In what ways can our church facilitate others' desire to "see Jesus"? The Heart Cry to See Jesus – John 12:20-22 “Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the feast. They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, and requested of him, ‘Sir, we wish to see Jesus.’ Philip relays this appeal to Andrew; together they tell Jesus.” Why This Matters for Us • The request came from outsiders; people beyond Israel’s borders sensed something unique in Jesus. • Philip and Andrew acted as bridges—ordinary disciples guiding seekers to the Savior. • The text shows that wanting to “see Jesus” is ultimately fulfilled when faithful believers point directly to Him, not merely to religious activity. Ways Our Church Can Help People See Jesus • Christ-Centered Preaching – Keep every sermon anchored in the person, work, and words of Jesus (1 Corinthians 2:2; Luke 24:27). – Make application clear so listeners meet Christ, not just hear about morality. • Warm, Intentional Hospitality – Greeters, hosts, small-group leaders emulate Philip by personally escorting newcomers toward meaningful encounters with Jesus (Romans 15:7). – Remove insider language and assume nothing; explain plainly. • Authentic, Consistent Lives – Let members’ conduct match their confession (Philippians 1:27). – When believers live transparently, the watching world “sees Jesus” through everyday faithfulness (Matthew 5:16). • Worship That Magnifies Christ – Plan services that exalt Jesus rather than personalities or production (John 12:32). – Scripture reading, Christ-focused songs, and gospel-rich prayers draw hearts to Him. • Clear Gospel Invitation – Present the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus every gathering (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). – Offer tangible next steps: repentance, baptism, discipleship pathways. • Compassionate Service – Meet physical and emotional needs so that good works spotlight the Source (Titus 3:14). – Community outreach becomes a living parable of Christ’s love (Mark 10:45). • Culture of Testimony – Encourage members to share personal stories of how Jesus saved and sustains them (Revelation 12:11). – Integrate testimonies into services, classes, and digital platforms. • Persistent Prayer – Corporate prayer asks the Father to open eyes to “the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:6). – Prayer teams intercede by name for seekers, mirroring Andrew and Philip’s concern. • Sacraments that Point to Christ – Baptism portrays union with Jesus (Romans 6:4). – The Lord’s Supper regularly sets Christ’s sacrifice before the congregation (1 Corinthians 11:26). Living as Ongoing Windows to Christ Hebrews 12:2 urges us to be “fixing our eyes on Jesus.” As each member remains focused on Him, the collective witness of the church becomes a clear, inviting window through which the world can behold the Savior. |
    |