John 19:38-42
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. If you haven’t read the Introduction to John’s Gospel, read it here.
Read John 19:38-42 paying attention to anything that stands out to you.
Not all of Israel’s religious leaders rejected Jesus out of hand. Nicodemus, a respected teacher of the law, sought Jesus out, and Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the “high council” (according to Mark’s Gospel), opposed the decision of the council to request Jesus’ execution. These two “secret” disciples of Jesus saw that Jesus was no ordinary rabbi, and it seems from the limited information about them in the Gospels they believed that Jesus was who he said he was. But in spite of this they did not become full-time members of Jesus’ community of disciples.
What is the call of God on your life? Would you say that you suspect Jesus is asking you to give up your current profession to pursue some kind of full-time vocation? Or do you sense Jesus is inviting you to live for him and carry out his mission of restoration within your current vocation or context?
Take a moment to talk with Jesus about this. Be completely honest with him about your concerns and fears as well as your desires.
Read John 19:38-42 again noting the boldness of Joseph and Nicodemus.
Something about the execution of Jesus compels these two secret disciples to go public. Their request of Pilate is sure to be known by other members of the religious elite, but in the wake of the crucifixion, they don’t seem to mind anymore. One has to wonder if they deeply regret not publicly declaring their faith in Jesus while he was alive. It is entirely plausible that Jesus’ unjust execution has emboldened them to overtly identify as his followers.
Why do you follow Jesus? Take a few moments that consider the reasons and share them with Jesus.
Do you have desire for other people to experience Jesus as you have?
Sharing our faith is not a sales pitch for a product. Our relationship with Jesus is the core of who we are. It is in this relationship that we find our true identity, our purpose and our hope. Our allegiance to Jesus should be a natural part of our conversations. We don’t need to sell Jesus or judge people for beliefs that run contrary to ours, but we can be public disciples of Jesus in a way that allows those with open hearts to know him and experience him.
For the last few minutes talk to Jesus about the nature of your discipleship. Consider whether the people in your circles of influence know that you are a follower of Jesus.
What is Jesus inviting you do to or do differently?
What will you do about that?
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