THE LIFE OF JESUS
Daphne Powell
Today’s Scripture: “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” Philippians 2:9-11
Theme: Jesus’ life and character show us who God is: Jehova Nissi (Banner of victory).
JESUS THE BABY
In Luke, Jesus was born in a manger—a feeding trough for animals. This humble setting in Bethlehem was a sign to the shepherds. It signified Jesus came for all people rather than from a palace, only for the rich or important.
JESUS THE CHILD
In Luke, we learn that Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem after Passover. He was found after three days in the Temple, listening to and questioning religious teachers, who were amazed by his understanding.
JESUS THE MAN
In Isaiah, it is stated that Jesus had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him, nothing in His appearance that we should desire. He had a physical body, but nothing so distinguishing that he would be unlike us.
JESUS THE SAVIOR
In Luke, Jesus was crucified for our sins. In His walk from the cross to death, He showed, forgiveness, salvation, triumph, and His total trust in God.
JESUS THE WAY
In John, Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven because He is the Son of God who died for our sins, was resurrected, and acts as the mediator between God and mankind. Jesus directly stated, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life: no one comes to the Father except through me" (John 14:6b, ESV).
HOW DO YOU “LIVE” FOR HIM?
God so loved the world that He gave His only Son to die on the cross for us (John 3:16, paraphrased). Jesus, during His walk on earth, showed us how to love others, to live a sinless life, and to worship the Father. But the question is, how do we live our lives for Him? Do we really honor Him in the way we go through our days? Do we really live a life that brings glory Jesus, who died for us?
Make It Personal: Right now, the world seems to be one in which Jesus must be shaking His head in disappointment with the way His children are living. Even as I have my quiet time, study in my life group, serve, and attend service, I still feel that I give the world too much authority. I am praying to truly understand what living a life for Jesus and His glory means. It starts by simply loving others.
Pray: Dear Lord, in the time I have on earth, help me to live my life for Jesus. Help me to love others, no matter their sex, race, or religious belief. Help me choose love and peace over any worldly desires. I want to bring You glory with my life. Amen
Read: Isaiah 53:2, Luke 2:41-52, 2:1-15, 23:26-43, John 14:6, Philippians 2:6-11
Weekly Memory Verse: “For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures...” 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, ESV