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Scripture: John 10:9 Steve May Introduction: Have you ever found yourself completely confused by the multitude of religious ideologies being sold in the marketplace? To seek the kingdom of God. How to Get to Heaven According to the Bible: Its NOT by Being Good. The broken things like sadness and sickness still exist in our lives when we have Jesus, but we have his presence to walk through those things with us. This is echoed in John 20:22 when Jesus breathed new life (symbolizing the Spirit) into the disciples. Jesus would teach crowds of people where ever he went and would often performed miracles along his journeys. Jesus taught his disciples about how knowing the truth - and being obedient to it - leads to a satisfying life: John 8:31-32 Jesus said to the people who believed in him, "You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. The Meaning of Life Is to Know God Through Jesus Christ Life Without the Knowledge of God Leads to Emptiness Meaning in Life Comes from Knowing God as Our Father An Invitation The Meaning of Life Is to Know God as the Author of Life The Bible says that God created the world ( Gen. 1:1 ). Life happens when a baby is born and a family story unfolds. That path/assignment can change, but your identity in Christ is your foundation. Im so grateful to have been able to encourage you through this article. By practicing Christian living, we will demonstrate the values that Christ has and the love He shows. Impostor syndrome can be difficult to wrestle with in any facet of our lives, but it can be especially difficult when it shows up in our walk with God. Life on earth is a journey of our transformation to become more like Jesus, who has delivered us from evil, sin, and death, until the glorious day when we spend eternity with him. God's way of living has great benefits for this life and offers "pleasures forevermore" in the next ( 1 Timothy 4:8 ; Psalm 16:11 ). Those who trust in Jesus no longer come under Gods judgment but pass from death to life (John 3:36; 5:24; cf. The benefits are priceless. A young child will feel empty and disconnected if she does not know the warmth and love of a father. Eternal life is a free gift of God to believers in Jesus Christ. 2. He will make a way for us. I have struggled to commit to a specific path out of confusion that it may not be my calling. Please let us know if you have suggestions for future articles, and let us know any questions you would like answered. Two wrongs never make a right. Sometimes life is tough! They report that Mary was a virgin when Jesus was conceived and that she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit (Matthew 1:18; cf. He fills us with His spirit and helps us love one another better. Its important to surround yourself with friends who are Christians and can support you in your walk. God is eternal. 4. ; Psalm 16:11 Religious leaders question his authority. Philippians 2:58). 2020 9 Apr. What Is Life from a Christian Perspective? Jesus said that "man shall not live by bread alone.". According to Matthew and Luke, however, Joseph was only legally his father. He is not one of the ways to get to Heaven, He is the only way to get to Heaven. Salem Media Group. Third, the Word as his nature is deity.6 The Word is not only distinct from God (the Word was with God), but the Word is God (theos).7 An equally decisive statement about the deity of Jesus is made in John 1:18: No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known. Once again John not only speaks of Jesus as pre-existing and being relationally with God (the Only God, who is at the Fathers side), but clearly states that he is God (the only God, monogens theos8). Here are five ways to refresh yourself and make time to recharge and prevent burnout. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jesus, McClintock and Strong Biblical Cyclopedia - Jesus Christ, World History Encyclopedia - Jesus Christ, JewishEncyclopedia.com - Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus Christ - Children's Encyclopedia (Ages 8-11), Jesus Christ - Student Encyclopedia (Ages 11 and up). We spiritually grow up and take responsibility for our Christian walk with Christ in our heart. But what does this wonderful promise meanespecially when bad things happen? Bible Study The Book of Ephesians. Abba is the Aramaic word for father. This is seen in Genesis 1 when God creates, not by means of natural processes, but by supernaturally speaking things into existence in the space of six days (Genesis 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26; cf. These core Christian values canand willchange the world. Scripture tells us, "For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality" (1 Thess 4:3). It can push us into wrong actions or freeze us into inaction. Life is all about knowing God, experiencing His beauty and divine purpose, His miracles, and Creation. How is it possible for humans to become holylike God? In a world of turmoil, with crisis after crisis, stress and anxiety thrive. Now its everywhere. Happiness. We understand the beauty of Gods design when we pay attention to the things He does for us. In their darkness (sin), mankind hates the light because they do not want their deeds to be exposed (John 3:20). Why is everyone so busy today? The Gospel According to Jesus The gospel according to Jesus is not about church membership or do's and don'ts; it's about a relationship with him. Jesus said, I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness (John 12:39). Paul sometimes simply used Christ as Jesus name (e.g., Romans 5:6). The good and bad examples in the Bible can make what may seem to be abstract principles come to life. When we know God as our Father, we can learn to trust and receive love. One of the most important discoveries that a person can make is when they realize they were made for God. Life is intelligent, sorrowful, and full of regrets. 3. The scientific study of resilience shows how to increase our chances of recovering from challenges. Gods way is the way of love. God does things that only God can do, and I am grateful for His goodness and faithfulness. He sends out the 12 disciples to heal the sick. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to on this site. Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment. Kids need to obey and listen to instructions (Ephesians 6:1), being responsible by doing things without being asked. As a young adult, he went to be baptized by the prophet John the Baptist and shortly thereafter became an itinerant preacher and healer (Mark 1:228). Life is a process of becoming more and more like Christ in which we exercise our endurance by fixing our eyes on him, the author, and the finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:1-2). Im about to do something brand-new. Elsewhere, the gospel of John points out that salvation comes only through Jesus Christ (John 3:16-18, 36; 14:6). I pray that God will bless you with ever-increasing faith and the knowledge of God and the abundant life of Jesus Christ in you and that it may overflow to others around you. How do we live the life Jesuswants? A Christians perspective about life is very different from our culture. That is, Forrest Gump was wrong; . I pray that youll experience the fullness of all that God has for you. Wednesday, March 29th in 30 A.D. Obviously, God did not need to create man. Gods Word and Jesus Christs example show us what it takes to remain sharp. Jesus referred to himself as the temple. Yet, people still find meaning in life and the will to survive. John describes the Word as being with (pros) God, which is a relational term showing that the person of the Word5 was with the person of God (the Father, cf. How Is Harry Potter a Literary Christ Figure? In fact, the purpose of Johns Gospel is that those who read it may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name (John 20:31). In Islam, Jesus, peace and blessings be upon him, is one of the five greatest messengers of God who are collectively known as the 'Ul al-Azm or the Possessors of Steadfastness. Jesus says that if we would turn from our own ways, believe in Him, and follow Him as the Lord, the Boss, of our lives, He would begin to restore Gods design in us. Love. Jesus begins to predict his death and resurrection. Rome had legions in both countries but not in Palestine. It help add the icing to bible study about life. Nothing here on earth will last forever. 1. Both still exist for believers. This video illustrates what the Bible says about life right now in the world. In his mid-30s Jesus had a short public career, lasting perhaps less than one year, during which he attracted considerable attention. Get our Question of the Week delivered right to your inbox! John 14:9). After one repents, God tells us to try again and sin no more (John 8:11). But the early Church was not so. More insights from your Bible study - Get Started with Logos Bible Software for Free! Marriage requires lots of grace and forgiveness. What is life all about? This gift is in contrast to the "death" that is the natural result of sin. In this case, it was a resurrection to physical life, not a resurrection to glory and immortality. Ultimately, we pray that our efforts in these days point to our Savior. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'pursuitbible_com-leader-4','ezslot_17',113,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-pursuitbible_com-leader-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'pursuitbible_com-leader-4','ezslot_18',113,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-pursuitbible_com-leader-4-0_1');.leader-4-multi-113{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. God has numbered your days and will fulfill every purpose He has for you. To imitate the Son of God. Its the way our loving God wantsand commandsus to live. We are to learn to think and act like God because He wants us to be His children forever! Advancements in medicine, challenges in the court, and changing opinions have raised questions about when life begins, what its value is, and when it ends. God works all things out for the good of those who believe and trust Him. All rights reserved. Jesus is called the Author of life (Acts 3:15; see also John 1:3). More fortune does not simply represent more meaning. Wealth. They can disorient, discourage and debilitate us. When our motive is selfish-- using God to make us happy--we come up empty. No one ceases to exist when they die. Life doesnt come easy to those who are Christians. Read Article Download PDF. Since the prologue of John (1:118)9 clearly speaks of the deity of Jesus, it is not surprising that this finds an equally emphatic declaration throughout the gospel narrative (John 5:18, 8:58, 10:2835) and at its end and climax when Thomas professed his faith in the resurrected Jesus: My Lord and my God! (John 20:28). Jesus' arrest, crucifixion and resurrection. People who are in countries going through the devastation of war or famine have very little food and clothing. The word was (n),4 which signifies existence, points to the Word already existing in the beginning. The pre-existence of the Word is an incredible claim, but it is one that Jesus made himself in his debate with the Pharisees (John 8:58) and when he prayed to the Father (John 17:5). Privacy Policy and Jesus said to him,I amthe way, andthe truth, andthe life. God does not leave us in our brokenness. They begin to plot to kill him. John 1:1 not only tells us who the Word was before creation, but John 1:3 tell us what he did in creation: All things were made through him, and without him was not anything made that was made. Greek Stoic philosophers used the term logos to refer to the rational principle by which everything exists. Preparing for and running a marathon reminded me a lot of the challenges of the Christian life. We turn from our old ways of living and we pick up the Bible, read it, and apply it to our daily life. Or are we being distracted by other passions? God is not only the author of life, He is our Father. I have given you the blood on the altar to purify you, making you right with the LORD.. Very clear & clean. This is a site where I get to share with you some of the things that Ive been learning. What about your most important life choice? All rights reserved. The gospel according to jesus what is authentic faith. The Bible reveals the causes of spiritual failure and spiritual success. When we look at the world around us, we see that we live in a world of brokenness. For many who are caught in the consequences of bad life choices, tomorrow seems to have no hope. Paul warned Christians not to become weary in doing good, but did not give much detail about how to overcome spiritual burnout. We have this intrinsic, burning desire to know what we are made to do, but before can get on board with developing into that, we need to understand why we are here. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'pursuitbible_com-leader-3','ezslot_16',112,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-pursuitbible_com-leader-3-0');Jesus shows us exactly how God is a Father to us. Its not your identity, but what you do. We find ourselves working extra hours to have the best paying job. In light of this, life cannot be without meaning and it must revolve around the Maker of all things (John 1:3). I learned how to run with endurance in a much deeper way. As we have been fulfilled with Gods love, we must also share it with others, through bearing one anothers burdens (Galatians 6:2) and discipleship (Matthew 28:18-20). The incarnate Word has appeared to us as a person and communicates to us by his Word (the Scriptures), and by believing his words we have eternal life (John 5:24). Required fields are marked *. Not only do we need to repent, we need to accept Gods forgiveness and change our ways. The continuing goal of every Christian is to grow spiritually. In Johns Gospel, darkness represents a world that is spiritually separated from God and that is ruled13 over by Satan, (John 12:31; cf. The purpose of his life is to give us abundant life in him (John 10:10). God, as the author of life, brings meaning to life. What does John 17:3 mean? What I mean is hopeless for this life, the here and now. He used to persecute Christians but after his conversion, he became the apostle of Christ. Dont you see it? Many are passive, even apathetic. For his first thirty years, Jesus lived a traditional Jewish life, working as a carpenter. Jesus says that the reason He came was to give us life abundantly, to restore Gods design for our lives (John 10:10). To God be The glory, Amen. (before Christ) and A.D. (Anno Domini - or the year of our Lord). This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to . Romans 3:17), but that God reveals throughout the Bible. Your email address will not be published. God has given you gifts, talents, skills, relationships, so be a good steward of them. Are we passionate about the most important things? Light and life are two essential features of creation in Genesis 1. Are you personally filled with joy and happiness? How can we survive the constant bombardment of anxiety, fear and stress? All the things we gain from this world are dust in the wind. was it fair to conclude their lives were simply meaningless? And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, Abba! The Olivet Prophecy contains a dire warning of a spreading coldness of heart. Our editors will review what youve submitted and determine whether to revise the article. Admitting what we did wrong and why that was wrong is an ongoing process that we all have to take as Christians. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. Heres how applying purpose, preparation and perseverance can help us achieve the most important things in life. John is telling us that in the person of Jesus, God dwelt or pitched his tent among us. 1, Pace's recommended prayer strategy includes account, which means to count . He confessed there is something beyond earthly life that God has put in the human heart and that God the Creator is always in control, even though no one can perfectly understand His work (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Thank you! Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Tez, Itd be great to connect with you. These things can actually bring the most pain in our lives as well. The meaning of life would be incomplete without knowing Jesus as the one who came to restore Gods original design in us. Your email address will not be published. Its bursting out! WOW WOW WOWI needed this so much I thank GOD for the wisdom he gave u David and I pray in JESUS MIGHTY NAME that HE may fill u with more and more wisdom. Perhaps youll find that God is speaking to you through your life and through His Word, the Bible. Then, He died on a cross to pay the penalty of our sins (Rom. Since we believe in Christ, we are born again and become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). Living by God's word means to recognize that God is our ultimate Provider. Our Savior came to earth to testify to God's . Omissions? 2 Corinthians 4:4), who deceives the whole world (Revelation 12:9; cf. Often when humans dont understand why bad things happen, they begin to blame, which leads to bitterness and feeling of hopelessness. Spring 30 AD approx. His teachings included parables, commandments, truth about the kingdom of God and his divine role. Passages such as Acts of the Apostles 2:36 show that some early Christian writers knew that the Christ was properly a title, but in many passages of the New Testament, including those in the letters of the Apostle Paul, the name and title are combined and used together as Jesus name: Jesus Christ or Christ Jesus (Romans 1:1; 3:24). The very first verse of the Gospel of John informs us, In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1). John 20:2211), but because of Adams disobedience, his descendants are born in sin, which issues a loss of spiritual life and causes mankind to walk in darkness (John 8:12; cf. Brown . These facts have significance related to the meaning of life. All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the New King James Version ( 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.). Were launching a new column to explore some common Christian struggles in greater depth. God made a world without brokenness without war, sickness, or death. I have had an on again and off again relationship with God over this time. Or do you dread the day ahead and think, I hate my job? We are uniquely created by God and equipped with natural talents and abilities to accomplish good works, which God has called us to do (Ephesians 2:10). This is evident in his incarnation when Jesus performed other miraclesturning water into wine, feeding the five thousand (John 6:114), walking on water (6:1621), and the miraculous catch of fish (John 21:48). The meaning of life, according to the Christian faith, is ultimately found in Jesus Christ. Joseph is said to have been a carpenter (Matthew 13:55)that is, a craftsman who worked with his handsand, according to Mark 6:3, Jesus also became a carpenter. What Does It Really Mean That Your Body Is a Temple? What is success, and how do we reach it? In Him was life, and the life was the light of men . ). Some believe that no matter how bad their thoughts are, theres no harm if they dont act on them. Paul, formerly known as Saul, is the real example of a man whose life was radically transformed after an encounter with Christ. We, humans, are born in this world without knowing exactly who we are (identity), where we come from (origin), why we are here (meaning), what to live for and how we should live (purpose), and where we are going (destiny). He wants us to come to Him with our needs, concerns, and battles. For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16). Life can be hectic and harried. Terms of Service apply. Growing up, boys are often told that big boys dont cry. We have to make a choice in who we are going to put our hope in, because we cant have both. Article Images Copyright 2023 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. Print subscriptions available in U.S., Canada and Europe. He was born to Joseph and Mary sometime between 6 bce and shortly before the death of Herod the Great (Matthew 2; Luke 1:5) in 4 bce. In the early evening, after arriving in the home, he has supper (John 12:1 - 2). The Bible says that God created the world (Gen. 1:1). Have you ever wondered why so few people experience true happiness and peace of mind? Life has purpose and meaning. Life According to Jesus in 321 28,673 views Apr 29, 2016 Have you ever wondered what Jesus makes of the big issues: God; the World; and You? The vastness of the universe, the wonders of nature, the complexity of living organisms all testify there must be a supremely intelligent Designer, who set everything precisely in order. Humans have yearned for and struggled for peace, but still it has eluded us. Life is Heaven on earth and discovering the supernatural. No one comes to the Father except through me. (John 14:6). What Does It Mean That There Is No One Holy Like God? Science has shown evidence for the existence of the Creator, the Son of Man who came to serve and offer his life, California - Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Jesus came to actually fix the ship. We will receive the disciplines that only a loving Father can give. We try to get out of the brokenness by looking for other relationships, careers, religion (trying to be good enough), or looks for ways to numb our pain through things like drugs or alcohol. They enjoy a greater sense of security, purpose and self-worth. The things that are meant to bring us fulfillment and joy sometimes cause us the greatest grief and misery. Influence. Amid his suffering, Job desperately cursed his birth (Job 3), but he still had faith in the redeeming power of God (Job 19:25). Its curious how curiosity can bring out the best and worst in us. So we exist because he wants us to enjoy life as he does. God gives us food, clothes, relationships, and other things in life to bring joy, enrichment, and pleasure to our lives. As a matter of fact life usually gets harder when one becomes a Christian. Thus, in his lifetime Jesus was called Jesus son of Joseph (Luke 4:22; John 1:45, 6:42), Jesus of Nazareth (Acts 10:38), or Jesus the Nazarene (Mark 1:24; Luke 24:19). Our worldview only affects how we think and reason. Im currently writing a devotional book for cops. This life means eternal life in heaven. But God calls us to rise above prejudice and promises a world where it cant exist. Is the World Wide Web playing a part in rewiring our brains? From time to time we all struggle with jealously. Women are to submit to their husbands (Ephesians 5:22-33). Answers in Genesis is an apologetics ministry, dedicated to helping Christians defend their faith and proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. The life of Jesus in the New Testament is primarily outlined in the four canonical gospels, which includes his genealogy and nativity, public ministry, passion, prophecy, resurrection and ascension. God is holy! Ancient Jews usually had only one name, and, when greater specificity was needed, it was customary to add the fathers name or the place of origin. Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. We are the beloved children of God, created by our heavenly Father to reflect His glory, walk in His love, and do His will in our lives. The last days in the life of Jesus begin near sunset. Jesus' cousin John the baptist preached about Jesus and baptized believers. Or is life pure energy? He has saved us and called us to a holy life not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. Many are bewildered by the inability of human governments and institutions to resolve these issues. Sometimes we struggle to understand the events of our lives. We let financial obligations get the best of us when our paychecks are less then what we want, or we let overspending empty our pockets. That doesnt mean that Christian living is easy. Jesus' love was costly love (John 13:31-32). The author believes before we examine the meaning of life, we need to first embrace the miracle of life. Other parts of the New Testament - such as the Pauline epistles which were likely written within 20 to 30 years of each other, and which include references to key episodes in the life of Jesus . Husbands are to love their wives as the Lord loves His church (Ephesians 5:25-33). If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. Fear is one of the strongest motivators. Jesus not only brings life into a fallen world, but also light. In Genesis 1, Gods first recorded spoken, creative act was to speak forth light into existence, which separated the physical light from the darkness (Genesis 1:35). We get concerned when things dont work out the way we plan. You can't artificially make yourself happy, any more than you can make yourself laugh if you have nothing to laugh at. Each is a distinct person, yet each is identified as God: the Father (1 Corinthians 8:6), the Son (John 1:13; Romans 9:5), and the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:34). Jesus died on the cross, so that our sins can be forgiven and that we would become the children of God. In the Beginning . May God richly bless you for you have been an inspiration to me and my wife. The world is awash in religious information but floundering when it comes to developing spiritual discernment. We are only temporarily here to leave a legacy, serve others, and to share the gospel. God will carry us through just as He parted the Red Sea (Exodus 14) for the Israelites.