Deepening Our Relationship with Christ: The 'If Then' Journey

Summary

In today's gathering, we explored the profound concept of "If Then" statements as used by Jesus and throughout the Bible. This logical reasoning, rooted in the teachings of Aristotle, is a method God uses to guide us to conclusions about His truth. We see this in passages like 2 Chronicles 7:14, where God promises healing if His people humble themselves and pray. This theme is prevalent in both the Old and New Testaments, emphasizing the importance of understanding and acting upon God's word.

Our focus today was on knowing Jesus, as highlighted in John 14. Jesus declares Himself as the way, the truth, and the life, asserting that no one comes to the Father except through Him. This statement challenges the notion that all paths lead to God, emphasizing the unique and exclusive nature of Christ's role in salvation. Jesus' use of "If Then" statements in this passage invites us to a deeper understanding of His identity and mission.

Knowing Jesus is not just an intellectual exercise but a relational journey. The disciples, despite spending years with Him, were still challenged to truly know Him. This is a call for us to deepen our relationship with Christ, moving beyond elementary teachings to a mature faith. As we grow in our knowledge of Jesus, we are called to reflect His character in our lives, making Him known to others through our actions and words.

The ultimate goal is to know Christ and make Him known. This involves living a Christ-centered life, where our actions reflect His love and truth. As we lift up Jesus in our lives, we draw others to Him, fulfilling our mission as His witnesses. This journey of knowing Jesus leads us to understand His divinity, embrace His truth, and experience the eternal life He offers.

Key Takeaways:

- The Power of "If Then" Statements: The Bible uses "If Then" statements to guide us to truth. These logical constructs, seen in both the Old and New Testaments, invite us to understand and act upon God's promises. They challenge us to come to conclusions about our faith and relationship with God. [01:03:55]

- Knowing Jesus is Essential: Jesus' declaration as the way, the truth, and the life emphasizes the necessity of knowing Him to access the Father. This knowledge is not just intellectual but relational, calling us to a deeper, personal connection with Christ. [01:06:58]

- Reflecting Christ in Our Lives: As we know Jesus, we are called to reflect His character in our actions. This involves living a life of love, compassion, and truth, drawing others to Him through our example. Our mission is to make Christ known by embodying His teachings. [01:28:14]

- Moving Beyond Elementary Teachings: Mature faith requires moving beyond basic teachings to a deeper understanding of Christ. This involves studying the scriptures, engaging in community, and seeking a personal relationship with Jesus. As we grow, we are better equipped to face life's challenges. [01:19:22]

- The Importance of Personal Testimony: Sharing our personal experiences with Jesus is a powerful way to witness to others. Our stories of transformation and healing can inspire and draw others to Christ, demonstrating the reality of His presence in our lives. [01:32:22]

Youtube Chapters:

- [0:00] - Welcome
- [01:00:29] - Opening Prayer
- [01:01:12] - Church Announcements
- [01:02:10] - Introduction to "If Then" Series
- [01:03:55] - Biblical Examples of "If Then"
- [01:05:19] - Theme: Knowing Jesus
- [01:06:12] - John 14: Jesus as the Way
- [01:07:53] - The Exclusivity of Christ
- [01:09:42] - Jesus' "If Then" Statements
- [01:11:42] - The Importance of Knowing Jesus
- [01:16:34] - Reflecting Jesus in Our Lives
- [01:19:22] - Moving Beyond Elementary Teachings
- [01:28:14] - Making Christ Known
- [01:32:22] - The Power of Personal Testimony
- [01:50:18] - Conclusion and Call to Know Jesus
- [01:58:39] - Communion and Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- 2 Chronicles 7:14
- John 14:1-14
- Deuteronomy 8:1-2

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Observation Questions:

1. What is the significance of the "If Then" statements in 2 Chronicles 7:14, and how does it reflect God's promises? [01:03:55]

2. In John 14, how does Jesus describe His relationship with the Father, and what does He promise to those who believe in Him? [01:06:12]

3. How does Deuteronomy 8:1-2 illustrate the concept of blessings and curses based on obedience to God's commands? [01:05:19]

4. What are some examples of "If Then" statements used by Jesus in John 14, and what conclusions do they lead us to? [01:09:42]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the use of "If Then" statements in the Bible help believers understand their relationship with God and His expectations? [01:03:55]

2. What does Jesus' declaration as "the way, the truth, and the life" imply about the exclusivity of His role in salvation? How might this challenge common beliefs about multiple paths to God? [01:06:58]

3. In what ways does knowing Jesus go beyond intellectual understanding to become a relational journey, as seen in the interactions with His disciples? [01:11:42]

4. How does the sermon suggest that moving beyond elementary teachings can lead to a more mature faith and better equip believers to face life's challenges? [01:19:22]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you experienced an "If Then" moment in your spiritual journey. How did it impact your faith and understanding of God's promises? [01:03:55]

2. Jesus emphasizes the necessity of knowing Him to access the Father. What steps can you take to deepen your personal relationship with Christ this week? [01:06:58]

3. Consider how your actions reflect Christ's character. What specific changes can you make in your daily life to better embody His love, compassion, and truth? [01:28:14]

4. The sermon encourages moving beyond elementary teachings. Identify one area of your faith where you feel called to grow deeper. What resources or practices can help you in this journey? [01:19:22]

5. Sharing personal testimony is highlighted as a powerful way to witness to others. Think of a recent experience where you saw God's hand at work. How can you share this story with someone who might be encouraged by it? [01:32:22]

6. Reflect on the idea that knowing Jesus leads to understanding His divinity and experiencing eternal life. How does this perspective influence your view of life's challenges and your ultimate purpose? [01:50:18]

7. The sermon mentions the importance of making Christ known. Identify one person in your life who might benefit from hearing about Jesus. What is one practical step you can take to introduce them to His love and truth? [01:28:14]

Devotional

Day 1: The Logic of Faith
The Bible often employs "If Then" statements to guide believers toward understanding and acting upon God's promises. These logical constructs, rooted in the teachings of Aristotle, are used by God to lead His people to conclusions about His truth. For instance, in 2 Chronicles 7:14, God promises healing if His people humble themselves and pray. This method of reasoning is prevalent throughout both the Old and New Testaments, challenging believers to come to conclusions about their faith and relationship with God. By engaging with these statements, individuals are invited to explore the depth of God's promises and the conditions that accompany them, leading to a more profound understanding of their faith. [01:03:55]

"For if you keep silent at this time, relief and deliverance will rise for the Jews from another place, but you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Esther 4:14, ESV)

Reflection: Consider a promise from God that you have been hesitant to act upon. What steps can you take today to fulfill the conditions of that promise and experience its fulfillment in your life?

Day 2: The Necessity of Knowing Jesus
Knowing Jesus is essential for accessing the Father, as emphasized in John 14, where Jesus declares Himself as the way, the truth, and the life. This knowledge is not merely intellectual but relational, calling believers to a deeper, personal connection with Christ. The exclusivity of Christ's role in salvation challenges the notion that all paths lead to God, highlighting the unique and indispensable nature of knowing Jesus. This relational journey requires moving beyond surface-level understanding to truly grasp His identity and mission, ultimately leading to a transformative relationship with Him. [01:06:58]

"And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent." (John 17:3, ESV)

Reflection: Reflect on your current relationship with Jesus. What is one practical step you can take this week to deepen your personal connection with Him?

Day 3: Embodying Christ's Character
As believers grow in their knowledge of Jesus, they are called to reflect His character in their actions. This involves living a life of love, compassion, and truth, drawing others to Him through their example. The mission of making Christ known is fulfilled by embodying His teachings and allowing His love to shine through their lives. By living a Christ-centered life, believers not only experience personal transformation but also become effective witnesses to others, inviting them to experience the same transformative relationship with Jesus. [01:28:14]

"Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 5:16, ESV)

Reflection: Identify one area of your life where you can better reflect Christ's character. How can you intentionally demonstrate His love and truth in that area today?

Day 4: Growing in Mature Faith
Mature faith requires moving beyond elementary teachings to a deeper understanding of Christ. This involves studying the scriptures, engaging in community, and seeking a personal relationship with Jesus. As believers grow in their faith, they become better equipped to face life's challenges and to support others in their spiritual journeys. This growth is not just about acquiring knowledge but about experiencing a transformative relationship with Christ that impacts every aspect of their lives. By pursuing a mature faith, believers are empowered to live out their calling and to make a meaningful impact in the world. [01:19:22]

"Therefore let us leave the elementary doctrine of Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works and of faith toward God." (Hebrews 6:1, ESV)

Reflection: What is one area of your faith that you feel needs growth? What specific action can you take this week to deepen your understanding and experience of Christ in that area?

Day 5: The Power of Personal Testimony
Sharing personal experiences with Jesus is a powerful way to witness to others. Stories of transformation and healing can inspire and draw others to Christ, demonstrating the reality of His presence in believers' lives. Personal testimonies serve as a testament to the transformative power of knowing Jesus and the impact He can have on individuals' lives. By sharing their stories, believers not only encourage others but also reinforce their own faith, reminding themselves of God's faithfulness and the ongoing work of His Spirit in their lives. [01:32:22]

"But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." (1 Peter 3:15, ESV)

Reflection: Think of a recent experience where you felt God's presence in your life. How can you share this testimony with someone who might need encouragement today?

Quotes

1) "If we are the church, then wherever we go, we carry the priesthood of the church with us. So we invite you to just carry Jesus with you. Today I'm starting a new series, and it is based on if then. Somebody say if then. You see it on the screen there. It's if then. And that is, you know, it's based on a condition on the conditional statements that are made by Jesus. Now, the idea of if then is a concept that is fundamental to logical reasoning. In other words, if you want to come to a conclusion, I think Shawn spoke a little bit about that. Sometimes in computer programming, in mathematics, in philosophy, you might use this idea of if and then in order to come to a conclusion." [01:01:12] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2) "So God himself uses it. He says, if you do this, I will do that. So we can see throughout scripture. And so it's important to understand that, you know, God used that because he wants us to come to a conclusion of what he's saying. You know, very often we have religions around the world, and very often you hear people say, all religions lead to the same God, the same seed. But, you know, that is not quite correct, right? But the word of God is true. And we can come to conclusion when we read the word of God. And we come and we can see this type of reasoning applied across the board in scripture, and it helps us to better understand how God works in our lives." [01:03:55] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3) "Jesus doesn't mix matters. He says, I am the way. I am the truth. I am the life. You can take it or you can leave it. He makes it very clear, and this is very, he's asserting who he is. I am the way. And he says, no one can come to the father except through me. And then later on in verse seven, as we continue in verse seven. He says, if you had known me, you would have known my father also. And from now on, you know him and have seen him again. Philip said to him, lord, show us the father. And it is sufficient for us. Jesus said to him, have I been with you so long and yet you have not known me?" [01:07:53] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4) "And I think it is important for us to know Christ. That is the primary objective or the primary goal of every christian believer, to know Christ. In fact, that is why he came. He wants you to know him because in knowing him, you will know God. In knowing him, you will know the father. Thats essentially what hes saying in this passage. If you have seen me, you have seen the father. You know, Sister Bonnie always talks about, tells the story about this little boy who calls his father in the night because there's a storm. And his father said, don't worry, son. Don't be afraid. God is with you. And the son says, dad, yes, I know God is with me, but I want somebody with skin on to come and be with me. I want my dad to be with me. And you see, Jesus is God with skin on. Essentially, that's what it is." [01:14:35] (52 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5) "So let's forget about those elementary things and let's understand that we come to that place where we get to know Jesus. Because when we get to know Jesus, you'll find that if he's our light and in our lives you'll realize that no matter what the storms are, he will see us through. The disciples were in a boat one night and as the boat was going through, Jesus had stayed back. This is after feeding 5000 people. And he stayed back to pray. And he's coming and he sees the boat out and the boat is under water and there's a storm. And maybe for hours the disciples are battling the storm. And then Jesus comes and he walks on the water coming to them. And Peter says, lord, if it is you, bid me come. And Peter steps out and he walks on water. Man, what a thing to happen. But the storm is still going because when Peter saw the waves around him, he started to sink. And then Jesus got into the boat and immediately the scripture says as he got into the boat, the wind and the waves ceased." [01:25:25] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6) "The best way to make Christ known is to live a Christ like life. To live a Christ like life, a Christ centered life. How would jesus handle this situation that you're facing? How would Jesus deal with this issue? When somebody comes and whispers something in your ear about somebody else, how do you, you think he's going to do? We know how Jesus is going to respond, right? At one time, there was this woman, and as a matter of fact, there's a bunch of men and this woman, and they had captured her because she was caught in adultery. She was caught in the act. So there were some peeping tombs at somebody's house, and they grab and they bring her before Jesus. And they said, the law says that a woman caught in such a situation should be put to death. What do you say? They're whispering in Jesus air. They're telling him what the law is, as if he didn't know the law because he wrote the law. And Jesus does not look at the woman, but he says, he that is without sin casts the first stone." [01:29:15] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7) "You know, there is something to be said about the power of a personal testimony. You know, we can take the scriptures and we could preach all that we want. But you see, you tell somebody your story, you tell them what God has done for you. When I stand and I tell people, hey, listen, you know what? I had a diagnosis of prostate cancer, but God healed me. You know, you can't beat that. How many of you know that? Because that's what God has done for me. Amen. So we tell others. So we become a witness. We are not only to be a witness again, you know, that's on a personal level. We have to be personal witnesses. Witnesses. He has also given a mandate to the church to go and he says, preach the gospel. Go ye, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit. Corporately, as a church, we're supposed to go into all the world and make what? Make disciples of all nations. But you can't be a disciple maker until your first aid disciple." [01:32:22] (58 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8) "When you spend time with Jesus, you will eventually get to know him. You know, Peter and. Peter and John, they had an encounter with a lay man at the gate. Beautiful. At the temple. This was just after the descent of the Holy Spirit. So they're pumped and they're really on fire for God. And they're going into the temple to pray late in the afternoon. And as they go, there's this man who's begging, and this was a layman he had been laying from since he was a child. And he's always placed in front of the temple, and he's begging, and he sees Peter and John, and he reaches out to them and to ask for some alms. And of course, Peter and John stop for a moment and they say, look at us. And the man looks at them because he's expecting them. Seneca is the jewish word, the hebrew word for charity. And he says, look on us. And he's expecting to get some money. And Peter and John say, well, silver and gold, we do not have but such as we have, we give unto you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk. You see, when you know Jesus, you can give Jesus. Amen. When you know Jesus, you can give Jesus." [01:37:07] (66 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9) "So when we come to know Jesus, there are some things that we are going to conclude and we are going to come to, and I want to share a couple of these with him. Number one is, you will know that he is divine, that he is God. You will not go long saying, well, he's some prophet. He's just a man who lived out there. No, you will understand the divinity of Jesus. Now, Jesus establishes divinity in this passage that we just read a while ago, John, chapter 14. Jesus starts off by saying, let not your heart be troubled. If you believe in God, believe also in me. Think about it from when I were to come to you, and I would say something like that, if you believe in goddesse in me, some of you might be flinging chairs at me right away because you realize that is blasphemy, right? Jesus is saying it and he's saying, if you believe in God, believe also in me. That's saying clearly that he is divine, that he's putting himself on an equal plane with God. Think about that for a moment. Amen. So when we get to know Jesus, we realize that he is one with the father. He established it at the beginning." [01:45:06] (67 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10) "So the question I have today is, do you know Jesus? As we come to the conclusion here today, do you know Jesus? Jesus is saying, if you know me, you will know the father. In other words, if you know me, you will know the way to God. If you know me, you will know what truth is. If you know me, you will have eternal life. That's what he's saying here, here today. And he's challenging all of us to get to know him. I am challenging you this morning to get to know Jesus. Find some books on the real Jesus, go into the scriptures, read the gospel and find out who Jesus is. I will close by saying this one thing. We have four gospels. Have you noticed that? We have Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Why did God decide to put four gospels in one bible? One gospel would have been enough, right? Don't you think so? You see, the thing is, the four gospel gives us an east west, north south picture of who Jesus is. We get a circular view, a 360 degree view of who Jesus is. Amen. We see him from all aspects." [01:50:18] (65 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?