kj52's Podcast

READ: John 10:1-21

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: People often knock Christians by referring to them as a bunch of blind followers. But in reality, everyone is following or pursuing something—or someone. In a spiritual, but very real sense, people are either following God and His truth, or they’re falling for a lie from the devil. Most voices that people listen to are spreading the lie and lead- ing them blindly down a path toward destruction and death. They’re being robbed of real life and don’t even know it. Wouldn’t you rather endure the insults, while following Jesus on a path leading to ultimate fulfillment and eternal life?

RESPOND: In what way is the description of the good and true Shepherd a picture of Jesus’ relationship with His people? (See 10:1 note.) What did Jesus mean when He said that the sheep listen to the shepherd’s voice but do not follow a strangers’ voice? How does this apply to you and to those in the Church today? What does Jesus mean in saying, “I am the gate” (vv. 7, 9)? (See 10:9 note.) How does Jesus’ coming and purpose contrast with the purpose of our spiritual enemy, the devil? (See 10:10 note.) In what ways do Satan and his forces kill, steal and destroy? In what ways does Jesus give life “to the full” (v. 10)? What’s the significance of Jesus claim as “the good shepherd”? (See 10:11 note.) How did Jesus ultimately fill this role, proving His love for His “sheep” (vv. 11, 15, 17)? What does this passage illustrate about false spiritual leaders and how you can detect them? How can you take comfort in the fact that Jesus knows His sheep? (See 10:14 note.) What does verse 18 indicate about Jesus’ power and love for us?

PRAY: Thank Jesus for His care over you and for knowing you personally and individually. Also, thank Jesus for coming to give you life to the fullest.

ACT: As you go through the day, notice all the evidence you can of how the devil is robbing, killing and bringing de- struction on people. Look for signs of this in people’s lives, in situations and in various forms of media. Pray for God’s help and healing in these situations. Take action to help and encourage anyone you can. Talk about your faith if the situation arises. This will take a sense of boldness and adventure, which is part of living life “to the full” (v. 10).

Multiple junk talked about on this podcast plus some clips from my weekend.. New free mixtape this week!

Audio portion of the kj52 podcast aswering ?'s from the ask kj52 message board (www.kj52.com/smf)

4 topic freestyle off my laptop .. Twitter: (ellietweetsalot w/ YouTube, jellysl8 w- French toast) facebook: Laura powers w/ cows, Brandon Collins w/ penguins

Here is a quick interview/performance with Christian hip hop artist "Da bridge" .. check out his heart about why we should help haiti along w/ a quick rhyme drop in creole/english...

 

READ: John 9:1-41

THINK:“How can a loving God allow suffering and evil to continue?”“Why do bad things happen to good people?” “Where is God when tragedy strikes?”These questions represent people’s struggle to reconcile the idea of an all- loving, all-powerful God with all the bad things they see going on around them. But questions like these also show a misunderstanding of what’s normal and what’s exceptional in the world. Because humankind has rebelled against God and chosen their own way over His, sin and evil have taken hold and turned the world upside down and backward from the way God created it. Disorder and destruction have become the norm. The fact that good exists at all—and can even come out of suffering—is proof of God’s love and patience toward a world that continues to defy Him.

RESPOND: Why do you think that Jesus’ disciples suspected that someone’s sin had caused the man’s blindness (v. 2)? Can an individual’s sin ever lead to illness and tragedy? Explain. (See 9:3 note.) Judging from this passage, why does God sometimes allow suffering? Why doesn’t God always make His purposes apparent to us at first? How can God be honored in people’s lives through difficulty and suffering? How can people actually benefit spiritually through these kinds of trials? How and why do people often insult and reject those whom Jesus has set free (cf. vv. 27-29)? What was the leaders’ attitude toward others and toward themselves (v. 34)? In what way was it a blessing for the man to be thrown out of the synagogue? (See 9:34 note.) How is this a lesson to those in lifeless churches and unbiblical religions? What did Jesus mean when He said that He came “so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind”? (See 9:39 note.) What does this have to do with people’s attitudes toward God and toward themselves?

PRAY: Thank Jesus for taking you through difficulties in ways that honor Him and bring you closer to God. Thank Him for the privilege of enduring insults and opposition that come as a result of your faith and His work in your life.

ACT: Read the article on The Suffering of the Righteous, p. 638, to gain Biblical insight into why God allows suffering in the world. Encourage a couple individuals today who are going through very difficult times. Pray for these individuals on the spot if you feel they are open to that.

 

audio portion answering ?'s off the ask kj52 board... 

rawr.... broken radiators!

 

READ: John 8:48-59

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: What is God like? It seems like a lot of people would like to know. But can humans really understand what God is like? People through the centuries have struggled with that question? But the fact is, God has not made it difficult to get a good glimpse of what He’s like and even to relate to Him on a personal level. As you may have considered in your study over the last few days, God has revealed himself clearly through the Person of Jesus Christ, His Son. Jesus is God in the flesh, who came to earth in human form to endure our trials, to fulfill God’s plans, and ultimately to provide the way for us to have an eternal relationship with Him. If you want to know what God is like, look to Jesus through God’s Word and prayer, surrender yourself to His purposes and follow Him.

RESPOND: What does Jesus mean when He says that “if anyone keeps my word he will never see death”? (See 10:28 note.) How can you “keep” God’s Word? How does God’s Word provide life? What is the significance of Je- sus’ statement that “before Abraham was born, I am”? (See 8:58 note.) What does this statement indicate about the nature and character of Jesus? What other characteristics and attributes does Jesus possess as God? In what ways do these traits affect you? How do they provide comfort? How do they inspire faith? How do they help you stay devoted to Jesus?

PRAY: Thank Jesus for His life-giving Word and ask Him to give you insight so you can understand and obey His Word. Praise Him as the all-powerful and eternal Son of God.

ACT: Take some extra time now and throughout the day to worship God for His many matchless character traits. Read the article on The Attributes of God, p. 786, and praise Him for the specific traits mentioned. As you go through the day, notice the evidence of His attributes, such as His power and creativity displayed in creation and His patience when you don’t respond as you should right away. Make this an ongoing practice.

 

4 topic freestyle live from my kitchen.. Twitter: (ellisisbankable w/ Facebook) , facebook: (chris defrancisi w/ bananas, Nathan mikesell w/ Cleveland cavs) Myspace: (William w/ Carrie underwood)

 

READ: John 8:31-47

THINK: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Most people in our society are familiar with that expression in one form or another. It’s one of the countless well-known phrases lifted from the pages of the Bible—though most people haven’t a clue what it really means. These are Jesus’ words, and He’s not just talking about philosophical truth, the idea of truth or freedom from ignorance. He’s talking about the ultimate truth revealed in God’s Word and embodied in the Person of Jesus himself. He is the truth that people must know in order to truly be free.

RESPOND: According to verse 31, what must you do to demonstrate that you are a true follower of Jesus? How can you know the truth? What kind of truth is Jesus talking about? (See 8:32 note.) How does the truth set people free? What are some things the Bible reveals about truth as it relates to Jesus and His message? (See 8:32 note.) Why didn’t many people recognize their need for the freedom Jesus spoke about (v. 33)? How are they like people today? In what ways does sin enslave people? (See 8:34 and 8:36 notes.) How can a person find freedom from sin? Why were the people who argued with Jesus so mistaken in their notion that they were children of God? How are they like many people today? How can we know if a person is truly a child of God? (See 8:42 note.) What’s the evidence that a person truly loves Jesus? Who does Jesus say that a person belongs to if he or she refuses to accept the truth about Jesus (v. 44)? What do we know about the devil from this passage? (See 8:44 note.) In what way does this challenge you regarding your attitude toward any form of deceit? What does a person do if he or she truly belongs to God (v. 47)?

PRAY: Ask Jesus for the discipline to live by the teaching in God’s Word. Thank Him for the freedom that comes from following Him. Pray that you’ll always demonstrate love for Him by obeying His Word and refusing to take part in deceit.

ACT: If you’ve not lived up to the truth of something God has specifically shown you in His Word, take immedi- ate action to put His truth into practice. If you’ve lied or been deceitful in any way toward another person or situation, ask God to forgive you. Then make things right with any others who are involved by telling the truth.

 

Video podcast running down my last week w/ a bunch of video highlights.... some announcements and a teaser about a big announcement tommorrow!  Check it out... 

 

 

Audio portion of the kj52 monday podcast while i answered ?'s and banged a bunch of pots and pans around in the background... 

 

READ: John 8:12-30

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: A lot of people talk about God, claiming to believe in Him. Many say they pray. Some even give God credit for their abilities and accomplishments—even if those accomplishments compromise Biblical principles. Yet, for all of the talk about “God,” Jesus’ name seldom comes up in the same context. So where do they get their perception of God? If you get it from the Bible, it’s tough to miss the fact that we can’t relate to the Father apart from Jesus. As God’s only Son, Jesus is the One who reflects and reveals what His Father is like. In fact, Jesus is himself God, with all the author- ity and attributes of His Father. You can’t take Jesus out of the God equation without arriving at the wrong answer.

RESPOND: What does Jesus mean when He says, “I am the light of the world,” and that those who follow Him will never walk in darkness? (See 8:12 note.) Since Jesus already stated that His Father has entrusted all judgment to Him (cf. John 5:22), what did He mean when He said, “I pass judgment on no one”? (See 8:15 note.) What does Jesus imply by saying, “If you knew me, you would know my Father also” (v. 19)? In what ways does it challenge and inspire you when Jesus says, “If you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will indeed die in your sins” (v. 24)? What can you take personally from the fact that Jesus said, “I do nothing on my own but speak just what the Father has taught me” (v. 28)? Even though Jesus is God and equal with His Father, why did He have to depend completely on the Father? In what way does this challenge you? In what way does verse 29 present both comfort and challenge?

PRAY: Thank Jesus for providing spiritual light in your life. Pray that you remain dependent on God for guidance regarding what to say and do so you can influence others to accept and depend on Christ.

ACT: Practice going through the day with your spiritual eyes and ears open, looking for God’s direction and listening for His voice. Go with a sense of being in constant communication with God, praying silently when necessary and audibly when possible. But keep in mind that the most vital part of communicating with God is listening and responding to His guidance. Say and do whatever you sense God telling you to do.

 

 

READ: John 7:25—8:11

THINK: How dependent are you on God? You may feel that you trust Him and you rely on Him when you face significant difficulties. But in your everyday life do you typically carry on as if you can make it without Him? Consider how completely Jesus depended on His Father for strength, guidance and encouragement. Are you following Jesus’ example so that God fulfills His purposes and impacts the world through your life?

RESPOND: Who is Jesus continually referring to as the One who sent Him (cf. 5:36-37; 6:38; 7:28, 33)? Why was Jesus so dependent on His Father? If Jesus—God in human form—needed to rely completely on His Father for strength and guidance, what does that mean for you? What was Jesus’ view of Scripture—God’s written Word—including both Old and New Testaments? (See 7:38 first note.) What did Jesus mean that “streams of living water will flow from within” those who truly believe in Him? (See 7:38 second note.) In what way was Jesus to be glorified, and how does that affect you? (See 7:39 note.) Why do very religious or very educated people often misunderstand or reject Jesus (cf. vv. 47-48)? What was the religious leaders’ motive in bringing the adulterous woman to Jesus? (See 8:7 note.) How did Jesus’ response deflect their deception? Did Jesus’ excuse or overlook the woman’s sin? Why or why not? What did Jesus’ response reveal about God’s character? What did Jesus offer the woman, and how does that relate to you? What do Jesus’ instructions to the woman—”Go now and leave your life of sin”—mean for all followers of Christ?

PRAY: Give God the Father thanks for sending Jesus to give His life for you and show you the way to true life. Thank Jesus for forgiving you and for giving you wisdom and strength to continually overcome sin as you rely on Him.

ACT: Be kind and encourage someone who is typically isolated or rejected by others because of their reputation, social status or lifestyle. Don’t condone bad behavior or let it influence you negatively. But let the person know, by your words and actions, that someone cares about them and is not out to judge them prematurely. If you get into a conversation, don’t hesitate to let the person know in some way that you are a follower of Jesus.

 

What an absolute week of awesomesauce....

22 minutes of ? answering awesomeness... 

 

READ: John 7:1-24

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: How does it feel to be misunderstood? It can certainly be a frustrating, lonely, helpless and hopeless feeling, particularly if it leads to rejection and hate. Jesus can relate to this feeling. Even those in His own family misunderstood His mission, and the world system in general hated Him without even knowing Him. Certainly, those who are willing to identify with Jesus ought to be sensitive to the pain caused when people misjudge others. Even so, as a follower of Jesus, you must strongly resist the tendency to judge by mere appearances.

RESPOND: Why did Jesus’ brothers respond to Him as they did? Was it Jesus’ intention to become a public figure (v. 4)? Why or why not? Why does the world hate Jesus? (See 7:7 note.) In what ways is it obvious that the world is opposed to Jesus? Why did many people have such opposing views—some positive and some negative—of Jesus (cf. v. 12)? What does it mean to do “God’s will”? (See 7:17 note.) How will following God’s plans and purposes for your life help you understand God’s truth? According to verse 18, how can you tell whether a person is sincerely ministering for God or for selfish reasons? (See 7:18 note.) Why do people tend to judge by appearances (v. 24)? How can you help to ensure that you make right judgments about things rather than relying on appearances?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you discover His desires and purposes as you spend daily time in His Word. Pray that you’ll rely on His Word to help you make right judgments about situations, people, beliefs and behaviors.

ACT: Are there people who you don’t know very well or situations that you’re not extremely familiar with, yet you’ve still formed negative opinions or made distinct judgments about these people or things? While you need to be wise about relationships that could negatively impact you, consider the possibility that your judgments are not accurate nor appropriate. As you encounter these people and situations—even today—make a deliberate effort to become better acquainted so you can understand and respond in more appropriate and Christ-honoring ways.

 

Audio portion answering ?'s off the kj52 board...  www.kj52.com/smf if you ever want to post a ? for me.. 

my week is better than your week! j/k

4 topics off my social networks (while my son tomahawk chopped/pile drives me off his bed..) 4 topics are: Ashley Eleanor (corn) eli johnson (star wars) young rebel (my verse off this contest) ellieisback (the message board)

 

 

READ: John 6:25-59

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: What do you do when you’re really hungry? You eat. Even when you’re not hungry you eat because you know it’s necessary—and you probably enjoy it. Apply this reasoning to your spiritual life. If you’re truly hungry, you’ll feed your spirit through time with God in His Word and prayer. If you’re not taking this time on a regular basis, it’s either because you’re not hungry for God, you don’t enjoy time with Him, or you don’t realize how necessary it is for your spiritual life, health and well-being. So indulge your spiritual appetite and see how God’s Word satisfies a hungry soul.

RESPOND: How can you work for food that doesn’t spoil but “endures to eternal life” (v. 27)? How should believ- ing in Jesus affect your works (v. 29)? Why would people ask Jesus for another sign (vv. 30-31) after they’d already experienced a great miracle (cf. 6:5-15)? What does Jesus mean when He declares, “I am the bread of life”? (See 6:35 note.) Why will people who truly believe in Jesus “never go hungry, and...never be thirsty”? What hope and assurance can people find by coming to Jesus? (See 6:37 note.) How would you describe “God’s will” and how it relates to your life personally? (See 6:40 note.) How can your choices affect God’s will for your life? How does God the Father draw people to Jesus? (See 6:44 note.) Why is it so important to respond when you sense the Holy Spirit drawing you to God? What does Jesus mean when He says that whoever eats His flesh and drinks His blood will have eternal life? (See 6:54 note.) How can you continue to feed on Jesus in order to grow spiritually?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you focus your efforts on things of eternal value. Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and power so you can fulfill God’s perfect will. Thank Jesus for being the bread of life that satisfies your spiritual hunger.

ACT: Take your Bible with you, and during free time feed your spirit on God’s Word. Try reading in Proverbs, which is filled with practical wisdom for youth. Make a conscious effort today—and every day—to do things God’s way rather than your own way. And if you’ve sensed God’s Spirit drawing you to Jesus—perhaps to accept His forgiveness and new life for the first time—don’t resist any longer. Entrust your life to Him and let Him restore your ultimate purpose.

 

 

READ: John 6:60-71

THINK: Certainly, Jesus followers are to live by His example, being kind and gracious to people in an effort to reflect Jesus’ character and influence others to follow Him. But Christians must also realize that God’s Word and way of life will always be offensive to people. That doesn’t mean that Jesus’ followers set out to oppose people, but even when Christians do everything right in their conduct toward others, they’ll still face resistance and rejection. Jesus’ followers must understand that as they live by God’s standards, their lives will stand in sharp contrast to those who choose to defy God and go their own way. This should not surprise of offend anyone who lives to honor Jesus.

RESPOND: What statements from Jesus seemed too hard and offensive to some of His followers? What does Jesus mean when He says, “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing”? How does this relate to Jesus previous statements in verse 53-59? According to this passage, what feeds you and gives life spiritually (v. 63)? What might Jesus have meant about knowing from the beginning who would betray Him, and how would this relate to Judas’ choices and actions concerning Jesus? (See 6:64 note.) Why did many who had previously followed Jesus turn back and no longer follow Him from this point on (v. 66)? How does Peter’s response in verse 68 serve as an example to all who desire to follow Jesus?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to give you the strength, determination and dependence on Him that will keep you loyal to Him no matter how difficult things may get.

ACT: Continue the exercise from yesterday by keeping your Bible with you and feeding on it during your free time. If you are reading in the Proverbs, you may be able to get through a good portion of the book in a couple days. Also, perhaps you’ve struggled with your attitude toward something in God’s Word that has offended you or been tough to accept. Ask God to forgive you and to help you meet the challenge and be obedient so you can grow deeper in your relationship with Him and in your understanding of God’s Word.

 

boo ya ka shot!

audio portion answering ?'s off the ask kj52 msg. board... holla!

 

FIRE◆STARTER

READ: John 6:1-24

THINK: Do you believe in miracles? If you believe the Bible, it would be tough not to expect extraordinary activ- ity to surround the lives of Jesus’ followers. Yet, when you read the Bible, do you ever wonder why we don’t often experience the same types of miracles today? Are people in less need? Does God not intend to work in the same ways He did when His church first started? Perhaps we have too many things figured out. If God doesn’t act as we expect, we simply follow another one of our options. But with what we know from God’s Word, He may expect us to get more involved in potential miracles. He’s not looking for a lot. He doesn’t expect us to have things figured out. A simple act of faith and dependence on Him may be all He’s waiting for. When we realize just how much God can do with so little, we’ll willingly place in God’s hands whatever we have so we can watch Him do amazing things with it.

RESPOND: In what way was Jesus testing Philip by asking where they could buy food for the crowd (vv. 5-6)? How would you have responded in that situation? How would you define a miracle? (See 6:2 note.) What purposes do miracles serve in God’s kingdom? What place should miracles have in the lives of Jesus’ followers today? Do you feel that miracles are filling the role God intends in and through the church today? Why or why not? What can you learn about miracles and the way God works from this passage? In what ways have you witnessed God doing a lot with a little? In what ways could you imagine God doing very much with very little in your life if you were willing to place what you have in His hands? Why would Jesus resist the people’s intentions to set Him up as their king (v. 15)? How could that action have interfered with God’s plan and Jesus’ real purpose?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to give you the faith to trust God for great things, regardless of what you have, feel or see.

ACT: Think of a situation in which you need a miracle or an definite answer from God. Is He telling you to do some- thing specific or to contribute to the solution in some way? Whether or not it seems like your contribution or response will make a difference, follow God’s direction anyway. Do or give what you can, and trust God to take care of the rest.

 

audio portion of the kj52 podcast taking ?'s of the kj board.. 

Holla @ ya boy like your yelling @ ya son..

 

READ: John 5:31-47

FIRE◆STARTER

THINK: Who are you trying to impress? Anyone? Everyone? Do you feel the need to gain approval from certain people in order to feel better about yourself and your accomplishments? Consider the fact that what typically impresses people is not at all what impresses God. For this reason, those who seek honor and approval from people will almost certainly not receive honor and approval from God. And His is the only approval that matters.

RESPOND: Who is John (vv. 33-35), who testified to the truth about Jesus and helped show the way to Jesus? (See 5:33 note.) Who and what provides an even greater testimony than John’s about the fact that Jesus was sent by God the Father (v. 36)? Can studying and knowing God’s Word give a person spiritual life? Why or why not? (See 5:39 note.) How could so many of the religious leaders of Jesus’ time study the Scriptures and still miss the truth about Him? In what ways do people—including Christians—seek and accept praise from others, yet miss honor from God? Why must Jesus’ followers not be motivated by other people’s praise or approval? (See 5:44 note.) What are some of the dangers of desiring or accepting praise from others? In what way does Jesus confirm the truth and validity of Old Testament in this passage? (See 5:47 note.) Why is this important and how should it affect your view of the entire Bible?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you resist the desire for praise and approval from others. Instead, pray that you will always live in a way that honors God and is honored by Him. Also, ask Jesus to help you understand the vital historical and spiritual connection between the Bible’s Old and New Testaments.

ACT: Be conscious throughout the day of anything you might tend to do to impress others or to get their attention. Instead of being concerned with others perceptions and approval, handle each of these situations in a way that will please and honor God, providing others with a good example of Jesus’ character.

 

 

READ: John 5:1-30

THINK: A lot of people today talk about relating to God, but people cannot relate to God without receiving His Son, Jesus, who is himself God. The Father has entrusted all life, authority and judgment to His Son. If a person does not respond and relate to Jesus as the Forgiver of their sins and Leader of their life, it doesn’t matter what else they think or believe about God. According to His Word, no one can connect with God and experience eternal life apart from Jesus.

RESPOND: How is the account of Jesus healing the man at the pool encouraging? (See 5:5 note.) What can you learn about healing and faith from this situation? (See 5:9 note.) How will true followers of Jesus view the issue of sin in their own lives? (See 5:14 note.) Why did the religious leaders oppose, persecute and even seek to kill Jesus? (See 5:16 note.) What can you learn from Jesus’ example of dependence on His Father (v. 19)? What claims does Jesus make in verses 18-27 that show how He relates to and is equal with God the Father? (See 5:18-24 note.) What does it mean to truly “hear” and “believe” God’s Word? (See 5:24 note.) In what ways must a Christian continue to hear and believe? What does it mean that those who have eternal life will not be condemned? (See 5:24 note.) In what ways will they still be held accountable? What is the basis of God’s judgment of all people? (See 5:29 note.) Though our own ef-

forts and works cannot save us spiritually, why are good works still important? What does it mean that Jesus has “life inhimself,”andhowdoesthisrelatetopeopleexperiencingrealandeternallife?(See5:26note.)Inwhatwaysdo people condemn themselves in how they relate to or respond to God? (See 5:29 note.)

PRAY: Pray for the healing of someone who has been ill or impaired for a long time. Ask God to expose any persis- tent sin in your life and to help you remove it promptly. Pray that you stay dependent on God for wisdom, guidance and strength in every aspect of life. Praise Jesus for His righteous life and judgment and for the fact that He is God.

ACT: Visit or contact the person you just prayed for, simply to see how they’re doing and to have casual conversation. Encourage them and let them know that you’re praying. Pray during your conversation if the individual is open to that.

 

 

READ: John 4:27-54

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: How are you at getting into conversations about spiritual issues? Can you relate to people who are very dif- ferent from you? Do you willingly talk about the good things God has done in your life? These are some key questions to consider if you hope to influence others to follow Jesus. You don’t have to have an extremely outgoing personality to reach people for Christ, but you must be willing to take the initiative and step outside of your comfort zone. As you trust God, He will guide your words and efforts. He may even use you to influence an entire community for Him.

RESPOND: Why were Jesus’ disciples surprised to find Him talking to the woman? (See 4:27 note.) What did Jesus mean when He said, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about”? What did Jesus mean when He said that the fields are ripe for harvest? What does that mean to you personally? In what ways can you make an eternal impact on others? When God allows you to influence others for Him, what should be your attitude and why? (See 4:36 note.) Why should you not become discouraged if you don’t see immediate results from your spiritual labors? What does it mean that “One sows and another reaps”? In what ways might you reap the spiritual benefits of others’ hard work (v. 38)? What happened as a result of the Samaritan woman’s testimony about Jesus (v. 39)? In what way should followers of Jesus learn from her example? What are “signs and wonders” as described in the Bible, and what are their purpose? (See 4:48 note.) When believing God for a miracle, what should be the focus of your faith?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to give you an eagerness to spread His message and to tell others what He’s done for you. Thank Him for the privilege of being part of the process of leading others to Him.

ACT: Reach out to someone with whom you might not typically associate and simply start a conversation. Focus on developing a friendship and trust God to help you influence this person for Him. Also, consider starting or becoming part of a Bible or prayer group at school or work. If you’re already involved in a group, encourage it’s members to talk more openly with others about the good things God does for them. Then watch your group’s influence spread.

 

here you go... ?'s answered.. 

YEs and sir!  www.youtube.com/52television 

 

READ: John 4:1-26

THINK: What does worship mean to you? Is it a solemn, subdued experience, or an exuberant, exhilarating experience? Does it make you feel awkward, inspired, or nothing at all? The fact is that true worship is not just an experience; it’s a way of life. And true worship is not about you and your feelings; its about God and His worthiness. He deserves honor regardless of your mood or situation. True worship involves more than singing songs, reciting prayers or verbalizing words of praise in a worship service. It involves a lifestyle that truly honors God and brings positive attention to Him. True, godly worship is a heartfelt expression of God’s “worth-ship,” from your spirit to His. It is the appropriate response to God’s powerful presence and matchless character. (See article on Worship, p. 608.)

RESPOND: What can we identify about Jesus and His purpose from His conversation with the Samaritan woman? (See 4:7 note.) Why do you think Jesus started the conversation? What’s the “living water” Jesus talked about (vv. 10-11)? (See 4:14 note.) What does it mean to drink that water, and what does that have to do with your personal relationship with Jesus? Why does a person who drinks the living water no longer thirst? What did Jesus mean about Samaritans worshiping “what you do not know”? (See 4:22 note.) What does it mean to worship God “in spirit and in truth”? (See 4:23-24 note.) What other things can you can learn about worship from this passage? What’s the significance of “truth” as it relates to God? How does truth relate to your life as a follower of Jesus?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you reach out to spiritually thirsty people, regardless of their background or your percep- tions. Ask Him to give you a thirst for a deeper relationship with Him, characterized by a lifestyle of sincere worship.

ACT: Ask God to guide you into conversations today with people who need a friend, have a need or are searching for answers. Initiate conversations by expressing sincere interest in others and what they are doing. Trust God to direct you into deeper conversations about spiritual matters. Also, take time when you’re on your own throughout the day to worship God in your own words, acknowledging His attributes like love, wisdom, purity, power, justice, etc.

 

arrrrhhhhhhhhhggggggggggg  ... so sleepy.

?'s answered off the kj52 message board... 

 

READ: John 3:22-36

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: It seems that most people try to get more out of life by investing more in themselves. Self-esteem, self-improvement, self-awareness, self-confidence—perhaps all well-intended concepts, but too much of this sort of focus and a person easily becomes self-centered. Of course, you should always strive to do and be your best, but that’s only possible when you focus less on yourself and more on Jesus. It may not make sense in worldly terms, but with God, less is more. When your life becomes less about you and more about Jesus, that’s when you start becoming all you can be—all you were created to be.

RESPOND: In what ways is John the Baptist’s attitude toward Jesus (cf. vv. 27-30) an example for all followers of Jesus? Looking at your own life, in what ways must Jesus become greater and you become less (cf. v. 30)? In what ways do people refuse to accept Jesus’ testimony (v. 32) and why? To whom did God give the Spirit without limit? (See 3:34 note.) How was that evident in Jesus’ life? In what way has God the Father placed everything in His Son’s hands? How and why do people reject Jesus? (See 3:36 note.) What does it mean that such people will not see life and why? In what ways must you be careful not to disregard Jesus or fail to submit to Him? In what specific area of life do you need to submit to Jesus and obey Him more fully? What specific action can you take to ensure this?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you focus less on yourself so that He will show through you in greater ways. Praise Jesus for His authority over all things. Pray that you will always remain submissive to God and obedient to His Word.

ACT: Ask God to expose an area or two in your life where there is too much of yourself and not enough of Him. Perhaps you are already well aware of these areas and tendencies. Take deliberate steps to humble yourself and submit to God’s guidance and control in these areas. Find ways to draw attention away from yourself and your own desires and plans, and instead bring honor and positive attention to God.

 

 

READ: John 3:1-21

THINK: If there is one thing that God aims to convey through the entirety of His Word, it’s the fact that He loves you and want’s to have a personal relationship with you. He even sent His Son, who sacrificed His own life to make that relationship possible. Receiving that relationship is a person’s only hope of reclaiming his or her purpose in life and avoiding the permanent consequences of defying God. Yet, amazingly, most people in the world refuse God’s invitation to eternal life, choosing instead to go their own way down a dead end path of spiritual darkness. But if you confess your sins, accept God’s offer and entrust your life to Jesus, you will find forgiveness, fulfillment and life forever with Him.

RESPOND: What does it mean to be “born again”? (See article on Regeneration: Spiritual Birth and Renewal, p. 1454.) What’s the significance of being “born of the Spirit”? (See 3:5 note.) How does the illustration of wind (v. 8) relate to those who are “born of the Spirit”? (See 3:8 note.) What does it mean that Jesus would be “lifted up,” and how does that provide eternal life? (See 3:14 note.) What motivated God to create a plan to save people from the destruction of their own way? How did God demonstrate His great love for us? (See 3:16 note.) What does it mean to truly “believe” in Jesus? In what way are people already condemned if they refuse to believe in and accept Christ (v. 18)? What does it mean that people “loved dark- ness instead of light”? (See 3:19 note.) What evidence do you see of people choosing to live in darkness (cf. v. 20)? Why do those who live by the truth come out into the light (v. 21)? What evidence is there of what God has done in your life?

PRAY: Express your gratitude to God for His great love in sending Jesus. Thank Jesus for saving you from the conse- quences of sin and providing a way for you to be spiritually born again into a personal relationship with God. Pray that your faith would continue to be strong and active as you aim to serve His purposes for your life.

ACT: Stand outside somewhere so you can feel and observe the effects of the wind. Though you can’t necessarily see the wind itself, you notice its activity and perhaps even hear its sound. Consider how this illustrates the way the Holy Spirit’s activ- ity should be evident in your life. Now, go through the day with an intense awareness of how your faith and the power of the Holy Spirit is—or is not—apparent to those around you in your attitudes, words and actions.

 

crazy week!

?'s answered off the ask kj52 message board.. 

 

READ: John 2:1-25

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: The Bible is completely true and trustworthy, yet not everything in it is easy take. The Word contains many tough challenges. But some Biblical accounts are difficult to deal with because they seem out of character. Perhaps they don’t fit our perceptions of God. Certain issues may come across more harsh, or more lenient, than we’d like. Some things are clearly black and white—right or wrong. Others seem to be shades of gray—open to personal inter- pretation and potential misunderstanding. This passage hits a couple unique issues. In one instance, Jesus expresses unbridled anger—for completely justifiable reasons. Then there is Jesus’ first miracle. Not only does turning water into wine for a wedding seem like a less-than-urgent need, it also raises speculation about whether the wine was poten- tially intoxicating. Regardless of whether we understand everything in the Bible, God’s Word is always consistent with His character and purposes, and He will help us understand and relate it to our lives as we sincerely aim to honor Him.

RESPOND: What are some of the debates and difficulties concerning people’s views of the type of wine Jesus created at the wedding? (See 2:3 note.) What problems could be associated with a view that Jesus created alcoholic wine? Why is it more likely that the “choice wine” He made was not fermented (i.e., non-alcoholic)? (See 2:10 notes.) What are the seven main “signs” highlighted in the book of John, pointing to Jesus as God’s Son? (See 2:11 note.) Why was Jesus justi- fiably angry at those doing business in the temple area? What does this reveal about Jesus passions and priorities? What doesitmeanthatJesuswould“notentrusthimself”tomanywhobelievedHismiracles?WhywouldHenotdoso?

PRAY: Ask God to give you a deeper passion for times of worship and prayer in His house. Thank Jesus for making you worthy of His trust and for entrusting himself to you as you continue to demonstrate true faith in Him.

ACT: The issue of alcoholic beverages presents significant problems in many cultures. Having always known this potential, God frequently addresses in His Word the issues of drinking and drunkenness. Many people use the Bible’s references to wine to justify their own views on drinking alcohol. But since there is much debate and speculation among Christians regarding what the Bible says about wine and drinking, it would be worth your while to consider the views, facts and information presented in the articles on Wine in New testament Times, p. 1449, and Wine in the Old Testament, p. 832.

 

READ: John 1:19-51

Here is a 10 min video podcast running down my week along w/ a ton of HUGE announcements... please peep out! kj52

Here is the audio portion of the kj52 podcast... sorry for the first 3 minutes of ruff interference on the mic.. (apparently the new iphone 4 mic headset is super sensitive...  bear w/ it for the first few minutes and it will stop)

Clips from my last few days along w/ some updates etc... 

Audio portion of the kj52 podcast taking ?'s off the kj52.com/smf board.. 

Audio portion taking ?'s off the ask kj52 board.. 

?'s section off of the kj52 monday podcast (this includes the missing ? that got cut off on the video version)​

It's 3:05 am and I just got back from a midnight show of the finale Star Wars movie... no I'm not going to give away the plot for all of you who haven't gone yet.. just gonna post a few observations that I have based on my trip. Let me start by saying that I have been sucked into the world of Star Wars since I was 4.. hard to belive now at 29 here I am just as bad (25 years later!). As some of you may have heard I used to make my own Star Wars accessories as a kid (my mom talks about this on the new kj lp) I think I did this somewhat out of necessity (we didn't have a lot of money back then.. ) but I think mainly I did it cuz it was a creative outlet for me. Before I did music... way before that I used to draw (both of my parents are artists) and before I could even write.. I was drawing Star Wars .. Luke Skywalker etc.. in fact the first thing I can remember drawing was when I was 4 or so and it was a pretty good picture of Luke Skywalker holding out his blaster. Anyway.. enuff of that.. the trilogy is over.. I have to say I like this one the best out the prequels. The special effects were tight, it wrapped up the story nicely and seque wayed into the first one and answered a lot of ?'s. Me and the wifee got there at 11:15 for a good seat.. which the theater was almost packed by then.. but it was worth it, rather than being stuck in the nose bleeds section or plastered up front. Anyway.. it's late and I'm tired and not feeling that great on top of that so w/ no further ado here are my final thoughts and observations on the final Star Wars. 1. people who dress up in costume for a movie (which there was decent amount) have a lot of guts.. but more importantly must have a lot of guts to go out and buy it in the first place 2. Natalie Portman (padme Amidala) is struggling as an actress.. wowzers.. her delivery of her lines was a bit painfull at times.. sorry yall.. but i gotta be honest. 3. Waiting for 12am for a movie is insanity.. but it was worth it.. cmon.. you don't expect me to wait for the next day do you! 4. Movie theater snacks are outrageous in price.. the price is only matched by the ridiculous lines that we wait in to get them (3 dollars for a tiny diet coke.. cmon!) 5. The special effects were dopest in this one of the prequels.. 6. How in the world does Obi Wan Kenobi keep his hair so perfect no mattter what he does? 7. Emperor Palpatine was off the hook.. Annakin did a better job acting this time around.. watching Annakin kill all the (nevermind.. ill skip that one so as not to spoil it) was sad.. the thing that Obi rides on (the animal) cracked me up.. seeing Annakin become Darth Vader was dope..YODA KICKS BUTT (nuff said)!! 8. Bringing a light saber to a movie takes lots of guts.. 9. All of the late night is worth it if you can bring your wife and she's nice enuff to get you popcorn so you don't have to get up miss the movie 10. "May the force be w/ you" still sounds cool after 25 years!! good night.. kj