Play-by-Play: John (3/3)Намуна

Resurrection and Victory

Theme verses: “Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29

Tommy Johns was in the middle of one of his best pro seasons in 1974 in Major League Baseball, when he suffered permanent damage to his ulnar collateral ligament in his throwing arm. Normally, this would have been a career-ending injury, but thanks to the surgical procedure named after him, his career was resurrected.

Think how incredible it was for Jesus’ disciples to witness His resurrection. During my freshman year in college, I had the opportunity to hear Josh McDowell deliver the most compelling talk on the resurrection of Jesus that I had ever heard. His groundbreaking book Evidence That Demands a Verdict is recognized as one of the twentieth century’s top 40 books! Little has changed in his approach over the past five decades when he speaks on the resurrection.

Here are a couple of his most notable quotes about the resurrection: “After more than 700 hours of studying this subject, and thoroughly investigating its foundation, I have come to the conclusion that the resurrection of Jesus Christ is one of the most wicked, vicious, heartless hoaxes ever foisted upon the minds of men, or it is the most fantastic fact of history.”

“No matter how devastating our struggles, disappointments, and troubles are, they are only temporary. No matter what happens to you, no matter the depth of tragedy or pain you face, no matter how death stalks you and your loved ones, the Resurrection promises you a future of immeasurable good.”

John closes this chapter by repeating Jesus’ call to believe in Him. Still, many chose to neglect the truth of His resurrection. Others are like the professional baseball player who told his coach who was losing his temper, “Coach, you need to walk with Jesus.” The coach replied, “I’d rather walk with the bases loaded.”

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete believe in the resurrection as the triumphant and glorious victory for every believer. It proves He has the power to raise the dead.

H.E.A.R.

As you read today’s chapter, journal using the H.E.A.R method:

H (Highlight) - What stands out to you? If something stands out to you, it’s likely God pulling you toward a certain portion of scripture.

E (Explain) - Describe in context the text. Ask questions like: Why was this written? To whom was it originally written? How does this fit with the verses before and after? Why did the Holy Spirit include this passage in the book?

A (Apply) - How do you take this verse beyond the page? Ask questions like: How can this help me? What does this mean today? What would the application of this verse look like in my life? What is God saying to me?

R (Respond) - This is where you will write a measurable response to the truth God revealed. Maybe it will be a call to action, something you will change in the coming week. Maybe it will be a prayer asking God to help you work this truth into your life. Whichever, make sure it is measurable so you can hold yourself accountable in your growth as a disciple.