Only when we understand Jesus, do we understand life, for He defines it. When we understand Him we are aligned with the One who is the Life. Jesus was challenged over the validity of his teaching. “Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid.” (John 8:13) His defence was curious. … Continue reading Live the Truth
Our culture has only one question to determine value – “Does it work?” Jesus takes a different view. After feeding the 5000 He leaves. Most would have continued the ministry. When the people find Him, He challenges their motives – ‘… you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I performed but … Continue reading What do we value?
Christmas is often expressed as a time to live without limits. John the Baptist challenges our generation with its rejection of boundaries. We don’t think to ask “Who has God made me to be?” but rather, “What could I make of myself?” John the Baptist knew who he wasn’t. He did not fail to confess, … Continue reading Christmas without limits?
How poorly I appreciate the unseen work of Christ. I recently organised a conference. There was a sense of God at work, one person even said it was the best conference they had ever been to. Yet looking back I experience frustration that only half the expected number turned up. May I never boast except … Continue reading What counts?
The Lord loves us but he does not entrust himself to us. But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. John 2:24 (NIV) We see this in Jesus’ relationship with his disciples. They were with him wherever they went, yet he did not entrust himself even to his closest disciples. … Continue reading Trustworthy to Jesus?
With God, what we declare on earth is declared in heaven. He fulfils what we commit to in union with Him. Psalm 132 is a tale of two parallel oaths. 1 David … 2 swore an oath to the Lord, … 3 ‘I will not enter my house or go to my bed,… 5 till … Continue reading Covenant with God
Why do the nations say, ‘Where is their God?’ Psalm 115:2 This is a question that is being asked of the Church. The question raises key issues. Firstly: What is it about the way we reflect Jesus that keeps this culture from seeing Him in us? Secondly: What is it about the world that it … Continue reading Where is your God?
‘Simply Jesus’ is a great phrase to help us keep perspective when things become complicated. We need care, there are those for whom the words are a mere bumper sticker. They have heard some Christian leader say the phrase and are convinced this is the totality of the Christian life. Safe in this knowledge, they live … Continue reading Simply Jesus
One of Jesus’ statements is brought into new light through His apostolic ministry. “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother … yes, even his own life – he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” (Luke 14:25) … Continue reading From consumer to disciple
Recently it has dawned on me that there are two approaches to discipleship in the Scriptures. In the Navigators we use the apostolic form of Jesus. This approach focuses on someone willing to follow as an apprentice. In Jesus’ ministry this required leaving behind home comforts and responsibilities to follow. ‘Leaving’ creates space in life … Continue reading Two forms of discipleship
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