WALK WITH ME!  

Week Eight (Feb 19-25) 

Matt 19:1-15; Mark 10:1-16; Luke 13:22-18:17; John 10:1-11:54

 

We are past halfway!  Keep reading – God’s blessings continue!

 

This week marks a significant turning point in the Life of Jesus – even though we are only halfway through the Gospels – we follow Jesus as he turns toward Jerusalem for His final walk toward the Cross.  Most of the Gospels are focused on His sacrifice and payment for our salvation.  

Luke 13:22 “And He was passing through from one city and village to another, teaching, and proceeding on His way to Jerusalem.”

 

Let’s be thankful.  Luke 17

Luke 17:11–19 records an account of ten men who had infectious skin diseases, commonly translated as “leprosy.” In the Israelite community, when a person discovered a rash or skin disorder, he or she had to go to the priest for examination. The priest then determined whether this was a contagious disease and whether the person was to be declared ceremonially unclean (Leviticus 13:1). Jewish law prohibited anyone with such a disease from associating with the general community. They had to be isolated and many times lived as outcasts until they died (Leviticus 13:45–46). This was necessary in order to keep infectious diseases from becoming an epidemic. But, for those afflicted, it could be a life sentence.

 

Jesus had healed several individuals who had leprosy or some type of infectious skin disease (Luke 5:12–14; Mark 1:40–42; Matthew 8:2–3; 11:5). In Luke 17 ten men who were part of a leper colony approached Him together, but they remained at a distance, as per the law. They called out to Him, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” Without seeming to do anything to heal them, Jesus merely gave the instruction to go show themselves to the priest.  We don’t know when the healing occurred – on the way or just as they approached the priest – but God did a work in them for their obedience – they were healed!  Luke tells us that one of them returned – a Samaritan – to thank Jesus.  Nine ran off with their blessing – one returned.

 

What is God looking for?  Luke 18

The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector in the temple (Luke 18:9-14) is a gold mine of spiritual truth. In fact, this is the summary of the humility of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Verse 9 tells us, Jesus spoke this parable to those who "trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others" (NKJV). Jesus spoke often of the issue of self-righteousness, appealing to His disciples to understand their complete inability to be righteous enough to earn or deserve the kingdom of heaven.  The Pharisees thought they could do enough to attain heaven – the tax collector assumes the very opposite.  The Pharisee counted on his ceremonies and traditions and his ability to keep the Law of Moses.  The show may have impressed men – never God!  

 

The tax collector exhibits precisely what Jesus spoke about in the Sermon on the Mount: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:3). Being poor in spirit means admitting we have nothing to offer to God to atone for our sin. We come to God as empty, impoverished, despised, bankrupt, pitiable, desperate beggars. The tax collector recognizes his sinful condition and seeks the only thing that can bridge the gap between himself and God. "Have mercy on me," – words to be echoed by the repentant!  Let us be so humbled and willing to be broken by our sin and the generosity of His forgiveness.

 

The good Shepherd – the “I Am” of John

“I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11) is the fourth of seven “I am” declarations of Jesus recorded only in John’s Gospel. These “I am” proclamations point to His unique, divine identity and purpose. Immediately after declaring that He is “the door” in John 10:7, Jesus declares “I am the good shepherd.” He describes Himself as not only “the shepherd” but the “good shepherd.”

 

It should be understood that Jesus is “the” good shepherd, not simply “a” good shepherd, as others may be, but He is unique in character (Psalm 23; Zechariah 13:7; Hebrews 13:20; 1 Peter 2:25; 1 Peter 5:4). The Greek word kalos, translated “good,” describes that which is noble, wholesome, good, and beautiful, in contrast to that which is wicked, mean, foul, and unlovely. It signifies not only that which is good inwardly—character—but also that which is attractive outwardly. It is an innate goodness. Therefore, in using the phrase “the good shepherd,” Jesus is referencing His inherent goodness, His righteousness, and His beauty. As shepherd of the sheep, He is the one who protects, guides, and nurtures His flock.

 

Interestingly enough, the shepherds of ancient times were not usually the owners of the flock. Nevertheless, they were expected to exercise the same care and concern the owners would. This was characteristic of a true shepherd. However, some of the hirelings thought only of themselves. As a result, when a wolf appeared—the most common threat to sheep in that day—the hireling abandoned the flock and fled, leaving the sheep to be scattered or killed.  Let us serve the flock and stay our post!  He would not abandon us – we must do no less.

 

7 I AM statements of John

I am the bread of Life - John 6:35, 48

I am the light of the World – John 8:12, 9:5

I am the door – John 10:7, 9

I am the good shepherd - John 10: 11, 14

I am the resurrection and life – John 11:25

I am the way, the truth, and the life- John 14:6

I am the true vine – John 15:1, 5

WALK WITH ME!  

Week Seven (Feb 12-18) 

Luke 10:1-13:21; John 7:32-9:41

John 7:2 “Now the feast of the Jews, the Feast of Booths, was near.”

Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles (aka Feast of Booths) (John 7:32-53)

Jesus was identifying His ministry was representing God the Father.  This was not well received so the Jewish leaders send their soldiers to arrest Him – they found the same thing we do - “The officers answered, “Never has a man spoken the way this man speaks.” 7:46. Despite their great disappointment – they we assured that no leader had believed (Nicodemus) and they were assured that no Prophet had ever come from Galilee (Jonah) so Jesus was still a small threat (little did they know!)

Jesus the Light of the World (John 8:12-20)

“I am the light of the world”  Light was an important symbol in the Feast of Tabernacles. During the feast, many symbols and ceremonies remembered the pillar of fire that gave light to Israel during the Exodus. Now, Jesus took this important symbol and simply applied it to Himself: I am the light of the world.  This has been hope for every generation and each generation laments the darkness around them as ‘the worst it has ever been’ – maybe but we must admit that it seems pretty dark around us now!  The important thing is that through all the dark times of men the answer is the same!  Jesus is the Light of the World!

Disciples and the Blind Man (John 9)

Jesus heals the man born blind and does not accuse him or his parents of direct sin with consequence but rather focuses on the solution to sin – Redemption!  He is the Redeemer and can forgive sin – to prove that Jesus spits on the ground - applies mud and the man’s sight is restored!  This account consumes the entire chapter as men debate the remarkable power of God seen in Jesus.  Later the leaders get the point when they confront Jesus asking if they are also blind? – spiritually.  Jesus’ answer is of course brilliant – if they were blind they would not see their sin – but they do so they are not blind.  The lesson is that they see their sin so they need a Savior!  That is not the conclusion they intended to understand – Jesus is the Answer!  It is in this miracle that we have the famous line: “I was blind, now I see.”  That is us!

Jesus was often confronted, but never confounded. “One of the things worthy to be noticed in our Lord’s character is his wonderful quiet of spirit, especially his marvelous calmness in the presence of those who misjudged, and insulted, and slandered him.” (Spurgeon)

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)

This is not a long story and as so many times with Jesus – it begins with a question.  Jesus answers with Scriptue (a pattern we should use) and the man tries to dispute the verses from Dueteronomy 6.  Just a thought – don’t debate the Author and never debate God!  Anyway the Scribe of the Law asks so Jesus answers with one of the best known stories in all the Bible – The Good Samaritan.  The unworthy ignored – the unlikely helped – the undeserving was loved.  This is truly an example for the ages!  

The priest said ‘what is mine is mine’ – you can’t have it!  His righteousness.

The Levite said ‘what is yours is yours’ – you deserve it! His legalistic view of the Law

The Samaritan said ‘what is mine is thine’ – you can share it!  His mercy triumphed the day

Jesus concluded the lesson with the message -  “Go and do likewise.”  So do I – go show mercy!

Thanks for reading – hope you found some motivation – keep it up – we are half way!

Pastor Mike

Feast of Tabernacles / Booths / Sukkot

We find God’s instructions for celebrating the Feast of Tabernacles in Leviticus 23, given at a point in history right after God had delivered Israel from bondage in Egypt. The feast was to be celebrated each year on “the fifteenth day of this seventh month” and was to run for seven days (Leviticus 23:34). Like all feasts, it begins with a “holy convocation” or Sabbath day when the Israelites were to stop working to set aside the day for worshiping God. On each day of the feast they were to offer an “offering made by fire to the Lord” and then after seven days of feasting, again the eighth day was to be “a holy convocation” when they were to cease from work and offer another sacrifice to God (Leviticus 23). Lasting eight days, the Feast of Tabernacles begins and ends with a Sabbath day of rest. During the eight days of the feast, the Israelites would dwell in booths or tabernacles that were made from the branches of trees (Leviticus 23:40–42).

The Feast of Booths and Sukkot, is the seventh and last feast that the Lord commanded Israel to observe and one of the three feasts that Jews were to observe each year by going to “appear before the Lord your God in the place which He shall choose” (Deuteronomy 16:16). The importance of the Feast of Tabernacles can be seen in how many places it is mentioned in Scripture. In the Bible we see many important events that took place at the time of the Feast of Tabernacles. For one thing, it was at this time that Solomon’s Temple was dedicated to the Lord (1 Kings 8:2).

Here’s booklet from Jews for Jesus – it is free but you will be on their mailing list – be warned!  https://jewsforjesus.org/feasts-of-israel-study-guide 

WALK WITH ME!

Week 6 (Feb 5-11)

Matt 8:19-22; 15:21-18:35; Mark 7:24-9:62; Luke 9:18-62; John 7:2-31

So many stories this week – almost impossible to choose a few – I tried – ask me about any of the others I did not discuss – I enjoyed them all!

“Once a man is united to God, how could he not live forever?” C.S. Lewis

Peter’s profession of faith - John 6:66-71

When Jesus asked his disciples whether they would leave him, Peter answered with the question, 'Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life!' However, one of the twelve, Judas Iscariot, did go to someone else. He betrayed Jesus to the Pharisees for the 30 pieces of silver we know so well.

Peter’s question, “To whom shall we go?” was really a statement. Peter was not asking Jesus to name someone else for the disciples to follow. Peter was saying that there was no one else. Jesus was not asking for them to consider another – it was a test to uncover any disloyalty – as seen in Judas! Nobody could replace Jesus as the disciples’ Master. He was so much to them already and would reveal so much more! To name just a few things...

Jesus was their Teacher: As Peter said, "You have the words of life eternal" (John 6:68). Only Jesus was Christ the Son of God who had the gospel of eternal life.

Jesus was their Shepherd: "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." (John 10:11). Who else could do that for the disciples?

Jesus was their Lamb: John the Baptizer said of Jesus, "Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world." (John 1:29). Nobody else could be a sacrifice to make atonement for the disciples.

Jesus was their Way: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." (John 14:6).

Jesus was their God: Thomas said to Jesus, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). What other man could the disciples recognize as God?

Parable of the unmerciful servant - Matt 18:21-35

I especially love this parable because it reminds me to be merciful and forgiving since I have been forgiven more than I can imagine. The servant whose lord forgave him much, ten thousand talents, equivalent to several millions of dollars, was unwilling to forgive another servant who owed him a hundred denarii. A denarius was a day’s wage and was worth approximately sixteen cents. Therefore, compared to what the first servant was forgiven, this was a very small amount. The principle here is, "the one forgiven much should forgive much." In other words, the principle of forgiveness is that grace or forgiveness to another is without limit. The disciples are not to count the number of times they forgive. Rather, as the parable teaches, they are to forgive much because God has forgiven much. Don't waste time keeping score of what we are owed since we owe so much more!

The little child - Mark 9:33-37

The disciples are thinking of the positions they will warrant when Jesus comes into His glory (Mark 10:37). They don't understand that His glory will not come until after His suffering and death. Leadership in times of prosperity and power looks very different than leadership in persecution and hardships. The purpose of leadership is to equip and encourage others so they remain steady and effective in times of great trial. Our goal is not to have a good seat at the table but rather to be seating others and go looking for more chairs!

To be great in God's kingdom is to realize that we are not great. We are not worthy of forgiveness or consideration or position. God's notice of us and blessings for us are because of His love, not our effort (Ephesians 2:8–9). And so the "greatest" in Jesus' kingdom is the person who acknowledges this by seeking God, rather than seeking themselves. The child would have not thought anything for himself – only what Jesus thought of him – lets be like that kid!

The lost sheep - Luke 15:4-7

The Parables of the Lost Sheep and the Lost Coin (Luke 15:3–10) are the first two in a series of three. The third is the “lost son” or the “prodigal son” (Luke 15:11-32). The emphasis of the Lost Sheep is the unrelenting passion of the Shepherd to pursue the lost lamb – not to console himself with the 99 but to seek after the missing sheep. The hero of the story is not the found lamb (us) but the persistent Shepherd!

This humbling illustration of the shepherd carrying the sheep on his shoulders was the original figure used to identify Christians before people began identifying Christianity with crosses. In these parables Jesus paints with words a beautiful picture of God’s grace in His desire to see the lost return to Him. Men seek honor and avoid shame; God seeks to glorify Himself through us His sheep, His sons and daughters. Despite having ninety-nine other sheep, despite the sinful rebellion of His lost sheep, God joyfully receives it back, just as He does when we repent and return to Him. Time for an 'AMEN!'

I am the lost sheep – the little boy – the one forgiven much – so where else could I go?

Enjoy the readings this week!

Pastor Mike

WALK WITH ME!  

Week Five (Jan 29-Feb 4) 

Matt 9:27-38; 10:1-42; 14; 15:1-20; Mark 6; 7:1-23; Luke 9:1-17; John 6; 7:1

 

“When Jesus had finished giving instructions to His twelve disciples, He departed from there to teach and preach in their cities.” Matt 11:1 

 

Sending of the Disciples

Jesus sent the Disciples after a time of teaching and training to do the work!  The lesson here is obvious I hope – learn and then go do!  God does not train us just to keep training us – He expects us to do the work of the ministry – making disciples who make disciples.  That is not just a commission – it turns out later to be call the Great Commission.  In Luke 9 of our reading we see that Jesus told them not to take anything unnecessary like bread?  He shows why later in the Feeding of the Five Thousand – He is the source of our needs.  He told them, “Don’t take anything for the journey. Do not take a walking stick or a bag. Do not take any bread, money or extra clothes.”  Luke 9:3

 

Feeding of the 5000 (Matt 14; Mark 6; Luke 9; John 6)

This is the only miracle recorded in all four Gospels – it is that important!  Crowds of people followed Jesus wherever He went. When people heard that Jesus and the disciples had gone off to be on their own, they wanted to go there, too. So they came running from all the towns in the area and got there before Jesus and His friends. They wanted to hear Jesus teach, and they wanted to see more miracles, more signs, and more wonders.  On the way to Jerusalem a large crowd had gathered and found themselves hungry and without lunch.  By that time it was late in the day.  Jesus looked over that large crowd and asked Philip, “Where can we buy bread for these people to eat?” (John 6:5).

 

Jesus loved each and every person in that crowd. He knew that there was so much they still didn’t understand about the kingdom of God. So even though He needed rest, He put the needs of the crowd before His own, and He taught them. The Bible says the people in the crowd were like sheep without a shepherd, which means they were lost and confused about life. By teaching them, Jesus was a kind and loving Shepherd who took care of them.

 

This turned out to be a test for all the Disciples but Philip specifically.  Jesus was showing Philip and the other disciples that there was no way they could solve the problem on their own. There was no store close enough to buy this much food. And even if there was, it would have taken way more money than the disciples had! Jesus wanted the disciples to trust Him - to know that He alone was able to meet their need.

 

Lesson:  Nothing is too small for God to use it - even a little boy’s lunch. The disciples could not see how the child’s lunch could be of help, but showing Himself strong through our weakness is characteristic of the way God provides.  Later in Mark:  “Jesus looked at them and replied, “This is impossible for mere humans, but not for God; all things are possible for God.”  Mark 10:27

 

I know I spent the whole blog on one miracle but God thought this one special enough to add it into all four Gospels – so I gave it the whole page!  Just so you know that God is the same in both Testaments – check out a story later about Elisha.  There is a foreshadowing of Christ’s miracle in the life of Elisha in 2 Kings. Elisha told his servant to feed the people gathered there, although there was not enough food for the hundred men. One of the men said, “How can I set this before a hundred men?” (2 Kings 4:42–43) In the end, however, the men not only had enough to eat, but “they ate and had some left” (2 Kings 4:44).  God is good!

 

This year the theme at Grace for our 70^th Anniversary is ‘Walk with Me!”  I am going to take us through 1^st John to see the heart of an Apostle 60 years after his ‘walks’ with Jesus to better understand what lasted 6 decades. And then to Elijah and Elisha see the power of walking together and then in the fall through 2^nd Timothy to hear Paul’s words to a preacher who had walked with him and reminding the shepherd of what was most important and what it might cost.  The only things that can prepare us for our life will be our ‘walks’ with Jesus and those He has given us to walk with – so walk with Him in reading and prayer and walk with other believers as we grow in Christ to grow others together.

 

Pastor Mike

 

 

 

 

 

 

 WALK WITH ME!  

Week Four (Jan 22-28) 

Matt 8:23-37; 9:18-26; 12; 13:1-53; Mark 12; 13:1-53; Luke 7:36-8:56

Parables:  One of the methods Jesus employed in communicating His message was through parables. A parable is basically an earthly story with a heavenly meaning. When Jesus started telling parables to the people, His disciples asked the obvious question, "Why do You speak to them in parables?" (Matthew 13:10).  Jesus answers the question as we read His parables.

Parable of the Sower Matt 13; Mark 4; Luke 8

The most common name is not the best name I believe – this is actually a parable about soils not the sower.  By keeping named the The Sower too much interest and emphasis is on the sower (who is really God as the seed is His from His hand!) rather than how God is preparing the soil.  

First, the parable of the sower in the gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. It is not in John’s gospel because John did not record any parables.  Did you know that?

I try to refer to this as the Parable of the Soils but it is better known as the Parable of the Sower.  Both are accurate but I prefer the former. Jesus told this parable to illustrate what happens when a farmer sows seeds on different soil, and the results that unfold.  The enormous crowd that gathered around would have been very familiar with the concepts of sowing seed.  The farmer would have reached into a bag of seed and toss it across the ground.  Of course, all of it didn’t land on the best soil.  What do the seeds represent in the Parable of the Sower?  Luke’s version gives us the best answer as Jesus explained it this way to His disciples- “The seed is the word of God.” v11.

This parable explains what happens when people hear the gospel message.  God (the farmer) sows the seed (His Word).  It is the “soil” that it lands on that determines its growth. The deeper lesson in this parable is one about God’s Word and the responses from those who hear it.  Not everyone who hears Jesus’ words will listen or respond to it because we can have a “soil problem” in our hearts.

Jesus ends His parable with - “He who has ears to hear, let him hear!”  Are we listening?

Hide it under a bushel? NO! – Mark 4; Luke 8

This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!

Hide it under a bushel; No! I’m gonna let it shine!

Don't let Satan blow it out; I’m gonna let it shine!

Let it shine till Jesus comes; I’m gonna let it shine!

I can’t think of anything better than the song I used to sing as a kid – I still believe all 4 verses!

Sing it in your heart as you read the parable.  And then go out and let it shine! 

Grain of a mustard seed – Matt13; Mark 4; Luke 13

A grain of mustard seed looks totally insignificant, just one or two millimeters in diameter. Yet, when sown into good soil, these tiny seeds can grow into huge trees. Jesus used these seeds to explain God’s kingdom. The world tends to value size: The most money or resources, or the largest armies. But God’s kingdom is different. He looks at our hearts and our level of faith. It is the small things that can produce the greatest returns. Jesus taught that a widow who gave two mites gave more than anyone else (Mark 12:42-43). That those with the faith like a grain of mustard seed could speak and a tree would be plucked up and thrown into the sea (Luke 17:6). That those who planted mustards seeds could expect bountiful harvests.

Jesus is making the point here that small things matter to God. God is the God of tiny beginnings and seeming weakness. (like the manger of Bethlehem) He delights in using little people and what look like insignificant movements. But the small beginnings end in great results. God’s strength is made perfect in weakness; when we are weak, then we are strong.  What small thing can you give Him this week and let Him make it into something big for the Kingdom?

Why did Jesus use parables? “None so blind as those who will not see.” Matthew Henry

Jesus is using common illustrations to explain the complexities of Heaven by parables.  The people are listening and following – continue your walk with Him in the Harmony readings!  Then – find someone to walk with this week – share what God is doing lets walk together with Jesus – Come Walk With Me!

PARABLE OF THE SOILS (SOWER)

WALK WITH ME!  

Week Three (Jan 15-21) 

Matt 5-7; 8:5-13; 11:2-19, Mark 2:23-3:19, Luke 6:1-7:35, John 5:1-47

Pool of Bethesda John 5

The name of the pool, “Bethesda,” is Aramaic. It means “House of Mercy.” John tells us that “a great number of disabled people used to lie there—the blind, the lame, the paralyzed” (John 5:3). The covered colonnades would have provided shade for the disabled who gathered there, but there was another reason for the popularity of the Pool of Bethesda. Legend had it that an angel would come down into the pool and “stir up the water.” The first person into the pool after the stirring of the water “was made well from whatever disease with which he was afflicted” (John 5:4, NAS). The Bible does not teach that this actually happened - rather, the superstitious belief probably arose because of the pool’s association with the nearby temple. The real lesson is that the Master of Mercy was there!  He did not depend on a stirring of the waters – He is the solution to sin and the consequences of sin.  

Sermon on the Mount Matt 5-7

The Sermon on the Mount is the most famous sermon Jesus ever gave and I believe the most famous sermon ever given by anyone.  I especially love the opening messages of positive blessings rather than warnings or threats by God – Jesus opens with love and loving examples of faith.  Matthew 7:28-29 concludes the Sermon on the Mount with the following statement: "When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at His teaching, because He taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law." May we all continue to be amazed at His teaching and follow the principles that He taught in the Sermon on the Mount!  Lessons like salt and light, love your enemies, how to pray, treasures in Heaven, the narrow gate and the wise/foolish builders – all classics that are told and retold in each generation.  

The Twelve are Chosen Mark 3

Mark 3:14 “And He appointed twelve, so that they would be with Him and that He could send them out to preach”

This is a verse that sums up a legacy of Grace Bible Church!  God has used our Church family to train, equip, mentor and send out scores of shepherds, missionaries, teachers and leaders.  As you read the Harmony please pay close attention to the desire of Jesus to gather – disciple – scatter.  Jesus was never trying to build a movement – He was training leaders to move!  He drew them to his teaching which, if obeyed, sent them out into the World with His Gospel.  We should be honored that God has entrusted us with this most noble task – my prayer is that we will never take our attention from bringing the lost to faith and the faithful into His service.  Walk with Me!

Power of Life over Death Luke 7

Luke 7 records the healing of the Centurions servant despite the distance – all a matter of faith and then Jesus visits the village of Nain and meets a funeral going out for burial.  Jesus was known for interrupting funerals healing 3 during His ministry (the son of the widow of Nain, Jairus’ daughter and Lazarus of Bethany).  It is said that Jesus never attended a successful funeral – including His own!  Jesus is the remedy for sin and therefore the Redeemer of Life.  

What do you see?  Luke 7

John the Baptist sent messengers to Jesus to ask Him, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?” Was John the Baptist’s faith faltering? Was he doubting whether Jesus was truly the Messiah?  Or was John sending his students to the source of Truth, the Messiah?  Either John or some of John’s followers were unsure – asking if they understood the promises of the Messiah.  John directed them to the source – Jesus Himself.  What they heard was not opinion or even logic – just Scripture!  There is a lesson for us – Bible first.  I would also note that Jesus does not rebuke of John the Baptist for asking the question. If John had doubts, Jesus’ response shows the caring, tender way He handles wavering faith. If John was simply teaching his disciples, Jesus provided incontrovertible evidence that faith in Him is not misplaced.

 “Miracles are not contrary to nature, but only contrary to what we know about nature.” Augustine

The Disciples are getting closer to Jesus – not because He took them to school but because He took them on a walk – a walk with Jesus – lets walk together with Jesus – 

Come Walk With Me!

WALK WITH ME!  

Week Two (Jan 8-14) 

(Matt 1:12-25; 8:1-4;14-17; 9:1-17; Mark 1:14-2:22; Luke 4:14-5:39; John 1:35-4:45)

Fishers of Men in Matthew 4   

The theme for this year at Grace is ‘Walk With Me!’ Jesus called the disciples to ‘follow me’ and that is how simple it really is!  Jesus did not instruct the new followers to go and learn the Law or become scribes or priests – Jesus simply called on them to walk with Him.  In our modern world it us who make things more complicated – just walk with God on a daily basis – just find another heart who yearns after the things of God and have them join you – walk together!  It must also be noted that Jesus called on the men to continue their trade but with a new focus – the souls of men.  God needs us to do what He has gifted us to do usually where we are – not far away or in great danger.  Also please note that He called working men to continue working with Him on a new task.  Fishermen – not Aquarium watchers.  

(Please read “Walk With Me” Theme of 2023 on our website)

First Miracle in John 2

So many great lessons here – the sanction of home, family and marriage!  The sharing of celebrations.  Even the submissive heart to His mother and the kindness to their host.  Jesus demonstrates here, for the first time, His dominance over the elements of Creation – water to wine.  While Jesus reminded His mother that banqueting was not His calling, He still responded with compassion and kindness by taking care of their friends and sparing them the shame of running out of refreshments.  The superior wine was not Jesus showing off but rather we must know that God can only do things the very best way the first time.   Of course, it was the best!  Changing elements was a hallmark of God – the bitter spring to sweet with Moses and the salted spring of Elisha.  Jesus demonstrating that He is very God.  This is the first of seven signs in John.

Nicodemus in John 3

One of the best know stories in the life of Jesus was the nighttime visit by Nicodemus.  As a member of the Sanhedrin, Nicodemus was cautious about seeing Jesus.  Coming at night he skeptically asked Jesus if He were a teacher sent from God – giving Jesus the title of rabbi and teacher.  Jesus answer is the best know verse in the World!  (#1 of 31,102 - John 3:16) Heaven is not about new learning – it is about new life – life in Christ.  It is not about being clean – I can wash myself – I cannot birth myself!  Listen to my Vlogs on Love in the Languages – one day soon I will do ‘only begotten’ – it is a special word of love and gift.

Nazareth Synagogue – reading Isaiah and cliffs in Luke 4

Jesus was a Master Teacher – even as He was reading in His hometown synagogue He was teaching.  From Isaiah 61 Jesus revealed that He is the One to do these great wonders – He is the Messiah – He is the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies.  They were amazed and then they were offend and tried to toss Him from the cliffs of Nazareth – but it was not in the Father’s time so Jesus walked out from among them without their notice.

Miracle of Lame Walk in Mark 2

Sin forgiven by whom?  Only God can do that – the scoffers and doubts were right – only God can do that, but they did not recognize God right in front of them.   Once again Jesus shows that He has complete power over sin – not just in the forgiveness of sin but even over the consequences of sin.  Jesus healed the bedfast man as a demonstration of the healing of his soul.  All the miracles of Jesus were for the same purposes – His deity and His supremacy over sin and the effects of sin.  From creation (water to wine and storms) to the Devil (temptations and demons) and men (sickness and even death!) Jesus is seen to be Supreme.  He alone is the Savior we can trust the Lord that we can follow. 

Check back here next week for more – Walk with me!

Remember: God does not take good people to Heaven – only forgiven people!

THE SEVEN SIGNS OF JOHN:

John 2:1-11 — Water into wine

John 4:46-54 — Healing of the nobleman’s son

John 5:1-15 — Healing at the pool of Bethesda

John 6:1-14 — Feeding the 5,000

John 6:15-21 — Jesus walks on water

John 9:1-12 — Healing of the man born blind

John 11:1-44 — Lazarus raised from the dead

GREATEST VERSE - For God so loved the World that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.  John 3:16

The Greatest Being     God

The Greatest Motive     So Loved

The Greatest Scope     The World

The Greatest Gift     He Gave His Only Son

The Greatest Invitation     Whosever Believes in Him

The Greatest Rescue     Shall Not Perish

The Greatest Promise     Have Everlasting Life