John15:18-27

INTRODUCTION: Last week we talked about producing fruit for the benefit of others and glory of God. Fruit is the byproduct of continue in relationship with Jesus for the long haul, loving one another, and not fighting the pruning process, knowing that the Father wants to grow even more fruit on your tree!

This Morning we are going to examine the biggest threat to our being Fruit bearers. Let’s listen to Jesus follow up on the matter of fruit bearing:

SCRIPTURE READING:

“If the WORLD hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.  If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the WORLD, but I have chosen you out of the WORLD. That is why the world hates you.  Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also.  They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.  If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin.  Whoever hates me hates my Father as well.  If I had not done among them the works no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. As it is, they have seen, and yet they have hated both me and my Father.  But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.’

 “When the Advocate comes, whom I will send to you from the Father—the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.  And you also must testify, for you have been with me from the beginning.

  • The first of the pest whose goal is to ruin our chances of bearing fruit.

I. AS BELIEVERS WE LIVE IN TERRITORY.

Jesus wanted his followers to know two things in relationship to their mission and fruit bearing: 1) Know that you will have lots of “haters.” 2) The government’s policies will often be in conflict with God’s Kingdom rule. And we believers will be caught in the middle and will catch the flack (persecution)

A. Biblical Perspective:

  • Jesus used himself as the primary example
  • Stephen was the first of a long line of martyrs in the age of the Church along with James.
    • The Church Fathers: In the first three centuries, Christians were persecuted by Roman authorities, offering freedom if they burned incense to Caesar. Early martyrs, such as Polycarp and Ignatius of Antioch, were honored as imitators of Christ’s passion.
    • Modern Examples: According to studies on the persecuted Church, in the 20th and 21st centuries, more people have been martyred for their faith in Christ than at any other time history. In Nigeria alone about 5000 Christians a year are killed for the crime of confessing their faith in Christ.
  •  American Christians for the most part have lived with relative freedom from persecution. Living in a free society is great but the foundations are shaking beneath our feet.
    1. Illustration:

Charlie Kirk was assassinated six months ago because of his conservative beliefs that were the result of his faith in Christ.

II. FRUIT BEARING REQUIRE US TO BE TRANSFORMED RATHER THAN BE IN OUR THINKING IN REGARD TO TRUTH AND PRACTICE.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will. Rom. 12:2

A. Our world is under Satanic Influence and therefore its beliefs and values have been corrupted.

  • The world (Greek: kosmos) refers to an invisible, organized, and evil-influenced structure that operates in direct opposition to God’s Kingdom (James 4:4).
  • The world is under invisible leadership of the ruler of the kingdom of the air.

“As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.” Eph. 2:1-2 NIV

  • The god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelieving world concerning the person and work of Christ. Apostle in 2 Cor. 4:13

B. We are not to align our beliefs and morality with this world. Romans 12:2

 

C. Jesus informed his disciples that they are not of this world any more than he was.

D. Conformity to this world leaves us on the wrong side of God.

“You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore, whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” James 4:4

  • “For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.” 1 John 2:16

LUST + LUST + PRIDE EQUALS A BEAREN TREE

 

III. WE CAN AND WILL TO WORLD IF WE WALK IN .

“For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” 1 John‬

 “In this world you will have trouble but be of good cheer for I have overcome this world.” John 16

  • Jesus prayed for our protection from the plans of the evil whose aim is to keep us from a wasted life. John 17:15

CLOSING PRACTICAL WAYS TO NAVIGATE THE WATERS OF THIS WORLD

  1. Don’t make yourself a target. Season your speech with grace and walk wisely among unbelievers. (Col 4)
  2. Remember to love those who hate you. Stephen prayed that the Father would forgive the very ones who stoned him to death. The Apostle Paul was one on the stoning committee and was forgiven. Acts
  3. Ask the Holy Spirit to be your guide and counselor.
  4. Pray for those in authority to keep the laws in place that protect the church persecution. 1 Tim.2:1-4
  5. Decide to live lives that produce fruit rather than to feed your flesh.

Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because whoever suffers in the body is done with sin.  As a result, they do not live the rest of their earthly lives for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. 1 Peter 4:1-3

 

LIVING THE FRUITFUL LIFE OF FAITH

Those who bear fruit stay connected to the root.

INTRODUCTION:  This morning, we are in making our way through the upper-room conversation Jesus had with his disciples on the eve of his crucifixion. And in the middle of his conversation with them he instructs them as to why they were chosen in the first place to be his disciples.

A little backstory: Throughout John’s gospel Jesus refers to himself as the great I AM seven times. This is the last of the seven “I AM’s” Jesus declares that he is the true Vine. As in common with Jesus, he uses Metaphorical Language that his followers could comprehend. And no doubt the disciples would easily identify the meaning behind his message using vineyard and fruit. For Israel was a major grape growing region just like the Napa Valley.

READ JOHN 15:1-17

I.  FRUITFULNESS IS THE OF .

Let’s define it:

“Fruit is a life well lived that blesses others and furthers God’s redemptive plans for His glory and not our own.”

A. It’s God’s desire that our lives count for the sake of the gospel.

The Apostle Paul prayed that the Church would be “filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Christ–to the glory and praise of God. (Philippians 1:9-11)

B. Fruitful Living demands that we stay faithful to Christ.

Jesus uses the word ABIDE (Gr. Meno) several times in John 15, a word that means to continue, remain, persevere. (used over 40 times in the gospels)

  1. The key to living a life that pleases God and blesses others is all about with CHIRST for the long haul.
  • At the peak of Jesus ministry thousands of people followed him around but, in the end, they departed from him after him. (John6 :66-68) And in the contest of this conversation Judas has already bailed on Christ.

It’s not how we start that matters but how we finish!

Example from the Apostle Paul’s life: 2 Tim. 4:3-8

  • Fruit is a seasonal thing. Fruit isn’t produced in the winter months. Winter months get the soil of our lives ready for spring growth. Fruitful Living is measured over the course of our lives.

II. BEING DOESN’T TO BEING FRUITFUL.

Jesus speaks about branches that are broken off and burned. Not exactly a good picture of the outcome of faithless living.

I believe Jesus had the Nation of Israel in mind when talking people without fruit who wound end up on the burn pile of humanity. Why? Because the very people that planned to bear fruit but they didn’t.

  • In the Old Testament, the nation of Israel is frequently described as God’s vineyard or his “choice vine”. In Isaiah 5, Psalm 80, Jeremiah 2:21, she represents God lovingly planting, nurturing, and protecting his people, expecting them to produce fruits of justice and righteousness. Instead, it yielded “wild grapes” (sin and rebellion), leading to judgement
  • The Story of the cursed fig tree that Jesus spoke out just a few days before this upper room discourse: Mark 11
  • Parable of the man and the fig tree:

III. GOD IS CONTUNIALLY AT WORK IN OUR LIVES LOPPING OFF THINGS THAT KEEP US FROM PRODUCING THE FRUIT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS.

  • Jesus speaks of the gardener lifting up the vines to keep them from being ruin. When we’re down and in the dumps the Holy Spirit comes alongside and gives us a little lift. (airo GR. take up, lift up)
  • God, our spiritual gardener pulls out his pruning sheers and lops off dead branches and dried out fruit to make room for more fruit.

The word “Prune” GR. (Kathairo) is where our English word, katharsis comes from. The word means to cleanse or purify by removing what hinders us from producing fruit.

  • Life doesn’t always make sense when we feel like our desires are not manifesting before us but we must trust that God is working behind scenes to produce the fruit of righteousness in us so he can produce fruit through us.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28-29

APPLICATION: Let me give you fruit producing thoughts as we wrap up:

  • Stay in relationship with Christ through the Holy Spirit.

Remain in My Love. Stay under the covering of the love God has for you.

  • Recognize that His pruning process is for our good and His glory.
  • Position yourself to serve others. Phil.2
  • Obey the revealed will of God (commands) found in the word of God.
  • Love the people in His vineyard. (your brothers and sisters).
  • “Ask” God for help in doing His will.
  • Avoid close relationships with people who live after the flesh. Psa.1

One Final word of encouragement: As we follow Jesus and position ourselves to produce fruit the Holy Spirit will fill us with the joy of Jesus!!

 

GREATER THINGS Living

READ THE TEXT: John 14:12-26

 OPENING STATEMENTS

  1. This portion of Scripture is interpreted in so many ways depending on a person’s bias and religious affliction.
  2. I think Jesus was inspiring his men to think bigger about God’s call on their lives. I think he wanted to create a sense of expectations in their lives as they went about His business.

40 signs and wonders are recorded in the book of Acts (39 too place in the streets).

  • Many signs and wonders were performed through the Apostles. (Acts 2:43)
  • Peter and John heal a lame man at the Temple gate (Acts 3:1-10).
  • People brought the sick and lame into the streets so the Apostles shadows might overshadow them and heal them and many were. (Acts 5:12-16).
  • Peter and John impart the Spirit in Samaria (Acts 8:14-17).
  • Peter heals a paralyzed man (Acts 9:33-34).
  • Peter raises Tabitha (Dorcas) from the dead (Acts 9:36-41).
  • Paul blinds the sorcerer (Acts 13:6-11).
  • Paul heals a man crippled from birth (Acts 14:8-10).
  • Paul casts a demon out of a slave girl (Acts 16:16-18).
  • In Ephesus Paul gives out handkerchiefs/aprons which heal diseases and cast out spirits (Acts 19:11-12).
  • Paul raises a young man from the dead in Troas (Acts 20:7-12).
  • Paul heals a man with fever and dysentery (Acts 28:8).
  • General Healings on Malta: Paul heals many on the island (Acts 28:9).

TAKEWAYS WITH PRACTICAL APPLICATION FOR US

1. IS ESSENTIAL FOR GREATER THINGS LIVING.

It’s not about our ability to do great things for God that matters as much as to believe God desires to do great things through us and act upon it!

  • Faith is trusting God to do what he promises to do in and through our lives. And, without faith we must not expect anything to happen through us in regard to redemptive purposes
    • Faith please God. Heb.11:6
    • Faith in Christ rather than some generic god.

2. IS ESSENTIAL TO GREATER THINGS LIVING:

“Whatever you ask in my name I will do it.”

“It’s our intimacy with God that determines the impact of our lives.” Charles Stanley

  • WHATEVER?  

“Expect great things from God; Attempt great things for God,”
William Carey, the “father of modern missions” 1792

  • Praying in the name of Jesus: This means expressing our desire to do what Jesus would want done for the glory of God.
  • Praying in Jesus name means praying in accordance with Gods will as we understand it (1 John 5:14).
  • Praying in Jesus names means we pray with right motives. (James 4:2-3)

Rhetorical question: What would your life look like if you dared trust God to the extent to attempt greater things for the sake of the gospel?

  • People would be positively influenced toward God.
  • You would discover your spiritual strengths.
  • Your faith would grow.
  • You would not have wasted your opportunities for God’s redemptive purposes.

3. THE IS ESSENTIAL TO GREATER THINGS LIVING.

“If you love me, keep my commands.  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever- the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be IN YOU.  I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. John 14:15-18

  • Jesus, our ultimate example of greater things living did so because he was full of Holy Spirit throughout his life. At Jesus baptism just prior to His mission the Holy Spirit flies into the scene! Why? Because Jesus had emptied himself of his divine prerogative (the word became flesh) to exercise his deity. Phil 2:5-8
  • Jesus prayed often and this was key to his spiritual power. The Holy Spirit fills those who posture themselves for his presence.
  • Jesus made it clear that the Holy Spirit would be key to living a greater things life. He will be with you and in you!

You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you and you will be my witnesses. Acts 1:8

  • The Holy Spirit was the wind in the sails of the saints.
  • The Holy Spirit was the power behind the preaching. 1Cor 2:1-2
  • The Holy Spirit produced the sweet fruit of the Spirit in their lives. Gal 5.
  • The Holy Spirit filled and refilled the church as they worship, prayed and lived grateful lives. Eph 5

CLOSING CONSIDERATION: The Apostle Peter was clear on the first day of the church age. God desires to pour out His Spirit on all flesh- our sons and daughters, our senior citizens, and the working class not just the religious class. Acts 2

‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people.
Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions,
    your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.’ Acts 2:17-18

 

John 14:1-12

INTRODUCTION: We all have times in our lives when we are troubled by something we have heard or experienced. Times when God seems to have left the building. Times when our theology doesn’t fit with our reality.

This morning the disciples are feeling just this. Jesus had just informed them that he will be leaving soon and they become unhinged. Peter wants to know where Jesus is going and if he could go with him to which Jesus responds:

“You can’t go with me now, but you will follow me later.”

“But why can’t I come now, Lord?” he asked. “I’m ready to die for you.”

 Jesus answered, “Die for me? I tell you the truth, Peter—before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me.” Chapter 13

TEXT TO TEACH FROM:

14 “Do not let your hearts be TROUBLED. You believe in God; believe also in me.

 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going.”

5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?”

6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. 7 If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

8 Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”

9 Jesus answered: “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Don’t you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you I do not speak on my own authority. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work. 11 Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the works themselves.

When we are troubled and feel like Jesus has left the building we must lean into three things:

 

1. WHEN WE ARE TROUBLED IN LIFE WE MUST LEAN INTO OUR  RATHER THAN OUR .

The word “believe” is the key word in John’s gospel. John uses the word 85 times in his writing.

But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:31

  • Believing and faith are synonyms (pisteuo) means to believe and trust in God rather than anything else.
  • Christians throughout history are known as believers!

FEAR IS “WHAT IF.” FAITH IS “EVEN IF.”

  • Believe ALSO in Me!  The disciples wanted Jesus to show them the Father, and his response makes it clear that they were clueless. After all, that is exactly what he had been doing with them all along.
    • His teachings were God’s truths.
    • His miracles were God’s actions on display.
    • His character was in keeping with that of God’s.

“He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.” Heb.1:3 ESV

2. WE MUST REMEMBER WHEN WE ARE TROUBLED THAT JUST BECAUSE CHRIST IS NOT (PHYSICALLY) DOESN’T MEAN HE IS NOT BEHIND THE.

 2 My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to PREPARE a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

  • The word prepare means to make ready. Jesus is getting our place ready for us. Jesus is not just sitting around in the heavens listening to harps as he spits on a latte. No, he is actively making preparations for us to join him on the other side.
  • Rooms: (Mone) Residences, abodes or mansions

“Jesus is making our place ready while the Holy Spirit is making us ready for our place.” TDM

 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.  For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. Romans 8:28-29

 

3. WHEN WE ARE TROUBLED IN HEART, WE MUST REMEMBER THAT JESUS WILL TO TAKE US WHERE HE !

Jesus returning to take us home and this truth is all over the New Testament.

  • The word “take” is paralambano, means to take with oneself.

“For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be CAUGHT UP TOGETHER with them in the clouds to MEET THE LORD IN THE AIR, and so we will ALWAYS BE WITH THE LORD“.  1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

“Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed”. 1 Corinthians 15:51-52

CONCLUSION: Jesus understood that his disciples were struggling in their understanding of His true identity as well as his plans for their lives. His message: Refuse to let your feelings cloud your faith. Continue to be faithful knowing that He is for you, with you and in you.

 

“My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come.   “A new (Kainos: Fresh) command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:33-35

CONTEXT: Jesus had just washed the disciples’ feet ate with them as het sets the context for his finally teachings to those whom he would entrust with the mission of reaching the world with the life-giving message of the gospel. And it’s in this context that he drops the most important thing the disciples would need to know concerning the Mission: LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

1. LOVING ONE ANOTHER IS’NT .

Command language: You Must – not optional.

  • The Apostle Peter must have gotten the memo:

Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

 Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for each other, love one another deeply, from the heart.  1 Peter 1:22

  • The Apostle Paul got the memo:

Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10

  • The Apostle John got the memo:

 Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us. 1John 4:11-12

2. LOVE AS A NOT A .

  • I love is a “more than a feeling.”
  • If your brother is cold and you don’t offer him your coat your love is meaningless.
  • Loving people is huge because we all need to be loved.

Illustration: The Good Samaritan. Luke 10:25-37

  • People need this kind of love from time to time.

Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:1-2

3. A BIBLICAL PROVIDES CLEAR OF .

Love in community is the focus of Jesus teaching here among his future leaders. Love must work among you men if it is to work at all.

The world will know that you’re my followers if they can see that you love one another. And love is something people can see and hear.

  • Biblical Picture of Love: The Church in Corinth was full of Spirit gifted people who had been baptized into the body of Christ, but they were lacking the one thing that creates a life-giving community-LOVE.

 1 Corinthians 13:1-8

  • THE LOOK OF LOVE
  1. Patience with people who aren’t at our level.
  2. Love expresses itself in kind gestures.
  3. Love is not about itself-boasting or pride.
  4. Love doesn’t dishonor others with words of gossip or slander.
  5. Love has a long fuse. Not easily angered.
  6. Love forgives rather than harbor resentment.
  7. Love celebrates righteous living not sinful actions.

Love seasons its words with GRACE! 

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:5-6

  • Loving People is the best way to WIN PEOPLE TO CHRIST.
  • Love in the early church was a priority. They meant together around a meal known as the “Agape Feast.” And they took care of one another’s needs in practical ways. They would even sell their own possessions to help another brother out. Acts 2:41-47

 

 

A TIME TO WAIT TABLES AND A TIME TO WORSHIP – A RESPONSE TO THE GRACE OF GOD

John 12:1-11

 The Text:

 Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.  Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. MARTHA SERVED, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.  Then MARY took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected,  “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.”  He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.

 “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.  So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well,  for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and believing in him. John 12:1-11

Transition: I want to share a few thoughts to consider as we move into 2026 as a Church.

1. HONORING CHRIST AROUND THE TABLE OF FELLOWSHIP IS THE NAUTRAL TO HIS WORK IN OUR LIVES.

  • Think of it, Lazarus literally had gone from death to life!! Yes, I’m thinking his would be cause enough to honor Him.
  • Every resurrection in the Scriptures serves as an illustration of the saving power of Christ. When a person hears the gospel and believes there is a spiritual resurrection within that turns a person into a worshipper!

 “As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient. All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh[a] and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath.  But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.  And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. Ephesians. 2:1-7

2. WORSHIP AND WAITING TABLES ARE BOTH IN THE OF THE BELIEVER.

Most of the time MARTHA and MARY are brought up in a sermon Martha gets all the bad press. She is the one who was upset that her sister Mary for not helping her prepare lunch for Jesus and his disciples. And yes, Jesus did chide her for missing an opportunity to sit at his feet and learn from him. However, Martha at this meal is serving from a place of gratitude rather than gripping.

Point of Interest: Every time Mary is mentioned in the Gospel’s she’s at the feet of Jesus. (Luke 10:38-39, John 11:2,32, John 12:3). Every time Martha is mentioned she serving or gripping or both. (Lk. 10:40, John 11:21-22)

  • Mary is celebrated as the worshipping sister but Martha expressed her love for Jesus through service.
  • Jesus said the great ones in the Kingdom are servants Matt. 20:25-28

3. WORSHIP WHICH IS MOTIVATED BY FILLS OUR LIVES WITH THE OF JESUS.

V.3 Then MARY took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

Another Example of a sinful of woman who pour perfume over Jesus feet and dried them off with her hair is found in Luke 7: 36-47. In this story Jesus uses this experience as a teaching opportunity about worship that is motivated by love and gratitude.

  • Worshippers give Christ their best. Expensive Perfume that cost this sister a year’s earnings.
  • Judas was a crook and had ulterior motives when it came to money. He wanted to keep God’s money in his pocket. He was a taker not a giver.
  • Worshippers don’t care who’s watching.
  • Worshippers serve others from a place of gratitude.

CONCLUSION: 

 

RAISED AND RELEASED TO A BETTER LIFE John 11

INTRODUCTION: This morning, we are about to examine the greatest miracle of all time which is marked by another of the “I AM” statements made by Jesus to declare his deity.

“I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die.”  John 11:25-26

  • Setting up the Stage:

 I want to share three things from Lazarus’s real death to life experience.

1. GOD’S ARE OFTEN FOR A GOOD. V.1-32

Reading the chapter, you will discover that Jesus intentionally allowed Lazarus to die.

Review the event:

Martha is first to meet Jesus as he approaches the outskirts of town and shares her frustration with Jesus for his delay.

  • In God’s providence He is always working behind the scenes to accomplish God’s redemptive plans that will most glorify his Son and stimulate faith in others.

ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE GOD AND ARE CALLED ACCORDING TO HIS PURPOSES. Romans 8:28

2. BELIEVERS ARE NOT FROM .

John records that everyone is mourning in the story including Jesus. The two sisters are mourning, their friends and family are mourning, and yes, Jesus is weeping too.

However, Jesus is not grieving over the death of Laz, he knows what he’s about to do in regard to his condition. No, his grief comes from a deeper place.

I believe he is grieving the spiritual condition of the Human Race that all will die because of the first Adam’s curse.

The wages of sin is death. Romans 6:23

Death is rough on us isn’t it. Losing a loved one is the toughest assignment known to man. We struggle to comprehend life without the one we love. A great sadness settles over us like morning fog when a loved one dies.

  • Believers grieve like unbelievers except we have a hope grounded in the fact that Jesus is the life giver! He is the resurrection and the life! Whosoever believes in Him will live even though he dies.

3. JESUS HAS OVER AND ALL WHOSE IS IN HIM WILL LIVE AND .

After praying Jesus cries out loud, LAZARUS COME FORTH! And everyone must have been so startled when the mummy stands to his feet all wrapped in burial clothes.

  • Listen to the Apostle John in Revelation 1

“When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. But he laid his right hand on me, saying, “Fear not, I am the first and the last,  and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades.”            Revelation 1:17-18

“But your dead will live, LORD; their bodies will rise— let those who dwell in the dust wake up and shout for joy— your dew is like the dew of the morning; the earth will give birth to her dead.” Isa. 26:19

  • What Jesus says next is the awesome: v.43-44

Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!”  The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face.

Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

If you look closer at the text Martha was not surprised about Jesus claiming to raise up Lazarus at the “last day.” But Jesus doesn’t wait until just the last day! He raises us to life when we believe!!!!!

  • The Apostle Paul’s words to the Church in Ephesus are appropriate here:

As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient.  All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our flesh and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature deserving of wrath. But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, MADE US ALIVE WITH CHRIST even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus. Eph. 2:1-7

 When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

“Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?”

 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.  But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1Cor. 15:54-57

CONCLUSION: If you’re struggling this morning, because God appears to be a bit late in your life, don’t give up hope!    You just can’t see what He’s got up His sleeve. If you’re grieving a loss this morning, know that you’re not alone. Christ is a sympathetic priest who grieves with you and will help you get through this period in your life.  Finally, never forget that death does not have the final word in our lives and the lives of our loved ones in Christ.

 

 

 

Intro. Video Clip

I. UNBELIEF IS NOT A MATTER OF NEEDING MORE BUT A HEART. V.22-24

“If you’re the Messiah tell us plainly.”

A. Jesus couldn’t have made it any clearer that he was the Christ.

Jesus taught in the open and his message was clear: I am the living water. John 4 I am the bread of Life who eats of this bread will live forever. John 6 I am the Light of the world, who believes in me will never walk in darkness. John 8 I am the Door into the Kingdom.John 9 I am the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep. John 10

B. Jesus’ miracles were more than sufficient proof of his deity.

Healing the sick, raising the dead, giving sight to the blind, casting out demons, turning water into wine. Yeah, I think his works were enough evidence.

C. Jesus made it clear that unbelievers can’t hear the voice of God because they won’t hear it.

He came to his own people, but they received him not, and their unbelief resulted in the hardening of their hearts. John 1:11-12 & Romans 11:20)

  • Today is no different. People’s unbelief is not based upon a lack of evidence but rather a stubborn and rebellious heart.

II. BELIEVERS ARE IN THEIR SALVATION AND YET ARE EXPECTED TO OUT THEIR SALVATION WITH AND TREMBLING. V. 25-31

My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.  I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.  My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. V.27-29

A. Faith in CHRIST was never meant to excuse unbelief or sinful living.

“Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” Phil. 2:12-13

  • Noone can snatch (Harpazo) his sheep out of the hands of God.

Eternal Life: (aionios) this word means perpetual or never ending. This is a great promise but even better is that early in this same discussion Jesus said that He has come to give his sheep abundant (perissos) life John 10:10 a reference to quality not just quantity.

Question: Jesus teaching that Christians are secure in their Salvation?

B. My logic for believing in eternal security: Six Reason I believe in the security of the believer:

  1. A person who has been “born again” can’t be unborn again can he? John 3:4, Titus
  2. Jesus said the following: “This is the will of the Father who sent me, that of all he has given me I should lose nothing but raise it up at the last day.” John 6:39
  3. The Apostle informs the believers in the Church at Ephesus that they have been sealed by the Holy Spirit whose role is to deliver them safely home.

“And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit,  who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession—to the praise of his glory. Eph. 1:13-14

We are “sealed by the Holy Spirit for the day of redemption. “ Ephesians 4:30

         4. Believers have been adopted into the family of God. Therefore, it seems highly improbable that people can lose                    their position in the family.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.  For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love  he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will— Eph. 1:3-5

       5. The Apostle was “convinced that He is able to guard until that Day what was entrusted to me,” Timothy 1:12

 

       6. The Apostle Paul speaks of our Salvation in the past tense that Bible scholars refer to as “positional” truth.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. 30 And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.” Romans 8:28-30

     7.  Christ is the author and finisher of our faith. Heb12:2

B. Admittedly, there are several scriptural references that should temper our attitude about our security.

Mark 3:28-29 (Blasphemy the Holy Spirit) Hebrews 6:4-6 (people who were enlightened, tasted the heavenly gift and shared in the Holy Spirit) 10:26-27 (deliberately keep on sinning) 2 Peter 2:19-22 (dogs who return to the vomit) Gal. 5:1-4 (fallen away from grace)

  • Security is not a teaching designed to give people an excuse to live however they want to, if fact, if that is what you believe you are in grave danger of great loss when you stand before the Lord.

III. JESUS WAS ULTIMATELY SLAUGHTERED LIKE A LAMB ON THE ALTAR IN THE TEMPLE BECAUSE HE WAS THE AND NOT JUST BECAUSE HE TO BE THE CHRIST.

The lamb of God was sent by the Father to take away the sins of the world. John 1:29

The Jewish leaders thought of Jesus as a blasphemer who needed to be shut up and be snuffed out. These unbelievers wanted to kill Jesus because they understood what he was claiming: Equality with God.

“We are not stoning you for any good work,” they replied, “but for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.” v. 33

A.  Jesus was clearly God in the flesh.

  • John 1:1 The Word was God
  • John 10:30 I and the Father are one.
  • John 14:19 To see me is to see the Father.
  • Isaiah 9:6 He shall be called Mighty God.
  • Titus 2:13 Our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ

B. Jesus uses a prophetic word from one their heroes, King David to dismantle the point to their weak argument:

“I said, ‘You are “gods”; you are all sons of the Most High.’  But you will die like mere mortals; you will fall like every other ruler.”  Rise up, O God, judge the earth,
for all the nations are your inheritance. Psa. 82:6-8

CONCLUSION: 

 

CAN YOU HEAR HIS VOICE?

Your Salvation depends upon it.    John 10:1-21

Intro.  This morning, I want to speak to you about, Hearing the Voice of God and its relationship to your salvation.

“Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate [Thyra: door or gate], but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep listen to his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought out all his own, he goes on ahead of them, and his sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5 But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice.”

 6 Jesus used this figure of speech, but the Pharisees did not understand what he was telling them.

7 Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. 9 I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture. 10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full. [a life of abundance]

I. OUR SALVATION IS ON THE WORD OF THE LORD AND IN FAITH:

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word about Christ.” Romans 10:17

  • Called by Name: Jesus says that “He calls his sheep by name” and not by tribe, not by family nor by nations, but by name! This calling is personal. His voice is not audible but Spiritual. His Spirit bears witness with our Spirit that we are His. And the end result is the sheep follow Him.

Example: Zacchaeus was called out of a tree by name. (Luke 19:5)

  • Effectual Calling: His sheep hear and follow!

Shepherding 101: Jesus was speaking to people who were all too familiar with sheep, shepherds and the work involved in raising them. They knew that sheep were valuable commodities. For their wool, meat and role in temple worship.

Shepherds were responsible for caring for the sheep from birth to slaughter. The shepherd would lead the sheep into pasture lands to graze by day and lead them back into the safety of the sheep pen by night. The sheep pen had only one gate in and out. And sheep, like your pets were able to recognize the voice of their shepherd. A hired hand would keep watch by night to make sure no carnivores jumped the fence for some lamb chops and would also be on the lookout for sheep thieves who would steal sheep for personal profit. [Ezekiel 34]

  • Thieves and Robbers. These so-called spiritual leaders could not hear the voice of the Shepherd because they would not. Israel was called to be gatekeepers of the God’s gracious plan of Salvation to blessed “all the peoples of the world” but they refused the messenger and rejected his word. ( I used to think the thief was the devil, and certainly his aim is to kill but these thieves are religious teachers who care only for themselves)
  • God nowadays speaks through and about His Son.

“In the past God spoke to our ancestors through the prophets at many times and in various ways,  but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, and through whom also he made the universe.  The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of his being, sustaining all things by his powerful word. After he had provided purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty in heaven.” Heb. 1:1-3

  • There are many voices out there trying to persuade us to follow their worldly and vain philosophies in regard to spiritual matters.

See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ. Colossians 2:8

II. JESUS IS THE “GOOD SHEPHERD.” v.11-15

“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.  The hired hand is not the shepherd and does not own the sheep. So when he sees the wolf coming, he abandons the sheep and runs away. Then the wolf attacks [harpazo] the flock and scatters it.  The man runs away because he is a hired hand and cares nothing for the sheep.

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me— just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep.

A. Throughout the pages of Holy Scriptures God is described has the Shepherd of his people.

  • The Lord is my shepherd and shall not want. Psa 23
  • See, the Sovereign Lord comes with power, and he rules with a mighty arm. See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him. He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young. Isa 40:10-11.
  • Hear us, Shepherd of Israel, you who lead Joseph like a flock.
    You who sit enthroned between the cherubim, shine forth. Psa 80:1

Israel from antiquity understood God to be their shepherd but when he shows up, they reject him.

He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.  Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. John 1:11-12

B. Three things about our Good Shepherd:

  1. He lays down his life for our welfare. He was not only the good shepherd but also the sacrificial lamb who came to reverse the curse. (John 1:29)
  2. He knows us personally and calls us by name.

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who CALLED you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:29

        3. He cares for us. Cast your cares upon him for he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

III. JESUS HAS ONE FLOCK NOT TWO: v.16-21

I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd.  The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again.  No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”

The Jews who heard these words were again divided.  Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and raving mad. Why listen to him?”  But others said, “These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”

A. The Jews could care less about Gentiles and had no love for the Shepherd which is obvious from their response.

  • The leaders of Israel though Jesus was a madman who was under the influence of demons.
  • Jesus speaks of “other sheep” who were to be included in the flock of God-the Church.
  • God promised Abraham to bless the all the peoples of the world through his descendants and be a light of revelation to the entire world. Gen.12:3, Luke 2:29-33
  • The Apostle John informs his readers that Jesus came to his own people but they rejected him. This rejection was the catalyst for the gentile world to be grafted in the Vine.  

“But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.” Eph. 2:13-16

B.  Our Good Shepherd was crucified according to the eternal plan of God.  

“This man was handed over to you by God’s deliberate plan and foreknowledge; and you, with the help of wicked men, put him to death by nailing him to the cross.” Acts 2:23

C.  Our Good Shepherd had and exercised His authority to be raised from the dead!

CONCLUSION: The gospel message opens to gate into the kingdom of God and into abundance here and now. Christ is the Good Shepherd who laid down his life that we would be saved. The flock is the family of God- the church that was purchased by his blood made up of both Jews & Gentiles. People who have heard the voice of their shepherd calling them out by name. People God the Father graced with Sovereign and saving faith.

 

John 9

INTRODUCTION: T

    MIRACLE IN FOCUS: John 9:1-7

     As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth.  His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, WHO SINNED, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”

     “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.   As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

    After saying this, he spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes.  “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means “Sent”). So, the man went and washed, and came home seeing.

    So, what’s the takeaway from the miracle? I want to share three things for you to consider:

    1. THE GENERATIONAL CURSE IS THE CAUSE OF AND , BUT THE CURSE GOES BACK MUCH FURTHER THAN OUR .

    The disciples question makes it rather obvious that they believed in generational curses which result in human suffering.

    They must have known about the stories of Moses and God’s conversations in regard to generational guilt and punishment.

    So, what’s the deal? Are children be punished because of our sins? Are we punished for the sins of our parents?

    Interesting story:

     Then the Lord came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the Lord. 6 And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming,, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. (Great News!)

    Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished; he punishes the children and their children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation.” Ex. 34:5-10

    What do we make of this? 

    Sin travels, from one generation to the next. We can and often do set in motion sequences of sin that are perpetuated by the next generation.

    Illustration::   

    • We have all heard people say something like, “Addiction runs in my family, divorce runs in my family, anger runs in my family, lust runs in my family. etc.. 

    Yes, sinful patterns do run in families and demand us to repent from them. 

    • In Adam we’re ALL CURSED with spiritual blindness and need Jesus to step in our path.

    Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned. Romans 5:12

    Yes, this man was born blind because of Adam’s sin. Fall is the primary cause of all sin and suffering. The reason bad things happen to good people is that we are living under the curse of sin.

    • The Prophet Jeremiah spoke of a day in his future when people will have a better understanding of generational sin and punishment.

    “The people will no longer quote this proverb: ‘The parents have eaten sour grapes, but their children’s mouths pucker at the taste.’ All people will die for their own sins—those who eat the sour grapes will be the ones whose mouths will pucker. 31:29-30 NLT

    2. THE GENERATIONAL CURSE IS THROUGH IN CHRIST. 

    “Christ redeemed us from that self-defeating, cursed life by absorbing it completely into himself. Do you remember the Scripture that says, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”? That is what happened when Jesus was nailed to the cross: He became a curse, and at the same time dissolved the curse. And now, because of that, the air is cleared and we can see that Abraham’s blessing is present and available for non-Jews, too. We are all able to receive God’s life, his Spirit, in and with us by believing—just the way Abraham received it.” Galatians 3:13-14 MSG

    • This man was certainly lacking sufficient theology to understand the doctrines of grace- Christ alone, faith alone, Grace alone. But he did know he was blind and he was willing to do whatever was asked of him to receive his sight.

    Faith in Christ removes the “curse of sin” but obedience to Him receive “go and wash” is the key to breaking the habits related to the curse.

    • Washing is a picture of repentance. Deciding to change our ways is to make room for Christ in our lives. The man born blind had a decision to make after getting mud stuck in his eye sockets. Obey the word of the Lord– Go and Wash.

    3. DELIEVERANCE FROM THE GENERATIONAL CURSE DEMANDS THE TO OUR SPIRITUAL (Sinfulness). V.35-41

    After interrogating this man, the people who witnessed the miracle and his parents, some of the Pharisees become open to the idea of the miracle, while others think the whole thing was a sham.

    • The Jewish leaders were so blinded by their bias. Mose was their teacher, but they misinterpreted his teachings. (The Sabbath was for God’s keeping). And Jesus responds by telling these blind guides that they think they “see” but are blind.
    • The story concludes with Jesus finding the man who was cast out the synagogue. He asks him if he believed in the Son of Man? That man says, I know nothing about the man, but I would sure like to believe in him. Jesus responds, I am the man! The man responds in faith and believes and begins to worship Jesus!

    • We have a choice to make, transmit our dysfunction or transition through faith and obedience.

     

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