Then Peter began to speak: ‘I now realise how true it is that God does not show favouritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right. (Acts 10:34-35)
Who is the most unlikely person to want to hear about Jesus? It is Peter’s turn to share the good news of Jesus, to some more unexpected people. What will happen this time? Is anyone excluded from hearing about Jesus? Does God have favourites?
Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. (Acts 8:35)
Who is the most unlikely person to want to hear about Jesus? As Philip travelled, he met possibly the most excluded person, and introduced them to Jesus. What would be the end result?
“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” (John 10:11)
When Jesus says that he is the good shepherd, what does he mean? Is it good news for us? And, if he is our good shepherd, is is still good news if the good shepherd dies?
“It is Jesus’ name and the faith that comes through him that has completely healed him, as you can all see.” (Acts 3:16)
Peter is speaking after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, yet he speaks as if Jesus is still active in the world. He can only do that because he is! It is not that Jesus rule and actions have ceased, rather, he is still active in the world. That hasn’t ended, and continues today. Through Jesus we can have, and know, forgiveness and refreshment from God.
[Thomas] said to them, ‘Unless I see the nail marks in his hands and put my finger where the nails were, and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.’ (John 20:25)
Less than a week had passed since Jesus rose from the dead, and one of his disciples is already unsure that it actually happened. No matter how many people told him other wise, Thomas didn’t believe it. What would it take for him to believe? What does it take for us to believe?