Hey all...I just wanted to comment on a sermon I heard this morning by John Piper (desiringgod.com). It really hit me in the gut, so I wanted to share...

The sermon was based on John 5:31-47. So quick refresher, before that Jesus was doing a bunch of things on the Sabbath, so the Jews were persecuting him (even though he goes, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I, too, am working.”-John 5:17 BAM!). NOW...ut-oh, Jesus was not only breaking the Sabbath, but NOW he was calling God his father!! Between verses 17 and 30 there is a bunch of really good stuff that Jesus used as an answer to them that you should read, but the sermon keyed in on John 5:31-47, so here are the red letters:

If I testify about myself, my testimony is not valid. There is another who testifies in my favor, and I know that his testimony about me is valid. You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light. I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the very work that the Father has given me to finish, and which I am doing, testifies that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself testified concerning me. You have never heard his voice nor seen his form, nor does his word dwell in you, for you do not believe the one he sent. You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. I do not accept praise from men, but I know you. I know that you do not have the love of God in your hearts. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not accept me; but if someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God? But do not think I will accuse you before the Father. You accuser is Moses, on whom your hopes are set. If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote about me. But since you do not believe what he wrote, how are you going to believe what I say?

I couldn't believe how strongly these verses were shouting at me. Reminding me that it's GOD'S glory that we're working for and not man's. We look SO OFTEN for the reassurance of parents and friends and family, when in reality, it's HIS opinion that we should be looking to first and foremost. Reread it and let it push you to your limits.

Love from Ghana

Meg