be right? Or do we seek to be like Jesus, showing love and compassion? Do we set our eyes on everything that's wrong with the world, with the church, with our families and our lives, or do we choose to focus on the good, and on giving testimony of Jesus in our lives?
Prayer: Father, this is something I know I struggle with. I look at everything with a negative eye instead of looking at people and circumstances thru Your eyes. Your Word says that in everything You work for the good of those who love You (Romans 8:28). Help me to see the good, even in that which doesn't appear to be so. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
John 9, Part 2
Scripture: John 9:8-12
Observation: The crowd, who has known the blind beggar for years, now don't recognize him. Some actually think it's someone who looks like the blind man but is not the man himself (v.9). This despite the fact that he keeps telling them, "I am the man." Once it's established that this indeed is the man they suppose him to be, they ask the obvious question, "Then how were your eyes opened?" (v.10). The man recounts what Jesus has done for him step by step. When the crowd asks where Jesus is, the man honestly answers, "I do not know." (v.12).
Application: This was unbelievable to the crowd - a man born blind suddenly receives his sight. So unbelievable that many refused to believe it was the same man! But that's the beauty of Jesus' healing power: it can transform someone to where they are unrecognizable. We sometimes look at people through our flawed human eyes and think, "That poor person is a prisoner of his/her sin. He/She is (fill in the blank: an alcoholic, addicted to drugs, living an immoral life, a thief, a chronic liar, etc.). Can this person ever change?" But Jesus here shows that He can correct even what seems impossible to remedy. His power is unlimited, and we would be wrong to set parameters for what Jesus can or cannot do.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Your power to change lives is beyond our human comprehension. That's why at times we think that things are impossible, because we can't fathom what we don't understand. But that is not how You operate. Your power is limitless, and You can bring healing and change to anyone who seeks You. Please help me to take Your message of hope to all without judgment. If I believe in You, then I must believe You can do all things for all people. It is in Your Holy name I pray, Amen.
Observation: The crowd, who has known the blind beggar for years, now don't recognize him. Some actually think it's someone who looks like the blind man but is not the man himself (v.9). This despite the fact that he keeps telling them, "I am the man." Once it's established that this indeed is the man they suppose him to be, they ask the obvious question, "Then how were your eyes opened?" (v.10). The man recounts what Jesus has done for him step by step. When the crowd asks where Jesus is, the man honestly answers, "I do not know." (v.12).
Application: This was unbelievable to the crowd - a man born blind suddenly receives his sight. So unbelievable that many refused to believe it was the same man! But that's the beauty of Jesus' healing power: it can transform someone to where they are unrecognizable. We sometimes look at people through our flawed human eyes and think, "That poor person is a prisoner of his/her sin. He/She is (fill in the blank: an alcoholic, addicted to drugs, living an immoral life, a thief, a chronic liar, etc.). Can this person ever change?" But Jesus here shows that He can correct even what seems impossible to remedy. His power is unlimited, and we would be wrong to set parameters for what Jesus can or cannot do.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, Your power to change lives is beyond our human comprehension. That's why at times we think that things are impossible, because we can't fathom what we don't understand. But that is not how You operate. Your power is limitless, and You can bring healing and change to anyone who seeks You. Please help me to take Your message of hope to all without judgment. If I believe in You, then I must believe You can do all things for all people. It is in Your Holy name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
John 9, Part 1
Scripture: John 9:1-7
Observation: Jesus and His disciples come upon a man blind from birth. The disciples ask Him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" (v.2). Jewish teaching held that diseases and handicaps were the result of sin. However, they were divided when it came to the issue of persons handicapped from birth. Some attributed affliction to the sins of the parents; others believed fetuses were guilty of sin and were the cause of their own disability. Jesus pins the blame on neither, but instead tells them the purpose of his blindness: "so that God's works might be revealed in him." (v.3). Jesus also tells His disciples that this work must be done "while it is day" (v.4), and that as long as He is in the world He is the light (v.5). It is a forewarning of what is to come. At this time, though, Jesus does something which appears unusual: He spits on the ground, makes mud, and smears it on the man's eyes. Not so unusual, when we remember that God fashioned man "from the dust of the ground" (Genesis 2:7). The blind man is told to wash in the Pool of Siloam (v.7) which means sent, as he was sent by Jesus. Once the man obeys, he receives his sight.
Application: We love to wallow in the grief of our suffering, questioning why it is that we must suffer. Suffering is a result of our own sin. Yet it is something else - it is an opportunity to experience God's grace. The blind man received not only physical sight when he was healed; he received spiritual sight, which may not have been possible otherwise. Rather than throw ourselves a pity party whenever we experience suffering, we need to seek God more intimately and allow Him to use this suffering for His Glory. We will never suffer more than Jesus did. He will give us the strength to persevere.
Prayer: Father, I admit I don't like to suffer. I don't want to suffer. But I also recognize that my suffering tests and strengthens my faith. I ask that You use my suffering for Your glory; my pain to fulfill Your purpose. May I shine as a light to those around me when, even in my lowest times, I put my faith in You. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus and His disciples come upon a man blind from birth. The disciples ask Him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" (v.2). Jewish teaching held that diseases and handicaps were the result of sin. However, they were divided when it came to the issue of persons handicapped from birth. Some attributed affliction to the sins of the parents; others believed fetuses were guilty of sin and were the cause of their own disability. Jesus pins the blame on neither, but instead tells them the purpose of his blindness: "so that God's works might be revealed in him." (v.3). Jesus also tells His disciples that this work must be done "while it is day" (v.4), and that as long as He is in the world He is the light (v.5). It is a forewarning of what is to come. At this time, though, Jesus does something which appears unusual: He spits on the ground, makes mud, and smears it on the man's eyes. Not so unusual, when we remember that God fashioned man "from the dust of the ground" (Genesis 2:7). The blind man is told to wash in the Pool of Siloam (v.7) which means sent, as he was sent by Jesus. Once the man obeys, he receives his sight.
Application: We love to wallow in the grief of our suffering, questioning why it is that we must suffer. Suffering is a result of our own sin. Yet it is something else - it is an opportunity to experience God's grace. The blind man received not only physical sight when he was healed; he received spiritual sight, which may not have been possible otherwise. Rather than throw ourselves a pity party whenever we experience suffering, we need to seek God more intimately and allow Him to use this suffering for His Glory. We will never suffer more than Jesus did. He will give us the strength to persevere.
Prayer: Father, I admit I don't like to suffer. I don't want to suffer. But I also recognize that my suffering tests and strengthens my faith. I ask that You use my suffering for Your glory; my pain to fulfill Your purpose. May I shine as a light to those around me when, even in my lowest times, I put my faith in You. In Christ Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
John 8, Part 4
Scripture: John 8:31-59
Observation: Jesus tells His new followers that true discipleship comes from continuing in His Word, and that Word will set them free (v.31, 32). The Jewish leaders reject this thought, claiming never having been slaves to anyone, though at that present time they were under Roman rule, and had previously been slaves to the Egyptians, Philistines, Assyrians, Babylonians, etc. Yet they did not consider themselves slaves because they'd never lost their identity as Israelites, children of God. They didn't understand the freedom Jesus was speaking of: freedom from the condemnation of sin. Jesus explains to them that, as slaves to sin, they have no place in God's house; yet Jesus offers freedom and a restored relationship with the Father (v.34-36). The Jews insist that Abraham is their father and they are not illegitimate children (as He is considered to be by them), but Jesus exposes them for who they are: children of the father of lies. They quickly claim their Father to be God Himself. But Jesus tells them they reject Him because they proceed from their father the devil, and cannot hear or understand Him because they are not from God (v.43-47). The Jews are insulted and turn the accusation back at Him (v.48). He tells them they dishonor Him, for He seeks God's glory and God seeks His (v.49, 50). He then tells them that by keeping His word they won't see death (v.51). Since Jesus is the Life (14:6), keeping His Word guarantees life. Instead the Jews think He speaks of physical life and see Him as crazy; after all Abraham and the prophets died, why wouldn't anyone else? Jesus tells them Abraham "rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and was glad." (v.56). The Jews laugh this off, as Jesus is "not yet fifty years old" and claims to have seen Abraham (v.57). Jesus' dramatic answer, "Very truly I tell you, before Abraham was, I am," (v.58) causes an uproar, and they try to stone Him, but Jesus gets away.
Application: Jesus has identified Himself when He says, "before Abraham was, I AM." He could have said "I was" if He were only speaking of His existance in heaven; by saying I AM He is speaking of His identity and true nature. The Jews chose to reject this thought and called Him blasphemous, trying to stone Him. Today many reject Jesus, saying He isn't really God and isn't the only way to heaven. Do I recognize Jesus for who He is and worship Him as the Great I AM? If we do not accept Jesus' word we can never understand what He says (v.43).
Prayer: Lord Jesus, this chapter of the Gospel of John so clearly tells us who You are in Your very words, yet many choose to reject this truth as they did when You were on earth. I believe Your words to be true; You alone are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. My hope, my trust, is in You. I praise and worship You, as my God, my Savior, and my King. In Your Holy Name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus tells His new followers that true discipleship comes from continuing in His Word, and that Word will set them free (v.31, 32). The Jewish leaders reject this thought, claiming never having been slaves to anyone, though at that present time they were under Roman rule, and had previously been slaves to the Egyptians, Philistines, Assyrians, Babylonians, etc. Yet they did not consider themselves slaves because they'd never lost their identity as Israelites, children of God. They didn't understand the freedom Jesus was speaking of: freedom from the condemnation of sin. Jesus explains to them that, as slaves to sin, they have no place in God's house; yet Jesus offers freedom and a restored relationship with the Father (v.34-36). The Jews insist that Abraham is their father and they are not illegitimate children (as He is considered to be by them), but Jesus exposes them for who they are: children of the father of lies. They quickly claim their Father to be God Himself. But Jesus tells them they reject Him because they proceed from their father the devil, and cannot hear or understand Him because they are not from God (v.43-47). The Jews are insulted and turn the accusation back at Him (v.48). He tells them they dishonor Him, for He seeks God's glory and God seeks His (v.49, 50). He then tells them that by keeping His word they won't see death (v.51). Since Jesus is the Life (14:6), keeping His Word guarantees life. Instead the Jews think He speaks of physical life and see Him as crazy; after all Abraham and the prophets died, why wouldn't anyone else? Jesus tells them Abraham "rejoiced that he would see my day; he saw it and was glad." (v.56). The Jews laugh this off, as Jesus is "not yet fifty years old" and claims to have seen Abraham (v.57). Jesus' dramatic answer, "Very truly I tell you, before Abraham was, I am," (v.58) causes an uproar, and they try to stone Him, but Jesus gets away.
Application: Jesus has identified Himself when He says, "before Abraham was, I AM." He could have said "I was" if He were only speaking of His existance in heaven; by saying I AM He is speaking of His identity and true nature. The Jews chose to reject this thought and called Him blasphemous, trying to stone Him. Today many reject Jesus, saying He isn't really God and isn't the only way to heaven. Do I recognize Jesus for who He is and worship Him as the Great I AM? If we do not accept Jesus' word we can never understand what He says (v.43).
Prayer: Lord Jesus, this chapter of the Gospel of John so clearly tells us who You are in Your very words, yet many choose to reject this truth as they did when You were on earth. I believe Your words to be true; You alone are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. My hope, my trust, is in You. I praise and worship You, as my God, my Savior, and my King. In Your Holy Name I pray, Amen.
Monday, January 11, 2010
John 8, Part 3
Scripture: John 8:21-30
Observation: Jesus again tries speaking to the Jews. He tells them they will die in their sins and cannot go where He is going. Since Jesus is the Way (14:6) and they've chosen to reject Him, they cannot go to the Father and therefore must die in their sin. The Jews, however, don't or won't understand Jesus' words, and instead think He speaks of suicide. Jesus tells them He is from above, not of this world. In doing so He is revealing that He has come from God and is God present among them. Unless they believe in who He is, they will die in their sin (v.24). So they ask Him, "Who are You?" (v.25). Of course they've asked this before but their hearts have been unwilling to receive, therefore Jesus tells them there is much about them to condemn. (v.26). They will recognize Him when they have "lifted Him up" (v.28), referring to His death at their hands. That is when their hearts will be revealed as acceptors or rejectors of Christ.
Application: We are all separated from God because of our sin. No one can claim to be without sin (Romans 3:23). Jesus came so that we may have fellowship once again with the Father. He took on the burden of our sin, which alienated us from God, and paid in full the price for our redemption. When we reject Christ, we reject His payment and are responsible before God for our transgressions. Since no human can pay the lofty price for their own sin, anyone who does not believe in Jesus will die in their own sin. The choice is clear - accept Jesus and live, or reject Him, and die.
Prayer: Father, You are truly generous to provide Jesus as payment for our sins. Your lovingkindness is without measure. Help me to share this joyful hope with others. This tremendous bill for our sins can be paid by no other. May the Lord Jesus Christ be forever praised! For it is in His Holy name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus again tries speaking to the Jews. He tells them they will die in their sins and cannot go where He is going. Since Jesus is the Way (14:6) and they've chosen to reject Him, they cannot go to the Father and therefore must die in their sin. The Jews, however, don't or won't understand Jesus' words, and instead think He speaks of suicide. Jesus tells them He is from above, not of this world. In doing so He is revealing that He has come from God and is God present among them. Unless they believe in who He is, they will die in their sin (v.24). So they ask Him, "Who are You?" (v.25). Of course they've asked this before but their hearts have been unwilling to receive, therefore Jesus tells them there is much about them to condemn. (v.26). They will recognize Him when they have "lifted Him up" (v.28), referring to His death at their hands. That is when their hearts will be revealed as acceptors or rejectors of Christ.
Application: We are all separated from God because of our sin. No one can claim to be without sin (Romans 3:23). Jesus came so that we may have fellowship once again with the Father. He took on the burden of our sin, which alienated us from God, and paid in full the price for our redemption. When we reject Christ, we reject His payment and are responsible before God for our transgressions. Since no human can pay the lofty price for their own sin, anyone who does not believe in Jesus will die in their own sin. The choice is clear - accept Jesus and live, or reject Him, and die.
Prayer: Father, You are truly generous to provide Jesus as payment for our sins. Your lovingkindness is without measure. Help me to share this joyful hope with others. This tremendous bill for our sins can be paid by no other. May the Lord Jesus Christ be forever praised! For it is in His Holy name I pray, Amen.
Friday, January 8, 2010
John 8, Part 2
Scripture: John 8:12-20
Observation: At the end of the festival of Tabernacles, there would be celebrations, merriment, songs of praise and dance (known as Simchat Beit Hashoeivah). During this ceremony the dancers would carry lit torches. It was during this celebration that Jesus announced that He is the light of the world (v.12). The Pharisees challenged His words as being self-testimonial. Jewish law required 2 or more witnesses for testimony to be valid (Deut. 19:15). Jesus tells them who testifies on His behalf: His Father. These men judged by human standards and therefore could not understand who Jesus is or where He'd come from. Jesus does not judge as people do; instead He judges as one with the Father. Unlike the Pharisees who judged by appearance alone and therefore wrote Jesus off, Jesus neither judged nor condemned them. He told them truth and let them decide their own course of action. But they continued in their misunderstanding of Jesus: they asked, "Where is Your Father?" (v.19), revealing that they did not know Jesus spoke of God. This is why Jesus said to them, "If you knew Me, you'd know my Father also." It tells how far from God they were.
Application: Jesus has the authority to judge, because He doesn't do so by human standards; He sees the heart. Yet He made clear that He judged no one (v.15). Jesus also taught us not to judge (Matthew 7:1). Does this mean we should ignore evil and falsehood? Not at all. What Jesus is telling us is not to judge by appearance, as humans do. We cannot see into a person's heart, therefore we cannot condemn anyone as lost or beyond hope of salvation. Only God knows our true standing with Him.
Prayer: Father, I recognize that You did not call me to lead people to salvation. You called me to present the Gospel, to tell people about Jesus, and then let You work in their hearts. Please keep me from being discouraged when Your message is rejected. Only You know what goes on in the heart of each person. Help me to continue planting and sowing seeds, and allow You to make them grow. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: At the end of the festival of Tabernacles, there would be celebrations, merriment, songs of praise and dance (known as Simchat Beit Hashoeivah). During this ceremony the dancers would carry lit torches. It was during this celebration that Jesus announced that He is the light of the world (v.12). The Pharisees challenged His words as being self-testimonial. Jewish law required 2 or more witnesses for testimony to be valid (Deut. 19:15). Jesus tells them who testifies on His behalf: His Father. These men judged by human standards and therefore could not understand who Jesus is or where He'd come from. Jesus does not judge as people do; instead He judges as one with the Father. Unlike the Pharisees who judged by appearance alone and therefore wrote Jesus off, Jesus neither judged nor condemned them. He told them truth and let them decide their own course of action. But they continued in their misunderstanding of Jesus: they asked, "Where is Your Father?" (v.19), revealing that they did not know Jesus spoke of God. This is why Jesus said to them, "If you knew Me, you'd know my Father also." It tells how far from God they were.
Application: Jesus has the authority to judge, because He doesn't do so by human standards; He sees the heart. Yet He made clear that He judged no one (v.15). Jesus also taught us not to judge (Matthew 7:1). Does this mean we should ignore evil and falsehood? Not at all. What Jesus is telling us is not to judge by appearance, as humans do. We cannot see into a person's heart, therefore we cannot condemn anyone as lost or beyond hope of salvation. Only God knows our true standing with Him.
Prayer: Father, I recognize that You did not call me to lead people to salvation. You called me to present the Gospel, to tell people about Jesus, and then let You work in their hearts. Please keep me from being discouraged when Your message is rejected. Only You know what goes on in the heart of each person. Help me to continue planting and sowing seeds, and allow You to make them grow. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
John 8, Part 1
Scripture: John 7:53 - 8:11
Observation: Jesus has arrived early at the temple to teach. The Pharisees and scribes come in with a woman, presumably caught in adultery. Their cruelty is obvious - they accuse her and condemn her to death per the law, though the law states that both the man and the woman are to be stoned (Leviticus 20:10). It is clear that their objective is not one of justice but of trapping Jesus (v.6). If Jesus is too lenient, the Pharisees will use this to show Jesus as not respecting the law of Moses. If He is too harsh and the woman is stoned, the Roman government will hold Him accountable.
Jesus' response shows His great wisdom and knowledge of Scripture. He begins by writing in the dust (v.6). This is better understood when we read Jeremiah 17:13 - "O LORD, the hope of Israel, all who forsake you will be put to shame. Those who turn away from you will be written in the dust because they have forsaken the LORD, the spring of living water." By writing in the dust, Jesus, the spring of living water, is condemning them just as they have condemned the woman. When the accusations continue, Jesus calls for the one without sin to cast the first stone (v.7). The elders were the first to leave, probably because the others turned to them to see what they would do, and none wanted to throw a stone after Jesus named the condition. By doing so they condemned themselves, since they were admitting themselves to be sinners. Jesus then turns to the woman. Rather than ask about the accusation, He asks about her accusers. Since they've all left, Jesus does not condemn her, but instead tells her to go and sin no more.
Application: How eloquently we see John 3:17 portrayed in this story: "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him." Jesus, the only sinless one there, could have rightfully thrown the first stone, yet He chose to forgive the woman and give her a second chance. Am I so generous to those who have done wrong? Do I forgive and allow God to work in the lives of those He Himself has forgiven? Or do I choose to condemn, forgetting all Jesus has forgiven me? If I expect to be forgiven but am unable to forgive, I am a selfish person indeed.
Prayer: Father, how quick we are to judge the sins of others as worse than our own! Yet sin is sin, and all sin is detestable to You. You sent Jesus as restitution for all; who am I to decide the ones worthy? I myself am unworthy of forgiveness, yet You forgave me. Help me to show the same mercy to others which You so lovingly have bestowed upon me. For it is in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus has arrived early at the temple to teach. The Pharisees and scribes come in with a woman, presumably caught in adultery. Their cruelty is obvious - they accuse her and condemn her to death per the law, though the law states that both the man and the woman are to be stoned (Leviticus 20:10). It is clear that their objective is not one of justice but of trapping Jesus (v.6). If Jesus is too lenient, the Pharisees will use this to show Jesus as not respecting the law of Moses. If He is too harsh and the woman is stoned, the Roman government will hold Him accountable.
Jesus' response shows His great wisdom and knowledge of Scripture. He begins by writing in the dust (v.6). This is better understood when we read Jeremiah 17:13 - "O LORD, the hope of Israel, all who forsake you will be put to shame. Those who turn away from you will be written in the dust because they have forsaken the LORD, the spring of living water." By writing in the dust, Jesus, the spring of living water, is condemning them just as they have condemned the woman. When the accusations continue, Jesus calls for the one without sin to cast the first stone (v.7). The elders were the first to leave, probably because the others turned to them to see what they would do, and none wanted to throw a stone after Jesus named the condition. By doing so they condemned themselves, since they were admitting themselves to be sinners. Jesus then turns to the woman. Rather than ask about the accusation, He asks about her accusers. Since they've all left, Jesus does not condemn her, but instead tells her to go and sin no more.
Application: How eloquently we see John 3:17 portrayed in this story: "For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him." Jesus, the only sinless one there, could have rightfully thrown the first stone, yet He chose to forgive the woman and give her a second chance. Am I so generous to those who have done wrong? Do I forgive and allow God to work in the lives of those He Himself has forgiven? Or do I choose to condemn, forgetting all Jesus has forgiven me? If I expect to be forgiven but am unable to forgive, I am a selfish person indeed.
Prayer: Father, how quick we are to judge the sins of others as worse than our own! Yet sin is sin, and all sin is detestable to You. You sent Jesus as restitution for all; who am I to decide the ones worthy? I myself am unworthy of forgiveness, yet You forgave me. Help me to show the same mercy to others which You so lovingly have bestowed upon me. For it is in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
John 7, Part 5
Scripture: John 7:40-52
Observation: There are mixed reactions from the crowd in regards to who Jesus is. Some see Jesus as a prophet because of the words He has spoken; others believe He is the Messiah. Yet there are those who reject Him entirely on the basis of His origin - Jesus is from Galilee, and the Messiah was to come from Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Ironic, since many rejected Jesus earlier on the pretense that the Messiah's origin would be unknown (7:27). Had these doubters bothered to know Jesus better, they would have realized their argument had no basis, since Jesus had indeed been born in Bethlehem (Luke 2:4-7). The crowd is divided; some want Jesus arrested, but none lay a hand on Him (v. 43-44). The temple police do not arrest Him because they are in awe of His teachings. The Pharisees are infuriated, and accuse the temple police of being deceived. They pridefully point out their superiority in knowledge of Scripture and law over the ignorant crowd. Nicodemus, who believes in Jesus, points out that the Pharisees are not following the law themselves, since they are judging Jesus without a fair hearing. Again in their pride, rather than offer Jesus the chance to explain Himself, the Pharisees mock Nicodemus as being from Galilee, and claim no prophet was to come from there.
Application: Many times we hear people speak out against God, against Jesus, and against the Scriptures. Yet those who would charge all kinds of falsehoods don't know anything about the Lord or His Word beyond their own opinion. We cannot judge what we don't know; that is stupid ignorance. We need to know God, know His Word, so that 1) we can come to a clearer understanding of who He is and what is His will, and 2) so that we may defend Him against His opponents.
Prayer: That is my desire, Father, to know You better each day so that I may give testimony of Your true nature to those who don't know You. The enemy will seek to oppose You, but many are just ignorant. Help me to reach out to those who want to know You and worship You, that I may share what You have done in my life and in the lives of many, and show through Your Word what an awesome, loving, amazing God You are. For it is in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: There are mixed reactions from the crowd in regards to who Jesus is. Some see Jesus as a prophet because of the words He has spoken; others believe He is the Messiah. Yet there are those who reject Him entirely on the basis of His origin - Jesus is from Galilee, and the Messiah was to come from Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Ironic, since many rejected Jesus earlier on the pretense that the Messiah's origin would be unknown (7:27). Had these doubters bothered to know Jesus better, they would have realized their argument had no basis, since Jesus had indeed been born in Bethlehem (Luke 2:4-7). The crowd is divided; some want Jesus arrested, but none lay a hand on Him (v. 43-44). The temple police do not arrest Him because they are in awe of His teachings. The Pharisees are infuriated, and accuse the temple police of being deceived. They pridefully point out their superiority in knowledge of Scripture and law over the ignorant crowd. Nicodemus, who believes in Jesus, points out that the Pharisees are not following the law themselves, since they are judging Jesus without a fair hearing. Again in their pride, rather than offer Jesus the chance to explain Himself, the Pharisees mock Nicodemus as being from Galilee, and claim no prophet was to come from there.
Application: Many times we hear people speak out against God, against Jesus, and against the Scriptures. Yet those who would charge all kinds of falsehoods don't know anything about the Lord or His Word beyond their own opinion. We cannot judge what we don't know; that is stupid ignorance. We need to know God, know His Word, so that 1) we can come to a clearer understanding of who He is and what is His will, and 2) so that we may defend Him against His opponents.
Prayer: That is my desire, Father, to know You better each day so that I may give testimony of Your true nature to those who don't know You. The enemy will seek to oppose You, but many are just ignorant. Help me to reach out to those who want to know You and worship You, that I may share what You have done in my life and in the lives of many, and show through Your Word what an awesome, loving, amazing God You are. For it is in Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
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