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!
Salvation in the face of opposition
September 30, 2024
Introduction:
Life can feel overwhelming sometimes, especially when you’re up against challenges that seem impossible to handle. But did you know that God often uses tough times to grow our faith and guide us in new directions? In Acts 8, we see how the early church faced intense persecution but came out stronger. Let’s take a look at how God’s power shows up when life gets hard and how we can trust Him, even when things don’t make sense.
- Persecution Leads to Purpose (Acts 8:1–4)
Key Scripture:
“Saul was one of the witnesses, and he agreed completely with the killing of Stephen. A great wave of persecution began that day, sweeping over the church in Jerusalem; and all the believers except the apostles were scattered through the regions of Judea and Samaria.” – Acts 8:1
What’s Happening:
Saul was on a mission to destroy the early church, and it seemed like the end for the followers of Jesus. But instead of stopping the message of Jesus, persecution actually caused it to spread even further! The believers were scattered, but they took the gospel with them to new places, fulfilling what Jesus said in Acts 1:8.
Think About It:
Has there ever been a time when something tough happened in your life that ended up being for the best? Maybe it pushed you to grow or helped you see things differently. Just like the early church, God can use challenges in your life to lead you toward your purpose.
Pray It:
Ask Jesus to help you trust His plan when things get hard. Pray for strength to keep moving forward, even when you face opposition, knowing that He is with you.
- True Spiritual Power vs. Selfish Ambition (Acts 8:9–24)
Key Scripture:
“You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts.” – Acts 8:21–22
What’s Happening:
Simon the sorcerer was used to impressing people with his magic, but when he saw the real miracles happening through Philip, he wanted in. The problem? He wasn’t interested in God’s plan—he wanted power for himself. Peter called him out, showing that spiritual power is about having a heart that’s right with God, not about gaining attention or control.
Think About It:
In today’s world, it’s easy to want recognition or to be “liked.” Sometimes, even when we’re doing the right things, our motives can be off. Are you doing things to serve God or to get noticed? True power and fulfillment come from following Jesus with a pure heart, not from trying to impress others.
Pray It:
Ask God to check your heart. Pray for pure motives and the desire to serve Him because you love Him, not because you want attention or recognition.
- The Essential Role of the Holy Spirit (Acts 8:14–17)
Key Scripture:
“Then Peter and John laid their hands upon these believers, and they received the Holy Spirit.” – Acts 8:17
What’s Happening:
The believers in Samaria had accepted Jesus and even been baptized, but something was still missing. They hadn’t yet received the Holy Spirit. Peter and John prayed for them, and they experienced the fullness of God’s Spirit, which empowered them to live out their faith boldly.
Think About It:
Sometimes, we go through the motions of faith—going to church, praying, doing good things—but without the Holy Spirit, it’s hard to really live out the life Jesus calls us to. The Holy Spirit is the power that helps us follow God, make tough decisions, and share our faith with others.
Pray It:
Ask Jesus to fill you with the Holy Spirit, giving you the strength and guidance you need to live out your faith fully and boldly. Pray for the Spirit to be present in everything you do.
Conclusion:
Even in the face of opposition, God is always working. Acts 8 shows us that nothing can stop the gospel from spreading, not persecution, not selfish ambition, and certainly not challenges in our own lives. With the Holy Spirit guiding us, we can face anything and still come out victorious.
Final Prayer:
Jesus, help me trust You when life gets tough. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit so that I can live boldly for You. Purify my heart and help me follow You with the right motives. Thank You for always being with me, no matter what.
In the name of Jesus, amen.
God responds to crying
September 27, 2024
Luke 18:38
And he cried out, saying, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”
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Crying is part of our human emotional package—love it or hate it, we all have done it. Whether we are expressing pain, laughter, grief, happiness, or we’re just simply cutting an onion, crying is part of the human race God gloriously created. Tears associated with crying are the words the heart uses to express itself. It has been said that only God understands the language of tears. I can only imagine the blind man in Luke 18 curiously asking what the reason was for all the people passing through. When he discovered it was Jesus, “he cried, saying, Jesus … have mercy on me!” It’s possible that he didn’t just cry out; he may have cried actual tears. The blind man was actually living in a moment he had only imagined. He may have even positioned himself by the wayside in hopes for this day to happen. When that moment finally came, his emotion was more than he could manage. So he cried, and Jesus responded by stopping and ministering to Him.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Lord Jesus, Thank You that You are moved by our tears. Today, I cry out to You for healing, strength, and restoration upon my life. Just as You responded and stood still as the blind man cried with desperation, I too am desperate for a touch only You can give. I pray You look upon my tears and respond to my need. I now thank You that I no longer have to sit waiting for a change because today You have heard my cry.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
God is calling, so answer the phone!
September 26, 2024
Luke 9:1-6
Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. And He said to them, “Take nothing for the journey, neither staffs nor bag nor bread nor money; and do not have two tunics apiece.
“Whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. And whoever will not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the very dust from your feet as a testimony against them.”
So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
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Luke 9:1-6 tells the story of Jesus calling His disciples and commissioning them to go and preach the kingdom of God. Take a moment to read the text. The call of God comes to many today as a pulling of emotions in the heart. It may begin as an intense feeling of compassion for a particular place or people, a compelling of the heart, or a confirmation of direction from a godly elder. Too many stop after hearing God’s call because they are uncertain about the next step. However, Jesus is not only calling us to follow Him, but inviting us to a relationship with Him. Relationship results from God’s calling; it is the basis of all work done in His kingdom. At some point, this relationship must transition to observable actions. Jesus had previously taught His disciples by healing the sick and giving real-life examples. In Luke 9, Jesus presented them with opportunity to put His calling into action. Is He calling you? Where and how can you put His calling into action today? Is there a Bible study to teach or a friend who is hurting? Do not just offer them yourself; give them Jesus!
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Lord Jesus, We pray that You will call us to work in Your kingdom. We pray that our hands will be busy doing Your work, and that You will provide direction, strength, wisdom, and knowledge as we pursue Your kingdom. Please lead us away from distractions that steal our time, and let burden for Your work saturate our souls. Let us find deeper relationship with You as we do all we can! Until you come again, draw us closer to You!
In the name of Jesus, amen!
The power of our words
September 25, 2024
Luke 17:6
So the Lord said, “If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.
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Words are powerful. Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue.” Sometimes we need to speak good, positive things into our lives. We live in such a negative world that it is easy to not see the good when it comes. Thoughts of suicide, depression, or low self- esteem are common in teenage students. But God has given the Apostolic student a promise in Luke 17:6: “And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.” Speak to those negative thoughts. They have no place in your mind. God will move through the faith behind your words, pluck up those thoughts by the roots, and cast them into the sea.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Lord, I ask You to help me with my thoughts today. I know sometimes they are not pleasing to You. I rebuke any negative thoughts that come to my mind today. Show me how to be positive in my attitude. God, I want You to move in my life so I can live life to the fullest. Help me to have the faith to see You work in my life, in both the big and little things.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
God desires to dwell in you
September 24, 2024
Luke 19:9
And Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham;
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One morning during a youth service a young man expressed his desire to receive the Holy Ghost. The students gathered around him and began to pray. Almost immediately the Holy Ghost fell upon him and he began to speak in other tongues. The willingness of this student to allow God to dwell in him started a fire in the entire group. In Luke 19:9 we meet Zacchaeus, a rich publican (tax collector) despised by the people as a cheat and a sinner. But something within Zacchaeus longed to commune with Jesus one on one. His urgent desire caused him to climb a tree so he, a man shorter than most people in the crowd, could see Jesus as he passed by. To his great surprise, Jesus stopped right beneath the tree and said, “Come on down, Zacchaeus. I’d like to spend the day with you at your house.” The Lord’s presence convicted Zacchaeus’s heart of wrongdoing and he promised to give back what he had acquired by ill-gotten gain. When Zacchaeus opened up to God and allowed Him to dwell with him, not only was he himself blessed but his entire household as well.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Dear Lord, Help me to allow Your desires to dwell in me. Jesus, become one with me. Let me be a willing vessel to be used for Your purpose, Your will, and Your desire. My God, thank You for wanting to be my comforter in good times and bad. I love You with all my heart.
In the name of Jesus, amen.
God is constant
September 23, 2024
John 8:58
Jesus said to them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I AM.”
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Historically, one of the most dreaded subjects in grade school has been mathematics. While basic addition and subtraction get easier with practice, fractions, polynomials, and radii have been known to cause headaches. Mathematics has been called the “Science of Patterns.” There is something oddly satisfying about a perfect geometric pattern. Its consistency is appealing because of its predictability and preciseness. One single discrepancy is almost immediately noticeable and disappointing. At first glance, John 8:58 grammatically looks like a mix-and-match of past and present tenses, something that just doesn’t make sense in the English language. However, upon further study into the choice of words, Jesus’ use of “I AM” is fulfilling and assuring. He was, He is, and He always will be the ever-present, unchanging One. As the story of our lives twists and turns through career, love, family, setbacks, trials, losses, and victories, God remains constant throughout the ages, and His promises are eternally available. He is constant in holiness, forgiveness, provision, mercy, and truth. In our indecisiveness He is unchanging, and He is ever present in our situation.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Dear Lord, I am so thankful that You are the same yesterday, today, and forever and that Your Word is unchanging. When things around me are constantly shifting, You are the Rock I can build on. Lord, please help me to put my trust in the unchanging power of the name of Jesus as I live each day.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
Faith gets God’s attention
September 20, 2024
Luke 8:43-48
Now a woman, having a flow of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her livelihood on physicians and could not be healed by any, came from behind and touched the border of His garment. And immediately her flow of blood stopped.
And Jesus said, “Who touched Me?”
When all denied it, Peter and those with him said, “Master, the multitudes throng and press You, and You say, ‘Who touched Me?’ ”
But Jesus said, “Somebody touched Me, for I perceived power going out from Me.” Now when the woman saw that she was not hidden, she came trembling; and falling down before Him, she declared to Him in the presence of all the people the reason she had touched Him and how she was healed immediately.
And He said to her, “Daughter, be of good cheer; your faith has made you well. Go in peace.”
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Nothing is more amazing in our walk with God than the moment we realize He has met one of our needs or heard one of our prayers. God is so incredibly good to us! But let’s face it: we can’t spend all of our time begging Him to perform miracles. We must first have faith—simple, yet powerful faith. My favorite example of faith is the woman with the issue of blood. For twelve years she had spent all her money going to doctors, hoping they would find a cure. But it was no use. Then she heard of this man named Jesus who could heal people. When she got to where He was the crowd was so thick she knew she’d never get to speak to Him. Still, her faith urged her to push through the crowd until she was close enough that her fingertips brushed the hem of His garment. She was instantly healed! She wasn’t in a church service to request prayer for healing; she wasn’t at an altar to be prayed over by the ministry. It was just her in her moment of faith with Jesus. God always responds to our faith in Him.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Dear God, Help me to always have faith and trust that You love me and care for me. Help me to understand that even if I cannot hear You or see You working in my life, I will constantly trust You are always there. Give me faith to wait on You until You respond to the situations in my life, even if things don’t happen the way I want them to. In all things I will trust You.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
No more darkness
September 19, 2024
John 9:5
As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”
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When I was a kid I had a fear of the dark. It seemed that the eerie dark shadows cast from my window would come alive. Even my children, when they were little, were afraid of the darkness in their room. It has always amazed me that the looming shadows suddenly disappeared when I flipped the light switch or turned on a flashlight. Darkness and fear would disappear, leaving nothing but light and peace. Light always pushes darkness away. Darkness and light can never coexist. When there is light there will be peace. When Jesus stepped into this world He began to push darkness away. God has promised that as long as He is in this world He will be the light shining brightly to illuminate the minds and hearts of mankind and bring peace to troubled souls.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
God, I am thankful that You are the light in my life. I ask that You would shine brightly in my life and that darkness will have no place in my home, at my work, or at my school. Please light my way so I can follow the path that You have prepared for me.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
Say what?
September 18, 2024
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!
A call at a cost
September 17, 2024
Luke 5:1-11
So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets. Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat.
When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, “Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” But Simon answered and said to Him, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.” And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!”
For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” So when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him.
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Luke 5:27-32
After these things He went out and saw a tax collector named Levi, sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he left all, rose up, and followed Him. Then Levi gave Him a great feast in his own house. And there were a great number of tax collectors and others who sat down with them. And their scribes and the Pharisees complained against His disciples, saying, “Why do You eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?”
Jesus answered and said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.”
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God delights when we hear and answer His call at the cost of something that seems urgent or important to us. We see this remarkable pattern several times in Scripture, but perhaps nowhere as clearly as in the call of the disciples by Jesus. When gathering His twelve disciples, Jesus displayed His willingness to enter any circumstance and issue a call. In every instance in which we are given the details, Jesus called a young person from a situation, which, from their earthly point of view, must have appeared full of promise and potential. In Luke 5 he called Simon Peter and the other fishermen, young men who were already involved in a fishing business.
Moments later Jesus called Levi, a young man actively at work as a tax collector. God will sometimes make a point to call out to you when you’re already busy with something important. What a test to see the true desire of our heart! Imagine yourself pursuing something important to you and hearing Jesus calling you away from it, saying reassuringly, “Do not be afraid.” Be aware, be courageous, and be ready—Jesus is calling!
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Dear Lord, Thank You for the call into Your kingdom. When I hear Your voice calling me to something more significant than I’m already a part of, help me to answer that call—even if it’s different than my original plan for myself. Teach me to trust You and follow You more closely. I want to recognize and answer Your call for my life. Help me to bring delight to You in my recognition of and obedience to Your call.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
God moves against reality
September 16, 2024
John 5:6-9
When Jesus saw him lying there, and knew that he already had been in that condition a long time, He said to him, “Do you want to be made well?”
The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.
And that day was the Sabbath.
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The schedule of events was very straightforward. An angel would trouble the waters of the pool of Bethesda while a multitude of broken people awaited their opportunity to be healed. Deliverance would always be given to the one who first made contact with the water after it was troubled. As many were concentrated on the water, Jesus was walking among them and noticed a certain man. It was obvious this helpless man had been dealing with this issue for a long time and no doubt had sought this same avenue of healing before. Jesus knew this man had no help to access a miracle. The reality of the situation was that, judging by past events, only one would be healed that day and only after following a certain procedure. The reality also was this man had no chance. Nevertheless, we see Jesus move against reality and deliver a miracle for a man who was broken. The reality of an established process never binds God. While reality denies a solution to our issues, God notices our need for help and moves against reality to deliver an answer.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Dear Jesus, I am truly grateful that You are not bound by the reality of my situation. My brokenness and weakness seem to have no solution. The reality that is offered by this world says I must deal with my own issues. My hope today is that You would once again notice a certain person, one that has no chance to sidestep reality. I recognize that You need not follow a specific process or wait for an event to take place, but rather eliminate the voice of reality and replace it with hope and healing.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
God desires dedication
September 13, 2024
John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.
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To find someone who is dedicated in this generation is a rare occasion. The society in which we live is driven by the consumer mindset. People enter into relationships based on what they can get in return rather than out of love. From a young age children in this world are taught that everything is at their disposal: toys, food, money, even people. This infectious epidemic is plaguing our generation. Relationships have become shallow and one-sided. Friendships are fractured, marriages are torn apart, and churches are crumbling because we do not know true love. In John 13-16 Jesus taught His disciples about love. He spent His final moments as a free man investing in His closest friends and speaking to them about what was about to take place. In this time of instruction He issued a command that they love one another as He loved them. Christ was speaking of the love He was about to display on the cross. Jesus then said, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” Jesus was telling His followers to love one another with the same level of dedication that He displayed.
That concludes our devotional for today. Let us finish with a word of prayer.
WORD OF PRAYER
Dear Lord, Thank You for Your steadfast love. I pray that You would teach me to love as You love. Even when I am betrayed by the people around me, help me to love them, not with the shallow “love” of this world but the deep, steadfast love that You displayed for humankind on the cross.
When someone is turning from You, let us love them. When someone hurts us, help us to display Your love. Lord, in this world full of text messages, Twitter, and artificial cyber relationships, help us to return to authentic human relationships.
In the name of Jesus, amen!
