Daily Devotions
Today’s Reading: John 11:45-57 & Psalm 118
[Caiaphas said,] “You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than that the whole nation perish.” John 11:50
After Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, a great stir erupted among the religious leaders. They convened a special meeting, because they feared Jesus would destroy established Temple worship. In a surprising turn, Caiaphas rushed to Jesus’ defense with a statement of divine truth, though spoken by an unbeliever.
Fears and confusion continue to resound today in a variety of ways. Rather than become confused, let’s define His church.
First—Christ’s church has His message. After Peter confessed, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,” Jesus declared, “On this rock I will build My church” (Matthew 16:16, 18). Peter’s clear confession of faith and belief is the message—the rock—upon which His church is built. If the message of the church, or of a specific parish, is not “Jesus is The Christ,” it cannot claim to be His church or any part of it.
Second—Christ is Master of His church and all who are in His church. Amidst demanded rights and claimed equality, it should come as no real surprise that having a Master is not all that popular. Some “Christians” even presume to decide for themselves which of the Master’s Words apply and which do not. In His church, His Word—no more, no less—is the final authority.
Third—His church is on His mission. Bring them together and make them one … the mission of the church is missions! He continues to build His church … and we are part of His building program.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, who desires that all be brought together as one in Christ, continue to send into our midst faithful pastors and teachers so Your church on earth may be a true reflection of Your love for all; though Christ, our Lord and Master, we pray. Amen.
Response
How are you helping Him build His church?