Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
December 20, 2023: SOAP #5130: John 7-8

SCRIPTURE:  John (NIV) 7:16 Jesus answered, “My teaching is not my own. It comes from him who sent me.

OBSERVATION:  Of the words used to describe Jesus, the most common are “Jesus,” “Lord,” and “Son” (Son of man, Son of God, Son of David…)  In this verse we have a fourth word commonly used to describe Jesus…the word “sent.”  It is not a common descriptive word, but it shows purpose and mission.  And it is worth noting that the one who most used this word to describe Jesus is Jesus Himself!!!  This is how Jesus saw Himself.  

Jesus saw Himself as being sent from the Father to do the Father’s will, to speak the Father’s words, to work the Father’s works, and to reveal the Father’s heart.  His whole life and mission could be understood in the word “sent.” 

APPLICATION:  If we are faithful in reading the Bible and growing in our relationship with God, we will soon come to understand that there is more to being a Christian than in what Jesus does for me.  He has plans for me.  He makes me an important part of what He is doing.  As He was sent from the Father, now He sends me!   (John 17:18)

I must become as diligent about fulfilling the task, mission, purpose that Jesus has assigned me as He was in fulfilling what the Father assigned Him!!!  Through faithful Bible reading and prayer, through listening to what the Spirit says in the word, through our church and through our circumstances, we will learn God’s assignment(s) for our lives. 

PRAYER:  Lord, you have given me a great example of fulfilling your assignment.  And even more, you have given me the Holy Spirit to accompany me and empower me to fulfill my assignment.  Forgive my sins and failures and help me bring joy to the Father’s heart.  Amen

Pastor Leon  
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