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Encontrar el equilibrio sin miedo

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Al crecer, mi fe se forjó en torno a las normas -qué hacer y qué no hacer-, que crearon una sensación de miedo en lugar de una comprensión de la gracia de Dios. Aunque las normas son necesarias, especialmente en un hogar atareado, ¿hay lugar para el equilibrio?   Descubrir a través de conversaciones abiertas […] Source: https://atoday.org/encontrar-el-equilibrio-sin-miedo/

Barry Black capellán del Senado de los Estados Unidos se recupera de una hemorragia cerebral

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El jueves 12 de diciembre se hizo público que el capellán del Senado de EE.UU. Barry Black, quien es adventista, había sido hospitalizado por una hemorragia cerebral. Según Associated Press: «Black, de 76 años, sufrió un hematoma subdural a principios de esta semana y se encuentra en un hospital local y bajo el cuidado del […] Source: https://atoday.org/barry-black-capellan-del-senado-de-los-estados-unidos-se-recupera-de-una-hemorragia-cerebral/

Salmo 13:1 – Apri la porta del tuo cuore

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“Fino a quando, o Signore, mi dimenticherai? Sarà forse per sempre? Fino a quando mi nasconderai il tuo volto?”. 📖 Salmo 13:1
—
💌 Apri la porta del tuo cuore
👉 Rubrica a cura di Anna Cupertino
🗣 Speaker: Daniele Magliulo Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mu4XsaDjios

13: Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word – Singing With Inspiration

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ohn has written what is possibly the most well-known Bible verse in John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, He gave His only Son” which has had many say 
Lord, I Have Made Thy Word My Choice – Hymn 273 and 
Give Me The Bible – Hymn 272. John writes of many people who turned to Jesus in this quarter’s studies. Here are two hymns from which to choose for your theme hymn this quarter.

We have learned so much about our precious Lord Jesus in this quarter’s lesson studies, so may we all have chosen to
Take The Name Of Jesus With You – Hymn 474, all because 
Lord, I Have Made Thy Word My Choice – Hymn 273 if previously 
We Have Not Known Thee as we ought – Hymn 291.

Monday gives us Jesus’ encouragement “Follow Me” with our positive response being 
I Will Follow Thee – Hymn 623.

Tuesday helps to see that 
Christ Is The World’s Light – Hymn 234 and 
Christ Is The World’s True Light – Hymn 345. This continues in Wednesday (our Christmas Day special) with the wonderful result of 
I Do Believe – Hymn 486.

Our week and year closes with requesting again 
Give Me The Bible – Hymn 272 because I wish to say 
All To Jesus I Surrender – Hymn 309. Thursday closes with these precious thoughts.

May we always remember “Christ is the medium of communication of men with God, and of God with men.” – Ellen White, The Desire of Ages, p.143.

Please continue to search the scriptures this week to be blessed, and to bless many others.

To learn unknown hymns, you will find the accompaniment music for each one at: https://sdahymnals.com/Hymnal/

Another great resource is for when there is a hymn you wish to sing but can’t find it in your hymnal. Go to https://www.sdahymnal.org/Search and in the search bar type a special word in that is in the hymn. I am sure you will be amazed at the help you will be given.

 2 Timothy 2:15 KJV – “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/13-epilogue-knowing-jesus-and-his-word-singing-with-inspiration/

13: Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word – Teaching Plan

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Key Thought: Through the power of the Holy Spirit, God the Father has revealed to us the depth of His love. And we know Jesus because His life, death, and resurrection have been recorded in His Word.
December 28, 2024

1. Have a volunteer read John 21:1-22.

  1. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point is in this passage.
  2. What question led Peter down a wrong path? Did Jesus straighten the path?
  3. Personal Application: Why is humility so key in anyone seeking to know the Lord? What do anyone of us have to be proud of?” Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: One of your relatives states, “Has anyone that you have looked up to disappointed you? What lesson did you learn from this?” How would you respond to your relative?

2. Have a volunteer read John 8:42-44.

  1. Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
  2. How did Jesus describe the false foundation on which the religious leaders had based their faith?
  3. Personal Application: How do you respond to truths that “step on your toes” as opposed to how you should respond? Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: One of your friends states, “I don’t know if I can stand by myself if persecuted or challenged on the Bible teachings. I need the Pastor or teacher to help me understand what to say or where to go to refute their arguments. I believe in Jesus but I can’t remember all the time line dates, or Scripture references to defend our positions.” How would you respond to your friend?

3. Have a volunteer read John 4:46-54.

  1. Ask class members to share a short thought on what the most important point in this text is.
  2. What problem brought the official to Jesus, and what was the underlying issue?
  3. Personal Application: What are some examples when politics and human prejudices use the Word of God for their own interpretations and applications? Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: One of your neighbors states: “Why isn’t obedience to God enough. If we accept Him and obey Him, that should be enough. But to love Him is an abstract idea of loving someone we’ve never seen or heard. Love is something that grows from knowing someone and spending time with them, not just a Facebook texting and talking relationship.” How would you respond to your neighbor?

4. Have a volunteer read John 12:32.

  1. Ask class members to share a thought on what the most important point in this text is.
  2. In what ways does this statement describe the authority of Jesus?
  3. Personal Application: How do we experience Spiritual growth? How do we get to know, understand, and trust Jesus with and in our lives? Share your thoughts.
  4. Case Study: Think of one person who needs to hear a message from this week’s lesson. Tell the class what you plan to do this week to share with them

(Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Its blessings can be retained only as it is shared.”Ministry of Healing, p. 148).

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Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/13-epilogue-knowing-jesus-and-his-word-teaching-plan/

Lesson 13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word | 13.1 Meeting in Galilee | THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN | LIVING FAITH

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13.1 Meeting in Galilee
A New Beginning in Grace and Humility
Read John 21:1–19. What decisive facts are revealed here, especially about God’s grace – and human humility?
The event in Galilee, as described in John 21:1–19, reveals crucial lessons about God’s grace and the necessary human humility. Particularly noteworthy is the way Jesus restores Peter in a gentle yet firm manner and entrusts him with his calling as a leader. This scene not only demonstrates the depth of Jesus’ forgiveness but also how humility becomes the foundation for renewed service.
Peter’s response to Jesus’ questions – “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you” – reflects an attitude marked by self-reflection and inner repentance. His decision not to place himself at the center but to fully rely on Jesus’ knowledge and judgment shows how much he has learned from his mistakes. This is a moving example of how God’s grace not only overcomes failure but also leads to a stronger, more humble faith.
Peter’s transition from denying Jesus three times before the crucifixion to becoming a confessing disciple and shepherd is a powerful reminder that true restoration is only possible through humility and God’s immeasurable grace. This encounter in Galilee also underscores the transformative power of forgiveness: it turns a failing person into a key leader of the early church.
Ultimately, this story teaches us that it is not perfection that qualifies us for God’s service, but the willingness to admit our weaknesses, rely on His grace, and place Him at the center.
Why is humility very important for anyone who wants to know God? What could any of us be proud of in the face of the cross?
Humility is essential for anyone who wants to know God because it is the prerequisite for recognizing our dependence on Him. Those who are proud tend to center their own abilities and merits, which hinders true understanding of God. Humility means acknowledging our limits, faults, and our need for God’s grace. It opens our hearts to the truth that we cannot achieve salvation or true knowledge on our own.
The Bible makes it clear that God is gracious to the humble but resists the proud (James 4:6). Humility allows us to recognize God’s greatness and to lay ourselves in His hands. It is the foundation for accepting Jesus as our Savior and Lord because only in humility can we admit that we need salvation and that God alone is the source of life.
What could any of us be proud of in the face of the cross?
In the face of the cross, all human pride is nullified. The cross reminds us that we are all sinners and that we can do nothing to save ourselves. It is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love and grace—not because of our merits but despite our guilt.
As Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” The cross shows that our salvation is solely God’s work, not ours. Pride is entirely out of place in light of Christ’s sacrifice, as there is nothing we could contribute to our redemption.
The cross teaches us that our only glory lies in being in Jesus Christ, who died for us (Galatians 6:14). This realization brings us back to humility, which is at the heart of a true relationship with God.
The story of the encounter in Galilee and the lessons about grace and humility have profound implications for our daily lives and our faith. It shows how crucial these principles are for our relationship with God and our interactions with others:
  1. Humility in Our Daily Lives
    • Self-awareness and Repentance: Like Peter, we often recognize our weaknesses only in moments of crisis. The ability to admit mistakes is not only the first step toward inner healing but also a prerequisite for healthy relationships.
    • Dependence on God: In daily life, humility means prioritizing God in our decisions, goals, and challenges instead of relying on our own strength or wisdom.
    • Willingness to Serve: Humility encourages us not to center our own needs but to serve others in the spirit of Jesus. It teaches us not to seek recognition but to serve God and our fellow humans.
  2. The Role of Grace
    • Accepting Forgiveness: Many people struggle with guilt and failure. Peter’s story reminds us that God’s grace is greater than our mistakes. This truth frees us from self-condemnation and grants us peace.
    • Extending Forgiveness: The grace we experience should be reflected in our interactions with others. In daily life, this means forgiving others for their mistakes and giving them the opportunity to make a new start.
  3. The Cross and Our Daily Faith
    • Hope in Challenges: The cross shows that God’s love accompanies us even in the darkest moments. This hope helps us remain steadfast in difficult times.
    • Prioritizing God’s Work Over Our Performance: We must remember that our worth does not depend on our successes but on God’s love. This frees us from performance pressure and allows us to live by grace.
    • Focus on Jesus: Like Peter in his conversation with Jesus, we learn to keep our eyes on Him rather than on our shortcomings or circumstances. In daily life, this means handing over our worries in prayer and trusting that God knows the best path.
  4. The Transformative Power of Forgiveness
    • Peter’s Restoration: Shows that no one is too far gone to be restored by God. This truth motivates us to hold on to God’s grace even in seemingly hopeless situations.
    • True Strength: Reminds us that true strength lies in the willingness to be shaped by God and to submit to His plan.
In summary: Grace and humility are not just theological concepts but practical attitudes that help us lead a life full of trust, love, and dedication. By applying these principles in our daily lives, we experience not only personal renewal but also radiate God’s love and forgiveness to those around us. The encounter in Galilee shows that a new beginning is always possible—through God’s grace and our willingness to humble ourselves under His guidance.

True strength lies in accepting God’s grace with humility and trusting Him in all things.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-epilogue-knowing-jesus-and-his-word-13-1-meeting-in-galilee-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

22.11.2024 – 1 Corinthians Chapter 12 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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December 22, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 12
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.
2 Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.
3 Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.
4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.
5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.
6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.
7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.
8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;
9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;
10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:
11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
14 For the body is not one member, but many.
15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?
20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.
21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.
25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
Introduction
1 Corinthians Chapter 12 is a central section about spiritual gifts and their role in the Body of Christ, the church. The Apostle Paul describes the unity and diversity of gifts, offices, and operations, all originating from one Spirit, one Lord, and one God. This chapter illustrates that each Christian has a unique role in serving the church and that all gifts are intended for the common good and the promotion of unity. The metaphor of the body highlights the dependence and cooperation of the individual members.
Commentary
Many Gifts – One Spirit (Verses 1–11):
Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts come from the Holy Spirit. The variety of gifts (wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment of spirits, tongues, and their interpretation) serves the well-being of the entire church (v7). The Spirit distributes them to each as He wills (v11). This demonstrates that the gifts are not to be used for self-promotion or division but for the edification of the Body of Christ.
Many Members – One Body (Verses 12–26):
The church is described as the Body of Christ, where each member has a specific function. No member can exist without the others, and all are equal and necessary (v14–20). Paul emphasizes that even the seemingly weaker members should be especially honored to prevent divisions and to care for one another (v22–25). This unity within the body serves as a metaphor for the mutual responsibility and solidarity among believers.
The Body of Christ and the Order of Gifts (Verses 27–31):
Paul reminds the church that they are the Body of Christ and that each individual plays an important role. He mentions various offices and gifts, highlighting apostles, prophets, and teachers as particularly foundational (v28). However, not everyone possesses the same gifts, which underscores the importance of diversity. Finally, Paul urges the church to strive for the best gifts, while anticipating in the next chapter the “more excellent way” of love as the foundation of all gifts.
Summary
1 Corinthians 12 teaches that spiritual gifts and functions originate from God and are all meant to strengthen the church. Paul demonstrates that the unity of believers is not hindered by the diversity of gifts but is instead enhanced by it. Each Christian is an essential part of the Body of Christ and has a unique role. This chapter calls for mutual appreciation, cooperation, and responsibility, while laying the groundwork for the subsequent chapter on love as the highest gift.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 81—“The Lord Is Risen”
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:2-4, 11-15.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 81 from the reflection “The Lord is Risen!” is a powerful depiction of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, based on Matthew 28:2-4 and 11-15. This chapter illuminates the triumphant moment when Christ overcame death and the cosmic implications of this event. It highlights the tension between the forces of darkness, who sought to seal the tomb, and the heavenly powers that called the Son of God to resurrection. The message of Jesus’ victory over death and the grave is a source of hope and promise for all believers.
Commentary
The Divine Power of the Resurrection:
The resurrection of Jesus is emphatically portrayed as a work of God. The angel of the Lord, whose appearance struck fear and terror into the Roman soldiers, moves the stone from the tomb and calls out the Son of God. This moment underscores the absolute supremacy of divine power over darkness, both physically and spiritually. The proclamation “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25) emphasizes Jesus’ divinity and His ability to give life.
The Reaction of the Guards and Priests:
The reactions of the Roman guards and Jewish priests demonstrate the magnitude of the resurrection. While the soldiers reverently acknowledge that it was the Son of God they had seen, the priests respond with fear and denial. They attempt to cover up the truth and spread lies about the resurrection. These contrasts illustrate how Christ’s triumph both strengthens believing hearts and shakes the unbelievers.
Significance for Believers:
The resurrection of Christ is not merely an event but a promise. It shows that Christ has power over death and the grave, granting believers immortality and eternal life. The resurrection of the saints who came out of the tombs with Christ is a foretaste of the final resurrection at His second coming. This serves as an encouragement for all who die in Christ, as death is but a sleep for them.
Summary
Chapter 81 is a sublime portrayal of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and its significance. It highlights God’s power that called Christ out of the tomb, the distress of His enemies, and the joy of the believers. The resurrection is described as the central victory over death and darkness, forming the foundation for the hope of eternal life. This chapter reminds us that the resurrection of Jesus is not only a historical event but an ongoing triumph that shapes our future.

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 82—“Why Weepest Thou?”
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:1, 5-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 82: “Why Are You Weeping?” describes the wonderful moment of Jesus’ resurrection and the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Lord. Based on the Gospels, it is shown how the sorrow and despair of the believers are transformed into joy and hope as they realize that Jesus is alive. This chapter emphasizes the central significance of the resurrection for the Christian faith and invites believers to embrace the hope of eternal life.
Commentary
The Women at the Empty Tomb:
The women who had accompanied Jesus up to His death came with spices to honor His body, unaware that the promise of His resurrection had already been fulfilled. Their deep sorrow was transformed into awe when they saw the angel who proclaimed the good news: “He is risen.” Their spices became unnecessary because the Savior was alive.
Mary Magdalene and Her Encounter with Jesus:
Mary Magdalene, whose grief was particularly great, experienced a personal encounter with the risen Jesus. Her inability to recognize Him immediately reflects the despair that kept her from the reality of His resurrection. However, Jesus’ loving “Mary” opened her eyes. This scene illustrates how Jesus reveals Himself uniquely to each individual.
The Disciples’ Doubts:
The disciples initially reacted with disbelief to the women’s message. Their doubts and fears prevented them from accepting the truth of the resurrection. Nevertheless, Jesus did not reject them but revealed Himself to strengthen their faith and restore their hope. Especially Peter received personal assurance of forgiveness through the mention of his name.
The Message of Hope:
Jesus’ words “Why are you weeping?” and the angels’ exhortation to spread the good news are still relevant today. The resurrection is the foundation of our hope and joy because it demonstrates that death has been overcome. The call to shift our focus from sorrow to the living Christ is an invitation to live in faith and hope.
Summary
Chapter 82 depicts the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Jesus and highlights the transformative power of the resurrection. It shows how sorrow, doubt, and despair can be transformed into joy, hope, and faith. The central message is clear: Jesus is alive, and through His resurrection, He grants all believers the hope of eternal life. This chapter calls believers to grow in faith and joyfully share the message of Jesus’ victory over death.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/22-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-12-believe-his-prophets/

How Rivo Became a Rebel Hero

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In this episode, we explore the dynamic between Rivo, a celebrated rebel leader, and Darius, a soldier left jobless and embittered by Rivo's actions. Join us to see how Darius's quest for justice unfolded as he hunted Rivo for years. What drove these two men, and how did their story impact those around them? Watch to find out and leave your thoughts in the comments. Subscribe for more fascinating journeys! #DaringAttack #VengeanceQuest #LeadershipStory #awr #adventistworldradio #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nJHuXkC64Io

Themes in the Gospel of John – Lesson 13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word  |
Getting to Know the Master and His Word  |
Lesson 13 invites us to recognize Jesus and His Word in a deeper way. Through encounters, such as the one between Jesus and Peter, it becomes clear that God’s grace and our humility are the keys to true discipleship. The Gospel of John shows how people respond to Jesus—either by accepting the light and growing or by rejecting it and remaining blind. It teaches us to base our faith not on human ideas but on God’s Word.
The lesson reminds us that spiritual growth depends on staying in Jesus, trusting Him, and allowing His truth to work in our lives. Jesus is the center of all understanding, the light that shows us the way to the Father.
Memory Text: John 5:39 – “ ‘You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me’ .”
Contents:
13.1 Meeting in Galilee
A New Beginning in Grace and Humility
John 21:1–19 reveals profound truths about God’s grace and human humility. The scene shows how Jesus meets the disciples, especially Peter, in Galilee and gives him the opportunity for restoration. Peter, who once denied Jesus three times, is now asked three times if he loves Him, symbolizing a deliberate restoration. In doing so, Peter recognizes his own inadequacy and responds humbly. This demonstrates that true humility—the awareness of one’s own faults and dependence on God’s grace—is essential for ministry and spiritual growth.
Jesus’ command to Peter to “feed my sheep” makes it clear that God’s forgiveness and calling do not depend on human perfection but on the willingness to place God at the center. This event is a powerful reminder that no one can stand before God based on their own achievements, but only through His immeasurable grace.
13.2 Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus
The Key to Discipleship
In John 21:20–22, it becomes evident how quickly the focus can shift from a personal relationship with Jesus to the circumstances of others. Peter curiously asks about the fate of John, but Jesus corrects him by saying, “What does it matter to you? Follow me!” This response shows that the path of discipleship is individual and not based on comparisons. Jesus redirects Peter back to the essential task: to focus on Him and fulfill His calling.
The misunderstanding about Jesus’ words—that John would remain until His return—highlights the importance of correctly understanding His message. John clarifies this confusion and refocuses attention on the central message: the focus should be solely on Jesus, our Savior and Master. This episode serves as a reminder that distractions and comparisons can lead us astray—the only path we should follow is the one Jesus shows us.
13.3 Light and Darkness
The Path to Truth
The texts from the Gospel of John emphasize the strong contrast between light and darkness, which is fundamental to understanding the truth. Light symbolizes Jesus Christ, who brings the truth and revelation of God, while darkness represents the world and its turning away from God. People often avoid the light because it exposes their actions, but only through the light can they recognize the true God. This contrast shows that true knowledge and relationship with God are not possible through our own strength but only through Jesus and the Holy Spirit.
Jesus makes it clear that faith based on a false foundation is dangerous, as was the case with the religious leaders of Israel. They relied on human perspectives and rejected the truth revealed in Christ. For us, this means that we must always measure our interpretations and reactions by the light of Christ, especially when biblical truths are challenging. Only then can we overcome the darkness of human misinterpretations and walk in the truth.
13.4 Theology From “Above” or From “Below”
Faith That Goes Beyond Human Ideas
A royal official came to Jesus with the desperate request to heal his sick son. However, his initial faith was based on the expectation of visible miracles—a “from below” theology that ties God’s actions to human conditions. But Jesus challenged him to believe His word without visible proof. The true theme here is the transition from a conditional faith to a trust that is based solely on Jesus and His Word.
Theology “from above” acknowledges God’s sovereignty and is guided by the Word of God, not by human ideas. Faith that springs from a loving relationship with Jesus leads to obedience that comes from the heart, not from legal obligation. Without love, obedience becomes a mechanical fulfillment of duty. But when love is the foundation, obedience becomes an expression of devotion and joy in God’s will.
13.5 Abiding in Jesus
The Key to True Discipleship
In John 12:32, Jesus describes His authority as one that draws all people to Himself when He is lifted up. This statement shows that Jesus is the central figure for understanding God’s will and the truth. The Gospel of John makes it clear that encounters with Jesus require decisions: either to accept the light and grow or to reject it and remain blind. Spiritual growth and health are only possible if we remain in Jesus, as illustrated by the relationship between the branches and the vine in John 15:1–11.
Jesus is the source of all life and truth. To grow spiritually, we must submit to His Word and His guidance, without placing our human ideas above divine truth. Faith rooted in Christ leads to a life that bears fruit and stands in love and obedience to God’s will. Thus, the Bible becomes the foundation by which everything is tested—the anchor for true life and true understanding.
13.6 Summary
Jesus—The Light That Leads to Truth
In Lesson 13, it is emphasized that encountering Jesus Christ requires a profound decision from each person. The disciples, especially Peter, experience God’s grace and forgiveness, which must be accepted through humility and faith. The contrast between light and darkness shows that true understanding and discipleship are only possible through turning to Jesus. Theology “from above” teaches us to trust God and place His Word above human ideas.
The secret to spiritual growth lies in remaining in Jesus, being guided by His Word, and bearing fruit for His kingdom. This lesson calls us to recognize Jesus as the center of our lives and to deepen our relationship with Him through faith, obedience, and love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-lesson-13-epilogue-knowing-jesus-and-his-word-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Rivo’s Journey: From War to Forgiveness

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Join Cami on AWR360° as she unravels Rivo's astonishing journey from a leader in the New People's Army to a path of forgiveness and redemption. Discover how Rivo's early beliefs in revolution shaped his life and what led him to seek a new beginning. What can we learn from Rivo's transformation? Dive into this compelling story and hit that like button if you're inspired. Don't forget to subscribe for more powerful stories! #Forgiveness #RevolutionToRedemption #InspiringStories #awr #adventistworldradio #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fRmXKY9uyTk

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