Chosen and Appointed
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | August 12 2024 | John 15:16
KEY VERSE:
You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you. John 15:16 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
In John 15:16, Jesus reminds us of a powerful truth: we have been chosen by Him. This is not something we initiated or earned; it is a divine calling and an act of grace. Jesus chose us, not just to be His followers, but to be His representatives in the world. This choice speaks to our identity and purpose. We are not merely believers, but individuals selected by Christ Himself to fulfil a specific mission. This truth should fill us with humility and gratitude, knowing that the Creator of the universe has a unique purpose for each of us
Along with being chosen, we are also appointed by Jesus to "go and bear fruit—fruit that will last." This appointment is not passive; it is a call to action. The fruit we are called to bear reflects our relationship with Christ and the impact we make in the world through His love and truth. The lasting fruit speaks of eternal significance—lives changed, hearts transformed, and God's kingdom advanced. Our actions, words, and prayers are all part of this fruit-bearing mission. Jesus' appointment of us to this task is both a privilege and a responsibility, urging us to live intentionally and purposefully in our walk with Him. Jesus also assures us that as we fulfil this calling, we have access to the Father through prayer: "Whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you." This promise is connected to our mission to bear fruit. When our desires align with God's will and our prayers are rooted in the mission He has given us, we can pray confidently, knowing that He will provide what we need to accomplish His purposes. Being chosen and appointed by Jesus means we are equipped with His authority and empowered by His Spirit to make a lasting difference.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Embrace this calling with joy and dedication and seek to bear fruit that glorifies God and endures for eternity.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord Jesus, I accept your appointment to go and bear fruit. May I bear fruit that depicts the Godly character nurtured by the Holy Spirit in me. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: CHOOSE
The word "choose" is translated from the Greek word "ἐξελέξατο" (exelexato), which is a form of "ἐκλέγομαι" (eklegomai). This term means to select or choose out of a larger group, often implying a deliberate and purposeful decision. In the context of the New Testament, it frequently denotes God's sovereign choice or election of individuals for specific roles or purposes.
The grace and sovereignty of Jesus in initiating and establishing the relationship with believers is highlighted by the use of the word "ἐξελέξατο" (exelexato) in John 15:16. This term underscores that believers are chosen not only by His divine authority for a specific purpose: to bear lasting fruit. This purpose is backed by God's authority and empowerment, ensuring that their efforts have eternal significance.
Reflections:
How does knowing that you are chosen and appointed by Jesus shape your sense of purpose and mission in life, and how can you actively bear fruit that lasts in your daily walk with Him?
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