kj52's Podcast

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READ: John 15:18—16:16

FIRE STARTER

THINK: With all the emphasis on tolerance in contemporary culture, the world seems determined to rid society of hate. On the surface, this may seem like a noble quest. Yet ironically, even as the world aims to eliminate hate toward almost everyone, it’s becoming more tolerable to despise Christians, as they are often perceived to be a source of intolerance. But none of this should come as a surprise to Christ’s true followers. Jesus told them to expect and be prepared for such treatment as long as they are in the world.

RESPOND: Who or what is “the world” (v. 1), and why does the world hate Jesus and His followers? (See 15:20 note.) What does it mean that Jesus’ followers do not belong to the world? In what ways should Jesus’ followers be different from those who don’t follow Him? How did Jesus expose the world’s guilt in relation to God? In what ways will the Holy Spirit (Counselor) testify about Jesus? Why did Jesus warn His followers ahead of time that they would face rejec- tion (16:1, 4)? Why will some of the persecution come from within the church? (See 16:2 note.) Should this affect your attitude toward others in the church? Why or why not? Why was it good that Jesus left earth? (See 16:7 note.) What are the advantages of having the Holy Spirit with you? What does it mean that the Spirit will “convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment”? (See 16:8 note.) How will the Holy Spirit guide you into truth? How will He enhance your relationship with Jesus? (See 16:13 note.) To whom will the Spirit bring glory? (See 16:14 note.)

PRAY: Ask Jesus to give you strength to endure the opposition and hatred you’ll face as His follower. Thank Him for giving you power and encouragement through the constant presence of the Holy Spirit.

ACT: As you go through the day, take mental note of all the ways you can which indicate how the world resists and opposes God, His principles and His purposes. As you do, make a conscious effort to think, talk, behave and interact with others in ways that identify with Jesus and reflect your devotion to Him. While your actions don’t need to stand out as odd, there should be distinct differences in your life compared to those who do not follow Jesus.

10 min video podcast running down my last week plus taking ?s off the ask kj52 forum.. Also make sure to let me know which mixtape idea your diggin...

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READ: John 15:1-17

THINK: Have you ever picked flowers because they looked pretty? How long did they stay that way? A few days at best. In reality, no matter how nice they looked, they started dying and stopped producing from the moment they were detached from their source. The same is true of people. No matter how they appear, they’ll wither and die spiritually unless they are connected to their life Source. But if you are joined to God through a personal relation- ship with Jesus, you’ll grow as He intended and God will produce something beautiful through you.

RESPOND: How does the analogy of the vine and branches illustrate Jesus’ relationship with His followers? (See 15:1 note.) What two types of branches does Jesus describe, and what ultimately happens to them? (See 15:2 note.) What does this mean in terms of people’s relationships with Jesus? What does it mean when Jesus tells his follow- ers, “Remain in me.”? (See 15:4 note.) How do you do this, and what will be the result if you do? (See 15:9-10 note.) What warning does Jesus give about staying connected to Him? (See 15:6 note.) Why is vital for you to continue to grow spiritually? What is the condition for getting what you pray for? (See 15:7 note.) If you’re in a close relationship with Jesus, what types of things will you desire and ask for in prayer (cf. v. 8)? How can you prove your friendship to Jesus (v. 14)? What’s the ultimate display of love and friendship, and how did Jesus do this for you (v. 13)? What benefits, privileges and responsibilities come with being Jesus’ friend (v. 15)? (See 15:16 note.) For what purpose has God chosen and appointed you (v. 16)? What does it mean to “bear fruit” spiritually?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you stay strongly connected to Him by obeying His Word, following His purposes and growing continually in your relationship with Him.

ACT: Pay attention to plants and trees today. Notice how the leaves and flowers connect to the main stems or branches, and how branches connect to the trunk. The outer parts can only sustain life as they remain attached to the main source. Consider how this illustrates your relationship with God and your ability to be spiritually fruitful. Sit under a tree and read the Bible for a few minutes, reviewing today’s passage and gaining life from God’s Word.

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READ: John 13:31—14:14

THINK: Most people in the world are offended by the view that there is only one way to God. Popular consensus says that there are any number of equally valid faiths and paths to “God.” Those who hold this misguided notion are not just rejecting a Christian worldview; they are rejecting Jesus’ own claim. Perhaps the only way they’ll consider the truth is if they begin to see the reality of Christ’s life and love in those who claim to follow Him. If their relation- ships with God and each other convey an accurate image of Jesus, people may begin to see who He really is and begin to understand that His exclusive claim is really an open invitation to ultimate fulfillment and eternal life.

RESPOND: What does it mean to “love one another” as Jesus loved us? (See 13:34.) How would you describe this love? (See 13:35 note.) How does this command apply specifically to other Christians? Does this mean we should all believe the same things? Why or why not? What things must we not compromise in our relationships with other believers? Why is it so important that Christians’ relationships be characterized by self-sacrificing love? What happens if Christians don’t demonstrate this type of devotion to Jesus and to one another? What hope did Jesus give us before He left earth? (See 14:2 and 14:3 notes.) How do His promises affect your outlook on life? What does it mean that Jesus is “the way and the truth and the life”? (See 14:6 note.) Why is He the only way to God the Father? Why do most people reject this view? How would you answer this objection? What do Jesus’ words in verses 9-11 indicate about His rela- tion to God the Father? In what ways would Jesus’ followers do “greater things” than He did while on earth? (See 14:12 note.) In what way are these things still a credit to Jesus? What does it mean to ask for things in Jesus name? (See 14:13 note.) What privileges and responsibilities does this imply for you personally?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you develop a more selfless and sacrificial love for other Christians so that non-Chris- tians get an accurate view of Jesus’ love through you. Thank Jesus for preparing a place for you in heaven and for His promise to return for you. Pray with an intense awareness of Jesus’ authority, power and love for you.

ACT: Make a deliberate effort to show kindness to everyone today (as you always should). Go out of your way to show particular kindness to fellow Christians, especially those at school or work with whom you might not typically spend time. Also, review the 14:6 note for more insight on Jesus being the only way to God. Keep in mind that it’s not your job to prove that. It’s Jesus’ own claim. People must choose whether or not to take Him at His Word.

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Coffee run - no coffee = frustrated tweezy

READ: John 13:1-30

FIREuSTARTER

THINK: Have you ever had to do something for someone that, even as you were doing it, you were honestly thinking, I shouldn’t have to do this—it’s beneath me—I’m better than that. Well, consider Jesus, the eternal Son of God through whom all things were created, as He stooped to wash His followers’ feet. That was only one of countless ways He served people and met their needs when He walked the earth. And He continues to meet your needs. Is it beneath you to follow Jesus example of servanthood? One of the best tests of how willing you are to be a servant is this: How do you respond when you’re treated like one?

RESPOND: What was so extraordinary about Jesus demonstration of servanthood in washing His disciples’ feet (cf. v. 3)? In what way was this act symbolic, and what example does it set for Jesus’ followers? (See 13:5 note.) Why did Jesus tell Peter, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.? (See 13:8 note.) In what ways are Jesus’ followers to “wash one another’s feet”? (See 13:14 note.) In what way can you show acceptance to those whom Jesus sends (v. 20)? Why do you think the other disciples never seemed to suspect or anticipate Judas’ deception and betrayal? Why and how must Christ’s followers be cautious regarding who they trust and associate with?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you follow His example of humility and servanthood in your interaction with others.

ACT: Throughout the day find several ways to serve others—particularly other Christians—as a means of showing your love and appreciation for them. You could help a friend with homework during study hall, do something for a sibling at home, stop by church after school and help your pastor, or assist an elderly neighbor with a household chore. Also, re-read the article on Campus Missions Commitment to Serve, p. 1276.

Freestyles, home depot & me almost getting pulled over combine like voltron for one awesome sauce podcast.

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