John 7:14-15 But when it was now the midst of the feast, Jesus went up into the temple, and began to teach. The Jews then were astonished, saying, “How has this man become learned, having never been educated?”
The Jews recognized that Jesus was well-educated, knowledgeable about the Law and the things of God. His learning began early. Do you remember what He told His mother at the age of 12? In Luke 2:29, Jesus told them He had to be about His Father’s things; His Father’s business is how some versions read. He was taught by His Father. We’ll talk more about that tomorrow.
Today, let me ask you a question. Would others ask the same question about you? Do they see in you a life of study in the word of God? Do they recognize that you are learned in the things of God? I’m not saying we need to be seminary trained to be effective in ministry. It may help, but very little that I teach came from what I learned at seminary. The courses stimulated me academically, but nothing can substitute for studying God’s word habitually, daily, for decades.
When explaining who comes to Him and believes, Jesus said that they are those who have been taught of God and learn from the Father (6:45). I want to encourage you to set your heart on learning everything you can about glorifying God and expressing His love. Determine to become an expert on how the Spirit of God works and on loving with Jesus. Ask our Father to teach you and give you understanding for His glory.
I land the plane on this subject with a quick note. Jesus didn’t learn so that others would notice how educated He was. He didn’t seek the glory of man. Nor should we. His love for His Father was the source of His learning. He sought the glory of God. May that be our aim today as we live to love with Jesus. Father, glorify Your name in us as You give us circumstances and relationships.
I invite you to become a partner in our ministry. Would you pray about becoming a regular supporter of Elijah Ministries and the Live to Love with Jesus ministry? I hope you will receive the joy and benefit of "giving it forward," so others may receive encouragement to turn their hearts to God and to live to love with Jesus. You may give online or send a check to the address listed at www.spiritofelijah.com/donate.
