September 30, 2020 -- John 10:19-21 -- Exuberant Obedience

19 There was again a division among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them said, “He has a demon, and is insane; why listen to him?” 21 Others said, “These are not the words of one who is oppressed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”

John 10 English Standard Version

When you speak about Jesus inevitably something happens. Jesus’ Name provokes a reaction. In Jesus’ own day there were many who heard His teaching, saw the miracles and were moved. They wanted to know more. However, there were many whose hearts were hardened and they were offended at Him.

It is no different today. I find it horrifying and fascinating that those who do not believe in God spend so much time trying to prove He doesn’t exist. There are no bus campaigns to state Santa Claus doesn’t exist. There are no bus campaigns to tell children to stop putting their teeth under their pillows because the Tooth Fairy is a myth. You only have campaigns against God if you somehow suspect He Is.

The absolute most important question for every person to answer is this: “Who is Jesus?” There is no other question that even comes close in importance. I was listening to a series of mission lectures by John Piper. Piper noted that Christians are to be hedonists. You read that correctly—pleasure seekers. And the greatest pleasure, the highest joy is seeking Jesus Christ. In Him and through Him our head and heart, our appetites and our aspirations are completely filled. We find in Jesus our fullest joy and greatest happiness. That is what motivates our giving, our declaring Him and living for Him—sheer pleasure in knowing Him for Who He Is.

Knowing Jesus is blessedness, the fulfilment of many promises. Consider these words:

You make known to me the path of life;

in your presence there is fullness of joy;

at your right hand are eternal pleasures forevermore.

Psalm 16:11 ESV

This too highlights why Jesus is the Most Important Person Who ever lived. This answers why we spend our lives pursuing Him and seeking to know Him. At His right hand are eternal pleasures forevermore. What a glorious promise!

Forgive us Jesus, for our sluggish and half-hearted obedience. Spirit of the Living God, cleanse us so thoroughly that our hearts and minds, our hands and attitudes reflect the fullness of joy that can be found only in Jesus. Father in heaven, thank You, for the tremendous, wondrous, exhilaration that can be found in knowing we are Your children through Jesus Christ. Surely God, You do all things well. Move our hearts to declare Your glory, Triune God, not out of slavish duty, but with exuberant praise, speaking to others the blessedness and gladness of knowing You. Amen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FMBRLq0-y9Q