Jesus Christ: Above All in Life and Death

Devotional

Day 1: The Miraculous Birth of Jesus

Jesus' birth was unique and unparalleled. It was prophesied hundreds of years before it happened, and it was a virgin birth, something that defies scientific and biological norms. This miraculous event shattered human understanding and set the stage for a Savior who would change the world. The birth of Jesus was not just an ordinary event; it was a divine intervention that marked the beginning of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

The prophecy of His birth can be found in the Old Testament, where prophets like Isaiah spoke of a virgin giving birth to a son who would be called Immanuel, meaning "God with us." This prophecy was fulfilled in the New Testament, as recorded in the Gospels, where Mary, a virgin, conceived Jesus through the Holy Spirit. This miraculous birth signifies that Jesus is not just a historical figure but the divine Son of God who came to save humanity. [35:21]

Isaiah 7:14 (ESV): "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel."

Reflection: How does the miraculous nature of Jesus' birth impact your understanding of who He is? Take a moment to reflect on the significance of God becoming man and what that means for your faith journey.

Day 2: The Power of Jesus' Name

The name of Jesus is exalted above all others. It is a saving name, a name that commands authority and brings healing. When we pray in Jesus' name, we tap into a power that can move mountains and change situations. His name is not just prominent but prestigious, recognized in heaven and feared in hell. The power in Jesus' name is not just a theological concept but a practical reality that believers can experience in their daily lives.

Throughout the New Testament, we see numerous instances where the name of Jesus brought about miraculous changes. Whether it was healing the sick, casting out demons, or providing salvation, the name of Jesus carried an authority that was unmatched. This same power is available to us today when we invoke His name in faith. [46:55]

Acts 4:12 (ESV): "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved."

Reflection: Think of a situation in your life where you need divine intervention. How can you specifically pray in the name of Jesus to bring about change in that situation today?

Day 3: Authority and Dominion of Jesus

Jesus taught and spoke with an authority that left people in awe. His teachings were not just words but carried the power to transform lives. Even demons recognized His authority and obeyed His commands. This authority is available to us when we align ourselves with Him. Jesus' authority is not limited to spiritual matters but extends to every aspect of life, including nature, sickness, and even death.

The Gospels are filled with accounts of Jesus exercising His authority in various situations. Whether it was calming a storm, healing a paralytic, or raising the dead, Jesus demonstrated that His authority was supreme. This same authority is available to believers who are in Christ, empowering them to live victorious lives. [50:33]

Matthew 28:18 (ESV): "And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.'"

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to recognize and submit to the authority of Jesus? How can you practically align yourself with His authority today?

Day 4: Jesus' Healing Power

Jesus is the ultimate healer. When medical science reaches its limits, Jesus steps in with miraculous healing. He is the best specialist in every field, from cardiology to oncology. His healing is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, offering complete restoration. The healing power of Jesus is a testament to His compassion and His desire to make us whole.

Throughout His ministry, Jesus healed countless individuals, demonstrating that His power to heal was not limited by time, space, or the severity of the condition. This same healing power is available to us today, offering hope and restoration in the midst of our struggles. [54:45]

Psalm 103:2-3 (ESV): "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases."

Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you need healing, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual? How can you invite Jesus' healing power into that area today?

Day 5: Unmatched Forgiveness

Jesus offers forgiveness that no one else can. He forgives the unforgivable and redeems the irredeemable. His forgiveness is not based on our worthiness but on His grace. This forgiveness transforms lives, offering a fresh start and a new beginning. The forgiveness that Jesus offers is complete and unconditional, breaking the chains of guilt and shame.

The Gospels recount numerous instances where Jesus extended forgiveness to those who were considered outcasts and sinners. His willingness to forgive was a reflection of His boundless love and grace. This same forgiveness is available to us today, offering us the opportunity to start anew. [57:54]

Ephesians 1:7 (ESV): "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace."

Reflection: Think of someone in your life you need to forgive. Can you ask God to help you begin to extend His love and forgiveness to them today?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Tonight, we gathered to worship and feel the presence of God, just as we did this morning. We focused on the central message that Jesus Christ is above all. Drawing from John 3:31, where John the Baptist declares that Jesus, who comes from above, is above all, we explored the idea that Jesus is the primary "product" the church must promote. Everything else is secondary.

We discussed how in life, many things are considered superior to others, but nothing compares to Jesus. His birth, name, authority, healing power, and ability to forgive are unparalleled. His birth was prophesied, miraculous, and astonishing, shattering the norms of human existence. His name is exalted above all others, carrying the power to save, heal, and command authority. Jesus taught and spoke with authority that left people in awe, and His presence changed lives.

We also delved into His unparalleled healing power, emphasizing that when doctors see no way, Jesus makes a way. His ability to forgive is unmatched, offering redemption even to those society deems unworthy. Finally, we celebrated that Jesus is above all in death, having conquered it and promising eternal life to those who believe in Him.

###

Key Takeaways

1. Jesus is Above All in Birth: Jesus' birth was unique and unparalleled. It was prophesied hundreds of years before it happened, and it was a virgin birth, something that defies scientific and biological norms. This miraculous event shattered human understanding and set the stage for a Savior who would change the world. [35:21]
2. The Power of Jesus' Name: The name of Jesus is exalted above all others. It is a saving name, a name that commands authority and brings healing. When we pray in Jesus' name, we tap into a power that can move mountains and change situations. His name is not just prominent but prestigious, recognized in heaven and feared in hell. [46:55]
3. Authority and Dominion of Jesus: Jesus taught and spoke with an authority that left people in awe. His teachings were not just words but carried the power to transform lives. Even demons recognized His authority and obeyed His commands. This authority is available to us when we align ourselves with Him. [50:33]
4. Jesus' Healing Power: Jesus is the ultimate healer. When medical science reaches its limits, Jesus steps in with miraculous healing. He is the best specialist in every field, from cardiology to oncology. His healing is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, offering complete restoration. [54:45]
5. Unmatched Forgiveness: Jesus offers forgiveness that no one else can. He forgives the unforgivable and redeems the irredeemable. His forgiveness is not based on our worthiness but on His grace. This forgiveness transforms lives, offering a fresh start and a new beginning. [57:54]
### [57:54]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[25:17] - Opening Prayer
[26:20] - Scripture Reading: John 3:31
[27:47] - Promoting the Product: Jesus Christ
[29:07] - Jesus is Above All
[30:08] - Examples of Superiority
[32:14] - The Olympics and Competition
[33:22] - John the Baptist's Declaration
[34:25] - Jesus' Birth: Prophesied and Miraculous
[37:00] - Astonishing and Shattering Birth
[41:03] - Jesus' Name Above All
[45:15] - Authority and Dominion
[49:50] - Jesus' Healing Power
[54:45] - Jesus' Forgiveness
[57:54] - Jesus' Authority Over Death
[60:08] - Jesus' Teachings and Miracles
[66:49] - Jesus' Unmatched Forgiveness
[72:43] - Jesus' Victory Over Death
[75:50] - Closing Prayer and Announcements

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What does John the Baptist mean when he says, "He who comes from above is above all"? ([26:20])
How does the sermon describe the uniqueness of Jesus' birth? ([35:21])
What examples were given in the sermon to illustrate the power and authority of Jesus' name? ([46:55])
How did Jesus demonstrate His authority and dominion according to the sermon? ([50:33])

Interpretation Questions

Why is it significant that Jesus' birth was prophesied and miraculous? How does this set Him apart from others? ([35:21])
In what ways does the power of Jesus' name impact our daily lives and prayers? ([46:55])
How does Jesus' authority over demons and His ability to teach with authority affect our understanding of His divinity? ([50:33])
What does Jesus' ability to heal when medical science fails tell us about His nature and power? ([54:45])

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed by life's challenges. How can the knowledge that Jesus is "above all" provide comfort and strength in such situations? ([26:20])
When you pray, do you fully grasp the power of invoking Jesus' name? How can you be more intentional in your prayers to tap into this power? ([46:55])
Jesus' teachings often left people in awe. How can you cultivate a deeper respect and awe for Jesus' teachings in your daily Bible study? ([50:33])
Have you ever experienced or witnessed a miraculous healing? How did it impact your faith? If not, how can you trust in Jesus' healing power even when you don't see immediate results? ([54:45])
Jesus offers unmatched forgiveness. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive, or do you need to seek forgiveness from someone? How can Jesus' example guide you in this process? ([57:54])
The sermon mentioned that Jesus' birth shattered human understanding. Are there areas in your life where you need to trust God's plan even when it doesn't make sense? ([41:03])
How can you actively promote Jesus as the primary "product" of the church in your community and daily interactions? ([27:47])

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "Everything else has to be Jesus. Everything else is secondary. Everything else is a byproduct. The main product of the church is Jesus Christ. So I'm going to briefly talk about that tonight." [27:47] (8 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The product that the church has to be marketing and selling more than anything else. The product has to be Jesus Christ. That's the product. Jesus." [29:07] (9 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "Listen, we don't have to explain why God does what he does. We just have to believe God is able to do exceedingly, and abundantly, and above that which my mind can think or comprehend. I don't have to understand it. I just have to believe in it." [39:26] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "When Jesus speaks, everything in the room changes just like that." [58:41] (3 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "He did not stay dead and he will not stay gone. Because he's not in the tomb gives me the hope of knowing he's coming on the clouds of glory again one day." [01:12:43] (10 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "The reality of it is sometimes it'll hit the glass and the glass is shattered, but the glass hasn't fell out the pane yet. But all you got to do is just barely go over there and touch it and the whole thing will come crashing down. See, that's how the devil wants you to feel. He wants to shatter your world so that just the slightest thing will cause you to fall apart." [42:09] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The Bible tells us that Satan tried to create such a disconnect between God and man and shatter the order that God had established that he almost felt vindicated that he won. But in Genesis 3 and 15, here's what God said to the serpent. I will put enmity between you, devil, and her seed. The woman. And between her seed and your seed. Oh, you may bruise his heel, but he will bruise your head." [43:07] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "The Bible tells us according to Psalms 103 that he is a God that heals all of our diseases. There's not a disease that's ever been documented by man that can beat God." [01:03:39] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "The Bible said to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. It's all about how you look at the healing. See God healed them and yeah they're living on earth with us and they're going to all our birthday parties and shindigs. That's great. But if they die the Bible said to live is Christ." [01:05:15] (15 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "The Bible tells us that there's nothing in this world that God cannot outside of blaspheming in the Holy Spirit there's nothing God will not to forgive it. I mean it has to be with a true heart of repentance." [01:07:26] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

Ask a question about this sermon

Chatbot

Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?