Show Me the Proof - John 6:1-71 - February 25, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – Show Me the Proof – February 25, 2007

This is the final lesson in our series “Christianity is CHRIST.”

Our background and focus scripture is John 6:1-71.

This lesson brings back a lot of memories regarding my journey to understand CHRIST and my relationship with CHRIST. I was raised by Christian parents who took me to church each Sunday. Both sets of my grandparents were also Christians. I remember my mother and father reading Bible stories to me each Sunday afternoon. This was a special time for me. I made a profession of faith when I was about 9 years old but I was never sure of my salvation until I was in my early 30’s. I had a lot of questions about GOD, even questioned the existence of GOD and often thought about how GOD could prove Himself to me.

In my early adult years, I thought about asking GOD to make a tree fall over or cause the heavy cast iron cover on the sanitary sewer to rise into the air on my command. Yet, as quickly as I would think of something GOD could physically do to prove Himself, I thought, “Even if GOD did the things I requested, how would I really know it was HIM doing it? After all, the tree may have been going to fall anyway or some physical thing going to happen to cause the sewer cover to rise into the air.” So all my conceived physical tests for GOD to prove Himself to me were not iron clad.

I struggled for many years until I was in my early 30’s and had tried to live the Christian life in my own strength and found it completely impossible to do. My concept of being a Christian was performance oriented. When driving to work early one morning, I was praying and told GOD that I had really tried to live the so called Christian life and just plain could not do it. I would make a deal with HIM. I would give HIM my life just like it was, the good and the bad (Because I was trying to clean up my life myself. I was trying to live the Christian life in my own strength.) but HE would have to give me the strength to live the Christian life. WOW!!! Guess what? That is exactly what HE wanted me to do for all the years I struggled trying to discover HIM through reasoning and struggling in my own power to be acceptable to GOD. GOD allowed me to wrestle with HIM to lead me to the point to encounter HIM. I had to exhaust my efforts to figure GOD out and trust fully in HIM.

Human logic will never confirm your assurance of salvation. Place your trust in GOD through CHRIST and then the HOLY SPIRIT will give you the assurance of your salvation. 1 John 5:11-13 and Romans 8:16 capture the heart of assurance of salvation:

1 John 5:11-12:
11 And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. 12 The one who has the Son has life. The one who doesn’t have the Son of God does not have life. 13 I have written these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life.

Romans 8:16:
16 The Spirit Himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children,

Proof that GOD is Who HE says HE is, is confirmed spiritually.

When I accepted CHRIST as my SAVIOR about the age of 9 years old, I am convinced HE allowed me to search for the right relationship with HIM. HE knew the search would lead to the relationship HE knew was possible. The study of “Experiencing God” written by Dr. Henry T. Blackaby and Claude V. King, LifeWay Press, LifeWay Church Resources, One LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234-0175 two (2) years ago helped me to discover, in a real way, my relationship to GOD. The last two (2) years have been an exciting journey of getting to know HIM. It just gets better because it is no longer a performance relationship but an intimate loving relationship.

We as humans will never figure GOD out. GOD calls all people to repentance and salvation. Whether we accept HIS invitation is every person’s choice. GOD calls but it is left up to us to respond to HIS call. After we take the step of faith it is then that we get the assurance of salvation.

As we study our lesson today, we will see that the followers of JESUS wanted proof. We will see that Peter makes a statement of faith regarding JESUS but we know that this same Peter will deny CHRIST later. But we also know of Peter’s repentance and his resulting solid faith in JESUS after the resurrection of CHRIST. Moments of doubt usually lead to a more solid relationship with GOD through CHRIST when we seek the truth and accept HIS forgiveness. Living the Christian life is an awesome journey with our LORD JESUS as HE reveals truth to us through the HOLY SPIRIT. It takes a decision on our part to want to really know HIM. Do you really want to know HIM? Then study HIS Word and pray and ask HIM to reveal Himself to you as only HE can.

Let’s read John 6:1-15:
The Fourth Sign: Feeding 5,000
1 After this, Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee (or Tiberias). 2 And a huge crowd was following Him because they saw the signs that He was performing on the sick. 3 So Jesus went up a mountain and sat down there with His disciples. 4 Now the • Passover, a Jewish festival, was near. 5 Therefore, when Jesus looked up and noticed a huge crowd coming toward Him, He asked Philip, “Where will we buy bread so these people can eat?” 6 He asked this to test him, for He Himself knew what He was going to do. 7 Philip answered, “Two hundred • denarii worth of bread wouldn’t be enough for each of them to have a little.” 8 One of His disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to Him, 9 “There’s a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish—but what are they for so many?” 10 Then Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, so they sat down. The men numbered about 5,000. 11 Then Jesus took the loaves, and after giving thanks He distributed them to those who were seated—so also with the fish, as much as they wanted. 12 When they were full, He told His disciples, “Collect the leftovers so that nothing is wasted.” 13 So they collected them and filled 12 baskets with the pieces from the five barley loaves that were left over by those who had eaten. 14 When the people saw the sign[1] Other mss read signs He had done, they said, “This really is the Prophet[2] Dt 18:15 who was to come into the world!” 15 Therefore, when Jesus knew that they were about to come and take Him by force to make Him king, He withdrew again[3] A previous withdrawal is mentioned in Mk 6:31–32, an event that occurred just before the feeding of the 5,000. to the mountain by Himself.
JESUS uses this opportunity to build the faith of HIS disciples. HE asks Philip where he would buy bread to feed the crowd. Philip was from that area and would know where to buy bread. HE was testing Philip. Philip looked at solving the problem with money but Andrew looked for the available resources. The resources are meager, but in the hands of the SON of GOD, they are sufficient. The disciples and the crowd need another sign to verify that JESUS is the SON of GOD.
The miracle was tied to food because the Pharisees tried to follow every detail of the law presented by Moses. GOD had provided Manna from heaven to feed their forefathers through the leadership of Moses. They were more fixated on following Moses than GOD WHO gave the law to Moses and provided the Manna.

JESUS dealt with this earlier in John 5:45-47:

45 Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom you have set your hope. 46 For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me, because he wrote about Me. 47 But if you don’t believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

The feeding of the 5,000 is a miracle from GOD through HIS SON JESUS, as a sign to the people and to JESUS’ disciples. GOD fed the Israelites Manna from heaven when they were in the wilderness. JESUS used the miracle of feeding the 5,000 to make the connection that HE is the Manna from heaven that will sustain them not just for a day or so but for all eternity. The people did not make the spiritual connection but they did see JESUS as ONE WHO could provide for their physical needs. HE would make the perfect earthly king.
When all the people had been fed, there were 12 baskets of food left over. Each disciple had a basket of leftovers as a reminder of GOD'S sufficiency. How about that!
How often do we look at our resources and say they are not enough? But in the hands of the MASTER, it is always enough with some left over.

We see that the people were looking for an earthly king, so JESUS had to withdraw from them. Does JESUS have to withdraw from us even today because we are drawing the wrong conclusions about HIM? Are we seeking HIM for the wrong reasons? GOD allows us to seek and we run into a barrier on occasions. I ran into a barrier and had to relinquish my will to HIM before we could continue our journey together. I was trying to earn my way to heaven but what GOD wanted was for me to place my life into HIS hands under HIS control. After many years, I am still relinquishing my control to HIS authority. For me it has been and still is a long on-going process but worth every step.

Let’s read John 6:16-21:
The Fifth Sign: Walking on Water
16 When evening came, His disciples went down to the sea, 17 got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. Darkness had already set in, but Jesus had not yet come to them. 18 Then a high wind arose, and the sea began to churn. 19 After they had rowed about three or four miles,[4] Lit 25 or 30 stadia; 1 stadion = 600 feet they saw Jesus walking on the sea. He was coming near the boat, and they were afraid. 20 But He said to them, “It is I.[5] Lit I am Don’t be afraid!” 21 Then they were willing to take Him on board, and at once the boat was at the shore where they were heading.

This is a great event. The disciples are 3-4 miles off shore, the lake is about 150 feet deep, and they are rowing their hearts out in a storm. JESUS is walking on water. In the original text the wording suggests that JESUS acted as if HE would walk past them. When I read this I had to laugh. JESUS has a sense of humor. I can see HIM now walking on the water and HIS disciples struggling and afraid. HE acts if HE would walk past them, possibly waving to them and saying hey guy’s what is your problem? I decided to walk because it is quicker than your rowing. JESUS is always with us even in the midst of the storms of life.

Let’s read John 6:22-27:
The Bread of Life
22 The next day, the crowd that had stayed on the other side of the sea knew there had been only one boat.[6] Other mss add into which His disciples had entered [They also knew]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that Jesus had not boarded the boat with His disciples, but that His disciples had gone off alone. 23 Some boats from Tiberias came near the place where they ate the bread after the Lord gave thanks. 24 When the crowd saw that neither Jesus nor His disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum looking for Jesus. 25 When they found Him on the other side of the sea, they said to Him, “• Rabbi, when did You get here?” 26 Jesus answered, “• I assure you: You are looking for Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate the loaves and were filled. 27 Don’t work for the food that perishes but for the food that lasts for eternal life, which the • Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal of approval on Him.”

The next day the crowd is searching for JESUS. Were they hungry? They must have concluded that JESUS must have hitched a ride on a boat going to Capernaum. They find JESUS and question HIM. JESUS does not mince words; HE goes to the very heart of their hearts. JESUS in essence is saying to them, you are not searching for ME for spiritual reasons but for physical reasons. You are trying to relive life with Moses and you are looking for an earthly leader. You are following ME for the wrong reasons. It is clear you people are more interested in your stomachs and the here and now than you are in spiritual matters. You would follow anyone who would provide for your physical needs. Have you ever thought about once your stomachs are full and life is as good as it can get and you die? What happens? Is this life on earth all that there is?

You have placed your priorities in the wrong place. You are focused on this life but you need to consider what will happen to you once you die. I offer you more than physical food which will sustain you while you are on earth. I offer you eternal life when you leave this earth. Which is more important the here and now or eternity?

Let’s read John 6:28-71 with comments along the way:

28 “What can we do to perform the works of God?” they asked.

I thought this was an interesting question. JESUS got their attention, at least to the point of them asking what they can do. Did they want to do the works of GOD so they could provide their own food or to serve GOD? JESUS wants to focus their attention on HIS mission. It is not about their efforts but it is about their faith in the SON of GOD. You want to know about the works of GOD, well let ME tell you.

29 Jesus replied, “This is the work of God: that you believe in the One He has sent.”

You want to please GOD then accept ME. They respond with, “Show us a sign.” Well where have they been all this time?

30 “What sign then are You going to do so we may see and believe You?” they asked. “What are You going to perform? 31 Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, just as it is written: He gave them bread from heaven to eat.”[7] Bread miraculously provided by God for the Israelites [8]

The crowd is still focused on food. It seems the crowd is equating JESUS with Moses or that JESUS is a Moses like person and they are not focusing on the fact that JESUS is the SON of GOD. JESUS had just given them a sign the day before by feeding the 5,000. This shows that the people have a heart problem. They are blind to the truth but JESUS goes the extra mile to give them understanding. HE does the same with us today. Seek HIM and you will find HIM.

Ex 16:4; Ps 78:24 32 Jesus said to them, “I assure you: Moses didn’t give you the bread from heaven, but My Father gives you the real bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is the One who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 Then they said, “Sir, give us this bread always!”

JESUS attempts to make the connection for them. First HE tells them that Moses did not give them the Manna, it was GOD. Moses was only GOD’S representative. GOD gave you the Manna. Now GOD is sending you the true bread from heaven which will sustain you for all eternity. They address JESUS as “sir” and not “Rabbi” as they had earlier. They still do not make the connection, so JESUS continues to try to get though to them.

This is an example of how GOD tries to reach every person with the truth.

35 “I am the bread of life,” Jesus told them. “No one who comes to Me will ever be hungry, and no one who believes in Me will ever be thirsty again. 36 But as I told you, you’ve seen Me,[9] Other mss omit Me and yet you do not believe. 37 Everyone the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will never cast out. 38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do My will, but the will of Him who sent Me. 39 This is the will of Him who sent Me: that I should lose none of those He has given Me but should raise them up on the last day. 40 For this is the will of My Father: that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

JESUS attempted to make HIS purpose and mission very clear to the crowd. HE is saying not to focus on the here and now but focus on your life after your life on earth. Where will you spend eternity? I AM the answer to the question. But did they get it?

41 Therefore the Jews started complaining about Him, because He said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” 42 They were saying, “Isn’t this Jesus the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How can He now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” 43 Jesus answered them, “Stop complaining among yourselves. 44 No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws[10] Or brings, or leads; see the use of this Gk verb in Jn 12:32; 21:6; Ac 16:19; Jms 2:6. him, and I will raise him up on the last day. 45 It is written in the Prophets: And they will all be taught by God.[11] Isaiah 54:13 Everyone who has listened to and learned from the Father comes to Me— 46 not that anyone has seen the Father except the One who is from God. He has seen the Father. 47 “I assure you: Anyone who believes[12] Other mss add in Me has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of life. 49 Your fathers ate the manna[13] Ex 16:12–36 in the wilderness, and they died. 50 This is the bread that comes down from heaven so that anyone may eat of it and not die. 51 I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread he will live forever. The bread that I will give for the life of the world is My flesh.”

This really gets the crowd going. So how does the crowd respond? They complain and argue among themselves. Many times when we have questions, rather than going to the source of truth, often we seek answers from a variety of other sources. The blind often lead the blind. They had the source of truth right there with them but they could not get beyond their prejudice. Oh FATHER open the eyes of our hearts that we might see YOU clearly.

52 At that, the Jews argued among themselves, “How can this man give us His flesh to eat?” 53 So Jesus said to them, “I assure you: Unless you eat the flesh of the • Son of Man and drink His blood, you do not have life in yourselves. 54 Anyone who eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day, 55 because My flesh is real food and My blood is real drink. 56 The one who eats My flesh and drinks My blood lives in Me, and I in him. 57 Just as the living Father sent Me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on Me will live because of Me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven; it is not like the manna[14] Other mss omit the manna your fathers ate—and they died. The one who eats this bread will live forever.” 59 He said these things while teaching in the • synagogue in Capernaum.

JESUS tries to jolt them into asking HIM questions. I will admit HE has given them some heavy theology. Remember JESUS only spoke as the FATHER directed HIM to speak. JESUS is making a distinction between the spiritual and the physical. The physical food we eat sustains us for a short time but the spiritual food HE provides will sustain all who believe in HIM, for eternity.

JESUS was saying just as you have to eat food to get the nourishment it provides, you must consume and internalize ME through personal belief before you will be nourished and sustained spiritually.

We know this today because HE sent the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell every believer. It is through the HOLY SPIRIT that we are taught and receive confirmation that we are HIS children and have eternal life.

All JESUS was saying to the crowd could not be fully understood until HE had completed HIS mission. Until JESUS completed HIS mission, the people would have to make the connection between prophesy given in the scripture, what they were seeing with their own eyes and hearing with their own ears.

GOD was calling them but what was their problem? It was the attitude of their hearts. They could not take a step of faith because they saw JESUS as a man and not as the SON of GOD. They had their minds made up the Messiah would be an earthly king and not a spiritual king.

Our preconceived notions about GOD can blind us to an awesome encounter with GOD through JESUS. Do not let that happen to you. Confess any doubts or concerns to GOD and ask HIM to reveal the truth to you. Ask JESUS to forgive you of your sin and to come into your heart as your SAVIOR now. Do not let this opportunity pass you by.

Many Disciples Desert Jesus
60 Therefore, when many of His disciples heard this, they said, “This teaching is hard! Who can accept[15] Lit hear it?” 61 Jesus, knowing in Himself that His disciples were complaining about this, asked them, “Does this offend you? 62 Then what if you were to observe the Son of Man ascending to where He was before? 63 The Spirit is the One who gives life. The flesh doesn’t help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. 64 But there are some among you who don’t believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning those who would not[16] Other mss omit not believe and the one who would betray Him.) 65 He said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to Me unless it is granted to him by the Father.” 66 From that moment many of His disciples turned back and no longer accompanied Him. 67 Therefore Jesus said to the Twelve, “You don’t want to go away too, do you?” 68 Simon Peter answered, “Lord, who will we go to? You have the words of eternal life. 69 We have come to believe and know that You are the Holy One of God!”[17] Other mss read You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God 70 Jesus replied to them, “Didn’t I choose you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is the Devil!”[18] Jn 13:2,27 71 He was referring to Judas, Simon Iscariot’s son,[19] Other mss read Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son [20] Lit Judas, of Simon Iscariot one of the Twelve, because he was going to betray Him.

JESUS’ followers agree this is a very difficult teaching. JESUS gives HIS disciples the opportunity to decide what they will do. HE gives that choice to each of us today. The choices are nothing and death or CHRIST and eternal life. How do you choose?

Like Father, Like Son – John 5:16-47 - February 18, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – Like Father, Like Son – February 18, 2007

This is lesson three (3) in our series, “Christianity is CHRIST.”

Our scripture background is John 5: 16-47.

This lesson, to me, reveals the very heart of the relationship that GOD wants us to have with HIM through CHRIST via the HOLY SPIRIT. I will quickly add that Christians cannot achieve such a relationship in their own strength.

We as humans and as Christians try to reach up to GOD by much activity but GOD has already reached down to us through HIS ONLY SON JESUS. JESUS revealed the FATHER to us. JESUS revealed the relationship the FATHER and the SON have. It is a relationship of total and complete obedience of the SON to the FATHER.

Christians try to do something for GOD. We work very hard doing activities for GOD thinking that much activity will please GOD. The question is, "Are we doing the activity GOD wants us to do?" Our model is the relationship between GOD, the FATHER and JESUS, the SON. The key is the SON only does what the FATHER shows or reveals to HIM to do.

So how can we be completely obedient to what GOD wants us to do? It is all about our relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Our natural reaction is to immediately think, “What can I do to have this relationship?” Notice the word “I”. This is where we go wrong. The first thing is to be willing to do what GOD reveals to us to do. And that first thing may be to spend time with HIM and to really get to know HIM. But GOD through the HOLY SPIRIT must reveal to each individual what needs to be done to have the best possible relationship with HIM.

So how do we get to know a person and build an intimate loving relationship with that person?

When we love someone we want to spend time with that person. When we want to get to know CHRIST, first of all we must have a personal relationship with CHRIST. We ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and to come into our lives. Becoming a Christian gives the opportunity to build a relationship with CHRIST.

Compare building a relationship with CHRIST to marriage. Every marriage gives the opportunity to build a loving, lifelong relationship between husband and wife. Becoming a Christian provides the opportunity for us to learn of CHRIST and build a relationship with HIM. Marriage is each partner giving 100% through a lifetime of experiences. Dealing with a variety of circumstances in an honest relationship builds trust and confidence with each other.

For many of us our relationship with CHRIST began early in our lives. Over the years we have been exposed to many sermons, Bible studies, good and bad examples of people claiming to be Christian’s and various teachings about CHRIST. As a result we have formed our opinions about who CHRIST is, what HE should or should not do, who GOD is and many other notions about GOD, JESUS and the HOLY SPIRIT. These teachings, studies and opinions have helped us shape our opinion of GOD, CHRIST and the HOLY SPIRIT. We have made GOD, CHRIST and the HOLY SPIRIT into our own image. When HE does not perform like we think HE should we become discouraged.

This is why we must ask the LORD to reveal to us any false notions or opinions we have formed about HIM and to confirm the revealed truth about HIM with HIS Word. This is foundational in order to build any relationship.

The book of John, which we are studying over the next few months, is an excellent book to ground us in truth. As we study the Book of John pray and ask HIM to reveal any thing in our lives which prevents us from having the best possible relationship with HIM.

Let’s read John 5:16-23: The Jews are building their case against CHRIST. They are so focused on the law and their traditions that they are missing what they have been seeking most of their lives.

Honoring the Father and the Son
16 Therefore, the Jews began persecuting Jesus[5] Other mss add and trying to kill Him because He was doing these things on the Sabbath. 17 But Jesus responded to them, “My Father is still working, and I am working also.” 18 This is why the Jews began trying all the more to kill Him: not only was He breaking the Sabbath, but He was even calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God. 19 Then Jesus replied, “• I assure you: The Son is not able to do anything on His own, but only what He sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father[6] Lit whatever that One does, the Son also does these things in the same way. 20 For the Father loves the Son and shows Him everything He is doing, and He will show Him greater works than these so that you will be amazed. 21 And just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so the Son also gives life to anyone He wants to. 22 The Father, in fact, judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son, 23 so that all people will honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him.

JESUS was healing people on the Sabbath. Imagine JESUS is working on the Sabbath and calling GOD HIS own FATHER. It is obvious the religious leaders are not getting the fact that JESUS is the promised Messiah. JESUS attempts to give them a very big clue. JESUS attempted to get them to make the connection between HIM, WHO HE was representing and the fact that only such power could come from one source, GOD. They had drawn a conclusion that HIS power came from Satan and not GOD.

When we try to earn our way to GOD, we often become performance oriented. This is what happened to the Jews. They are so caught up in tradition and performing that they have failed to associate the very miracles GOD is performing through JESUS with the coming Messiah. Could it also be that the religious leaders were jealous of JESUS? After all how could a commoner, such as JESUS, be the promised Messiah? Often the religious leaders of our day get caught up in their piousness and think that only miracles and revelations can come through them. See how notions and preconceived notions can blind us to the truth. GOD will not be placed in a box, after all HE is GOD.

Notice JESUS always points to the FATHER, never to Himself. JESUS never makes any claims about HIS abilities or HIS power. All is about the FATHER. CHRIST’S mission is to represent and glorify the FATHER. It is the FATHER WHO has the power to heal the blind, heal the sick, move the mountain and to raise the dead back to life. JESUS says HE has the power to give life to anyone HE chooses.

John 3:16-18 tells us:

16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 1 Jn 4:9–10 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God.

GOD’S desire is for the entire world to be saved from sin and death. But the choice is always left to each individual.
Do you know JESUS as the SON of GOD? Is HE your SAVIOR?

Let’s read John 5:24-30:

Life and Judgment
24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life. 25 “I assure you: An hour is coming, and is now here, 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, so also He has granted to the Son to have life in Himself. 27 And He has granted Him the right to pass judgment, because He is the • Son of Man. 28 Do not be amazed at this, because a time is coming when all who are in the graves will hear His voice 29 and come out—those who have done good things, to the resurrection of life, but those who have done wicked things, to the resurrection of judgment. 30 “I can do nothing on My own. I judge only as I hear, and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

Verse 24 is the good news of the gospel of CHRIST. Our part is to believe in CHRIST. HIS part is to forgive all who believe in HIM. GOD has given the authority to CHRIST to judge. Since GOD has given CHRIST the authority to judge, HE has determined that all who believe in HIM will not be judged and will pass from death into life. Is this good news? I think so. I like a sure thing as long as it is true and you can count on it. Is CHRIST who HE says HE is? Can HE deliver what HE says HE can deliver?

The resurrection is physical proof and the HOLY SPIRIT in the heart of every believer is spiritual confirmation of the truth.

Verse 25 reveals that the spiritually dead will hear HIS voice and receive eternal life. Then verse 28 reveals that those physically dead will also hear HIS voice. We know after the death of CHRIST, HE visits the place of the dead and reveals that HE is the promised Messiah.

1 Peter 3:19:

19 In that state[31] Or In whom, or At that time, or In which He also went and made a proclamation to the spirits in prison[32] The spirits in prison are most likely fallen supernatural beings or angels; see 2 Pt 2:4; Jd 6.
Verse 30 is critical. JESUS is totally and completely obedient to the FATHER. This is the relationship GOD wants us to have with HIM. Often our main problem is that we spring into action before GOD shows us what HE wants us to do. We think the activities we do for GOD are acceptable to GOD. We need to first concentrate on our relationship with HIM. When we have the proper relationship with HIM, we are always in the center of HIS will. It is here that we gain confidence and trust in HIM. As we get to know HIM, HE will give us opportunities to join HIM in the work HE has in progress. When HE reveals HIS work to us this is our opportunity to join HIM in that activity. So what do we do until GOD reveals HIS work to us? HE is preparing and equipping us to join HIM in the work HE has planned for us.

Let’s read John 5:31-47:

Four Witnesses to Jesus
31 “If I testify about Myself, My testimony is not valid.[7] Or not true

If JESUS validates Himself, the religious leaders would have a right to question HIS authority. JESUS gives them something to ponder.
If JESUS toots HIS own horn, so-to-speak, then we as humans have grounds to question HIS authority. Today we have the complete story about JESUS. We know that JESUS died on the cross, was buried, GOD raised HIM from the dead as proof that HE fulfilled HIS mission. As a result HE has complete authority to give all who believe in HIM eternal life through the miracle of rebirth. In the next scripture, Jesus speaks to WHO validates HIS mission and authority.

32 There is Another who testifies about Me, and I know that the testimony He gives about Me is valid.[8] Or true 33 You have sent [messengers]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. to John, and he has testified to the truth. 34 I don’t receive man’s testimony, but I say these things so that you may be saved. 35 John[9] Lit That man was a burning and shining lamp, and for a time you were willing to enjoy his light.

GOD testifies about JESUS and John the Baptist testified about JESUS. John the Baptist’s mission was to herald and be the forerunner to the Messiah. JESUS tells the religious leaders that they were eager to go to the desert to hear what John the Baptist had to say about the coming Messiah, but, if they will remove their spiritual blinders they will see WHO John was talking about. Their hope was in the coming Messiah. And guess what, the Messiah has arrived.

36 “But I have a greater testimony than John’s because of the works that the Father has given Me to accomplish. These very works I am doing testify about Me that the Father has sent Me.

JESUS is trying to get them to wake up. HE is asking them in essence, “Have you seen any of the miracles that I have performed? Do you wonder where the power comes from when you see the sick being healed, the lame walk, the lepers cleansed, the blind healed, the dead raised and much more? Don’t you think GOD is at work among you?”

37 The Father who sent Me has Himself testified about Me. You have not heard His voice at any time, and you haven’t seen His form. 38 You don’t have His word living in you, because you don’t believe the One He sent.

The religious leaders have already made up their minds about JESUS because they were spiritually dead. Their hearts are hard and they are spiritually blind.

39 You pore over[10] In Gk this could be a command: Pore over . . . the Scriptures because you think you have eternal life in them, yet they testify about Me.

The religious leaders were earning their way to heaven. They prided themselves in knowing the scriptures but they are blind to the obvious.

40 And you are not willing to come to Me that you may have life. 41 “I do not accept glory from men, 42 but I know you—that you have no love for God within you. 43 I have come in My Father’s name, yet you don’t accept Me. If someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. 44 How can you believe? While accepting glory from one another, you don’t seek the glory that comes from the only God. 45 Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom you have set your hope. 46 For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me, because he wrote about Me. 47 But if you don’t believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

JESUS knew that they had hardened their hearts to HIS message. They were looking for the Messiah in all the wrong places. They are eager to run to this one and that one rather than seeking the true ONE.

Does this ring a bell? Have you seen people seeking to have a deeper walk with our LORD, run to this meeting or a certain spiritual leader? This is not to say we should not seek truth as the people of GOD present the truth. However, we cannot get a deeper walk by riding on the spiritual coat tails of others. Others can share what GOD has done in their lives and share what GOD has revealed to them. Sharing can inspire us but we must have our own encounter with GOD.

Ask GOD to reveal to you how you can build the best possible intimate loving relationship with HIM. Tell HIM that you seek HIM and that you want to know HIM, to really know HIM and not to just know about HIM. HE already knows you because HE knit you in your mother’s womb. HE chose you before HE made the world. HE knows the numbers of hairs on your head. Let GOD reveal to you what you need to do to have the most intimate loving relationship possible as you read HIS word and pray. The HOLY SPIRIT reveals.

GOD made the world a day at the time. What HE created on day one (1) was to prepare for what HE would create on day two (2). What HE created on day two (2) was in preparation for what HE was planning for day (3), etc. This is how HE works in our lives. HE builds into our lives that which will be needed for the next step HE is planning in our lives. It is an awesome journey to yield our will to our LORD and experience HIM as we build together an intimate relationship.

Something You Must Do – John 3:1-21 - February 11, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – Something You Must Do – February 11, 2007

This is lesson two (2) in our series of study, “Christianity is Christ.”

Our scripture is John 3:1-21.

GOD formed man from the dust of the earth. HE breathed life into man. Every human on the face of the earth owes their very existence to GOD. The gift of life is from GOD and the gift of eternal life is also from GOD through HIS ONLY SON JESUS.

Most humans search for GOD and want to know and understand GOD. Remember it all began in the Garden of Eden. Woman and man made a choice. They could have refused to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil and eaten from the tree of life but they chose to disobey God. They both ate of the forbidden fruit. As GOD promised they died both physically and spiritually. But an interesting thing happened the moment they ate of the fruit. We will explore this later in our lesson.

GOD had a plan for Adam and Eve depending upon the choice they made whether to obey or disobey. HE would make man with freedom of choice. If man chose to disobey and ate the forbidden fruit, HE had a backup plan to give man another opportunity to live and fellowship with HIM as HE originally planned. GOD through HIS love for mankind chose to send HIS SON JESUS to earth to live as a human, 100% man and 100% divine, to reveal the love of GOD to mankind. GOD wants all humans to know the love HE has for them. JESUS came to earth and lived upon earth subject to all things that happen to us as humans. Yet HE lived without sin. HIS purpose was to represent GOD and to demonstrate the power and love of GOD for every human.

Our lesson today will explore the depth of this unconditional love GOD has for us as humans. The word “gospel” means “good news.” The good news of the gospel of CHRIST is that GOD loves every human; after all HE personally formed each of us.

Let’s read John 3:1-3:

1 There was a man from the • Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. 2 This man came to Him at night and said, “• Rabbi, we know that You have come from God as a teacher, for no one could perform these signs You do unless God were with him.” 3 Jesus replied, “• I assure you: Unless someone is born again,[1] The same Gk word can mean again or from above (also in v. 7). he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

Nicodemus is a Pharisee and a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin. JESUS referred to him as a teacher. This indicates that he was well trained in the Old Testament law and the traditions of the Jewish people. This is exactly the very ones who should have been looking for the coming of the Messiah. They knew the prophesy telling about the coming Messiah. I think the way Nicodemus words his statement to JESUS, reveals that he was looking for the coming of the Messiah. Nicodemus says, “For no one could perform these signs YOU do unless GOD were with HIM.” This is a probing question.

It is believed that Nicodemus did become a Christian and tried to protect JESUS when the Jewish leaders were trying to set HIM up. John 7:45-51 gives us some insight:

45 Then the temple police came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who asked them, “Why haven’t you brought Him?” 46 The police answered, “No man ever spoke like this!”[13] Other mss read like this man 47 Then the Pharisees responded to them: “Are you fooled too? 48 Have any of the rulers believed in Him? Or any of the Pharisees? 49 But this crowd, which doesn’t know the law, is accursed!” 50 Nicodemus—the one who came to Him previously, being one of them—said to them, 51 “Our law doesn’t judge a man before it hears from him and knows what he’s doing, does it?”

Then we see Nicodemus again in the scriptures after the death of JESUS. Nicodemus is one who helps bury JESUS. Now think about what is going to happen. GOD wanted Nicodemus to participate in the burial of JESUS. GOD wanted Nicodemus to know for sure that JESUS was dead because GOD wanted Nicodemus to witness HIS resurrection.

John 19:38-42: (Verse 39)

38 After this, Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus—but secretly because of his fear of the Jews—asked Pilate that he might remove Jesus’ body. Pilate gave him permission, so he came and took His body away. 39 Nicodemus (who had previously come to Him at night) also came, bringing a mixture of about 75 pounds[20] Lit 100 litrai; a Roman litrai = 12 ounces of myrrh and aloes. 40 Then they took Jesus’ body and wrapped it in linen cloths with the aromatic spices, according to the burial custom of the Jews. 41 There was a garden in the place where He was crucified. A new tomb was in the garden; no one had yet been placed in it. 42 They placed Jesus there because of the Jewish preparation and since the tomb was nearby.

Yes, I think Nicodemus was a Christian.

JESUS told Nicodemus that he had to born-again. The word used in the original text regarding a person being born-again carries the idea of having to be born from the beginning, which suggests a new creation. Being born a new creation is something only GOD can do from above. This new birth is a miracle from GOD.

Let’s read John 3:4-8:

4 “But how can anyone be born when he is old?” Nicodemus asked Him. “Can he enter his mother’s womb a second time and be born?” 5 Jesus answered, “I assure you: Unless someone is born of water and the Spirit,[2] Or spirit, or wind; the Gk word pneuma can mean wind, spirit, or Spirit, each of which occurs in this context. he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6 Whatever is born of the flesh is flesh, and whatever is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7 Do not be amazed that I told you that you[3] The pronoun is pl in Gk. must be born again. 8 The wind[4] The Gk word pneuma can mean wind, spirit, or Spirit, each of which occurs in this context. blows where it pleases, and you hear its sound, but you don’t know where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit.”

When we are born the first time it is the result of conception between man and woman. We had nothing to do with our conception. We all breathed embryonic fluid moments before we took our first breath. Life for each of us began at conception. Keep in mind that GOD knew us before HE created the world -Ephesians 1:4 - 4 for He chose[3] Rm 11:5–7; 1 Co 1:26–31; 1 Th 1:4; 2 Th 2:13; 1 Pt 1:1–2 us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight.[4] Vv. 3–14 are 1 sentence in Gk. In love[5] Or In His sight in love

GOD knew us before we were ever conceived. HE knew when we would be born, where we would be born, who our parents would be, etc. Keep in mind that HIS foreknowledge does not mean HE places us in a particular home but it means that HE knew our fate. This does give HIM the opportunity, if HE chooses to intervene along the way. HE has a plan and a purpose for each of us. HIS desire is for every human to come to know HIM through CHRIST. But the choice is always left to each human.

Rebirth is a mystery. JESUS tells us that first we must be born as a human. Being born in the flesh gives opportunity for every human to be reborn in the spirit. Remember Adam and Eve made the decision to eat of the fruit from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. When that happened mankind became like God. Let’s see what is happening in Genesis as our fate is being determined.

Genesis 3:4-5: (Satan is enticing the woman to eat the forbidden fruit.)

4 “No! You will not die,” the serpent said to the woman.[3] Jn 8:44 5 “In fact, God knows that when[4] Lit on the day you eat it your eyes will be opened and you will be like God,[5] Or gods, or divine beings knowing good and evil.”


GOD confirms the fact that once they ate of the forbidden fruit they did become LIKE God.

Genesis 3:22:
22 The Lord God said, “Since man has become like one of Us, knowing good and evil, he must not reach out, and also take from the tree of life, and eat, and live forever.”[17]

GOD had to quickly prevent mankind from living forever in this fallen state by eating from the tree of life. GOD wanted mankind to live as HE had originally intended them to live in complete personal, intimate fellowship with HIM. So GOD had to redeem mankind from his fallen state through HIS ONLY SON JESUS. JESUS is the tree of life that GOD gives eternal life to all who believe on HIM. It is a free gift for ever human who chooses to reach out and take it by accepting JESUS as their SAVIOR. It is so simple yet so hard for many humans to accept. Remember our nature, which began when Adam and Eve ate of the forbidden fruit, is to be LIKE God. It is hard for a human to give up their godly position and yield to the true GOD of the universe, WHO revealed Himself through JESUS. You do not have to understand it but you do have to accept it. Once you accept it, then the HOLY SPIRIT will help you understand it. So surrender your kingdom to GOD and let HIM declare victory in your life. HE will reveal to you the abundant life HE gives when HE rules in your life.

This is the miracle of rebirth in the spirit that JESUS is telling Nicodemus about. Once we are born-again from above through CHRIST, our reborn spirit will exit our bodies or earth suits when we die and be with HIM for all eternity. That is a fact and a promise confirmed by the HOLY SPIRIT within every Christian.

Let’s read John 3:9-15:

9 “How can these things be?” asked Nicodemus. 10 “Are you a teacher[5] Or the teacher of Israel and don’t know these things?” Jesus replied. 11 “I assure you: We speak what We know and We testify to what We have seen, but you[6] The word you in Gk is pl here and throughout v. 12. do not accept Our testimony.[7] The pl forms (We, Our) refer to Jesus and His authority to speak for the Father. 12 If I have told you about things that happen on earth and you don’t believe, how will you believe if I tell you about things of heaven? 13 No one has ascended into heaven except the One who descended from heaven—the • Son of Man.[8] Other mss add who is in heaven 14 Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, 15 so that everyone who believes in Him will[9] Other mss add not perish, but have eternal life.

JESUS gives Nicodemus a quick lesson in theology. The Jewish religious leaders of all people should be the ones to know about spiritual things. Nicodemus acknowledged JESUS as a teacher from GOD. JESUS acknowledges Nicodemus as a teacher who recognizes the work of GOD. In essence, JESUS is saying, Nicodemus you recognize that the miracles manifested through ME can only come from GOD. You know the scriptures. You know the meaning of the scripture when it says, “Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness – the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in Him will have eternal life.” Nicodemus, you know that scripture refers to the Messiah and I AM the promised MESSIAH. As those who looked upon the snake in the wilderness were healed from physical death, I will heal everyone from spiritual death and give all who look upon ME in faith, eternal life.

Then JESUS shows Nicodemus the very heart and love of GOD for every human being and HIS role in the redemption of mankind through the miracle of rebirth.

Most of us question as Nicodemus does, “How can these things be?” Spiritual things are spiritually discerned. No human can figure them out and fail when we try to explain spiritual things. It is like trying to explain a sunrise or a sunset or how it feels when you love something or someone. This is why every human must take a step of faith to accept what JESUS has done for them through HIS death and resurrection. HE gave HIS life that ever believer will be set free from the bondage of sin and death.

Let’s read John 3:16-21:

16 “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His • One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.[10] 1 Jn 4:9–10 17 For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. 18 Anyone who believes in Him is not condemned, but anyone who does not believe is already condemned, because he has not believed in the name of the • One and Only Son of God. 19 “This, then, is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than the light because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone who practices wicked things hates the light and avoids it,[11] Lit and does not come to the light so that his deeds may not be exposed. 21 But anyone who lives by[12] Lit who does the truth comes to the light, so that his works may be shown to be accomplished by God.”[13] It is possible that Jesus’ words end at v. 15. Ancient Gk did not have quotation marks.

No greater love does one have than to lay down his or her life for another person. JESUS gave HIS life that every human that accepts HIM as SAVIOR is forgiven, is born into the family of GOD, is made righteous and has eternal life.

John 10:14-15:
14 “I am the good shepherd. I know My own sheep, and they know Me, 15 as the Father knows Me, and I know the Father. I lay down My life for the sheep.

John 10:17-18:
17 This is why the Father loves Me, because I am laying down My life so I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down on My own. I have the right to lay it down, and I have the right to take it up again. I have received this command from My Father.”

John 15:12-15:
12 This is My command: love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, that someone would lay down his life for his friends. 14 You are My friends if you do what I command you. 15 I do not call you slaves anymore, because a slave doesn’t know what his master[2] Or lord is doing. I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from My Father.

If you have not asked JESUS to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life, ask HIM now. Then thank HIM for giving you the gift of rebirth and eternal life. GOD loves you and never forget it. Once you are born into the kingdom of GOD you can never do any thing to be unborn. You will always be GOD’S child. HE wants us to obediently serve HIM. There will be rewards in heaven for all who are obedient to HIM. The key is to let HIM lead you, guide you and show you what HE wants you to do. Wait upon HIM but as you wait study HIS Word, the Bible and talk with HIM through prayer.

Our lesson is entitled, “What must we do?” We must ask CHRIST to forgive us, believe that HE died for our sins and ask HIM to come into our hearts.

Keep in mind the fact that GOD sent HIS ONLY SON, JESUS to live upon earth as 100% human and yet 100% divine to die for our sins, to be resurrected and to ascend back into heaven. Then the HOLY SPIRIT would be sent to indwell every believer. These events did not condemn the world. Because of the original sin, every human who ever was and ever will be was condemned already. JESUS is the ONE WHO conquered sin and death that every person who believes upon HIM will be saved, redeemed from sin and death and restored as GOD had originally intended.

Argue all you want but JESUS is the promised MESSIAH. HE is the hope of the world. The battle rages within every human heart because we are like GOD. Our nature is equipped with the knowledge of good and evil, therefore we must choose. Will we serve ourselves and the world or will we serve GOD?
The choice is ours to make. Make that choice today. In fact make it now because no one knows when they will exit this earth to meet GOD. We are all one heart beat away from GOD. Keep in mind what JESUS tells us in John 5:24:

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

This verse of scripture embodies the good news of CHRIST. Anyone who believes in JESUS has eternal life and will not be judged but has already passed from death into life eternal. Yes, when we receive CHRIST as our SAVIOR, our body will die but our reborn spirit goes immediately to be with GOD. We are immediately in heaven with JESUS and GOD. We remain in heaven until JESUS returns to earth the second time. Our born-again spirit will return with HIM at HIS second coming to earth and will be reunited with our earthly body. This new body will be like CHRIST’S glorified body. Why can I say this? Because this is what the scripture tells us will happen to those who believe in CHRIST.

The choice is up to each individual. How do you choose?

The Word From GOD - John 1:1-18 - February 4, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – The Word from GOD – February 4, 2007

This begins a new series of study, “Christianity is CHRIST.”

This 4 week study will be in the book of John:

February 4 – JESUS 100% Human and 100% Divine – John 1:1-18.

February 11 – Something You Must Do – John 3:1-21.

February 18 – Like Father, Like Son – John 5:16-47.

February 25 – Show Me the Proof – John 6:1-71.

The Book of John is a great book for all Christians to study, especially new Christians. John through divine inspiration of the HOLY SPIRIT gives the fundamentals of the Christian faith. The Apostle John is the author of the Book of John and the Book of Revelation. The Book of John was likely written 85-90 AD.

Let’s read John 1:1:

1 In the beginning[1] Gn 1:1 was the Word,[2] The Word (Gk Logos) is a title for Jesus as the communication and the revealer of God the Father; Jn 1:14,18; Rv 19:13. and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Several weeks ago we studied Genesis 1:1 and the same words used to begin Genesis 1:1, “In the beginning,” are used in John 1:1. John wants to make it clear that JESUS did not begin with HIS virgin birth upon earth but like GOD, JESUS has always existed. GOD, JESUS and the HOLY SPIRIT have always existed without beginning and they have no end.

Most of us have struggled with trying to understand the Trinity. I used to think about this and considered many explanations. I thought of me being a father, a son and a husband but that left me as being one person with three (3) roles So far, the best explanation for the Trinity is there are three (3) persons and if you ask a question of anyone of the three (3), you get the same answer. The three (3) are separate yet are ONE. JESUS said HE would sit at the right hand of the FATHER. GOD has given all authority to JESUS. JESUS will judge. JESUS lived upon earth as a human, was tempted in all ways like a human, and was capable of sinning but DID NOT SIN. So WHO better to judge than the ONE WHO has experienced life as a human?

John makes it clear that JESUS is 100% human and 100% GOD.

To me JESUS was born a Christian because HIS divine SPIRIT indwelled HIS human body from the moment HE was conceived. HE prepared the way for us to be reborn as a Christian and for the HOLY SPIRIT to indwell us.

CHRIST being born a Christian, so-to-speak, does not mean HE was not capable of sinning. We as Christians have the HOLY SPIRIT within us, after we ask CHRIST into our lives, and we are capable of sinning. 1 Corinthians 10:13 tells us:

13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to humanity. God is faithful and He will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape, so that you are able to bear it.

GOD provides a way of escaping temptation but we have a choice of whether we take it or not. If we do escape then we have victory and strength. If we do not escape then we sin and suffer the consequences that sin brings. Oh yes, we can confess and receive forgiveness as 1 John 1:9 tells us:

9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

These next statements are speculations on my part, when pondering such questions:

What would have happened to us if JESUS had sinned? We would not have a SAVIOR. We would still be under the Law.

What would have happened to JESUS if HE had sinned? JESUS was human therefore HE was subject to death. I think HE would have lived until HIS earthly body died and then HIS SPIRIT would have returned to heaven. HE would not have completed HIS mission and purpose of redeeming mankind. GOD required a perfect sacrifice and unblemished lamb to pay the penalty for sin.

BUT THANKS TO THE LORD JESUS, HE DID NOT SIN AND HE GAVE HIS LIFE THAT WE MIGHT HAVE FORGIVENESS OF OUR SIN AND RECEIVE THE GIFT OF REBIRTH AND ETERNAL LIFE!!!!!

Let’s read John 1:2-3:

2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created.[3]

JESUS is the Word and is with GOD. GOD gave the power and authority to JESUS to create all things. We have to remember, JESUS will judge all things.

When we think about the power of the spoken word we see it manifested in all creation. Power used for the right purpose, design and plan produces a universe with life that is beyond our imagination. This is a power that commands all things to respond when HIS WORD is spoken. All the molecules, atoms, sub-atomic particles are under HIS authority, control and command. How awesome is that? It is beyond our comprehension but we should immediately understand that same power dwells within every Christian. JESUS as a human on earth had this power within HIM but HE never used any power except that which the FATHER told HIM to use. JESUS was completely and totally obedient to what the FATHER told HIM. They had the most intimate and loving relationship possible. This is the same relationship GOD wants us to have with HIM through CHRIST.

Every Christian has the HOLY SPIRIT indwelling them. So why don’t we have the same power? We have power but we do not see the manifestation of the power of the HOLY SPIRIT because we have not died to self and our flesh gets in the way of allowing CHRIST to live completely through us. I know my flesh gets in the way. I see a need, immediately I think let’s fix that need. In certain situations GOD says wait. This person needs to go through this time in their lives to be stronger and to help others who will face similar circumstances. Power misused can corrupt. JESUS tells us that the FATHER will never give HIS children a serpent if they ask for a fish.

Our relationship with GOD is critical in serving HIM obediently. JESUS never wavered in HIS obedience to the FATHER.

We as humans know that words spoken in hate and for the wrong purpose will bring heartache and devastation. Words can bring healing or great sorrow. There is power in the words we speak today. Especially, as a Christian, we must guard our words. Speak only as GOD directs us through the HOLY SPIRIT. As I write these words I have to confess this hits home with me. This is an area in my life where the flesh raises its head.

Let’s read John 1:4-9:

Col 1:16; Heb 1:2 4 Life was in Him,[4] Other punctuation is possible: . . . not one thing was created. What was created in Him was life and that life was the light of men. 5 That light shines in the darkness, yet the darkness did not overcome[5] Or grasp, or comprehend, or overtake; Jn 12:35 it. 6 There was a man named John who was sent from God. 7 He came as a witness to testify about the light, so that all might believe through him.[6] Or through it (the light) 8 He was not the light, but he came to testify about the light. 9 The true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.[7] Or The true light who comes into the world gives light to everyone, or The true light enlightens everyone coming into the world.

JESUS, the creator of the world and all life in the world, came to earth as a human. HE came to earth to redeem mankind from sin and death. You would think that GOD being GOD could have said “Okay you humans sinned, you are forgiven and restored.” The fact that GOD did not change HIS plan for the redemption of mankind from sin and death is a wake up call to all humans. GOD sticks to HIS WORD and sent HIS ONLY SON JESUS to die where we should die.

HIS great gift to mankind is salvation from sin and death through JESUS. HE gave a judgment for sin and HE gives a solution for escaping judgment. So every human must look to JESUS as the way, the truth and the life. JESUS is the light of the world.

We as humans want to hide the evil we do. Evil does not want to be exposed. JESUS came to give us a contrast between darkness and light. HE is the light and gives light to a dark world of sin and death.

If you do not know JESUS as your SAVIOR and the light of your life, then ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life right now. HE is the only way to escape judgment.

Let’s read John 5:24: (The words of JESUS.)

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

When a human asks CHRIST to come into their lives, they are immediately born into the kingdom of GOD, become a child of GOD, receive eternal life, will not be judged and have passed from death to life. Verse 24 is the words of JESUS. HE is the authority and our assurance for eternal life.

Let’s read John 1:10-13:

10 He was in the world, and the world was created through Him, yet the world did not recognize Him. 11 He came to His own,[8] The same Gk adjective is used twice in this verse: the first refers to all that Jesus owned as Creator (to His own); the second refers to the Jews (His own people). and His own people[9] The same Gk adjective is used twice in this verse: the first refers to all that Jesus owned as Creator (to His own); the second refers to the Jews (His own people). did not receive Him. 12 But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be[10] Or become children of God, to those who believe in His name, 13 who were born, not of blood,[11] Lit bloods; the pl form of blood occurs only here in the NT. It may refer either to lineal descent (that is, blood from one’s father and mother) or to the OT sacrificial system (that is, the various blood sacrifices). Neither is the basis for birth into the family of God. or of the will of the flesh, or of the will of man,[12] Or not of human lineage, or of human capacity, or of human volition but of God.

JESUS makes it possible for our rebirth in the spirit to become a child of GOD. Yet the world rejects HIM even today. Humans have their own way and ideas about the path to GOD. JESUS says “I AM the way.” We as humans think we have to earn our way or pay penitence. Salvation is so simple; most of us try to make it hard. Want GOD to be your FATHER? Then ask JESUS to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life now!

Revelation 3:20:

20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and have dinner with him, and he with Me.

The decision is always left to us as humans. We choose. JESUS stands at the door of our hearts. HE knocks and it is up to us to let HIM into our lives. If you have not already done so ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life. Our part is to ask HIM in, HIS part is to become a part of our lives. It is a life long journey. It is always us allowing HIM to take control of our lives and partnering with us to build an intimate loving relationship.

Let’s read John 1:14-19:

14 The Word became flesh[13] The eternally existent Word (vv. 1–2) took on full humanity, but without sin; Heb 4:15. and took up residence[14] Lit and tabernacled, or and dwelt in a tent; this word occurs only here in John. A related word, referring to the Festival of Tabernacles, occurs only in 7:2; Ex 40:34–38. among us. We observed His glory, the glory as the • One and Only Son[15] Son is implied from the reference to the Father and from Gk usage. from the Father, full of grace and truth. 15 (John testified concerning Him and exclaimed, “This was the One of whom I said, ‘The One coming after me has surpassed me, because He existed before me.’ ”) 16 Indeed, we have all received grace after grace from His fullness, 17 for although the law was given through Moses, grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God.[16] Since God is an infinite being, no one can see Him in His absolute essential nature; Ex 33:18–23. The One and Only Son[17] Other mss read God — the One who is at the Father’s side[18] Lit is in the bosom of the Father — He has revealed Him.

JESUS became flesh and lived upon earth as a human. HE is the ONLY SON OF GOD. GOD sent HIM at the precise moment in time for HIS birth, life, death, resurrection, ascension and the return of the HOLY SPIRIT to be witnessed, proclaimed and recorded for the entire world to know of JESUS and HIS provision for all humanity.

The disciple Philip asked JESUS to show him the FATHER. JESUS told him those who have seen ME, have seen the FATHER.

John 14:7-11:

7 “If you know Me, you will also know[4] Other mss read If you had known Me, you would have known My Father. From now on you do know Him and have seen Him.” 8 “Lord,” said Philip, “show us the Father, and that’s enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been among you all this time without your knowing Me, Philip? The one who has seen Me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me?[5] Jn 10:30,38 The words I speak to you I do not speak on My own. The Father who lives in Me does His works. 11 Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father is in Me. Otherwise, believe[6] Other mss read believe Me because of the works themselves.

We as Christians are CHRIST’S representatives here on earth. May others see CHRIST in us and be drawn to HIM.

John14:7-11 also reveals the relationship of CHRIST to the FATHER. This is the same relationship HE wants us to have with HIM. Do you want to see the power of the HOLY SPIRIT manifested in your lives? Then seek the relationship first and all these things will be added to you. But only when GOD knows you will be obedient to every word and command HE gives you.

The number one enemy of the SPIRIT is the flesh. JESUS says it best. We must “deny self” but self does not want to be denied. Self wants to rule.

Matthew 16:24-25:

24 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 25 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.

This is why we must have the relationship because by our own strength we cannot conquer self. When we have such companionship and fellowship with JESUS the things of this world will be placed in proper perspective. It is a journey but an exciting journey.