JESUS' DEATH AND RESURRECTION - COURTROOM FISACO

 

 

"Following his BETRAYAL, JESUS WAS ARRESTED. There were FALSE TRIALS, DENIALS, CONDEMNATION, BEATINGS AND MOCKERY." Hugh Claycombe

The religious leaders in Jerusalem struggled with Jesus' identity, but they soon came to understand His identity as the SON OF GOD and MESSIAH. Still, they chose to REJECT HIM! Some of them still rejected His public teaching and they were jealous of his popularity - Annas - a former High priest, Caiphas -  the High Priest and the Sanhedrin. One man, though, was Nicodemus, who had come to Jesus back in John's Gospel, and he still BELIEVED.

"There was a man name Nicodemus , a religious leader, who was a Pharisee. After dark one evening He came to speak with Jesus: "Rabbi", he said, "We all know thatGod has sent you to teach us. You miraculous signs are evidence that God is with you." John 3:1&2 (NLT) 

"For God so loved the world He gave His only son, that whoever believes in Him, will not perish, but will have EVERLASTING LIFE. God sent His Son into the word, not to condemn the world, but that that the would be SAVED THROUGH HIM."                                                                                                                John 3:16&17 (NIV)

This is why Jesus at the time of his arrest Jesus conducted himself with "dignity". He knew that His mission had "consequences". It would lead to a number of trials, no specific charges, "blasphemy claims" and sentence to death. He would go before the Jewish Sanhenhrin and High Priests, then the Roman civil authorities, but it was never in the real "pursuit of truth". 

                   9.  TRIAL 1: THE HIGH PRIEST QUESTIONS JESUS.

                     Read Matthew 26:57-75; Mark 14:53-65; Luke 22:66-71

JESUS: "I have spoken openly to the world. I always taught in the synagogues or at                     the temple, where all the Jews came together. I said nothing in secret. Why                   question me? Ask those who heard me? " Luke 15:20&21 (NCV)

Peter and John returned and followed Jesus - Peter "lurking in the shadows", while John watched as Jesus was questioned and then later beaten and sent to Caiphas. 

"There was a woman who asked Peter: "You're not one of that man's disciples are you?"

"No", he said, "I am not".

Peter was standinding warming himself by the fire, they asked him again: "You're not one of his disciples are you?"

He denied it, saying: "No, I am not".

"Didn't I see you out there in the grove with Jesus?"

Again, Peter denied it. And immediately the rooster crowed."  John 18:17, 25-27 (NLT)

 

"The Sanhedrin - the supreme governing body in Israel. They managed the day to day operation of the Temple. They ruled over civil religious misconduct and occasionally heard criminal cases. Rome had exclusive rights to carry out death sentences." Charles Swindoll

Caiphas met with the members of the "council" and the Sanhedrin in the early hours of Friday morning. The chief priests tried to obtain "false testimonies" against Jesus. They wanted to put Jesus to death.  They said:

"We heard him say: "I  will destroy this Temple I made with My handsand in three days I will make another Temple." Mark 14:59 (NASB)

"Jesus answered them: "Destroy this temple in 3 days, and I will raise it up". 

The Jews then said: "It took 46 years to build this Temple, and you will raise it in 3 days."

Jesus was speaking about the temple of His body." John 2:19-21 (NASV)

By the time the Sanhedrin had finished their questioning, they were read to pass Him on to the Jews. 

                                        10.   TRIAL 2: PONTIAS PILATE  

 Read Matthew 27:11-26; Mark 15:1-15; Luke 23:1-7; John 18:28-4 

"With the Jewish Passover in full swing, Jerusalem was packed......Jesus was presented to Pilate." Charles Swindoll

This next trial, before Pontias Pilate took place in the PUBLIC ARENA. There was enough evidance for the Romans:

* Jesus claimed to be the King of the Jews - the Messiah.

* Jesus was charged with treason and blasphemy against Rome. 

* Other charges remained the same.

"So Pilate asked Him: Are you the King of the Jews?"

Jesus replied: "You have said it".

"Pilate turned the leading priests and to the crowd and said: "I find nothing wrong with this man!"   Luke 23: 3&4 (NLT)

Pilate discovered that he was a Galilean, so he decided to send him to Herod Antipas, the Governer of Galilee. 

                                          TRIAL 3: HEROD ANTIPAS
                                                  Read Luke 23:8-12

"When he learned that Jesus was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent Him to Herod who was also in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, He was pleased, because for a long time he had been wanting to see Him. From what he had har about Him, he had hoped to see Him perform a sign of some sort. He plied Him with many questions, but Jesus gave no answers." Luke 23:7-9 (NIV)

Herod had come for the Passover celebration and as a leader of the Jewish people, he had taken residence in their courts. He was the Son of Herod the Great and had inherited many of his traits and "cruel dispositions". He was very proud and self indulgent, especially when came to his affairs with women. He advocated for the Jewish people, appearing to be loyal to them, yet at the same time he "balanched his ties with the Rome". 

Pilate had known that Herod had wanted to meet with Jesus for a long time, to see His miracles, yet he also knew the Chief Priests and Saducees were standing by "accusing Jesus of wrong doing, and wanting him to be killed". But he had no desire for the "truth", and he finally got tired of their "games". He  sent Jesus back to Pilate, after having his soldiers dress him up in "royal robes."

"Then Herod and His soldiers ridiculed and mocked Him. Dressing Him in an elegant robe, they sent Him back to Pilate. That day, Herod and Pilate became friends - before they had been enemies." Luke 23:11&12 (NIV)

                              11. TRIAL 4: PILATE - "CRUCIFY HIM"
            Read Matthew 27:11-26; 15:1-15; Luk3 23:13-24; John 19:1-16

In the cell near the court there was a prisoner called Barrabas. He was soon to be crucified. But during the Jewish Passover there was a policy, that one prisoner was allowed to be released. Pilate was sure that the people would certainly choose Jesus, for he still could find no reason for his arrest, and defintely not his imprisonment. He believed JESUS WAS INNOCENT!

"Once more Pilate came out and said to the Jews gathered there, "Look, I am bringing Him out to you to let you know I find no basis for a charge against Him." When Jesus came oput wearing His crown of thorns and purple robe, Pilate said to them: "Here is the man!".

 

As soon as the chief priests and officials saw Him, they shouted: "Crucify Him"! "Crucify Him!"...... "Shall I crucify your King?" Pilate asked.  "We have no King, only Ceasar," the Chief Priests answered. Finally Pilate, handed him over to them to be CRUCIFIED." John 19: 4-6; 15&16 (NIV)

Pilate, was convinced of the TRUTH, yet He was terrified of the JEWS, in fear of losing favour from all the leaders in Jerusalem. Herod too had been distracted by the TRUTHand Pilate's wife could not discern it because of FEAR. As for the religious leaders, they were "wilfully frustrated with personal agendas".

"The trials of Jesus were OVER, yet we like all those on the Jury - Herod, Pilates' wife, Pilate and the angry mob, must still reach a verdict today. Today, we can recognize the TRUTHand acknowledge it, or we can still live in FEAR, and REJECT HIM. We can have a great desire of POWER and MATERIALISM, or we can TRUST IN THE LORD AND pursue a RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM. Jesus is our SAVIOUR AND KING and and we can go into the world to testify about His TRUTH."                                                                                                                      Charles Swindoll

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

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

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

"JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR" -  "King Herod's Song", "Pilate and Christ", "Trial Before Pilate", - Andrew Lloyd Weber/Tim Rice (Composers); Bruce Dow: Herod , Barry Dennon:Pilate, Ted Neeley: Jesus (Performers) 2012/2016, Broadway/You Tube:Video

SWINDOLL,Charles, "Great Life of All - Jesus" - Chapter 14-   "The Last Trials and Torture of Jesus" , 2008, Thomas Nelson

CLAYCOMBE, Hugh, "Rose Book of Bible Charts, Maps and Time Lines - 10th Anniversary - Pam Sunday to Easter - Walking with Jesus Each Day - False Trials", 2015, Rose Publishing

JESUS' DEATH AND RESURRECTION - Judas' Betrayal

 

 

 

                                                  6. JUDAS' BETRAYAL
                     Read Matthew 26:24-16; Mark 14:10&11; 
                             Luke 22:1-6,  21&23; John 13:18-30, John 18:1-14

Judas Iscariot was a hero in his hometown of Jerioth, near Judea. He and his father were "freedom fighters" They believed Judas would represent them  in their great "struggle for independence". 

Judas was looking for  the Messiah, and like the other disciples he received teaching from Jesus and had a close relationship with Him. He had inspired their trust to be put in control of the "group's treasury". 

No one knows when this happened, but Judas stared to "question" Jesus' future as their "King". His fear led him to "backslide". Judas had a double life. He "charmed the religious leaders" and no one suspected his "secret sin", or even thought to "conduct an audit of ministery funds".

"The chief priests amd scribes were seeking how they might put Jesus to death; but they were afraid of the people. Satan entered into Judas.....One of the 12, Judas Iscariot went to the Chief Priests and said: "What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you? From then on, he began looking for a good opportunity to betray Jesus." Luke 22:14, Matthew 26:14-16 (NASV)am

"Since Judas was their treasurer, some thought Jesus was telling him to go out to give food to the poor. Judas left at once to go our into the night."                                                                                                                            John 13:29&30 (NLT 

While Judas had been at the Passover Meal, the Religuous Leaders were planning Jesus' arrest. When Judas left the meal Judas went again to discuss his plan with the Chief Priests. They were glad to give him the money.  Judas knew that Jesus would be in the Garden praying, and he said he would take the soldiers to Him.

 

 

                                        7. JUDAS' KISS OF BETRAYAL 

                   Read Matthew 26:47-50, Mark 14: 49&50; Luke 22:47&48  

               

Jesus got up from his place of prayer and went to find his disciples who had been sleeping. He knew the time had come for his betrayal and arrest.

"Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners.... Behold the one who betrays me is coming." Matthew 26:35:46 (NASB)

Jesus came with soldiers, Saducees  and Caiphas. He came up to Jesus and KISSED HIM! 

Jesus asked who they were seeking: "Jesus te Nazarene", the temple guard stepped forward and spoke. Jesus said: "I am He".  To Judas he said: "Are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?" 

Peter struck the guard with a sword, cutting off his ear, but Jesus reached our and healed him.

"Am I leading rebellion that you came with swords and clubs? Everyday I was with you in the Temple and courts and you didn't lay a hand on Me. But this is your hor - when darkness reigns." Luke 22:52b&53 (NIV)

Jesus allowed the soldiers to arrest Him and the disciples scattered!

                                              8. JUDAS KILLS HIMSELF
                                                  Read Matthew 27:1-10

Judas was overcome with "remorse". He tried to return to money - the 30 pieces of silver - but they wouldn't accept it. Unable to live with ther guilt of his sin he found a "remote tree, growing over a cliff, and hung himself". 

"Judas made a tragic choice to end his life, rather than confess his guilt and receive forgiveness. Judas died as he lived, entangled with sin. Unfortunately, Judas will always be remembered as a traitor - the one whose kiss betrayed Jesus."              Charles Swindoll

"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

"Judas' Death" - "Jesus Christ Superstar", 1971, Andrew Lloyd Weber/Tim Rice,  (Composers) Carl Anderson (Performer), TUNEMusical Moments/YouTube

"THE CHOSEN" - "Series 5" , 2025, "Jesus Wants Judas' Heart", You Tube

SWINDOLL, Charles, "Jesus - The Greatest Life of All", 2008, Thomas Nelson

JESUS' DEATH AND RESURRECTION - The Last Supper

 

                           4. PASSOVER: THE LAST SUPPER - THURSDAY.
          Read Matthew 26:17-30; Mark 14:12-26; Luke 22:7-23; John 13:1-30

Before sharing in the supper, Jesus washed the discipled feet. This was a sign of His servanthood.  There were 4 reasons why he did this:

1. To demonstrate His LOVE for His disciples.

"He had LOVED HIS DISCIPLES during His ministry on earth, and now HE LOVED THEM to the end."    John 13:1b (NLT)

2. Jesus was taken the place of the SERVANT at the bottom of society - the "most dirtiest of jobs", yet he was showing them the greatest respect.

"So he got up from the table, took of His robe, wrapped His towel around His waist, and poured water in the basin. Then he began to WASH THE DISCIPLES FEET, drying them with the towel He had around Him." John 13:4&5 (NLT)

3. Jesus was "uniquely powerful", but he was also HUMBLE. 

"Jesus knew that the Father had given HIM THE AUTHORITY over everything and that He had come from God and would return to God....I tell you the truth slaves are not greater than their masters. Nor is the MESSENGER more important than the one who sends the message." John 13:3 &16 (NLT)

4. Washing and cleansing is a sign of FORGIVENESS, and this was a "picture" of what Jesus would be doing on the cross. 

"When Jesus came to Simon Peter, Peter said to Him, "Lord are you going to wash my feet?"

"Jesus replied: "You don't understand what I am doing, but someday you will."...."Unless I wash you, you won't belong to me..... I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have to you."  John 13:6,7,8b, 15 (NLT)

"Lord, help us to follow Jesus' example, not just in words, BUT ALSO IN ACTIONS. Thank you that you have given us so much to celebrate." Nicky Gumbel

On the first day of the festival, families got together to celebrate the Passover, and Jesus did this with His 12 disciples. This became known as the Lord's Supper, and today in our Churches, we call it Communion.

"While they were eating, Jesus took the bread and when He had given thanks, He broke it   and gave it to His disciples saying, "Take, eat, this is my body." Then He took the cup, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you", for this is the blood of the new covenant which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins, I tell you, I will not drink from the fruit of the vine  until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's Kingdom."                                                                                                             Matthew 26:26-29 (NIV)

Jesus knows that He is going to be killed, and His death was the sign of the "new covenant". His blood would be poured out for "forgiveness of sins", and disciples would share in the "benefits of His sacrifice", just as we do today. 

"In the Upper Room, Jesus prepared both Himself and His disciples for HIS DEATH. The LOAF OF BREAD and the CUP OF WINE represent HIS BODY soon to be SACRIFICED amd His BLOOD soon to be SHED. " Hugh Claycombe

                                 

                                        

              5. SINGING AND PRAYING IN THE GARDEN OF GETHSEMENE
                      Read Matthew 26:36-46; Mark 14:32-42; Luke 22:39-46

"After singing a hymn they went to the Garden of Gethsemene, when Jesus prayed in agony, knowing what lay ahead of Him." Hugh Claycombe

The Passover service had lots joyous singing including HALLELUJAHS! This was accompanied by a PRAYER TO GOD. Jesus and disciples spent some time after their supper singing these HYMNS AND PRAISES, before going out ou to PRAY on in the Garden of Gethsemene.

"We have been brought from slavery to FREEDOM, from sadness to GLADNESS, from mourning to FEASTING, from darkness to LIGHT, from captivity to REDEMPTION."    Jewish Passover Prayer.

"Some time later they left the Upper Room and Jesus made His way to His private garden - His retreat - in Gethsemene -  on the Mount of Olives where he could pray." Charles Swindoll

Peter James and John followed Him and Jesus asked them and and pray for Him. He went to His Father for His heart was heavy. He wanted  them to "keep watch with Him", but they fell asleep. Still, Jesus was praying for them, and He still prays for us, and he wants us to learn to PRAY as he did. 

We can go to Jesus in PRAYER, as Jesus did, whenever we want to. We can use His Name and that of His Father God. He answers our prayers with many PROMISES: 

* We have His TRUE LIFE - in the midst of his betrayal, death and SALVATION.

* We have the JOY of his welcomed RESURRECTION.

* We have PEACE in the midst of trials and tribulations, but ultimate ETERNAL LIFE.

* We have comlete UNITY in our Church, in the Word of God, being FILLED WITH HIS SPIRIT. 

"Jesus was accompanied by His disciples. They left the upstairs room and went to the Mount of Olives. There He told them: "Pray that you will not give into temptation". He walked away, about a stones throw, and KNELT DOWN AND PRAYED, "Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want YOUR WILL, NOT MINE to be done." Luke 22:39-42 (NLT)

 

This is Jesus' longest PRAYER - the night befor His death. His earthly ministry was nearly finished, but PRAYER was an important part of His life and ministry. In thhe garden Jesus prayed for His disciples that they would have PEACE, JOY AND UNITY.

"I am not asking that you take them out of this world but that you KEEP THEM SAFE from the evil one.....I pray that THEY WILL BE ONE, as I AM IN THEM and YOU ARE IN ME. May they experience such PERFECT UNITY that the world will know that YOU SENT ME." John 17:15&21a (NIV)

"On the final evening of Jesus ministy, in the light of his approaching betrayal, we have the longest example of how Jesus prayed to His Father for His disciples. He also showed us HOW TO PRAY. in the morning and in the evening. He prayed ALONE, he retreated,, and he sought the prayers of others. Help us to make PRAYER A PRIORITY in our DAILY LIVES."  Max Lucado

"HOLY BIBLE - NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION" , 2011, Biblic

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

GUMBEL, Nicky & Pippa, "Celebrate Jesus - John 13:1-30" - "The Bible in One Year", 2009, Alpha International/You Version

CLAYCOMBE, Hugh, "Passover: The Last Supper - Thursday", "Palm Sunday to Easter, Walking with Jesus Each Day" - "Rose Book of Bible, Charts, Maps and Time Lines" - 10th Anniversary Edition, 2015, Rose Publishing

SWINDOLL,  Charles, "Jesus - The Greatest Life of All", 2008, Thomas Nelson

LUCADO, Max, "Just Like Jesus", 2003, Thomas Nelson

"Passover Song/The Lamb Who Saves/English-Hebrew Messianic Worship", 2025, Timeless Hebrew Tunes/You Tube

JESUS' DEATH AND RESURRECTION: Clearing the Temple

                               3. MONDAY - JESUS CLEARS THE TEMPLE
                     Read Matthew 21:10-17; Mark 11:15-18; Luke 19:45-48

"As they came closer to Jerusalem and saw the city ahead of Him, HE BEGAN TO WEEP. "How I wish today you and all my people would understand the WAY OF PEACE. But it's too late, and PEACE is hidden from your eyes." Luke 19:41&42 (NLT)

When Jesus came into Jerusalem for the annual Passover Festival, He WEPT OVER THE CITY. He knew He was coming close to the time when people would reject Him. 

Jesus was passionate about the city of Jerusalem and its people. He had COMPASSION on them, but He was still GRIEVING.

The Passover was the highlight of the Jewish calendar. They were required to have animal sacrifices, usually a dove. It had to be perfect with no blemishes. The people also had to pat a Temple Tax. Knowing this, money changesset up table to excgange foreign currency. 

Jesus sees people who were trying to make money from "spiritual activity".  We can understand why Jesus was angry when he saw what was happening. We need to be careful to avoid activity and "ministry" that is used for personal gain. 

"The next day Jesus returned to the Temple and found the court of Gentiles full of traders and money changers making lare profits as they gave the Jewish coins in exchange for the pagan money. Jesus drove them out and overturned their tables."                                                                                                                Hugh Claycombe 

"Then Jesus entered the Temple and began to drive out the people selling animals for sacrifices. He said to them: "The Scriptures declare, "MY TEMPLE WILL BE A HOUSE OF PRAYER" but you have turned it into a den of thieves."                                                                                                                        Luke 19:45&46 (NLT)

 

             3. ON THE MOUNT OF OLIVES -  OVERLOOKING JERUSALEM

                   Read Matthew 21:-24:51; Mark 11-13:37; Luke 20:1-21:36

"When they came near the Mount of Olives, the whole crowd of disciples began to JOYFULLY PRAISE GOD in LOUD VOICES for the miracles they had seen. "BLESSED IS THE KING WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD. Peace in Heaven and Glory in the Highest." Luke 19:27&28 (NIV)

Jesus tries to get away from the Priests who were trying to "trap Him". He went up to the Mount of Olives to look over Jerusalem. He taught some Parables to the people and His disciples and warned them against the Pharisees. He predicted he destruction of the Temple, and told the disciples about future events, including his death, resurrection and second coming.

"The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. THEY WILL KILL HIM, and on the third day HE WILL BE RAISED TO LIFE." And the disciples were filled with grief." Matthew 17:22&23 (NIV)

"But about that hour no one knows, not even the angels in Heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father....Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know on what day YOUR LORD WILL COME.....So you also must be ready, because the SON OF MAN WILL COME at ab hour you do not expect Him" Matthew 24:36,42 & 44 (NIV)

"The Roman road climbed steeply to the crest of the Mount of Olives, affording a spectacular view of the Judean desert to the east and Jerusalem across the Kidron Valley to the West." Hugh Claycombe

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

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

"Jesus Clears the Temple - A Gateway Kids Animation", 2024, Gateway Kids/DiscovertheBible

"Mount of Olives - The Mount of the Messiah", 2023, Israel, My Channel

CLAYCOMBE, Hugh, "Palm Sunday to Easter: Walking with Jesus Each Day" - "Rose Book of Bible, Charts, Maps and Time Lines, 10th Anniversary Edition", 2015, Rose Publishing

JESUS' DEATH AND RESURRECTION - The Triumphal Entry

1. THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY - PALM SUNDAY
Read Matthew 21:1-11; Mark 11:1-11; Luke 19:28-44; John 12:12-19 

"On the  first day of the week, Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, fullfilling Zechariah's prophecy. Imagine what it was like watching him ride on a humble donkey. He was getting ready to celebrate the Passover with his disciples."          Hugh Claycome

"Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, the KING IS COMING TO YOU; HE IS JUST, AND HAVING SALVATION, LOWLY and RIDING ON A DONKEY, the colt, a foal of a donkey." Zechariah 9:9 (NKJV)

The crowds welcomed Him with "Hosannas" and praises -  the words of Psalm 118, a Messianic title, as King of Israel.  They lined the streets of Jerusalem and were "cheering", pathing the way for their King. They put both their cloaks and palm branches on the ground. 

"O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! His mercy endures forever....This is the day that the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.... You are my God and I WILL PRAISE YOU; You are my God, I WILL EXALT YOU."                                        Psalm 118:1, 24 & 28 (NKJV)

The Religious Leaders were the only ones not celebrating, even though they knew He was the coming in "peace". They were plotting Jesus' death, again in Psalm 118.

"The STONE which the builders rejected has become the CHIEF CORNERSTONE. This was the Lord's doing, and it is marvelous in His eyes"                                                 Psalm 118:22 /Matthew 21:42 (NKJV)

2. IN BETHANY - MARY'S PERFUME 
Read John 12:1-10

"Before Palm Sunday Jesus arrived in Bethany This was 6 days before the Passover, to spend time with his friends: Mary, Martha and Lazarus. It was here that Mary anointed his feet with the costly perfume and expressed her tender devotion to Jesus  and her willingness to serve Him.  Saturday was the Sabbath day of rest , and this was probably why he spent this day with his friends, before heading to Jerusalem." Hugh Claycome

Mary wanted to show her gratitude for Jesus' salvation. She emptied her perfume over Jesus' feet - HER WORSHIP! Judas and Peter protested. They could have used the money she spent on perfume to give to the poor. Judas, who was soon to be Jesus' betrayer, was in charge of the disciples money, and some thought he was a thief - sometime spending it on himself.

"That perfume was worth a year's wages. It should have sold and the money given to the poor."......Jesus replied: "Leave her alone. She did this in preparation for my burial. You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me."  John 12:7&8 (NLT)

"The Holy Bible - New King James Version" - 2011, Biblica

"The Holy Bible - New Living Translation", 2015, Tyndale House Foundation

"Triumphal Entry Into Jerusalem", 2026, KidsxploreChannel/YouTube

Claycombe, Hugh, "Palm Sunday of Easter/Rose Book of Charts , Maps and Timelines", 2015, Rose Publishing

 

HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS WITH JESUS

 

For these next few sessions we will be exposed to an intimate HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP  with Jesus and His Father. We will learn about HIS LOVE, JOY AND PEACE -  and will make a CHOICE to "find rest in our souls", and we spend time in PRAYER - seeking the HOLY SPIRIT'S "intercession".

"In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know how we ought PRAY, but the SPIRIT HIMSELF INTERCEDES FOR US without wordless groans." Romans 8:26 (NIV)

"But the HOLY SPIRIT produces this kind of FRUIT in our lives: LOVE, JOY, PEACE, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. There is no law against these things." Galatians 5:22&23 (NLT)

9.  CHOOSE LOVE 
Read Matthew 22:36-3640, John 15:9-17

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all you soul and with all your mind." This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: "LOVE YOUR NEIGHOUR AS YOURSELF." All the Law and the prophets hang on these two commandments." Matthew 22:36-40 (NLT)

"God's top priority can be summed up in one word: LOVE! When we don't love ourselves, we don't love others. Worshipping God, serving God, loving God and leading others are all bi products of being LOVED BY HIM." Chip Judd

Yesterday, Mark and I spent time with the family: our son, daughter in law and our grand daughters. We played a "question and answer" game, given to them by their psychologists. One of the questions was: "What was one of the things you LOVE most about your family?" Although we all love each other a lot, we still found it hard to put into words - my son especially.  Why? At the moment he struggles with LOVING HIMSELF! 

How do we overcome the fear of rejection? Most importantly we need to accept the unconditional love of JESUS and HIS FATHER.  

"I HAVE LOVED YOU,  even as the Father LOVED ME. Remain in MY LOVE. When you obey my commandments, you remain in MY LOVE, just as I obey in My Father's  commandments and remain in HIS LOVE.....This is my commandment: LOVE EACH OTHER AS I HAVE LOVED YOU." John 15:9,10&12 (NLT)

"Comparison is also the root of rejection. And it is very hard to LOVE when we feel inferior." Chip Judd. 

I remember growing up I struggled with this a lot:

* Losing my mum.

* Failing Year 12.

*Losing jobs.

*Comparing myself with my sisters.

* Not having friends at school.

*Not being accepted into Bible College. 

*Losing my sisters.

Yet, over the years, I discovered, that giving those failure to the Lord, and trying hard to EMBRACE GROWTH and to CHANGE MY PAIN, I was able to LEARN HOW TO LOVE.

I LOVED LEARNING! I LOVED BY BIBLE READING! I LOVED MY LORD!

I LOVED MY FAMILY! I LOVED MY TEACHING! I LOVED MY WRITING! 

"We can only LEARN TO LOVE when when RECEVE GOD'S LOVE. It is most important to LOOK TO JESUS FIRST IN YOUR LIFE, and to develop a HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP with HIM. LOVE is the theme of HIS HEART and should be the same FOR OURS! When we learn to receive GOD'S LOVE we are empowered to LOVE OURSELVES and LOVE OTHERS. When we learn to CONNECT WITH JESUS AND OUR FATHER GOD, we will also ENJOY BEING OURSELVES!" Chip Judd

10. CHOOSE JOY

                                                                  Read John 15:1-17

"I have told you these things so that you will be filled with JOY. Yes, YOUR JOY WILL OVERFLOW." John 15: 12 (NLT)

"I invite Jesus to be the JOY of my circumstances. If I fail, I seek the Lord's GRACE; if I succeed, I GIVE THANKS. When my day is done I will rest my head on m pillow

 and REST." Max Lucado

This is something I have learnt over the years. I remember that going to Church was one of my favourite things, because everyone would always come to me an encourage me because I LOVED TO SMILE! I think I go that from my Dad.  A few years later I had an operation, where they they took my "smile away", and it was really hard for me. It took me a while to get that JOY back, but I realized I didn't need it on my face, but it was within, from Jesus. 

"The intense pleasure you give me surpasses the GLADNESS of harvest time, even more when the harvesters gaze upon the ripened grain when new wine overflows." Psalm 4:7 (NCV)

Everyday, circumstances and frustrations can get in our way, and can easily STEAL OUR JOY. But we need to let these challenges strengthen us , and to let us lose our FOCUS ON OUR JOY and faith. Let JESUS be the first person in our life and HIS WORD be His first PLACE in our hearts.

"We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who iniatiates and perfects our faith. Because of the JOY awaiting Him, He endured the cross, disregarding the shame. Now He is seatted at the place of honour at the right hand of God."                                                                                             Hebrews 12:2 (NCV)

"REJOICE IN THE LORD, ALWAYS! Again, I will say, REJOICE." Philippians 4:4 (NKJV)

                                                     11. CHOOSE PEACE 
                                                      Read John 14:25-31

"PEACE I leave with you, MY PEACE I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27 (NKJV)

Since we are filled with God's Spirit, one of our main fruits is PEACE. JESUS' PEACE is one of our most precious gifts. 

"Make it a priority in your life, to LIVE IN PEACE." Max Lucado

"Live in harmony with one another. Do your part to LIVE IN PEACE with everyone as much as possible." Romans 12:16-18 (NCV)

"We can't refuse to let negative emotions steal your PEACE." Charles Swindoll

Going back to our game yesterday with the family.  My son, was asked another question: "This time it was about the best joyful and peaceful time in his life". Again, he found this hard to answer. If you let the devil overwhelm you with anxiety, you will lose your JOY AND PEACE. You cannot hear JESUS' VOICE.  

"Be anxious for nothing, but everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the PEACE OF GOD, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts anbd minds through Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6&7 (NKJV)

It was a good thing that Aaron and Emily wanted to go to the Church Prayer Meeting last night. They came home - feeling a lot better. Satan hates it when we seek Jesus. We need to find a place, so we  can rest in HIS PEACE. 

When Jesus and the disciples were out on the boat in the "storms of life", Jesus said "PEACE BE STILL". The wind and the waves were immediately calm. 

"We've got to have PEACE in our lives and relationships. We need to believe and TRUST in God and His SON JESUS in every situation in life. Let your life be in His hands." Charles Swindoll

Jesus wants us today to enter into HIS FATHER'S REST. Make a decision today to do just that!!

                                      12. REST FOR YOUR SOUL - PRAYER
                                                 Read Matthew 11:28-30

"Then Jesus said to them: "Come to me, all you who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am gentle and humble at heart, and you will find rest for your soul. For my yoke is easy to bear and the burden I give you is light." Matthew 11:28-30 (NLT)''

Jesus went away to a quiet place to REST. He spent time in PRAYER, and then LOVE, JOY AND PEACE flowed from His Heart. You too need to do this, so that POWER AND STRENGTH can fill you as you start the new week. 

"Jesus promised that when we come to Him we will find REST FOR OUR SOULS. Jesus paid a great price for us, so that we would receive HIS GRACE. It wasn't easy, and He knew it wouldn't be easy for us. LEARING AND GROWING is a process, and relationships with Christ develop when their are challenges, and when we are in A PLACE OF REST."  Chip Judd

 

"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

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

Rudd, Chip, "Healthy Relationships - The Power of Love, Making Good Choices, Resy for Your Soul", 2019, Messenger International. 

Lucado, Max, "Let the Journey Begin - Finding God's Best for Your Life" , 2015, Thomas Nelson

Swindoll, Charles, "Simple Faith", 1999, Zondervan Publishing House

"Rejoice in the Lord Always/This is the Day", 2022, "Good News Guys" (Performers), You Tube

"Be Still My Soul - In You I Rest", 2013, Kari Robe (Composer/Performer), Sparrow Records/Emi Christian Music