"The Blend of Grace and Truth" John l and 2, Thames Valley churches of Christ

Tim Dannatt, 6th January 2019

 

Wonderful to be together as a community to look forward to the new year

 

How do you feel about the New Year?

 

Tim’s theme scripture to help with his health challenges:

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9

What is your focus this year? Our church theme scripture is:

“And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.” (Ephesians 2:22 NIV11)

Our church aspirations fit with this:

1. God-Focused
2. Relationship-Based
3. Enabling Our Children to Become Christians
4. Always Free Yet Spiritual
5. Toiling to Build the Church Well

Today we’ll focus on Jesus and his blend of grace and truth. The early disciples, called in John 1, respond with eagerness. To continue on the journey they needed the light Jesus provided. So do we. Life is so complicated! We need guidance.

 

What complicated or confusing situation do you have in your life at the moment? Where do you need more of the light of Jesus?

“ In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.” John 1: 4-5,9

 

“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

 

Where are you in the areas of grace and truth? In which are you stronger? Do you have any hang-ups about growing in grace or truth? Perhaps based on bad past experiences? Let’s look at the perfect fullness and blend of both grace and truth in Jesus illustrated by what happens in John chapter 2.

 

Point 1: Grace, John 2:1-14

“Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water”; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, “Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.” They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realise where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, “Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.”” John 2:6-10

Jesus had time to go to a wedding. He saw being with people as a priority. His love meant he acted to help make the event the best it could be. Things that matter to us matter to God. Nothing is too small to take to God.

Jesus had a warmth about him that drew people to him. He had people’s best interests at heart.

Grace is not sentimentality, but it is extravagant.

 

Point 2: Truth, John 2:13-24

“So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.  To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!”” John 2:15-16

Truth is not pharisaical, but it is clear. Do you need clearer convictions about what is right and wrong? Jesus was compassionate, but he was not vague.

It’s not loving to have weak convictions.

 

2019- What will your verse be?

• Do you need more Grace?
• Do you need more Truth?

Thank you for listening to this podcast. You can find more episodes in our feed. Our web site is http://www.tvcoc.org.

 

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.

 

Do you have a question about the Bible or the Christian faith? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send us your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: tvcochrist@gmail.com.

 

Thanks again for listening. Have a super day.

 

God bless,

 

Malcolm