Honoring Sacrifice: The Truth of Christ's Identity
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we reflect on the significance of Memorial Day, a time to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. This day is not just about barbecues and a day off work; it’s a solemn reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by many for the cause of liberty, which is a biblical cause. We should take time to thank God for these sacrifices and pray for the families who have lost loved ones in service to our country.
We recently returned from a missions trip to Spain, where we had the opportunity to serve alongside the Helton family. We participated in various activities, including church services, kids' classes, and community outreach. We enjoyed churros y chocolate, visited a castle, and made new friends. Our efforts in passing out flyers led to a first-time visitor attending the church service, which was a blessing. This trip reminded us of the importance of missions and how seeing the needs of others can stir our hearts, just as Paul's heart was stirred when he saw the idols in Athens.
Now, let's turn our attention to John chapter 12. One of the most frustrating things is when people don't speak plainly, especially when delivering bad news. Jesus often faced this issue. He spoke clearly about who He was, but people, including His own disciples and the religious leaders, often didn't understand or accept His words. They didn't believe because they were not His sheep. Jesus explained that His sheep hear His voice, and no one can pluck them out of His hand or His Father's hand. This is a comforting truth for us as believers, knowing that we are secure in God's hands.
Jesus' ministry in Jerusalem ended in heartbreak. Despite His teachings and miracles, many did not believe. The next time He would be in Jerusalem, it would be for His crucifixion. During the Feast of Dedication, the Jews asked Jesus to tell them plainly if He was the Messiah. Jesus responded that He had already told them, but they did not believe. He pointed to His works as evidence of His identity. His works testified that He was doing the Father's will, yet they still did not believe.
Jesus also pointed them to the Scriptures, which cannot be broken. He referenced Psalm 82, where earthly judges are called "gods" because they represent God. If these judges could be called gods, how much more could Jesus, who was sanctified and sent by the Father, be called the Son of God? The religious leaders had a hard time accepting this because it didn't fit their understanding of the Messiah. They were looking for a political deliverer, but Jesus came to deliver them from sin.
Despite Jesus' clear explanations and miraculous works, the religious leaders sought to stone Him for blasphemy. They couldn't grasp the idea that God would become a man. Jesus urged them to believe in His works if they couldn't believe His words. He desired for them to know and believe that He and the Father were one. However, their hearts were hardened, and they refused to accept Him.
In conclusion, Jesus' works and the Scriptures both testify to His identity as the Messiah and the Son of God. He came not to deliver from political oppression but to save us from our sins. As we reflect on His ministry and the sacrifices made for our freedom, let us be grateful for the eternal security we have in Him and strive to share this truth with others.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Importance of Memorial Day: Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. It’s a biblical cause to fight for liberty, allowing us to worship God freely. As we enjoy our day off, let’s take time to thank God for these sacrifices and pray for the families who have lost loved ones. [16:34]
2. The Impact of Missions: Our recent missions trip to Spain was a reminder of the importance of seeing the needs of others. Just as Paul's heart was stirred by the idols in Athens, our hearts were stirred by the needs in Spain. Missions trips can rejuvenate and encourage us, helping us see the global need for the gospel. [23:09]
3. Security in Christ: Jesus explained that His sheep hear His voice, and no one can pluck them out of His hand or His Father's hand. This truth is comforting for believers, knowing that we are secure in God's hands. Once we believe and follow Jesus, we are His forever, protected by His eternal grip. [45:17]
4. Jesus' Clear Identity: Despite Jesus' clear explanations and miraculous works, many did not believe He was the Messiah. He pointed to His works and the Scriptures as evidence of His identity. The problem was not His clarity but their unwillingness to accept His claims. [49:36]
5. The Testimony of Works and Scripture: Jesus' works and the Scriptures both testify to His identity as the Messiah and the Son of God. He referenced Psalm 82 to show that if earthly judges could be called gods, how much more could He, who was sanctified and sent by the Father, be called the Son of God. This highlights the importance of aligning our understanding with God's Word. [57:06]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[08:18] - Announcements
[16:34] - Memorial Day Reflection
[18:18] - Missions Trip to Spain
[33:24] - Introduction to John 12
[34:58] - The Challenge of Plain Speaking
[36:29] - Jesus' Ministry in Jerusalem
[41:01] - The Feast of Dedication
[45:17] - Security in Christ
[49:36] - Jesus' Clear Identity
[57:06] - The Testimony of Works and Scripture
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 10:24-30
2. Psalm 82:6-7
3. John 10:37-38
#### Observation Questions
1. What did Jesus say about His sheep and their ability to hear His voice? ([42:30])
2. How did Jesus respond when the Jews asked Him to tell them plainly if He was the Christ? ([42:30])
3. What was the reaction of the religious leaders when Jesus declared, "I and my Father are one"? ([46:49])
4. How did Jesus use Psalm 82 to explain His identity to the religious leaders? ([57:06])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus emphasized that His sheep hear His voice and follow Him? What does this imply about the relationship between Jesus and His followers? ([42:30])
2. How does Jesus' statement, "I and my Father are one," challenge the religious leaders' understanding of the Messiah? ([46:49])
3. In what ways do Jesus' works and the Scriptures together testify to His identity as the Son of God? ([49:36])
4. Why was it difficult for the religious leaders to accept Jesus' claim to be the Son of God, despite the evidence of His works? ([49:36])
#### Application Questions
1. Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. How can you take time this week to thank God for these sacrifices and pray for the families who have lost loved ones? ([16:34])
2. Reflecting on the missions trip to Spain, how can seeing the needs of others stir your heart to action in your own community? What specific steps can you take to get involved in local or global missions? ([23:09])
3. Jesus said that His sheep hear His voice and follow Him. How can you cultivate a deeper ability to hear and recognize Jesus' voice in your daily life? ([42:30])
4. Despite Jesus' clear explanations and miraculous works, many did not believe He was the Messiah. How can you address doubts or questions you have about Jesus' identity and work? ([49:36])
5. Jesus used Psalm 82 to explain His identity to the religious leaders. How can you use Scripture to better understand and explain your faith to others? ([57:06])
6. Jesus' works and the Scriptures both testify to His identity as the Messiah and the Son of God. How can you align your understanding and actions with God's Word in your daily life? ([49:36])
7. Reflect on the eternal security we have in Christ, knowing that no one can pluck us out of His hand. How does this truth impact your sense of peace and purpose as a believer? ([45:17])
Devotional
Day 1: Honoring Sacrifice for Freedom
Memorial Day is a time to honor those who have sacrificed their lives for our freedom. It’s a biblical cause to fight for liberty, allowing us to worship God freely. As we enjoy our day off, let’s take time to thank God for these sacrifices and pray for the families who have lost loved ones. Memorial Day is not just about barbecues and a day off work; it’s a solemn reminder of the ultimate sacrifice made by many for the cause of liberty. This day should prompt us to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy and the high cost at which they were obtained. It is a time to thank God for these sacrifices and to pray for the families who have lost loved ones in service to our country.
The Bible teaches that there is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends (John 15:13). This principle is mirrored in the sacrifices made by those who have fought for our freedom. As we remember these heroes, let us also remember the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ for our eternal freedom. [16:34]
John 15:13 (ESV): "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends."
Reflection: How can you honor the memory of those who have sacrificed their lives for your freedom today? Can you take a moment to pray for their families and thank God for their sacrifice?
Day 2: The Heart of Missions
Our recent missions trip to Spain was a reminder of the importance of seeing the needs of others. Just as Paul's heart was stirred by the idols in Athens, our hearts were stirred by the needs in Spain. Missions trips can rejuvenate and encourage us, helping us see the global need for the gospel. The trip involved various activities, including church services, kids' classes, and community outreach. The team enjoyed local culture, made new friends, and saw the impact of their efforts when a first-time visitor attended the church service because of the flyers they distributed.
Missions are a vital part of the Christian faith, as they allow believers to extend the love of Christ beyond their immediate community. Seeing the needs of others firsthand can stir our hearts and renew our commitment to sharing the gospel. Just as Paul's spirit was provoked when he saw the idols in Athens, our hearts can be moved by the spiritual and physical needs we encounter on missions. [23:09]
Acts 17:16 (ESV): "Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols."
Reflection: How can you be more involved in missions, whether locally or globally? What steps can you take today to share the love of Christ with someone in need?
Day 3: Security in Christ
Jesus explained that His sheep hear His voice, and no one can pluck them out of His hand or His Father's hand. This truth is comforting for believers, knowing that we are secure in God's hands. Once we believe and follow Jesus, we are His forever, protected by His eternal grip. This assurance of salvation is a cornerstone of the Christian faith, providing believers with peace and confidence in their relationship with God.
The security we have in Christ is not based on our own efforts but on His unchanging nature and promises. Jesus' words in John 10:27-29 emphasize that those who belong to Him are eternally secure. This means that no external force or internal failure can separate us from His love and protection. As believers, we can rest in the knowledge that our salvation is secure in Christ. [45:17]
John 10:27-29 (ESV): "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to trust more in the security you have in Christ? How can you remind yourself of this truth daily?
Day 4: Jesus' Clear Identity
Despite Jesus' clear explanations and miraculous works, many did not believe He was the Messiah. He pointed to His works and the Scriptures as evidence of His identity. The problem was not His clarity but their unwillingness to accept His claims. Jesus faced skepticism and rejection from the religious leaders and even some of His followers. They struggled to reconcile their expectations of the Messiah with the reality of Jesus' ministry.
Jesus' identity as the Messiah was evident through His teachings, miracles, and fulfillment of Scripture. However, many were blinded by their preconceived notions and hardened hearts. They expected a political deliverer, but Jesus came to deliver them from sin. This misunderstanding led to rejection and hostility, culminating in His crucifixion. [49:36]
John 10:25-26 (ESV): "Jesus answered them, 'I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father's name bear witness about me, but you do not believe because you are not among my sheep.'"
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you struggle to accept Jesus' identity and claims? How can you seek a deeper understanding of who He is through His works and the Scriptures?
Day 5: The Testimony of Works and Scripture
Jesus' works and the Scriptures both testify to His identity as the Messiah and the Son of God. He referenced Psalm 82 to show that if earthly judges could be called gods, how much more could He, who was sanctified and sent by the Father, be called the Son of God. This highlights the importance of aligning our understanding with God's Word. The religious leaders had difficulty accepting Jesus' claims because they were looking for a different kind of Messiah.
Jesus' reference to Psalm 82 underscores the authority and divinity He possesses. The Scriptures consistently point to Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promises and the embodiment of His will. By examining His works and the biblical testimony, we can gain a clearer understanding of His true identity and mission. This alignment with God's Word is crucial for a correct understanding of who Jesus is and what He came to accomplish. [57:06]
Psalm 82:6-7 (ESV): "I said, 'You are gods, sons of the Most High, all of you; nevertheless, like men you shall die, and fall like any prince.'"
Reflection: How can you align your understanding of Jesus with the testimony of His works and the Scriptures? What steps can you take today to deepen your knowledge of His identity and mission?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The Bible tells us that our eyes affect our heart. What we see has an impact on us. We were as a group studying through Acts this week, Acts 16 and 17. And as Paul went through Mars Hill and he saw all these things that were going on in his life, he saw all these idols to the unknown gods. The Bible said that his heart was stirred within him. And I must say, as we went to high-end Spain this week, our hearts were stirred. We saw the need of people and it rejuvenates and encourages and it helps you to see the need around the world." [23:09]
2. "Can I encourage you this week as you, you know, America, we get so focused on hamburgers and hot dogs. We get so focused on hamburgers and hot dogs. We get so focused on hot dogs and a day off work that we don't take time to stop and reflect on the sacrifice that many have made. May I encourage you that today and tomorrow to set aside some time and to just thank God for those who are willing to give their lives so that we can have freedom this day." [18:18]
3. "If you can make a missions trip, you will be blessed. The Bible tells us that our eyes affect our heart. What we see has an impact on us. We were as a group studying through Acts this week, Acts 16 and 17. And as Paul went through Mars Hill and he saw all these things that were going on in his life, he saw all these idols to the unknown gods. The Bible said that his heart was stirred within him. And I must say, as we went to high-end Spain this week, our hearts were stirred. We saw the need of people and it rejuvenates and encourages and it helps you to see the need around the world." [23:09]
4. "Jesus Christ is the seed of woman, talked about in Genesis chapter number three, who would crush the head of the serpent. Jesus Christ is the seed of Abraham, who would bring a blessing upon this earth. Jesus Christ is the seed of David, who is the king of kings and the Lord of lords. Jesus Christ, he is God, who was to be born of a virgin, as Isaiah tells us, and his name was to be called Emmanuel, God with us." [01:01:43]
5. "Once we believe and we decide to follow Jesus, we're his forever. Other people can't steal us away. Satan can't steal us away. We can't walk away. We're held securely in the very hand of God. We don't have to keep ourselves there. We don't have to keep ourselves in the good graces of God and keep our salvation earned. We don't have to guard ourselves. We don't have to make sure that we don't go astray. God is the one that holds us in his hand, and he guarantees us, eternal life. What a wonderful truth. That once you're saved, you're saved forever. You're held in the very hand of God." [45:17]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Jesus Christ is the good shepherd who cares, and he loves for his flock, which is in contrary to the religious Jews who don't care for people, and only look out for themselves. Jesus, and Jesus, when he has his sheep, he says, nobody can pluck them away from me. Nobody can take them away. He's not like the other ones. Even the Jewish religious leaders could not take the followers of Jesus Christ away from him. Jesus had called them, in verse number one, he called them thieves and robbers, and in verse number eight, he said they're thieves and robbers. The religious leaders, they were thieves and robbers, but Jesus Christ stayed." [43:58]
2. "Jesus Christ says to them that the scriptures cannot be broken. What I have told you is perfectly in line with what the word of God says. God has revealed himself through his word. He has always revealed himself through his word. We learn about the character of God. We learn about the attributes of God. We learn about the place of God. We learn about the plan of God. How? All through his word. God has always spoken through the word of God. And what Jesus Christ was sharing about himself was in clear correlation with what the word of God had taught." [01:00:17]
3. "Jesus Christ is getting ready to leave Jerusalem. The next time that he returns to Jerusalem, it's going to be for the week of his passion. He's going to be crucified. And here he is as a final plea to these Jewish people, desiring for them to believe him, to understand them. You could almost hear his compassion, his desire in verse number 38. He says, but if I do, though, though you believe not, believe the works that you may know and believe that the father is in me and I in him. He is desires for people to know who him, to believe him, to understand who he is. He's doing all he can to convince these people of the truth of who he is, but they won't." [52:30]
4. "The Bible's revelation about himself is in accordance with who Jesus Christ is. Jesus Christ is the seed of woman, talked about in Genesis chapter number three, who would crush the head of the serpent. Jesus Christ is the seed of Abraham, who would bring a blessing upon this earth. Jesus Christ is the seed of David, who is the king of kings and the Lord of lords. Jesus Christ, he is God, who was to be born of a virgin, as Isaiah tells us, and his name was to be called Emmanuel, God with us. Jesus Christ was the one who would preach the gospel to the poor. He would heal the brokenhearted. He would preach deliverance to the captives and recovering of the sight to the blind. And he would set at liberty them that are bruised, as Isaiah stated and as Jesus Christ quoted in Luke chapter number four. The scriptures cannot be broken over and over and over again. The Bible has clarified exactly who Jesus Christ was." [01:01:43]
5. "Jesus Christ says to them that the scriptures cannot be broken. What I have told you is perfectly in line with what the word of God says. God has revealed himself through his word. He has always revealed himself through his word. We learn about the character of God. We learn about the attributes of God. We learn about the place of God. We learn about the plan of God. How? All through his word. God has always spoken through the word of God. And what Jesus Christ was sharing about himself was in clear correlation with what the word of God had taught. The Bible's revelation about himself is in accordance with who Jesus Christ is." [01:00:17]
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