What Do You Want?

Tetteh-Annor Larbi | February 2, 2024 | John 1:35-38

KEY VERSE:

Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” John 1:38 (NIV)

MESSAGE:

Jesus poses a simple yet profound question to two of John the Baptist's disciples who had been following him, asking them, "What do you want?" This question cuts to the core of their desires and intentions, challenging them to consider their deepest longings and aspirations. Similarly, Jesus asks each of us today, transcending superficial desires for material possessions or worldly success, "What do you want?" This question beckons us to examine the desires of our hearts and the priorities that shape our lives, whether we are seeking temporary pleasures and fleeting treasures or pursuing the eternal and the meaningful.

In response to Jesus' question, the disciples express their desire to know where He is staying. This simple request reveals their yearning for something deeper than mere information; they seek a personal encounter with Jesus. Likewise, our truest desire should be to know and experience Jesus intimately, to abide in His presence and to learn from Him.

Reflecting on Jesus' question, "What do you want?" let us examine our hearts and align our desires with His will. May we seek after Him above all else, for in Him alone do we find true fulfilment and satisfaction. Let us echo the psalmist's words, "Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you." Psalm 73:25 (ESV).

FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:

What is your motivation for following Jesus? You should desire to know Him and to experience Him intimately. Desire to abide in His presence always and to learn from Him.

PRAYER:

Dear Lord Jesus, I desire to be in your presence daily and to have an intimate relationship with you. Please help me to cultivate the habit of fellowshipping with you regularly by your Spirit. For your dear name’s sake. Amen.

THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.

SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!

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DAILY word study: FOLLOWING The term "following" in the Greek text is translated from "ἀκολουθέω" (akoloutheō). "ἀκολουθέω" implies more than physical proximity; it denotes a deeper sense of discipleship and allegiance.

In John 1:38, two disciples of John the Baptist hear him call Jesus the Lamb of God. They then start "following" Jesus. The context suggests a transition from following John the Baptist to becoming disciples of Jesus.

"Following" here implies more than a casual walk behind someone. It signifies a commitment to learning, imitating, and adhering to the teachings of the one followed. The disciples take the initiative to follow Jesus, reflecting the responsive nature of genuine discipleship. It's a voluntary and intentional act.

The act of "following" Jesus is foundational to Christian discipleship, emphasizing the personal and transformative relationship with Christ.

Reflections:

In your journey of faith, what does it mean for you to "follow" Jesus? How does discipleship manifest in your daily life, reflecting an intentional commitment to learn from and imitate Him?