The Sayings of Jesus

Last Sunday our pastor was preaching out of Romans and in the course of his sermon he read John 12:47-. As he read this scripture I was gripped. I have read this many times before but it never before grabbed me like it did then.

John 12:47-50: NASB

47“If anyone hears My sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world.

48“He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day.

49“For I did not speak on My own initiative, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment as to what to say and what to speak.

50“I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”

What really gripped me was that Jesus is repeating only what the Father is telling Him to say. These ideas are not his but the Father's. So, he is teaching people what the will of the Father is so they can do what is necessary to escape his wrath and judgement.

As I looked at these verses I thought I need to take a look at Jesus' saying: just what do they have to say? Then I took my red-lettered Bible and decided I am going through John and concentrate on red-lettered portions and see what principles are revealed therein. As I go through it, I want to share some insights - anyone want to go along for the ride and share yours as well? I know it is a mammoth undertaking but we have time, do we not? If I skip something you find inspiring, go ahead and say it.

To keep the thread orderly I suggest you put the reference of the scripture you are commenting on in the subject box.

Will see ya later...

Opps! hit the wrong key!

John 1: 47-51: (NASB)

47 Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!”

48Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.”

49Nathanael answered Him, “Rabbi, You are the Son of God; You are the King of Israel.”

50Jesus answered and said to him, “Because I said to you that I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You will see greater things than these.”

51And He said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

COMMENT:

John 1 records Jesus' calling of his disciples. His calling of Nathanael is remarkable. Jesus rarely complemented anyone but when he did it worthwhile to take note what he said.

Notice how he described Nathanael: "in whom there is no deceit", or guile (KJV).

Guile: from Strong's
meer-maw'
From H7411 in the sense of deceiving; fraud: - craft, deceit (-ful, -fully), false, feigned, guile, subtilly, treachery.

Nathanael was an honest man. He did not work to make others believe something about himself that was not true. Think about that! How many times do we work to leave good impressions on others about ourselves? Ouch? Ouch.

Nate was genuine. Apparently a rarity in Israel during that time. Am I rare in my community? Am I known for being honest, always honest? Am I genuine?

The benefits of being honest, genuine, free of hypocrisy is that God will reveal Himself to you. WOW! It will be so rich you will even see "the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man". Do we in our souls and spirit see it? Understand it?

(We do not read where Nathanael saw this literally with his physical eyes - other then Jesus in the flesh - but I am assuming Jesus meant this to occur in his mind, his soul and spirit. It is from this perspective I am speaking.

God bless....what do you see in these verses? )

"Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see the heavens opened and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”

Jesus is Jacob's ladder.

QUOTE:
______________________________________________________________

John is the most festal, midrashic, and over-all Jewish of the four Gospels,
______________________________________________________________

I have said this many times to friends - John is a Jewish book. If you are going to tell a person who is ignorant of Jewish culture, you better advice them to read Luke, who I think was a gentile. It will become a challenge to mine the book but then I do not expect to be able to plunge its depth - and this is the beauty of studying the scriptures: there is new insights to be gleaned all the time. This always fills my mind and soul with awe.

Nathaniel: he was a Jew. For some reason I suspect the fact that there was no guile in him was very unusual. To top it off, he did not have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit - He was not yet given to the people. Amazing. But he must have been so very sincere.

The ladder:
Literal or figurative? Maybe it could be both?

I know when our daughter was called to glory, I experienced a joy that night that far surpassed any kind of emotional euphoria I have ever experienced - it went on for hours - did not time it, but it seemed like it. This was something the experts called a gift from the LORD. Did I see heaven? No. But I did experience a glimpse of the joy that must characterize what exists in heaven. Awesome, I promise. Yes, God was and is good.

BTW: I never experienced bitterness in her leaving that many do when their child dies. When talking to other people about terminal illness I insist they turn this thing over to the LORD they will resist it. I never could understand it. Do people love to wallow in self-pity? What is to be gained from it? - OK, end of rabbit trail.)

John 2:1-11 NASB

1 On the third day there was a wedding in Cana of Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there;

2 and both Jesus and His disciples were invited to the wedding.

3 When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to Him, “They have no wine.”

4 And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does that have to do with us? My hour has not yet come.”

5 His mother said to the servants, “Whatever He says to you, do it.”

6 Now there were six stone waterpots set there for the Jewish custom of purification, containing twenty or thirty gallons each.

7 Jesus said to them, “Fill the waterpots with water.” So they filled them up to the brim.

8 And He said to them, “Draw some out now and take it to the headwaiter.” So they took it to him.

9 When the headwaiter tasted the water which had become wine, and did not know where it came from (but the servants who had drawn the water knew), the headwaiter called the bridegroom,

10 and said to him, “Every man serves the good wine first, and when the people have drunk freely, then he serves the poorer wine; but you have kept the good wine until now.”

11 This beginning of His signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory, and His disciples believed in Him.

COMMENT:

I see here lessons in faith as demonstrated by Mary and the servants at this wedding reception.

Jesus had never performed a miracle in his life (v. 11). His mother knew Jesus likely like no other person. We do not know what he told her about his forthcoming ministry, in any case she believed he could do something, what? she likely did not know. But she believed he could help.

Whether Jesus approached the servants or whether they asked for assistance, it does not say, but we do know Mary TOLD the servants to do as he says and they did.

It took a lot of faith to fill these pots with water and then give it to the head waiter. If it was still water they risked being considered a fool. But they obeyed and were rewarded handsomely.

I see in this story a powerful lesson in the purpose of people being involved in evangelism. The question often comes to me is why should people risk their necks and fortunes to preach to people who do not want to be taught? The Bible says in Hebrews 8:10-11:

"FOR THIS IS THE COVENANT THAT I WILL MAKE WITH THE HOUSE OF ISRAEL
AFTER THOSE DAYS, SAYS THE LORD:
I WILL PUT MY LAWS INTO THEIR MINDS,
AND I WILL WRITE THEM ON THEIR HEARTS.
AND I WILL BE THEIR GOD,
AND THEY SHALL BE MY PEOPLE.

11“AND THEY SHALL NOT TEACH EVERYONE HIS FELLOW CITIZEN,
AND EVERYONE HIS BROTHER, SAYING, ‘KNOW THE LORD,’
FOR ALL WILL KNOW ME,
FROM THE LEAST TO THE GREATEST OF THEM.

Why bother if God is going to do this?

Is it not true that God needs us to reaffirm his word to those he is convicting? What Jesus told these servants to do was totally absurd, but Mary said, "do it" and they did it. Without her urging would they have? Good question but likely not. Sometimes God tells people to do something the natural mind considers absurd, but when you follow through unimaginable blessings await.

When one partners with the Holy Spirit in witnessing we, too, will witness some of the glory that is revealed when one sees God working. Like these servants, people need a little push to get going.

John 2:13-22 NASB

13The Passover of the Jews was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.

14And He found in the temple those who were selling oxen and sheep and doves, and the money changers seated at their tables.

15And He made a scourge of cords, and drove them all out of the temple, with the sheep and the oxen; and He poured out the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables;

16and to those who were selling the doves He said, “Take these things away; stop making My Father’s house a place of business.”

17His disciples remembered that it was written, “ZEAL FOR YOUR HOUSE WILL CONSUME ME.”

18The Jews then said to Him, “What sign do You show us as your authority for doing these things?”

19Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”

20The Jews then said, “It took forty-six years to build this temple, and will You raise it up in three days?”

21But He was speaking of the temple of His body.

22So when He was raised from the dead, His disciples remembered that He said this; and they believed the Scripture and the word which Jesus had spoken.

COMMENT:

It was Passover time in Jerusalem when many in Israel would go to the temple to offer their yearly sacrifice. For whatever reason, some folks saw this an opportunity to make money and where else but in the temple itself. There they set up - probably sounded like a sale-barn where animals are bought and sold - loud, noisy, and smelly. And this was the temple where people were to go pray, and bring their animal to the priest for an offering. It was to be a sacred place of worship. But they made it a house of merchandise. What a contrast!

I see Jesus walking up to the temple and being deeply grieved in spirit at what he saw; then making a cord and driving all these merchants with their animals out of the place. He had no regard for the money because it says he overturned their tables. I can imagine when folks saw this whip swinging around they did not stand around to debate him!

Anyhow...

Then some asked under what authority did you do this? He replied with "destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up." Absurd, naturally. I see Jesus resorting to hyperbole to silence his critics.

What is our house of prayer? How have we allowed it to become a house of merchandise?

Personally, I find it unsettling in my spirit when I see people using the gospel for profiteering. They may say the right thing, but they are more interested in profits and performance. They have the appearance of ministry but it is more for show then ministry. (I suspect there is a tension between excellence in performance and ministry.) Since this troubles me, we rarely will attend any performance of this kind. So many of these performers' off-stage lifestyles have the appearance of carnality and this troubles me. Am I not by being there giving them approval of their lifestyle?

Worship, prayer is to come from the heart. It is to be given freely, entered into it freely. It involves my heart, mind, worship and love. No buying or selling. None. Jesus wants to preserve that sanctuary in our heart for Him alone - no buying or selling. Jesus cannot be bought or sold. His presence cannot be bought or sold. Clear the dross out that hinders this worship!

I suppose there are other rich lessons here that is eluding me at the moment, so what do you see?

John 2:24-25 NASB

24 But Jesus, on His part, was not entrusting Himself to them, for He knew all men,

25 and because He did not need anyone to testify concerning man, for He Himself knew what was in man.

COMMENTS:

This is an observation by John of Jesus' attitude toward the public and public opinion.

I was struck by it - never noticed it as starkly as now.

Jesus did not rely on the approval of others. He knew their approval of him was fickle, temporal. To rely on their approval would mean he would be subject to their whims. It would not be stable, but wishy-washy. Nothing absolute about public opinion - changes as often as the weather - sometimes pleasant and sometimes stormy and sometimes leaves you high and dry.

Jesus was focused. How could he do that? The answer is found in John 12:49,50:

“For I did not speak on My own initiative, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment as to what to say and what to speak.

50“I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”

Can we be that focused? To do only the will of the Jesus, to speak only those things He would have you say? and do?

John 3:3-8 NASB

3 Jesus answered and said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

4 Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born, can he?”

5 Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

6 “That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

7 “Do not be amazed that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’

8 “The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but do not know where it comes from and where it is going; so is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

COMMENT:

Eternal principle: "unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." So spoken by Jesus.

How can one enter the kingdom of God? This was Nicodemus' question and it was not the last time it was asked - it continues to this day. And the answer remains the same: of water and the spirit.

Assuming Jesus means the WORD when he used the term water one knows from experience and the Scripture that it is impossible to be holy otherwise. It takes the WORD of God and the indwelling of the Spirit to make one fit for the kingdom of God.

To effect this requires a complete change in heart and spirit. Impossible to do it on your own - it is the work of the Holy Spirit. It is also an ongoing one and will be until you die. Simple. One does not have to have a degree in some theology to experience this. You cannot go to school to get it, nor can you buy it. No one can give it to you, either; nor can you inherit it because your mammy or pappy has it. It all rests with you, the individual. Me. The Holy Spirit beckons; am I listening?

The Holy Spirit cannot be seen. It is like wind - you see its effects because of what it does to the environment. So, the Holy Spirit - it will leave its effect on you. It can whip you, shake you, it can destroy or make you fly like a kite. Am I allowing Him to shape me up to fit me for the kingdom of God?

ginnyrose wrote:To effect this requires a complete change in heart and spirit. Impossible to do it on your own - it is the work of the Holy Spirit. It is also an ongoing one and will be until you die.
___________________________

I am learning just how impossible it is. I know in my heart that daily I must trust in the LORD, if I walk in self and strive to overcome I will fail. The only way is to submit and listen for HIS leading.

Thank you for sharing this has been very beneficial for me.

God Bless
mj

"ZEAL FOR YOUR HOUSE WILL CONSUME ME.”

When jesus cleansed the temple the disciples remembered this passage.

We Christians today obviously are not to have zeal for a building (God's "house" in scripture always refers to the temple).

So how should we complete the statement, if we are allowed to choose only one word or phrase?

"Zeal for __________ will consume me."

John 3:9-21 NASB

9Nicodemus said to Him, “How can these things be?”

10 Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel and do not understand these things?

11“Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know and testify of what we have seen, and you do not accept our testimony.

12“If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?

13“No one has ascended into heaven, but He who descended from heaven: the Son of Man.

14“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; 15so that whoever believes will in Him have eternal life.

16“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.

17“For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.

18“He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

19“This is the judgment, that the Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil.

20“For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed.

21“But he who practices the truth comes to the Light, so that his deeds may be manifested as having been wrought in God.”

COMMENTS:

The tension between Jesus' words and man is brought into sharp focus here.

Nicodemus asked Jesus, "How can these things be?" He chides him with, "you a teacher in Israel and you do not know?"

Let us today consider the barriers to receiving TRUTH.

1. Have a mindset that resists truth, even in the everyday things of life. v12 I have noticed this, have you not? This is red flag #1 when one works to share with another, especially one who is persistent in sinning. It is as though they are working hard to contradict you at every turn. Interesting how this trait has spiritual implications.

2. Men love darkness rather then light because their deeds are evil. v19 Ever notice how Hollywood uses dark images in promoting their movies? Someone has said that when you see videos or DVDs whose primary colors on the case insert are dark you can know it is a movie that promotes evil. Is it not true also that some serious cimes occur under cover of darkness? Why? is it not so thee is less chance of being seen and exposed?

3. Everyone that does evil hates light and does not come to it, lest their deeds should be exposed. v20. If anyone sees through their deeds they will hate you; they hate it when people expose the under lying force that drives them.

When we resist TRUTH is there any hidden sin that prevents us from receiving it?

If only people would realize how liberating TRUTH is! It literally frees a person from bondage of all kinds. This is why some have the strength to suffer for Jesus' sake because they are liberated from lies and know the truth. Oh...oh..

Where am I?

QUOTE:
______________________________________________________________

"Zeal for __________ will consume me."
______________________________________________________________

Good question.

What consumes me? We see people all around us consumed with passion for_______________. Am I just as consumed for Jesus?

Good question, TMK.

As I was meditating on these verses and wondering what the LORD would have me share my attention was drawn to the phrase "the kingdom of God". It appears in verses 3 and 5.

In verse three it says:
"unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

In verse 5:
"unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter into the kingdom of God."

Notice the words "see" in verse 3 and the word "enter" in verse 5 in connection to the kingdom of God.

Then I got to wondering exactly what is the kingdom of God? Is it not a kingdom that is ruled by God, where God is the ruling monarch, the king? where all his subjects do his biding? where all the inhabitants are subject to his decrees and will?

Ok...so how does one become a citizen of this kingdom? Apparently one has to recognize its existence(v.3), and then you can be born into it. Unlike your first birth, you do have the choice on whether you will enter it. (V.7: ye must be born again.)

So, now that I am born into this kingdom of God, my life, my will, my work, everything in my life is subject to the will of this King. Is this the case? Do I find it a pleasure, a joy to be a part of this kingdom?

If you were brought before a court of law and are accused of being a citizen of the kingdom of God, would there be enough evidence to convict you?

As I look at this scripture I sense in Jesus a frustration at people who disbelieved him.

Apparently, he had been doing a lot of teaching because of Nicodemus witness when he said "that we know thou art a teacher come from God." John 3:2. He also performed miracles and now this teacher was still unsure. What does it take to make people believe the obvious? There was powerful teaching plus miracles and still doubtful questions remained.

If this was the case back then, it surely is no better today, is it?

In Revelation John is shown how God will use severe calamities in an effort to bring about repentance. But will it work?

You have powerful teachings, miracles, calamities and they fail to convince the majority of the people. This alone should tell us something...

What will it take to force us to repentance? to stay close to the Master's side?

ginnyrose wrote:You have powerful teachings, miracles, calamities and they fail to convince the majority of the people. This alone should tell us something...

What will it take to force us to repentance? to stay close to the Master's side?

__________________

I think for some there is such a desire to live their life for self that no matter what happens or comes their way they will not repent and seek GOD because it would mean having to give up control of their own life. The idea of dying to self and relinquishing control is beyond what they can come to terms with...I have had some say to me the price for following Jesus is just to high if it means I have to give up ____________________(fill in the blank). Its so sad but I believe this is one reason that the path is narrow.

Enjoy reading your insights thank you for sharing.

God Bless
maryjane

There is one question that dogs most folks when they are presented with the teachings, claims of Jesus. Just exactly why should they concern me? Why should I listen? By what authority does He speak? Or, is he legitimate?

Many false messiahs had come into the world and continue to come - Jesus promised this. But what distinguishes them from the true Messiah? And would you believe, the devil still whispers these questions to my heart! Well, he does and I am a grandmother. SIGH. Never mind the wonderful supernatural experiences that I have been exposed to, he will still work to get me to doubt Him.

As I ponder this and the dilemma Nicodemus presented to Jesus. He gave him some interesting answers.

1. Nicodemus offered one: No one can do these signs unless God is with him. Signs and miracles.

2. We speak that which we know and bear witness. This is powerful: a personal witness: I know beyond a shadow of a doubt. This is what I have seen and heard. This lends authority to any witness.

3. He descended from heaven! (v13) Whoa! how many prophets or Messiahs will say that?! He is saying I got it from God himself! I was there, that is where I come from. Oh...oh.

Here you have three proofs of his legitimacy:
1. Miracles.
2. Witness
3. He came from God.

Jesus' life proved his origins. He was kind, he helped people, he preached holiness - working to draw men and women to God, reproved sin, preached repentance. He lived a consistent life.

Does my life demonstrate my new birth in Christ Jesus?

Opps! site malfunctioned there for a few minutes...it posted my post four times!

Opps! site malfunctioned there for a few minutes...it posted my post four times!

Opps! site malfunctioned there for a few minutes...it posted my post four times!

As I look at this portion I see a recurring word, the word "believe". As I think about it, I am struck with its power in the life a person.

When a body believes something he/she will act on that belief. It will determine how you live: define your goals in life, how you relate to people, the decisions on what you buy and why. If you disbelieve something you will act accordingly. Belief is a great motivator, like fear is.

Jesus used this word in connection to Him. It is used seven times, I think.

Believing anything involves a decision on the individual. You choose to believe or disbelieve. It is a choice. Sometimes this choices is forced upon you by circumstances, pleasant and otherwise. Jesus referred to this choice in verse 12: "“If I told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things?"

What power does believing on Jesus afford to the individual? What Jesus says is so powerful:

1. Believing in Him will result in eternal life.

2. Belief in him will spare you from eternal punishment.v16

3. Belief in Jesus spares one from judgement.v.18

4. One who does not believe will be judged.

5. The cause for judgement is disbelief in Jesus. Simple! v. 18

Do I believe that strongly in Jesus? Do I appreciate the power afforded me by Believing in Jesus Christ, the son of man, the son of God?

John 3:14-15: NASB
14 And as Moses lifter up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up

15 that whosoever believes in Him may in Him have eternal life.

COMMENT:

Numbers 21 details the incident of Moses lifting up this serpent.

God had granted then victory over their enemies and afterwards moved to another place. While there their water got in short supply and they got tired of manna, so they complained. In response to their faithlessness, God sent fiery serpents among them, bit them and some died. This shocked the people so that they admitted their sin and appealed to Moses that he would pray for relief.

Moses did as requested. In answer to his plea, God told him to build a brass serpent and hang it on a tree and then if anyone gets bitten if they looked at it they would be healed.

As I consider this scenario, I wonder how a person could stand to look at a brass viper that was made in the image of the one that bit you, especially after being in severe pain and fever. Most people could not stand it. To look meant you have to fight natural impulses - you want to look the other way. But God said look if you want to be healed.

These serpents that God sent were a judgement meted out on the people's rebellion. The symbol Moses built was then a means to their healing. Powerful lesson here.

Do we recognize the judgments of God as a means to our healing, our redemption? Can we understand affliction, chastisement to be redemptive?

Can we see how this is a powerful type of how God deals with us and the role Jesus played in our redemption?

John tells us that Jesus would need to be hung up like this serpent was for our redemption.

We sinned, rebelled; God sends judgement to make us aware of our inadequacies. Now God is telling us that if we look to the cross, seeing this innocent man hanging there, all bloody, ugly and gross and telling us that if you look to Him it will save you... Can you do it? Can you stand to look at this man up there? And what is the result?

John 4:7-10 NASB

7There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.”

8For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food.

9Therefore the Samaritan woman said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask me for a drink since I am a Samaritan woman?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)

10Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.”

COMMENT:

Interesting insights in this event.

I see a powerful strategy Jesus is using here to reach this woman. (Hate to use the word 'strategy' because the Holy Spirit is not into strategy but will use the word to demonstrate what I am about to say.)

Jesus used a common expression to get the conversation started and then he built on it from there to go where he wanted.

This is a powerful lesson one can use in witnessing: begin where the people are and build on it. Mentioning it seems like a waste of time, but how many times do we fail in taking common observations, requests and use them as a tool to witness? Jesus did it all the time and succeeded quite well. The reason He succeeded is because he was speaking to her on her level - her language. This is extremely important when witnessing.

May we ever be alert to the possibilities that surround us as we mingle with the public.

QUOTE:
_______________________________________________________________
Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.”

“How is it that You, being a Jew, ask me for a drink since I am a Samaritan woman?” (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.)
______________________________________________________________

I find Jesus willingness to defy the prevailing culture inspiring in order to minister to this woman.

There are several principles of the prevailing culture Jesus defied in speaking to this woman:

1. Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans.

2. Jewish men did not speak to women in public. Not even their wife or mother.

3. Jewish men placed low value on females: "Thank-you, God you did not make me a woman" many Jewish males prayed. This mindset they imbibed by their interactions with surrounding pagan cultures.

4. Unlike the Jewish leadership, Jesus knew females were capable of understanding the deep things of God, including a Samaritan woman, an outcast according to Jewish culture.

5. Jesus asked the woman for a drink of water. To drink from a vessel handles by a Samaritan woman would have been understood to have been unclean by most Jews.

This incident has taught me so much: Jesus loves everyone. He cared nothing about prevailing culture - He looked beyond it and saw people who needed Him and worked to make himself available to them. WOW!

I grew up in a very sheltered environment. As a result strangers intimidated me, especially those different from us. I had my girls friends but for the most part my best friends was an animal that I tamed on the farm. As a result I looked on different people with suspicion. However, as I grew up, matured, the Holy Spirit changed this radically. By the time I was 40YO I applied for and was accepted to work at a CPC. There we met sinners of all kinds except for lesbians, obviously. When I saw people come in that door, the Holy Spirit would remind me that Jesus really loves her - and sometimes him, as well. Since this is the case, I must allow this love to flow through me to them! It was not hard, but when I felt like I was running low, I had to ask the LORD for a renewed infusion of this love!

Ah, isn't God good?!

The woman at the well...more insights to follow, Lord willing.

John 4:13,14 NASB

13 Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again;

14 but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst; but the water that I will give him will become in him a well of water springing up to eternal life.”

COMMENT:

Jesus uses water as a metaphor to demonstrate to this woman what will happen to a body when he/she will drink from what He offers.

Water is essential to life: without it you will die. Hence when a body is ill the medical experts get concerned it will stay hydrated. Plants are dependent upon water for their survival, some require more then others, but they still need some amount of water.

The human body needs to imbibe water all during the day. You do not drink your days' quota all at one time and that is enough for the remaining twenty-four hours. The more you drink, the more you want - one can really work up an appetite for it simply by drinking more of it.

So it is when we drink of the WORD that Jesus provides. He satisfies, but the more you drink from him the more satisfying He is. As water is to the body, so the WORD is essential for our spiritual health - to be in a constant state of prayer throughout the day, "Pray without ceasing" says Paul.

As I read this verse something clicked in my mind....I used to wonder how on earth can it happen that people will walk away from Christianity to embrace Islam, Atheism, Hinduism, Buddhism, New Age, or any kind of isms. How can you do THAT?? I always sensed they must not have known the LORD in order to do so. Then I read this, "whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never thirst.." Yes, this is true: these people never did drink from Jesus' well. Since they were thirsty they went scouting around for another philosophy, looking for something that will satisfy. Simple.

Yes, Jesus does satisfy. If you have not found it so could it be because there is an obstruction in the pipe line that interferes? Sin will do that, you know.

God bless.

Quote: "...they must not have known the LORD in order to do so."

So true.

Taste and see that the Lord is good.

And He is.

John 4:16-19,29 NASB

16He said to her, “Go, call your husband and come here.”

17 The woman answered and said, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You have correctly said, ‘I have no husband’;

18 for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; this you have said truly.”

19 The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet.

29 “Come, see a man who told me all the things that I have done; this is not the Christ, is it?”

COMMENT:

The conversation Jesus had with this woman is powerful. It demonstrates many deep spiritual truths, in particular his omniscience - his all-knowing attribute. The woman recognized this. Jesus told her everything she did - according to her testimony, v.29.

Jesus used his knowledge of her past to minister to her. How important is this? our past? To Jesus this is important.

This woman was a needy woman and Jesus used her past to demonstrate to her how needy she was. She had five husbands and now she was shacking. Here was a woman who had looked for security, pleasure in men but never found it - obviously. She collected men like some collect ____ - never have enough. Once you have one and the newest wears off,you are looking for another one to give you the thrills. Never satisfied, never content...never, never. She was looking at the wrong places for satisfaction and sinned in the process.

It is vital that we allow Jesus to speak to our past because it will reveal to us our sin, our weaknesses and then allow Him to address these issues and cooperate with Him as he works to fix it - He can't without our cooperation.

Is our past a burden to our soul? Have you, have I allow Jesus to address it and cooperate with Him to repair the damage?

ginnyrose wrote:Is our past a burden to our soul? Have you, have I allow Jesus to address it and cooperate with Him to repair the damage?
___________

I really like what you have shared in your last post here with us. I wonder at this last question, it makes me stop and think...I struggle with past sins, I often find myself dwelling on them and feeling over come with regret. Lately I have began to wonder if I am not really trusting in the LORD to have forgiven me as HE said HE would or if there isn't more that I need to see and understand. Things that may still linger and hinder my walk with HIM.

Good thoughts you have shared here. I appreciate this thread you have going and have been very blessed :)

God bless
maryjane

Mary Jane, Paul teaches us in Hebrews 12:1: "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,"

MaryJane, I know one's past will come up to haunt a person. The devil will bring these things back to mind and will work to trip us up. We can wallow in regret but where will it take you? It accomplishes nothing. Nothing except make you feel worse. Does Jesus care? Sure He does. If one stops to think about this I think He allows us these experiences so will feel helpless and know we need Him and will run to Him for comfort. (This is assuming one has repented and forsaken sin.) In the meantime I suggest you ask the LORD to teach you to recognize his voice when he speak to you. Now this can and will get to be really interesting. I promise! The days when my day goes the best is when I have done this in the morning - it will promise to be an interesting day, for sure!

Oh, thanks for responding to this thread, Mary Jane. It blesses me to know someone is blessed - I am blessed as well to study these sayings.

God bless.

"To You I give my future
As long as it may last
To You I give my present
To You I give my past."

~Jason Upton, "It is No Sacrifice"

John 4:19-22 NASB
19The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet.

20“Our fathers worshiped in this mountain, and you people say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.”

21Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, an hour is coming when neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father.

22“You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews.

COMMENT:
Jesus established his authority by revealing to her his knowledge of her past. (I do wonder about her amazement at this knowledge - was she secretive about it? Had she lied about it? Or, had she been so severely ostracized by the people in her community that she saw in him someone far out of the ordinary hence her observation, "I perceive you are a prophet".) Since He was that knowledgeable about her past, He established in her mind as someone who is to be believed. Jesus capitalizes on this perception by telling her, "Believe Me!"

Jesus had her ear, she was listening. He goes on to say that the day is coming when the location of worship will be not be in either place. OH!? Well! That coming from a Jew??!! Must be one amazing man, this stranger. Why, the Jews were very arrogant - they thought they were far superior of all peoples. Now Jesus tells her the day is coming when neither place will be the place to worship. Hey! that temple in Jerusalem was an magnificent building! And you say people will not worship there? Where do you get that knowledge?

Then Jesus drives the point deeper and tells her they do not know what they worship but that salvation comes from the Jews. Well!

As I look at Jesus conversation with this woman, I see a man who is sure of himself, does not preach to be liked, does not speak an ambivalent theology, but is straight forward, to the point, does not waste words.

Is it possible that in our witnessing, teaching that we muddle the message with too many words? Work to please or impress the audience?

______________________________________________________________

QUOTE:
""To You I give my future
As long as it may last
To You I give my present
To You I give my past."

~Jason Upton, "It is No Sacrifice"
______________________________________________________________

Sounds like total surrender, does it not?

Well said.

Ginnyrose wrote:Mary Jane, Paul teaches us in Hebrews 12:1: "Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,"
__________________

me:God works in such amazing ways I was just reading in Hebrews last night before I went to sleep. This exact chapter :)
Was very touched by the things GOD showed me.
____________________________________
ginnyrose wrote:) In the meantime I suggest you ask the LORD to teach you to recognize his voice when he speak to you. Now this can and will get to be really interesting. I promise! The days when my day goes the best is when I have done this in the morning - it will promise to be an interesting day, for sure!

_____________________

me:Discernment...again this has been on my heart for the past two nights. Yesterday morning actually as I was praying I realized I do not fully understand how to discern and I realize it is an area in my life that I really need to seek GOD on. I am seeing the closer I walk with HIM, the more I know HIM, the more familiar HIS voice becomes to me!!

Thank you for taking the time to write this, really just confirms what the LORD has been showing me!! GOD is so good to us.

God Bless
maryjane

John 4:21,23 NASB

21 Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, an hour is coming when neither in this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father.

23 “But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth;

COMMENT:

Where is one to worship?

Many religions have places where their faithful will go to worship. It is their life's goal to make a pilgrimage there one time. For the pagans this shrine is a symbol of their god; it bears some sacred significance. For the devout this becomes an all consuming passion. But the Christians have no such place or shrine to hanker after.

Where, then, does the Christian God live? For the Jews it was the temple that stood as a token of their worship. They followed its rituals, sometimes faithfully and other times it was a mere ritual to be endured.

But Jesus says the time is coming when people will not be worshiping in either mountain - Samaria or in Jerusalem! How scandalous can you get?! Since this is the case, where does God want to be worshiped? and how?

God wants to be worshiped in spirit and in truth. How is this possible with no central meeting place? 1Cor 3:16 teaches us: "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" ...Ah ha...that means me, you, the individual! Well! and where is the individual? Everywhere! So, if we are the place where God's spirit resides He will be evidenced everywhere because His temple is where the godly person is. (I'll bet no other religion will make claims of this sort.) Think about that a while.

If God's spirit dwells within, it will be what drives a person. In being so driven you will be living in Truth. TRUTH. No lie, nothing false but truth.

Can I be truthful even when it hurts? Life is such that everyday there will be situations where the truth is not pleasant and the questions comes, "how do I handle it?" However, the Spirit of God that dwells within will give one direction. One cannot have one without the other - they work in tandem. To say you have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit but live in untruth is deception at its worse.

Awesome.

______________________________________________________________

QUOTE:
"GOD is so good to us."
______________________________________________________________

No truer words ever said.

Quote: "So, if we are the place where God's spirit resides He will be evidenced everywhere because His temple is where the godly person is."

Isaiah 57:15, For thus says the High and Lofty One who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy, "I dwell in the high and holy place, with him who has a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones".

Not only does God dwell in heaven, but in the heart of those who are contrite and broken.

God bless.

John 4:23,24 NASB

23 “But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers.

24 “God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth

COMMENT:

Yesterday we saw how God will dwell in his child. Enid shared the qualifications for that indwelling: a person must have a broken spirit and contrite heart. It is a person who has dethroned me, myself and I - it is a person who has experienced his own inadequacies - and replaced it with God. God's spirit will be the one who will call the shots, direct one's life in all one thinks, then does and says. This will be reflected in all of our lifestyle - the things we desire, the things we buy, the places we go to, how we treat others including our spouses and children, the choice for occupation, you name it. Our lifestyle will reflect God's will.

Did you notice that when this is operational it will be an act of worship?! (v.24.)

Now, why do I fall so far short so many times? Is it because I have wrestled the throne away from God and installed me, myself and I on it? Since we all know this is the case, the only way we can prevent this from happening is to spend a lot of time with the LORD in his WORD, allowing it to teach our minds, our spirits, our affections, our desires. Then as we go through the day these words will come back to minister to our minds, our souls. When we yield to his ministrations there will be joy.

And...who does not want joy?

Thank you both ginnyrose and Enid. What you both have shared means so much to me. Good seeds for sure, much to dwell upon :)

I know in my own walk the days that are darkest and joy is no where to be found are those days that I have been attempting to be lord in my life. Its so amazing to me to find that the same circumstance can be happening, the same daily trails of living can be going on around me and yet when I am in CHRIST, seeking HIM and HIS will only I find unspeakable joy and peace, but if for one moment I take my eye off of JESUS and put them on self those same circumstances in life can and will defeat me. I am overcome with sorrows, and done in...I have to cling to HIM in all things, then and only then is my burden light and easy!!

Thank you again for blessing us with this thread
God Bless
maryjane

QUOTE:
______________________________________________________________

my own walk the days that are darkest and joy is no where to be found are those days that I have been attempting to be lord in my life.
_______________________________________________________________

I have experienced this as well.

John 4:26 NASB

26 Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am He.”

COMMENT:

As I was meditating on Jesus declaration of his Messiahship in v26, I was drawn to this revelation to this woman.

It was gradual, step by step so she could comprehend it. It began by introducing himself as the Son of Man: he was thirsty, v7.

Next he introduced the concept of him being a prophet by recalling her past. By doing so she understood she was talking to a prophet, v19. (Makes me wonder whether she had in the past lied about her multiple marriages. How else could you understand her response?)

In v21 he introduces God as one who is caring by calling him "Father" which speaks of intimacy and establishes his - Jesus - authority with the idea that what he says comes from him dad.

Now Jesus has her ear. The woman introduces the concept of worship - which is the better place? Jesus drives the point home that salvation IS of the Jews and she understood it as well.

Then he drops the bombshell: “I who speak to you am He.”

I wonder how this would have felt, being one who looked for a Messiah and now being told, "I am He."

My imagination goes into all kinds of directions with this pronouncement. Can we begin to understand what this would have meant to her? Can we Gentiles understand the full scope and depth of it?

What about you?

John 4:21b:
21b: will you worship the Father

COMMENT:

"The Father."

I find this declaration fascinating. This is the first time one reads in John where Jesus introduces this concept with the idea to invite a conversation. He used it when he cleansed the temple, but I do wonder whether the people gave it much thought under the circumstances: hey! the guy drove out the animals, upset the tables scattering the money on the floor..sound like he created a bedlam of confusion! Not an ideal place for any deep theological discussions!

The Father. Nowhere do we read of any OT prophets referring to God as their Father. They alluded to Him being so, but never used this in such an intimate way. Through out Jesus ministry he always spoke of the "Father", not much as the LORD or God, if at all, unlike the OT prophets.

Amazing...never caught that before this morning as I was meditating on this scripture.

Have you? or, did I miss something somewhere?

John 4:31-34 NASB

31 Meanwhile the disciples were urging Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.”

32 But He said to them, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.”

33 So the disciples were saying to one another, “No one brought Him anything to eat, did he?”

34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work.

COMMENT:

The disciples had returned with food, offering some to Jesus when he told them, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” Then went on to explain by saying, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to accomplish His work."

As I look at the principle embedded in this statement I am awed at its manifold applications.

Food satisfies hunger. God had made our bodies that when it needs nourishment we would get hungry. Without this sense we would not eat and then starve to death. Hunger is essential for survival.

Jesus had not eaten but he was tending to the Father's business. This work was satisfying. The physical needs faded into the background.

As I think about life, serving the LORD - going about his business - is it not true that when this is our work that our appetite for things diminishes? Doing so one gains a different perspective of things and what we consider essential for the sustenance of life.

We learn we can live with a whole lot less because serving the LORD satisfies. The devil uses things to get us to believe these will fill a need but that sense of fullness is short lived and we want more and more but are never satisfied.

Yes, the water Jesus offers satisfies ones thirst...

John 4:35 NASB

35“Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the fields, that they are white for harvest.

COMMENT:

Jesus and his disciples were merely traveling thru, at least as far as the disciples were concerned. But not Jesus. He knew there were people here who were ready to receive His message. The natural course of life made them stop: they were hungry and tired.

Do we look at our diversions as opportunities to share the Gospel? Jesus did.

They were in a community that was looked down upon by the Jewish people. The Jews and Samaritans simply did not like each other - it was mutual, like blacks and whites today, or any other combination of cultures/races. Each thinks they are superior to the other and blind to the needs of the other. No exception.

Anyhow.

Then Jesus says, "Look up! The fields are ripe, ready for harvesting."

In the natural, one plants, hopes for rain and then in due time there will be a harvest. This is the way things work in nature. Now Jesus and his disciples were in a community where they had not sown but there was a harvest to be made. Unusual in the natural sense.

In this statement I see Jesus teaching the disciples that the people/culture we distrust, dislike are worthy of his mercy and grace; they have the ability to understand deep things of God as well...consider this adulterous woman, a despised women even in her community.

One should never write off anyone because of their lifestyle, race or culture. They also have a God shaped vacuum in their heart that begs to be filled.

John 4:36-38 NASB

36 “Already he who reaps is receiving wages and is gathering fruit for life eternal; so that he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together.

37 “For in this case the saying is true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’

38 “I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored and you have entered into their labor.”

COMMENTS:

One thing that is very nice is to reap where you have sown, but this is not the norm. The norm is that the sowing and reaping is done by different people, people likely unknown to each other.

One sows and another reaps. This is a profound lesson one needs to take to heart when witnessing or simply living the Gospel where the rubber meets the road.

A body can teach, witness, minister and wonder if you are merely spinning your wheels because it does not seem to go anywhere. If you are doing this of your own ambition you will end up feeling very defeated.

But what else does the scripture teach us? Ecc 11:1: "Cast thy bread upon the waters: for thou shalt find it after many days."

Know what happens to bread when you put it into water? It disintegrates quickly, falls apart where there is no resemblance to its original shape or substance. Before too long it disappears. Flat out disappears. Gone.

But it says it will return to you after many days! Imagine! This bread after it has fallen apart, completely disintegrated and it will return to you? Got to be kidding! It does not happen naturally which is why it is so unbelievable. It order for it to happen there must be an act of Creation performed by the Creator himself. No other explanation exists.

And therein lies the power of the Gospel. Redemption is an act of creation all done via the power of the Holy Spirit. All we are is a tool God uses in this process. I am not so sure how much He needs us, but we need to be involved because of the lessons we learn. And that may be just as profound as the one who is being redeemed.

ginnyrose wrote: Know what happens to bread when you put it into water? It disintegrates quickly, falls apart where there is no resemblance to its original shape or substance. Before too long it disappears. Flat out disappears. Gone.

But it says it will return to you after many days! Imagine! This bread after it has fallen apart, completely disintegrated and it will return to you? Got to be kidding! It does not happen naturally which is why it is so unbelievable. It order for it to happen there must be an act of Creation performed by the Creator himself. No other explanation exists.

And therein lies the power of the Gospel. Redemption is an act of creation all done via the power of the Holy Spirit. All we are is a tool God uses in this process. I am not so sure how much He needs us, but we need to be involved because of the lessons we learn. And that may be just as profound as the one who is being redeemed.
_________________________________________

As I was reading through this last post I realized the LORD showed me something that for a long time I have thought that if I shared with those around me and got them to choose JESUS then everything would be fine. I see though that it so much more then them just choosing...its a new life being created. When a person comes to CHRIST its a new birth, a new creation and so much more then just simply a choice. That persons impacted but so is everyone else around them. With any "new" addition to a family everyone is affected. Not only is there a new believer in the family of CHRIST but this new believer is much like a baby and just as a new baby comes into the family everyone needs to do their part to help with the new family member. There is so much more going on then just a choice, it begins there but then the real work begins in that persons life and really in the lives of everyone else too :)

Thanks for sharing these insights with us. again I just feel blessed such good seeds being planted!!

God Bless
mj

Mary Jane,

This concept of casting your bread on the water has come back and encouraged me so much.

You know when you share the gospel you want to see results NOW. But it does not happen this way. The process of coming to the LORD is a growing one. It begins with apparent insignificant happenings, influences, events. God uses these to speak to one's spirit, soul and mind.

Once I learned how this is a process and my job in this process is simply to be obedient and allow God to use me, I could relax! I did not have to worry about the consequences of my witnessing or whatever. Just spread the delight and joy by allowing His joy and delight to fill you and let Him take the responsibility to bring it to fruition.

So much more relaxing. :-)

ginnyrose

Just a note to let you all know I likely will not be posting on this thread for a week or so. We are leaving tomorrow morning real early and be gone...not sure how long. I do not have an electronic gizmo where I can access the web and post away from home. If I do post it will be because I am at someone else's computer.

If someone else wants to go share insights that will be fine. In any case I expect to resume this thread upon our return home.

BTW, we plan to attend my SIL's 50th wedding anniversary celebration in Tallahassee, FL. :-)

Until then, God bless.

ginnyrose

Greetings Ginnyrose

I will look forward to your return and sharing here with us some more :)

Also if you get to read this congratulations to your sister in law, fifty years of marriage is awesome and not very common now a days. My hubby and I will be celebrating twenty eight years married on Monday :)

God bless and safe journey to you
maryjane

John 4:48 NASB

48 So Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe.”

Comment:

Jesus challenged the people numerous times about their hankering for a demonstration of his authenticity with signs and wonders. Yet, he did show them signs and wonders so why is he displeased with their desire to be a witness of them?

As I ponder this I am wondering if there is not a sin problem that is the driving force behind this demand? "I will not believe in you unless you _______________!" Or, moderns may say, "you must heal __________ or I will not believe in you!"

Does this attitude not view God as a servant of man who is expected to jump to his whims instead of man submitting to God's will?

When one submits to the will of God by saying "Lord, your will be done not mine" then we will actually have our eyes opened to see God working in ways we never dreamed of before. In other words by making specific demands of God we are limiting Him. By standing back and allowing God to choose to take care of the situation according to his plan we will become a witness of the glory of God at work.

A testimony: our daughter was terminally ill with [glioblastoma] cancer. She was anointed three times for it, recovered somewhat two times. During this time, I surrendered her to the LORD, even her life. He took her on January 14, 1996. That evening the LORD gave me something so precious....a professional counselor said it was a gift from the LORD. I knew that she was a gift from Him and belonged to Him. Since this was the truth, I have no right to demand that I keep it for as long as I want because it did not belong to me to begin with. She was on loan to us from God. Brothers and sisters, this makes a huge difference in how one deals with grief. No, it makes ALL the difference.

Oh, the gift? I experienced intense joy that night that God had loaned her to us for 25 years. The joy was so intense I could not sleep for hours! This was God's way of demonstrating his comfort to me and Ah, how wonderful it was!

My thoughts...and yours?

Sister Ginny,

Jesus is wonderful, this opportunity to talk of him is joy to me, he is joy for me.

John the Baptist said "A man can receive nothing unless it has been given him from heaven".- John 3:27

and Jesus said "I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand".
- John 10:28

My Lord is very strong, he raises up and judges entire Nations. He spoke the stars into existence by his Word.
Yet he is holding me in the palm of his hand. He knows my name and calls me to follow Him. He laid his life down for me.

Bless the Lord oh my soul.

Travis

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
Other than expressing in the past, how heart wrenching I felt it was for you to lose your Dear Daughter, I've never taken it any further than that... but I'd like to ask you - IF you wouldn't mind at all [I pray not] and you don't have to answer this if you don't know the answer or can't verbalize it as well as you'd want to .... But, Has The LORD ever shared with you 'why' He took her Home and am I right to believe from others of your posts, that she was indeed a Godly girl?"
______________________________________________________________

No, Ann, I do not mind answering your questions. I think they are well justified.

No, the LORD has not revealed to me why he took Regina home. But I do believe her mission on earth was completed. I also used to think this is one of the questions I am going to ask the LORD once I get to heaven but have since decided it would be a foolish one. In the years since - would you believe - I have come to be glad she made it to glory! A little like playing "Sorry!" where your pieces finally get 'home', away from your opponents' pawns that threaten to send yours back to 'start'. I am glad she does not have to deal with the aggravations that confront modern parents! Really!

I have also come to the conclusion that if Regina have lived longer that what was God's plan, it could have ended up in disaster spiritually. When a person becomes terminally ill either because of disease or injury it is vitally important for a parent to say, "God, do as you wilt". To demand healing is very unwise...you do not know the future...to heal them may put them in harms way spiritually. I have seen children like this grow up who were terminally ill at some point who now have serious spiritual difficulties, struggle with sin and apostasy. This will explain why I do not view death for a godly person - young or old - with horror.

Having said all this, did I grieve? Of course. But God was there, always upholding me, strengthening me. Sister, I could talk a long time on this issue but you know what? People really are not interested in hearing it because they fear death.

Do I miss her? Sure, but not for long because I know where she is and what more could I ask for? Nothing. This is the ultimate gift that can be given to a parent.

Was she godly? I suppose my post so far would answer this question. Yes, she loved the LORD and desired her husband to marry a godly lady after her passing which he did. She also wished her children to follow her to heaven. So far, her children are doing very well spiritually. The daughter had traumatic moments in the years since her mom's passing, but God was there as was her dad and new mom (and grandma). She is mature beyond her years...and now I am wishing a godly male to come along and marry her. Not just any male but one who deeply loves the LORD who can love her as she deserves.

In the end let me say this: I would a whole lot rather see my daughter get terminally ill then to see a child grow up and reject the LORD. NOW THAT is beyond awful. It is like living with death all the time and death stinks (just ask Paul West). This brings grief that far exceeds that of losing a godly child to death. The difference is because God grieves, too, so there is no comfort coming from Him, either. Yet, one must trust Him because scripture teaches us that all things work together for good so one must depend on it to be the TRUTH. It says ALL and how much is that? All.

It may interest you to know that my handle 'ginnyrose' is the nickname I had for her. :-) I loved the name and wished to keep it alive so I use it for myself.

Did I answer your questions? If I failed to comprehend them, let me know and will give it another try.

God bless.

John 4:49-54 NASB

49 The royal official said to Him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.”

50 Jesus said to him, “Go; your son lives.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and started off.

51 As he was now going down, his slaves met him, saying that his son was living.

52 So he inquired of them the hour when he began to get better. Then they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.”

53 So the father knew that it was at that hour in which Jesus said to him, “Your son lives”; and he himself believed and his whole household.

54 This is again a second sign that Jesus performed when He had come out of Judea into Galilee.

COMMENT:

After Jesus' comment about signs and wonders he performed one - the second one in Galilee. And who was the recipient? A royal official.

A royal official. A Jew? Maybe. A Gentile? Likely, but it does not say. All we know is that he was not a member of the religious establishment.

As I see Jesus working to draw people to him who were outside of the religious intelligentsia I am awed. These people did not have preconceived ideas of how Jesus should do things - they just believed, like the Samaritans did who were initially ministered to by the woman at the well.

Is it possible that we can block the mighty hand of God by demanding God perform according to our insights, wishes? I see in Jesus life reaching out to the unlikely people to be subjects of the miraculous.

Since we are to be little 'christs' am I a vehicle of his mercy and grace to the ones I meet?

Ann, your questions forced me to take a trip down memory lane. This is a wonderful experience for me because it brings to mind the wonderful things God did for us during the time of Regina's bout with brain cancer. There are two things I want to share here...

A few weeks before her passing, a friend brought to her Gaither Homecoming videos. On one of them was the song, "Looking for a City". She played that song over and over and over again and again. Then requested this song to be sung at her funeral. She also requested the song "How Great Thou Art". It was done. For some time afterwards whenever "How Great Thou Art" was sung in church, I would just cry.

A month or so after she died the LORD asked me a question, "how are you going to respond when someone tells you of someone who was miraculously healed from cancer but Regina died, instead?" Fair question, don't you think?

I thought and thought. My mind went to all the ways in which God demonstrated his presence, his control, his provision, his care, his comfort...I knew it was the will of God for Him to take her so why should I be angry? or bitter? Then I told the LORD I cannot be angry or bitter, you were with us through this entire time. What I will do is rejoice with those who did experience divine healing and lived to tell about it. And I did and still do. Ann, this can only be done by the grace of God - I am too weak to do it in my own strength.

If a person makes demands of God you are slamming the door in God's face, preventing him from demonstrating his care, power. The ways in which God worked were so different from what I have ever heard before. I also doubt he will ever do it the same for another person. God is so creative - he has many ways in which to demonstrate his love and care - if one allows him the freedom to do so.

God bless.

John 5:2-9 NASB

2 Now there is in Jerusalem by the sheep gate a pool, which is called in Hebrew Bethesda, having five porticoes. 3In these lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, lame, and withered, [waiting for the moving of the waters;

4 for an angel of the Lord went down at certain seasons into the pool and stirred up the water; whoever then first, after the stirring up of the water, stepped in was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted.]

5 A man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years.

6 When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he had already been a long time in that condition, He said to him, “Do you wish to get well?”

7 The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me.”

8 Jesus said to him, “Get up, pick up your pallet and walk.”

9 Immediately the man became well, and picked up his pallet and began to walk.

COMMENT:

I want to focus on two phrases spoken by Jesus:

1. “Do you wish to get well?”

2. “Get up, pick up your pallet and walk.”

Here was a man disabled for 38 years and Jesus asks him, "do you want to get well?" Redundant, don't you think? Hey, was it not essential that Jesus asks permission from him to heal him? After receiving it, Jesus told him to take up his bed and walk.

We see the context in which Jesus healed this man: it was on the Sabbath day - the day the Pharisees had laid stern restrictions on man's observance of the day - it far exceeded God's law in how one was to observe the day.

Jesus knew right well the results of this man's healing - he was not ignorant. Jesus knew this man would get in hot water with the religious authorities.

But he did it anyways.

Hmmmm. How willing am I to share the Gospel or do some good with someone knowing right well that his acceptance of it would result in him being persecuted?

Some time ago there was a thread here on SI about the pros and cons of lying to protect another person. Since then I have read the book, "Prisoners of Hope" by Dayna Curry and Heather Mercer. In it they related how they lied in order to protect an Afghan family and how they have felt remorse since then for doing so.

I see here in Jesus example of doing good fearlessly. He knew this man would become the center of a theological controversy, but he did it anyways.

I suspect this story will come back to teach us as the days get worse for the Believer...

I want to make one comment about how miraculous this healing was for this man.

He had not walked for 38 years. A body that had not walked for a while just does not get up and walk, he has to learn HOW to walk, just like a child. This fact is so amazing to me. Not only was his body healed of the infirmity that prevented him walking, but he could also walk! Awesome!

His healing was not partial but total, complete.

I do not think I would be amiss in suggesting the marvel of this miracle could have given him the resolve to be faithful to the one who healed him, Pharisees notwithstanding - people who were more concerned about someone violating THEIR law instead of helping them.

Blessings.

QUOTE:
______________________________________________________________

the Saint was asking the family "please don't ask me to come back, I'm with Jesus". It truly comforted me.

______________________________________________________________

Ann, I have heard of people who have had a vision of heaven who came back. Many lament their return. Don Pier wrote about this in his book, "Heaven is Real". My grandfather had a cousin who had a similar vision and his relatives told how upset he was that he had to come back!

With this principle in mind, I think it would be cruel to ask a saint to come back to this earth! Why does a person want to prevent a person from entering the presence of the LORD? Why pray so hard to prevent it? Is this earnest praying rooted in wishing the good of another or is it rooted in my own need to have him/her stay?

Now, if the person dying does not know the LORD we will be saying something totally different, won't we, Ann?

God bless you, Ann.

Sandra

John 5:14 NASB

14 Afterward Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “Behold, you have become well; do not sin anymore, so that nothing worse happens to you.”

COMMENT:

After healing this man, Jesus slipped away, left him alone to defend his healing to those who questioned him. Later Jesus finds him in the temple and speaks again to him, "Behold, you have become well; do not sin anymore, so that nothing worse happens to you.”

Jesus observes the man being well. Ok, now you feel good, you can go about and do whatever you desire. BUT therein lies the potential for sin. Jesus says, "do not sin anymore." Apparently he had sin in his life because he uses the word "anymore." Then Jesus warns him that failure to heed this advice will result in something worse.

Interesting. Sobering.

This raises some serious questions: is healing always in the best interest of the person? I have seen children recover from terrible illnesses only to pursue a lifestyle fraught with rebellion when they get older. As I have observed this tragedy, I becoming aware that having a thorn in the flesh may lend itself to greater eternal blessings then perfect health or may be even life itself. Remember Jacob. As long as he was strong and well, he was handicapped in becoming reconciled to his brother. After his encounter with the Lord that left him crippled was he able to bridge the gap that divided them.

Health - we want it, so desperately one will spend all to regain what may be forever elusive.

So, then, does restored health make one more vulnerable to temptation and sin? Apparently, because Jesus is warning this man about this and that if he fails worse things will happen to him.

Sobering, is it not?

Interesting. Sobering.

This raises some serious questions: is healing always in the best interest of the person? I have seen children recover from terrible illnesses only to pursue a lifestyle fraught with rebellion when they get older. As I have observed this tragedy, I becoming aware that having a thorn in the flesh may lend itself to greater eternal blessings then perfect health or may be even life itself. Remember Jacob. As long as he was strong and well, he was handicapped in becoming reconciled to his brother. After his encounter with the Lord that left him crippled was he able to bridge the gap that divided them.

Health - we want it, so desperately one will spend all to regain what may be forever elusive.

So, then, does restored health make one more vulnerable to temptation and sin? Apparently, because Jesus is warning this man about this and that if he fails worse things will happen to him.

Sobering, is it not?

_______________

Ginnyrose

I was just about to post something else when I saw this thread and decided to read this latest from you instead. I had to stop what I was doing and sit down to respond. I can say that in my life over the last 13 months I have been struggling with chronic pain on the left side of my body. This pain is in my hip, my shoulder, my arm, hand, wrist, ankles even bottom heal of my foot. I went to the doctors to try and get well and they ran tests, my heart looks good(thank you LORD) my circulation is fine(no clots, again thank you LORD) there is inflammation in my hip but and pain could be arthritic in nature but could also be nerves I am not sure. Anyway after spending lots of money and not really finding out a lot I began praying about this pain even more. At first before going to the doctor I asked to be healed from it, then at the suggestion of my husband I saw the doctors but still there were no real answers. One night I woke up and my hip was hurting so terribly bad I could not sleep.( pain gets worse at night sometimes makes it hard to sleep) As I was praying GOD revealed some things to me, since having this pain I have been praying more, I had been up at night reading my Bible more, I began writing devotionals to HIM as HE gave me leading, and just over all my walk with HIM had changed. My relationship with JESUS was becoming the main focus of my life. I was and am so much more dependent upon the LORD for everything. Having this pain in my body has taught me to stay very close to the LORD and rely completely on HIM. It has become this amazing tool in my life and my walk with HIM, when I am in pain I go to HIM, when I need strength I go to HIM, when I am weary I go to HIM, when I can't sleep I go to HIM...In this I have learned so much, GOD has revealed to me much past sin in my life, pride, self reliance, self pity, a victim attitude, frustrations, bitterness, resentments ect. the list goes on and on and I will tell you I am not sure if I would have stopped long enough to see all these things or to repent of them if GOD had not used this pain in my body to get me to slow down and listen! If my body had not become so weak I do not know that I would have cried and come to depend on GOD as I do now so as strange as it sounds in many ways these last 13 months have been a blessing because they have shown me my utter and complete need for GOD. IT goes even beyond that now because the desire to be with HIM not only when I am in pain but through out the day has increased in my life. I often find myself just singing to HIM or praying or just sharing with others of HIS mercy, love, and kindnesses!! GOD is so good to me, in this HE has been so merciful to allow me to see these things that I could repent and walk with HIM!

Thanks for sharing here with us. Such good seeds!!

Also I wanted to ask how are things? I know the storm is heading toward Mississippi now and will be bringing a lot of rain? Been praying for you all in those areas.

God bless
maryjane

MaryJane,

I can relate to your pain. I, too, suffer from arthritic pain in my hips and right shoulder. I was anointed and the worst of it is gone - I was using crutches at one point. We prayed daily for healing but it was not forthcoming. Then I was reminded of Paul's thorn in the flesh and decided God knows I hurt and I need to quit my begging. So I did. Since then I have been empowered to take some MSM (formulated for horses - gasp!). I would forget most of the time - it has worked before. My condition is improving.

Yes, affliction can and does have its rewards - if we submit to it. Not a fun thing, but what are your choices? You can either fight God or submit to Him. Submitting to him is far more beneficial because He allowed it and it is always in our best interest to listen to see what He has to teach us. It is for our own good, like it or not. If you fight God you will lose, everytime.

As of Tuesday evening we have not seen much of Isaac. We had a light rain this morning and some cloudy weather later this afternoon. According to the weather forecasts it appears the storm will be taking a more westerly route. Local farmers do not want it to come through here. Some cotton is ripening, and some are still blooming. It is the plants where the cotton is hanging out of the bolls that would give the farmer cause for concern.

In any case, we are too far inland to get much damage from wind. If there is wind, it usually is limited to trees breaking and being uprooted. But this storm is not packing that much wind. It is the rain that potentially can hurt the countryside. At the moment it does not look as though we will get all that much, but will see - will know in 48 hours.

God bless.

In cases of diseases or injuries, we are free to pray for healing, or perhaps if it is somewhat bearable and the natural course of healing is predictable, we just pray to cope with it and will not bother to ask for a miracle.

And then we have medical science which ultimately is a grace
from God, being bounded by His biophysical laws. As one preacher said, if you are having a simple headache will you call for a miracle, or just be grateful for that cheap paracetamol tablet.

But how about if you are sick and you got no money, medicines or medical facilities are not available, or your condition is clinically challenging? What does the bible says?

And some will recite a long prayer but then will not share the hospital bills nor take time to look for the family of
sicked fellow christian. Well, I've been in the hospitals.

Let me share a story, A longtime christian friend of mine got gravely sicked. When I learned this, I said to myself, I will pray, I know in my heart that God will heal Him. However, it came to my senses to visit Him first and see that his financial burden is relieved before saying my prayer.

It turned out that all his christian friends from the churches that we have been attending seemed so busy that no one visited Him in the hospital. He needed emotional support and He needed a huge amount of money for the treatment. He is well now, I contacted our friends, we prayed and gave comfort to His family.

I think in cases of sickness our primary call is still to love one another, to bring mercy, and to pray in behalf of our sicked or injured brothers and sisters, for their full restoration, body, soul, and spirit.

The bible teaches us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not in our own understanding, to received the Kingdom of God like a child, to make our requests be made known unto God, to pray that without ceasing, to persist in prayer and not easily lose our faith. For our God is kind, our God is good.

Our brother Mark S. Case has given a matured and well-aged
point of view about healing in the other threads.

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Let me share a story, A longtime christian friend of mine got gravely sicked. When I learned this, I said to myself, I will pray, I know in my heart that God will heal Him. However, it came to my senses to visit Him first and see that his financial burden is relieved before saying my prayer.

It turned out that all his christian friends from the churches that we have been attending seemed so busy that no one visited Him in the hospital. He needed emotional support and He needed a huge amount of money for the treatment. He is well now, I contacted our friends, we prayed and gave comfort to His family."
____________________________________________________________

God bless you for being a blessing to this person.

When our daughter was hospitalized, I stayed with her for most its duration. This experience was an eye-opener. Suffice it to say that I consider being a nurse in the oncology floor to have a real ministry to those terminally ill and their families. Not just nurses, chaplains as well. I think if there are women who desire to be preachers, they should check out chaplaincy as a venue for service to hurting people.

QUOTE:
______________________________________________________________
However, it came to my senses to visit Him first and see that his financial burden is relieved before saying my prayer.
____________________________________________________________

Reminds me of James 2:16-18: "And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? 17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works."

God bless you, Passerby, for your faithfulness. I know you cheered someone's heavy heart with your kindness.

Well, it actually took me days to finally visit him, I too seemed so busy with my work and this and that, but then my heart became uneasy, and that it seemed that I cannot start praying for him. The Lord instead wanted to me to show Him that He cares for Him and we his friends in the Lord also care.

John 5:17

17 But He answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.”

COMMENT:

In this comment we see an introduction for what follows in the rest of the chapter: God is Jesus' father and he is his son. The Jewish leaders saw into this allegation. Jesus then proceeded to reaffirm it. This allegation invited the scorn and wrath of the Jewish leaders, considering it blasphemous. They are almost right: it would be blasphemous if it weren't true! But then Jesus moves on to show them how true this is. But will get into those details later.

When I first read this I was struck with how Jesus called God "Father" and how unique this is. We do not read of any OT prophet or king ever referring to God as 'father', do we? I am not aware of any Biblical record of it happening. Not only was this not a practice among the Jews, Jesus later teaches his followers to address the "Father" as Father. How special is that? Think about that...

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"I too seemed so busy with my work and this and that, but then my heart became uneasy, and that it seemed that I cannot start praying for him. The Lord instead wanted to me to show Him that He cares for Him and we his friends in the Lord also care."
______________________________________________________________

:-)

You sound like a normal person. :-)

God was very patient with you, was he not?

Thanks for sharing.

John 5:19 NASB

19Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.

COMMENT:

This verse introduces the subject that appears in the rest of this chapter. In fact, the remaining verses go to great lengths to explain the concept shared in this verse.

The basic concepts are:
1. The son can not work independently of the Father
2. The Son does what he sees the Father do.

Do we understand the reality of this concept? Its power? Its import?

It is understood by Jesus' listeners he obviously is talking about God because he reiterates His will, acts according to His power and might. The people are well aware that Joseph did not have this power, might, so therefore Jesus must be alluding to something far greater then a human dad.

Is Jesus God? This is the question Jesus worked to answer in this sermon. Do you share this difficulty as well? If so, I would urge you to study the context in which this sermon appears, mentally put yourself in that crowd and listen to Jesus reactions to his critics...

John 5:19-20 NASB

19Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.

20“For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel.

COMMENT:

Note the submission of the SON to the FATHER.

The Son will not do anything of his own initiative. He imitates his Father exactly.

The Father is an excellent TEACHER, v20. He shows the SON what he is doing.

As I consider this strong bond, the submission between the two, the teacher and the student, the love that flows between the two I am filled with awe. I can sense this love in my spirit, can't you?

I cannot write anymore lest I distract from this sense of love and affection.

John 5:19-39 NASB

19Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner.

20“For the Father loves the Son, and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will marvel.

21“For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes.

22“For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son, 23so that all will honor the Son even as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.

24“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.

25“Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live.

26“For just as the Father has life in Himself, even so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself;

27and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man.

28“Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, 29and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.

30“I can do nothing on My own initiative. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

31“If I alone testify about Myself, My testimony is not true.

32“There is another who testifies of Me, and I know that the testimony which He gives about Me is true.

Witness of John

33“You have sent to John, and he has testified to the truth.

34“But the testimony which I receive is not from man, but I say these things so that you may be saved.

35“He was the lamp that was burning and was shining and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.

36“But the testimony which I have is greater than the testimony of John; for the works which the Father has given Me to accomplish—the very works that I do—testify about Me, that the Father has sent Me.

37“And the Father who sent Me, He has testified of Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time nor seen His form.

38“You do not have His word abiding in you, for you do not believe Him whom He sent.

39“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me;

40and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life.

41“I do not receive glory from men;

42but I know you, that you do not have the love of God in yourselves.

43“I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, you will receive him.

44“How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God?

45“Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father; the one who accuses you is Moses, in whom you have set your hope.

46“For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me, for he wrote about Me.

47“But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

COMMENT:

I am at a serious loss to comprehend the full import of this scripture. My posts regarding it are becoming redundant. As I read it I am filled with awe how Jesus was so concerned about how people would recognize who he was. He really put himself at serious risk with his declarations.

A few minutes ago I came to the conclusion this scripture details:

1. What Jesus is going to do.
2. Who is empowering him to do so.
3. And the reason why.

What is Jesus going to do?
1. Does what the Father tells him to do.
2. Give life.
3. Resurrects the dead.
4. Executes judgement.

The law teaches us that a prophet who prophecies at the behest of God will always have his declarations come true. Any other will be a false prophet. James tightens this principle a bit more when he says in chapter 4 verses 13 to 16:

13Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, and spend a year there and engage in business and make a profit.”

14Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away.

15Instead, you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we will live and also do this or that.”

16But as it is, you boast in your arrogance; all such boasting is evil.

Now who else could brag, boast about his mission and be so certain unless he is God? Man can't because things can and do change in a moment or day by day...

It is as though he challenging the people to watch him closely and prove him wrong because they did know the law pertaining to prophets.

I am so awed how this scripture speaks of Jesus divinity...

I just want to inform my friends that I will likely not be posting for several days due to me traveling out of state to attend the funeral of my uncle. He was the last of my uncles still living. I am running out of old kinfolks!

If others feel inspired to post on this thread, I would encourage you to do so.

Ecclesiastes teaches us that it is better to go to the house of mourning then to the house of feasting...Americans have wedded the two so I expect to experience the best of both! In any case I am aware that we will find the experience uplifting and a blessing.

God bless..

ginnyrose

Giinyrose

I am sorry to hear about your uncle. I will pray for you to have safe journey.

God bless
mj

#2: Who Empowers Jesus?

Let us take a look at the references that informs us of this fact:

1. He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner. v19

2. As the Father raises the dead...so the Son also gives life. v21.

3. He gave Him authority to execute judgment. v27

4. As I hear, I judge. v30

Jesus' life demonstrated to the people his divinity, his Messiah-ship. Without it people would be justified to question his claims, hence one reads of his works of [re]creating, using existing matter to perform in uncommon ways.

In any case, Jesus obeyed the will of the Father. He was totally submitted to Him - his life demonstrated this relationship. As I pondered this unity of spirit, of will that was acted out in reality, in life, I understand in a much deeper way how we who are in Christ will do likewise. Our lifestyle will reflect who motivates us, who is using us to promote what kingdom. If Christ is living within us we will also work to do the will of the Father in heaven. If this is not the case we will be will doing the work of the devil.

Sobering.

John 5:19-39:And the Reason why

We have looked at what Jesus is going to do, what empowered him and now let us take a look at the reason why this is being done.

#3: And the Reason why Jesus is Empowered

1. That ye may marvel. v20

2. In order that all may honor the Son, even as they honor the Father. (He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father.) v23

3. He who hears Jesus' word and believes Him who sent him will have eternal life, does not come into judgement but has passed out of death into life.24

4. That we may be saved. v34

Marvel. How often is it that when one sees something marvelous happen, work that we stand back and marvel, knowing there is a greater force, power, intelligence then we possess at work. Unless there is that sense of wonder at work in our heart, soul, mind one cannot admire. Simple. That is why God made the universe so complex that has befuddled man ever since. They work hard to come to grips with it and are still challenged at every turn. The more men learn the more they learn how ignorant they are.

Marvel.

There are many things around us to cause us to marvel if we will but only stand back and observe. And be quiet.

I marvel at the conception/birthing process. At CPC we were required to view a video "The Miracle of Life' (I think it wad titled). I got bored with all the details, used any excuse I could to leave the room. But as birth neared and saw the actual birth of this child, to my utter amazement I cried: it was so sacred, so holy. And this happens all around us all the time. How is that when two cells encounter each other that conception occurs but that this does not happen to all cells? Why? Did they just evolve like this?

We see evidences of God's creation all around us. This works to draw our minds heavenward. With this openness in our spirit, God can use it to direct our worship, our admiration to himself. It all begins with admiration, worship. A sense of our littleness in the presence of Someone much greater then we. And we are speechless.

Now we are teachable.

John 5:39-47 NASB

39“You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me;

40and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life.
41“I do not receive glory from men;

42but I know you, that you do not have the love of God in yourselves.

43“I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, you will receive him.

44“How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God?

45“Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father; the one who accuses you is Moses, in whom you have set your hope.

46“For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me, for he wrote about Me.

47“But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

COMMENT:

What hinders a person accepting the authority of the SON?

Jesus addresses this issue in these verses.

1. Religion or philosophy. v39
Its concepts may be gleaned from scripture or even based upon Scripture.

2. Religion blinds people to importance of the Son. v.40

3. Religion robs people of their love for God. v.42

4. Religion looks to another human for authority in understanding spiritual matters. v.43-44

5. Religion is selective in what is read and how it is understood. v.46-47.

Are we religious or do we personally know the shepherd? The answer to this issue will make a difference where we will spend eternity...Simple.

John 6:1-11 NASB

1After these things Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee (or Tiberias).

2A large crowd followed Him, because they saw the signs which He was performing on those who were sick.

3Then Jesus went up on the mountain, and there He sat down with His disciples.

4Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was near.

5Therefore Jesus, lifting up His eyes and seeing that a large crowd was coming to Him, said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these may eat?”

6This He was saying to test him, for He Himself knew what He was intending to do.

7Philip answered Him, “Two hundred denarii worth of bread is not sufficient for them, for everyone to receive a little.”

8One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him,

9“There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are these for so many people?”

10Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand.

11Jesus then took the loaves, and having given thanks, He distributed to those who were seated; likewise also of the fish as much as they wanted.

COMMENT:

In this portion we see how the disciples were confronted with a dilemma; how are we going to feed 5,000 men? They were in a ministry and were caught short. Jesus was very much aware of it - in fact he orchestrated this dilemma.

As we serve the LORD we will encounter problems, impossible situations that we did not foresee. In fact, had we known it, we likely would not have proceeded with it. What does a body do now?

Jesus had his disciples take an honest look at the situation; then he had them evaluate it, to check out the resources at hand to deal with an apparent impossible situation.

So is life when we walk with him. Walking with the LORD does not blind us to the realities of life. We must face them head-on, honestly. Sometimes the solution seems absurd but after consulting with our Shepherd, we will find it gives him an opportunity to work in ways we did not imagine.

Such is a life lived in faith.

John 6:16-21 NASB

16 Now when evening came, His disciples went down to the sea,

17 and after getting into a boat, they started to cross the sea to Capernaum. It had already become dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them.

18 The sea began to be stirred up because a strong wind was blowing.

19 Then, when they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat; and they were frightened.

20 But He said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.”

21 So they were willing to receive Him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.

COMMENT:

In chapter five we read how Jesus sets forth his mission and how he will demonstrate to the people the validity of his declaration. Since then we read how he fed the 5,000 men and now we read how he met his disciples on a story sea.

The disciples were 3-4 miles out from shore when they saw Jesus walking on the water. This scared them until Jesus identified himself. They were about to take him into the boat when they suddenly found themselves at their destination. Hmmm...never noticed that before. Amazing.

Jesus spent three years training twelve men, a diverse group of personalities, occupations to carry on his mission upon the completion of his. These men stayed with him, heard his sermons, teachings, observed his miracles and sent them on mission trips as well, empowering them to perform as he did. By the end of three years they knew Jesus very well.

As I consider the intimacy the disciples had with Jesus I am becoming more aware that this, too, is what Jesus wants from us moderns. And that it is possible via the indwelling of the Holy Spirit further enhanced by a serious study of the WORD.

(The LORD just loves it when we love his WORD and study it accordingly. There have been moments of exhilaration when doing so...Then the devil comes along and tells me I am so stupid for getting so excited...)

Is it not amazing that when we stay close to Jesus' side that the aggravations of life just do not seem to trouble one? And when we ask the LORD to guide us through this maze He will demonstrate his presence to us in many ways - some subtle and others more dramatic.

What a challenge!

This scripture nags at me....Jesus talks about Moses ministry, told the people that had they believed Moses they would also have believed him.

I pondered this ever since reading it wondering what in Moses teachings is Jesus referring to? Then yesterday as I was studying for my SS class (teaching) my mind went to Deuteronomy 10...

Deuteronomy 10:12-21 NASB:

12“Now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require from you, but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways and love Him, and to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,

13and to keep the LORD’S commandments and His statutes which I am commanding you today for your good?

14“Behold, to the LORD your God belong heaven and the highest heavens, the earth and all that is in it.

15“Yet on your fathers did the LORD set His affection to love them, and He chose their descendants after them, even you above all peoples, as it is this day.

16“So circumcise your heart, and stiffen your neck no longer.

17“For the LORD your God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God who does not show partiality nor take a bribe.

18“He executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and shows His love for the alien by giving him food and clothing.

19“So show your love for the alien, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt.

20“You shall fear the LORD your God; you shall serve Him and cling to Him, and you shall swear by His name.

21“He is your praise and He is your God, who has done these great and awesome things for you which your eyes have seen.

The command to love the LORD their God is woven throughout Deuteronomy. Jesus reiterates the principles given here in his preaching to the people: it is fundamental in knowing and loving God.

It is amazing that even at this point in time Moses warns the people against legalism. How many times do we people work to get approved by God by being good but fail to love him? Is it not easier to be good in our own eyes then it is to repent of the sins of the heart? When we love God we will do 'good' - this is the cart that is pulled by the horse - the cart never pulls the horse.

Now Jesus tells the people if they had listened to Moses they would listen to him. Perhaps if we understood the importance of the OT law we could more deeply appreciate Jesus' teachings as well?

How much do I love God? Jesus?

John 6: 24-30 NASB

24So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor His disciples, they themselves got into the small boats, and came to Capernaum seeking Jesus.

25When they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said to Him, “Rabbi, when did You get here?”

26Jesus answered them and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.

27“Do not work for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you, for on Him the Father, God, has set His seal.”

28Therefore they said to Him, “What shall we do, so that we may work the works of God?”

29Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.”

30So they said to Him, “What then do You do for a sign, so that we may see, and believe You? What work do You perform?

COMMENT:

Jesus had just feed the 5000+ people and now the people followed him, expecting more of the same. v26. Jesus knew their hearts and the reasons for their actions. They followed him because they wanted to have a front seat in observing the signs and get fed as well.

I see a tension here of filling a legitimate physical need with the danger of the recipients becoming dependent on the physical benefits of following a man.

To help counteract people's desire for free food, Jesus used the opportunity to preach to them. Jesus preached to heart issues that bedeviled them. In the end, v66 tells us "As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew and were not walking with Him anymore."

I wonder about this...people expend so much resources to helping the poor without preaching that you are only developing within the recipients a entitlement mentality.

(A story: at CPC we gave out material goods. To counteract this mindset of promoting an entitlement mentality, they set up a store where recipients can get whatever they needed but these items can only be bought with 'money' earned by them. To earn this money they had to take classes taught at the center. But you know what happened? Very few took them up on it. They were very generous and the items were nice, new...)

I see how Jesus counteracted this mentality without being rude but still being helpful. What a powerful lesson for all of us...

John 6:26,30

26 Jesus answered them and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled.

30 So they said to Him, “What then do You do for a sign, so that we may see, and believe You? What work do You perform?

COMMENT:

As I study John 6 I sense Jesus being exasperated with the blindness and the refusal of the people to believe in him.

First off they were participants in the feeding of the 5000. Not only did they eat, they saw it with their own eyes the multiplying of the food and then the amount left over - 12 basketfulls. Now, they followed him to the other side of the sea because they had witnessed something sensational - a rarity in their otherwise mundane existence, I suppose.

By following Jesus they are admitting they saw a sign and a wonder, yet when Jesus started to preach to them, pinpointing their weakness, they hedged by asking for a sign...

Is this not the way human nature works when they work to ignore the obvious? They speak out of both sides of their mouths? They demand you prove God right but refuse to acknowledge the wonder that exists all around them? What they do see but do not give glory where it is due? Paul had something to say about this in Romans 1:19-23:

19 because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.

20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.

21 For even though they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks, but they became futile in their speculations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

22 Professing to be wise, they became fools,

23 and exchanged the glory of the incorruptible God for an image in the form of corruptible man and of birds and four-footed animals and crawling creatures.

As I deal with loved ones who spurn God, I used to think I sure wish God would give them a taste of hell to wake them up! Ever feel that way? No, do not want them to stay there, just let them get a feel for it... And you know what? I expect God would do that if that would work to bring about repentance. But what did Jesus say about this concept, or something similar? Consider Luke 16:27-31 KJV:

27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:

28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.

29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.

30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.

31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Hardness of heart.... LORD, keep my heart soft and pliable...

John 6:35 NASB: Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to Me will not hunger, and he who believes in Me will never thirst.

Comment:

Jesus uses this comment as a springboard from which he works to teach the people how important He is. v26-58.

Bread: is a food that satisfies; it nourishes; it fills, satisfies hunger cravings. Now Jesus is using this as a metaphor to illustrate how He satisfies, how he nourishes - is conductive to growth and sustenance. It promotes life, gives life.

Jesus is making some radical claims about himself. No wonder people questioned his radical teachings. Or, is that because they were none of his?

Jesus' teachings is radical, they were instrumental in weeding out the goats from the sheep - weeding out the ones who were only interested in free food from those who were sincere in being fed.

As I think about the implications this teaching has on us moderns, I wonder: why am I interested in the LORD Jesus? For the natural benefits that result from living a disciplined lifestyle? or, is it because I love Jesus? Do I find His WORD satisfying? Do I crave it in order to feed my mind and soul? Do I love to study it, allowing it to fill my heart, mind and soul? Does it make a difference in my reactions to life? Am I allowing it to shape me, mold me into a vessel fit for Jesus' use? Or, am I running hither and yon chasing rainbows that promise much but whose fulfillment are ever elusive?

Personally, I find Jesus satisfying, his WORD ever challenging....man's philosophy is always so empty, evokes within a severe restlessness, a severe aggravation...

Ah...God is so good, is he not?

John 6:37-40 NASB

37“All that the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out.

38“For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

39“This is the will of Him who sent Me, that of all that He has given Me I lose nothing, but raise it up on the last day.

40“For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day.”

COMMENT:

Some awesome principles noted here:

1. All the Father gives Jesus will come to Him.

2. He will not throw anybody out that comes to Him.

3. Jesus is here to do the will of his father.

4. Jesus will lose nothing the Father has given him.

5. All those the Father gave his son will be resurrected on the last day.

6. What characterizes the people of God is one who sees Jesus and Believes in Him.

So profound...All that come to Him, all that believe on him will be accepted by Him...

'Believe' implies that it will be a life-changing event. And so it will because we are the sheep and he is the shepherd, we are no longer a goat.

I sense in this discourse an intense love Jesus has for humanity. It is indeed like a hen who gathers her chicks under her wings....ever see that? This is so wonderfully cute. You may have a chick peek out from under that wing but it sure will stay there! So sweet, cute and cuddly! and we are to be like those chicks - the hen calls for them and they come a-running and gather under that wing.

You know what? I get the feeling that we have problems comprehending the intense love Jesus has for humanity. He wants to gather, protect and reward them with eternal LIFE. This is a promise. How can we understand it to the point where it will impact all of our life? Our decisions...?

John 6:60-61,66,67 NASB

60 Therefore many of His disciples, when they heard this said, “This is a difficult statement; who can listen to it?”

61 But Jesus, conscious that His disciples grumbled at this, said to them, “Does this cause you to stumble?

66 As a result of this many of His disciples withdrew and were not walking with Him anymore.

67 So Jesus said to the twelve, “You do not want to go away also, do you?

COMMENT:

Jesus preached some hard, difficult concepts to the people. They did not make sense to them which resulted in them abandoning their attraction to Jesus, notwithstanding their participation in a miracle.

As I look at this I am wondering how many people today justify their disbelief in Jesus' words simply because they do not understand a doctrinal precept? We hear this all the time do we not? Some turn away from Jesus simply because they find his teachings inconsistent with their logical theories.

How many times do we do likewise?

When we are tempted to do so, can we not simply trust him to reveal to us understanding in due time?

John 6:67-69 NASB

67 So Jesus said to the twelve, “You do not want to go away also, do you?”

68 Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life.

69“We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.”

COMMENT:

I am inspired by Peter's response to Jesus' question, “You do not want to go away also, do you?” Peter said, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have words of eternal life. We have believed and have come to know that You are the Holy One of God.”

Peter did not at this point in time understand everything that Jesus taught - we understand this by carefully studying his reactions to Jesus' teachings later. He understood the wealth of life that Jesus' words imparted to Believers. His decisions were made in faith, based on what he saw and knew in his heart to be true.

A person who loves his superior is teachable, just like Peter was. When we submit to the Lordship of Jesus, we will learn the answers to our questions - in time, in His time.

I find it unnerving to hear people reject the Gospel because of some Biblical teaching they cannot or will not understand because it makes no sense. To reject Christ for these reasons is inconsistent with life. All of us embrace things that we do not fully understand and go with it. We rarely back off because we do not fully understand. We know it works and that is all that matters. For example, how many of us fully understand how a car works or how an airplane flies? Some may, but many don't. This is not keeping people from using these vehicles. We do what is essential to make them go and think nothing of it. In time we may learn more about the mechanics of this vehicle, but it is not stopping us from using them. Since we live and work thus, it stands to reason that man is not logical at all. Blind, yes; but logical? no.

Peter's confession of faith is no less profound, "that You are the Holy One of God.” Do I understand this in my heart to be true? If so, how does it impact me?

John 7:1-9 NASB

1 After these things Jesus was walking in Galilee, for He was unwilling to walk in Judea because the Jews were seeking to kill Him.

2 Now the feast of the Jews, the Feast of Booths, was near.

3 Therefore His brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go into Judea, so that Your disciples also may see Your works which You are doing.

4 “For no one does anything in secret when he himself seeks to be known publicly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.”

5 For not even His brothers were believing in Him.

6 So Jesus said to them, “My time is not yet here, but your time is always opportune.

7 “The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it, that its deeds are evil.

8 “Go up to the feast yourselves; I do not go up to this feast because My time has not yet fully come.”

9 Having said these things to them, He stayed in Galilee.

COMMENT:

As I look at Jesus' brothers urging Him to go up to Jerusalem to celebrate the feast of booths, I sense an attitude of mockery, of arrogance: "if you are who you say you are, go, tell the public, broadcast it!" In essence Jesus was urged to promote the sin of 'pride of life': be someone! Get with it! If you are what you think you are you have to publicize it and not stay quiet about it!

Jesus response is telling, profound.

Jesus tells his brothers they can go to the feast anytime they want to. However, "I can't because my time is not here
'...meaning his teachings will evoke hostility because he will expose sin and the time was not here yet for him to deal with that - it would hasten his death which He well knew was coming. Instead, he had a lot of teaching to do before he is taken out of circulation.

I see some practical lessons here for us today. The public is hostile to the Gospel message. Since this is the case a Christian must choose his/her battles wisely, all being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Being loud with the Gospel message may evoke hostility that is not conducive to the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the listeners.

Therefore, one must be discrete in ministering to the ungodly. One must not seek the limelight; more can be done discretely, in quiet then when the flood lights of publicity is shined upon you.

I suspect we will be seeing more of this in the days to come. (And this has been the norm for those who live in restricted countries where faith in God evokes persecution.)

John 6:70-71 NASB

70 Jesus answered them, “Did I Myself not choose you, the twelve, and yet one of you is a devil?”

71 Now He meant Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray Him.

COMMENT:

From the get go, Jesus knew Judas was going to betray him. He allowed him to follow him wherever he went and taught. Jesus also sent him on mission trips. The group chose him to be their treasurer. And all the while Jesus knew Judas' heart, yet he allowed him to be counted among the twelve.

He chose him with a purpose. Scripture tells us why Jesus allowed this - it was so he can be betrayed and given into the hands of the enemy and be crucified.

As I consider the act of betrayal there are a few things that come to mind.

Only someone who is well acquainted would be given to betray you. You may have an acquaintance turn you in to an enemy but that differs from betrayal. Betrayal comes from one who was intimately acquainted with you and as a surprise. You have trusted him/her with your personal life: your struggles, your weaknesses, your hopes, your dreams. And now this betrayer will publicize it for all the world to see and mock. If we know this person to be such we would turn tail and run because of the emotional pain betrayal inflicts upon its victims.

As I consider Jesus' choosing a betrayer to be among his inner circle, I stand amazed. We do not see him become bitter nor lose his confidence in the rest of his disciples. So where was his emotional, spiritual security? Was it not enhanced by his time spent alone with his Father? Doing so will serve as a hedge of protection from the onslaught of the enemy.

I see a powerful lesson here in dealing with betrayal. For many of us betrayal comes as a surprise. We would not deliberately choose betrayers to be among our closest confidants. If we know this person to be such we would turn tail and run because of the emotional pain betrayal inflicts upon its victims.

Since we know Jesus chose Judas to be among his disciples so there can be a betrayal, we may wonder why God allows betrayers to be among his people. Is it to teach us that one cannot trust man to function as god? That man is unstable, and will work for his own good instead of the other? Yes, such is the blessings of betrayal - if we have the spiritual resources to grasp it.

Where is our security?

John 7:14-18 NASB

14 But when it was now the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and began to teach.

15 The Jews then were astonished, saying, “How has this man become learned, having never been educated?”

16 So Jesus answered them and said, “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me.

17 “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself.

18 “He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

COMMENT:
A brief comment on "“How has this man become learned, having never been educated?”

This principle is still true. Oh, so true.

A story...
My uncle had only an 8th grade education, but he was well read and knew the WORD well. This bishop was asked to teach a SS class at a neighboring church that included doctors, lawyers - well educated folks. Afterwards they asked him what seminary he attended - people were so inspired with his insights and teaching ability.

The bottom line is that one does not have to be educated to know the will of God and being able to expound on it. When one follows the will of the LORD, is obedient to the voice of the Holy Spirit he/she will demonstrate such profound wisdom that will render the wisdom of this world foolish.

Are you not glad that God does not require his children to possess a degree in order to be able to understand Him? and follow Him? Yes, indeed.

John 7:17-18 NASB

17 “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself.

18 “He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him."

COMMENT:

The question "how can one know whether this person is of God or not?" This issue raises its head often. How can I know? How can we discern?

Jesus gives a basic principle that will work as a watershed in discerning this question: "Who does this doctrine elevate?" Me and my will or pleasure OR does it point to God and His will and pleasure?

Have you ever noticed how many times false doctrines work to ease the awfulness of sin, making it palatable to the conscience, one that feeds the lusts inherent in an unrepentant sinner - the lusts of the flesh, the pride of life?

Jesus worked to elevate God by honoring Him, speaking those things He knew were the will of the Father.

A question one can rightly ask is how were the Jews to know that this is indeed what Jesus was teaching? If one studies the OT law, and the prophets, understand the spirit that drove these writings all one can say is that what Jesus taught was merely an AMEN! Revelation, until this time, was progressive. Each one built upon the foundation of a previous concept taught. If one were to become familiar with Isaiah, e.g., you will learn the principles taught there are the same as Jesus'. So, then, Jesus did not teach the people anything new at all and these Jews should have known that.

This is a powerful tool a Christian can use in discerning who today would be from God or who is not.

The most unsettling books I can read are those that chronicle people's slide into deception and how God brought them out of it. It makes me so angry because the slide was so overt because of the teachings they embraced. Its perpetrator possessed a charisma that fed the people's longing for deeper spirituality. Right now I am reading "Out of Deception" by Nathan Miller - the story of his in-laws slide into deception. This book is similar to Patricia Hochstetlers' "Deception", "Delusion", and "Deliverance". If these people would have studied the WORD on their own they could have prevented a LOT of heartache and grief. The demands of the false prophet are purely selfish: "Seek their own glory". It always is so.

Do we stay close to the WORD, to the LORD Jesus? Doing so will provide one with an impenetrable hedge against the devil who will work to find a loophole - and I promise you if there is one, he will find it!

I haven't been on SI for quite some time. I would love to hop in here & glean & comment. TU.

14 But when it was now the midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and began to teach.

15 The Jews then were astonished, saying, “How has this man become learned, having never been educated?”

16 So Jesus answered them and said, “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me.

This is so deep to me b/c He (Jesus) came to us in the flesh. He had that flesh to contend with & He Stayed in the Word & Prayer to stay Focused for US.

16 So Jesus answered them and said, “My teaching is not Mine, but His who sent Me.

Well said... from our Own Savior who laid down His life, left His Kingdom & became Obedient to the Cross for US.

18 “He who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

Upon reading this I am struck with the thought to truly examine myself b/f speaking.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Upon reading this I am struck with the thought to truly examine myself b/f speaking."
______________________________________________________________

You are not the only one...I, too, am constantly challenged to do so. On the one hand it gets easier as you age but then once I think so, it will not be long until I wonder WHY I ever thought so. SIGH. I would reckon it is so one will become totally dependent upon the Holy Spirit....it is a lifelong learning process.

Sometimes I think it would be so nice if one would have learned everything and not be reminded so often how little one knows!

John 7:19-24 NASB

19 “Did not Moses give you the Law, and yet none of you carries out the Law? Why do you seek to kill Me?”

20 The crowd answered, “You have a demon! Who seeks to kill You?”

21 Jesus answered them, “I did one deed, and you all marvel.

22 “For this reason Moses has given you circumcision (not because it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and on the Sabbath you circumcise a man.

23 “If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath so that the Law of Moses will not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made an entire man well on the Sabbath?

24 “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

COMMENT:

As I look at this passage in its context, I see people who are grasping at straws in order to discredit Jesus' teachings which is not so uncommon even today.

For one thing, he did a miracle on the Sabbath Day - he did not do it right (he performed it on the wrong day)! Sound familiar? (How many times when sharing the WORD, or Biblical principles is not being accepted because of a flawed presentation?)

Another. Recognize the miracle but discredit the power that activated it - "You have a demon". So you demonize a person.

Is it not weird how the people did not consider it unlawful to inflict pain on a body but did consider it unlawful to remove 'pain' or discomfort on the Sabbath day?

When one looks at the excuses people will give to discredit the WORD, the Scriptures, it becomes absurd the lengths people will go to to do so. Consider Peter and John's experience in healing a lame man at the temple. Acts 3,4. Hey! This was on a week day!

I also notice how healing an infirm person is a powerful witness to the supernatural power of Someone. You just cannot get around it. No way! Really, most people would not wish the infliction to remain but to see him/her healed is just too much for them to accept - the supernatural at work.

Yet, the devil can and does counterfeit the Work of the LORD. So, how is one to discern? (Last night my husband and I wasted a perfectly good hour and 20 minutes listening to a sermon on YouTube that we later decided was fraught with misinterpretation of Scripture...) Jesus did point to the law to defend Himself. Once again the Word, as they had access to it, confirmed Jesus' teachings and ministry. May we do so likewise - be wise as serpents but harmless as doves.

John 7:24 NASB

24 “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

COMMENT:

I pondered, meditated on this verse a while: what is righteous judgment?

As I briefly reviewed Jesus' teachings to the people up to this point, it had to do with them believing that He was sent by God, that God is his father. They stumbled and fell - big time - over this issue. After all, Jesus was a male and they knew his family...but he said he came from God!!?

As I pondered on this issue, it appears that they were viewing Jesus' miracles through the lenses of who is this man? but rejecting who he said he was.

I got to wondering about the importance of accepting Jesus' divinity. From Jesus' teachings so far this was basically all he taught! Apparently, this is of prime importance. (Imagine if you can - the people who followed Jesus - all he seemed to talk about is about who he is and where he came from!) If you fail on this point, there is nothing else you can do to please the Father/God. Nothing.

If I believe Jesus is indeed God how will I respond to Him? to his teachings? Obviously, a person can be good and still fail God.

Wellll.....is my refusal to accept Jesus' divinity at the heart of my failures?

If Jesus is God and I believe this with all my heart what impact will this have on me?

Will my acceptance of His divinity impact my ability to do righteous judgment? Apparently...

QUOTE:

"You are not the only one...I, too, am constantly challenged to do so. On the one hand it gets easier as you age but then once I think so, it will not be long until I wonder WHY I ever thought so. SIGH.
I would reckon it is so one will become totally dependent upon the Holy Spirit....it is a lifelong learning process."

COMMENT: Amen to that. Am I holding back the sanctification process? Sigh in return. Paul West recent post made me think of something I need to do more often; My new R&R - Run & Rest on the HS.

QUOTE:

John 7:19-24 NASB

19 “Did not Moses give you the Law, and yet none of you carries out the Law? Why do you seek to kill Me?”

20 The crowd answered, “You have a demon! Who seeks to kill You?”

21 Jesus answered them, “I did one deed, and you all marvel.

22 “For this reason Moses has given you circumcision (not because it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and on the Sabbath you circumcise a man.

23 “If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath so that the Law of Moses will not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made an entire man well on the Sabbath?

24 “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

COMMENT:

So I read this and here I am thinking, Wow! Partly because I'm still thinking of what does "the kingdom of God" represent when we are praying the Lord's prayer? (Something I heard during the recent SI conference via podcast) And also pondering a sermon I read today that mentioned the religious spirit past & present.

And I'm wondering why was it so hard to accept him? Never had anyone done so much GOOD and matched what the scriptures foretold - the Words of the prophets being fulfilled right before their eyes!

And did you get that lying spirit "who wants to kill you?"

Here He is to set people free and proves it time & time again, but the law feels better??? Here He is showing them that to accept Him He'll be able to help them fulfill the law & eliminate so many burdens the law surely brought into their lives. Just thinking of the sacrifices eliminated alone.

QUOTE:

24 “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

"I pondered, meditated on this verse a while: what is righteous judgment?

As I briefly reviewed Jesus' teachings to the people up to this point, it had to do with them believing that He was sent by God, that God is his father. They stumbled and fell - big time - over this issue. After all, Jesus was a male and they knew his family...but he said he came from God!!?

As I pondered on this issue, it appears that they were viewing Jesus' miracles through the lenses of who is this man? but rejecting who he said he was.

I got to wondering about the importance of accepting Jesus' divinity. From Jesus' teachings so far this was basically all he taught! Apparently, this is of prime importance. (Imagine if you can - the people who followed Jesus - all he seemed to talk about is about who he is and where he came from!) If you fail on this point, there is nothing else you can do to please the Father/God. Nothing." ...unquote

COMMENT:

This reminds me of the comment I heard during the SI conf. "what does the kingdom of God represent to you?" Jesus taught that the Kingdom had come, was actually among them and we are presented with the Lord's prayer. I need to fully embrace that He is truly that close to me, His kingdom come His will be done in my life as it is in Heaven is Him having his being in me. Then will I be able to make righteous judgement?

I'm thinking of Jn.12:48 as a definition of His righteous judgement that I need/want to carefully apply to my life...

"He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day.

Cling to His Words!!

I imagine accepting His divinity was a true challenge like you said, there He was in the flesh. I only think I can imagine; and I like to think I would have been that one that embraced Him.

John 7:25-31 NASB

25 So some of the people of Jerusalem were saying, “Is this not the man whom they are seeking to kill?

26 “Look, He is speaking publicly, and they are saying nothing to Him. The rulers do not really know that this is the Christ, do they?

27 “However, we know where this man is from; but whenever the Christ may come, no one knows where He is from.”

28 Then Jesus cried out in the temple, teaching and saying, “You both know Me and know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know.

29 “I know Him, because I am from Him, and He sent Me.”

30 So they were seeking to seize Him; and no man laid his hand on Him, because His hour had not yet come.

31 But many of the crowd believed in Him; and they were saying, “When the Christ comes, He will not perform more signs than those which this man has, will He?”

COMMENT:

Here in v.25-27,31 we read of the debate the people had about Jesus' identity and supposing the religious leaders would be on top of it. They said they know Jesus origins but the Christ they would not. So, they had this debate amongst themselves.

POINT: how reliable are religious leaders to understand the WORD and interpret it? Have we not too many times been led away because so and so preacher/scholar said thus and thus - you know they have lots of education, know the WORD in the original languages, so their interpretation is superior to ours. So goes the thinking. Is it not noteworthy that it was the common man plus a few undesirables that populated the ranks of the disciples? Is it not shameful the Jewish leaders did not recognize Jesus? They knew the prophecies, did they not? Did they not know he would be born of a virgin? Must have been burying their heads in the sands ...

Jesus demonstrated his omniscience by addressing their doubt as stated in v.28. Who else but God could have done that?
Then some of the people recognized Jesus for who he was, “When the Christ comes, He will not perform more signs than those which this man has, will He?” v.31.

A person could say that if Jesus was preaching from his own initiative he would be a man pleaser and avoided all this conflict. Instead, his preaching produced a lot of conflict and it was not fun for Him, either.

And the conflict is still ongoing.

You know something, DieingtoLive? Not until I began this study did I know how important it is to God, to Jesus to believe and understand His divinity! Oh, sure I believed in it, but I had no clue about the seriousness of it nor how profound it is. Jesus is GOD! That is it! And how does it impact our life? our life choices?

As I was thinking about this, I suspect we westerners have little clue about what it is to worship a god. Consider the devotion heathens have to their gods. They will go on pilgrimages, inflict physical pain upon themselves in order to appease the wrath of their gods. And we? Now if you consider sports, entertainments as gods, people will do so, will they not?

Still...I stand in shock at Americans' reluctance to endure any discomfort for the sake of Christ while pagans do it all the time as an act of worship.

Shame on us...

It seems here that some things never change. I mean as an example here the religious rulers working the Jews and the Jews here also working the rulers. To me it's still like that from entertainment to Church, just this whole worldy scene. But God stayed in control then as well as now and neither knew it not.

But here v.31 "Then some of the people recognized Jesus for who he was, “When the Christ comes, He will not perform more signs than those which this man has, will He?” PTL some were getting it. The common people.

Is this where the proverb "The nearer the church the further from God" came from?

How sad that they that had the most knowledge burned it up with pride.

ginnyrose, I will be leaving in a wk for a lil trip out of state. I hope to be visiting your Bible study post amap.
It's been a blessing, Karen

John 7:33-34 NASB

33 Therefore Jesus said, “For a little while longer I am with you, then I go to Him who sent Me.

34 “You will seek Me, and will not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come.”

COMMENT:

As I read this, imagining myself to be Jew hearing this for the first time, I would have thought that man to be the most arrogant, so sure of himself! Hey! we are not that certain of ourselves! We may think we know what the future holds but this man does not even seem to have any doubts about it or whatever pertains to himself! Even Christians are admonished to not speak with such certainty regarding the future:

Jas 4:13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:

Jas 4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.

Jas 4:15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.

Jas 4:16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.

So, then, who is this man that speaks with such absolute certainty? Must be someone from God, no less.

I have always been told John was written to the Jews to prove he is the Messiah. As I am going through this book, focusing on Jesus' sayings, I am so impressed how Jesus speaks with so much authority and certainty. Absoluteness. No man ever spake with so much authority. Awesome. This reality is bring me to the place like Thomas was after Jesus resurrection when he saw his hands and feet, "My Lord and my God!" Somehow I can relate....

Karen, I hope you will have a good trip and that you will be blessed. God go with you and give you peace.

Sandra

John 7:45-53 NASB

45 The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, and they said to them, “Why did you not bring Him?”

46 The officers answered, “Never has a man spoken the way this man speaks.”

47 The Pharisees then answered them, “You have not also been led astray, have you?

48“No one of the rulers or Pharisees has believed in Him, has he?

49 “But this crowd which does not know the Law is accursed.”

50 Nicodemus (he who came to Him before, being one of them) said to them,

51 “Our Law does not judge a man unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing, does it?”

52 They answered him, “You are not also from Galilee, are you? Search, and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee.”

53 [Everyone went to his home.

COMMENT:

I would like to digress a moment here because this portion teaches us a lot about human nature...let us check it out.

These verses teach us the unreliability of the experts' knowledge. The Pharisees were sharing their evaluation of who Jesus is by misinterpreting OT prophecies by saying nothing good comes out of Galilee! WRONG! It seems unbelievable they were so ignorant, or maybe they were willfully ignorant.

Here is why I think they were ignorant:

Isaiah 9:1-7 NASB:
1 But there will be no more gloom for her who was in anguish; in earlier times He treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt, but later on He shall make it glorious, by the way of the sea, on the other side of Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles.

2 The people who walk in darkness
Will see a great light;
Those who live in a dark land,
The light will shine on them.

3 You shall multiply the nation,
You shall increase their gladness;
They will be glad in Your presence
As with the gladness of harvest,
As men rejoice when they divide the spoil.

4 For You shall break the yoke of their burden and the staff on their shoulders,
The rod of their oppressor, as at the battle of Midian.

5 For every boot of the booted warrior in the battle tumult,
And cloak rolled in blood, will be for burning, fuel for the fire.

6 For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us;
And the government will rest on His shoulders;
And His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,
Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

7 There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace,
On the throne of David and over his kingdom,
To establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness
From then on and forevermore.
The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.

Now where is this wonderful counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace, eternal Father going to come from? The area of Galilee!! no less. It says so in Isaiah, a scripture they should have been familiar with.

Hmmmm....sounds like modern day teachers, theologians, scholars...Some things never change, do they? Just as the Scribes and Pharisees could not (but refused to do so) save people back then, neither can preachers, scholars, theologians or teachers save people today. All these people can do, but many refuse to do so, is point people to the LORD Jesus. Isaiah did it and so can you, me.

John 8:1-6 NASB

1 But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives.

2 Early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people were coming to Him; and He sat down and began to teach them.

3 The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the center of the court,

4 they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act.

5 “Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?”

6 They were saying this, testing Him, so that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground.

COMMENTS:

In chapter eight we have the incident of Jesus being tested by the religious leaders dealing with a woman caught in adultery plus the act of judging: judging sin. How does Jesus deal with it?

The story begins with the scribes and Pharisees bringing a woman to Jesus what was caught in the very act of adultery. The law stipulated that such should be killed - at least so they said and they were partly right.

But what did the law actually say? Leviticus 20:10: "And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death."

Yes, both adulterers were to be killed, not just the woman and the male let go scott free; it says BOTH. A woman cannot do it alone! Duh! Yet, this is what the scribes and Pharisees were insinuating: penalizing the woman but freeing the man. This is NOT righteous judgement!

I wonder what Jesus was writing on the ground. Somehow I suspect it had something to do with what the law actually said that they were in fact violating. Bringing this woman to Jesus sans the male is a serious breach of law.

As I consider this act of the scribes and Pharisees, I wonder how many times are we partial in judgement? Depending who it is do we look the other way but then get stern with someone we do not like although they both may be guilty of the same sin?

What is righteous judgement?

John 8:7-11 NASB

7 But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, “He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.”

8 Again He stooped down and wrote on the ground.

9 When they heard it, they began to go out one by one, beginning with the older ones, and He was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the center of the court.

10 Straightening up, Jesus said to her, “Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?”

11 She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on sin no more.”

COMMENT:

The religious leaders were sure they have trapped Jesus in a legal issue. Adulterers were executed by law (OT law says adulterers, plural, not singular) one given to them by God through Moses. Now here you have someone with the audacity to say God is his Father! Whoa, here a minute! If this is who you say you are, what will you say about this situation? This is the mindset I see that drove this confrontation.

We do not know what Jesus wrote on the ground, I can guess and think I am close, but the fact remains that Scripture is silent on this reality. So he looks up and tells them,
“He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Oh. OH. WELL... Ouch. I wonder if Jesus was dealing with the issue as stated in Romans 2:1: "1 Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things." Paul is battling the fact that some where condemning others for sins they themselves were guilty of indulging in! They were saying it is wrong for others but not for them. I suspect this is the issue that Jesus was dealing with here.

Having said all this, Jesus did not leave the woman out on a limb. She was an adulteress, he never denied it and neither did she. Neither one made any excuses for it, nor justify it either. Jesus confronted sin by saying "I do not condemn you so go and sin no more!" To condemn her would have meant she would have to face the execution squad. Forgiveness meant deliverance. However, with forgiveness comes the command, "Go, and sin no more!"

One more word about the sin of adultery under the OT law: the guilty were to be killed. There was no sacrifice one could offer to atone for this sin. None. The victims could not be redeemed under the OT law. However, mercy could be granted as it was to David (when he raped Bathsheba) by Nathan the prophet. Even in that the consequences of this sin dogged the royal household for the rest of David's life. But David's life was spared. This act has come to be known in the NT writings as the "sure mercies of David" a forerunner of what people can expect under NT law.

How does this message convict us, inspired us today?

John 8:12 NASB

12 Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”

COMMENT:

A profound declaration of Jesus all-encompassing sufficiency to the Believer.

Are we ignorant?

Does everything seem so dark?

Are we in a muddle?

If so, why?

Have we allowed Jesus to shine His light of discernment into our hearts to answer the questions that dog us?

Do we realize the power of Jesus' light in revealing to us the hidden and secret things of the heart? The things that work to trouble us on every side?

Once we see what Jesus is working to tells us, how do we respond? Run and hide? Or, agree and allow Him to teach us what we need to know and then fix it...?

This is life where the rubber meets the road. If we are in a muddle it is because we have not allowed the LORD of LIGHT to shine into our hearts to show us what is wrong so it can be fixed. Simple. But pride gets in the way which only complicates life even more. And how do I know? Been around a while...

John 8:13-18 NASB

13 So the Pharisees said to Him, “You are testifying about Yourself; Your testimony is not true.”

14 Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I testify about Myself, My testimony is true, for I know where I came from and where I am going; but you do not know where I come from or where I am going.

15 “You judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone.

16 “But even if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone in it, but I and the Father who sent Me.

17 “Even in your law it has been written that the testimony of two men is true.

18 “I am He who testifies about Myself, and the Father who sent Me testifies about Me.”

COMMENT:

Jesus reiterates his origins and how essential it is to believe it. Everything depends on it. Everything. But as yet, the religious leaders could not see it or refused to see it. Jesus had done many miracles which the common people understood to have come from God, but the religious leaders refused to - it could mean they might actually have to go get a job!

I am still impressed with the absoluteness of Jesus' knowledge of the past and the future: he knew where he came from and where he is going. No human being can say that with any certainty apart from knowing who God is.

Doubt of the future is coated with phrases like (1) I hope, (2) I plan, (3)I wish, (4) I may, (5) I want to. We all know the future is shrouded in mystery. All we know for certain is that Jesus will return and catastrophic events will precede this event. But for our lives, we do not know. We may be dead in 24 hours, or we may be in an accident and crippled for life, who knows? We don't. James teaches us the importance of prefacing our future plans with "if the LORD will we will do this or that". This stands in stark contrast to the certainty of Jesus declaration of his knowledge of the past and future.

Jesus points out the fact that people rely on logic for their expectations of the future or in their interpretation of current affairs. ("You people judge according to the flesh.")

The judgement of God is far superior to any man can impose upon others or himself. Jesus spoke with certainty what he heard which by its very nature is judgmental. This is what the people noticed and objected to. Do we speak with absolute certainty when sharing the gospel? We ought to. Yet, if one does what will you be accused of? Not a whole lot different today, is it?

There is so much more in this scripture - I wish some others would share their insights....

Right now, I'm still pondering the question, what is righteous judgment?

It's the kind of question you think you know the answer to, till you actually think about it.

Still thinking...

John 8:13,19,22,25,39,41,48,52,57 NASB

13So the Pharisees said to Him, “You are testifying about Yourself; Your testimony is not true.”

19So they were saying to Him, “Where is Your Father?”

22So the Jews were saying, “Surely He will not kill Himself, will He, since He says, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come’?”

25So they were saying to Him, “Who are You?”

41b They said to Him, “We were not born of fornication; we have one Father: God.”

48The Jews answered and said to Him, “Do we not say rightly that You are a Samaritan and have a demon?”

52 The Jews said to Him, “Now we know that You have a demon. Abraham died, and the prophets also; and You say, ‘If anyone keeps My word, he will never taste of death.’

57 57So the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?”

COMMENT:

Today I am focusing on the Jews' objections to Jesus.

Jesus had fed them, healed a man, forgave a sinner and now the religious leaders felt their authority threatened. The people were believing Jesus...if this trend continues they will lose power, influence with the people. Since this was the case, they will work to discredit the messenger. This is what we see here in the verses posted (and this is just a small portion of the their objections).

As I pondered this act of discrediting the messenger I am also very much aware of how Paul warns us against false teachers and how we are to distance ourselves from them. Since this is the case, why does one fault the Jewish people for their doubts, their objections? Or, maybe they were merely looking for excuses to disbelieve him rather then asking honest questions?

Honest questions are welcomed - it shows that you are thinking (Peter asked many)- and do not want to be snookered into a whorl of deception. But honest questions will not be laced with scorn, sarcasm like the ones asked here in chapter eight.

Since we are urged to be discerning who is a false teacher and who is genuine, I am left with two traits that may distinguish one from the other.

Jesus gave: he fed, he healed, he forgave, preached repentance; he preached LIFE.

False teachers: may do miracles, may feed, may preach forgiveness, preach sermons that focus on improving one's life but demand a payment from their benefactors in the form of money.

Jesus never asked for anything from the people except that they believe him.

False teachers want your approval as well, but they surely want your money in order to enable them to live luxuriously.

And Jesus never asked for any.

And...if you preach Jesus today, your distractors will also do to you as they did to Jesus: instead of focusing on the message, they will work to discredit you. Happens all the time.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Still thinking..."
______________________________________________________________

And what is your conclusion?

John 8:21-29NASB

21 Then He said again to them, “I go away, and you will seek Me, and will die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come.”

22 So the Jews were saying, “Surely He will not kill Himself, will He, since He says, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come’?”

23 And He was saying to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world.

24 “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins.”

25 So they were saying to Him, “Who are You?” Jesus said to them, “What have I been saying to you from the beginning?

26 “I have many things to speak and to judge concerning you, but He who sent Me is true; and the things which I heard from Him, these I speak to the world.”

27 They did not realize that He had been speaking to them about the Father.

28 So Jesus said, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me.

29 “And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him

COMMENTS:

Let me say right now that I am totally overwhelmed with the concepts Jesus shares in chapter eight. I know that beyond a doubt a Holy Spirit inspired writer could write a book based on this chapter/concepts shared here. About the best I can do to keep this brief, to the point, is just to comment on a few points, briefly.

I am so impressed with Jesus persistence in working, confronting the Jews about his origins. It is confrontational. Personally, I hate confrontations. There is within it a form of judgement: YOU are WRONG! and it usually gets nasty! The person making the accusations gets obnoxious. They will talk over you, run over you, interrupt you, not listen to you. I hate confrontations like this. BUT Jesus was not like this. He was persistent, kept the course and was not deterred from it. He was kind and in it he offered hope but was realistic all at the same time.

It is interesting to note that what made Jesus' message confrontational is that it was being resisted by unrepentant people. But Jesus persisted because it was a matter of life and death. Simple.

Jesus teaches here why people resist his message:
1. Ye are from below.
2. Ye are from this world.

And the twain do not meet, except in Jesus Christ. He came to build a bridge over which if they past they can be redeemed but if they choose not to, they will die in their sins.

Jesus' message was absolute. It was not one to be trifled with. Do we understand this? v.26:the things which I heard from Him, these I speak to the world; v.28:I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me; v.29:I always do the things that are pleasing to Him. Do we understand the absoluteness of Jesus words? He did not speak of his own initiative but spoke what God instructed him to? Do we take his words to heart? Do we wrestle, debate his words, like the Jews did, trying to wiggle around them thereby rendering them ineffective?

Oh, I was going to write more but I sense this concept to be so overwhelming I must stop now.

Concerning righteous judgment, we are told in John 7:24,
'Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.'

Righteous judgment should be in accordance with God's word.

Also, in Proverbs 24:23 it says, '...it is not good to show partiality in judgment.'

This tells us that to be partial in judgment is wrong, it would be classified as an unrighteous judgment.

In conclusion, what judgment we have should be with godly fear, righteousness and unpartial.

God bless.

Also, I haven't been visiting as much, because of some of the discussions taking place, coupled with the slowness of the pages downloading.

But, they are good reads.

God bless.

John 8:31-36 NASB

31 So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine;

32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”

33 They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, ‘You will become free’?”

34 Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin.

35 “The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever.

36 “So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.

COMMENT:

Truth liberates. But how?

It is a testimony to the reality of God that life proves God/Jesus right. Always. You can fight it for all you want with all the money in the world and you will still end up being the loser. Always.

It is amazing how sin will place a person in bondage. The world looks at Christians and think we are in bondage because we do not run with them. But the reality is they are looking for satisfaction and when they find it, it will eventually fail to satisfy, so they search deeper and deeper until they become so entangled in it from which there is no escape apart from the redemptive hand of God. Yes, sin enslaves.

Consider some of the ways:

1. Lying. Once a person gives into it he will eventually get so used to it he will become a habit. And what does this do to his credibility with others? You know - he cannot be trusted and who likes to be around people like that?

2. Lust. Oh...this is a big one. We all know where this will lead if it is not stopped: estranged relationships, unwanted pregnancies, STDs... These behaviors are addictive, worst then nicotine. Then there are diseases that will be with you until you die - no cure for some. If left untreated some can kill.

3. Substance abuse - alcohol, narcotics...Alcohol causes Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in the unborn - if you have ever seen this you will never want to use alcohol (We have two nieces and a nephew - both adopted - with it. I am almost of a mind that if a mother uses alcohol while pregnant she should be shot, not godly, I know, but the effects of it are so cruel.) And there is illnesses, loss of stability in life situations, etc. Narcotics - you all know the results...

Sin enslaves.

But Jesus says if you believe in Him you will be liberated. He uses the analogy of a son who has the right to free a slave. Otherwise a slave is subject to being sold without him having any say in the matter - he is subject to the whims of a another. He has no control. But freedom in Jesus means you are liberated from the devastating results of sin. If people could only understand this...

Truth liberates. It means one places his trust in Another, does his will and lets him take care of the results. So restful.

QUOTE:
"because of some of the discussions taking place,"

Yes, they have been engaging have they not? Not all that edifying, either, IMHO. Actually, it seemed as the LORD kept me from logging onto one of them - I click on it and it would not load - maybe it would have eventually, but I do not have all day.

God bless you, Enid.

ginnyrose

John 8:39-40 NASB

39 They answered and said to Him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “If you are Abraham’s children, do the deeds of Abraham.

40 “But as it is, you are seeking to kill Me, a man who has told you the truth, which I heard from God; this Abraham did not do.

COMMENTS:

Jesus said, "“If you are Abraham’s children, do the deeds of Abraham."

The life of Abraham deserves a serious study. Every time I do so I am left with my jaw hanging: the faith of that man! Who on earth today would take their beloved child up to a mountain top, build an altar, lay him on it and raise your hand to kill him/her? What loving parent would ever even consider it? If you would tell people God told you to do it, they would have you committed in short order. And to say God told you to? Now, you must have a demon for sure...Ok, ok, God would not tell moderns to do such a thing, I know...

I am amazed. Ok. There was more to Abraham's life then his offering up of Issac.

Hebrews 11 teaches us more about Abraham. He is held up as an example of how he lived out his faith. He walked with God, he obeyed Him even when he did not know the end from the beginning. His life was characterized by an intimate relationship with God which resulted in explicit obedience with no argument nor debate.

Does this characterize my life? Jesus says do as Abraham did...

'For what does the Scripture say? Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.', Romans 4:3

'Then they said to Him, "What shall we do, that we may work the works of God?"

Jesus answered and said to them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.", John 6:28-29

Our work, is to believe. If we can't do that, what use are we to God? If we are not believing Him, then we are believing ourselves, or others.

Abraham believed God.

John 8:44 NASB

44 “You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

COMMENT:

I would like to focus today on lies - its source - and truth.

When I first pondered this subject my mind went to the many ways in which a person can and does lie. Then I took another look at the context in which Jesus spoke these words: the Jew's failure, refusal to believe who he was is rooted in unbelief that comes from the devil. Oh. Ok.

Truth liberates, so said Jesus in v32...contrast this with lying. But why does a person lie? Is it not to protect one's self-interests from perceived dangers? So why does one feel the need to protect himself? Is it because of the lack of trust in the present and future? And why does this lack exist?

Jesus tells us we should take his yoke upon us and learn of Him for he is meek and lowly of heart and there we will find rest for our souls. OH. When we are yoked with Him, him being the lead 'horse' we will follow and trust the 'lead'. He is responsible for the outcome, the pace. The lead is sensitive the the ability of the others yoked with him so he will pace the onward march.

Being yoked with Jesus we will be led to places we may fear or find uncertain, but with him in charge there is nothing to fear. This is the the kind of faith Abraham had - he went not knowing....this is trust at work.

As I pondered some more on lying I wonder if not all lies are rooted in unbelief in who Jesus is? When lying becomes a lifestyle, a mindset, we will work to disarm truth, work to negate it, deny it rendering us incapable of receiving it all. This would explain why Jesus told the Jews, "for this reason you do not hear them, because you are not of God.”

I never before noticed how lying is rooted in disbelieving who Jesus is. Reminds me of the first of the ten commandments, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me".

John 9:1-5 NASB

1 As He passed by, He saw a man blind from birth.

2 And His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?”

3 Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.

4 “We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work.

5 “While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.”

COMMENTS:

I will leave chapter eight - the writer reiterates to an unbelieving people Jesus' origins, his mission, the importance of understanding this fact. While I knew all this, believing it, I have never before understood its importance and the impact it would have on a persons belief system, the theology he embraces.

In the verses quote above we see how Jesus met this blind person. Now Jesus was challenged with another important issue: why is this man blind? Who sinned, him or his parents? This issue was settled in their minds: someone sinned or else this fellow would not be blind!

This issue lives still among people. It dogged Job as well. It is a question that has perplexed people throughout all ages: why do these bad things happen? We look for answers but they are always elusive. The reason people want answers is so that they can prevent it from happening to them. People see this blindness or affliction as a severe calamity that interferes with a live of ease. It posses severe challenges. People recognize affliction as something that they can work to control and sometimes they can - if you pursue a lifestyle of sin it will bring with it its own consequences sometimes in the form of impaired health.

In any case, this fellow was blind, so what causes it? Jesus says it is to provide an opportunity to demonstrate the power of God...Ok. Good answer.

Do we understand affliction sent our way as something sent by God in order to give Him an opportunity to demonstrate his power to us or whoever? You know when a person allows this principle to abide in your heart where your response is "well, I wonder what God wants to teach us through this" it will relieve one of a tremendous burden because you can rest in His abiding strength. He will give you what you need to cope, to deal with it.

And....

Jesus goes on to say how urgent it is that he must work while he still has the time. Do you, do I regard my affliction as important in God's eyes - one that he will use to demonstrate himself to others? And that it is urgent that this will be accomplished? You know my response to it is very revealing what is in my heart. If we do not like it, the Holy Spirit convicts us, then we must do as he bids...

Ah, affliction...more can be said - any thoughts?

Psalm 119:71, 'It is good for me that I have been afflicted
that I may learn Your statues.'

There are varying afflictions, physical, spiritual, financial etc, and they all serve their purpose. We might be blind to that purpose, but God knows why it is there.

The old belief that someone sinned, hence the affliction, still lives. You would have thought it would have been done away with years ago. But no, it's still here.

If those affliction gets us to learn God's statutes, focus on Him, then, even though we hate them, and we do, then they are necessary.

All should be for God's glory.

God bless.

John 9:6,7 NASB

6 When He had said this, He spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and applied the clay to his eyes,

7 and said to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which is translated, Sent). So he went away and washed, and came back seeing.

COMMENT:

Jesus made some mud with his spittle, smeared it onto the eyes of a blind man and told him to go wash in a specific pool, the pool of Siloam.

The very idea of making a mud pack, placing it on eyes is so absurd. Logic would tell one to go wash at the closest water source to get this stuff off your eyes!

Yet, what did this blind man have to lose by doing as bidden? He had always been blind; according to verse 32 "it has never been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind." What was the risk? Maybe feeling foolish to go wash and feeling foolish not to.

As I consider the absurdity of washing mud off ones eyes, I am impressed with the faith of this blind man. What does this teach us?

How many times does the LORD ask us to do something that appears absurd, ridiculous? Something that appears to be completely devoid of all logic and common sense? Is this not the method the LORD uses to teach people his majesty, his power, how his works are beyond comprehension? I think so. And the only way one can be a participant in in this learning process is by being a willing student, just like this blind man.

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
If those affliction gets us to learn God's statutes, focus on Him, then, even though we hate them, and we do, then they are necessary.
______________________________________________________________

Hebrews 12:5-11 discusses this principle:

5 and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, “MY SON, DO NOT REGARD LIGHTLY THE DISCIPLINE OF THE LORD, NOR FAINT WHEN YOU ARE REPROVED BY HIM;

6 FOR THOSE WHOM THE LORD LOVES HE DISCIPLINES, AND HE SCOURGES EVERY SON WHOM HE RECEIVES.”

7 It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline?

8 But if you are without discipline, of which all have become partakers, then you are illegitimate children and not sons.

9 Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much rather be subject to the Father of spirits, and live?

10 For they disciplined us for a short time as seemed best to them, but He disciplines us for our good, so that we may share His holiness.

11 All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.

We like to feel that we are so good that we are beyond the need to be discipline/chastened, but this scriptures says that if we are loved by God we will experience it!

You know what? I see people who are not experiencing affliction or chastening and I am sad because it appears to me that they are not loved by God!

Isaiah 26:9b-10a (NASB) speaks of this very thing:

9...For when the earth experiences Your judgments
The inhabitants of the world learn righteousness.

10 Though the wicked is shown favor,
He does not learn righteousness;

God bless...

John 9:34 NASB
34 They answered him, “You were born entirely in sins, and are you teaching us?” So they put him out.

COMMENT:

I stand amazed how Jesus' healing of this blind man and the lame man earlier evoked so much controversy among the Jewish leaders. In this case they ended throwing him out of the synagogue.

I wonder how many times this scenario has been repeated in the years since? People recognize that the healing of a person born blind or lame is nothing short of the miraculous. But many cannot handle that. It threatens their belief system.

We have all heard of stories of how people were questioned, challenged by their community - in places like India, Muslim countries - when a person was miraculously healed. One incident happened in a Mid-eastern country of a person supernaturally healed. He was arrested, hauled off to court...while there he shared what happened, a profound testimony of the grace and mercy of the LORD Jesus, something that was illegal to do...(am not sure what the gov did with him afterwards)but there was no denying that something wonderful had happened.

For some of the subjects who experienced Jesus healing it was costly, very costly. This stumps me...it is hard for me to get past this...people would rather see a body blind, lame, sick then to see him/her get healed?

John 9:35-38 NASB

35 Jesus heard that they had put him out, and finding him, He said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?”

36 He answered, “Who is He, Lord, that I may believe in Him?”

37 Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him, and He is the one who is talking with you.”

38 And he said, “Lord, I believe.” And he worshiped Him

COMMENT:

Today I want to focus on the blind man who received his sight. I will use some imagination but hope it will not distract from the text...

Jesus and his disciples saw a blind man and so they asked Him a question as to why this fellow was blind, he was born this way. Who sinned, him or his parents? A question that dogs some folks still today. People want to know so they can prevent something similar in their own lives.

This blind man presented Jesus an opportunity to demonstrate who he was. He healed the man! He made some mud and plastered the mans eyes with it.

Imagine being this man - how would you feel? You certainly are going to feel like washing it off immediately and Jesus concurred but told him to go to a specific place to do it.

The blind man did as told...Can you imagine how he felt seeing for the first time, ever?! The colors in nature - I wonder if it was spring when the world is riot with color - how awesome they are, they are the work of an Almighty Creator...do we appreciate that? Somehow I suspect this healed man did. He could see people! Whereas before he recognized people by their voices now he could by sight - a whole different dimension. WOW!

Now this healed man could see food. Before he could see it with touch and taste but now in all its color, shape and this is what he was eating?!

He could walk - did he have to learn to walk, or was his ability to do so part of his healing? (I am told that when a blind person receives his sight he has to learn how to walk all over again.) There was so much to see and it was nothing short of amazing. He was filled with delight and pleasure. But not all people viewed this miracle in this fashion. The religious leaders, of all people, were not happy! I wonder how this man felt about that?

The healed man was questioned at length about the details of his healing and he told them. They were not satisfied with his answer so they asked his parents and they deferred to their son because they were scared of the synagogue authorities. When the Jewish leaders interrogated him the second time he got exasperated, asking them "You do not want to become his disciples too, do you?" (Smart answer - makes me smile.)

Up to this point this man had no encounter with Jesus other then the one where he plastered his eyes with mud. Since then things have not been going well for him with the Jewish leaders, his healing while enjoyed by himself and likely his family, was viewed with suspicion by some. I wonder if the man was not a tad bit frustrated?

Here he was, healed, enjoying this blessing but experiencing criticism by important people in the community. What do I do now? He had plenty of time to think - important issues that perhaps he never before had considered. Once again Jesus appears at the ripe time, at this man's greatest point of need.

Jesus asks, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?"

The man answered, "Who is he?"

Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him, and He is the one who is talking with you.”

And he said, “Lord, I believe.” And he worshiped Him.

Jesus allowed the man to experience ostracism, the blessings of sight, giving him time to mull over the recent drama in his life which I am sure was something radically new. Now he was ready to accept the Healer as being God, so he worshiped - he loved and adored this man - who else but God could do such a wonderful thing as healing a person born blind? (AND...it was this very thing the Jewish leaders feared...it is futile to fight against God - you will lose. Every time.)

Somehow, I sensed God smiling with pleasure and delight on this healed man, don't you?

John 10:11a

11 “I am the good shepherd;

COMMENT:

In chapter 10 John continues to reinforce the deity of Jesus...I never noticed this before - this is about all John wrote about so far in the book!

Anyhow...

My mind was stirred after reading the post about the Titanic. I cannot quit thinking about it, its captain, the policies that governed that ship, contrasting it with the "Good Ship of Zion" of whom Jesus is the captain. (In John 10 he is referred to as the 'Good Shepherd'.)

I would like to make more comparisons between the Titanic and the Ship of "Zion".

Consider the accommodations:

In the Titanic the rooms for the wealthy were lavish, luxurious and roomy. Very beautiful, and expensively decorated with the latest in home accessories. These well-heeled passengers were not allowed to socially mingle with the poorer people who were on board this ship unless you were a servant to a wealthy passenger. (I think I am right about this.)Their dining rooms were lavish...

The cabins occupied by the poor were very tiny: each had four bunks, a sink and chamber pot that was emptied everyday by a ship employee. Luggage was stored under the bunks. They were almost packed in there like sardines. Food was consumed at a separate dining room, austerity ruled there. No mingling with the wealthy.

On the Good Ship of "Zion" there is neither male nor female nor Jew, nor Greek, nor rich or poor. All belong to the Captain who provides for the well-being of all of his sheep unlike the one who captained the Titanic. The captain does not show any favoritism to his sheep.

Contrast these policies with what Jesus and James taught about the wealthy, being partial to people of wealth.

I deeply appreciate Jesus love for all people independent of social status, wealth, education or social/family connections.

Are we not rich with such a wonderful shepherd? Can we regard other passengers on this ship with equal appreciation like Jesus did?

Now, perhaps tomorrow I can get back on topic...

John 10:1,2,8,10 NASB
1 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber.

2 “But he who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep.

8 “All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them.

10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

COMMENT:

This analogy of the shepherd, sheep and sheepfold is known to most of us so today I want to focus on the thief.

A thief is one who works to obtain something through illegal means. To acquire using acceptable methods would mean he would have to submit to the will of another. So, a thief wants, desires but will not submit to acceptable work to attain.

In this analogy we understand the sheepfold to house something that is desirable and people will work to enter in. Many will want to enter in but do not appreciate the rules, restrictions that limit or is required by all who will enter in by the door.

So it is with the church of Jesus Christ. It looks desirable to the ungodly. Many will want to be a part of it but refuse to submit to the lordship of he one who manages the sheepfold.

Is it not fascinating how folks have this sense of a supreme being and will work to please the god of their imagination? But when informed of the true God, find him too controlling so will use dubious methods to circumvent the doorkeepers authority?

Since this is the case, they will work havoc with the sheep because they have not submitted to the will of the Doorkeeper.

The ministry of the Doorkeeper is one that will work to protect the sheep from enemies, hence his restrictions.

Do we appreciate the ministry of the doorkeeper? Jesus says he came to give life and that one can have it abundantly. Is my life abundant? Do I experience His care? Is life enjoyable? peaceful? Or, have I been robbed by a thief who masquerades as a sheep - but is a goat?

People do want to enter the sheepfold, but on their terms, not God's. It won't happen. They would, sadly, rather perish.

There are, and have to be, restrictions in the Christian life. It is not a please yourself life that we have. It is to please God.

Thank God for the abundant life He gives us.

John 10:1,2,8,10 NASB
1 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber.

2 “But he who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep.

This is my understanding of these two verses, very similar to yours as well.

John 10:7:- Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.

So the Door that Jesus spoke in Verse 1 is he himself. A good shepherd will come through Jesus. He will come proclaiming Jesus. He will not boast on his own achievements or ministry but will preach Christ alone. He will have the way of Christ in his life first. He will not be one who is un-christlike in his personal life with Divorce, adultery etc.. Such a person is a thief, he does did not come in the way of Christ. He did not follow Christ in his personal life but he is trying to Gide the sheep. I tell you many Sheep that does not belong to Jesus, will follow him. But as Jesus said - 'my sheep will hear my voice'. A true Sheep of Jesus will not be deceived by these so called UnChristlike Christian workers.

So even we when we hear a preacher we should first check his personal life and see whether he has practiced what he preaches. If he preaches Christ saves, then is his personal life first saved from sin? Does he and his household obey God. This is an area where many false Christian workers have fallen, they fail to manage their own household but come out to manage sheep and be a shepherd. Such people will only deceive those who are destined to be deceived. The true sheep of Christ will not be fooled by them.

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"So even we when we hear a preacher we should first check his personal life and see whether he has practiced what he preaches. If he preaches Christ saves, then is his personal life first saved from sin? Does he and his household obey God. This is an area where many false Christian workers have fallen, they fail to manage their own household but come out to manage sheep and be a shepherd. Such people will only deceive those who are destined to be deceived. The true sheep of Christ will not be fooled by them."
____________________________________________________________

So true. Oh, so true.

You know if a person takes this principle seriously, not make any excuses when there are discrepancies we would save ourselves a lot of grief, both spiritually and mentally. This will seem harsh to some but, hey! we are talking about eternal souls - there will be no second chances.

Appreciate you sharing this, Sree.

John 10:1-6 NASB

1 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber.

2 “But he who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep.

3 “To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

4 “When he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice.

5 “A stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers.”

6 This figure of speech Jesus spoke to them, but they did not understand what those things were which He had been saying to them.

COMMENTS:
Briefly - I am running late...

Jesus was using a figure of speech the Jews should have been familiar with - Psalm 23. But it says they did not understand.

As I contemplate this mindset it reminds me so much of moderns who do not seem to know, understand. Their minds are made up how things are and do not disturb! Even when shown they will refuse to acknowledge. So, what can a person do to prevent this from happening to me? After all, I am the only person I have to give account for...

Notice the introduction of the word 'voice'?

A Sheep:

1.The sheep follow him because they know his voice.

2. But will flee from him (strangers), because they do not know the voice of strangers.

With so many voices out there clambering for our attention our approval it is in our best interest to learn to recognized the voice of the Shepherd.

To be instructed to learn to recognize the voice of the Shepherd seems redundant because after all, are you not a sheep and if so will you not automatically recognize his voice? But there are thieves who will work to imitate the shepherd...

Still, Jesus teaches us that it is the nature of the Sheep to recognize his voice. So, do we struggle with recognizing His voice? or, is it a matter of nature that we do?

Something to think about...

John 10:9-11 NASB

9 “I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.

10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

11 “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

COMMENTS:

As I was meditating on the role of the Good Shepherd tending his sheep, I felt compelled to pull a book off my bookshelf and give it a read. The book, "A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23" is such an insightful book, penned by a shepherd who loved his sheep. As I read it I can easily understand why Jesus uses sheep as a metaphor to illustrate his love and care for his creation, primarily humans.

A good shepherd knows his sheep. He knows their strengths, weaknesses. Unlike other animals, sheep cannot care for themselves. They require supervision and produce better with it.

A good shepherd knows what kind of pasture a sheep requires for one to be content. It requires a lot of work, preparation by the shepherd - based on scientific knowledge of how grasses grow - to provide this pasture for his flock. The shepherd will also rotate his sheep among the pasture fields lest they ruin the grass. If kept in a pasture too long they will even pull a plant out by its roots thus ruining the stand of grass. Leaving a flock in a field too long will also expose them to diseases, and parasites that will weaken their health. (Parasites will grow on feces...)

Sheep are social animals - they love to be with other sheep and their shepherd. The shepherd's presence has a calming effect on the sheep. In his absence, they squabble by 'butting' each other, creating tension. Sheep that are calm, well fed grow fast; tension hinds this process.

Predators are a concern for the shepherd as well as the sheep. A good shepherd will be on the alert for predators. The sheep know that when the shepherd is close by they have little to fear. (Locally, sheep-farmers run Kuvasz dogs or donkeys with their flocks to protect them from coyotes or wild dogs.)

As I mull these facts I stand in awe of the illustration the WORD uses to describe the relationship of the heavenly father with people.

Consider the pasture - the WORD. We go there to feed our souls, spirit, mind. The variety in the Book....God knew people's interests vary widely hence the variety: history, law, poetry, philosophy, transcripts of sermons, there is something there to pique anyone's interests. BUT if a person would only feed on one subject he soon can be guilty of over-grazing, making himself vulnerable to 'disease'. A person needs to study all of it, comparing scripture with scripture, only then can one get a balanced feed.

Sheep will bully when left to themselves. There is competition for the best shade, grass, water. People are like this, be it church, family, business, social gatherings...but when the Good Shepherd is there in the midst bullying cease. Sounds like SI - sometimes, opps!

Yes, when we are in the presence of the Good Shepherd, he will work for our own good. If we wander away there is always the rod...

John 10:5,7-15 NASB

5 “A stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers.”

7 So Jesus said to them again, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep.

8 “All who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them.

9 “I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.

10 “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

11 “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.

12 “He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who is not the owner of the sheep, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep and flees, and the wolf snatches them and scatters them.

13“He flees because he is a hired hand and is not concerned about the sheep.

14 “I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me,

15 even as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep.

COMMENT:

Observations about strangers and caregivers of sheep.

Stranger: a thief, someone totally unknown to the sheep. He comes to steal. The sheep will not follow someone who they do not know.

Hireling: someone hired by the owner to care and watch the sheep. The sheep knows him and he knows the sheep, so the sheep are not afraid of him. He works under the supervision of the owner, or is supposed to.

The Owner: he knows his sheep well. He will work to provide adequate feed, shelter for his sheep - food that will enhance growth and health. He works to protect the well-being of his animals. This is his life.

The hireling is perhaps the most dangerous of all these people. The stranger will spook the sheep where they flee; the hireling is there to do his boss' bidding. They have learned to trust him and depend on him for their well-being. BUT the guy is a wimp: if he sees danger, he runs, abandons his responsibility of caring for the sheep thus leaving them vulnerable to injury and death. He will not even stay and fight the wolf!

Many times church leaders are referred to as shepherds - how many function like hirelings? They refuse to stand up to sin, false teachings because of the pressure that will result in a fight. They will abandon their charges leaving them at the mercy of a predator. But, how does the Good Shepherd -Jesus - fight the wolves? He allowed himself to be killed so the sheep can be saved. He gave his life for the benefit of the sheep..

Wow! What a comparison...Imagine a sheepherder allowing a wolf to kill him to save the life of his sheep! The comparison is absurd - the shepherd is a human and a sheep is an animal! Yet, is this comparison not like Jesus is in comparison to humans?

Does anyone know what it means when Jesus says in verse 9
'...and will go in and out and find pasture.'

What does it mean to go in and out?

Thanks.

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
Does anyone know what it means when Jesus says in verse 9
'...and will go in and out and find pasture.'

What does it mean to go in and out?
____________________________________________________________

Enid, when I read this I am always allowing Psalm 23 to teach me, giving me insight to what Jesus is saying in this portion about Him being the shepherd and his children the sheep.

To go in and out of the sheepfold would indicate to me that Jesus is the one who directs the shelter, the food for the Believer. He is the one who tends to their needs and they will vary though out time. He is the one that directs the coming and going.

Perhaps someone else has a more profound insight. What are you thinking, Enid?

John 10:16 NASB

16“I have other sheep, which are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will hear My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd

COMMENT:

When I meditated on this verse, my mind went to this song...I sang it - it is beautiful. Anyhow, here are the lyrics:

SEEKING THE LOST
Seeking the lost, yes, kindly entreating
Wanderers on the mountain astray
"Come unto me" his message repeating
Words of the Master speaking today.

CHORUS:
Going afar upon the mountain
Bringing the wand'rer back again, back again
Into the fold of my Redeemer
Jesus the Lamb for sinners slain.

Seeking the lost and pointing to Jesus
Souls that are weak and hearts that are sore
Leading them forth in ways of salvation
Showing the path to life evermore.

Thus I would go on missions of mercy
Following Christ from day unto day
Cheering the faint and raising the fallen
Pointing the lost to Jesus, the Way.

*********************************************************

They shall hear my voice....this has me stumped. Here in our community people have become so gospel hardened they will not listen - as in obeying. They know and yes, admit, they will need to submit but they refuse. To counter it Christians resort to all manner of psychological tricks hoping to push them over the edge into accepting the gospel. But it does not work.

Then a person hears reports of people who gladly accept the message of salvation. They do it will little debate or philosophical wrangling.

Are we American Christian spinning our wheels on icy roads in our evangelism efforts?

Hmmm...Jesus encountered it, too, come to think of it. And he kept right on...Somehow I suspect this is the lesson I needed to hear today.

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"and they will hear My voice; and they will become one flock with one shepherd"
____________________________________________________________

I find this so beautiful. We have experienced this have we not? We meet up with strangers who are Believers and we have such sweet fellowship. How can this be possible on the human level? It is not unless there is a spirit dimension, and there is. Both have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that enables strangers to connect spiritually and have wonderful communion.

So precious and sweet. How I love those encounters.

AND this is the way it should be for Believers everywhere: we are all a part of the same flock who have the same shepherd.

Awesome.

When I think of this I think how wonderful heaven will be when we can fellowship with strangers and have such a wonderful time...

John 10:17,18,30 NASB

17 “For this reason the Father loves Me, because I lay down My life so that I may take it again.

18 “No one has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on My own initiative. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it up again. This commandment I received from My Father.”

30 “I and the Father are one.”

COMMENTS:

Authority. A casual perusal of verse eighteen appears as an oxymoron. It looks as though you have two bosses. Normally you have one boss and the others are subject to the will of the boss, like it or not.

We see is verse eighteen that Jesus is going to lay down his life for the sheep - he is doing this of his own initiative and yet he says he received this commandment from his Father.

Is this not the way life is when you submit to each other? They are one in goals, in total agreement on methods in accomplishing it. When this is operational each has the authority to work to accomplish it - meaning, each can and must do what needs to be to reach this goal.

This is the beauty of submission. When all submit their being to the good of each other, we will have the authority to work to reach this goal. No room for jealousy, envy or selfishness or pride. "How can I best help you?" becomes a driving force in our relationship with others.

Jesus says his willingness to lay his life down for the benefit of the sheep is the will of the Father and that the Father loves him for doing so.

I get this mental picture of a wolf coming to the flock, it scattering and the shepherd allows himself to be killed by the wolf in order to spare the flock. So the shepherd is killed, is dead. But then three days later he resurrects to gather the sheep back together again. In the process of being dead, this shepherd acquires another weapon which can be used to ward off attacks by any predators.

Jesus analogy of sheep, shepherd with himself and his relationship to his people is astounding. Beautiful. Hard to wrap my mind around it all.

No wonder the sheep love their shepherd and hear him and follow him wherever He goes. No wonder at all. It is the most sensible thing that ever can happen.

Awesome. Beautiful. Ever met anybody like this who loves you this much?

Profound insight? Not me. Or anyone else it would appear.
But, you have given a good insight into what it means.

Thanks.

Must say, it is an awesome picture. Rather than let the wolf get the sheep, the shepherd let's himself be killed. But only temporarily.

Notice, Jesus also has authority to take up His life again.

We really do not understand how powerful God is.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"We really do not understand how powerful God is."
______________________________________________________________

It is this realization that is dawning upon me with great force...

John 10:4,14,26-29 NASB

4“When he puts forth all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice

14“I am the good shepherd, and I know My own and My own know Me

26 “But you do not believe because you are not of My sheep.

27 “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;

28 and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand.

29 “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.

COMMENT:

Jesus tells us in verse 29 "and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand."

Who are these sheep that no can can snatch from the Father's hand?

Verses four, fourteen inform us who they are. They are sheep that follow him and know his voice. Jesus says, "I know My own and My own know Me. The sheep know the Shepherd, they follow Him AND the Shepherd know his sheep. It is a relationship of mutual affection, cooperation and love. It is not just a one way street, it goes both ways.

Is it not wonderful that we can rest in the security of Jesus protecting us, keeping us safe from the enemy that works to destroy the works of God? We do not have to fear that after being faithful to Him that we will one morning wake up and find "OPPS! The devil got me!"

The text teaches us one must stay close to the shepherd. Doing so will prevent us from being stolen, deceived by thieves and robbers. Let us be ever diligent in listening to the voice of the Shepherd and follow Him. If we are unsure of his voice, all we have to do is tell him, asking Him to teach us - and mean it. And He will. He loves it when we admit to our weaknesses and ask for his assistance to overcome. As long as we think we can do it ourselves we are doomed to failure.

(I remember well when dad had a flock of sheep. In the winter he kept them in the barn. Evenings after chores were done, it was a real pleasure to sit and watch the ewes with their lambs - the lambs frolicking, playing. They were so entertaining. Lambs make wonderful pets - I had one and it was just like "Mary had a little lamb that followed her where ever she goes." It was so cuddly... I loved my pet..:-) This experience demonstrates to me in a small way how the shepherd must love his sheep.)

John 10:37-38 NASB

37 “If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me;

38 but if I do them, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, so that you may know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I in the Father.”

COMMENT:

Jesus teaches us here the importance of works - they demonstrate who/what you are serving, your point of reference. It informs people where you are from; it validates your message.

As I read these verses I was reminded of the message taught by the Apostle James in his book. The theme of that book is "Faith without works is dead". Works prove to you and others what drives you.

The people among whom Jesus ministered admitted his works were wonderful. Every time they questioned his origins, his teachings they were sure to come up with the question of his works - what empowered Jesus to be able to do these wonderful works? Jesus then said believe the works then you will understand the Father is in me and I in the Father...

As I ponder this principle, I am left with a renewed, fresh understanding of the the implications of 'faith without works is dead' teachings.

People who are following the shepherd, who is in turn doing the works of his Father, will mean we will the beneficiaries of those works and we will also be partakers of these works of holiness. If these works of holiness are absent we are not to be believed. So said Jesus to the Jews, "If I do not the works of My Father, do not believe me."

Unless our lifestyle exhibits the qualities of Jesus we are not to be believed. And neither are we to believe others whose lives do not reflect Jesus.

Simple.

John 11:1-15 NASB

1 Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha.

2 It was the Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped His feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.

3 So the sisters sent word to Him, saying, “Lord, behold, he whom You love is sick.”

4 But when Jesus heard this, He said, “This sickness is not to end in death, but for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by it.”

5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus.

6 So when He heard that he was sick, He then stayed two days longer in the place where He was.

7 Then after this He said to the disciples, “Let us go to Judea again.”

8 The disciples said to Him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just now seeking to stone You, and are You going there again?”

9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world.

10 “But if anyone walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.”

11 This He said, and after that He said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep.”

12 The disciples then said to Him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.”

13 Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that He was speaking of literal sleep.

14 So Jesus then said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead,

15 and I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, so that you may believe; but let us go to him.”

COMMENT:

In this portion we read how Lazarus died and why he died.

Jesus was told Lazarus was sick. Upon hearing it he lingered where they were knowing full well the fellow would die. In verse fifteen Jesus inform his disciples why he lingered, "so that you may believe". What was He going to do that would facilitate this process? He says in verse eleven, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep” - He plans to resurrect a dead man.

I find a very important principle in this story that speaks to us loudly, still, today:

1. There was a need
2. Jesus was informed
3. He delayed addressing this need.
4. There is a divine purpose in delaying in answering a prayer.

Many times we bring our petitions to the LORD and he does not answer according to OUR timetable. Many times the answer is "Wait". Oh, how we hate this answer!

Wait.

Do we see the potential of our need being something the LORD will use to honor Him? Or, to teach us a profound lesson?

This is why Jesus waited to act on Mary and Martha's behalf.

I find it fascinating how Jesus told his disciples beforehand what he plans to do...I wonder how well they believed him. But he had a reason to wait and that was to teach them a deep lesson. Do we understand God's delays in answering our prayers as a means to teach us something more profound then we imagine?

John 11:17-19; 30-45 NASB

17 So when Jesus came, He found that he had already been in the tomb four days.

18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles off;

19 and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary, to console them concerning their brother.

30 Now Jesus had not yet come into the village, but was still in the place where Martha met Him.

31 Then the Jews who were with her in the house, and consoling her, when they saw that Mary got up quickly and went out, they followed her, supposing that she was going to the tomb to weep there.

32 Therefore, when Mary came where Jesus was, she saw Him, and fell at His feet, saying to Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.”

33 When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and was troubled,

34 and said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to Him, “Lord, come and see.”

35 Jesus wept.

36 So the Jews were saying, “See how He loved him!”

37 But some of them said, “Could not this man, who opened the eyes of the blind man, have kept this man also from dying?”

38So Jesus, again being deeply moved within, came to the tomb. Now it was a cave, and a stone was lying against it.

39 Jesus said, “Remove the stone.” Martha, the sister of the deceased, said to Him, “Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.”

40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not say to you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”

41 So they removed the stone. Then Jesus raised His eyes, and said, “Father, I thank You that You have heard Me.

42 “I knew that You always hear Me; but because of the people standing around I said it, so that they may believe that You sent Me.”

43 When He had said these things, He cried out with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come forth.”

44 The man who had died came forth, bound hand and foot with wrappings, and his face was wrapped around with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.”

45 Therefore many of the Jews who came to Mary, and saw what He had done, believed in Him

COMMENT:

Today I would like to focus on the miracle of the resurrection of Lazarus.

Jesus delayed his coming to Bethany because He said that by doing so the Son of God may be glorified by it. v.4. This truly did happen as recorded in v.45. But what happened to accomplish this glorification?

Jesus comes to Bethany, finds many people at Lazarus' house, people milling about because there was a death. He also noticed the weeping of the people which greatly troubled him...wonder why? He meets with the sisters, tells them that Lazarus will rise again.

(A note: interesting how Jesus told people BEFOREHAND that Lazarus will rise again but nobody really believed him! SO, what happened was no surprise to Jesus that the Father answered his prayer but it sure was to the observers nearby.)

Jesus asks to be shown where Lazarus was buried. They took him to the tomb and then instructs people to remove the stone. Martha protests with “Lord, by this time there will be a stench, for he has been dead four days.” Yes, he stinks. Ask Paul West if a dead body at four days does not stink - he is a mortician.

The stone is removed as requested then Jesus prays. (You reckon the stench of this dead body wafted out of this cave after the stone was removed? I suspect it did.) After praying, he called out with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come forth!"

The man that was dead four days, all wrapped up from head to toe with cloth came out. Jesus tells the people to untie him and let him go.

I wonder how Lazarus walked being all tied up? Reckon he hopped - he couldn't walk, putting one foot in front of another, could he?

The miracle of restoring a man whose body was far into the deterioration process is nothing short of the miraculous. Nothing, absolutely nothing. It was a work of recreating. Totally. There was no life in this body - he was not in a comma - Jesus said he was dead - graveyard dead, as we say here in the south.

The process of terminal illness and subsequent resurrection did glorify the Son of God. No wonder. Would this not have been an amazing miracle to witness?

Scripture gives us no clue, but I wonder what Lazarus had to say later about these four days when he was dead. What was it like?

Apparently Lazarus being alive posed a serious threat to the ruling religious body because they took counsel on how they might put him to death. John 12:10. Makes me wonder how they think they could succeed it the next time - what made them think Jesus would not resurrect him again?

Indeed, raising Lazarus had a profound effect on the people if the chief priests conspired on how they could get rid of him.

Jesus was indeed gloried. I would have loved to witness it but there is enough recorded in Scripture that I can witness it in my imagination. :-)

Before writing this, I read all of John 11, to get the full picture. It is a remarkable account about the remarkable God that we serve.

When you said that the people did not believe Lazarus would rise, I think, as Martha had said, in verse 24, that they believed he would rise in the resurrection, but not there and then.

Jesus also said, whoever believes in Him shall never die.
That in itself is a glorious hope.

Jesus wept. How we undermine God's compassion for us. God does feel our pain, and does not rejoice in suffering.
But, our suffering is used to bring glory to His Holy name.
We can see that in the death of Lazarus.

I too would have loved to have seen this.

Yet Jesus has said, blessed are those who have not seen and yet, believe.

God bless.

John 11:11-14 NASB

11 This He said, and after that He said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep.”

12 The disciples then said to Him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.”

13 Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that He was speaking of literal sleep.

14 So Jesus then said to them plainly, “Lazarus is dead,

COMMENT:

I have wondered for many years why Jesus said that Lazarus is asleep when he was dead. To us humans sleeping and being dead are poles apart. You can wake up a sleeping person, but not a dead one.

As I pondered this question again, I became more aware of how to God resurrecting a dead person is no more difficult then waking a sleeping person is to a human being. Hence, Jesus use of these words. He used this language to convey to the people his power, his ability, that nothing will limit him when something is within his will to do. Awesome! No human being has this power nor ability to bring to fruition all his will and wishes.

Reminds me of the principle Jesus stated in Matthew 19:26 "With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."

John 11:9-11 NASB

9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world.

10 “But if anyone walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.”

11 This He said, and after that He said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep.

COMMENT:

These verses come back, challenging me, encouraging me. The principle it is imposing on me is nothing new at all - actually, it is a no-brainer. If this is the case, why I am so moved by it is likely because of a need in my own heart that needs to be ministered to.

Jesus used a natural event - Lazarus dying - to create an event whereby he can demonstrate his divinity, the power, authority inherent in this position in order to draw men to him. Paul states it like this, "And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.' (Romans 8:28 NASB)

Jesus was very aggressive in shining the light in order for
people to see, to understand. He will use any kind of event, tragedy to accomplish this end. In these events there will be godly people who will experience grief, sorrow, doubt, whose faith will even be challenged. But how many people will be blessed by it? We will never know until eternity...

As I regard loved ones who are away from God, I am often left feeling as though God has abandoned them. They experience no chastisements, life is easy, fairly pleasant, all things work as they plan unlike those who are serving the LORD. Is God aware of them? Yes, I know He is, but where is the evidence that he is working? We do not see it so our faith is challenged - I suspect we suffer more then they, like Mary and Martha did after Lazarus died and Jesus had not showed up when he was told he was sick.

Yes, Jesus will work at the right time to bring about the light at the time when they are more likely to respond just as he did back when he lived here on earth.

God bless.

Jesus said, "...I go, so that I may awaken him out of sleep."

As has been said in scripture, we sleep, we cannot die. It is only a temporary parting, and we are reunited on the other side of life, the eternal side.

It does seem amazing, that those who have turned their backs on God seem ok. But as it says in Psalm 37, we are not to fret because of evildoers.

Suffering comes to all, either now, or later.

John 11:9,10; 12:35,36 NASB

9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If anyone walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world.

10 “But if anyone walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.”

35 So Jesus said to them, “For a little while longer the Light is among you. Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; he who walks in the darkness does not know where he goes.

36 “While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of Light.”

COMMENT:
Jesus is the aggressor - he is the one working hard to expose, shining the light on what needs to be illuminated so people can see, understand the things of God.

Jesus is demanding people believe in the light so you will become the sons of light. Being sons means you will be possessors of this light. Failure to heed to this command will result in spiritual blindness/darkness - unable to see, to understand the deep things of God.

In practical living I see where it is vital that we follow up on insights the Lord shares, convictions that challenges us to change, to repent. Failure to do so will result in lukewarmness because we have stifled the voice of the Spirit, searing our conscience. What used to be terrible is now tolerable and eventually will be approved of, then embraced. Hence the importance of being sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit because he will not always strive with man.

As I consider this darkness, my mind goes to the play we used to do as children - walk around with our eyes tightly closed. Of course, we were in familiar places, knew our surroundings, but in any case we could only know where we were by touch and feel - no seeing at all. There was no depth perception, no sense of possible dangers, no sense of beauty as signified by color, light, texture or shapes. None. As I consider the practical aspect of walking in darkness is this not the way it is for those who refuse to embrace the LIGHT? They become darkened in their imaginations, knowledge and all they have to go by is by touch and feel. This becomes so evident when people will defend, promote whatever philosophy by "I think", "I feel". To enlighten them is futile because they do not feel ... or like.

It behooves us to walk in the LIGHT as He is in the LIGHT and so will become His sons and possess this LIGHT that will illuminate our pathway. Let us not shun or walk away when this Light reveals something to us that we should change.

Even as a Christian, I wonder if I realise, how dark my mind can be at times, in light of the word of God.

Light does reveal darkness, and if we do not get light daily, from the word of God, our minds, hearts and lives will become increasingly dark. Perhaps even without realising it.

If we walk in the light as He is the Light, we cannot go wrong.

God bless.

"While you have the Light..." John 12:36.

While we have Light, for me, seems to say, the time is coming, when the Light will be not be there to walk in.

It's a scary thought.

John 12:1-6 NASB

1 Jesus, therefore, six days before the Passover, came to Bethany where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.

2 So they made Him a supper there, and Martha was serving; but Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him.

3 Mary then took a pound of very costly perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

4 But Judas Iscariot, one of His disciples, who was intending to betray Him, said,

5 “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and given to poor people?”

6 Now he said this, not because he was concerned about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box, he used to pilfer what was put into it.

7 Therefore Jesus said, “Let her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of My burial.

8 “For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.”

COMMENT:

I will admit right up front that this incident of Mary anointing Jesus feet and then wiping it with her hair always stumps me: why on earth would you wipe anything with your hair?? I have hair long enough to do something like this but the idea to use them as a towel just does not compute. It repulses me. But I am not Mary, obviously. Therein may lie an explanation what would have motivated Mary to do something like this.

Personally, I find Mary's act absurd, incomprehensible but she did it because she loved Jesus. Jesus said she did it against the day of his burial. Yet after Jesus was buried she brought spices to anoint his body...some things do not make sense to me...and therein may lie an explanation...

In life, as we live and serve the LORD, are there things that we do to demonstrate our love for the LORD that look absurd, ridiculous to others? I suspect there are. But how can this be done?

Judas objected to this act of devotion by saying the money was wasted. His excuse did not ring true because it just meant there was less money for him to embezzle. Hmmm...had corrupt treasurers back then, too. But Jesus said, leave her alone.

This incident ministers to me on different levels. How about you?

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"While we have Light, for me, seems to say, the time is coming, when the Light will be not be there to walk in.

It's a scary thought."
______________________________________________________________

You are ever so right.

I have witnessed this happening. People do not just suddenly abandon the LORD, it is by degrees - one small step at a time until you find them defending what they earlier would have stood against. This should behoove us to stay close to the LORD because it can happen to us....I do wonder why people give in to deception? It must appear to be attractive, at the moment. Then James says we are tempted when we are drawn away with our own lusts. How we need to keep a tight rein on it...

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Light does reveal darkness, and if we do not get light daily, from the word of God, our minds, hearts and lives will become increasingly dark. Perhaps even without realizing it."
______________________________________________________________

This is why we need to spend time in the WORD every day. Missing a day now and then will not hurt but it can soon become a habit. The devil will tell you that you did well without it yesterday and all will go well with you today like it did yesterday...deceptive.

This incident - of Mary anointing Jesus feet with expensive perfume - reminded me of this poem. Read and be challenged.

One Small Rose - Author Unknown

I would rather have one small rose
From the garden of a friend
Than to have the choicest flowers
When my stay on Earth must end.

I would rather have one pleasant word
In kindness said to me
Than flattery when my heart is still
And my life on Earth has ceased to be.

I would rather have a loving smile
From friends I know are true
Than tears shed round my casket
When this world I've bid Adieu.

Bring me all your flowers today
Whether pink, white or red:
I'd rather have one blossom now
Than a truckload when I'm dead.

I continue to ponder this act of Mary using a years' wages to purchase perfume and then anointing Jesus' feet with it, spending a years' income on something that had such limited use. I am too practical to not be stumped by it.

I did a search on the web, hoping I may gain more insights. Perhaps there is a cultural practice that I am ignorant of and need to be informed so I can understand it better.

One question: was Mary's act of anointing similar to Ruth's act of sleeping at the feet of Boaz and covering his feet? Was it an act of informing Jesus she would like to be married to him?

As a woman who has long hair as per 1Corinthinans 11, I find the act of taking hair down in the presence of males revolting. Culturally Jewish women put their hair up, covered them while in public. To let them down was an act of intimacy between husband and wife. Somehow, even today those of us who have long hair as per 1Cor.11 we have this sense as well - somewhat. Is this what Mary was inferring when she let her hair down and washed Jesus feet? Scripture does not indicate this was the case.

I notice Jesus explanation of "“Let her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of My burial" insightful to these questions.

I suspect that since Mary had sat at the feet of Jesus she understood more deeply then her male counterparts did as to his mission. The disciples were still in denial of his prophecy concerning his death. While Mary may not have understood the full import of her act, I do not doubt that it was inspired by the Holy Spirit that she would demonstrate her love for her teacher in such a magnificent manner.

Spending a years' wages to purchase something of limited value just to demonstrate your love for Jesus?! I still cannot quite wrap my mind around this - perhaps someday I shall.

What practical lesson is here for me, today?

I doubt very much that anointing the feet with oil was a common practice. It was normally the head that was anointed.

A year's wage for the Lord? Would that happen today?

Just a thought.

What a contrast there is between the spirit of Martha and of Mary. The one makes the house uncomfortable with her bustling self‐importance; the other fills the house with the odour of the ointment! The Mary spirit, which waits to do till she has learnt the will of her Master, is a blessed one in a house. There are some women’s lives which have an atmosphere of heaven about them which everybody feels; unobtrusive, quiet, meek, no stir, seeming to do very little; and yet, some way, everything is done—there is nothing remarkable about their houses, yet everyone is at home there; there is nothing special about their conversation, but it helps those who hear it; it is the presence of the Master shining through them. No woman can make herself such as this! it is God only who can conform us to the image of His Son. But every Christian woman can yield herself to Him that the house where she dwells may be filled with the odour of the ointment with which she is anointing Jesus all day long in her actions as her King and her Priest, the One to whom she refers, the One whom she obeys, the One whom she honours.

Most houses have the atmosphere either of Martha or of Mary; some are full of hurry, pressure, bustle, others full of rest and quiet power. The Lord raise up amongst us many a Mary who shall sit at His feet and be “unto God a sweet savour of Christ.” (2Cr 2:15.)
- Mary Baxter

I find the woman of Luke 7's more similar ....

You mentioned having the odor of the ointment...

I pondered on this as well.

This smell permeated the whole house, radiating from Jesus and Mary. You could tell who was with whom because they smelled the same.

When one is with Jesus will we 'smell' the same? Can people tell by just being around us who we are friends with? where we get our inspiration?

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"No woman can make herself such as this! it is God only who can conform us to the image of His Son. But every Christian woman can yield herself to Him that the house where she dwells may be filled with the odor of the ointment with which she is anointing Jesus all day long in her actions as her King and her Priest, the One to whom she refers, the One whom she obeys, the One whom she honors."
____________________________________________________________

Yes, you said it better then I did.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"A year's wage for the Lord? Would that happen today?"
______________________________________________________________

If it would we would likely consider the person daft or a poor manager of their money.

On the other hand maybe people do things like this. How about people who live in primitive conditions for the sake of Christ, who live poorly ministering to others the love of Jesus? We do not consider them stupid or poor managers of their talents, skills, resources.

Still, perfume that took a year wage to pay for - hey! I never owned perfume that ever came close to that! The only expensive perfume I ever owned was given to me by a beloved aunt!

The bottom line is Mary loved Jesus so very much. This love can only happen when there is divine inspiration motivating it. When love is operating there is no cost too high to demonstrate this affection. And this is what Mary did. This was the best she had and this is what she gave.

What is my best? and who is the recipient of it?

(Thanks for your comments - it challenges me...)

John 12:8 NASB

8“For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.”

COMMENT:

When Jesus said this it appears to me as an after thought. It is a principle of spiritual life.

To care for the poor is a calling of God.

Caring for the poor, working in some humanitarian work is so demanding it absorbs ones mind, soul and energy: the demands are so great. The reason a Christian can get so absorbed in this work is because of his caring heart that is an outgrowth of his walk with the LORD.

However...unless..unless...a person puts God first, spends time with Him alone FIRST you will eventually lose your perspective in why you are serving; then you focus on psychology to fix what is in disrepair because you have lost sight of the power and majesty that is God's and his ability to redeem these people. When this happens you will also resort to fleshy means to assist the poor. This is why the gov social programs fail to alleviate poverty - they do not address the spiritual dimension. In doing so they merely feed the program and it continues growing unabated.

When communication with God is limited to a a few arrow prayers throughout the day one is setting himself up for a serious spiritual famine and failure. You need to stay close to the LORD for your own spiritual health. In so doing God will grant you the wisdom to deal with difficulties as they occur throughout the day. Unless this strength is operative in ones life you will quickly become a victim of the 'tyranny of the urgent.' And then who benefits? No one. And worse, this can spell your own spiritual downfall which is evidenced by the sins that dog many in spiritual leadership.

In life, regardless what you do, is it not true that when we spend time alone with God in the morning, the rest of the day goes smoother? Much more can be accomplished when you are yoked up with Christ then by you running ahead and doing it all in your own strength.

I read this in a heavy hearted fashion. I have seen Christians become humanitarians, and seem to leave God behind.

Yes, the poor will always be there, and I don't doubt that none of us wants to be poor. But simply because basic needs are met, does not mean they are now going to heaven, which is the bottom line.

It is without question that we are to put God first, and not only first, but our life, our breath, our heart beat.

God bless.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"But simply because basic needs are met, does not mean they are now going to heaven, which is the bottom line."
______________________________________________________________

Enid, you hit the nail on the head, fair and square! If only people could grasp a hold of this reality!

It is sad when the physical needs are met at the expense of the spiritual - or is totally ignored. So many humanitarian ministries do this...and I wonder why God allows them to flourish. I have come to this conclusion that even God will use them to further his kingdom at some level. Many questions and few answers and since this is the case we do well to leave it with God to take care of - man has messed up too many things as it is, even those who had good intentions.

God bless.

John 12:23 NASB

23 And Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.

11:4:When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

COMMENT:

The word glorified appears in different places in John. Jesus being glorified was of utmost importance in his ministry to the people. It was essential for them to understand who He was; He was working hard to assist in this process - God took the definitive to bring this about. Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead accelerated this process and climaxed with his crucifixion a short time later.

As I ponder this reality, I am seeing something with fresh understanding of how God moves through history, manipulating political events, individual behaviors ALL to bring about his son's glorification with the goal of reconciling man to himself.

I see God using the devil through people as puppets who jump when strings are pulled. And the probability the persons involved have no clue how they are being controlled by a Higher Power. Simply put, it is a lot like a chess master who can manipulate his opponents moves by his moves to get him where he wants him so he can call check-mate!

God planned political events on a global scale to assist Jesus birth. Imagine - He motivated people in Rome to move people in Nazareth to get them to Bethlehem! Amazing. Now he zeros in to Bethany and resurrects a dead man who was dead for four days! This accelerated the Jewish leaders opposition to Him. Jesus knew it. The Jewish leaders were mere pawns at the hand of God but the devil thought he was getting back at God...yes, God gives the devil a lot of wiggle room but he will eventually get hung - he knows it but does not seem to care.

As I consider how God worked here, I am also becoming more aware of how God is working in political events today to bring about his second return. God works globally and then in small towns, communities...I suppose if we could see this all from a heavenly perspective, it just might not trouble us so bad.

John 12:24-26 NASB

24 “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.

25 “He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal.

26 “If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.

COMMENT:

Jesus said in verse 23 that the time is here now where he will be glorified. Glorified - what does it entail? Honor, made wonderful by God Almighty. But what is the path to where this can be achieved? As always, He shows us by example.

Jesus uses the analogy of the seed dying before it can grow and bear fruit. It is place in the ground, covered with media (or soil), hidden from view and after due time it will germinate and grow. Some seeds require more time to germinate then others. But all seeds are quite specific to moisture, and heat levels in order for germination to occur -the levels of these important components will vary depending on the seed.

Taking this analogy further I am seeing how this is so true in people's response to the LORD Jesus. Some are a long time a-germinating, others with perfect heat/moisture are up soon - in a few days.

However long it takes for seeds to germinate, there must be a death of the seed. Jesus takes this to a literal conclusion when He offered his body to be crucified in order to redeem mankind. As long as he was here in the flesh the body of Believers was very limited, but after Pentecost, these numbers exploded. Reminds me of a dandelion head that is ripe - a little puff of wind will scatter those seeds far and wide.

We do not expect to be crucified literally as Jesus was, but we are called to crucify our flesh - our selfish ambitions, desires that are rooted in self exaltation. We must die to these inclinations. Doing so we will in our spirits experience a resurrection to a new life. This life's goals will have experienced a new outlook on life. Gone are those ambitions to exalt self but are replaced with a desire to please the Master. Jesus teaches us that this will be the case when He says "he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also.." The reward to those who do so will be "the Father will honor him."

As I ponder this I do wonder why some sins are so difficult to lay aside, to get rid of? Is it because we have not seen the Cross in its ugliness and magnificence in redeeming us? Have never experience a resurrection in our spirit to a new life?

Yes, if Jesus went to the cross, we must be willing to go to the cross as well - allow our will be experience a crucifixion.

Quote: '...I do wonder why some sins are so difficult to lay aside, to get rid of?

The Cross in its ugliness and magnificence. Have we seen it, or are we seemingly hypnotised by our own sin?

I wonder, have I seen the Cross?

John 12:25-26 NASB

25 “He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal.

26 “If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.

COMMENT:

I have heard many a sermon based on this text. As I pondered, meditated on its full implications I feel overwhelmed. There is a promise of an award to one who does lose his life for Christ's sake. Losing it will be like making a deposit in an heavenly bank. But, hey! I am a wife, a mom, a grandmother; I live in a free country in relative freedom, so what does this mean to me here and today?

As I pondered this issue more - and it has been on my mind for several days - I finally understand that this is a moment by moment thing, not something I aspire to do tomorrow, next week, next year, but now - today.

How does this translate to everyday living? Is it not how I appropriate the Gospel into my lifestyle? Am I living the will of God in how I deal with others? How I take offenses (OUCH!)? How I submit to my husband? Care for my children (if I have any)? Am I surrendering my ambitions for the sake of others' welfare?

Yes, I see - it is a moment, day by day thing where I learn to lose my life for the sake of another and while I should not fear the lose of any personal satisfaction, I should know that God notices it and he will reward us handsomely! Our goal is to please the Son and the Father just loves to see it being done....can you imagine the delight God experiences when he sees us serving his Son with pleasure and joy?

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"I wonder, have I seen the Cross?"
____________________________________________________________

A testimony by a sister in our church: she was abused by her adoptive father - he ended up in prison. This sexual abuse affected her marriage to the crises where it was just about to break-up. It was at this point where she was lying on the couch in a moment of severe despair the LORD showed himself to her - He was hanging on the cross dying for her. This proved to be a pivotal point in their marriage and it has healed.

I do not think we realize the power of the cross...What this lady experienced was awesome and to the [worldly] wise it appears like foolishness but to the godly it makes a lot of sense, does it not?

It does make a lot of sense. God is faithful, and considers us His own.

In looking at the Cross, it is He who was on the Cross, that we look to.
As we know, scripture tells us, cursed is anyone who hangs on a tree. Insomuch that Jesus became a curse for us.

As it is, we should be on that tree, each one of us for our own sins. But He took our place.
Yet, hell is reserved for those who do not look to the Cross.

Moving away somewhat from the gospel of John here. But I can trust you to put us back on track. Take care.

God bless.

John 12:27 NASB

27 “Now My soul has become troubled; and what shall I say, ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour

COMMENT:

I find this verse a comfort.

We see in this verse the humanity of Jesus. He knew perfectly what was coming soon. AND...and it troubled Him.

Sometimes when we look at the future or any other unpleasant event, we are troubled. At times we wonder if we are experiencing a lack of faith when we feel troubled. But Jesus was troubled - should this not encourage us, reassuring that our troubling over bad events is not sin but simply a sorrow that grieves us.

Jesus wept at Lazarus tomb; now he is troubled as the time is rapidly coming to a close for his crucifixion. Weeping and being troubled is part of the human existence. We should not allow this reality to distract us, making us feel like we are spiritually weak. And neither should we drown our sorrow in alcohol because this merely anesthetizes one's emotions. Jesus did neither. He faced unpleasant situations head-on with prayer, casting his care upon his Father. We do well to do likewise.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"As it is, we should be on that tree, each one of us for our own sins. But He took our place.
Yet, hell is reserved for those who do not look to the Cross."
______________________________________________________________

This idea of looking to the cross for redemption seems so absurd. However, we have an incident that fore-shadowed this eternal truth in the OT when Moses had a bronze serpent made and told the people if they looked to it they would be healed. So simple. Dreadfully simple. Is looking to the cross of Christ any harder?

Incidentally, the Jewish leadership was compelled to destroy this bronze serpent years later because it became an object of idolatry. Today I wonder if the crucifix has become an object of idolatry? Just wondering...Yet, having said that I do find a measure of comfort when a hospital room sports a Bible verse or crucifix on their wall...Tells me the people who own this facility believe in God.

As it is, we do live in troubling times. With all the decadence and ungodliness around us, let alone the economy, unemployment etc, who do we look to?

If we do not look to the Lord, we will be troubled indeed.

As the Lord Jesus has said, let not your heart be troubled.

If we believe what He says, we will not be overwhelmed when, not if, trouble comes.

John 12:35-36; 44-50 NASB

35 So Jesus said to them, “For a little while longer the Light is among you. Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; he who walks in the darkness does not know where he goes.

36 “While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of Light.”

44 And Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, does not believe in Me but in Him who sent Me.

45 “He who sees Me sees the One who sent Me.

46 “I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness.

47 “If anyone hears My sayings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world.

48 “He who rejects Me and does not receive My sayings, has one who judges him; the word I spoke is what will judge him at the last day.

49 “For I did not speak on My own initiative, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment as to what to say and what to speak.

50 “I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”

COMMENT:

Jesus reiterates what he has been saying before. It is "believe me, believe me, believe me". Once again he warns people to walk in the light less darkness will overtake you. (More can be said about this and will do that in another post later.)

But why is is so dreadfully important that people believe on HIM?

He informs us in verse 50 that he speaks only what the Father has told him to. Nothing more, nothing less. So, Jesus word packs authority, power. It is not something to be trifled with, nor debated, it is absolute. Unless one believes beyond a shadow of a doubt about who he is, his word can be challenged, debated and even discarded as one spoken by a fanatical wannabe prophet. Unless one affords this authority to Him, his sermons can be merely used to form an interesting philosophy for life. And many do so.

Failure to believe on Him is to invite judgement upon its violators. Jesus came to warn us to prevent this from happening, hence his urgency to convince people of his authority, his origins.

How well do I believe Jesus' teachings?

I find it very interesting how the other Gospels detail his teachings as it touches on life where the rubber meets the road; whereas, John addresses his divinity, his authority inherent to that. Once his divinity is understood, his other teaching will carry more weight, authority.

John 12:45

45 “He who sees Me sees the One who sent Me.

COMMENT:

This verse reminds me of the one found in John 14:6: I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father but through me."

As I seriously consider this verse, I see within it the the centrality of Jesus' identity.

No one, absolutely no one can access the Father apart from Jesus. No one, neither Jew nor Gentile, nor New Ager, nor Muslim, nor Catholic, nor Baptist, nor Pentecostal, nor Amish, nor Mennonite, nor Charismatic, nor Calvinist, nor Armenian, nor Methodist - nobody. It is Jesus one must recognize as equal with God because he is God. He is authoritative. They work in perfect unity - no squabbles, no debates, no challenges, no arguments...WOW! Obviously they are not human! To suppose one can pray to God apart from recognizing the Son will not work - it does not fly.

There are many who will pray to God but minimize or downplay the importance of Jesus in the scheme of things. Let us never fall into this trap but keep Jesus where God put Him - NO ONE comes to the Father apart from Jesus.

A theological discussion can be pursued how this principle ties in with the first of the ten commandments: "Thou shalt have no other gods before me." God gave this command to Moses with the instructions it be taught to his people. Actually he is stating a reality and it is vital this truth be recognized and apart from this recognition the rest of the commandments are meaningless because they cannot be upheld apart from obedience to the first because the first one is the foundation of all life.

Do I see God in Jesus? How will it impact me today if this is understood in my spirit?

hi ginny

verse 45,,,,,reminds me of what paul wrote
he is the image of the invisable god

the express image of the god who is not seen due to where he is,,no one has seen the father but the son ,,no man has went up to to heaven but he who came down form heaven even the son of man who is in heaven

this invisable god this unknowable god ,,expressed him self in his eturnal son the word ,was with god ,and who was is god
this inviasable god created the worlds through his son for his son and to his son ,becasue he is before all things and in him do all things exist ,,,becasue he is the fundamentle expression of the fullness of god

one esence onenature ,one sunstance ,one being

but two expressions ,,one expresses the other,for the first expression is untouchable ,with out the seconed

the first and seconed member of the blessed trinity

unity and diversity ,in the comunity of the trinity

true love before the foundation of ceation

the god of love lacked nothing ,fufilled in him self

fully expressed him self within the limitless boundarys of himself

he who sees the son sees the father
the father loves the son ,and has givern all things into his hand

now im rambeling

blessings

johns gosple is my favouret gosple

it so far is the only gosple that i felt that i needed to voice recored ,the whole lot ,,,,and i repetaly listen to it over and over again ,,it is food that we can surely live off ,,and i never get full and stuffed to our liminute,,

so many parts of that gosple are my favouret

blessings

when you said to supose one can pray to god with out recognising the son ,,the verse that poped in my mind was in the book of the acts

when stephen was being stoned he saw the heavens opened and the son at the right hand of the father

he called upon god saying lord jesus recieve my spirit

i love that verse ,,when i found that i was joy full

it is ok to call upon god and say lord jesus ,,stephen did it ,so do i

i rember a year ago have a conversasion with two jehova witness at my house ,,,,and confessed to them that i didnt beleieve what they were teaching was true ,,,mind you the love i had for them was making me tremble ,and gods spirit was speaking through me bringing things with out any efert or recolection in to my mind

i asked them was it correct that we shold not pray to jesus ,,they said yes we should only pray to god the father

then with there own bible asked them to read the vereses of the stoning of stephen ,,he read ,and stoped short at the verse in question ,would not read it to me ,,then i asked kindly if i could look at his bible and read the verse that showed stephen praying to jesus ,,,,every thing went quiet ,,then i exponded the doctrine of the trinity the new birth, repentence , and a few other things

he left me on good terms we shook hands ,i looked at him with love and he said he wanted to come back around and talk more i said i would love to and ment it ,,,

but it remminded me of legalisim to the maxium
a form of godledness with out the power

he saw my wife in the shops a week later ,,and told her im going to hell for believing what i beleieved

but we must speak as he leds us with love ,,regardles

blessings

Quote: "Thou shalt have no other gods before me."

If we have other gods before Him, then He cannot be our God.

None can come to God unless they first have the Saviour, who is Jesus, "...for He will save His people from their sins."

If the first commandment is upheld, then, we can, through God's strength, uphold the others.

"He who sees Me, sees the One who sent Me."

John 12:49-50 NASB

49 “For I did not speak on My own initiative, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment as to what to say and what to speak.

50 “I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”

COMMENT:

Thus far in John we have been seeing how Jesus worked hard to impress upon people who he is, the importance of believing Him, how he comes from God, is God and how one cannot approach God apart from him. If he would be a mere human I would think he this is the most arrogant of statements he is making about himself! But therein lies the rub - He is God and there is none greater.

Anyways...

As I consider this verse where Jesus reiterates that what he says is what the Father told him to, his obedience to his will I am reminded of the verse in 1Peter 4:11: "If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."

Jesus left us a perfect example of obedience to the Father. He was always obedient, always. He submitted to the cross, took on a submissive role...Then He comes along and expects us to follow him as well. When this is the case it will put us at odds with the world. How do we communicate with it, to those around us? Are we ambivalent in matters of the Word? or, do we believe in its absolute authority? Peter tells us that when one speaks he should speak as the oracles of God! This makes me tremble...Am I so sure of God's Word that I can speak it with that much authority? Am I that submitted to the Holy Spirit?

This concept leaves me shaking - almost. Yet, Jesus only spoke what the Father had him say - if we do likewise, it should empower us, should it not?

I am severely challenged...

Thanks for sharing your experience with the JW, Gary. This is enlightening...Do not consider your time wasted with this person - the LORD can and will use it in the future. It will be one step on the ladder to repentance.

God bless.

my wife wonders somtimes ,is it right to want to speak always about god and his princapls to allways exort one another daily ,,,,and that verse ,you said let him who speaks, speak as the oracals of god , would come into my mind ,and i would tell her ,we are truly comanded to exort daily and when the holy spirit impreses on our hearts we are to speak it as if it was gods word to us ,with out heasatation wity all conviction ,,jesus did that didnt he

manyntimes in my converted life ,,i get grieved that i have now one to speak and exort not do they want to exort and my self ,and neither do people seem to want to crusafie vain idletalk ,,,and just speak spirtual things
dening self talk taking up the oracals of the cross

my wife wonders why i dont realy enjoy worldly conversation , its a burden to me

even in the churches i went to ,peoaple seemed to after the serves,,want to talk about football and fishing and frivilous things of no eturnal value ,as if there is a time for god ,and then comes the time for vain idel talk

there was none of that that we can see in jesus words

he spoke the words of the father

set you mind of heavenly things ,paul said ,,,there should be no room for anything else as a fundamently rule ,,

i pray god can put us with others where we can ,fulfill that comandment

blessings

Yes, spiritual conversations are so edifying...it is exciting to incorporate it in to our everyday conversations. I guess this is why I enjoy meeting the public at our store...These discussions bring so much joy to one's soul and spirit.

ginnyrose

John 13:1-30 NASB

1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, Jesus knowing that His hour had come that He would depart out of this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.

2 During supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray Him,

3 Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God,

4 got up from supper, and laid aside His garments; and taking a towel, He girded Himself.

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

5 Then He poured water into the basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel with which He was girded.

6 So He came to Simon Peter. He said to Him, “Lord, do You wash my feet?”

7 Jesus answered and said to him, “What I do you do not realize now, but you will understand hereafter.”

8 Peter said to Him, “Never shall You wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”

9 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, then wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head.”

10 Jesus said to him, “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean; and you are clean, but not all of you.”

11 For He knew the one who was betraying Him; for this reason He said, “Not all of you are clean.”

12 So when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you?

13 “You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am.

14 “If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.

15 “For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you.

16 “Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.

17“If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

18“I do not speak of all of you. I know the ones I have chosen; but it is that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘HE WHO EATS MY BREAD HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME.’

19 “From now on I am telling you before it comes to pass, so that when it does occur, you may believe that I am He.

20 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who receives whomever I send receives Me; and he who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.”

Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

21 When Jesus had said this, He became troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, that one of you will betray Me.”

22 The disciples began looking at one another, at a loss to know of which one He was speaking.

23 There was reclining on Jesus’ bosom one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved.

24 So Simon Peter gestured to him, and said to him, “Tell us who it is of whom He is speaking.”

25 He, leaning back thus on Jesus’ bosom, said to Him, “Lord, who is it?”

26Jesus then answered, “That is the one for whom I shall dip the morsel and give it to him.” So when He had dipped the morsel, He took and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot.

27 After the morsel, Satan then entered into him. Therefore Jesus said to him, “What you do, do quickly.”

28 Now no one of those reclining at the table knew for what purpose He had said this to him.

29 For some were supposing, because Judas had the money box, that Jesus was saying to him, “Buy the things we have need of for the feast”; or else, that he should give something to the poor.

30 So after receiving the morsel he went out immediately; and it was night.

COMMENT:

I printed this entire story of Jesus' washing his disciples feet because I consider it important that all that is written about it be kept in context. Lord willing, there are many lessons this incident teaches us about God and how we respond to him, that I want to comment on.

Today I want to focus on Jesus' act of washing feet.

It was customary back in those days for a host to offer water to quests upon entering the house. Their feet were dusty, dirty from their walk to this place. To help the host[ess] keep a clean house, water was provided to wash the soil from the feet. Usually, it was a servant who did the honors to the guests.

Now, here we have Jesus rising AFTER supper to wash his disciples feet. We do not know, it is not recorded, but one can assume their feet were washed BEFORE supper because this was the customary time to do so.

Jesus demonstrated servant-hood in assuming the job of washing the feet of his disciples. He was the greater, by far. He was the King of Kings but clothed in human flesh. He got tired, hungry and dirty. He also worked with his own hands - after making the universe by mere speaking. How many royals would stoop so low knowing well they can have what they wish with merely expressing a desire for such?

Jesus demonstrated that there is no task so low down that one should refuse to do if and when the need presents itself. Jesus expects his children to be willing to perform any task that needs to be done.

How does this act minister to you?

It takes humility to be a servant, to serve our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Today, it might not be the washing of feet, but God still exects us to have the heart of a servant towards each other.

The apostle Paul refered to himself as a bond-servant, or slave, of Christ.

We are no different. May God guard our hearts against pride.

I mentioned yesterday how Jesus washed the disciples feet AFTER supper. Doing so one assumes the feet were clean and in no need of washing because it likely would have been done upon arrival.

(Peter objected to Jesus washing his feet: "Never shall ye wash my feet! Jesus ended with by saying, “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet, but is completely clean;.... and you are clean, but not all of you.")

In any case Jesus set us an example of servant-hood in washing the disciples feet, “Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master ...If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them."

Today there are Believers who understand Jesus to be introducing a ritual to be observed by Believers. Those who believe thus will do it during the time when communion is observed.

Rituals introduced by the LORD have little practical value in and of itself. They all point to a greater principle that is important for us the be reminded of lest it get lost in the busyness of life. Some are done periodically others only once as in baptism. Feet washing can be considered as one of these rituals. The fact the disciple feet were washed after supper would lend itself to this interpretation/application.

In our brotherhood we wash feet when we have communion service which is held once a year on the Wednesday before Resurrection Day. This is a very meaningful ritual. It is private - women to women, men to men - we are off to ourselves...It is a beautiful reminder how we are servants of one another, that there is no task that we should shy away from because it is beneath us to render. Jesus is a perfect example of this principle.

We are a classless society are we not? All servants of One divine Master. All servants who must answer to one master.

Servant-hood...we serve the LORD today by serving each other...no job beneath our dignity in serving...

Peter objected to Jesus washing his feet: "Never!" and Jesus says if "I don''t you have no part with me!"

Whoa...what does Jesus mean? If Peter does not allow Jesus to wash his feet he cannot be a part of Him?

As I consider the implication of Peter's objection with Jesus reply, I wonder does it have anything to do with us, or in this case Peter, being in a position to have someone serve me? I wonder.

I am so independent; I think I can do things myself. It takes a lot of pride-swallowing to admit I need help. Ageing does not enhance one's independence but skillfully robs one of it. Nature is forcing me to allow others to serve me...

As I understand the symbolism of servant-hood, it also means being willing to be served - and being gracious about it. It is easy to observe the ritual but how about in the practical areas of life? Now this is where the rubber meets the road...

John 13:8
8 Peter said to Him, “Never shall You wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part with Me.”

COMMENT:

As I consider Jesus wanting to wash Peter's feet and his response to Peter's reluctance to do so, I see a beautiful symbol in this scenario.

In order for Jesus to wash Peter's feet, Peter had to sit down and allow Jesus to serve him. He had to hold still while Jesus did his job.

Does Jesus desire to wash our feet today? are we sitting down long enough to allow Him to do so? or, are we too much in a hurry running hither and yon to allow Him to minister to us?

Sitting at Jesus' feet and allowing Him to minister to our spirit - do we do that? are we quiet, waiting patiently? [EDIT] Unless we allow Jesus to minister to us we can have no part with Him...

Serious. Very serious.

John 13:21 NASB

21 When Jesus had said this, He became troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, that one of you will betray Me.”

COMMENT:

Jesus had been warning his disciples of his impending death. Up to this point they could not comprehend this declaration - it took the resurrection to help them understand the fullness of what he was working to teaching them.

Another dimension of his suffering is revealed now - he will be betrayed by one of his disciples. It says "He became troubled in spirit." I find this heartening.

Betrayal is among the most devastating things a person can experience. People you have trusted will turn on you, give you over to your enemy. Doing so means they do not trust you, the love they said they had for you was not genuine... There is no one that can hurt you as bad as people whom you love and trust. Now Jesus was about to become a victim as well. And it troubled him.

Have you ever been betrayed? Hurts, does it not? Jesus was troubled as well. Sometimes the devil will work to make us feel guilty for being troubled - that this troubling exposes a lack of faith and lack of love for the betrayer. Not so. If you are troubled just know that Jesus knows about that pain as well but it did not deter him from his mission. Let us not be deter from our mission in serving the LORD if or when we are betrayed...

1 Now before the Feast of the Passover, Jesus knowing that His hour had come that He would depart out of this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.

21 When Jesus had said this, He became troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, that one of you will betray Me.”

25 He, leaning back thus on Jesus’ bosom, said to Him, “Lord, who is it?”

26 Jesus then answered, “That is the one for whom I shall dip the morsel and give it to him.” So when He had dipped the morsel, He took and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot.

27 After the morsel, Satan then entered into him. Therefore Jesus said to him, “What you do, do quickly.”

COMMENT:

About betrayal...

Jesus in a act of love warned his disciples that he will be betrayed. While this revelation took them by surprise, he then identified him.

As I considered this incident, I had to wonder - does the Holy Spirit today identify to us our betrayers?

In checking out the life of Judas we do not read where he did anything that would have raised the suspicions of the other disciples that he was a betrayer. Apparently there may have been knowledge that he was an embezzler, but betraying Jesus? We do not read where this was even on their radar...

But Jesus told them because he loved them. There are a few things one can see in this act: Jesus was not taken by surprise; he warned them in order to enable them to deal with it when it happens.

I am wondering - how often does the Holy Spirit warn us of our betrayers before they do it? Are there any red flags at all before the act is done? Somehow, I suspect this is the case. One time, years ago, I felt in my spirit a check about a very good friend of mine: I trusted her, we were close. Then there was that still small voice that was warning me about her, but I discounted it saying she is OK! But the feeling was there regardless of my denials. The friend had done nothing to trigger any of my suspicions. Nothing. But then it happened.

As life progresses, I do know we do get a check in our spirit about individuals that they are not what they appear to be. And we likely will have little evidence to substantiate the sense. So, do we listen? Or live in denial and get wounded in the aftermath? (Yes, I was wounded..recovering from it is H.A.R.D.)

John 13:34, 35 NASB

34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

35 “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

COMMENT:

Jesus issues a new commandment, a new one, so he says. The OT law commanded love for ones neighbors and God:

Lev_19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD

Lev_19:34 But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.

Deu_6:5 And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.

So then, how does this new love differ from what is stipulated here in the OT law?

As I pondered this question I did a search .... and here is what one writer suggests:

" but it was new because it had never before been made that by which any class or body of people had been known and distinguished. The Jew was known by his external rites, by his uniqueness of dress, etc.; the philosopher by some other mark of distinction; the military man by another, etc. In none of these cases had love for each other been the distinguishing and special badge by which they were known. But in the case of Christians they were not to be known by distinctions of wealth, or learning, or fame; they were not to aspire to earthly honors; they were not to adopt any special style of dress or badge, but they were to be distinguished by tender and constant attachment to each other."

Oh...it is love for each other that Believers have. We may be strangers to each other, but when you meet there is that love that flows - there is a bond, a connectedness, a commonality, an understanding of spirits. When it happens on the spiritual level it will find expression in how you relate to each other.

Still, Jesus reminds them that they should love as he loved them...so what did he do in the recent three years they could point to as being different that would teach them about love? What was different? He fed the hungry and so did the Jews - or at least were supposed to; He cast out demons and so did the Jews; He raised a few dead people - hey! the Jews could not do that; Jesus healed the sick, the lame - no go for the Jews, they could not do that; he extended mercy to the repentant - ah...perhaps this is the ultimate in love? This is totally spiritual, not temporal unlike feeding the hungry, healing the sick or resurrecting the dead.

Mercy, forgiveness...and Jesus had many opportunities to extend this to his disciples. They were a quarrelsome lot, concerned about position, power but Jesus told them this was not to characterize them. Ah...maybe this is what it means to love?!

So... this may be the dimension of love that was new - to be a servant and show love, like washing feet. Can't get much lower then that, can you?

John 13:33-38 NASB

33 “Little children, I am with you a little while longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, now I also say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’

34 “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.

35 “By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

36 Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, where are You going?” Jesus answered, “Where I go, you cannot follow Me now; but you will follow later.”

37 Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I not follow You right now? I will lay down my life for You.”

38 Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly, I say to you, a rooster will not crow until you deny Me three times.

COMMENT:

Jesus tells his disciples what he has been telling people all along - that he is leaving and they cannot follow him. To the natural mind this makes no sense. At least to Peter it didn't. He declared he can go wherever Jesus does - after all, he did walk on water one time before, he did go where other people did not. Why, he can go anywhere - he would even lay down his life for Jesus! Or, so he thought.

It is easy to be idealistic about our abilities when the stomach is full, when you are surrounded by loving friends like Peter was at the moment. But how does one measure up when you are alone and your support system is elsewhere?

But Jesus said, "you cannot come'. I pondered about this a while. There are places where God is but He does not want you there - can we comprehend this? How many times are our failures due to us running ahead of God? He said you cannot come.

In any case, Peter was NOT as strong as he thought he was and Jesus told him he would end up denying Him. Oh. Oh. Do we not see the mercy of Jesus in warning Peter about this? And in spite of it all, Jesus still loved Peter.

"Him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall." Peter was to learn this lesson before too long.

As I ponder Peter's declaration of his faithfulness, it should challenge us to be so very careful to go only where God is personally taking us - not other people. When we are where God wants us, he will give us enabling power to be faithful. Consider Peter's reaction when he was jailed in Acts 12. He was chained to guards, they were fixing to kill him the next day but what did he do? He slept. LOL Must not have bothered him any, but it sure did the other Christians outside! The difference is astounding.

We serve the same God today that Peter did.

John 14:1 NASB

1“Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.

COMMENT:

After the last supper, as detailed in chapter 13, Jesus is focusing on his disciples. He has been teaching the people for three years about who He is. To his disciples he has told them about the nature of his kingdom but it still had not sunk in to their consciousnesses the reality and nature of it. Jesus knew that before too many days their belief in him would be shattered unless they understood his mission.

The disciples had anticipated Jesus to be heading a political kingdom and they were going to hold positions of authority. Instead, Jesus gives them a crash course in servanthood by washing their feet! A king wash his servant's feet?? Absurd! And Jesus tells them they were to do likewise! Well!! - double the absurdity! Now, this was NOT what they had expected...

Jesus, knowing full well the disciples secret ambitions for authority will be totally shattered gives them a basic lesson in Trust: believe in God, believe also in Me.

The disciples knew the OT stories of how God dealt with people - this was part of their culture, their faith. They already believed in God. Now Jesus is emphasizing that since you believe in him, the Father, just trust me as well. Nothing is going to happen that is outside of the will of the Father. They are troubled but do not fear - even if you do not understand, just believe me anyways.

As I consider the disciples dilemma at this point in time I find myself in dilemmas that force me to question God, the Word or what I am hearing the Spirit say. He says, "Trust me" or "Believe Me". Is it not when we feel totally helpless, when things make no sense at all that God can work His work. When this is the case NO ONE can take the credit for it.

Just Believe me, so said Jesus to his disciples, and it is for us today, as well.

John 1:1-4 NASB

1 “Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me.

2“In My Father’s house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you.

3 “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also.

4 “And you know the way where I am going.”

COMMENT:

In this scripture Jesus is introducing the subject what Christians refer to as heaven, the abiding of God, his angels and eventually the redeemed.

One thing I find so amazing is how the OT saints had a sense of eternity, an afterlife. We find no where in the OT - that I know of - where God informs his people of such a place, but they knew there is one. Solomon tells us in Ecclesiastes 3:11 that God has set eternity in our hearts- alluding to the innate sense thereof, but still it is not written so in the prophets or law.

Now Jesus shares more info with his disciples about this place. He knew what lies ahead for his children, and worked to bring them comfort to teach them to look beyond their present circumstances. In doing so he was setting a perfect example for them and all who follow after.

The prospect of heaven is what motivates Believers to keep on when the going gets hard. Paul himself says that if only in this life we have hope we are of all men most miserable. 1Cor.15:19.

It is interesting that Jesus mentions the existence of mansions. When one mentions mansions he sees a beautiful place, inhabited by rich people, privileged folks far beyond the reach of common folks. And that is what the redeemed are. But one does not inherit this position by family, extortion, bribery, money or other connections EXCEPT by accepting the LORD Jesus as LORD and Savior and following him. This is all but everything.

AND...this place will be ruled by the LORD Jesus. He will be there. AND..it will be populated by people who have overcome the evil one by the blood of the Lamb. How much better can it get? It can't.

In John 14:2 Jesus mentions a place he is preparing for the saints - a place commonly known as heaven. Today I would like to digress a bit and think about heaven. I love to think about it, don't you? Based on the Scriptures it challenges my imagination and as a result love to daydream about it. I experience no guilt for this type of daydreaming...I always sense God is pleased when we meditate on the place he has prepared for his saints...

In Revelation 4 we get a description of what John was shown:

2 Immediately I was in the Spirit; and behold, a throne was standing in heaven, and One sitting on the throne.

3 And He who was sitting was like a jasper stone and a sardius in appearance; and there was a rainbow around the throne, like an emerald in appearance.

4 Around the throne were twenty-four thrones; and upon the thrones I saw twenty-four elders sitting, clothed in white garments, and golden crowns on their heads.

5 Out from the throne come flashes of lightning and sounds and peals of thunder. And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God;

6 and before the throne there was something like a sea of glass, like crystal; and in the center and around the throne, four living creatures full of eyes in front and behind.

7 The first creature was like a lion, and the second creature like a calf, and the third creature had a face like that of a man, and the fourth creature was like a flying eagle.

8 And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say,
“HOLY, HOLY, HOLY is THE LORD GOD, THE ALMIGHTY, WHO WAS AND WHO IS AND WHO IS TO COME.”

9 And when the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, to Him who lives forever and ever,

10 the twenty-four elders will fall down before Him who sits on the throne, and will worship Him who lives forever and ever, and will cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

11 “Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.”

Now meditate on this a while; then read what Rev. 21:10-22:1-4 says:

10 And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the holy city, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,

11 having the glory of God. Her brilliance was like a very costly stone, as a stone of crystal-clear jasper.

12 It had a great and high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels; and names were written on them, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel.

13 There were three gates on the east and three gates on the north and three gates on the south and three gates on the west.

14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.

15 The one who spoke with me had a gold measuring rod to measure the city, and its gates and its wall.

16 The city is laid out as a square, and its length is as great as the width; and he measured the city with the rod, fifteen hundred miles; its length and width and height are equal.

17 And he measured its wall, seventy-two yards, according to human measurements, which are also angelic measurements.

18 The material of the wall was jasper; and the city was pure gold, like clear glass.

19 The foundation stones of the city wall were adorned with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation stone was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, chalcedony; the fourth, emerald;

20 the fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, topaz; the tenth, chrysoprase; the eleventh, jacinth; the twelfth, amethyst.

21And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; each one of the gates was a single pearl. And the street of the city was pure gold, like transparent glass.

22 I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.

23 And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God has illumined it, and its lamp is the Lamb.

4 The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. 25In the daytime (for there will be no night there) its gates will never be closed;

26 and they will bring the glory and the honor of the nations into it;

27 and nothing unclean, and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into it, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life.

1 Then he showed me a river of the water of life, clear as crystal, coming from the throne of God and of the Lamb,

2 in the middle of its street. On either side of the river was the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.

3 There will no longer be any curse; and the throne of God and of the Lamb will be in it, and His bond-servants will serve Him;

4 they will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads.

5 And there will no longer be any night; and they will not have need of the light of a lamp nor the light of the sun, because the Lord God will illumine them; and they will reign forever and ever.

Since I believe John was describing a literal, physical place, I receive so much delight and pleasure in visualizing what he is describing. I see a Creator God who has reserved his greatest creativity for his saints. Imagine a place not tainted by sin, a place in which one does not have to deal with sin where there is no lying or any abomination. That alone would seem like heaven, would it not? Still, God made the place using the finest materials - gemstones, pearls of such magnitude that boggles the imagination. Since this is the case, why on earth do people have trouble believing God created the Universe?

I serve an awesome and wonderful God...He is a beautiful God - he is the essence of beauty, joy and love. Anything that would mar Him or his place of abode can never find a home there. It is pure... Does this not motivate us to faithfulness?

John 14:6,8 NASB

6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.

8 Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”

COMMENT:

Jesus made some strong statements about himself - he says He IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE...No human being can say anything like this with any certainty. These are statements that reflect absolute certainty and reality. How many times have we said something that we thought was so certain only to be proven wrong? Many times - enough I hope we have learned the futility of doing so. But here Jesus defies what normal people have learned not to do.

I wonder at Philip's question about Jesus...he had followed Jesus for three years, heard him preach, heal and teach. He knew Jesus real well as a human being endowed with supernatural powers. He saw Jesus endure the limitations inherent to human life and now he makes such strong statements about his relationship with God. How can this be? When I put myself in Philip's shoes I do not wonder at the disciples questions about his relationship with the Father. I suspect they had a hard time to recognize they were actually seeing God, that they had actually touched him, fed him, housed him, walked with Him, talked with him, challenged him. This is God?

Now Jesus is saying He is THE WAY, THE TRUTH,THE LIFE...what all does this entail? I will come back in my next post and explore this question, D.V.

John 14:9-11 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, John 14:19-20 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake.

The same goes for the Christian; John 14:19-20 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

John 14:19-20 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.

Do we believe this for ourselves? Do we see Him in each other?

That is where He is, IN US.

In Christ and He in me: Phillip

for recreation from he is a mirical for free

no what you see for it becomes he

when we know that he is we
we only no he is all we will see

John 14:6
6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.

COMMENT:

Jesus declares he is THE WAY, THE TRUTH, THE LIFE. That NO ONE comes to the Father except through him.

Many philosophers, teachers have worked hard to formulate a theory for life that gives people satisfaction; one that provides for them a goal that is perhaps a tad bit beyond their reach; but if you really want to be good, you may need to take a pilgrimage here or there to a holy place. Getting there will require a lot of sacrifice on different levels, but if accomplish it will earn you status with your god - makes people feel good they have accomplish something that would please their god. What a sham!

Then there are folks that believe in God but give no credit to the Son, denying either his importance or existence.

Then there are religions that have millions of gods and since Jesus sounds like a wonderful teacher they will add him to their collection of gods they worship.

Many moderns are so open minded they have decided there are many ways to God believing all religions are credible so you have the liberty to pick and choose because they all lead to heaven, anyways - so they say.

But what does Jesus say? He says NO ONE can come to the Father by by-passing me! No one. Makes no difference what religion you hold to, Jesus must be recognized and worshiped for who he is. And Him alone! God says he will not share his glory with another. Isaiah 42:8;48:11. (So who is the God of Isaiah? The LORD in the OT is the pre-incarnate Jesus.)

Can we in our minds visualize the majesty, the glory of God/Jesus as depicted in Revelation 4,5? He was sitting on a throne, surrounded by a rainbow of beautiful colors, surrounded by beasts that sang praises continuously, 24 elders ringed the throne all backed up by millions of angels praising God. All of this was situated on a plaza made with crystal. Who is this God? Do we not think He is the one who deserves all our praise? all of our worship? All of our affections? If this is operational in our lives, it will not be hard to embrace his declarations of what is the Way, the Truth and the LIFE, will it?

More on this later...

If the Lord Jesus Christ is not the way, truth or life, then no one is.

It is beyond our comprehension, the majesty of God, as played out in heaven.

The throne, the beasts that worship, the 24 elders etc.

If they, in God's presence continually, worship God, then how is it, we seem to have problems doing the same?

Then again, could it be, that, were we in God's presence as they are, we could do no other than to worship continually for who He is?

Just a thought.

By the way, Happy New Year.

Enid said:
"Then again, could it be, that, were we in God's presence as they are, we could do no other than to worship continually for who He is?"

I agree. This is what I experience to some degree when I read about Him in Revelation. It does me good to periodically read about Him in Revelation - helps me to keep life and its foolishness in proper perspective!

Happy New Year to you, as well! Love your posts, BTW, Enid. One does not have to question or second guess what you mean when you write! :-)

ginnyrose

John 14:6 NASB - The Truth

Jesus is The Truth.

COMMENT:

What is Truth? A question that has dogged man for thousands of years, even Pilate asked that question.

Truth just IS.

Jesus said he is the "I AM". I like to think Jesus is the "I IS" - a grammatical perversion of "I am" - I like to think this is what the "I AM" is.

So, then, how does one discover Truth? What are the barriers to knowing truth? Does it not happen when we do not want to face reality, want to save face because we have erred but do not want to admit it? It all comes down to pride, does it not? Proverbs says that pride goeth before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall. I understand this to mean that pride is the root of all sin. It is centered on ME, it wants to preserve ME from anything that would tarnish my reputation, my wants, my own self-esteem. So, I work to become a person that fits the image I think I am or am striving for.

Truth. In nature we see truth at work. The laws of nature are consistent. Because of its consistency man has been able to build, invent, discover, plan based upon discoveries made. And they are consistent. As man delves into life more deeply he finds more complex laws at work. Is it not amazing that in all the thousands of years that man has inhabited the earth that he has not discovered everything? Man continues his quest in search for truth, whether it be the laws of nature or his quest to find self-satisfaction.

Truth - without it man or nature would collapse in on itself. Since this is true in the natural realm, why does man work so hard to deny it in the spiritual realm?

In Jesus' teachings, he was skilled in dealing with the heart of issues. If and when the heart was dealt with, then holiness would emanate from it. Our behaviors are mere evidences of what resides in the heart.

Someone recently said that Jesus did not come to save people who they think they are but what they are. Does this not behoove us to allow the Light to shine upon our heart to reveal to us what is within so the Holy Spirit can work on it and cleanse it? He does need our permission to accomplish this task, you know....

Truth - is it elusive? Not if you pursue it and allow it to teach you...and you will discover you are not as great as you thought you were. You will learn you are a sinner in need of cleansing and once this is accomplished you will find it is an ongoing process...and therein lies the mercy and grace of God - it cannot be experienced apart from it.

Jesus is worthy of all of our praise, is He not?

Truth - is it elusive? Not if you pursue it and allow it to teach you...and you will discover you are not as great as you thought you were. You will learn you are a sinner in need of cleansing and once this is accomplished you will find it is an ongoing process...and therein lies the mercy and grace of God - it cannot be experienced apart from it.

Yes, Bible says Law came through Moses but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ (John 1:17). The truth that Jesus brought to the earth that never existed before is this, the truth in our inner most being.

Psalms 51:6:-Behold, You desire truth in the innermost being,And in the hidden part You will make me know wisdom.

This truth that God desired was impossible to attain before Jesus came to earth. Jesus lived and showed us that it is possible. He had an external life that is same as his internal life. When people wanted to find where he lived he invited them immediately 'Come and see' (John3). He was ever ready for people to see his life. There was nothing to hide. He had light in all parts of his life, there was nothing hidden.

Now Jesus is willing to offer us this truth, we only need to seek it and not be happy with what people think about us externally. We need to seek honor from God who sees all the areas in our life. The Pharisees were happy with external purity and external honor from people, they did not care about their internal testimony nor getting honor from God, that is why they never Saw Jesus as their savior though he lived and walked in their midst.

Quote: 'Truth - without it man or nature would collapse in on itself'

We can see that happening. The more man reject's God, and looks to self, the worse he is. That is, if it is possible
to be worse than nothing.

We see in Isaiah 59 that truth is fallen in the street.

But we see in Jesus, truth pesonified.

Glory to God.

Jesus is LIFE - Jesus said, I am the WAY, THE TRUTH and THE LIFE, John 14:6

COMMENT:

I see in these three - the way, truth and the life as progressive - one cannot be operational in the absence of one or another - they cannot exist independently from each other.

Now let us look at LIFE. Jesus gives LIFE.

So, what is life? Is it not operational when verse 23: "If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him" is the reality?

When this is in place, operational, our lives will be free from experiencing the consequences of sin. Does this mean we will no longer sin? No, but when we do and become convicted we will repent - 1John teaches us a lot about this.

There is the law of sowing and reaping which has never been annulled. Gal. 6: 7,8: "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." Sin hampers living life to the full. There will be consequences and even though a person can repent, the flesh is still alive and the devil has a long memory and will work to help you to remember as well. Memory can become a severe drag on victorious living. Surrender to the LORDSHIP of Jesus will enable a person to resist temptation and thus be free to live life to the full! Jesus says in John 10:10: "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

When we walk with the LORD we will enjoy life in spite of the discomforts the devil throws our way. God's WORD will feed our souls, our spirit and impact our lifestyle thus freeing us from the consequences of personal sin. And in turn will make us long for heaven. You will look with envy at those who have gone on before...

Brother Isaiah says it well in chapter 40:31: "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint."

John 14:8-11 NASB

8 Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough for us.”

9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been so long with you, and yet you have not come to know Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’?

10 “Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in Me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on My own initiative, but the Father abiding in Me does His works.

11 “Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me; otherwise believe because of the works themselves.

COMMENT:

I am impressed with Jesus' patience with his disciples. They keep asking him questions he earlier had talked about in his ministry. Jesus keeps repeating himself over and over again. Reminds me of a riddle we liked when we were children: "Pete and Repeat were sitting on a fence, Pete fell off and who was left?" "Repeat." "Pete and Repeat were sitting on a fence and Pete fell off...."

The Pharisees questioned Jesus a lot, they seem to understand his declarations and it angered them. But these disciples seemed to be so dense. Or, maybe because they were so close to him they could not see the forest because of the trees. Still, the very idea that their friend claimed to have such close connections with God was foreign to them. None of the prophets made claims like he did. While Jesus did take them to task for their apparent ignorance, he was still very patient with them.

And you know what? He still is. There have been Biblical teachings I could not understand, they made little sense and the answers were not forthcoming either by those who should have been answering. But God in his mercy and patience did teach me at the right time. When this info came forth, it was mine, now I owned it - it was not just something someone else taught me, the WORD did. I concluded one can never minimize the strength and power of the written word as used by the Holy Spirit.

Honest questions the LORD will answer - in time. In my case he sometimes takes his time but it does come. Is it not wonderful how interested the LORD is in our spiritual growth, in our ability to understand the WORD? I think so.

Quote: "When we walk with the LORD we will enjoy life..."

As the word of God tells us, the joy of the Lord is our strength.

I know the subject isn't joy, but life, but that quote spoke to me.

Can't say I recall anyone referring to Isaiah as brother before, but I guess he is.

God is not a God of the dead, but of the living.

Enid, I love to call Isaiah 'brother' because I love his book! He knew God from a perspective that is different from other OT prophets. His writings are transcripts of sermons given him by the LORD. He is to the point, does not mince words, uses satire, sarcasm at times and humor as well. His sermons have done more to shape my picture of what God is like then any other OT book. Revelation rounds it out...of course, there are the Gospels and the OT law that fills in the gaps. My experience has been when studying Isaiah that God has felt so close, so close it seemed as though if I reached out my hand that I could touch Him!

That is why I refer to Isaiah as 'Brother'.

ginnyrose

John 14:12-14 NASB

12 “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do, he will do also; and greater works than these he will do; because I go to the Father.

13 “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

14 “If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.

COMMENT:

Jesus introduces a new concept in verse 12: greater works then these he will do. Until this point he was emphasizing his position with the Father and how important it is to understand who He is. Now He is saying you will do greater works.

As I considered this, taking into account the record of the early church as detailed in Acts I am beginning to wonder if perchance I did not miss something in all the years since I became aware of this promise.

What made the disciples different after Pentecost? Contrast their life at this point while Jesus was with them against the post-Pentecost time.

Until now, the disciples had healed people, cast out devils - is this the greater works Jesus is referring to? These continued after Pentecost.

Is Jesus referring to something else that is far greater? Consider the disciples resolve and ability to follow the LORD before his crucifixion against the time after the pouring out of the Holy Spirit. Before Pentecost the disciples were wimps in face of opposition: they ran or denied knowing Jesus. After the infilling of the HS they were bold in face of opposition and fear took flight! Consider Peter in prison, chained and facing death on the morrow. What did he do? Sleep. Now talk about someone being relaxed, he was; but the church wasn't - they were praying! These fellows who were perfect examples of weak, wimpiness were transformed into giants of strength and boldness. Is this not the greater works? God cannot use fearful people. But he can those who are fearless...is this the heart of 'greater works'?

Got to think some more on this....

What are you thinking?

Something I heard years ago, concerning the greater works, is, that now the Holy Spirit had been poured out, the works would not be confined. That is, not to just the disciples, or the Jews, but to all believers.

Just a thought.

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Something I heard years ago, concerning the greater works, is, that now the Holy Spirit had been poured out, the works would not be confined. That is, not to just the disciples, or the Jews, but to all believers."
______________________________________________________________

Exactly. And this is the point I was going to enlarge upon..:-)
************************************************************
John 14:13-24 NASB

13 “Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.

14 “If you ask Me anything in My name, I will do it.

15 “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.

16 “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;

17 that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

18 “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.

19 “After a little while the world will no longer see Me, but you will see Me; because I live, you will live also.

20 “In that day you will know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you.

21 “He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me; and he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and will disclose Myself to him.”

22 Judas (not Iscariot) said to Him, “Lord, what then has happened that You are going to disclose Yourself to us and not to the world?”

23 Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our abode with him.

24 "He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine, but the Father’s who sent Me.

COMMENT:

Jesus informs his disciples:
1. That they will do greater things
2. Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it.
3. The Father will give you a Helper, the Spirit of Truth.
4. We will come to Him and make our abode with him.

With these kind of promises what kind of results can one expect? Jesus and the Father expect obedience, these promises are not operational apart from it. In fact, it is impossible because when the Holy Spirit resides within a person this person will be committed to work in harmony with the Spirit that gets his directions from the Father. I suspect this is the greater work Jesus had in mind when He promised it. Imagine many 'Christs' out there doing the work of the Father...and what does the book of Acts teach us in this regard? Awesome, don't you think?

John 14:16,17,26 NASB

16 “I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may be with you forever;

17 that is the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it does not see Him or know Him, but you know Him because He abides with you and will be in you.

26 But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembered all that I said to you.

COMMENT:

The ministry of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit:

1. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of TRUTH . v.17
2. He lives within the Believer. Will be with us forever. v.16
3. The world does NOT have this Spirit. v.17
4. He will teach you all things, and bring to your rememberance all that Jesus taught.v.26

Truth, what is it? Reality. What is, not what we think is, but what IS.

There are many voices out there clamoring for our allegiance for whatever reason and it becomes a severe challenge to be able to discern who is right. What makes it worse is when there is so much correctness embodied within, yet one senses there is something amiss - it may be hard to lay your finger on it, but you are aware of its presence.

Christians want truth; we are diligent in pursuing it. Since this is the case we are easy targets for those who will work to ensnare us because we are such believing people. Unless we are careful we can find ourselves being led away ever so gradually from TRUTH - because it is logical,after all... only to discover much later we were snookered into a whorl of deception. If deception would be upfront with its goals and guiding philosophy people would turn tail and run in opposite directions.

Jesus says the Spirit will lead us into truth and He will teach us and remind us of his words. Is this not awesome? How many times when I pondered something, wondering, asking questions, the Holy Spirit ever so kindly will remind me of a scripture that will answer my questions. And I will be satisfied and warm glow of satisfaction will fill my being. God is so pleased when we pursue TRUTH...and we can experience His good pleasure - but at the expense of approval of popular culture.

Truth - do we want it? Or, would we rather live in a bubble of wishful thinking that will soon burst leaving you naked and without any substance?

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"people would turn tail and run"
_____________________________________________________________

Perhaps this phrase, which is an analogy, needs some explanation.

When a herd of cattle are spooked, they will turn around, lift their tails and RUN away from what ever frightened them. It is an amusing sight to see, on the one hand, but serious, still, because they are responding to a perceived danger. Hence the expression, "turn tail and run".

Quote: "...we are such believing people".

If only that belief were in the word of God, how much stronger we would be spiritually.

Truth can only come from the Lord, for He is truth itself.

His Spirit will lead us into All truth. Thank God for that.

God bless.

John 14:27 NASB

27“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

COMMENT:

I find it very interesting - and encouraging - that this verse occurs where we are in our study of John.

Peace. Man looks for it everywhere. It motivates him at all levels. Failure to achieve it produces frustration, feeds anger and then you have an explosion. Some resort to drugs; others to pleasure; others to buying things; others bury themselves in work; others to revolutions - you name it...

Too many people look to the gov to provide us with peace. Their policies work to destroy our 'peace'. I remember well when Gorbachev allowed perestroika, backed off from funding international aggression. I felt like NOW we will have international peace. DUH! If anything, it got worse - just took on other forms. Naw, it is futile to look to governments to provide one with peace. And you know what? I think it is a marvelous blessing from the LORD that this is so!! If governments can give a body peace we would never look to the LORD for it!

Peace - people seem to know it exists but where to find it remains elusive unless you look for it at the right place. AND the devil will work to keep people blinded to its source.

Jesus says he will give peace. Ahh... He also gives the recipe for it: abiding in him, He abides in us, the Holy Spirit will lead us, and we be obedient to the Godhead - all produces peace. Yes, unless these are operational we will not feel peace. So, why do we get to be fretful? Is it not when we look at our surroundings that it robs us of our peace? It does for me....

I am reminded of the martyrs who go to their [horrible] deaths praising God - can you imagine? I have never known this kind of peace...but am trusting God to provide it when or if it should happen.

Peace. Only sin can rob us of it which includes lack of trust in an Almighty God. AND there are many things out there working overtime to accomplish it. But God is still on the throne and let this always comfort us.

Thank-you, God, for your son who gives us Peace.

27“Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.

I am reminded of the martyrs who go to their [horrible] deaths praising God - can you imagine? I have never known this kind of peace...but am trusting God to provide it when or if it should happen.

If we consider Jesus itself here, in John 14 he knows about his death, he knows the pain he needs to endure for carrying the sins of mankind. But he still had peace and this peace that was in him he leaves to us. The peace that comes out of confirmation that the situation can never go out of God's hand and he is in control. All we need to do is take up our cross which is to deny our will and to do God's will. There is a great peace in taking up cross, if we are disciples of Jesus.

The Antichrist will come as a man offering peace, if we have the peace of Christ then we will not be deceived by this worldly peace that he is going to offer. Already there are many Antichrist that offer worldly peace to men in the form of Entertainment.

My 5 months old daughter has this peace in her, she does not worry about what to eat tomorrow, she completely trusts in me for food. If she is hungry she cries to me for food. She never cries in need of food for tomorrow. She lives completely trusting in parents. She lives because we live. Just like how Christ commands us to live because he lives.

John 14:28-29 NASB

28 “You heard that I said to you, ‘I go away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved Me, you would have rejoiced because I go to the Father, for the Father is greater than I.

29 “Now I have told you before it happens, so that when it happens, you may believe.

COMMENTS:

Jesus made this comment before - that he was going to leave and they should rejoice. This reminds me of a parent who has to keep repeating to his child. Jesus does refer to us as children at times, does he not? On one hand children remember everything, especially if it is to their advantage; on the other hand if it is a tad bit over their head, does not make sense, they do not get it and it has to be repeated many times.

It is not logical at all to believe the disciples would be glad to see Jesus leave! Hey! They have walked with him for three years, they were friends, have seen wonderful things and were partakers of them and now he says you will be glad that I am going to leave you - who do you think we are, anyways??!!

As we study the book of Acts and the apostles' writings never do we read where they hankered for Jesus physical presence. They did his bidding via the leading of the Holy Spirit with boldness, passion, dedication and love. All these attributes were missing prior to Pentecost. While they possessed some they were fleshy, succumbed to pressure where they failed to be able to carry on through.

As I ponder this prophecy, this promise of Jesus to his disciples I learn a powerful lesson. Jesus' prophecies, commands and promises are exactly like He says. We see it illustrated here in the life of the Apostles. They did not understand everything Jesus was telling them - in fact I suspect they doubted it some. After Pentecost there was no doubt, they were empowered with Power unlike they ever had before - this power exceeded anything they had known or imagined before.

Such is the result of Trust, is it not?

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"My 5 months old daughter has this peace in her, she does not worry about what to eat tomorrow, she completely trusts in me for food. If she is hungry she cries to me for food. She never cries in need of food for tomorrow. She lives completely trusting in parents. She lives because we live. Just like how Christ commands us to live because he lives."
______________________________________________________________

Powerful illustration.

Jesus did use children to illustrate this point: "Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven."

God uses children to teach parents powerful lessons about himself, does He not?

God bless in your parenting of your daughter.

John 15:1,2 NASB

1“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vine dresser.

2“Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.

COMMENT:

Jesus has been teaching his disciples about the importance of obedience using himself as an example. Now here, he uses an analogy to explain how it is possible. Jesus uses the technique of growing a plant and the caregiver pruning it.

As a tomato grower, pruning is vital to its production. Our plants are grown to a single stem - they can get to be in excess of twenty feet long by the time the plants are terminated in July.

People ask why do we cut off the lateral branches? These branches will flower and produce fruit if allowed to so why do we cut them off AND throw them away? Hey, you could at least root those suckers and have new plants. For one thing, we need to have an orderly house so we can harvest the fruit. If vines, branches were allowed to sprawl everywhere, harvesting would be difficult - you could end up breaking the plant thus reducing production on it. And the suckers - they could be rooted where they could produce eventually, but the production from the suckers is not as good as the plant that was grown from seed.

After tomatoes have been harvested the leaves beneath that cluster will die. We will cut those leaves before they die lest they become infected with a fungus and sicken the plant.

Sometimes in the process of pruning we will accidently break the stem. As long as it is still attached a little bit it can be fixed. We will straighten it to where the break fits perfectly and then will duck-tape it - we have used many a roll of duck-tape. This will facilitate healing. If this joint heals all the way around, it will be very strong - stronger then any other place on the vine.

If we see a plant growing but not producing, I will cut the thing off at the root level and discard it. Removing it will enable the surrounding plants to grow better because there is less competition for light and nutrients.

So, then, pruning enhances production, ensures the health of the plant.

We can see a parallel of what happens when a person's relationship with the LORD has been broken by sin. The sinner repents and experiences healing /redemption. That healing will be forever etched on the mind and soul of the individual - it will make him/her very strong. Just like the tomato plant.

When we get done pruning, the plant looks kind of peaked. To the uninitiated it looks wasteful but it is essential in order to make the plant productive and produce like the grower desires. So it is with the trials of life the LORD sends our way. Sometimes the LORD will remove what looks essential - like a cluster that has eight tomatoes, we will remove up to five of them in order to make the others grow bigger.

As long as the cluster is attached to the vine it will produce. If it is cut off and lying off to the side it will shrivel and die.

Roots, leaves are all essential to fruit production. When the fruit is attached to the vine it will be fed by it. So it is with our spiritual life - we must stay attached to the vine and then we will produce like the vine-dresser desires. If we fail we will be cut off and thrown away.

Somehow I suspect there are a lot of pseudo-Christians who work to live apart from the vine. When my husband dumps a container of plant clippings occasionally some will keep on living because the environment will allow it to, but the fruit will not be worth anything...

Are we attached to the vine?

John 15:1-11 NASB

1 “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.

2 “Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.

3 “You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.

4“Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides in the vine, so neither can you unless you abide in Me.

5“I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.

6 “If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned.

7 “If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.

8 “My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.

9 “Just as the Father has loved Me, I have also loved you; abide in My love.

10 “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.

11 “These things I have spoken to you so that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full.

COMMENT:

Yesterday I looked at how life flows from the vine to the branches in real life, as in plants. Today I want to take a look more deeply in how this applies to the person who "abides in the vine."

'Abides' carries with it the concept of living there, dwelling there; this is MY home where I am comfortable and find nourishment, peace, contentment and protection from the weather or whatever exists to harm me. Such is the case where I live physically. But what about my spiritual life, where do I live?

King David says "thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee." David talks a lot about the value of the Word teaching, motivating a person. It teaches one about the mind of God, what his will is for humans. It is the manufacturers' instruction manual. As one studies it, one becomes familiar with how and why something works. Now that you know all this, how is one to implement it?

Man finds himself prone to failure when he resolves to be moral and good. Self determination, motivation lacks heart changing power. For example, the homosexual or any other immoral person knows his addiction is sin, that he is powerless to abandon it once and for all. His appetite of physical intimacy is God-given so how can one live above it? Oh, sure he knows his desire is a perverted one, but the devil works to make him feel that since it is natural the problem is not him but the Bible-thumping Christians who work to impose guilt on him... (Of, course, this principle is operational for all besetting sins.)

But you know when we allow Jesus to dwell within our hearts, soul, mind and spirit, sinful desires will not find a home there. When one feels himself slipping, all you have to do "is crawl upon Jesus lap again, look into his face" and allow his love to fill your being, tell him what is happening and He will grant your request. As He fulfills your request, you will be filled with the joy of victory and the Father will be glorified because your lifestyle will reflect God's changing power over fleshy, sinful choices. Loving will flow naturally resulting in obedience. Easy when one abides in Him. Impossible when one stands aloof...

Joy...is it elusive? or does it characterize me?

Is it not fascinating that when I look at the world from God's perspective all of its sin and nastiness will not throw me into depression? Amazing...

Yes, the joy of the LORD is my strength...

Quote, "...when we allow Jesus to dwell within our hearts, soul, mind and spirit, sinful desires will not find a home there."

So true. Our desires should be for the Lord, not sin. It cannot be both.

God bless.

By the way, have been experiencing down time with the website.

John 15:12,13 NASB

12 “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.

13 “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.

COMMENT:

Love. Jesus mentions love a lot in his teachings either to the public and/or to his disciples. A person could understand why he would emphasize it to the public, but why his disciples? Surely, if they follow Him, abide in him, love would be no problem, right? Apparently not or else he would not talk about it so much.

What is love? To the world it is tolerance - meaning you have to tolerant me but I am not required to do so likewise when you disagree with me. Obviously, this is not what Jesus meant. Tolerance is an extremely poor counterfeit of love because it is all about me, my comfort and your needs, feelings, opinions, convictions be hanged!

Love is mentioned twenty-two times in John; loveth - seven times; loved - 22 times, many more then in all the other Gospels. John devotes an entire book to the subject. Once again, why is it so important to talk about it so much? Obviously, the LORD knew there would be a problem, that there is one.

But, what is love? He tells his disciples that they are to love as he had loved them. How did Jesus demonstrate love to his disciples?

Consider this:
1. He loved the Father and it was followed, demonstrated by obedience. John 14:31

2. He exercised compassion on the sinner and the grieving.

3. He washed his disciples feet - a job reserved for the servant. Demonstrated a serving mindset to those you love: it is my responsibility to serve.

4. He loved his enemies and returned good for evil.

5. He laid down His life for sinners - the undeserving.

When these qualities are operational in the heart of a person there would be no jealousy, envy, covetousness with its attendant strife, would there?

Is it possible that the lack of Godly love is the first sign of one moving away from God? Once we ignore the conviction are we not opening the door for the devil to get his foot in and pry it open ever so little for other sins to creep in?

Don't know about you, but I must pray regularly for an infusion of love because it does not occur naturally in me. I battle injustices in my mind: it just isn't right/fair! Is it possible that those of us who know the WORD, embrace a sense of righteousness find it difficult to relate to those who lack it? I do. Seems to be that love is the most fickle, fragile of all godly attributes...

As I consider love, what 1Cor.13 teaches us about it, I would like to take a look at this chapter. It is so rich in content, reaches right into the heart of what love is and is not. This chapter really does work like a two-edged sword - cuts no matter which way you swing it.

1Corinthians 13:

1 If I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but do not have love, I have become a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.

2 If I have the gift of prophecy, and know all mysteries and all knowledge; and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.

3 And if I give all my possessions to feed the poor, and if I surrender my body to be burned, but do not have love, it profits me nothing.

4 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant,

5 does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered,

6 does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; 7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

8 Love never fails; but if there are gifts of prophecy, they will be done away; if there are tongues, they will cease; if there is knowledge, it will be done away.

9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part;

10 but when the perfect comes, the partial will be done away.

11 When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things.

12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will know fully just as I also have been fully known.

13 But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.

COMMENT:

A person can be very skilled in speech (v1), an excellent, skilled expositor of Scriptures (v2), a miracle worker (v2), great in ministering to the poor and suffer martyrdom (v3) but if love is lacking he is NOTHING. Get that: NOTHING! Well....how many who are skilled in these things consider themselves to be great? How many times do we consider this point that if a person suffers persecution he/she is automatically more spiritual then me? Opps...!

What is love? How does it work where the rubber meets the road? It is:

1. Patient. Does not get exasperated with people...

2. Kind.

3. Is not jealous. Nor envious...is delighted to see others prosper, especially in areas where we lack.

4. Does not brag. Not even about his car, his work, his toys, his vacations, his ministry...

5. Is not arrogant - oh...I love to show off my new toys do I not?

6. Does not act inappropriately...Sounds like I need to pray before I meet people...

7. Does not seek her own....Does not care about maintaining his own position, etc...

8. Is not provoked. Whoa! I do not get upset? Really?

9. Does not take into account wrongs suffered. You mean I cannot ruminate on the injustices inflicted upon me? Hey! I hurt!

10. Does not rejoice in unrighteousness. Do I love to feed on the lifestyles the popular celebrities?

11. But rejoices with the truth. Do I delight in seeing people walk in faith, in the LORD?

12. Bears all things. Am I tolerant of inconveniences, things that work to upset my equilibrium?

13. Believes all things. Am I trustful of others? Or, am I suspicious of them when they share info I am ignorant of? Do I find it hard to admit I do not know everything?

14. Hopes all things... Do I have great expectations of others and believe this will eventually win out?

15. Endures all things. Do I with patience endure the unpleasant things of life?

16. Love endures.

Love is enduring. It far surpasses anything else, even preaching, prophecying, tongues, or knowledge. We do not know everything - even if we are ever so knowledgeable, we still do not know everything - it is at best partial. Someday, though, this will pass and our understanding will be perfect. So, let us realize that we tend to act childish and is something we need to put away and act like adults who are mature.

Faith, hope and love - all three are godly attributes but the greatest one is love. Yup! effects us all where the rubber meets the road.

Awesome! how the WORD cuts us right to the quick, is it not?

John 15:12,13 NASB

12 “This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.

13 “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.

COMMENT:

Most of us will never be called to literally die for a friend. Since this is the case, can this scripture teach us, still? Are there more ways to lay down one's life then by simply dying in place of another person?

I say it is. And to this end I would like to speak to the sisters. I speak as a wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sibling...

We live in a world that is at odds with the LORD Jesus. He tells us later on the world hates Him and if they do so, we will be hated as well. If the world's philosophy is at odds with God's why are we so impacted by it? Why do we listen to it at all?

Modern feminists inform us that in order to have a full life we need to pursue our own goals, serve ourselves so I can get what I want when I want and how I want - it is all about 'I'. All this stands in sharp contrast to Jesus' teaching how one should be a servant. This means I am called to serve another person! Horrors! or, at least so the world thinks. But is it really?

We females are created to fill a niche in the life of a male. All of these niches differ and we are tailor made to fit one. Our interests, our insights are to be submitted to our husband for his use so that a couple can work as a team. Doing so will not mean we females will cease to exist as an individual bereft of any personal interests. On the contrary; as we live and work these interests will become enlightened, sharpened and developed which are to be utilized for the good of others. This is a gift from the LORD Jesus.

When this becomes our life, we will find fulfillment as a Christian female, as a human being. This is how we are called to serve the LORD Jesus and that is by surrendering our personal interests for the good of others - we lay down our life. When it becomes difficult, hard, we find strength by turning to our LORD and asking him to renew our strength. It is essential we know our weaknesses so we can turn to Him for empowerment. And there we find victory.

Does it ever get hard? Yes, it does. Especially, when your body ages and your mind does not...Or, if you are a young mother and your baby has the croup and keeps you awake most of the night and the next night...

We need the LORD Jesus, do we not? We have not been called to die on a literal cross like he did but he did get tired ministering to people, just like we do. We do have a wonderful High Priest, do we not?

John 15:13 NASB

13 “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.

COMMENT:

We have heard this many times and we know it means Jesus is talking about his shedding of his blood for our sins in order to redeem us. But I am concluding it means a whole lot more.

As I have been going through this book of John I am getting a tad bit _____ with the the same theme repeated and repeated - it is like as though John is mentally stuck on one subject and cannot move out of it - one track mind, right?

But John did not really write this did he? He just wrote under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit...if or since this is the case as I getting the message?

What difference does it make how I view Jesus? Oh, sure I know he is the Son of God and God himself. I know Jesus spoke exactly what God told him to. I know all that. But why keep repeating it? That is all you, John, has been saying in all these chapters!

As I think about this more and more, I am concluding there is one area where I do wonder and wish/hope that God means something other then what is actually said...Oh. But John does not even mention it! Is it still important?

But God is God. Jesus is God and he spoke exactly what the Father wanted him to say. Do I revere God as he deserves? Am I abiding in Him? Do I appreciate how much he suffered so I can understand this law? No one is going to subject himself to such suffering unless there is something dreadfully important...and it is all because of love. Does it grab me? Perhaps I still do not quite understand the authority of God in life matters? or, how it will impact one's eternal destiny? But still I do and that is why I do not want to quite believe it! It is too horrible to think about it!

And so it is...and if I grieve, I do not question how much you (Jesus) grieve as well. No wonder Jesus was willing to subject himself to such a cruel sufferings - no one ever suffered that much in resisting temptation.

The world is most certainly at odds with the Lord.

And they can only lose, for they have already lost.

Jesus set the example by being a servant, and no man is greater than their master.

Since He is our Lord and Master, we should understand that we should be servants, as was He.

Quote:, "Do I revere God as he deserves?"

I can only answer no to that, and I think my entire life it will always be no.

How can we ever know if we revere God enough?

John 15:12-17 NASB

12“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.

13“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.

14“You are My friends if you do what I command you.

15“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you.

16“You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.

17“This I command you, that you love one another.

COMMENT:

Love and friends - this is what Jesus was really concerned about. He knew that friends did not always love each other which will cause destruction of that bond.

Friends. Jesus taught us well what it means to live like a friend. He had twelve disciples with varying temperaments, ambitions and occupations. This provided plenty of opportunities for disruptions - males who are by nature more competitive then females. No wonder the frequent reminder to love each other...

You know what - the fact these men, competitive males could actually love each other, work together regardless of differences is a testimony of the mercy, grace of God, empowered by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Amazing...I never though about this before I started writing - better quit while I mull this over more...

QUOTE:
____________________________________________________________
"How can we ever know if we revere God enough?"
____________________________________________________________

I suspect that if one ever gets to the point where he feels like he gave enough he has little sense of the Holiness of God.

Paul informs us that he presses on toward the mark of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 3:13-15.) I do not read anywhere in the WORD where any of the saints believed he had served, revered God enough - this implies one could give more but you refuse to do so lest he gets spoiled, like you may handle the request of a child.

I suggest that when one abides in Him, holds Him in high esteem, allows Him to impact your thinking processes, decisions, that this question will shrink...it is when we fail we feel so miserable...and that is a blessing - it works as a wonderful motivator to get back on track.

What are you thinking, Enid?

12“This is My commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.

13“Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.

14“You are My friends if you do what I command you.

15“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you.

16“You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.

17“This I command you, that you love one another.

COMMENT:

At first I did not think this scripture was about 'friendship' but the longer I look at it, the more I am convinced that is what it all is about. Most of the time we consider friendships a byproduct of people who share similar interests who take a liking to each other because of these commonalities.

Jesus' life demonstrated what true friendship is. Proverbs makes some observations about friends/friendship:

Pro.14:20:The poor is hated even of his own neighbour: but the rich hath many friends.

Pro.16:28: A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends.

Pro.17:9 He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends.

Pro.18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.

Pro.19:4 Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbour.

Pro.19:7 All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he pursueth them with words, yet they are wanting to him.

In a few words the Proverbs teach us the wealthy have friends, the poor do not; gossip separates friends; a friend will be careful what he shares about his friends to to others - he will work to protect his friend from others' tongues; a true friend will lay down his life for another friend.

Contrast this with Jesus' concept of friends: Love one another; lay down you life for each other; was friends with everyone,not selective as to possessions or gender; shares pertinent information with his friends - info that will be helpful to them now and in the future. In Jesus case - since he is God, this concept of friendship assumes a much more profound meaning.

Jesus choose these men to be His friends. He did not give up on them. He persisted because he had a goal and this goal had far-reaching implications, unknown to his friends. This knowledge kept Him going and with urgency taught them, as well demonstrated in the next few chapters.

Jesus called these men friends, sharing with them all he knew; he related to them as an equal but one with a mission. The disciples related to him as a human being as well. They believed Him, they trusted him.

Jesus was God wrapped in human flesh and he desired to be friends with people. He worked hard to gain their friendship He never took the stance of a lord who barked and you jump, never. Jesus was a friend.

Jesus is still desires our friendship. Does our affection of Jesus mirror the one the disciples had with Jesus? Am I willing to take my orders for life from Him? Friendship and trust will do that, you know.

John 15:16 NASB

16 “You did not choose Me but I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain, so that whatever you ask of the Father in My name He may give to you.

COMMENT:

This morning I noticed the phrase: "I chose you, and appointed you that you would go and bear fruit, and that your fruit would remain.." I never before gave this phrase serious thought, but in doing so I was enlightened...

Jesus has called his people to minister. Since this is the case it will bear fruit. Let us for a moment consider fruit.

Fruit is what the end product of a plant - that is the purpose of it, to bear fruit to ensure the survival of the species in the future after it dies. The fruit itself may be delectable and enjoyed by some species of life. However, within this fruit is a seed[s]. This will usually be discarded by the creature who ate the fruit. In this process it may find an ideal environment in which it will grow and produce like its parent did. So the species continues.

So is the WORD of God in the hands of his people, his ministers, it will produce.

Jesus says it will remain. Oh. So the work of a ministry ordained by God will continue, will remain - it will not wither and die after the demise of the 'leader'. It will keep on growing and produce on its own.

To facilitate this process Jesus is promising that if anyone should ask anything in his name,he will do it.

Recently we heard the testimony of a man who is ministering in an far eastern country. He told us how in his Christian walk he has prayed for many things and the answers were slow in coming or not at all. But since he is serving the LORD where he is presently, God answers his prayers very quickly. (He lives, works in a very dangerous place.)

God has called, he will ensure fruit, he will sustain the work and if any needs help it is as close as a prayer. Who needs any more then that?

A rabbit trail based on my previous post:

Recently I heard the testimony of a man who was a victim of abuse. To deal with these issues he spent twenty years in Christian counseling and thousands of dollars, hundreds of hours because the mental issues remained. They were not dealt with adequately. Since this was the case he had to look for other counselors that promised relief. And so it continued.

This man's conclusion was that this philosophy was another 'gospel' that Paul writes and warns his people about - that they should stay away from. This gospel offers hope to the hurting. However, after going through their regimen, and after some time, the victim still hurts and is in the depths of depression - the therapy did not cure.

When he - the speaker - had an encounter with the LORD Jesus, the Son of God, his heart was redeemed. He had to learn there needed to be forgiveness for those that offended him. AND you do not go back and relive those incidents. Do the memories of his past still haunt him? No. He has forgiven them.

This testimony helped connect the dots for me as I have been mulling this issue for some time. I think most people have had bad experiences that the devil uses to cripple you mentally, spiritually. These memories control you in how you relate to others around you. You act in self-defense or self-preservation. Or, you think this is the way life is to be lived and you continue the offense in your own life. What is the cure? Counseling?

When Christian counseling made its debut in my childhood it was embraced as something wonderful. A psychiatric center was built nearby, people got involved in teaching parents how to raise children using psychology. Today people are just as bad emotionally as ever. All this psychology did was perpetuate the myth that psychology fixes things. I do not know what impact this had on the apostasy of these churches but apostasy was unleashed about the same time and it has destroyed many...

We know that when we encounter severe challenges for which there seems to be no answer, we tend to look to our contemporaries for expert advice. Depending on what it is this is fine - in the counselors of many there is safety. But how many times are we ignoring the LORD and not listening to Him? It is the LORD our hearts are longing for but we fail to recognize this yearning - for some reason the devil has put into our mind that the LORD is a tough taskmaster and not to be trusted. But He can be trusted and the solution is enduring.

God's remedy is enduring - always.

John 15:17-21NASB

17 “This I command you, that you love one another.

18 “If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you.

19 “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you.

20 “Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

21 “But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me.

COMMENT:

As I looked at this scripture yesterday, I felt no inspiration to comment on it - after all, is this not what we have been reading here on SI for months? Then last night I saw a news item whose link was posted on FB. I checked it out and here was a news item that illustrated perfectly what Jesus was telling his disciples. Here it is:

http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/1e1a349d71ab43f2afe4733d481bc81b/US-Civil-Union-Custody-Dispute#.

The issue that has me stumped is how Ken Miller is going to prison for assisting another person doing the right thing. He is going to prison for his defense of a principle. How many people today would stand for a principle even at a risk of being jailed for it? Too many will cave in when they feel the pressure to do so in order to maintain their position of respectability or to save their hide be it philosophically or literally.

Then I noticed how Jesus reiterates many times how his disciples are to love each other - ahhh ha! So this is what it means! Defending another, protecting another when there is of no advantage to you at all. WOW!

God bless you, Ken for being such an inspiration...

(BTW, if you read the news article you will notice that David Bercot is the defense attorney. He has written a lot on church history and been noted several times here on SI.)

I just keep thinking about the sacrifice Ken is making on behalf of Lisa Miller - no relation to her (nor to me)!

Ken is willing to be jailed for a bad decision a woman made years ago but who has since repented...

I cannot help but wonder what Lisa's ex-husband is thinking about this situation.

Is this not what real love is where the rubber meets the road? This is what Jesus did except he died for us while we were yet sinners, kicking him in the shins.

Somehow, I sense there is a lot of spiritual drama unfolding which we know little about but can only imagine.

God is really being honored - at least from my corner of the globe.

John 15:18-25 NASB

18“If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you.

19“If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you.

20“Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

21“But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me.

22“If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not have sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin.

23“He who hates Me hates My Father also.

24“If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would not have sin; but now they have both seen and hated Me and My Father as well.

25“But they have done this to fulfill the word that is written in their Law, ‘THEY HATED ME WITHOUT A CAUSE.’

COMMENTS:

So many sermons can be spoken based on these verses...so much here that I feel a tad bit overwhelmed to keep this brief.

Jesus touches on the subject of his children being hated because they hated Him. You know, this hatred is something that defies logic, I do not understand hatred UNLESS I look at it from the point where I HATE sin. If Jesus had not taught one to love your enemies, it would be no problem, I think, to make practical application of the mill-stone therapy to a lot of people, except maybe instead of using mill-stones use rifles. Looking at it from this view one sees there is an intense war between God's people and the devil's.

Jesus says that what sparks this hatred is the people have been made aware of their sin.(v.22.) Since sin affords its adherents a sense of pleasure they hate it when others rain on their parade. However, by doing so, it does lend credibility to the conviction that lies within their conscientiousness and they are fighting it. The best thing sinners can do is rid the environment of people who by their very existence remind them of this conviction.

It is war, full fledged war and we are in it, either on one side or the other. No middle ground. Which side are you?

John 15:20c NASB

20c: if they kept My word, they will keep yours also.

COMMENT:

In the middle of Jesus' discourse on how the world will hate his children, I find this phrase working as a bright light in an otherwise dark situation.

It hints at the universality of God's kingdom. I find it a real pleasure, delight when I find other believers whose culture, lives are far from mine who embrace the same God, same understanding of the LORD and his WORD. "We are brethren!" Yes! What a delight!

It is a bright light. Keeping God's word, makes us His.

We are brethren. Sounds good, for it is.

God bless.

John 16:1-5 NASB

1“These things I have spoken to you so that you may be kept from stumbling.

2“They will make you outcasts from the synagogue, but an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering service to God.

3“These things they will do because they have not known the Father or Me.

4“But these things I have spoken to you, so that when their hour comes, you may remember that I told you of them. These things I did not say to you at the beginning, because I was with you.

COMMENT:

In the preceding chapter and now in sixteen Jesus is teaching his disciples about the work and ministry of the Holy Spirit. I would like to comment on this more in the days ahead but today I want to focus on verse two: “They will make you outcasts from the synagogue, but an hour is coming for everyone who kills you to think that he is offering service to God."

Jesus' time for his ultimate sacrifice is closing in on him and because of it he is teaching his disciples with an urgency of a man who has little time to do so.

Jesus assured his disciples the world will hate them because they hate the Father and by extension himself as well and they will hate you, too. Now he comes along and says the Jewish leaders will hate them as well, even going so far as throwing them out of the synagogue!

It was the synagogue that was the local center of their worship. It was the place where all faithful Jews resorted to and now Jesus says you will be thrown out of the place.

I wonder if the disciples questioned where their platform of ministry will be? Maybe not...but I think I would have - people today wonder about this in their own situation.

Jesus is telling them that what they considered secure is not. They will be plowing a new field - it will be different from what has been the norm since Moses.

After Pentecost the disciples did go to the synagogue to minister but it usually caused an uproar because they either healed or preached Jesus. In any case, they defied the conventional, proper way of ministering.

I wonder how the disciples felt when they were told they could not expect any support from the Jewish leadership. I mean, they were completely on their own! And Jesus tells them they would be thrown out and killed [sometimes] and they will consider having performed the will of God!

I find Jesus honesty in warning his friends - what is in their future, what they can reasonably expect and that it will include suffering - sobering. The Holy Spirit deals with realities, truth, he gives no false hopes or comfort, what he gives is REAL.

When we encourage others do we provide them with a false hope or one that truly comes from God? Even painful ones have within it the seed of godly hope. False hope is bereft of it.

John 16:7-14 NASB

7 “But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you.

8 “And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment;

9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me;

10and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me;

11 and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.

12 “I have many more things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now.

13 “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.

14 “He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine and will disclose it to you.

15 “All things that the Father has are Mine; therefore I said that He takes of Mine and will disclose it to you.

COMMENTS:

As I look at this scripture I feel overwhelmed with the all-sufficiency of the WORD, empowered by the work of the Holy Spirit. As this reality sinks into my heart and soul I am discovering how I have become a victim of embracing 'another Jesus' in the past. It looks like this: you hear someone having severe emotional difficulty dealing with a sad situation. You do think the LORD should be able to help him/her but then you think this situation is so complex that a good counselor should be able to help him/her through this situation. So, to the counselor he/she goes. The help received is temporal, at best, only to resurface later. It is never resolved.

What has happened is that one turned to another 'savior' hoping he will be able to redeem this tragic individual. Jesus is our "Wonderful Counselor" - so says Isaiah. Why do we minimize the power of the Holy Spirit to fix a person's soul, heart and mind?

I need to stop here...

Another 'saviour'.

Why are we so blind, as to look to another fallen person, such as ourselves, to help us, when, if God cannot help us, then there is no help?

Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor. All others need to repent, or else...

Glory to God.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Another 'saviour'.

Why are we so blind, as to look to another fallen person, such as ourselves, to help us, when, if God cannot help us, then there is no help?

Jesus is our Wonderful Counselor. All others need to repent, or else..."
______________________________________________________________

Enid, this understanding is something of recent origin for me...I had no idea we were regarding 'counselors, psychiatrists' as saviors. We were pushing the LORD aside in favor of man... Lord, have mercy!

God is very gracious and merciful...am so thankful for his patience.

ginnyrose

John 16:13 “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come.

COMMENT:

As I look at these verses this verse seems to anchor the rest of them.

The mission of the Holy Spirit is to say ONLY what he has been told to say, nothing more nor different from what the Father nor the Son have told him to say.

An issue rises when people will tell you the Holy Spirit told them to do something counter to the written word - they are ever so spiritual...how is one to discern what spirit is at work? Is not the written word the plumb line one must use to determine the source of this 'inspiration'?

(I find it extremely fascinating how born-again people from many different cultures can come together and share their insights into the WORD, how God has been working in their lives and we understand each other. The operation of the Holy Spirit given free reign in the lives of the Believers produces a unity that cannot be explained by logic.)

Yes, the Holy Spirit speaks only what the Father through the Son instruct Him to and they never contradict each other. It is useless to believe and act like they would.

John 16:8-11 NASB

8 “And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment;

9 concerning sin, because they do not believe in Me;

10 and concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father and you no longer see Me;

11 and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.

COMMENT:
Here in these few verses Jesus teaches us about the ministry of the Holy Spirit:

1. Convict the world of sin.

2. Convict the world of righteousness

3. Convict the world of judgment.

All his convictions will echo what the Father has decreed, they are not his own opinions. One cannot separate the WORD of Jesus from the convictions of the Holy Spirit. They are the one and the same. Therefore, they are true, always. Since this is the case we do well to take heed and why is this so? Because there is a judgment day a-coming.

As I look at this list I see a very interesting process. The HS convicts man of sin, he shows him what is right and failure to do so will result in judgment. Simple, not complicated at all. It gets complicated when we work to wiggle out from what the HS is working to teach/convict us.

I find it so gratifying that when the Holy Spirit convicts me of sin, that I am empowered to do something about it which always means repenting - because He has given me a loathing of it - and sometimes making apologies.

Making apologies used to be ever so hard for me - had a lot of pride, I will admit. Then one day I got this 'vision' of being before the great white judgment throne and being condemned before billions of people because I refused to humble myself before a few people and apologize! What a fool! Absolute fool! because you will end up in hell for all eternity just because of pride. (1Timothy 5:24: "Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after.")

I am so glad of the faithfulness of the Holy Spirit - aren't you? That He does not give up on such stubborn people?

Pride is a stumbling block for so many, including myself.
It is a sin that can long dominate a person, even after salvation, and something we have to battle with.

How, indeed, we need to be rid of it, before we stand before the great white throne. Nothing will be hidden on that day, everything will literally be revealed.

There is so much we need to repent of before that day.

Why not do so now?

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE"
"2. Convict the world of righteousness"
______________________________________________________________

COMMENT:

This is one of the jobs of the Holy Spirit - to convict people of righteousness.

As I mulled this responsibility of the HS, I wondered 'just what is righteousness'? Just what does it entail? As I pondered it, my mind went to Matthew 5-7, the Sermon on the Mount. In it Jesus went on to explain what he stated in 5:17-20:

17“Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill.

18“For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished.

19“Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

20“For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.

Jesus says their righteousness has to exceed that of the Scribes and Pharisees, so how was that to look like? Then he follows with examples of it in the rest of the Sermon on the Mount. [EDITED]

But my investigation did not end there. I checked out what does 'fulfill' mean as stated in verse 17. I found this: Fulfill = Gr. pleroo.
Definition:

to make full, to fill up, i.e. to fill to the full
to cause to abound, to furnish or supply liberally
I abound, I am liberally supplied
to render full, i.e. to complete
to fill to the top: so that nothing shall be wanting to full measure, fill to the brim
to consummate: a number
to make complete in every particular, to render perfect
to carry through to the end, to accomplish, carry out, (some undertaking)
to carry into effect, bring to realization, realize
of matters of duty: to perform, execute
of sayings, promises, prophecies, to bring to pass, ratify, accomplish
to fulfill, i.e. to cause God's will (as made known in the law) to be obeyed as it should be, and God's promises (given through the prophets) to receive fulfillment

No wonder we need the Holy Spirit to teach us what is righteous. Jesus said he did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. He then illustrated this point by taking the Moral law, expanding it, tightening it some more. Paul did likewise when he said in Col.3:15 that greed is idolatry. And then there are the lists of sins in the Pauline letters...

Have we been convicted of righteousness? It is easy to say we have been convicted of sin, but righteousness? Is righteousness something we put on, or is it something that characterizes the life of the Believer that happens automatically? If we are honest,we will have to admit it does not always happen automatically, that we fall far short too many times in allowing righteousness to characterize our hearts, minds and lives. Since this is the case, we need to be willing to allow the Holy Spirit to teach us - and then submit.

John 16:11

11 and concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world has been judged.

COMMENT:

In addition to convicting people of sin and righteousness we are taught by the Holy Spirit to judge. This is essential to LIFE because there are things that destroy, come under the condemnation of the LORD Jesus and we do well to be taught what these things are.

The word 'judgment' raises the hackles of many when one makes a statement with authority, "You are judging and the Bible says 'do NOT judge!'" But never mind that they are judging your statement quite severely! To render judgment is a serious undertaking - one that should not be entered into lightly - doing so will hinder the Gospel and offend unnecessarily.

But exactly what is judging? The greek word is "Krisis". Its definition is "a separating, sundering, separation a trial, contest selection judgment opinion or decision given concerning anything esp. concerning justice and injustice, right or wrong sentence of condemnation, damnatory judgment, condemnation and punishment the college of judges (a tribunal of seven men in the several cities of Palestine; as distinguished from the Sanhedrin, which had its seat at Jerusalem) right, justice."

As I consider how the early church lived out this revelation I wonder whether we would want it to be as evident today. Consider the incident of Ananias and Sapphira. How many people would still be alive if we had encountered immediate judgement as did these two? Of course, what they did was indulge in pre-meditated sin, it was not something they fell into a moment of weakness - they planned it. In any case they had no time to repent. (Perhaps this incident helps to explain Heb 10:26,27, "For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation,".)

I ponder Peter's knowledge of Ananias & Sapphira's premeditated sin. Peter had no previous knowledge of their conspiracy before they spoke. This revelation came from the Holy Spirit. As I consider this incident, I am reminded how often the Holy Spirit does give us a sense that something is wrong here but we are not sure of the details. When we ignore it we do it to our own peril. But if we act on it we do so with the realization that, "yes, this indeed was from God!"

Moderns are experiencing a lot of pressure to cave into accepting perversions or at least tolerate it. To take a stand against sin is considered by the world as being judgmental. And they are right! God has judge it to be dammed and dammed are we if we do not reflect the will of God! Romans 1:32.

As I consider the seriousness of calling sin sin and not accommodating it, it leaves me trembling...there are too many loved ones who are in it...

Wise people have noted that if the devil cannot get people to tolerate sin he will use their prodigal children to worm his way into their hearts and minds to soften their convictions concerning sin. AND..he has been very successful. Am I one of the devil's failures or successes?

Do I reflect the will of Jesus when judging? Is it inspired by the Holy Spirit? [edit]

A good word, and much to think about.

We are to judge sin. Perversion is perversion in God's eyes, and we cannot condone what God has condemned.

If we do, do we not then make ourselves God? Think about it.

Premediated sin is scary. We might not get what Ananias and Sapphira did. We could only fail once. But to premeditate continually, knowing that God forgives, well, that speaks volumes of how we view God and His word.

As I said, much to think about here.

God bless.

John 16:16-33 NASB

16 “A little while, and you will no longer see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me.”

17 Some of His disciples then said to one another, “What is this thing He is telling us, ‘A little while, and you will not see Me; and again a little while, and you will see Me’; and, ‘because I go to the Father’?”

18 So they were saying, “What is this that He says, ‘A little while’? We do not know what He is talking about.”

19 Jesus knew that they wished to question Him, and He said to them, “Are you deliberating together about this, that I said, ‘A little while, and you will not see Me, and again a little while, and you will see Me’?

20 “Truly, truly, I say to you, that you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will grieve, but your grief will be turned into joy.

21 “Whenever a woman is in labor she has pain, because her hour has come; but when she gives birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish because of the joy that a child has been born into the world.

22 “Therefore you too have grief now; but I will see you again, and your heart will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you.

23 “In that day you will not question Me about anything. Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in My name, He will give it to you.

24 “Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full.

25 “These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; an hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but will tell you plainly of the Father.

26“In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not say to you that I will request of the Father on your behalf;

27 for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me and have believed that I came forth from the Father.

28 “I came forth from the Father and have come into the world; I am leaving the world again and going to the Father.”

29 His disciples said, “Lo, now You are speaking plainly and are not using a figure of speech.

30 “Now we know that You know all things, and have no need for anyone to question You; by this we believe that You came from God.”

31 Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe?

32 “Behold, an hour is coming, and has already come, for you to be scattered, each to his own home, and to leave Me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.

33 “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”

COMMENT:

Verse thirty-three sums up this portion of scripture: “These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.”

Is this not wonderful?!

I sense in Jesus a severe urgency in informing his disciples what is going to happen soon, very soon. It is like a teacher cramming his students for a tough competition, knowing they will be sorely tested but is interested in their winning the contest.

Jesus it telling them they will face opposition, experience grief, be thrown out of the synagogue; some will believe that killing them will be God's will(!!!). How mush worse can it get? Oh, yes, they will even abandon him - Jesus...but do not worry, the Father will be with me! v.32.

This portion is full of promises that we in the free world know little about from experience.

Jesus promises they will be afflicted with persecution - but the Father sees it.

Opposition may even force people to separate, abandon each other, leaving one alone - but God will be with them.

God sees it all! But he is with them.

Jesus also promises that they can ask whatever they will and the Father will hear and give it to them! Do we always get what we ask for?

We heard the testimony recently of a person serving the LORD in an extremely dangerous country. He told us when he prays for something, the LORD answers his prayers so quickly, unlike anything he has ever experienced living here in the states.

Opposition seems to open the windows of heaven for such divine sustenance we rarely experience. No wonder Jesus says in Matthew 5:10: “Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

You know what? One must really have a deep love for the LORD Jesus in order to be willing to endure severe suffering for Him. Is my love for Jesus deep enough? Perhaps how we deal with pressures to surrender to self will inform our spirit how sincere our love is...

John 17:1-6 NASB

1 Jesus spoke these things; and lifting up His eyes to heaven, He said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, that the Son may glorify You,

2 even as You gave Him authority over all flesh, that to all whom You have given Him, He may give eternal life.

3 “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.

4 “I glorified You on the earth, having accomplished the work which You have given Me to do.

5 “Now, Father, glorify Me together with Yourself, with the glory which I had with You before the world was.

6 “I have manifested Your name to the men whom You gave Me out of the world; they were Yours and You gave them to Me, and they have kept Your word.

COMMENT:

Chapter sixteen records what is known as Jesus' High Priestly prayer - a prayer of intercession made by the high priest to God - the Father, in this case.

Jesus is asking the Father to glorify Himself to his disciples. As I think on this concept of glorifying Him to the disciples, I am baffled: it is a word we use very little in our conversations. The idea is rarely touched upon. So, here I am a Gentile 2000 years later trying to understand some Jewish concepts. Fortunately, the Lord Jesus did not leave us dangling.

As I prayerfully considered how the Father would glorify the son, I am beginning to understand Jesus concern. Basically, he is asking the Father to verify what he has been teaching the disciples that He - the Father, had given Him.

All through this book of John the message was "believe in Me; Believe the Father sent me; Believe what I say is what the Father wills; Believe I say only those things the Father tells me to say." It is repeated over and over again. Now Jesus is asking the Father to glorify him - Jesus.

Prove it, God...

As I ponder this concept, is it not one we Believers also embrace? You say you are a Believer, well prove it! How can one tell? Has God verified his word in us?

Oh...these concepts are too deep for me....Lord, have mercy!

John 17:2

2 even as You gave Him authority over all flesh,

COMMENT:

What is the message Jesus wants people to know, to understand? Is it not that He has authority over all flesh? Does this not hark back to him as being the creator over ALL flesh? (The devil does not even have this.) Does this not indicate that Jesus has control over all life and even death itself? Is this not what Jesus is about to prove by allowing himself to die a horrific death, allow his body to be buried? But then show his dominion by being resurrected - proving that even death cannot hold him down and neither will it anybody else - eventually? I think so.

And this is the purpose Jesus is asking the Father to verify his word.

John 16:3

3 “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.

COMMENT:

As I look at this section, the principle of every word and tittle being meaningful strikes hard at me.

Eternal life? How is it attained? By knowing God. Simple - don't need a degree in theology to accomplish it, but instead need to make this a daily practice - study of God.

As I consider this principle I am reminded of an incident. I was preparing to teach an adult sister's class. The lesson was from Romans and difficult for me to get a handle on. As I mulled the scripture, wondering, questioning, the Holy Spirit so clearing spoke and said, "Just talk about God, look at it to see what it says about Him!" Since then whenever I read the WORD, this has become my focus: what does this scripture teach me about God? In doing so God is revealing to me what a wonderful being He is! I have learned about his judgment - his mercy, his anger - his love, his all consuming power, all-knowing...He is not limited by any stretch of the imagination. As a result I see he is worthy of ALL of our affection, our admiration, our love. He deserves it all. And this results in eternal live. Loving God because we know Him!

Now Jesus comes along in verse six with the conclusion the disciples understand what he has been teaching them. WOW! Do we?

If someone will have grace to see, the verse in your last post reveal who is Jesus really. He is the central message of the new testament. You can hear many steps and procedure for salvation, and they can be logical, valid, and in order according to the 'letter'. But without the Lord Jesus, it is just chasing after the wind.

Oh for years I went after that way and my heart was empty and insecure.

Salvation, as had been implied here at SI again and again, do not really require great formal theological training, what we really need is the Lord Jesus.

We can be conferred with DD and have memorized the whole bible in diverse versions and languages, but without that sweeping changes in our lives toward holiness and adoration of the Lord Jesus, we are, but utterly nothing.

As we read the bible, we do it with reverence and with a heart that is ready to change and repent before God. As the time goes, we will see the sweeping changes in ourselves reflected in our thoughts, desires, speech, ways, and actions as the Lord Jesus reveals Himself to us and teach our hearts.

If we want but information or something to memorize and discuss, or perhaps 'church' recognition, then we may as well buy all the commentaries available and attend all the bible studies, but we will not really know the truth.

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"As the time goes, we will see the sweeping changes in ourselves reflected in our thoughts, desires, speech, ways, and actions as the Lord Jesus reveals Himself to us and teach our hearts."
____________________________________________________________

So true...Amen!

John 17:7-19 NASB

7 “Now they have come to know that everything You have given Me is from You;

8 for the words which You gave Me I have given to them; and they received them and truly understood that I came forth from You, and they believed that You sent Me.

9 “I ask on their behalf; I do not ask on behalf of the world, but of those whom You have given Me; for they are Yours;

10 and all things that are Mine are Yours, and Yours are Mine; and I have been glorified in them.

11 “I am no longer in the world; and yet they themselves are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, that they may be one even as We are.

12 “While I was with them, I was keeping them in Your name which You have given Me; and I guarded them and not one of them perished but the son of perdition, so that the Scripture would be fulfilled.

13 “But now I come to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves.

14 “I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

15 “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.

16 “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

17 “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.

18 “As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.

19 “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth.

COMMENT:

Jesus prays to the Father for the well-being of his disciples. He claims ownership of them because they were given to him by the Father; he has taught them and they have accepted his word, believe all he has taught them. Now, he is about to leave them in the world and they need help, supernatural help.

As I meditate on Jesus love for his disciples, a motley band of very ordinary humans I stand in awe that he would choose such to be the ones who would carry the message of salvation into the world. Not only that, but that God would choose people like us moderns, even, to populate heaven! As I ponder this reality, I stand amazed at the work, the suffering God subjected himself to to accomplish this. He must have such a glorious place that he wants to share it with others, don't you think? Why else would he go into so much trouble?

(Think about heaven for a while - read Revelation 4,21,22... no earthy mansion can begin to compare the beauty of heaven that awaits the redeemed. Think about this, let your mind wander around the streets of gold, the throne, see it with the eyes of your spirit, imagination - what does it do to you? Give you joy? or dread that you might miss it? It is all up to you.)

This is where my mind wandered as I looked at these verses - will come back later and share more inspiration about the details of Jesus prayer for his disciples.

John 17:11-17

11 “I am no longer in the world; and yet they themselves are in the world, and I come to You. Holy Father, keep them in Your name, the name which You have given Me, that they may be one even as We are.

12 “While I was with them, I was keeping them in Your name which You have given Me; and I guarded them and not one of them perished but the son of perdition, so that the Scripture would be fulfilled.

13 “But now I come to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves.

14 “I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

15 “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.

16 “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

17 “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.

COMMENT:

In this portion Jesus is praying specifically for his disciples, asking the Father to...

1. That the disciples be unified: that they may be one even as We are. v 11

2. They may have joy: that they may have My joy made full in themselves. v13

3. Keep them from evil: but to keep them from the evil one. v15

4. Preserve them in Truth: “Sanctify them in the truth. v17.

As I look at this list I understand that unity, joy, awareness of evil and possessors of Truth can not exist independently of each other, that they all depend on Truth being operational. Apart from Truth there can be no joy, no unity. When these qualities are present the devil will work to destroy it so they must be aware of this reality as well which will then force them to band together for common comfort, encouragement and sustenance.

As I consider this list, I am well aware that it is these qualities we see sorely lacking in many groups. Fellowship has been lost because instead of agreeing who the enemy is they fight each other because they have allowed the pride of life to intervene, lusts run unchecked, sin is accepted as the norm. These sins destroy fellowship, brotherhood. When there is no cohesiveness in a brotherhood it will cease to be a brotherhood, fellowship vanishes like snow on a hot July day.

Jesus knew what it takes in order for a brotherhood to exist, to be a viable force on the world. When these qualities are present it is evident that this brotherhood is one with the LORD Jesus because this is how the Godhead operates - this characterizes them - You in me, me in them, they in me - perfect unity.

Before we look out and evaluate others, how do I personally measure up in allowing these qualities characterize me? If I run short, whose fault is it?

More later...

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
" 1. That the disciples be unified: that they may be one even as We are. v 11"
____________________________________________________________

This was Jesus concern for his disciples that they be unified.

Unity by definition means the cooperation of different people with different abilities who work for the common good for a common goal. This is what the book of 1Corinthians is all about. There were a lot of things wrong in that church that threatened their unity.

Unity is much sought after but the one that comes from God is neither taught nor planned - it just is. It defies logic - how is it that people who do not even know each other can feel, experience that oneness with strangers who are also Believers?

In the modern church unity is much sought after. Being unified with others will enable a group to do much because of the power inherent to numbers. So, then, many groups with varying doctrinal beliefs will unify organizationally for the benefits unity bestows upon its group.

However, the unity Jesus is bestowing upon his disciples is one that cannot be organized by man but is one that is brought about by obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit because they are one with the Lord Jesus. There is a common love, common goals, common purpose, common worship. When a brotherhood is unified it is a powerful witness to their community. Together much can be done for the LORD when the brotherhood operates out of love for the LORD and not for ego-building.

The devil works to destroy this unity by getting people to follow people instead of staying focused on the LORD Jesus. The Apostle Paul dealt with this issue in 1Corinthians 1. It is an old problem.

We are all aware of the destructiveness of man initiated unity - it takes people away from the TRUTH because it has been minimized for the sake of the common good of the group which means it is populated with goats.

As we live in this sin-ridden world it behooves us to encourage each other in our walk with the LORD, that we would be found faithful. We can do this wherever we are whenever we find believers who need strengthening. The Holy Spirit will show us who these people are. Let us never fail to be that encourager.

EDITED

Is not the church in visible schism in most or all towns and communities?

Depending upon the size of the area, multiple congregations may exist of Baptists, Presbyterians, Charismatics, Lutherans, Methodists, Catholics, Independents, House Church Associations, etc. All have their meeting places and leaders but rarely does one cooperate with the other or even acknowledge that the other exists.

Organizational unity would not be a good goal and would not last and but greater unity of heart and purpose and cooperation would be worthy goals.

When Paul and John and Peter wrote to churches in the first century like those of Galatia and Ephesus and Rome, these churches might not share one building but they were united in purpose and action. Some were sharing around the letters of Apostles like Paul and John and Peter and some of those letters became Scripture.

The first century churches shared the experience of persecution together.

The first century churches shared in almsgiving for the poor at least when they gave via Paul for the poor saints at Jerusalem.

Disciples were won for Christ rather than for a congregation's membership rolls and statistical reporting. The pay, position, privileges, prerogatives and pensions of pastors and their staffs were not such influences as they are today.

In modern times and culture in North America, multiple local congregations across denominational boundaries have cooperated in outreach. Particulars have included providing temporary shelter to the homeless, food kitchens, supporting the pro-life cause, running a 24 x 7 phone line for meeting the needs of people in crisis, operating a distribution network for things like clothing and groceries.

Motivated by love for God and love for neighbor, the purpose of outreach for Christ's cause can bring Christian people together in a community. It has been rare. It has happened. Hallowed be His Name.

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Motivated by love for God and love for neighbor, the purpose of outreach for Christ's cause can bring Christian people together in a community."
______________________________________________________________

I have also seen it happen - too bad it can not be enduring...I have concluded that if it were it would create such a powerful group that it would become more of a power to be reckoned with politically and that is not how the Holy Spirit works. He uses weak folks who know their limitations and know they can only function by empowered by the HS.

Appreciate your post, turn.

John 17:13 NASB

13 “But now I come to You; and these things I speak in the world so that they may have My joy made full in themselves.

COMMENT:

2. They may have joy: that they may have My joy made full in themselves. v13

Joy.

Jesus asks the Father that his disciples would be filled with his joy. What is joy?

People of all kinds want joy. The devil knows this and works to produce a counterfeit for people and he has been very successful. But what does counterfeit joy look like? Maybe it would help to know what divinely endowed joy looks like first.

I checked out Joy in "Strongs". In the OT there are several Hebrew words translated joy. The idea for most, if not all, is cheerfulness; specifically welcome; gladness, joy, mirth, rejoicing. In this scripture the Greek word is:

χαρά
chara
khar-ah'
From G5463; cheerfulness, that is, calm delight: - gladness, X greatly, (X be exceeding) joy (-ful, -fully, -fulness, -ous).

The meanings are similar.

We read in Gal. 5:22 where joy is listed as the second fruit in the list of the fruit of the Spirit - comes right after love. It is a divinely endowed sense, feeling. So, how does one experience this sense? After all, one cannot be giddy, bubbly all the time - there is work to be done! Or, maybe this is a misconception of joy?

As I look to Jesus, how he lived, worked, interacted with people, I see how he got tired, annoyed, angry at times because of situations he found himself to be in. This does not look like joy to me... So, when do we see joy demonstrated in his life?

As I study the life of Jesus, I see him delighted in his talk with the Father. Do you not also sense it? Do you not experience it when you study the WORD? After all, the WORD is God's love letter to humans - do we not enjoy getting love letters from loved ones? But God's love letter is far superior...does it not produce in you a calmness in your spirit? your emotions? And does it not impact how you respond to life?

As I compare the delight one gets in studying the WORD, the joy that results I cannot help but consider the counterfeit - fun. Scripture does not say that having fun is sin but when one pursues fun at the expense of time with the LORD does it not distract from our walk with the LORD? Does not ones time spent with the LORD teach us what indeed is funny and what is not? How one should respond to what supposedly is funny? (For example, I was made aware of Amish Mafia recently by a plain Mennonite...I was appalled when they considered it funny!)

Joy - is it elusive? Suppose, you lay aside what consumes your time and get into the WORD, asking the LORD to teach you - see what happens! This will teach you how to respond to life when it happens on a daily basis. When you meet the public it will not be hard to let your light shine. Jesus says, "Let your light so shine.."

A testimony: Regina had died. Many had prayed for her healing. Until two weeks before her death I told the LORD, you either take her or heal her. He body was filling up with fluids, she looked BAD. She was also paralyzed from her waist down from the tumor that was growing in her brain. Early on the LORD had shown me how I needed to trust him with her situation that if she would die, he will be there to comfort; in the meantime, live life to the full each and every day. I did that, but now she was dead. Her body was cold and returning to the earth.

I went to bed that night. As I laid there my mind went back to her life from the time of her birth all the way up to the present. It was as real as though I was seeing a movie of her. All during this time I was filled with incredible joy that God had loaned her to us these 25 years. She was on loan and God had the right to recall it because he owned her. And we were blessed for having had her in our home.

This experience went on for a long time - had no idea how long but it came from God, I know it did. I was not strong enough emotionally to produce anything like it. One counselor told me it was a gift from God. I agree.

Joy - the devil can never duplicate it. He tries but is a miserable failure.

God is good.

Joy Robbers

I have been thinking a lot about joy. In doing this study of John the LORD has been helping me to once again connect some dots that I have observed, experienced so an understanding is occurring of what joy is and what robs a person of joy.

The devil works hard to mask the reality of joy in the life of a person and he is so sly, terribly sly. It all begins with sin - no surprise there, but it sets in motion a series of events that will work to make joy difficult.

Sin produces guilt - this comes from God. Unless a person deals with it soon it will go underground and be buried with a huge dose of self-pity because of the consequences. The devil will inform you that you failed because someone else was wrong so therefore you are a victim. Frustration and anger sets in because you are no longer the owner of your problem. Now you are living in anger and frustration which will impair your ability to make decent decisions so you will sin upon sin. Forgiveness is a mere word, a concept that certainly does not apply to you. Distress becomes the norm and your emotional stability is challenged so off to the psychiatrist/psychologist you go. They will teach you some coping skills that will work for a while and then you are right back to square one. Some counselors will use Biblical methods but the results are the same.

Or, maybe, you have been violated, hurt by someone...anyone. Now you wallow in your pain of being robbed ... Anger sets in...you hurt so bad so off to the mental health professions you go. You will pour out your misery and they will once again teach you coping skills that have limited results.

And - joy? It is elusive, a mere word in a dictionary. But what does Jesus say? Know the TRUTH and the TRUTH shall make you FREE!

You know what all is truth? The reality is that there are very few people who have not experienced some kind of emotional hurt, pain that the devil will NOT exploit to his advantage and get people in bondage. This is reality - we are in a WAR, we are the battlefield where the devil is fighting God. Who do we listen to?

TRUTH liberates and where does it come from? Jesus says a lot in John 17 about how he is in the Father, the Father in Him and he is in the disciples. If this is true there will be joy. But joy cannot be there if sin resides there so one must get rid of it. AND you cannot do it on your own - you are totally helpless to do so - it takes a cleansing of your heart, soul and mind which is facilitated by immersing oneself in the WORD, allowing it to fill you, teach you, clean you up. That is why spending time in the WORD will fortify oneself against the attacks the devil will bring your way. You will experience the joy of the LORD and when this becomes your experience it will help one to clearly identify sin when it shows itself.

Am I a victim ever? Sure, but so was Jesus and how did he handle it? He spent time with the Father...and no one can improve upon that method of dealing with injustice. (I hate to call it a method but for lack of a better word, I will use it.) Spending time with the LORD will fortify one, enable one to live above the trials and temptations the devil sends our way. But if and when we fail we do have an advocate with the Father but we must be on good terms with our lawyer in order for Him to work for us and He in us.

Joy - possible? Yes, when one allows the WORD to permeate ones soul, heart and mind, allowing it to teach you, direct your life in all its ways.

God bless.

John 17:15-21

15 “I do not ask You to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.

16 “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

17 “Sanctify them in the truth; Your word is truth.

18 “As You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.

19 “For their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth.

20 “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word;

21 that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.

COMMENT:

Jesus prayer for his disciples included three main points:

1. That they would be unified. v. 11

2. That they would have his joy. v.13

3. They would be kept from the evil one. v.15

None of these attributes can stand alone, independent of each other. They are all a part of a whole much like an egg: the shell, the white, the yolk. An egg cannot function for the purpose it was made without all its parts. (Not considering other creatures who find it a delicacy for consumption.)

This prayer was not only for his current disciples but for all those who come after him. v. 20

As I consider how Jesus emphasizes the importance of being set apart for holiness I am made aware how the devil works so powerfully in distracting us through our lusts for entertainments, egos, materialism so we can be somebody in this world - how we can hanker after recognition, honors by our contemporaries, the world of those in power. But how does one live in the world but not being a part of it? this is the question. I have been thinking a lot on this in the past few days...

As I ponder this question of being in the world but not being of it, I can only look to Jesus, see how he functioned in it, how he dealt with the world around him: the people, the pressure to conform, how he was about his father's business. The only time we see him submit to another human being was when a child; but when he started him ministry at 30 he was on his own. What he did in those intervening years we do not know. No doubt he was in preparation for the purpose God sent him and it is from that preparation he was able to minister as he did.

Jesus had a goal - that of pleasing the Father. He spent time alone with Him. He was taught by Him; he received His strength from him; He received his orders from Him. Jesus did not go to the religious authorities of the day for inspiration, permissions. He worked independently, apart from them. And they clashed - all the time because they felt their power, influenced being threatened.

You know, when we do likewise by allowing the TRUTH to penetrate our mind, impact how we do life it will put us at odds with the surrounding culture. When this is the case we will be sensitive in identifying evil when it shows itself, even when it is clocked in 'religious garb/rhetoric'. Paul calls this ability 'discernment of spirits'.

As we grow in our relationship with the LORD allowing the Holy Spirit to teach us, inform us we do feel his nudging, challenging pokes in our conscience/spirit. The more we surrender to his pokes the more sensitive we become to His leading. But this cannot happen apart from being serious students of the WORD. This is what sets us apart - is being filled with TRUTH. v. 17

Yes, Jesus did not leave us defenseless - he gave us everything we need to live victoriously. If we live in defeat it is our choice, not His.

Quote: "If we live in defeat it is our choice, not His"

If only we were to realise this, then we would understand what Jesus means when He says His burden is easy and His yoke light.

As the truth of God's word sinks deeper in our hearts, and we live it out, we do become not of this world, and the world, will notice.

What happens after that...

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"As the truth of God's word sinks deeper in our hearts, and we live it out, we do become not of this world, and the world, will notice."
______________________________________________________________

Well said, Enid.

This is the exact conclusion I am coming to. While I have known it before, this reality is sinking deeper into my heart and soul.

John 17:20-23 NASB

20 “I do not ask on behalf of these alone, but for those also who believe in Me through their word;

21 that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me.

22 “The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one;

23 I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me.

COMMENT:

It is really hard for me to write about this - I am so overwhelmed with the love Jesus expressed to his Father for his disciples. Love oozes from every word, every expression. His confidence in this motley of self-serving men is nothing short of awesome.

Jesus reiterates his desire they would be unified. People who are interested in power, in ruling like these guys were will not be the easiest people to get along with. There will be politics, manipulation, arm-twisting to shape people up...Of course, we do not see them doing this while Jesus was with them but the potential certainly was there UNLESS there was a change of heart. And there was - on Pentecost. This group of men became unified. Imagine that! Do you not see how the Holy Spirit can change a person if he/she is willing to submit to his authority? (Do not forget the Apostle Paul, either.)

Jesus teaches us in this chapter the reasons why unity is so dreadfully important. Verses 21 and 23 tell us:

1.so that the world may believe that You sent Me.

2. so that the world may know that You sent Me.

And this is exactly what has happened to me as I study John. I see how it has happened in the lives of the disciples and now I am overwhelmed by its reality.

While I am overwhelmed with this reality, is the world overwhelmed with what they see in us? Are we unified? Do we have his joy in us? Do we live apart from the evil that is in the world? If these qualities characterize us it is no wonder that the world hates us because we are living proof that God sent Jesus! WOW!

I want to tell you I am taking a break from posting on this thread, "The Sayings of Jesus".

This journey in looking into the sayings of Jesus has had a profound impact on me - so profound I never imagined. It is so intense the devil is working hard to destroy me, so I feel I need to back off for a while, and rest. You see, I am seeing how serious it is to know and realize and BELIEVE how the Father is in Jesus, Jesus in the Father and how Jesus dwells within his child - how this impacts the Believer. I am seeing how so few are really living there and this saddens me to no end. I guess I have put too many people on a pedestal and was not aware of it...

In any case, I expect I will be back with more insights as the LORD shows them to me, but for the immediate time I will be studying something else in the WORD - am not sure what, maybe Revelation - whenever I need encouragement that is what I read. I do have a burning question I want answered, nothing profound but it lingers: was the Sinai peninsula lush with vegetation during the time of the Exodus? It is desert now but so is the Sahara...Anyhow, this search will be fun - maybe this is what I need - a little fun.:-) Usually in doing a search of this kind will result in "ah HA" moments that always appear unexpectedly and this is so delightful, so worshipful!

God bless.

ginnyrose

Well, I hope you enjoy your break. But, I often think, what we start, we need to finish.

We need to finish the race. Jesus said on the Cross, "It is finished".

I don't think that 'the devil is working so hard to destroy me', should be a reason to take a break. But, if you need to, you need to.

Take care and see you soon. Real soon.

God bless.

Quote:

"""You see, I am seeing how serious it is to know and realize and BELIEVE how the Father is in Jesus, Jesus in the Father and how Jesus dwells within his child - how this impacts the Believer."""

That is why we are called the offspring of God, sons' of God, born again ones', being the hope of glory by the Christ that is birthed in us.

Joh 3:3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
Joh 3:7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
1Pe 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

Paul spoke of this as the mystery now revealed; which was hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory

Paul declaring the riches of the glory of this mystery;

Colossians 1:25-29 Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

Paul again, giving the epitome of new birth;

Galatians 2:16-21 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid. For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. For I through the law am dead to the law, that I might live unto God. I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

Even Peter who was sent to the Jewish people;

1 Peter 1:22-24 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:

Who is the living Word of God? The incorruptable Seed birthed in us from the Father and sealed by the Holy Spirit as in Mary.

John 1:1-5 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.

This is the reason God brought Paul into the world, from his mother's womb, for you-ward.

2Co 1:12 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
2Co 13:3 Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.
Eph 3:2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward:

In Christ and Christ in us, not just pretty words, but the whole reason for the Cross and "Christ in you the Hope of Glory".

Phillip

QUOTE:
"Paul spoke of this as the mystery now revealed; which was hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory

Paul declaring the riches of the glory of this mystery"
______________________________________________________________

I am becoming more and more aware of the reality of this very thing - it boggles the mind.

Ok, I am back...

Last night I became aware of what was bothering me and maybe it was this very thing that kept me from comprehending...my ticker was sluggish and when that happens you feel bad. During the night my jaw pained terribly...but I feel good this morning and can think well! Yes, I know full well what this means physically - I have done my research. I am of the mind that if God wants me alive he will keep me alive, if he wants to take me home I want to be ready to go and do not want to be hospitalized to postpone this event.

Alright, got that out of the way...ginnyrose
************************************************************
John 17:24 NASB

24“Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.

COMMENT:

I sense in this verse Jesus intense love for his followers, his children. He is asking the Father to allow them to come be with him in heaven, to see his glory. His love for his children is so intense, so strong...

You know when you have something very precious, something that means a LOT to you, you like to show it to others, but you are selective on who you show it to. You will only show it to people who can/will appreciate it, who will take care of it, respect it, admire it, rejoice with you in what they are seeing. You will not show this to those who will mock it, work to destroy it or you or your work or your interest.

In sharing your precious "whatever" you experience a warmth, love for this thing as well as for those who appreciate it. There is delight in sharing something meaningful with those you love.

As I consider how this works in the lives of us humans, I see this trait operational in the life of Jesus (Jesus, as the creator, infused within humans the ability to feel this way). AND I know his joy in sharing his glories far exceeds ours in every sense of the word.

How worthy are we to share in his glory? Will we care for it? Respect it? Reverence it? Of course, otherwise we would never have the privilege to be partakers of this glory... and this is all made possible by Jesus and us allowing the Holy Spirit to change us from glory to glory...

Praise God Jinnyrose:

I am of the same thought and deed in your situation.

Philippians 1:20-23 According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:

Those that are in Christ and He in them are the only glory this world will see, until He comes outwardly for us and makes His presence known to all on the earth and under the earth.

My old heart is ready when He is ready to receive me unto Himself.

May God richly bless your time left here on this earth.

May I ask for your prayers for myself in the same situation.

In Christ: Phillip

John 17

COMMENT:

I will not print this text here - it is quite long, but if you wish, you can go ahead and read it so you can get the feel for what I am about to share...

Chapter seventeen is the prayer Jesus had with the Father just before he was arrested and then crucified.

As I look at this prayer, I see a progression in Jesus petition to the Father. He begins by laying out the facts of his purpose, his success and his concern for his followers. In this concern he became very passionate. One can easily see this passion growing in intensity as it progressed.

For many years I have grappled with the purpose of prayer. Why pray when God knows everything, will do as he pleases - what can I do to change that, anyways?? Oh sure, I need his empowerment to overcome sin, withstand temptation, direction for life decisions that I face, but beyond that, why pray? He is sovereign - He will do as he pleases; presidents and kings are mere puppets in his hand so why pray about that?

As I look at Jesus' life, who he was, his mission and his relationship with the Father, his need to communicate with him, I see lessons to be learned, questions answered. It all has to do with me.

God is God and will jolly well do as He pleases, but how submitted am I to that will? Unless there is an emotional, mental, spiritual closeness there between the two of you, you will be prone to failure because there are too many things in this world that are designed by the devil to draw you away from God. As one communicates with the LORD Jesus you will experience his joy, his closeness, his security about the present and future. AND that is empowering.

We are not facing a crucifixion in the next week - like Jesus did here - but we still need to stay close by his side so we will be prepared for whatever comes. As the political scene looks all the more frightening, it becomes imperative we we walk with the LORD in everything, everyday, every moment. If Jesus needed this reinforcement, we can do with no less.

John 18:1-11 NASB

1 When Jesus had spoken these words, He went forth with His disciples over the ravine of the Kidron, where there was a garden, in which He entered with His disciples.

2 Now Judas also, who was betraying Him, knew the place, for Jesus had often met there with His disciples.

3 Judas then, having received the Roman cohort and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons.

4 So Jesus, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, went forth and said to them, “Whom do you seek?”

5 They answered Him, “Jesus the Nazarene.” He said to them, “I am He.” And Judas also, who was betraying Him, was standing with them.

6 So when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground.

7 Therefore He again asked them, “Whom do you seek?” And they said, “Jesus the Nazarene.”

8 Jesus answered, “I told you that I am He; so if you seek Me, let these go their way,”

9 to fulfill the word which He spoke, “Of those whom You have given Me I lost not one.”

10 Simon Peter then, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear; and the slave’s name was Malchus.

11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?”

COMMENT:

The scene changes from intense teaching to events where the LORD demonstrates his divinity by example, but is lived out in a human body.

We see Jesus here as a man that was fortified by his prayer with the Father; a man who was on a mission and is not about to be deterred; a man who was very much in charge but by all appearances this was not the case; we also see a man who ministered to men at their point of need.

Jesus knew the purpose of these soldiers' presence in this garden - most men would have run, instead he went up to them and introduced himself to them! He took charge, unknown to them.

As I ponder this act I am challenged with this concept: do we take charge of each and everyday, embrace events that are sure to pain us? Jesus did not fight it - sure it could be argued he was here to die for man's sins and we do not have that purpose in life. But...do we allow life to manipulate us or do we make life happen by taking charge?

Have to think about this a while...

John 18: 3,10 NASB

3 Judas then, having received the Roman cohort and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, came there with lanterns and torches and weapons.

10 Simon Peter then, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear; and the slave’s name was Malchus.

COMMENT:

Usually when I read verse three where it tells us that Judas came with Roman soldiers in tow, I would imagine a few men, like maybe two-three dozen at the most, not many. But in my center reference it says it could have been as many as six hundred soldiers!! This absolutely blew my mind! Imagine that, if you can! 600 soldiers! Why so many? Did these guys lack for anything interesting to do?

As I consider a Roman soldier, I see a man who is skilled in intimidation with his uniform complete with helmet, shield, sword, etc.; the persona he projects with his stance. With 600 of these guys all in one place, all on a mission to arrest one Galilean, it would frighten anyone - they were outfitted to do so. With these numbers no mere mortal could escape.

When Jesus asked them who they are looking for and they told him, He replied, "I Am He" they drew back and fell to the ground. Imagine that! Six hundred men suddenly disabled by falling down! Jesus could have run away then had he chosen to do so. I doubt they could have regained their footing in a minute - it took some time, enough that Jesus could have run and hid himself. But he did not.

Then Peter took it upon himself to defend Jesus - such a puny defense, all things considered - and cut off the ear of Malchus, a servant. Jesus so graciously healed the guy's ear...

As I consider these two events, I see Jesus as a man very much in control. He also saw opportunities to demonstrate this which he did by felling the soldiers and healing the servants ear.

Now suppose you were there in the area and you witnessed these events...what would you think? These strong men trained in combat losing their footing and momentarily becoming disabled....Hey! these guys are not as powerful as they think they are! And then Jesus heals a servant who was injured by one of his staunchest disciples... Who would ever have imagined...there is something very strange going on here....

What if you were one of these soldiers? If they have a normal mind, I would guess the Holy Spirit would have used this incident to ask themselves serious questions about this man. No doubt they had a lot to discuss afterwards and then the events that followed a few days later provided them with more things to ruminate.

I wonder how many of them eventually acknowledged Jesus as a man unworthy of death, who later followed The Way?

This supernatural act of God is awesome...God will show himself mighty but do people always recognize it as such? Paul says they don't. (Romans 1) Too bad.

Things looked very bad for Jesus. He was betrayed by Judas with the Roman cohort in tow; He and his disciples were no match for 600+ people, or so one could think. Jesus was on a mission and that included facing a hostile crowd that was bent on killing which they succeeded in doing. All the events as they unfolded here and in the chapters to come were no accident, it did not take God by surprise. The devil was working hard against Jesus and God gave him a lot of rope so he could do his thing.

If we would have lived back then observing the events as they happened we would have been certain Jesus was being bested by the local authorities - and he was, for the time being. We would have been ignorant of the big picture: we would have had no idea that anyone other the EVIL was in charge. But Someone greater was in charge. While EVIL ruled for a few days, God was using Him to accomplish HIS purpose. And...to achieve this goal, Someone important died, His supporters left scattered and confounded.

There was one other man Scripture informs us who was the victim of EVIL and we know him as Job. The devil wanted to destroy him and he worked at it by degrees. He suffered, his friends debated the reason for it and among the reasons argued was that he had sinned against God. But they were ignorant of the Big Picture.

Let us for a moment consider the early church. It was not long after Pentecost when the church came under heavy persecution. Saul was a big tough guy who led soldiers capturing Christian men and women and throwing them into prisons. What if the church had taken up arms to defend themselves against this brutality? What if?? What if Saul would have been killed? But they did not - they went right on with the flow, subjecting themselves to whatever came their way, suffering gladly, not counting their lives all that important.

As we view life, evil run amok we are challenged to resist it: to take up arms and right whatever is wrong, defend ourselves. As I consider Jesus response to evil and how he went with the flow of events, never defending himself but doing good when given the opportunity to do so (healing Malchus ear) I see a valuable principle at work.

Is there not an important lesson for us here in how one is to deal with authority bent on destroying GOOD? Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:39: "But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil". We do not always have a view of the Big Picture, do we? And we do not want to interfere, do we? That is why Jesus tells us to not resist, God is in control of all events - he will use these for some purpose that is not known to us. God is not taken by surprise when his children suffer - he is allowing it for some reason and this reason may never become clear until we get to the other side.

And....I fully expect that our patience will be sorely tested the immediate future. What will our response be?

John 18:10-11:

10 Simon Peter then, having a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s slave, and cut off his right ear; and the slave’s name was Malchus.

11 So Jesus said to Peter, “Put the sword into the sheath; the cup which the Father has given Me, shall I not drink it?”

Matthew 26:51-54:

51 And behold, one of those who were with Jesus reached and drew out his sword, and struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his ear.

52 Then Jesus said to him, “Put your sword back into its place; for all those who take up the sword shall perish by the sword.

53 “Or do you think that I cannot appeal to My Father, and He will at once put at My disposal more than twelve legions of angels?

54 “How then will the Scriptures be fulfilled, which say that it must happen this way?”

Luke 22:36,49-51:

36 And He said to them, “But now, whoever has a money belt is to take it along, likewise also a bag, and whoever has no sword is to sell his coat and buy one.

49 When those who were around Him saw what was going to happen, they said, “Lord, shall we strike with the sword?”

50 And one of them struck the slave of the high priest and cut off his right ear.

51 But Jesus answered and said, “Stop! No more of this.” And He touched his ear and healed him.

COMMENT:

As I look at Peter's use of the sword, I checked the other Gospels knowing they included details not stated here.

As I study these accounts, getting a better picture of what happened, questions arise: why did Jesus tell the disciples to bring a sword along - even going so far to tell them to sell a coat if needed to get one. But when Peter did use it, He reprimanded him for doing so?

Jesus knew they were going into a serious, dangerous situation. Jesus also knew the power he had to protect himself - said he could have called 12 legions of angels, or 72,000 angels. Why the need for swords?

I suspect Jesus knew the disciples would feel the need to protect themselves so he told them to bring these weapons along. When faced with physical danger, they asked Him if they should use it, but he made no reply. Interesting...why do you think this is the case? With no direction from Jesus, Peter went ahead and used it, cutting Malchus' ear off. Jesus then rebukes Peter for using the sword and heals Malchus ear.

What do you make of that?

Did Jesus want to teach Malchus a lesson by allowing Peter to inflict physical harm on him? Could be.

Did Jesus want to teach the disciples the futility of using weapons to protect themselves? Actually, it is absurd to think that two swords would avail in face of [possibly] 600 soldiers...but they likely did not think or were ignorant of the number of soldiers there...Or...they were acting on 'human reasoning' - got to protect myself!

As I ponder this incident, I am left feeling that Jesus does allow us to make mistakes, assume his approval to do something only to have it backfire on us in order to teach us a lesson.

I am also aware that the LORD in his leading us allows us to get into predicaments in order to force us to realize how dependent we really are on him or to teach us that if there is any lack.

Why do you think Jesus told the disciples to bring swords along only to reprimand them for using it?

EDITED

____________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Did Jesus want to teach the disciples the futility of using weapons to protect themselves? Actually, it is absurd to think that two swords would avail in face of [possibly] 600 soldiers...but they likely did not think or were ignorant of the number of soldiers there...Or...they were acting on 'human reasoning' - got to protect myself!"
____________________________________________________________

As I pondered, meditated on this issue, asking my husband about it, we concluded Jesus asked for the sword's presence in order to teach his disciples the futility of its use in self-defense.

With the sword in their possession they had the option of using it or not. If they would not have had it, they could have berated themselves later on for their oversight in not taking it along. (At least this is how modern males think.) Jesus knew they would be outnumbered and he knew he was not going to allow them to use it to defend themselves. He also informed them he could have called 72,000 angels to come to his aid.

As I consider this event I am forced to think about moderns who find themselves in a dangerous situation. They may have carnal weapons at their disposal but will not opt to use them but they will pray, asking God for HIS protection. Sometimes He will send his angels and there will be a ring of them circling God's people, protecting, unknown to them, but the enemy sees them. Then again, God does not always choose to protect his people from danger, they are caught, imprisoned, tortured, killed.

As one looks at what Jesus went through, how he suffered we can know that whatever dangerous situations we find ourselves in God sees it and will do whatever will bring the most honor and glory to Him. It is all about Him, not us at all. Do I believe this? Do I live it? Can I trust Him that much? After all, Jesus did say he that takes the sword shall perish by it, so what are our options?

John 18:19-21

19 The high priest then questioned Jesus about His disciples, and about His teaching.

20 Jesus answered him, “I have spoken openly to the world; I always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all the Jews come together; and I spoke nothing in secret.

21 “Why do you question Me? Question those who have heard what I spoke to them; they know what I said.”

COMMENT:

I have read this many times but this morning I saw something I never did before - and that is the beauty of studying the Scriptures.

The High Priest questioned Jesus about his teachings. Jesus did not tell him but referred to his public ministry - the people know, ask them. The High Priest was in no frame of mind to learn and be taught, he was a critic. To give him specific answers to his question would be like casting your pearls before swine - swine would have no appreciation for the value of pearls and they would trample them just like rocks.

In our world today we may be asked why/what we believe. It is important for us to be discerning about the spirit in which these questions are asked and to respond accordingly. Jesus did this - he is a beautiful example of 'not casting your pearls before swine" and to not worry beforehand what one should say when brought before the court/judge.

There is another venue in which our faith is questioned and this appears in the comment section after a news article. Some Christians will post Biblical thoughts and how it relates to this article only to be ripped to shreds. I always cringe when I read this.

Anyhow, I love this lesson, don't you?

John 18:33-38 NASB

33 Therefore Pilate entered again into the Praetorium, and summoned Jesus and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?”

34 Jesus answered, “Are you saying this on your own initiative, or did others tell you about Me?”

35 Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests delivered You to me; what have You done?”

36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.”

37 Therefore Pilate said to Him, “So You are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say correctly that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”

38 Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews and said to them, “I find no guilt in Him.

COMMENT:

I find Jesus' demeanor amazing as he appears before Pilate. He is as one relaxed, visiting with an friend. I see this as mutual which is no wonder when Pilate tells the Jews that he finds no fault with him. This reminds me of Peter when he was thrown into prison after Pentecost - he was relaxed - he slept unlike his friends on the outside!

Jesus and Pilate had a philosophical discussion. "Are you a King?" Pilate asks. Jesus replied, " I am, but not of this realm otherwise my servants would fight."

Pilate seem to understand that Jesus posed no threat to the Romans or his authority. It may be comparable for someone to ask a modern "are you an expert in ......"? And perhaps this is the issue that irked the Jewish leaders to no end - they felt their authority, positions being threatened so ya got to rid yourself of this threat!

Once again Jesus reiterates that His servants will not fight. This is a concept we do well to take to heart. If one will take the sword to defend his turf this person will literally be a threat to some civil authority thus hampering his mission in life. Jesus desires his servants to not get entangled in the affairs of carnal man but work instead on heart issues. It is as though these cannot co-exist in a body because the thinking processes differ so radically in order to be successful. One is of physical aggression the other is of a servant mentality, backing off when things get tough, allowing God to handle what we cannot. Hard lesson to learn when our carnal nature desires to do otherwise.

I am back - finally. My computer was in the shop, hence my absence from the forum and the internet! g
*************************************************************

John 18: 29-19:16 NASB

29 Therefore Pilate went out to them and said, “What accusation do you bring against this Man?”

30 They answered and said to him, “If this Man were not an evildoer, we would not have delivered Him to you.”

31 So Pilate said to them, “Take Him yourselves, and judge Him according to your law.” The Jews said to him, “We are not permitted to put anyone to death,”

32 to fulfill the word of Jesus which He spoke, signifying by what kind of death He was about to die.

33 Therefore Pilate entered again into the Praetorium, and summoned Jesus and said to Him, “Are You the King of the Jews?”

34 Jesus answered, “Are you saying this on your own initiative, or did others tell you about Me?”

35 Pilate answered, “I am not a Jew, am I? Your own nation and the chief priests delivered You to me; what have You done?”

36 Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, then My servants would be fighting so that I would not be handed over to the Jews; but as it is, My kingdom is not of this realm.”

37 Therefore Pilate said to Him, “So You are a king?” Jesus answered, “You say correctly that I am a king. For this I have been born, and for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice.”

38 Pilate said to Him, “What is truth?” And when he had said this, he went out again to the Jews and said to them, “I find no guilt in Him.

39 “But you have a custom that I release someone for you at the Passover; do you wish then that I release for you the King of the Jews?”

40 So they cried out again, saying, “Not this Man, but Barabbas.” Now Barabbas was a robber.

Chapter 19:1-16
1 Pilate then took Jesus and scourged Him.

2 And the soldiers twisted together a crown of thorns and put it on His head, and put a purple robe on Him;

3 and they began to come up to Him and say, “Hail, King of the Jews!” and to give Him slaps in the face.

4 Pilate came out again and said to them, “Behold, I am bringing Him out to you so that you may know that I find no guilt in Him.”

5 Jesus then came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe. Pilate said to them, “Behold, the Man!”

6 So when the chief priests and the officers saw Him, they cried out saying, “Crucify, crucify!” Pilate said to them, “Take Him yourselves and crucify Him, for I find no guilt in Him.”

7 The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and by that law He ought to die because He made Himself out to be the Son of God.”

8 Therefore when Pilate heard this statement, he was even more afraid;

9 and he entered into the Praetorium again and said to Jesus, “Where are You from?” But Jesus gave him no answer.

10 So Pilate said to Him, “You do not speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You, and I have authority to crucify You?”

11 Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from above; for this reason he who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”

12 As a result of this Pilate made efforts to release Him, but the Jews cried out saying, “If you release this Man, you are no friend of Caesar; everyone who makes himself out to be a king opposes Caesar.”

13 Therefore when Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out, and sat down on the judgment seat at a place called The Pavement, but in Hebrew, Gabbatha.

14 Now it was the day of preparation for the Passover; it was about the sixth hour. And he said to the Jews, “Behold, your King!”

15 So they cried out, “Away with Him, away with Him, crucify Him!” Pilate said to them, “Shall I crucify your King?” The chief priests answered, “We have no king but Caesar.”

16 So he then handed Him over to them to be crucified.

COMMENT:

As I look at this account of Jesus' trial, standing back on the fringes observing the proceedings, I am struck with the unfairness of it all.

Pilate was in a tough situation - he was between a rock and a hard place or like some would say 'dammed if you do and dammed if you don't'. But he was a people pleaser and the Jews knew that because they appealed to him on those grounds, "If you release this Man, you are no friend of Caesar". If he would have done the right thing legally, he would have faced a likely riot so how can one give a ruling with the least amount of conflict? This was his dilemma.

As I look on this situation I see one that is totally unjust. Jesus was not guilty of any punishable crime - Pilate knew that Jesus was delivered up to him because of envy (Matthew 27:18) so the only way he could even be given the death sentence was to do this 'trial' under cover of darkness - some have said that even this was illegal. There was absolutely no justice at work at any level in these proceedings. The judge was a wishy-washy man who catered to the most powerful political machine in the community and bent to mob rule....He apparently had a conscience but it did not influence his ruling...

Now let us take a look at Jesus' reactions during these proceeds. He was calm. He spoke little; he did not defend himself, nor debate. He was totally accepting. He endured. E.N.D.U.R.E.D. No whimper. He knew the forces were all arrayed against him. The devil was on a roll and there was no stopping him.

(Of course, I am well aware of Jesus desire to be the perfect sacrifice in order to redeem mankind...this is not my issue - I am looking at this from a human point of view.)

As I look at this picture of injustice working unchecked, Jesus response to it, I am thinking about situations Christians find themselves in today. Can we take lessons from this? I think so.

How do we respond when we are accused unfairly? When the accusations are perverted, twisted or downright false? Do we work to defend ourselves in order to redeem ourselves to save our hide? But is it ever wrong to defend ourselves?

Jesus response to the the injustice of it all sends a powerful message to us moderns in how one should respond...and I suspect not many would gladly face it with a calmness in our spirit - or am I only speaking of myself?

John 19:10-11 NASB

10 So Pilate said to Him, “You do not speak to me? Do You not know that I have authority to release You, and I have authority to crucify You?”

11 Jesus answered, “You would have no authority over Me, unless it had been given you from above; for this reason he who delivered Me to you has the greater sin.”

COMMENT:

I find Jesus' response to Pilate's "Do You not know that I have authority" insightful.

Pilate occupied a powerful position, or at least he thought so. He believed he can release Jesus if he wanted to but there were other forces at play that prevented him from wanting to do so.

Standing back, observing these forces of God and the devil at war with each other we would understand they are just as active today as then. In Jesus' case he could have called six legions of angels to deliver him but chose not to. He chose to allow evil to triumph momentarily.

Believers today are caught in the crossfires of God and the devil. And most times God withholds angelic intervention but not always. Believers throughout all the ages have suffered tremendously - Jesus promised his disciples they would AND that the persecutors would believe they are doing God's will for killing them, just like the Jews did to Jesus. (Hitler comes to mind here as did others.)

God had a plan that was not known to the common man at the moment when He allowed Jesus to be brutally killed. It is no less different today when there are despotic rulers who will torture, kill Believers for the sake of the LORD Jesus. God has a plan and for many this is not known to them.

As I look at despotic rulers, the shenanigans inherent in their modus operandi I am becoming more aware of there truly are two different worlds out there at war with each other. While it appears evil is running unchecked, people being snookered into evil, we also know that God will use these to refine his people. For many it reveals who is following the LORD and who is not. In any case, God will use evil men to further his kingdom. In God's economy no event will go to waste. Understanding this principle will help calm us when we are faced with unchecked evil.

Yes, Jesus was a victim - by choice - but so are we when we choose to follow him.

John 19:26-27 NASB

26 When Jesus then saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold, your son!”

27 Then He said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” From that hour the disciple took her into his own household.

COMMENTS:

I consider it noteworthy that in the middle of intense physical suffering Jesus looked out for the welfare of his mother. Not until I read this scripture this time - and I have read it many times - did it dawn on me that Jesus was likely his mother's provider. He cared for her. Now that he was about to pass off the scene, He asks John to take the responsibility to care for her and he complied.

Powerful lesson here - that it does not matter what kind of suffering we may be going through, we still need to be aware of others' suffering and work to render assistance where possible. Jesus was not focusing on his own pain, but worked to soothe his mother's as well. Now that is compassion at its finest!

John 19:30 NASB

30 Therefore when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And He bowed His head and gave up His spirit.

COMMENT:

It is a done, it is finished. Jesus accomplished what he set out to do and that is to die for the sins of the people: he was the perfect sacrifice. The OT sacrifices were but a shadow, a type of Jesus's sacrifice.

I have many times wondered why God insisted on a bloody sacrifice to atone for sin. As I pondered what a sacrifice looked like based on OT law and OT history, I observed a few things:

1. To kill an animal and burn it on an altar is wasteful - sin is wasteful.

2. Sacrifice requires the best but it is burned - sin takes the best but it burns, destroys.

3. Sacrifice inflicts pain and suffering for the innocent victim - so it is with sin on its victims.

4. Sacrifice is costly - sin is costly.

5. Sacrifice results in death - sin causes spiritual death.

God used sacrifices to impress upon people the nature, the ugliness of sin. To drive this point further, the Jews were required to take a lamb into the house and keep it for three days before it was killed for the passover. The lamb was killed, roasted and eaten. No big deal?

Lambs are perhaps the cutest and sweetest of all animal babies. They are very loving, cuddly and take to children easily. Imagine, if you can if you have one in the house with your children how they would respond if you then in their presence killed this animal, roasted it and then made them eat it! Reckon they could?

When our family was young (we had five children) my husband got the idea he was going to raise New Zealand white rabbits to supplement our meat supply for the family. Time came when these rabbits were old enough to butcher. He commenced to do so but not without severe, emotional protests from the children. I cooked it but whenever they surmised this meat was rabbit, they refused to eat it. There was no way I could mask the identity of this meat. I ended up cooking it for fellowship meals at the church because our children refused to eat it. So it could have been for children who were forced to watch and observe the killing of the passover lamb. It was a highly emotional ritual.

And you know what? God also turned his head when Jesus died - it was a terrible time for him as well.

Seems to me as one considers all this, God instituted this ritual of sacrifice to drive home the point of how terrible, awful, horrible sin is - He used sacrifices as an object lesson to accomplish this. Do I understand this principle?

You're on to something here sister. This reminds me of Job, who would make his children "watch" the sacrifices he would make for their sins. Can you imagine having to watch your father take an innocent Lamb from the flock and slay the poor animal on an altar...because you told a lie? Can you imagine the bloody image and regret you would have to live with. Would make you think twice the next you were tempted to lie.

When Jesus said, "It is finished", it reminded me of this scripture in Hebrews.

"But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down at the right hand of God" Hebrews 10:12.

It is finished.

This is a reality of the cross, at the cross, Jesus totally gave up and forgot who He is, no rights, no privileges, a total nobody, fully stripped of everything.

This should be the spirit of repentance of every christians, no rights, no privileges, totally surrendered to the will, plan, and counsel of God even unto death.

Ready to obey, ready to be disciplined, ready to receive the heavy hands of God or of men with meekness if the Lord will so ordain or permit.

The path to sanctification, obedience, and holiness to which every christian is called to follow is oftentimes so lonely, exhaustive, painful, dark, and dreadful; but let it be, the grace and power of God will carry us through.

John 20:1-18 NASB

1 Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene came early to the tomb, while it was still dark, and saw the stone already taken away from the tomb.

2 So she ran and came to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.”

3 So Peter and the other disciple went forth, and they were going to the tomb.

4 The two were running together; and the other disciple ran ahead faster than Peter and came to the tomb first;

5 and stooping and looking in, he saw the linen wrappings lying there; but he did not go in.

6 And so Simon Peter also came, following him, and entered the tomb; and he saw the linen wrappings lying there,

7 and the face-cloth which had been on His head, not lying with the linen wrappings, but rolled up in a place by itself.

8 So the other disciple who had first come to the tomb then also entered, and he saw and believed.

9 For as yet they did not understand the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead.

10 So the disciples went away again to their own homes.

11 But Mary was standing outside the tomb weeping; and so, as she wept, she stooped and looked into the tomb;

12 and she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and one at the feet, where the body of Jesus had been lying.

13 And they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.”

14 When she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus.

15 Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” Supposing Him to be the gardener, she said to Him, “Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you have laid Him, and I will take Him away.”

16 Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” (which means, Teacher).

17 Jesus said to her, “Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’”

18 Mary Magdalene came, announcing to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and that He had said these things to her.

COMMENT:

I have read this portion many times and depending on my frame of mind at the moment it addresses an issue that may be on my mind. However, this morning as I studied it again and after praying the LORD showed me something I have never noticed before.

Where and when does one find God? Where will you meet Him?

Mary Magdalene loved the LORD Jesus. He had cast out seven devils from her plus some infirmities. She was a woman who was troubled but who found deliverance. She loved him much - she is a perfect illustration of the fulfillment of the verse Luke 7:47: "Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little."

Mary Magdalene followed Jesus during his ministry - she was among the group of women who did so, ministering to the disciples needs. Life was easy then - watching, observing Jesus work among the public, being fed spiritually by God himself and having a ringside seat to seeing all the miracles Jesus performed. How her love was nourished by staying close to the LORD.

The time came when this comfort was challenged. Jesus was apprehended by the authorities, taken to trial, convicted and crucified. We do not know at what point the women came upon the scene - maybe the disciples told them after Jesus was taken into custody in the garden. In any case, they, along with John, witnessed his crucifixion. Love for the Master Teacher drove her to the tomb on Sunday morning. And there she met Him.

Mary Magdalene was faithful to Jesus when it was easy, when life got difficult and dangerous she was close by observing, she did not abandon Him. She was still wanting to render assistance to Him even when dead. She persisted. And where did she find God?

Is this not true, that when we endure trials, afflictions, persecution and when it seems as though God is dead, does not hear us, that is where one will experience the LORD in a supernatural way? Mary did - she persisted. And when she did, Jesus told her, now you go tell my disciples! What a message! A message of hope like none other ever received by man!

Does this reflect our own experience?

John 20:17-21 NASB

17Jesus said to her, “Stop clinging to Me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to My brethren and say to
them, ‘I ascend to My Father and your Father, and My God and your God.’”

18 Mary Magdalene came, announcing to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,” and that He had said these things to her.

19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

20 And when He had said this, He showed them both His hands and His side. The disciples then rejoiced when they saw the Lord.

21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”

COMMENT:

I find the disciples responses to seeing Jesus enlightening. Then Jesus response to their response. Very insightful.

Mary and the disciples both experienced disappointment, sadness. Some - the men - were frightened, they were holed up behind closed doors, likely afraid of what happened and what may happen to them, yet.

But Jesus was concerned for all of his followers - he met them at their point of need. One was going about her work in showing her love for him, others were scared, behind closed doors, afraid, very afraid. But Jesus found them there and pronounced 'peace' to them. This will diffuse any fear and empower them to get on with their work. It is like saying that all is well.

Is this not so much like the LORD? Humans respond differently to the same situation. But the LORD is bigger then each situation and will surmount them all to meet the needs of people effected by it. He was not critical of their reactions, after all they responded naturally - the human response to survival was at work. But he appeared at the right time, the perfect time and pronounced 'peace' on them.

When Jesus meets us at our point of need and we absorb his ministrations he leaves us with a command: "Go, tell others!" He did it to Mary and he did it to the disciples.

Is it not true that the most effective 'witness' is the one who speaks out of his encounter with the LORD?

John 20:21-23 NASB

21 So Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you; as the Father has sent Me, I also send you.”

22 And when He had said this, He breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.

23 “If you forgive the sins of any, their sins have been forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they have been retained.”

Comment:

I find amazing Jesus' approval of this assortment of men qualified to carry the message of Salvation into the world. They were so human! He rebukes them in Mark 16:14: "Afterward He appeared to the eleven themselves as they were reclining at the table; and He reproached them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who had seen Him after He had risen."

As I consider the weaknesses of these men, I cannot help but consider church leaders today who still are so very human. All I have to do is look at my grandfather - he was a preacher, loved by his congregation, but he was, oh, so human! but he still had a sense of the holiness of God and how he is nothing in face of it. As I reflect on this reality is this not what enables men to draw people to the LORD? It has to be the work of the Holy Spirit - no other explanation exists.

After rebuking the disciples for their unbelief he gives the Holy Spirit permission to take these men...I do not know what all this entails unless it is that the Holy Spirit was given permission to shape these men into vessels, prepare them for the baptism He was about to send later. I suspect this is the case.

After breathing on them the Holy Spirit he commissioned them: what ever sins you remit, it shall be remitted; what ever sins ye retain, they shall be retained. How did the disciples carry out this command, this mission? A very serious one, if you ask me!

As I read Acts in how the church developed and the writings to them I see how the disciples taught the people. They explained Jesus' teachings, they expanded on them, clarifying them. In this process there are a few commands given to the people that are an outgrowth from this perspective. For a Jewish person the book of Hebrews is a biggie - it meant a complete change of how worship is done! I would guess had I lived them it would have been hard, very hard to change your worship, that these bloody rituals are to be stopped because they were a mere shadow of the real thing. On the other hand, maybe some were glad!

Then you have Paul's writing to the Corinthians. I note how the first one is a book of correction - hard to believe these early Christians had so many problems, but they did. Once again, the disciples had to rebuke, reprove Believers and this process or need continues to this day.

Jesus used mere men who were taught, who allowed themselves to be taught, who accepted reproof without argument or defense. It is only people like this who are teachable that are qualified to lead. From our perspective I think He did a good job.

How well do I accept reproof, correction, instruction?

John 20:24-29 NASB

24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.

25 So the other disciples were saying to him, “We have seen the Lord!” But he said to them, “Unless I see in His hands the imprint of the nails, and put my finger into the place of the nails, and put my hand into His side, I will not believe.”

26 After eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors having been shut, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.”

27 Then He said to Thomas, “Reach here with your finger, and see My hands; and reach here your hand and put it into My side; and do not be unbelieving, but believing.”

28 Thomas answered and said to Him, “My Lord and my God!”

29 Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen Me, have you believed? Blessed are they who did not see, and yet believed.”

COMMENT:

Today I want to focus my comments on Thomas and Jesus response to him.

Thomas heard the reports first hand of Jesus' appearance but he refused to believe them, verse 25. Thomas knew these people - he was a part of Jesus' inner circle of friends, yet he disbelieved their reports.

I suppose many of us have within our circle of acquaintances a 'Thomas'. You can tell them something and unless they have personally experienced it they will not believe, thus making you feel like they think you must be lying! Does not endear a body to the likes of them... They are very arrogant, proud, think they know everything - long before you ever were aware of it, for sure! They are obnoxious on the one hand and yet they are people you encounter regularly who you may like - most of the time. But they can be a real pain.

This is the kind of person I perceive Thomas as being. Yet Jesus included him in his circle of friends. Apparently he saw some potential in the man or else he would not have been included. But Jesus in his mercy and kindness met his challenge and showed himself to him. To Thomas' credit, he did acknowledge what he saw and accepted it, "My Lord and my God!"

We do not like to believe we have a Thomas mindset, but we have to admit there may be vistages of it in our psyche. This trait can be crucified as we earnestly study the WORD, allow ourselves to be taught, challenged by the LORD Jesus though the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Tradition tells us that Thomas must have learned his lesson well - it is said he went to India and ministering to the people. So, there is hope for the 'Thomas' within us and those that surround us.

Thomas is not so unusual a character. He lurks in each one of us in one way or another.
Whilst he was the most prominent doubter, he certainly wasn't alone.

Matthew 28:17, When they saw Him, they worshiped Him, but some doubted.

Mark 16:14, '...and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen.

Luk 24:41, 'But while they still did not believe for joy, and marveled...

As you have stated, this mindset does need to be crucifed.

God can, and we should be willing to be free of it.

God bless.

John 20:19,26 NASB
19 So when it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and when the doors were shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.”

26 After eight days His disciples were again inside, and Thomas with them. Jesus came, the doors having been shut, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.”

COMMENT:

“Peace be with you.”

What does this mean? What did it signify for the disciples and does it have any application to moderns?

Jesus pronounced 'peace' upon his disciples twice after his resurrection. Apparently there was a lack of it, hence the need for an infusion of peace. When Jesus appeared to Mary at the tomb he did not pronounce peace upon her - she knew who he was and loved him deeply. No trace of conflict or doubt in her. Not so with the disciples.

These eleven still had issues that needed to be addressed, confronted. Not all believed each other's reports - there were doubts and plain disbelief. For any group to work harmoniously there can be no doubt as to other persons reports of what happened - there must be confidence and trust between each other. Jesus, who knew all things, worked to eliminate this problem by beginning with Thomas.(Later he dealt with Peter.)

When understanding and belief flooded Thomas heart, soul and mind he exclaimed, "My Lord and my God!" How profound! (And is it not significant that he was the one who went the furthermost in evangelizing - all the way to India. What a profound impact this understanding had on a person who believes this to the depth of his being.)

Is it not true that when a group is unified in acknowledging Jesus as 'my Lord and God' that it will bring unity that results in peace? How many times is unity destroyed when there are members who are listening to 'yea, hath God said?' This produces conflict and strife....no peace, no unity. But when all acknowledge Jesus as Lord and God, there is peace and unity. Now - how does this impact me where I live? How do I deal with this issue when there are others in the group who are listening to the 'yea, hath God said?'

Profound questions where the implications are not always peaceful...

But what about me? Do, I believe? Do I have peace in my belief of knowing who Jesus is? Did he impart his peace to me? Do I love to dwell in his presence? Is there peace in my walk, my fellowship with Him?

Peace. Not as the world gives, said Jesus.

Belief? If we cannot believe God, we cannot believe.

God bless.

John 21:1-11 NASB

1 After these things Jesus manifested Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and He manifested Himself in this way.

2 Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together.

3 Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will also come with you.” They went out and got into the boat; and that night they caught nothing.

4 But when the day was now breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus.

5 So Jesus said to them, “Children, you do not have any fish, do you?” They answered Him, “No.”

6And He said to them, “Cast the net on the right-hand side of the boat and you will find a catch.” So they cast, and then they were not able to haul it in because of the great number of fish.

7 Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord.” So when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put his outer garment on (for he was stripped for work), and threw himself into the sea.

8 But the other disciples came in the little boat, for they were not far from the land, but about one hundred yards away, dragging the net full of fish.

9 So when they got out on the land, they saw a charcoal fire already laid and fish placed on it, and bread.

10 Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish which you have now caught.”

11 Simon Peter went up and drew the net to land, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three; and although there were so many, the net was not torn.

COMMENTS:

I find this incident heartwarming. Until now when Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection, he had a word of correction, rebuke. This time he intervened in their occupation - making it more profitable! Wow!

In advising the disciples on where to catch more fish, Jesus was reinforcing the command to work as it was originally given to Adam in the garden - he lended credibility to the act of work.

Work. When we were children most hated working - I did until I learned there are rewards beyond mere approval attached to it. As I have grown in my relationship with the LORD I am finding it more enjoyable and actually experience more creativity - something that eluded me for years!

Work comes from God. It is a part of who he is. He is a creative being - just look around you and observe the creation: the colors, the shapes, the textures and the billions of combinations of all of these - now who else could ever have done ANYTHING near like this? When God created man He made us in his image which means he also imparted this trait into us - unlike the rest of nature. So we must work to implement this creativity.

Now we read where Jesus multiplied the results of these men's work. Work does not demean a person's value or worth. Jesus reaffirmed this principle. Love it, don't you?

______________________________________________________________
QUOTE:
"Belief? If we cannot believe God, we cannot believe."
______________________________________________________________

So true. Belief and peace are so close intertwined they cannot be separated.

John 21:12-17 NASB

12 Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples ventured to question Him, “Who are You?” knowing that it was the Lord.

13 Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and the fish likewise.

14 This is now the third time that Jesus was manifested to the disciples, after He was raised from the dead.

15 So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Tend My lambs.”

16 He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” He said to him, “Shepherd My sheep.”

17 He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” Jesus said to him, “Tend My sheep.

COMMENT:

Many have written, preached on Jesus' asking Peter whether he loved Him, but in looking at this incident I am seeing another perspective...

As I look at this incident - Jesus multiplying the catch of fish, Him preparing these men breakfast and confronting Peter - in its entirety, I see a wonderful example of the truth as shared in Romans 12:20: "Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head."

Peter surely was not Jesus' enemy was he? Or, was he? He did not act like he loved him when he felt his own well-being may be jeopardized when he denied knowing Jesus prior to His crucifixion. When Jesus needed him, he was a coward.

As I think of Peter giving in to his fear that resulted in letting down his friend, I am wondering if this kind of betrayal is not among the worst a person can endure. When the tough comes and your friends will see it more convenient to deny knowing you or standing up for you, you being left alone how can another enemy who has no claims upon your approval or affections do you worse?

Jesus had appeared to his disciples three times after his resurrection and now he sets the stage for confronting Peter. He did everything Romans 12:20 teaches one to do to your enemy: feed him, give him water to drink. The enemy has a serious physical need. When a the object of derision is sensitive to the need of his enemy and works to alleviate it it will usually work to dismantle all his opposition and opens him to reality.

I wonder how Peter felt after his time of mental anguish he endured when he recognized his failure in acknowledging his acquaintance with Jesus. Was it awkward? No doubt there was a barrier.

When Jesus confronted Peter he did not focus on the act but instead cut to the heart of he issue: do you love me? Denying Jesus was mere evidence of a lack in this area - love. Fix this and then everything else will fall in place.

This incident has been really speaking to me, convicting - how do I react when I am the victim of denial? I see powerful lessons here: after feeding the offender confront and ask the offender whether he/she loves you, not once but three times. Too many times we want to ignore the obvious, run away because you fear strife...but maybe, just maybe, the offender wishes to be reconciled as well. But sin must be dealt with first before it can happen, just as Jesus did with Peter.

Powerful lesson - a very practical one.

This incident has spoken to me, challenge me... perhaps I can now move on.

As I look at Jesus confronting Peter after appearing to his disciples three times following his resurrection, I see Jesus offering forgiveness and reconciliation to Peter. Obviously, Peter had repented of his dastardly deed in denying Him in the heat of opposition. And he lapped it all up...

We see Jesus commissioning Peter to leadership based upon his love for Himself - Jesus. His record heretofore was not without serious flaws, but with repentance, forgiveness and love for the LORD it will qualify a person to feed the sheep. This person will know from experience what it means to fall and being restored by the LORD. Unless this is part and parcel of one's experience he has nothing with which to feed the sheep and their lambs.

Jesus is so patient...

In the previous post I wrote about Peter and now would like to continue but in a different vein.

Jesus' appearance in the world came at a time when the Jewish people had returned from captivity but had imbibed some of their mindset, in particular the males' attitudes towards females. The prevailing philosophy among the Jewish leaders was "Thank God He did not make me a woman!" One does not see this attitude coming from God in the OT law at all - in fact there were many laws that worked to protect women. Even in the prophets there was a time when God got really harsh with the husbands who treated their wives badly. But Jesus demonstrated a completely different attitude towards females. He treated them like people. Peter had a ringside view of this attitude at work.

Consider these incidents:
1. Jesus was born to a virgin - but an angel appeared to her to announce God's wish in this matter but it was dependent upon her approval. (God knew she would approve.)

2. Women brought their children to Jesus to bless them. The disciples disapproved but Jesus rebuked them.

3. The woman who anointed Jesus feet...and this story will be told everywhere...remember?

4. Jesus appeared to Mary and told her to go tell the disciples..

5. And there were women who followed Him.

Anyhow...

Now Pentecost has come and gone, the disciples where empowered by the Holy Spirit. In Acts we see how the women were not afraid of Peter but they looked to him for assistance after their beloved Dorcas had died. He took to heart their concern, prayed over her and resurrected her. This attitude hardly smacks of egotism, but a servant's heart at work.

Lots of lessons to be learned by studying the change that occurred in the life of Peter. I love to study this change - it was a complete metamorphosis from a man who lived and reasoned with logic to one who became a servant - all based on his love for the LORD.

Amazing what love for Jesus will do to a person.

When the Lord Jesus changes a life, He changes a life.

We should love the Lord with all our heart, and it should show.

God bless.

You are right, Enid. It will show. When the evidence is lacking it means the experience of walking with the Lord is non-existent.

It is like someone has said: "if you would be arrested for being a Christian would there be enough evidence to convict you?"

John 21:18-19 NASB

18 “Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to gird yourself and walk wherever you wished; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will gird you, and bring you where you do not wish to go.”

19 Now this He said, signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, “Follow Me!”

COMMENT:

Jesus had just finished asking Peter three times whether he loved him. Then in conclusion Jesus told what he can expect to happen in the future to him. I find this at the least encouraging, profound.

Jesus acknowledges Peter ability to fend for himself - quite well. Then he says the day will come after you are old that others will carry you to a place you do not want to go, but in any case you follow me.

Following Jesus does not mean life will be easy, in fact, it will be very difficult. This is what Jesus was telling Peter: life will become difficult for you, but you follow me anyways. Yes, Jesus does lead us into difficulties.

When life becomes difficult the devil will use this to challenge our love for the LORD Jesus. The outcome of this test ministers to observers in a way not much else can. AND to us as well.

If Peter and the other disciples were promised a life of difficulty in following him, we can expect no less. When these difficulties come, we must be discerning whether they are the result of bad decisions made by us or are they the result of obeying the LORD.

John 21:20-23 NASB

20 Peter, turning around, saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them; the one who also had leaned back on His bosom at the supper and said, “Lord, who is the one who betrays You?”

21 So Peter seeing him said to Jesus, “Lord, and what about this man?”

22 Jesus said to him, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow Me!”

23 Therefore this saying went out among the brethren that that disciple would not die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he would not die, but only, “If I want him to remain until I come, what is that to you?”

COMMENT:

There are very few scriptures that come back to teach me, instructing me, telling me what to do as Jesus' reply to Peter, "what is that to you, follow Me!"

Jesus had just gotten done telling Peter what will happen to him in the future. After it settled into his mind, he turned and inquired about John's future, hence Jesus' reply.

There are many people out there who appear to have a wonderful testimony; are very intelligent, great expositors but the doctrine they promote is flawed - how does one deal with it? Or, how about those that do not appear to be flawed?

Jesus' saying, "Follow me" answers the question for me. Follow him - Jesus. If we do so we will not get off-track but if we do, He will work to get us back on. And who knows? perhaps this person has gotten off track and He is working with him/her, but in any case we do not allow others' to displace the clear teaching of the WORD. If we allow others interpretation to supersede the WORD we are guilty of idolatry. Questions will remain, but we must learn to leave it with God - he is the final judge and our wishes cannot and will not change his mind. He is always just. What we see may not be what is and what is we may never get to see.

In my opinion we are seeing today a proliferation of bold deception in modern Christianity. I suspect what we are seeing are mere fruits of what has been hidden for many years and now are being exposed. People are falling for this hook line and sinker which proves once again that the cross is not an integral part of many people's faith.

Regardless of prevailing philosophies, Jesus still tells us moderns, "Follow Me!" This is the gist of the entire book of John.

************************************************************

Unless the Holy Spirit would lead otherwise this concludes my study of the book of John. It has been an insightful journey and I hope others have been inspired to undertake a similar study. I am coming away with a renewed sense of the divinity of Jesus, the authority of Jesus' teachings. I love this - it enhances my worship of the man Jesus and his Father.

God bless. Even so come LORD Jesus. Amen!

I know this is very belated, but I just wanted to say this was a most worthwhile thread.

It both fed and made you think about the sayings of Jesus.

As He has said, heaven and earth will pass away, but not His words.

Thank you and God bless.

Enid,

I appreciate your nice, encouraging words.

You know what? After all this time, when I look at a portion again, new inspiration occurs. That is the beauty of the Scriptures. No other literature has this power to inspire and challenge. Yes, The Word is just wonderful.

God bless.

ginnyrose