When Jesus lived he consistently created controversy, not because he intended to, but because what he said challenged the mainstream beliefs of the day. He was the Jewish Messiah, whom Christians call Christ, but he didn’t fit the Messiah theology of that day. While he did the works of God, like in John 9 whenContinue reading “Controversial Jesus”
Category Archives: Who is Jesus
The Problem of Dogmatism
Jesus’ conversation with the religious leaders in John 8 gives insight into the power of our beliefs. The Jews affirmed that their father was Abraham. However, Jesus pointed out a contradiction. While they claimed to be Abraham’s children, they also plotted to kill Jesus. Jesus explained to them that if they were truly Abraham’s childrenContinue reading “The Problem of Dogmatism”
Jesus or Tradition
In John 6:52-71, Jesus taught some concepts that were and are hard to comprehend. However, Jesus always declares the truth even when it offends those who have chosen to associate with him. Therefore it is important for us to examine what or whom we follow. The disciples of Jesus (a group broader than the twelve)Continue reading “Jesus or Tradition”
Understanding Life’s Challenges
Could it be that challenges in the life of the child of God are more opportunities to see God’s power, rather than problems ? In John 6, Jesus posed an intriguing question to Philip. “Where shall we purchase bread to feed the crowds coming to them?” John explained that Jesus asked Philip this question toContinue reading “Understanding Life’s Challenges”
Flattery or Freedom
Jesus said something insightful and powerful to the religious leaders. He told them that he didn’t seek the glory of man (John 5:41). At first that statement doesn’t seem all that powerful, until we reflect that if we do not seek the praise of other men, then we are completely free from their control. TheContinue reading “Flattery or Freedom”
Jesus’ Love For His Followers
When reading through the Gospel of John I’m always surprised at how Jesus addressed his mother. He never addressed her as “mother”, or “mom”. But always as “woman”. With Mary he did so when she mentioned that the hosts had run out of wine at the wedding of Cana (John 2:4). He did so againContinue reading “Jesus’ Love For His Followers”
Jesus’ Nearness
A few years ago, a missionary speaker came to the church I was pastoring. His young son of three, who had recently broken his leg, was with him as he spoke. After holding his son for a while, the speaker put him down on the platform next to him as he shared about their ministry.Continue reading “Jesus’ Nearness”
Living Humbly
Jesus reminded his followers that we are not to live our lives for the purpose of being praised by people, but rather for the benefit and pleasure of our heavenly Father. In Matthew’s Gospel chapter 6, Jesus explained to his disciples that when they help others or when they pray, they are not to doContinue reading “Living Humbly”
Jesus is the Treasure
In 1980, a movie came out called Little Lord Fauntleroy. It was about a little American boy, Cedric or Ceddie, and his aristocratic English grandfather, the Earl of Dorincourt. At the beginning of the movie, it was believed that Ceddie was the last surviving heir to his grandfather. He was brought from America to EnglandContinue reading “Jesus is the Treasure”
David Freitag 