With Perseverance - March 31 Readings: Acts 13-14, To the Ends of the Earth

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading: Acts 13-14

Through the Bible Readings: Joshua 5-6, Luke 4:16–44, Psalm 40:7–13, Proverbs 10:3-4

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

The great church at Antioch, the church God infused with a heart to break out of the Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria part, and get into the "to the ends of the earth" part of God's purpose of grace, was worshiping God when suddenly the Spirit of God spoke to them, clearly and specifically. He told them to set apart two men, Barnabas and Saul, for the mission work he had planned for them. They would be God's chosen servants to begin the worldwide spread of the gospel.

So, Barnabas and Saul, with Mark (for a while), headed off to the Galatians region to tell people about the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. They encountered some tough times, saw the powerful work of Christ, were opposed by the party of the circumcision who didn't like that Gentiles were coming to Christ and continued to break new ground in kingdom work.

Devotional: With Perseverance 

The most amazing thing about Paul's ministry was not the rhetorical force of his sermons or even the miracles that he performed. These were all impressive, but what leaps out is the perseverance he demonstrated in his work.

In his first missionary journey, he ran into trouble pretty much everywhere he went. He'd go into a city where no one had heard of Jesus, proclaim Christ, establish a church, then suffer a backlash from either the Jewish leaders or Gentile powers-that-were who found his ministry threatening. He'd leave that town (often with a lynch mob close behind) then move on to the next town where the cycle would start over again.

Time after time, city after city, Paul experienced opposition, insult, and persecution, but he just kept going. He kept preaching, kept contending, kept serving, regardless of how much force the enemy brought against him.

I was especially struck with Acts 14:21-22. After Paul had been chased out of all of these towns, this is what he did.

After they had evangelized that town and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, to Iconium, and to Antioch, strengthening the disciples by encouraging them to continue in the faith and by telling them, “It is necessary to pass through many troubles on our way into the kingdom of God.”

He went back. He returned to places that had run him off and continued to serve Jesus there. It is not an accident that he taught the disciples that it was necessary to "pass through many troubles" in the service of Christ.

Perseverance is a key to successful ministry. It certainly was the key to Paul's. He committed himself to the service of Jesus Christ and when things got ugly, when things got hard, when people turned against him, when the forces of darkness were arrayed to stop him, he just kept on going.

Father, may I be one who perseveres in your service!

Think and Pray:

Do you give up when you are opposed, when things don't go your way?
Remind yourself that every work of God is opposed and that if you are doing God's work you will receive opposition. Expect.it.

For Me and Mine - March 30 Readings: Acts 8:1-4, Acts 11 The Jerusalem Problem

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  Acts 8:1-4, Acts 11

Through the Bible Readings: Joshua 3-4, Luke 4:1–15, Psalm 40:1–6, Proverbs 10:1-2

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

In the Great Commission, Jesus told the disciples to go and to make disciples of all nations. In Acts 1:8 he made it clear that they would be witnesses in Jerusalem - their home, the city they lived in. They would also be witnesses in Judea and Samaria - the ancient nation of Israel, their own country.  But Jesus also told them that they were to be witnesses to the ends of the earth.

There was one problem with being witnesses to the ends of the earth - the people at the ends of the earth were Gentiles and they just didn't care much about them.

God sent Jesus to the cross to redeem individuals. He loves each of us individually so much he gave his Son to die for us. But the Bible also tells us that God sent Jesus to redeem One Body out of all the nations on earth. Rev 5:9-10 records the song of praise of the 24 elders - representing the church.

You are worthy to take the scroll
and to open its seals,
because you were slaughtered,
and you purchased people
for God by your blood
from every tribe and language
and people and nation.
 You made them a kingdom
and priests to our God,
and they will reign on the earth.

Jesus will receive heavenly praise for ransoming a people from every tribe and language and people and nation on earth and uniting them into one "kingdom." 

The problem is that even the newly empowered Apostles didn't seem to catch the heart of God for the people of the whole world. Acts shows their sacrifice and bold testimony among the Jews, but they never made even the smallest effort to reach beyond their city. 

God allowed persecution in Jerusalem that scattered the church into Samaria, through Philip. Then he saved Saul of Tarsus and called him to be an Apostle to the Gentiles and raised up the church in Antioch to be the sending church. Even then, those in Jerusalem often resisted the spread of the gospel among the Gentiles. 

The lesson here? It is the easiest thing, even for godly, Christ-loving, Jesus-devoted, gospel-faithful people to develop an inward focus. Even the great Jerusalem church fell prey to it and God had to take extreme measures to break down the barriers and take the gospel to the ends of the earth. 

God loves America and he loves Americans. But he loves the world just as much - Russians, Chinese, Africans. And Muslims. Yes, God loves Muslims as much as he loves Americans. The early church allowed its prejudice to overwhelm its godly purpose. We must never allow that. We must never allow racial or political prejudice to interfere with the purposes of God in Jesus Christ - to use us to be witnesses not only in Jerusalem and in Judea and Samaria, but to the ends of the earth. 

Devotional: For Me and Mine

"I've got to do for me and mine."

Those are the words that are repeated in that great cinematic classic, "O Brother, Where Art Thou?" It reveals the unfortunate heart that so many, even those in the church have; an unfortunate attitude that assumes that while God loves everyone, we are his favorites! He loves us (white?) Americans just a little more than he loves anyone else.

Have you ever read a passage of scripture for the 100th time and then seen something you had never seen before? I don't know exactly how many times I'd read Acts 11, but it had likely been dozens of times. I've read it, studied it, and preached it. But recently as I was studying it again I noticed verse 19 for the very first time. I don't know if someone just added that verse recently or if I'd just missed it before.

Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews.

The believers scattered in Acts 8, after Stephen was stoned to death, scattered and shared the gospel. I knew that part. I'd preach about that. "From great persecution came the spread of the gospel." But what I'd never noticed were the last five words of that passage. 

"...to no one except Jews." 

Jesus couldn't have been clearer that the gospel was for the world. His command in the Great Commission was plain and his purpose in Acts 1:8 could not have been clearer - "...to the ends of the earth." The gospel was meant to go everywhere and be preached to everyone. Jew. Gentile. Man. Woman. Rich. Poor. Slave. Free. Everyone. They got most of that in the early church, but they absolutely ignored the part about "to the ends of the earth." Even when they were kicked out of the city of Jerusalem by persecution and they went out to share the gospel, they only went and told their countrymen, their fellow Jews. 

The fact that the Gentiles were dying without Christ and they couldn't care less. Their hearts were passionate that all of the JEWS would come to Christ. The Gentiles could just go to hell. Literally. How could someone love Jesus that much and yet not care that Gentiles were without Christ? It is one of the great mysteries of Christian history. 

Racism is absolutely contrary to Christianity. Jesus died to break down racial barriers and to unite us in one church, in one Body. Racism, discrimination, segregation - they divide what Christ has united and it is an insult to the Cross, an offense to the Blood of Christ. 

• When we are content to stay in our little circle of friends and family and ignore the lostness of the world, we offend the blood of Christ. 
• When we fail to care about the lost and dying world, we offend the blood of Christ. 
• When we look at certain people, or types of people as worthless, useless, or beyond redemption, we offend the blood of Christ. 
• When we care more about the death and destruction of Muslims than their salvation, we offend the blood of Christ. 
• When we judge other races as less worthy or valuable, we offend the blood of Christ. 
• When we advocate racial superiority we offend the blood of Christ. 

Jesus died to redeem individuals. 

He also died to tear down human walls and bring those individuals into one body, united in grace. 

Father, help me to be faithful to your Great Commission and the purposes you established in Acts 1:8....to the ends of the earth!

Think and Pray:

Are you fully invested in God's mission to bring Christ's name to the ends of the earth?
Is your life a part of God's great worldwide purpose? 

ONE Thing Changed - March 29 Readings: Acts 2, Pentecostal Power

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  Acts 2

Through the Bible Readings: Joshua 1-2, Luke 3:23–38, Psalm 39:7–13, Proverbs 9:17-18

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

This is the birthday of the church of Jesus Christ, as the promised and long-awaited Spirit came on the church in the Upper Room and everything changed. The disciples suddenly were transformed to become the greatest missionary force in world history.

It is interesting to note that they spent over 3 years with Jesus and did not understand. They didn't get it. They loved Jesus and were willing to leave all to follow him, but they could not do what they should, understand what they were taught, or know the power of Christ they saw. '

But suddenly at Pentecost, the Spirit of God entered them and the words of Jesus came true. "It is better for you if I go away," he said. When he went away the Spirit would come and things would be better.

The Spirit of God in us is better even than Jesus with us. It is hard to believe, but Jesus said it and the facts bore it out. Jesus is the Savior and Lord we love, but it is the inner work of the Spirit who helps us experience Christ and understand what he is doing in us. 

WARNING: This devotional is a little longer than most of mine. 

Devotional: ONE Thing Changed 

Let me introduce you to two groups of men.

The Twelve Disciples

If a corporate analyst had presented a report on Jesus’ “organization” in the early days, it would have included a scathing section on the leadership selection and training process. Jesus selected twelve men to live with him, walk with him, learn from him and lead when he was gone, and for the entire time he was with them, there is no evidence that any of them ever got much of anything right. They were low-class fishermen, tax collectors, and political radicals.

And they were the spiritual equivalent of the Keystone Cops, or perhaps the Twelve Stooges – good-hearted and sincere, but incompetent. They bumbled and stumbled their way through the ministry of Jesus Christ. Their de facto leader, Peter, spent most of those days with his size 12 sandal firmly in his mouth.

Read the gospel stories. I love Matthew 16:5-7. Jesus warns the disciples against the leaven of the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and they put their heads together, worried because they had forgotten t bring bread. They never got it. Jesus clearly predicted his death and resurrection, but it took them by surprise. Peter actually tried to stop the crucifixion by taking up a sword and lopping off a servant’s ear.

Jesus surrounded himself with confused, slow-on-the-uptake bozos who never understood what he was saying and who always seemed to do the wrong thing. The only thing they did right was to devote themselves to Jesus.

The Twelve Apostles

Then, there is a second group of men. They, like the first group of men, were unlearned and ignorant but committed to Jesus. But this group of men, called Apostles, turned the world upside down in a generation. They were men of wisdom and insight, who understood the message of Christ and proclaimed it clearly. Within about 35 years, they took the gospel throughout most of the Roman Empire. They wrote letters that are still devoured today for their spiritual truth.

Their leader stood before a crowd of people and proclaimed the mysteries of Christ and 3000 souls entered the Kingdom. A sermon like no other.

Two Truths

Two groups of men who were nothing alike. I would make two observations about them.

1) They were the same men. Well, Judas checked out and was replaced, but by and large, these were the same men. Peter was still Peter but he was a completely different man. John and James had not been replaced, but they had been unalterably altered.

2) Only one thing changed. As best I can tell, only one thing happened to turn the disciples into apostles. One. They did not go to seminary and get an advanced degree in systematic theology. They did not get a box with a new video curriculum from Lifeway that was going to revolutionize their ministry. They had no revelation about a new theology.

And they turned the world upside down.

Why? Because Jesus baptized them in the Holy Spirit and fire, just as John had predicted. That was the only discernible difference between the two groups. The fullness of the Holy Spirit. Jesus told them to wait until they were endued with power from on high. The Holy Spirit came on them, they were filled with the Spirit and power and nothing was ever the same again.

The disciples never understood anything. The apostles understood the deep things of God. The disciples were confused about the purposes of God. The apostles understood God’s agenda and served it. The disciples struggled for supremacy and greatness. The apostles laid down their lives for Christ and for others in Christ’s name. The disciples were timid and afraid. The apostles were bold and powerful. The disciples failed in much of what they did. The Apostles succeeded in doing God’s work.

We now have the Holy Spirit dwelling in us. We have access to all the riches of Christ, the wisdom of Christ, the power of Christ, and the presence of Christ – all because of the work of the Spirit within.

Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me. Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me. Break me, melt me, mold me, fill me. Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on me.  

Think and Pray:

How is the Spirit working in your life? What changes is he making?
How have you been transformed since your salvation?

Gospel Warrants - March 28 Readings: Matthew 28:16-20, Acts 1:4-11 Final Instructions

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  Matthew 28:16-20, Acts 1:4-11

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 33-34, Luke 3:1–22, Psalm 39:1-6, Proverbs 9:13-16

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

A man's last words are often imbued with significance, power, and great impact. Jesus' are among the greatest of all. He spoke to his disciples and gave what is known as the Great Commission and then just before he ascended into heaven he gave his final words, promising the coming of the Spirit's power.

The Great Commission sets the marching orders for the church, putting before us our duty to go into all the world and teach people to follow Christ. It also promises us the one thing that God consistently promised to those he sent on overwhelming tasks. "I am with you." We must go into this sinful world with only the promise that he will go with us.

In Acts 1, we see that Jesus' disciples were still not getting it. They were still expecting him to "restore the kingdom" - to set up an earthly kingdom, throw off Rome and establish himself as king (with them, of course, as his chief men). Nothing he taught them seemed to sink in, so he told them to do the one thing that would make a difference - to wait in Jerusalem until the Spirit came upon them. As soon as the Spirit fell, they understood and became powerful servants of Christ.

Devotional: Gospel Warrants

"But, I don't believe in Jesus."
"That may be your truth, but it is not my truth."

We live in a subjective world. Truth is judged from my own perspective. What I think is right is right and what I think is wrong is wrong. The greatest wrong, in our world, is to try to impose our own reality or convictions on another. Who am I to tell you what is right for you, after all?

But Jesus blew the concept of relative truth and subjective reality out of the water when he told his disciples, in Matthew 28:18, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me." Jesus died for our sins and purchased us with his blood. He then rose up from the dead as Lord over all the earth. Philippians 2 tells us that "God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name." At that name that was give to Jesus, "every knee will bow and every tongue confess..."

Jesus is Lord, the rightful boss, ruler, sovereign, the king over this world. He has the absolute right to rule over my life and yours. I don't get to choose a way; you don't get to choose a way. Jesus is the way. I don't get to define truth for myself and you don't get to decide for yourself what truth is. Jesus is truth. You do not have the right to make your life what you want it to be and I don't have the right to run my own life as I see fit. Jesus is life and he won the right to rule our lives when he died and rose from the dead to give us new and eternal lives. Jesus is Lord.

When a police officer has a warrant, he has the full weight and authority of the government behind him. He has the right to do what he does because the government has told him to do so. Search your house? If the warrant tells him to. Break down your door? If the warrant allows it. Take you into custody? If that is what the warrant says. The representative can do what the warrant authorizes him to do.

You and I have a warrant, a gospel warrant. If I encounter someone who does not believe in God, or does not accept our faith or believes that all religions are equally true, does that stymie me? Does that prevent me from telling God's truth? It should not. I have a duly authorized warrant for the spiritual arrest of sinners. "All authority has been given to me," Jesus said. Then he told us to go and to proclaim the truth about him and to make disciples, to call people who are living in sin to follow him. We do not coerce sinners, or cajole them, or manipulate them. No. But we can and we do preach truth to them - regardless of their response or their attitude toward Christ.

We do not need permission to proclaim Christ. We have government warrants - from the ruler of the entire universe. He has authorized us to tell sinners that Jesus is Lord, that he paid for their sins, and that there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.

Stop apologizing. Stop hemming and hawing. And for the love of Jesus Christ, start going and start proclaiming!

At the risk of being a little cheesy - you have NO right to remain silent!

Father, may I, may we, use the great authority you have given us and exalt Christ, proclaiming the truth of Christ's death and resurrection to a lost and needy world. 

Think and Pray:

Do you walk in fear in this world, or in the confidence of Christ, remembering that you have gospel warrants to preach Christ?
Consider the commands of Christ in these passages. Are you living out these claims? 

Everything Changed - March 27 Readings: Luke 24, Jesus Rises Again

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:   Luke 24

If you want to spend a little more time reading today, look at the resurrection account in each of the four Gospels. 

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 31-32, Luke 2:22–52, Psalm 38:16–22, Proverbs 9:11-12

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

As the crucifixion began the ultimate showdown and changed the course of world history, the resurrection was the culmination of the process. It demonstrated the pleasure of God on the sacrifice of Christ, his acceptance of Christ's payment for our sins. Everything in our lives and in this world changes because Jesus rose from the dead.

In fact, though we when we present the Gospel we always focus on Christ's death for our sins (a key truth - never to be forgotten) the presentations in the NT, especially in Acts, tend to focus on the resurrection of Christ as the central truth of our faith.

Devotional: Everything Changed 

Consider the sadness the three ladies felt as they made their way to the tomb. Jesus had more than just the Twelve following him; several women had joined his cause and were devoted to him. The two Marys and Salome headed to the tomb early on Sunday morning, likely to do what they had not been able to do after Jesus' death - clean and prepare Jesus' body for his burial (unaware Joseph and Nicodemus had already done it). They had a pure and holy love for him and were determined to perform this one last act of service to the One for whom they grieved.

But when they arrived, something was not right. The stone was gone and no one was there guarding the tomb. They walked in and saw a young man in a white robe sitting on a stone slab to the right.

He is not here. He has risen! (Luke 24:6)

Everything was changed. Jesus had done many wondrous things in his life, and these women had witnessed many of them. But this was the greatest act of all. To conquer sickness and disease is impressive, but to defeat death itself, to break those iron bonds and rise again - that is beyond words.  What glory! What power!

And the fact of the resurrection changed everything. They went to the tomb with broken hearts, but they left rejoicing. They went in defeat and left in victory. Jesus altered everything from history itself to the course of these three women's hearts. 

Everything changed because Jesus rose from the dead. You and I were sinners, condemned before God and awaiting an eternal hell, without hope. But Jesus rose again. Because Jesus rose, you have hope today; an eternal, unending and glorious hope! This world is scary and sinful. But Jesus rose again. One day, Jesus will rule this world in an awesome peace and all will be well. You struggle with sin today and sometimes you feel that it will never change. But Jesus rose from the dead. He will raise you up and utterly redeem you from your sin. If death could not conquer him nothing can stop him. Perhaps your days are hard and sad and joyless, but Jesus rose from the dead. He can sustain you with his joy and power whatever this world throws at you. 

We sometimes forget the second half of the crucifixion equation. Jesus died for our sins. Amen. Glory, hallelujah!  And we were crucified with Christ. We die to self daily. We were buried with Christ by baptism into death. But that is only half of the story. 

Jesus rose from the dead. "He is not here. He has risen!" He was raised to a new life, a glorified body. But do not forget the second half of the baptismal verse. Yes, we were buried with Christ by baptism into death. But we were also "raised to walk a new life in him." We have been crucified with Christ, yes. "Nevertheless I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me." 

When we died with Christ we were born again to a new life. We became new creations. We have not experienced fully the glory that will be ours in heaven one day, but we are the dwelling of God. We display his glory. 

Oh, my friend, things may look bad, but Jesus is alive and you have been raised with him to a life of glory and power. Do not despair. Do not give up. Do not be downcast Do not be stressed out. Jesus is alive!

Father, you raised Jesus from the dead and you raised me with him. I thank you for the life you gave me in Christ, a new life of joy, power, peace and eternal significance. I rejoice in him, in your Son, my Savior. 

Think and Pray:

Consider this - what in your life is different because Jesus rose from the dead? Everything should be, but what is? 

Sorrowful Saturday - March 26 Readings: Matthew 27:57-66, John 19:38-42, Jesus is Buried – His Death is REAL

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  Matthew 27:57-66, John 19:38-42

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 29-30, Luke 2:1–21, Psalm 38:9–15, Proverbs 9:10

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

1 Corinthians 15:3-8 defines the Gospel that brings salvation to sinners very carefully. There are two truths that are defined as "of first importance" - truths that matter more than any other. Each truth is established by evidence as being historical and verified.

Christianity is not a faith of your feelings but rooted in facts. God created the world, chose a people for himself, worked through them to bless the world and to prepare for the birth of the Messiah, the baby born in Bethlehem. Jesus was born of a woman who had not been with a man, lived a sinless and perfect life, and then died on the cross. The Bible does not present this as "my reality" or "your truth" but as "THE truth." All of biblical theology is rooted in historical fact. The two key facts of the Gospel are rooted in history.

First, Jesus died on the Cross for my sins and yours. We read that story yesterday. Sometimes, we overlook the importance of the burial of Jesus, but it cannot be ignored. Jesus really died. He didn't swoon and then revive. He was dead - really, physically, completely dead. In a tomb. Jesus was, as Dickens said - dead as a doornail.

The burial of Jesus is real-world proof that he died on the Cross.

The second truth of the gospel, of course, is the resurrection, which we will read tomorrow, and 1 Corinthians 15 proves the resurrection of Jesus by his many appearances to people who were still alive at the time Paul wrote to the Corinthians.

Devotional: Sorrowful Saturday 

It was almost certainly the bleakest day in the lives of the disciples of Jesus Christ. They'd watched Jesus die on what we have come to call "Good Friday" and their hearts were broken. Jesus was buried by Nicodemus and Joseph and was sealed in a tomb. The women who were with the disciples were planning on going to the tomb (they'd followed Joseph and Nicodemus to find where it was) at first light after the Sabbath to minister to the body of Jesus Christ.

Despite all of Jesus' promises that he would rise again, not one of them seemed to have any hope at all. They were despondent and sorrowful because they believed that God was going to do nothing in their lives, that nothing good would happen, that God had forgotten them.

How often do we live in discouragement, fear, stress, and doubt because we refuse to believe the truths that God's word teaches us? Jesus said (not once, not twice, but repeatedly) that he would die and on the third day, he would rise again. Still, when the women went to the tomb on the third day it was not with hopes of the resurrection but to prepare Jesus' dead body - they had no expectation of the miraculous power of God!

God promises us that he will never leave us or abandon us, but we insist on living with the assumption that he might, or that he has! He tells us to rejoice in all things and to give thanks regardless of our circumstances, but we refuse. Surely, God cannot have meant that to apply to what I am going through, did he? He promises us the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit to conform us to Christ and to give us the strength we need to face temptation and walk in victory over sin, yet we walk as if that power were not real. Like the disciples, we refuse to hear the promises of God's power and his glorious activity in our lives.

That Saturday must have been the low point of their lives. It looked like everything was lost, as though nothing good were ever going to happen again. When they closed their eyes on that horrible Saturday they did not realize that the next day was Resurrection Day! God was about to make it plain that Jesus had meant it when he said, "It is finished!"

It is a shame that we so often live on Saturday as if God had abandoned us and his power was not real. My friends, we live on Sunday! Jesus has risen from the dead and is Lord of all. You are not alone or abandoned and the power of Jesus Christ is real today. You have been redeemed, your sins washed away, you have been sealed by the Spirit of God and indwelled by his power, which is transforming you to be like Christ and empowering you to do what Christ commands. Do not live as if it is Saturday, no matter how badly this COVID-19 outbreak gets. We live on Sunday. Our Lord is risen! Do not allow the world or the enemy to lie to you and make you believe that all is hopeless. We serve a risen Savior!

Father, thank you for giving hope to me, and a future. When the world seems bleak and things are bad, help me to remember that you are real and that you are powerful. 

Think and Pray:

Are you more of a Saturday believer or a Sunday believer?

• Do you live as if God's promises didn't apply to you and God's power was not available to you? do you doubt God? 
• Do you rely on the promises of God even in hard times? 

When Darkness Seemed to Hide His Face - March 25 Readings: Luke 23, Matthew 27:27-68 Jesus is Crucified

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:   Luke 23, Matthew 27:27-68

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 27-28, Luke 1:57–80, Psalm 38:1–8, Proverbs 9:7-9

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

We live in a world of illusion. Think about Jesus as he stood before Pilate, in Luke 23:1-5, and before Herod in Luke 23:6-13. These were powerful men and Jesus was a prisoner, a pauper, seemingly under their thumb.

Consider what everyone else thought as Jesus stood before Pilate, thinking that Pilate held Jesus' life in his hands. People stood there wondering what Pilate was going to do with Jesus, what decision he would make. Jesus was at the mercy of the Roman governor - so he thought everyone who was there that day.

But that was nothing but an illusion. Pilate was not running the show that day. Satan moved in hearts and tried to destroy Jesus, but he was not in charge. Evil men did evil things, but the religious leaders were not dictating the course of events. Despite appearances, nobody was doing anything to Jesus. He was doing as he willed, according to the Father's plan devised in eternity past for the redemption of man. God was doing what he purposed to do.

That is the illusion we live with. It appears that evil men are doing evil things and that the purposes of God are threatened. Nothing could be further from the truth. God is still on the throne. Does it seem like things are so bad that nothing good can come from them? That is an illusion. Do you feel abandoned by God? It's not real. Does it seem certain that evil will prevail and the cause of righteousness be defeated in this world? A mirage in the desert. That is not reality.

It is crucial to remember at all times in the crucifixion story that Jesus was NOT a victim, but he was the prime mover. This was something Jesus DID, not something that was DONE TO HIM. He made it clear to Pilate and it is something that each of us should remember. 

God did this. Jesus submitted to this. We are saved because of it. Satan was defeated by it. 

Devotional: When Darkness Seemed to Hide His Face

The land was dark, a darkness that settled in and did not go away for hours on end. This was no ordinary darkness. It wasn't nighttime; it was noon, one, two, three. There was no eclipse or severe cloud cover. This was a divine darkness, the darkness of judgment. Jesus was on the Cross bearing the sins of the world and the wrath of God poured out on him darkened the world. At the climax of the eternal crisis, Jesus called out the opening words of Psalm 22, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"  They gave him a sponge with sour wine, then he cried out with a loud voice (we know from John that he spoke the glorious words "It is finished") and then Jesus died.

Tragic. Awful. Brutal. The worst moment in human history as the Son of God dies under the hand of God's judgment. But it was also the turning point of time, the moment when sin died and hope began. The story doesn't completely turn around until the glorious moment three days later when Jesus rises from the dead, but there are immediate hints that this death is a turning point.

First, and perhaps most significantly, the curtain of the temple is torn in two - and the tear comes from top to bottom (Mt 27:51). The curtain symbolized the separation between God and man that our sin created. Only the high priest, once a year, could enter the holy of holies with the blood of the sacrifice to be in God's presence. The curtain prevented anyone else from enjoying God's glorious presence. Not anymore. Jesus died once for all and tore that thing down! From God's end! Our sin no longer separates us from the presence of God when we come to God through Christ.

Second, even though the resurrection had not happened yet, there was a foreshadowing of what was to come as dead saints came to life and entered the city (Mt 27:52-53). As if the events of the day hadn't been enough of a jolt!

Finally, there was a recognition of Jesus' nature from an unlikely source, a Roman centurion (Mt. 27:54). Having observed Jesus on the Cross for all of those hours, having seen the darkness fall, having experienced the earthquake and perhaps just being in the presence of one of the greatest moment in world history, the centurion and those with him remark, "Truly, this was the Son of God."

They took Jesus away and prepared him for burial and the Romans put a guard at the tomb, but nothing could stop what God was about to do. Jesus died for our sins and this world would never be the same. Sin has been defeated and the sting of death is removed. The curtain is gone and sinners, like you and me, can enter the presence of Almighty God.

The day may have been dark in Jerusalem, but in reality, it was the end of darkness for those who believe in Jesus Christ!

Father, I thank you for all that happened there that day. Jesus bore my sins and tore down the curtain that separated me from you and your glory. Thank you for your power and mercy and hope. 

Think and Pray:

There is little you can do but read, grieve, and rejoice as you think of the great work of Christ on the cross.
Repent of your sin today.
Rejoice in your salvation.
Recommit yourself to Christ and his Lordship.

Worthy Unworthy - March 24 Readings: Luke 22:14-23, 1 Corinthians 11: 17-34, The Lord’s Supper

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  Luke 22:14-23, 1 Corinthians 11: 17-34

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 25-26, Luke 1:39–56, Psalm 37:36–40, Proverbs 9:4-6

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

A few days ago, we read in Jeremiah 31 of the New Covenant God promised to Israel. Here, Jesus instituted a new covenant with his disciples, our great reminder of what he would go through the next day. The church was to take the bread and the cup as a memorial of the Body and Blood of Christ.

Devotional: Worthy Unworthy!

There is one very important word in the passage on the Lord's Supper, 1 Corinthians 11:17-34, a single word that changes everything. Verse 27 gives this warning:

Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord.

Imagine a small change to that verse. It says that we must observe the supper in a "worthy manner" (well, not in an unworthy manner - same thing). Imagine that the word "manner" was missing and it just said that we had to be worthy to receive the supper. I'd be in trouble, how about you? Go ahead, you can admit it. You would never be worthy of God's grace and neither would I. 

We don't have to be. We do not have to be worthy of the supper, but simply have to observe it in a worthy manner. What is that? It has nothing to do with how the supper is served or any words we intone or any such logistical or liturgical matters. It has to do with our hearts. 

There are two things we must do to honor Christ and celebrate the supper the right way, in a worthy manner. First, we must remember the death of Christ and honor the meaning of the cross. We must be reflective, worshipful, both introspective and celebratory as we think about the fact that Christ bore our sins in his body and washed them away in his blood. But this is the part we sometimes forget. Christ did not simply die for millions of individuals but for ONE BODY, the church. He didn't just die for me, he died for us. If I celebrate the Lord's Supper as simply a time for personal worship and introspection without giving proper thought to the Body of Christ, I've not celebrated the work of Christ properly. 

We must consider both the work of Christ at the cross for our sins and his work for us, the Body. We must give thought to Christ and to his church. 

Father, I thank you for your Son's sacrificial work on the cross and for the Body he purchased with that death. May I give proper regard to both. 

Think and Pray:

You will never be worthy of salvation, and yet through Christ, you may observe the Lord's supper in a worthy manner. Give thanks to God for that.
Are you observing the supper in a worthy manner - examining yourself and your relationship with the Body of Christ? 

A City Stirred - March 23 Readings: Matthew 21, An Offer Refused

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  Matthew 21

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 23-24, Luke 1:26–38, Psalm 37:29–35, Proverbs 9:1-3  

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

It had been over 500 years since the prophet Zechariah had delivered his prophecy that the king would come riding in humility into Jerusalem on a donkey. (Zechariah 9:9) Now, Jesus fulfilled the prophecy, riding into the city on a donkey with crowds lining the path and crying out "Hosanna. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord."

Israel's king had come, offering himself to the people of Israel, but Israel's response was not welcoming. Matthew 21 is actually part of a larger section that goes through chapter 23. In it, Jesus cleanses the Temple, curses the fig tree, battles the Pharisees, and gives a lament over Jerusalem. Listen to that lament.

O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! 38 See, your house is left to you desolate. 39 For I tell you, you will not see me again, until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’”Matthew 23:37-39

Look at that closing phrase. When Jesus entered the city, they chanted, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord." But it became clear that Jerusalem was rejecting its king and would not accept him - right up to the fateful moment they chose Barabbas and he was sentenced to die. Here, Jesus says they will not see him again until the city says what was said by those who accompanied him on the way in - "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord." Same phrase. They rejected him and that must one day be corrected. 

We look for that day when Israel will embrace its king, when Jesus will find an enthusiastic reception in Israel and, as Romans 11 says, "All Israel will be saved." But that awaits a future date. Jesus was rejected, died, rose, and established a church to carry the gospel to the ends of the earth. 

Devotional: A City Stirred 

Jerusalem was a large city, but this had everyone talking. Something big was happening and people were wondering what was going on. The crowd came over the rise on the Mt. of Olives and was walking down the steep hill toward the gate to enter the city. One man was on a donkey while the rest of the crowd was chanting, "Hosanna. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord." As the crowd approached the city it is likely that others joined the group. People were laying palms and placing their cloaks before the path of the animal with the rider.

Who is that and what is going on?

The praise and worship of the disciples of Jesus Christ stirred up the entire city. Can you imagine? The hottest news in town was the worship of the people of God? Not a protest or press conference. Just praise. The loud and raucous praise of Jesus Christ swelled up to the point where everyone in Jerusalem was drawn to inquire.

And they responded by declaring that it was Jesus of Nazareth entering Jerusalem. They proclaimed Jesus. Yes, it's a stretch to call that evangelism - these people thought Jesus was coming into Jerusalem to take the reins of government not to lay down his life to establish the invisible Kingdom of God. But they praised Jesus and then they proclaimed Jesus.

Wouldn't it be great if our lives were so filled with joy and praise that people would be drawn to inquire, "What is going on here?" Wouldn't it be great if there was such joy, such spiritual power, such an evident sense of the presence and power of God at our worship services that people were drawn toward Jesus?

Our lives are meant to be the primary advertisement for the gospel. People should see Jesus in us, displaying his power through us and be drawn to Christ. "I want what you have." That is why we must seek Christ, be renewed, and purified. Jesus' glory must shine through us.

Father, may the light of Christ shine through me. May his joy bubble up through me. May I be holy as you are holy. May the world see you through me and be drawn to you. 

Think and Pray:

Does your life shout Jesus to the world?
When people take a long hard look at you, are they attracted to Jesus or do they see the works of the flesh? 

The Great I AM - March 22 Readings: John 8:58 Before Abraham, I AM (Read John 8:21-58)

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  John 8:58

Read John 8:21-59 to get the full story.

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 21-22, Luke 1:1–25, Psalm 37:22–28, Proverbs 8:35-36

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

One of the oddest truths of the gospel stories is that demons and enemies of Christ sometimes seemed to understand him better than his own disciples. Here, in John 8:58, Jesus gives the clearest statement of his divinity in John, other than in John 1, and the religious leaders seem to understand exactly what he is saying. In verse 59 they took up stones to stone him, understanding he was laying out a clear claim to divinity.

Though we have completed our trek through the seven "I Am" statements of Jesus in John's gospel, this passage makes it clear what he meant when he claimed the name I Am.

Devotional: The Great I AM

Jesus evidently did not get the memo that we are always supposed to be positive, affirming, and encouraging in our preaching. In a recent sermon series in which I worked through the Gospels chronologically, I noticed how often Jesus responded forcefully, even provoking the Pharisees and other religious leaders. He never pacified them or compromised with them. Of course, he had the advantage of perfect insight into their hearts and no fleshly desires compromising his own motives, but he was fearless.

In John 8, Jesus has one of his sharpest conflicts, one that ends with the religious leaders trying to stone him for blasphemy and Jesus having to depart from their presence in a miraculous fog.

"You are of this world."
"You will die in your sins." 

These were some of the nicest things that Jesus said to them! When they claimed to have Abraham as their father, Jesus crossed a line that they found unforgivable. He told them in verse 44 that their father was the devil and that they carried out his murderous, deceitful will. You can guess that this accusation was not a popular one.

They respond, in verse 48, by accusing Jesus of being a Samaritan and having a demon. The conversation seems to escalate. Jesus speaks unpalatable truth and religious leaders grow increasingly hostile to him. It boiled over when Jesus said what is recorded in verse 56, that Abraham rejoiced to see the day that Jesus would come. Unforgivable blasphemy, they thought.

"You are not yet fifty years old, and you've seen Abraham?" they queried.

That is when Jesus dropped the bomb on them.

 “Truly I tell you, before Abraham was, I am.”

He did not just claim to preexist Abraham. He could have said, "before Abraham was, I was." That would have been offensive, to lay claim to being some kind of eternal, angelic being. But there can be no question what Jesus claimed. Moses met God at the Burning Bush and God revealed his name. "I am that I am." From that, the name of Yahweh was derived. It was that name we were warned not to take in vain. In Philippians 2:10-11 is an ancient hymn giving us "the rest of the story."

so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow— in heaven and on earth and under the earth— and every tongue will confess
that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.

 Note that this passage does not say, "At the name Jesus." It is at the name OF Jesus. What name? The name that was eternally conferred and confirmed on him when he was raised from the dead and highly exalted by the Father. LORD! Every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is LORD to the glory of God the Father.

When Jesus spoke to the Pharisees and religious leaders he made a clear claim that make them so angry they wanted to kill him. Before Abraham was even born, "I AM!" I am that I am. He was laying claim to be the God of Creation, the God of their forefathers. He was saying to them, "I am the very God you claim to worship and yet you stand here opposing me!"

A most powerful confrontation!

Father, I worship your Son whom you have exalted and confirmed as the God of Heaven and the Lord of all. May I never take him or his Lordship over my life lightly.

Think and Pray:

Worship Yahweh, the God of heaven and earth, your Savior and Lord, Jesus Christ - the Great I Am! He laid down his life and God exalted him.
Join in the exaltation today!

Bearing Fruit - March 21 Readings: John 15, I AM the Vine

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:   John 15

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 19-20, Mark 16, Psalm 37:15–21, Proverbs 8:34

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

Today, we look at the last of seven "I Am" statements of Jesus in John's Gospel. They all affirm Jesus' divinity (I Am speaks to Jesus as "Yahweh") and as the source of all we need (bread, water, etc). As we also noted, one consistent theme, explicit in this passage, is the idea that Jesus is the source of ALL life. A branch detached from the vine is dead. To bear fruit, it must be attached and have the life of the vine flowing through it.

Devotional: Bearing Fruit 

Of all the "I Am" statements, this one is the most controversial. Theologians and Bible teachers debate at length the idea of some branches that bear no fruit being cut off and thrown in the fire to be burned. Does this refer to believers losing their salvation for bearing no fruit? (NO) Does it refer to unfruitful believers who are set aside by God as useless? (possibly, but probably not.) Does it refer to those who are part of the church but not part of Christ, those who claim Christ but have never been born again? That would be my view, of course. As is often the case, though, we can sometimes argue controversial points and miss the simple teachings of a passage.

Jesus is our source of life - this is the root truth of this passage. He is the vine and we are the branches. Life and fruitfulness comes from him. There is a certain life in the vine that flows through the branches and produces fruit. We do not produce fruit but simply bear the fruit produced by the vine.

We are the branches - branches attached to the vine have life, but it is never independent of the life of the vine. I have life today, but it is only because the life of Jesus Christ flows through me. I have no eternal or abundant life of my own, but only the life of the Vine himself that lives in me.

The branches exist to bear the fruit of the vine - The purpose of grape branches (in view in this metaphor) is to bear the fruit of the vine. The life is in the vine and the vine produces its fruit in the branch.

The fruit is the expression of the life of the vine - Here is a key point. Fruit is often taught in churches as an evangelistic metaphor. Bearing fruit means leading people to Christ. But bearing fruit is a public manifestation of an outward expression of the inner life of the vine.

When I lived in Florida during high school, our home had several citrus trees - orange, lemon, grapefruit. They all looked alike most of the year. Perhaps an expert could tell the difference but I couldn't. Then, something happened. Small yellow fruit grew on some, medium-sized orange suit on others, and larger yellowish fruit on others. I could tell which tree was which by the fruit that grew on it. Galatians 5 speaks of the fruit of the Spirit demonstrating our walk with Christ.

Fruit speaks of Christlikeness in our daily walk.

Inside the fruit is the seed of new life - It is when fruit is produced that new life grows. Perhaps we have forgotten this aspect. Our gospel presentations will not be effective unless people see in us the fruit of Jesus Christ. It is when our lives produce the fruit of Christ that new life will be produced.

The Father will work on us to produce greater fruit - make no mistake, the Father loves us but is invested primarily in our fruitfulness, not our comfort or happiness. If I am bearing fruit, he will work in me to make me more and more like Christ, to bear more fruit. That work will never stop until it is finished.

Thank you, Father, for refusing to give up until the work of Christ is complete and I am completely conformed to the image of Jesus. I have failed you many times but I am grateful that you never stop your work of conforming me to the image of Jesus.

Think and Pray:

What would be the best description of your life? Bearing no fruit (of Christlikeness)? Bearing little fruit? Bearing much fruit?
Ask God what he would do in you to prune you and allow you to bear more fruit.  

Our Place Prepared - March 20 Readings: John 14, I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading: John 14

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 17-18, Mark 15:21–47, Psalm 37:8–14, Proverbs 8:32-33

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

The sixth of the "I Am" statements is a clear assertion of the uniqueness of Christ. He is not one way to heaven. He is not "my truth" or "your truth." He is the only hope any of us has of reconciliation with God and no one will come to the Father except through faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus does not simply teach truth, he is truth.

Devotional: Our Place Prepared 

I took a fair degree of grief from my family in the years before the GPS made travel so easy. Before we left, I would prepare a notebook that had a complete itinerary of our plans, from Mapquest. There would be invoices in the notebook for any hotels we planned to stay in and everything else we needed for the trip. When I left on a trip I wanted to have all the information. It is so much easier now. How did we travel cross-country before we had these marvels?

Jesus’ disciples were feeling that way at the beginning of Jesus’s message that we know now as the Farewell Discourse. In John 14:1-3, Jesus began to instruct them on how to survive the nuclear explosion that was about to tear apart their lives. Jesus would be arrested, tried and crucified in the next 12 hours and their lives would never be the same. Jesus gave them the first and most important key to surviving the destruction of their lives. They must put their trust in him.

This conversation with Thomas reveals the disciples’ fundamental problem. Their lives were about to explode and they had no idea what was going on. They had wrong ideas and wrong ambitions – their eyes were on the wrong prize.  The wrong destination was programmed into their GPS.

Jesus told them two things. He told them the destination and he gave them the route. That’s all we need, isn’t it?

Verse 2 reveals the destination of Jesus’work. “In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?”

It is a common mistake to believe that Jesus is in heaven working on our eternal dwellings. No, that is not it at all. Jesus told them that he was going to prepare a place. Where was he going when he said that? He was on his way to the cross where he finished his work and prepared a place for us in God’s eternal home. That is your destination – eternity with God in heavenly glory.

How do we get there? What is the route? It is simple. In verse 6, he makes it clear. “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Verse 7 talks about Jesus being the means by which someone can know the Father. We come to God by faith in Jesus Christ and in that way alone.

In a sense, Jesus is both our destination and our path. He gives us a home in heaven with him and he is himself the path to that home.

Thank you, Father, for sending your Son to prepare a place for me in your eternal home. He paid the price for my sins to remove all that hindered me from being with you forever. 

Think and Pray:

Thank God for the eternal salvation he provided for you.
Thank him for Christ, who prepared a home for you in eternal glory.
Remember that your place in heaven was won by Christ's work and not your merit. 

When Jesus Got Angry - March 19 Readings: John 11, I AM the Resurrection and the Life

The Story of the Bible from Creation to the Cross to Eternal Glory

In 72 daily readings, we will examine the overall story of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, seeking to get the big picture of God's work through Jesus Christ in this sinful world.

Today's Reading:  John 11

Through the Bible Readings: Deuteronomy 15-16, Mark 15:1–20, Psalm 37:1–7, Proverbs 8:30-31

If you wish to read through the Bible in a year, follow these readings. 

Context 

The fifth of the seven "I Am" statements in John's gospels comes in the story of one of Jesus' greatest miracles, the raising of Lazarus. I have quoted this verse in dozen, perhaps a hundred or more funerals. "I am the resurrection and the life."

Note that while "I am life" is never one of the statements, it is related to almost all of them. Bread sustains life as does water. Light guides us through life. The shepherd guides the sheep as they find the necessities of life and protects them from those who threaten their lives. Jesus is the resurrection and the life. He is the way, the truth, and the life. He is the vine and we are the branches. Branches separated from the vine are, well, not alive.

The "I Am" statements affirm Jesus' divinity and define him as the source of all we need, but even more clearly assert that Jesus is life itself - not just the source of life, but life! That is why, in today's devotional, Jesus' reaction to death is so emotional.

Devotional: When Jesus Got Angry

It was something I'd never seen before, the description of Jesus' mood in John 11:38, as he strode over to Lazarus' tomb and looked at the ultimate fruit of human sinfulness.

Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb.

Most translations give this translation, that Jesus was "deeply moved" - feeling emotional about the death of his friend. After all, he has just wept at the grave. But the word has a meaning stronger than simple emotion. Jesus was angry, agitated, enraged, indignant. It was more than just sorrow that was in Jesus' heart that day. He knew that he would see Lazarus again in a few moments and all would be well.

Jesus was angry deep within. 

Jesus was angry, upset, indignant at the horror that sin had wrought upon his glorious creation. God created this world glorious and idyllic, without sin, sorrow and certainly without death. Then the Serpent showed up in the Garden and started whispering in Adam's and Eve's ears. God is just holding you down, trying to keep you from reaching your full potential. If you would just throw off the yoke of his oppressive rules, rebel, and what you want you will find joy, contentment, and peace beyond your wildest dreams. They bought into his lies, sin broke the beauty of God's perfect world and death came through sin.

Death was not part of God's plan, not part of the creation he called "very good." And standing there staring at the enemy of life, the last enemy to be destroyed, the wages of all sin, Jesus was indignant. This was not what he wanted for us and it provoked him to see what our sin had done to his plan. Death caused pain to people he loved - not just the sisters of Lazarus, but all of us.

But he was also excited, a concept carried within the meaning of that word as well. In a few minutes, he would give a brief glimpse into the purpose of his life. People thought he came to establish a political kingdom and defeat Rome. Jesus came to do much more than that. He came to defeat death eternally and redeem a people who, through him, would never face death. In a moment he would give one man a brief reprieve from death. Lazarus would be restored to life and to his family for a time - how long we do not know; nothing is known of Lazarus from this moment on.

That is why he made the triumphant claim to the sisters, in verses 25-26,

I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me, even if he dies, will live. Everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. 

When he raised Lazarus to life it was a foretaste of the glory that awaited in the future. Not long from that day, Jesus would be led to death at the cross and brutally murdered. He would be placed in the tomb and then, the death of death would come. Jesus would burst forth from the tomb never to taste death again. And, he was the firstfruits of those who would believe on him.

Because of Jesus Christ, death has been ultimately, completely, radically, and eternally defeated. Jesus' life reveals him as strong, and pure, and powerful, and wise. But nothing he ever did in his earthly work revealed Jesus as clearly as his work at Lazarus' tomb. He stood there and conquered death - only for a moment, but oh, what a foretaste of glory divine.

That's what Jesus came to do, and as he stood at Lazarus' tomb he was both angry at the effects of sin that brought him to that point and excited about the work he was about to do by his resurrection.

Father, I thank you that Jesus defeated death for me. I have the sure and certain hope of the resurrection through his work on the Cross. Death is defeated, Jesus is victorious, I am bound for life and nothing in this world can stop that work. Praise your holy name. 

Think and Pray:

Spend some time thanking God and praising him for the eternal victory you have in Christ, the victory over death - no matter what this life brings you have nothing to fear!