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Sunday, June 27, 2010
Thursday, June 24, 2010
A Lesson in Fath by The Joy of Jesus
Prayer: We pray in the name of Jesus that our faith id increased. We love You Lord. We thank God and praise God in the name of Jesus for an increase in our faith. A-men.
Commentary: The Joy of Jesus has faith that you will continue to support this ministry. You can get our toolbar, visit our sponsors or give. God Bless You.
Faith in The Joy of Jesus: What the Bible Says About Faith
Finding out what the Bible says about faith is very important. Why? A few reasons come to mind: First, faith is often defined in a number of different and conflicting ways by religious persons. If we want to know how God defines faith we will have to go to the Bible. God's definition of faith takes precedence over man's definition of faith. Second, there are all kinds of faith in the world -- even the demons have faith (James 2:19) -- but only one faith is true. If we want to have true faith (2 Timothy 1:5), we will have to let God tell us what true faith is. Third, faith is necessary to please God (Hebrews 11:6). If we want to please God we need to know about the faith that pleases God. Fourth, faith is necessary for salvation (Ephesians 2:8). If we want to be saved we need to know about the faith that saves. Fifth, there are many people who do not have faith (John 6:64) -- at one point even Jesus' own family did not believe in Him (John 7:5) -- and God destroys people who do not have faith (Jude 5). If we don't want God to destroy us, if we don't want to die in our sins (John 8:24), we must believe. Finally, there are those who have faith but they are letting their faith slip away (2 Timothy 2:18). If we don't want evil forces to overthrow our faith we need to know how to keep our faith strong.
This brief article is not intended to be an exhaustive study of each occurrence of the word faith in the Bible. Many verses in both the Old and New Testaments could be used to illustrate each point below but only a few have been chosen. This study is confined to the New Testament. The references listed below are examples of the verb form of faith (Greek pisteuo, usually translated, believe), and the noun form of faith (Greek pistis, usually translated, faith). I would suggest that you take time to look up each reference listed below that is not quoted for further study on each point. You may also want to use your Bible Concordance to find other examples of the word faith. No matter what verse you locate on the faith of man, you will find that it falls nicely into one of the categories below. Let us now examine what the Bible says about faith so that we can have the faith that God wants us to have.
OBJECT OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the object of faith (who or what is believed in) is God and His Son Jesus Christ. There are many persons, places and things that we could put our faith in during our lifetime, but we must prioritize our life, and put our faith in God and Jesus Christ above all else. Jesus said: "Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me" (John 14:1). We are not to put our faith in that which is false (Matthew 24:23,26). Unless our faith is in God and His Son, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 11:22; Acts 14:23; 19:4; 20:21; Galatians 2:16; 2 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 6:1; 11:6; 1 Peter 1:21; 1 John 3:23; 5:1,5,10.
SUBJECT OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the subject of faith (who or what has faith ) is man himself. Man is the only creature of all of God's creation who can believe. What flower ever believed? What rock ever believed? What animal ever believed? Take a look at the great men and women of faith in the Old and New Testaments and see what they accomplished "by faith." For Further Study: Hebrews 11:1-40.
SUBSTANCE OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the substance of faith (what faith is) is belief; a complete trust, assurance or confidence. There is no fear (Mark 5:36; Luke 8:50) or doubt (Mark 11:23-24) in faith. The writer of Hebrews wrote: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). Unless our faith is complete trust, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 9:23-24; John 6:69; Acts 17:31; 27:25; 2 Timothy 1:12.
PROOF OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the proof of faith (what faith is based on) is evidence. Faith is based upon strong, clear, logical, true, historical evidence. Faith is not guesswork. Faith is not a blind leap in the dark. Faith is not grounded in subjective feelings. God provides the objective, rational evidence for belief; man provides the belief based on that evidence. The Bible does not teach that God gives man his faith. John wrote: "but these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus is the Christ..." (John 20:31). Paul wrote: "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17). Unless our faith is based upon sound evidence from God's word, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 1:15; 16:15-16; Luke 8:12-13; 24:25; John 4:39-42; 5:46-47; 8:30,46; 9:35-38; 17:20; 19:35; 20:24-31; Acts 4:4; 8:12-13; 9:41-42; 11:19-21; 13:12; 14:1; 15:7; 17:11-12; 18:8; 24:14; 26:27; Romans 10:8-21; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5; 3:5; 15:1-2,11,14,17; Ephesians 1:13; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; 2:11-13; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 5:13.
FRUIT OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the fruit of faith (what faith produces) is active obedience to God's word. The Bible does not teach that man is saved by faith only. Faith is not just a mental thought; it is a mental thought that leads a person to act, to work, to obey. The outward acts of faith can be seen (Matthew 9:2). Faith takes steps in obedience (Romans 4:12). Unless our faith produces active obedience to God's word, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 16:16; Acts 11:21; 19:18-19; Romans 16:26; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 5:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Titus 3:8; James 2:14-26; Revelation 2:19.
CONSEQUENCES OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the consequences of faith (what faith leads to) are enormous. First, faith leads to unity. Luke records: "And all that believed were together, and had all things common" (Acts 2:44). Second, faith leads to proclaiming the gospel. Paul said: "But having the same spirit of faith, according to that which is written, I believed, and therefore did I speak; we also believe, and therefore also we speak" (2 Corinthians 4:13). Third, faith leads to persecution. Paul wrote: "because to you if hath been granted in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for in his behalf" (Philippians 1:29). Unless our faith leads to unity, proclamation and persecution, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: John 12:42-43; 17:20-21; Acts 4:32; 22:19.
REWARD OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the reward of faith (what faith accomplishes) is eternal life. Our faith results in eternal life (salvation) given to us by God. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Unless our faith accomplishes eternal life, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: John 3:14-16,36; 5:24; 6:40,47; Acts 10:43; 13:39,48; 16:31; 26:18; Romans 1:16; 3:28,30; 5:1-2; 1 Corinthians 1:21; Galatians 3:24; 1 Timothy 1:16; Hebrews 6:11-12; 1 Peter 1:5-9.
"Do you now believe?" Jesus asks (John 16:31). Now that you know more of what the Bible says about faith what do you plan to do? Will you begin to put more faith in God and His Son Jesus Christ? Will you put away any fear or doubt that would keep you from serving God with a sincere faith? Will you spend more time with the Bible evidence that God has provided in order to build a stronger faith? Will you begin to produce more fruits of faith in your life by your obedience to God's word? Will you be ready to accept the enormous consequences of your faith, difficult as they may be? If the answer to these questions is yes, then the Lord has promised you a great reward for your faith, eternal life.
Posted by The Rev. Dr. James A. Lee
Commentary: The Joy of Jesus has faith that you will continue to support this ministry. You can get our toolbar, visit our sponsors or give. God Bless You.
Faith in The Joy of Jesus: What the Bible Says About Faith
Finding out what the Bible says about faith is very important. Why? A few reasons come to mind: First, faith is often defined in a number of different and conflicting ways by religious persons. If we want to know how God defines faith we will have to go to the Bible. God's definition of faith takes precedence over man's definition of faith. Second, there are all kinds of faith in the world -- even the demons have faith (James 2:19) -- but only one faith is true. If we want to have true faith (2 Timothy 1:5), we will have to let God tell us what true faith is. Third, faith is necessary to please God (Hebrews 11:6). If we want to please God we need to know about the faith that pleases God. Fourth, faith is necessary for salvation (Ephesians 2:8). If we want to be saved we need to know about the faith that saves. Fifth, there are many people who do not have faith (John 6:64) -- at one point even Jesus' own family did not believe in Him (John 7:5) -- and God destroys people who do not have faith (Jude 5). If we don't want God to destroy us, if we don't want to die in our sins (John 8:24), we must believe. Finally, there are those who have faith but they are letting their faith slip away (2 Timothy 2:18). If we don't want evil forces to overthrow our faith we need to know how to keep our faith strong.
This brief article is not intended to be an exhaustive study of each occurrence of the word faith in the Bible. Many verses in both the Old and New Testaments could be used to illustrate each point below but only a few have been chosen. This study is confined to the New Testament. The references listed below are examples of the verb form of faith (Greek pisteuo, usually translated, believe), and the noun form of faith (Greek pistis, usually translated, faith). I would suggest that you take time to look up each reference listed below that is not quoted for further study on each point. You may also want to use your Bible Concordance to find other examples of the word faith. No matter what verse you locate on the faith of man, you will find that it falls nicely into one of the categories below. Let us now examine what the Bible says about faith so that we can have the faith that God wants us to have.
OBJECT OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the object of faith (who or what is believed in) is God and His Son Jesus Christ. There are many persons, places and things that we could put our faith in during our lifetime, but we must prioritize our life, and put our faith in God and Jesus Christ above all else. Jesus said: "Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me" (John 14:1). We are not to put our faith in that which is false (Matthew 24:23,26). Unless our faith is in God and His Son, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 11:22; Acts 14:23; 19:4; 20:21; Galatians 2:16; 2 Timothy 3:15; Hebrews 6:1; 11:6; 1 Peter 1:21; 1 John 3:23; 5:1,5,10.
SUBJECT OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the subject of faith (who or what has faith ) is man himself. Man is the only creature of all of God's creation who can believe. What flower ever believed? What rock ever believed? What animal ever believed? Take a look at the great men and women of faith in the Old and New Testaments and see what they accomplished "by faith." For Further Study: Hebrews 11:1-40.
SUBSTANCE OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the substance of faith (what faith is) is belief; a complete trust, assurance or confidence. There is no fear (Mark 5:36; Luke 8:50) or doubt (Mark 11:23-24) in faith. The writer of Hebrews wrote: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, a conviction of things not seen" (Hebrews 11:1). Unless our faith is complete trust, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 9:23-24; John 6:69; Acts 17:31; 27:25; 2 Timothy 1:12.
PROOF OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the proof of faith (what faith is based on) is evidence. Faith is based upon strong, clear, logical, true, historical evidence. Faith is not guesswork. Faith is not a blind leap in the dark. Faith is not grounded in subjective feelings. God provides the objective, rational evidence for belief; man provides the belief based on that evidence. The Bible does not teach that God gives man his faith. John wrote: "but these are written, that ye may believe that Jesus is the Christ..." (John 20:31). Paul wrote: "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God" (Romans 10:17). Unless our faith is based upon sound evidence from God's word, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 1:15; 16:15-16; Luke 8:12-13; 24:25; John 4:39-42; 5:46-47; 8:30,46; 9:35-38; 17:20; 19:35; 20:24-31; Acts 4:4; 8:12-13; 9:41-42; 11:19-21; 13:12; 14:1; 15:7; 17:11-12; 18:8; 24:14; 26:27; Romans 10:8-21; 1 Corinthians 2:4-5; 3:5; 15:1-2,11,14,17; Ephesians 1:13; 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; 2:11-13; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 5:13.
FRUIT OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the fruit of faith (what faith produces) is active obedience to God's word. The Bible does not teach that man is saved by faith only. Faith is not just a mental thought; it is a mental thought that leads a person to act, to work, to obey. The outward acts of faith can be seen (Matthew 9:2). Faith takes steps in obedience (Romans 4:12). Unless our faith produces active obedience to God's word, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: Mark 16:16; Acts 11:21; 19:18-19; Romans 16:26; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 5:6; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Thessalonians 1:11; Titus 3:8; James 2:14-26; Revelation 2:19.
CONSEQUENCES OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the consequences of faith (what faith leads to) are enormous. First, faith leads to unity. Luke records: "And all that believed were together, and had all things common" (Acts 2:44). Second, faith leads to proclaiming the gospel. Paul said: "But having the same spirit of faith, according to that which is written, I believed, and therefore did I speak; we also believe, and therefore also we speak" (2 Corinthians 4:13). Third, faith leads to persecution. Paul wrote: "because to you if hath been granted in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for in his behalf" (Philippians 1:29). Unless our faith leads to unity, proclamation and persecution, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: John 12:42-43; 17:20-21; Acts 4:32; 22:19.
REWARD OF FAITH. The Bible teaches that the reward of faith (what faith accomplishes) is eternal life. Our faith results in eternal life (salvation) given to us by God. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Unless our faith accomplishes eternal life, we do not have the right kind of faith. For Further Study: John 3:14-16,36; 5:24; 6:40,47; Acts 10:43; 13:39,48; 16:31; 26:18; Romans 1:16; 3:28,30; 5:1-2; 1 Corinthians 1:21; Galatians 3:24; 1 Timothy 1:16; Hebrews 6:11-12; 1 Peter 1:5-9.
"Do you now believe?" Jesus asks (John 16:31). Now that you know more of what the Bible says about faith what do you plan to do? Will you begin to put more faith in God and His Son Jesus Christ? Will you put away any fear or doubt that would keep you from serving God with a sincere faith? Will you spend more time with the Bible evidence that God has provided in order to build a stronger faith? Will you begin to produce more fruits of faith in your life by your obedience to God's word? Will you be ready to accept the enormous consequences of your faith, difficult as they may be? If the answer to these questions is yes, then the Lord has promised you a great reward for your faith, eternal life.
Posted by The Rev. Dr. James A. Lee
Thursday, June 17, 2010
The Power of Love
Is there anything that you really needed and wanted that is right under your nose but you can not touch it? Have you ever needed a power that could shake mountains and part seas of no return? Jesus Christ is all about love.
The Bible tells us that God is love. Everything that God is the pure meaning of love. The Sun we see each day, the water, the food and all of the green earth; and all the wonders throughout creation in the full joy of Jesus. These are the elements of love that gives us power.
The goodness of God is the power that we need. We pray for the love of God in all that we do and are in this world and beyond. We love Him because He first loved us. We pray for more love each day with the each beat of our hearts. Dear God we pray in the name of Jesus.
The Bible tells us that God is love. Everything that God is the pure meaning of love. The Sun we see each day, the water, the food and all of the green earth; and all the wonders throughout creation in the full joy of Jesus. These are the elements of love that gives us power.
The goodness of God is the power that we need. We pray for the love of God in all that we do and are in this world and beyond. We love Him because He first loved us. We pray for more love each day with the each beat of our hearts. Dear God we pray in the name of Jesus.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Devotion Jesus Prays for The Believers
Devotional: John 17
What “authority over all people” has Jesus been granted? Jesus has been granted authority over all people that he might give eternal life to those that believe in him. He is the basis by which every person’s eternity will be determined; he is the authority over how their life is to be judged. In the end, the only thing that matters for a person is the nature of their relationship with Jesus.
What is my view towards Jesus’ authority over my life? What is the implication of rejecting Jesus’ authority? As a Christian, my basic confession and declaration is that Jesus is the Lord over my life and therefore has complete authority over my entire life. The rejection of Jesus’ authority is the essence of sin and the implication is declaring my own autonomy and severing my relationship with Jesus. I need to be reminded of this, that every time I sin – each time I choose to disobey, not do something that I know I ought to do, give into my anger or lust or defend my pride and ego rather than choosing to humble myself, hold back from serving or sacrificing in some way rather than denying myself and choosing to die – each time I am rejecting Jesus’ authority over my life and going back on my commitment to give him Lordship and command over my entire being. Each time I sin, I must therefore confess and repent and reassert Jesus’ authority over my life, relinquish my control and ask Jesus to reign in me again.
Notice Jesus’ definition of eternal life. What are some wrong notions of “eternal life” that people hold? Jesus’ definition of eternal life is to know God and to know him – this knowledge is a personal knowledge, and that entails a personal relationship with Him of love that does not end and means dwelling with God for eternity. Eternal life is not a continuation of life on earth; it’s not immortality or going to a place where you all your earthly desires and wishes come true, but rather it’s life as God intended it to be from the very beginning, a restored and eternal and unhindered relationship with Him.
In what ways can I pursue eternal life today? I can pursue eternal life by striving to give authority to God over every area of my life and striving to know Him through His word. As eternal life is essentially a personal relationship with God, I can pursue eternal life by pursuing this relationship, through meditating on and obeying God’s Word. The one who sows to please the Spirit will reap eternal life. I need to sow to please the Spirit by struggling against my sin (giving God authority), remaining in Jesus through His word, and striving to obey.
Devotional Questions:
John 17:1-5
◦What “authority over all people” has Jesus been granted?
◦What is my view towards Jesus’ authority over my life? What is the implication of rejecting Jesus’ authority?
◦Notice Jesus’ definition of eternal life. What are some wrong notions of “eternal life” that people hold?
◦In what ways can I pursue eternal life today?
John 17:11, 14-18
◦What distinguishes Jesus’ disciples according to vv. 14-16? Are these evident in my life?
◦What are the unique challenges that Christians face as those who are “still in this world” but “not of the world?” How is the word of God key to facing these challenges?
◦How have I experienced the sanctifying work of God’s word in my life?
John 17:19
◦How is Jesus’ love for his disciples manifested in this verse?
◦For whom I do need to sanctify myself in order that “they too may be truly sanctified?”
Additional Questions:
John 17:1, 4-5
◦What brings God glory?
◦What specific work do I need to carry out on earth to bring God glory?
John 17:6-19
◦What did Jesus pray for his disciples, and what can I learn from the fact that these are the issues he prayed about?
John 17:20-23
◦According to this passage, what is the basis and motivation for Christian unity?
◦What is the relationship between oneness with God and oneness with the people of God?
◦How does Christian unity show the world the reality of Christ’s incarnation (cf. Acts 2:44-47)?
◦Am I experiencing this kind of oneness with the people of God? If not, what may be the reason?
◦How does Jesus’ final prayer for his disciples show me what my priority should be?
John 17:24
◦What is revealed about Jesus’ heart in his prayer for the disciples to be with him in his glory?
◦What assurance does this give me? Is Jesus’ desire matched with mine?
John 17:25-26
◦How am I experiencing this process Jesus describes: “will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them?”
Commentary:
Introduction “Jesus prays that his followers will be kept safe ‘by that name.’ The idea of name is not a minor idea to Jesus. The ‘name’ of someone represents the totality, the inner character, of their entire person. Thus in Exodus 3:13 it is important to Moses that he know the name of God so that he can indicate to the Israelites who their Savior really is. It is no accident that throughout the Gospel Jesus not only refers to his work as empowered by God’s name (John 10:25) but also that people should believe in ‘his name’ (1:12; 2:23; 3:18). Jesus bears the name of God, which is unveiled in the Gospel in its many ‘I am’ sayings. Thus, in revealing himself, he has disclosed the personhood (the name) of God to the entire world.
“(1) Jesus’ first concern, his first petition for his followers, is that they remain united (17:11). Remarkably he desires that his disciples enjoy an intimacy and oneness that are analogous to the intimacy and oneness he shares with the Father.
“(2) Jesus’ next worry concerns his disciples’ sustenance and strength in the world. Their assignment is dangerous, and so he prays for their equipment and protection. Jesus has given them his word (17:14a), and the Spirit will recall it and keep it secure (14:26). This word, this divine revelation, will become essential equipment in their testimony and survival in the world.
“(3) Jesus’ third concern has to do with holiness (17:17 – 19). There is a spiritual dilemma that pertains to all disciples: They live in the world, and yet Jesus can say that they are not ‘of the world’ (17:14, 16). This points not to their location geographically, but to their position spiritually.”[1]
v. 17 “Jesus prays that his disciples might be ‘sanctified’ (Gk. hagiazo) in the truth (17:17). This Greek word refers to something made holy, but the means to achieving this holiness is through separation. God is God by virtue of his difference, his transcendence, his otherness with respect to all creation. Anything (a mountain, a temple shovel, a priestly garment, a people) that belongs to him or serves his purposes should consider itself ‘holy’ and set apart from common use. To be holy, then, is not in the first instance a description of perfection (though this is included). It refers to a life that is so aligned with God that it reflects God’s passions completely (for good, against evil). Such a person can be considered ‘sanctified,’ holy, attached to God’s purposes and presence. In this case Jesus understands that a complete attachment to the truth discovered in God’s Word will be the means of achieving this holiness (17:17b).”[2]
v. 19 “Perhaps 17:19 is one of the key verses in the prayer. When Jesus says that he sanctifies himself (Gk. hagiazo), to what does this refer? He may have in mind his self-dedication to his greater mission. Prophets and priests dedicated themselves thus. The Lord says to Jeremiah, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart’ (Jer. 1:5, italics added). Priests likewise set themselves apart (Ex. 40:13; Lev. 8:30; 2 Chron. 5:11). But here in John 17:19 we learn that as a result of Jesus’ consecration, his disciples will benefit. In the phrase ‘for them,’ ‘for’ (Gk. hyper, meaning ‘for the sake of’) implies sacrificial death throughout John (see 6:51; 10:11, 15; 11:50 – 52; 13:37; 15:13; 18:14).”[3]
vv. 20-26 “Jesus is aware that not only will he depart from the world, but likewise those who stand with him — his immediate circle of followers — will also depart to be with him in his glory (17:24). This will leave those whom they disciple, the church, to represent the kingdom in the world. Therefore Jesus now turns to pray for these followers whom he has not yet met, men and women who will follow the apostles, indeed the church today, which carries the mission set down by Jesus during his final week.
“This is the essence of Jesus’ vision for the church. It is not a community that heals people just so that they will be whole (though healing is important); it is not a community that teaches so that people will be gratified by knowledge (though wisdom is valuable); it is not a community that evangelizes so that it will grow its ranks (though its mission to the world is crucial). The church is a community that invites people to touch the glory of God, to be changed by it, and to bear it to the world. ‘This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples’ (15:8). Spiritual fruit is essentially that which glorifies God.
“Such a concept forces us to ask hard questions about every aspect of what we do. ‘Is God glorified here?’ is the refrain that should accompany every decision. And the answer will not always be obvious or easy. But it must be asked because in Jesus’ vision, this was the essential mission of his incarnate life and now is the essential mission of the church.”[4]
What “authority over all people” has Jesus been granted? Jesus has been granted authority over all people that he might give eternal life to those that believe in him. He is the basis by which every person’s eternity will be determined; he is the authority over how their life is to be judged. In the end, the only thing that matters for a person is the nature of their relationship with Jesus.
What is my view towards Jesus’ authority over my life? What is the implication of rejecting Jesus’ authority? As a Christian, my basic confession and declaration is that Jesus is the Lord over my life and therefore has complete authority over my entire life. The rejection of Jesus’ authority is the essence of sin and the implication is declaring my own autonomy and severing my relationship with Jesus. I need to be reminded of this, that every time I sin – each time I choose to disobey, not do something that I know I ought to do, give into my anger or lust or defend my pride and ego rather than choosing to humble myself, hold back from serving or sacrificing in some way rather than denying myself and choosing to die – each time I am rejecting Jesus’ authority over my life and going back on my commitment to give him Lordship and command over my entire being. Each time I sin, I must therefore confess and repent and reassert Jesus’ authority over my life, relinquish my control and ask Jesus to reign in me again.
Notice Jesus’ definition of eternal life. What are some wrong notions of “eternal life” that people hold? Jesus’ definition of eternal life is to know God and to know him – this knowledge is a personal knowledge, and that entails a personal relationship with Him of love that does not end and means dwelling with God for eternity. Eternal life is not a continuation of life on earth; it’s not immortality or going to a place where you all your earthly desires and wishes come true, but rather it’s life as God intended it to be from the very beginning, a restored and eternal and unhindered relationship with Him.
In what ways can I pursue eternal life today? I can pursue eternal life by striving to give authority to God over every area of my life and striving to know Him through His word. As eternal life is essentially a personal relationship with God, I can pursue eternal life by pursuing this relationship, through meditating on and obeying God’s Word. The one who sows to please the Spirit will reap eternal life. I need to sow to please the Spirit by struggling against my sin (giving God authority), remaining in Jesus through His word, and striving to obey.
Devotional Questions:
John 17:1-5
◦What “authority over all people” has Jesus been granted?
◦What is my view towards Jesus’ authority over my life? What is the implication of rejecting Jesus’ authority?
◦Notice Jesus’ definition of eternal life. What are some wrong notions of “eternal life” that people hold?
◦In what ways can I pursue eternal life today?
John 17:11, 14-18
◦What distinguishes Jesus’ disciples according to vv. 14-16? Are these evident in my life?
◦What are the unique challenges that Christians face as those who are “still in this world” but “not of the world?” How is the word of God key to facing these challenges?
◦How have I experienced the sanctifying work of God’s word in my life?
John 17:19
◦How is Jesus’ love for his disciples manifested in this verse?
◦For whom I do need to sanctify myself in order that “they too may be truly sanctified?”
Additional Questions:
John 17:1, 4-5
◦What brings God glory?
◦What specific work do I need to carry out on earth to bring God glory?
John 17:6-19
◦What did Jesus pray for his disciples, and what can I learn from the fact that these are the issues he prayed about?
John 17:20-23
◦According to this passage, what is the basis and motivation for Christian unity?
◦What is the relationship between oneness with God and oneness with the people of God?
◦How does Christian unity show the world the reality of Christ’s incarnation (cf. Acts 2:44-47)?
◦Am I experiencing this kind of oneness with the people of God? If not, what may be the reason?
◦How does Jesus’ final prayer for his disciples show me what my priority should be?
John 17:24
◦What is revealed about Jesus’ heart in his prayer for the disciples to be with him in his glory?
◦What assurance does this give me? Is Jesus’ desire matched with mine?
John 17:25-26
◦How am I experiencing this process Jesus describes: “will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them?”
Commentary:
Introduction “Jesus prays that his followers will be kept safe ‘by that name.’ The idea of name is not a minor idea to Jesus. The ‘name’ of someone represents the totality, the inner character, of their entire person. Thus in Exodus 3:13 it is important to Moses that he know the name of God so that he can indicate to the Israelites who their Savior really is. It is no accident that throughout the Gospel Jesus not only refers to his work as empowered by God’s name (John 10:25) but also that people should believe in ‘his name’ (1:12; 2:23; 3:18). Jesus bears the name of God, which is unveiled in the Gospel in its many ‘I am’ sayings. Thus, in revealing himself, he has disclosed the personhood (the name) of God to the entire world.
“(1) Jesus’ first concern, his first petition for his followers, is that they remain united (17:11). Remarkably he desires that his disciples enjoy an intimacy and oneness that are analogous to the intimacy and oneness he shares with the Father.
“(2) Jesus’ next worry concerns his disciples’ sustenance and strength in the world. Their assignment is dangerous, and so he prays for their equipment and protection. Jesus has given them his word (17:14a), and the Spirit will recall it and keep it secure (14:26). This word, this divine revelation, will become essential equipment in their testimony and survival in the world.
“(3) Jesus’ third concern has to do with holiness (17:17 – 19). There is a spiritual dilemma that pertains to all disciples: They live in the world, and yet Jesus can say that they are not ‘of the world’ (17:14, 16). This points not to their location geographically, but to their position spiritually.”[1]
v. 17 “Jesus prays that his disciples might be ‘sanctified’ (Gk. hagiazo) in the truth (17:17). This Greek word refers to something made holy, but the means to achieving this holiness is through separation. God is God by virtue of his difference, his transcendence, his otherness with respect to all creation. Anything (a mountain, a temple shovel, a priestly garment, a people) that belongs to him or serves his purposes should consider itself ‘holy’ and set apart from common use. To be holy, then, is not in the first instance a description of perfection (though this is included). It refers to a life that is so aligned with God that it reflects God’s passions completely (for good, against evil). Such a person can be considered ‘sanctified,’ holy, attached to God’s purposes and presence. In this case Jesus understands that a complete attachment to the truth discovered in God’s Word will be the means of achieving this holiness (17:17b).”[2]
v. 19 “Perhaps 17:19 is one of the key verses in the prayer. When Jesus says that he sanctifies himself (Gk. hagiazo), to what does this refer? He may have in mind his self-dedication to his greater mission. Prophets and priests dedicated themselves thus. The Lord says to Jeremiah, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart’ (Jer. 1:5, italics added). Priests likewise set themselves apart (Ex. 40:13; Lev. 8:30; 2 Chron. 5:11). But here in John 17:19 we learn that as a result of Jesus’ consecration, his disciples will benefit. In the phrase ‘for them,’ ‘for’ (Gk. hyper, meaning ‘for the sake of’) implies sacrificial death throughout John (see 6:51; 10:11, 15; 11:50 – 52; 13:37; 15:13; 18:14).”[3]
vv. 20-26 “Jesus is aware that not only will he depart from the world, but likewise those who stand with him — his immediate circle of followers — will also depart to be with him in his glory (17:24). This will leave those whom they disciple, the church, to represent the kingdom in the world. Therefore Jesus now turns to pray for these followers whom he has not yet met, men and women who will follow the apostles, indeed the church today, which carries the mission set down by Jesus during his final week.
“This is the essence of Jesus’ vision for the church. It is not a community that heals people just so that they will be whole (though healing is important); it is not a community that teaches so that people will be gratified by knowledge (though wisdom is valuable); it is not a community that evangelizes so that it will grow its ranks (though its mission to the world is crucial). The church is a community that invites people to touch the glory of God, to be changed by it, and to bear it to the world. ‘This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples’ (15:8). Spiritual fruit is essentially that which glorifies God.
“Such a concept forces us to ask hard questions about every aspect of what we do. ‘Is God glorified here?’ is the refrain that should accompany every decision. And the answer will not always be obvious or easy. But it must be asked because in Jesus’ vision, this was the essential mission of his incarnate life and now is the essential mission of the church.”[4]
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Joy of Jesus is Unity
Have you ever felt all alone in the world. Separation is a horrible experience. We live in a world that has become more connected through technology, yet more emotionally detached from true love and understanding. Jesus was aware of this condition.
The unity of the spirit is the goal of Jesus last prayer. That we can be one just as He and the Father are one. We too must be one with Jesus and the Father God.
We need not be separated from God. Jesus died on the cross so that we may live with Him and through Him. We must pray in the spirit for unity with Christ Jesus and The Holy God of all creation. God raised Jesus from the grave with all power, honor and glory.
Let us unite in perfect love, peace and the hope of the return of Jesus our lord and savior. God is good and love. Blessed is the name and joy of the lord. Unite with The Joy of Jesus.
The unity of the spirit is the goal of Jesus last prayer. That we can be one just as He and the Father are one. We too must be one with Jesus and the Father God.
We need not be separated from God. Jesus died on the cross so that we may live with Him and through Him. We must pray in the spirit for unity with Christ Jesus and The Holy God of all creation. God raised Jesus from the grave with all power, honor and glory.
Let us unite in perfect love, peace and the hope of the return of Jesus our lord and savior. God is good and love. Blessed is the name and joy of the lord. Unite with The Joy of Jesus.
The Joy of Jesus Message for The Environment
The Joy of Jesus Church is calling on all people of faith to pray for a solution to the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. There are so many people impacted by this problem. Animals are dying .
The prayers of many work. Join the Joy of Jesus for this all important cause. We would love to hear from you on this matter. We need the spill to stop.
The Joy of Jesus is praying for a solution. Please pray with us as we pray for you. The Joy of Jesus needs your help and support to help the people, nature and planet.
http://thejoyofjesuschurchonline.blogspot.com/
The prayers of many work. Join the Joy of Jesus for this all important cause. We would love to hear from you on this matter. We need the spill to stop.
The Joy of Jesus is praying for a solution. Please pray with us as we pray for you. The Joy of Jesus needs your help and support to help the people, nature and planet.
http://thejoyofjesuschurchonline.blogspot.com/
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
The Joy of Jesus Green Tech. Program
The oil leak in The Gulf of Mexico is the biggest environmental challenge of the millennium. The solution to this problem is strategic in nature. Green Technology is the best line of thinking in order to address this problem. The Joy of Jesus Church on line's Green Technology Simplex has a wealth of information that can better inform the public regarding green tech. issues.
The future is at hand, this disaster is a wake-up call to go green and fast. Jobs and education must be re-structured to meet the demand. The Joy of Jesus is praying that the oil leak will be fixed before it ruins the environment. Wee also, understand that it will take a new innovation in green technology to restore our planet to full health.
The Joy of Jesus offers Green Technology, jobs, education and health services information and resources to help make the cultural adjustments for the future. Join our campaign for hope and opportunity today. Visit http://thejoyofjesuschurchonline.blogspot.com/ to save the world and the environment with us.
The future is at hand, this disaster is a wake-up call to go green and fast. Jobs and education must be re-structured to meet the demand. The Joy of Jesus is praying that the oil leak will be fixed before it ruins the environment. Wee also, understand that it will take a new innovation in green technology to restore our planet to full health.
The Joy of Jesus offers Green Technology, jobs, education and health services information and resources to help make the cultural adjustments for the future. Join our campaign for hope and opportunity today. Visit http://thejoyofjesuschurchonline.blogspot.com/ to save the world and the environment with us.
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