Experiencing God - Day 04
Day 04 - Thursday, February 08
Read John 15:18-27
Highlight
John is using the Greek word “kosmos” in this passage. It translates to “world” but means “the human system that opposes God’s purpose.” The authors of the Synoptic Gospels only use this word kosmos fifteen times between all three gospels. Yet, John uses it almost eighty times in his gospel. Why? Because he wants to make the contrasting point between Jesus and the world - those who oppose Jesus.
Jesus’ command is to love one another. That is how others will know you follow Jesus, because you are acting upon Jesus’ love. Yet, the world is known for its hatred. It opposed Jesus first, and it will oppose His followers. “Keep in mind that it hated me first,” says Jesus (v.18). Take comfort that Jesus has experienced the same things you experience. And He can provide encouragement through the Spirit of Truth (v.26).
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
Read John 15:18-27
Highlight
John is using the Greek word “kosmos” in this passage. It translates to “world” but means “the human system that opposes God’s purpose.” The authors of the Synoptic Gospels only use this word kosmos fifteen times between all three gospels. Yet, John uses it almost eighty times in his gospel. Why? Because he wants to make the contrasting point between Jesus and the world - those who oppose Jesus.
Jesus’ command is to love one another. That is how others will know you follow Jesus, because you are acting upon Jesus’ love. Yet, the world is known for its hatred. It opposed Jesus first, and it will oppose His followers. “Keep in mind that it hated me first,” says Jesus (v.18). Take comfort that Jesus has experienced the same things you experience. And He can provide encouragement through the Spirit of Truth (v.26).
Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method. It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading. It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal. But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.
S.O.A.P. Method
Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?
Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying? About God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?
Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? A promise to receive? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth?
Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. This is a way to turn God’s Word to you back to Him. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers. (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8)
Posted in Experiencing God