John 7 Feasts Questions and Doubts

Series: The Gospel of John

December 09, 2024
Pastor Mike

Summary: This lesson explores John 7, focusing on Jesus' teachings during the Feast of Tabernacles. It examines the themes of messianic timing, divine authority, and spiritual fulfillment. The lesson highlights Jesus' confrontations with religious leaders, his claims of divine origin, and his invitation to believers to receive the Holy Spirit. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' true identity and authority despite his humble human origins.

Episode Notes

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the Teaching

Day 1: Divine Timing and Purpose
Reading: John 7:1-13

Devotional: God's timing is perfect, even when it doesn't align with our expectations. Jesus faced pressure from his brothers to reveal himself publicly, but He knew the Father's appointed time had not yet come.
In our lives, we often feel rushed or impatient, wanting immediate results or answers. However, this passage reminds us that God has a divine plan and purpose for each of us.
Reflect on areas in your life where you may be trying to force your own timing. How can you surrender these to God's perfect schedule? Trust that even in seasons of waiting or seeming inactivity, God is working behind the scenes. His timing is always for our good and His glory.

Day 2: True Authority and Teaching
Reading: John 7:14-24

Devotional: Jesus' teaching astonished the crowds because it came with divine authority, not from human education or credentials. In a world that often values titles and degrees, we're reminded that true wisdom and understanding come from God.
 As believers, we have access to this divine wisdom through Christ and the Holy Spirit. Consider how you seek knowledge and understanding in your spiritual life. Are you relying more on human wisdom or God's Word? Challenge yourself to spend more time in Scripture and prayer, asking God to reveal His truth to you. Remember, a heart aligned with God's will is better positioned to discern His voice and teaching.

Day 3: Knowing Christ Truly
Reading: John 7:25-36

Devotional: The crowd struggled to reconcile Jesus' origins with their expectations of the Messiah. They thought they knew Him, but their preconceived notions blinded them to His true identity. How often do we put God in a box, limiting Him to our understanding?
 Today, reflect on your own image of Jesus. Are there aspects of His character or teachings that you struggle to accept? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any misconceptions you might have about Christ.
Pray for a deeper, more authentic understanding of who Jesus is, beyond cultural or personal biases. Remember, truly knowing Christ leads to eternal life (John 17:3).

Day 4: Living Water
Reading: John 7:37-39

Devotional: Jesus' powerful invitation to "come and drink" speaks to our deepest spiritual thirst. In a world full of temporary satisfactions, Christ offers us living water that quenches our souls eternally. This living water is the Holy Spirit, who indwells believers and transforms us from within.
Today, consider what you're turning to for fulfillment. Are you trying to quench your spiritual thirst with worldly things? Take time to "drink deeply" of Christ's presence through prayer, worship, and meditation on His Word.
Ask God to fill you afresh with His Spirit, allowing His living water to flow through you to others who are spiritually thirsty.

Day 5: Divided Opinions and Personal Decision
Reading: John 7:40-52

Devotional: Jesus' identity and teachings caused division among the people. Some believed He was the Prophet or the Christ, while others rejected Him based on their understanding of Scripture.
This passage highlights the personal nature of faith in Christ. Each person must decide for themselves who Jesus is. Today, reflect on your own journey of faith. What convinced you that Jesus is the Messiah?
If you're still uncertain, what questions or doubts do you have? Remember, honest questioning can lead to deeper faith. Pray for God to strengthen your conviction in Christ's identity and mission.
Consider sharing your faith journey with someone who might be wrestling with their own beliefs about Jesus.

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