In what ways can we emulate Jesus' life-giving actions in our communities? A Fresh Look at John 5:21 “ For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom He wishes.” • Jesus literally raises the dead—Lazarus (John 11), Jairus’s daughter (Mark 5), and, ultimately, His own resurrection (Luke 24). • He also breathes spiritual life into the lost (Ephesians 2:4-5). • Because we have received that life, we are called to reflect it outward (John 20:21). Receiving First, Then Overflowing • Abide in Christ daily (John 15:4-5). • Confess and forsake sin so nothing blocks His life-flow (1 John 1:9). • Stay filled with the Spirit who brings life (Romans 8:11). Gospel Proclamation: Sharing the Ultimate Life • Speak the good news clearly and lovingly (Romans 1:16). • Cultivate friendships; life flows best through relationship (1 Thessalonians 2:8). • Offer Bibles, tracts, podcasts—seeds God can quicken (Isaiah 55:11). Mercy in Action: Tangible Resurrection Touches James 2:14-17 reminds us faith without works is dead. Bring life by: - Feeding the hungry (Matthew 25:35). - Visiting the sick or imprisoned (Hebrews 13:3). - Supporting crisis-pregnancy centers, foster care, or adoption—championing physical life from womb to adulthood (Psalm 139:13-16). Words That Heal, Not Harm • “The tongue has the power of life and death” (Proverbs 18:21). • Encourage daily; correct gently; refuse gossip (Ephesians 4:29). • Bless community leaders, teachers, and first responders with life-giving notes or texts. Intercessory Prayer: Calling Down Resurrection Power • Pray for prodigals to come alive in Christ (Luke 15). • Ask God to revive churches and awaken neighborhoods (Habakkuk 3:2). • Stand in faith for physical healings—Jesus still heals (James 5:14-16). Building Shalom: Reconciliation and Justice • Pursue peace between estranged family members (Matthew 5:9). • Advocate for the oppressed while honoring authorities (Micah 6:8; Romans 13:1). • Support initiatives that restore ex-offenders, addicts, and trafficking survivors—pictures of dead things coming to life (Isaiah 61:1-4). Cultivating Communities of Hope • Host Bible studies or small groups where people taste resurrection life together (Acts 2:46-47). • Celebrate testimonies of salvation, healing, and provision—hope multiplies when shared (Revelation 12:11). • Practice Sabbath rhythms; life flows from rested hearts (Exodus 20:8-11). Persevere Until He Comes • Keep sowing even when results seem invisible (Galatians 6:9). • Remember, the same Jesus who “gives life to whom He wishes” will one day raise every believer bodily (1 Corinthians 15:52-54). • Let that future resurrection fuel present faithfulness—living proof that His life in us can renew entire communities today. |
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