When I Am Lifted Up
Rev. Charles Oppong-Poku | June 24, 2024 | John 12:31-33
KEY VERSE:
“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” John 12:32 (NIV)
MESSAGE:
In John 12:31-33, Jesus speaks about His impending crucifixion and its significance. He says, …. and I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself." This passage highlights the transformative power of Jesus' sacrifice and its impact on humanity and the spiritual realm. In these verses, Jesus foretells the profound effect His crucifixion will have. By being "lifted up" on the cross, Jesus indicates not only His physical elevation but also His exaltation as Saviour. His death would bring judgment upon the world, casting out the prince of this world, Satan, and offering salvation to all who believe in Him.
Jesus’ crucifixion signifies the decisive judgment against sin and evil. Through His sacrifice, the world's corruption is exposed, and the path to redemption is opened. The "prince of this world" refers to Satan, who is defeated through Jesus’ death and resurrection. The cross was the place where the prince of this world, Satan, lost at his own game. Satan had intended to use Jesus' horrible death to destroy God's work. Instead, God used Jesus' death on the cross to be the sacrifice for our sins. This victory liberates humanity from the power of sin and death. Jesus’ death has a universal appeal. By being lifted up, He draws all people to Himself, inviting everyone to partake in the salvation He offers.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Reflecting on this passage, we are reminded of the incredible power and love demonstrated through Jesus' crucifixion. His sacrifice was not just an event in history but a pivotal moment that offered hope and transformation for all humanity. It calls us to recognise the depth of God's love and the victory we have over sin and darkness through Jesus.
PRAYER:
Father, thank you for the sacrifice of your Son, Jesus, who was lifted up on the cross to draw all people to Himself. Please give me the courage to live with the confidence that darkness, and the prince of darkness, were defeated because of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection and that I can now live faithfully for you because of Jesus' victory. In Jesus' name. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: ALL PEOPLE
The Greek word πάντας (pantas), translated as "all people," denotes inclusiveness, meaning every individual without exception. It emphasizes the universal reach of Jesus' sacrificial act.
The phrase all people underscores the inclusive nature of Jesus' mission; His sacrificial death is meant for the salvation of all humanity, not just a specific group. His crucifixion becomes the focal point through which God's redemptive plan is accomplished, offering salvation to all people. It speaks to the dismantling of barriers between Jews and Gentiles, signifying that everyone is invited to partake in the grace and redemption offered through Christ.
Reflections:
Reflect on the inclusivity of Jesus' mission and the implications it has for how we view and interact with others. How can you actively participate in drawing "all people" to Christ through your actions, words, and love?
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