Scripture Reference: John 21:1-19
As we look into the new year, it tends to to be a time of reflection and planning. What do you do with your failures? After Jesus resurrection, He finds Peter on a beach. In this interaction, an amazing truth is revealed. Our failures don’t keep Jesus away from us, actually they are the very reason He came and He works through them.
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Scripture Reference: Matthew 13:1-23
The worldwide hero spent a lot of time teaching and his disciples claim this hero has the words of life. Why then is it often so difficult to listen to Jesus? The parable of the sower in Matthew 13 is one of Jesus’ explanation for why He is dismissed, ignored and rejected. The problem is the condition of our hearts.
*Special thanks to Tim Keller and Ricky Jones for helpful material on this passage.*
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Scripture Reference: Matthew 11:1-6, 15-19
The Hero Jesus, has come to rescue and set the world to rights. However, the way that Jesus will bring rescue offends some and even disappoints a devoted follower like John the Baptist. In these interactions, Jesusexposes the pride of our own hearts how he has come to rescue us from ourselves.
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Scripture Reference: Matthew 4:1-11
If a hero is going to bring rescue, then he must face down and defeat that which is bringing danger. The ancient and dangerous villain of this world is known as Satan, or the devil. in Matthew 4, Jesus confronts his and our arch enemy by taking upon himself the devil’s assault of temptation. In this confrontation, we learn the tools of our enemy, but also where victory is to be found.
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Scripture Reference: Matthew 3:1-17
Everyone undergoes some sort of preparation before meeting a person of significance. What might it look like to be prepared to meet the hero and savior of the world? John the Baptist is out in the desert for this very reason, preparing his listeners to encounter Jesus. Disruptive words like confession, repentance, and baptism are emphasized. These words might seem off putting, until you realize the hero is coming to identify with and save the REAL YOU by sheer grace.
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