Country Road Faith

Do You Believe in Jesus Christ?

2026-06-09T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#812 "Do You Believe in Jesus Christ?"

June 9, 2026

John 21-Part 4

I believe God's Word is Truth. Jesus is Truth and The Word. What do you believe?

In verse 24, this disciple is John the author of this book. He testifies of those things which he wrote about Jesus are true. The elders in the church of Ephesus know it to be so.

Early church history reports that after John spent several years as an exile on the island of Patmos, he returned to Ephesus where he died as an old man, near the end of the first century.(Life Application Study Bible)

John's writings are authentic because he was an eyewitness, one of the 12 and one of Jesus' closest friends. John wrote all of the words in this scroll, so it was written by one person, the same eyewitness. Every word contained in this scroll is truth. John was recalling events accurately under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. (Swindoll's New Testament Insights on John)

It is important that our words are truth. That is one of my reasons for having this blog, to share the Truth with others. Do you speak truth to others?

LET IT GROW

John is saying in the last vers that this Gospel contains only a small sample of what Jesus did and taught. There are many other things that could have been written. If all were written down, then the whole world could not contain the books written. (Tony Evans)

John was selective rather than exhaustive in his testimony. (McArthur)

The gospel of Jesus Christ rests upon three pillars: His virgin birth, atoning death, and bodily resurrection. When faith falters, Jesus reveals Himself in love and through it to a triumphant faith. Though our love for Christ may fall short of His love for us, we should strive to equal his love. (Herschel Hobbs)

How do you believe Jesus is? Is He the Son of God, Messiah and Savior to you? Your eternity depends upon your answer.

LET IT GO

Repent of your sins, believe in Jesus, and be saved.

Faithful to the End

2026-06-08T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T. #811 "Faithful to the End"

June 8, 2026

John 21-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Jesus told Peter he would have a long, useful life of service. (verses 18-19) Yet he would be crucified. Church tradition concurs that this is how Peter died. He requested being hung upside down, not being worthy to die like Jesus did. Peter was faithful to the end and brought glory to God through his death. Then the Lord calls Peter to a life of total commitment to Him. (Falwell)

What shall this man do? (verse 21)

What are we doing for Jesus? Are we showing people in our little world the love of Christ?

LET IT GROW

Jesus' answer to Peter was, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? (verse 22)

Peter inquired about John's future. Jesus rebuked Peter for asking. Peter had plenty of kingdom work to do without being concerned about John's future. It was none of Peter's business if John lived longer that he did. Just focus on your job for Jesus, Peter. That is good advice for us. We are to do what we are supposed to be doing for Jesus. Let Him manage others.

Then Jesus told Peter to follow Him. It was the same as Peter's original calling. Peter was martyred in Rome under Emperor Nero for his faith in Jesus Christ.

All believers have been called to bring glory to God in whatever they do.

We must come to terms with our limitations, our priorities, our imperfection. Peter blew it, but the Lord used him. He was catching me, tending the sheep, sharing the Gospel where ever he went.

LET IT GO

Lord, You are in control. We follow You with confidence that you will us for Your glory.

Prepare us to follow You in good times and bad times, at whatever the cost.

How Much do We Love Jesus?

2026-06-05T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T. #810 "How Much do We Love Jesus?"

June 5, 2026

John 21-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

While the disciples were eating bread and fish with Jesus around the campfire, Jesus had a personal conversation with Peter, a heart-to-heart:

*Previously, Peter had denied Jesus 3 times.
*Three times Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him.
*When Peter answered yes, Jesus told him to feed His sheep.

In the first two questions, Jesus asked Peter if He agapao (to love in a social or moral sense) Jesus. It was a self-sacrificial love. Of course, Peter loved Jesus, though He didn't show it when tested. The last time, Jesus used the word phileo (to be a friend to; fond of an individual.) It was a brotherly love.

How much do we love Jesus? Is it a self-sacrificing love or just a brotherly love? Do we give our all to Jesus or only our Sundays?

LET IT GROW

The first and last instructions to feed Jesus' sheep meant to pasture; to graze.

The second feed meant to tend as a shepherd.

It is one thing to say you love Jesus, but the real test is willingness to serve him. Peter's life changed when forgiveness came to him. Finally, Peter understood the importance of Jesus' words about His death and resurrection. Peter's three denials of knowing Jesus and being His follower needed three recommitments and declarations of His love for Jesus.

Is Jesus only our friend or is He our Savior and King of our life?

LET IT GO

Help us declare our love for You, Jesus.

Use us in kingdom work.

May our love for you be shown as we serve others and share what You have done in our life.

When Disappointment Comes

2026-06-04T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#809 "When Disappointment Come"

June 4, 2026

John 21

LET IT GLOW

What do we do when disappointment comes? Call a friend, pray?

Peter, Nathanael, James, John, and 2 unnamed ones which were together at the Sea of Galilee. Peter decided he was going fishing. The rest of the guys joined Peter in a ship, yet they caught nothing. Evidently, they were fishing during the night. This was probably a month later than chapter 20. What a disappointment.

What happened next?

*When it was morning, Jesus stood on the shore. The disciples didn't know it was Jesus.
*Jesus asked it they had an meat, and they answered no.
* He told them to cast the net on the right side of the ship and find fish.
*There were so many fish that they couldn't pull in the net.
*John recognized the stranger as Jesus.
*Peter put on his outer robe and jumped into the water. (verses 1-8)

Peter wanted to see Jesus. How important is it for us to be with Jesus?

Even in times of disappointment, Jesus can cheer us. He cheered up the disciples and fed them, too.

Do we seek Jesus when are disappointed?

LET IT GROW

What did Jesus do next to the disciples?

*He told the guys to bring their fish ashore. They caught 153 fish and the net didn't break.
*Come and dine, which was an invite to breakfast with Him.
*Jesus gave the guys bread and fish to eat.
*They added fish to the fire to cook and for them to eat.
*Peter contributed the fruit of his efforts, which the Lord provided.

The disciples were in the presence of Jesus a third time. Jesus doesn't need us to help, but He wants us to do our part.

It was a time of fellowship with the Master. Do we enjoy it, too?

LET IT GO

Grow our faith, Lord.

Help us to obey You.

Do You Believe?"

2026-06-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T. #809 "Do You Believe?"

June 3, 2026

John 20-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Jesus entered the room where the disciples, minus Thomas and Judas, were meeting after the resurrection. He showed His nail-holed hands and spear-pierced side. This was proof it was Jesus. The guys were glad to see their friend and Savior. Then Jesus commissioned them to go and tell the Good News-Jesus is alive. Before that took place, Jesus gave the disciples the Holy Ghost to share the gospel. (verses 20-22)

Now the disciples were on a Spirit-guided mission and Spirit-powered. They were sent to preach the Good News about Jesus so people's sins might be forgiven. No one has the ability to forgive sins but Jesus Christ.) We have the same privilege when we have been repented and been forgiven.

LET IT GROW

Do you need a sign or miracle before you believe in Jesus as your Savior/ Our proof is in the words of the Bible and testimony of believers.

The guys told Thomas they had seen the LORD. However, Thomas said he had to see and touch those nail print hands and side of Jesus before he believed. (verse 25) Belief was Thomas' issue.

Eight days later, they disciples were together when Jesus appeared in the room. Then Jesus told Thomas to reach, touch, and behold Jesus' hands and side.

Be not faithless, but believe. (verse 27)

Thomas didn't need to touch after all.

My LORD and my God. (verse 28) That was Thomas' answer of confession of the resurrection and deity of Christ.

Here is a promise for us:

Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. (verse 29)

God wants you to believe in Him before you see Him work in your life. (Tony Evans)

Do you believe Jesus is the Messiah and the Son of God?

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus we come to you by faith, not by works, status, education, skills, employment.

Thank YOu for salvation YOu provided for those who believe in YOu.

When Jesus Shows Up

2026-06-02T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#808 "When Jesus Shows Up"

June 2, 2026

John 20-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

It was Sunday evening. The doors were shut and locked. The terrified disciples were sitting around talking about current events. They were fearful of the Jews since Jesus was crucified. Suddenly, Jesus appears to them, apparently by coming through the wall. Can you see the stunned look on the faces of the 10 guys frozen and silent us the disciples thought Jesus to be a ghost.

Peace be unto you. (verse 19)

What can be concluded here?

Jesus brought a message of peace to the ten disciples.
Jesus had a real body.
His body had been resurrected, not just His Spirit.
The nail prints proved that He was Jesus and not someone else. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Jesus proved it was He by showing the disciples His hands and side. Can you see the relief on their faces? Can you hear the chatter in the once silent room?

Jesus can speak peace into trouble. Is your heart full of unrest?

Though your circumstances are unstable, He can provide the internal stability your heart needs. (Tony Evans)

LET IT GROW

How would you have reacted to all of this? The disciples were glad when they saw Lord Jesus. (verse 20)

*Please pray for us as we fly to Hawaii today with our son's family. We are celebrating our granddaughter's high school graduation with them. We return on the 9th. So blessed to be able to go see the beauty of God's creation. I am writing posts ahead of time so continue to study with me.

God had sent Jesus to earth on a kingdom mission to atone for the sins of the world so that all who believe would receive eternal life. Now the Son was sending His disciples on a kingdom mission to proclaim that message and make other disciples throughout the world. (Matt. 28:16-20)

Our purpose is to go and teach the truth, Word of God, and the salvation provided by Jesus Christ. Although meeting needs and showing love is included as we go.

LET IT GO

Use us today, Lord, for your purpose and glory.

He's Alive!

2026-06-01T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#807 "He's Alive!"

June 1, 2026

John 20-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Mary returned to the tomb after Peter and John returned home. She didn't know about the resurrection of Jesus. When Mary looked into the tomb while weeping. She saw 2 angels sitting there.

Look at their conversation:

One angel asked Mary why she was crying.
Mary told the angel she was looking for Jesus' body that was taken away. She didn't know where it was. (She came to finish the embalming.)
Then Jesus appeared and asked Mary why she was crying. She thought He was the gardener. Mary asked where Jesus' body was and she would take it away.

Mary wanted to finish her task, but she couldn't. She was so overcome with grief and sorrow that she didn't recognize Jesus. Do we seek Jesus when our world is falling apart?

LET IT GROW

Jesus spoke Mary's name and she recognized Him. She called Jesus Rabboni, Master. Apparently Mary moved toward Jesus to hug Him because Jesus told her not to do so.

Touch refers toto cling to, or to take hold of.

Jesus had not yet ascended to God so He wanted to be uncontaminated when He went to the Father. Jesus gave Mary a job of going and telling the disciples that Jesus is risen. (verse 17) She obeyed.

Are we going and telling others that Jesus is alive and risen from the dead?

LET IT GO

He's alive!

The Tomb Was Empty

2026-05-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#806 "The Tomb Was Empty"

May 29, 2026

John 20

LET IT GLOW

John tells about the resurrection of Christ in a little different way from Matthew, Mark, and Luke:

*It was the first day of the week when Mary Magdalene went early and in the dark to the sepulchre. She went with the purpose of anointing the dead body of Christ Jesus. (verse 1)
*The stone covering the tomb of Jesus was rolled away. It was an empty tomb.
*Mary ran to tell Peter and John, leaders of the disciples.
*She told the guys someone took Jesus' body away and she didn't know where. (verse 2)
*Peter and John ran to the tomb. (verses 3)
*John arrived first. (verse 4)
*When John looked inside, he found only linen clothes lying there. (verse 5)
*Peter went inside and found the headband folded and lying in a separate place from the rest of the grave clothes. (verse 5-6)

What an experience for just a few people as they discovered Jesus' body was gone. Friend, do you believe all of this actually happened. The Bible is truth.

LET IT GROW

Notice that Joh saw and believed, yet they did not know about the Scripture saying He must rise again from the dead. (verse 9)

Jesus taught about His resurrection. t began to dawn on these folks and their sight now turned to faith as they realized that Christ had risen. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

These close friends of Jesus had some thinking to do. A lot had happened in just 3 short days. Being overwhelmed, they returned to their homes.

What a shock it must have been.

LET IT GO

Will you accept the fact that Jesus rose from the dead, that He is God's Son, that He is alive?

Have you committed yourself to the Risen Lord Jesus?

Faithful to The End

2026-05-28T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#805 "Faithful to The End"

May 28, 2026

John 19-Part 7

LET IT GLOW

Certainly, Jesus' work was finished as He died on the cross. (verse 30)

The Jews did not permit a body to remain on the cross until the next day, for it would have violated their Jewish law. (Deut. 21:22-23) Since the victim would press on his legs to lift his chest enough to breathe, if the legs were broken, this would hasten death. The victim would not be able to breathe and die. (Falwell)

However, when the soldiers came to break Jesus' legs, He was already dead and they did not break them. (Ps. 34:20) Also, it was against the law to work after sundown on Friday, their Sabbath. One of the soldiers pierced Jesus' side and outflowed blood and water. This was proof that Jesus was dead.

God's plan of salvation was taking place before their eyes. Soon, in 3 days, the Savior would rise from the grave to complete it. Jesus has defeated death and sit in heaven on the throne reigning as King.

Do you believe this?

LET IT GROW

Joseph of Arimathaea and Nicodemus were sect disciples of Jesus. The openly asked Pilate for Jesus' body so they could bury it. It was a new tomb so no one could claim bones were in it where they lay Jesus' body. They wrapped His body and used spices. (verses 38-42) The guys intended on finishing the body preparations after the Sabbath. (Luke 24:1)

LET IT GO

Thank You Jesus for enduring the cross to provide our salvation. What love!

Are we faithful to the end like Jesus?

Is It Finished?

2026-05-27T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#804 "Is It Finished?"

May 27, 2026

John 19-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

Can we know when we have accomplished our purpose? When we have done all we could do? When is it time to step back a, give it to God, and watch the Father work on our behalf? Friend, I don't have the answers.

Yet, Jesus knew when all things were accomplished for His life. (verse 28) He thirst as evidence of His suffering. They gave Jesus vinegar (strong wine).

Then Jesus said, It is finished. (verse 30) He died and gave His Spirit to God.

Jesus' work of atonement for sin was done. The demands of the law had been met. The debt for sin had been paid in full. Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, took our place in paying for our sins.

I hope we never get over that fact. How precious Jesus is!

Sin separates people from God, and only through the sacrifice of animal, a substitute, could people be forgiven and become clean before God. But people sin continually, so frequent sacrifices were required. Jesus became the final and ultimate sacrifice from sin. The word finished is the same as "paid in full." Jesus came to finish God's work of salvation, to pay the full penalty for our sins. (Life Application Study Bible)

Jesus took all sin upon Himself, so the sacrificial system ended. Now we can come to Holy God through Savior Jesus. Belief in Jesus allows us to spend eternity in heaven with them.

Do you know this Savior personally? If not, believe Jesus is God's son and ask His forgiveness of your sins; ask Jesus to come into your heart and be your Savior. Don;' put it off. Do it today.

LET IT GROW

No one takes (my life) from Me, but I lay it down on my own. (10:18)

Bowing His head, He gave up His Spirit. (verse 30)

No one has greater love than this: to lay down his life for his friends. (15:13)

Jesus did it all and lived a perfect life. Willingly He offered Himself as a substitute for our sins.

LET IT GO

Such love, grace, mercy You give, Lord Jesus!

Do You Thirst Spiritually?

2026-05-26T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#803 "Do You Thirst Spiritually?"

May 26, 2026

John 19-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

One more prophecy is found in verse 30 where Jesus said that He thirst. They gave Him vinegar (strong wine) with hyssop. It was to fulfill Psalm 22:15. It was a little plant used for sprinkling. the sour wine reduced fever and gave refreshment to soldiers. Jesus' tongue would cleave to His jaw with dry mouth. They used hyssop to spread the lambs' blood over the doorposts during the Passover in Egypt.

LET IT GROW

Christ our Passover lamb has been sacrificed. (1 Cor. 5:7)

His shed blood became the atonement for us sinners. Jesus was thirsty.

Do we thirst after righteousness, after the Holy Spirit, after the Word of God?

LET IT GO

Is Jesus your Living Water?

Love of Family

2026-05-22T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#802 "Love of Family"

May 22, 2026

John 19-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Who were the four woman that stood by the cross of Jesus? They were His mother, Mary, and her sister, the wife of Cleophas, Mary, Mary Magdalene. Can you feel the love there? I think those women were there to support Mary. What a time of anguish for a mother. When your child suffers, a mother suffers. There is a bond between them, especially mother and son.

LET IT GROW

Jesus had been the firstborn and breadwinner of the family before He started His ministry. Did you notice He did not give the responsibility of taking care of His mother to His brothers? His brother had not yet believed in Jesus as the Messiah nor Savior. (7:3-5) Likely, they were not present at this time.

So Jesus gave that responsibility of caretaker of His mother to John. He thought of her needs, even to the end of Jesus' life. John accepted the request and took Mary to his home. (verse 27) What a good son!

Spiritual relationships are to take precedence over biological and physical relationships. (Matt. 12:46-50) (Tony Evans)

LET IT GO

The bond of love in a family is strong.

Also, the bond in a church family should be strong.

Love exceeds everything.

Jesus' love is the highest form of love.

Who Do You Say Jesus Is?

2026-05-21T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#802 "Who do You Say Jesus Is?"

May 21, 2026

John 19-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Who is your king? Is Jesus the king of your heart and life?

Pilate was driven by the crowd to please the Jews instead of his conscience. So he delivered Jesus to be crucified between to thieves. Since Jesus was not found guilty of any crime,

Pilate had His title put on the cross: JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS. (verse 19) It was written in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin. The chief priests tried to get it changed to "He said, I am the Kinga of the Jews, but Pilate would not do so. This was done so everyone could read it. Pilate wanted the sign to sting the Jews, but God meant it to declare to the world the truth about His Son.

LET IT GROW

The soldiers gambled for Jesus' clothing to fulfill Scripture in Psalm 22.

Here was a king stripped nearly naked and obviously lost his kingdom forever. Yet, Jesus' kingdom was not of this world. The sign was correct and absolutely true. Jesus is King of the Jews, Gentiles, and whole universe. (Life Application Study Bible)

Who do you say Jesus is?

LET IT GO

King of my heart, glory to Your name.

Who is Your King?

2026-05-20T08:14:00.000-05:00

N.T.#801 "Who is Your King?"

May 20, 2026

John 19-Part2

LET IT GLOW

What wrong did the Jews accuse Jesus of doing? They said he made himself out to be the Son of God, which was blasphemy according to their law, punishable by death.

What happened next? There was the confrontation between Pilate and the Jewish leaders:

*Pilate became afraid. He asked Jesus where He was from, but Jesus did not answer.
*Pilate wanted to know why Jesus wouldn't answer him.
*Jesus told him Pilate had no power except it be give to him from above. (verse 11)
*The Jewish leaders threatened Pilate with opposing Caesar.
*Pilate brought Jesus out and told the Jews to behold their King. (verse 14)

Can you hear the scorn between them? It was so thick you could cut the tension with a knife.

Pilate didn't realize that he actually spoke the truth. Jesus is King of heaven and earth!

LET IT GROW

The Governor was trying to get rid of the situation. However, the Jewish leaders cried out, "Away with Him, away with Him, crucify Him!" (verse 15)

Then Pilate asked them if he should crucify their King.

We have no king but Caesar. (verse 15c)

The Jewish leaders should have known that Jesus was the Messiah, about which the Scriptures spoke, and they should have pointed the people to Jesus. When evil, deceitful people pursue evil, they want to eliminate all opposition. Those guys wanted to further their selfish ambition. To accomplish it, they were willing to kill God's Son. (Life Application Study Bible)

It was apparent that Pilate hated the Jews and in scorn he gave them their king, poor, miserable, and beaten. Pilate was driven by the crowd and not by his conscience. He yielded to the Jews' wishes. Then Jesus was delivered to be crucified and led Him away. (verse 16)

Keep in mind, Jesus could have killed the whole bunch of evil people and gone back to heaven where He was treated with love and respect. But He chose to endure it all so He could be our Redeemer, Savior, Redemption, and King! He loves you!

Who is your king? Jesus or self? Jesus or money? Jesus or family? Jesus or job? Jesus or material things?

LET IT GO

Jesus, worthy is the Lamb of God of praise, glory, and worship.

You deserve all praise.

Responding

2026-05-19T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#800 "Responding"

May 19, 2026

John 19, 2026

LET IT GLOW

How do we respond when we are made fun of, criticized, forsaken?

So a criminal thief was let go instead of Jesus. Pilate found no fault in Him. Yet the Jewish leaders did. They didn't want to hear Jesus preach the truth. They didn't want Him gathering people to follow Him instead of the Jewish leaders. Yep, their scheme worked. The Jews killed the Messiah, the Son of God.

Pilate tried to pacify the Jewish leaders by having Jesus beaten.

What happened?

They used a whip of leather strips with bits of bone or metal tied to the ends. It resulted in the victim's back having its skin ripped open.
Next, the soldiers mocked Jesua' claim of being a king by putting a crown of thorns on His head.
They dressed Jesus in a purple robe, then shouting, "Hail, King of the Jews!"
They slapped Jesus in the face.

This was fulfillment of Isaiah 50:6 and 53:5, But He was pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; The chastening for our well-being fell upon Him, And by His scourging we are healed. (NAS)

Such brutality and humiliation our Savior endured. So much suffering Jesus went through for you and me.

LET IT GROW

Again, Pilate said he found no fault in Jesus. He declared the innocence of Christ. Jesus' robe would have been blood soaked robe.

The chief priests and officers cried out, saying, "Crucify Him, crucify Him."

Pilate said, Take ye Him, and crucify Him: for I find no fault in Him. (verse 6) beaten, yet He forgave them and continued to love people

By Jewish law, when Christ claimed to be God, He should die. (Lev. 24:16)

Friend, Jesus knows what it is like to be made fun of, mocked, spoked of in bad ways, even beaten. Yet Jesus continued to love and forgive those evil ones. Keep in mind that Jesus could have called 10,000 angels to rescued Him and kill the whole bunch of evil ones, but He chose not to do so.

LET IT GO

Help us love our enemies and pray for them.

Innocence

2026-05-18T03:00:00.000-05:00

N.T.#799 "Innocence"

May 18, 2026

John 18-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

The first two trials of Jesus were before Annas and then before Caiaphas. If you missed the information about those, read previous posts.

Today, we will discuss the third trial of Jesus was before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish council. (verse 28) Those men had to hurry to get together for this illegal session during the night. The Sanhedrin was a type of supreme court of Israel with 71 members. The high priest presided over it. They met daily in the Temple to hold court, except for Sabbaths and holy days. However, they did not have the power to administer capital punishment. The Sanhedrin could not find a charge against Jesus to indict Him. (False witnesses could not agree among themselves.)

LET IT GROW

The fourth trial of Jesus was before Pilate, governor of Judea. What are the highlights of this trial?

"Are you the King of the Jews?" Pilate asked Jesus. (verse 33)
Then Jesus asked Pilate if he was saying this on his own initiative or if others told him about Jesus.
Pilate said it was the Jews who brought Jesus there before him.
Jesus anwered that His kingdom was not of this world, and if it was, His servants would be fighting to prevent this.
So You are a king?
You say it correctly that I am a king.
I was born for this and bear witness of the truth.
What is truth?
Pilate told the Jews he found no guilt in Jesus.
The Jews custom was to release someone for you at the Passover.
Do you want me to release for you the King of the Jews?
They said not Jesus, but Barabbas, a robber.

What a trial! The governor found no fault in Jesus, but the Jews would not accept this. They wanted to get rid of Jesus and have Him killed. How sad! Jesus was innocent of all charges. He is the King of the Jews, though.

LET IT GO

When our trials come, Jesus give us strength to endure and honor You.

When Trials Come

2026-05-15T03:00:00.104-05:00

N.T.#798 "When Trials Come"

May 15, 2026

John 18-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Trial #1-Jesus was before Annas the former high priest.

Trial #2-Jesus went before Caiaphas, the present high priest. He asked Jesus about His disciples and His doctrine. (verse 19)

What happened next?

Peter wasn't trying to fit in around the fire in the courtyard, but he didn't want to stand out either. He ended up denying Jesus three times. (verses 15-18)
Caiaphas was interested in the number of disciples Jesus had. Jesus had taught openly, not secretively.
Jesus asked him to produce witnesses for Him. Failure to produce them would have made this trial illegal.
One of the officers struck Jesus on the palm of His hand, accusing Him of disrespect or evil.

Did you notice that Jesus stood His ground of innocence? Do our actions look like we don't know Jesus?

LET IT GROW

Trial #3-Jesus went before the Sanhedrin, into the Hall of judgment and the governor's place of residence. The Jews didn't enter a gentile's quarters. They were more interested in ceremonial purity than justice. Pilate asked what Jesus was accused of doing. (verse 29) They would not have brough a person to Pilate if they had not been an evildoer.

How did Pilate react to this scheme of the Jews? He told the Jews to take Jesus and judge Him according to their law. Pilate didn't know they wanted to kill Jesus. The Jews couldn't legally execute anyone. They wanted Pilate to pass the death sentence upon Jesus.(vere 31)

Do you see how this procedure was illegal?

When trials come, are we strong in our faith in Jesus?

LET IT GO

Commit to following Jesus no matter what.

When on Trial

2026-05-14T03:00:00.158-05:00

N.T.#797 "When on Trial"

May 14, 2026

John 18-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Can you picture this: The soldiers pulled Jesus' arms behind His neck and placed them in irons or binding them tightly with a rope. During His ordeal, we assume He remained bound with a noose around His neck.

Then Jesus was taken to the highest Jewish power in Israel, Annas, for the first of 6 trials:

1, They took Jesus to Annas (the father in law to Caiaphas). He was previously a high priest and had a great influence over the Sanhedrin. It was like a preliminary examination. Annas would then give his advice to Caiaphas about Christ's destiny. It was up a hill to the residence of Annas and around 3 or 4 o'clock in the morning. According to Jewish law, the office of a high priest was held for life. Many still considered Annas their high priest. Yet, Caiaphas made the final decisions. The office of high priesthood was generally handed down through the family, so it was not uncommon for them to collaborate in carrying out the functions of the office.

Those religious leaders were evil and more concerned with their political ambitions than leading people to God. They should have known Jesus to be the Messiah according to Scriptures.

This gave time for the Sanhedrin members to hurry and gather together for a trial so early in the morning. This was illegal in the Jewish laws, though. Trials were not to occur on the eve of a Sabbath or during festivals, either. All trials were to be public and held in the Hall of Judgment in the temple area.

LET IT GROW

The disciples scattered immediately after the arrest in the garden. (Matt. 26:56) Peter and John returned to follow the Lord's movements from a safe distance. John was permitted inside to watch. John's family wealth and social status may have had an influence on Annas.

Peter entered the great hall of Annas' residence, the doorkeeper recognized him as a disciple. Then the first denial of Peter knowing Jesus around the fire, one of three, occurred as Jesus predicted. (13:38)

[Resources: Liberty Bible Commentary; Swindoll's New Testament Insights on John; Life Application Study Bible]

We know how this ends for Jesus-death on the cross. Keep in mind, He did this because Jesus loves you and me. He took our punishment for our sins. Do you trust Him to be your Savior?

LET IT GO

No matter what comes our way, Jesus has already won it. Trust Him, He's got this.

Jesus knows what it is like to be on trial for doing good.

We turn to You, Precious Jesus, for strength and comfort.; fix our eyes on You.

Help us face tomorrow, for it is in Your hands.

You will provide what we need.

Jumping Ahead

2026-05-13T03:00:00.079-05:00

N.T.#796"Jumping Ahead"

May 13, 2026

John 18-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

What did spontaneous Peter do?

He drew his sword, then he chopped off the right ear of the servant to the high priest, whose name was Malchus. Wow Peter! Are you in trouble! There were 600 soldiers that morning in the Garden and you do this?

Jesus came to Peter's rescue-Put up your sword. The cup which My Father has given Me, shall I not drink from it? (verse 11)

Did Peter intend to kill the man by splitting his head open? Malchus dodged the sword at the last moment, only loosing an ear.

Jesus' cup was one of suffering and agony on the cross. He took our place for punishment of our sins. What love!

LET IT GROW

Allow God's plan to unfold. It's tempting to take matters into our own hands, to force the issue. Most often such moves lead to sin. We must trust God to work out His plan.

Had Peter had his way, Jesus would not have gone to the cross, and God's plan of redemption would have been thwarted. However, Jesus touched the man's ear and healed him. (Luke 22:51) Then Jesus rebuked Peter for acting like an unbeliever and failing to see God's plan unfolding.

Do we often jump ahead and try to solve a problem before we allow God to work it out?

LET IT GO

Forgive when it is easy and forgive when it hurts.

Love unconditionally.

Surrender to God's plan.

LET IT GO

Whom Do You Seek?

2026-05-08T03:00:00.169-05:00

N.T. #795 "Whom Do You Seek?"

May 12, 2026

John 18-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

We left Jesus and His 11 disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane. The disciples had fallen asleep and Jesus went to the gate when a crowd showed up. What happened next?

A group of 600 soldiers, high priests, Judas, and Pharisees who came to the garden. (verse4)
Jesus asked, "Whom seek ye?"
Their answer was, "Jesus of Nazareth."

This is the name that appeared on the official arrest warrant issued by the Sanhedrin and the Roman government. (Falwell)

How did Jesus answer? "I am He." (verse 5) He calmly answered and did not try to escape. Jesus stated His deity, as in 8:58. Perhaps the 600 soldiers too their position in defense, preparing for resistance and a fight. They were frightened by a single rabbi and His 11 followers? Only 1 had a weapon-Peter.

What happened as soon as Jesus said His identity? They went backward and fell to the ground. The enemies of God shrank before the presence of the Almighty.

Who do we seek? Who do we consider the One that can change hearts and lives? Jesus.

LET IT GROW

On numerous occasions, Jesus demonstrated the moral power that was His as the Son of God. Here, those men were struck by the power of Jesus' words. (David Jeremiah)

Jesus is no mere man. He's the God-man. He's the Word who was with God, was God, and became flesh. (1:1, 14) Jesus spoke the divine name using the same voice that had spoken the world into existence. And it knocked the betrayer and his accomplices off their feet. (Tony Evans)

Again, Jesus asked who they sought, Jesus of Nazareth was their answer again, and He answered, " I am He." This time, though, Jesus added, Let these go their way. (verse 8)

John said it was so it might be fulfilled that Jesus said, Of them which thou gavest Me have I lost none. (6:39; 17:12)

When Jesus intervenes to protect you, His intervention is always effective. (Evans)

LET IT GO

Nothing matters when we stand before a Holy, Almighty God. None of us are righteous, no not one.

Will we stand in His presence or to our knees will we fall?

Will we fall on our face and tremble?

It is better to bow before Almighty God now and confess our sins then ask His forgiveness than to stand before the Righteous Judge.

Which will it be, my friend?

Betrayed

2026-05-08T03:00:00.168-05:00

N.T.#794 "Betrayed"

May 11, 2026

John 18

LET IT GLOW

Have you ever been betrayed? It is such a deep pain that it paralyzes you emotionally. Jesus knew that pain, for one of His disciples betrayed Him.

They came to take Him away. Jesus took His 11 disciples to the Garden of Gethsemane. They went there frequently for a place of seclusion where Jesus prayed. Judas led the band of 600 soldiers, chief priests, and Pharisees to where Jesus was.

They came with torches to take the Light of the world (Jesus) with weapons to arrest the Prince of Peace. Since Jesus knows all things, He expected this, for Jesus went to the location where He knew Judas could find Him.

One of His own disciples betrayed Him early that morning-Judas.

Are we prepared for people to betray us? I doubt it. Usually it is so unexpected that someone we trust and maybe love would do such a thing. It is unimaginable that they would hurt us so deeply that we are shocked. And sometimes they even lie about it.

LET IT GROW

Jesus was completely aware of Judas' plan. Judas sold out information as to where Jesus was for 30 pieces of silver. Maybe he knew what the group's intentions were or maybe not. At any rate, Judas lived to regret it, they killed himself. The group was intending to kill the Messiah Jesus Christ.

Did you notice that Jesus didn't run and hide when the group came looking for Him? Jesus went to the gate to meet the crowd. It was at this point that Judas kissed the Master in order to indicate His identity. (Matt. 26:49)

We can meet evil head on with Jesus beside us. Be of good cheer, Jesus has overcome the world. (16:33)

LET IT GO

Keep the faith.

Love our enemies.

Turn the other cheek.

Trust God.

Peace

2026-05-07T03:00:00.110-05:00

N.T.#792 "Peace"

May 7, 2026

John 16-Part 4

I have overcome the world. (verse 33)

LET IT GLOW

Going through a tough time? You can have peace. Read on to find out how.

As the time for Jesus' cross quickly approached, He stated that the disciples would scatter then. Peter and John would watch from the background. Others would run for their lives. Basically, everyone would be afraid for their own life and leave Jesus alone. (Yet, He was not alone since the Father was with Him.) (verse 32)

Jesus was sent from the Father, is in the Father, and would return to the Father. The Son and the Father are one. (Tony Evans)

It was all in God's plan in order to provide salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Isn't it easy to have strong faith whenever we aren't challenged? It's easy to declare our faith in God while among Christians in church. It's harder to live it out in the world, surrounded by unbelievers.

LET IT GROW

Jesus wasn't telling His guys to fill them with fear, but so they might have peace in Him. (verse 33) We can't know if we truly have peace until conflict strikes. A Christian's peace is found in our connection to Jesus Christ based on His work. (Evans)

How can we courageous and faithful, with peace during tribulation?

Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. (verse 33c)

The world may beat us down, but we can live with bold faith because Jesus is the sovereign King over the world. He has defeated sin, Satan, and death. Amen!

Jesus can overrule our earthly circumstances. So we must abide in Him and His Word and Spirit abide in us. Surrender to God's will keeps us in His will.

Jesus accepted the disciples' statement of faith, even though He knew what lay ahead for them. We know their words and lives soon matched as they grew in faith, even to the point of death. Jesus takes us through the same process.

How well are we living out what we say and believe about Jesus?

LET IT GO

Help us deny our self, take up our cross, and follow You, King Jesus.

Show us we are not alone in our struggles, Lord.

Bless us with Your peace today.

To You be the glory forever.

Jesus Prayed For Us

2026-05-06T10:00:00.001-05:00

N.T.#793 "Jesus Prayed For Us"

May 8, 2026

John 17

LET IT GLOW

How long do we pray?

This entire chapter John wrote is what Jesus prayed. He prayed for all who would follow Him, you and me, as well as the disciples.

For what did Jesus pray?

God be glorified and Jesus be glorified (verse 1)
Eternal life for believers (verse 2)
Believers know the Only True God and Jesus (verse 3)
God keeps (guards, watch over) believers in a wicked world (verse 11)
Unity (verse 11)
None compromise with the wicked world (verse 12)
Jesus' joy be fulfilled in them and us (verse 13)
God's Word given them (verse 14)
Protection from the evil one (verse 15)
They are not of the world (verse 16)
Sanctification (holiness) (verse 17).

Jesus asked for unity in harmony and love as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are united. He desired the disciples and us to be protected by keeping us connected to our holy and righteous Father. Also, Jesus prayed we would be protected from Satan and the worldly ways.

LET IT GROW

In verse 17, Jesus prayed we would be sanctified, set apart, through God's Truth, His Word. Jesus prayed for the church and future believers in Him. He wants us to be complete.

In verse 24, Jesus desires those given to Him will be with Him and see His glory,

Dear one, do you believe in Jesus as God's Son, the Way to heaven, the Truth, the way of life?

[Resources: Liberty Bible Commentary, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary, Life Application Study Bible)

*Please pray for the blog, for someone is trying to prevent my posting through typing here.

LET IT GO

Help us stay in unity with You, Jesus, and Christians.

Do You Believe?

2026-05-06T03:00:00.067-05:00

N.T.#791 "Do You Believe?"

May 6, 2026

John 16-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Christ told His disciples He was going away in a little while, but then they would see Him. I'm sure that was confusing to them. They would wee while the world would rejoice. However, their sorrow would turn into joy because of the resurrection of Jesus. (verse 20)

Jesus reassured the guys He would see them again. The Holy Spirit would produce a permanent joy. (verse 22)

Jesus used the example of the pain in childbirth and joy the child brings to the mother. The pain in insignificant to her by that time.

LET IT GROW

When that day came, it would be impossible for the disciples to personally ask Christ for things.

Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you. (verse 23)

Jesus intercedes for Christians in prayer to the Father through the name of the Son, Jesus Christ. When the Spirit came, Christ would reveal the Father plainly.

The Father answers our prayers because He loves us, because we love Jesus and believe in Him as Savior. (verse 27)

Don't know who said this, but what a profound statement in made in verse 30:

... this we believe that Thou camest forth from God. (verse 30)

Friend, do you believe in Jesus as God's Son?

LET IT GO

Whatever my lot, You are still my God.

It is well with my soul.

I trust in God my Savior.

You will never fail.

Holy Spirit

2026-05-05T03:00:00.077-05:00

N.T.#790 "Holy Spirit"

May 5, 2026

John 16-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Who is the Holy Spirit?

What does Jesus till us about the Spirit of Truth, the Holy Spirit

He guides in all truth. (verse 13)
He does not speak of Himself.*He speaks of what He hears.
He reveals things to come. future revelation.
He glorifies Jesus.
His revelation is from Jesus. (verse 14)

Jesus' personal sacrifice shows us His priority was to love us. Opposition is hard to deal with.

The Holy Spirit guided the guys as they wrote the Scriptures. We are able to understand it through the Holy Spirit's working.

LET IT GROW

The disciples didn't get what Jesus was speaking about-His leaving and returning. We should not get upset if we don't understand what Jesus is doing in our life. After all, His first disciples were confused and Jesus was right there with them. Keep pursuing Him.

We know Jesus was speaking about His death to His disciples. Then He would rise from the dead and appear to them in His resurrection body. Joy would return to them.

LET IT GO

Are we listening to the Holy Spirit?