Prior Information - Pt. 5
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | August 25 2024 | John 16:1-4
KEY VERSE:
“But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told them to you.” John 16:4a (ESV)
MESSAGE:
Two key words in today's key verse are "hour" and "remember." The concept of "hour" or timing is a central theme in the Gospel of John. In Galatians 4:4, we are reminded that Christ came "in the fullness of time."
The historical context of Jesus' coming, often referred to as the Pax Romana (Roman Peace), provided a period of relative stability and order, which allowed for significant events, such as Paul's challenge against wrongful imprisonment, to take place. Israel, after 400 years without a prophet, was spiritually hungry for God's Word. Meanwhile, Greek, the universal language of the day, enabled the spread of the Gospel across diverse populations.
This demonstrates God's perfect timing in orchestrating events. In the Gospel of John, we learn timeless principles for life and ministry through Jesus' understanding of timing. In John 2:4, Jesus refuses to be hurried into action, choosing to work according to His own divine schedule. This teaches us that, without a clear focus or purpose, we risk being led by the expectations and demands of others.
In John 7:1-14, Jesus ignores the sceptical advice of His unbelieving brothers and instead attends the Feast on His own terms, following His own divine agenda. In John 12:27, Jesus is fully aware of His "hour" — the impending crucifixion, which is the very reason for His incarnation. Though the task is daunting, He faces it head-on, fulfilling His mission without hesitation.
In John 13, Jesus speaks of His imminent return to Heaven and ensures He completes His mission on earth. Similarly, the Apostle Peter, aware that his earthly journey was nearing its end, intensified his efforts to fulfil his calling (2 Peter 1:12-15).
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
In both life and ministry, we each have specific tasks assigned to us and a set time to accomplish them. Youthfulness does not last forever, retirement will eventually come, and death is inevitable. Let us take time to reflect on these truths and consider how we are using the time we've been given. PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, grant me the wisdom to navigate the stages of my life with the right mindset and to fulfil my responsibilities faithfully. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: HOUR The word "hour" in John 16:4a comes from the Greek word "ὥρα" (hōra), which can be translated as "hour," "time," or "moment." It often signifies a specific, appointed time in a broader theological or eschatological context. In the Gospel of John, "hour" frequently refers to a significant moment in God's redemptive plan, such as the time of Jesus' crucifixion and glorification (John 2:4, 12:23, 17:1). The reference to "hour" highlights God's sovereign control over time and events. The trials the disciples will face are part of a larger divine plan, and their timing is not accidental but purposeful. Jesus uses "hour" to signify a period when the disciples' faith will be tested, and they will experience opposition from the world. This usage is consistent with the Gospel of John’s theme of appointed times, underscoring a period predetermined in God’s sovereign plan.
Reflections The concept of "hour" in this passage encourages believers to trust in God's timing and sovereignty, especially during periods of trials and suffering. Cultivate a deeper trust in God's timing and preparation, especially when facing your own "hour" of trial or testing
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