Transforming Water into Wine: A New Covenant
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone! It's wonderful to see you all here and to welcome our online congregation. Today, we delve into the first miracle of Jesus as recorded in the book of John, where He turns water into wine at the wedding in Cana. This miracle is not just a display of divine power but a profound sign pointing to the new reality Jesus brings. The book of John is structured around seven signs, each revealing Jesus' divinity and purpose. These signs are meant to lead us to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and to find life in His name.
In John 2:1-11, we see Jesus attending a wedding where the wine runs out. His mother, Mary, informs Him of the situation, and despite His initial hesitation, Jesus performs a miracle by turning water into wine. This act is deeply symbolic. The stone jars used for the miracle were meant for ceremonial washing, representing the old religious system. By using these jars, Jesus signifies the end of the old ways and the beginning of a new covenant. This miracle is a creation miracle, showcasing Jesus' divine authority and His ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Jesus' miracle at Cana teaches us several important lessons. First, it shows us the importance of obedience to God's instructions, as Mary tells the servants to do whatever Jesus commands. Second, it highlights the significance of inviting God into every detail of our lives, no matter how small. Third, it encourages us to trade our shame for His honor, as Jesus' intervention saved the wedding hosts from social disgrace. Lastly, it calls us to move beyond mere religious rituals and into a genuine relationship with God.
### Key Takeaways
1. Obedience to God's Instructions: Mary’s directive to the servants, "Do whatever He tells you," underscores the importance of obedience in our walk with God. Obedience often precedes the miraculous. When we align our actions with God's will, we open the door for His power to work in our lives. This act of obedience is a testament to our faith and trust in God's plan. [44:13]
2. Invite God into the Details: Jesus' involvement in the wedding at Cana, despite not being responsible for the wine, shows that God cares about the minutiae of our lives. We often reserve our prayers for significant issues, but God delights in every detail. By inviting Him into the small aspects of our lives, we acknowledge His sovereignty and care, allowing Him to guide our steps daily. [52:06]
3. Trade Shame for Honor: The miracle at Cana saved the wedding hosts from social disgrace, symbolizing how Jesus can transform our shame into honor. Shame distorts our identity and distances us from God, but Jesus offers a new identity rooted in His love and grace. By accepting His intervention, we can live free from the lies of shame and embrace the honor He bestows upon us. [55:00]
4. Move Beyond Religion to Relationship: Jesus' use of ceremonial jars for wine signifies the shift from old religious practices to a new relational covenant with God. Religion often becomes a set of rituals aimed at earning God's favor, but Jesus invites us into a relationship where His love is freely given. This relationship is not about what we do to reach God but about accepting what He has done to reach us. [59:42]
5. God's Transformative Power: The transformation of water into wine is a creation miracle that highlights Jesus' divine authority. If Jesus can turn water into wine, imagine what He can do in our lives. We are more than just water; we are beings with hearts, souls, and intellects. Jesus' power to transform extends to every aspect of our being, inviting us to experience His miraculous work in our lives. [42:39]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[29:30] - Introduction: Show Me a Sign
[31:10] - The First Miracle: Water into Wine
[32:45] - The Significance of Jesus' Signs
[34:26] - The Wedding at Cana: A Deeper Look
[36:02] - The Old System vs. The New Reality
[37:39] - Jewish Tradition and the Law
[39:22] - Jesus' Radical Approach
[40:59] - Desecrating the Old to Usher in the New
[42:39] - Jesus' Transformative Power
[44:13] - Obedience to God's Instructions
[45:54] - The Humanity of Jesus
[47:26] - The Dangerous Prayer: "Anything"
[48:51] - Personal Testimony: Praying the "Anything" Prayer
[50:39] - Ruth's Example of Obedience
[52:06] - Inviting God into the Details
[53:31] - God in the Mundane
[55:00] - Trading Shame for Honor
[56:32] - The Difference Between Guilt and Shame
[58:11] - God's Covering of Our Shame
[59:42] - Moving Beyond Religion to Relationship
[01:01:26] - God's Desire for Our Heart
[01:03:02] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. John 2:1-11
2. John 20:30-31
3. Psalm 37:23
#### Observation Questions
1. What was the significance of the stone jars used in Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana? ([34:26])
2. How did Jesus' mother, Mary, demonstrate her faith in Jesus during the wedding at Cana? ([44:13])
3. According to John 20:30-31, what is the purpose of the signs recorded in the book of John?
4. What was the reaction of the master of the banquet after tasting the water turned into wine? ([34:26])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus chose to perform His first miracle at a wedding? What does this setting tell us about His ministry? ([31:10])
2. How does the transformation of water into wine symbolize the new covenant Jesus brings? ([36:02])
3. In what ways does the miracle at Cana reveal both the divinity and humanity of Jesus? ([45:54])
4. How does Psalm 37:23 relate to the idea of inviting God into the details of our lives? ([52:06])
#### Application Questions
1. Mary instructed the servants to "do whatever He tells you." How can you apply this level of obedience in your daily life? What specific area of your life is God calling you to obey Him more fully? ([44:13])
2. Jesus' involvement in the wedding at Cana shows that God cares about the small details of our lives. What are some "small" areas in your life where you can invite God’s guidance and presence? ([52:06])
3. The miracle at Cana saved the wedding hosts from social disgrace. Is there an area in your life where you feel shame? How can you invite Jesus to transform that shame into honor? ([55:00])
4. Jesus used ceremonial jars for His miracle, signifying a shift from old religious practices to a new relational covenant. Are there any religious rituals or traditions in your life that you need to move beyond to deepen your relationship with God? ([59:42])
5. The transformation of water into wine demonstrates Jesus' power to change the ordinary into the extraordinary. What ordinary aspect of your life do you want to see transformed by Jesus' power? ([42:39])
6. Reflect on the "anything" prayer mentioned in the sermon. Are you willing to pray, "God, I will do anything you want me to do"? What might be holding you back from fully surrendering to God's will? ([48:51])
7. How can you ensure that your acts of devotion (like attending church, reading the Bible, etc.) are driven by a genuine relationship with God rather than a sense of religious duty? ([01:01:26])
Devotional
Day 1: Obedience Unlocks Miracles
When Mary instructed the servants at the wedding in Cana to "do whatever He tells you," she highlighted a crucial aspect of our faith journey: obedience. Obedience to God's instructions often precedes the miraculous. It is through our willingness to follow His guidance, even when it doesn't make sense, that we open the door for His power to work in our lives. This act of obedience is a testament to our faith and trust in God's plan. When we align our actions with His will, we position ourselves to witness His transformative power.
In our daily lives, obedience to God can manifest in various ways, from following His moral directives to listening to the subtle nudges of the Holy Spirit. It requires humility and a willingness to submit our own desires and understanding to His greater wisdom. As we practice obedience, we cultivate a deeper relationship with God, one that is marked by trust and reliance on His perfect will. [44:13]
John 14:23 (ESV): "Jesus answered him, 'If anyone loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him.'"
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you feel God is calling you to be more obedient? How can you take a step of faith today to follow His guidance in that area?
Day 2: God in the Details
Jesus' involvement in the wedding at Cana, despite not being responsible for the wine, shows that God cares about the minutiae of our lives. We often reserve our prayers for significant issues, but God delights in every detail. By inviting Him into the small aspects of our lives, we acknowledge His sovereignty and care, allowing Him to guide our steps daily. This act of inviting God into the details is a recognition of His omnipresence and His desire to be involved in every part of our lives.
When we bring God into the mundane and seemingly insignificant parts of our day, we open ourselves up to experiencing His presence in new and profound ways. It is in these moments that we can see His hand at work, providing guidance, comfort, and blessings that we might otherwise overlook. By acknowledging His role in the details, we cultivate a habit of constant communion with Him, deepening our relationship and trust in His provision. [52:06]
Psalm 37:23-24 (ESV): "The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand."
Reflection: Think about a small detail in your life that you haven't invited God into. How can you intentionally include Him in that aspect today?
Day 3: Trading Shame for Honor
The miracle at Cana saved the wedding hosts from social disgrace, symbolizing how Jesus can transform our shame into honor. Shame distorts our identity and distances us from God, but Jesus offers a new identity rooted in His love and grace. By accepting His intervention, we can live free from the lies of shame and embrace the honor He bestows upon us. This transformation is not just about removing shame but about replacing it with a sense of worth and dignity that comes from being a child of God.
Shame often keeps us trapped in a cycle of self-condemnation and isolation. However, Jesus' intervention in our lives breaks this cycle, offering us a new narrative where we are valued and honored. Embracing this new identity requires us to let go of past hurts and failures and to see ourselves through the lens of God's grace. It is a journey of healing and renewal, where we learn to walk in the freedom and honor that Jesus provides. [55:00]
Isaiah 61:7 (ESV): "Instead of your shame there shall be a double portion; instead of dishonor they shall rejoice in their lot; therefore in their land they shall possess a double portion; they shall have everlasting joy."
Reflection: Identify an area of your life where you feel shame. How can you invite Jesus into that space to transform your shame into honor?
Day 4: Beyond Religion to Relationship
Jesus' use of ceremonial jars for wine signifies the shift from old religious practices to a new relational covenant with God. Religion often becomes a set of rituals aimed at earning God's favor, but Jesus invites us into a relationship where His love is freely given. This relationship is not about what we do to reach God but about accepting what He has done to reach us. It is a call to move beyond mere religious rituals and into a genuine, heartfelt connection with our Creator.
In this new covenant, our focus shifts from performing religious duties to cultivating a personal relationship with God. It is about knowing Him intimately, experiencing His love, and responding to His grace. This relational approach transforms our faith from a checklist of obligations to a dynamic and life-giving journey with God. It invites us to experience His presence in our daily lives and to live out our faith in a way that is authentic and deeply rooted in His love. [59:42]
Jeremiah 31:33 (ESV): "For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people."
Reflection: Reflect on your current faith practices. Are there any rituals or routines that have become more about obligation than relationship? How can you shift your focus to deepen your personal connection with God?
Day 5: Experiencing God's Transformative Power
The transformation of water into wine is a creation miracle that highlights Jesus' divine authority. If Jesus can turn water into wine, imagine what He can do in our lives. We are more than just water; we are beings with hearts, souls, and intellects. Jesus' power to transform extends to every aspect of our being, inviting us to experience His miraculous work in our lives. This transformative power is not limited to physical changes but encompasses emotional, spiritual, and relational healing and growth.
Jesus' ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary is a testament to His divine nature and His deep love for us. He desires to bring about change in our lives that reflects His glory and purpose. Whether it is healing from past wounds, breaking free from destructive habits, or growing in spiritual maturity, Jesus' transformative power is available to us. By surrendering to His work in our lives, we open ourselves up to experiencing the fullness of His grace and the abundant life He promises. [42:39]
2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Reflection: Consider an area of your life where you need transformation. How can you invite Jesus' transformative power into that area today? What steps can you take to cooperate with His work in your life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Signs do one thing. They point us in the right direction. They tell us where to go. They tell us how to be safe and they point us to what is ahead. And today, when we look at the first miracle of Jesus in the book of John, we're actually going to look at the first sign of Jesus." [31:10] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Jesus performed miracles and he gave us signs for the two reasons that John gives us. One, to reveal the glory of Jesus Christ as the son of God. Two, enter his ministry and show humanity that he is God. And the second reason is that those who hear about the signs, read about the signs, experience and witness the signs would believe in Jesus." [32:45] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If Jesus can turn water into wine, just think what he can do with you. Because let me tell you, you are much more than just water. You might be 70% water, but you have a heart. You have a soul. You have an intellect. And God wants to do something in your life. See, you are not here by accident. You are not alive by accident. God wants to speak to you and he wants to use you." [42:39] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "God actually cares about the details in your life. You know, a lot of times, the only time we pray is when something big's going on. But God actually cares about the small things in your life too. In fact, here's what I believe. It's oftentimes the small decisions you make in life that lead to the big decisions. And even faith is like that. Faith is actually a series of small steps towards Jesus." [53:31] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Bible is a book about God attempts to reach humanity. And that's relationship. Jesus often breaks religious structures that hold us back. He came to fulfill the law so we didn't have to. It's interesting because even the Bible is a book about time, it turned into something that nobody could obey." [01:01:26] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Jesus is ushering in a new kingdom that is different than what people think. Jesus is ushering in a new kingdom that is different than what people are used to, and he does this through the miracle at Cana. It's like Jesus is saying the old model doesn't work anymore. The old way of religion doesn't work anymore. Here is the new way to connect and to relate with God." [36:02] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "What is going on here? There's a lot packed into this first miracle, and I hope to unpack it for you today. But I want to start with a story about my iPad. 14 years ago, I was starting at a church. I became the senior pastor. And one of the first things I did going into the church is I bought an iPad. How many of you have an iPad? I think I have one of the original iPads." [34:26] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Let me ask you a question. Have you ever asked God that question? God, what do you want for my life? Or have you ever said this? God, I will do whatever you want. That's a dangerous thing to ask God, isn't it? Maybe some of you have never asked. Based on how you're looking at me, I think half of you have not asked God that question." [45:54] (21 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The significance of this new reality is that we have a relationship with God, not a religion. Jesus gave us this sign so that we can relate to God in a new way. Here's what I want to do with the remainder of our time. I want to give you four ways to relate to God through the miracle at Cana. Four ways we can respond and relate to God." [42:39] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You see, God wants to trade your shame and give you honor. He wants you to live a life that is not out of shame, believing that you are somebody different than who God created you to be. And this miracle at Cana is God wants to cover your shame and he wants to bring you into a new reality. And he wants to bring you in to freedom." [58:11] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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