Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.
Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
There's no sense that Jesus was surprised by his arrest, trial and death. Throughout he shows himself composed and in control. And this only exposes the lonliness and opposition he endured all the more. His friend Peter denies him. The Jewish authorities with great hypocricy, show a concern for remaining clean at the Passover whilst doing and seeking violence against the Son of God. Pilate, concerned with the politics of the situation declares Jesus' innocence and, ironically, his identity as King of the Jews, whilst still having him whipped and crucified. All this would have encouraged persecuted Christians facing similar irrational hatred and injustice in fulfilment of Jesus' warning that they would be hated as he was hated (15v18). It should encourage us too, when we face opposition. This is the noble way of the cross - the way of Christ. As you read note what is revealed about the various characters.John 18:1-19:22
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.