April 20, 2008 - Happy Anniversary to Mary & Alan - 17 outstanding years!!!
John 1:14-16
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 John bore witness of Him and cried out, saying, "This was He of whom I said, He who comes after me is preferred before me, for He was before me. " 16 And of His fullness we have all received, and grace for grace. 17 For the law was given through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.
John 1 is a very full chapter. I would like to highlight just a few points this morning. The first is that "The Word became flesh", this means that Logos became human. By doing so, Christ became the perfect teacher. In other words, in Jesus' life we see how God thinks and therefore how we should think (Phil. 2:5-11). Jesus also shows us the model of what we are to become, he shows us how to live and gives us the power to live that way (1 Peter 2:21). It is also important to bring out that God became a man. He was not part man and part God; he was completely human and completely divine (Col. 2:9). Before Christ came, people could know God partially. After Christ came, people could know God fully because he became visible and tangible in Christ. Christ is the perfect expression of God in human form.
Another highlight is when John the Baptist said, "He was before me". The truth is, in the natural, Jesus was born after John the Baptist (Luke 1:36) and began His ministry later than John the Baptist. Yet John the Baptist said Jesus was before him, meaning that Jesus' existence is from eternity past (v. 30).
The last point I would like to make is that throughout the New Testament, grace is God's favor expressed to sinful humankind apart from any human works or worth. Though there was abundant grace and truth expressed by God through the Law He gave Moses, it is in the person of Jesus Christ that grace (charis) and truth (aletheia) are realized to the fullest (pleres)." It is important to note that law and grace are both aspects of God's nature that he uses in dealing with us. Moses emphasized God's law and justice, while Jesus Christ came to highlight God's mercy, love, and forgiveness. Moses could only be the giver of the law, while Christ came to fulfill the law (Matthew 5:17). The nature and will of God were revealed in the law; now the nature and will of God are revealed fuller in Jesus Christ. Rather than coming through cold stone tablets, God's revelation "truth" (aletheia) now comes through a person's life.
My prayer for you today is that you would encounter the grace and truth that comes through Jesus Christ. The fuller revelation cannot be revealed in any other. Press into knowing HIM.
Grace upon Grace, Alan
April 21, 2008
John 2:5; 23-25
His mother said to the servants, "Whatever He says to you, do it." ..Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did. 24 But Jesus did not commit Himself to them, because He knew all men, 25 and had no need that anyone should testify of man, for He knew what was in man.
Chapter 2 of John is very exciting as we read about Jesus' first miracle: Turning water into wine. It is interesting to note the words of submission by the mother of Jesus: "whatever He says to you, do it." These words will set the tone for the Gospel of John. In others words we need to do more than listen, we need to "do it!"
Jerusalem: The synoptic Gospels-Matthew, Mark, and Luke-concentrate on Jesus' Galilean ministry. John focuses on Jesus' ministry in Jerusalem. Passover: Every male Jew was required to go to Jerusalem three times a year-for the Feast of Passover, the Feast of Pentecost, and the Feast of Tabernacles (Ex. 23:14; Lev. 23).
It is interesting to note that the Greek word pisteuo, pist-yoo'-o; from Greek 4102 (pistis); to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e. credit; by implication to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ) :- believe (-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with; is the translated in this text both "believed" and "commit". There is a play on words here. These individuals trusted Jesus, but Jesus did not entrust Himself to them.
The Son of God knows all about human nature. Jesus was well aware of the truth of Jeremiah 17:9, which states, "The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?" Jesus was discerning, and he knew that the faith of some followers was superficial. Some of the same people claiming to believe in Jesus at this time would later yell "Crucify him!" It's easy to believe when everyone else around you believes the same way. But keep your faith firm even when it isn't popular to follow Christ.
I pray that you would have fresh confidents in the LORD'S power and authority. Let the word of God come alive today as you not only listen but you obey. Become a doer of the Word. The old hymn records these words: Trust and obey for there's no other way, to be happy in Jesus is to trust and obey.
Blessings, Alan
April 22, 2008
John 3:3; 36
3Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."
36 He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."
I would encourage you to take the time to read Chapter 3 of John. It has the potential of making a tremendous impact in ones life. Today I would like to isolate on two key verses:
v. 3 "born again": The Greek word (anothen) translated again can mean either "from above" or "anew." The new birth, or regeneration is the act by which God imparts spiritual life to one who trusts Christ. Without this spiritual birth, a person cannot perceive spiritual things (1 Cor. 2:10, 13), nor can he or she enter the kingdom of God (v. 5). In other words the things of God's kingdom are not apparent to the natural vision. A new power of sight is required, which comes to the new man by believing.
The Greek word for "believes" is pisteuo, it means to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e. credit; by implication to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ) :- believe (-r), commit (to trust), put in trust with. Jesus says that those who believe in him "has" (not will have) everlasting life. The verb translated has is in the present tense. The one who believes has eternal life as a present possession. Likewise, the one who refuses to believe on Christ has the wrath of God abiding on him or her as a present reality. In other words to receive eternal life is to join in God's life, which by nature is eternal.
John, the author of this Gospel, has been demonstrating that Jesus is the true Son of God. Jesus sets before us the greatest choice in life. We are responsible to decide today whom we will obey (Joshua 24:15), and God wants us to choose life (Deut. 30:15-20). The wrath of God is God's final judgment and rejection of the sinner. To put off the choice is to choose not to follow Christ. Indecision is a fatal decision.
I will never forget the birth of my first born son. The tears of joy rolled down my face that day as I saw for the first time this new life that God had given my wife and I. It makes me wonder how God must feel when one is "born again". Be encouraged today by God's love for you. Remember John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world (You!) that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
I pray that you would find yourself worshipping your LORD and SAVIOR as you come to experience the present possession of HIS eternal life.
In HIS everlasting LOVE,
Alan
April 23, 2008
John 4:13-14
13 Jesus answered and said to her, "Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."
In Chapter 4 of John we see how opposition was rising against Jesus, especially from the Pharisees. They resented Jesus' popularity as well as his message because He challenged much of their teachings. We also see that Jesus was just beginning his ministry and therefore it wasn't yet time to confront these leaders openly; so he left Jerusalem and traveled north toward Galilee.
The Jews did everything they could to avoid traveling through Samaria. The reason was that the pure Jews hated this mixed race called Samaritans because they felt that their fellow Jews who had intermarried had betrayed their people and nation. But Jesus had no reason to live by such cultural restrictions. The route through Samaria was shorter, and that was the route he took.
On route to Galilee, Jesus stops at a well that Jacob had built many years ago. A woman comes to draw water. There are a few things to keep in mind: # 1 this woman was a Samaritan, a member of the hated mixed race, #2 this woman was known to be living in sin, and #3 this woman was in a public place and traditionally no respectable Jewish man would talk to a woman under such circumstances. But Jesus did! This is a fresh reminder that the gospel is for every person, no matter what his or her race, social position, or past sins. Jesus crossed all barriers to share the gospel, and we too must be prepared to share this gospel at any time and in any place.
One of the words that I would like to highlight today is the word "fountain". In the Greek it is pege, (pay-gay'); probably from Greek 4078 (pegnumi) (through the idea of gushing plumply); a fount (literal or figurative), i.e. source or supply (of water, blood, enjoyment) (not necessarily the original spring) :- fountain, well. The Greek word denotes a spring of running water. How different this is from a well that requires much manual labor to dig and to draw out the water. The gift that Jesus gives-a fountain springing up into eternal life-suggests the availability and accessibility of the divine life for all believers. The expression "into everlasting life" probably means "resulting in eternal life." The result of drinking the water Jesus freely gives is that the one who drinks receives eternal life. Only Jesus can supply this fountain!!!
There is one more lesson I have gleaned from today's reading. Notice how the official's faith grew. First, he believed enough to ask Jesus to help his son. Second, he believed Jesus' assurance that his son would live, and he acted on it. Third, he and his whole house believed in Jesus. Faith is a gift that grows as we use it.
I pray that you would know increase today. May His faith, hope, and love increase in you and yours.
Blessings, Alan
April 24, 2008
John 5:17-18
But Jesus answered them, "My Father has been working until now, and I have been working." Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said that God was His Father, making Himself equal with God.
In Chapter 5 of John we can see how Jesus was identifying himself with God, his Father. There could be no doubt as to his claim to be God. The Pharisees also called God their Father, but they realized Jesus was claiming a unique relationship with him. The word "working" in the Greek is ergazomai, (er-gad'-zom-ahee); middle from Greek 2041 (ergon); to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc. :- commit, do, labor for, minister about, trade (by), work. "And I work", applying this word "work" to himself which properly belongs to God, was another way of making himself equal to God.
The Jewish leaders saw both a mighty miracle of healing and a broken rule (Jesus did not break the Law; He violated the traditions of the Pharisees which had grown up around the Law). They threw the miracle aside as they focused their attention on the broken rule, because the rule was more important to them than the miracle itself.
The ultimate problem was that the people did not believe the Word of God written through Moses. Moses wrote about Christ in the promises to the patriarchs, in the history of the deliverance from Egypt, in the symbolic institutions of the Law, and in the prediction of a Prophet like himself. If the people had believed Moses, they would have received Jesus gladly. Over three hundred Old Testament prophecies were specifically fulfilled in the First Coming of Christ.
Because of his unity with God, Jesus lived as God wanted him to live. Because of our identification with Jesus, we must honor him and live as he wants us to live. The questions "What would Jesus do?" and "What would Jesus have me do?" can help us to focus on what is really important.
In response to Jesus' claim, the Pharisees had two choices: to believe him, or to accuse him of blasphemy. They chose the second. I thank God that we can acknowledge the first today. We believe in HIM. We say praise God for the miracles. We rejoice in God's everlasting life. Remember John 5:22-25 "For the Father judges no one, but has committed all judgment to the Son, 23 that all should honor the Son just as they honor the Father. He who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. 24 "Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life. 25 Most assuredly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God; and those who hear will live."
Desiring To Honor the LORD, Alan
April 25, 2008
John 6:14
Then those men, when they had seen the sign that Jesus did, said, "This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world."
There are two words I would like to highlight today. The first is the word "sign". The Greek word is semeion, (say-mi'-on); neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of Greek 4591 (semaino); an indication, especially ceremonial or supernatural. It is an unusual occurrence, transcending the common course of nature.
It is interesting to note that Jesus says to Philip in verse 5-6: ".Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?" But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do." It is obvious that Jesus is not asking for His own information but was testing Philip to strengthen his faith. By asking for a human solution (knowing that there was none), Jesus highlighted the powerful and miraculous "sign" that he was about to perform. It is also interesting to note that this is the only miracle or sign of Jesus that is recounted in all four Gospels.
The second word I would like to highlight, in verse 14, is the word "Prophet". In the Greek it is the word prophetes, (prof-ay'-tace); from a compound of Greek 4253 (pro) and Greek 5346 (phemi); a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy an inspired speaker; by extension a poet :- prophet. As a result of witnessing this miracle the Jews recall the words of Deuteronomy 18:15 "The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your midst, from your brethren. Him you shall hear," It also can be mentioned here that Acts 3:22 reaffirms this belief of who they thought Jesus was: "For Moses truly said to the fathers, The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever He says to you." Why this is so significant is because the Jews believed that this Prophet would be the Messiah.
It is understood that John's gospel has a focus on people believing "that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God" (20:30-31). This passage of scripture reminds me that the law was given by Moses, but the Gospel came by Christ; Moses was a mediator between God and the people of Israel, but Christ is the Mediator between God and men; Moses, under God, was an instrument of redeeming the people of Israel out of Egypt, but Christ, he is the Redeemer of his people from sin, Satan, and the law.
I pray that you and I would rejoice today knowing that these are written that you and I may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing we may have life in His name.
Take time to praise the Lord for His eternal plan!
Love in Christ, Alan
April 26, 2008
John 7:1-5
After these things Jesus walked in Galilee; for He did not want to walk in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill Him. 2 Now the Jews' Feast of Tabernacles was at hand. 3 His brothers therefore said to Him, "Depart from here and go into Judea, that Your disciples also may see the works that You are doing. 4 For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world." 5 For even His brothers did not believe in Him.
John chapter 7 records something, I feel, is very painful. To have your own siblings turn on you. Jesus' brothers argued, "If You are really working miracles and thus claiming to be the Messiah, do not hide in obscure Galilee. If you are doing miracles at all, then do them in Jerusalem at the Feast to convince the whole nation." These words were sarcastic, as v. 5 explains.
I am reminded as I read this passage of Isaiah 53:3 "He is despised and rejected by men,
A Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. And we hid, as it were, our faces from Him; He was despised, and we did not esteem Him." It can also be noted here that what happens to Jesus in John 7:1-5 is a fulfillment of Psalm 69:8 which says, "I have become a stranger to my brothers, And an alien to my mother's children;"
It is unfortunate to read about the lack of trust and love among family members. Many of us can identify with these sorrows. The good news is that despite His brother's several years of being embarrassed of Him, and the difficult time they had believing in him, when Jesus died and rose again, they finally believed. Some of these brothers would eventually become leaders in the church (James, for example).
We call this a progression of faith. This is good news for all of us - Jesus is not finished with us yet! I pray that you would be graced to see that God is working on the inside. Walk in HIS FAITH, HOPE, and LOVE today.
Rejoicing in HIM,
Alan
April 27, 2008
John 8:54-59
Jesus answered, "If I honor Myself, My honor is nothing. It is My Father who honors Me, of whom you say that He is your God. 55 Yet you have not known Him, but I know Him. And if I say, I do not know Him, I shall be a liar like you; but I do know Him and keep His word. 56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad." 57 Then the Jews said to Him, "You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?" 58 Jesus said to them, "Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM." 59 Then they took up stones to throw at Him; but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.
In Chapter 8 of John it is clear that Jesus was not just claiming to have lived before Abraham; He was claiming eternal existence. In the Greek the words "I Am" are ego eimi. This expression denotes "self-identity in self-sufficiency." In one breath, Jesus asserted His eternal preexistence and His absolute deity. The Son of God, unlike all mortals, never has a beginning. He is eternal; and He is God. This is evident in Jesus' use of the words "I AM" for Himself. This statement recalls the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament) translation of Ex. 3:14 in which God unveiled His identity as the "I AM WHO I AM."
And God said to Moses, "I AM WHO I AM." And He said, "Thus you shall say to the children of Israel, I AM has sent me to you" (Ex. 3:14).
Again let me state that this is one of the most powerful statements uttered by Jesus. He was claiming to be the ever-existing and self-existent God. When he said that he existed before Abraham was born, he undeniably proclaimed his divinity. Not only did Jesus say that he existed before Abraham; he also applied God's holy name to himself. This time the Jewish leaders understood that Jesus was claiming to be God, so they took up stones to stone Him for blasphemy (see Lev. 24:16).
Jesus' claim to be ego eimi demands a response. It cannot be ignored. The Jewish leaders tried to stone Jesus for blasphemy because he claimed equality with God. How have you responded to Jesus, the Son of God? The truth is our response is the difference between walking in darkness or walking in the light of life. Verse 12 reads: Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." We can also understand what it means "To walk in darkness" when we read the words of Jesus in verse 24: "Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins."
My prayer is that you would "believe" in the Son of God and be able to proclaim to others, like Moses, "I AM has sent me to you".
Sharing the GOOD NEWS,
Alan
April 28, 2008
John 9:1-5
Now as Jesus passed by, He saw a man who was blind from birth. 2 And His disciples asked Him, saying, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" 3 Jesus answered, "Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him. 4 I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world."
John, Chapter 9, makes you come away asking the question, "who is really blind in this story?" Was it the blind man on the side of the road, the disciple, or the Pharisees? How about "Yes!" to all of the above.
It is helpful to know that is was a common belief in Jewish culture that calamity or suffering was the result of some great sin. But Christ used this man's suffering to teach about the works of God.
The Greek word for "revealed" here is phaneroo. It means, "to make apparent, visible, or known." It is the perfect word of the blindness of the disciples. They had sight but they could not see. Jesus revealed to them a truth much deeper than the issue of who sinned. He led them to open their eyes to the opportunity of God. In other words, the impossible is possible with Jesus; a problem is a potential victory; despair can be the doorway to hope; sin is the schoolteacher of forgiveness and healing. It all depends on how we look at it. We can see what the disciples saw: Problems, impossibilities, blame, despair, and sin. Or we can see what Jesus saw. God at work!
It is also interesting to note in this chapter the progression of the healed man's understanding of the person of Christ. First, he called Jesus "a Man" (v. 11); then "a prophet" (v. 17); and finally he realized that Jesus is the Son of God (vv. 35).
Everywhere Jesus went, people were amazed at His miraculous powers. John calls them all smeia, or "signs." He uses Jesus' miracles as a concrete demonstration of Jesus' divinity and messiahship. But these same miracles would incite the Pharisees and religious leaders to anger and violence.
As believers, we must have eyes that "see" the opportunities to reveal God's glory. Many times those opportunities present themselves in unexpected ways. A blind man does not appear to be a likely candidate to demonstrate sight. But God is not limited by human conditions. We are blind only if we do not see who HE is and that we live for HIS glory.
I pray that you would have spiritual eyesight to see people and situations from HIS point of view. May you experience the "works of God" in your life today. Remember, we have opportunity to give God glory for our past, present and future.
Love in Christ, Alan
April 29, 2008
John 10:11-16
"I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. 12 But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. 13 The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. 15 As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.
John has already established some of the names of Jesus in previous chapters, such as "Son of Man" (John 6:27); "Bread of Life" (John 6:35); "Light of the world" (John 8:12). And now in chapter 10 we read about the "Gate for the sheep" (vs. 7) and the "Good shepherd" (vs. 11).
We are learning from this chapter that just as a shepherd cares for his sheep, Jesus, the good shepherd, cares for his flock (those who follow him). The prophet Ezekiel, in predicting the coming of the Messiah, called him a shepherd (Ezekiel 34:23,24). There are also other Old Testament passages that refer to the shepherd (Isa_40:11; Eze_37:24; Zec_13:7).
It is interesting to note the Greek verb tithemi (translated "gives") has a broad umbrella of meanings, all associated with putting something into place. Often the word has the nuance of proper setting, like laying down a foundation or assigning the proper place for a person. Jesus uses the word as a metaphor. The good shepherd takes action by offering his life for those in his care. But the metaphor also includes the other meanings of this word. Jesus lays down the foundation needed for the His followers (believers). This makes me rejoice! Jesus is not merely doing a job; he is committed to love us and even lay down his life for us.
The last point I would like to make from this chapter is that the "other sheep" were not Jews in heathen lands, but Gentiles. The Jewish people had asked if Jesus would go and teach the Gentiles (7:35). Jesus now declared that He had sheep that were "not of this fold." Jesus came to save Gentiles as well as Jews. This is an insight into his worldwide mission?to die for the sins of the world. People tend to want to restrict God's blessings to their own group, but Jesus refuses to be limited by the fences we build. I leave you with three powerful scriptures that remind us of God's plan for HIS fold:
1 Corinthians 12:13 "For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body- whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free-and have all been made to drink into one Spirit."
Galatians 3:28-29 "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29 And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise."
Ephesians 2:14-16 "For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation, 15 having abolished in His flesh the enmity, that is, the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so as to create in Himself one new man from the two, thus making peace, 16 and that He might reconcile them both to God in one body through the cross, thereby putting to death the enmity."
I pray that you would experience the great love of the GOOD SHEPHERD. Take time to thank the LORD for HIS care.
Learning to follow,
Alan
April 30, 2008
John 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 may be glorified through it."
In John, chapter 11, we read about the beautiful story of Lazarus being raised from the dead. As their brother grew very sick, Mary and Martha turned to Jesus for help. They believed in his power to help because they had seen His miracles.
When Jesus first hears about the condition of Lazarus he makes this powerful statement, "This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it"; that is, that His glory, as the Son of God, might be made manifest in the resurrection of him from the dead.
John 2:11 reminds us: "This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him." It is very clear from John's gospel that Jesus manifested His glory so His followers would believe. Jesus makes this statement to Martha: 25 Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live. 26 And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die. Do you believe this?"
By raising Lazarus from the dead, Jesus would demonstrate, once again, His deity in an undeniable way. It is know wonder why John records in verse 57 "Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a command, that if anyone knew where He was, he should report it, that they might seize Him." Even when confronted point-blank with the power of Jesus' deity, some refused to believe. These eyewitnesses not only rejected Jesus; they plotted his murder. They were so hardened that they preferred to reject God's Son rather than admit that they were wrong. The truth is the Jewish leaders believed that if they didn't stop Jesus, the Romans would discipline them. Rome gave partial freedom to the Jews as long as they were quiet and obedient. Jesus' miracles however caused a disturbance. It is also interesting to note that in verse 51 John regarded Caiaphas's statement as a prophecy. As high priest, Caiaphas was used by God to explain Jesus' death even though Caiaphas didn't realize what he was doing. Isn't it interesting how God can even use the rebellious and unbelievers to prophecy HIS will and purposes.
Remember, when we walk in faith, hope and love we can believe that every trial we face can ultimately bring glory to God because God can bring good out of any bad situation (Genesis 50:20; Romans 8:28).
Father, thank you for the gift of faith to believe that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. We thank you today that in believing in Christ, though we may die, yet we shall live. Thank you dear Father, that in believing in Jesus we shall never die. We glorify you today for because of your resurrection and life.
Keep praying and believing,
Alan
May 1, 2008
John 12:23-26
But Jesus answered them, saying, "The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified. 24 Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. 25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.
John, chapter 12, is a very powerful chapter. It is possible to read this chapter more than a thousand times and still glean wonderful Kingdom principles each time. This morning I would like to consider three phrases:
"The hour has come": The Greek word used is ὥρα hōra. It is apparently a primary word; an "hour" (literally or figuratively): - day, hour, instant, season, (high) time. Prior to this, Jesus had stated that His ὥρα (hour) had not yet come (2:4; 7:6, 30; 8:20). Now the time had come for Christ to die and be raised from the dead (see 13:1; 16:32; 17:1). I would like to point out that the Gospel of John is very helpful in identifying Jesus' three years in ministry. Why I say this is because the Passover celebration is mentioned three times in John (John 12 being the third time) and this event took place only once a year.
"Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies": This is a beautiful picture of the necessary sacrifice of Jesus. Unless a kernel of wheat is buried in the ground, it will not become a blade of wheat producing many more seeds. We know now that Jesus had to die to pay the penalty for our sin, but also to show his power over death. His resurrection proves he has eternal life. Because Jesus is God, Jesus can give this same eternal life to all who believe in him.
"If anyone serves Me": Many believed that Jesus came for the Jews only. But when Jesus said, "If anyone serves Me," he was talking to these Greeks as well. Here is the good news, no matter who the sincere seekers are, Jesus welcomes them. His message is for everyone. We can not allow social or racial differences to become barriers to the gospel. This is a fresh reminder that we are called to take the Good News to all people.
I leave you with the reminder of verse 25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. To "Hates his life" involves serving Christ. In other words Jesus is admonishing each believer to establish his or her priorities. I pray that our priorities would line up with that which is eternal. May we be able to discern the time.
Until He Comes, Alan
May 2, 2008
John 13:1
"Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come that He should depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end."
In John 13:1 the phrase "To the end" is from the Greek word τέλος (telos). This can mean either "to the last" or "utterly and completely." Simply put, Jesus loved His disciples, even though He knew that one would betray Him, another would deny Him, and all would desert Him for a time. What follows in vs. 1 demonstrates Jesus' complete love.
John, chapter 13, clearly teaches that Jesus was the model servant, and He showed His servant attitude to His disciples. Washing guests' feet was a job for a household servant to carry out when guests arrived. But Jesus wrapped a towel around his waist, as the lowliest slave would do, and washed and dried his disciples' feet. If Jesus, God in the flesh, is willing to serve, we his followers must also be servants, willing to serve in any way that glorifies God. Are you willing to follow Christ's example of serving today?
I pray that God would anoint you for service today. Remember the promise, "having loved His own who were in the world, He love them to the end." Jesus loves you, even though you have failed Him. His love is patient and kind. Be encouraged by the scriptures in Philippians 1:6 "being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ;" He is the Great completer.
I leave you with one last scriptural truth and may it remind you that you are never alone: Matthew 28:20b "and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
In His Unfailing Love,
Alan
May 3, 2008
John 14:5-11; 27-28
5 Thomas said to Him, "Lord, we do not know where You are going, and how can we know the way?" 6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. 7 "If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him." 8 Philip said to Him, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us." 9 Jesus said to him, "Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, Show us the Father? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves..27 Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. 28 You have heard Me say to you, I am going away and coming back to you. If you loved Me, you would rejoice because I said, I am going to the Father, for My Father is greater than I.
Chapter 14 is a continuation of John sharing the good news of eternal life (John 3:16) that is found in believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. It is also very clear from this chapter that Jesus came to reveal the Father (see also John 1:18) and to know Jesus is to know the Father (see 1 John 2:23).
"Show us the Father": Jesus had just said that to see Him is to see the Father. Yet Philip asked to see the Father. Like Thomas, Philip seems to have been slow to comprehend (v. 5). Jesus explained to Philip, who wanted to see the Father, that to know Jesus is to know God. In other words, the search for God, for truth and reality, ends in Christ. (See also Col. 1:15; Hebrews 1:1-4.)
"My Father is greater than I": This verse of scripture has been used to misguide people who do not understand hermeneutics (The art of interpretation). When we read a text it is very important that we keep it in context with the whole of scripture. This does not mean that Jesus is less than deity. Greater indicates a difference in rank. As the humble, submissive Son, Jesus submitted Himself to the authority of His Father (1 Cor. 11:3; 15:28). For example, it is very clear in scripture that God calls for submission among equals. He did not make the man superior; he made a way for the man and woman to work together. Jesus Christ, although equal with God the Father, submitted to him to carry out the plan for salvation. Likewise, although equal to man under God, the wife should submit to her husband for the sake of their marriage and family. Submission between equals is submission by choice, not by force.
The Greek word for "greater" is μείζων (meizōn) it means greater, larger, elder, stronger.
When we take a look at other places in Bible that this word is used (45 times), we can see clearly that the word deals more with function and role than it does with equality. Again,
as God the Son, Jesus willingly submits to God the Father. On earth, Jesus also submitted to many of the physical limitations of his humanity (Phil. 2:6).
I pray that you would continue to be a follower of Christ. I encourage you with the words that the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy: "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15)
Stay in Love,
Alan
May 4, 2008
John 15:8
By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples.
John 15 gives us a wonderful picture of God's plan for relationship. In this chapter we see that Christ is the vine, and God is the gardener who cares for the branches to make them fruitful. The branches are all those who claim to be followers of Christ. The fruitful branches are true believers who by their living union with Christ produce much fruit. But branches that don't bear fruit are cut off at the trunk because not only are they worthless, but they often infect the rest of the tree. People who won't bear fruit for God or who try to block the efforts of God's followers will be cut off from his life-giving power.
By this: Notice the striking parallel between this verse and John 13:35 "By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another." The love of John 13:35 is pictured as fruit here in verse 8. The text has come full circle in showing how strategic it is for disciples to love each other. "all will know" becomes so you will be Christ's disciples.
Bottom line: this farming analogy shows how God is glorified when we come into a right relationship with him and begin to "bear much fruit" in our lives. Unfortunately many people try to be good, honest people who do what is right apart from Christ. But Jesus says that the only way to live a truly good life is to stay close to him, like a branch attached to the vine. Apart from Christ our efforts are unfruitful.
I pray that you and I would hunger and thirst to bring glory to God. I also pray that we would desire to see others fruitful so that the Father is glorified. May we always remember the admonition from this chapter: "This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for his friends. 14 You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. 15 No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I 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 should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you. 17 These things I command you, that you love one another."
In His Command,
Alan
May 5, 2008
John 16:1
"These things I have spoken to you, that you should not be made to stumble."
In Chapter 16 we find some of Jesus' last moments with his disciples. In this time He #1 warns them about further persecution, #2 tells them where, when, and why he was going, and #3 assured them that they would not be left alone, but that the Spirit would come.
Jesus knew what was ahead, and he did not want the disciples' faith shaken or destroyed. The word "stumble" in verse 1 is the Greek word skandalizo, it is where we get our English word scandalize from. It means to entrap, i.e. trip up (figurative stumble [transitive] or entice to sin, apostasy or displeasure) :- (make to) offend. In other words, Jesus is the great preparer. When He say's, "These things have I spoken unto you,...." it is concerning the world's hatred and persecution of them, and the little regard they would show to their doctrine: He is giving them notice before hand, that expecting them, they might be prepared for them, and be ready to stand against them. Again, His view in speaking of them was not to discourage them, but to prevent their stumbling at them, and falling by them.
Had Christ said nothing of these things that should come upon His disciples, they might have surprised them, and have been a stumbling to them; whereas being aware of them before hand, they were not so shocking to them. This shows the tender concern of Christ for his disciples, how careful he was to remove, every occasion of stumbling, or what might be a matter of offence to them.
Be encouraged, God wants you to know you are not alone. You have the Holy Spirit to comfort you, teach you truth, and help you. It is the desire of the Holy Spirit to prepare you for what lies ahead so that you do not stumble, or be scandalized by what you see.
Let us rejoice today in God's provision. He is faithful to the end. I close with this encouraging verse: "Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5).
Being Prepared,
Alan
May 6, 2008
John 17:3
"And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent."
This entire chapter is Jesus' prayer. It is known as "The Great Priestly Prayer". This rather than Matthew 6:9-13, might more be called "The Lord's Pray." In this chapter we will see a threefold petition: #1 That He might be glorified (vs. 1-5); #2 That the apostles may be sanctified (vs. 6-19); #3 That the church may be unified (vs. 20-26).
My focus this morning is on this powerful verse "And this is eternal life". The Greek word aionios is from the Greek (aion); which means perpetual (also used of past time, or past and future as well) :- eternal, for ever, everlasting, world (began). How do we get this eternal life? Jesus tells us clearly in John 17, by knowing God the Father through his Son, Jesus Christ. Eternal life requires entering into a personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ.
".that they may know" The Greek word for "know" is the word ginosko, it is a prolonged form of a primary verb; to "know" (absolute), it has a great variety of applications and with many implication. It can mean, be aware (of), feel, (have) know (-ledge), perceive, be resolved, can speak, be sure, understand. In other words eternal life comes by recognizing or perceiving. This is interesting, that eternal life consists in knowledge, or rather the pursuit of knowledge, since the present tense marks a continuance, a progressive perception of God in Christ. It very well could read that they might learn to know.
This life eternal, then, is a life of relationship with God in Christ. It is very clear through scripture that if we confess our sin and turn away from it, Christ's love lives in us by the Holy Spirit.
Take time to reflect on the wonderful prayer of our Lord and Savior. Remember HE is praying for you: "I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; 21 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me. 22 And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one: 23 I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me. 24 "Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. 25 O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me. 26 And I have declared to them Your name, and will declare it, that the love with which You loved Me may be in them, and I in them."
Love in Christ, Alan
May 7, 2008
John 18:28-29
"Then they led Jesus from Caiaphas to the Praetorium, and it was early morning. But they themselves did not go into the Praetorium, lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the Passover. 29 Pilate then went out to them and said, "What accusation do you bring against this Man?"
John, chapter 18, records the arrest of Christ. After His arrest Jesus appears before Annas. "Then Annas sent Him bound to Caiaphas the high priest" (v. 24). It is here that Jesus is led to the "Praetorium". The Praetorium was the Roman governor's official residence. By Jewish law, entering the house of a Gentile would cause a Jewish person to be ceremonially defiled. As a result, he could not take part in worship at the temple or celebrate the feasts until he was restored to a state of "cleanness." Afraid of being defiled, these men stayed outside the house where they had taken Jesus for trial. They kept the ceremonial requirements of their religion while harboring murder and treachery in their hearts. This is a sad commentary on how we can get so rapped up in the law and religious deeds that we forget about the "greatest of all", love.
We also need to think about this: we can easily get angry at the Sanhedrin for their injustice in condemning Jesus, but we must remember that Peter and the rest of the disciples also contributed to Jesus' pain by deserting and disowning him (Matthew 26:56, 75). While most of us are not like the religious leaders, we are all like the disciples, for all of us have been guilty of denying that Christ is Lord in vital areas of our lives or of keeping secret our faith as believers in times of pressure. The challenge is this: don't excuse yourself by pointing at others whose sins seem worse than yours. Instead, come to Jesus for forgiveness, healing, and boldness.
One last observation: Pilate made four attempts to deal with Jesus: #1 he tried to put the responsibility on someone else (John 18:31); #2 he tried to find a way of escape so he could release Jesus (John 18:39); #3 he tried to compromise having Jesus flogged rather than handing him over to die (John 19:1-3); and #4 he tried a direct appeal to the sympathy of the accusers (John 19:15). The truth is, everyone has to decide what to do with Jesus. Pilate tried to let everyone else decide for him?and in the end, he lost. It also seems apparent that while recognizing the truth, Pilate chose to reject it. It is a tragedy when we fail to recognize the truth. It is a greater tragedy when we recognize the truth but fail to walk in it.
I leave you with these words: "Jesus therefore, knowing all things that would come upon Him, went forward and said to them, "Whom are you seeking?" Knowing He was about to be arrested, Jesus could have escaped, but He did not. He submitted Himself voluntarily to the will of God so that you and I could have eternal life.
Give thanks today for His GOODNESS!
Love in Christ, Alan
May 8, 2008
John 19:8-11
Therefore, when Pilate heard that saying, he was the more afraid, 9 and went again into the Praetorium, and said to Jesus, "Where are You from?" But Jesus gave him no answer. 10 Then Pilate said to Him, "Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?" 11 Jesus answered, "You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above. Therefore the one who delivered Me to you has the greater sin."
"he was the more afraid": Though not mentioned earlier, Pilate had no doubt become fearful. The claim of Jesus' deity further impacted his fears. The Greek word is phobeo, means to frighten, i.e. (passive) to be alarmed; by analogy to be in awe of, i.e. revere :- be (+ sore) afraid, fear (exceedingly), reverence.
As Roman governor of the area, Pilate was expected to keep the peace. Because Rome could not afford to keep large numbers of troops in the outlying regions, they maintained control by crushing rebellions immediately with brute force. Pilate was afraid that reports to Caesar of insurrection in his region would cost Pilate his job and perhaps even his life. Pilate took the easy way out; his fear for what he could lose was greater than his stand for truth.
"Jesus gave him no answer": Three times Pilate had publicly pronounced Jesus innocent (18:38; 19:4, 6). If he had really wanted to know the truth, he would have believed what Jesus had already told him (18:37). If we know the good we should do and we don't do it, we sin (James 4:17).
"Are You not speaking to me?" Despite the pressure and persecution, Jesus remained unmoved. He knew the truth, he knew the plan and he knew the reason for his trial. It was really Pilate and the religious leaders who were on trial, not Jesus.
I pray that you would find comfort in knowing that Jesus went all the way for you. He did not turn back or deny truth. He willingly laid down His life that you would have eternal life. Don't ever let the fear of man cause you to deny truth. Truth will set us free and keep us free. I leave you with the words of the Apostle Paul to Timothy: "If we endure, we shall also reign with Him. If we deny Him, He also will deny us. 13 If we are faithless, He remains faithful; He cannot deny Himself" (2 Tim. 2:12-13).
Trusting in HIS faithfulness,
Alan
May 9, 2008
John 20:9; 30-31
9 For as yet they did not know the Scripture, that He must rise again from the dead.
"And truly Jesus did many other signs in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; 31 but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name."
"They did not know the Scripture": The disciples believed because of what they saw in the tomb (v. 8), not because of what they knew from Old Testament passages describing the Savior's resurrection (see Luke 24:25). Jesus had prophesied His death and resurrection in the disciples' presence, but the disciples had not understood what He was talking about. Later Jesus would instruct them about how His life and death fulfilled the Scriptures (see Luke 24:13, 44). It is important to point out here that the disciples were faithful to study the Old Testament scriptures. However, just as we need the Holy Spirit today, so the disciples needed guidance of the Holy Spirit to bring them into full understanding of what had been written.
In chapter 20, John also states the purpose of his book. His purpose was to reveal, by the Holy Spirit, to his readers that Jesus is the Christ, the Messiah who fulfilled God's promises to Israel. John tells us that his Gospel records only a few of the many events in Jesus' life on earth. But the gospel includes everything we need to know to believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, through whom we receive eternal life.
We need to understand that Jesus' resurrection is the key to the Christian faith. Here are some reasons: #1 Just as he said, Jesus rose from the dead. We can be confident, therefore, that he will accomplish all he has promised. #2 Jesus' bodily resurrection shows us that the living Christ, not a false prophet or imposter, is ruler of God's eternal kingdom. #3 We can be certain of our own resurrection because Jesus was resurrected. Death is not the end?there is life beyond the grave. #4 The resurrection is the basis for the church's witness to the world.
I trust you will always be aware and thankful for the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. Remember the words of the words of the Apostle Paul to the Ephesians:
In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory (Eph.1:13-14).
Loving HIS Word,
Alan
May 10, 2008
John 21:24-25
"This is the disciple who testifies of these things, and wrote these things; and we know that his testimony is true. 25 And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen."
This is the disciple: The disciple was the one whom Jesus loved (v. 20). This is basically John's signature to his Gospel.
John, chapter 21 ends with the reminder that his stated purpose for writing his Gospel was to show that Jesus was the Son of God. He clearly and systematically presented the evidence for Jesus' claims. When evidence is presented in the courtroom, those who hear it must make a choice. Likewise, those who read the Gospel of John must also make a choice?is Jesus the Son of God, or isn't he? You are the jury. The evidence has been clearly presented. You must decide.
What Jesus taught and what he did are tied inseparably to who He is. John shows Jesus as fully human and fully God. Although Jesus took upon himself full humanity and lived as a man, he never ceased to be the eternal God who has always existed, the Creator and Sustainer of all things, and the source of eternal life. This is the truth about Jesus, and the foundation of all truth. If we cannot or do not believe this basic truth, we will not have enough faith to trust our eternal destiny to Him. That is why John wrote this Gospel?to build faith and confidence in Jesus Christ so that we may believe that he truly was and is the Son of God (John 20:30-31).
"there are also many other things that Jesus did: In other words the Gospel of John is truthful (v. 24), but it is not exhaustive. However, I would like to list some things we have learned from John's Gospel:
Jesus called Himself the bread of life (6:35, 41, 48, 51), the light of the world (8:12; 9:5), the door for the sheep (10:7, 9), the good shepherd (10:11, 14), the resurrection and the life (11:25), the way, the truth, the life (14:6), and the true vine (15:1, 5). Each of these statements begins with the words, "I am," recalling God's revelation of His name, "I AM," to Moses (see Ex. 3:14). Jesus did not say He gave bread; He said He is the Bread which gives life. He did not say He would teach the way, the truth, and the life; instead He said He is the Way, because He is the Truth and the Life. These are Jesus' clear claims to deity: In other words, He was not a mere man.
Then there are the signs of Jesus' deity. Miracles in the Gospel of John are called "signs" because they point to Jesus' divine nature. John records seven such signs: changing water into wine (2:1), healing a man's son (4:46), healing a lame man (5:1), multiplying bread and fish (6:1), walking on water (6:15), healing a blind man (9:1), and raising Lazarus (11:38). These miracles show that Jesus is God; He possesses power over nature. Other indications of Jesus' deity include the testimonies of John the Baptist (1:32), Nathanael (1:49), the blind man (9:35), Martha (11:27), and Thomas (20:28)-not to mention Jesus' own words (5:19).
Jesus was also fully man. His body grew weary (4:6), His soul was troubled (12:27; 13:21), and He groaned in His spirit (11:33). At the same time, this God-man was Israel's Messiah. Andrew told his brother, "We have found the Messiah" (1:41). Nathanael concluded, "You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!" (1:49). Even the Samaritan woman testified to Jesus' identity (4:25, 26, 29). Jesus the Messiah was and is the Savior of the world (4:42; 11:27; 12:13).
John urges us to trust in Jesus for eternal life. Our trust is built on our belief that #1 the Father is in Christ, and Christ is in the Father (10:38; 14:10, 11); #2 Christ came from God (16:17, 30), and God sent Him (11:42; 17:8, 21; see also 6:29); and #3 He is the Son of God (6:69; 11:27; 20:31). John reveals the Bible's most important message: Believe and follow Jesus, because He is the way to eternal life.
John, the evangelist, concludes with the word "Amen". The Greek word is amen; it is from the Hebrew origin [Hebrew 543 ('amen)]. It means to properly firm, i.e. (figurative) trustworthy; adverb surely (often as interjection so be it) :- amen, verily, truly, so be it.
I pray that every time you read the Gospel, according to the Apostle John, you too will be able to conclude with a hardy "Amen!"
Believing in Jesus,
Alan
