How can we recognize and respond to Jesus' works in our lives today? Witnessing the Sign: John 6:14 “Therefore the people, seeing the sign that Jesus had performed, began to say, ‘This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world.’” • A real, historical miracle of multiplication led the crowd to recognize Jesus as the promised Prophet (Deuteronomy 18:15). • The sign was not mere spectacle; it unveiled His divine identity and compassionate care for everyday needs. • The same Lord who fed five thousand is still active (John 5:17; Hebrews 13:8). Seeing Jesus at Work Today • Daily provision that arrives “exceedingly abundantly” (Ephesians 3:20). • Heart-level transformation—new desires, freedom from sin’s grip (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Timely encouragement through Scripture and fellow believers (Romans 10:17; Colossians 3:16). • Doors opened for ministry or closed for protection (Revelation 3:7). • Answers to prayer that align with His will (1 John 5:14-15). • Peace that surpasses understanding amid turmoil (Philippians 4:7). • Conviction that steers us from error (John 16:8). Responding with Faith, Not Just Amazement • Move from “Wow!” to worship—like the healed leper who returned to thank Jesus (Luke 17:15-19). • Obey promptly; faith expresses itself in action (James 2:17). • Seek the Giver more than the gifts (John 6:26-27). • Sustain devotion through regular communion—Word, prayer, fellowship (Acts 2:42). Guarding Against Misinterpretations • Compare every experience with Scripture; Jesus never contradicts His Word (Psalm 119:160). • Beware of attributing coincidence to Christ or Christ’s work to coincidence (Psalm 66:5). • Reject claims that diminish His deity or the historicity of His miracles (2 Peter 2:1). • Test the spirits; cling to what is good, abstain from every form of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22). Practical Steps to Stay Attuned to His Works 1. Begin and end each day thanking God for specific evidences of His hand. 2. Keep a journal of answered prayers and providences (Psalm 77:11-12). 3. Memorize key promises; watch for their fulfillment (John 14:21). 4. Invite trusted believers to confirm and celebrate what God is doing (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Serve others; in serving, you often witness fresh mercies (Proverbs 11:25). 6. Maintain a repentant heart; sin dulls spiritual perception (Psalm 32:3-5). Living Testimonies: Sharing What He Has Done • Declare His works—“We cannot stop speaking about what we have seen and heard” (Acts 4:20). • Let personal stories of His faithfulness encourage the body (1 Peter 2:9). • Give Him all glory, pointing listeners back to the gospel (Galatians 6:14). |
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