6.3 Acceptance and Rejection
“The Bread of Life” – Jesus’ Call to Deeper Commitment

Read John 6:51–71. What did Jesus say that people found difficult to accept?

In John 6:51–71, Jesus speaks one of the most central yet elusive truths of His ministry: “I am the bread of life.” By declaring that this bread is His flesh, which He gives for the life of the world, Jesus challenges people to accept Him in a way that goes beyond their worldly notions and expectations. They were willing to celebrate Him as a king as long as He fulfilled their immediate needs, but the deeper spiritual significance of His ministry—as a sacrifice and giver of life—many could not accept. This point marks the turning away of many of His followers.

Jesus’ words exposed the crowd’s understanding: they wanted a Messiah who fit their earthly thinking and would bring them freedom and prosperity. But Jesus demanded a radical change in mindset, a “spiritual food” that grants eternal life instead of satisfying short-term needs. His message required dedication, faith, and the willingness to see the material world as transient. For many, this was too high a price, and they left.

This must have been a deeply painful moment for Jesus. As the crowd that had just been praising Him turned away, He tested His closest disciples, asking if they too wanted to leave. This demonstrates the depth of His commitment to the truth beyond seeking people’s approval. Peter’s response is a powerful confession: “You have the words of eternal life.” The disciples had experienced that Jesus offered them something beyond the visible. Despite their imperfections and incomplete understanding, they stayed with Him—not because of words everyone could understand, but because of the unique hope and truth that only Jesus gave them.

This episode reminds us that genuine faith often means listening to deeper truths, even when they challenge us or we do not fully grasp them yet. It invites us to examine our own willingness to dedicate ourselves and recognize that true discipleship does not always follow the crowd or popular expectations but lies in faithfulness to Jesus’ words—words of eternal life.

This story and the significance of Jesus’ statement “I am the bread of life” remind us that genuine faith often requires swimming against the current of society and even against the expectations of other believers. The connection to our daily lives and faith lies in the fact that we often must remain steadfast in our convictions, even if they alienate us from the majority or cultural trends. Here are some concrete points of connection:

1. Faith as a Foundation, Not as Adaptation to Society In a world that often praises quick success and material satisfaction, Jesus shows us that true life is found in dedication and trust in God. Even if this means standing against societal norms or popular ideas, our faith is stronger when it is oriented toward God’s Word and not the opinions of the majority.

2. Living True Values in Decisions and Actions Jesus’ call to dedication as the “bread of life” invites us to align our decisions with His teachings. In daily life, this can mean not always taking the path of least resistance or focusing on short-term successes but rather ensuring that our decisions reflect our faith and God’s love. This can guide us in work, family, and interpersonal relationships and encourage us to live authentically and with integrity.

3. Consistency and Courage in Discipleship In daily life, it takes courage to uphold beliefs that may not be popular. The willingness to remain with Jesus even when it makes us outsiders strengthens us in discipleship. Remembering that Jesus did not waver from His path despite rejection and misunderstandings gives us the strength to remain steadfast in challenges and not be swayed by others’ opinions.

4. A Faith that Goes Beyond Material Needs Jesus teaches us that true life and fulfillment are not found in material things but in the spiritual life that looks beyond the visible. This perspective can help us prioritize in daily life and focus less on material goods or successes and more on what endures forever—love, faithfulness, and dedication to God and our neighbors.

5. A Personal Relationship with God as an Anchor Just as Peter and the disciples stayed with Jesus because they recognized Him as the “word of eternal life,” we are invited to maintain a personal and living relationship with God. This gives us strength and confidence, even when others do not understand or reject us. Our relationship with God becomes an anchor that holds us steady when we need guidance in difficult or unpopular decisions.

Ultimately, this event shows us that genuine faith often requires the courage to be unpopular and that true discipleship means developing a deep inner conviction and dedication. When we remember daily that Jesus’ words and life show us the way to eternal life, we can rely on Him even if our faith does not receive the majority’s approval. In this dedication and consistency, we find the true fullness of life that Jesus promised us.

True strength in faith often means following the quiet call of truth, even when the world takes a different direction.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-more-testimonies-about-jesus-6-3-acceptance-and-rejection-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

November 5, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Acts Chapter 9

¹ And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest,

² And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.

³ And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven:

⁴ And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

⁵ And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.

⁶ And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.

⁷ And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man.

⁸ And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.

⁹ And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink.

¹⁰ And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord.

¹¹ And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,

¹² And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

¹³ Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

¹⁴ And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.

¹⁵ But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

¹⁶ For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.

¹⁷ And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

¹⁸ And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

¹⁹ And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

²⁰ And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

²¹ But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests?

²² But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, proving that this is very Christ.

²³ And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him:

²⁴ But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him.

²⁵ Then the disciples took him by night, and let him down by the wall in a basket.

²⁶ And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

²⁷ But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.

²⁸ And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.

²⁹ And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the Grecians: but they went about to slay him.

³⁰ Which when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to Tarsus.

³¹ Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.

³² And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all quarters, he came down also to the saints which dwelt at Lydda.

³³ And there he found a certain man named Aeneas, which had kept his bed eight years, and was sick of the palsy.

³⁴ And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole: arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately.

³⁵ And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.

³⁶ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

³⁷ And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.

³⁸ And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them.

³⁹ Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

⁴⁰ But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up.

⁴¹ And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive.

⁴² And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord.

⁴³ And it came to pass, that he tarried many days in Joppa with one Simon a tanner.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

Acts Chapter 9 describes one of the most significant conversion stories in the Bible: the transformation of Saul, a determined persecutor of Christians, into Paul, a fervent apostle of Christ. This chapter not only highlights the personal miracle of conversion but also illuminates the profound impact on the early church and the dynamics of faith and grace. Further accounts of miracles performed by the Apostle Peter follow, strengthening the Christian community and contributing to the spread of faith. The stories of Saul, Aeneas, and Tabitha illustrate how God calls people and, through miraculous signs, reinforces faith and trust among believers.

Commentary

Acts Chapter 9 marks a turning point in biblical history, showcasing how an enemy of the faith becomes one of its most passionate proclaimers through a direct encounter with Christ. Saul, initially filled with threats and violence against Jesus’ followers, zealously pursues those who follow the new “Way” of Christianity. His conversion begins when, on his journey to Damascus, he is blinded by a heavenly light and hears the voice of Jesus, who directly calls him to account. The question, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” reveals the deep bond between Jesus and his followers, showing how any persecution against believers is considered persecution against Christ himself. This experience humbles Saul and temporarily leaves him blind, symbolizing his spiritual blindness and his need for inner transformation.

The appearance of the disciple Ananias emphasizes the importance of obedience and trust in God’s guidance. Although Ananias initially hesitates to approach Saul because of his infamous reputation, he nevertheless follows the divine instruction and becomes an instrument for Saul’s healing. The theme of faith overcoming human fear and prejudice is strongly emphasized here. Saul’s healing and baptism are not merely physical events but symbols of his new spiritual direction. From a persecutor, he transforms into a fervent preacher who boldly proclaims Jesus’ name, astonishing and perplexing the people. Saul’s conversion demonstrates the transformative power of faith and the potential to turn even the staunchest opponents of God into instruments of the gospel through grace.

The Christian community initially meets Saul with skepticism and distrust. This is understandable, given that Saul had previously made a name for himself through violent actions against Christians. However, Barnabas, an influential believer, vouches for Saul and attests to his conversion, enabling his acceptance into the community. This act of trust and advocacy is a powerful example of how the Christian community grows through forgiveness and reconciliation.

The latter part of the chapter shifts focus to Peter, highlighting his healing and life-restoring power granted by the Holy Spirit. The healing of the paralyzed Aeneas in Lydda and the resurrection of Tabitha in Joppa are miracles that strengthen the faith of believers and lead the community closer to God. Especially the resurrection of Tabitha, known for her compassion and good deeds, demonstrates divine power over life and death and underscores the importance of service to others. Peter is presented here as a conduit for divine miracles, visibly manifesting the power of Jesus through the apostles and bringing many new believers to faith.

In summary, Acts 9 illustrates how, through grace and obedience, people from different backgrounds and walks of life—from Saul the persecutor to Tabitha the compassionate—become instruments of God. The miracles and signs are not only acts of faith but also means to strengthen the faith and trust of early Christians and further the spread of the gospel.

Summary

Acts 9 describes the conversion of Saul, who, on his way to Damascus, is confronted by Jesus in a vision, transforming him from a persecutor of Christians into a zealous preacher of the gospel. After an encounter with the disciple Ananias, who aids in his healing and baptism, Saul immediately begins to proclaim Christ. Despite the Christians’ initial mistrust, the community ultimately accepts him after Barnabas vouches for him. Meanwhile, the Apostle Peter performs further miracles in the cities of Lydda and Joppa: he heals the paralyzed Aeneas and raises the deceased Tabitha to life, inspiring many to turn to faith and strengthening the Christians’ belief. This chapter highlights the transformative power of faith and the work of the Holy Spirit in the early church.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/5-11-2024-acts-chapter-9-believe-his-prophets/

6.2 A New Understanding of the Messiah
“The Lamb of God” – An Unexpected Image of the Messiah

Read John 1:32–36. What does John the Baptist say about Jesus that people did not expect from the long-awaited Messiah?

John the Baptist introduces a revolutionary understanding of the Messiah to the Jewish world of His time. Instead of fulfilling the expectations of a powerful, political deliverer, John proclaims Jesus as the “Lamb of God.” This designation broke with the common notion of a Messiah who would overthrow the Romans and politically liberate Israel. Instead, “the Lamb of God” points to Jesus’ role as a sacrificial offering bearing the sins of the world—a concept that was initially foreign and difficult for many to accept.

By choosing the image of the “Lamb,” John refers to the Old Testament idea of the sacrificial lamb offered for the forgiveness of sins, particularly in the prophecy of Isaiah (“like a lamb led to the slaughter,” Isaiah 53:7). This new understanding of the Messiah as a redeemer through suffering and sacrifice called people to radically rethink their perspective. Instead of military might, God’s love and dedication were at the center of the divine plan.

John recognized Jesus as the Messiah through divine revelation. God gave John a sign—the Spirit descended on Jesus and remained with Him. This spiritual insight shows that true understanding of Jesus as the Christ does not arise from political or cultural expectations but solely through God’s revelation and wisdom, which touches our hearts.

This new understanding of the Messiah invites us to view our faith beyond worldly expectations and to comprehend the path of redemption through humility and sacrifice. It challenges us to trust God wholeheartedly and to see the Kingdom of God not as power or dominion over others but as an invitation to love, forgiveness, and dedication, which Jesus exemplified through His life and death.

How could we know the truth about Jesus as our sacrificial offering if it were not revealed to us? Why is it therefore very important to know the Bible and understand what it teaches about Jesus?

The truth about Jesus as our sacrificial offering—the “Lamb of God” who bears the sins of the world—is a spiritual revelation that can only be understood through divine revelation. Without this revelation, it would be nearly impossible for us to fully grasp the depth and purpose of Jesus’ life and death. The Bible is the primary source of this revelation, providing us with the knowledge of who Jesus truly is and what His role means for our redemption.

Here are some reasons why studying the Bible and understanding its teachings about Jesus are crucial:

1. The Bible Reveals God’s Plan of Redemption Scripture unfolds God’s plan of salvation, culminating in Jesus Christ. From the prophecies in the Old Testament to their fulfillment in the New Testament, we see a coherent picture that shows why Jesus had to come, what His sacrifice means, and how we can partake in it. Without this knowledge, we would miss the core of the Christian faith.

2. Deeper Understanding of the Sacrificial Offering In the Bible, we learn that Jesus died as a sacrificial offering for our sins. This goes beyond human logic and must be understood spiritually. By reading the Bible, we understand that Jesus’ death and resurrection took the punishment for our sins and paved the way for us to God. This faith brings us comfort and hope, enabling us to live in freedom and forgiveness.

3. Knowledge of God’s Love The Bible shows us that Jesus’ sacrifice is the highest expression of God’s love: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son” (John 3:16). Without Scripture, we could hardly comprehend the depth and radicalness of this love. It shows us that God’s love is unmerited and unconditional and that He invites us into a personal relationship with Him through Jesus.

4. The Bible Leads Us to Faith and Discipleship According to Romans 10:17, “faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” Only through the Bible do we learn what Jesus taught, how He lived, and what He expects from His followers. By knowing His life and words, we are strengthened in our faith and inspired to walk in His footsteps.

5. Protection from Misunderstandings and Deviations The Bible helps us gain a clear and correct picture of Jesus and His mission. Without it, we could easily follow a purely human or cultural understanding of the Messiah that misrepresents Jesus’ true nature and work. It protects us from shaping an image of Jesus that aligns with our own ideas instead of God’s truth.

6. Divine Revelation and Personal Relationship Scripture is more than a historical book; it is alive and works through the Holy Spirit in our hearts. When we read the Bible, God invites us to personally know Jesus and experience His presence. This is the foundation of a vibrant, trusting relationship with Him that helps us grow in faith.

The Bible is our key to understanding the depth of Jesus’ redemption and the gift of forgiveness. It enables us to not only understand the truth about Jesus but also to take it into our hearts. By studying God’s Word, we recognize how much God loves us and are strengthened to live in that love and share it with others.

The connection of this spiritual truth with our daily lives and faith lies in the changed perspective we gain by understanding Jesus as the “Lamb of God.” Here are concrete ways this revelation can influence our daily living and faith:

1. Humility and Dedication as Core Values Understanding that Jesus came to dedicate Himself and not to triumph politically teaches us the power of humility and dedication. This attitude can help us in everyday life to avoid seeking power or recognition and instead approach others with love. Instead of putting ourselves in the spotlight, we can ask how we can reflect God’s love in the small things of life.

2. A Life of Forgiveness and Acceptance Jesus’ sacrifice shows us that we are loved and accepted unconditionally, giving us the freedom to also forgive others. This perspective can transform our interpersonal relationships: when we are willing to forgive misunderstandings or mistakes and accept people in their imperfections, we live out the love Jesus demonstrated through His sacrifice.

3. A New Standard for Success and Fulfillment Instead of measuring success by material possessions or worldly status, we find our goal in following God’s plan and spreading His love. This attitude changes how we view careers, goals, and achievements. Daily life gains new depth when we focus on doing good and being a blessing to others.

4. Unwavering Faith Despite Worldly Expectations John the Baptist recognized Jesus as the Lamb of God, even though this went against the common expectations of a powerful, political Messiah. In our faith life, this reminds us not to succumb to the pressures of the world but to trust in God and His Word. When facing decisions in daily life, we can orient ourselves by this revelation and ask how we can act in a way that is humble and aligned with God’s love.

5. Faith as a Daily Relationship Jesus as the “Lamb of God” reminds us that faith is not just knowledge or tradition but a living, personal relationship with God. This understanding fosters a daily practice of prayer and Bible study to experience God’s love and be guided by His Spirit. When we consciously take time for our relationship with God, we experience how He strengthens and leads us in daily life.

6. Trust in God’s Plan and Wisdom Just as John the Baptist recognized Jesus’ true identity through divine revelation, we learn to trust God’s plan in our lives, even when we do not fully understand it. This can help us in difficult situations in daily life to rely on God’s wisdom and patiently wait for His guidance instead of seeking quick solutions ourselves.

Knowing Jesus as the Lamb of God changes our view of our lives and faith. This realization invites us to make visible the love, forgiveness, and sacrifice that Jesus exemplified in our daily lives, thus becoming authentic testimonies for God’s Kingdom.

True strength often lies in the ability to let go and dedicate oneself to something greater.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-6-more-testimonies-about-jesus-6-2-a-new-understanding-of-the-messiah-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/