Rev. Ho-Ming Tsui
Scripture: John 1:19-34
Christianity is more than understanding historical truth. It is applying what is true to our lives.
Information → Application → Transformation
“Jesus wants to come and be born in us to live in us every day. How can we be more aware of God present in our lives and allow Him to be more active in us? How can we receive His love and mercy as our tender Father? How can we talk to Jesus as a friend? How can we call upon the Holy Spirit to help us powerfully in our lives? How can we open our hearts to let God in?”
—Julian Paparella
For Jesus to be born in us…
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1. Lose your saviour complex (v.20-28)
• If you want to know what you’re banking on for self-salvation
• What do I dream about having?
• What do I have nightmares about losing?
• What captures my imagination?
• What do I constantly and consistently think about?
The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned….For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace… —Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
• Salvation comes outside in. It is given to us.
The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. —John 1:9-10
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2. Look to the Lamb (v.29-31)
The Bible is really the story of the lamb.
If he brings a lamb as his offering for a sin offering, he shall bring a female without blemish and lay his hand on the head of the sin offering and kill it for a sin offering in the place where they kill the burnt offering…. And the priest shall make atonement for him for the sin which he has committed, and he shall be forgiven
—Lev. 4:32-35
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3. Live out a baptized life (v.32-34)
Living an “improved life” that we can achieve on our own vs. receiving a “new life” that Jesus can give us.
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Conclusion (v.35-39): Will you accept his invitation?
