Thirsting for Purpose: Jesus's Endurance on the Cross
Summary
In today's gathering, we reflected on the profound words of Jesus on the cross, particularly His statement, "I am thirsty." This phrase, while seemingly simple, carries deep spiritual significance. It is not merely a physical expression of thirst but a profound declaration of Jesus's commitment to fulfilling His divine mission. Throughout His crucifixion, Jesus remained fully aware and in control, demonstrating His unwavering obedience to God's redemptive plan. This obedience is a testament to His dedication to the Father's will, even in the face of unimaginable suffering.
We revisited the journey through the seven statements of Jesus on the cross, each revealing a different aspect of His divine nature and mission. From offering forgiveness to His persecutors to ensuring the care of His mother, Jesus's words and actions on the cross exemplify His love, mercy, and commitment to humanity. His cry of thirst is a metaphor for His desire to complete the mission given to Him by the Father, a mission that involved immense sacrifice and suffering.
The sermon also drew parallels between Jesus's endurance and our own life's challenges. Just as Jesus persevered through His suffering, we are called to endure our trials with faith and trust in God's plan. The story of the three Hebrew children in the book of Daniel serves as a powerful reminder of unwavering faith, even when the outcome is uncertain. Their refusal to bow to Nebuchadnezzar's idol, regardless of the consequences, mirrors Jesus's commitment to His mission.
In our own lives, we face moments where the path seems too difficult, where the temptation to quit is strong. Yet, like Jesus, we are encouraged to remain steadfast, trusting that God is with us, even if the journey is arduous. The call to "thirst" for God's will is a call to embrace our purpose with courage and faith, knowing that our endurance is part of a greater divine plan.
Key Takeaways:
- Jesus's statement "I am thirsty" is not just a physical expression but a profound declaration of His commitment to fulfilling God's redemptive plan. It signifies His awareness and obedience to the mission given to Him by the Father, even amidst immense suffering. [45:03]
- The journey through Jesus's seven statements on the cross reveals His divine nature and mission. Each statement, from offering forgiveness to ensuring the care of His mother, exemplifies His love, mercy, and commitment to humanity. [35:31]
- The story of the three Hebrew children in Daniel serves as a powerful reminder of unwavering faith. Their refusal to bow to Nebuchadnezzar's idol, regardless of the consequences, mirrors Jesus's commitment to His mission and encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith. [55:16]
- In our own lives, we face moments where the path seems too difficult, and the temptation to quit is strong. Yet, like Jesus, we are encouraged to remain steadfast, trusting that God is with us, even if the journey is arduous. [52:17]
- The call to "thirst" for God's will is a call to embrace our purpose with courage and faith, knowing that our endurance is part of a greater divine plan. Jesus's endurance on the cross serves as a model for us to follow in our own lives. [56:39]
Youtube Chapters:
[00:00] - Welcome
[30:40] - Trusting in God's Way
[31:07] - Gratitude and Gathering
[31:48] - Seeking God's Presence
[32:43] - Prayers for Healing
[34:16] - Introduction to the Series
[34:36] - Jesus's Fifth Statement
[35:13] - Divine Forgiveness
[36:35] - The Thieves on the Cross
[37:25] - Jesus's Care for His Mother
[38:14] - Feeling Abandoned
[39:24] - Jesus's Thirst
[43:48] - The Rich Man and Lazarus
[45:03] - The Deeper Meaning of Thirst
[50:57] - Jesus's Obedience
[56:39] - Endurance and Faith
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. John 19:28-29 - "Later, knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, 'I am thirsty.' A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus' lips."
2. Daniel 3:16-18 - "Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, 'King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty's hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.'"
Observation Questions:
1. What does Jesus's statement "I am thirsty" signify in the context of His crucifixion, according to John 19:28-29? [34:36]
2. How does the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in Daniel 3:16-18 relate to the theme of unwavering faith in the face of trials? [55:16]
3. In what ways did Jesus demonstrate His awareness and control during His crucifixion, as mentioned in the sermon? [46:03]
4. How does the sermon describe the significance of Jesus's endurance on the cross as a model for our own lives? [56:39]
Interpretation Questions:
1. How does Jesus's statement "I am thirsty" reflect His commitment to fulfilling God's redemptive plan, beyond just a physical need? [45:03]
2. What parallels can be drawn between Jesus's endurance on the cross and the endurance required in our own life's challenges? [52:17]
3. How does the story of the three Hebrew children in Daniel serve as a reminder of faith and commitment, even when the outcome is uncertain? [55:16]
4. In what ways does the sermon suggest that our own "thirst" for God's will can lead us to embrace our purpose with courage and faith? [56:39]
Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt like giving up on a difficult task. How can Jesus's endurance on the cross inspire you to persevere in similar situations? [52:17]
2. Consider the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. How can their example of faith in the face of uncertainty encourage you to stand firm in your beliefs today? [55:16]
3. Jesus's statement "I am thirsty" signifies a deeper spiritual commitment. How can you identify and pursue your own spiritual "thirst" for God's will in your life? [45:03]
4. Think about a current challenge you are facing. How can you apply the lesson of trusting in God's plan, even when the path seems difficult? [52:17]
5. The sermon encourages us to embrace our purpose with courage and faith. What specific steps can you take this week to align your actions with God's purpose for your life? [56:39]
6. How can you support others in your community who may be struggling with their own challenges, drawing inspiration from Jesus's care for others even during His suffering? [37:25]
7. Reflect on the idea of "thirsting" for God's will. What practical changes can you make in your daily routine to prioritize seeking God's presence and guidance? [31:48]
Devotional
Day 1: Jesus's Thirst as a Declaration of Commitment
Jesus's statement "I am thirsty" is more than a physical expression; it is a profound declaration of His commitment to fulfilling God's redemptive plan. This moment on the cross signifies His awareness and obedience to the mission given to Him by the Father, even amidst immense suffering. Jesus's thirst is a metaphor for His desire to complete the mission, highlighting His dedication to the Father's will. This act of obedience, even in the face of unimaginable pain, serves as a powerful reminder of the depth of His love and sacrifice for humanity. [45:03]
John 19:28-30 (ESV): "After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfill the Scripture), 'I thirst.' A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, 'It is finished,' and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit."
Reflection: In what ways can you express your commitment to God's plan in your life today, even when it involves personal sacrifice or discomfort?
Day 2: The Seven Statements of Jesus on the Cross
The journey through Jesus's seven statements on the cross reveals His divine nature and mission. Each statement, from offering forgiveness to ensuring the care of His mother, exemplifies His love, mercy, and commitment to humanity. These words are not just historical records but living expressions of Jesus's heart and purpose. They invite us to reflect on the depth of His compassion and the breadth of His mission, encouraging us to embody these qualities in our own lives. [35:31]
Luke 23:34 (ESV): "And Jesus said, 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.' And they cast lots to divide his garments."
Reflection: Consider one of Jesus's statements from the cross. How can you embody the spirit of that statement in your interactions with others today?
Day 3: Unwavering Faith in the Face of Trials
The story of the three Hebrew children in Daniel serves as a powerful reminder of unwavering faith. Their refusal to bow to Nebuchadnezzar's idol, regardless of the consequences, mirrors Jesus's commitment to His mission. This narrative encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in God's presence and plan, even when the outcome is uncertain. It challenges us to stand firm in our beliefs, knowing that our faithfulness is a testament to our trust in God's sovereignty. [55:16]
Daniel 3:16-18 (ESV): "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, 'O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If this be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up.'"
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you are facing pressure to compromise your faith? How can you stand firm in your beliefs today?
Day 4: Steadfastness in the Face of Adversity
In our own lives, we face moments where the path seems too difficult, and the temptation to quit is strong. Yet, like Jesus, we are encouraged to remain steadfast, trusting that God is with us, even if the journey is arduous. This call to perseverance is a reminder that our struggles are not in vain but are part of a greater divine plan. By enduring with faith, we align ourselves with God's purposes and find strength in His presence. [52:17]
James 1:2-4 (ESV): "Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing."
Reflection: Identify a current challenge you are facing. How can you shift your perspective to see it as an opportunity for growth and steadfastness in your faith journey?
Day 5: Thirsting for God's Will
The call to "thirst" for God's will is a call to embrace our purpose with courage and faith, knowing that our endurance is part of a greater divine plan. Jesus's endurance on the cross serves as a model for us to follow in our own lives. This thirst is not just a longing but an active pursuit of God's purposes, inviting us to align our desires with His will and to find fulfillment in His plans for us. [56:39]
Psalm 42:1-2 (ESV): "As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?"
Reflection: What is one specific way you can actively pursue God's will in your life today, and how can you cultivate a deeper thirst for His presence and purpose?
Quotes
Later knowing that all was now completed and so that the scripture would be fulfilled Jesus said "I am thirsty." A jar of wine vinegar was there so they soaked a sponge in it put the sponge on a stalk at of the hissip plant and lifted it to Jesus lips this is the word of God for the people of God thanks be to God. [00:34:36]
Jesus said we would be blessed if we are persecuted in his name and he urged us not to curse or do evil to those who do evil to us not to be reciprocal in that and Jesus didn't just say it he modeled it on the cross in the midst of agony he prays for forgiveness. [00:35:31]
Jesus hung between two thieves and and one was bitter to the end resented life thought it was all everyone else's fault took no responsibility for the actions that got him to where he was at but the other one did even calling out his fellow thief and saying "Don't you fear God we're here because of what we've done." [00:36:35]
Jesus on the cross looking down seeing John seeing his mother and saying to his mother "Mother behold your son." Referring to John and John he said "Behold your mother." This idea of take care of my mother help me fulfill my responsibilities as the eldest son but Jesus does more than that. [00:37:25]
Jesus trusts and hopes that the suffering that he is experiencing ends in victory remember we talked about how Psalm 22 seemed to be tailoritten for the crucifixion the passion of Jesus Christ and that though it begins in difficulty and hardship this psalm of the righteous sufferer it ends in victory and vindication. [00:38:14]
Jesus was fully aware he was fully in control he knew what was happening around him we've seen that because he makes statements all along the way from 12 until three he says "God forgive these people for what they're doing they have no idea what they're doing." Delusional man does not say this. [00:46:39]
Jesus was aware the entire time that he was on the cross even saying I'm thirsty or I thirst so what is he saying what is he saying that that's beyond just the human physiology and what we might feel as we need our thirst quenched. [00:47:20]
John wants those who read this gospel to understand that every part of Jesus's passion all of it was not only in the father's plan of redemption but a consequence of the son's distinct obedience to it in other words it wasn't enough that God laid out the father laid out this plan by which you and I might be redeemed. [00:50:57]
Jesus has the courage to obey as he hangs on the cross as he looks out as he knows that things are coming to an end he can see that the the end of this portion of God's plan is drawing to a close probably thankfully he says "I thirst." Thereby saying to God think about this i'm still in this. [00:52:17]
Jesus is saying in faith I think he's saying God I still will drink this cup i trust you will deliver me but I will drink it nonetheless no matter how hard it is no matter how difficult no matter what it costs me no matter what happens around me I will do what you have asked me to do. [00:56:39]
When Jesus says "I thirst," he's around the corner he knows the end is near and he is committed to enduring to the very end a call that you and I have to endure to the very end no matter how hard it gets no matter if God delivers us or not that we will run the race he set before us. [00:57:40]
Lord our master and savior Lord Jesus has run the race enduring to the end finishing the course that you laid out before him lord you have placed us on a path you have called us and set us apart for your purposes. [01:00:19]
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