When We Are Not On The Same Page
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | June 8, 2024 | John 11:1-16
KEY VERSE:
When Jesus heard that, He said, “This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” John 11:4 (NKJV)
MESSAGE:
Initial reading of the conversation between Christ and the disciples appears to create a comical scene (very respectfully speaking), of people operating from different pages. For example, Christ is introducing a new meaning to sleep but the disciples are with the old understanding.
A careful look at the passage unearths some fundamental principles for life and ministry. Our Lord Jesus refused to be directed by the tyranny of the urgent. Tyranny of the Urgent can make us lose focus. It can even cause us to press the panic button. We can readily make reference to the fatal step of King Saul that caused him the loss of the Kingship (1samuel 13:5-15).
Per verse 4, Jesus worked with the Bigger Picture - very important in life and ministry. Again, our Lord Jesus was very much composed. He wasn't going to get stampeded. In 2 Timothy 4:5, we're advised to have our wits with us in all situations.
Furthermore, we see Jesus, the Master Teacher, instructing from the known to the unknown
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Let's learn to be sober-minded at critical times so as not to be derailed by the Bigger Picture.
PRAYER:
Lord, help us see timeless Principles from your Word and apply them.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: UNTO DEATH The phrase "unto death" in John 11:4 is translated from the Greek phrase "πρὸς θάνατον" (pros thanaton). This phrase combines "πρὸς" (pros), which means "towards" or "unto," and "θάνατον" (thanaton), which means "death."
In this passage, Jesus addresses the concern about Lazarus's illness by reassuring that it will not lead to a final, irreversible death. Instead, this situation is meant to reveal God's glory and demonstrate Jesus' divine authority and power over life and death. This statement sets the scene for the subsequent miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead, which serves as a powerful testament to Jesus' identity as the Son of God.
Jesus' declaration challenges the common perception of death and suffering, pointing to a higher divine purpose. It emphasizes that not all suffering or illness leads to an end but can be part of God's redemptive plan to showcase His glory and strengthen faith. Reflections:
Reflect on how you perceive and respond to difficult circumstances in your life. How can you trust that God has a purpose and plan, even when facing what seems like insurmountable challenges? Consider how God might be using your trials to display His glory and deepen your faith.
Kommentare