Bible Study Verse
Luke 23:35
The people stood watching, and the rulers even sneered at Him. They said, "He saved others; let Him save Himself if He is God's Messiah, the Chosen One." (NIV)
Thoughts
Ever had to sit and listen to someone talk incessantly about how good a shot they are? Didn't you just want to look at him and say, "Hey, hot shot, let's put a couple of bucks on this and I'll meet you out at the range, then you can prove just how good you are!" What's really a bad thing for you is when he does it!
Well, the rulers in this passage were demanding that Jesus save Himself and prove that He was the Messiah. They felt pretty good about their position; after all, it was Jesus up there on the cross, not them. They really thought that they had Him, and that they had put an end to His nonsense about being the Son of God.
But, a strange thing happened three days later--Jesus did exactly what they asked Him to do. Through God's power, He was saved from death, thus proving that He was, indeed, the Chosen One, the prophesied Messiah. He just didn't do it the way they were demanding; but did it His Father's way.
(Cliff S)
Action Point
As sinners, it seems that the most common thing we humans do is demand that God save us. But we want to tell Him how, we want to set the terms, we want Him to do it our way!
That's not the game plan. It's God's way, and He sent His Son, Jesus, to instruct us as to what that way is. In John 14:6, we find these words, "Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me," (NIV).
If you want to have God's forgiveness and blessing in your life, Jesus said you've got to do it His way, through child-like belief and faith in Him. When you get right down to it, it's the only way!!!
Sportsmen's Tip of the Day
Friendly competition at the range is always fun. Get out and do some practicing on your own and surprise your buddies. It'll make you a better shot when that buck of your dreams steps out in front of you next season.
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