After the visions and everything Peter ends up at Cornelius' house. And here we see Peter say how it is against the law for a Jew to associate with Gentiles. Samaritans, kinda like half Jewish, kinda, but now we are into the realm of Roman soldiers, clearly not of Jewish descent and yet the Spirit is still poured out, even before Peter is done talking.
So, who is so 'unlawful' that the Spirit would not be poured out, the gift of Salvation not reserved, the gospel of salvation not preached? Think really hard. Who do you think is so far from the gospel that it would never be accepted by them, never be heard and produce lasting fruit? People who sleep around? Prostitutes? People walking in parades this week? People on the street who steal? Business CEOs with millions? The big guys in bars who drink and curse? The people in the market who rip you off?
"God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean." v. 29
No one. All are able to be given the grace of God and to hear the words of salvation and come to repentance.
Now, I don't mean that they should continue in their wrongdoings whatever they may be. Repentance is a change of mind and heart. Both recognizing what you are doing for what it is in God's sight and also then seeking to change what you are doing. A change in attitude and action.
"I now realize how true it is that God does not show favouritism but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right." v. 34b-35.
Do what is right.
Paul later, inspired by the Holy Spirit wrote a letter to the Corinthian church.
"Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolators nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." 1Cor106:9-11
That is what some of them were. Were. Past tense. But by the Spirit they were sanctified and no longer live that way; their sins forgiven and washed away by the death of Jesus on the cross allowing them to be made new in Him by the resurrection.
No one is too far off to be saved, so we should not look at them with hatred, but with God's love and compassion.
Sunday, June 30, 2013
Acts 7-9
So, I don't know if this has ever happened to you, but as you are reading the Bible there is a page flip in the worst place and you just forget all about what you were in awe of God for because of it.
In chapter 8 there is a page turn for me, but it's in the best place. Right between verse 3 and 4.
3: "But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison."
page break.
4: "Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went."
From one page including the death of Stephen and severe persecution in the church from Saul and others, murdering, imprisoning, and scattering all but the apostles, to the next page where the good news about Jesus that had been primarily heard in Jerusalem now being told throughout Samaria and everywhere the persecuted church went, the Spirit being poured out on Samaritans and Ethiopians, and then Jesus appearing to Saul and giving him a 180' experience for his life where after he was healed he started preaching immediately.
God can completely change your situation from death and destruction to life in Christ, life to the fullest and this is just one example of how things that look bad at first can actually lead to awesome stuff happening shortly after, so pray and trust in God's plans cause we usually don't understand them at the time.
In chapter 8 there is a page turn for me, but it's in the best place. Right between verse 3 and 4.
3: "But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison."
page break.
4: "Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went."
From one page including the death of Stephen and severe persecution in the church from Saul and others, murdering, imprisoning, and scattering all but the apostles, to the next page where the good news about Jesus that had been primarily heard in Jerusalem now being told throughout Samaria and everywhere the persecuted church went, the Spirit being poured out on Samaritans and Ethiopians, and then Jesus appearing to Saul and giving him a 180' experience for his life where after he was healed he started preaching immediately.
God can completely change your situation from death and destruction to life in Christ, life to the fullest and this is just one example of how things that look bad at first can actually lead to awesome stuff happening shortly after, so pray and trust in God's plans cause we usually don't understand them at the time.
Tuesday, June 25, 2013
Acts 1-3
So. If you are anything like me when I first started to read through the New Testament then Acts is not your favourite book. In fact, as it was to me, it might just look like a record of someone's roadtrip filled with millions of name of places and people you don't recognize and some you don't know how to say. I also never liked history class, and that is also what this seems like at first.
But you know, the book of Acts is in the Bible and as God's Word it must be useful for something (2Tim3:16-17). Really digging into it and studying it helped me see it for so much more.
Persecution. Prayer. Visions and Miracles. Controversy. Missions Trips. Earthquakes. Kings. Trials. Shipwrecks. Most importantly, the Holy Spirit being poured out left and right on people near and far.
This is so much more than the disciples could have imagined, but it is just a taste of what is to come.
John 14:12 Jesus says "I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these".
Acts is Luke's second book, and is almost the opposite of what he wrote in his gospel. Where Jesus had been teaching and rebuking the Pharisees drawing closer and closer to Jerusalem, ending in the cross, His death and resurrection. Now we see the Spirit poured out so that the gospel may advance forcefull from Jerusalem to the ends of the Earth (Acts1:8).
Already we have seen great things: Pentecost and speaking in the tongues of many nations, Peter preaching and thousands coming to repentence and receiving Jesus, even healing a crippled man.
Best part: We get to be part of the action and see God do great things!
Acts was written without and ending. As we read it let us learn from the acts of the apostles so that we too may go forward and out with the gospel in the boldness of the Spirit.
John 21
Verse 22: "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?"
This verse is clarified directly after that Jesus did not say he wouldn't die and then repeats these words.
So, I think it's really cool that it is recorded that Jesus said He'd be coming back. xP
But there is a final sentence in this verse "As for you, follow me" (NLT).
This verse arouse because Peter asked about the other disciple after Jesus told him to follow Him.
When we follow Jesus our eyes are set on Him, not on others. If we turn to look to the right or left we may trip and fall, hit a wall, or get off track. Each path God has set our for us is going to be unique and different, not to mention we may be at different steps along the journey, but the end is the same:
Rom8:28-30 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified."
Being conformed and transformed daily to reflect more of God's image and following in Jesus' example (1Cor3:18); a path of sanctification by the word and Spirit (John 17:17, Gal 5:16).
So what does it matter what happens to a brother in Christ along the journey of walking with God daily?
The answer is different for those who have not yet received this eternal gift (Rom 6:23). We need to care immensely and pray for those who have not heard this good news, and then to go and just show them all that has been done for us and for them, ultimately giving them the choice; a gift held out within arm's reach.
This verse is clarified directly after that Jesus did not say he wouldn't die and then repeats these words.
So, I think it's really cool that it is recorded that Jesus said He'd be coming back. xP
But there is a final sentence in this verse "As for you, follow me" (NLT).
This verse arouse because Peter asked about the other disciple after Jesus told him to follow Him.
When we follow Jesus our eyes are set on Him, not on others. If we turn to look to the right or left we may trip and fall, hit a wall, or get off track. Each path God has set our for us is going to be unique and different, not to mention we may be at different steps along the journey, but the end is the same:
Rom8:28-30 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified."
Being conformed and transformed daily to reflect more of God's image and following in Jesus' example (1Cor3:18); a path of sanctification by the word and Spirit (John 17:17, Gal 5:16).
So what does it matter what happens to a brother in Christ along the journey of walking with God daily?
The answer is different for those who have not yet received this eternal gift (Rom 6:23). We need to care immensely and pray for those who have not heard this good news, and then to go and just show them all that has been done for us and for them, ultimately giving them the choice; a gift held out within arm's reach.
Monday, June 24, 2013
John 18
4a "Jesus fully realized all that was going to happen to him, so he stepped forward to meet them." (NLT)
Tonight I was at church early and was reading from the pew Bibles as I usually do. The Bibles are NLT, which I don't usually read, but this verse just stood out as such a powerful verse.
Jesus fully knew of everything that was going to happen to him. (The mocking, the trials, the whips, the thorns, the humiliation, the abandonment from all who were close by, the nails, the cross)
If you knew all that was going to happen, you know, you'd want to avoid that. Maybe there is an easier way?
Maybe we should complain about it for a while and whine and become desperate
No.
He stepped forward to meet them.
This is where my jaw dropped.
Just imagining all that is going through His head. (From the side the camera pans upwards towards his head) You can hear his calm, yet heavy breathing. (When the camera gets to his head it switches over to a close up on his face) He internally says to Himself "let's do this thing" (switch to mid side view, a few shots of close up on his feet) and steps forward (probably in slow motion) and swallows with this intensity just in the air around him.
Never a second thought at this point. All throughout the next chapter Pilate interrogates Jesus. Again and again Jesus remains calm and nothing is found as a charge against Him, but Jesus presses on forward. He had every chance to stop and say 'hey, you know what, I don't think I am the Christ, you can let me go now, eh?' But it was far too important, God's love to great, the burden and sin of the world on His shoulders.
Jesus knew what was happening and not for a second turned away.
Tonight I was at church early and was reading from the pew Bibles as I usually do. The Bibles are NLT, which I don't usually read, but this verse just stood out as such a powerful verse.
Jesus fully knew of everything that was going to happen to him. (The mocking, the trials, the whips, the thorns, the humiliation, the abandonment from all who were close by, the nails, the cross)
If you knew all that was going to happen, you know, you'd want to avoid that. Maybe there is an easier way?
Maybe we should complain about it for a while and whine and become desperate
No.
He stepped forward to meet them.
This is where my jaw dropped.
Just imagining all that is going through His head. (From the side the camera pans upwards towards his head) You can hear his calm, yet heavy breathing. (When the camera gets to his head it switches over to a close up on his face) He internally says to Himself "let's do this thing" (switch to mid side view, a few shots of close up on his feet) and steps forward (probably in slow motion) and swallows with this intensity just in the air around him.
Never a second thought at this point. All throughout the next chapter Pilate interrogates Jesus. Again and again Jesus remains calm and nothing is found as a charge against Him, but Jesus presses on forward. He had every chance to stop and say 'hey, you know what, I don't think I am the Christ, you can let me go now, eh?' But it was far too important, God's love to great, the burden and sin of the world on His shoulders.
Jesus knew what was happening and not for a second turned away.
Sunday, June 23, 2013
John 13-14
So, recently I have focused a lot on sin. The severity of sin, but also the ridiculous nature of God's redeeming grace. So today I am going to focus on God's love. So I'm cheating a bit (by like 9 verses) and taking the verse from Chapter 15:9.
"As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Now remain in my love."
Jesus said this.
So, obviously we won't understand how God has loved Jesus. I don't think I could ever explain that, that perfect understanding and intimacy as two who are actually fully one. Even when/if I get married I don't think I would ever fully get it.
So, I am going to focus on how Jesus has loved us since He showed us and it is as the Father has loved Him.
5 Love Languages.
Heard of them? (http://www.5lovelanguages.com/ (take the quiz too! =D))
Basically, they are like the 5 ways that we can show and receive love from others. In these chapters Jesus uses all five languages, showing the extent that He loves us and that He extends it to all types of people. Verse 1b "Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love."
1. and 2. Service / Touch. This was shown in verse 5. Jesus humbled himself and washed their feet.
3. Quality Time. Can I just say these whole five chapters in the upper room (13-17) as well as pretty much Jesus' entire ministry was quality time with the disciples?
4. Words of affirmation. 14:1-14 He affirms the disciples again and again to trust in God, that He is preparing them a place in Heaven, they know the way, you will do greater things than me, you may ask for anything in my name and I will do it.
5. Gifts. Jesus is giving them the gift of the Holy Spirit. God with them and in them forever to help and guide. Best gift ever?
I'm sure there is a lot more than is recorded in just these chapters and then how they relate to the Father's love for us. His gift of sending His only Son to die on the cross for us is pretty high up there on the list too.
But ya, how have you seen God show His love to you?
"As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Now remain in my love."
Jesus said this.
So, obviously we won't understand how God has loved Jesus. I don't think I could ever explain that, that perfect understanding and intimacy as two who are actually fully one. Even when/if I get married I don't think I would ever fully get it.
So, I am going to focus on how Jesus has loved us since He showed us and it is as the Father has loved Him.
5 Love Languages.
Heard of them? (http://www.5lovelanguages.com/ (take the quiz too! =D))
Basically, they are like the 5 ways that we can show and receive love from others. In these chapters Jesus uses all five languages, showing the extent that He loves us and that He extends it to all types of people. Verse 1b "Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love."
1. and 2. Service / Touch. This was shown in verse 5. Jesus humbled himself and washed their feet.
3. Quality Time. Can I just say these whole five chapters in the upper room (13-17) as well as pretty much Jesus' entire ministry was quality time with the disciples?
4. Words of affirmation. 14:1-14 He affirms the disciples again and again to trust in God, that He is preparing them a place in Heaven, they know the way, you will do greater things than me, you may ask for anything in my name and I will do it.
5. Gifts. Jesus is giving them the gift of the Holy Spirit. God with them and in them forever to help and guide. Best gift ever?
I'm sure there is a lot more than is recorded in just these chapters and then how they relate to the Father's love for us. His gift of sending His only Son to die on the cross for us is pretty high up there on the list too.
But ya, how have you seen God show His love to you?
Thursday, June 20, 2013
John 11-12
Today the verse that stuck out the most to me was verse 16 of chapter 11.
"Then Thomas (called Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, "Let us also go, that we may die with him."
This is a pretty striking comment. And I'm not sure what part of the conversation recorded before it was the cause of it.
Jesus said "Let us go back to Judea" which prompted the disciples to remind Him that the Jews wanted to stone Him not long ago. If He goes back He will likely face opposition and death.
Jesus insists, speaking that it is still day and that in the light you can see and will not stumble, but soon it will be night. He goes on to say that He is going to wake up Lazarus, from death.
1. The fact that Thomas is saying this makes me think of what happens after the crucifixion. About how Thomas refused to believe Jesus was alive until he saw it himself and felt His wounds. This seems so odd since in the next few verse he saw, eye witness, Jesus raise Lazarus from being 4 days dead. Resurrection happened in front of his own eyes, yet to believe his friends' testimonies of seeing Him alive would not change his mind.
2. Who was Thomas speaking of dying with? Jesus, as an act of sincere loyalty and faith? Or Lazarus, that Jesus could then wake them up?
a) If it was Jesus I think it makes more sense, there would be a potential danger of dying and much benefit and reason to go with Him. Like going with Him, Jesus, who was recently threatened with stoning, potential danger of death. But to go with Him, the light of the world (John 8:12) (since he had just mentioned all that stuff about the light of the world and it not lasting forever it made me remember him say it not long ago 'whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life') would then give them a chance to believe more. Jesus said he was going for their sake "so that you may believe (v15). So that makes the most sense to me, despite the fact it isn't back to back verses.
b) Dying with Lazarus doesn't make nearly as much sense for Thomas to say here. But for us, it makes more sense for us to say it. Let us die that others may believe. Not just go die meaninglessly 'for the faith', but I am talking about dying to self. Taking our crosses upon our own shoulders and following Jesus so that others may believe (v15). When Jesus comes and changes our lives, makes us new in Him, when we honestly surrender our selfish aims and seek His will, amazing things happen and it makes people ask and discover Christ in their lives (v45).
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
He will live the abundant life (John 10:10) though he dies (to self (Luke9:23)). Whoever lives and believes in me will never die (but experience God's goodness for eternity (John 17:3)).
"Then Thomas (called Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, "Let us also go, that we may die with him."
This is a pretty striking comment. And I'm not sure what part of the conversation recorded before it was the cause of it.
Jesus said "Let us go back to Judea" which prompted the disciples to remind Him that the Jews wanted to stone Him not long ago. If He goes back He will likely face opposition and death.
Jesus insists, speaking that it is still day and that in the light you can see and will not stumble, but soon it will be night. He goes on to say that He is going to wake up Lazarus, from death.
1. The fact that Thomas is saying this makes me think of what happens after the crucifixion. About how Thomas refused to believe Jesus was alive until he saw it himself and felt His wounds. This seems so odd since in the next few verse he saw, eye witness, Jesus raise Lazarus from being 4 days dead. Resurrection happened in front of his own eyes, yet to believe his friends' testimonies of seeing Him alive would not change his mind.
2. Who was Thomas speaking of dying with? Jesus, as an act of sincere loyalty and faith? Or Lazarus, that Jesus could then wake them up?
a) If it was Jesus I think it makes more sense, there would be a potential danger of dying and much benefit and reason to go with Him. Like going with Him, Jesus, who was recently threatened with stoning, potential danger of death. But to go with Him, the light of the world (John 8:12) (since he had just mentioned all that stuff about the light of the world and it not lasting forever it made me remember him say it not long ago 'whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life') would then give them a chance to believe more. Jesus said he was going for their sake "so that you may believe (v15). So that makes the most sense to me, despite the fact it isn't back to back verses.
b) Dying with Lazarus doesn't make nearly as much sense for Thomas to say here. But for us, it makes more sense for us to say it. Let us die that others may believe. Not just go die meaninglessly 'for the faith', but I am talking about dying to self. Taking our crosses upon our own shoulders and following Jesus so that others may believe (v15). When Jesus comes and changes our lives, makes us new in Him, when we honestly surrender our selfish aims and seek His will, amazing things happen and it makes people ask and discover Christ in their lives (v45).
"I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"
He will live the abundant life (John 10:10) though he dies (to self (Luke9:23)). Whoever lives and believes in me will never die (but experience God's goodness for eternity (John 17:3)).
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
John 10
"his sheep follow him because they know his voice. But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice."
Verses 4 and 5
This whole section is Jesus telling us about sheep and a shepherd; a good shepherd who would watch over his sheep with his life. He walks before them, he watches over them, he loves them and wants what's best for them giving them pasture, still waters, and protection from robbers and wolves.
"I am the good shepherd: I know my sheep and they know me"
You know that second of thought when you are thinking about following into something you know is probably not a good idea?
That's what I am thinking about when Jesus says 'they do not recognize a stranger's voice'.
But what does it take to recognize someone's voice?
You need to be listening closely, you need to have spent time with that person, you need to have spent time talking with that person.
How could you tell an impressionist apart from the real deal? Because you know, the enemy masquerades as an angel of light too. (2Cor11:14)
So, it comes down to how close you are in your relationship with God. "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." James 4:7b-8a
We are supposed to know His voice. Maybe even learn from Him, learn how He speaks, learn His heart and impersonate Him sometimes? =P Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
Verses 4 and 5
This whole section is Jesus telling us about sheep and a shepherd; a good shepherd who would watch over his sheep with his life. He walks before them, he watches over them, he loves them and wants what's best for them giving them pasture, still waters, and protection from robbers and wolves.
"I am the good shepherd: I know my sheep and they know me"
You know that second of thought when you are thinking about following into something you know is probably not a good idea?
That's what I am thinking about when Jesus says 'they do not recognize a stranger's voice'.
But what does it take to recognize someone's voice?
You need to be listening closely, you need to have spent time with that person, you need to have spent time talking with that person.
How could you tell an impressionist apart from the real deal? Because you know, the enemy masquerades as an angel of light too. (2Cor11:14)
So, it comes down to how close you are in your relationship with God. "Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you." James 4:7b-8a
We are supposed to know His voice. Maybe even learn from Him, learn how He speaks, learn His heart and impersonate Him sometimes? =P Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
John 8-9
"You were steeped in sin at birth; how dare you lecture us!"
yelled the Pharisees at the formerly blind man.
This exclamation shows pride, for their own life accomplishments, for their assertions of Jesus' identity, for their position.
But "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Rom 3:23. All have gone and put their own selfish ways above the ways of God, our plans above His, our goals and desires above His.
Now, if this was the only verse you could argue that they wouldn't have heard this before, but it is not just in the New Testament. Verses describing how sinful nature has been passed on throughout the generations since the very first disobedience and how none are good are found throughout the Old Testament.
Ecc 7:20 - "Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins."
Prov 20:9 - "Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?"
Psa 51:5 - "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me."
Job 15:14 - "What are mortals, that they could be pure, or those born of woman, that they could be righteous?"
And sin was so rampant that at one point God flooded the earth.
Sin. The ultimate end of those who have sin, is separation from God who is without. Can a mortal be more righteous than God? Can even a strong man be more pure than his Maker? (Job 4:17)
But God was patient with us, and also spoke through the prophets of the way out of this sin problem. Although sin was as a stain that could not be removed, it would be bleached.
"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Isa 1:18
But not by us.
"Who can bring what is pure from the impure? No one!" Job 14:4
Only He who is pure can purify. Only a clean sponge with soap can clean dirty dishes. And even then it is only by the sponge taking on the dirt of the dishes.
Isa 53:4-5
"Surely he took up our pain
and bore our suffering,
yet we considered him punished by God,
stricken by him, and afflicted.
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
and by his wounds we are healed."
All that to say the way they spoke to the formerly blind man is arrogant and incorrect. We all need to have our eyes opened and receive forgiveness for sins.
yelled the Pharisees at the formerly blind man.
This exclamation shows pride, for their own life accomplishments, for their assertions of Jesus' identity, for their position.
But "all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." Rom 3:23. All have gone and put their own selfish ways above the ways of God, our plans above His, our goals and desires above His.
Now, if this was the only verse you could argue that they wouldn't have heard this before, but it is not just in the New Testament. Verses describing how sinful nature has been passed on throughout the generations since the very first disobedience and how none are good are found throughout the Old Testament.
Ecc 7:20 - "Not a single person on earth is always good and never sins."
Prov 20:9 - "Who can say, "I have kept my heart pure; I am clean and without sin"?"
Psa 51:5 - "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me."
Job 15:14 - "What are mortals, that they could be pure, or those born of woman, that they could be righteous?"
And sin was so rampant that at one point God flooded the earth.
Sin. The ultimate end of those who have sin, is separation from God who is without. Can a mortal be more righteous than God? Can even a strong man be more pure than his Maker? (Job 4:17)
But God was patient with us, and also spoke through the prophets of the way out of this sin problem. Although sin was as a stain that could not be removed, it would be bleached.
"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." Isa 1:18
But not by us.
"Who can bring what is pure from the impure? No one!" Job 14:4
Only He who is pure can purify. Only a clean sponge with soap can clean dirty dishes. And even then it is only by the sponge taking on the dirt of the dishes.
Isa 53:4-5
"Surely he took up our pain
and bore our suffering,
yet we considered him punished by God,
stricken by him, and afflicted.
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
and by his wounds we are healed."
All that to say the way they spoke to the formerly blind man is arrogant and incorrect. We all need to have our eyes opened and receive forgiveness for sins.
Monday, June 17, 2013
John 7
So today one of my thoughts was about the verses 25-27.
In these verses the people are talking about what the Pharisees and the authorities are thinking about Jesus.
"Isn't this the man they are trying to kill?" 'but He's speaking publicly and no one is saying anything to Him.' "Have they concluded that He is the Christ?"
This was all speculation about what they were thinking about Jesus, and it would ultimately be swaying how they react because of the authorities.
But the thing is that you can't just go off what other people think of Jesus. You need to come to an understanding yourself, and even more is that God needs to reveal Himself to you. In Matthew's recorded version of Peter's confession of Christ Jesus says "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven." (Matt 16:17)
And as shown again and again in the last chapter "no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him" (John 6:44,65).
At the end of the chapter the Pharisees are discussing Jesus and we see that some people are not swayed by the crowds, specifically Nicodemus who was the only one in the crowd to defend Jesus.
So, verse 24 Jesus tells us "Stop judging by appearances and make a right judgement."
This should be what we seek to do. To not just see what we think Jesus is, but to really seek who He is and see Him for more of who He is each day.
In these verses the people are talking about what the Pharisees and the authorities are thinking about Jesus.
"Isn't this the man they are trying to kill?" 'but He's speaking publicly and no one is saying anything to Him.' "Have they concluded that He is the Christ?"
This was all speculation about what they were thinking about Jesus, and it would ultimately be swaying how they react because of the authorities.
But the thing is that you can't just go off what other people think of Jesus. You need to come to an understanding yourself, and even more is that God needs to reveal Himself to you. In Matthew's recorded version of Peter's confession of Christ Jesus says "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven." (Matt 16:17)
And as shown again and again in the last chapter "no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled him" (John 6:44,65).
At the end of the chapter the Pharisees are discussing Jesus and we see that some people are not swayed by the crowds, specifically Nicodemus who was the only one in the crowd to defend Jesus.
So, verse 24 Jesus tells us "Stop judging by appearances and make a right judgement."
This should be what we seek to do. To not just see what we think Jesus is, but to really seek who He is and see Him for more of who He is each day.
Sunday, June 16, 2013
John 6
So, sometimes when I am reading the Bible I underline parts that stick out or that are really awesome. Needless to say, a large portion of my Bible is underlined and more each day, but there is a section in this chapter that is absolutely not underlined. Throughout the chapter I have underlined, but not here.
Verses 16-24.
This section is subtitled "Jesus Walks on the Water".
Summary of the passage: Jesus had fed the 5000. The disciples got on a boat. During the night Jesus caught up to the boat by walking on the waves. The disciples were scared, Jesus calms them, and they arrive at the other side. This confused some people the next day when they did not find Jesus, but knew He had not got on the boat the night before.
So, if all scripture is useful, what is this passage useful for? What are your thoughts?
After more careful inspection, there is a mere, faint pencil underlining of the words "It is I; don't be afraid" in verse 20.
To me it seems odd that they'd leave without Jesus, but then they face winds and waves and darkness without Him. However, after they were willing to take Him onto the boat they reached the other side, like, immediately. Almost like they were lost while in the middle of the lake..?
Verses 16-24.
This section is subtitled "Jesus Walks on the Water".
Summary of the passage: Jesus had fed the 5000. The disciples got on a boat. During the night Jesus caught up to the boat by walking on the waves. The disciples were scared, Jesus calms them, and they arrive at the other side. This confused some people the next day when they did not find Jesus, but knew He had not got on the boat the night before.
So, if all scripture is useful, what is this passage useful for? What are your thoughts?
After more careful inspection, there is a mere, faint pencil underlining of the words "It is I; don't be afraid" in verse 20.
To me it seems odd that they'd leave without Jesus, but then they face winds and waves and darkness without Him. However, after they were willing to take Him onto the boat they reached the other side, like, immediately. Almost like they were lost while in the middle of the lake..?
Saturday, June 15, 2013
John 4-5
Dying. Slowly dying.
This life is short and indeed it would seem that it would be much better to just live life while the time is here; before it is all over and then who knows what happens. Right?
Then why do we need to be freed from these things that we run to, these things we think will satisfy us, these things we go back to again and a again? (Rom 6:20-21, Jer 2:13, Prov 26:11)
The healing at the pool by the sheep gate is an image of this. A man who had no ability to heal himself, and no one to help him. But Jesus healed him immediately, no superstitious pool, just God's glory, majesty, and power being displayed.
But here's the question: verse 6 "Do you want to get well?"
Like, actually? Because God can heal, God can free, God can despite our own failings and inability. But if we don't want to, He won't make us.
Gotta seek with all our hearts to trust in Him more.
and soon we will see we are well again. But verse 14 "Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you."
This could mean something actually happens before you die, or it could just be referring to what happens after death, but either way, sin leads to death and destruction, while seeking to follow the Spirit leads to increasing righteousness in Jesus' image.
Life in Christ alone.
This life is short and indeed it would seem that it would be much better to just live life while the time is here; before it is all over and then who knows what happens. Right?
Then why do we need to be freed from these things that we run to, these things we think will satisfy us, these things we go back to again and a again? (Rom 6:20-21, Jer 2:13, Prov 26:11)
The healing at the pool by the sheep gate is an image of this. A man who had no ability to heal himself, and no one to help him. But Jesus healed him immediately, no superstitious pool, just God's glory, majesty, and power being displayed.
But here's the question: verse 6 "Do you want to get well?"
Like, actually? Because God can heal, God can free, God can despite our own failings and inability. But if we don't want to, He won't make us.
Gotta seek with all our hearts to trust in Him more.
and soon we will see we are well again. But verse 14 "Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you."
This could mean something actually happens before you die, or it could just be referring to what happens after death, but either way, sin leads to death and destruction, while seeking to follow the Spirit leads to increasing righteousness in Jesus' image.
Life in Christ alone.
Friday, June 14, 2013
John 3
Verse 8. "The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear it's sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit."
This reminds me of John 1:12-13. All have the right to become children of God, but this is not at all the choice or decision of parents; children not born of natural descent, but of God.
So it is with the wind. Now, I'm not a meteorologist, but there are definitely no parent winds deciding to make baby winds; they just happen (pressure changes etc.). But ultimately the One who created it all was the one who knows where they come from and are going.The one who decides to give you a cool breeze on that heated day.
I don't know where I am going or all the little details that got me to this point, but I know God's got a plan. Worrying about the details doesn't really make anything better (Matt6:25-27). Just gotta try our hardest and trust God with everything (James4:14-15). Who knows, you could be that much needed breeze on a hot day for someone in need (metaphorically).
This reminds me of John 1:12-13. All have the right to become children of God, but this is not at all the choice or decision of parents; children not born of natural descent, but of God.
So it is with the wind. Now, I'm not a meteorologist, but there are definitely no parent winds deciding to make baby winds; they just happen (pressure changes etc.). But ultimately the One who created it all was the one who knows where they come from and are going.The one who decides to give you a cool breeze on that heated day.
I don't know where I am going or all the little details that got me to this point, but I know God's got a plan. Worrying about the details doesn't really make anything better (Matt6:25-27). Just gotta try our hardest and trust God with everything (James4:14-15). Who knows, you could be that much needed breeze on a hot day for someone in need (metaphorically).
Thursday, June 13, 2013
John 1-2 (Part 1)
Now, there's so much good stuff in these chapters, but this one little verse caught my attention.
Verse 1:16 "From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another."
And it's so true, we are blessed, so much more than we deserve (the definition of grace). So blessed.
So, until we are done reading the Gospel of John I want to see comments of what God has blessed you with and once we are done I will post my thought on this verse.
Verse 1:16 "From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another."
And it's so true, we are blessed, so much more than we deserve (the definition of grace). So blessed.
So, until we are done reading the Gospel of John I want to see comments of what God has blessed you with and once we are done I will post my thought on this verse.
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Luke 23-24
Chapter 23, verses 4 and 5
"Then Pilate announced to the chief priests and the crowd, "I find no basis for a charge against this man." But they insisted, "He stirs up the people all over Judea by his teaching. He started in Galilee and has come all the way here."
He stirs up the people. But is that a bad thing?
When people are so set in their ways, they need to be stirred. It's like you are cooking something in a frying pan. If cooked well, it will be amazingly delicious, better than the ingredients alone. But sometimes you need to stir. If you don't the bottom will burn and the top will not cook.
Today we did a Bible study of 2 Chronicles 34-35 about King Josiah. Enthroned at age 8. Seeking the Lord by age 16. Turning the country upside down by 20, destroying idols, and preaching the Law of Moses by 26 and seeing the whole country turn from the 60 years of evil to God, committing their lives.
I think the world we live in now needs some stirring.
When they insist "He has come all the way here" I doubt they realized how much further He was going to go.
"you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8)
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations ... and surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matt 19-20)
Later in Thesalonica when Paul and Silas are there the Jews say “These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also" (Acts 17:6)
If the world is upside down to begin with, you wouldn't know any better, but if it is so then flipping it can only be good. And God can use young adults, in fact, often chooses to.
"Then Pilate announced to the chief priests and the crowd, "I find no basis for a charge against this man." But they insisted, "He stirs up the people all over Judea by his teaching. He started in Galilee and has come all the way here."
He stirs up the people. But is that a bad thing?
When people are so set in their ways, they need to be stirred. It's like you are cooking something in a frying pan. If cooked well, it will be amazingly delicious, better than the ingredients alone. But sometimes you need to stir. If you don't the bottom will burn and the top will not cook.
Today we did a Bible study of 2 Chronicles 34-35 about King Josiah. Enthroned at age 8. Seeking the Lord by age 16. Turning the country upside down by 20, destroying idols, and preaching the Law of Moses by 26 and seeing the whole country turn from the 60 years of evil to God, committing their lives.
I think the world we live in now needs some stirring.
When they insist "He has come all the way here" I doubt they realized how much further He was going to go.
"you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth" (Acts 1:8)
"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations ... and surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." (Matt 19-20)
Later in Thesalonica when Paul and Silas are there the Jews say “These men who have turned the world upside down have come here also" (Acts 17:6)
If the world is upside down to begin with, you wouldn't know any better, but if it is so then flipping it can only be good. And God can use young adults, in fact, often chooses to.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Luke 22
"Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers." - verses 31-32
Many thoughts here, but my focus is on the bigger picture of this event.
- Satan attacks for the chance to break the relationship between Peter and God which would prevent God from doing great things through Peter.
- Jesus prays for faith to remain, knowing he will fall temporarily.
- After the fall instead of failure and loss, by grace Jesus says that he will be able to strengthen the brethren.
I feel like Simon right now. Despite his profession to go to the cross and die alongside Jesus before denying Him, he followed at a distance and not once, but again and again denied Jesus to men and women. He didn't just laugh this off, but when Jesus reminded him he wept bitterly.
I'm not going into it, but even in the struggle, in the pain, God can teach us so much and mature us.
In tough times we can either run towards or away from God. I think the faith Jesus is praying for is the deciding factor here. Even a tiny bit allowing us to trust His greater plans and see that even through this He is good.
Nothing can separate. Rom 8:38-39 Whether it be selfishness, a desire to fit in with those around us, or Satan himself.
Now I don't know what those hours or days were like for Peter, but there was bitter weeping. But afterwards Jesus forgives and still has a higher plan for him. John 21:15-17. 'If you love me, feed my sheep.' Use what I have taught you to reach others, to teach others, to encourage and inspire.
So, there will be attacks. Fight by the Spirit!
But if you do fall, there is bitter weeping because of it. 'Choose to sin, choose to suffer.'
However, God still has grace, Jesus died for this too. 1John2:1-2 And even this He can redeem and use.
Peter walked away, but after walking back he preached the first sermon in Acts and over 3000 people heard the gospel and found Jesus as their Lord and Saviour (Acts2:14-41).
Let's not get stuck in a little pothole, but finish this race.
Many thoughts here, but my focus is on the bigger picture of this event.
- Satan attacks for the chance to break the relationship between Peter and God which would prevent God from doing great things through Peter.
- Jesus prays for faith to remain, knowing he will fall temporarily.
- After the fall instead of failure and loss, by grace Jesus says that he will be able to strengthen the brethren.
I feel like Simon right now. Despite his profession to go to the cross and die alongside Jesus before denying Him, he followed at a distance and not once, but again and again denied Jesus to men and women. He didn't just laugh this off, but when Jesus reminded him he wept bitterly.
I'm not going into it, but even in the struggle, in the pain, God can teach us so much and mature us.
In tough times we can either run towards or away from God. I think the faith Jesus is praying for is the deciding factor here. Even a tiny bit allowing us to trust His greater plans and see that even through this He is good.
Nothing can separate. Rom 8:38-39 Whether it be selfishness, a desire to fit in with those around us, or Satan himself.
Now I don't know what those hours or days were like for Peter, but there was bitter weeping. But afterwards Jesus forgives and still has a higher plan for him. John 21:15-17. 'If you love me, feed my sheep.' Use what I have taught you to reach others, to teach others, to encourage and inspire.
So, there will be attacks. Fight by the Spirit!
But if you do fall, there is bitter weeping because of it. 'Choose to sin, choose to suffer.'
However, God still has grace, Jesus died for this too. 1John2:1-2 And even this He can redeem and use.
Peter walked away, but after walking back he preached the first sermon in Acts and over 3000 people heard the gospel and found Jesus as their Lord and Saviour (Acts2:14-41).
Let's not get stuck in a little pothole, but finish this race.
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Luke 20-21
Yo. I don't know about you, but when I am in class and the professor asks the class a question I do not answer. I just keep the answer to myself. I don't want to be the guy singled out from the crowd, and what if I am wrong?? Than the professor would be annoyed. Typically I also get into situations where I actually do know the truthful answer to a question about my life, but I know it is not a good answer, so to hide it I just say I don't know.
This is what I see the Pharisees doing in verses 1-8.
They fear the crowds and so do not want to answer their opinion. While they cannot go along and say the other answer because their life contradicts it; the Teacher would rebuke them.
I don't know.
But do you really? Do you want to know the right answer?
I think apathy and pride are both bad things. One the one side you don't care whether you are wrong, while prideful you don't want to look wrong, either way you will not seek the help of others and so continue in wrongness.
What if Jesus asked you a question about your life? What answer could you give?
Thursday, June 6, 2013
Luke 13-14
Luke 12:4-5 "“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. 5 But
I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after your body has
been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you,
fear him."
These words have been echoing in my head all day.
Mark 14:38 "Watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
And that's why.
I was watching and knew a compromising situation was coming, but rationalized that I'd be fine. Mistake. Temptation just gets worse when we are trying to resist it and stay in the tempting situations.
So, today's chapter's spoke strong warnings, but also grace.
Luke 13 verses 1-5 speak of some Galileans who suffered and then of some living in Jerusalem who had a tower fall on them. I don't know anything about these events historically, but Jesus asks 'so, you think it is because these guys were worse than you?' v15 "I tell you no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
If we continue to live an unrepentant lifestyle we have nothing but death to come, and worse to be thrown into hell after.
So, the fact that I am now consistently struggling with this battle is scary.
Luke 13 verses 6 and 7 speak of a vineyard owner who year after year goes to this fig tree to find no fruit. So he wants to cut it down! What good is it if it doesn't make fruit? "Why should it use up the soil?" This combined with John 15 are strong warning to those who aren't bearing fruit, aren't seeing God work great things in their lives right now. But the next two verses speak grace to those who are willing to learn and change. The man taking care of the vineyard implored the master to give it one more year. "I'll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, cut it down."
I don't know much about fig trees. I know figs, fresh figs, are amazingly delicious. That may be part of why the owner allows this extra year of not cutting it down. But it better bear fruit next year, or it's gone. Chopped up, withered, and thrown into the fire.
So, fear the Lord and seek His help in changing. He has the right to judge and throw us into hell if we do not repent of our ways and trust in Christ's blood to buy our forgiveness and the Spirit to change us bit by bit each day until we are ready for pruning as we bear more and more fruit.
These words have been echoing in my head all day.
Mark 14:38 "Watch and pray that you will not fall into temptation. The Spirit is willing, but the body is weak."
And that's why.
I was watching and knew a compromising situation was coming, but rationalized that I'd be fine. Mistake. Temptation just gets worse when we are trying to resist it and stay in the tempting situations.
So, today's chapter's spoke strong warnings, but also grace.
Luke 13 verses 1-5 speak of some Galileans who suffered and then of some living in Jerusalem who had a tower fall on them. I don't know anything about these events historically, but Jesus asks 'so, you think it is because these guys were worse than you?' v15 "I tell you no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish."
If we continue to live an unrepentant lifestyle we have nothing but death to come, and worse to be thrown into hell after.
So, the fact that I am now consistently struggling with this battle is scary.
Luke 13 verses 6 and 7 speak of a vineyard owner who year after year goes to this fig tree to find no fruit. So he wants to cut it down! What good is it if it doesn't make fruit? "Why should it use up the soil?" This combined with John 15 are strong warning to those who aren't bearing fruit, aren't seeing God work great things in their lives right now. But the next two verses speak grace to those who are willing to learn and change. The man taking care of the vineyard implored the master to give it one more year. "I'll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, cut it down."
I don't know much about fig trees. I know figs, fresh figs, are amazingly delicious. That may be part of why the owner allows this extra year of not cutting it down. But it better bear fruit next year, or it's gone. Chopped up, withered, and thrown into the fire.
So, fear the Lord and seek His help in changing. He has the right to judge and throw us into hell if we do not repent of our ways and trust in Christ's blood to buy our forgiveness and the Spirit to change us bit by bit each day until we are ready for pruning as we bear more and more fruit.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Luke 12
Birds.
Jesus often uses parables of seeds and plants, but in this chapter he speaks of birds twice.
verses 6-7 speak of how 5 sparrows are sold for two pennies, yet are not forgotten. Yet we are worth far more and even the hairs on our heads are numbered. So why fear death when God does not leave us, but has plans for us even after?
verse 24 speak of how ravens do not sow or reap fields, yet God feeds them. How much more valuable are you than birds! So, why do we worry about food or clothes?
So, if we are greater than birds, why do we act like birds?
We worry, we store up treasures, we so easily fall into traps.
We are free to soar the skies, yet instead shove our faces into the dirt for worms.
Are we not so much more, made in the image of God? Bought by the blood of Christ on the cross, adopted as sons and daughters of the Almighty?
As those who are valued and entrusted with much, much will be asked of us. Let's not act like the birds, but as God's children and ambassadors.
Jesus often uses parables of seeds and plants, but in this chapter he speaks of birds twice.
verses 6-7 speak of how 5 sparrows are sold for two pennies, yet are not forgotten. Yet we are worth far more and even the hairs on our heads are numbered. So why fear death when God does not leave us, but has plans for us even after?
verse 24 speak of how ravens do not sow or reap fields, yet God feeds them. How much more valuable are you than birds! So, why do we worry about food or clothes?
So, if we are greater than birds, why do we act like birds?
We worry, we store up treasures, we so easily fall into traps.
We are free to soar the skies, yet instead shove our faces into the dirt for worms.
Are we not so much more, made in the image of God? Bought by the blood of Christ on the cross, adopted as sons and daughters of the Almighty?
As those who are valued and entrusted with much, much will be asked of us. Let's not act like the birds, but as God's children and ambassadors.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
Luke 8
How does a plant grow to maturity and fruition?
Well, it needs to be planted. Then it needs water. Then it needs nutrients from the place it was planted and enough room to stretch it's roots out and be firmly grounded. Through this process the stem grows upward in search of light. It begins to do photosynthesis and grows green.
If any of the requirements are lacking it will stop growing and may even die if the nutrients / light / room to grow / water are not available or replenished.
But if they are it may continue growing taller, leaves shooting outwards to collect more light, stem shooting further upwards and eventually producing flowers if the length of the day and temperature are right.
Now that it has flowers, what happens? If nothing happens it won't be pollinated and will die without producing fruit. It will stand there solitary, unmoving, but dying slowly.
The flower needs to be beaten up, not to the point of breaking, but to still stand up under the beating. This can be done by the winds shaking it, insects probing and stealing nectar, or other mechanical means.
But if this happens, the flowers pollinate and seeds are produced; an increase of 10, 20, 100 fold from the one seed planted.
verse 15 "But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop"
It is not an easy process to growing and maturing in Christ, but even in the times when things are lacking, we know He provides; when we go through tough times and take a beating, we know He will not let us take more than we can take and He gives us strength to stand through it and grow in the process.
John 15:1-2 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
Well, it needs to be planted. Then it needs water. Then it needs nutrients from the place it was planted and enough room to stretch it's roots out and be firmly grounded. Through this process the stem grows upward in search of light. It begins to do photosynthesis and grows green.
If any of the requirements are lacking it will stop growing and may even die if the nutrients / light / room to grow / water are not available or replenished.
But if they are it may continue growing taller, leaves shooting outwards to collect more light, stem shooting further upwards and eventually producing flowers if the length of the day and temperature are right.
Now that it has flowers, what happens? If nothing happens it won't be pollinated and will die without producing fruit. It will stand there solitary, unmoving, but dying slowly.
The flower needs to be beaten up, not to the point of breaking, but to still stand up under the beating. This can be done by the winds shaking it, insects probing and stealing nectar, or other mechanical means.
But if this happens, the flowers pollinate and seeds are produced; an increase of 10, 20, 100 fold from the one seed planted.
verse 15 "But the seed on good soil stands for those with a noble and good heart, who hear the word, retain it, and by persevering produce a crop"
It is not an easy process to growing and maturing in Christ, but even in the times when things are lacking, we know He provides; when we go through tough times and take a beating, we know He will not let us take more than we can take and He gives us strength to stand through it and grow in the process.
John 15:1-2 "I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful."
Luke 7-8
"This man deserves to have you do this!"
O Really? Based on what?
"He loves our nation and has built our synagogue!"
Truly, how can anyone deserve God to do anything? As fallen, sinful humans, with nothing good in us, how can we command the God who created the Universe to do anything for us, except by His grace and willingness to go out of His way for us that He has done anything for us when all we actually deserve is death (Rom 3:23).
The centurion was right in saying that he did not deserve Jesus to be under his roof, let aone to even talk to him directly.
It wasn't his merit that caused Jesus to heal his servant, but his faith, and trust in Jesus' ability to heal and save that caused it. Again and again Jesus said 'your faith has healed you'.
1 Cor 8:2 "The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know."
Isa 5:21 "Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight."
Gal 6:3 "If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves."
Truly, by our own actions we fall so short. Let us not be fooled into thinking we are something, but come before God humbled and ready for whatever He'd have for us, knowing His plans are good for those who love him.
O Really? Based on what?
"He loves our nation and has built our synagogue!"
Truly, how can anyone deserve God to do anything? As fallen, sinful humans, with nothing good in us, how can we command the God who created the Universe to do anything for us, except by His grace and willingness to go out of His way for us that He has done anything for us when all we actually deserve is death (Rom 3:23).
The centurion was right in saying that he did not deserve Jesus to be under his roof, let aone to even talk to him directly.
It wasn't his merit that caused Jesus to heal his servant, but his faith, and trust in Jesus' ability to heal and save that caused it. Again and again Jesus said 'your faith has healed you'.
1 Cor 8:2 "The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know."
Isa 5:21 "Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight."
Gal 6:3 "If anyone thinks they are something when they are not, they deceive themselves."
Truly, by our own actions we fall so short. Let us not be fooled into thinking we are something, but come before God humbled and ready for whatever He'd have for us, knowing His plans are good for those who love him.
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