Conversations With Jesus Now when they saw

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Conversations With Jesus

“Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they were astonished. And they recognized that they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4: 13)

Questions And Answers With Sadducees And Scribes • Confrontational Questions and Answers With The Pharisees & Sadducees: – Better understanding who He was talking with: • Pharisees – Jewish Puritans turned religious formalists. Added expectations to God’s word… despised Roman empire. Wealthy group. Saw as being very religious. • Sadducees – Wealthy and powerful. Controlled Sanhedrin and high priesthood. Cooperated with Roman government. Proud and pushy people often despised by common Jew. Did not believe in angels, resurrection, or afterlife • Jesus’ strongest opponents. Followed Jesus but not to listen… to judge, accuse, condemn • They weren’t concerned with finding out what was right and true… Minds already made up to reject Jesus as Christ.

Questions And Answers With Sadducees And Scribes • Confrontational Questions and Answers With The Pharisees & Sadducees: – Question One: Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar or not? (Matthew 22: 15 -22) • Not one ounce of sincerity behind their question – They speak words of insight and truth, but it was to flatter Jesus • They think they have Jesus in an impossible situation… Someone would leave that day offended… Who Jesus? • Jesus responds with an honest and clear answer. They had duties to fulfill to God and the king. Unmistakable truth! • Pharisees & Herodians were likely both angry. Not because Jesus spoke the truth offensively, but because of their attitude toward the truth.

Questions And Answers With Sadducees And Scribes • Confrontational Questions and Answers With The Pharisees & Sadducees: – Question Two: Woman has married seven times, whose will she be in the resurrection? (Matt 22: 23 -33) • More insincerity – Why ask about this hypothetical situation when they adamantly reject the resurrection & afterlife? • An unfair question cause its very unrealistic – The exception. • They were doctrinally wrong. Jesus doesn’t “package” His answer so “sweetly” that they miss the point. Jesus is not worried about political correctness but is straightforward. • He knew His words would upset them, but they needed the honest truth… Ignorance of scriptures & God’s power! • Jesus just gave them one scripture… He didn’t overwhelm them with all He knew about the resurrection and did not engage in unnecessary scripture bantering. He kept it simple.

Questions And Answers With Sadducees And Scribes • Confrontational Questions and Answers With The Pharisees & Sadducees: – Question Three: Which is the great commandment in the law? (Matthew 2: 34 -40) • Notice the Pharisees’ behavior: They “gather together” – They are ganging up on Jesus and think they’ve got the perfect question… kind of question only a lawyer would think of! • Why this question? They put much weight on external things, so which one mattered most? They overlooked love which could not be calculated or measured. • Jesus is ready for the trap. He would’ve been right to rebuke them, but opts for patience. They have opened a door of opportunity for some much needing teaching. • Jesus goes further – The second law. With the door opened, He teaches them about their mindset toward others.

Questions And Answers With Sadducees And Scribes • Confrontational Questions and Answers With The Pharisees & Sadducees: – Jesus ends with a question of His own. A question none of them wanted to face (Matthew 22: 41 -46) • They had to face the truth that the Messiah was greater than David… implying the Messiah was to be God’s Son. • They answered the question, even though they didn’t verbalize it that day. They saw the truth more clearly and had a clearer picture of themselves as well.

Questions And Answers With Sadducees And Scribes • Jesus has left us a valuable example for how to deal with confrontational questions: – Who would the Scribes and Pharisees of this conversation be in our lives today? • People who ask questions, but not because they seek the truth …sometimes to its discount you or what you’re saying • Often it doesn’t matter what scriptures you give… minds are made up. Impossible or hypothetical situations are raised to justify themselves or divert attention from being wrong • This may also be people who are sincere, but wrong. Discussions turn into argument and scripture swapping.

Questions And Answers With Sadducees And Scribes • Jesus has left us a valuable example for how to deal with confrontational questions: – There is a place for strong words, but at all times we must strive for patience (2 Tim 2: 23 -26) – Listen to people’s words to identify with them, doors of opportunity, & greater needs (Proverbs 18: 13) – Our answers must be with words of honesty, sincerity, clarity, straightforwardness. Be Authentic! (Eph 4: 15) – Don’t overwhelm. It’s okay to deal with one scripture. The truth in its simplicity should convict people, not our knowledge of stockpiled verses! (Ps 119: 151 -152) – Read from God’s word and ask simple and pointed questions about what was read (Rom. 4: 9 -10)

Conversations With Jesus

A Revealing Conversation With A Samaritan Woman At A Well • A chance encounter results in a changed life: – This conversation did not start out as anything special, it was a seemingly common occasion (John 4: 1 -8) • It doesn’t seem that Jesus is coming here just for this woman, it says He “had to pass” through Samaria • Jesus is on a common journey – Judea to Galilee… Samaria is in the middle. It’s noon, He’s weary, He stops for a drink • The woman is on a common errand – If you needed fresh water, the well was the place to go. She goes here often. • Jesus sees in it an opportunity to impact someone He doesn’t normally get to talk to. So Jesus lays it all out there.

A Revealing Conversation With A Samaritan Woman At A Well • A chance encounter results in a changed life: – Jesus treats this woman with respect, placing value on her as an individual (John 4: 9 -10) • She was a Samaritan and Jesus was a Jew… two groups who looked down upon each in disdain. • She was a woman and Jesus was a man… socially such a conversation simply did not take place… taboo • She was likely treated as an outcast socially because oh her situation morally. Often gossiped about! • Jesus shocks her by striking up an inviting conversation… the last thing she expected when she saw Him at her well • This is the longest recorded personal conversation between Jesus and anyone else in the Bible and its with her!

A Revealing Conversation With A Samaritan Woman At A Well • A chance encounter results in a changed life: – Jesus used something common that she could relate to to show her need for salvation & God (John 4: 10 -14) • He speaks of living water while getting water at a well. He has water to give her, but has nothing to draw water with • Wasn’t just something common, but something they shared in common… both needed water. Water was His bridge • Using water Jesus took her from being without direction spiritually to feeling the need for salvation to seeing Jesus as the Christ and the answer to her needs.

A Revealing Conversation With A Samaritan Woman At A Well • A chance encounter results in a changed life: – Jesus dealt with her deepest problem and wasn’t distracted by obvious, surface issues (John 4: 13 -18) • Looked at her bio and your attention would be focused on one fact… Five husbands! But this wasn’t the real problem. • Her marriage situation existed because of a bigger problem… Her marriage problem was the result of a God problem. • If Jesus just dealt with her marriage, she would’ve walked away full of guilt because of sin, but this was something she already knew and felt. She needed this “living water” • Jesus does deal with her marriage problem, but this welcomed by her because He first dealt with her real need.

A Revealing Conversation With A Samaritan Woman At A Well • A chance encounter results in a changed life: – Jesus took the “every creature” mentality in His conversation with this woman (John 4: 13 -18) • To Jesus’ disciples, this was just a woman… Why break the social norms to talk with her? He saw a lost child of God! • To the Jews, the religious people, she was just an immoral Samaritan… Why waste His time? A lost child of God! • Jesus would eventually ask His disciples to take the gospel to “every living creature” – He first did this Himself!

A Revealing Conversation With A Samaritan Woman At A Well • Some lessons from this revealing conversation: – Who is this Samaritan woman in our lives and in our daily conversations? • The one who knows something is missing, but not how to fix it. One who is full of guilt, but doesn’t know how to change. One who we last expect to turn to God due to baggage • She is the one we’d like to share the gospel with, but we are reluctant to because they have big moral problems • She is the one we know who is very religious, but is wrong. We feel they are in too deep in doctrinal error. • She is the one who is different from us… The person we can’t relate to or understand… from a different background… we don’t like for some superficial reason – So we hesitate

A Revealing Conversation With A Samaritan Woman At A Well • Some lessons from this revealing conversation: – We don’t have to create a special setting… some of our greatest opportunities come in ordinary packages (Col 4: 2 -4) – We must treat all people with respect, giving value to them, all the time (Ephesians 5: 1 -2) – We can take advantage of common things in order to build bridges for “evangelism” (1 Cor 9: 22 -23) – We must not lose sight of the real core problem by focusing on surface issues (Acts 17: 24) – We need to always reexamine our hearts for any trace of partiality. Every creature? (Jas 2: 1 ff, 8 -9)

“So the woman left her water jar and went away into town and said to the people, "Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ? " They went out of the town and were coming to him… Many Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman's testimony, "He told me all that I ever did. " So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them, and he stayed there two days. And many more believed because of his word. ” (John 4: 28 -30, 39 -41)

Conversations With Jesus

Nicodemus: A Conversation With A Spiritual Seeker • Jesus speaks to Nicodemus, a religious and social insider (John 3: 1 -21) – Jesus began His conversation with Nicodemus with an understanding of who he was and where he was at: • Jesus didn’t lump everyone together in the same rigid evangelistic approach… difference with Samaritan woman • Nicodemus was a Pharisee – Often hypocritical, but not necessarily so. Loved God’s law, obedience, & godliness • He was also part of the Sanhedrin – Like our Supreme Court for the Jews. Wealthy, educated, and prominent men. • He was a teacher of Israel – Loved God’s word and people • This man doesn’t seem to be opposed to Jesus. He came by night and alone… Likely seeking real spiritual direction.

Nicodemus: A Conversation With A Spiritual Seeker • Jesus speaks to Nicodemus, a religious and social insider (John 3: 1 -21) – Jesus was available and approachable to him (vs. 1 -2) • He came to Jesus at an inconvenient time – John emphasizes it was at night (7: 50; 19: 39)… It had to be really late! • Was he a “closet disciple? ” Was he super busy? Was he wanting a more intimate conversation with Jesus? • Jesus doesn’t seem irritated or hassled, but welcoming… He didn’t give a short canned answer… gave valuable time. • Nicodemus had to have great confidence in Jesus… He surely based this on seeing Jesus’ inviting response to others.

Nicodemus: A Conversation With A Spiritual Seeker • Jesus speaks to Nicodemus, a religious and social insider (John 3: 1 -21) – Jesus spoke to him with insider language challenging his thinking & causing him to look deeper (vs. 3 -9) • Jesus just about started with the Samaritan woman at ground zero… Nicodemus was ready for meatier teaching. • He had a lot right spiritually, so Jesus goes directly to the hole in his spiritual life. He had a need to be born again • As Jesus speaks, his mind is stuck in the physical. How can a grown man become born again? It seemed impossible. • The message is that the kingdom is a different kind of kingdom that required a different kind of entrance. It wasn’t based on bloodline or education, but on a changed heart. • Rebirth through water was familiar to him because of Israel’s history… Noah, Israel at the Red Sea, Israel at the Jordan

Nicodemus: A Conversation With A Spiritual Seeker • Jesus speaks to Nicodemus, a religious and social insider (John 3: 1 -21) – Jesus spoke more plainly and bluntly (vs. 10 -12) • Jesus holds him accountable & responsible due to his position • Jesus was straightforward about his problem: You do not understand… you will not accept… you don’t believe • Not an intellectual problem but a problem of choice… He could not see because he would not see. Was he like the hypocritical Pharisees? No, but still had a road block. • He needed to hear the truth in an unmistakable way. It hurt, but Jesus’ frank honesty was really full of grace! He’s giving him a chance to understand it, accept it, and believe it!

Nicodemus: A Conversation With A Spiritual Seeker • Jesus speaks to Nicodemus, a religious and social insider (John 3: 1 -21) – Jesus walked the conversation across a bridge of common ground to show him God’s plan of salvation and people’s response to it (vs. 13 -21) • More insider talk with Nicodemus – He knew the fiery serpent story well. Knew it was about God’s grace & saving man! • Jesus used this event to show him something greater… God using His death on the cross to bring salvation to all men • A great opportunity! Nicodemus gets a long discussion of Jesus’ redemptive work and is personally given what we consider to be the greatest verse in all the Bible! • More conviction and application – If he didn’t believe and come to Jesus there would be one reason why… He didn’t want what he had wrong to be exposed.

Nicodemus: A Conversation With A Spiritual Seeker • Some practical lessons from this conversation: – Who is Nicodemus in our life and in our conversations? • A very religious person… takes God’s word seriously… knows the Bible… Doesn’t visit with us at church because they likely attend somewhere else regularly. • Though religious, active, & knowledgeable… something is clearly missing. Maybe its something wrong in their theology, maybe its in the practical practice of their faith • We are probably too intimidated to talk to this person… What if they ask a question we don’t know the answer to? What if our lack of answers turns them off? What if we forget?

Nicodemus: A Conversation With A Spiritual Seeker • Some practical lessons from this conversation: – Choose our words wisely… Speak outsider words to outsiders and insider words to insiders. Use common ground there is as our bridge (1 Cor 14: 14 -17, 23 -25) – Be sure we are available to people for their problems, questions, and concerns (I John 3: 16 -18) – But being available doesn’t mean anything if we are not also approachable (Col 3: 12 -14; Prov 11: 13) – Speak with love and grace by being honest with people about the truth & what’s missing in their life regardless of how we think they might receive it (Eph 4: 15)

Conversations With Jesus

Conversation With The Lame Man By The Pool Of Bethesda • This was a conversation with a man in need of healing on multiple levels (John 5: 1 -16) – The setting of this conversation and miracle: • Notice verse 3 & 4 – This is likely not part of the original text. A scribe’s explanation getting copied in with the original? • Something did stir the water (verse 7) – Crippled people met there expecting to be healed. Evidently there was a narrow window and you had to be one of the first in. • Pool was outside the Sheep Gate, an entrance into the walls of Jerusalem, and many crippled lay there. Certainly they were used to being avoided by the religious leaders! • Jesus enters this environment filled with beggars and needy people and stops to provide real healing and direction.

Conversation With The Lame Man By The Pool Of Bethesda • This was a conversation with a man in need of healing on multiple levels (John 5: 1 -16) – Jesus’ first words are to the point… “Do you want to get well? ” Jesus could’ve been emphasizing his hopeless state before performing the miracle (vs. 6 -7) • Question seems cold and cruel on the surface… Of course he wanted to get well! Question even seems hurtful. • He was there to get healed, but still couldn’t get help. Either he couldn’t get to the water or couldn’t get there fast enough • By focusing on his helplessness, Jesus magnified this man’s view of the miracle and his appreciation for being healed. • These words were important for the development of his faith… This was far beyond the capability of any normal man.

Conversation With The Lame Man By The Pool Of Bethesda • This was a conversation with a man in need of healing on multiple levels (John 5: 1 -16) – Jesus could have been lifting this man out of a deep hole of self pity and discouragement (vs. 7 -11) • He is focused on everyone else – No one will take him to the pool and others are faster at getting in. Blame? “I can’t” • If so, Jesus’ words identified this self-pity. Had he grown so accustomed to the beggar’s life that he wouldn’t want to change? Did he want the responsibility of a normal life? • Jesus’ words were compassionate, but the tone would have been more firm, direct, and commanding • Jesus’ words didn’t just restore his health, but also his personhood. He left challenged to leave behind all “crutches” to live a productive and whole life.

Conversation With The Lame Man By The Pool Of Bethesda • This was a conversation with a man in need of healing on multiple levels (John 5: 1 -16) – Jesus runs into this man again and admonishes him about his spiritual life: Don’t sin anymore! (vs. 14) • Doubtful that his sins are the cause of his lameness (John 9) • The healing only fixed part of this man’s problem… His life would never be truly “whole” if he didn’t lay his sin aside • Jesus was direct and blunt. This man didn’t need someone to make him feel good, but someone to confront him. • Jesus brought him to consider the end result of his actions. Where was he heading? What would come of his life?

Conversation With The Lame Man By The Pool Of Bethesda • What would we do if we encountered a man like this lame man by the pool? What would we say? – Who is this lame man in our life & daily conversations? • Could be someone with a physical limitation who has been consumed with pity and perhaps blames often others • Spiritually… one who has a struggle or erroneous beliefs, but our words seem to be fruitless. Perhaps they don’t see their problem as a big deal or feel a sense of urgency • Spiritually… a person with many struggles in their life. They know what’s wrong and they know how to fix it. But they have become comfortable. Perhaps they like the attention they get. Problems appealing more than change • Could be one whose life looks more like a series of unfortunate events. This has come because of bad choices. Their life looks crippled and lame, but they feel helpless to change.

Conversation With The Lame Man By The Pool Of Bethesda • What would we do if we encountered a man like this lame man by the pool? What would we say? – Go to the pools! Must be willing to get involved… to be near the mess… be uncomfortable! (1 Thess 2: 7, 11) – It doesn’t matter what we say so long as a person doesn’t want to get well (John 3: 19 -21) – People must see their need for the gospel before they’re ready to obey it. They must see their need for truth before they will reexamine beliefs (Eph 2: 1 ff; Jer 8: 22) – We need to be more direct with people about the direction their life is heading (Jude 1: 22 -23) – Choose words & actions so as not to enable negative choices and spiritual struggles (Prov 27: 5 -6; 28: 23)

Conversations With Jesus

Conversation With A Man Who Was Born Blind • In this conversation, Jesus gives sight to a blind man in more than one way (John 9: 1 ff) – As Jesus passed by He encountered a man in a difficult position… He had been born blind (vs. 1 -2) • This starts out on very common circumstances… He’s just “passing by” – Even meeting such a man was normal. • He was in a pitiful physical state – Born blind. Never having seen anything… totally dependant on others… a beggar. • He would have been treated in a pitiful way – Calamities, handicaps, and diseases were often seen as a result of sin. The religious leaders usually avoided this kind of person. • See the kind of accusations and judgmental spirits he endured by the disciples’ discussion… right in front of him. Was his blindness his fault or was it his parents’ fault

Conversation With A Man Who Was Born Blind • In this conversation, Jesus gives sight to a blind man in more than one way (John 9: 1 ff) – When Jesus passed by this man Jesus did not treat him with unfair and unfounded assumptions (verse 3) • Imagine what he is thinking… he hears the cold theological discussion of the disciples, surely knows Jesus is there. He likely thought Jesus would blame him too! • Jesus doesn’t look at him with blame & suspicion just because of his poor physical state… He sees a hurting person. • Jesus corrects His disciples immediately – Jesus is speaking openly and unmistakingly. He’s not just correcting their error, but He is connecting with the heart of this man.

Conversation With A Man Who Was Born Blind • In this conversation, Jesus gives sight to a blind man in more than one way (John 9: 1 ff) – Jesus healed this man, but didn’t leave him without opening his eyes spiritually as well. The way Jesus handled this man paved the road for this (vs. 35 -41) – Jesus treats this man in such a way to restore worth when he likely felt like he mattered very little: • Was used to being ignored, bumped into, stepped on. Others cast blame, but Jesus defended. Jesus showed this man that he mattered to Jesus. He knew Jesus cared. • The religious leaders treated him like an “outcast” but Jesus found him – Jesus searched for this man! (verses 34 -35) • Jesus went on to teach this man, but first Jesus had to treat him with respect, value, and with fairness of judgment

Conversation With A Man Who Was Born Blind • We have contact & conversations with such men – Who is this man in our daily lives and conversations? • A person with a physical disability, disease, sickness, or even is dying. Could be a person who is dependent on others. • A person whose life is a mess… One problem after another. Poverty, broken relationships, accidents, bad luck, etc. • A person who has lost a job and can’t find another… a person with an emotional or psychological problem… a beggar on the streets… a person we are uncomfortable around. • A person we look at and wonder, “What’s wrong with them? ” or “Why don’t they try to change? ” – We’re suspicious.

Conversation With A Man Who Was Born Blind • We have contact & conversations with such men – We have to avoid unfair and unfounded assumptions about people’s spiritual state (Lk 13: 1 -5; 2 Cor 12: 7 -10) – We have to be careful about assuming problems are just because of bad choices. What if it is? We still can’t treat them in bitterness and resentment (Mat 5: 45) – As we build relationships, we have to remember that people aren’t always the way they appear. Do we treat people with respect and worth? (Js 2: 1 -9; Rev 3: 17 -19) – If we want the chance to reach a person’s heart, they must first see our concern and care for them as a person and not as a theological object.

Conversation With A Man Who Was Born Blind In this even Jesus reveals to us the motto by which He lived. It’s a motto we need to take personally and adopt: “We must work the works of him who sent me while it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. " (John 9: 4 -5)

Conversations With Jesus

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • Jesus responds with grace and mercy for her, conviction for her accusers (John 8: 1 -11) – A cold interruption during Bible study time (vs. 1 -4) • This conversation occurs in a more religious environment • Yet Jesus still maintains a personal approach to reaching people… He sits down among a group and teaches them • Suddenly there comes a commotion – That tender scene suffers a rude interruption by the religious leaders bring a woman caught in the act of adultery to Jesus… From peace and spirituality to anger and condemnation.

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • Jesus responds with grace and mercy for her, conviction for her accusers (John 8: 1 -11) – Notice the attitude of the Scribes and Pharisees in how they brought her to Jesus (verses 3 -6) • Picture this! Religious leaders on one side, Jesus on the other • Scribes and Pharisees were setting a trap… they weren’t truly concerned with right & wrong, but with accusing Jesus • The law did have a provision for the death penalty for those caught in adultery (Exodus 20: 10)… but they had no desire to look for grace and mercy. • Condemnation was unfair & hypocritical – The law called for the man and woman to be put to death… where was he? • They treat her like an object… a means to an end. Not a person • Treated her in a way to bring open shame & embarrassment

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • Jesus responds with grace and mercy for her, conviction for her accusers (John 8: 1 -11) – Jesus responds to her first by standing up to those who unmercifully condemned her (vs. 6 -9) • At first Jesus ignores their presence and allegations… He wasn’t giving them credence by recognizing them. • Jesus writes on the ground… Again, Jesus is not responding the way they want Him to respond. He won’t give in. • Jesus forced them to look at her with more fairness and mercy by having to examine their own lives. In their hastiness to condemn her, they overlooked their own sinfulness. • Jesus puts a face to their condemnation to death… He said, “cast a stone at her!” They had to see her… a person. • How effective! She could have been put to death, but now no one will condemn her. Learned of sincerity & righteousness

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • Jesus responds with grace and mercy for her, conviction for her accusers (John 8: 1 -11) – Jesus extends grace, mercy, & forgiveness to a woman who only knew shame & condemnation (vs. 7, 10 -11) • Jesus stands up to talk to her… He wouldn’t stand up to talk to the religious leaders. Gave dignity instead of scorn. • Jesus refused to condemn this woman – He wasn’t overlooking her sin, but He was not condemning her to death • Jesus builds a bridge to this woman’s heart by giving her a second chance. Now she calls Him Lord.

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • Jesus responds with grace and mercy for her, conviction for her accusers (John 8: 1 -11) – Jesus left her with a charge, a purpose – “Go your way and sin no more. ” (vs. 11) • Sadly, many only see the “Neither do I condemn you” part… as if Jesus didn’t pass any judgment on her or her actions • His grace and mercy was not without responsibility – Change! • Jesus treated her sin with clear honesty. He didn’t have to preach to her about how bad her sin was, she got that. But He did address the need for real repentance • The religious leader would have let her die a condemned adulterer… Jesus treats her in a way that empowered her to live in righteousness & salvation.

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • How do we respond when we are confronted with this woman in our lives? – Who is she? What situations does this fit? • This is someone who is wrong and there’s no doubt about it. • This could be a person filled with guilt and shame for their actions, but for some reason they are still living lost. • Person caught up in adultery, one with an alcohol problem, a person practicing homosexuality, etc – “The Big Ones” • Similar circumstances – Person avoided by others due to their sin, Christian who has a problem and is written off by their brethren, person caught in sin treated with cold shame

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • How do we respond when we are confronted with this woman in our lives? – We have to be careful not to draw false conclusions from how Jesus handled this woman (John 7: 24) • Many who know nothing else about the Bible know about this story… “Let him who is without sin…” is memorized. • It’s often used as a last ditch effort at defense – Don’t judge me • But Jesus did judge this woman and her sin. She was guilty and Jesus expected her to give it up. It was sinful. • Jesus did not condemn her in the way the religious leaders were… He wasn’t condemning her to a hopeless death

Conversation With A Woman Caught In The Act Of Adultery • How do we respond when we are confronted with this woman in our lives? – When we encounter people in sin do we see objects of scorn or lost souls? Do we just see the sin or are we able to see the people behind the sin (Mark 2: 15 -17) – Do we get caught up in the gossip and condemning talk or do we stand up for those people (Prov 26: 22 -26) – If we want people to believe that Jesus will give them a 2 nd chance, we have to treat them in such a way that shows 2 nd chances are possible! (1 Tim 2: 15 -16) – Balance is crucial – We cannot leave people without understanding that real repentance is essential. We must urge people to “sin no more” (2 Cor 7: 8 -10)

Conversations With Jesus

Conversation With A Rich Young Ruler • A spiritual seeker with a great question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life? ” (Mark 10: 17 -22) – He is basically asking, “What must I do to be saved? ” • A very sincere and religious person – This isn’t a loaded question meant to trick or accuse Jesus. Honestly seeking what is missing in his life… wants to be right. • Zealous and urgent with his question… runs and kneels • Gone to right source, in right spirit, with right question • We should be impressed by his spirituality considering he is a young man with wealth and power - some balance.

Conversation With A Rich Young Ruler • A spiritual seeker with a great question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life? ” (Mark 10: 17 -22) – Jesus immediately challenges this man’s thinking and theology with a deep question (vs. 18) • Jesus wasn’t ignoring his question, Jesus sees an open door • See the insider language… He understood much already and now Jesus sees a chance to teach this man who He was – Jesus brings him to face the reality that something was missing… a spiritual hole in his soul! (Matt 19: 17 -20) • He was religious, knew God’s laws, moral, and obedient… He appeared to have it all together, but something was off • Why bring up commands he’s already doing good at keeping? This alone is insufficient… there’s still a hole needing filled • Jesus is causing this man to evaluate his life. He knew he had a hole, but now he feels it more than ever. He’s ready!

You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes. Haggai 1: 6

Conversation With A Rich Young Ruler • A spiritual seeker with a great question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life? ” (Mark 10: 17 -22) – Jesus looked at this man and loved him (vs. 21) • Jesus showed love throughout his life, but this love is only specified in regard to three people – John, Lazarus, & him • What did Jesus see in him? His effort to be righteous, zeal for salvation, knowledge of his hole, humility, sincerity, etc • Saw beyond his problems & impressiveness of who he was – Jesus did not water down the message (verse 21) • A message of sacrifice and self denial – Difficult for a young man so full of wealth and power • Not a moral issue… stuff strangled his love & attention for God • Jesus knew this would be difficult and could even be rejected, but it was necessary if the hole was to be filled! • Could’ve lowered the price, but the issue would’ve remained

Conversation With A Rich Young Ruler • A spiritual seeker with a great question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life? ” (Mark 10: 17 -22) – This message of self denial and sacrifice wasn’t given without promise and purpose (vs. 21) • Give up earthly wealth in order to gain eternal treasure • Give up earthly focus for the new direction of following Jesus • Grace! Jesus could’ve called him to do this just because it was right, but Jesus gave him motivation making the it easier. – Finally, Jesus allowed him to walk away disheartened and sorrowful (verse 22) • Disciples may have thought Jesus was losing it… think of the financial benefit & influence of having him among them • But Jesus doesn’t cheapen the gospel – He had to choose. • Letting him walk meant letting him make the decision. This man had to weigh the options & choose to put God first.

Conversation With A Rich Young Ruler • So how can we respond when we have the chance to influence a rich young ruler? – Who is this man in our lives & our daily conversations • Possibly one who lives a good moral life, but isn’t a Christian. We and they have a hard time seeing them as lost. • Could be a very religious person… a church-goer. They know the “thou shalt nots” and seek to follow them. But there is a hole in their religion that is holding them back. • Could be an active Christian, but there is something they are putting ahead of God. Something physical has a strangle hold on their love for God, service, and growth. – If we want to influence them, we have to start with a genuine love for them individually (Rom 9: 1 -3; 10: 1)

Conversation With A Rich Young Ruler • So how can we respond when we have the chance to influence a rich young ruler? – We have to try to help them feel the hole in their spiritual life… identify there is a problem (Acts 3: 17 -20) – We must resist the tendency to water down the message to get them to accept it (2 Tim. 4: 1 -4) – As we talk about repentance and sacrifice, show the rewards and purpose that is gained (2 Cor. 7: 1) – Ultimately, our goal is for them to make their own personal decision. Some will walk away in rejection. Some will walk away weighing the cost (1 Thess 2: 13)

Conversations With Jesus

Conversation With A Very Distracted Martha • Jesus’ conversation with Martha… a servant minded person who got distracted (Lk 10: 38 -42) – Background: The people & setting of this conversation • Martha – Sister of Lazarus & Mary… showed understanding and faith (John 11: 21, 24); a meal preparer (John 12: 2); among women at tomb after resurrection (Matthew 28: 1 ff) • Mary – Sister of Lazarus & Martha… Not Magdalene or mother of Jesus. Anointed Jesus’ feet with oil and washed His feet with her hair (John 11: 2). Often at Jesus’ feet. • Jesus loved both of these women very much (John 11: 5)… central figures among the circle of disciples.

Conversation With A Very Distracted Martha • Jesus’ conversation with Martha… a servant minded person who got distracted (Lk 10: 38 -42) – Martha’s overwhelming mission… Welcoming Jesus into her home for hospitality (vs. 38) • In that day hospitality was a BIG deal! Meant food, fellowship, and often spending a night or more • She wasn’t just welcoming a common man, this is Jesus! • But others would have been around – The apostles, many disciples, the crowd, and many from her own town. • The busyness of hospitality consumed her… It all had to be right… Food, cleaning, set up, supplies, and more.

Conversation With A Very Distracted Martha • Jesus’ conversation with Martha… a servant minded person who got distracted (Lk 10: 38 -42) – As Martha works diligently, Mary sits at Jesus’ feet and Martha is filled with resentment (vs. 39 -40) • In Martha’s eyes, she is working hard and Mary is doing nothing. She’s having to do it all alone, its not fair. • Martha is distracted – “To draw around, to draw away” • Martha has an incredible opportunity, but it is lost because of her frustration with her sister. Missing a blessing! • She even says, “Don’t you care? ” to Jesus… She is accusing Jesus of not caring, questioning Him at best. • She finds herself telling Jesus how to handle this… She wants Jesus to deal with this the way she

Conversation With A Very Distracted Martha • Jesus’ conversation with Martha… a servant minded person who got distracted (Lk 10: 38 -42) – Jesus uses great tenderness… His loving response corrects, but does not discourage Martha (vs. 41) • Words of understanding & compassion – “Martha, Martha…” • Martha was wrong, but there was a lot of good in what she was doing. She was trying to serve others & honor Jesus! • Jesus addresses her without demeaning her… something especially important because she is highly emotional – Jesus helps her to identify that her feelings resulted from her own anxieties & troubles (vs. 41) • She got very worked up with her sister & Jesus… The real problem wasn’t what she perceived it

Conversation With A Very Distracted Martha • Jesus’ conversation with Martha… a servant minded person who got distracted (Lk 10: 38 -42) – Jesus’ words refocus Martha away from what was pressing and to what truly mattered (vs. 42) • A purposeful contrast: You are anxious and troubled about MANY things… You need ONE thing • He relieves her of her burdens – Was carrying an unnecessary load… set aside the many and take on the ONE. She knew she couldn’t do it all, but she could handle one thing! • The things she was distracted by were not really wrong, but she allowed them to keep her from time with Jesus – Jesus gracefully and mercifully defends Mary because she had focused on the eternal. He has Martha look at

Conversation With A Very Distracted Martha • Lessons from Jesus for helping our Martha’s: – Identifying the Martha’s in our lives: • See ourselves – So often distracted from “the ONE thing” by the “many things” – Lose out… Grow frustrated. • A once growing faithful Christian who is getting distracted by the lesser important or one who will not obey the gospel of Christ because their lives are just too busy • Person whose relationships are being hurt because of distracted hearts… troubles & anxieties start surfacing. • A person trying to do too much… A type “A” personality. Do much, but life gets off kilter and imbalance is hurting them

Conversation With A Very Distracted Martha • Lessons from Jesus for helping our Martha’s: – React with love… Tenderness so we don’t discourage and dishearten as we correct (2 Tim 2: 24 -25) – If anxieties and troubles consume, show that external problems come from a distracted heart (Phil 4: 5 -6) – Point people to the “ONE thing” that matters instead of the “MANY things” that consume (Mt 6: 33 -34; 22: 37) – Find those focusing on the eternal and encourage them and point others to them (1 Thess. 1: 2 -3)

Conversations With Jesus

Thomas: A Conversation With A Doubter • Jesus’ conversation with one of His own apostles who was struggling in his faith (John 20: 24 -29) – Background: A highly emotional and pivotal time for the faith and future of Jesus’ disciples (vs. 10 -23) • Jesus was crucified & buried in a tomb – Dreams shattered, beliefs questioned, hope lost, bad decisions made • As Jesus appears, faith and hope are restored… but it was a seemingly slow process. So much still didn’t make sense • Jesus gives them a mission, blesses them with the Holy Spirit, and shows them the authority they now possess. • Where was Thomas? Many criticize his absence, but we must be careful with this because the Bible isn’t so critical!

Thomas: A Conversation With A Doubter • Jesus’ conversation with one of His own apostles who was struggling in his faith (John 20: 24 -29) – Jesus did not treat Thomas as if he were any worse than the others because of his doubt (vs. 25 -27) • It’s really unfair to label Thomas as “The Doubter” – Others had struggles, overcame them, and are remembered for their good. Also, Thomas wasn’t the only one who doubted! • He appeared to two women, but no one believed them (Mk 16: 11; Luke 24: 11); two others reported it, but they weren’t believed (Mk 16: 13); Jesus rebuked His disciples for their lack of faith (Mk 16: 14); They saw same proof (Jn 20: 20) • Thomas’ request doesn’t show any greater doubt, he is asking for the same opportunity as others… know for himself • Jesus doesn’t treat his struggling faith as being any more deplorable as the other’s doubts… Gives him a chance

Thomas: A Conversation With A Doubter • Jesus’ conversation with one of His own apostles who was struggling in his faith (John 20: 24 -29) – Jesus responds patiently to Thomas and gives him the exact evidence he feels he needs to believe (vs. 23) • Why no harsh rebuke this time? He’s hurting, discouraged, and weak. He’s honestly trying to sift through to real faith. • Great Grace! Jesus gives him exactly what he’s asking for… He didn’t have to give it to him, but Thomas felt it was needed • Jesus reaches down to Thomas where Thomas was at… He didn’t have lofty expectations at this moment.

Thomas: A Conversation With A Doubter • Jesus’ conversation with one of His own apostles who was struggling in his faith (John 20: 24 -29) – Because of this, Thomas went from a place of doubt to a place of bold and confessing faith (vs. 28 -29) • He not only believes in the resurrection, but in what it testified of Jesus – His authority & deity – Mature, strong, & confident • This confession says as much about Thomas as it does about Jesus… Shows his response to the resurrection. It’s personal to Thomas – “MY” – Submission and Devotion • An active confession… His faith is not like that of the demons who believed but only trembled. He was ready to go!

Thomas: A Conversation With A Doubter • We have many opportunities to help people in our lives who are in Thomas’ position: – Who are these people? How do we identify them? • First: Thomas’ story is about all of us (vs. 29) – Jesus sees us as BLESSED when we believe because we don’t have the physical evidence with which Thomas was granted. • Be honest and open about doubt… It’s something all of us struggle with. Denying or hiding doubt is destructive! • These are honest doubters – Not trying to cause problems for others… Not trying to just be challenging, difficult, or different… It’s a true seeker searching out own faith. • Could be one struggling in their belief in God – Christian or not! • Could be one struggling in their acceptance of some part of the gospel. Baptism? Church? Morality? Still about faith!

Thomas: A Conversation With A Doubter • We have many opportunities to help people in our lives who are in Thomas’ position: – We must not write people off just because of doubts. We must not judge them as being worse, weak, or insincere. We must respond with mercy! (Jd 1: 22 -23) – Respond with grace and patience. Meet them where they are at. Help with their search. Questions and concerns aren’t bad. Faith is logical! (I Pet 3: 15) – Doubts are not inherently bad… It depends on what people do with them. They can be the source of devoted, confident, unwavering faith (Matt 7: 7 -8)

Conversations With Jesus

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • Zacchaeus… A person seen as a terrible sinner and hated by his own people (Luke 19: 1 -10) – A deeper look into the personal life of Zacchaeus: • Known for being “a wee little man” – Not a physically dominate person, but this wasn’t his biggest “obstacle” in life • He was a tax collector – Viewed as a traitor because of they collected taxes for oppressive Rome (Matt 22: 17) • Tax collectors were also viewed as thieves – Often collected more than reasonable and became rich (Luke 3: 12 -13) • He was a CHIEF tax collector. He was seen as a “leader” of the problem. Likely a very wealthy man (Luke 19: 2) • A shady character… functioned on the outskirts of society. He had taken advantage of people. Seen as the pond sum of society… but such people often came to Jesus!

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • Zacchaeus… A person seen as a terrible sinner and hated by his own people (Luke 19: 1 -10) – Jesus saw what others couldn’t see… A messed up life but a person who wanted something more (vs. 3 -6): • Many others saw Zacchaeus up in that tree that day, but it seems that only Jesus saw a spiritual seeker! • The crowd would have likely cheered if Zacchaeus had fallen out of the tree… were just interested in condemnation • His interest though is clear: Runs ahead of crowd, climbs a tree, hurries down, receives Jesus with joy

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • Zacchaeus… A person seen as a terrible sinner and hated by his own people (Luke 19: 1 -10) – Jesus spoke straightforward and authoritative words in taking initiative with Zacchaeus (vs. 5): • Jesus sounds harsh, but I doubt He was being cold to him… like “Woman, give me a drink” or “Woman behold your Son” • Regardless, Jesus was direct. He didn’t talk with indecision to Zacchaeus. Jesus made a plan and presented directly. • It’s like Jesus says, “Zacchaeus, this is what we will do…”

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • Zacchaeus… A person seen as a terrible sinner and hated by his own people (Luke 19: 1 -10) – Jesus didn’t rebuke Zacchaeus on the spot, but found an environment were learning could take place (5 -7): • Due to the crowd, public creation would have just created more humiliation and an ungodly atmosphere. . . NO CROWDS! • This angered his Jewish countrymen – They are shocked Jesus would go to his house. They wanted him shot down! • By choosing his house, Jesus shows interest in Zacchaeus’ life. Jesus shows He cares about him personally. With this understanding, any words of rebuke are received better.

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • Zacchaeus… A person seen as a terrible sinner and hated by his own people (Luke 19: 1 -10) – Evidently, Jesus spoke candidly about repentance, mercy, justice, and love (vs. 8 -9): • These verses seem to be taking place in Zacchaeus’ home. He has learned about righteousness in his relationships • Zacchaeus has learned the importance of giving • Zacchaeus has learned the nature of repentance • At some point Jesus spoke with him about matters Jesus knew would be sensitive, but Jesus spoke anyway

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • What has Jesus taught us about interacting with Zacchaeus’ in our own life: – Identifying Zacchaeus in our lives and conversations: • A spiritual seeker… They are looking for Jesus. They are looking for something more. They know a need is there. • They may not know what is missing, just that something is missing. They are looking around and listening. • There are likely signs that they are seeking, but it may not be totally obvious. It may be simple indicators. It could be that they want us to know they are looking, but wont say it • Sometimes we will have to look up in the trees to find them!

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • What has Jesus taught us about interacting with Zacchaeus’ in our own life: – Jesus teaches us that we have to live looking for those showing interest (Col 4: 2 -6) • Such people could be classified as “warm contacts” – You can be almost certain that they will talk to you about Christ! • Visitor a church? Person reading Bible or religious material in public? Two people discussing spiritual things? A question to us? A person “eavesdropping” on us? A person peeking at us reading or praying? • Eyes and ears must be open. Need to anticipate interested people being around. This takes a spiritual mindset!

Zacchaeus: Seemingly Unlikely Spiritual Seeker • What has Jesus taught us about interacting with Zacchaeus’ in our own life: – Most of the time we need to be more direct in taking initiative. We need more boldness (Eph. 6: 19 -20) – Be open to a wider range of prospects. We must give people a chance to accept or reject the truth. Do we assume the “messed up” won’t? (1 Cor. 6: 9 -11) – Love others! Genuine interest and care in the lives of people goes extremely far (1 Thess 2: 7 -12) – We owe it to be honest and straightforward about the truth and people’s lives… don’t just abandon issues you know will be sensitive (Acts 26: 19 -20)

Conversations With Jesus

James And John: The Sons Of Thunder • Jesus had some very unique conversations with James & John, the sons of Zebedee: – From the start of their discipleship, James & John proved to be men of faith, conviction, & action: • Background: Sons of Zebedee, partners with Peter in fishing trade, likely cousins of Jesus, part of the inner circle of apostles, John was the disciple who Jesus loved. • Immediately responded to Jesus’ call to follow Him – not only leaving nets, but their father… SACRIFICE! (Mark 1: 16 -20) • Jesus entrusted His mother’s care to John (John 19: 25 -27) • John outruns Peter to empty tomb to examine it (Jn 19: 25 -27) • Jesus nicknames James and John “Boanerges” which means “Sons of Thunder” (Mark 3: 17) – Violent anger, rage • “Stormy” - Passionate, zealous, energetic, & bold

James And John: The Sons Of Thunder • Jesus had some very unique conversations with James & John, the sons of Zebedee: – Their fiery nature is seen in asking Jesus if they should call down fire to destroy Samaria (Luke 9: 51 -56) • This question may sound delusional, but they had healed people and cast out demons (see vs. 1 ff) – had done great things • Rejection in this city filled them with “righteous indignation” • James and John felt sure the only way to respond to such a blatant rejection was immediate & severe punishment • Jesus did two things in His response to James and John:

And when His disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do You want us to command fire to come down from heaven and consume them, just as Elijah did? ” But He turned and rebuked them, and said, “You do not know what manner of spirit you are of. For the Son of Man did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them. ” And they went to another village. Luke 9: 54 -56

James And John: The Sons Of Thunder • Jesus had some very unique conversations with James & John, the sons of Zebedee: – A bit before this incident James & John are very zealous in trying to protect Jesus and His cause (Mark 9: 38 -41) • Returned from “limited commission”. While casting out demons they met someone else casting out demons in the name of Jesus. So they forbid him from continuing this. • James and John were so zealous about people following Jesus that they stood in the way of this man’s work. Not only standing in his way, but also in the way of God’s works. • Jesus speaks calming words for their spirits… To use restraint, patience, and wisdom in their interaction. Jesus seems to be urging James and John to think before they act.

James And John: The Sons Of Thunder • Jesus had some very unique conversations with James & John, the sons of Zebedee: – Finally, we see the “thunder” in their fervent aspirations for greatness in Christ’s kingdom (Mark 10: 35 -45) • Boldness! Ask Jesus for the greatest positions in the kingdom. • Why? Their physical relationship? Their close fellowship? Likely some pride in this, but its still about greatness in Christ’s kingdom… still greatness in Christ’s glory • They were zealous and you could argue that it was for a good thing, but that zeal was misguided and ill informed. • Jesus’ words shed light on the real nature of their request: – Request out of their control, see end result of their request, and to evaluate themselves in light of the request – Jesus didn’t destroy their aspirations, but refocused them

James And John: The Sons Of Thunder • Jesus had some very unique conversations with James & John, the sons of Zebedee: – The impact Jesus had on these two is clearly displayed by what they became after His ascension: • Less is known about James… Why? Because he was martyred fairly early on. Killed with a sword by Herod (Acts 12: 1 -2) • John & Peter preached Christ with great boldness & conviction. Face arrest and beatings but won’t cower (Acts 4 -5) • Many people in Samaria became Christians. The Jerusalem church send Peter and John to give H. S. (vs. 14) • John was exiled on the island of Patmos for preaching the gospel. Many believe he lived the rest of his life there.

James And John: The Sons Of Thunder • Helping a “Son of Thunder” can be tricky, but Jesus has provided some lessons we can apply: – Identifying the “Sons of Thunder” in our lives and conversations (Romans 10: 1 -3) • People of faith, action, and conviction. There’s no doubt as to their passion and zeal for God. They speak, act, stand. • But sometimes they get a little off in their excitement… Maybe they take things to far, speak too quickly, act w/o balance • May make great plans in serving God, wanting to get things done, to conquer the world… But is it within God’s will? • Are passionate & appreciate the truth & righteousness. But may act impatient, frustrated, & unmerciful with those whose lives and beliefs do not line up. • Have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.

“Desire without knowledge is not good, and whoever makes haste with his feet misses his way. ” (Proverbs 19: 2) Zeal without knowledge is fire without light (Thomas Huxley)

James And John: The Sons Of Thunder • Helping a “Son of Thunder” can be tricky, but Jesus has provided some lessons we can apply: – We must be sure to provide correction and instruction when it is needed… Speak up! (1 Tim 1: 12 -14) – Be careful not to extinguish the fire in their heart. Love for God, truth, righteousness, and service must not be discouraged (Jer. 10: 24; 1 Thess 5: 19) – Provide redirection. The zeal, passion, and love are likely not wrong… it’s just how they are focused. That same enthusiasm can be powerful when directed in a way that is right and good (Rom. 6: 16 -18) – Show balance… In your conversations try to help people avoid responding in extremes (Matt 23: 23 -24)

Conversations With Jesus

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • Saul of Tarsus: Persecutor of Christians, enemy of Christ, opponent of Christianity… die-hard Jew! – Young man of great promise! Plucked and groomed to be a leader among the Pharisees (Acts 22: 3) • Best education, training, background, and connections • He had risen to a place of prominence and fame – A willing participant in Stephen’s stoning (Acts 7: 57 -8: 1) – He later led the march in persecuting Christians… He went from house to house arresting men and women (Acts 8: 3) – Saul has just thrown some in prison and confiscated letters to Christians in Damascus. He’s now pursuing them (Acts 22: 4 -5) – He’s aggressive in his approach (Acts 26: 9 -12). Yet he wasn’t totally evil… He is sincerely religious about it (Acts 23: 1)

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • Jesus took a unique approach for this unique man in a unique situation: – This is not the first time Jesus tried to work on Saul’s heart & mind. He had been goading him (Acts 9: 5) • Goad – An instrument with a sharp point on the end… Often a tool for motivating livestock to move in a desired direction • A goad didn’t have to be big to be effective… It didn’t inflict permanent harm, but it caused discomfort… it stung. • Jesus had been “goading” Saul, but Saul had kicked against it. • What goads? Possibly the law & prophets, the Christians he persecuted, Stephen’s death, the witnesses of Jesus’ life, the empty tomb, Saul’s own struggle for righteousness • By bringing up the goads, Jesus is calling on Saul to put the pieces together and see the big picture – He saw the light!

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • A unique approach for reaching this lost man: – Jesus saw something in Saul others could not see… potential! “…not far from the kingdom” (Acts 9: 10 -16) • How many saw Saul as a prospect for the gospel? See their response after his baptism! (Acts 9: 21, 26) • What might Jesus have seen in Saul? – A man of established & focused priorities – A man of genuine motives and pure sincerity – A man of incredible zeal and passion • Others wrote him off, but Jesus kept His eye on Saul! The things that drove him in persecuting Christians would be the same things that would make him a great preacher! • It took something drastic, but he needed redirection… once converted there was no turning back. Faithful to death!

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • A unique approach for reaching this lost man: – Jesus did not ignore or overlook Saul’s error because of his religiousness and sincerity (Acts 9: 6; 23: 1) • He was the poster child for what it means to be religious. He knew the law and lived it. Not like other Pharisees! • He had a clear conscience… was fully convinced he was doing God’s will or he would not have been doing it! • Our religious culture says “Leave him alone!” - We are told to just love and accept such people. That we all serve the same God, just different ways. That as long as we are sincere, we are okay. That we can’t understand alike. • Jesus wasn’t impressed by Saul’s religious ways or sincerity. Saul was wrong and that had to change before his religiousness and sincerity meant anything!

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • A unique approach for reaching this lost man: – Jesus set the goading aside to deal with Saul in a more direct, firm, and blunt manner (Acts 9: 7 -9) • Saul’s own reading of the law had not gotten through. All of the goading had not gotten through. Needed more! • Jesus is breaking the norm… He is not using the preaching of the gospel by other men. This is an extreme approach! • A bright light, speaking directly to him in a miraculous way, striking him with blindness An unmistakable approach. • Jesus speaks with direct words about Saul’s guilt. There is no sugar coating his sin. Saul needs the truth plain and clear no matter how difficult the words would be to hear! • Later, Jesus doesn’t romanticize what he’d suffer (Ax 26: 17 -18) • Paul felt like he had been snatched by Jesus! (Phil 3: 12)

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • A unique approach for reaching this lost man: – Sadly, our religious world would tell us that such an approach is unloving and unkind. We are told not to do anything that might hurt feelings or do anything that would be judgmental or condemning to others.

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • How should we approach dealing with a Saul of Tarsus in our own lives and conversations? – Let’s identify who such “Saul’s” may be: • This is not the person living in open defiant rebellion to God. It is not the one characterized by immoral & ungodly living • This is a person who is very sincere about their religion. This is a regular “church-goer” Take their faith seriously! • But they are wrong – Could be a doctrinal position they take, a religious practice this contradicts God’s word, or the church they are part of does not follow the NT pattern. • This person is hard to reach because they sincerely think they are right. Pointing out error becomes highly emotional, especially if its their salvation that is being questioned! • We are probably a little intimidated because of their knowledge of the Bible. What if we can’t prove them wrong?

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • How should we approach dealing with a Saul of Tarsus in our own lives and conversations? – We need to appreciate the role of goads (Romans 2: 3 -5) • Regardless where they originate, we need to identify and point them out to our Saul. They likely don’t see them. • Even if some of the goads have been felt, they probably have not put the pieces together. Help them see the picture! – When dealing with a Saul, we must see beyond the error to the good qualities that are there (Rom. 10: 2) • Every Saul is a soul God wants to save. Valuable to Him! • These people hold great potential in serving God, but they need redirection. Think of all the good they can accomplish! • They need to see this potential lest they become disheartened • Sometimes we don’t try because we can’t see this good!

Saul Of Tarsus: A Conversation Untimely Born • How should we approach dealing with a Saul of Tarsus in our own lives and conversations? – Be balanced! Don’t get so caught up in seeing the good that we forget they are wrong (Mt 7: 21 -23; 2 John 1: 8 -9) • The good we see doesn’t change the wrong. Because they are living in error, they are lost. They are without God. • This is hard! But the more we see people from an eternal perspective, the more we will be motivated to speak up! – Eventually, the goading must be set aside for more straightforward & candid measures (Eph 6: 20; Jd 1: 23) • Are we guilty of “beating around the bush” so much that people don’t get what we are trying to say and do? • With a Saul, we must go out of our way to make the message clear. Sugar coating didn’t work, need boldness

And I said, 'Lord, they themselves know that in one synagogue after another I imprisoned and beat those who believed in you. And when the blood of Stephen your witness was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving and watching over the garments of those who killed him. ' And he said to me, 'Go, for I will send you far away to the Gentiles. '" (Acts 22: 19 -21) “The saying is trustworthy and deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. ” (I Timothy 1: 15 -16)

“Rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do. " (Acts 9: 6) Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank” (Acts 9: 8 -9) “Ananias… came to me, and standing by me said to me, 'Brother Saul, receive your sight. ' And at that very hour I received my sight and saw him. And he said, 'The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Righteous One and to hear a voice from his mouth; for you will be a witness for him to everyone of what you have seen and heard. And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name. ’” (Acts 22: 12 -16)