The Epilogue-9: A Discerning Heart
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | November 30 2024 | John 21:5-8
KEY VERSE:
That disciple whom Jesus loved therefore said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" John 21:7a (ESV)
MESSAGE:
There are two more things to take a look at in the verse. Today, we examine why the beloved Apostle was the first to recognise the risen Christ. In verse twelve, we are told: Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now, none of the disciples dared ask Him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. At this point, all seven disciples knew who He was. The issue under discussion is how John was the first to identify the man who had directed them to cast the net as the risen Christ. Some say it was because he was the beloved Apostle, but that explanation doesn’t fully account for it. In 1 John 1:1, the Apostle John tells us they all heard, saw, and touched Christ. Clearly, there is no inherent advantage in being the beloved Apostle. So, what were the determining factors?
John was known for his sensitivity and brooding nature, evident in John 20:1-8, where his thoughtful observation led him to recognise the empty tomb's significance before Peter. While this perceptive trait initially resulted in impetuous actions—such as desiring fire to fall on those not aligned with them (Luke 9:54)—it later matured into godly virtues. His depth of thought shaped his understanding of Christ’s mission, as evidenced in his epistles and his title as the Apostle of Love. Again, in John 19:26-27, John’s perceptiveness and sense of responsibility are seen as he takes on the care of Mary, the mother of Jesus, at Christ’s request. As we walk in deeper fellowship with God, we can cultivate a discerning heart that is keenly aware of His presence and guidance. The Holy Spirit continually leads us into greater understanding, helping us see beyond the surface and drawing us closer to the truth in all our lives.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
From a "son of thunder" to a perceptive Apostle—God's love can transform us. Let’s stay sensitive to His voice and allow His presence to guide us. As we grow in our relationship with Him, we become better equipped to reflect His love and grace, responding with humility and obedience to those around us. PRAYER:
Lord Jesus, continue Your transformative work in my life. Help me to grow in discernment and reflect Your love in my actions for the good of others and the glory of Your name. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: LORD (Kyrios)
The Greek word Kyrios (κύριος) means "lord," "master," or "sovereign." It is derived from the root word kuros (κυρός), meaning "authority" or "power." Kyrios was used in antiquity to refer to a ruler or master, but in Christian theology, it specifically denotes Jesus as the supreme Lord and ruler of all.
In our key verse, John recognizes the figure on the shore as "the Lord" upon witnessing the miraculous catch of fish. His use of Kyrios indicates Jesus’ sovereignty and divinity. The disciples, even in their weariness, were reminded that Jesus has power over nature, and through His resurrection, He is affirmed as Lord over all creation. The title Kyrios goes beyond acknowledging Jesus as a teacher or prophet; it recognizes Him as the divine ruler and the sovereign Lord. His resurrection was the ultimate affirmation of His divine authority, proving that His power and reign extend beyond death.
Reflection: Recognizing Jesus as Kyrios means submitting to His lordship and trusting His power in all areas of our lives. May we grow in awareness of His sovereign presence and allow it to guide our actions and decisions.
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