Topic: Matthew 19:16 [John Hagee Devotional 20 May 2019]
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Now behold, one came and said to Him, ‘Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?’
In every congregation or conversation with Jesus recorded in the Bible, three types of individuals emerge. The first are the curious. They were simply inquiring minds who wanted to know!
They showed up in the crowds to check out all the fuss. They wanted to hear what Jesus had to say and to see why the priests were so confounded. They wanted to witness a lame man jump to his feet and go running through the temple. They had lots of questions.
What was so special about a carpenter from Nazareth? Wasn’t he the son of Joseph and Mary? Why was this guy from Galilee stirring up trouble for them? Why did fishermen follow him and Pharisees despise him? Why did tax collectors and prostitutes make dinner reservations with him? By what power did he work these astounding miracles? How did he speak with such intelligence regarding Scriptural mysteries that even the religious leaders couldn’t understand?
A rich, young ruler came running to ask Jesus a question: “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” Jesus repeated a few of the commandments to this inquisitive young man. He assured Jesus that he had kept all the commandments since he was a young child. He demanded to know what else he lacked. When Jesus told him that he should sell all he had, give the proceeds to the poor, and come to follow Him, the ruler went away sad because he had much wealth. He was curious, but he wasn’t willing to commit.
In our everyday encounters, many are still curious about Christ. They may have attended church and experienced His presence. They may have felt that inexplicable tugging in their hearts. They may have witnessed a family member who encountered Jesus and had a radical change when He made them a new creature. Could He do that for them?
If people are curious about Christ, they are headed in the right direction. When that curiosity leads to conviction and is followed by commitment, they will experience the satisfaction and joy of fully knowing Jesus Christ.
Blessing:
Heavenly Father, give me opportunities to share the life-changing good news of the gospel. May this Light and Love in me draw others to You. Help me always be ready to give a reason for the hope that You have set in my heart. In Jesus’ name…amen.
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