Theme of the Week: Following Christ’s Example
Bible Verse: For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 1 Peter 2:21
Afraid Yet Filled with Joy
There is a fearful joy in knowing that because Jesus was raised from the dead, so we too who are in Christ will also rise from death to eternal life.
Forsaken for Our Sake
As Timothy Keller in his book, Prayer, explains, “Jesus’ prayers were given the rejection that we sinners merit so that our prayers could have the reception that he merits. This is why, when Christians pray, they have the confidence that they will be heard by God and answered in the wisest way.”
Do Good
Jesus sums up His entire ministry in just two words: “do good.” That covers everything Jesus came to earth to do … heal the sick, cast out demons, declare the kingdom of God, go to the cross and tear down the wall of sin that separated us from God. Everything Jesus did was for our good and for His Father’s glory.
Sometimes It’s Okay to Get Angry
So, the fact that Jesus got angry is not permission for us to fly off the handle at the slightest provocation. James 1:19 tells us we ought to be “slow to become angry.” But there are times when anger is justified – as long as what angers us are those things that anger God, such as oppression, injustice, abuse, violence, destruction, and on and on.
Light and Darkness
Today, the Pharisees and the Herodians are, of course, long gone, but the conflict between the powers of light and darkness continues. This is spiritual warfare. And as we get closer to the day of Jesus Christ coming again, it is bound to only intensify. More and more people will come to Christ, but the challenge to all things Christian will also increase. We’re seeing that already. And if you think that you’ll somehow be left alone in this spiritual battle, you’re mistaken. If you claim to follow Jesus, then it’s your battle too.
The good news is that because of the cross, we already know who will ultimately win this war. But until then, we dare not let down our guard.
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