Man Praising God - John 14:16 - 123RF Photo - Used under license
"I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, so that He may be with you forever ..." (John 14:16)
"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you." (John 14:26)
This lesson explains 1) Who is the Helper?, 2) Why did Jesus ask the Father to send his disciples another Helper?, and 3) How does the Helper -- the Holy Spirit -- aid us as believers in Christ today?
The scripture references in this lesson are taken from the English Standard Version (ESV) and the New American Standard Bible (NASB) (Ref. 1, Ref. 2).
Consider. How have you experienced the Holy Spirit helping you in your life? How would you like the Holy Spirit to help you in your life going forward?
On the night before his crucifixion and death, Jesus spoke with his remaining disciples to prepare them for his departure (John 13:33, 14:1-2). Judas Iscariot had already left to betray Jesus and was not the beneficiary of these promises (John13:26-30). Jesus told his disciples, "I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, so that He may be with you forever ..." (John 14:16).
Who is the Helper?
In John 14:16, the Greek word for "Helper" is paraklétos (pronounced par-ak'-lay-tos), and means one who is called to the aid of another (Ref. 3, Ref. 4). Paraklétos signifies "an advocate in a court of law, but more widely a helper in any form whatsoever" (Ref. 4). The ESV, NIV, and KJV translate paraklétos as "Helper," "Advocate," and "Comforter" respectively. Jesus identifies the Helper as the Holy Spirit (John 14:26). Jesus also describes the Helper as the "Spirit of truth" in John 14:17, 15:26, and 16:13.
Why did Jesus ask the Father to send his disciples another Helper?
Jesus was about to leave his disciples through his suffering and death on a cross (John 19:1-3, 19:15-19). After his resurrection, Jesus would go to the Father (John 14:2, 16:28; 20:17, Acts 1:8-9). Jesus' disciples would need another Helper -- someone to be the strong continuer of Jesus' presence, to be their permanent companion (Ref.4). The Helper would teach them all things and would guide them into all the truth (John 14:26, 16:13).
The Helper would "be with" and "be in" (after Pentecost) Jesus' disciples permanently. Whereas Jesus during his earthly ministry was with them for three years, the Helper -- the Holy Spirit -- would be with them (and is with us as Jesus' disciples) to the end of time (John 14:16-17, Ref.4). Jesus' disciples also need to be strengthened and power-filled by the Holy Spirit to accomplish the mission Jesus sends us to in an unfriendly world (Mark 13:9-11, Mark 16:15-16, Acts 1:8). What is the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives as believers in Christ?How does the Holy Spirit help us?
The following scriptures describe the many ways the Holy Spirit helps us as people who believe in and trust in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
The Holy Spirit is with us and dwells in us permanently. John 14:16-17 The Holy Spirit strengthens us and is our spiritual companion forever. The Holy Spirit teaches us all things and calls to our remembrance all that Jesus has said to us. John 14:26 The Holy Spirit especially is our teacher for helping us to understand God's word. The Holy Spirit bears witness to us about Jesus and helps us bear witness about Jesus to others. John 15:26-27 The Spirit of truth guides us into all the truth. John 16:13 The Greek word for truth in the New Testament is alétheia, pronounced phonetically as "al-ay'-thi-a." In ancient Greek culture, alétheia was synonymous for "reality" as the opposite of illusion, i.e., fact (Ref. 5). Jesus not only taught the truth but also is the truth (John 14:6). The Holy Spirit gives us power to be Jesus' witnesses wherever God sends us at home or abroad in the world. Acts 1:8, 1 Thessalonians 1:5 The Holy Spirit gives us the words to speak when we face trials, persecution, and suffering for our faith in Christ. Mark 13:9-11 The Holy Spirit guides us in what to do (Acts 10:19-20) and where to go (Acts 16:6-10). The Holy Spirit helps us to put to death the deeds of the flesh. Romans 8:13-14 The Holy Spirit helps us to know that we are the adopted children of our heavenly Father. Romans 8:16, Galatians 4:6, Ephesians 1:3-5 The Holy Spirit intercedes for us and helps us to pray. Romans 8:26 The Holy Spirit gives us spiritual gifts for the purpose of serving others and building up the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, Romans 12:6-8, Ephesians 4:4-12 The Holy Spirit's work in us helps us to bear spiritual fruit that benefits ourselves as well as others. Galatians 5:22-23 The Holy Spirit strengthens us with power in our inner being whether we are men, women, or children. Ephesians 3:14-16 The Holy Spirit fills us with rivers of living water so we can be a spiritual blessing that refreshes and comforts others. John 7:38-39 The presence, companionship, and strengthening of the indwelling Holy Spirit is Jesus' gift to all who put their faith and trust in him. Thanks be to God for such a precious gift!
Apply. If you are not yet a believer in Jesus Christ, confess your sins to him, yield control of your life fully to him, and he will fill you with the Holy Spirit. If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, thank God each day for the presence of the Holy Spirit with you and for helping you to understand and apply God's word to your life. Thank God for the Holy Spirit guiding you in making godly decisions and for strengthening you through the challenges -- and for some of you, persecution -- you are going through. Thank God for the Holy Spirit helping you to discern, to prepare for, and to do boldly the life work that God reveals to you to do in Jesus' name.
Related Lessons
"The Spirit of Truth" - John 16:13 "Jesus is the Truth" - John 14:6 "Adoption as Sons" - Ephesians 1:4-5 "Characteristics of a Child of God - Part 1" - Matthew 7:16 "What is Living Water in the Bible?" - John 4:10
References
1. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+14%3A16&version=ESV 2. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+14%3A16&version=NASB 3. https://biblehub.com/greek/3875.htm 4. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/maclaren/john/14.htm MacLaren Expositions of Holy Scripture - John 14:16-17 5. https://biblehub.com/greek/225.htm
1 Comment
Sun and Clouds - Pixabay Stock Photo - with Hebrews 4:16
"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16 NKJV)
Consider. In what area of your life do you need God's mercy and grace to help you with temptation, weakness, or a "storm" that you are going through?
The scripture references below are from the New King James Version (NKJV) unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).
1. Come boldly to the throne of gracea. Come boldly
In the first part of Hebrews 4:16, the author of states, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace." "Come" means draw near or approach (Ref. 2). "Boldly" means with confidence (Ref. 3). The "therefore" at the beginning of the verse points to two reasons why we can draw near with confidence to God:
(1). Jesus, as our high priest, has opened the way for us to God's presence in heaven (Hebrews 4:14, 9:24, 10:19 NLT). Recall that when Jesus died, the veil of the temple separating people from God was torn in two (Mark 15:37-38). (2). Jesus, more so than any other, understands our weaknesses and temptations. Jesus, was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15). Because Jesus Christ has paid with his life the atonement for our sins once and for all time, we can come to God boldly, with confidence (Hebrews 9:11-12 NASB). We come not trusting in our ourselves but in the merits of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. b. To the throne of grace
Let us rejoice that there "is" a throne of grace and not of "justice" only (Ref. 4). The Greek word for "throne" literally means a (king's) seat, and metaphorically refers to God in heaven (Ref. 5). "Grace" is God's favor towards us. God freely gives us his grace because God is inclined to bless us (Ref. 6).
Because Jesus now is at the right hand of God's throne, the throne of God has become the throne of grace (Hebrews 8:1, 12:2). From generation to generation, from every land, and in every language, God may be approached. In all times of our weaknesses and temptation, we may be assured that he is on that throne (Ref. 4). At any time, 24/7, we may approach God with confidence to receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. 2. Receive mercy and find grace to help in time of needa. Mercy
At God's throne of grace, we receive mercy (Hebrews 4:16 ESV). Mercy is God's compassion towards us in our sin-full and hurt-full condition (Ref. 7). In the same way that Jesus had compassion on and touched and healed the leper and forgave the paralytic, God reaches out in mercy and compassion and touches us where we hurt and need healing and forgiveness (Mark 1:40-42, 2:1-5). By God's mercy he offers us salvation in Christ (Titus 3:4-5 ESV). By God's love and mercy, even when we were dead in our trespasses, God "made us alive together with Christ" (Ephesians 2:4-5).
b. Grace
At God's throne of grace, we find grace. Grace is God's favor towards us (Ref. 6). Grace is a blessing and a free gift. Grace is totally undeserved. By God's grace, Jesus forgave the men who nailed him to the cross (Luke 23:33-34). By God's grace, the Apostle Paul found the sufficiency of God's power to help him in his weakness (2 Corinthians 12:7-9). By God's grace, even though we are saved already through faith in Christ, God helps us when we are going through a tough time such as a loss, temptation, persecution, or poor health. By God's grace, God has given us the gifts of salvation and eternal life (Ephesians 2:8-9, Romans 6:23).
c. Help
At God's throne of grace, we receive mercy and find grace to help us in time of need (Hebrews 4:16). The Greek word translated as "help" [boétheia] in this verse occurs only twice in the New Testament -- in Hebrews 4:16 and Acts 27:17 (KJV) -- and has a nautical meaning (Ref. 8).
Recall that in Acts 27:14-17 the Apostle Paul was traveling to Rome on a ship that was caught in a severe storm. The sailors were losing control of the ship and feared running aground. In Acts 27:17 (read in KJV) the sailors wrapped supporting ropes or cables called "helps" [boétheia] around the wooden hull of their ship from stem to stern to hold the planks of the ship tightly together during the storm (Ref. 8, Ref.9). In the same way the ancient mariners used "helps" to wrap around, undergird, and support their vessels in storms, God provides his help to support us and hold us together when we are going through the storms of life. d. Timeliness
God's mercy and grace always are available to help us at the time we need (Ref. 10). This is encouraging news indeed. When we have trials and temptations, we can come boldly to God's throne to receive mercy and find grace to help us at any time. As author Dillon Burroughs has correctly concluded, "God is never late and rarely early. He is always exactly right on time -- His time" (Ref. 11).
Listen
Listen, watch, and sing along in your heart with this video of Alan Jackson singing, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus." Note the words, "Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer!" (Ref. 12).
Prayer. Dear Jesus, thank you that by your sacrifice for us, we can boldly approach you. Thank you for understanding our trials and temptations. We need your mercy and grace. In your graciousness, forgive our sins and fill us with your presence. Strengthen us, support us, and surround us with your grace so we with your help will be victorious over sin and will come safely through the storms we are experiencing. We give you all the praise, glory, and honor. In your precious name we pray. Amen.
Related Lessons
"The Meaning of God’s Favor" -- Psalm 30:5 "Made Alive Together with Christ - A New Quality of Life" -- Ephesians 2:4-5
References
1. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Hebrews+4%3A16&version=NKJV 2. https://biblehub.com/greek/4334.htm 3. https://biblehub.com/greek/3954.htm 4. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/hebrews/4.htm Barnes Notes on the Bible - Commentary on Hebrews 4:16 5. https://biblehub.com/greek/2362.htm 6. https://biblehub.com/greek/5485.htm 7. https://biblehub.com/greek/1656.htm 8. https://biblehub.com/greek/996.htm 9. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/ellicott/acts/27.htm Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers - Acts 27:17 10. https://biblehub.com/greek/2121.htm 11. https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/789710-god-is-never-late-and-rarely-early-he-is-always 12. https://hymnary.org/text/what_a_friend_we_have_in_jesus_all_our_s
Image source: Sweet Publishing / FreeBibleImages.org
Philip Baptized the Ethiopian Official who Received Christ -- Acts 8:35-39 -- FreeBibleImages.org -- Used under license
"Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I am going to the Father." (John 14:12)
Consider. What did Jesus mean when he said that believers in him would do greater works than he had done?
The Bible verse quotations below are from the English Standard Version (ESV) unless noted otherwise (Ref. 1).
Believers shall do the works of Jesus
The works that Jesus did while he was on earth -- such as healing the sick and raising the dead -- confirmed the authority of his teaching and demonstrated that the Father was in him and he in the Father (John 14:10-11, Ref. 2). Jesus' promise that we will do his works is directed to believers -- people who trust in, adhere to, and rely upon Jesus (Ref. 3). The works that we do in the name of Jesus as believers demonstrate the authority of the words of Jesus, point to him as our Savior, and show that he is in us and that we are in him (Matthew 28:18, 1 John 4:14, Colossians 1:27, Romans 8:1).
With Jesus’ exaltation to the right hand of the God completed, he now gives us -- believers, the body of Christ -- the Holy Spirit to help us accomplish his works on earth (John 14:16-17, John 16:13, Acts 1:8, Acts 2:32-33, Acts 2:37-38, Ephesians 1:18-23). The Holy Spirit apportions distinctly different gifts to individual believers as he wills (1 Corinthians 12:11, 1 Corinthians 12:28-31, Romans 12:6-8). Not all of us are gifted to work miracles, but are given other gifts (1 Corinthians 12:28-31). That is why we as different members of the body of Christ need to work together as the body of Christ to accomplish the works of Christ. Jesus Said Believers Shall Do Greater Works Than These
When Jesus said that believers would do "greater works than these," he was referring to the greatly increased world-wide reach and extent of his works that would be accomplished by his disciples. When Jesus ministered during his time on earth, he did his works in the geographic area where he traveled -- principally in Galilee and Judea (Ref. 4, Ref. 5). Jesus has since commanded his disciples -- "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19), "Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation" (Mark 16:15). In Acts 1:8, Jesus promised his disciples (that includes us who believe in him), "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
When considering what Jesus meant by "greater works than these," think also about the miraculous change done by God that occurs in the heart of each man, woman, and child when they repent of their sins and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. When Peter preached his Holy Spirit-inspired sermon on Pentecost, the result was that about 3,000 souls repented of their sins and believed in the Lord Jesus (Acts 2:22-24, Acts 2:36-41). When Peter visited Joppa and raised Dorcas from the dead, the result was that "many believed in the Lord" (Acts 9:36-42). When the Lord provided an earthquake at the Philippian jail which opened the doors for Paul and Silas and the other prisoners, the result was that the Philippian jailer believed in (put his faith in and trust in) Jesus Christ, and rejoiced (Acts 16:25-34, Ref. 3). When Philip witnessed to the Ethiopian eunuch about Jesus, the result was that the Ethiopian eunuch became a believer in Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Philip baptized him, and the Ethiopian eunuch went on his way rejoicing (Acts 8:26-39 NASB1995). Consider also that doing "greater works than these" world-wide includes acts of service such as giving others a drink of clean water in Jesus' name (Mark 9:41), teaching others to become disciples (Matthew 28:19-20), and providing for the needs of the "least of these" (Matthew 25:31-40).
Apply. Repent of your sins, and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. You will receive forgiveness of your sins and the gift of the Holy Spirit (1 John 1:9, Acts 2:38). By the power of the Holy Spirit, use the gifts that the Holy Spirit has given you to do the works of Jesus. May your actions towards others confirm the truth of Jesus' words, point people to him as their Savior (Luke 19:10), and show them the love that God has for them (John 3:16).
Related Lessons
"When Jesus Said, 'Truly, Truly,' What Did he Mean?" -- John 6:47 "The Authority of Jesus" -- Matthew 28:18
References
1. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+14%3A12&version=ESV 2. https://www.scriptureway.com/home/the-authority-of-jesus 3. https://biblehub.com/greek/4100.htm 4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Testament_places_associated_with_Jesus 5. https://www.ccel.org/bible/phillips/CN160-TRAVELS.htm
Images by FreeBibleImages.org - used under license
"… but one thing is needed. Mary has chosen the best part; it will not be taken away from her."
Read Luke 10:38-42 (RSV): "Now as they went on their way, he entered a village; and a woman named Martha received him into her house. (39) And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. (40) But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, 'Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.' (41) But the Lord answered her, 'Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; (42) one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.'"
Consider. Are you like Mary, listening to Jesus' word and receiving his guidance? Are you like Martha, gifted in serving others, but becoming overly busy and anxious? What is the one thing needful?
1. Martha welcomed Jesus as a guest into her home Martha Welcomes Jesus as a Guest Into Her Home
Luke 10:38 tells us that when Jesus and his disciples were traveling to Jerusalem, Martha welcomed him as a guest into her home. Martha was the "mistress of the house," the head of the household (Ref. 1, Ref. 2). The Greek word translated as "welcomed" or "received" in Luke 10:38 means that Martha was personally responsible for seeing to Jesus' needs while he was under her roof (HELPS word-studies - Ref. 3).
2. Mary chose to sit at Jesus feet and was listening to him
Mary, too, was eager to give Jesus a fitting reception. Luke 10:39-40 and 42 tell us that she left Martha in making preparations and instead chose [decided, made a deliberate choice] to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to his word (Ref. 4). In the ancient world, sitting at a teacher's feet -- literally and figuratively -- was the posture of disciples or learners (2 Kings 4:38, Luke 8:35, Acts 22:3, Ref. 5). By her action, Mary showed that she was willing to receive Jesus' word and give up herself to the guidance of Christ -- the one thing needful (Ref. 6).
3. Martha was distracted with much serving
Luke 10:40 tells us that Martha was "distracted with much serving." Note that "serving" [Greek word diakonia - ministry - Ref. 7] is one of the "gifts of grace" that the Apostle Paul mentions in Romans 12:6-8. Martha was gifted at serving others (John 12:1-2). However, in Luke 10:40-41 Martha became so "distracted" [literally drawn away] by the many tasks she was doing that she was drawn away from listening to Jesus and his word (Ref. 8).
4. Jesus tenderly reproved Martha for being anxious about many things
Martha asked Jesus to reprove Mary for leaving Martha to do the serving alone (Luke 10:40). Instead, Jesus instead tenderly reproved Martha, saying, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things" (Luke 10:41). Jesus did not reprove Martha for her hospitality or her gift of serving. However, Jesus did gently reprove Martha for being anxious [worried, divided, figuratively "going to pieces"] and troubled [disturbed, agitated] about many things (Ref. 9, Ref. 10).
5. Jesus commended Mary for choosing the one thing needful
Jesus commended Mary for choosing the good portion, the one thing needful. Mary chose to give undivided devotion to Jesus -- to listen to his word and to give herself to his guidance (Ref. 6).
Apply. Make time each day for the one thing needful -- Give undivided devotional time to Jesus. Listen to Jesus' word. Pray. Receive Jesus' guidance and follow his priorities for the things you will do to serve others each day.
References
1. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/10.htm Barnes' notes on Luke 10:38 2. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mistress 3. https://biblehub.com/greek/5264.htm 4. https://biblehub.com/greek/1586.htm 5. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/luke/10.htm Barnes notes on Luke 10:39 6. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/mhc/luke/10.htm Matthew Henry's Commentary on Luke 10:38-42 7. https://biblehub.com/greek/1248.htm 8. https://biblehub.com/greek/4049.htm 9. https://biblehub.com/greek/3309.htm 10. https://biblehub.com/greek/2350.htm
Rose from my front-yard garden with 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) - Photo by Whitney V. Myers
(6) "Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, (7) casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you." (1 Peter 5:6-7 NASB)
Consider. God willingly desires for us to cast all our anxiety on him. Have you cast all your anxiety -- all your worry and care -- on God?
Introduction
The Apostle Peter is writing to Jewish and Gentile Christians in Asia Minor (1 Peter 1:1-3). Peter recognizes that they are suffering for being Christians (1 Peter 4:12-19), and he advises them, "If you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name" (1 Peter 4:16). Peter exhorts the elders in the churches to be witnesses of Christ's sufferings and to be shepherds of God's flock (1 Peter 5:1-2). He encourages young people to be subject to their elders, and he instructs all of them (and us today) to clothe themselves (ourselves) with humility because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (1 Peter 5:5).
Casting our anxiety on God and humility go together
Sometimes when we are anxious and are looking for an encouraging verse in the Bible such as 1 Peter 5:7, we might miss the point that humility and casting our anxiety on God go together. Peter begins verse 6 with "Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God" (1 Peter 5:6). Then, in verse 7 he adds "casting all your anxiety on him" (1 Peter 5:7). The Greek word for "humble" in 1 Peter 5:6 is tapeinoó (pronounced tap-i-no'-o) and means to make low (Ref. 1) or being willing to take a low place (Ref. 2). When we humble ourselves before God, we recognize that we are not reliant on ourselves only but are dependent on God. God is the one who fills us, who lifts us up, and who cares for our every need (Ref. 3, Acts 1:8, Ephesians 5:18, James 4:10, Philippians 4:19, 1 Peter 5:7).
Casting is like throwing
The Greek word for "casting" in 1 Peter 5:7 is epiriptó (pronounced ep-ir-hrip'-to) and means to throw (Ref. 4). This word in Greek occurs only twice in the New Testament (Englishman's Concordance - Ref. 4). Before Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, Luke tells us, "They brought it (the colt) to Jesus, and they threw [cast] their coats on the colt and put Jesus on it" (Luke 19:35, parentheses and brackets added). In the same way the disciples throwing their coats on the colt was a one-way trip for the coats, casting our anxiety on Jesus should be a one-way trip for our anxiety.
We are to cast all of our anxiety -- not just parts of it -- on the Lord
In 1 Peter 5:7 the Greek word for "anxiety" is merimna (pronounced mer'-im-nah) which means cares and worries -- anything that fractures and divides a person's (our) being into parts (HELPS Word-studies - Ref. 5). In 1 Peter 5:7, merimna [anxiety] is singular and unites all of our cares and worries into one whole (Ref. 5, Ref. 6). Jesus' explanation of the parable of the sower in Matthew uses the same singular form of merimna. "And the one on whom seed was sown among the thorns, this is the one who hears the word, and the worry [anxiety] of the world and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful (Matthew 13:22, brackets added). The fact that our anxiety -- the whole of it -- chokes the fruitfulness of God's word in us is a good reason for us to accept God's invitation to cast all our anxiety on him.
Because he cares for us
Peter gives the reason why we are to cast all our anxiety on the Lord -- because he cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). The Greek verb translated as "cares" in this second part of 1 Peter 5:7 is meló (pronounced mel'-o) and means pays attention to, is concerned about, gives thought to (Ref. 7). The God who cares for the sparrows cares for us as well (Matthew 6:26, Matthew 10:29-31). David wrote, "But I am poor and needy; yet the Lord thinketh upon me" (Psalm 40:17 KJV). The God who loves us so much that he gave his Son to die for us invites us and welcomes us to cast all our anxiety on him (John 3:16, Romans 5:6-8, Psalm 55:22, 1 Peter 5:7).
Apply. The main way we cast our anxiety on God is to pray to, thank, and trust God. Pray to God and tell him your needs. Thank him for his answers (Philippians 4:6-7). (Have a continual "attitude of gratitude.") Trust God that he will take care of your concern according to his will and timing (1 John 5:14). Tell others how God has answered your prayers (Psalm 66:16). Your testimony describing how God has helped you will encourage others. Pray, thank, trust, and tell.
Related Lessons:
"The Peace of Believing Prayer (Philippians 4:6-7)" "Blessed Be the Lord Who Daily Bears Our Burden" -- Psalm 68:19 "Jesus' Invitation - Come to Me and Rest" -- Matthew 11:28
References:
1. https://biblehub.com/greek/5013.htm 2. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/1_peter/5.htm Barnes' Notes on the Bible - 1 Peter 5:6 3. https://biblehub.com/greek/5312.htm 4. https://biblehub.com/greek/1977.htm 5. https://biblehub.com/greek/3308.htm 6. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/meyer/1_peter/5.htm Meyer's NT Commentary on 1 Peter 5:7 7. https://biblehub.com/greek/3199.htm
Image Source: freebibleimages.org
All Authority - Great Commission - Matthew 28:18 - FreeBibleImages.org - Used under license
"And Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth.'" (Matthew 28:18)
This lesson presents 10 facets of the authority of Jesus Christ as taught in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
The scripture references below are from the New American Standard Bible 1995 on the Bible Gateway website unless indicated otherwise (Ref. 1).
Consider. Which aspects of Jesus' authority really amaze you?
Authority Defined
In the New Testament and in the examples below, the Greek word translated as "authority" is exousia [pronounced ex-oo-see'-ah]. Exousia means power to act, conferred or delegated power, ability, and weight (Ref. 2).
1. Jesus' Authority as a Teacher
"They were amazed at His teaching; for He was teaching them as one having authority, and not as the scribes" (Mark 1:22).
People were amazed [literally shocked or astonished] at the authority [ability and weight] that Jesus exhibited in his teaching (Matthew 7:28-29, Ref. 2, Ref. 3). Whereas the scribes quoted secondhand from other human sources such as rabbis ("Hillel says ..."), Jesus spoke from himself independently and absolutely as one sent of God (Ref. 4, Ref. 5). Jesus' formula was not "Ye have heard that it hath been said," but "I say unto you" (Ref. 6, Matthew 5:43-44 KJV). 2. Jesus' Authority over Unclean Spirits
"And Jesus rebuked him, saying, 'Be quiet, and come out of him!' Throwing him into convulsions, the unclean spirit cried out with a loud voice and came out of him. They were all amazed, so that they debated among themselves, saying, 'What is this? A new teaching with authority! He commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey Him'" (Mark 1:23-27).
Jesus demonstrated his authority [power to act] over unclean spirits by verbal word of command (man in synagogue - Mark 1:23-27, Gerasene demoniac - Luke 8:26-39, deaf mute boy with convulsions - Mark 9:14-29). 3. Jesus' Authority to Heal Diseases
"And a leper came to Jesus, beseeching Him and falling on his knees before Him, and saying, 'If You are willing, You can make me clean.' Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, 'I am willing; be cleansed.' Immediately the leprosy left him and he was cleansed" (Mark 1:40-42).
Jesus demonstrated his authority to heal diseases by touch and verbal command (Simon's mother-in-law - Mark 1:30-31, leper - Mark 1:40-45, paralytic - Mark 2:10-12, man with withered hand - Matthew 12:9-14, blind man - Mark 8:22-26). In the remarkable encounter with the centurion whose slave was sick and about to die, the centurion recognized Jesus' authority to heal the centurion's slave from a distance by just saying the word (Matthew 8:5-10, 13). 4. Jesus' Authority to Raise the Dead
"And He came up and touched the coffin; and the bearers came to a halt. And He said, 'Young man, I say to you, arise!' The dead man sat up and began to speak. And Jesus gave him back to his mother'" (Luke 7:14-15).
Jesus demonstrated his authority to raise the dead by spoken command. In addition to raising the widow of Nain's son (Luke 7:11-17), Jesus raised Jairus' daughter (Luke 8:40-42, 49-56), and Lazarus (John 11:1, 11:21-27, 38-45). These miracles of Jesus' authority proved who Jesus was (and still is). Martha said to Jesus, "Yes, Lord; I have believed that You are the Christ, the Son of God, even He who comes into the world" (John 11:27). 5. Jesus' Authority to Forgive Sins
"Being unable to get to Him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above Him; and when they had dug an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic was lying. And Jesus seeing their faith said to the paralytic, 'Son, your sins are forgiven'" (Mark 2:4-5). Some of the scribes who were present reasoned in their hearts, "Why does this man speak that way? He is blaspheming; who can forgive sins but God alone?" (Mark 2:7, Exodus 34:6-7, Isaiah 43:25, Micah 7:18).
Jesus used his divine authority to heal the paralytic (with results the scribes could see) to prove his divine authority to forgive sins. Jesus said, "'But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins'—He said to the paralytic, 'I say to you, get up, pick up your pallet and go home'" (Mark 2:10-11). The forgiven and healed paralytic did rise, and took out his pallet in the sight of all (Mark 2:12). The people were amazed and glorified God (Mark 2:12). Such is the authority of Jesus! 6. Jesus' Authority over the Creation Jesus Calms the Storm - Mark 4:39 - Used by permission - Good News Productions International and College Press Publishing
"And He got up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, 'Hush, be still.' And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm" (Mark 4:39).
Jesus -- the Creator (Genesis 1:1, John 1:1-3, Colossians 1:15-17) -- demonstrated his authority over the creation by commanding the sea to be still (Mark 4:35-41). This miracle powerfully showed Jesus' disciples who he was (and still is). The Old Testament teaches that God is the only one who can still the roaring sea (Psalm 65:5-7). Jesus' disciples remarked, "Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him?" (Mark 4:41). 7. Jesus' Authority to Execute Judgment
"For just as the Father has life in Himself, even so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself; and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man" (John 5:26-27).
God has given Jesus -- the Son of God (Luke 1:31-35), the Son of Man (Daniel 7:13-14), and the Messiah (John 4:25-26) -- authority to execute judgment. The Greek word for "judgment" in John 5:27 is krisis (pronounced kree'-sis). Krisis means a judicial decision with the results of either a positive verdict for (righteousness) or a negative verdict against (condemnation) (HELPS Word-studies - Ref. 7). The Gospel of John tells us that those who do not believe in Jesus are "judged already" (John 3:18, for context, read John 3:16-21). Those who do believe in Jesus do not need to worry about judgment [condemnation] because "He who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life" (John 5:24). 8. Jesus' Authority over Mankind to Give Eternal Life
"Jesus spoke these things; and raising His eyes to heaven, He said, 'Father, the hour has come; glorify Your Son, so that the Son may glorify You, just as You gave Him authority over all mankind, so that to all whom You have given Him, He may give eternal life" (John 17:1-2 NASB 2020).
Note the distinction Jesus makes in this prayer between "all mankind" and those "given him." Although Jesus has authority over all mankind, Jesus gives eternal life to those his heavenly Father has given him, that is, all who will believe in him (John 3:14-16, 1 John 5:13, Ref. 8). 9. Jesus Gives Authority to His Disciples
"And He called the twelve together, and gave them power and authority over all the demons and to heal diseases. And He sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to perform healing" (Luke 9:1-2).
Twelve sent out: Jesus not only gave the twelve disciples the authority to act, but also gave them the power to act. The power and authority that Jesus gave his disciples over demons and to perform healing confirmed their preaching message. Luke 9:6 tells us, "Departing, they began going throughout the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere."
Seventy sent out: Luke 10:1 tells us that Jesus appointed seventy others and sent them to every city and place where He was going to come. Jesus instructed the seventy to heal the sick and say to them, "The kingdom of God has come near to you" (Luke 10:9). The seventy returned with joy, saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name" (Luke 10:17). The authority of Jesus' disciples to heal the sick, to cast out demons, to preach the gospel, and to make disciples is not in the authority of their (our) own name but is in the authority of the name of Jesus.
Disciples after Pentecost: At Pentecost and after Pentecost, God poured out the Holy Spirit on Jesus' disciples and filled them (Acts 2:1-4, Acts 2:17, Acts 4:31, Acts 10:44-48). Jesus had told them in advance that the Holy Spirit would come upon them so they would be his witnesses "in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and even the remotest part of the earth" (Acts 1:8). In the authority of Jesus' name, Jesus' spirit-filled disciples healed the sick, cast out demons, and raised the dead. These miracles resulted in opportunities for Jesus' disciples to testify about Jesus Christ with the results of many people believing in the Lord. Examples include:
10. All Authority Has Been Given to Jesus
After Jesus' resurrection, "The eleven disciples proceeded to Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had designated" (Matthew 28:16). "Jesus came up and spoke to them, saying, 'All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth'" (Matthew 28:18).
God has exalted Jesus Christ and has given him supreme authority in heaven and earth. The Apostle Paul tells us about Jesus, "Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee will bow, of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:8-11). God has given Jesus all authority over all peoples and nations (Daniel 7:13-14, Philippians 2:10-11). Jesus governs and protects the church (Ephesians 1:19-23). Jesus bestows the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17, Acts 1:8), and he employs the angels of God to render service for those who will inherit salvation (Hebrews 1:13-14, Ref. 10). In the supreme authority that God has given Jesus Christ, Jesus said to his disciples then, and he says to us -- his disciples today -- "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:19-20).
Apply. In the authority that Jesus has given you as his disciple, how will you serve others in Jesus' name?
References
1. https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+28%3A18&version=NASB1995 2. https://biblehub.com/greek/1849.htm 3. https://biblehub.com/greek/1605.htm 4. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/gill/mark/1.htm Gills Exposition - Mark 1:22 5. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hillel_the_Elder 6. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/cambridge/mark/1.htm Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges - Mark 1:22 7. https://biblehub.com/greek/2920.htm 8. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/john/17.htm Barnes notes on John 17:2 9. https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divination 10. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/matthew/28.htm Pulpit Commentary on Matthew 28:18
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Walking in integrity blesses your family - 123RF photo - Used under license
"A righteous person who walks in his integrity--How blessed are his sons after him." (Proverbs 20:7)
This lesson explains the biblical meaning of "integrity" and "walking in integrity."
Consider. Are you "walking in integrity"? Is your integrity a good example for your children to follow?
1. What is the biblical meaning of "integrity"?
In the Old Testament, the most-often occurring Hebrew word translated as "integrity" is tom (pronounced tome) (Englishman's Concordance, Ref. 1). The Hebrew word tom means moral innocence, full, integrity, perfection, simplicity, and uprightness (Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, Ref. 1). Dictionary.com defines "integrity" as adherence to moral and ethical principles; soundness of moral character; and honesty (Ref. 2).
The biblical teaching about integrity comes primarily from the Old Testament. Abimelech pleaded his integrity and innocence before God after Abraham had told Abimelech that Sarah was his sister but didn't mention that she was his wife (Genesis 20:1-6). David purposed to walk within his house in the integrity of his heart (Psalm 101:2), and he recognized that integrity preserved him (Psalm 25:21). Solomon wrote wonderful proverbs describing the benefits of integrity. Refer to Proverbs 2:7, 10:9, 11:3, 19:1, 20:7, and 28:6. In the King James Version, the word "integrity" does not occur in the New Testament. However, the New Testament does describe virtues such as truth, honesty, and purity that are necessary components of integrity. For example, see Philippians 4:8. 2. "Walking in integrity" is a way of life and conduct
In the Bible, the words "walk" and "walking" figuratively mean a way of life and conduct (Ref. 3). "Walking in integrity" denotes a way of life and conduct that is complete, upright, and morally innocent (Ref. 1). David wrote, "Lord, who may reside in Your tent? Who may settle on Your holy hill? One who walks with integrity, practices righteousness, and speaks truth in his heart" (Psalm 15:1-2).
Walking in integrity begins at home. David wrote, "I will carefully attend to the blameless way. When will You come to me? I will walk within my house in the integrity of my heart" (Psalm 101:2, italics added). Our good example of walking in integrity begins in our household. 3. "Walking in Integrity" has important benefits
"Walking in integrity" has several important benefits. The Bible contrasts the benefits of integrity versus the pitfalls of crookedness and perversity.
a. Security
Proverbs 10:9 -- Solomon wrote, "Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out." When we walk in integrity we live with security -- with confidence, assurance, refuge in God, and no fear of being "found out."
b. Preservation
Psalm 25:21 -- David wrote, "Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You." "Preserve" means guard from dangers (Ref. 4). Integrity and uprightness guard us from dangers. The following attributes also guard us from dangers -- discretion (Proverbs 2:11), wisdom (Proverbs 4:5-6), and righteousness (Proverbs 13:6).
c. Blessing to your children
Proverbs 20:7 -- "A righteous person who walks in his integrity--How blessed are his sons after him." Parents today -- here is something you can do to improve the life of your children. Live a pure life, a life of integrity, a life that is a good example of duty to God and mankind (Ref. 5). Your life will bring blessings to your children during your lifetime and to succeeding generations after your death.
Apply. Are you walking in integrity? Is your life every day a good example for others to follow, especially your children?
References
1. https://biblehub.com/hebrew/8537.htm 2. https://www.dictionary.com/browse/integrity 3. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/barnes/psalms/1.htm Barnes' Notes on Psalm 1:1 4. https://biblehub.com/hebrew/5341.htm 5. https://biblehub.com/commentaries/pulpit/proverbs/20.htm - Pulpit Commentary on Proverbs 20:7 |
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