Jesus at the Feast of Booths

John 7:1-30

By all outward appearances, Jesus’ ministry was collapsing. Many of his disciples had left him over some of his difficult teachings (John 6:66). Jewish leaders were seeking to kill him (John 7:1) because he had not only healed a man on the Sabbath but made himself equal with God by calling God his own Father (John 5:18). Although Jesus had been able to avoid the Jews by remaining in Galilee, with the Feast of Booths approaching, He had to go to Jerusalem as the Law commanded (Leviticus 23:33-36; Deut. 16:13-15).  In the process, He had to overcome the unbelief of His own brothers, the chaos and confusion of the crowds, and the animosity of the religious leaders while still teaching us all valuable lessons.

• Jesus explained why the world hates Him (v. 6-8; 5:16, 18; 15:18-25)

• Jesus explained why His teaching is true (v. 16-18; Isaiah 50:4)

• Jesus exposed their hypocrisy (v. 21-24)

• Jesus revealed His authority (v. 26-29; Luke 4:18-19; John 8:18-19)

Conclusion:

Jesus was merely six months before His death. It was October with the Feast of Booths at hand. It was one of the most popular and celebratory festivals in Jewish culture.  On His own divine timetable, Jesus chose to go to the Feast alone and into the Temple to teach. He found only unbelief, chaos, confusion, and hostility.  In doing so, He prepares us all for similar treatment. If the world treated the Son of God, the Savior of the World, in this manner, how will it treat those who put their faith in Him? To those who take Jesus’ words to be true and try their best to live accordingly, will they face similar opposition? Jesus would later reveal that all who desire to follow Him can expect similar treatment from this fallen world.  However, all is not lost. Two of Jesus’ brothers did eventually follow Him, James and Jude. Both wrote letters of faith that have blessed the Church for two millennia. Both were great leaders in the early church. If God can change their hearts, he can change anyone’s.

The Promise of Living Water

John 7:31-52

Imagine wandering through a desert without food and water.  Your life is fading away and desperation begins to set in. The Feast of Booths commemorates a time when the Israelites wandered through the desert for forty years and how their heavenly Father provided for their greatest need, water. On the last day of this Feast, Jesus stood up and invited people to come to Him and receive living water. For those who are thirsty and weary, Jesus promised that whoever comes to Him would receive not just a drink, but a river of living water that would well up from their soul.  

• Confusion over Jesus (v. 30-36)

• The promise of living water (v. 37-39; Zech. 13:1, 14:8; Isaiah 44:3, 55:1; 14:16-17; 16:7; Acts 1:4-5, 8)

• The reaction of the people (v. 40-52)

Conclusion:

It was the end of Feast of Booths, and all the water ceremonies were over. To a confused and hostile crowd, Jesus stood up and gave one of the greatest promises in the Bible: “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink.”   What are you thirsting for? Satisfaction? Meaning? A sense of belonging?   True satisfaction for a thirsty heart is found only by drinking deeply of Jesus, by drawing upon His presence, by leaning on His strength. As you seek your satisfaction in Him, a change will take place within you. Your thoughts will begin to change. Your words will be filled with grace and truth.  You will become a blessing to those around you. The living water of the Holy Spirit will spring up in your life and flow out to others as a river of blessing. In return, meaning, significance, empowerment, and a true sense of love will flow back into your life. That is the promise of Jesus to all those who thirst. Jesus is inviting you to come to Him just as you are. Come empty-handed.  Come with no money. Come dying.  But you must come.  To all who will come to Christ, He has living water for you that will flow from your soul.

Neither Do I Condemn You

John 7:53-8:11

What happens when the righteous demands of the Law meet the mercy and grace of God? To trap Jesus, the religious leaders brought a woman caught in the very act of adultery to Jesus and asked Him what they should do. She had broken one of the most basic commands, the seventh Commandment (Ex. 20:14) and the Law prescribed a sentence of death for both parties involved (Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22). What does Jesus do with so much sin around him-the hypocrisy of the religious leaders and the blatant adultery? Although the religious leaders intended to trap Jesus, He masterfully upheld the Law, addressed the hypocrisy, and dealt with sin. Jesus did not condone her sinful lifestyle, instead He commanded her to abandon it and live righteously from that point forward.

• The Testing of Jesus (v. 3-6; Lev. 20:10; Deut. 22:22; Mark 12:13-14; Luke 11:53-54)

• The Wisdom of Jesus (v. 6-9; 8:21; Deut. 17:7; Romans 3:10-11)

• The Forgiveness of Jesus (v. 10-11; 5:14; Matt. 9:2-7)

Conclusion:

This passage is not primarily the story of an adulteress, or of the hypocritical religious leaders who cynically used her to test Jesus. No, the central figure in this story of course is the Lord Jesus Christ. The Pharisees attempted to trap Jesus into saying or doing something that would condemn Him. Jesus neither condemned nor condoned the sinful woman. How was this woman’s life affected by her knowing how close she was to death? How do you think she viewed Jesus after seeing such mercy and grace? Jesus would eventually die on a cross paying the ransom for her sin with His own blood.   

Her story is not so different from yours and mine. We are no more qualified to cast stones than her accusers were. We are all under the same condemnation—and we have all been offered the same gift of forgiveness. If you have accepted that gift, then Jesus speaks the same words to you that He spoke to this woman so many years ago: “Go. From now on sin no more.”

I Am the Light of the World

John 8:12-30

The Festival of Booths was a time to thank God for His provisions and commemorate the Heavenly Father leading the Israelites through the wilderness. At this festival, Jesus had already used some festival rituals to show that He was the Messiah, and He was going to do it again. He began with the phrase “I AM”, echoing the very words God spoke to Moses in Exodus 3:14. Then Jesus declared that He is the light of the world. Not a light. Not one of the lights. He is the light of the world. He invited anyone to come and follow Him, and promised that whoever follows Him will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

• Jesus declares “I AM The Light of the World” (v12; Exodus 3:14; John 12:46)

• The Pharisees respond with Attacks (v13-20; John 5:31-32; John 3:17-18; Deut. 17:6)

• Some don’t understand, but some believe (v21-30)

Imagine as the Festival of Booths was coming to a close, the giant fires that illuminated the entire city from the temple were starting to fade. The festivities were dying down and people were preparing to return to their everyday lives.

That’s when Jesus declares “I am the Light of the World”, He declared that He was more than just a mere man. He promised that whoever would follow Him would not walk in darkness. Now that doesn’t mean we won’t stumble on occasion. But Jesus promises the light of life. A light that doesn’t die out or need fuel to continue burning, but one that is everlasting. No one needs to walk alone in the darkness. The question is, will you continue to walk in darkness? Or will you follow the Light of the World?

The Truth Shall Set You Free

John 8:31-47

It was the end of the Feast of Booths and Jesus had just finished giving a message at the temple. He declared Himself to be the light of the world and by following him will walk in the light (John 8:12). He distinguished Himself from them, “You are from below; I am from above. You are of this world; I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am he, you will indeed die in your sins” (John 8:23-24). The result of Jesus’ message was that “even as he spoke, many believed in him” (verse 30). Believing in Jesus is more than just mental agreement. True followers of Christ will abide in His Word and hold fast to the teachings of Christ. To those who continued to believe, Jesus gave a powerful message of hope: all who continue to abide in His Word will experience freedom from sin as a child of God.

I.                    Jesus offers freedom to true disciples (v. 31-36; Romans 6:15-23)

II.                  An argument over Abraham as their father (v. 37-40; Rom. 9:6-13; Gal. 3:6-7)

III.                God is not their Father (v. 41-43; 1:11-13)

IV.               Their Father is the Devil (v. 44-47; Gen. 2:17; 4:1-8; John 10:10)

Conclusion:

These religious men thought they were doing just fine spiritually, but they were deceived.  They saw themselves as free men (v. 33), sons of Abraham (v. 39), and children of God (v. 41), however Jesus knew their hearts and the truth about them. According to Jesus, they were enslaved to sin (v. 34-35), intolerant of the truth (v. 40, 45), and were the offspring of Satan (44-45). It is very tempting to think we are spiritually doing well when we are not. Our hope is not found in ourselves, in our ability to fulfill rules and requirements based on the Law. Our only hope is to turn from our sins and to trust Christ to do a great transforming work within us. He will give us the desire to study His Word and to treasure it in our hearts.  Then, we will truly be Jesus’ disciples and we will know the truth about Christ and ourselves, and this truth will set us free.

Keep Jesus’ Words and Never See Death

John 8:48-59

The Apostle John began with “He came to his own, and his own people did not receive him” (John 1:11).  Now in John 8, Jesus was entangled in an escalating conflict between Himself and the Jewish leaders.   He had taught some hard truths that didn’t sit well with the Jews, namely that Abraham was not their spiritual father (v. 39), and neither was God their Heavenly Father (v. 47).  We are not made right with God based on our physical heritage.  Our observance of religious laws and customs doesn’t make us right God.  Jesus explained that we must hear his words and keep them.  We must remain in his words and be transformed by his teachings to consider God to be our Father.  For those who try to keep God’s words, Jesus has a wonderful promise, “he will never see death.”  

• Jesus dealt with Jews’ disrespect (v. 48-50)

• Jesus offered a great promise and was met with hostility (v. 51-53; 3:16; 5:24)

• Jesus responded with truth about Himself (v. 54-57)

• Jesus revealed that He is God (v. 58-59; 5:18; Ex. 3:13-14; Lev. 24:16)

Conclusion:

During a great conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders, we get a powerful promise and one of the clearest declarations from Jesus on who He is.  Surrounded by His enemies and doubters, Jesus offered the great promise, “Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he will never see death” (v. 51).  Sure, the body will die, but our souls will never die.  We will never see it or taste it.  The promise fell on deaf ears that day.  What was meant to bring peace and comfort only brought anger and hostility.  The final straw was Jesus making the emphatic claim to be God, “Truly, truly I say to you, before Abraham was, I am” (v. 58).  Instead of pondering Jesus words and asking for clarification, the Jews decided it was time to execute Jesus for blasphemy.  At Jesus’ words we can either fall down and worship Him or we can bend down and pick up stones and  try to  destroy Him.  One leads to eternal life, while the other leads to eternal separation from God in Hell.  Receive Christ’s words, believe, and you will live for all eternity.  

The Healing of the Man Born Blind

John 9:1-34

At the Feast of Booths Jesus proclaimed himself as the “Light of the World” (8:12).  Upon leaving the feast, Jesus had an encounter with a man born blind who was helpless and resorted to begging.    The disciples see the blind man and are more interested in doctrinal questions about who is responsible for his plight.  Jesus gave sight to this man on the Sabbath which began another controversy with the religious leaders.  Under criticism, the healed blind man’s faith grows stronger while the unbelief of the Jews becomes greater.  If we never see Jesus for who He really is than we are spiritually blind.  May God open our eyes to see Christ more clearly and that our faith would continue to grow in the process.

• Jesus healed a man born blind (v. 1-7)

• The man’s neighbors ponder the miracle (v. 8-12)

• The Pharisees investigate the miracle (v. 13-21)

• The healed man (v. 13-17)

• The parents (18-21)

• The healed man testified again resulting in rejection (v. 24-34; Matt. 10:34-35)

Conclusion:

From the moment of birth, this man only saw darkness.  He never saw a sunset, his mother’s face, a flower, a delicious meal, a mountain, and so many other things.  Jesus made it clear that his condition was not due to sin (his or his parents), but rather that the works of God might be displayed in him (v. 3).   What should have been a time of celebration resulted in only denial, rejection, and scorn.   The neighbors did not recognize the man, the parents disowned him, and the religious shamed him and rejected him.  Jesus came to give light to those in darkness while exposing the darkness in the world. Our physical sight may be good, but we can still be spiritually blind.  May God open the eyes of our hearts so that we could see Jesus for who He is.   To know Jesus as Lord and Savior, believe in Him, and have life in His name.

The Blind See and the Seeing Are Blind

John 9:35-41

A man born blind was miraculously healed by Jesus.  His neighbors did not recognize him.  His parents feared persecution and distanced themselves from him.  The Pharisees interrogated the man which led to their frustration and anger and was casted out from their presence.   Although he was rejected by Man, he was accepted by God.   Jesus sought the healed man and revealed that He was the Son of God which led to worship.  Jesus had healed his physical blindness, but more importantly, He opened the man’s spiritual eyes.    Unfortunately, not everyone reacts that way to the revelation of Jesus.  For those who never see Jesus for who He is will remain in the greatest darkness of all.

• Jesus pursued the outcasted man (v. 35-36; Psalm 53:2; 2 Chron. 16:9; Luke 19:10; Luke 15:1-10)

• Jesus revealed that He is the Son of Man (v. 37-38; Dan. 7:13; Mark 2:10, 10:45; John 4:23-26)

• Jesus dealt with the remaining spiritual blindness (v. 39-41; 3:16-18; Luke

   

  5:31-32)

Conclusion:

Who are we more like today, the blind beggar or the self-righteous Pharisees?   After a few rounds of arguments with the Pharisees, the beggar’s insight infuriated the Pharisees to the point that he was banished from the Synagogue.   Jesus pursued him and revealed that He is the Son of Man.  With his eyes of his heart fully opened, the beggar’s response was to worship Jesus.  Those who acknowledge Christ as the Light of the world will never walk in darkness again (John 8:12).   For those who, like the Pharisees, love the darkness and resist the Light, they will continue to wander aimlessly in gloom (John 3:19).  One is destined to spend eternity in the glorious light of heaven (Rev. 22:5) worshipping Jesus the Son of God, the Messiah, the Lamb of God while the other will experience the full wrath of God and spend all eternity in the darkness of hell.  May God open our eyes today.

The Good Shepherd and His Sheep

John 10:1-21

The shepherd has an important role all throughout the Bible. In Jesus’ time, shepherds were caretakers, guides, and protectors of their sheep. They were responsible for leading their flock through dangerous terrain, finding food and water, and protecting them from wild animals (Psalm 23). The sheep, in return, learned to trust the shepherd’s voice and followed his lead wherever he went. There was an intimate relationship between the shepherd and his sheep—a relationship of trust, care, and complete dependence.  Unfortunately, the nation of Israel lacked spiritual shepherds (Ezekiel 34).  As Jesus saw the crowds of people, he was moved with compassion because they were harassed and helpless like sheep without shepherd (Matt. 9:36).   When Jesus healed the man born blind, he was abandoned by the Jewish leaders because he thought positively about Jesus and tried to correct their false ideas.  Jesus found him and revealed His identity (John 9).  In John 10, Jesus paints a beautiful picture of His role as our Good Shepherd:   He knows His sheep by name, He leads them to safety, and He willingly lays down His life for them.

I.                    Jesus defines what a true shepherd is like (v. 1-6; Jeremiah 23:1-2; John 5:24; 8:12)

II.                 Jesus is the door for His sheep (v. 7-10; John 14:6; Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5)

III.               Jesus reveals that he is the good shepherd (v. 11-18; 6:51; 11:50-51)

Conclusion: 

The Lord had entered an intense period of conflict and opposition to his ministry with his enemies analyzing every word waiting for the right moment to trap Him. His teachings further alienated the Pharisees while drawing his own flock closer to him through greater revelations about Himself.  Because of their hatred of Jesus, the Jews casted out a healed beggar who professed Christ.  As a good shepherd, Jesus found Him and revealed that He was in fact the Son of God (John 9).  Unlike the Pharisees, Jesus is the true shepherd who calls his sheep by name and draws them to Himself.  We may have been lost and wounded; we may have been rejected by the world, but we are loved by Jesus.   Our good shepherd willingly laid down his life for us and took it up again.  For all who hear Jesus’ voice and come to Him, Jesus will bring you into his fold and will be your shepherd for all eternity.

Jesus and the Father Are One

John 10:22-42

For three years, Jesus traveled throughout Israel preaching the Gospel, calling for repentance, dealing with hostile religious leaders, instructing his disciples, while performing many signs and wonders.  The miracles pointed to Christ’s deity, but it was the teachings of Christ that divided the people.  In John 10, Jesus once again enrages the religious leaders by a short but profound truth, Jesus said, “I and the Father are one” (v. 30).  The leaders immediately picked up stones for what they interpreted as blasphemy.  Instead of receiving Jesus as their Messiah, the people closed their hearts and minds and rejected Him.  In doing so, they rejected all the amazing promises that Jesus makes to those who trust in Him.

I.                    The Jews confronted Jesus (v. 22-24)

II.                 Jesus explained why they don’t understand (v. 25-30)

III.               The Jews became hostile (v. 31-33)

IV.               Jesus responds with Scripture (v. 34-39)

V.                 Jesus leaves Jerusalem to minister elsewhere (v. 40-42)

Conclusion:

It was the Feast of Dedication.  A festival that remembered the Maccabean Revolt freeing Jerusalem from the Syrian Empire.  It was winter.  Like the weather, the hearts of the Jews had grown cold.  They became hostile towards Jesus because he was making Himself out to be God.   Jesus’ works were evidence that He is truly is God, yet the Jews were blind to them.  Jesus’ words plainly revealed that He is in fact God, yet the Jews were deaf to them.  After their rejection, Jesus, the Good Shepherd, went away from the city, out into the pasture, and began calling His sheep.   The good news is many heard the Shepherd’s voice, came to Him, and believed.      Christ’s words to them and to all of us contain a great promise: “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me;  and I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand.   “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand.    “I and the Father are one.”  (John 10:28-30).

An Illness for the Glory of God

John 11:1-16

Illness. It’s something we all face at one time or another, whether it’s a minor cold or something much more serious. Sickness can be one of the most discouraging and painful experiences in life. We ask questions like, “Why is this happening to me?” or “Where is God in this suffering?” Often, in the face of illness or tragedy, we struggle to see God’s hand at work.  In John 11:1-16, we are reminded that God can use even illness for His glory. The story of Lazarus teaches us that no suffering, no sickness, is wasted in God’s plan. There is purpose even in pain, and God can be glorified through the most difficult circumstances. Let us commit ourselves to trust God through the pain and darkness while expecting Him to be glorified through it all.

I.                    Jesus was sent an urgent message (v. 1-4; 9:1-3; 21:18-19)

II.                 Jesus delayed his coming out of love (v. 5-6; James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-5; 1 Peter 1:6-7)

III.               Jesus revealed more of Himself to the disciples (v. 7-16; John 9:4)

Conclusion:

Death. It is inevitable that we will be affected by it somehow with the loss of someone very dear to us.  And surely, one day we will all experience for it ourselves. Death can bring incredible sadness, pain, and suffering. In those dark and painful moments, let us turn to God bringing all our concerns and cares to Him like Mary and Martha did.   Whether God acts immediately or not, we should never doubt God’s love for us. We can trust that God works all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purposes (Romans 8:28). If you are currently going through a dark valley of shadow of death, allow God’s rod and staff to bring you comfort (Psalm 23:4). May He reveal more of Himself to you in such profound ways to build and strengthen your faith for His glory and your good.

I am the Resurrection and the Life

John 11:17-44

In moments of sorrow and loss, Jesus comes and ministers to us.  Jesus loved Martha, Mary, and Lazarus and it was precisely because of His love that He delayed His arrival (11:6). When Jesus finally came, He ministered to each family member in a unique and powerful way. Martha received a glorious promise in which Jesus declared that He was the Resurrection and the Life (v. 25).   To Mary, Jesus came and wept alongside her being deeply moved by the hopelessness of this sin-cursed world. When Jesus approached the grave of Lazarus, Lazarus had been dead for four days. In one of the most definitive miracles in the Gospel of John, Jesus raised Lazarus back to life with a simple command, “Lazarus, come out” (John 11:43) and with three simple words, Lazarus began to breathe again. Jesus turned tragedy into victory, mourning into rejoicing, and despair into eager expectation.

• Jesus gave a life-altering promise (v. 23-26)

• Jesus joins us in our suffering (v. 32-35)

• Jesus demonstrates his power over death (v. 38-45)

Conclusion:

The Apostle John chose seven miracles or signs so that we might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and by believing you might have life in His name (John 20:31).  The final public miracle of Jesus was the raising of Lazarus.  He had been dead for four days.  He was wrapped in burial linens for four days. He was placed in a tomb with a stone blocking it for four days.  As the Resurrection and the Life, Jesus commanded Lazarus to come forth and he did. Likewise, Jesus would lay His life down on a Cross and put into a tomb for three day and on the third day He rose from the grave. One day you and I will taste death and just as Lazarus and Jesus were raised, we will be raised to new life in Christ.  

The same question Jesus asked Martha is asked of all of us, “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26). In a world filled with uncertainty, loss, and death, we can stand firm in the hope of the resurrection. Because Jesus is alive, all who put their faith in Him have eternal life. Life that cannot be extinguished by the grave. So, let us respond to His call, and let us proclaim with confidence, "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who has come into the world" (John 11:27).

The Response to the Raising of Lazarus

John 11:45-57

The raising of Lazarus was glorious and pointed to the reality that Jesus was in fact the long-awaited Messiah.  Who could deny one of the greatest miracles ever recorded?

The miracle strengthened believers (11:15) and substantiated Jesus’ claim to be divine.  The purpose of the miracle was for the glory of God and His Son (11:4, 40).  At some point everyone must decide who Jesus is.  There are only two possible responses, belief or unbelief.   There is no middle ground.  We either accept Jesus as Lord or we reject Him, there is no third option.  The religious leaders were convinced that it would be better for Jesus to die rather than to lose their power and authority.  They believed that killing Jesus would save their power, yet Jesus would give up His life willingly to save their souls.

• The people’s response (v. 45-46)

• The Jewish leader’s response (v. 47-53; 10:16; Isaiah 53; Gen. 50:20; 2 Cor. 5:21; 1 Peter 2:24)

• Jesus’ response (v. 54-57)

Conclusion:

The raising of Lazarus was a powerful display of Jesus’ authority over death.  What could have been a great revival leading to salvation, took a dark and sinister turn as the people’s hearts were exposed revealing great darkness.   While some believed in Jesus, others did not, and others chose to conspire to kill Him.  Those who were the most religious would not open their eyes to the truth about Jesus.   They recognized the signs (v. 47) and feared that everyone would turn to Jesus and believe in Him (v. 48).   They feared what the Romans would do while ignoring the consequences for rejecting the Son of God.  God gave Caiaphas clarity, “It is expedient that one man die for the people for the good of the nation” (v. 50).  They reasoned that killing Jesus was the only way to save their nation, while Jesus willingly gave up his life to save their souls.  The greatest question for all of us to answer today is, “Who is Jesus to you?”  Is he your Lord and Savior or is he a threat to your way of life?  If you will receive Him today as Lord, and believe in Him and His Word, you will be saved.

Guest Speaker - Pastor Larry Campbell

WORSHIP OR WASTE?

John 12:1-11

It is now six days before the Passover celebration.  Jesus is in Bethany at Simon the leper’s house (Mark 14:3-9) surrounded by His disciples and some of His closest friends, Mary Martha, and Lazarus.  During the dinner, a striking act of worship unfolds—Mary anoints Jesus with costly perfume, prompting a rebuke from Judas Iscariot, who sees her actions as wasteful.  Let us spend time examining our own hearts during worship.  Are we willing to offer our best to Christ, regardless of how others might view it? Or do we find ourselves calculating the cost of our worship and giving God the scraps of our time, treasures, and talents?

• An act of extravagant love and worship (v. 3)

• A sharp rebuke from a disciple (v. 4-6; 1 Timothy 6:9-10)

• Jesus settled the matter (v. 7-8; Mark 14:9)

• Jewish leaders became more hostile (v. 9-11; John 15:24-25)

Conclusion:

Jesus’ final Passover is six days away.  As He journeyed to Jerusalem, He decided to spend time at a dinner with his closest friends, Mary, Martha, Lazarus and the disciples.   Hearts were exposed in how they reacted to Jesus.  Mary showed her love by anointing Jesus for burial, while Judas complained that the money could have been given to the poor.  The people were still seeking Jesus because of His miracles which only intensified the Jewish leader’s hatred for both Jesus and now Lazarus.  Simon the leper’s house was filled with the fragrant aroma of the Mary’s perfume, while anger and betrayal laid in the hearts of some.  Judas serves as a warning for all of us.  It is possible to be around Christ, to hear His teachings, to see His miracles, and our hearts be far from Him.  To such a person, Jesus is not precious nor their greatest treasure.  

Who do you more closely resemble, Judas or Mary?  Mary loved Jesus and it showed.  Judas did not and it was beginning to show. Mary spent 300 denarii to express her love; Judas would eventually sell out Jesus for 30 pieces of silver (120 denarii).  One leads to eternal life while the other leads to eternal damnation.  

The Arrival of the King

John 12:12-26

When Jesus made his final entrance into Jerusalem for the Passover Celebration, it marked a dramatic culmination of Jesus’ earthly ministry.  It is a moment filled with both celebration and tension, hope and misunderstanding.   The people took palm branches and exclaimed, “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord, even the King of Israel” (v. 13).   The King had arrived, but His kingdom was unlike anything anyone expected.  They thought He was coming to be an earthly king freeing them from Roman occupation, but instead Jesus came to free His people from the bondage of sin by laying His life down on a cross.  Most likely some of the same people who shouted, “Hosanna!” would in less than a week shout, “Crucify Him, Crucify Him.”  

I. The Arrival of the King (v. 12-13; Luke 19:29-34; Psalm118:26)

II. The Nature of the King (v. 14-16; Zech. 9:9; Luke 19:39-43)

III. The Mission of the King (v. 20-23)

IV. The Message of the King (v. 24-26; Matt. 10:37-39; 16:24-25; Gal. 2:20)

Conclusion:

Jesus is King.  In Revelation Jesus has the title, “King of kings, and Lord of lords” (Rev. 17:14, 19:16).  Yet, He entered Jerusalem on a colt, not a warhorse.  He came in peace, not for judgment.  He did not come to wage war against Rome; He came to wage war against a much greater enemy.  An enemy that has affected us all in some horrible way.   Jesus humbled himself, lowered Himself to the point of dying on a cross in place of a criminal (Phil. 2:4-8).  The King died for the good of all, “Unless a grain a wheat dies falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit” (v. 24). With Jesus’ sacrifice, the gates of Heaven opened to all who will receive Him as their Lord and Savior.  What a glorious gift.  Jesus beckons us to come and follow Him, dying to ourselves as well, “He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it to life eternal.    “If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him” (John 12: 25-26).  Let us turn to Christ, put our faith in Him, repent of our sins, and then live a life for His glory.

The Son of Man Must Be Lifted Up

John 12:27-36

We have entered the final week of Jesus’ earthly life. The weight of the Cross and all the horrors that it entails began to weigh heavily on Jesus. He would soon experience the agony, shame, and physical pain beyond anything anyone has experienced. He foresaw the His bloody sweat, the traitor’s kiss, the mockery, the crown of thorns, the scourging, the nails and the spear, and the darkest moment of all-the separation from the Father where he would cry out, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?”  (Matt. 27:46). Jesus had fulfilled every prophecy. He had fulfilled every commandment. He had shown mercy and forgiveness to many.  One last appointment awaits-Jesus and the Cross.

• Jesus’ troubled heart (v. 27; Matt. 26:39 ;2 Cor. 5:21)

• Jesus desired to glorify His Father (v. 28-30, 11:4; Matt. 3:17; Matt. 17:5; Matt. 6:9; John 11:4)

• The consequences of Jesus being lifted up (v. 31-36; 3:19-21; Hebrews 2:14-15; 1 Peter 5:8-10; Romans 1:16)

• Jesus invites us to walk in the light while we can (v. 35-36; 7:33-36; 8:21-24)

Conclusion:

The King has come and has come to die on a cross. Jesus is troubled, his heart is heavy, yet he is determined to glorify his Father. As He heads to the cross, he turned to invite us to come to him and receive the blessings that his death will bring. He implores us to believe in the light to become children of the light while we still have time. Time was of the essence; the light of Jesus was about to go out of their lives. There is a time to ponder the words of Jesus, wrestle with their meaning, but there is also a time to act upon them. God’s patience has boundaries. When Jesus had finished speaking to the crowd, Jesus left and hid himself from them (v. 36). The Light of the World was now hidden from them. For us, today is the day of salvation. Listen to Jesus. He invites you to come out of sin and darkness and come to the Light. Jesus is the Light of the World, no one has to live another moment in darkness.  So come, today, right now…before it is too late. 

Jesus is the Messiah

John 12:37-50

For the past three years, Jesus has been preaching and performing signs, all pointing to Him as the Son of God. He had healed the sick, fed thousands of people, and even brought a dead man back to life. But now we are at the very end of Jesus’ public ministry. He is about to be betrayed by one who walked with Him and rejected by His own people. But this was all according to God’s plan. So, with the cross in sight, Jesus gets right to the point and gives one last appeal to all who would listen. To all who would follow Him, they would not remain in darkness. He is the fullness of God’s glory. He is the suffering servant prophesied by Isaiah. Jesus Christ is the Messiah.

• Israel’s unbelief fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecies (v37-41; Isaiah 53:1-6; Isaiah 6:8-10)

• The glory of man vs The Glory of God (v41-43; John 5:44)

• A Call to Faith (v44-50)

This is it. We are at the very end of Jesus' public ministry. There are no more public signs or sermons. The next thing that awaits Jesus is His betrayal, trial, and the cross. The Son of Man, the fullness of the glory of God, came humbly as a man, a servant set to suffer and die for the glory of the Father and the Salvation of Mankind. His message was simple, but life changing: Jesus is the Messiah. 

Hear Jesus's last appeal. Believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and through believing you may have life in his name.

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

John 13:1-20

We have entered the final moments of Jesus’ life before going to the Cross. In one of the most intimate moments with His disciples, Jesus shared a Passover meal with them. During the dinner, Jesus did the unthinkable. Jesus, the Son of God, God in flesh became a servant by stooping down to wash the feet of dirty sinners. Divinity served humanity. The Creator cared for the created. Jesus humbled himself by taking the form of a slave and asked his followers to do the same. Go low by humbling yourself to serve your fellow brothers. Put away your own desires and look to the good of others. Forgive one another and love each other to the end. This is what our Savior did, and He invites us to follow Him.

I. A lesson on humility and grace (v. 3-5; Luke 22:24-27; Phil. 2:3-4; 1 Peter 5:5)

II. A lesson on cleansing (v. 6-11; 1 John 1:7-9)

III. An example to follow (v. 12-17; 1 John 2:6; Gal. 5:13-14

IV. An exhortation for all followers (v. 18-20; Psalm 41:9)

Conclusion:

It is Thursday and Jesus would hang on a cross within twenty-four hours. The disciples were celebrating the Passover meal with Christ when He did the unthinkable. He quietly got up and began washing the disciples’’ feet. The disciples had witnessed Jesus’ power and authority, but they had never witnessed Jesus do anything like this. They had heard many teachings about the Kingdom of God, but they still had more to learn. Jesus knew that His time was up with Satan working in the heart of Judas to betray Him. Despite what was coming, Jesus continued to love His own to the very end and teaches us to do the same. Let us pray that we would have the heart of a servant, the humility to put others first, and the love to serve one another as Christ served us. May we, like Jesus, be willing to stoop low, love deeply, and serve wholeheartedly. This is our calling, our purpose, and our privilege as followers of Christ.

A New Commandment Given

John 13:21-38

In John 13, Jesus is less than 24 hours from giving his life up on a cross.  Jesus had finished washing the disciples’ feet and gave them an example to follow.   Imagine being in a room with your closest friends, sharing an intimate moment, and then dropping a bombshell that one of them will betray you.  Jesus, fully aware of what lied ahead—His betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion—used this pivotal moment to impart a profound command: “Love one another as I have loved you” (v. 34).  This new commandment reveals the heart of Christian discipleship and calls us to a radical way of living.  No matter how difficult it may be to fulfill, this is what the world desperately needs from us-to experience the love of God in and through us.

I. The traitor is announced and dismissed (v. 21-30; 10:18; 12:5-6; Matt. 26:14-16; Matt. 7:22-23)

II. It was time for the Son of Man to be glorified (v. 31-32; 1:14; 12:28; Phil. 2:7-11)

III. A new commandment is given (v. 33-35; Matt. 22:36-40; 1 John 3:16)

IV. The coming denials of Christ (v. 36-37; 8:21-24; Zech. 13:7; Matt. 26:31; John 16:32)

Conclusion:

In John 13:21-38, we see the depths of Christ’s love displayed in the face of betrayal, denial, and the impending suffering.  While Christ’s path is tragic, it is not hopeless.  The Son of Man will be glorified by it all. God will demonstrate his love for us by dying on Cross for all mankind.   It was night and darkness had come to destroy the Light, but the Light could not be overcome.  Every moment has been orchestrated by God since the foundation of time.  Jesus taught, “Destroy this Temple and in three days I will raise it up” (John 2:19).  As Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so shall the Son of Man be lifted up (John 3:14). When Jesus is lifted up, he will draw all men to himself (John 12:32).   With time being short, and darkness arriving, Jesus has one final command, “Love one another as I have love you” (John 13:34). May the new commandment of Christ guide our lives and transform our relationships, so that the world may know that we are His disciples.

Peace for Troubled Hearts

John 14:1-14

During Jesus’ final Passover meal, He chose to spend it with his closest disciples.  He discreetly revealed that Judas was going to betray him.  Jesus revealed that He was leaving them, and that Peter would in fact deny Him three times.  The disciples were most likely bewildered and astonished.  In this emotionally trying moment, Jesus lovingly began comforting his disciples.  The Son of Man was about to lay down His life for all mankind by taking the full wrath of God upon Himself, yet He chose to comfort those who followed Him.  What an amazing God we have in Jesus!  In His affliction, Jesus comforts us and brings us peace by making life-giving promises that only He can make.

I. The Promise of Heaven (v. 1-4; 12:44; 1 Thess. 4:16-18; 2 Cor. 4:17-18)

II. The Promise of a Path to Heaven (v. 5-11; 10:9; 11:25; Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5)

III. The Promise of Power from Heaven (v. 12-14; Matt. 6:9-10; Ephesians 2:10)

Conclusion:

Jesus was headed towards the agony of the cross where pain and shame were waiting for Him.  He was deeply troubled in heart (12:27) and spirit (13:21).  The disciples were troubled because they were confused, uncertain at what Jesus meant, and dreaded Jesus’ references to his imminent departure.  It would have been great for the disciples to have given emotional and spiritual support to their Lord during His time of need, but they did not.  Instead, Jesus is the one gives, comforts, and instructs.   The glorious promises offered to the disciples that night are for all who believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord.  Whatever you are facing today, do not let your heart be troubled.  Believe in God, believe also in Christ.  He has prepared a place for you.  He is the way, the truth, and the life.   He is the only way to the Father.   While we wait on this side of eternity, let us walk in His power, trust in His promises, and accomplish the great works He has prepared for each of us.

Jesus Comforts His Disciples

John 14:15-31

Jesus continues to comfort His disciples as He prepares them for His departure. Knowing their fears and uncertainties, He assures them of an incredible promise: the coming of the Holy Spirit. This promise is as relevant to us today as it was to them. Jesus begins by linking love with obedience: “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). True love for Christ is demonstrated not by mere words but through a life surrendered to His will. Obedience to Jesus, however, is not something we can achieve in our strength alone. That is why He promises the Holy Spirit, whom He calls “the Advocate” (John 14:16). The Holy Spirit is described as the Spirit of truth, sent to dwell with and in believers. Unlike Jesus’ physical presence, which was limited by time and space, the Spirit is a permanent and personal presence within every follower of Christ. He teaches, reminds us of Jesus’ words (John 14:26), and empowers us to live according to God’s purposes.

I.  Jesus promises the Holy Spirit (v. 15-17)

II. Jesus will make Himself known to His disciples (v. 18-21)

III. Jesus will give us His peace (v. 25-27)

IV. Jesus’ departure should bring us joy

Conclusion:

Three years of Jesus’ ministry reached its climax with His final night alone with His disciples. Jesus knew that He would be betrayed and denied with only the horrors of the Cross awaiting Him. The disciples were becoming deeply troubled themselves. To comfort them, Jesus made promises that you and I need to hear today:

“I will not leave you as orphans” (v. 18)  

“You will see me….Because I live, you also will live.” (v. 19)

“You will know that I am in the Father…”. (v. 20)

“The Holy Spirit…will teach you all things”  (v. 26)

“My peace I give to you” (v. 27)

So do not let your hearts be troubled.  No matter what you are seeing or feeling…..rust in God, trust also in Jesus.  His words were meant to bring comfort to His disciples when they needed it most.  May they do the same for us today.

The War Within

Romans 7:7-25

In Romans 7, Paul describes a war that is going on within himself between two natures, his flesh and the Spirit.   One loves God and wants to live in obedience to him, while the other is driven by his fleshly desires and does the opposite of what he knows is right.  The conflict is intense with his flesh often winning the battle.  Paul’s struggles resonate deeply because they capture the human experience.  We all wrestle with failure and guilt while longing for transformation.  Paul summed up his issue, “For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing” (Romans 7:19). Sin remains a persistent reality in our lives, leading Paul to ask, “Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24).  Paul answers the question for us, “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord” (v. 25).  The answer is more of Christ.  His power.  His wisdom.  His forgiveness.  His grace.  More of Christ and less of ourselves.  

I.  The Law is good-it points out our sin (v. 7-13; Matt. 19:16-20; Luke 7:47)

II. The Law is good-we struggle with sin (v. 14-23; Gal. 5:17; Matt. 26:41)

III. Only Christ can deliver us from this body of death (v. 24-25)

Conclusion:

God uses a holy thing (law) to reveal an evil thing (sin) so that a necessary thing (death) might result in the most important thing (life).  We each face a battle against sin.  A battle to live righteously for the glory of God.  As we reflect on the war within, let us remember that Christmas brings hope.  Jesus came to rescue you from the very struggle Paul describes.   This is why the message of Christmas extends beyond December 25. It’s a daily invitation to live in the freedom Christ has secured. Even as we continue to wrestle with sin, we do so with the assurance that the victory has already been won. And here’s the promise that makes this hope even sweeter: the story doesn’t end with Romans 7. In the very next chapter, Paul proclaims the life-giving work of the Spirit, who empowers us to live in freedom and peace. This is the ultimate gift of Christmas—the Spirit of Christ dwelling within us, enabling us to overcome the war within.  Jesus didn’t come for the perfect or the peaceful; He came for the weary and the broken.   The war within may rage, but Christmas reminds us that the Prince of Peace has come. He has entered the battlefield of our hearts, and through Him, we have hope, deliverance, and victory.  This Christmas, let us echo Paul’s cry of thanksgiving: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!”

No Condemnation

Romans 8:1-4

Last week, we saw a deep personal struggle the Apostle Paul had with sin.  If we’re honest, we know exactly what Paul meant when he said, “I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I keep on doing” (Romans 7:19). It’s a raw, personal, and all-too-familiar battle. By the end of the chapter, Paul cries out in desperation, “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (v. 24).  But then he answers his own question with joy: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!”  With that background, we turn one of the most beautiful, hope-filled chapters in all of Scripture, Romans 8.  We are met with a declaration of freedom, a breath of fresh air for every weary, struggling soul:  “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”  Although we will struggle with sin all throughout this life, those who put their faith in Jesus will never be condemned.  Jesus took our condemnation upon himself.  May He receive all the glory, honor, and praise for his abundant mercy and grace.

I. In Christ, there is now no condemnation (v. 1; 5:18-19; John 8:10-11)

II. In Christ, we have been set free (v. 2-3; Gal. 5:1)

III. In Christ, we now walk according to the Spirit not the flesh (v. 3-4; 5-7; Gal. 5:22-24

Conclusion:

Some believe that Romans 8 is the greatest chapter in all of Scripture.  For the one who professes their faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior, they are met with “no condemnation” (v. 1) and conclude with nothing being able to separate them God’s love (v. 35).  In between these two mountainous peaks, lies some of the greatest promises in the Bible.  How do these glorious truths become a reality for us?  In ourselves, it is impossible.  The Law cannot save anyone…it only proves our guilt.  God had a plan from the beginning of time to send His own Son, Jesus, to pay the price for our sin so that the Law would be fulfilled.  We were once condemned, under the curse of the broken law.  We were once bound in sin deserving the full condemnation of God, but no more.  Our sins have been covered by the blood of Christ.   As we approach Christmas, receive the glorious truth today,  “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (v. 1).  Let this verse set you free.  In Christ, You are forgiven. You are loved. You are free.  

God Is for Us

Romans 8:26-39

Life can often feel overwhelming at times.   Like waves in the ocean, trials come to us over and over again.  Our faith is tested and at times we will feel weak and helpless against the battle of sin.  Our souls long for something more than this life can offer.  The Apostle Paul wanted to be more like Christ, but the good he wanted to do he found himself powerless to do it (Romans 7:15-20).   He cried, “who will deliver me from this body of death” (v. 24).  In his battle against sin, Paul realized that only Christ could set him free from condemnation, guilt, and shame (8:1).  Our only hope is not of ourselves but in the power of God from the Holy Spirit residing in us (8:4-17).  In Romans 8:26-39, Paul paints a stunning picture of God’s active, loving, and unrelenting commitment to His people.  These verses declare loudly and clearly: God is for you.  If the God of the universe, the maker of heaven and the Earth is for you, who can come against you?

I. The Holy Spirit intercedes in us (v. 26-27; John 14:16-18, 26)

II. God is working all things out for good (v. 28-30)

III. The Son intercedes for us (v. 31-34; Psalm 27:1)

IV. The Father’s great love over us (v. 35-39)

Conclusion:

It is almost 2025.  I can assure you that there will be difficult moments ahead for us, individually and as a church.  Yet, we have this glorious truth for us, “God is for us.”   He has demonstrated this in three powerful ways.  The Holy Spirit intercedes for you in your weakness and is praying for you when you don’t know how to pray.  The Son intercedes for you before the Father by standing as your advocate and ensuring that no accusation can condemn you.  The secure love of God surrounds you and is holding you fast and ensuring that nothing in all creation can separate you from Him.  Whatever you are facing today, know this: You are not alone. God’s Spirit is working in you, Christ is praying for you, and the love of God is intensely over you.  When the storms of life rage and we feel overwhelmed, may these truths be the ballast to steady our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.