Sunday School Lesson
July 17
Lesson 7 (KJV)
THE WORD SAVES
DEVOTIONAL READING: John 12:44–50
BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: John 12:27–50
JOHN 12:44–50
44. Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.
45. And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.
46. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
47. And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.
48. He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.
49. For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
50. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
KEY TEXT
I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.—John 12:46
LESSON AIMS
After participating in this lesson, each learner will be able to:
1. Summarize the relationship between the Son and the Father as Jesus explained it.
2. Explain the interrelationship between salvation and divine judgment, as far as Jesus presented it.
3. Recruit an accountability partner for greater action on the commands of Jesus.
HOW TO SAY IT
Habakkuk
Huh-back-kuk.
Nicodemus
Nick-uh-dee-mus.
Philippians
Fih-lip-ee-unz.
Introduction
A. Standing Before the Judge
I walked into the police station so they could take my fingerprints. The process was intimidating, but necessary for the legal proceedings. Police officers on duty asked for all my personal information, shot several photographs of me, and took detailed prints of my fingers.
My interactions with the law continued over the next year. I was required to attend court hearings where I would stand before a judge and plead the particulars of my case. Some courtrooms were larger than others; but in each one, crowds of people heard me and heard the details of my case. Each hearing was a nerve-racking ordeal.
My family was active in each appearance, and I hoped that someday we would all be united. Lest you misunderstand, I wasn’t accused of any crime. My wife and I were going through the tedious process of adopting a child born in a different country.
Throughout the whole process, we followed the guidance of the family court judges and our lawyers. Even if we didn’t understand the why behind something (like getting our fingerprints), we followed through because we wanted our family to be united. Ultimately our patience and resolve paid off! Our growing family now includes a new child.
The whole experience served as a reminder to the importance of belief and faith. We had to believe the adoption process would be resolved so long as we faithfully followed the directives of the authorities. If we disregarded their directives, the entire process might end abruptly without the completion. Jesus had strong words regarding belief and faithfulness. His words have eternal consequences, more serious than from any judge or lawyer.
B. Lesson Context
After a notable introduction (John 1:1–50, see lesson 5), John’s Gospel focuses on the bulk of Jesus’ public ministry: His miraculous works and teaching (2:1–11:57, see lesson 6). In this section of the Gospel, John recorded seven accounts of Jesus’ miraculous acts and seven accounts of Jesus’ teachings. Together they highlight the way Jesus showed His mission to the world, a mission given by His heavenly Father.
But throughout this section of the Gospel, Jesus’ audiences were unable and unwilling to accept His teachings. They saw His miracles and enthusiastically received Him. However, far too often they failed to rightly understand His teaching (see John 6:14–15, 42, 52). Jesus did not fulfill the hopes and wishes they desired from a savior or messiah. As a result, many stopped following Jesus (6:60–66). Despite seeing and hearing Jesus, belief was not always present.
Today’s Scripture text marks a transition to a third section of the Gospel. This section tells of the events surrounding Jesus’ death and resurrection (John 12:1–20:31). Given that half of John’s Gospel is dedicated to the events of Jesus’ final week, there can be no doubt of John’s focus. A Savior who does miraculous acts and provides eternal teaching is nothing without the events of the Passion Week.
This lesson’s Scripture text serves as Jesus’ final public discourse to His generally unbelieving audience. Immediately prior to this text, John provides some editorial context surrounding the teaching. John cites the words of the ancient prophet Isaiah in order to frame the situation Jesus faced (John 12:37–38; see Isaiah 53:1). Even as Jesus performed many miraculous acts, there were people who failed to believe and follow Him.
This reality was highlighted in the nature of Jesus’ coming into Jerusalem. Many people celebrated His entry (John 12:12–19), but there would be other people who would call for His crucifixion several days later (19:1–6). As a result of their unbelief, many people would experience certain consequences and judgment (12:40; see Isaiah 6:10).
I. On Belief
(JOHN 12:44–46)
A. Seeing (vv. 44–45)
44. Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.
Having gone into hiding (see John 12:36), Jesus reappeared and cried out. Perhaps His urgent statement was directed to “the chief rulers” and the “many [who] believed on him” (12:42).
John’s Gospel details two other instances when Jesus cried out in exhortation (John 7:28, 37). With this language, John evokes an image of a town herald declaring the latest news of the kingdom and the intentions of the king (compare Daniel 3:4; Habakkuk 2:2). In a sense, today’s Scripture marks the final exhortation for an unbelieving audience. For this audience, Jesus spoke out—as with the proclamation of a herald—on the importance of proper belief.
Further, by describing Jesus’ declaration in this manner, John may have been drawing from ancient wisdom texts as a framework to describe Jesus’ proclamation. The book of Proverbs describes Wisdom, embodied as a woman, crying out to any person who might hear her words (see Proverbs 1:20–21).
The message that Jesus brings is greater than the message of Wisdom as described in Proverbs. John reminds his audience that Jesus has brought the greatest news of human history. Jesus cries out, yet few people listen or understand (see John 12:40).
The concepts of belief and resulting action from belief serve as Jesus’ main point. If a person believeth on Him, then that person also believeth in God the Father. This statement equates Jesus with God the Father. To believe in Jesus means to believe in the one who sent Him: God the Father (John 14:1, 6–7). As a result of proper belief, a person would experience life change.
To be sent by God speaks of Jesus’ authority, power, and honor (John 5:23). Jesus’ words are the same words as of the Father. Therefore, Jesus’ words carry the authority of the Father (7:16; 8:28). Since God sent Jesus, the world must listen to Jesus. His teachings point to the life in God because whoever “abideth in the doctrine of Christ hath both the Father and the Son” (2 John 9).
The concept of belief is a central theme of John’s Gospel. John wrote so that people would believe that Jesus is the Son of God and, thereby, receive life (John 20:31). One cannot reject Jesus’ teachings but claim to follow God. If a person rejects Jesus, they also reject God (compare 14:24).
45. And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.
The Old Testament describes Moses’ unique relationship with God. The Lord God knew Moses as if they were “face to face” (Deuteronomy 34:10). However, Moses could not see God directly (Exodus 33:20). God permitted Moses to see only part of Him (33:23). Despite Moses’ unique relationship with God, no person would dare claim that to see the face of Moses was the same as seeing God himself.
However, in Jesus, God had come and was present among humanity. The glory of the Son was the same glory as of the Father (John 1:14). When a person looked at Jesus, they were also seeing God—him that sent Jesus to earth (see 14:9). But mere physical vision is not enough; a person must believe. Seeing and believing in the Son of God must occur for the future resurrection and eternal life (see 6:40)!
What Do You Think?
What things prevent people from seeing God and His work in the world?
Digging Deeper
How might Jesus’ teaching found in Matthew 5:3–14 inform believers on the ways they can show God to the world?
B. Abiding (v. 46)
46. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.
For people to see clearly and know the direction they are headed, they must have light. Jesus declares himself to be the one who will cast spiritual light for the world. The totality of His person and work has been to provide spiritual light to each person who believeth on Him. As a result, the spiritual lives of His followers are illuminated. Following the will of God is doable as the light of Jesus shines on His disciples.
The binary of light and darkness is a dominant theme in the writings of the apostle John. He describes the Son of God as being the Word of God that gives witness to God’s light (see lesson 5 on John 1:7–9). Additionally, Jesus refers to himself as the light of the world (8:12; 9:5; 12:35–36, 46). Jesus bears God’s light and is light in himself. John desired that his audience believe in the light and live in a manner that reflects this spiritual light (see 1 John 1:5–9).
The spiritual light of Jesus exposes the dark ways of the world. Further, spiritual darkness is unable to comprehend this spiritual light (John 1:5). People who abide in darkness and embrace the evil of the world are unable to believe in Jesus (see 3:19; 1 John 2:9–11). Only Jesus can provide the light of spiritual life for people to see their dark ways (John 8:12).
Jesus has the power to give light to all people who wish to see clearly. This includes physical and spiritual vision (see John 9:1–41). While some people wander in spiritual darkness, people who believe in Jesus and His words receive spiritual light. As a result, their lives are illuminated by Jesus’ teachings, and they align with God’s intentions for the world. When disciples experience the spiritual light of Jesus’ teaching, they can guide others to glorify the Father (see Matthew 5:16).
The process of growing as a disciple of Jesus, known as discipleship, is predicated on remaining in and keeping Jesus’ teaching (John 8:31). When disciples follow Him and His teachings, they show their love for Him (14:23–24).
Further, Jesus’ words bring spiritual renewal and cleansing (John 15:3). Ultimately, discipleship in the way of Jesus leads to eternal life (8:51). This hope finds its basis on the words of Jesus, words that bring life (6:68)! Discipleship and the words of Jesus go hand in hand (14:15). Disciples follow the way of their heavenly master!
What Do You Think?
What approaches to evangelism have you found to be most effective for calling people from spiritual darkness into the light of Jesus Christ?
Digging Deeper
Who will you next invite to accept the light that only Jesus Christ can bring?
TURN ON THE LIGHT!
Flip a light switch in your kitchen, and the overhead light will come on automatically. Open your refrigerator door, and its light will illuminate the contents therein. Step outside during a midsummer afternoon, and the summer sunlight will beat down on your skin. The presence of light is so commonplace that we take it for granted in our daily lives.
Light’s illuminating nature grows more powerful when many smaller lights are combined. On a clear summer night at my childhood home, the glow of the nearby large city—located 50 miles away—was evident on the horizon. The many lights of the city combined to cast an ethereal glow in the sky surrounding my home.
Scripture uses the concept of light as a metaphor for the ways of God. The Word of God is described as a light that illuminates the psalmist’s spiritual walk (Psalm 119:105). God’s people are described as being like light, serving as a beacon for a spiritually dark world (see Matthew 5:14–16; 1 Thessalonians 5:5). Even God and His salvation serve as light for the world (see Psalm 27:1; John 1:4; 1 John 1:5). How are you letting the light of God shine forth to your family, friends, and neighbors?
—D. F.
II. On Judgment
(JOHN 12:47–50)
A. Timing (vv. 47–48)
47. And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.
Early in Jesus’ adult ministry, He interacted with Nicodemus the Pharisee. Nicodemus was confused regarding the nature of Jesus’ ministry. Nicodemus could only suppose that Jesus was merely a teacher from God (John 3:2).
However, Jesus was more than a mere teacher. In fact, Jesus declared His purpose on earth as God’s Son. He came not to “condemn the world” but to provide salvation for the world (John 3:17–18). In this sense, Jesus’ task while on earth was to declare the words of His heavenly Father so that all people might hear Him, believe in Him, and have everlasting life (3:16).
Further, Jesus made clear that in this moment He would not judge a person who failed to believe (see John 8:15). God’s purpose for Jesus is to bring salvation to the world. The opportunity remains for people to repent and receive forgiveness.
However, this statement does not mean that Jesus will never render judgment. As the Son of Man, He has the authority to do so (John 5:27; 9:39). Is Jesus so confused about His mission that He contradicted himself regarding His acts of judgment?
On further investigation, this seeming difference can be resolved by thinking about the varied kinds of judgments. At God’s appointed time, all humanity will face His judgment (Acts 17:31; Romans 2:16; 1 Corinthians 4:5). Jesus’ first coming to earth was not the time for that. Then (and now!) Jesus desires to save the world. This salvation will occur as people repent of sin, believe in Him, and follow the plan of salvation as the New Testament expresses it. There will be a time for eternal judgment. But in this moment, Jesus had come to bring the light of eternal life.
What Do You Think?
How might believers be not only hearers of God’s Word but also doers of His Word?
Digging Deeper
What obstacles prevent you from following God’s Word?
48. He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.
Jesus acknowledged that not all people will follow Him as a disciple. Some will reject Him and receiveth not His words of teaching (see Luke 10:16). For those who have rejected Him, Jesus’ word will be their judge (see John 5:30; 8:16).
The themes of Jesus and the Word have a heavy emphasis in John’s Gospel. In the famous introduction, John identifies Jesus as the Word (John 1:1–5, 14; see lesson 5). Further, Jesus is portrayed as emphasizing the importance of hearing and believing His words (5:24). While some people followed Jesus after they saw His power on display, many people turned away from Jesus because of the demanding nature of His words (6:60).
The timing of the final judgment is unknown. In John’s Gospel, the last day refers to the future bodily resurrection of believers (see John 6:39–40, 54; 11:24). In this instance, Jesus speaks of the last day as a day of judgment for unbelievers. But He also spoke of a day when all people would be judged—believers and unbelievers (see 5:28–30). How a person regards the words of Jesus will dictate their eventual judgment.
Discipleship is predicated on remaining in Jesus’ word (John 8:31). Love for Jesus is demonstrated by keeping His word (14:23–24). Cleansing is effected by means of Jesus’ word (15:3). Eternal life is contingent upon keeping Jesus’ word (8:51–52). Jesus’ word is, in fact, the point of division between those who follow Him and those who don’t, those who are in Christ and those who are not (6:60–66; 10:19). Jesus’ true disciples are those who confess and believe that He has the words of eternal life (6:68).
What Do You Think?
How are the concepts of hearing, belief, and judgment connected as represented in John 12:44–48?
Digging Deeper
How might James 1:22–25 inform the importance of your obedience to God’s commands?
B. Declaring (vv. 49–50)
49. For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.
The words that bring life and judgment are not only spoken by Jesus, but come from His heavenly Father who sent Him (see John 6:38–40; 8:26). The Father sent Jesus with a particular task, part of which included that He should speak and teach the Word of God (7:16–17).
The exact nature of the commandment God the Father … gave to Jesus is not immediately evident from this text (compare John 14:31). However, Jesus previously spoke of His authority—given to Him by His heavenly Father—to lay down His life and “take it [up] again” (10:18). Jesus’ words would eventually lead to this unavoidable fact. As Jesus willingly declared His Father’s intentions for the world (see 5:18; 18:19–23, 33–37), His death would become a reality.
Jesus’ time on earth is a perfect example of humble submission and obedience to His heavenly Father (see Philippians 2:8; Hebrews 5:7–8). Through His obedience, Jesus was faithful to His Father—He spoke only what His Father commanded of Him. Therefore, He calls His disciples to follow Him with love and faithfulness (John 14:21; 15:10).
This background reinforces the urgency in needing to respond to Jesus’ teaching. To reject Jesus’ Word is the same as rejecting the entirety of the Word of God. The Father sent His Son to the world and provided a specific task: what He should say concerning salvation for the world.
50. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.
All of Jesus’ work, as well as John’s purpose in writing his Gospel, has eternal life as its ultimate objective. Jesus did not only come to bring physical healing, but also spiritual life. By obeying the Father’s commandment, Jesus made life everlasting—physical and spiritual—available to humanity.
Jesus’ faithfulness in following the command of His heavenly Father gives opportunity for humanity to receive this life. The reception of this life starts with and requires belief that Jesus is the Son of God and the only way to the Father (John 14:6–7). For disciples who adhere to this belief and follow the New Testament plan of salvation, a new life will result (see 3:15; 5:24, 39–40; 6:40; Acts 2:38; Ephesians 2:8–9; James 2:14–26; etc.).
Jesus bears light to all who would believe. Belief in Jesus leads to spiritual cleansing and renewal (John 15:3–4). A person can’t claim to be a disciple of Jesus and not obey Him and His Word. Disciples of Jesus “abideth in him” and so they will “walk, even as he walked” (1 John 2:6).
What Do You Think?
What is an example of God’s commandment from Scripture that you will recommit to following in the coming week?
Digging Deeper
How might a particular fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) provide the necessary mindset so that you can follow God’s commands?
GLOVES OFF!
The final buzzer sounded, and Indianapolis Colts linebacker Darius Leonard was elated. His superb defense had helped his team win a victory against the Minnesota Vikings. As he left the field, Darius removed his game gloves and haphazardly tossed the gloves to a young Colts fan in the stands.
Once in the locker room, Darius realized that his wedding ring was missing from his hand. Concurrently, the young Colts fan realized he had received something much more valuable than mere football gloves; he had inadvertently received gloves and a wedding ring! With the help of his family, the young fan returned the wedding ring, much to the relief of Darius and his wife.
Some items are too precious for us to lose—or so we think. The truth, however, is that nothing of this earth can be retained forever. The ultimate (and only) “item” that’s too precious to lose is the Word: Jesus Christ. Through God’s revelation in Him, the world has been given the ultimate gift. His words lead to eternal life. What earthly thing are you tempted to replace Him with?
—D. F.
Conclusion
A. The Word Saves
After this teaching, Jesus’ public interactions would be greatly limited. He would celebrate Passover with His disciples (John 13:1–30) and give them His final teaching (13:31–16:33) before His trial and crucifixion. Therefore, we can look at Jesus’ teaching as His final public teaching (and warning) on the saving nature of His Word.
True belief requires confession that Jesus is Lord and a life change resulting from that confession. Disciples of Jesus prioritize obedience as His light directs their actions. In Jesus’ time, many people saw God’s miraculous power at work in Him. But when time came to listen and obey His words, many people stopped following Him. For this reason, Jesus taught of the necessity of belief and of judgment.
Later in John’s Gospel Jesus said, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Love is demonstrated by right belief and hearing and obeying Jesus’ words. All believers must faithfully abide in Jesus’ words. In the future, His words will judge all humanity. Disciples love and follow Him!
Jesus’ words will transform us and lead us into a life that bears the fruit of obedience (see James 2:14). Jesus has brought spiritual light into the world. Will you receive it?
B. Prayer
Heavenly Father, we want to faithfully listen to and follow the words of Your Son. Show us how to make His word primary in our lives so that it will transform us. Remove any distractions that prevent us from faithfully obeying Your Son. Reveal to us how we might live as a witness to Your salvation. In the name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.
C. Thought to Remember
Jesus brings spiritual light!
July 24
Lesson 8 (KJV)
THE WORD RESURRECTS
DEVOTIONAL READING: John 11:20–27, 38–44
BACKGROUND SCRIPTURE: John 11:17–44
JOHN 11:17–27, 38–44
17. Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.
18. Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:
19. And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.
20. Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house.
21. Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.
22. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.
23. Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
24. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.
25. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:
26. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?
27. She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.
38. Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.
39. Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.
40. Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?
41. Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.
42. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.
43. And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.
44. And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
KEY TEXT
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?—John 11:25–26
LESSON AIMS
After participating in this lesson, each learner will be able to:
1. Recount the sequence of events in the raising of Lazarus from the dead.
2. Explain how Jesus’ raising of Lazarus proves the truth of Jesus’ claim in John 11:25.
3. Contrast his or her life as now lived in confidence that Jesus is “the resurrection, and the life” with his or her prior life.
LESSON OUTLINE
Introduction
A. The Point of No Return
B. Lesson Context
I. Faith at a Funeral (John 11:17–27)
A. Status (vv. 17–19)
B. Frustration (vv. 20–22)
Not What I Expected
C. Life (vv. 23–26)
The Final Mile
D. Belief (v. 27)
II. Freed from the Grave (John 11:38–44)
A. Emotion, Cave, Stone (v. 38)
B. Request, Objection, Response (vv. 39–40)
C. Prayer, Belief, Command (vv. 41–44)
Conclusion
A. Pleasant Surprises
B. Prayer
C. Thought to Remember
HOW TO SAY IT
Bethabara
Beth-ab-uh-ruh.
Bethany
Beth-uh-nee.
Judea
Joo-dee-uh.
Perea
Peh-ree-uh.
KIDS CORNER
James 5:7-12
(James 5:7) Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains.
The Apostle Paul wrote, “Love is patient” (1 Corinthians 13:4). The Apostle Peter wrote that God is patient with us (2 Peter 3:9). In the Book of Revelation, John wrote of “patient endurance” and Jesus commended Christians for their “patient endurance” (Revelation 1:9; 2:2; 2:19; 3:10). The fruit of the Holy Spirit includes patience (Galatians 5:22). Patience is a virtue that we can only practice with the help of the Holy Spirit. Christians will be challenged to be patient until Christ comes again or until they meet Christ face-to-face when their body dies. As an example, James points us to the farmer. The farmer’s reaping his “precious crop” means the difference between food, clothing, and shelter for his family or starvation and the loss of his farm. The farmer does his work with faith in God, and God gives the early rains to stimulate the growth of the grain and the late rains to help the grain ripen until harvest time. The farmer has learned to be patient as he waits for God to give the growth and make his field ready for harvesting.
(James 5:8) You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near.
As Christians living between the First and Second Coming of Jesus Christ, we must learn to practice patience. We need to remind ourselves of all the Bible teaches and remain patient in prayer. Just as the Jews had to wait hundreds of years before Jesus the Messiah came into the world; so, we may need to wait hundreds of years for the Lord Jesus to return visibly. We need to remember that the Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit indwell us as Christians, and we are the sheep of Jesus’ pasture. No one and nothing can snatch us out of Jesus’ hand. Jesus reigns from heaven and He also lives near and within us; therefore, we can strengthen our hearts by remembering that Jesus is near until He visibly comes again into our world as He promised. We can strengthen our hearts through praying, through studying and believing the Bible’s teachings, and through trusting in Jesus all the time no matter what our circumstances.
(James 5:9) Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door.
Because the Father and the Son love us, and Jesus commanded us to love one another as He loves us, we must not grumble and complain against one another (see John 13:34; 13:35; 15:12; 15:17). The New Testament never shows Jesus grumbling against His disciples, but as King of kings Jesus needed to speak truthfully to Peter when Peter tempted Him not to die for the sins of the world (see Matthew 16:23). Jesus did not grumble at Peter or anyone else. Grumbling and complaining against other Christians is a form of judging and condemning them. James pointed out what Jesus warned against in His Sermon on the Mount, “Do not judge, so that you may not be judged. For with the judgment you make you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get” (Matthew 7:1-2). Grumbling, complaining, and judging someone are far different from helping someone live the Christian life, and God the Judge sees our motivations. Grumbling can result in the complainer suffering the discipline of the Lord, and the Judge is as near as the doors to our homes: He can hear all that is said and done in our homes, in our churches, and in the world.
(James 5:10) As an example, brethren, of suffering and patience, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord.
Sometimes our persecutions and sufferings have become so intense that all we can do is remain faithful and trust in Jesus until He intervenes in our behalf. That may mean praying and praising the Lord until our souls depart and we join Him in heaven. Having talked about the patience of farmers, James draws our attention to the patience of the prophets. The prophets served the Lord with their words and actions in the name of the Lord. They did not suffer for their sins but for their faithfulness to God. Because of and despite their service of God, they suffered various persecutions and death. We can think of the prophet Jeremiah as one example. Of course, Jesus suffered supremely in His service of God the Father in our behalf. Jesus and the prophets suffered and served God patiently until their work was done.
(James 5:11) We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful.
Endurance is keeping on in faith and trust in Jesus despite our circumstances. Sometimes all we can do is endure and prayerfully keep believing Jesus and His precious promises to us. Job endured suffering beyond any most have ever experienced. Yet, Job affirmed his faith in the Lord, in the future coming of the Lord into our world, and in the resurrection of the dead (his resurrection and that of others) that the Lord would make possible. Job said, “For I know that my Redeemer lives, and that at the last he will stand upon the earth; and after my skin has been thus destroyed, then in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:25-26). Job did not know how many hundreds of years would pass before Jesus was born, but he knew and believed the promises of God. The Lord chose Job with a purpose when He allowed Satan to test him. Job passed the test by continuing to trust in God even after all his earthly possessions, even his health, had been taken from him. Then, the Lord showed His compassion and mercy by restoring Job completely and by giving Job twice what he had before. In our darkest hours, we need to remind ourselves that God is compassionate and merciful, and He proved it when He sent Jesus to live and die for us while we were still sinners. In Romans 5:8-9, the Apostle Paul wrote, “But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us. Much more surely then, now that we have been justified by his blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath of God.” Should the Lord Jesus delay His Second Coming, no matter what happens to one of Jesus’ sheep, they can say with Job, “I know that my Redeemer lives, and that at the last he will stand upon the earth; and after my skin has been thus destroyed, then in my flesh I shall see God” (Job 19:25-26). Having read the New Testament, in these verses we can substitute “glorified and resurrected bodies” for “flesh.” James would agree with John, who wrote, “Beloved, we are God’s children now; what we will be has not yet been revealed. What we do know is this: when he is revealed, we will be like him, for we will see him as he is. And all who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure” (1 John 3:2-3).
(James 5:12) But above all, my brethren, do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath; but your yes is to be yes, and your no, no, so that you may not fall under judgment.
Next, James turned to the purity, honesty, truthfulness, and trust required of Christians. Just as many today look for legal loopholes to avoid doing what is right or obey the law as they know the lawmakers intended, some Jews did the same in Jesus’ day. Some Jews created elaborate oaths to seemingly affirm that they would do as they promised but knowing they would not. It was common knowledge that if God’s name was not included in the oath, then the one making the oath did not need to keep their promise or fulfill their contractual obligation. James, in agreement with Jesus, told Christians to tell the truth. They were to say “yes” or “no” and keep their promises. In Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, He said, “Again, you have heard that it was said to those of ancient times, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but carry out the vows you have made to the Lord.’ But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black. Let your word be ‘Yes, Yes’ or ‘No, No’; anything more than this comes from the evil one” (Matthew 5:33-37). To make a promise knowing you will not keep it is basic dishonesty and untruthfulness; such an attitude comes from the evil one. Christians need to be able to trust each other, and the world needs to know they can trust Christians, because from experience people need to know that Christians are honest and truthful. Dishonest Christians put a stain upon the faith. If Christians are not honest and truthful, they will suffer the condemnation of God, the condemnation of other Christians, and the condemnation of those of this world; thus bringing dishonor to God, dishonor to the Christian faith, dishonor to the Church, and dishonor to themselves.
Strengthen Your Heart and Endure
Sunday, July 17, 2022
James 5:7-12
Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy (James 5:11—KJV).
We count those blessed who endured. You have heard of the endurance of Job and have seen the outcome of the Lord’s dealings, that the Lord is full of compassion and is merciful (James 5:11—NASB).
Indeed we call blessed those who showed endurance. You have heard of the endurance of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful (James 5:11—NRSV).
In an uncertain world where disaster, disease, and death can surprise us at any moment, James tells Christians to be patient, to endure, and strengthen their hearts. Then, he tells us why. “The coming of the Lord is near.” We need to remember that the Lord is near now. The Lord Jesus and the Holy Spirit indwell Christians. In 1 John 4:4 & 6, John wrote, “Little children, you are from God, and have conquered them; for the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us, and whoever is not from God does not listen to us. From this we know the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.” Jesus will come again, though His coming has not been as soon as many Christians have hoped, and Peter tells us why. Peter explained in 2 Peter 3:8-9 “But do not ignore this one fact, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day. The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance.” In addition, remember this: whenever Christians die, the Lord Jesus has come to take them to the place He has prepared for them. Jesus promised in John’s gospel, in John 14:3, “And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also.” We can endure with this blessed hope. Christians have good reasons to patiently endure because of the character of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Christians can remind themselves that God is compassionate and merciful. God’s mercies are new every morning as Jeremiah explained in Lamentations 3:21-25, “But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. ‘The LORD is my portion,’ says my soul, ‘therefore I will hope in him.’ The LORD is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him.” Our trials have a purpose and through them we will become more like Jesus Christ. We will become more compassionate and merciful, and others will see the work of Jesus Christ in us and be drawn to faith in Jesus Christ. Amid our afflictions and before they begin, Christians need to strengthen their hearts. We do this through praise and prayers to the Lord God. We do this through the study of the Bible and through daily quiet times of Bible reading. We do this by showing the Lord we love Him by our daily obedience to Him and His Word. By believing and doing what the Bible teaches, people will be blessed.
Thinking Further
Strengthen Your Heart and Endure
Sunday, July 17, 2022
James 5:7-12
Name _________________________________________
1. Why are farmers good examples of being patient?
2. How can Christians strengthen their hearts?
3. How are God’s prophets examples of suffering and patience?
4. With what two qualities did James describe the Lord? Why are these qualities important to you and others?
5. How can someone who makes oaths fall under condemnation?
Discussion and Thinking Further
1. Why are farmers good examples of being patient?
They plow their fields and plant their grain; then, they must wait patiently for the rains to come to germinate their seed, grow their grain, and then make their fields ready for harvest. They do not get a crop immediately after they plant their seed, and they depend on the rains coming at the right times. As Christians, we wait patiently in suffering as we serve the Lord and depend upon the Lord to meet all our needs.
2. How can Christians strengthen their hearts?
By prayerful Bible reading and trusting in the words of the Bible as the Holy Spirit gives them understanding and greater trust in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. By learning and trusting in all the promises of God.
3. How are God’s prophets examples of suffering and patience?
They faithfully served the Lord even while suffering persecutions. They patiently waited on the Lord and His timing for everything. Some spoke of Jesus’ coming, but they did not see His coming in their own day.
4. With what two qualities did James describe the Lord? Why are these qualities important to you and others?
The Lord God is compassionate and merciful. As human beings we have all sinned and deserve the just condemnation and punishment of our Lord and King. Because God is compassionate and merciful Jesus came and gave His life as a sacrifice for our sins so God could mercifully and justly forgive us and give us the gift of eternal life if we repent of our sins and receive Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
5. How can someone who makes oaths fall under condemnation?
They can make an oath that they will do something knowing they do not intend to keep their promise; then, they come under the condemnation of God and others for their dishonesty.
Word Search
Strengthen Your Heart and Endure
Sunday, July 17, 2022
James 5:7-12
Name ________________________________________
N E H T G N E R T S H W A F D
M S T E H P O R P F G J P V J
E Y C Z O F Q E D T A R K B Z
R I B K W G V T B S E R L D L
C W E I M O I A K C T N M Z F
I U L G S X B N I V O R L E L
F X O K F I V O C I U O A N R
U D V M X N U I S X R I P E C
L J E C E S A S U D Z L O S H
A Z D A Q V E S S S W D R Y L
Q C R V M F D A E N J M C Z D
F J L A N O C P J I L O A Y O
Z U K O M J H M P A T I E N T
N P C J H O U O B R C Q C U E
T S T I C B Q C S V E N J F L
Patient
Beloved
Farmer
Precious
Crop
Rains
Strengthen
Hearts
Lord
Near
Prophets
Confession
Job
Compassionate
Merciful
True and False Test
Strengthen Your Heart and Endure
Sunday, July 17, 2022
James 5:7-12
Name ___________________________________________
Circle the True or False answers. Correct the False statements by restating them.
1. A farmer never waits patiently for rain to fall on his crop. True or False
2. Followers of the Lord Jesus Christ need to learn to be patient.
True or False
3. We will have the courage to strengthen our hearts if we remember that the coming of the Lord is near. True or False
4. If we learn to grumble against one another, we will all be happy and
never be judged. True or False
5. The prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord are good examples of suffering and patience. True or False
6. Those who show patient endurance are blessed. True or False
7. Despite his suffering, Job showed faith and endurance. True or False
8. When we study Job, the prophets, and others who maintained their faith in God while they endured suffering, we see the purpose of the Lord, who is compassionate and merciful. True or False
9. As followers of Jesus, it is better to swear by heaven than swear by the earth that God created. True or False
10. If we do not mean “Yes,” when we say “Yes,” or “No”, when we say “No,” we are not being honest with someone, and we can fall under condemnation. True or False
True and False Test Answers
- False
- True
- True
- False
- True
- True
- True
- True
- False
- True
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we want to faithfully listen to and follow the words of Your Son. Show us how to make His word primary in our lives so that it will transform us. Remove any distractions that prevent us from faithfully obeying Your Son. Reveal to us how we might live as a witness to Your salvation. In the name of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.