Testimony by Jeremy - NCCF Conference Feb 2013
Knowing Jesus Christ as our Lord - Captured Live on Ustream at http://www.ustream.tv/channel/nccf-live-stream
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that true spiritual life comes not from merely studying scripture, but from having a personal, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, viewing the Bible as a guide to Him. He warns against the tendency to treat scripture as the source of life, rather than recognizing that the scriptures illuminate the face of Christ, who is the source of eternal life. The core message is to maintain a continual, replenishing relationship with Christ, acknowledging that our words of life must flow from Him.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Recognizing the Bridal Relationship With ChristJeremy reflects on the profound transformation that comes from knowing Jesus intimately as a bridegroom rather than just knowing about him.
The Danger of Reading Scriptures as an ObserverHe confesses a tendency to read the Bible as an outside observer—such as seeing Jesus's rebukes of the Pharisees as meant only for them—rather than taking the word personally.
Cut to the Core by John 5:39Upon randomly opening to John 5:39, Jeremy realized he sometimes searches the scriptures thinking he has life in them while refusing to come directly to Jesus for life.John 5:39
Man Shall Not Live by Bread AloneDrawing from the wilderness temptation, Jeremy explains that we must interact with a Christ who continues to speak living words rather than relying on a fixed, past interaction.
Jesus Depending on Daily GuidanceJeremy shares examples from the book of John where Jesus changed His plans about going to the feast and returning to Judea based on ongoing direction from the Father.
Applying the Word to Our Daily StrugglesBelievers must read the Bible expecting God to speak directly into their present trials, and turn to God as their first instinct rather than relying purely on self-strength.
Doing What We See the Father DoingBased on John 5, Jeremy realizes he cannot expect greater revelations from God if he is not currently submitting to and doing what God has already shown him.John 5:19–20
Practicing Discernment Through SubmissionGod's voice gets clearer as we yield to it immediately, whereas ignoring or second-guessing His promptings makes His voice grow softer.
The Danger of Resentful InquiryLooking at Ezekiel and Amos, Jeremy notes that God refused to be inquired of by Israelites who obeyed outwardly with a resentful spirit while longing to return to their business.
Checking Our Hearts for Burdensome ResistanceWhen we view God's commands or daily sacrifices as burdensome, it reveals our hope is misplaced in personal comfort or worldly desires.
Despising the Flesh Instead of the CrossRather than resenting the calling and instruction of the Lord, believers should despise their flesh's natural inclination to buck against submission, which is where true rest is found.
