2022
CurtissStreet BibleFellowship
Reflection on Thanksgiving

Worldly riches rot, rust, and wear out. Money is spent and devalues. However, God offers to us that which never wears out, never becomes useless, and never disappoints us: His Son, Jesus Christ. Read more…

Reflection on Thanksgiving

The Journey from Skepticism to Faith

Nathanael's story is a compelling testament to the journey from skepticism to unwavering faith. Initially skeptical about the Messiah coming from a place as unremarkable as Nazareth, Nathanael's encounter with Jesus swiftly dismantles his doubts, replacing them with a deep and abiding faith. When Jesus reveals His knowledge of Nathanael even before they met, it's a powerful moment of divine insight, leading Nathanael to proclaim, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!" (John 1:49).

This narrative is not just a historical account but a vibrant invitation to each of us to bring our doubts, questions, and presuppositions to Jesus. Nathanael's transformation underscores the truth that genuine encounters with the Lord are not only possible but are waiting for us in our skepticism and curiosity. Jesus welcomes our inquiries and doubts, eager to reveal Himself to us in ways that turn our skepticism into faith.

If you find yourself grappling with doubts or struggling to see Jesus in your life, take heart from Nathanael's story. Approach Jesus with your questions and let the truth of His word and the reality of His presence guide you from uncertainty to a place of deep, transformative faith.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, in my moments of doubt, remind me of Your truth and Your constant presence. Lead me from skepticism to a faith as profound as Nathanael's, grounded in Your unchanging love and grace. Amen.

Reflective Questions:

What are your 'Nazareth' doubts? Identify the doubts or skepticism you have about Jesus or your faith that might be akin to Nathanael's initial dismissal of Jesus from Nazareth. How can you bring these doubts to Jesus for clarity and transformation?

How does Jesus' knowledge of Nathanael before their encounter speak to you personally? Reflect on the fact that Jesus knows you deeply and completely, just as He knew Nathanael. How does this awareness affect your relationship with Him and your journey from skepticism to faith?

Discovering Jesus in the Everyday | John 1:43-51

In the bustling rhythms of our daily lives, it's easy to overlook the extraordinary ways Jesus seeks to engage with us. Just as Nathanael discovered in John 1:43-51, our most mundane moments can become the backdrop for divine encounters. Nathanael, skeptical at first about Jesus of Nazareth, soon found himself face-to-face with the reality of who Jesus truly was—the Son of God, the King of Israel. This revelation came not in a grand temple or a sacred space but beneath the ordinary shade of a fig tree.

Nathanael's initial doubt, "Can anything good come out of Nazareth?" (John 1:46), mirrors our own preconceptions and biases. Yet, his story is a beautiful reminder that God often works outside our expectations, inviting us to discover Him in the unexpected and everyday places of our lives. The invitation from Philip, "Come and see," is extended to us daily, urging us to look beyond our presuppositions and be open to encountering Jesus in new and surprising ways.

As you go about your day, remember that each moment holds the potential for a divine encounter. Whether you're at work, at home, or in transit, Jesus is present and actively seeking a relationship with you. Let Nathanael's transformation inspire you to seek Jesus with an open heart and mind, ready to be amazed by where and how He reveals Himself to you.

Prayer: Lord, help me to see You in every part of my day, even in the places I least expect. Open my eyes to Your presence in the ordinary and the extraordinary moments of life. Amen.

Reflective Questions

Where are the 'fig tree' moments in your life? Reflect on the ordinary, everyday places and situations where you might be overlooking the presence of Jesus. How can you become more attuned to His presence in these moments?

How do your preconceptions about Jesus influence your ability to see Him in your daily life? Consider the ways in which your expectations might limit your encounters with Jesus. What steps can you take to open your heart to experiencing Jesus beyond these preconceptions?

Transformed by Resurrection Power

A Personal Encounter

The resurrection power of Jesus is not confined to the pages of history; it's a dynamic, transformative force available to us today. The early disciples experienced this power firsthand, changing them from fearful individuals into bold proclaimers of the gospel. This same power is at work in the lives of believers today, offering transformation and renewal.

Transformation Today

The resurrection power is evident in changed lives—broken relationships restored, addictions overcome, and new purposes found. These stories of transformation are modern-day testimonies to the ongoing work of the risen Christ in our world.

Embracing Change

Reflect on the areas of your life where you long for transformation. It could be a personal struggle, a relationship, or a call to a new direction in life. How can you open yourself more fully to the transformative power of the resurrection?

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for the promise and power of Your resurrection. I invite You to work in my life, transforming me from the inside out. Help me to surrender fully to You, trusting in Your power to change me and use me for Your glory. Amen.

Reflective Questions:

  1. Reflect on a time when you experienced significant personal change or saw it in someone else. How did you see God's hand in that transformation? What aspects of the resurrection power were evident in that situation?

  2. Transformation often requires us to let go of something to embrace the new life God offers. What might God be asking you to let go of, and how can you trust Him more deeply to bring resurrection life into that area of your existence?

Witnesses of the Risen Christ

The Power of Testimony

The resurrection of Jesus was not a secret event, witnessed by a select few. Over 500 people saw the risen Christ, providing compelling evidence of His victory over death. These eyewitness accounts form a cornerstone of Christian faith, offering us not just stories but testimonies of the living truth.

Seeing and Believing

The transformation in the lives of these witnesses is profound. From fear to boldness, doubt to conviction, their encounters with the risen Jesus changed them fundamentally. Their testimonies invite us to move from skepticism to faith, from questioning to encountering the living Christ ourselves.

Personal Challenge

Consider the role of witness in your own life. How have the personal testimonies of others—whether from scripture or personal stories—impacted your faith? How might your own experiences of God's work in your life serve as a testimony to others?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for the multitude of witnesses who have testified to the truth of Your Son's resurrection. Help me to be both encouraged by their stories and to become a witness myself, sharing the impact of Your love and power in my life with others. Amen.

Reflective Questions:

  1. If you had been among the early witnesses of the risen Christ, how do you think you would have reacted? Consider your current doubts or faith struggles; how might a personal encounter with the risen Jesus address those?

  2. The testimonies of those who saw the risen Christ were central to spreading the early Christian faith. How can your own experiences of God's presence and action in your life serve as a testimony to others? Think of one story you could share this week.

Encountering the Empty Tomb

Reflecting on the Empty Tomb

The discovery of the empty tomb is a pivotal moment in Christian faith, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This event is not just a historical occurrence; it's the foundation of our hope and the source of our spiritual renewal. The empty tomb signifies that death does not have the final say, and it validates the claims and teachings of Jesus.

A Message of Hope

The empty tomb speaks directly to our deepest fears and challenges. In moments of despair, loss, and uncertainty, the empty tomb reminds us that God's power overcomes all, even death itself. It's a testament that with God, endings can transform into new beginnings, and what seems final can open the door to new life.

Personal Reflection

As you reflect on the empty tomb, consider the areas of your life where you need renewal or hope. Perhaps you're facing a situation that seems insurmountable or a personal failure that feels final. Let the message of the empty tomb fill you with the assurance that with God, new life is always possible.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for the hope and renewal that the empty tomb represents. Help me to see the areas of my life where You are bringing new beginnings out of endings. May the reality of Your resurrection power inspire and transform me every day. Amen.

Reflective Questions:

  1. In what areas of your life do you need to experience the hope and renewal that the empty tomb represents? Reflect on a situation where you feel stuck or hopeless and imagine what resurrection might look like there.

  2. The empty tomb was first encountered by those who went seeking Jesus. How might you "seek" Jesus more intentionally in your daily life, and what steps can you take to become more aware of His renewing presence around you?

The Triumph of Truth Over Treachery

In the courtroom of Pontius Pilate and the court of public opinion, Jesus was a figure of controversy and conviction. The unfolding events of John 19:1–7, as elucidated by Pastor Ronald A. Smith, shine a spotlight on the Savior who, amidst deceit and manipulation, stands as the epitome of truth and integrity. Despite the best efforts of those who sought to silence Him, Christ's purpose never wavered. Even as He bore the brunt of human cruelty, His divine nature remained unassailable. Today, we are reminded that Jesus' trials were not merely physical but were deeply rooted in a spiritual battle—a battle He conquered through His love and sacrifice. In this contemplation, we're invited to witness the unwavering mission of Jesus: to be the Lamb led to the slaughter, to become the bridge between humanity and the divine, and to be the living truth that sets us free.

Behold the Man - Humility and Sacrifice

As we stand in the shadow of the cross, we're reminded of Jesus' last days, particularly the final one—filled not with pomp but with the utmost humility. This Good Friday, let's delve deeper into John 19:1–7, where Jesus, standing unjustly accused, reveals the true nature of sacrifice. Pastor Ronald A. Smith helps us understand the significance of Christ's sufferings—each mockery, each scourge, not a symbol of defeat but an embodiment of divine strength. Jesus’ path to the cross wasn’t dictated by those who shouted for His crucifixion but was a journey He walked willingly, a preordained plan for our redemption. As we reflect on this powerful scripture, we're called to grasp the gravity of Christ's passion. Every lash endured, every thorn pressed into His brow, was for our transgressions, a physical testament to an ethereal truth: By His wounds, we are healed.


Embracing God's Sovereign Plan | Palm Sunday

"The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, 'Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!'" John 12:12-19

The scene of Jesus's triumphal entry into Jerusalem is a vivid picture of God's sovereignty intersecting with human expectation. The air was filled with shouts of "Hosanna," a cry for salvation, as the crowd hoped for deliverance from Roman rule. Yet, their vision was limited to earthly freedom, missing the greater liberation Jesus came to offer from sin and death.

This story is a profound reminder that God's plans are not always in line with ours but are always for our good and His glory. Jesus's unwavering journey towards the cross, amidst misunderstanding and misplaced hopes, demonstrates His complete obedience to God's redemptive plan. It's a call for us to trust in God's sovereignty, to find peace in the knowledge that He is in control, even when life seems chaotic or unpredictable.

Reflection Questions:

  1. Reflect on how Jesus's steadfast adherence to God's plan, despite the crowd's misunderstanding, can motivate you to trust in God's plan for your life, especially during uncertain times.

  2. Think about a situation where God's plan differed from your own. How did the eventual outcome reveal God's sovereignty and love, perhaps in ways you hadn't anticipated?

  3. What areas of your life do you struggle to surrender to God? How can acknowledging His sovereignty help you let go and trust Him more fully, even when it's hard to understand His plan?

"Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21


Understanding the True King | Palm Sunday

"The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, 'Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!'" John 12:12-19

As Jesus made His way into Jerusalem, the excitement was noticeable. Crowds lined the streets, their hands filled with palm branches, voices united in a chorus of "Hosannas." This moment of jubilation, however, held a deeper story. The very crowd that celebrated Jesus's arrival with such fervor would, in mere days, turn against Him, calling for His crucifixion.

This pivotal event in the Bible prompts us to examine our own perspectives on Jesus. Often, we welcome Him into our lives with open arms, hoping He will fix our problems, fulfill our wishes, and align with our personal agendas. We long for a Jesus who matches our expectations, overlooking His true mission of bringing us salvation and restoring our relationship with God.

Yet, Jesus's choice to enter Jerusalem on a humble donkey, rather than a majestic horse, sends a powerful message about His kingship. It challenges our worldly views of power and success, inviting us to embrace a kingdom built on humility, service, and love.

Reflection Questions:

  1. How can you adjust your expectations to welcome Jesus not just as a problem-solver but as the King of your heart, who offers something far greater than temporary solutions?

  2. Jesus's humble entry on a donkey contradicts our human desire for grandeur and power. How does this act of humility challenge you to rethink your values and priorities?

  3. Consider a time when God's plans didn't align with your desires. How did this experience deepen your understanding of His character and draw you closer to Him?

"Say to the daughter of Zion, 'Behold, your king is coming to you, humble, and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.'" Matthew 21:5

Andrew, the Unassuming Disciple

John 1:35-42 ESV

35 The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and he looked at Jesus as he walked by and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. 38 Jesus turned and saw them following and said to them, “What are you seeking?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39 He said to them, “Come and you will see.” So they came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. 40 One of the two who heard John speak and followed Jesus was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his own brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ). 42 He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon the son of John. You shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter).

Andrew’s story continues to inspire as we see him taking a back seat, content in the knowledge that his role, however modest, contributes to a greater plan. Through his encounters, Andrew demonstrates how unpretentious dedication can lead to significant outcomes in God’s kingdom.

Jesus doesn’t just offer a brief greeting to Andrew; He invites him into an entire day of conversation and fellowship. In those precious hours, Andrew’s understanding of Jesus deepens, affirming his belief that he has indeed found the Messiah. This intimate knowledge of Jesus is something Andrew can’t keep to himself.

When Andrew tells Simon, “We have found the Messiah,” there is a sense of discovery that can resonate with us all. His enthusiasm in sharing this news with his brother mirrors our calling to spread the gospel with fervor. It is a personal encounter, multiplied.

Simon’s Transformation

Jesus sees Simon and immediately bestows upon him a new identity: Peter, the rock. Andrew’s introduction plays a critical role in Simon’s spiritual journey. This teaches us the potential impact of our witness, how one simple introduction to Jesus can change a life forever.

Though not often center stage, Andrew’s actions spark a chain reaction in the early church. His willingness to step aside for the greater good, to bring others to Jesus, sets a precedent for service and humility.

Reflect:

  1. How can Andrew’s heartfelt sharing of Jesus inspire our own witness to those around us?

  2. Reflecting on Andrew's role in bringing Peter to Jesus, how do we view our opportunities to introduce Jesus to others?

Let Andrew’s story encourage us to continue growing in our faith, sharing the truth of Jesus with simplicity and authenticity, and trusting in the far-reaching effects of our humble service.