Jesus said "When I am lifted up from the earth,will draw all people to myself"

 The 12th chapter of John's Gospel gives the account of the end of Christ's public ministry. There are six separate sections in this chapter. Mary anoints Jesus at Bethany, Jews plot to kill Lazarus, The triumphal entry of  Jesus on a donkey to Jerusalem, The Greeks seeking Jesus, Jesus predicts His crucifixion, Jesus came to save the world and emerges as the true messiah. It was Passover feast time and added attraction to all that was taking place.Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where a dinner was arranged in the house of Simon the leper to thank Jesus for what He has done(Matt 26:6-13).There we see Martha and Mary at their best serving and worshiping Christ. Mary anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair. It was a costly perfume perhaps saved for her wedding. This was her act of love, devotion and gratitude to the Lord. It also shows her humility and faith in the Lord. It was a timely act that was pleasing to the Lord.  When Judas was critical of the generosity of Mary, Jesus rebuked  Judas. Critical spirit  can crush the heart of others. God demands worship from us and it is costly. Jesus said she will be remembered where ever the gospel is preached. Nothing is wasted if it is given to the Lord  and the house was filled with fragrance. Many believed on Jesus after seeing what He had done to Lazarus. So the religious leaders wanted to kill Lazarus. Believers should expect hostility because this world is not our home, we are just passing through.

Next day(Sunday)Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey. In the old testament donkey is a symbol of peace and horse symbol of war.  It was the fulfillment of the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9.There was spontaneous outpouring of praise from the pilgrims, singing Hosanna  to Christ. Thus they acknowledge Jesus as the king of Israel who comes to save them(Ps 118:25,26).The disciples understood the significance of this only after ascension of Christ. Pharisees responded to this by saying " the whole wold has gone after Jesus".

Now the attention is turned from Jews to the Greeks. Greeks proselytes came to Philip, may be he had a Greek name and said "Sir, we want to see Jesus".He consulted with Andrew and they approached Jesus with their request. Faced with all attention Jesus said "The hour has come for the Son of man to be glorified". He was talking about His death and said His death will produce a rich spiritual harvest. In His humanity Christ experienced agony as He approached His death. .But He desired to glorify His Father through His death on the cross. He received the testimony from the Father that His Name has been glorified. He did it through His public ministry and death. Then Jesus said "When I am lifted upon the cross,I will draw everyone to myself".Jesus is the savior of the world. He is the one who suffered the judgement of sin for us. He defeated Satan on the cross(1 Cor 15:54-57).So let us lift Him up by our words and life so that others would  be saved. Jews failed to believe that their Messiah would die. Jesus warned them that they should receive Him as the light of the world. The light would soon be removed and darkness would come upon them.

In spite all the miracles and warnings they believed Him not. They rejected what they saw and believed not what they heard. It was prophesied by Isaiah(Is 6:5-12). God wanted them to believe their Messiah. But  unbelief and hardness of hearts  prevented them from being converted.  Many leaders believed on Christ but were unwilling to confess Him for fear of the leaders.They loved the praise from men more than the prise from God. This was Christ final message to Israel. He came not to judge the world but to save. Those who reject His word will be judged by the same word in the last day. His words are life everlasting. Is Jesus you Savior?
May God help us to know Him personally and worship Him sincerely!!

"I am the resurrection and the life"!!

A casual reader of the Gospels will accept the fact that Jesus performed many miracles. Only one who is equal with God could perform such mighty works. The eleventh chapter of John's Gospel gives a split screen view of the resurrection Lazarus. This the last miracle Jesus did before crucifixion and the highest point in His public ministry.Mary and Martha sent the message to Jesus that Lazarus was dying. Shortly after that Lazarus died and the body was buried the same day. Jesus responded by saying that this sickness is not unto death but for the glory of God. Some time God permits sickness and death in order to reveal His glory. In this case the greater glory was manifested by raising Lazarus than healing him.  Why Jesus who loves them delayed His going and allowed them to go through such difficulty?. Why God permits suffering in our lives? God's presence in this fallen and sinful world does not mean that terrible things would not happen.  David said" it is good for me that I have been afflicted to learn His statues"(Ps 119:71). He allows sufferings to discipline us. Chastening is a training process by which we are warned of our failures and wake us up from spiritual slumber(He 12:11). Also it is for God's glory(John 9:3).God allows suffering not just  for our own good but that we may be able to comfort  others.(2Cor 1:3,4).What should be our attitude towards those who suffer?As Christians we should be willing to help them what ever way we can. Pray for them and be around them. Allow the scripture to comfort them and let the suffering do it's purpose(Jam 1:2-4). God always has some thing better for us.

Jesus delayed two days longer  to go Bethany. He never yielded to human pressure but did all things according to Father's timetable. His timing always brings the best result. Those who are in the will of God do not stumble.  Jesus said Lazarus has fallen asleep.For believers death is often referred as sleep. So by death they enter into a restful conscious life in heaven(Phi 1:23).  At last Jesus arrived  at the home of Mary and Martha  in Bethany.He loved this home and because he felt home there with His friends. Here Jesus did the greatest miracle, raising Lazarus. Mary anointed feet of Jesus here.  From here Jesus made His triumphal entry to Jerusalem.Here we see Martha at her best serving Jesus and Mary worshiping her Lord. Here Jesus assured the grieving Martha that her brother will rise again. Here Jesus made His fifth of the seven "I am" claims. "I am the resurrection and the life".Death is not the last word in the christian vocabulary. Christians may go through death but they will also experience resurrection  when Christ returns (1 Cor 15:54). When Jesus saw Mary weeping He was  deeply moved  in His spirit and wept. This shows His humanity, love and concern for His people. He suffered emotionally and physically to deliver us from sin and death(Heb 2:14,15; 5:7).He is our great high priest who can sympathize with us in our weaknesses(Heb 4:15,16).This offers us comfort and confidence in Lord.

Jesus came to to the tomb and ordered the someone to roll away the stone.  Jesus said to Martha "if you believe you would see the glory of God". World says "show us, then we believe". God says" believe then you would see the glory". Jesus thanked the Father for hearing His prayer. He wanted that the people may believe that Father hast sent Him. Then with a loud voice Jesus said "Lazarus come forth". Lazarus came forth still bound by the grave cloths. Jesus said loose him, let him go. Here we see the picture of a believer made alive in Christ but still bound by the grave cloth of flesh. They need to be set free to serve the Lord. Christ  is able to set us free as we continue in His word(John 8:31,32).  Because of this miracle  many believed in Christ. But the Jewish leaders became angry and planned to kill Jesus. Even the high priest said "Jesus must die so that the nation will live". It was a prophecy about the substituonary death  Christ  going suffer soon. With this incident Christ removed Himself from the public view.  Jesus claimed the closest possible relation with the Father. So Knowing Christ is to know God(John 8:19; 14:7). To see Christ is to see God(John 12:45;14:9). To receive Jesus is to receive God(Mk 9:37).To honor Christ is to honor God(John 5:23).  Do you know this wonderful savior?

I Am The Good Shepherd!!

The tenth chapter of John's Gospel begins with a warning. Jesus warned Jews about false shepherds. They are thieves and robbers. They abandon and abuse the sheep.They are greedy and illegitimate leaders.They claim revelation from God but do not give any evidence of truth. They are trying to lead people while avoiding the door. True leader enters by the door. In this chapter Jesus claimed that He is the door and the good shepherd. He saw the people like sheep, fainted and scattered abroad and without shepherd(Matt 9:36). Sheep usually get lost and prone to follow strangers. Without shepherd they are in danger. Shepherding is hard work. Shepherds  have unique relationship with the sheep. When sheep enters the sheepfold he would hold the rode low at the entrance and allow the sheep to pass under the rode. He make sure whether the sheep needs attention or not. In fact Jesus is the only door into the sheepfold(John 14:6; Act 4:12). Those who enter by Him  will be saved and find strength for present life. David said "the LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want(Ps 23:1). Jacob knew the Lord as the one who has been his shepherd all his life(Gen 48:15).Do you know Him as your shepherd?

Jesus said "I am  the Good shepherd who gives his life for the sheep". Christ gave His life as a voluntary act of sacrifice.He has the power to lay it down and take it back.  He enters the sheepfold  by the authorized gate.He came to do the will of the Father.  He knows sheep by their name.Good shepherd goes ahead of his sheep. He leads them to pastures. His fold includes both Jews and Gentiles.  Jesus warned Jews about religious leaders that they are hired people. They have no love for the sheep and run away in danger. But Jews  did not comprehend the story of shepherd and the sheep. They did not believe Christ because they were not His sheep. But His sheep hear His voice,  He knows them and they follow Him. Jesus said "I will give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father who has given them is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are one".This passage explains believer's eternal security and assurance of salvation. Security is the fact based on the work of God through Christ. Salvation is always by grace and not by work. We are saved to serve(Eph 2:8-10). Salvation is not initiated by us either. It is not man  reaching out to God but God reaching out to us(Rom 5:6-8). Also salvation is not an after thought of God, but His eternal plan to save us through Christ(1Pet 1:18020; 2Tim 1:9). Assurance is the confident realization that we have eternal life as we hear and follow the Lord in obedience. That gives as the assurance of salvation. Once a person is saved, he is saved forever. God the Father and God the Son are in agreement in believer's eternal security.

Jesus Claiming equality with the Father angered the Jews. They took stones to stone Jesus. They failed to recognize Him by His good work. He challenged them by saying "which of my good work deserve stoning?". They said "You have made yourself equal with God".Christ appealed them to consider His work and  believe Him. But they sought to arrest Him. Jesus escaped from them.  Yet many believed in Him. Do you know this Good Shepherd who loved you and gave Himself for you? Do you enjoy the eternal life that God provided through His Son Jesus Christ? Do you have the assurance of salvation?. May God help us.

I Was Blind Now I See!!

The entire ninth Chapter of the Gospel of John illustrates the claim of Jesus that "I am the light of the world"
This passage tells the story of a blind man whose sight was restored by Jesus Christ. Jesus while walking along saw a man born blind. He is always looking for people, Blind man never requested healing yet the Lord healed him. He knows our need and willing to restore us. Meanwhile the disciples asked Jesus a loaded question. Was the blindness a result of the man's sin or his parents' sin?There was a common belief among Jews that physical  sickness is the result of sin(Ex 20:5). Jesus replied that his blind is not because of some one's fault but an opportunity for God to display His power. In the case of Job, his friends thought that terrible things happened in his life because he offended God. They were wrong and God Himself settled the issue in Chapter 38 to 41. God some times allows sufferings in believers' life to wake us up(Heb 12:3-11).It show He loves us. He uses suffering to accomplish His purpose in our lives(Act 16, Phil 1:12). God saves some from suffering, some through suffering,and some out of suffering.

Jesus told the blind man "go and wash in the pool of Siloam".Perhaps He chose this method to test his faith and obedience.He responded immediately and was healed. Thus proved that He is the light of the world. He was healed on the Sabbath and making clay on Sabbath was illegal. This cause trouble for the healed man. There was confusion and skepticism about his healing. We should never assume that once we are saved  every thing  will be okay. He faced skepticism  from neighbours and religious leaders. They asked his opinion of Jesus. He responded that He is a prophet. Jews refused to admit that and asked his parents whether their son was born blind. Because they were afraid, they wanted their son to speak for himself. Jews wanted that the man would give glory to God and confess that Christ is a sinner. At that time with unshakable conviction the man responded "I know this , I was blind and now I can see!"Highly educated Pharisees could not keep up with the man who was healed. For him it was not an intellectual issue but a moral spiritual issue. In many ways, believers are like this formerly blind man Once were blinded by Satan to see the glorious light of the gospel (2 Cor 4:4). Bur Christ opened our eyes to see our real need  and we responded to Christ. Now we have a story to tell to the nations. We may not be scholars of scripture but like that blind man we can share with others"once I was blind but now I see".

The blind man was excommunicated from the synagogue. But Christ found him and began to meet his needs. He was ready to believe but needs some direction..He responded in faith and worshiped Christ. He started his journey with calling Jesus first a Man(9:11). Then a Prophet(9:17). Then Lord(9:38). Finally Son of Man  and worshiped Him. How is our journey of faith progressing? In contempt religious leaders asked Jesus "are we also blind?". Jesus said to them"if you were blind you would have no guilt, but now that you say, we see, so your guilt remains."Christ came to offer light but they chose to remain blind. They failed to understand that all they needed was Christ. Have you ever thanked Jesus for what He has done for you. Have you received sight by believing in Christ. Are we willing to suffer for our faith in Christ?Jesus promised that He will never leave us or forsake us. Will you come to Him to receive forgiveness,strength and comfort for this journey. May God help us!! 

Jesus Is The Light Of The World!!

The eight chapter of the Gospel of John begins with the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery. Jesus was teaching in the temple during the feast of tabernacle.  The Pharisees brought a woman to Christ who had been caught in adultery to trap Him in His answer. This was their brilliant plan to turn the people against Him. According to law adultery was punishable by death. So testing Jesus they asked "what do you say?" If Jesus let her go, He is guilty of breaking the law.  If He passes judgement, they could blame Him breaking the Roman law. Jesus challenged their conscience by saying "let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her". Then Jesus bent down and wrote on the ground. May be Jesus was writing the ten commandments or the sins of  those who brought the woman before Him. When the  accusers heard this, they all dropped their stones and walked away. The woman left alone before the perfect one and acknowledged Jesus as Lord. Jesus did not condemn her but in His mercy forgave her and said go and sin no more. Following this incident  Jesus made His second I Am statement:" I am the light of the world". He shines as the light in the world of darkness and sin. He who follows Him will not walk in sin but have the light of life.
Sin always brings condemnation but God in His mercy forgives our sins. We often focus on other's sin rather than our own sins. We are quick to find fault and slow to forgive. Unforgiving sins can eat away our conscience.There is plenty of forgiveness with Christ for those who come to Him.

Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of light and truth. He speaks truth and treats the same way He treated the woman.When we turn to Jesus the source of truth, we find no condemnation but grace and forgiveness. Religious leaders questioned Christ and refused to believe His claim. They were unteachable which is the greatest pitfalls in life. No one can question the validity of  Jesus claims because Father bore witness of Him. His resurrection and Ascension  prove that He is the Son of God(Rom1:3). The Word of God testifies of Him(John 5:37-39). His transforming power of life is another evidence of His deity.  Pharisees missed their last chance to turn to Him(8:21,22). Refusing to believe in Christ who died for our sin is the unpardonable sin. Confessing Christ  today is salvation and confessing Him at the white throne judgement seat is damnation(Phil 2: 11).So chose you today whom you will serve?

Only Jesus can give us freedom from sin. Religious heritage will not give us freedom.  The test of true faith and discipleship is abiding in His Word. Abide simple means to stay,obey,or continue in His Word. The closer we
live in obedience, we experience His presence and freedom from sin. Jesus came to bear witness of truth.(John 18:37).Truth is the reality of God.Jesus is the embodiment of truth and grace(John 1:14).Apart from Christ there is no spiritual freedom. He who practice sin is a slave of sin. Jews claimed that Abraham is their Father and they are free.Jesus said"before Abraham existed, I am".He was from eternity and was the great I AM. Also Jesus Said Abraham rejoiced to see My day. Abraham saw in the birth of Isaac the hope of mankind and the promise of the Savior(Gen 12:3). He saw the promise afar off(Heb 11:13). He saw the birth of Messiah in the miraculous birth of Isaac. And Calvary at mount Moriah.. At this point Jews attempted to kill Jesus, but He hid Himself and went out of the temple. Do you know this great Savior who loved us gave Himself for us? May God help us!!.

No one ever spoke like Jesus!!

Jesus understood rejection more than anybody else(John 1:11; 6:66; 7:34). Though He did all things well, only few followed Him. Many hated Him so He stayed in Galilee. In the seventh chapter of John's Gospel, we see the teaching of Jesus about His person. His teaching was remarkably simple. He used common everyday objects to illustrate eternal truth. His teaching was saturated with scripture and very personal. He taught from life's situations. In His teaching Jesus always challenges His listeners  to make a choice about His identity.

In this chapter we see that Jesus brothers did not accept Him. They advised Him to go to Jerusalem to perform mighty works to influence the crowd. There is a mockery in their voice as they advised Jesus. He came to His own and His own received Him not. Jesus said to His brother"My time has not yet come". He had no desire to gain popularity and influence people with His miracle. He did all things according to His Father's direction , timetable and for His glory.  Christians should always follow this example. Jesus told His brothers the same thing he told His mother He had no desire to please anyone but the Father.We should not seek man's approval while serving Christ.

Jesus taught openly at the temple. Those you heard were divided in their opinion of Jesus. Some thought He is   a wonderful man and others said He is a deceiver. Jewish leaders amazed at His teaching and said how does He know so much without formal education.. Because of the fear of expulsion  no one spoke favorably. Jesus told them that to understand His teaching one must have the desire to obey the will of God. This is a time less principle. Understanding is not a requirement for salvation but faith. Faith is not an intellectual issue but a moral issue.Jews found nothing wrong with circumcising on Sabbath yet accused Jesus for healing on Sabbath. Christ said it is illogical and stop judging on the surface. He emphasised that the spirit of the law is more important than the letter of law. They were amazed at his boldness and thought,  may be He is Messiah.  Jewish leaders wanted to arrest Jesus. But they could not arrest Him  because His hour of crucifixion has not yet come.

This chapter concludes with Jesus' claim that He is the source of living water(John 7:37-38). He is the source of everlasting life. Jesus made this statement on the last day feast. Thus He has shown the emptiness of  religious feast that failed to satisfy  people. One who believes in Christ not only be satisfied but also becomes  a channel of blessing to others. Here Jesus was referring to the coming of the Holy Spirit on the disciple after His ascension. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit brings satisfaction and blessings. This  would not happen with casual commitment. Religious leaders wanted Jesus to be arrested. Officers were powerless to arrest Jesus because "No one ever spoke like Jesus"(7:46). Being one of the ruler Nicodemus defended Jesus  and requested a fair hearing. Instead of answering his legitimate request, his fellow rulers ignored him and said search the scripture and see for yourself that no prophet comes from Galilee. Thus they have shown their ignorance of the Scripture, since Jonah and Nahum came from Galilee.Are you ashamed of Jesus? Let us ask ourselves, how committed we are confessing Christ to others.  May God help us!!

Jesus Is The Bread Of Life!!

In John 6:35, Jesus claims the first of nine "I am" statements, "I am the bread of life"Jesus used this term in order to claim His deity In this chapter we see Jesus is feeding five thousand, walking on the water and His teaching on His claim" I am the bread of life". Bread represents life every where.Jesus made this claim to show that He is the only one who can meet our spiritual hunger. Also He  made this claim to prove His deity. This happened at the peak of his popularity across the sea of Galilee. The multitude was impressed by the miracles Jesus performed. He went up to the mountain and saw the multitude. He was moved by compassion and asked Philip how can we feed  this multitude. Jesus asked this to test his faith. Philip counted the cost and thought it is impossible. Andrew brings a lad who has five loaves and two fishes. He gave all he had to Christ. Jesus gave thanks and fed the five thousand. Give all you have to Christ. He can bless it and satisfy many. By giving thanks for food, Christ acknowledge that God is the source of all blessings. Jesus asked disciples to collect the left over and there was twelve basket full of bread.We should not waste God's blessings.

Multitude wanted to make Jesus their king. But He withdrew to a mountain to be alone. His kingdom was not of this world(John 18:16). It is so easy for men to seek Christ for the wrong reason. Jesus asked the disciples to go to the other shore of the sea of Galilee. They were hindered by darkness and severe storm. Some times God would allow storms in our life to test our faith and to teach us to trust Him. If we are in the will of God, He will deliver us from it ,some time through it and some time out of it. Disciples saw Jesus walking on  the sea and coming  near the boat. He said to the frightened disciple"It is I,be not afraid". Thus the  one who met the need of five thousand  now met the need of twelve disciples. Jesus is the present help in times of our need. Some one suggested that there are over 360 time we see the statement "stop being afraid " in the Bible. Immediately  the sea became calm and the  boat was at land. Thus Jesus demonstrated that He has power over gravity and space.

Jesus is the supreme teacher because in Him hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge(col 2:3). Though He did many miracles, teaching was his main ministry. Some one suggested that at least 45 times  Jesus is called the teacher in the gospel account. He seized the opportunities to tech individuals and large crowds. People recognized Jesus as a different kind of teacher from scribes. He taught  with authority(Matt 7:28,29).His words were gracious words(Lk 4:22). Never a man spoke like Him(John 7:46).His teaching transformed lives and shaped the course of history. He gave the commission to His disciples to teach and make disciples. His teaching on the bread of life so profound and note worthy.

When people sought Jesus, He welcomed them and said don't seek me for the food that perishes but for the food that endures to eternal life.That food is Christ Himself. People were confused about what they must do to find acceptance with God. Jesus said "this is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom Father has sent. Jews wanted Jesus to perform a miracle. They did not realize that faith based on miracle  can easily mislead people. Christ identified Himself as the bread of life. Those who believe in Him will be spiritually satisfied. All that Father gives to Christ  will come to Him. Who ever comes to Jesus, He will never cast out. This verse describes God's sovereignty and human responsibility in salvation.To reject Son is to reject the Father.Jews murmured and offended at His teaching. He did not intend for them to eat the flesh and drink the blood. They do not profit anyone.  His Spirit that gives life. The word He spoke were spirit and life.Those who believe His word would have life. But unbelief prevented many to believe His words and they left Jesus and no longer walked with Him. Christ now turned to the twelve  and said"do you also want to go?"Simon Peter answered Him"Lord to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed and come to know that you are Christ, the Son of the living God. Assurance always follows true salvation. Jesus knows His own. He knew that one among the twelve was a devil. He spoke of Judas Iscariot who was going to betray Him. Do you know this Christ who loved you and gave Himself for you.If your are a believer, do you have the assurance of salvation. May God help us!!

Jesus knows your need and willing to help!!

In the fifth chapter of John's Gospel we see the account of Jesus healing a man On Sabbath. He was sick for 38 years. It happened near sheep gate, near a pool. The name of the pool was Bethesda means house of mercy. Jesus singled out this man and asked him"do you want to be healed". Jesus saw his need and willing to help him. Jesus said "get up,take up your bed and walk. He knows the fundamental problem he was facing and able to  save him. Also He gives the power to break him from his past life and grow spiritually. The man took his bed and walked away.His obedience to Christ's Word brought  instant healing in his life. But instead of rejoicing with him Jewish leader were upset because it happened on a Sabbath day.They were more concerned about who told him to carry the bed on Sabbath rather than this poor man was healed. The man did not know who healed him. Later he went to the temple and met Jesus.. Jesus told him since your sins are forgiven he must live in the newness of life. When religions fail to see the need of men Christ is willing and able to meet their needs. He wants that those who are forgiven should live in the newness of life(Phi 2:12).

The Jews in the Jesus' day lived with long list of rules to keep the Sabbath holy. God established Sabbath as a sign of His special  covenant relationship with Israel(Ex 31:12_17).Christ ultimately set us free from the law by fulfilling the law.Christ' said from the cross "it is finished"(John 19:30). Now we serve God because we love Him.Sunday is not Christian Sabbath day but a day of remembrance of Christ' death and resurrection. It is a day of rejoicing and reflection on Christ who loved us gave Himself for us. Father and Son may have rested from creation but now they are at work bringing salvation to lost sinners. This salvation is purely by grace through faith(Eph 2:8,9). Once we decide to earn God's favor by rule keeping including Sabbath rather than surrendering to God's grace, then the whole law applies to us(James 2:10).  Bible says that "by the deeds of the law no flesh be justified  in God's sight(Rom 3:20).

Jesus affirmed His divinity by claiming that He is equal with the Father.  He said "My Father never stops working, so why should I?"(John 5:17).Thus He justified the healing of the sick man on Sabbath day.God is the everlasting Father(Is 9:6).Christ was always the Son of God(John 1:1;17:5). we use the word son to describe that he is born from parents. But for Christ the word Son is used to describe the nature of the Father. Only Christ can say whatever Father does Son also does. He said "I and the Father are one"(John 10:30). Unlike us God is distinctively the Father of Christ. Father was never without Son nor Son without Father. This relationship has no beginning or end. All that Father does Son does. Father does not set apart from the Son the raising of the dead and judgment. Father committed all judgment to Son. Father and Son share the same life. If Son is not God we can never know God(John 1:18).Christ deserves equal honor with the Father. He who believes in Christ  is passed from death to life. It is noteworthy that Christ gives several witnesses to establish the validity of His claims. It is testified  by John the Baptist(33-35), the miracles He did(36), the Father' testimony at baptism (37,38),and the Scripture(39-47). Jews always searched the scripture because they knew that it contained the message of eternal life. They bear witness of Christ. But because of the hardness of their heart they rejected Christ.  They sought praises from men rather than from God. Though they had great respect for Moses they did not accept his testimony about Christ(Deut 18:15-18;  Lk 24:27).May that not happen in our life. Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved(Act 16:31).. May God help us!!                 

He Is Indeed The Savior Of The World!!

Jesus Christ once said " the Son of man is come to seek and save that  which was lost"( Lk 19:10). Christ is the master soul winner. In the fourth  chapter of John's Gospel we read about the story of the woman of Samaria and how she got saved. Jesus means Savior, He came to save and not to condemn the world. Unlike Nicodemus  the woman of Samaria was a pagan, ill reputed,despised,and confused  person. She was from a mixed race and Jews had nothing to do with them. Samaritans mixed Jehovah God with heathen gods. Some suggest that they used only the first five books of the Old Testament. Christ decided to go through Samaria. His compassion drove Him to this needy soul. He saw the value of this soul so great and set aside the man made social barrier to go through Samaria. Christ said to her "give me a drink".This surprised her because Jews refused to have any relationship with Samaritans. Jesus offered to her the gift of living water and  said one who drinks the water He gives will never thirst. She failed to understand the spiritual meaning of  living water and who Jesus was. Understanding is never a requirement for salvation but faith in Christ Jesus.

Christ commanded the woman to call her Husband.She was ready for salvation but her heart should be prepared for sowing the seed. There can be no conversion without conviction of sin and repentance. She  admitted her sin and acknowledged that Jesus is a prophet.But she wanted to shift the discussion  from moral sin to religion. She is still confused about Jesus and said when Messiah will come He will tell all things. Jesus replied "I am the Messiah"This filled her with hope and faith. Her understanding increased about Jesus from a Jew. then a prophet and finally to Messiah.To understand Christ's teaching one must have a desire to do His will(John 7:17).She became a witness for Christ and not a
shamed of Jesus.She rushed to the village and told the men of Jesus who told her all things she ever did.  They came to to see Jesus and requested Him to stay with them for two days. Many believed in Him and acknowledged that Jesus is the Savior of the world. Here we see how the testimony of an unnamed woman can impact others. Sharing the personal testimony is one of the effective method of witnessing.Let us not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

When the disciples returned they saw their Master broke the tradition and speaking to Samaritan woman.
They wanted Him to eat. Christ replied that His meat was to do the will of Father. Jesus reminded them of the urgency of witnessing. Christ was referring to the crowd of Samaritans coming to Him when He said " Lift up your eyes and look on the field, they are ready  for harvest"..In the spiritual harvest one sows and another reaps.Here Christ had planted the seed and disciples were ready to reap. Jesus came to bear witness of the Father and His love for mankind. His followers are entrusted with responsibility of becoming the witness of Jesus(Act 1:8). May God give us a passion for souls and fill us with His power to become effective witnesses for Christ.

In this Chapter we read about true worship. Woman wanted to talk about worship. Samaritans worship in mount Gerizim.  Jews worship in Jerusalem. Jesus said where  we worship is unimportant. God is not indifferent towards the object and the manner of worship. Only God should be worshiped. He desires our worship. The end of witnessing and evangelism is worship of God. The chief occupation of the Church is worship. It is the constant activity on earth and in heaven.Only those who are saved can worship God. They are spiritual made alive, Spirit filled, separated and prepared people of God. worshiping God in Truth and Spirit important. Worship must be sincere, truthful and not in type.Christ the whole truth. New Testament worship is a spiritual worship and not confine to a place like Jerusalem. Believers are the temple of God and we are priest to offer spiritual worship. May our worship be acceptable to God!

We also see in this chapter the healing of Nobleman's son. This happens when Jesus was in Cana. This official came from Capernaum and requested Jesus to heal his son. He thought that Jesus have to come to Capernaum to heal his son. Jesus said to him "go thy way your son lives". The official responded with  faith in the word of Christ and not on the miracles.The man went his way and met his servants with the good news that his son is healed. The healing was instantaneous.Faith means to act upon God's promise.  The result  was that the entire family placed their trust in Christ. This was the second miracle in Cana. Thus Jesus proved that He is the all powerful God. Both miracles produced faith and life among people. May God grant us faith and bring glory to Him by our obedience!

You Must Be Born Again!!

There are two incidents  we see in the third chapter of John's Gospel. The interview with Nicodemus and the last testimony of John the Baptist.In this chapter the doctrine of new birth or regeneration is explained. Nicodemus came to Jesus by night  so that he could  personally meet with Jesus. He was convinced  that Jesus was a teacher who came from God because of the miracles He did. Jesus did not do miracles to prove that He is God but he did perform miracles because He is God.Satan tempted Jesus by saying "if you are the Son of God command that these stones be made bread(Matt 4:3)." Jesus never had any doubt about His identity and had victory over Satan. Let us be aware of this truth. Nicodemus was a pharisees. He was a very religious person. Also he was a member of religious court Sanhedrin.He was also an influential teacher among the Jews who was waiting for the kingdom of God. We also learn that Nicodemus was a wealthy man and advanced in age(John 19:39).Jesus told Nicodemus that he should be born again to enter the kingdom of God. Jesus knew what was in Nicodemus mind(John2:25). Nicodemus did not understand the nature of the kingdom of God or new birth. He asked  how can an old man go back into his mother's womb and be born again? Christ explained to him the contrast between physical birth and spiritual birth. The flesh produces flesh and the Spirit produces Spiritual life. Nicodemus asked, how can these be?The answer is given in John 3:16. Because God so loved us. Bible teaches that understanding in not a prerequisite  for salvation but faith in Christ(Eph 2:8,9).Faith or believing is more than mental agreement(Jam 2:9). Faith is active trust in Christ that He is God and live in obedience to Him. Baptism is not essential for salvation otherwise none of the Old Testament saints including the thief  on the cross could be saved.

Why we must be born again? Because the natural man is spiritually dead. Bible says heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked(Jer 17:9).We are at enmity with God and controlled by Satan.We are created in the image of God. Sin deformed us.We try various methods to  reform us but still searching for answers. Nicodemus  found the answers in Christ Jesus. Bible says only Christ can transform us.

What is regeneration means?  It is the initial act of the Holy Spirit, in response to our faith in Christ,  imparting divine life is us and making us a part of His family.When we get saved God sends His Spirit to take residence in us to guide and radically change us. Thus we become new creation in Christ(2Cor 5:17).It is not a reformation but a recreation. All three Persons of God-head are in our salvation. We are born again because of the mercy of God the Father(1Pet 1:3). Christ gives us eternal life (John 10:28). Holy  Spirit lives in us to guide and empower us(Gal 5:25).To illustrate  regeneration, Christ uses two examples. The wind and the brazen serpent Moses lifted up in the wilderness. The source of the  wind is God. It is invisible. Yet we feel it's effect. Like wise God is the one who provided the brazen serpent. All those who looked to the serpent found deliverance. So regeneration is entirely an act of God. The joy and peace we experience is the result of regeneration. God uses His Word and His Spirit in our new birth. Those who are born again have a new heart .(Ezk 11:19). They become partakers of divine nature(2Pet 1"4).They are indwelt by the Holy Spirit(Rom 8:9).They are the children of God.(1John 3:1). They obey Christ and practice righteousness(1John 2:3,29). They do not practice sin(1John 3:9). They love fellow Christians(1John 3:14;4:7 They know that biblical love is not a feeling but a choice.They acknowledge God as the source of this love. The extend of this love  to all the world. The sacrifice of this love is the giving of His only begotten Son. And the result of this love is that whosoever  believe Christ  shall be saved(John 3:16). God sent His Son, not to condemned the world but to save those who believe His son. Bible says that those who reject Christ are already under judgement(John 3:36).Bible says many people do not believe in Christ because their deeds are evil and their sins will be exposed. This not an intellectual problem but a moral  and spiritual problem.

Lastly in this chapter we read about the last testimony of John the baptist. There was a debate over  the baptism of Jesus  and the baptism of John the baptist. John did not get involved in this discord because he knew his calling. He knew that he was only a forerunner,  sent to bear witness of Jesus Christ.  John rejoiced over Jesus' popularity. His desire was that Jesus must increase  but I must decrease. John acknowledge that Jesus is from heaven and he is from earth. He baptized with water but Jesus with Holy Spirit. Jesus only can give eternal life.Let us not to be ashamed of the Jesus Christ.  Eternal life is sharing the divine life with God and enjoying relationship with Him.Our attitude of faith in Christ should lead to actions of obedience in life. There is no neutrality in this relationship. Either we are with Christ or against Christ. Bible says that those who reject Christ,the wrath of God abides on them. God loves every body  and wants all to be saved(2Pet 3:9). God's wrath is His settled indignation towards sin. May God help us to appreciate His love and mercy towards us,