Deuteronomy 7:6-12, John 15:12-1
Reflect
What’s amazing about this passage is that the God of this universe through His Son Jesus Christ, loves us enough to take us as His friends (v14). It was not through our efforts or self-confidence that somehow Christ would show any sort of affinity to us, but we were brought near to His heart because of His sacrificial love.
Jesus did not have to die – He alone possessed power and life over death! Yet, he suffered a death in which He did not deserve. Jesus did not have to make us His friends, but He died to save people who were enemies and sinners. Jesus did not have to endure such physical, emotional, and mental anguish, but chose to save a broken humanity. When we receive His friendship, it may be the single greatest possession of our lives, and one of the greatest callings on our lives that we are to live as Christ lived.
Apply
How does this quote impact you?
“For sinful men and women like ourselves to be called ‘friends of Christ,’ is something that our weak minds can hardly grasp and take in. The King of kings and Lord of lords not only pities and saves all them that believe in Him, but actually calls them His ‘friends.’” - J.C. Ryle
Pastor Nathanael
Pray
- Pray for our childcare team, the children and their families this week. Pray for the Director, Angie Clark.
- Pray for our Lead Team Pastor, Terry Okken and his family.
- Pray for our Missions Ministry Assistant, Oleksandr Lushchyk.
- Pray for our Young Adults Ministry Assistant, Shone Williams.