Following Jesus: Identity, Humility, and Transformation

 

Summary

In John chapter 1, we witness the remarkable first week of Jesus' ministry, a period that offers profound insights into how people come to meet and follow Jesus. This week is not just a historical account but a blueprint for understanding the dynamics of spiritual transformation and ministry. The narrative begins with John the Baptist's declaration of his identity, emphasizing the importance of knowing who we are and who we are not. John the Baptist's humility sets the stage for the ministry of Jesus, reminding us that our role is not to proclaim ourselves but to point others to Christ.

As we delve into the subsequent days, we see the essence of gospel ministry: proclaiming who Jesus is and what He does. The disciples' journey to Jesus illustrates the variety of ways people come to faith. Some are drawn through gospel proclamation, others through personal invitation, and some through direct divine intervention. This diversity underscores the need for a multifaceted approach in ministry, where we employ every means possible to draw people to Christ.

The narrative also highlights the progressive steps by which individuals find their place in ministry. It begins with establishing a relationship with Jesus, cultivating gifts, and eventually receiving a ministry assignment. This progression teaches us that intimacy with Christ must precede activity for Him. The disciples' journey is a testament to the transformative power of walking closely with Jesus, which prepares them for the ministry He has for them.

Furthermore, the text challenges us to examine our motivations for following Jesus. The disciples' desire to be with Jesus, rather than seeking what He can do for them, is a model for true discipleship. This love for Christ is what sustains believers through trials and challenges, ensuring that their faith endures.

Finally, the promise given to Peter illustrates the divine power by which people are transformed. Jesus sees beyond Peter's impulsive nature and speaks to what he will become. This promise is a reminder that Jesus knows our potential and has the power to transform us into what He has called us to be.

Key Takeaways:

- Identity and Humility: Understanding who we are and who we are not is foundational in ministry. John the Baptist's declaration, "I am not the Christ," reminds us that our role is to point others to Jesus, not to ourselves. This humility is essential for genuine gospel ministry. [06:22]

- Diverse Paths to Jesus: People come to Jesus through various means—gospel proclamation, personal invitation, and divine intervention. This diversity calls for a multifaceted approach in ministry, where we use every possible means to draw people to Christ. [09:55]

- Progressive Steps in Ministry: Finding one's place in ministry involves a progression from establishing a relationship with Jesus to cultivating gifts and receiving a ministry assignment. Intimacy with Christ must precede activity for Him, ensuring that our service is rooted in a deep relationship with Him. [19:49]

- Motivation for Following Jesus: The disciples' desire to be with Jesus, rather than seeking what He can do for them, is a model for true discipleship. This love for Christ sustains believers through trials and challenges, ensuring that their faith endures. [26:59]

- Transformative Power of Jesus: Jesus' promise to Peter illustrates His power to transform us into what He has called us to be. Despite our weaknesses, Jesus sees our potential and works in us to fulfill His purposes. [37:44]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:11] - Introduction to John Chapter 1
- [00:29] - The Remarkable Week in Jesus' Ministry
- [01:01] - John the Baptist's Declaration
- [01:51] - Launching a Ministry in Seven Days
- [03:10] - Church's Thrive Campaign
- [04:32] - Day 1: Establishing Identity
- [06:22] - Humility in Ministry
- [07:00] - Day 2: Clarifying Ministry
- [08:25] - Day 3: Gathering the Community
- [09:55] - Variety of Means to Follow Jesus
- [17:42] - Progressive Steps in Ministry
- [26:59] - Main Desire in Discipleship
- [37:44] - Divine Power for Change
- [40:26] - Closing Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- John 1:19-51
- 2 Corinthians 4:5
- Mark 1:16-20

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Observation Questions:

1. What declaration does John the Baptist make about his identity, and why is it significant for understanding his role in Jesus' ministry? [05:06]

2. How do the first disciples come to follow Jesus, and what are the different means by which they are drawn to Him? [09:55]

3. What does Jesus' interaction with Simon Peter reveal about His understanding of Peter's potential and future transformation? [37:44]

4. How does the narrative in John 1 illustrate the importance of humility in ministry, as demonstrated by John the Baptist? [06:22]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does John the Baptist's statement, "I am not the Christ," serve as a model for humility in ministry today? What implications does this have for how we present ourselves in our own ministries? [06:22]

2. In what ways does the variety of paths to Jesus, as seen in the first disciples' experiences, challenge or affirm current approaches to evangelism and ministry? [09:55]

3. How does the progression from establishing a relationship with Jesus to receiving a ministry assignment reflect the necessary steps for effective ministry? What might this look like in a modern context? [19:49]

4. What does the promise Jesus makes to Peter about his future transformation teach us about the power of Jesus to change lives? How can this encourage believers who feel inadequate? [37:44]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own identity in Christ. How can you ensure that your ministry or service is focused on pointing others to Jesus rather than yourself? [06:22]

2. Consider the different ways people come to faith. How can you incorporate a multifaceted approach in your personal ministry or evangelism efforts to reach diverse individuals? [09:55]

3. Evaluate your current relationship with Jesus. Are you prioritizing intimacy with Him before engaging in activities for Him? What changes can you make to deepen this relationship? [19:49]

4. Examine your motivations for following Jesus. Are there areas where you might be seeking what Jesus can do for you rather than simply desiring to be with Him? How can you shift your focus to a love for Christ that sustains you through challenges? [26:59]

5. Think about a specific area in your life where you feel inadequate or unworthy. How can the promise of Jesus' transformative power, as seen in Peter's life, encourage you to trust in His ability to change and use you? [37:44]

6. Identify someone in your life who might benefit from a personal invitation to explore faith. What steps can you take this week to share your testimony or invite them to learn more about Jesus? [12:00]

7. Reflect on a time when you felt called to a specific ministry or service. How did your relationship with Jesus prepare you for that role, and what ongoing steps can you take to cultivate your gifts for future opportunities? [19:49]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing Our True Identity
Understanding who we are and who we are not is foundational in ministry. John the Baptist's declaration, "I am not the Christ," serves as a powerful reminder that our role is to point others to Jesus, not to ourselves. This humility is essential for genuine gospel ministry. By recognizing our limitations and embracing our true identity, we can effectively guide others toward Christ. John the Baptist's humility set the stage for Jesus' ministry, emphasizing the importance of knowing our place in God's plan. This understanding allows us to focus on our calling and purpose, ensuring that our actions align with God's will. [06:22]

John 3:28-30 (ESV): "You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him.’ The one who has the bride is the bridegroom. The friend of the bridegroom, who stands and hears him, rejoices greatly at the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. He must increase, but I must decrease."

Reflection: In what areas of your life are you tempted to seek recognition or validation? How can you intentionally point others to Jesus instead of yourself today?


Day 2: Diverse Paths to Faith
People come to Jesus through various means—gospel proclamation, personal invitation, and divine intervention. This diversity calls for a multifaceted approach in ministry, where we use every possible means to draw people to Christ. The disciples' journey to Jesus illustrates the variety of ways people come to faith, highlighting the need for creativity and openness in our outreach efforts. By recognizing and embracing these diverse paths, we can better serve those around us and help them encounter Jesus in meaningful ways. This approach requires us to be attentive to the unique needs and circumstances of each individual, allowing us to tailor our ministry efforts accordingly. [09:55]

1 Corinthians 9:22-23 (ESV): "To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings."

Reflection: Think of someone in your life who has not yet encountered Jesus. What unique approach can you take to share the gospel with them in a way that resonates with their personal journey?


Day 3: The Journey of Ministry
Finding one's place in ministry involves a progression from establishing a relationship with Jesus to cultivating gifts and receiving a ministry assignment. Intimacy with Christ must precede activity for Him, ensuring that our service is rooted in a deep relationship with Him. The disciples' journey is a testament to the transformative power of walking closely with Jesus, which prepares them for the ministry He has for them. This progression teaches us that our effectiveness in ministry is directly linked to our personal relationship with Christ. By prioritizing our spiritual growth and development, we can better serve others and fulfill our God-given purpose. [19:49]

Ephesians 4:11-13 (ESV): "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ."

Reflection: What steps can you take today to deepen your relationship with Jesus and prepare for the ministry He has for you? How can you cultivate your gifts in a way that aligns with His calling?


Day 4: True Motivation in Discipleship
The disciples' desire to be with Jesus, rather than seeking what He can do for them, is a model for true discipleship. This love for Christ sustains believers through trials and challenges, ensuring that their faith endures. By prioritizing our relationship with Jesus over the benefits we may receive, we can develop a genuine and lasting faith. This approach requires us to examine our motivations and ensure that our desire to follow Jesus is rooted in love and devotion. By focusing on our relationship with Him, we can navigate the challenges of life with confidence and resilience. [26:59]

Luke 10:38-42 (ESV): "Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, 'Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.' But the Lord answered her, 'Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.'"

Reflection: Reflect on your motivations for following Jesus. Are there areas where you are more focused on what He can do for you rather than simply being with Him? How can you shift your focus to prioritize your relationship with Him?


Day 5: The Transformative Power of Jesus
Jesus' promise to Peter illustrates His power to transform us into what He has called us to be. Despite our weaknesses, Jesus sees our potential and works in us to fulfill His purposes. This promise is a reminder that Jesus knows our potential and has the power to transform us into what He has called us to be. By trusting in His transformative power, we can overcome our limitations and become the people He has created us to be. This transformation requires us to surrender our lives to Him and allow Him to work in and through us. [37:44]

2 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV): "And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit."

Reflection: What areas of your life do you feel need transformation? How can you invite Jesus to work in these areas and trust in His power to change you?

Quotes



John says I am NOT the Christ I cannot fix myself let alone try and fix other people that is not why I am here now friends Christians need to be honest and this is very important in these days with regards to our ministry our message to the community can never be we are here to show you how to live. [00:04:46]

We are not here to say look at us as if we thought that we had model lives model homes model children or all the rest of it we are not the Christ we struggle with our own sins we have tensions in our own homes we have disagreements in our own churches if the whole world was Christian it would be a lot better than it is today. [00:05:24]

There is a humility that characterizes all genuine gospel ministry and we see it on day one in the launch of the Ministry of Jesus I am NOT the Christ says John the Baptist in fact I'm not even worthy to untie the son those that are on his feet it's not about me it's not about us it's all about him. [00:06:15]

We know that we are not the answer but we are deeply convinced that Jesus Christ is there for the ministry that has been given to us like John the Baptist is that we should draw attention in every way that we possibly can to this Jesus who he is what he has done and what he is able to do for all who will believe in him. [00:07:27]

Some come by gospel Proclamation you have that in verse 37 in verse 42 of the disciples of John followed Jesus and why did they do that they did it as a result of John the Baptist preaching he said behold the lamb of God and as he made this declaration these disciples of John moved away from him and that was the means by which they became followers of Jesus. [00:10:31]

Second there are those who come through personal invitation verse 41 Simon Peter became a follower of Jesus through the personal invitation of his brother Andrew one of the two verse forty who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew simon Peters brother he first found his own brother Simon and said to him we have found the Messiah which means the Christ. [00:11:35]

Some come through the preaching of the gospel some come through personal testimony witness from a friend some come thirdly through a direct intervention look at verse 43 the next day Jesus decided to go to Galilee and he found Philip and he said to him follow me now as far as we can tell there was no other human agency involved at all. [00:13:23]

There are particular steps and to understand will be helpful to us all what are they number one relationship established and that's what we have here in John one if you want to serve Christ the first thing is to get to know him and to walk with him that's what's happening in John 1 they spent time with him you walk with him in the word and in prayer. [00:19:47]

Intimacy with Christ comes before activity for Christ and in an activist culture most of us or many of us are activists by nature the easiest thing in the world is to say now I want to know what I'm gonna do and I want to know what position I'm gonna have and what happens is if activity for Christ precedes intimacy with Christ or outruns intimacy with Christ you end up with people in ministry that crash and burn. [00:24:45]

What makes the difference between a person who professes faith for a time and a person who really sticks with Jesus for a lifetime what makes the difference between a person who attaches themself to the church for a time and then moves on and the person who gives him or herself to ministry over the long haul and I'm suggesting this from the Bible to you today that the main desire by which people continue in discipleship is a true and deep love for Jesus Christ himself. [00:31:19]

Whatever sin you may have fallen into you will come back to Jesus if you love him if you don't love him you may not but if you love Jesus you'll come back to why would it be that the Apostle Paul would carry on in service and in ministry after the catalogue of suffering that he endured year upon year in his life and still he's pressing on for the advance of the gospel what's all that about he answers himself I want to know him. [00:32:42]

Jesus looked at him and said you are Simon the son of John and you shall be called Cephas which means Peter and if you've got eyes good enough to see these tiny little footnotes in the Bible you may notice that the footnote says that Cephas or Peter comes from the word for rock in Aramaic and in Greek respectively why did Jesus say these words to Peter why did Jesus particularly give this man a promise about what he would become. [00:37:44]

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Transcript
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