Tag: hope

A Heart Captivated: The Foundation of a Godly Life (Psalm 101:1)

In our first post, we saw that Psalm 101 is like a solemn promise from King David, a blueprint for living a good and godly life. But such a life isn’t built on willpower alone. The drive for real change doesn’t start with a clenched fist of determination, but with a heart that has been captured by something beautiful. And that’s exactly where David begins. This very first verse is the foundation for everything that follows, showing us the why behind all his resolutions.

Let’s look at the words: “I will sing of your love and justice, Lord. I will sing praises to you with the harp.” (Psalm 101:1, NLT).

What God is Like: Love and Justice

David doesn’t start by talking about himself, but about God. His personal commitment is rooted in God’s character. The two things he focuses on—”love and justice”—are a powerful pair that tell us a great deal about who God is.

The word for “love” here is the Hebrew word chesed. It’s a deep, rich word that means more than just a feeling. It’s a loyal, steady, unfailing love—the kind that keeps its promises no matter what. This is the love God showed when He rescued Israel from Egypt and made them His own people.

Right alongside this incredible love, David places God’s “justice”. In the Bible, God’s justice isn’t just about punishment; it’s about Him making things right. It’s His commitment to defending the vulnerable, confronting evil, and ensuring that truth wins in the end.

Putting these two things together is crucial. Love without justice could become soft and allow wrong to continue. Justice without love could become harsh and unforgiving. But in God, they exist in perfect harmony. He is completely compassionate and absolutely fair at the very same time. David’s understanding of this is the bedrock for his own promises. He isn’t trying to invent his own standard of goodness; he is responding to, and wanting to reflect, the wonderful character of his God.

Our Response: The Power of Praise

David’s reaction to seeing God’s character is to worship. He says, “I will sing… I will sing praises.” The repetition shows this is a deliberate choice, a firm decision. This isn’t just a passing happy feeling; it’s a resolve. He even brings out his harp, showing that his worship is full-hearted and engaged.

For David, the harp wasn’t just for entertainment. It was the instrument he used to comfort King Saul and to lead the nation in worship. For him, knowing the truth about God naturally led to praising God. This connection is just as important for us today. When we fill our minds with who God is, it can’t help but overflow into thankfulness and song from our hearts.

What This Means For Us Today

So, what does this mean for our everyday lives? The practical commitments we’ll see in the next verses—like being careful what we look at and who we spend time with—all find their power source right here. We won’t be able to live out the challenging life described in Psalm 101 if our hearts aren’t first captured by the God described in verse 1.

First, we need to make a habit of looking at God’s character. Our faith journey shouldn’t start with a long list of rules, but by gazing at the stunning love and justice of God. We see this most clearly at the cross, where God’s justice was satisfied by Jesus and His love was poured out for us. A heart that isn’t regularly amazed by this good news will lack the strength to make the tough, right choices later on.

Second, we can choose a life of praise. David’s resolve to sing is a great example. When we feel far from God or stuck in a rut, one of the most powerful things we can do is to deliberately choose to thank God for who He is. We can recount His faithfulness and His fairness. This act of will, even when we don’t feel like it, recalibrates our perspective and reminds us what is truly real.

In the end, the vow to live a good life doesn’t begin with a grim decision to try harder. It starts with a song. It begins when a heart, overwhelmed by the loyal love and perfect justice of God, can’t help but respond in worship. This praise is the fuel for a life that pleases God. It is the only foundation strong enough to build upon. Next time, we’ll see how this heart of worship directly leads to a personal commitment to holy living, as we explore verse 2.

A Sobering Tale: Five Key Lessons from 1 Kings 13

The Old Testament contains some passages that are strange, difficult, and deeply unsettling. The story found in 1 Kings 13 is certainly one of them. It tells of a “man of God” from Judah, an apostate king, an old prophet, a lie, and a tragic death by a lion.

The narrative can be confusing, but it holds powerful and timeless truths for us today. When we examine this sobering account, we can draw out at least five crucial lessons about God, His Word, and ourselves.

An AI generated image of a lion and a donkey standing on a pathway with some green hills in the background 

The Historical Background

To properly understand this chapter, we need to know what just happened in Israel. After the death of King Solomon, his son Rehoboam’s foolishness caused the kingdom to split in two. The southern kingdom, Judah, remained loyal to the line of David. The ten northern tribes, however, broke away to form the kingdom of Israel under a new king, Jeroboam.

Jeroboam feared that if his people continued to travel south to the temple in Jerusalem to worship, their hearts would eventually return to the king of Judah. To consolidate his power, he committed a terrible act of spiritual rebellion: he established a new, state-sponsored religion.

And the king took counsel and made two calves of gold. And he said to the people, “You have gone up to Jerusalem long enough. Behold your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt.” And he set one in Bethel, and the other he put in Dan.

1 Kings 12:28-29 (ESV)

The events of 1 Kings 13 are God’s direct and dramatic response to this national idolatry, beginning with a confrontation at the pagan altar in Bethel.

1. God’s Revealed Word is Final

The central lesson of the chapter revolves around the authority of God’s Word. The man of God from Judah received a very clear set of instructions for his mission.

For so was it commanded me by the word of the LORD, saying, ‘You shall eat no bread or drink water, nor return by the way that you came.’

1 Kings 13:9 (ESV)

He showed immense courage in obeying this, standing up to a king. His downfall occurred when he accepted a “new” word from an old prophet.

But he lied to him.

1 Kings 13:18 (ESV)

The man of God chose to believe this new revelation over the clear command he had already received directly from the LORD. This serves as a vital warning for us: God’s revealed Word is our ultimate authority. We must not allow personal experiences, emotional appeals, or even claims of angelic messages from others to contradict what God has already made plain in Scripture.

2. Obedience Matters Deeply to God

The judgement on the man of God seems incredibly harsh—he is killed by a lion for eating a meal. However, this demonstrates how seriously God takes obedience to His commands. The prophet’s disobedience was not a minor slip-up; it publicly undermined the very authority by which he had just condemned the king.

While they were eating, the old prophet was compelled to pronounce God’s judgement on the man he had deceived.

…because you have disobeyed the word of the LORD and have not kept the command that the LORD your God commanded you… your body shall not come to the tomb of your fathers.

1 Kings 13:21-22 (ESV)

The story reminds us that God is holy, and His instructions are not mere suggestions. While our salvation is by grace, our walk with God is one of obedience, which honours Him and serves as a testament to His authority.

3. The Deceitfulness of the Human Heart

This chapter puts human sinfulness on full display, showing that no one is immune.

  • King Jeroboam lives in open, defiant sin. When his hand withers as a sign of judgement, he is humbled enough to ask for healing, but he never repents of his idolatry.
  • The old prophet is perhaps the most troubling character. He uses God’s name to tell a deliberate lie, leading his fellow prophet into a fatal trap.
  • The man of God, despite his initial faithfulness and courage in the face of a king, shows he is capable of being deceived and persuaded into disobedience.

This story serves as a mirror, reminding us that sin is a constant danger. It can be found in open rebellion, in subtle deception, and in the failure to hold fast to God’s truth.

4. God’s Purpose Cannot Be Thwarted

Despite the catalogue of human failure in this chapter, God’s sovereign plan is perfectly accomplished. The prophecy against the altar at Bethel, delivered by the man of God, was the main point, and it did not fail.

And the man cried against the altar by the word of the LORD and said, “O altar, altar, thus says the LORD: ‘Behold, a son shall be born to the house of David, Josiah by name, and he shall sacrifice on you the priests of the high places who make offerings on you, and human bones shall be burned on you.’” And he gave a sign the same day, saying, “This is the sign that the LORD has spoken: ‘Behold, the altar shall be torn down, and the ashes that are on it shall be poured out.’”

1 Kings 13:2-3 (ESV)

This prophecy saw its ultimate fulfilment centuries later under King Josiah (2 Kings 23:15-18). God’s ultimate purposes are never frustrated by human weakness or sin. His Word will accomplish what He sends it to do.

5. A Story That Points Us to Jesus

After reading such a tragic story of failure, we are left to wonder where the hope is. The failure of the man of God highlights our own weakness and our need for a better Prophet, one who never fails.

This is where the story points us to Jesus Christ. Jesus is the perfect Prophet who was tempted in every way, yet never sinned. He held fast to His Father’s word in the face of threats, flattery, and immense suffering. Where this unnamed prophet failed in his obedience, Jesus succeeded perfectly.

This chapter, in all its darkness, ultimately pushes us away from trusting in any human figure and toward a deeper trust in Christ, whose perfect obedience is the only true foundation for our hope.

Blessed (Psalm one) transcription 

Two Paths, One Choice: The Secret to a Truly Blessed Life

We all want to be blessed, don’t we? If I asked you to raise your hand if you’d like a blessed life, I’m sure most of us would say yes. But here’s a tougher question to ponder in your heart: are you willing to do what it takes to be blessed?

It’s a bit like me saying I’d love to play the violin. I adore the sound and the idea of playing it is wonderful. But have I ever taken a lesson or even picked one up? No. My desire to play doesn’t match my willingness to put in the effort. When it comes to living a blessed life, we don’t want to have the same disconnect.

The book of Psalms opens with a beautiful and foundational poem, Psalm 1, which lays out two distinct paths: the path of the blessed and the path of the wicked. It’s a short, clear-cut psalm that serves as a gateway to the rest of this incredible book of poetry and prayer. Let’s explore what it teaches us about how to live a truly blessed life.

The Path to Avoid

The psalm begins by telling us what the blessed person doesn’t do.

Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers.Psalm 1:1 (NIV)

This verse paints a picture of progressive entanglement with ungodliness. It’s about being careful where we get our advice, who we associate with, and what influences we allow into our hearts and minds.

  • Walking with the wicked: This is about the counsel we follow. When the Bible uses the word “wicked,” it doesn’t just mean history’s most monstrous figures. It often refers to the “ungodly”—those who live without reference to God. The world’s wisdom and God’s wisdom are often at odds. If we want to be blessed, we must seek godly counsel, not the advice of a world that doesn’t know Him.
  • Standing with sinners: This speaks of association. Imagine a group of people up to no good on a street corner. The psalmist warns us not to “hang out” with them, not to throw our lot in with those whose actions and lifestyles lead away from God.
  • Sitting with mockers: This is about allegiance. In a world that often makes fun of faith, God, and the church, we are called not to join in. We shouldn’t align ourselves with those who ridicule the things of God.

The apostle Paul sums it up perfectly: “Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” (1 Corinthians 15:33, NIV). We must be intentional about the people, media, and ideas we allow to shape us.

The Path to Pursue

After telling us what to avoid, the psalmist immediately shows us the alternative—the positive pursuit of the blessed person.

but whose delight is in the law of the LORD,
and who meditates on his law day and night.Psalm 1:2 (NIV)

Instead of being shaped by the world, the blessed person is shaped by the Word of God.

  • Delight in God’s Law: Do you delight in the Bible? It’s a challenging question. Sometimes, reading Scripture can feel more like going to the gym—we know it’s good for us, but we don’t always feel like it. The psalmist encourages a different attitude: approaching God’s Word like a delicious meal we can’t wait to enjoy. It should be our source of wisdom, comfort, and joy.
  • Meditate Day and Night: Biblical meditation isn’t about emptying your mind, as in some Eastern practices. It’s about filling your mind with God’s truth. The Hebrew word for “meditate” can also mean “to mutter.” It’s the idea of repeating Scripture to yourself, mulling it over, and chewing on it like a cow chews the cud. This isn’t about speed-reading chapters to tick a box; it’s about letting a single verse sink deep into your soul.

To be blessed, we must be students of the Word, giving it priority in our lives day and night.

The Result: A Tree, Not Chaff

The psalm gives us two powerful images to show the outcome of these two paths. The blessed person is described in this beautiful way:

That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers.Psalm 1:3 (NIV)

This is a picture of stability, health, and fruitfulness. Rooted in God’s Word, the blessed person has a constant source of nourishment. As a result, they produce good fruit—the “fruit of the Spirit” that Paul describes as “love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23, NIV).

In stark contrast, the wicked are described as follows:

Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away.Psalm 1:4 (NIV)

Chaff is the light, worthless husk that is separated from the valuable grain during threshing. It has no roots, no substance, and is easily blown away. This is the ultimate end for a life lived apart from God—it lacks true stability and purpose and will not withstand God’s final judgement.

The Ultimate Source of Blessing

So, is the message of Psalm 1 simply “follow these rules and you’ll earn God’s blessing”? Not quite. This is where the gospel turns everything on its head in the most wonderful way.

The Old Testament law, including the standard set in Psalm 1, showed humanity that we couldn’t be “blessed” on our own. Our hearts are sick with sin. We fail to keep the standard perfectly. We need a saviour.

That Saviour is Jesus. He lived the perfect “Psalm 1 life.” He perfectly delighted in God’s law, never walked with the wicked, stood with sinners, or sat with mockers. He earned the blessing. Yet on the cross, He took the punishment—the curse—that we deserved.

This means that our blessing isn’t earned by our actions, but is received as a gift through faith in Jesus. As Paul writes:

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.Ephesians 1:3 (NIV)

Notice the past tense: He has blessed us. If you are in Christ, you are already blessed with every spiritual blessing, including forgiveness, justification, and adoption.

So, why do we follow the path outlined in Psalm 1? We don’t do these things to get blessed; we do them because we are blessed. Because Jesus has changed our hearts, we now want to delight in God’s Word. Because His Spirit lives in us, we now want to turn away from the path of the wicked. Our new life is a joyful response to the incredible blessing we have already received in Him.

The path to a blessed life isn’t found in ticking boxes, but in trusting Jesus. When you are in Him, He begins to transform you, and a fruitful, stable, and truly blessed life is the beautiful result.

Transcription: Misery into Hope (Micah 7: 1–10)

Good morning everyone. It’s certainly a warm one here in the UK today! While we might be longing for cooler weather, we’re also reminded of the profound shifts and changes we encounter, not just in climate, but in our spiritual journey. As we gather, let us open our hearts and minds to God’s Word.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for bringing us together this morning. We thank you for your word, we thank you for its truth, and we pray today, Lord, that you will help us to understand it. You will help us to apply it to our lives, and that through understanding it, Lord, we might live for you, that we might follow you more deeply. May you open our eyes and our hearts to your word this morning in Jesus’ name. Amen.
This morning, we continue our journey through the book of Micah, now in its final chapter, Micah 7. For those who may be joining us or need a quick recap, we’ve been exploring Micah’s prophecies for several months. Micah, a prophet from the 8th century BC, primarily spoke to the southern kingdom of Judah, though his messages often referenced the northern kingdom of Israel, which had already fallen to the Assyrian Empire. His ministry spanned the reigns of several kings, including Hezekiah.
As we delve into Micah’s prophecies, it’s important to remember that terms like “Judah” and “Israel” can sometimes refer to the people, the land, or even all of God’s people, requiring careful consideration of the context. Thankfully, today’s passage is a little more straightforward, though it begins with a stark and challenging tone.
Micah 7 presents a powerful contrast: misery into hope. Verses 1 to 6 paint a bleak picture of despair, while verses 7 to 10 offer a beacon of hope. Let’s begin by examining the first section.
Micah opens by declaring, “Woe is me!” or “I am miserable,” as some translations put it. Have you ever felt truly miserable or sad? We all have, haven’t we? Perhaps through grief, illness, or professional difficulties. While we’ve all experienced misery, I wonder how many of us would admit to feeling miserable for the reasons Micah expresses.
Micah’s misery stems from a profound spiritual barrenness he observes in his nation. He laments, “I am like one who gathers summer fruit at the time of the grape harvest. There is not a cluster of grapes to eat, none of the early figs I crave” (Micah 7:1, NIV). He is searching for ripe fruit, for the righteous and faithful, but finds none. The land is spiritually barren, devoid of integrity.
This imagery brings to mind Jesus’ encounter with the fig tree in Matthew 21. Seeing a fig tree with leaves, Jesus expected to find fruit. Finding none, he cursed it, and it withered from the root. Jesus’ action wasn’t arbitrary; it was a powerful critique of the religious leaders of his day. They presented an outward appearance of piety but bore no spiritual fruit. Similarly, Micah is looking for righteousness among his people, but finds a complete absence of it.
Verse 2 reveals the depth of the corruption: “The faithful have been swept from the land; there is no one upright. Everyone lies in wait to shed blood; they hunt each other with nets.” This paints a vivid picture of a society where people are actively preying on one another, using snares and traps, much like hunters seeking their prey. This is not a literal hunt, but a powerful metaphor for the deceit and malicious intent prevalent among the people.
The corruption extends to all levels of society. Verse 3 states, “Both hands are skilled at doing evil; the ruler demands gifts, the judge accepts bribes, and the powerful dictate what they desire—they all conspire together.” Micah describes a people so adept at wickedness that they can commit evil with either hand, demonstrating a complete moral depravity. Leaders, judges, and those in power are driven by self-interest and greed, exploiting the vulnerable for their own gain. This depiction, sadly, doesn’t always feel so distant from the world we inhabit today.
Even “the best of them are like a briar, the most upright worse than a thorn hedge” (Micah 7:4). This imagery warns that even those who appear respectable are dangerous and harmful, like sharp thorns that inflict injury upon approach. The pervasive wickedness means that righteousness is scarce, and even those who should offer guidance are corrupted.
Micah also notes that the people are oblivious to the impending judgment: “The day of your watchmen and your punishment has come; now is the time of your confusion” (Micah 7:4). Having witnessed the fall of the northern kingdom to Assyria, Micah understands that Judah’s continued sin will inevitably lead to God’s wrath and consequence.
The societal breakdown is so severe that trust is non-existent. “Do not trust a neighbour; put no confidence in a friend. Guard your mouth from her who lies in your embrace” (Micah 7:5). Micah’s words echo the sentiment of the X-Files’ famous catchphrase, “Trust no one.” Even within the closest relationships, betrayal lurks.
Verse 6 delivers a particularly poignant blow: “For a son dishonours his father, a daughter rises against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—a man’s enemies are the members of his own household.” This resonates with Jesus’ own words in Matthew 10 and Jeremiah 9, highlighting the painful division that can occur even within families when some choose to follow God and others do not. Micah’s world, like ours, is riddled with such painful realities.
It’s a truly bleak assessment, isn’t it? Micah’s misery is palpable, rooted in the deep sinfulness of his nation and the impending judgment. His words challenge us to consider whether we too feel moved by the sinfulness around us, both our own and that of our society.
But then, everything changes in verse 7. Micah pivots dramatically, turning from despair to an unshakeable hope:
Micah 7:1-10 (NIV):
1 What misery is mine!
I am like one who gathers summer fruit
at the time of the grape harvest.
There is not a cluster of grapes to eat,
none of the early figs I crave.
2 The faithful have been swept from the land;
there is no one upright.
Everyone lies in wait to shed blood;
they hunt each other with nets.
3 Both hands are skilled at doing evil;
the ruler demands gifts,
the judge accepts bribes,
and the powerful dictate what they desire—
they all conspire together.
4 The best of them is like a briar,
the most upright worse than a thorn hedge.
The day of your watchmen and your punishment has come;
now is the time of your confusion.
5 Do not trust a neighbour;
put no confidence in a friend.
Guard your mouth
from her who lies in your embrace.
6 For a son dishonours his father,
a daughter rises against her mother,
a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law—
a man’s enemies are the members of his own household.
7 But as for me, I wait in hope for the Lord;
I wait for God my Saviour;
my God will hear me.
8 Do not gloat over me, my enemy!
Though I have fallen, I will rise.
Though I sit in darkness,
the Lord will be my light.
9 Because I have sinned against him,
I will bear the Lord’s wrath,
until he pleads my case
and upholds my cause.
He will bring me out into the light;
I will see his righteousness.
10 Then my enemy will see it
and will be covered with shame—
she who said to me,
“Where is the Lord your God?”
My eyes will see her downfall;
she will be trampled underfoot
like mire in the streets.
Micah declares, “But as for me, I wait in hope for the Lord; I wait for God my Saviour; my God will hear me” (Micah 7:7). Even in the darkest hour, when trust in humanity is shattered, Micah places his unwavering confidence in God. He knows that despite the sin and impending judgment, God’s ultimate plan is one of rescue and restoration for His remnant.
Micah’s hope is not a passive waiting. This isn’t like waiting impatiently for a delayed train. This is an active, confident, and patient waiting, much like a dedicated waiting staff attentive to every need of their guests. It is a posture of faith that recognises God’s sovereignty and faithfulness.
Micah’s confession, “Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the Lord’s wrath, until he pleads my case and upholds my cause” (Micah 7:9), shows his awareness of personal and national sin. Yet, he believes that God will ultimately bring him “out into the light.” This foreshadows the ultimate rescue brought by Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life, died for our sins, and through his resurrection, offers us hope and salvation.
Micah also foresees the downfall of God’s enemies: “Then my enemy will see it and will be covered with shame… My eyes will see her downfall; she will be trampled underfoot like mire in the streets” (Micah 7:10). This speaks to a future where God’s justice prevails, and those who oppose Him are ultimately defeated.
The contrast between Micah 7:1-6 and 7:7-10 is striking. The misery of a fallen world is met with the unwavering hope found in God. This powerful contrast should also be evident in the lives of believers. Our faith is not just a Sunday morning affair; it is a transformative commitment that permeates every aspect of our lives.
We are called to live differently, to be skilled in doing good, not evil. Our actions should bear fruit in keeping with repentance, turning away from sin and actively following Christ. It is not about earning our salvation, for that was bought and paid for by Jesus on the cross. Rather, it is a joyful response to the incredible rescue he has provided.
Let us examine our lives this week. In our everyday routines, are we walking alongside Jesus? Do our words and actions bring Him pleasure? This is not to create pressure, but to inspire a heartfelt response to His immense love and sacrifice. He rescued us, saved us from our sins, and paid the ultimate price.
Our verse for today is Micah 7:7: “But as for me, I wait in hope for the Lord; I wait for God my Saviour; my God will hear me.” In a world often shrouded in darkness, God is our light. As followers of Christ, let us shine that light for others who are lost and without hope. Let us be Jesus’ hands and feet, drawing others into the glorious hope found only in Him.
Father God, we thank you for your word and for Micah’s powerful message. We thank you, Lord, that even though it reminds us how dark the world can be, it also reminds us that you are our hope. When we fall, you lift us up. When we are in darkness, you are our light. We confess our sins before you and rejoice in your forgiveness. May we respond by bearing fruit in keeping with repentance, turning our backs on sin and living fully for you. May you have your rightful place in every aspect of our lives, big and small. Give us wisdom, encouragement, and strength as we enter the week ahead, that we might fully serve you and look to Christ for our hope and salvation. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Misery into Hope (Micah 7:1–10)

It was a pleasure and an honour to preach at church yesterday we have been working our way through the book of Micah, and finally reached the last chapter.

The chapter opens with a rather bleak picture, but turns to the Lord in hope. You might find it helpful to read Micah 7: 1–10 before listening.

A cartoon image of a man hiding in a bush with a long butterfly net, ready to pounce 

Warm Greetings and Walking in Truth (3 John 1–4) 

In my previous post, A Mighty Message in a Little Letter, I provided an overview of the Third Epistle of John, a brief yet profound letter in the New Testament. This post marks the beginning of a new series where I will examine all 14 verses of 3 John, verse by verse, to uncover the depth of its message. Today, we focus on the first four verses, exploring the warmth of John’s greetings, the significance of spiritual and physical health, and the call to walk in truth. This study aims to provide practical insights for living out our faith, grounded in the text’s historical and theological context.

A man walking alone on a sunlit forest path, holding two books—one in each hand. He is seen from behind, heading toward a bright, misty clearing. To his left, there is a signpost with the word “TRUTH” and an arrow pointing forward in the direction he is walking. The path is surrounded by lush green foliage and tall trees, with sunlight streaming through the leaves, creating a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere. In the distance, there is a large, scroll-like object with writing on it, partially obscured by the light and trees, adding a sense of mystery and symbolism to the scene.

Verse 1: A Warm and Personal Greeting

“The elder, To my dear friend Gaius, whom I love in the truth.” (3 John 1, NIV)

John, identifying himself simply as “the elder,” opens the letter with a warm address to Gaius, a beloved friend. The phrase “whom I love in the truth” reflects not only personal affection but also a shared commitment to the gospel. The warmth of John’s greeting is striking. In an era where letters were rare and precious, receiving such a personal message from an apostle must have been profoundly encouraging. Imagine Gaius, perhaps weary from challenges in the church, opening this letter and feeling the weight of John’s care and affirmation. This sets the tone for the letter, reminding us that Christian relationships are rooted in love and truth, fostering encouragement and mutual support.

Verse 2: A Prayer for Health, with a Deeper Meaning

“Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.” (3 John 2, NIV)

Verse 2 is often cited by prosperity gospel preachers as evidence that Christians should expect physical health and material success. However, a closer look reveals a more nuanced meaning. John’s prayer for Gaius’s good health and prosperity is a common epistolary greeting, akin to a standard well-wishing in ancient letters. It expresses a heartfelt desire for Gaius’s well-being but does not guarantee it as a divine promise. The key phrase, “even as your soul is getting along well,” prioritises spiritual health over physical. John acknowledges Gaius’s strong faith and implies that spiritual vitality is primary, with physical health being secondary. This counters prosperity teachings by grounding our ultimate hope in spiritual flourishing, not earthly circumstances. While God cares for our physical needs, John’s focus is on the soul’s alignment with God’s truth, which sustains us through life’s trials.

Verse 3: Walking in the Truth

“It gave me great joy when some believers came and testified about your faithfulness to the truth, telling how you continue to walk in it.” (3 John 3, NIV)

The phrase “walking in the truth” is central to this verse and the letter’s message. For John, walking in the truth is more than intellectual assent to biblical doctrine; it is a daily, practical expression of faith in our words, thoughts, and actions. It means living in alignment with the gospel, allowing its truth to shape every aspect of life. To illustrate, we can compare this to Galatians 2:11-14, where Paul confronts Peter for not “walking in line with the gospel.” Peter, under pressure, withdrew from eating with Gentiles, implying that adherence to Jewish customs was necessary for fellowship. This contradicted the gospel’s truth of unity in Christ, regardless of cultural or ethnic distinctions. Peter’s failure to walk in the truth caused division and confusion. For us, walking in the truth involves consistency between our beliefs and behaviour, ensuring our actions reflect Christ’s love, grace, and justice. It challenges us to examine whether our daily choices—how we treat others, handle conflicts, or steward resources—align with the gospel.

Verse 4: The Joy of Faithful Disciples

“I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (3 John 4, NIV)

John concludes this opening section with a heartfelt expression of joy. The term “my children” likely refers to those John has mentored or led to faith, including Gaius. His “greatest joy” comes from knowing they are walking in the truth, faithfully living out the gospel. This verse underscores the deep satisfaction of seeing others grow in faith. As I write this blog, I feel a similar privilege and humility. Knowing that readers might be encouraged to walk in the truth through these reflections is profoundly humbling and joyful. It reminds us that our greatest legacy is not personal achievements but the impact of our faith on others, nurturing a community rooted in truth and love.

Conclusion: A Call to Faithful Living

These first four verses of 3 John set a foundation for the letter’s themes of hospitality, faithfulness, and truth. John’s warm greeting encourages us to build relationships grounded in love and gospel truth. His prayer for Gaius reminds us to prioritise spiritual health, trusting God with our physical needs. The call to walk in the truth challenges us to live consistently with the gospel, as Paul urged Peter to do. Finally, John’s joy in his disciples’ faithfulness inspires us to invest in others’ spiritual growth. As we continue this series, may we be encouraged to walk in the truth, finding joy in faithful living and community.

Starving for God’s Truth (Amos 8:11) 

A blank Bible on a lectern indicating a famine of God‘s word 

In Amos 8:11, the prophet delivers a stark warning from God: “‘The days are coming,’ declares the Sovereign Lord, ‘when I will send a famine through the land—not a famine of food or a thirst for water, but a famine of hearing the words of the Lord.’” This Old Testament passage describes a divine judgement where God withholds His word as punishment for persistent disobedience. In our modern day, surrounded by unprecedented access to Scripture, this warning remains profoundly relevant, exposing a spiritual famine amidst apparent abundance.

In ancient Israel, God’s word through prophets was a lifeline, guiding the nation in covenant faithfulness. When the people embraced idolatry and injustice, God’s response was sometimes silence—a withdrawal of His voice. Amos 8:12 elaborates, stating that people would “stagger from sea to sea… searching for the word of the Lord, but they will not find it” (NIV). This spiritual famine was a deliberate act of judgement, leaving the nation desolate. Similarly, Hosea 4:6 declares, “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge. Because you have rejected knowledge, I also reject you as my priests.” Here, God links spiritual ignorance to rejecting His truth, a precursor to the famine Amos foretells.

Today, such a famine seems unlikely. Smartphones and tablets provide instant access to countless Bible translations, sermons, and commentaries. A quick search yields devotionals, theological podcasts, and Christian blogs (including this one ). Yet, Amos’s warning persists. Despite this digital abundance, many churches fail to proclaim the full counsel of God’s word. Some prioritise uplifting messages over the call to repentance and faith in Christ. Others dilute the gospel, avoiding the reality of sin or the truth that “there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). This selective preaching creates a modern famine—not of Scripture’s availability, but of its faithful proclamation.

Consider the state of many churches. Is the gospel preached clearly, pointing to Christ’s atoning work and the need for repentance? Too often, sermons focus on self-help or cultural trends, neglecting the transformative power of God’s word. Hebrews 4:12 reminds us that Scripture is “living and active, sharper than any double-edged sword,” yet its edge is blunted when churches sidestep its harder truths. This echoes the judgement of Amos 8:11: God’s word is present, but its clarity and authority are withheld from those who refuse to heed it. Isaiah 55:2 questions, “Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labour on what does not satisfy?”—a challenge to those chasing spiritual substitutes over God’s truth.

This famine manifests in congregations unaware of biblical doctrines or unprepared to confront sin. It appears where the gospel is reduced to moralism, leaving souls hungry for the true “bread of life” (John 6:35). As believers, we must seek churches that faithfully proclaim God’s word in its entirety, urging repentance and pointing to Christ. We must also examine our hearts, ensuring we don’t contribute to this famine by ignoring Scripture’s call to holiness.

Amos 8:11 challenges us to hunger for God’s word, not merely its accessibility but its faithful preaching. Let’s pray for churches to boldly declare the full counsel of God, lest we wander in a self-inflicted famine, searching for truth we’ve chosen to ignore.

Transcript: Finding Hope in the midst of Turmoil -Unpacking Mica 5

For those who prefer to read rather than listen, here is a transcript of the sermon I preached yesterday on Mica five. Enjoy

Good morning everyone! It’s a pleasure to share some thoughts on a truly profound passage from the Bible today. Please forgive my notes – it’s a complex piece of scripture, and I wanted to do it justice! It has nothing to do with my age or memory, I promise!
Let’s begin with a prayer:
Father, we thank You so much for Your Word this morning. Thank You for gathering us together, Your people, to worship You. We thank You for Your majesty and Your presence among us. We thank You for this passage before us. Please help us to understand it, to learn from it, and to learn about You. We pray that what we learn today, Lord, we will apply in our lives, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Now, who read Micah chapter 5 and fully understood it? Anyone? No? I’m not surprised! It’s quite a tricky passage, isn’t it? Even after reading many commentaries, I don’t think any single one fully agrees on its meaning. So, we’ll do our best this morning!
Layers of Meaning: Like Wallpaper in an Old House
Have you ever moved into a new house and had to decorate a room with ghastly wallpaper? You start to peel it off, only to reveal an even more hideous layer underneath. You keep going, layer after layer, until you finally expose the bare wall. I see today’s passage a little like that – lots of layers.
Micah’s prophecy moves from his present day to a future time. The clear references to Jesus and Bethlehem remind us of the coming great ruler. So, Micah is talking about his contemporary situation, but also a future time as well. It can be a little tricky to know which period he’s referring to at any given moment, but we’ll do our best.
A Quick Refresher: Understanding Micah
For those who might be new to Micah, he was a prophet around the 8th century BC, perhaps 720 BC. He spoke a lot about the Northern Kingdom of Israel and the Assyrian Empire’s threat to them. He was primarily addressing Judah, the Southern Kingdom, but often used the Northern Kingdom as a reference point. Sometimes the Bible refers to ‘Israel’ as the Northern Kingdom, sometimes as the Southern Kingdom (‘Judah’), and sometimes as the collective Israelites, the people of Israel. It can get a bit confusing, which is why some Old Testament passages are hard to follow. Do keep that in mind as you read.

  • Chapter 1: Micah focused on the people’s idolatry and their judgment for it.
  • Chapter 2: He addressed sins against the people, such as mistreating the poor and widows.
  • Chapter 3: This chapter dealt with the sins of the leaders.
  • Chapter 4: Here, the focus shifts to the ‘Mountain of the Lord’ – a hopeful, future time when all people would flow to it, perhaps referring to the coming of Jesus. It also mentions the Assyrian Empire again.
    Micah 5:1 – A Disputed Beginning
    Micah 5:1 often sparks debate about its placement. In the Hebrew Bible, it’s actually at the end of chapter 4. One commentary I read couldn’t understand why anyone would put it at the start of chapter 5. I have a theory why, though I might be completely wrong!
    We’re only looking at six verses this morning, but they are packed with powerful imagery. We must stay rooted in Micah’s immediate context: he’s speaking to people living under the looming shadow of the Assyrian Empire. While some of the prophecy certainly looks ahead, it’s easy to get lost in the imagery and forget the immediate concerns of his audience.
    Jerusalem Under Siege and Humiliation (Micah 5:1)
    Verse 1 says: “Marshal your troops, city of troops!” This refers to Jerusalem, though it’s called the ‘city of troops’ rather than ‘Jerusalem’ or ‘Daughter Zion’. It describes Jerusalem under siege, a dangerous time as the Assyrian Empire gathers.
    Then it says, “They will strike the ruler of Israel on the cheek with a rod.” This is a powerful image of humiliation. While it could be a physical blow, striking someone on the cheek with a rod was primarily about public shame. When Jesus spoke about ‘turning the other cheek’, it wasn’t about inviting further blows, but about refusing to engage in a cycle of humiliation. This is about Jerusalem, the great city of God, facing profound humiliation.
    From Humiliation to Hope: The Rise of Bethlehem (Micah 5:2)
    Then the passage shifts gears dramatically to Bethlehem: “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for Me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”
    This is why I believe verses 1 and 2 belong together. You have the powerful capital city of Jerusalem, under siege and its leader humiliated, facing God’s judgement. Yet, Bethlehem, this tiny village, just a few miles from Jerusalem, the home of David, is contrasted with this mighty city. From this humble place, God calls forth a great ruler.
    Ron Hamilton and the Power of Humble Beginnings
    Have you ever heard of Ron Hamilton? He’s from Rutherglen in Scotland. Ever used daily disposable contact lenses? Well, Ron Hamilton invented them, from that small fishing village. From humble origins, a technology emerged that affects countless lives.
    In a similar way, from Bethlehem, this small town, a great ruler would be called forth by God.
    Bethlehem: The House of Bread
    Do you know what the name Bethlehem means? ‘House of Bread’. ‘Beth’ means house (think of Bethsaida, or Bethany), and ‘lechem’ means bread. So, Bethlehem is the “House of Bread”.
    It’s fascinating how this links to the Christmas story. In Matthew chapter 2, the wise men follow the star, arrive in Jerusalem, and Herod asks the teachers of the law where the Christ is to be born. They quote Micah 5:2, saying, “He will be born in Bethlehem.” And it’s from this ‘House of Bread’ that Jesus, who later declares, “I am the bread of life,” comes forth. There’s a beautiful connection here.
    A Ruler From Ancient Times
    The verse also states that this ruler’s “origins are from of old, from ancient times.” This isn’t just a regular human leader. This suggests a divine, Messianic figure, someone special. As Christians, we immediately think of Jesus. Micah looks ahead to a time when, despite Israel and Judah’s present troubles, God would call forth a ruler from ancient times, one who would be their deliverer.
    Israel Abandoned, Then Reunited (Micah 5:3)
    Verse 3 is interesting: “Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labour gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites.”
    This idea of Israel being abandoned could be their punishment for turning their backs on God. We know the Northern Kingdom was carried away by the Assyrians, and while Judah avoided the Assyrians, they fell to the Babylonians and went into exile. This was God’s judgment.
    We see this throughout Israel’s history: periods of trouble and exile under the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. But the verse sets a time limit: “until the time when she who is in labour gives birth to a son.” This clearly refers back to Bethlehem and the idea of this ruler from ancient times. It’s a picture of Israel giving birth to the Messiah. This could signify an end to their troubles with the coming of the Messiah.
    For us, it’s hard not to connect the ‘woman in labour giving birth to a son’ with Mary giving birth to Jesus.
    The Rest of the Israelites and the Church
    The passage then speaks of “the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites.” Some people link this to the modern nation of Israel being formed in 1948 and 1967, and the gathering of scattered Jewish people. While I understand why some make that connection, I personally don’t think it refers to the current nation of Israel.
    Looking at the news today, it’s clear that the nation of Israel is not living securely. We don’t want to lose sight of God’s covenant with Abraham, promising descendants as numerous as the stars and sand, and a specific land. But I don’t believe this passage should be interpreted as referring to the modern political entity of Israel.
    Instead, I think the idea of Jesus, the Messiah, uniting the rest of the brothers to join the Israelites, could be a reference to the Church. It could be about Gentiles coming to believe in Jesus and being united with God’s people, the Israelites, forming this new entity, the Church, where believers live for God.
    The Shepherd King and His Greatness (Micah 5:4)
    Verse 4 tells us: “He will shepherd His flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord His God. And they will live securely, for then His greatness will reach to the ends of the earth.”
    This idea of a ruler being a shepherd is fascinating. Again, Jesus declared, “I am the good shepherd.” So, this ruler is not only the ‘bread of life’ but also the ‘great shepherd’. He will shepherd His flock in the ‘majesty of the name of the Lord His God’. That word ‘majesty’ resonates when we worship and feel God’s powerful presence.
    His greatness “will reach to the ends of the earth.” This certainly points to Jesus. There are few places in the world today where Jesus’ name isn’t known. The Church began humbly in Jerusalem and spread to Judea, and then to the rest of the world. The Gospel is being preached everywhere, and we look forward to the day when it truly reaches every place, giving everyone the opportunity to know Jesus. This could also refer to a future time when Jesus returns and establishes His kingdom.
    Our Peace and Deliverance (Micah 5:5)
    Verse 5 is powerful: “And He will be our peace.” This immediately reminds us of the Christmas story, linked so well to Bethlehem. The first people to hear about Christ’s birth were the shepherds, and the angels proclaimed, “Peace on earth.” This coming ruler will be our peace.
    However, Micah immediately links this back to the Assyrian invasion. He says that this ruler “will raise up seven shepherds, even eight commanders.” This is a common Hebrew phrase, meaning ‘X and X plus one’, used for emphasis. You see it in Proverbs (“There are six things… yes, seven…”) or Amos (“For three sins… even four…”). It’s a Hebrew way of emphasising a complete and abundant number. So, it’s probably not literally seven or eight people, but a sufficient and abundant number of leaders. Seven often represents completeness in the Bible, and eight could symbolise abundance.
    These shepherds will “rule the land of Assyria with the sword, the land of Nimrod with the bare blade. He will deliver us from the Assyrians when they invade our land and march across our borders.” Nimrod, mentioned here, is a character from Genesis 10, often translated as a ‘great hunter before the Lord’, but actually meaning ‘against the Lord’. He’s an antagonist. This speaks of the enemies of Israel, the Assyrians and their allies. The sword here simply means a sword, not a metaphor for the Word of God, as some suggest.
    This is a message of hope: when the Assyrians come, God will raise up sufficient leadership to deliver His people from this difficult time. The simple words “He will deliver us from the Assyrians” are enough. That’s the hope they could cling to.
    What Does This Mean for Us Today?
    So, what can we take from this rich passage? There’s so much to think about, from contact lenses to the Bread of Life! But what can we do with it in our lives?
    I think the final phrase, “He will deliver us from the Assyrians,” holds the key. It means we can have hope and trust in God that He will make things right. This isn’t a prosperity gospel – I’m not saying God will fix all your problems immediately. We know that’s not true. Israel faced centuries of trouble and difficulty. God never promised a life free of pain.
    But in the midst of troubled times, God’s message was: there is hope. There is someone we can trust. There is a future to look forward to. Micah was speaking to his contemporaries, but also looking ahead to a future time when God would make everything right.
    Perhaps that won’t be on this side of eternity. But we can trust that God is our deliverer. He brings us hope, and if we trust in Him, we know we have a future in heaven, a time where we can rise above all the troubles of this life and know that He will make everything right.
    Whatever you’re in the middle of today – doubt, financial difficulty, health concerns, or simply feeling under siege – passages like this remind us that God has a plan. Even in trouble, we can trust and hope in Him, knowing that one day He will deliver us. Whether that hope is realised in this life or the next, God is a God of eternity. We need to be eternally minded, not solely earthly minded. While I wish I could tell you God will fix all your problems in this life, that’s not what we see. But we know He will fix everything in the next. These passages tell us we can trust in that hope God gives.
    I hope that’s encouraging to you this morning, and that you’ve learned a few things from this passage.
    Shall we pray?
    Father, we thank You for the Book of Micah. Thank You for the prophetic message given to the people of Israel and Judah in those days. We thank You and hope it was an encouragement to them. May we too see Your Word as a great hope for us. We thank You for hope, and that even when the enemy is at our door, when we face troubled times, Lord, we trust in You. Not that You’ll necessarily deliver us from every problem and pain in our life, but that You’ll be right there with us. You have promised never to leave us, never to forsake us. Lord, we know that even if we face troubles in this life, You have a plan, and we trust and hope in You. Help us to learn from Your people, who so often turned their backs on You, and help us not to turn our backs on You, Lord, but to follow You more heartily. May we lean on You and trust You. As we pray today, bless us as we think about Your Word, and what it means. We thank You, Lord Jesus, that You stepped down into this world, into this world of trouble and difficulty. You didn’t demand we lift ourselves up, but You left Your heavenly throne, came to earth as a baby in Bethlehem. We always think that Your Word is true and powerful. We thank You that You came to set us free. We pray we would follow You with our whole hearts. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
    Thank you.

Finding Hope in the Midst of Turmoil: Unlocking Micah 5

As always, it was a pleasure to preach at our church this morning. Today’s passage was particularly challenging, and I must admit I found it quite hard to bring the message together. Here’s the passage, followed by the audio of what I said. Apologies for the audio quality which was not the best.

Micah 5:1-6 (NLT)
1 Mobilize! Marshal your troops!
The enemy is laying siege to Jerusalem.
They will strike Israel’s leader
in the face with a rod.
A Ruler from Bethlehem
2 But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
are only a small village among all the people of Judah.
Yet a ruler of Israel,
whose origins are in the distant past,
will come from you on my behalf.
3 The people of Israel will be abandoned to their enemies
until the woman in labor gives birth.
Then at last his fellow countrymen
will return from exile to their own land.
4 And he will stand to lead his flock with the LORD’s strength,
in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God.
Then his people will live there undisturbed,
for he will be highly honored around the world.
5 And he will be the source of peace.
When the Assyrians invade our land
and break through our defenses,
we will appoint seven rulers to watch over us,
eight princes to lead us.
6 They will rule Assyria with drawn swords
and enter the gates of the land of Nimrod.
He will rescue us from the Assyrians
when they pour over the borders to invade our land.

Traits of a Biblical Man: Decision-making. The Weight of the Crown 

A businessman sitting at a wooden desk with a slingshot and blueprint plans on them. He sat in an office with large windows behind, showing a procession of animals 

In a world often defined by ambiguity and a reluctance to commit, the call for decisive leadership rings louder than ever. For Christian men, this call is not merely a secular ideal but a biblical mandate, woven into the very fabric of God’s design for humanity. From the dawn of creation to the restoration of a city, the Bible provides powerful examples of men who embraced their leadership roles by making pivotal decisions.

Let’s explore three distinct moments of decision-making from biblical narratives: Adam in Eden, David facing Goliath, and Nehemiah approaching the king. Through their choices, we uncover timeless principles for modern biblical leadership.

Adam: The Steward’s First Decree (Genesis 2:19-20)

Our journey begins in the pristine Garden of Eden, where God entrusts Adam with dominion over creation. Before the fall, in a moment of pure stewardship, God brings all the animals to Adam “to see what he would name them.” This seemingly simple act is profound. It wasn’t God who named the animals; it was Adam’s responsibility and privilege.

The Decision: Adam decided on the names for every living creature. This was not a passive observation but an active engagement with his delegated authority. Each name he uttered was a declaration of his understanding and relationship with creation, a tangible exercise of his leadership over the animal kingdom.

Role in Leadership/Decision-Making: Adam’s decision-making here highlights the essence of responsible stewardship. As the first man, he was given dominion and immediately put that authority into practice. His decision to name the animals demonstrates active participation in God’s creative order, an immediate embrace of his assigned role. For us, this speaks to the importance of taking ownership and making informed decisions in our spheres of influence, whether that’s our home, our workplace, or our community.

David: The Courage to Stand (1 Samuel 17:32-37)

Thousands of years later, on a battlefield in the Valley of Elah, fear gripped the armies of Israel. The giant Philistine, Goliath, hurled insults and challenges, yet no Israelite warrior dared to face him. It was a moment of national paralysis, until a young shepherd boy arrived with provisions.

The Decision: When David heard Goliath’s blasphemies and witnessed the fear of his countrymen, he was moved with righteous indignation. His explicit decision was to step forward and offer to fight Goliath himself. Addressing King Saul, David declared, “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.” He didn’t just feel an urge; he articulated a clear, courageous choice to confront the seemingly insurmountable foe, grounded in his past experiences with God’s deliverance from lions and bears.

Role in Leadership/Decision-Making: David’s decision exemplifies courageous conviction. In a situation where experienced warriors were paralyzed by fear, a young man, relying on God’s power, chose to act. His leadership was not about physical stature or military rank, but about a deep-seated faith that empowered him to make a radical decision. This teaches us that true leadership often involves making unpopular or risky decisions when the status quo is failing. It demands faith to step into uncomfortable situations, trusting that God will empower us to overcome challenges that seem overwhelming.

Nehemiah: The Bold Request (Nehemiah 2:1-8)

Centuries after the initial glory of Israel, Jerusalem lay in ruins, its walls broken down, its people in disgrace. Nehemiah, a Jewish exile serving as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes in Persia, was burdened by this news. After a period of prayer and fasting, he seized a divinely appointed moment.

The Decision: When King Artaxerxes noticed Nehemiah’s sadness and asked him why, Nehemiah made the crucial decision to reveal his distress and articulate his bold request to be sent to Jerusalem to rebuild the city walls. This was a high-stakes moment; approaching a powerful king with such a personal petition carried significant risk. Nehemiah prayed briefly, then explicitly stated his desire: “If it pleases the king… send me to Judah, to the city where my ancestors are buried, so that I can rebuild it.” He didn’t just express sorrow; he presented a solution and requested the authority and resources to execute it.

Role in Leadership/Decision-Making: Nehemiah’s decision highlights strategic boldness and proactive problem-solving. He didn’t wait for someone else to take action. He leveraged his position, prepared his request, and chose the opportune moment to present it. His decision was not impulsive but born from prayer, planning, and a deep sense of purpose. This shows us that biblical decision-making often involves discerning the right timing, articulating a clear vision, and humbly yet confidently presenting a solution to those in authority, all while relying on God’s favor.

Becoming Biblical Decision-Makers in Modern Life

These biblical narratives offer more than just historical accounts; they are blueprints for godly leadership in our own lives. As Christian men, how can we emulate Adam, David, and Nehemiah in our daily decision-making?

  1. Embrace Stewardship and Initiative: Like Adam, recognize the spheres of influence God has entrusted to you – your family, your work, your church. Don’t wait for others to define your role. Proactively take ownership, make informed decisions within your delegated authority, and seek to bring order and purpose to your environment.
  2. Cultivate Courageous Conviction: Like David, be prepared to stand firm in your convictions, especially when fear or popular opinion dictates otherwise. This means discerning God’s will and acting on it, even when it feels risky or unpopular. It requires faith to confront challenges that seem insurmountable, trusting in God’s power to work through you.
  3. Develop Strategic Boldness: Like Nehemiah, approach challenges with prayerful preparation and strategic thinking. Don’t shy away from making bold requests or taking on daunting tasks if you believe it aligns with God’s purpose. Learn to discern opportune moments, articulate your vision clearly, and humbly yet confidently seek the resources and support needed to bring about positive change.

The weight of the crown, the responsibility of leadership, is not meant to crush us, but to empower us to reflect God’s own order and purpose in the world. By consciously choosing to be decisive, faithful, and proactive in our decision-making, we can honor God and lead effectively, becoming the biblical men our families, churches, and communities desperately need.

Transcription of Beyond Doubt: John 20: 19-31 

For those who prefer to read rather than listen, please see below an edited transcript of my sermon which I shared with you yesterday. 

Peace, Power, and Purpose: Meeting the Risen Lord

Good morning. It’s wonderful to share some thoughts with you today. I was due to speak a little while ago but was unwell, so I’m really pleased to be here now.

Thinking back, I believe I spoke around Easter last year too.
Last year, we looked at the resurrection story through the book of Luke, focusing on the road to Emmaus. This year, we’ve been considering it through John’s Gospel, and today’s passage (John 20:19-31) actually overlaps a little with the end of that Emmaus story, describing events later on that same Resurrection Sunday evening. The disciples from Emmaus may well have been in the very room we read about today. What we know for sure is that Thomas wasn’t with them. We’ll explore more about Thomas, also known as Didymus (the twin), in a few minutes.

There’s a lot in this passage, perhaps more than we can fully unpack in one go, but I hope we can learn a great deal from this powerful story.

In the Locked Room

The passage begins on the evening of that first Easter Sunday. The disciples were gathered together, having been through the tumultuous events of Holy Week. They had witnessed Jesus’ actions in the temple, seen him wash their feet, and then watched him be arrested, illegally tried, crucified, and die.

That very day, they’d also heard the astonishing reports from the women at the tomb – that Jesus’ body was gone. John tells us he and Peter had run to the tomb themselves and confirmed it was empty. Some had even reported seeing the Lord.

Now, huddled together in a locked room, they were terrified. They were afraid of the Jewish leaders who had been willing to kill their leader and wouldn’t hesitate to kill them too. So they were locked away, probably praying, certainly fearful.

Suddenly, Jesus appears among them. He comes and stands right there. There’s some discussion about whether this was a truly supernatural appearance, like a sudden ‘poof’, or if perhaps Jesus simply used a key to enter the locked room. The text itself simply says he “appeared among them”.
However, regardless of how he entered, the event itself is undeniably supernatural. Just a day or two before, this man was dead, crucified. They had seen him die. And now he stands before them, alive. If that isn’t supernatural, I’m not sure what is.

He shows them his hands and his side, displaying the wounds. There is no mistake; this is Jesus, resurrected from the dead.


Peace Be With You


Three times in this passage, Jesus says to the disciples, “Peace be with you.” Considering their backdrop of being locked away and terrified, Jesus appearing and offering this peace is incredibly comforting and reassuring.

They had been unsure about who he was, much like the disciples on the road to Emmaus initially didn’t fully recognise him. By showing them the wounds, Jesus demonstrated his identity. Just as perhaps the Emmaus disciples recognised him as he broke bread (maybe seeing his hands then), Jesus confirms he is the one who was crucified. This is no hoax, no trick.

The Three Things Jesus Said

In that room that night, Jesus says or does three significant things. Let’s look at each one:

“As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” These words echo the sentiment of the Great Commission, although that event occurred later on a mountain in Galilee (Matthew 28). Here, Jesus is already giving his disciples their mission. He is sending them out into the world. This wasn’t just for the original twelve (or eleven, as it was then); it is for us too. We are not called just to gather inside the church walls, as wonderful as that is, but also to go out and tell everyone about Jesus. As one church worker I heard put it, Jesus didn’t say “Get your programme together and invite them in.” He said, “Go.” We are to go and meet people where they are, in our communities, and tell them about Jesus.

He breathes on them and says, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” This might seem strange to us today, but it’s deeply symbolic. It reminds us of Genesis, where God formed Adam from dust and breathed the breath of life into him. The Old Testament word ‘Ruach’ can mean wind, breath, or spirit. Here, Jesus is breathing life and the Spirit into them. This wasn’t the full outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost (which we will celebrate in a few weeks), but rather a promise, a ‘down payment’ if you like, of the Spirit that would empower them fully after Jesus’ ascension. Jesus gives them the Spirit because this great mission he’s sending them on is not something they can do in their own strength or wisdom. It’s not about how clever or good we are at talking; it’s about the power and presence of the Spirit working through us and in the hearts of those who hear.

He says, “If you forgive anyone’s sins, their sins are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.” This is perhaps the most challenging verse in the passage, and there isn’t necessarily one single, easy interpretation.

Some have suggested this refers to church discipline, where the church has the authority to ‘forgive’ or ‘withhold forgiveness’ in a disciplinary sense. However, the context here isn’t really about church discipline.

Others see it as a specific, apostolic gift given only to this particular group of disciples, not extending to others or future believers. But I struggle with this too.

Consider the story of the paralysed man brought to Jesus (Mark 2:1-12). When they lowered him through the roof, Jesus didn’t immediately heal him; he said, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” The religious leaders were outraged, rightly observing, “Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Jesus then proved his authority to forgive sins by healing the man, demonstrating the invisible (forgiveness) through the visible (healing). They were correct: ultimate forgiveness of sins against God is God’s prerogative alone. While we forgive one another personally, we don’t have the authority to grant divine forgiveness on God’s behalf.

Also, think about Thomas not being present that night. If this was a special apostolic gift to forgive sins, it would be unfortunate for him to have missed out!
I believe the most consistent interpretation is that this verse refers to the declaration of forgiveness. As the disciples (and we) go out and preach the Good News, when people respond to Christ, believe in him, and follow him, we can confidently declare that their sins have been forgiven by God. Conversely, when people reject Christ, we can declare that they remain unforgiven, because forgiveness is found only in Jesus. It’s a power to announce the reality of a person’s standing before God based on their response to the gospel, rather than the ability to dispense or withhold forgiveness ourselves.

Doubting Thomas

The passage moves on to Thomas. John specifically notes that Thomas, also known as Didymus, was not with them when Jesus first appeared. We don’t know why – maybe he was running an errand! When the others excitedly told him, “We have seen the Lord!”, Thomas’s response was firm: “Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.”


Because of this, he is often labelled “Doubting Thomas.” But perhaps that’s a little unfair. This is the same Thomas who, earlier in John’s Gospel (John 11), when Jesus decided to go to Jerusalem knowing it meant his death, bravely said to the other disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” Those are not the words of someone uncommitted!


Thomas didn’t want to rely on second-hand accounts. He needed to see, touch, feel, and know for himself that this extraordinary, unbelievable claim – that Jesus was alive after crucifixion – was true. He needed tangible proof. His demand highlights the reality of Jesus’ crucifixion and wounding. (Incidentally, this verse also definitively counters recent claims by some scholars that Jesus wasn’t nailed to the cross; Thomas’s demand for the “nail marks” and Old Testament prophecy about him being “pierced” are clear biblical evidence).


My Lord and My God


Eight days later (a week later, if you count inclusively), the disciples were together again, and this time Thomas was with them. Once more, Jesus appears among them, presumably in a similar manner. Again, he says, “Peace be with you.”


Then, he turns directly to Thomas. “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”


The text doesn’t explicitly say whether Thomas actually touched him. What it does say is his immediate response: “My Lord and my God!”


What an incredible confession! It’s a step beyond Peter’s earlier confession of Jesus as the Christ, the Messiah. Here, Thomas recognises, after everything they had witnessed, that Jesus is indeed God in human form.


Jesus’ resurrected body, perhaps, had supernatural capabilities – appearing in a locked room, for instance. But importantly, it also carried the wounds inflicted on his earthly body. Those scars remained. One day, we too will have new, perfect bodies in heaven, free from pain and decay. But there will be one person in heaven who carries scars – Jesus. Those wounds will serve as an eternal reminder of the immense sacrifice he made for us. They are badges of honour that we will worship for all eternity.


“My Lord and my God,” Thomas declared.


Why John Wrote


John concludes this passage by stating, “Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name.” (John 20:30-31)


John is crystal clear about his purpose. He didn’t record every single thing Jesus did, but he carefully selected specific events and teachings for two reasons:

So that you might know that Jesus is the Messiah, the long-awaited one prophesied in the Old Testament.

So that by believing in him, by putting your trust in this Messiah, you might have eternal life.
This directly ties back to the commission Jesus gave his disciples: “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” John wrote his Gospel so that people might know who Jesus is and believe. Likewise, the disciples were sent out to tell the world who Jesus is so that others might believe and have eternal life.


In the same way, you and I today have that same mission. We are sent out to tell everyone about Jesus, so they too might believe he is the Messiah and have eternal life. So they too might join Thomas in saying, “My Lord and my God.”
Can We Say It?


“My Lord and my God.” These are not words to be said lightly. Where is Jesus in the tapestry of your life – your work, your home, your family, your leisure? Is he just somewhere in the picture, or is he at the very top? Is he your primary focus, your absolute priority in all things? Is he both your Lord and your God?


If he is truly both of those things, then nothing else can be more important. This doesn’t mean the other things in life are unimportant – our work, family, and how we spend our time all matter. But Jesus must be our ultimate priority.


The challenge for each of us today is: Can we honestly and truthfully say, alongside Thomas, “My Lord and my God”?


We don’t have the benefit of seeing Jesus physically with our own eyes today. Thomas saw Jesus and believed. But Jesus said to him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”


That’s us. We haven’t seen Jesus physically, not like Thomas did. Yet, we believe. And Jesus calls us blessed because of that belief.


That seems a wonderful place to end. We are blessed because we know Jesus, and we believe in him even without seeing him. As we go out from here, let us carry the message of Jesus, encouraging others to say, “My Lord and my God,” and ensuring that we can honestly and truthfully say it ourselves, meaning it with our lives.


Amen.


Let’s pray.
Heavenly Father, we thank you for your word and its truth. Lord Jesus, we know Thomas came to you with doubts, and you graciously encouraged him. Lord, if we have doubts today, we pray that you would also encourage us. We thank you that you bless us even though we haven’t seen you physically; we know you are real. We pray, Lord, that we will keep you in your rightful place in our lives, first and foremost above everything else. We pray today that we can say, “My Lord and my God,” and truly mean those words, living out that commitment authentically. We pray that we would receive your Holy Spirit, empowering us to go out and take the good news of the gospel into our communities, our homes, our streets, our workplaces – into the lives of everyone we encounter. Help us to tell them not only that Jesus is the Messiah, but that by believing in and trusting him, they might inherit eternal life. Help us to go and make disciples. Help us to tell people how wonderful you are. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Beyond Doubt: John 20: 19–31

As ever, it was a tremendous privilege to speak at this morning’s church service. Continuing our Easter services, we were looking at the gospel of John and share below my sermon which I hope you enjoy.

A cartoon image of doubting Thomas standing in the middle of a room looking sceptical