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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Following the healing of the lame man and the proclaiming of the resurrection of Jesus, Peter and John are arrested by local Jewish leaders. Five thousand men had been converted to Christ, and the scribes and high priesthood are seeking to silence these teachers. Peter courageously announces that salvation is found in Christ alone and that he and others must continue to teach the gospel. Even under the threat of punishment, the apostles refuse to be silenced. Upon release, they pray with fellow believers, asking God for faith to speak the truth with boldness. God responds by shaking the walls and filling them with the Holy Spirit! This is followed by a time of unity, selflessness, and encouragement in the church. Barnabas becomes an example to all with his charity.
Disciples of Christ are not just faithful when it is easy or accepted. Boldness and reliance on God are just as important in the face of opposition. We must lean on God, trust in Jesus, and ask for the help of the Holy Spirit. The goal is to stand firm and show people the victory and peace we have in Christ. A wonderful way to develop this strength is to gather with fellow believers, pray together, and sing of God’s glory. Unity among God’s people is one of God’s ways of helping us be faithful in times of struggle. God’s people share their faith, goods, and lives with one another. Be a Barnabas in the lives of fellow saints today.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Peter and John, who stood firm in proclaiming the name of Jesus. There is salvation in no one else. Fill us with the same courage to share the gospel, even when we face opposition from others. Lord God, help us never to be ashamed of our Savior. Please grant each of us the wisdom to recognize that we need one another. We need worship, fellowship, and to be “sons of encouragement” like Barnabas among Your people. Who among Your people is in need today? Lead us to help and serve them lovingly.
Thought Questions:
- What are specific situations where you find it difficult to share your faith? How can Peter and John’s example help you?
- If Christ is the ultimate authority for your life, how will that affect the way you obey and interact with modern authority figures?
- How are you cultivating more unity among God’s people? In what specific ways can you be an encourager to someone today?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]Acts 3
Peter and John, two of Jesus’ apostles, go to the temple to pray. They see a lame man and Peter heals him. The man expects a monetary blessing but receives the much greater gift of healing. He rejoices and clings to Peter and John. A crowd gathers, affording Peter the opportunity to preach about Jesus. He begins by noting that this power to heal has come from God. Peter explains that God the Father has glorified His Son and that the Jews have made a terrible mistake by crucifying Jesus. It is in the name of Jesus, the resurrected Prince of Life, that this lame man has been healed. Jesus is God’s raised and ruling Servant, and all who repent of sin and turn to Him will be spiritually refreshed.
The healing of the lame man affords Peter a chance to preach Jesus to the people. Peter uses beautiful terms to describe our Lord in this sermon: “God’s Servant,” “the Holy and Righteous One,” “the Prince of life,” God’s “Christ,” as well as “the Christ appointed for you.” He finally explains that Jesus is the “Prophet” raised up by God, just as Moses predicted. These terms should invoke awe and respect in us. Jesus is God’s plan for our salvation, and not even death can stop Him from becoming our Savior. The hope was for the people to hear these things and repent. We also should continually turn from our wicked ways when we consider the authority and glory of Jesus.
Holy God, thank You for sending Your Servant Jesus as the Christ who would give His life to free us from our sins. We are refreshed in His grace, and we praise You for the wonderful gifts afforded to us in our Lord. While we have many good things in this life, the healing of our souls is greater than any amount of silver and gold. We treasure Him above all else. Father, so many need to repent and turn to Jesus. Please give us the boldness to tell others about the victory and worthiness of the “Prince of Life.”
Thought Questions:
- A man’s life was changed forever after experiencing the authority of Jesus. How has the name of the Lord changed your life?
- People saw God’s power, and Peter used the occasion to teach. What opportunities is God creating for you to speak openly about Jesus?
- In his sermon, Peter uses several titles for Jesus. Mark those. How do they shape how you see Jesus and express His glory to others?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]Acts 2
On the day of Pentecost, tongues like fire descend upon the apostles in Jerusalem. A crowd gathers, and these anointed men from Galilee begin speaking in various languages. The people are amazed. The apostles then stand and address the Jewish audience. They explain that these miracles were prophesied hundreds of years earlier in the book of Joel. They then begin preaching Jesus. They tell of His miracles, His death and resurrection, and how this is God’s plan and prophesied by David a thousand years before. The people are pierced to the heart and ask what to do. They are told to repent and be baptized for the forgiveness of their sins. Three thousand people are baptized and commit to learning, worshiping, and fellowship together. The age of Christ’s church begins!
This chapter is the centerpiece of scripture and human history. God had been building toward salvation in Christ and His church for centuries. The Holy Spirit came upon the apostles, and the combination of miraculous action and divine truth changed the world. Many who had participated in crucifying Jesus were humbled and repented of their sins. The church began with awe and joy. New believers met together for worship and then house to house to enjoy meals. This is exactly how the word of God affects people today. It opens our eyes to Jesus and causes shame for our sins. It unites us in faith, worship, and daily service to others. There is joy and salvation in the Lord’s church!
Gracious Lord, You have extended incredible kindness to us in Your Son. We praise You for His coming, miracles and teachings, resurrection from the dead, and the salvation found only in Him. Lord, help us see the potency of the truth. The apostles converted thousands of Jews, many of whom had previously hated Jesus. What can the gospel of Jesus Christ do today? We pray its deepest impact begins in our hearts. Give us faith to turn from our sins. Show us peace in fellowship with believers in Christ, and challenge us to be active, daily servants in Christ’s church.
Thought Questions:
- The apostles spoke in tongues. What did it sound like in this text? How is that different than modern-day tongue-speaking claims?
- Peter’s sermon is focused on Jesus. Is Jesus the central figure and focus when you teach about His church? Why is that important?
- How did people respond to the message about Jesus? What did they do? Note how it goes far beyond the initial act of baptism.
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*Note—As repeatedly mentioned in the episode, this is not about circles over rows or circles replacing rows. However, a couple of hours of worship does not make a great, healthy, interactive Bible student. We need to talk, share, wrestle, and help. God's people need to learn critical thinking, which only happens with great discipline in a row, but can be a natural part of sitting in a living room or at a coffee shop with people who love God's word. Open your home. Open your life to circles of fellowship and growth centered on the word and will of God.
BRAND NEW BOOK - The Daily Bible Devotional Volume 2 (Acts - Ephesians) is now available on Amazon. We hope this becomes a great daily tool in engaging with the New Testament, one chapter at a time.
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Sponsors:
Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group
Website: www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com
Phone: 205-326-7364
Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage
Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/
https://tylercain.floify.com/
Phone: 813-380-8487 -
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]Acts 1
The book of Acts is Luke’s second letter to Theophilus and picks up exactly where his Gospel ended. Jesus instructs the apostles to go to Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit to fall upon them. They are told that the power of the Holy Spirit will help them be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and even the remotest parts of the earth. Following this, they witness Jesus ascend into the clouds. Two men appear to them and state that Jesus will one day return from heaven. The apostles then go to Jerusalem, gather in a room with 120 people, and address the need to replace Judas. They put forward two men, Barsabbas and Matthias. They draw lots, and it falls to Matthias, who is added to the eleven apostles.
Jesus promises the apostles the baptism of the Holy Spirit during His ministry. The Spirit would guide these men into all truth and give them supernatural power as they bear witness concerning Jesus. It is important to note that the apostles are men who had seen Jesus alive and alive again. They are also chosen directly by God. This is the exact criteria for Matthias becoming an apostle. There are no such men alive today. Instead of expecting a baptism of the Holy Spirit upon us, we must give heavy credibility to the things these men taught and did in this “book of Acts.” The Spirit was a gift to them to teach us about Christ and His church.
Great Father, we believe that Your Son has ascended into heaven and will return, descending from the clouds. Thank You for giving us wisdom from the Holy Spirit to guide us in faith so we can be prepared to meet Him. We understand that the Spirit’s power was promised to the apostles, as they are special witnesses from the days of Jesus. Help us to be attentive to their teachings and to see Your hand in their ministry. From Judas’s betrayal to Matthias’s addition, nothing happens outside of the scope of Your power and sight. We praise Your glorious name.
Thought Questions:
- Luke documents that the apostles were with Jesus after His resurrection. How does that give them special credibility to teach you?
- The Old Testament foretold about Judas’s betrayal. How would knowing this be comforting or even beneficial for Jesus' disciples?
- What were the requirements to be an apostle? Does anyone meet that criterion today? How should you view and respect the apostles?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 21
Jesus appears a third time to His disciples, this time at the Sea of Tiberias. Peter, and several others, fish throughout the night and catch nothing. From the beach, Jesus tells them to lower their nets once again, and they come up with 153 fish. Peter jumps in and swims to see Jesus. The rest of the men also hurry back to the shore, and they all enjoy breakfast with Him. Jesus emphatically instructs Peter to show love for Him by tending His sheep, which is a reference to Christ’s followers. Peter, along with all the Apostles, would suffer, even to death, as they devote the rest of their lives to following Jesus. The author of this letter is John, who is one of the Apostles with Jesus on that beach.
Jesus is the Son of God. He had just risen from the dead, and He was about to ascend into heaven. And yet, he took the time to visit disciples on the beach and have breakfast with them. He shared with them what He expected of them and what troubles would soon come. Our Savior is infinitely greater and more important than His followers, and yet He devotes time to them. He sits and eats with them. He shows great patience with them. This is our Lord, and this is how much He loves each one of us. What He asks in return is simple: love Him, help His people, and follow Him in whatever direction He leads us.
Great God of heaven, we have read the words of the Apostle John, an eyewitness to the life of Jesus, and we believe His testimony. From this letter, You have shown us that Jesus is Your Son, that He is both powerful and kind, and that He is worthy to be followed. He cares for us, and He has an important mission for our lives. Help us to know our mission, and to engage in it with the people You put in our path. Make us fishers of men and teach us how to help tend Your Son’s sheep.
Thought Questions:
- Jesus told Peter three times to “tend My sheep.” How has the good Shepherd challenged us to take care of His sheep until He returns?
- How should your relationship with Jesus resemble sitting with Him at breakfast and being told by Him how to love and serve Him today?
- John could have written many more things about Jesus. But why did He write this gospel, and what does it teach you about Christ?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 20
Early on Sunday morning, Mary Magdalene comes to the tomb and sees the stone rolled away. She goes to tell the Apostles. Peter and John run to the tomb and see that it is empty. Not understanding Christ’s resurrection, they return home. Mary then sees two angels sitting in the tomb. She turns around and sees Jesus alive and well! She returns to tell the disciples that she has spoken with Jesus. That evening, Jesus appears to ten of His Apostles and gifts them with the Holy Spirit. Thomas was not with them and continues to have doubts. Eight days later, Jesus appears and shows Thomas the piercings in His hands and side. He then says great blessings will come to those who have not seen and yet believe.
The resurrection and appearance of Jesus is the most transformational moment in all of human history. From this victory comes undeniable proof of power over Satan, sin, and death. For us, living after Jesus was raised and ascended, we can see how much hope exists in Christ. However, on the day He was raised, the disciples still had many doubts that left them gripped in fear. Even after Mary reported seeing Jesus, the disciples did not fully believe. Thomas wrestled with doubt a week after Jesus was raised. They had much to learn. This is why John’s gospel presents so much testimony for us: so that we will know the truth about Jesus and never live in fear and doubt.
Great Father, we believe. We believe the tomb was empty on the first day of the week. We believe Jesus overcame death and now lives as our risen and ruling Savior. Thank You for fulfilling Your promise to bring us hope through Your Son’s victory over Satan. Like Mary clinging to Jesus after He appeared to her, we long to cling to our King and thank Him face-to-face for His sacrifice and love. Dear Lord, help not to be burdened by doubt. May we always stay nourished in scripture, believing the testimony about Christ, and enjoying life in His name.
Thought Questions:
- Disciples throughout this chapter struggled to believe until they saw Jesus. How must your faith be even greater than theirs?
- Jesus gifted the Holy Spirit to the Apostles as well as the power to forgive sins. How obedient should you be to their teaching?
- What does it mean to “believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in His name”?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 19
Pilate has Jesus scourged with whips and places a crown of thorns upon His head. He then parades Jesus before the Jews while openly claiming to find no guilt in Him. Even though Pilate makes efforts to release Jesus, the Jews threaten to report Pilate to Caesar unless he crucifies Him. Pilate relents and delivers Jesus over to death. He writes “The King of the Jews” over the Savior’s cross, though the Jewish masses oppose this designation. Jesus is then crucified with His mother and other disciples looking on. He asks John to care for His mother after His passing. Jesus announces, “It is finished” and bows His head in death. Joseph and Nicodemus, two secret followers of Jesus, take Jesus’s body and bury Him in a new tomb.
The central event of human history is the death of Jesus on the cross for our sins. Jesus had the power to prevent this. He tells Pilate he has no authority over Him. And yet, our Savior is willingly led like a lamb to the slaughter. John’s gospel reveals three statements of Jesus on the cross, each revealing something about Him. His call to John to care for Mary shows Jesus’ love for His own. He then said, “I am thirsty,” indicating He physically suffered for us. When Jesus said, “It is finished,” this proved that He was devoted to the Lord’s will, even unto death. Jesus demonstrated love, sacrifice, and faith. These qualities live on in those who follow Him.
Holy Father, we praise You for sending Your Son to die in our place and to take away our sins. We see in Him deep love for others, a sacrificial spirit, and undying trust in You and Your plan to save souls. God, we are so grateful. But plant within us something more than just gratitude. Form within us the desire to live like Jesus in this world. Please help us develop selfless love for others, a willingness to pay the cost of discipleship, and a trust in You and Your will that cannot be diminished by anything or anyone.
Thought Questions:
- Pilate is a tragic character. He knew Jesus was innocent but was too weak to stand up for Him. How are you stronger than Pilate?
- Jesus had the power to stop His crucifixion. Why did He go through with it, and how can that same spirit be seen in your life?
- Joseph and Nicodemus were disciples who emerged from secrecy. Are there areas in your life where it is time to do this as well?
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BRAND NEW BOOK - The Daily Bible Devotional Volume 2 (Acts - Ephesians) is now available on Amazon. We hope this becomes a great daily tool in engaging with the New Testament, one chapter at a time.
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Sponsors:
Jon Cunningham, Owner, Cunningham Financial Group
Website: www.cunninghamfinancialgroup.com
Phone: 205-326-7364
Tyler Cain, Senior Loan Officer, Statewide Mortgage
Websites: https://statewidemortgage.com/
https://tylercain.floify.com/
Phone: 813-380-8487 -
Send us a text
Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 18
Jesus takes His Apostles into a garden, where Judas and Roman officers come to arrest Him. Peter cuts off a soldier’s ear, but Jesus replaces it and goes with the soldiers peacefully. Peter and John follow closely behind as Jesus is taken before Annas, and then Caiaphas, the high priest that year. Peter is then questioned concerning Jesus, and he denies Him three times. The Jewish priests lead Jesus to Pilate since they need Roman approval to put Him to death. Pilate asks Jesus if He is the King of the Jews. Jesus responds by stating that His kingdom is not of this world. Ultimately, Pilate sees no guilt in Jesus. He asks the Jews if he should release Him, but they demand that a convicted robber be released instead.
There is an incredible calmness in Jesus as the time of His death approaches. When Peter injures a soldier, Jesus heals the man. When soldiers seek to arrest Him, Jesus simply asks that His followers be left alone. When questioned by the Jewish leaders, He answers by stating that He has kept no secrets in His ministry. As Pilate berates Him with questions, He answers with peaceable, spiritual, truthful answers. Meanwhile, Peter denies Him, and most of the Apostles are nowhere to be found. Our Savior is at peace with His purpose and with the sacrifice He would offer for the world. Peter and the Apostles became much more like Jesus after the resurrection. This should be our goal as well.
Gracious Lord, thank You for Jesus. His confidence and calmness establish Him as a King we are privileged to follow. Even in the fires of persecution, He was focused and holy. He answered even His most vicious accusers with dignity. Lord, teach us how to be more like Your Son. We all falter at times, resembling Peter’s fear and doubt. Father, we plead for Your mercy and ask You to humble us and make us more devoted students of Jesus. His resolve to accomplish Your work has brought blessings to us all. Lead us to be more like our Savior.
Thought Questions:
- Why did Peter lash out at the soldier? Can outbursts and quick reactions be a symptom of a faith that needs some work?
- What are situations in your life where you need to have calm, confident responses like Jesus did throughout this chapter?
- Pilate asks a fateful question: “What is truth?” Is Jesus the answer to that question for you, and what does He mean in your life?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 17
This is one of the most beautiful chapters in all of scripture. It documents a prayer offered by Jesus while He is with His Apostles. Jesus speaks of all things leading back to the Father. Whatever glory and authority Jesus has, He uses it to turn all attention to the Father and His gift of eternal life. Jesus committed his life to accomplishing the will of the Father. Jesus is soon to depart, and He prays that God will keep the disciples in the faith and unified with one another. Jesus asks for God to keep them from the evil one and to sanctify them in the truth. Jesus then prays for all believers that they may be one, perfected in unity, striving together in the love of God.
The most striking aspect of this prayer is the incredible humility of Jesus. He defers all glory to His Father, addressing Him as holy and righteous. All that Jesus has been gifted to do is used to turn the world toward the Father. This is a lesson that should live on in us. We are agents for God, and all the glory and authority we have is to direct people back to Him. Jesus then prays fervently concerning His disciples. He prays for their unity, and their strength, and that they live in sanctity and love. If we are genuinely interested in honoring the Father in this life, we must invest ourselves in the strength and unity of fellow believers.
Holy and righteous Father, You are worthy of all praise and glory. Even Jesus, the Savior of the world, gives honor to You. Great God, demand of us the service and loyalty that You deserve. In You is eternal life, and we devote our lives to service and gratitude for this incredible gift. Father, Your Son has taught us to love one another. Unity among Christians was the Savior’s prayer, and we make it ours as well. Please help us overcome the issues and attitudes that divide us. Sanctify us together in truth and keep us from the evil one.
Thought Questions:
- Jesus knew His death was coming, and He welcomed it to honor God. How will you be like Him when difficult times come?
- Jesus prayed that God would protect His friends from Satan. Who will you ask God to protect from the enemy today?
- Why do you think there is so much division among God’s people? How can Jesus’ prayer for unity help us all?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 16
Jesus continues to prepare His Apostles for the difficult times that are approaching. After Jesus ascends, religious people will seek to kill these men, falsely believing that such attacks honor God! Fortunately, the Holy Spirit is coming to guide the Apostles into all truth and disclose what is coming. Jesus must ascend into heaven so that He can send the Holy Spirit to them. But that process will be painful; Jesus will first have to be arrested, beaten, and killed. While this will be a time of great sadness, Jesus assures them He will rise again and appear to them. The disciples will be scattered when Jesus is arrested, but He will rally them to Him after He is raised. Peace will prevail because Jesus will overcome the world!
The days of Christ’s arrest and death are the darkest in human history. But they were necessary to bring about God’s plan for our redemption. Jesus’ victory over death overcomes the world in that sin and death no longer have power of His followers. His death also brought about the new covenant that God intended from the beginning of time. The Holy Spirit has come to earth as the result of Jesus ascending to glory. Jesus has sent Him to teach us concerning sin, righteousness, and the judgment to come. We are immensely blessed by Jesus’ death, burial, resurrection, and ascension into heaven. Though times of sadness and tribulation may come, we live with abiding peace in the victory of Jesus.
Kind Father, we praise You and thank You for the revelation of scripture. You have disclosed to us the life and victory of Jesus, as well as the teachings of the Holy Spirit. You have warned us of the world’s response to truth, preparing us to stand firm in faith and to avoid stumbling in confusion and doubt. Father, help us develop the discipline to study the words of Jesus and to read the Spirit’s revelation concerning sin, righteousness, and the judgment to come. Teach us how to live by faith in Christ, the One who has overcome the world.
Thought Questions:
- What has Jesus revealed in the gospels that keeps you from stumbling? What gives you the courage to be strong in faith?
- What has the Spirit taught you in scripture about sin? What has He shown you about righteousness? What about the judgment to come?
- A woman birthing a child goes from pain and weeping to great joy. How does the resurrection of Jesus move you from sorrow to joy?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 15
Jesus continues His discourse with the Apostles. Jesus identifies Himself as “the true vine.” His followers are like branches that draw nutrients from Him. To “abide in Him” is to be connected to Jesus, to hear His words, and to gain strength from His power. This must result in good fruit born by the branches. To bear the fruit of good works is to prove to be His disciple. Love binds the Vine to the branches. Jesus has shown His love by laying down His life for His friends. His friends show love in return by keeping His commandments and loving one another. The world hates Jesus and His followers, but love will define His people. Jesus again promises the Apostles that the Holy Spirit will help them in their work.
As noted in the previous chapter, some of this content is unique to the Apostles. The Holy Spirit would testify through the Apostles in miraculous ways. The Holy Spirit is also at work for us; He teaches us through the scripture. Many other elements of this chapter apply to us all. Jesus is the vine, and we are the branches. We must remain connected to Him and bear fruit, lest we be cut away by the Father. Specifically, Jesus demands that we keep His commandments and love our fellow believers. We will be maligned by the world for serving Jesus because people of the world reject His Lordship. But fellow Christians should always be a source of love and support.
Creator God, we know that You have made us to bring honor to You. And that means living obedient lives and loving others the way You love us. Will You help us see how desperately we need Jesus to do these things? Show us how to connect to Jesus and how to draw our strength and direction from Him. We are committed to bearing the good fruit of obedience and love in a world of disobedience and hate. Show us how to love Christians in an enduring way, and please help us through the presence and teachings of Your Holy Spirit.
Thought Questions:
- Are you abiding in Christ and bearing fruit through His strength? What examples in your life demonstrate this process to others?
- The Lord has commanded us to love one another. Can your faith be a saving faith if you do not actively love and serve Christians?
- The worldly have no excuse for living in sin and disregarding the King. How can you help them see their need for Jesus?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 14
Jesus says twice to His Apostles: “Do not let your heart be troubled.” Jesus first tells them not to worry because He will go to heaven to prepare a place for them, and then He will return to take them home. They did not understand where Jesus was going, but He goes to the Father and is in perfect unity with the Father. Jesus explains that His disciples must honor Him by keeping His commandments. All who love Jesus must obey Him. Jesus assures the Apostles He will send a Helper, the Holy Spirit, to teach them how to establish His church. A second time, He tells them not to be troubled because the Spirit’s presence will help them live with peace so that they can accomplish His work without fear.
This chapter takes place during the Passover meal Jesus engages in with His Apostles. Some of what is included is specific to those men, like the promise of the Holy Spirit to give them special knowledge. However, much of His teachings apply to all believers. Jesus has gone to heaven, and He will return to take home all who love Him and obey His commandments. In the meantime, we can live in peace because God loves us, and the Holy Spirit is active in helping us develop fearlessness in this life. The “ruler of the world” is among us and seeks to undermine our faith. But we believe that Jesus is with the Father and rules in victory over the adversary.
Wonderful Father, we call upon You to help us develop peace deep within our hearts. “Do not let your heart be troubled.” We hear the words of Jesus and seek to live this joy and assurance deep within us. Will you please help us to find this strength? We know the strength is in the resurrected and ruling Christ. And we know the Holy Spirit’s help is readily available in the scripture. Please help us to remember to fill our lives with prayer and Bible study. We love and obey You, and we know that You love and protect us.
Thought Questions:
- What causes your heart to be troubled? And what do you know about the Father, Son, and Spirit that restores your peace?
- Jesus is the only way to be close to the Father. How are you pursuing a closer relationship with the Father through Jesus?
- The Holy Spirit helped the Apostles in incredible ways. How does the Holy Spirit help you in your walk and work for Christ?
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Special thanks to Larry Greenlee for his lesson recently titled: "Breaking the Cycle." His three ideas can absolutely change your life, and quickly: Remove, Replace, Refine. It is a pleasure to explore these with you today, particularly the first one. Plants can't grow until the weeds are removed. New things cannot exist where there is no place for them. Everything good, along with things that break down old cycles, starts with removing necessary obstacles. Today we explore six areas where you can make those cuts:
1) Technology and Entertainment
2) Mental Clutter
3) Toxic Relationships
4) Excess Commitments
5) Financial Waste
6) Unhealthy Habits
Can you pick one thing from each of these categories to cut out of your life, at least for a time? To add to this exercise, what would you like to add? What would you like more of in your daily routine? Exchange one thing for another.BRAND NEW BOOK - The Daily Bible Devotional Volume 2 (Acts - Ephesians) is now available on Amazon. We hope this becomes a great daily tool in engaging with the New Testament, one chapter at a time.
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 13
Jesus gathers with His twelve Apostles for a Passover meal just hours before He is arrested. He begins by washing the feet of each of the men. Peter is reluctant to allow this, but Jesus insists. Jesus teaches them that the service of others is at the center of His kingdom. Jesus then tells them that one of His own will betray Him. No one knows that He is referring to Judas Iscariot. Satan fills Judas’ heart, and he flees. Jesus then explains that His time of departure and glorification has come. He tells them the most important thing they can do is to love each other. Peter insists on going with Jesus, but he is told that He is not ready and that he will deny Jesus that very night.
This is the night in which Jesus would be betrayed and arrested, and yet His focus is on teaching His disciples to care for one another. By washing their feet and later teaching them about the crucial need for love, He is demonstrating what makes His kingdom strong in the face of any trial. In our shared walk, there will be betrayers who give in to this world. There will be ignorance, like the Apostles who had no idea who would betray Jesus. There will be disappointment, like Peter’s predicted denial of Jesus. God’s people can remain united and strong if we sacrificially serve, deeply love, and tirelessly support one another. That is the kingdom of believers Jesus died to establish.
Great Father, we praise Your glorified Son, and we lament that He was subjected to betrayal, suffering, and death on our behalf. We know He now rules in glory because of His incredible sacrifice. It endears us to Him to see Him washing feet and teaching love in the moments before His arrest. Help us to have a spirit like His. Teach us how to serve one another so that the world may know us by our love. Like Peter, we often fall short due to a lack of understanding and pride. Forgive us and help us to grow together.
Thought Questions:
- Jesus said disciples “ought to wash one another’s feet.” What should that look like in your life and relationship with Christians?
- Judas was so crafty that no one, except Jesus, knew of his sins. If only Jesus knows of your sins, is that enough reason to repent?
- Peter wanted to die with Jesus, but he was not yet ready. How are you developing the kind of faith that would give your life for Jesus?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 12
Jesus and His disciples come to Bethany to dine with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. Mary anoints His feet with costly perfume. Judas Iscariot grumbles about this because he is a thief and hopes to plunder money from the sale of the perfume. A large crowd gathers to see Jesus and the resurrected Lazarus. This infuriates the Jewish leaders, who plan to kill Lazarus. Jesus then enters Jerusalem, and His followers worship Him as King. Many come to Jesus, including Greeks who had come to Jerusalem for the Passover feast. Jesus teaches them that personal sacrifice is needed to be in His kingdom. The people then hear God, from heaven, proclaim Jesus and His glory! Some follow Him, while others who believe are silenced by their fear of the Jews.
The approval of men, and fear of others, are serious tests of faith. To believe in Jesus is to follow His teachings, leaving darkness for light, no matter what anyone thinks. The world, in so many ways, tries to weaken and silence believers. Judas was weakened by greed, and he betrayed the Lord. The Pharisees were blinded by jealousy and selfishness. Though God from heaven pronounced Jesus as worthy, others feared the actions of men and would not confess Jesus as King. In all of this, there are servants like Mary, who poured her expensive oil on Jesus’ feet with no concern for what anyone thought about it. Only those who believe like Mary will be saved on the last day.
Holy God, we love You and desire to grow in our service to You and Your Son. Help us to see how that must resemble Mary pouring oil on Jesus’ feet. Help us to see ourselves bowed down to worship Jesus as He rides in on a colt. This world and its darkness seek to overwhelm us and make us ashamed of Jesus. Give us the strength to fight against greed and jealousy. Help us develop the courage to live out a sacrificial faith in Christ, regardless of what anyone says or does. We know “that His commandment is eternal life.”
Thought Questions:
- We cannot replicate Mary pouring expensive oil on Jesus’ feet. But what does it look like for you to be more like her?
- Jewish leaders rejected Jesus, while Greeks sought to speak with Him. What does that say about where faith might be found?
- Jesus had to “be lifted up” in death to save us from our sins. Might you also have to face public ridicule in following Jesus?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 11
Lazarus is a friend of Jesus and the brother of Mary and Martha. Jesus hears that Lazarus is sick and informs His disciples that this illness will bring glory to God. Jesus delays His trip to Bethany, knowing that Lazarus will die and then be raised from the dead. As He approaches the village, Jesus tells Martha her brother will rise again. Jesus follows this by announcing Himself as “the resurrection and the life.” He then calls for Mary and weeps as he sees her despair over her brother’s death. Jesus then raises Lazarus from the tomb. This results in more people believing in Jesus. The Jewish leaders, however, are confounded on how to handle Jesus. By the prophecy of high priest Caiaphas, they plan to put Him to death.
John’s Gospel includes seven miracles from Jesus’ ministry. No miracle of Jesus is greater than raising Lazarus from the dead. This proves His power over life and death. His death and resurrection would also confirm this power. We can live by faith, without fear of death, knowing that Christ will revive us again and give us eternal life. Even though death has no power over Him, Jesus still weeps at the sorrow of people who mourn their loss. Our Savior’s miraculous might does not diminish His compassion for His people. Sadly, the Jewish leaders would not believe in the saving power of Jesus, as they wanted lives free of His influence. We must never give in to such a devastating decision.
Benevolent Father, You always provide what we need and bless us with Your mercy. We trust You in life, but Father, we pray to also do so in the face of death. We thank You for the ministry of Jesus and the scope of His power. Of all that He has done, we treasure most His victory over death. Since He raised Lazarus from the grave, we know that death is not the end for us. Help us to take comfort in this during our lives, but also that we keep the faith through to the end, knowing eternity is coming.
Thought Questions:
- Jesus loved Lazarus and his family. And yet, Jesus allowed him to die. Why? And how can that bring comfort to us in times of loss?
- Do you have faith that a believer “will live even if he dies”? How does eternal life in Christ shape the way you make daily decisions?
- Jewish leaders wanted to kill Jesus because they feared Rome’s involvement. How is faith impossible if you fear worldly forces?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
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Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 10
Jesus likens His disciples to sheep who hear His voice and follow Him. Jesus is the gate that they enter to reach safety. He is also the good shepherd who calls them forth and leads them in green pastures. He alone has authority over them. A good shepherd will put his life on the line for the sheep. Jesus proved this by dying on the cross for the good of His people. He would also be raised from the dead and continue as their shepherd in heaven! The Pharisees reject all of this, and once again revile and accuse Him. He tells them they say these things because they are not of His sheep. His works prove He is the Son of God and that all should believe in Him.
The sheep and shepherd imagery are valuable for believers. Jesus is not just our Savior; He is our Shepherd. We do not simply believe in Him, we follow Him. Jesus has authority over our lives. We answer His call. We go where He directs us. Jesus has earned this right by laying down His life to save us from the enemy. He has also risen and is ruling at the right hand of the Father. The Pharisees rejected Jesus’ message because it would mean surrendering their power to Him. They could not see past their desires. True belief involves total surrender. The choice is ours, but the testimony about Him will convict us if we do not believe in Him.
Great God, please allow us to honor our Savior with this adaptation from Psalm 23: The Lord is our shepherd. We shall not want. He makes us lie down in green pastures; He leads us beside quiet waters. He restores our souls; He guides us in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we fear no evil, for He is with us. Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow us all the days of our lives, and we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Thought Questions:
- What does it mean in your daily life for Jesus to be your shepherd? How do you go about living as a sheep within His flock?
- How has Jesus demonstrated a depth of love for you that goes beyond what anyone could ever do? How do you honor Him?
- Evidence for Jesus as God’s Son is powerful and life changing. What testimonies about Christ have the deepest impact on you?
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Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)
Youtube Video Introducing the Content
Feel free to reach out with any questions: [email protected]John 9
Jesus heals a man who is blind from birth. As the Light of the world, Jesus puts clay on the man’s eyes and renews his sight. The Pharisees question the man as to what has happened, and the man announces Jesus as a prophet. The Jews then call in the man’s parents, confirming he was born blind. They will not believe in Jesus and are determined to discredit the miracle. They speak to the man again, and he proclaims the Healer to be from God. The Jewish leaders then put him out of the synagogue. Jesus finds the man and reveals Himself to be the Son of Man, and the healed man worships Him. Jesus then teaches that Pharisees who think they can see will always be blind and in sin.
The blind man’s healing leads to these words of Jesus: “For judgment I came into the world, so that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may become blind.” For all who are humble and in need of Christ, He brings light and restoration. The blind man represents all sinners, in need of opened eyes by the power of Jesus. If He has restored us, we should openly and passionately worship Him as the Son of God. But those who think they see without Him will not come to him for healing. All who choose to reject the glory of Jesus will be revealed in the end as blind and lost in darkness.
Dear Lord, You have shown amazing mercy in sending Your Son, the perfect Light, into this world of darkness and sin. He relentlessly seeks those who know that they need Him. Father, we pray for an ever-present need for the Light of the world in our lives. We are often blind and drawn to the shadows. Will You please make Jesus the Light to our path and the One who shows us the way? Give us the wisdom to see Him and follow Him. Purge from our hearts any arrogance, pride, and disbelief that would keep us from our Savior.
Thought Questions:
- The man’s blindness created a circumstance for God to act. Are you open to seeing your struggles as opportunities for Christ to work?
- The healed man worshiped Jesus. Do you believe Jesus is worthy of your worship? How does that look on days other than Sunday?
- The Pharisees would not believe no matter the evidence. What creates that sort of blindness and how do you avoid it?
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