Jesus Changes People

Jesus knows that his appointment with the cross is fast approaching. He uses the occasion of his last Passover meal with the disciples to teach them what love looks like – it looks and acts like a servant. During the meal, Jesus assumes the role normally occupied by the lowest servant in the house. He begins washing the disciples’ feet. This act of humility is met with resistance by Peter. Not to be deterred, Jesus raises the bar by saying, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (v. 15). Jesus understands that when we love others by serving them, we are blessed in return (v. 17).
Passage: John 13:1-17

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It’s almost time for the Passover festival in Jerusalem and Jesus decides to stay in Bethany with Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. The family decides to host a dinner in honor of Jesus. During the meal, Mary takes expensive perfume and pours it on Jesus’ feet. Unlike his disciples who see this as an extravagant waste of money, Jesus receives it as a humble gift. The next day is known historically as the “Triumphant Entry” of Jesus, the time when he rides into Jerusalem on a donkey. The previous night is a family dinner marked by an act of humility; the entry into Jerusalem is filled with crowds and shouts of “Hosanna!” When it comes to Jesus, both expressions of honor are appropriate.
Passage: John 12:1-19

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When Jesus makes his first post-resurrection appearance to the disciples, he meets them in a locked room. Why are they hiding? It’s because they are afraid of the Jews. During this encounter, he speaks directly to their fears: “Peace be with you.” He reassures them that it’s really him by showing them his scars. Finally, he gives them the charge that will shape the rest of their lives: “As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.” He then gives them the Holy Spirit. We have the same mission and the same power. As we learn in the next part of the story, one disciple is missing – Thomas. After seeing Jesus for himself, he responds with “My Lord and my God!” But what Jesus says next applies to modern-day believers: “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”
Passage: John 20:19-29

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After using Abraham as a witness against the Judaizers, Paul next shows how those who rely on the law aren’t blessed but are under a curse. They also aren’t living by faith. Their only hope is not through the law, but through Jesus. Ken and Mike discuss the curse which is the law, the polar opposites of law and faith, and finally how we are redeemed, purchased, to be set free from the law. A listener wants to know what books the guys are currently reading. The guys end up down all sorts of rabbit holes from games like Jenga, cafeteria style dining, and games that youth leaders shouldn’t try. And what causes both of them to shout manna?
Passage: Galatians 3:10-14

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The third episode in the God with us Christmas season. Mike and Ken’s focus this season comes from a verse in the Christmas story, Matthew 1:23, that tells us they will call him Immanuel, which means God with us. What does it mean for God to be with us in our hear and now? Ken and Mike will explore this through prominent characters in the accounts of the Christmas events. In this episode, they focus on Zachariah and Elizabeth and discuss the idea that we can be tempted to think God is not with us. They discuss when God is silent; when He hasn’t answered prayers; when we only consider our resources; think we’ve done it all right; and when He isn’t working the way we expect or think He should. A listener wants to know if the guys are list makers or if they shoot from the hip when making Christmas gift lists. Also, how do Santa Claus and patron saints find their way into the episode?
Passage: Luke 1:5-25, 57-80

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