A Sentimental Journey

A Sentimental Journey[1]

INTRODUCTION:

1.     Regarding one of the special aspects of the relationship between Christians and our Lord Jesus Christ, the Bible teaches  --

(1)         "For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15, NKJV)

(2)         "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps:" (1 Peter 2:21, NKJV)

(3)         Jesus “became flesh” and dwelt among us (Jn. 1:14).  Cf. Phil. 2:6-8.

2.     Jesus Christ is our dearest of friends!  We know that… right?  (Cf. Prov. 18:24; Jn. 15:13; Rom. 5:6-8).

(1)         He gave Himself for my sins… your sins…

(2)         He came to this earth, serving God, speaking to man on God’s behalf.

(3)         He now reigns in heaven… As God… serving man… speaking to God for man (Heb. 7:25).

3.     Yet, I wonder if any one of us, has a true understanding and appreciation of our Lord’s sentimental nature… the true sentiment He feels towards me…

(1)         Sentiment – expressive of tender emotions towards another.

(2)         We might even label expressions of “sentiment” as being overly demonstrative; gushy, or even corny.

(3)          Jesus, was and is sentimental when it comes to me… you… all men.

4.     Read:  John 13:21-14:6.

DISCUSSION:

I.         Jesus Sentimental Feelings Toward Man Are Seen During Jesus Times of Trouble.

·    This was a time of betrayal, denial, and death for our Lord.

·    Jn. 13:21 – He was troubled in spirit.  (NET = greatly distressed; Good News = “deeply troubled and declared openly).

·    As I seek to have “the mind of Christ,” and see that even His mind at times was deeply distressed, I take great interest is such a text as this.  Perhaps, I should do as He did… Perhaps I can do as He did…

·     

1.      Jesus, surrounded Himself with friends (cf. Jn. 13:1).

(1)           When Jesus was troubled most, He gathered together those He loved the most.

(2)           When affairs of live agitate us, distress us, deeply trouble us… we have friends.

(3)           Not only do Christians have earthly friends, we have friends in the family of God.

2.      Jesus, when deeply troubled, thought about heaven.

(1)           Jesus knew that he was returning to God (Jn. 13:3).

(2)           If you are right with God, what is there that could not be made better in your existence by returning to God?  (cf. Eccl. 12:7).

(3)           Jesus found comfort in knowing where He was going.

(4)           Sing to me of heaven, sing that song of peace, from the toils that bind me, it will bring release…

3.      Jesus, when troubled – renewed focus on His purpose (Jn. 13:4-20).

(1)           Mt. 20:28 – “For the son of man did not come to be served…”

(2)           Jesus came as a servant, lived as a servant, and died as a servant.

(3)           When troubled, he focused on his purpose.  I am no different.

A.          My purpose is not to live forever.  It is to die in Christ.

B.          My purpose is not to live for myself.  It is to live for Christ.

4.      Jesus spoke about love (Jn. 13:34-35).

5.      Jesus prayed (cf. Jn. 17).  Amidst a plot of assassination & betrayal.

(1)           That God would glorify Him (Jn. 17:1-5).

(2)           That God would sanctify the apostles (Jn. 17:6-19).

(3)           That God would unify all believers (Jn. 17:20-23).

II.      Jesus Sentimental Feelings For Man Are Seen As He Helps The Apostles Deal With Their Troubles Also.  (Jn. 14:1; 27).

1.      Jesus was a friend upon whom others could rely.

(1)           Let not your hearts be troubled.

2.      Jesus talked to them about heaven (Jn. 14:2-11).

(1)           Jesus spoke of many mansions – dwelling places – place of rest.

(2)           BUT please notice where they are.  The abiding / resting places = In God’s house!

A.          Home of God    --    Kingdom of God    --    City of God.

B.          Inheritance  --  Reward  --  Living

3.      Jesus maintained a strong sense of purpose (John 14:12-14).

(1)           There were works to continue.

(2)           A primary work / purpose = convict the world of sin through the testimony of the Holy Spirit.

(3)           Note:  Jn. 16:7-11;  16:13-15).

(4)           Amidst our toil / trouble, may God have mercy on our soul if we lose sight of our purpose… tell others about Christ, and do so to make a difference.

(5)           Amidst our uncertainties, some things are certain.

4.      Jesus talked to them about love.

(1)           35 times Jesus talked to them about agape love.

(2)           His love for the apostles;  apostles love for Him;  His love for God;  God’s love for Him;  Apostle’s love for God….  Apostle’s love for each other…

5.      Jesus reminded them repeatedly of the need for prayer.  (14:13-18; 15:7; 16:23-26).

(1)           Jesus told of the Holy Spirit’s intercession.

(2)           Jesus told of the power of the apostles personal prayers/petititons.

(3)           Jesus was oft in prayer.   Jesus was oft comforted by God His Father.  Jesus encouraged the apostles to experience the same.

CONCLUSION:

1.    Jesus is sentimental towards His children.

2.    Jesus was troubled deeply at times in His life and He knows that we are as well.  He overcame his troubles, and yearns for us to do so as well.

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[1] Sermon outline by Dan Winkler, presented at FHU Lectures 2008.  Adaptations and additions by Toby L. Soechting for preaching Howe, TX on February 10, 2008.