Say what?

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Say what?

September 18, 2024

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John 3:1-21

There was a man of the Pharisees named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to Him, “Rabbi, we know that You are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that You do unless God is with him.”

Jesus answered and said to him, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

Nicodemus said to Him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?”

Jesus answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

Nicodemus answered and said to Him, “How can these things be?”

Jesus answered and said to him, “Are you the teacher of Israel, and do not know these things? Most assuredly, I say to you, We speak what We know and testify what We have seen, and you do not receive Our witness. If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how will you believe if I tell you heavenly things? No one has ascended to heaven but He who came down from heaven, that is, the Son of Man who is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

“He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God.”

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During my teenage years, the thing to do was to beg your parents to let you stay at a friend’s house in between morning and evening services on Sundays. It was such a disappointment to get a big fat “no, not today” from the parents. Especially when I was convinced they were going to say yes. Getting an unexpected answer to a question can be shocking and even confusing. In this passage we find a conversation between Nicodemus and Jesus. Out of the clear blue, Jesus’ first response to him was, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” This obviously confused Nicodemus. But what began as a bizarre and confusing response opened a conversation pathway about obtaining salvation. Does God ever respond to you in a way that, well, doesn’t seem to make sense? What is your typical response? When God answers our prayers and questions, it’s typically not just a simple yes or no. It is usually the beginning of a conversation He wants to have with us to give us more than what we were searching for.

That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.

WORD OF PRAYER

Dear Lord, Help me to understand that when I pray to You, You are not just there to tell me what I want to hear, nor are You just going to provide me with a quick fix to my situation. Like You did with Nicodemus, You want to have a conversation with me. Help me to listen to what You have to say, even if it doesn’t make any sense to me at first. I know that in time You will help me to understand. And it will be so much more than I asked for.

In the name of Jesus, amen!

Finding power and boldness through Jesus

October 21, 2024

Context Introduction: In Acts 19, Paul meets a group of disciples who had been following John the Baptist’s teachings but didn’t fully understand what Jesus had done. Paul explains to them that being baptized in the name of Jesus and receiving the Holy Spirit is part of God’s full plan for our lives. After they obeyed, their lives were changed, and Paul’s ministry in Ephesus continued to grow. This study guide will focus on three key lessons: getting baptized in the name of Jesus, the power of the Holy Spirit, and having the courage to share Jesus with others. Why Baptism in the name of Jesus Matters Key Scripture: Acts 19:2–5 What’s Happening: When Paul got to Ephesus, he found some people who believed in God but had only been baptized by John the Baptist. They hadn’t been baptized in the name of Jesus or received the Holy Spirit yet. Paul explained that John’s baptism was only part of the story. They needed to be baptized in the name of Jesus to complete their commitment to God. As soon as they heard this, they were baptized in the name of Jesus. Think About It: Baptism is more than just a church tradition; it’s part of God’s plan for us. Being baptized in the name of Jesus shows our commitment to Him and is an important step in our faith. Have you been baptized in the name of Jesus? If not, what’s stopping you from making that choice? Pray About It: Ask Jesus to help you understand the importance of being baptized in His name. Pray for courage to take this next step if you haven’t already, and thank Him for His salvation and love. The Power of the Holy Spirit Key Scripture: Acts 19:6–7 What’s Happening: After the disciples were baptized in the name of Jesus, Paul prayed for them, and they received the Holy Spirit. When the Holy Spirit came on them, they spoke in tongues and prophesied. This was a powerful moment, showing that the Holy Spirit isn’t just for some people—it’s for everyone who believes in Jesus and follows Him. Think About It: The Holy Spirit gives us the power to live for Jesus. It’s not just about going to church or saying the right things—it’s about being filled with God’s presence and letting Him lead our lives. Have you experienced the Holy Spirit? Do you rely on Him to help you make decisions and live for God? Pray About It: Pray for the Holy Spirit to fill your life with His power. Ask Jesus to help you trust the Holy Spirit’s guidance in everything you do, and if you haven’t received the Holy Spirit yet, ask for that experience. Being Bold in Sharing Jesus Key Scripture: Acts 19:8–10 What’s Happening: Paul didn’t stop with just a few people—he kept preaching about Jesus for months, even when some people didn’t like what he had to say. When the opposition grew too much, he moved to another place, but he didn’t quit. He stayed in Ephesus for two years, and eventually, everyone in the area heard about Jesus. Think About It: Talking about Jesus can be tough, especially when people don’t want to hear it. But Paul’s story reminds us that it’s important to keep sharing, even when it’s hard. Are there times when you’ve felt nervous or unsure about sharing your faith? How can you take steps to be more bold in talking about Jesus? Pray About It: Ask Jesus to give you the courage to talk about Him, even when it’s tough. Pray for the strength to keep sharing your faith with others, trusting that He’ll give you the right words and opportunities. Conclusion and Wrap-Up: Paul’s encounter with the disciples in Acts 19 reminds us of the importance of following God’s full plan—being baptized in the name of Jesus, receiving the Holy Spirit, and sharing Jesus with others. These aren’t just religious ideas—they’re life-changing experiences that give us power and purpose. Like Paul, we’re called to live boldly for Jesus and share His love with the world. Let us finish with a word of prayer - Jesus, thank You for Your plan for our lives—baptism in Your name, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the mission to share Your love. Help us follow You fully, trusting You in everything. Give us courage to be bold in our faith and to tell others about the amazing things You’ve done. Fill us with Your Spirit and guide us every day. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Reaching the ends of the earth

October 14, 2024

Introduction: Before Jesus left His followers and went back to Heaven, He gave them a huge task: share the gospel with the world. But first, He told them to wait in Jerusalem until they were filled with the Holy Spirit. This wasn’t about physical strength or being famous. The Holy Spirit would give them real power—power to live boldly for Jesus and share His love with others. In this study, we’ll explore how waiting for God’s timing, the power of the Holy Spirit, and our mission to share the gospel matter to us today. Learning to Wait for God’s Promises Key Scripture: Acts 1:4 What’s Happening: Jesus told His disciples to hang out in Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit. Imagine how excited and curious they must’ve felt—they’d just seen Jesus rise from the dead, and now He was telling them about this incredible promise! But instead of rushing ahead, they had to wait. Jesus wanted them to be ready for something big. Think About It: Waiting is hard, especially when you’re excited about something big that’s supposed to happen. Are there things you’re waiting for in your life right now, like answers from God or something you’ve been praying about? How can you trust God in those moments? Pray About It: Ask Jesus to help you stay patient while you wait for Him to work in your life. Pray for peace in the waiting, and ask Him to show you how to trust His timing, even when it’s hard. The Holy Spirit Gives Us Power Key Scripture: Acts 1:8 What’s Happening: Jesus didn’t just tell His followers to wait—He told them they would receive power when the Holy Spirit showed up. This wasn’t about physical strength or being a big deal. The power Jesus talked about was spiritual power, giving them the courage to tell others about Him. It wasn’t about being popular or perfect. It was about sharing the truth with the world, starting right where they were. Think About It: Have you ever felt like you’re not strong enough to live for Jesus or tell others about Him? The good news is you don’t have to do it alone. The Holy Spirit is there to help you. What’s something you need God’s help with in your life right now? How can you rely on the Holy Spirit for strength? Pray About It: Ask Jesus to fill you with the Holy Spirit and give you the courage to live boldly for Him. Pray for the strength to share your faith with others and to trust that He’ll guide you every step of the way. The Mission to Reach the World Key Scripture: Acts 1:8 What’s Happening: Jesus told His disciples that their mission was to be His witnesses, starting in Jerusalem, then to Judea, Samaria, and eventually the whole world. Their job was to share what they’d seen and heard with everyone, no matter where they went. That mission wasn’t just for them—it’s for us, too. The gospel is meant to spread, and we get to be a part of that! Think About It: Jesus didn’t ask just the disciples to share the gospel; He’s asking you, too. Are there ways you can make Jesus known to your friends, family, or even on social media? How can you be more intentional about living for Him and sharing His love? Pray About It: Ask Jesus to give you a heart that cares for people who don’t know Him yet. Pray for opportunities to share your faith, whether it’s through a conversation or your actions, and ask for boldness to follow through. Conclusion and Wrap-Up: Jesus’s instructions to His disciples are still important for us today: we need to wait on God’s timing, trust the power of the Holy Spirit, and be willing to share the gospel with everyone, wherever we are. The mission didn’t stop with the early church—it continues with us. Are you ready to live out your faith and make a difference in the world? Closing Prayer: Jesus, thank You for the promise of the Holy Spirit and for giving us the power to live for You. Help us to trust You when we have to wait for Your promises to come true. Fill us with Your Spirit so we can be bold in our faith and share Your love with those around us. Give us the courage to make a difference and be a part of Your mission to reach the world. In the name of Jesus, amen.

Salvation for every nation

October 7, 2024

Introduction: Imagine being so curious about God that you can’t stop thinking about Him. That’s exactly how Cornelius felt. Even though he wasn’t Jewish and didn’t know a lot about God, he wanted to get closer. And you know what? God noticed! Cornelius’s story is a perfect example of how God responds when we truly seek Him. This study will dive into what happened to Cornelius, how God shows no favoritism, and why baptism and the Holy Spirit are such big deals. When viewed in the greater context of Acts, this story also helps demonstrate that baptism and receiving the Holy Spirit are separate and unique events, regardless of the order in which they occur or the time between each event. In Acts 2, Peter first commanded baptism and receiving the Holy Spirit, and then both events occurred for the recipients on the same day. A similar order of events happened in Acts 19 where correct baptism preceded Spirit infilling. In Acts 8, Philip baptized the Samaritans first, and then sometime later the Samaritans received the Holy Spirit when Peter and John laid hands on them. In Acts 10, Cornelius’s household received the Holy Spirit with the sign of tongues first and then submitted to water baptism in the name of Jesus. In all these events, the apostles recognized both events were distinct and necessary for salvation, regardless of the order in which they occurred. God Responds to Those Who Seek Him Key Scripture: Acts 10:30-33; Jeremiah 29:13 What’s Happening: Cornelius wasn’t your typical “church guy.” He wasn’t even Jewish, but he still wanted to connect with God. So, he prayed, fasted, and helped people in need. One day, an angel showed up and told him to reach out to Peter for answers. God promises in Jeremiah 29:13 that when we look for Him with all our hearts, we’ll find Him. That’s exactly what Cornelius did! Think About It: How hard are you chasing after God? Are you giving it your all, like Cornelius, or just kind of going through the motions? If you really want to get to know God, what could you do differently in your daily life to make that happen? Pray About It: Ask Jesus to help you go all-in when it comes to seeking Him. Pray for the strength to focus on what’s really important and push away anything that’s keeping you from connecting with God. God Doesn’t Play Favorites Key Scripture: Acts 10:34-38 What’s Happening: Peter, who was used to thinking that salvation was just for the Jewish people, had a major “aha” moment. He realized that God doesn’t pick favorites. Cornelius, who was a Gentile, was accepted just like everyone else. This showed that no matter where you come from or what your background is, God’s love and salvation are for everyone. Think About It: Have you ever felt like God’s love is only for “perfect” people or that certain people are better at being Christians? Well, Cornelius’s story proves that’s not true. God loves everyone equally. Are there ways you can be more open to loving and accepting people who are different from you? Pray About It: Ask Jesus to give you a heart that loves people the way He does. Pray that He’ll help you break down any walls of prejudice and show His love to everyone you meet, no matter who they are. Baptism and the Holy Spirit Matter Key Scripture: Acts 10:44-48 What’s Happening: While Peter was talking, something incredible happened. The Holy Spirit came down on Cornelius and his whole crew, and they started speaking in tongues. This shocked the Jewish believers because they weren’t sure if non-Jews could experience the same thing. Peter then made sure Cornelius’s group got baptized, showing that both baptism and receiving the Holy Spirit are key parts of salvation. Think About It: Have you thought about why baptism and the Holy Spirit are so important? Cornelius’s story shows us that these are essential steps in getting closer to God. Where are you on that journey? Have you been baptized or asked to receive the Holy Spirit? Pray About It: If you haven’t been baptized or received the Holy Spirit yet, ask Jesus to guide you in taking those next steps. If you have, pray for the Holy Spirit to keep leading you and for opportunities to help others understand how important these steps are. Conclusion and Wrap-Up: Cornelius’s story is a clear reminder that God notices when we seek Him, loves everyone equally, and wants us to be baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit. No matter who you are or where you come from, God’s love is for you. So, what’s your next step? Keep seeking Him, love others without holding back, and take the steps God’s calling you to take in your faith journey. Closing Prayer: Jesus, thank You for always noticing when we seek You. Help us to chase after You with everything we’ve got and to love others the way You love them. Lead us to take those next steps—whether it’s baptism, receiving the Holy Spirit, or just walking in Your love every day. Guide us and keep us close to You. In the name of Jesus, Amen!