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WATCHMAN CATHOLIC CHARISMATIC RENEWAL MOVEMENT FIRST FRUIT FASTING FELLOWSHIP JULY 2024 EDITION Day 2
Theme: The Great Friend from Heaven
Topic: JESUS, THE ONE THAT SPREAD HIS HANDS AT DEATH ON THE CROSS
Texts: Jn.1:9-11, 5:1-7; Matt.8:23-27; 27:33-54
INTRODUCTION:
Yesterday, we saw the things that the Lord Jesus did for mankind that revealed Him as a Friend indeed. After which, we called on all to take advantage of these expressions of unique friendship to draw His blessings (Mt.11:28)
Now, be informed that this period is a period of great emancipation and restoration. It is a period the Lord has set aside to open the eyes of whosoever cares, as to who Jesus really is, as Jesus Himself promised (Jn.15:26; 14:26). It is a period of revelation knowledge that leads to freedom unparalleled. It is therefore a necessity for all.
- THE NECESSITY OF REVELATION KNOWLEDGE NOW
Many are confused through lots of ideologies disseminated by the devils (cp. 1Tim.4:1; 1Jn.4:1). They do not know where the truth is or where to belong because all these ideologies claim to be truth. Many have already fallen prey to the subtle scheme of the devils and have swallowed the errors, hook, line and sinker, damning their souls therewith.
There are those in Christendom to whom the Person and ministry of Jesus do not mean much, hence they cannot develop faith in Him, so as to be forgiven their sins, regenerated, healed, delivered and satisfied. In the mind of some, religious rituals and sacramentals have replaced the Personality and ministry of Jesus, thereby hindering the necessary Christian experiences of salvation, sanctification, baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Besides, there are those in God’s house (i.e. where the truth of God’s word
and His Spirit are), who have (as it were) reached some limit in their knowledge of Jesus and cannot advance further. Now, they are rather depreciating by the day. There are also Christian workers and minsters who, though they are alive, yet need to know Him further, so as to develop the capacity to remove the mountains on their ways and on the ways of others, as well as apprehend those things for which they were apprehended by Jesus (cons. Phil.3:10-12).
Now, let us proceed to take a look on Jesus that great Friend from heaven.
- JESUS, THE ONE THAT SPREAD HIS HANDS AT DEATH ON THE CROSS (Matt.27:33-35)
The posture of Jesus at death on the cross of Calvary must be seen in the right perspective. It was not a mere traditional arrangement during executions. Rather, it was with great significance. It signified
accommodation for all (including His executioners) and invitation to mercy and freedom through faith in Him.
While yet alive, He had thrown this invitation (Matt.11:28; Jn.7:37; cp.Rev.22:17), and acted this accommodation (Lk.7:38 -48; 19:1-7; 5:27-32; 9:49-50; 9:51-56; Mk.9:14-19; Matt.26:36-46; Acts 9: ). Though one may argue that the malefactors who were crucified alongside him were placed in the same posture, yet the difference is obvious – they were being executed for their offences, but He, for no offence (Lk.23:39-43; 1Pet.3:18). Besides, He manifested this universal accommodation and invitation right there while in agony (Lk.23:33-34).
Surely, His executioners did not realized the significance of the spread -out hands of Jesus though they put them that way, just as Caiphas did not realize that he was prophesying, though he was actually prophesying (Jn.11:49-52).
THE IMPLICATION:
He is still inviting and accommodating all to freedom and mercy not minding how sinful we may be now. So, sinners, scorners, offenders and backsliders of every nature and magnitude should not miss this opportunity of having their sins forgiven – obtaining mercy and freedom. All others who have one need or the other of freedom and mercy should rush to Him now as He has already spread-out His hands of invitation and accommodation to all.
Let’s rise up for prayers.
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