Kingswells 17 Jan 1999

Theme: Following Jesus, Whatever the Cost

 

Reading
John 12: 20-26

1.      Introduction
Jesus explains what it really means to follow Him. It means to be like Him, to live the same way that He lived, according to the same principles, obeying the same will of God the Father.

2.      The Illustration of the Seed
John 12:24,25. Story of Colin and Carrie the corn seeds. Colin tried to save his life by hiding in a crack in the shed, but eventually he was eaten. Carrie submitted to the farmer’s purpose and allowed herself to be buried in the soil, but as a result became a plant producing 100 new seeds. God has a wonderful purpose for us. But we have to lay down our own self-will, and submit to his perfect will.

3.      Jesus lived by this Principle
Philippians 2:5-11. He laid aside his heavenly glory to come to this world. He submitted fully to the Father’s will. He humbled himself as a servant. He died on the cross. As a result many will be with him in heaven’s glory, who otherwise would have died in sin, without hope.

4.      We are to live by this Principle
John 12:26. We must allow God to deal with our old self and our sinfulness, so that we might become new creatures (2 Cor 5:17) and live the new life that Jesus provides. We must also submit our self will to his perfect will, so that he can make us fruitful for his glory.