Jesus: The Master Teacher
Last Sunday, Jeff reminded us to “keep our eyes on Jesus.” He is the center of our focus in a distracting, over-stimulating world. The practical response to this reminder might be the challenge for us. We readily desire to focus on Jesus, yet practically speaking, what is the action plan?
May I suggest it can come from a simple observation of how Jesus presented his message to his followers? He was the Master teacher and knew something about human nature that is crucial for us to consider. Let’s see how observant you are. What do you know Jesus used over 300 times in his discussions and teachings? He intentionally and masterfully used questions! He never asked a question because he needed to know the answer. He used questions like a surgeon uses a scalpel – to cut into a new level of understanding – aimed at the heart and soul. (All of us could learn from the Master how to communicate with each other. The tendency is to instruct, suggest, command, or explain everything. Amazingly, Jesus could have done ALL of that ALL the time!) He did it knowing what was in his listeners’ hearts, yet he gently let them open the door and let him in.
As we look forward to Resurrection Sunday, I pray you’re preparing yourself for that celebration with open hearts, transformed minds, and focused eyes on Jesus. Here is something you might want to consider: What if Jesus were sitting with us today and asking questions that pierce and convict our hearts and minds?
Below are just a few of his questions to consider.
1) Read the scripture and know the context of his question.
2) Think about your context if he were asking this of you.
3) Honestly respond to him with an open heart.
“Do you understand what I have done for you?” (John 13:12-16)
“Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me?”
(John 14:1-11)
“If you love those who love you, what reward do you have?” (Matthew 5:43-48)
“What do you want me to do for you?” (Luke 18:35-43)
“Which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?” (Luke 12:22-31)
“Do you love me more than these?” (John 21:15-19)
“What is that to you?” (John 21:20-23)
With each question, it is obvious just how much he loves! If you choose to spend some time answering these few questions, I hope it will encourage you to find others that Jesus asked. It will refresh your heart. We have a Jesus who gave up everything so we can be redeemed. The miracle of the resurrection is not just historical – it is personal. Life is God’s gift to us to live as though he conquered death – so that we might live with him forever! Let’s celebrate that together!