Dear Christ Followers,
Are you the “real deal?” This phrase is used frequently and can be applied to a variety of contexts, such as in sports, relationships, politics, and in business. When someone says that another person is the “real deal,” it means that they are genuinely authentic, true to themselves, their beliefs, and their values. The phrase “real deal” implies that the person is not just pretending to be something they are not or putting on a show for others.
When it comes to following Jesus have you ever said about someone that he or she is the “real deal?” If you have, obviously you based your analysis on some criteria. Jesus in John 15 is going to the cross and will be leaving His chosen young men. He uses the metaphor of a vine and its branches to teach His disciples about their relationship with Him and God the Father. According to this metaphor, a branch that is connected to Jesus the true Vine can know if it is fruitful or not by observing its own life and actions. So would you say to yourself, “I am the real deal?” Perhaps you are so humble that you would never think or say that about yourself, but are you honest, authentic, and living above reproach in this crooked and crazy world?
I want to encourage you to read and mediate on John 15:1-11. I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that Jesus longs for you to abide in Him, trust Him, love Him, and walk with your little hand in His day by day. I call it “enjoying intimacy with God.” When you and I walk in fellowship with the Lord Jesus and with one another we are blessed and God is glorified.
In just 8 days on Good Friday, we will gather to partake of a meal together celebrating “Passover.” Be sure to sign up online. There are some invite cards to our worship services on the credenza in the sanctuary. Pick up a few and invite some friends who need the Savior.
My title for the message this Sunday from John 15 is, “Spiritual or Superficial?” Are you a possessor of eternal life or just a professor of some religious jargon? Are you in the Spirit or in the flesh? Are you abiding in the True Vine or living for yourself? Are you a kernel of wheat or a tare? Friends, it is important that you know or otherwise you are walking blindly, and I do not want you to fall into a pit. I desire that you experience fullness of joy today and forever!
Because of Calvary,
Glen