In this episode, we look at the lawyer’s question, “What do I need to do to get eternal life?” Jesus’ answer shows us what the law really means and our call to love God and our neighbors. Through the story of the Good Samaritan, we examine what it means to love our neighbors and care for others in a divided world. We’ll explore the important question of eternal life and how our actions can show our faith.
Today, as we look at Luke 10:17-24, Dr. John explores what the disciples went through, focusing on Jesus’ words, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.” This passage shows the special authority given to the disciples and the joy of knowing their names are written in heaven. It reminds us of how Jesus' work continues to impact our lives today.
In this message on Luke 10, we are reminded that despite the darkness in the world, the harvest is still plentiful. Dr. John emphasizes the urgency to share the gospel, encouraging us to step into our calling as workers in His Kingdom. It’s a message of hope and purpose that challenges us to be bold in spreading the light of Christ.
In this episode, Dr. John points us to Luke 9:51, where Jesus "set His face to go to Jerusalem." This moment marks a crucial turning point in Jesus' ministry. Even in the face of opposition, Jesus remained steadfast in His journey toward the cross. Dr. John highlights how this decision by Jesus serves as both a challenge and an encouragement for us to remain faithful to God’s calling, even when the road ahead is difficult.
In this episode, we delve into how the Holy Spirit guides us in daily life, based on Ephesians 4:25-32. Discover how the Spirit encourages us to embrace honesty, manage our anger, work diligently, speak uplifting words, and extend grace to others. Each principle is aimed at helping us live out our faith in practical ways, reflecting the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Explore how these spiritual resources can help you grow and make a positive impact on those around you.
In today's episode, we explore the imagery of clothing in the Christian life, as presented in Ephesians 4:17-24. Believers are called to "put off" the old self, characterized by sinful behaviors, and "put on" the new self, created in the likeness of God. This transformation reflects a deeper, counter-cultural calling to live in righteousness and holiness, rejecting the values of the world. As we walk in this new identity, we are reminded of the ongoing renewal that comes through a life surrendered to Christ.
In this episode, Dr. John reflects on the incredible gifts Christ offers to His followers. We'll explore how God bestows individual grace gifts to each of us, raises up leaders to equip the church, and nurtures spiritual maturity within the body of Christ. Discover how these gifts are meant to shape our lives and guide us in our walk with Christ.
Just as moving to a new country requires understanding its customs, our new life in Christ requires us to embody humility, gentleness, patience, and love. In today’s message, we explore these four character traits as described by Paul in Ephesians 4:1–6. Discover how these virtues foster unity within the church and reflect our shared calling in Christ.
When we think about worship, many envision singing, whether with a songbook in hand or arms lifted in praise. While singing is often a significant part of worship, it’s fundamentally a celebration of God. Worship transcends mere rituals; it’s an exuberant expression of our joy and awe for who God is and what He has done. As Paul writes in Ephesians 3:20-21, our worship should reflect the immeasurable greatness of God's power and His ability to do far more than we could ask or imagine.
We turn to the Lord's Prayer as template for our own prayers. It is how Jesus taught us to pray. We do well to also look at Paul's prayer for the Ephesian church. It calls upon God to equip His people to perceive His power for them and His infinite love upon them, that they might know Jesus Christ and be filled to the fullness of God. This is God's prayer for the church. This is God's intent for each one of us.
For many, the church has a diminished role in our society. They pass a church building on the corner and wonder what relevance it has. That is not God's perspective. Paul has spoken of the mystery of a new body created in Jesus Christ - Jew and Gentile together. That mystery might remain theoretical if not for the church. The Church is the pillar of truth, the declaration of God's Word, an extension of Jesus' grace and the embodiment of God's loving community. Through the Church, the world glimpses the wisdom of God in this great mystery.
We are accustomed to think of mystery as something to be solved. If we have enough clues and good deduction, we can figure it out. But Paul uses the word "mystery” in a different sense. This mystery cannot be discovered, it must be revealed. Listen as Dr. John discusses a great mystery, revealed to Paul and stewarded by his missional efforts. God is building a people for Himself, Jew and Gentiles together. We are part of God's great mystery.
We all have experienced the awkwardness of standing alone at a social gathering, sitting by yourself at the school lunch table or looking around a room unable to name anyone there. We feel alone without significant connections. Paul teaches that in Christ, we are never strangers. We are citizens in God's nation, embraced by His family and become a temple of collective worship. The grace of God does more than forgive. It shapes us as God's Household.
It seems self-evident that our society is polarized. We are divided by our politics, hold opposing moral standards, struggle with race relations and regard those with different positions as the enemy. Harmony and peace are reduced to mere words. But God has made something new. Jesus not only draws us close to God, but to one another. The Body of Christ is the beginning of a new humanity. Peace is possible in Jesus Christ.
Grace can be a prayer before a meal. It can describe the beauty of a ballet move or be clemency for a loan. It can be the tile of royalty or the name of someone you love. We have so many ways to speak of grace because grace has so many expressions. Yet nothing exceeds or exhausts the grace found in our Lord. Today Dr. John speaks of the free favour of the Father released through faith in the Son, resulting in a righteous life forever. This is God's doing. This is the expression of grace.
In Ephesians 2, Paul delivers the sobering truth – news as bad as it gets. Every one of us is born dead - not just weakened, impoverished or disadvantaged, but dead. But then Paul reveals the good news, the best news imaginable. Listen as Dr. John directs us to the only hope we have for eternal life. God, who is rich in mercy and love, makes us alive through Jesus Christ. Revel in the joy and hope He gives.
What's humanity's problem? It seems self-evident that a problem exists between us (war, greed, violence, apathy). It is also evident that there is a problem between humanity and God (atheism, rebellion). Either way, many believe the problem can be fixed with effort and education. They are wrong. God makes it clear what our problem is. We are dead. No amount of instruction, training, motivation or resources will improve the dead. God, who gives life, is our only hope.
Power has various measurements. Physical strength, economic resources, technological leadership, intellectual skill - but our materialistic world often ignores the greater expression of power - spiritual. Paul prays that Christians will recognize the power God has extended to believers through Jesus Christ. Nothing and no one can surpass the power of God for us.
It is one thing to be enriched. It is another to be aware of those riches and live by them. God has already enriched us in Jesus Christ. Paul now prays that we might be aware of the depth of those riches. Dr. John reminds us that we need God's wisdom and revelation to see and understand how God's riches transform our living.
Plans can be hard to understand from the outside. You need training to read a blueprint. Many times, we can't envision the entire plan until it unfolds before us. God has a plan for humanity and history. It is determined by the Father, fulfilled in the Son and guaranteed by the Spirit. Dr. John points us to the grand design of God that touches both Jew and Gentile and results in eternal glory.
Having tremendous resources but no purpose is not a good mix. The riches and advantages of our state are squandered or ignored if there is no purpose to direct them to. Ephesians has taught that believers are resourced with every spiritual blessing, but our blessed state has meaning and purpose in Jesus Christ. Listen as Dr. John reminds us of the plan and intent of God, not just for time, but also eternity.
In many of life's occasions, it is a good thing to be called. To be invited to a celebration. To hear someone lovingly call your name. To be adopted into a family. Today Dr. John speaks of the highest privilege and deepest delight, to be called by God for life in Jesus Christ. Every follower of Jesus has been chosen by the Father. Before creation, before we do anything of merit, regardless of our faltering state, we've been called to be His children. Such is the wondrous love of our Lord.
When introduced to someone, it's common to enquire, "Where are you from?" Knowing someone's place of origin may tell you something about them. Dr. John teaches on the graces God has granted every believer. We've been blessed in the heavens above and made alive in Jesus Christ. Our home is celestial, and our birth is in Jesus. That makes us what we are.
Who would live as a pauper when their bank account is flooded with cash? Who would wallow in sickness when effective treatment is at hand? Who would want to live alone and lonely when a loving father and family have opened their arms? We shake our heads at those who squander and ignore their resources, but believers do it daily. Dr. John points us to the overwhelming blessings that are ours today in Jesus. We are invited to live by them.
We do not call for help if we don't perceive a problem. An undetected brake problem or cancer growing secretly, and we do not go to the mechanic or doctor. Ps. 32 may be hard to hear, but it informs us of a problem we already have. We are born into sin. When we recognize our need and confess it to God, only then can we rejoice and be glad. With God there is forgiveness!
Psalm 31 has the unique distinction of being quoted by both Jonah and Jesus - from the belly of a fish and the cross. It is a Psalm declaring that God is our refuge. There is no question about the quality of God's shelter. It is only a question of whether we will trust Him. Can we say today like David, "I trust in You O Lord, my times are in your hands?"
Rather than denying trouble, the Psalms readily admit that difficulty and danger will come. The Psalms do not overlook the pain and stain of our sins. But there is hope. Dr. John points to Psalm 30 as a song of transformation. Our tears are changed into joy. Our losses become advances. Our sins are forgiven. God is the Redeemer of life! A good reason to break into dance!
Worship may seem out of place during a crisis. When things are falling apart, this is the time for solutions and actions. But Psalm 29 demonstrates the centrality of worship - especially when things are hard. Ascribing glory to God in troubled times keeps us focused aright and plants hope against our fears and worries.
Before you call for help, it's vital to know who you are calling to. Calling a plumber to fix your taxes may not help much. In Psalm 28, David calls to God who is the Rock of his life. David calls to the Lord who is filled with mercy, compassion, power and justice. God is David's refuge - even as He is yours.
Enemies, threats and fears have this in common. When you stare at them, they get bigger. Psalm 27 is a call to shift our focus from what might shake us, to the unshakable presence of God. We are to seek His face and find shelter and courage. More so, we find that we are loved.
To be vindicated is to be found innocent of accusations. In a deceitful world, unfounded claims and slander can be found. In Psalm 26, David prays for vindication from his enemies. He does not trust in his own perfection but in the eternal justice and righteousness of God.
Times of sunshine and times of storm can direct us to the presence of God. Both have the power to create a sense of gratitude and reliance upon God. In Psalm 25 David lifts his soul to God in a context of trouble. He discovers not only the deliverance, but the steadfast love of our Lord.
An infinite God cannot be reduced to a single description. The Scriptures use various images and titles to portray His grandeur. The title of "King" meant much to ancient ears, but we may struggle with the term today. Listen as Dr. John points to the majesty of our Lord and the grace He extends to welcome us into His court.
What is familiar can be taken for granted. Psalm 23 is the most well-known of the Psalms. Many can recite it, but many also can miss the nature of the relationship David describes with his Lord. Listen as Dr. John walks us through familiar ground to a deeper appreciation of God's grace to us all.
Since you listen to the news and participate in our society, you know that the Christian compass and moral fabric of our day are being abandoned. Truth has become flexible resulting in a famine of trust. What are we to do? Dr. John points to Psalm 12 as encouragement and hope. God, who is righteous, will preserve His righteous people. God, who is just, will judge between the right and wrong. The world cannot spin out of His grip. Believe that today.
An athlete is surrounded by those who watch from the bleachers. What if they booed instead of cheered? Will the athlete listen to their jeering and give up? Dr. John points to Psalm 11 as our needed encouragement when surrounded by those who hope and work for our failure. Despite the many voices which mock, there is One Voice to hear. He rules. He sees all. He promises justice. In God we take refuge.
Crime shows portray wickedness through deeds of destruction and cruelty. But evil has many faces. Today Dr. John points to Psalm 10 which speaks of wickedness as arrogance, independence, rebellion and oppression. Wickedness preys on the helpless, assured that God does not see. But the King of Heaven sees all and is our assurance of help to the helpless and justice to the wicked.
Victories are a cause for celebration! A graduation, job promotion or becoming cancer free - all reasons for joy. Dr. John points to the celebration of King David in Psalm 9 as a template for our successes. David sees God as the Victor and recognizes that there are more battles to come. Gratitude erases pride and confident hope paints the future.
Where on earth do you see the glory of God? You could point to the stars in a clear night, to the flash and rumble of a storm or to the heights of snowy mountains and the lush of a flowing river. But in Psalm 8, David points to the mirror. The glory and majesty of God is reflected in all humanity and perfected in Jesus Christ. Today, marvel at that.
Trouble comes from different places. There are the troubles we bring upon ourselves or the troubles sent from God for our discipline. But Jesus promised us that we would face troubles from the world. Dr. John points to Psalm 7 as a reflection of Jesus' promise. God has overcome the world.
Being disciplined is never pleasant; yet it is a necessary part of the parent/child relationship. It is also a necessary part of being a child of God. In Psalm 6, David prays under the heavy hand of God. Dr. John reminds us that David prays as a child confident in the love and mercy of the Father.
What assurance do we have that God hears our prayers? In Psalm 5, David asks God to hear his groaning and cries. The king was confident that God listens to the repentant, humble heart, which relies upon God's steadfast love. David was not disappointed.
There are nights when sleep escapes you. Your mind races and your body finds no rest. The events of the day have ruined your night. Listen as Dr. John speaks of Psalm 4 and the secret to a peaceful night. The defence and nearness of God allows us to be at rest.
There are days that you dread. You may be facing difficult choices, hard circumstances or pressure from people around you. How will you get through the day? Psalm 3 is a morning prayer of King David facing extreme difficulties. Dr. John reminds us that regardless of what we face, beginning the day with God as our refuge offers us hope.
Will there be singing in heaven? Of course! And it will be the best song! It will be a new song, a song from an angelic choir and echoed by the voices of creation. It will be the lyric of history - "The Lamb has triumphed!" It is the song of the Redeemed which we can begin to sing even now.
We think of heaven as being free from pain. Our tears are wiped away and there is no more suffering. But in all this bliss, there remains an eternal reminder of death. Jesus, described as the Lion of Judah, is seen as a slaughtered Lamb standing before God's throne. The sacrifice of Jesus will be an everlasting memory and a cause for unceasing praise.
It is human to seek meaning. In the events and incidents of our lives, we ask, "Why?" We instinctively think of life as having direction and purpose. When John saw the scroll of history remaining closed, he wept loudly. Surely there should be someone who can open the scroll and give us hope! There is. Jesus alone is worthy by His life, death and victorious resurrection. Jesus will bring history to the Father's appointed end.
The Book of Revelation is fundamentally a book of worship. While it points forward to the victorious purposes of God, it points upwards to the exalted position of God and the response of heaven to Him. In chapter four, we witness strange and wonderful creatures proclaiming: God is worthy, God is holy, God is timeless, God is the source and end of all things. Worship is the language of heaven and earth.
If we refer to someone as being downcast, it speaks of their mood and perspective. In a spirit of discouragement, their eyes are focused on what is around them. John wrote to seven churches of what was around them - some of it hopeful, some of it challenging. But now in Revelation 4 and 5, John writes of what is above. Colours and sounds. Angels and Elders. The Throne of God and His glory. There is wonder and power in the plans of God. Just look up.
Every church faces the danger of "institutionalization." It's a long word to describe a church that begins to function simply to exist for their own ends. Keeping the doors open matters more than the calling and purposes of God. Laodicea was deluded into thinking that their status and actions made them rich. God saw them as useless for His Kingdom. Their pretence could only be broken by repentance. Jesus is knocking at the door.
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