Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 33 - Jesus was rejected
Knowing Jesus Christ (#33)
Jesus was rejected by the people of His hometown due to overfamiliarity, prejudice, resistance to change, pride that prevented them from acknowledging their need for help, and a lack of faith in the Messiah.
Luke 4:28-30 NET
28 When they heard this, all the people in the synagogue were filled with rage.
29 They got up, forced him out of the town, and brought him to the brow of the hill on which their town was built, so that they could throw him down the cliff.
30 But he passed through the crowd and went on his way.
The people of Nazareth had grown up with Jesus. This familiarity led them to see Jesus as a local boy, not as the Son of God.
They likely had preconceived notions about who the Messiah would be. Jesus' humble background and simple lifestyle did not align with their expectations.
Jesus preached about a new kingdom, a different way of living, and radical forgiveness. This challenged the people's traditional beliefs and ways of life, making them resistant to his message.
Their pride blinded them to their spiritual poverty and their need for a Savior. They were unable to see beyond Jesus' human appearance and recognize His divine nature.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Ep 32 - Jesus' 2nd miracle
Knowing Jesus Christ (#32)
Jesus' second miracle was the healing of an official's son. His emphasis on believing even without seeing teaches the importance of trusting God and His word, even when things seem to contradict human experience.
John 4:46-48 NET
46 Now he came again to Cana in Galilee where he had made the water wine. In Capernaum there was a certain royal official whose son was sick.
47 When he heard that Jesus had come back from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and begged him to come down and heal his son, who was about to die.
48 So Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders you will never believe!”
The healing of the boy from a distance highlights Jesus' ability to transcend physical limitations. It demonstrates his divine power and authority, as well as his compassion for those in need.
Jesus' emphasis on believing without seeing underscores the importance of faith as a foundation for a relationship with God. It suggests that true faith is not based on tangible evidence or personal experience, but on trust in God's word and promises.
The story serves as a call to discipleship. The official's faith, though initially hesitant, led to the healing of his son. This suggests that those who trust in Jesus and follow his teachings can expect to experience God's blessings.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 31
Knowing Jesus Christ (#31)
Despite knowing He would be rejected by His own people, Jesus still returned to Galilee as prophesied. In doing so, He demonstrated God's unconditional love.
John 4:43-45 NET
43 After the two days he departed from there to Galilee.
44 (For Jesus himself had testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country.)
45 So when he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him because they had seen all the things he had done in Jerusalem at the feast (for they themselves had gone to the feast).
Jesus' ministry was intricately tied to Old Testament prophecies. His return to Nazareth, His hometown, fulfilled messianic prophecies about the prophet being without honor in his own country, as written in Isaiah 53 verse 3.
His return to Galilee showcased His compassion and willingness to offer salvation to all, regardless of their response.
While many rejected Him, there were also those who believed. Jesus' presence in Galilee offered an opportunity for faith to grow and develop among those who were open to His message.
To be a true disciple of Christ, a person must not simply believe in Him based on others' testimonies. There is a need for personal engagement with Scripture, prayerful seeking of wisdom and understanding, and a demonstrable transformation of life.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ Episode 30
Knowing Jesus Christ (#30)
Jesus willingly accepted the Samaritan's invitation to stay with them, demonstrating His availability to all people. His divine authority directly impacted people's lives.
John 4:40-42 NET
40 So when the Samaritans came to him, they began asking him to stay with them. He stayed there two days,
41 and because of his word many more believed.
42 They said to the woman, “No longer do we believe because of your words, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this one really is the Savior of the world.”
Jesus' willingness to engage in conversation with the Samaritans breaks down social and religious barriers. This sets a precedent for Christians to reach out to people from all walks of life.
The rapid growth of the Samaritan church emphasizes the transformative power of the Gospel in building vibrant Christian communities.
Jesus' identity as the Savior of the world challenges Christians to embrace a global perspective and engage in cross-cultural missions. His encounter with the Samaritans serves as a model for Christian mission and outreach, inspiring believers to share the Gospel with compassion and inclusivity.
The passage encapsulates the interconnectedness of personal faith, evangelism, and community. It underscores the belief that every Christian is called to be a witness, sharing the transformative power of Christ with others.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 29 - Jesus t eahes about sowing and reaping
Knowing Jesus Christ number 29
Jesus draws a parallel between the agricultural processes of sowing and reaping and the spiritual work of evangelism and discipleship. Everyone is a co-worker no one does all the work alone.
This meditation is taken from John chapter 4 verses 37 to 39 which states that:
"For in this instance the saying is true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’"
"I sent you to reap what you did not work for; others have labored and you have entered into their labor."
"Now many Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the report of the woman who testified, “He told me everything I ever did.”"
Essentially, Jesus is encouraging his disciples, and by extension, all believers, to participate in the ongoing work of God's kingdom, regardless of whether we are directly involved in the initial stages of evangelism.
The disciples were surprised by the immediate response of the Samaritans to the gospel message.
Jesus explains that while they had not initiated the groundwork for this harvest, they were still called to reap the benefits of the spiritual seeds that had been sown by others
This passage encourages Christians to be both sowers and reapers, recognizing that the work of evangelism is a collaborative effort that involves the combined efforts of many believers over time.
God Loves you my Friend.
May God Bless and Keep you always!
You may now take few minutes to pray.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 28
Knowing Jesus Christ (#28)
When His disciples urge Him to eat, Jesus replies that He has a different kind of food: fulfilling God's will and completing His mission.It's a reminder that true satisfaction comes from serving God and sharing the Gospel.
John 4:32-34 NET
32 But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.”
33 So the disciples began to say to one another, “No one brought him anything to eat, did they?”
34 Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of the one who sent me and to complete his work.
The disciples, concerned with Jesus' physical well-being, urge Him to eat. However, Jesus reveals a deeper spiritual reality: His nourishment comes from fulfilling God's will.
While physical sustenance is essential, Jesus suggests that spiritual nourishment is far more fulfilling and sustaining.
Like Jesus, Christians should prioritize spiritual growth over material possessions or physical comfort. Regular Bible study, prayer, and fellowship are essential for spiritual nourishment.
True satisfaction and fulfillment come from serving God and others. Engaging in acts of service, sharing the Gospel, and building Christian community are vital aspects of the Christian life.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 26
Knowing Jesus Christ (#26)
Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman shows the impact of knowing Jesus Christ. He is the Living Water, anyone who would truly accept Him as Lord and Saviour will live with Him in eternity.
John 4:14-15 NHEB
14 But whoever drinks some of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again, but the water that I will give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up to eternal life.”
15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, so that I will not be thirsty or have to come here to draw water.”
Jesus Christ is the ultimate source of life and fulfillment.
Jesus' conversation with the Samaritan woman exemplifies an effective evangelistic approach. He initiates a conversation with someone outside His social and religious circle, demonstrating that the Gospel is for everyone, regardless of background or perceived differences.
The conversation underscores the universal human longing for spiritual fulfillment. Jesus offers 'living water,' symbolizing His spiritual presence and the Holy Spirit, which quenches the deepest thirsts of the soul.
The dialogue emphasizes the importance of a personal relationship with God. Jesus focuses on internal spiritual transformation rather than external religious practices.
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Life of Christ - Episode 25 - Jesus preaches more, as John was in prison
Knowing Jesus Christ (#25)
As John was cast into prison, Jesus has become more prominent in His preaching about the Gospel. He declares that the prophesy about the Messiah has been fulfilled.
Mark 1:14-15 NHEB
14 Now after John was imprisoned, Jesus went into Galilee and proclaimed the gospel of God.
15 He said, “The time is fulfilled and the kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the gospel!”
The given Bible verses emphasize the arrival of the long-awaited Messiah and the commencement of a new era.
Jesus calls for repentance, a turning away from sin and toward God. This is coupled with a call to believe in the gospel, the good news of God's saving grace through Jesus Christ.
The Kingdom of God, often misunderstood as a future event, is presented here as a present reality, inaugurated by Jesus' life, death, and resurrection.
This passage underscores the urgency of responding to God's offer of salvation. It serves as a foundation for Christian faith and living, inspiring believers to share the gospel and live lives that reflect the values of God's Kingdom.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 24
Knowing Jesus Christ (#24)
John's declaration, "He must increase, but I must decrease," is a humble acknowledgment of Jesus' divinity and pre-existence.
John 3:29-31 NHEB
29 He who has the bride is the bridegroom; but the friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly because of the bridegroom’s voice. So this joy of mine is now complete.
30 He must increase, but I must decrease.
31 He who comes from above is above all. He who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks of the earth. He who comes from heaven is above all.
John's testimony powerfully affirms the supremacy of Jesus Christ. The passage separated the roles of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ, emphasizing the Lord's divine authority and the centrality of faith in Him for salvation. This understanding has profound implications for both the Church and individual believers.
The Church, as the body of Christ, is called to submit to Christ's leadership. This involves adhering to His teachings and purpose. Worship, offered in spirit and truth, reflects a genuine heart attitude aligned with God's revealed will.
On an individual level, Christians are called to submit to Jesus' authority in all areas of life. This encompasses thoughts, words, and deeds, requiring the surrender of personal desires and ambitions to align with His will. Ultimately, Jesus is the only way to salvation; there is no other name given by which humans can be saved.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Ep 23 - Jesus at Judean region
Knowing Jesus Christ (#23)
Jesus Christ was with His disciples as they baptized many people in the Judean region. It was the disciples who performed the water baptisms, not Jesus Christ Himself.
John 3:22-24 NHEB, c.ref John 4:1-2
22 After these things, Jesus came with his disciples into the land of Judea. He stayed there with them, and was baptizing.
23 Now John also was baptizing in Aenon near Salim, because there was much water there. They came, and were baptized.
24 For John was not yet thrown into prison.
Jesus' primary focus was on proclaiming the Kingdom of God and fulfilling His redemptive mission. Rather than engaging extensively in water baptism, He entrusted this task to His disciples.
This strategic decision underscored the Church's essential role in continuing His ministry after His departure. By delegating this responsibility, Jesus not only conserved His time and energy for His core mission but also prevented potential divisions among believers that might arise from preferential treatment.
Moreover, it served as a powerful demonstration of His trust in the disciples' capacity to carry out their roles as leaders and representatives of the nascent Christian community.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 22
Knowing Jesus Christ (#22)
Jesus Christ, being the only begotten Son of God, is divine. Salvation depends on believing in Him, not merely acknowledging His existence but having faith in Him.
John 3:16-18 NHEB
16 For God loved the world in this way: He gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him would not perish, but have everlasting life.
17 For God did not send his Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world should be saved through him.
18 The one who believes in him is not judged, but the one who does not believe has been judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
God's love for the world, as expressed in the gift of His Son, underscores Jesus' role as a sacrificial lamb, taking away the sins of the world.
Eternal life is a gift available only through faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing His exclusive role as Savior. The word "only" highlights Jesus' singular position as God's Son, differentiating Him from other created beings.
These verses offer a clear declaration of Jesus' divine nature and His central position in God's plan for salvation. It is a clear and powerful message about God's love, Jesus Christ's sacrifice, and the choice we face.
May we respond to this message with faith and gratitude, trusting in Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 21
Knowing Jesus Christ (#21)
Jesus teaches that being born again is essential for entering the Kingdom of God. This is achieved through repentance, water baptism, and the reception of the Holy Spirit.
John 3:4-5 NET
4 Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? He cannot enter his mother’s womb and be born a second time, can he?”
5 Jesus answered, “I tell you the solemn truth, unless a person is born of water and spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
Jesus' response to Nicodemus emphasizes the necessity of both "water and the Spirit" for people to enter into God’s Kingdom.
While water represents the outward act, the "Spirit" is the inward work of God in regenerating the heart. When someone hears God’s word and their heart is pierced through by it, the Holy Spirit enables a person to believe in Christ and to repent of their sins, preparing them for baptism.
Jesus Christ gave a clear mandate for spiritual rebirth, emphasizing the inseparable connection between faith, repentance, baptism, and the work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life. This passage is a foundation in the understanding of salvation and Christian discipleship.
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Life and Ministry of Jesus Christ - Episode 20
Knowing Jesus Christ (#20)
Jesus' body was the true dwelling place of God. The Church, the collective body indwelt by the Holy Spirit, is the continuation of God's spiritual temple.
John 2:19-21 NHEB
19 Jesus replied, “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up again.”
20 Then the Jewish leaders said to him, “This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and are you going to raise it up in three days?”
21 But Jesus was speaking about the temple of his body.
Jesus was speaking literally about His physical body when He said, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.”
This passage highlights Jesus' full humanity, emphasizing that He experienced death as a physical being.
Jesus was declaring about His resurrection, which occurred three days after His crucifixion, which is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, affirming Jesus' deity and victory over sin and death.
So, following on the teaching of the Old Testament temple as a place where God's presence was manifested, Churches of Christ understands that the church is the new dwelling place of God. This is in accordance to what is written in Ephesians 2:19-22.
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Knowing Jesus Christ (#19)
Jesus' cleansing of the temple symbolizes a cleansing of the heart and mind, emphasizing internal purity and devotion over external religious rituals.
John 2:13-15 NHEB
13 The Jewish Passover was near, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.
14 And he found in the temple those who sold oxen, sheep, and doves, and the money changers sitting.
15 And he made a whip of cords, and threw all out of the temple, both the sheep and the oxen; and he poured out the changers’ money, and overthrew their tables.
The Cleansing of the Temple, while the literal act was dramatic, its focus shifts from the physical act of driving out merchants to the spiritual implications.
The temple, representing the human heart or the church, was polluted by commercialism and ritualism, symbolizing spiritual impurity.
The presence of money changers and animal sellers within the temple is seen as a commercialization of worship. This is directly opposed to the spiritual focus that should be at the heart of religious practices.
By cleansing the temple, Jesus restored its purpose as a house of prayer and worship. This symbolizes the restoration of a pure and genuine relationship between God and humanity.
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Life of Christ - Episode 18 - Jesus Started His ministry in Galilee
Knowing Jesus Christ (#18)
Much of Jesus' early public ministry unfolded in Galilee, where there were Jews, Samaritans, and Gentiles. It was here that He called His first disciples, performed many miracles, and began to teach His revolutionary message.
Luke 4:14-15 NET (c.Ref John 2:12)
14 Then Jesus, in the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and news about him spread throughout the surrounding countryside.
15 He began to teach in their synagogues and was praised by all.
Galilee, a region populated by fishermen, farmers, and ordinary people, served as the homebase for Jesus' public ministry. This setting allowed Him to interact with a diverse population, revealing His inclusive message and His commitment to serving the marginalized.
As a trade hub, its influence extended beyond its geographical boundaries, it was strategic in shaping the direction of Jesus' ministry.
Christians can draw inspiration from how Jesus strategically maximised His ministry work in Galilee.
As Christians, we need to recognize the importance of community engagement, serving those in need, and modeling inclusivity within our own spheres of influence, within our society, workplace, schools, or business environment.
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Knowing Jesus Christ (#17)
By turning the water into best wine, Jesus not only honored His mother but also revealed His divine glory and inaugurated His public ministry. This action aligned perfectly with God's overall plan.
John 2:3-5 WEB
3 When the wine ran out, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no wine.”
4 Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does that have to do with you and me? My hour has not yet come.”
5 His mother said to the servants, “Whatever he says to you, do it.”
The first miracle performed by Jesus at the wedding in Cana was an act of compassion and love, reflecting the heart of God. It demonstrated Jesus' care for the needs of others, even when it might not have been part of His immediate plan.
God desires harmonious human relationships. Jesus' respect for Mary is a model of how we should honor our parents and family members.
While fully divine, Jesus also experienced human emotions, relationships, and limitations. His response to Mary is a testament to His humanity and His role as a son honoring his mother.
The Kingdom of God, which Jesus inaugurated, is characterized by love, compassion, and the meeting of human needs. This is evident in Jesus' ultimate decision to perform the miracle.
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Knowing Jesus Christ (#16)
Jesus called the third and fourth Apostles, Philip and Nathaniel, where both demonstrated their faith in different ways. Philip immediately had faith in Jesus without hesitation. While Nathaniel initially expresses doubt but ultimately comes to believe in Jesus after a personal encounter.
John 1:43-45 NET
43 On the next day Jesus wanted to set out for Galilee. He found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.”
44 (Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the town of Andrew and Peter.)
45 Philip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the law, and the prophets also wrote about – Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”
The contrast of Philip and Nathaniel’s responses effectively showcases the diverse paths to faith and the growth process that many people undergo.
Jesus was deliberately constructing His twelve disciples whom Philip and Nathaniel were essential pieces in this puzzle.
Their calling highlights the process of becoming a disciple of Jesus Christ. That is, hearing the invitation, responding to the the inivitation, and deepening in the faith.
Philip's introduction of Nathaniel to Jesus highlights the importance of personal witness. Sharing one's faith in Christ is instrumental in leading others to Christ.
Ultimately, the calling of these disciples, like all of God's actions, is rooted in His sovereign plan. He knows the hearts of individuals and chooses them for His purposes.
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Knowing Jesus Christ (#15)
Andrew, upon recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, immediately shares this life-changing revelation with his brother, Simon, whose name was later changed by Jesus into Peter. This highlights the sovereign nature of God's call and the transformative power of His name.
John 1:40-41 NET
40 Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, was one of the two disciples who heard what John said and followed Jesus.
41 He first found his own brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah!” (which is translated Christ).
42 Andrew brought Simon to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon, the son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).
The naming of Andrew and Peter as the first two Apostles marks a pivotal point in the foundation of the Christian church. This passage describes the initial steps in Jesus' formation of His twelve apostles.
Andrew's sharing of Christ with his brother Simon serves as a model for Christians regarding the importance of sharing the Gospel.
The renaming of Simon to Peter is seen as a symbolic representation of a new identity, a prophetic indication of leadership, and a call to spiritual transformation.
The Lord's calling of Andrew and Simon is a fundamental passage that highlights the significance of personal evangelism, divine authority, and the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ.
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Knowing Jesus Christ (#14)
The descent of the Holy Spirit, a divine being, upon Jesus underscores His divine nature. Christians are called to believe in Jesus as both fully God and fully human. Jesus alone is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.
John 1:32-34 NET
32 Then John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending like a dove from heaven, and it remained on him.
33 And I did not recognize him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘The one on whom you see the Spirit descending and remaining – this is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’
34 I have both seen and testified that this man is the Chosen One of God.”
John the Baptist, who had been preparing the way for the Messiah, recognizes this event as a definitive sign. He declares Jesus as the "Son of God." This testimony of John the baptist is a cornerstone for affirming the divinity of Jesus Christ.
The emphasis on the Holy Spirit's presence and power is crucial. Christians are to recognize the Spirit as a comforter, guide, and empowerer. The baptism of Jesus signifies the beginning of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon believers, enabling them to live a Christian life.
John’s testimony is a foundational passage for Christians, offering insights into the nature of God, the person of Jesus, and the role of the Holy Spirit. It serves as a constant source of inspiration and motivation for the Christian life.
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