“The Power of Knowing the Actual Jesus”
Speaker: John J Roberts
Date: May 15, 2022
Text: Philippians 3:1-11
Introduction
“Joy is the serious business of heaven.”
-C.S. Lewis
Living by the Law is easier, quicker, and more manageable… but it’ll kill you.
Cycle of Work
In the cycle of works your identity is rooted squarely in what you DO for God.
Matthew 23 – Jesus words to the religious leaders of his day.
Mathew 11:28-30 – Take a rest
The way forward is the way of Grace; knowing the actual Jesus and living in intentional and thoughtful friendship with Him.
The Cycle of Grace:
Holy Indifference - The parable of the hidden treasure - The parable of the pearl of great price
“He is no fool who gives us what he cannot keep to gain what he can never lose.”
- Jim Elliot
Knowledge by description:
Knowledge by acquaintance:
Kingdom life/Eternal Life is sustained by interaction with the King – knowing by acquaintance – direct awareness of him and his kingdom.
The primary agent in this personal, interactive relationship is the Holy Spirit - John 14
Knowing Jesus will happen in the same way that we come to know any person.
Come to Christ with Humility/authenticity
Making Time to Listen
You can hear the voice of Jesus in scripture.
Fellowship with other disciples
Being intentional about solitude and silence.
Being ready with YES.
“The answer is YES… now what is the question?”
- Conclusion – Taking time to Listen
Questions for Reflection & Next Steps:
- In the next week commit to some time each day to simply sit with Jesus. 5 minutes – 10 minutes – 30 minutes.
- Listen for his voice… and then test it against scripture – test it with others with whom you have fellowship.
- Commit yourself to YES… then what is the question.
- What is one thing in the next week that Christ may be asking you to say yes to that you’re struggling with? Is there anything? We can see the power of the resurrection at work when we step out in obedience beyond our perceived ability.
