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May 19.2025
3 Minutes Read

Why Didn't God Send Jesus Sooner? Discovering the Perfect Timing

Contemplative silhouette pondering, urban skyline backdrop

Why the Time Was Just Right for Jesus

In the discussion around the question, "Why didn’t Christ come sooner?", it’s essential to explore the heart of what is meant by “the fullness of time.” In Galatians 4:4, we discover that God had a perfect plan, but it took hundreds of years for that plan to unfold. Why the wait? The Bible teaches that God governs history and has a reason behind every event, including the timing of Christ’s arrival.

In 'Why Didn’t Christ Come Sooner?', the discussion dives into the timing of Christ's arrival, prompting important insights we can reflect upon and expand in our understanding.

The Importance of God’s Timing

Ever thought about how meticulous God is with time? He doesn't just let things happen randomly; He has a plan. After the fall of Adam and Eve, you might think that sending Jesus immediately would make sense. But instead, God chose to send Jesus after years of waiting—years filled with prophets, kings, and lessons about human failure.

The Role of the Law Before Christ

For over 1,400 years, the law guided God's people. It was like a guardian showing them their need for salvation. Can you imagine trying to follow strict rules for all that time? This period allowed people to understand just how hard it is to be perfect. They learned that no one could keep the law perfectly, showing us our need for grace. Paul explains in Romans that the law helps everyone see they fall short, setting the stage for Christ.

Lessons Learned During the Wait

Think of all the stories of the people of Israel. They faced many ups and downs, hardships, and moments of faith. These events weren’t just random. They prepared the world for the arrival of Jesus by providing examples of why we need Him. Every king, prophet, and law was a piece of the puzzle leading to the ultimate gift: Redemption.

Growth in Understanding God’s Plan

The long wait was also about creating a backdrop for Jesus’ ministry. Each prophet spoke of hope. Each priest performed sacrifices that pointed forward to the final sacrifice Jesus would make. Understanding these roles enhances our appreciation of Jesus' work. Without these elements, we wouldn't fully grasp the significance of Christ's coming!

What Can We Learn from His Timing?

Waiting can be hard, right? Think about times in your own life where patience was necessary. Perhaps it was waiting for a birthday, a holiday, or even for guidance during tough times. Just like God timed His plan perfectly with Christ, He also has a perfect timing for us in our lives. We can trust that He’s working behind the scenes, even when we can’t see it.

Conclusion: Trusting in God’s Perfect Plan

Understanding why God waited to send Jesus can help us trust in His timing in our own lives. If you find yourself frustrated with speedbumps along your own journey, remember that God is in control. He knows the perfect timing for everything, including the moments when you need help the most.

If you’re curious about how these insights can deepen your faith or help others, take a moment to explore the resources available at your church or community. Engage with the teachings and experiences shared with fellow believers.

John Piper

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08.31.2025

Discovering Living Water: Lessons from the Woman at the Well

Update Rediscovering Jesus: The Untold Story of the Samaritan Woman In the conversation that takes place at the well in John 4, we see a striking encounter between Jesus and a Samaritan woman. This moment is nothing short of revolutionary, challenging societal norms and showcasing a powerful lesson about inclusion, love, and spirituality. How often do we overlook the depth of what this story teaches us? By understanding the transformation that comes from encountering Jesus, we can glean insights that are valuable for our lives today.In 'Lay Your Buckets Down: Finding Life with the Woman at the Well', the discussion dives into a transformative encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. The Power of Conversation The interaction between Jesus and the Samaritan woman begins with a simple request: “Give me a drink.” This statement immediately shatters the social barriers of the time. Jesus, a Jewish man, speaks to a Samaritan woman—a cultural taboo. Why did Jesus approach her? He knew that she longed for something deeper than physical water; she needed spiritual fulfillment. This simple act of asking for a drink invites us to consider how God engages with us in our daily lives. No matter our background, Jesus seeks a relationship with us. No Sin Too Great The woman's previous relationships highlight a critical truth: Jesus was not deterred by her past. Many of us may feel that our mistakes disqualify us from receiving love or forgiveness. The Samaritan woman had experienced rejection, yet Jesus saw her potential. No sin is too great, and this story reminds us that even in our shame, God reaches out to us, offering a chance to start anew. Jesus’s message is that restoration is possible for everyone, regardless of their background. A Spiritual Thirst that the World Cannot Quench The concept of 'living water' that Jesus discusses serves as a metaphor for spiritual life and sustenance. During a time when drawing water was laborious, the Samaritan woman likely saw little appeal in Jesus’s promise of water that prevents thirst. However, Jesus was referencing a spiritual quenching that transcends physical needs. Today, many seek satisfaction in things that ultimately leave them feeling empty—relationships, achievements, or material possessions. This story encourages us to identify our own thirsty wells and reconsider where we seek fulfillment. The Invitation to Worship Anywhere Another significant lesson from this passage is the idea that true worship can happen anywhere. Jesus explains that worship is not limited to a location or a certain place of worship. Whether at home, in nature, or in a church, the essence of worshiping God is in spirit and truth. This truth empowers believers today, especially young people who might feel constrained by traditional practices. Understanding that God is accessible can transform our approach to faith. We can encounter Him in every aspect of our lives. Breaking Down Barriers The barriers Jesus crossed invite us to reflect on our relationships with others. The animosity between Jews and Samaritans serves as a reminder of our own prejudices and divisions, which exist today. Jesus’s willingness to break societal norms encourages us to reach out to those we might typically avoid. Are there walls in your life that need breaking down? Jesus shows that no wall is too high for the love of God to overcome, and these stories inspire us to create communities of acceptance and unity. Actionable Steps: How to Drink from the Well of Living Water Just like the Samaritan woman, we are invited to ask Jesus to fill us with His living water. Here are three practical steps you can take: Seek Him daily: Set aside time each day to pray and reflect on God’s word. This commitment opens your spirit to receive from Him. Invite others: Just as Jesus engaged the Samaritan woman, invite friends to explore faith or join you in worship. Acts of invitation can lead to transformative conversations. Engage in community service: Find ways to serve your community. Meeting the needs of others is a practical expression of the love Jesus demonstrated. Conclusion: Come to the Fountain The story of the woman at the well is much more than a historical account; it’s a narrative about longing, healing, and transformation. Jesus’s invitation to come and drink from the fountain of living water is extended to all of us. Whether you are a seeker, a new believer, or someone searching for deeper faith, His promise remains: you will never thirst again. So, as you reflect on your journey, ask yourself: Are you willing to lay down your buckets and allow Jesus to fill you with His living water? Embrace His love and let it flow through you!

08.30.2025

The Christian Life: Fleeing Temptation and Pursuing Righteousness

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08.30.2025

Discover How True Freedom Requires Love and Sacrifice

Update The Freedom of Love: A Christian Perspective In a world where many seek comfort, control, and self-interest, the message from John Piper reminds us that true freedom is found in a sacrificial love. This theme resonates throughout his teachings, particularly in the recent episode of Light and Truth, where he unpacks Romans 7:1-6. Here, Piper emphasizes how the freest individuals are those who embody Christ-like love—not just to friends and family, but extending to everyone, including those who may be difficult to love.In 'What Love Requires,' John Piper dives into the concept of freedom through love, exploring insights that lead us to a deeper understanding of our spiritual journey. Understanding Love Through Sacrifice Piper states that love flourishes not from a position of strength, but from a heart willing to sacrifice. This sacrificial love is what sets Christians apart, enabling them to shine brightly in a dark world. In Piper's words, "The freest people in all the world are the most sacrificial lay down your life loving people." In essence, the call to love is a call to give; it is about making room for others and seeing beyond our needs to serve those around us. The Role of the Holy Spirit in Freedom and Love A crucial part of Piper's sermon is the relationship between love and the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul argues that true love, which bears fruit for God, is only possible when we live by the Spirit. Romans 7:6 states, "...we might serve in the newness of the Spirit and not in the oldness of the letter." This indicates that when we operate under the grace of God and not simply by adhering to laws, we are empowered to love deeply and authentically. Dying to the Law: What Does It Mean? The concept of dying to the law can be confusing, especially for new believers. Piper emphasizes that we must understand our old selves and how our reliance on the law can lead to bondage rather than freedom. When we cling to rules rather than relationships, we restrict our ability to love fully. By placing our faith in Christ, we die to the law, allowing us to serve and love freely. How Can We Practice This Love Today? For today's young believers and families, the challenge is to prioritize love over law in daily life. Here are some practical ways to embody this teaching: Practice Forgiveness: Just as Christ forgives us, let us extend grace to those who wrong us. Acts of Kindness: Small acts of love—like helping a neighbor or serving in your community—can reflect the love of Christ. Involve the Spirit: Regular prayer and asking for guidance from the Holy Spirit can create an open heart that seeks to love others. Community Service: Join or organize efforts to help those less fortunate, demonstrating love in action. A Call to Action: Embrace Your Freedom in Love As Dan Kruever reminds us, understanding our freedom through Christ translates into how we relate to others. Love should motivate our actions and interactions. As you embark on your spiritual journey this week, consider: how can you embody this love? What sacrifices are you willing to make for others? Let this be a time of growth and community building. So, as you reflect on Piper's profound message, remember that true freedom is not just about personal liberation but an opportunity to serve and uplift others through Christ-like love. Let us be known as a loving church, ready to embrace anyone with open arms.

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