Steve Blyth spoke from John 14 about Jesus’ love of others – even hours before his own death. With the crucifixion in view, Jesus promised to send his Spirit to prepare them to live well in the world. A selfless bucket-list, but if he could give them anything, why not world peace or an end to poverty? All these things require a change of heart that only the Spirit of truth can bring. As we receive the truth, it brings assurance of peace, a joy in all circumstances and faith in a God who is in control.
Month: September 2013
Working bee!!
Saturday October 12th, at the church, from 9am, skilled and unskilled workers to paint window frames, repoint stonework, general cleaning up inside and out and more! Other ways you can help – bring some morning tea or lunch to share, encourage the workers, pray for safety!
‘Maximum comfort for ever fearful disciples’ (John 14:1-14)
In a standout passage from John’s gospel, Jesus spoke words of comfort to his fearful disciples, reminding them of the home we was about to build for them, the way he was about to provide for them and the Father he was about to reveal to them. These words have been a source of great comfort for many centuries to those who trust in Him and by them we are prepared for life in this world and life in the Father’s house when this world is done.
‘Judas, Peter, Satan …and Jesus’ (John 13:18-38)
Seated at the table around the Last Supper, the disciples heard Jesus speak plainly that one of them would betray him and one of them would deny him. Judas was the betrayer – a man who failed to check the love of money within his heart and who was open to the schemes of the evil one. Peter was the a man who thought that he was as strong as an ox, only to be found to be as weak as a kitten. One fell into great sin and knew only remorse. The other was restored and forgiven by grace. Both serve to remind us that we cannot trust our own hearts.
‘Jesus the servant – descending into greatness’ (John 13:1-17)
Behind closed doors with his disciples and just before the Last Supper, John records some remarkable things about Jesus which led him to act accordingly. Jesus knew that he had come from God and was returning to God, so he proceeded to take the place of a servant and wash the feet of the disciples. This act of humbling himself would not be the end however. He humbled himself even further by submitting to death upon the cross. In washing the feet of the disciples, Jesus showed that the nature of true Christian ministry is always clothed with a towel and carries a basin – reflecting the nature of him who came ‘not to be served, but to serve’.
‘That crucial moment and turning point’ (John 12:20-50)
After some Greek men sought an audience with Jesus, He then began to speak openly about his imminent death. He spoke of it in terms of a seed that dies and in dying brings forth fruit and of being ‘lifted up’ as so drawing all types of men to himself. The Greek men were serious, persistent and believing, unlike the Jews whom Jesus then denounced for their stubborn unbelief. The death of Jesus continues to demand a response from people. Either we come seeking Him as Saviour in faith or we will end up facing Him as Judge.