We’ve heard the story over and over. Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead. But why? Previously, we saw that Jesus acts for the glory of God. But he also acts for the good of his friends. Jesus is clear about his love. Mary and Martha introduce their brother as the one Jesus loves (John 11:3). Look at verse 5, now.…
Month: December 2022
Why Does Jesus Save Lazarus? Part 1
A certain man was ill in the village of Bethany–the home of Mary and Martha (John 11). Now, John hasn’t really mentioned Mary and Martha. Maybe not at all yet. But he cites a story that Luke actually shares in his gospel. It’s a story Christians loved to tell, apparently, one that was in circulation among early Christians. Their brother,…
Jesus Pursues, Gathers, and Keeps
14 I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, 15 just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And I have other sheep that are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will listen to my voice.…
Will we have church on Christmas Day?
Christmas will fall on a Sunday this year, and that comes with both a unique challenge and a unique opportunity. Will we have church on Christmas? Another way to ask that question, just replacing the terms “have church” and “Christmas” with more precise theological language: Will we gather on the Lord’s Day for the celebration of the Lord’s coming? This…