HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH JESUS

 

      8. HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS - MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY
Read Matthew 19: 1-12; John 13:34&35

"Healthy relationships produce healy families and mariages. The TRUTH OF GOD'S WORD is needed to develop and build these healthy relationships. Jesus is the nicest person you'll ever met, and he will help you cultivate this healthy relationship. The first thing we need to do is to LEAN ON HIM and let Him LOVE US!" Chip Judd

a) MARRIAGE - LOVE IS MUTUALLY SATISFYING

In an authentic marriage , you genuinely delight in one another's company, but you also "derive energe" from quiet times. You know how to GIVE and to RECEIVE LOVE, in both a fun and romantic way. You listen to each other and you appreciate each other's differences, learning the "language of love", taking practical steps to "nurture your marriage". 

"This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is JOINED TO HIS WIFE and the TWO ARE UNITED INTO ONE.  Since they are no longer TWO, BUT ONE, let no one split apart what God has JOINED TOGETHER." Matthew 19:5&6  (NLT)

"The MAN WHO FINDS A WIFE FINDS A TREASURE, and he receives favour from the Lord." Proverbs 18:22 (NLT)

It's hard to LOVE someome when you don't understand them. Some of the most common keys to authenticity (languages of love) in marriage are:

* TOUCH - Kisses and hugs usually come naturally to couples. 

* VERBAL EXPRESSION - You can't help but say "I LOVE YOU".

* SERVICE - Many communicate through practical by demonstrating in practical ways.

* PROVISION - Many consider being the "breadwinner" to be greatest expression of their love. They go to great efforts to ensure their loved ones are provided for. 

* GIFT GIVERS - Some couples just love to give gifts to one another - not necesarily big ones, but they enjoy "wrapping them with love".

* SPENDING TIME TOGETHER - Fellowship and communication in marriage is very important for many couples. They schedule special time for "dates nights" or just some special time together. 

It is very important to communicate your LOVE to your partner (spouse). LOVE can transform a MARRIAGE! 

"LOVE EACH OTHER. JUST AS I HAVE LOVED YOU, YOU SHOULD LOVE EACH OTHER. YOUR LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER will prove to the world that you are my disciples."

                                                                                                  John 13:34&35 (NLT)

"What is an authentic, LOVING MARRIAGE? It's when DIFFERENCES are seen as BLESSINGS; where REAL LOVE and routine gives way to conversation, fun and romance. Devoting time to common fun interests, and sharing goals. Renew your committment to building the kind of marriage God wants to ENJOY."                                                                                                                                Gary Chapman 

                                             b) FAMILY - THE HIGH CALL OF PARENTING

Todays children and teenagers live in a different world. Another reason why their behaviour has changed, is that parents are finding life a lot more difficult. It is harder to be positive role models with all the new technology. Times have definitely changed!

When I was a child, I spent most of my time outdoors - climbing trees, riding my bike, going to the park with my friends. Now my grandchildren spend most of their time on the SCREEN, there is a lot more PEER PRESSURE; and we hear about nuclear threats and increased sexual and domenstic abuse.  Their parents face a lot of economic and environmental instability. Christian parents need to STAND FIRM in this changing world to "instill in their children strength, integrity and values". 

Raising children is a REAL CHALLENGE, and mothers and fathers need to WORK TOGETHER, with EQUAL RESPONSIBILITY in raising, training, nurturing and disciplining their children. 

"And now a word to you fathers. Don't make your children angry by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord."                                                                                                                   Ephesians 6:4 (NASB)

"You children, you must always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord. Fathers do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged."

                                                                                            Colossians 3:20&21 (NLT)

Parenting is an opportunity to invest yourselves fully into the lives of your children. They have unique talents and gifts , and have the opportunity to reach their full potential. To do this they need YOUR LOVE, TIME, DISCIPLINE and PRAYER. 

"Christian parents need to truly understand this goal of parenting - to draw out the image bearing potential of their child - become fully engaged in this challenge. Do everying you can to encouage authentic Christian growth in your children."                                                                                                            Catherine Claire Larson

I wasn't the perfect parent. But I tried my best to bring up my son, praying everyday that God would help his father and I follow in the right direction. My goal was that he would be a reflection of the image of God, living in the ways of Jesus. His daughters today face the sane pressures, if not greater, but he and his lovely wife are full engaged in in their parenting roles, and as GRANDPARENTS, all we can do is PRAY AND SUPPORT THEM.

"So God created people in His own image, God patterned them after Himself, male and female He created them." Genesis 1:27 (NCV)

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION" - 2015, Tyndale House Foundation

"NEW AMERICAN STANDARD VERSION", - 1995, The Lockman Foundation

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW CENTURY VERSION" - 2005, Thomas Nelson

Judd, Chip, "Healthy Relationships - Marriage", 2022, Messenger International

Chapman, Gary, "The 5 Love Languages - How to Express Heartfelt Committment to Your Mate", 1992, Northfield Publishing

Larson, Catherine Claire, "Embrace The High Call of Parenting", 2026, An Invitation to Flourish/You Tube

OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS

                  

                   

                            3.  A RELATIONSHIP OF GRACE & FORGIVENESS
                                                  Read Matthew 18:15-22

"Peter came to Jesus and asked: "Lord, how often should I FORGIVE SOMEONE WHO SINS AGAINST ME? Seven times?" 

"No, not seven times", Jesus said, "but seventy times seven."                                                                                                                   Matthew 18:21&22 (NLT)

FORGIVENESS IS NOT EASY! It means, even if a person has hurt us, we need be like Jesus, who as MERCIFUL AND GRACIOUS.  Sometimes it can be EXTREMELY HARD! 

"Everyone thinks FORGIVENESS is a lovely idea until they have something to FORGIVE."    C.S Lewis

But because of what Jesus did for us on the CROSS. It reminds us how costly and painful forgiveness can be.  It doesn't mean we have to "approve of what people do", or "excuse" their behaviour;  We definetley may not be able tp pretend that we  are not HURT; we too can be willing to FORGIVE OTHERS, and "cultivate a loving relationship towards others", because this is what that Jesus did for us.  This is what RECONCILIATION, FORGIVENESS  and GRACE means!

"In your personal relationships, lay aside MALICE, REVENGE AND RETRIBUTION, to show MERCY AND GRACE to the person who has hurt you. Lord, help us to use our freedom to LOVE follow the example of JESUS." Nicky Gumble

                                       4. JESUS LOVED THE INVISIBLE 
                                          Luke 19:1-10, Matthew 9:9-13

When Jesus came to the town of Jericho that day he did the "unthinkable" - He went to the home of Zaccheaus, a Tax Collector.  After meeting with Jesus Zaccheaus was a different person. He gave money to the poor and paid back money he had exhorted. He was now LOVED by the people in town.  

"Jesus put his hand on Zaccheaus shoulder and disappeared into his house. This was a radical message of Jesus' love and understanding. He was never elected mayor but he captured the heart of his town. Jesus said: "Today, salvation came to this house."   Gary Boyd

Jesus saw something in Zaccheus that no one else had, and this is the same for every outcast that Jesus loves.  "Being invisible" means that you are othen "pushed to the edge". In the Gospels, we read that Jesus hung around many fisherman, shepherds, women, and people dealing with "health issues". 

"When He saw the crowds He had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a Shepherd." Matthew 9:36 (NIV)

He has compassion for the those who FEEL ALONE, with "deep tenderness", and endeavours to relieve their suffering. JESUS MODELS TRUE LOVE AND KINDNESS FOR US!

                                   

5. JESUS HAD NO RACIAL DISCRIMINATION
Read John 4

Jesus walked annd talked with many people from different races. He took his disciples to different towns, where the Samaritans and others were not always accepted by Jews. Many men a women were accepted by Jesus, because of their FAITH, even though they may have been Greek or Roman cultures. 

"Many Samaritans from the village believed in Jesus because the woman had said, "He told me everything I ever did."...... They said to the woman: "Now we believe, not just because of what you told us, but because we heard it for ourselves. Now we know that He indeed is the Saviour of the world." John 4:39&42 (NLT)

Jesus crossed the "racial boundaries" and people trusted this Jewish Rabbi who served them, and met their needs. Jesus invited anyone to come and have a RELATIONSHIP with Him. 

                         6. JESUS MADE FRIENDS WITH HIS EVERYONE
                                                                Read 5:43-48

"You have heard that it was said, "You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF and hate your enemy." But I say to you, "LOVE YOUR ENEMIES  and bless those who curse you. DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO HATE YOU. DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO SPIRITUALLY USE YOU AND PERSECUTE YOU." Matthew 5:43&44 (NKJV)

You can tell a lot about Jesus by His CHOICE OF FRIENDS. He often accepted dinner invitations with tax collectors,  social outcasts and people of other races.  But the "pious Jewish relifious folks" felt uncomfortable when He associated with these people. The average people liked being with Jesus:

                                                                            * Prostitutes.

                                                                            * Fishermen

                                                                            * Women and Children

                                                                            * Roman centurions

                                                                            * Those with leprosy and othher diseases

                                                                            * Tax Collectors.

                                                                            * Samaritans

                                                                            * A few religious leaders - Nicodemus.

He went to dinner in people's homes, He wept at funerals, He invited people to meet with Him and get to know Him, He taught them and he healed them. He encouraged people to have a RELATIONSHIP with Him; as a CLOSE FRIEND!

Jesus always had the same amout of time for everyone. He was NEVER IN A HURRY! He always took notice of PEOPLE'S NEEDS. Jesus reached out to the POOR and those who were "STARVED FOR THE HUMAN TOUCH". It felt good to to be LOVED BY JESUS!

Children loved Him, and so did their parents. He was TENDER, MERCIFUL AND PATIENT with them all. He bent down and met them face to face, and would take time to sit with them. No wonder people FOLLOW HIM - HE REALLY LOVED THEM and took TIME to be with them. 

                                         7. JESUS WELCOMES WOMEN
                                                        Read John 8:1-11; 

"When Jesus had raised Himself up; He saw no one but a woman. He said to her: "Where are these accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?"

She said: "No Lord."

And Jesus said: "Go, and sin no more." John 8:10&11 (NKJV)

To be a woman in Jesus' day it meant you were invisible:

* You had no right or were allowed to be a witness in court.

* You had no inheritance, and you the propety of a husband or a father or brother.

* You didn't have an education - never being taught to read, and your opinions didn't matter.

But Jesus BROKE THE CHAINS that held WOMEN IN BONDAGE. Some of His closest friends were women: Mary and Martha, Mary Magdalene, and of course his Mother Mary. He refused to treat them as inferior and he RESPECTED THEIR NEEDS.

Jesus listened to both Jewish and Gentile women - He saw them as beautiful, quiet women of FAITH, praising their WORKS. Women were LOVED BY JESUS, and they meant the world to Him.

 

a) MARY MAGDALENE

Mary was LONELY, DEPRESSED, ASHAMED AND AFRAID. Her life was a complete wreck, surrounded by trials - prostitution and abuse. Then someone came into her life - JESUS!

Filled with JOY, LIFE and ENCOURAGEMENT, many spent most of her time FOLLOWING HIM. 

Mary helped prepared Jesus' body for his burial after his crucifixian, and she was the first woman to come to the grave on the day of his RESURRECTION. John tells Mary's story at His grave - alone and weeping, she meets with Jesus. HER CALLS HER BY NAME!

"Jesus said to her: "Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?"

She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, "Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you laid Him, and I will takw Him away."

Jesus said to her: "MARY!"  John20:15&16 (NKJV)

Mary heard his voice, and her world went from despair to JOY. He came to her, He loved her, amd she knew that He would mever abandon her.

"Jesus is very fond of you and LOVES YOU too. You don't have to earn it, and you will never lose it. He will never stop loving you even if you make bad choices, because of His GRACE AND MERCY. Let God LOVE YOU, even when you are weeping."  Max Lucado

"The Lord is MERCIFUL AND GRACIOUS, slow to anger and ABOUNDING IN LOVE...For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so GREAT IS HIS LOVE for those who fear Him....a father has compassion on His children, SO THE LORD HAS COMPASSION on those who fear Him." Psalm 103:8, 11&13  (NIV)

2. JESUS LOVED HIS MUM, MARY.

In many stories of Jesus, you will always find MARY - HIS MUM! She was always there at the most important times of his life. She was there at His first MIRACLLES, His TEACHINGS and at the CROSS, when most of his disciples, except maybe John had left Him. He had made arrangements with John to take care of her after he was crucified.

"Near the CROSS OF JESUS stood His mother, his mother's sister, Mary, the wife of Clopas and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw HIS MOTHER there, and the disciple whom He loved standing nearby, he said to her, "Woman, her is your own son", and to the disciple, "Here is your mother". From that time, this disciple took her into his home." John 19:25-27 (NIV)'

But this wasn't the last time she saw Him. She still met her RESURRECTED SON with the other disciples. NO WONDER JESUS LOVED HER!!  No wonder JESUS LOVES US! 

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW KING JAMES VERSION" - 1982, Thomas Nelson

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" - 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION" - 2015, Tyndale House Foundation

LEWIS, C.S, "Mere Christianity", 2012, William Collins

GUMBEL, Nicky, "Why Does God Allow Suffering?/Searching Issues" - The Bible in One Year, (2009/2026), Alpha International/You Version

BOYD, Gary, "Jesus Loved the Invisible", 2024, He Gets Us/You Tube

LUCADO, Max, "Stand On the Promises of God's Love", 2020, Gateway/You Tube

"Zaccheaus Was a Wee Little Man", 2013, Carol Tornquist (Author)TrikeBabe/YouTube

"Mary Magdalene - "At the Tomb - A ForeShadowing" - 2024, The Chosen, Season  4/ You Tube

"Jesus and His Mother" - 2024, The Chosen - Season 4/You Tube

    

 

                                                        

 

                                                        

JESUS' CONTINUED GOSPEL TEACHING - GOOD AND EVIL.

 

                                  7. JOHN THE BAPTIST'S BEHEADING 
                                             Read Read Matthew 14 :1-12

a) THE PATH OF EVIL

Herod was a leader, but not a very good one. He had committed adultery with his two brother's wives. When John the Baptist confronted him about it, he hoped he would see the error of his ways, but instead of a "guilty conscience", there was no "seeking repentance". Instead, he had John thrown into prison. 

"For when Herod had John arrested, he bound him and put him into prison, because of Herodias, the wife of his brother Philip. For John had been saying to him,  "It is not lawful for you to have her". Matthew 14:3&4 (NASB)

Herod wanted "self gratification". He focused on his "own personal pleasure". He wanted to kill John but was afraid of the Jewish people and John's disciples. He feared "rejection". 

"Beware, don't let pleasure matter more to you than the needs of others. Don't let what others think  matter more than what is RIGHT. Let your FOLLOWING JESUS help you to behave courageosly like John the Baptist."  Nicky Gumbel

Herod's family also had an evil spirit. His niece Herodias' daaghter plotted plotted with  her mother to have John beheaded.

"On Herod's birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. Prompted by her mother, she asked for the head of John the Baptist on a platter."                                                                                                                Matthew 14:6-8 (NIV)

b) THE PATH OF GOOD

Jesus was deeply shocked by the news of John's death. He knew that he he too would one day have to face "persecution and death", for our sins. But he continued on with his ministry.  He continued with HIS LOVE, KINDNESS AND COMPASSION!

"John's disciples came and took his body to bury it. Then they went and told Jesus. When Jesus head what had happened He withdrew privately to a solitary place."                                                                                                                    Matthew 14:12 (NIV

This is is something we can always do, when we have to face with difficult times in our life. Like Jesus, we can know that His Father is always with us, and is ready to gives us strength to help us too continue with out ministry.  The path of GOOD - LOVE AND KINDNESS is what helps us to keep going and remember that JESUS IS LOVE!!

"Lord, may the difficult times in our lives not lead us off the RIGHT PATHS,  but lead us to GREATER COMPASSION and WISDOM." Nicky Gumbel

This is the final series of Jesus' teaching - his parables and healing.  We will now move on to a series of our RELATIONSHIP WITH JESUS and others, how we need to:

"So now I am giving you a new commandment: LOVE EACH OTHER. JUST AS I HAVE LOVE YOU, YOU SHOULD LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Your LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHE will prove to the world that you are my disciples." John 13:34& 35 (NLT)

For Christmas my husband surprised me by buying me a book that I hadn't even asked for: "Rose Book of Bible Charts Maps and Timelimes". - 10th Anniversary". I can't wait to start reading it and sharing it with you, as I move on to my studies. There is nothing I love most than learning, growing and sharing GOD'S WORD!

"NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE", 2020, The Lockman Foundation

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011. Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Foundation

"John the Baptist's Beheading" (2023) Chosen: Series 3, You Tube

GUMBEL, Nicky, "Choose the Good Path" - Matthew 14:1-21: Bible in One Year", 2009/2026, Alpha Internation/You Tube 

JESUS' CONTINUED GOSPEL TEAHCING - HUMILITY

 

                        5.  JAMES AND JOHN: SEEKING TO BE GREATEST
                                                  Read Mark 10:35-45         

James and his brother John, the Sons of Zebedee, were called the "Sons of Thunder". They were quick to get angry at times, and also had a spirit of PRIDE, which they seemed to develop from their father. One day they were wer encouraged by their parents, specifically their mother, to seek some "special privlidges" from Jesus.

They wanted to follow their mother's wishes, but they were embarassed. They felt a little rejected when Peter was renamed annd was given "leadership" in as the Rock in the future Church. 

James & John: "Teacher, we want you to do for us whatever we ask."

Jesus: "What do you want me to do for you?"

James and John: "Grant us that we may sit, one on Your right hand and one on Your left hand, in your glory."

Jesus: "You do not know what you ask. Are you able to drink from the cup that I drink, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized?"

James & John: "We are able."

Jesus: "You indeed will drink the cup that I drink, and with the baptism that I will be batized, but to sit on My right hand and My left is not Mine to give, but it is for those for whom it is prepared."   Mark 35b-40 (NKJV)     

Like John and James, I was often jealous of the leadership my sister had in her Church. I always wondered why God never made me an elder in my Church. I felt Jesus was disapointed in me, as he with the brothers of Zebedee, and they needed to learn TRUE HUMILITY. I later leant as I served the Lord with my SERVICE IN MY CHURCH that this was what I had been chosen for. 

Jesus forgave me, as He did John and James , and in the New Testament, we discover that this main them was HUMILITY AND SERVICE. Just like the "culture of Jesus", HUMILITY is not just something we have, but something "we are called to do". 

"If we see HUMILITY as a discipline, not merely a virture, we better understand the task before us.  It has more to do than what we seek than what we become."                                                                                                                      Charles Swindoll

"If anyone wants to be first, he shall be last of all and servant of all."                                                                                                                          Mark 9:35 (NASV)                      

TRUE HUMILITY comes from a place from "STRENGTH" - they have a desire to see the "well being of others".  Peter, like James and John, learned HUMILITY the hard way. He clothed his letter to the persecuted Christians with some spiritual advice.

"All of you, clothe yourself with HUMILITY toward one another, for god opposed the proud, but give grace to the HUMBLE. Therefore HUMBLE YOURSELF under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you." 1 Peter 5:5-7 (NASV)

In Christ's Kingdom John and James wanted to LIVE LIKE JESUS - HUMBLE SERVANTS. HUMILITY and SERVANTHOOD  was demonstrated later by Jesus ON THE CROSS!

     

 

                                       6. JESUS BLESSES THE CHILDREN 
                              Read Matthew 18:1-5, Mark 13-17 & Luke 18:15-17

"Thos who exalt themselve will be HUMBLED and those who HUMBLE THEMSELVES will be exalted." Luke 8:14b (NIV)

"Let the children comes to me and do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone will not receive the Kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it." Luke 18:16&17 (NIV)

The disciples grew tired of the children and babies always being brought to Jesus by their mothers, but Jesus LOVED THEM. The children were the "picture of humility". Jesus wants us to be like children - he wants us to become "humble and childlike". 

"HUMILITY is not something that happens to us, it is something we we are supposed to do for ourselvelves. We do this by sacrificing our lives and serving Jesus. We, as His followers want to do this." Nicky Gumbel

"We need to take our focus of the things of the world and need set our hope on spending eternity with Jesus. As children of God, we need to "deny ourselves, take up our cross and follow Him". In way are you, as a child, "living for yourself, rather than God". Max Lucado

 

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW KING JAMES VERSION", 1982, Thomas Nelson

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW AMERICAN STANDARD BIBLE",1995, The Lockman Foundation

"THE HOLY BIBE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"The Request of James and John" - The Chosen Series - Season 5 (2025), You Tube

"All to Jesus I Surrender/I Give it All", 2021, Josiah, Nathan and Sophia Lim: The Creative Trio (Performers), Judson Wheeler Van De Venter/Winfield Scott Weedon (Composer); Nicholas Hung and Grace Lim (Composers); Anticoch Music Publishing/You Tube

SWINDOLL, Charles.R, "So You Want to Be Like Christ?: Lesson 6: Humility - Bowing Lowing" (2005), W. Publishing Group, Thomas Nelson.

LUCADO, Max, "And the Angels Were Silent - The Final Week of Jesus", 1987,                                                                                                      Thomas Nelson

        GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "Humble Yourself/Be Childlike - The Bible in Onr Year", Luke 18:15-17", 2009/2026, Alpha International/You Version

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

                                    

JESUS' CONTINUED GOSPEL TEACHING - WHO AM I?

                               

                                        3. JESUS WALKS ON WATER
                                              Read Matthew 14:22-36

"Jesus loved to get away on His own TO PRAY, and we too can do this. Then after speaking from the depths of his heart, taking some time with HIS FATHER. Jesus came out from the HILLS, and went down to the WATER. He went down to the waves and the wind was blowing. When the disciples saw Him, they thought it was a ghost and were afraid. Jesus demonstrated His power over the laws of nature by WALKING ON WATER"    Nicky Gumbel/Max Lucado

"Then Jesus quickly spoke to them: "Have courage! It is I. Do not be afraid."

"Peter said: "If it is really you, then command me, and I will come on the water."

"Jesus said: "Come".

"Peter left the boat and walked on the water to Jesus. When Peter saw the winds and the waves he became afraid and began to sink. He shouted out, "LORD, SAVE ME".

"Immediately, Jesus reached out his hands and caught Peter"                                                                                                             Matthew 14:27-31 (NCV)

Peter didn't have to be asked twice: "Come to me". The fist steps went okay. He was able to walk on water, even though the waves were "taller" than him. Then he forgets to LOOK AT JESUS. When he starts to LOOK AT THE WAVES, he begins to sink. He yells out to Jesus, "HELP ME". Swallowing his pride, and water, Peter  reaches out, and Jesus lifts him up.

As long as Jesus is at your side and you have FAITH IN HIM, HE WILL LIFT YOU UP!  Even though he began to panic, "he cried out from his heart", and when PRAY THESE PRAYERS, JESUS WILL ALWAYS LISTEN TO US! You may not always have the courage and comfort and be reminded that JESUS IS IN CINTROL!

"As Jesus and Peter climbed back into  the boat, the wind died down and those in the boat worshipped Jesus saying: "TRULY YOU ARE THE SON OF GOD."                                                                                                               Matthew 14:33 (MSG

                                          4.  JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD
                                                  Read Matthew 16:13-20

"Simon Peter answered: "You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God."                                                                                                            Matthew 16:16  (NIV)

These words from Peter encouraged Jesus, and this is where Jesus gave Him the name "THE ROCK", and the "KEYS TO THE KINGDOM", so he could build his Church.

"Jesus said: "Peter, you are blessed Simon, son of John, because my Father in Heaven revealed this to you.  Now I say that you are PETER (which means ROCK) and upon this ROCK, I WILL BUILD THIS CHURCH, and the power of hell will not conquer it." Matthew 16:17&18 (NIV)

Later, in the book of ACTS, on the day of PENTECOST, Peter starts the new Church, and also opens it up to the Gentiles in the home of Cornelius. Later Jesus gives all these "keys of the His Kingdom" to all the disciples, who became Apostles and Teachers in the new Churches with the new Christians. 

"Those who accepted the his message were baptized and about 3000 were added to that nunber that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." Acts 2:41&42 (NIV)

"The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gifts of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God. Then Peter said: "Surely no one can stand in the way of their being baptized with water. They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have." Acts 10:35-47 (NIV)

Because Jesus is the SON OF GOD, he has given the promise of SALVATION to everyone. And we are able to freely to share this GOOD NEWS with others, with confidence, openly. 

"We have the immerse priviledge and power of haing been given the keys of the Kingdom, and have the spirtual authority of sharing these with others."                                                                                                                          Nicky Gumbel

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW CENTURY VERSION", 2005, Thomas Nelson

"THE MESSAGE: THE BIBLE COMMENTARY", 2018, Eugene.H.Peterson, Tyndale House Publishers

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"JESUS SON OF GOD", 2012, Chris Tomlin, Christy Nockels (Composers/Performers), Passion/White Flag

LUCADO, Max, "The Applause of Heaven", 1990, Word Inc. Dallas, Texas.

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippp, "Keep Speaking to God in the Storm - Matthew 13:22-36", "Receive Keys By Faith - Matthew 16:13-20", The Bible in One Year, 2009/2026, Alpha International/New Version

 

RELATIONSHIPS WITH JESUS

  

1. JESUS: MOTHER & BROTHERS
Read Matthew 12:48-50

"Who is my mother and brothers? Pointing to His disciples He said: "Here are my brothers and mother. For whoever does the will of my Father in Heaven is my brother, sister and mother." Matthew 12:48-50 (NIV)

Some "cults" have twisted the words of Jesus, severing relationships with people and their families. But Jesus reminds us of the 5th Commandment: "to honour our father and mother". Caring for our family is very important, and Jesus shows us that our relationship with Him and His Father, is even closer. This INTIMACY WITH HIM is of a very PERSONAL LEVEL! 

"These words of Jesus speak of PERMANENCE AND ACCEPTANCE - A RELATIONSHIP AT THE DEEPEST, possible level. Stay CLOSE TO HIM each day. He wants us to have the CLOSEST, INTIMATE RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM." Nicky Gumbel

We need "deep, strong, healthy roots" if we are to develop this relationship with Jesus. This includes PRAYER and committment to HIS WORD. Many things distract us from our time and intimacy with the Lord. Help us to "keep our eyes fixed on Him" to guard this relationship from the world.

                                                  

                        2. REFLECT JESUS' GLORY & TRANSFIGURATION
                                                   Read  Mark 9:1-13

Peter, James and John saw Jesus' glory when He was TRANSFIGURED. The disciples knew all about Elijah and Moses. God was saying to these 3 disciples that Jesus was "greater than these three men". 

The word "transfigured" means " transformed". We too will see Jesus transformed when He comes again. After seeing the TRANSFIGURATION OF JESUS, they were sure that Jesus was the" Messiah, the Son of God. This "special glimpse of GLORY" would have been very reassuring for them of would lay ahead. 

Peter wanted to "prolong" this experience of  being in GOD'S PRESENCE. He wanted to build an altar (shelter/tabernacle) but Jesus wanted his disciples  to keep his place a secret, even though it was a glorious experience. 

"Peter said to Jesus: "It is good that we were here. Let us make 3 tents - one for YOU, one for MOSES and one for ELIJAH......then a cloud came anc covered them, and then a voice came from the cloud, "This is MY SON, WHOM I LOVE, LISTEN TO HIM"...... As they wer coming down from the mountain, Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone  what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead." Mark 9:5,7 & 9 (NCV)

 "You must be HOLY, because I am HOLY.......For you know that God paid a ransom to save you from the empty life you inherited from ancestors."                                                                                                              1 Peter 1:16&18a (NLT)

"Lord, help me today to spend time in your PRESENCE and REFLECT YOUR GLORY in everything you say and do." Nicky Gumbel

 

 

"THE HOLY BIBLE - New International Version", 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

"THE HOLY BIBLE - New Century Version", 2005, Thomas Nelson

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "Pursue  Intimacy - Matthew 12: 46-50"; "Reflect Jesus Glory - Mark 9: 1-12", The Bible with Nicky  and Pippa Gumbel, (2009/2026) Alpha International/New Version

"Jesuus, My Best Friend", 2025, Bastion of Truth for Kids/Jesus' Songs/You Tube

"The Transfiguration Story", 2025, Bible Melodies for Kids/You Tube

 

JESUS CONTINUED GOSPEL TEACHING: WHO AM I?

             

  

                        2. JESUS: GOD'S SON AND SERVANT: NOT BEEZLEBUB
                                                   Read Matthew 12:15-37 

The Pharisees see Jesus as the "devil's agent" - Beezlebub.  What do we need to do? We Need to BELIEVE and COMMIT OURSELVES to JESUS. We need to LISTEN TO HIS PROMISES - spending time  each day in HIS WORD. We need to FOLLOW GOD'S WILL and CHANGE OUR THOUGHT PATTERNS.  

"Jesus knew their thoughts and replied: "Any kingdom divided by civil war is doomed. A town or family splintered by feuding will fall apart. And if Satan is casting out Satan, he is divided and fighting against himself. His own kingdom will not survive. And I am empowered by Satan, and what about your own exorcist? They cast out demons, too, so they will condemn you for what you have said. But if I am casting out demons by the Spirit of God, then the Kingdom of God has arrived among you." Matthew 12:26-28 (NLT)

* The Teachers of the Law  believed that Jesus was possessed by Beezlebub, the Prince of Demons, with an "evil spirit". The people believed he was "out of His mind". We believe, like Jesus' followers that Jesus is the SON OF GOD and OUR SAVIOUR.

"Lord, help us to spend time with you each day and to apply Your teaching  in the Bible to our life." Nicky Gumbel

* Store up GOD'S WORD in your heart - listen to it, and apply it to your life. Set aside a REGULAR time each day - make it a TOP prioriry - to read and study the Bible. 

* God promises to give you WISDOM, KNOWLEDGE and UNDERSTANDING. He wall watch over you each day. 

 

"Whoever wants to be a disciple must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me, for whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever wants to lose his life will save it." Luke 9:23 & 24 (NIV)

 * Who is Jesus? The SON OF GOD? What does it mean to "TAKE UP THE CROSS DAILY?" This means me need to totally commit our lives to FOLLOW JESUS. We need to SERVE OTHERS as Jesus does! 

"Commit to the Lord whatever you do and your plans will be established. In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."   

                                                                                                      Proverbs 16:3          

* Let those who FOLLOW JESUS and God's will, will TRUST IN HIM. They have been filled with the HOLY SPIRIT, and they will bear FRUIT.               

                                                                                                

"Whatever is stored up in your heart will sooner or later be expressed by your WORDS. Be careful with what you LOOK AT, READ and THINK ABOUT. Fill your heart with GOOD THINGS and you will THINK GOOD THOUGHTS, SPEAK GOOD WORDS and BEAR GOOD FRUIT..... Jesus says: "Out of the overflow of your heart the mouth speaks. GOOD PEOPLE bring good things out of the GOOD stored up in them, and evil people bring out evil things out of the evil stroed up in them "                                                                                      Matthew 12:33-35(MSG)

"You cannot  change the thought patterns on your own. You need help from the HOLY SPIRIT, filling your heart with LOVE AND GOOD FRUIT." Nick Gumbel

*Jesus says every sin will be forgiven, except "blasphemy against the Holy Spirit". If you "refuse to repent" you can resist the Holy Spirit in your life. This is what the Pharisee and the Teachers of the Law did. They were "cross examining Jesus" as they compared him with Jonah.

 *Jesus  gives two examples  of how lives can be changed:

1. Jonah was preaching to the Ninevites.  

2. Queen of Sheba recognized the wisdom of Solomon. 

He helps us fight and resist the temptation of evil, and fills us with the HOLY SPIRIT.

"You need to be filled with the HOLY SPIRIT. Help me to be filled with the FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT. Good things will guard  us against evil." Nicky Gumbel

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION", 2011, Biblica

"THE HOLY BIBLE - NEW LIVING TRANSLATION", 2015, Tyndale House Publishers

"THE  MESSAGE - THE BIBLE IN CONTEMPORARY LANGUAGE." , 2018, Eugene H Peterson, NavPress, Tyndale House Publishers

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "The Overflow of the Heart - The Bible in One Year", 2026/2009, Alpha/You Tube