In this episode, we walk through some key moments in the life of the apostle John and see how Jesus’ love transformed him inside and out. I hope you’re as encouraged as I am: Jesus is still in the business of wooing US with His love and liberating us from our bondage to self and our small dreams so we can be enraptured by Him and live a life we never dreamed possible.
Key passages: Mark 19:14-41; 10:35-45; John 13:1-33; and Revelation 1:1-17.
Want to study the themes in this episode further? Here are a few passages and reflection questions to consider:
As you consider the account of Jesus healing the demon-possessed boy after the disciples’ failure to do so, ask yourself: “Are there any areas of my life where I feel I have been unsuccessful in doing kingdom work (e.g., forgiving someone; discipling others; serving at church or in your community)? Could it be that I have been relying on my own strength and not seeking God’s through prayer?” How could this area of your life change if you were dependent upon God like a child and came to Him more often in believing prayer (read Matthew 17:19-20)?
Jesus makes it clear in Mark 10:35-45 that true greatness—real glory—is living and dying for the glory of God. How does knowing that the way to glory is through suffering counter our world’s perception of success? Does this challenge you or comfort you (or both)?
When John—who earlier in his life asked Jesus for a position of prominence in His kingdom—sees a vision of the risen Christ in Revelation 1, he responds with worship. Is there any area of your life where you have been striving for power, position, or recognition? Instead of trying to sit beside Jesus on His throne, how can you lay at His feet today in worship and submission?
In this episode:
6:18 - 11:00 James’ and John’s request: glory
11:00 - 18:43 The root of their request: pride (+ how it inhibits us from producing fruit)
18:43 - 23:32 True greatness: service and putting God’s glory first
23:40 - 27:57 Pride competes; love celebrates and welcomes every child of God
28:27 - 34:42 The real request: exercising our gift will come with difficulties
34:42 - 47:20 John: the one whom Jesus loved
47:20 - 52:59 John’s new desire: glorifying Jesus
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