Scripture: John 11:28-32
Observation: Martha goes and fetches Mary her sister, as Jesus is asking for her (v.28). Mary immediately takes off to see Jesus, who was not at their house but at a different location, where Martha had met Him (v.30). Those who were with Mary, consoling her in her grief, went after her, thinking she was going to the tomb to mourn (v.31). Upon seeing Jesus, she kneels before Him and cries, "Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died." (v.32).
Application: Several lessons can be learned from this short passage. First, we see both Martha and Mary run to Jesus in their despair. Do I run to Jesus when the world around me seems to be crumbling, or do I look to my own strength? Next, we see the crowds who, upon seeing Mary leave, get up to accompany her. Am I willing to go the extra mile when someone needs me? Am I there for my loved ones in body, or just in my thoughts? Lastly, we see Mary's faith as well. She doesn't understand why these things have taken place, but of one thing she is certain: If Jesus had been there, Lazarus would have lived. Is my faith still strong when things don't go my way? Can I still praise Jesus in my pain and suffering?
Prayer: Father, I know that being a Christian means doing as much as saying. It doesn't help anyone for me to simply call myself a Christian; I have to put my faith in action. Show me those moments when I can be a blessing to others so that I can be a beacon of light. May You be the one I turn to in all moments of life, and may it serve as a testimony of Your faithfulness. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
John 11, Part 2
Scripture: John 11:17-27
Observation: Jesus arrives in Bethany, where Lazarus is buried. Lazarus has been dead 4 days. This is significant, as now not only is he dead and buried but he is beginning to decay. There can be no doubt in the minds of those present that Lazarus is really and truly deceased. Martha hears that Jesus is approaching and runs out to meet Him. She tells Jesus that, had He been there, Lazarus would not have died, yet God will give Him whatever He asks (v.21-22). Martha shows great faith, though somewhat flawed. She doesn't see the possibility of Jesus bringing Lazarus back from the dead, only that He can ask God to do it. Jesus assures her Lazarus will rise again (v.23), which she understands to mean the future resurrection (v.24). Jesus reveals something much more profound: "I am the resurrection and the life" (v.25). He goes on to tell her that those who believe in Him will never die (v.26). When asked by Jesus if she believes this, Martha gives a great confession of faith: "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God, the One coming into the world." (v.27).
Application: Oh, to have a faith like Martha! The poor woman had lost her beloved brother, who could have been saved by Jesus had He arrived earlier. Jesus is saying to her that those who believe in Him will never die. She could have said to Him, "What about my brother? He believed in You." Instead, she professed her faith in Christ. She didn't understand all He was saying, nor did she know what would happen next. But she held on to what she did know about Jesus, and believed in Him. That's what faith is all about: believing even without seeing or knowing. That's the kind of faith every Christian should have.
Prayer: And Father, that's the faith I want! At times I wish I knew more, understood more, could see into the future. But my faith must be based, not only on what is seen, but also on what is unseen (Hebrews 11:1). I must trust in You even when You seem distant, when I'm confused or don't understand. Because You are always with me. You know what I don't know, and that's enough for me. I love you Father. It is Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus arrives in Bethany, where Lazarus is buried. Lazarus has been dead 4 days. This is significant, as now not only is he dead and buried but he is beginning to decay. There can be no doubt in the minds of those present that Lazarus is really and truly deceased. Martha hears that Jesus is approaching and runs out to meet Him. She tells Jesus that, had He been there, Lazarus would not have died, yet God will give Him whatever He asks (v.21-22). Martha shows great faith, though somewhat flawed. She doesn't see the possibility of Jesus bringing Lazarus back from the dead, only that He can ask God to do it. Jesus assures her Lazarus will rise again (v.23), which she understands to mean the future resurrection (v.24). Jesus reveals something much more profound: "I am the resurrection and the life" (v.25). He goes on to tell her that those who believe in Him will never die (v.26). When asked by Jesus if she believes this, Martha gives a great confession of faith: "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God, the One coming into the world." (v.27).
Application: Oh, to have a faith like Martha! The poor woman had lost her beloved brother, who could have been saved by Jesus had He arrived earlier. Jesus is saying to her that those who believe in Him will never die. She could have said to Him, "What about my brother? He believed in You." Instead, she professed her faith in Christ. She didn't understand all He was saying, nor did she know what would happen next. But she held on to what she did know about Jesus, and believed in Him. That's what faith is all about: believing even without seeing or knowing. That's the kind of faith every Christian should have.
Prayer: And Father, that's the faith I want! At times I wish I knew more, understood more, could see into the future. But my faith must be based, not only on what is seen, but also on what is unseen (Hebrews 11:1). I must trust in You even when You seem distant, when I'm confused or don't understand. Because You are always with me. You know what I don't know, and that's enough for me. I love you Father. It is Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Friday, February 12, 2010
John 11, Part 1
Scripture: John 11:1-16
Observation: After Jesus had left Judea, He received a message from His friends Mary and Martha, advising that their brother Lazarus whom Jesus loved, was ill (v.3). Interestingly, they don't demand that He come or tell Him to do something. They know what He can do for them, and leave in His hands how or what He will do. Jesus did not go running to see Lazarus; instead He said this sickness would bring God glory (v.4). Jesus loved Lazarus, yet He stayed 2 days longer where He was, knowing that the wait would bring a much greater blessing. When the 2 days were up, Jesus told His disciples that they would head back to Judea. Alarmed, they reminded Him that in Judea a stoning awaited, as the Jews were intent on killing Him. Jesus told them there was no need to fear if they walked in the daylight (see Psalm 27:1). He told them they must go to Judea because Lazarus had fallen asleep (v.11). Again they misunderstood, and Jesus needed to explain to them that Lazarus was dead and they had to go to him. Thomas, with incredible faith, told the others to join Jesus, and die with Him (v.16), knowing that by going into Judea they would be facing danger.
Application: The first part of this story teaches us to wait on God even when we don't understand the delay. Jesus could have dropped everything and gone to see Lazarus. He could have healed him from as far as He was. But God would not have been glorified to the same magnitude, and their faith would not have been stretched as far. In the end we see Jesus' motive for delay was in glorifying the Father, and like Thomas we should be ready to go and die with Him no matter the danger.
Prayer: Father, You know my impatience, my desire to have things done how I want and when I want. Yet I know when You are in control the blessings are greater. I want to follow You wherever You lead, and trust in You no matter what lies ahead. Only You can get me through life's storms. Thank You for teaching me to wait on You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: After Jesus had left Judea, He received a message from His friends Mary and Martha, advising that their brother Lazarus whom Jesus loved, was ill (v.3). Interestingly, they don't demand that He come or tell Him to do something. They know what He can do for them, and leave in His hands how or what He will do. Jesus did not go running to see Lazarus; instead He said this sickness would bring God glory (v.4). Jesus loved Lazarus, yet He stayed 2 days longer where He was, knowing that the wait would bring a much greater blessing. When the 2 days were up, Jesus told His disciples that they would head back to Judea. Alarmed, they reminded Him that in Judea a stoning awaited, as the Jews were intent on killing Him. Jesus told them there was no need to fear if they walked in the daylight (see Psalm 27:1). He told them they must go to Judea because Lazarus had fallen asleep (v.11). Again they misunderstood, and Jesus needed to explain to them that Lazarus was dead and they had to go to him. Thomas, with incredible faith, told the others to join Jesus, and die with Him (v.16), knowing that by going into Judea they would be facing danger.
Application: The first part of this story teaches us to wait on God even when we don't understand the delay. Jesus could have dropped everything and gone to see Lazarus. He could have healed him from as far as He was. But God would not have been glorified to the same magnitude, and their faith would not have been stretched as far. In the end we see Jesus' motive for delay was in glorifying the Father, and like Thomas we should be ready to go and die with Him no matter the danger.
Prayer: Father, You know my impatience, my desire to have things done how I want and when I want. Yet I know when You are in control the blessings are greater. I want to follow You wherever You lead, and trust in You no matter what lies ahead. Only You can get me through life's storms. Thank You for teaching me to wait on You. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
John 10, Part 5
Scripture: John 10:22-42
Observation: The Pharisees are fed up with Jesus' figures of speech and demand that He state whether or not He is the Messiah (v.24). Although at no point did Jesus actually say "I am the Messiah," He can honestly say He has told them, based on the signs they have seen (v.25). However, they are not of His flock and therefore don't believe (v.26). Jesus then makes the biggest claim yet: "The Father and I are one (v.30)." The Jews are ready to stone Jesus for blasphemy, because He has claimed equality with God. Jesus, in His loving grace, tries to reason with them, showing that He has done no wrong. Jesus reminds them that Scripture called those who received the word "gods" (Psalm 82:6), though His claim is greater, because He is the Son of God. Those before Him received the Word, while Jesus IS the Word (John 1:1). He then tells them to test His veracity: "Even though you do not believe Me, believe the works (v.38)". He tells them to accept the fact that He is in the Father and the Father in Him (v.38), which only makes them angrier and they try to arrest Him, but He escapes. Jesus crosses the Jordan, where many whose hearts are receptive come to hear Him, and believe.
Application: With all that was before their eyes, the Pharisees refused to accept and demanded Jesus tell them His true identity. Yet when He did, they tried to kill Him! God's word is plain and clear, but many today refuse see. There are many who, like the Pharisees, deny Jesus' deity even when He pronounces it Himself. Some call Him a prophet, others an angel, anyone other than God. Only the humble sheep can see who He really is. If we want to know Jesus, we must humble ourselves and accept Him for who He proved Himself to be: God the Son.
Prayer: Thank You Lord, for removing the blinders that didn't let me see You! Thank You for showing me Your true self through Your Word, and removing all deceit! Help me to help others see You as I can now see You. The Truth that can set us free is You, Lord Jesus! In Your Name I pray, Amen.
Observation: The Pharisees are fed up with Jesus' figures of speech and demand that He state whether or not He is the Messiah (v.24). Although at no point did Jesus actually say "I am the Messiah," He can honestly say He has told them, based on the signs they have seen (v.25). However, they are not of His flock and therefore don't believe (v.26). Jesus then makes the biggest claim yet: "The Father and I are one (v.30)." The Jews are ready to stone Jesus for blasphemy, because He has claimed equality with God. Jesus, in His loving grace, tries to reason with them, showing that He has done no wrong. Jesus reminds them that Scripture called those who received the word "gods" (Psalm 82:6), though His claim is greater, because He is the Son of God. Those before Him received the Word, while Jesus IS the Word (John 1:1). He then tells them to test His veracity: "Even though you do not believe Me, believe the works (v.38)". He tells them to accept the fact that He is in the Father and the Father in Him (v.38), which only makes them angrier and they try to arrest Him, but He escapes. Jesus crosses the Jordan, where many whose hearts are receptive come to hear Him, and believe.
Application: With all that was before their eyes, the Pharisees refused to accept and demanded Jesus tell them His true identity. Yet when He did, they tried to kill Him! God's word is plain and clear, but many today refuse see. There are many who, like the Pharisees, deny Jesus' deity even when He pronounces it Himself. Some call Him a prophet, others an angel, anyone other than God. Only the humble sheep can see who He really is. If we want to know Jesus, we must humble ourselves and accept Him for who He proved Himself to be: God the Son.
Prayer: Thank You Lord, for removing the blinders that didn't let me see You! Thank You for showing me Your true self through Your Word, and removing all deceit! Help me to help others see You as I can now see You. The Truth that can set us free is You, Lord Jesus! In Your Name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
John 10, Part 4
Scripture: John 10:19-21
Observation: There is division among the Jews because of Jesus' teachings. Some believe Him to be mad, as a result of being demon-possessed. Others see Him and say it is not possible - one who is possessed by demons doesn't speak like Jesus does, nor can a demon heal the blind.
Application: All who were present were seeing and hearing the same things, yet arriving at different conclusions. All saw the man, blind from birth, receive his sight, but each attributed the miracle to whom they wanted. Many Pharisees were already against Jesus because He healed on the Sabbath and spoke against them, therefore anything He did or said they shrugged off as coming from demons. But the more open-minded saw things in a clearer light; they realized these miracles could only proceed from God. We become frustrated when we speak to people about Jesus but they refuse to listen. We must understand that many are predisposed, by prior teachings or life experiences, to think a certain way. Jesus never gave up His preaching ministry. Till the end He gave them all a chance to repent. We must see everyone in the same light.
Prayer: Father, I understand what it's like to believe something wholeheartedly and not want to accept its falsehood though it's as plain as the nose on my face. I must be patient with those who still don't see You for who You are. You gave me time to accept Your truths and You'll do the same for all. Thank You for the work You've done and continue to do in me. In Jesus' precious name I pray, Amen.
Observation: There is division among the Jews because of Jesus' teachings. Some believe Him to be mad, as a result of being demon-possessed. Others see Him and say it is not possible - one who is possessed by demons doesn't speak like Jesus does, nor can a demon heal the blind.
Application: All who were present were seeing and hearing the same things, yet arriving at different conclusions. All saw the man, blind from birth, receive his sight, but each attributed the miracle to whom they wanted. Many Pharisees were already against Jesus because He healed on the Sabbath and spoke against them, therefore anything He did or said they shrugged off as coming from demons. But the more open-minded saw things in a clearer light; they realized these miracles could only proceed from God. We become frustrated when we speak to people about Jesus but they refuse to listen. We must understand that many are predisposed, by prior teachings or life experiences, to think a certain way. Jesus never gave up His preaching ministry. Till the end He gave them all a chance to repent. We must see everyone in the same light.
Prayer: Father, I understand what it's like to believe something wholeheartedly and not want to accept its falsehood though it's as plain as the nose on my face. I must be patient with those who still don't see You for who You are. You gave me time to accept Your truths and You'll do the same for all. Thank You for the work You've done and continue to do in me. In Jesus' precious name I pray, Amen.
Friday, February 5, 2010
John 10, Part 3
Scripture: John 10:11-18
Observation: Jesus tells the crowd that, not only is He the gate through which they must enter, but He is also the Good Shepherd, good because He not only risks His life for His sheep, He lays down His life for them (v.11). This is in contrast to a hired hand, who will watch the sheep but not put himself in danger for them (v.12,13). A hired hand cares only about himself and his pay, and doesn't care if wolves (false teachers) come into the midst of the sheep and carry them away. Jesus, as Owner of the sheep, loves them and knows each just as the Father and He know each other (v.14-15). Jesus tells them He is bringing other sheep into the fold (Gentiles) so that there will be one flock united in Him. For these He will not only lay down His life, but He also has the power to take it up again (v.18).
Application: Jesus has not been simply "put in charge" of the sheep. If this were so, He would be like the hired hand, whose interests only go so far, and who isn't willing to risk himself on account of someone else's property. No, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, our owner, who died for us and purchased us with His precious blood. Only our Creator would be willing to go as far as Jesus did, because He loves us. How can we repay His love? We can't; but we can imitate Him as much as possible, live our lives totally dedicated to Him, and become His servants, ready and willing to serve Him in all He asks.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, what You did at Calvary has no equal, then or now. You saved humanity like no one else could. Your love surpasses all understanding, because You knew You were rejected, yet You lay down Your life anyway. I thank You Lord Jesus, and I want the world to see and know how much I appreciate what You've done. Help me to be more like You, that You may be glorified. In Your Name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus tells the crowd that, not only is He the gate through which they must enter, but He is also the Good Shepherd, good because He not only risks His life for His sheep, He lays down His life for them (v.11). This is in contrast to a hired hand, who will watch the sheep but not put himself in danger for them (v.12,13). A hired hand cares only about himself and his pay, and doesn't care if wolves (false teachers) come into the midst of the sheep and carry them away. Jesus, as Owner of the sheep, loves them and knows each just as the Father and He know each other (v.14-15). Jesus tells them He is bringing other sheep into the fold (Gentiles) so that there will be one flock united in Him. For these He will not only lay down His life, but He also has the power to take it up again (v.18).
Application: Jesus has not been simply "put in charge" of the sheep. If this were so, He would be like the hired hand, whose interests only go so far, and who isn't willing to risk himself on account of someone else's property. No, Jesus is the Good Shepherd, our owner, who died for us and purchased us with His precious blood. Only our Creator would be willing to go as far as Jesus did, because He loves us. How can we repay His love? We can't; but we can imitate Him as much as possible, live our lives totally dedicated to Him, and become His servants, ready and willing to serve Him in all He asks.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, what You did at Calvary has no equal, then or now. You saved humanity like no one else could. Your love surpasses all understanding, because You knew You were rejected, yet You lay down Your life anyway. I thank You Lord Jesus, and I want the world to see and know how much I appreciate what You've done. Help me to be more like You, that You may be glorified. In Your Name I pray, Amen.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
John 10, Part 2
Scripture: John 10:7-10
Observation: Jesus begins to explain His parable. Jesus Himself is the gate for the sheep, who provides entry into a safe santuary (v.7, 9). Those who came before Jesus He calls "thieves and robbers" (v.10). Here Jesus isn't referring to those whom the Father sent, such as the prophets, or John the Baptist. He refers to the Jewish rulers and teachers who have rejected Him. Those who bear witness to Jesus do not fall into this category. Jesus, as the Gate, provides the way in and out into green pastures (see Psalm 23:2), unlike the thieves who come only to kill and destroy (v.10). Jesus' purpose is to give life (John 6:35, 7:38), and life abundant.
Application: Jesus says He is "the gate. Whoever enters by Me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture" (v.9). Jesus is not a barrier, He is a passageway, one that allows us freedom to come before the presence of God. But to get there we must go "through Him." The Jewish leaders thought they'd condemned the blind man by throwing him out of the temple, but as one of Jesus' sheep, he was able to enter into the pasture and receive protection from the Shepherd. We also have freedom when we enter through the Gate. We are all sheep in need of a Shepherd, but unless we recognize this we will run through the world and be devoured by the thieves and robbers who abound. It is necessary to hear, recognize, and obey the voice of our Shepherd to be saved.
Prayer: Father that is my prayer for the lost, that they would recognize their need of a Shepherd and turn to the One who created them. Only Jesus can love His sheep with an unconditional love because He created them and died for them. There are many imposters, but only You an give freedom from condemnation, and only You can give eternal life. I praise You for Your grace, and I praise Your Holy Name, Jesus, name above all names. In Your name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Jesus begins to explain His parable. Jesus Himself is the gate for the sheep, who provides entry into a safe santuary (v.7, 9). Those who came before Jesus He calls "thieves and robbers" (v.10). Here Jesus isn't referring to those whom the Father sent, such as the prophets, or John the Baptist. He refers to the Jewish rulers and teachers who have rejected Him. Those who bear witness to Jesus do not fall into this category. Jesus, as the Gate, provides the way in and out into green pastures (see Psalm 23:2), unlike the thieves who come only to kill and destroy (v.10). Jesus' purpose is to give life (John 6:35, 7:38), and life abundant.
Application: Jesus says He is "the gate. Whoever enters by Me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture" (v.9). Jesus is not a barrier, He is a passageway, one that allows us freedom to come before the presence of God. But to get there we must go "through Him." The Jewish leaders thought they'd condemned the blind man by throwing him out of the temple, but as one of Jesus' sheep, he was able to enter into the pasture and receive protection from the Shepherd. We also have freedom when we enter through the Gate. We are all sheep in need of a Shepherd, but unless we recognize this we will run through the world and be devoured by the thieves and robbers who abound. It is necessary to hear, recognize, and obey the voice of our Shepherd to be saved.
Prayer: Father that is my prayer for the lost, that they would recognize their need of a Shepherd and turn to the One who created them. Only Jesus can love His sheep with an unconditional love because He created them and died for them. There are many imposters, but only You an give freedom from condemnation, and only You can give eternal life. I praise You for Your grace, and I praise Your Holy Name, Jesus, name above all names. In Your name I pray, Amen.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
John 10, Part 1
Scripture: John 10:1-6
Observation: Ezekiel chapter 34 speaks of the false shepherds in Israel, and the true shepherd, God, who lovingly rescues His sheep (Ezekiel 34:12). Now Jesus begins speaking of sheep, and of good and evil shepherds. The evil ones are thieves, who do not enter the sheep pen by the gate but instead climb in another way, like bandits (v. 1-2). The good shepherd enters through the gate, and the sheep respond to Him because they recognize His voice (v. 3-4). When a stranger calls out, the sheep flee because they don't recognize the voice of this stranger (v.5). Jesus uses this to explain what has just happened to the blind man - he heard His shepherd's voice, and was not at a loss for having been expelled from the temple. But the Pharisees, who claimed to see (9:40) are the ones who cannot understand Jesus (v.6).
Application: There is an important character trait being taught here: discernment. Those who follow Jesus will recognize His voice and not be deceived by strangers. But how do we listen to His voice? His words are easily accessible. We need to read Scripture daily to know and understand Jesus more, and we need to speak with Him and listen for His voice in our lives. Once we know Him, the enemy can call from all corners, disguising his voice at every turn, but we will know to flee because it is not our Shepherd's voice. Until we come into an intimate relationship with Jesus, though, we will not be able to discern His voice from the other voices in our noisy lives.
Prayer: Father, how clear Your voice is in Your Word. You have given us Scripture, not just for reading pleasure, but so that we can know You better. I ask now for discernment, that I may want what You want and hate what You hate. Teach me through Your Word what is Your perfect will, that it may guide me in all my decisions (Romans 12:2). In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Observation: Ezekiel chapter 34 speaks of the false shepherds in Israel, and the true shepherd, God, who lovingly rescues His sheep (Ezekiel 34:12). Now Jesus begins speaking of sheep, and of good and evil shepherds. The evil ones are thieves, who do not enter the sheep pen by the gate but instead climb in another way, like bandits (v. 1-2). The good shepherd enters through the gate, and the sheep respond to Him because they recognize His voice (v. 3-4). When a stranger calls out, the sheep flee because they don't recognize the voice of this stranger (v.5). Jesus uses this to explain what has just happened to the blind man - he heard His shepherd's voice, and was not at a loss for having been expelled from the temple. But the Pharisees, who claimed to see (9:40) are the ones who cannot understand Jesus (v.6).
Application: There is an important character trait being taught here: discernment. Those who follow Jesus will recognize His voice and not be deceived by strangers. But how do we listen to His voice? His words are easily accessible. We need to read Scripture daily to know and understand Jesus more, and we need to speak with Him and listen for His voice in our lives. Once we know Him, the enemy can call from all corners, disguising his voice at every turn, but we will know to flee because it is not our Shepherd's voice. Until we come into an intimate relationship with Jesus, though, we will not be able to discern His voice from the other voices in our noisy lives.
Prayer: Father, how clear Your voice is in Your Word. You have given us Scripture, not just for reading pleasure, but so that we can know You better. I ask now for discernment, that I may want what You want and hate what You hate. Teach me through Your Word what is Your perfect will, that it may guide me in all my decisions (Romans 12:2). In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
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