JUN 2

John 2:19-22
Memorise 2 Peter 3:18
“But grow in grace, and in the knowledge...”

In John 2:19-21, Jesus spoke of the future - of the destruction of the temple, which He would raise up in three days. At that time the disciples did not understand what He meant. Upon His death and resurrection the disciples remembered what Jesus had told them. They also knew Scripture (which prophesied of Christ’s death and resurrection – Psalm 16:8-11). When Jesus rose, this knowledge was changed to belief and understanding. It is because of this prior knowledge that they later understood what was happening and were strengthened and comforted in their faith though Jesus was no longer with them. His death and resurrection was appointed to be so. The Scriptures were true and what Jesus had said came to pass.

Christ did not call the disciples and then leave them on their own. One meeting or lesson was not sufficient for the disciples to know everything there was to know about Him. Christ spent much time teaching them and building up their faith, so that they would be able to continue His ministry when He was gone. Imagine if the disciples had scant knowledge of Old Testament Scripture or could not remember what Christ had said. Would they have enough understanding or wisdom to be able to serve God effectively? Would their faith have grown?

Without faith it is impossible to grow spiritually. But your faith, like anything that grows needs to be constantly nurtured and fed in order to flourish and bear fruit. Otherwise, it will languish and be sickly and unproductive. Whilst we know more than we necessarily understand or fully comprehend, this knowledge can later progress to understanding. Knowledge is the foundation of understanding and wisdom. When there are trials in life, how will you be comforted? How will you know what to do and not sin? Will you emerge from the trial a stronger and more mature Christian?

Thought: Do you even desire to grow? Or are you satisfied with your present state?
Prayer: RPG – Read His Word, Pray without ceasing; and Grow in grace and knowledge.