Tag: Apostle John

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A Statement on Authority (Part 1)

Before considering Christ’s messages to the seven churches of Asia Minor in Revelation 2 and 3, we first need to consider the authority behind those messages.

In this first part of A Statement on Authority, we begin in Revelation chapter 1 and consider the divine authority behind this book, from Jesus Christ through John and the angel who delivered the message. We also consider the special blessing pronounced upon those who read, hear, and keep the words of this prophecy. This message serves as an introduction to our upcoming series through the Seven Churches of Asia.

Radio broadcast for October 4, 2026. Continue reading “A Statement on Authority (Part 1)”

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The Quiet but Bold Disciple (Part 2)

In this second part of The Quiet but Bold Disciple, we continue examining the Apostle John through his interactions with Peter and his relationship with Jesus.

We consider John standing faithfully at the cross while Jesus entrusts His mother to his care, and then follow Peter and John as they run to the empty tomb on the morning of the resurrection. Their different personalities and actions provide another interesting glimpse into the character of these two apostles.

We then come to John 21, where Peter asks Jesus, “Lord, and what shall this man do?” Jesus’ answer – “What is that to thee? follow thou me” – provides an important lesson about keeping our attention on Christ rather than comparing our calling, circumstances, or service with those of others.

The message concludes with several practical observations about the reality of the Gospel accounts, John’s humility, friendly rivalry, the danger of comparison, and the importance of simply following Christ faithfully.

Radio broadcast for August 16, 2026 Continue reading “The Quiet but Bold Disciple (Part 2)”

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The Quiet but Bold Disciple — Part 1

In this message, we begin a study of the Apostle John, one of the “sons of thunder” who is often overshadowed by the more outspoken Apostle Peter. Yet as we follow John through the Gospel accounts, we discover a disciple whose quiet and humble character was accompanied by remarkable boldness and faithfulness.

We consider the friendship and contrasts between Peter and John, John’s early calling to follow Jesus, and the remarkable way he refers to himself throughout his Gospel as “the disciple whom Jesus loved.” We also examine John’s close proximity to Christ at the Last Supper and his presence during Jesus’ arrest and trial, where his quiet courage stands in striking contrast to Peter’s impulsiveness and denial.

The life of John reminds us that Christian faithfulness does not always look loud or prominent. There is a place for the quiet disciple who simply stays close to Jesus, follows Him, and remains faithful. Continue reading “The Quiet but Bold Disciple — Part 1”

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It Is Finished

Concluding our series on “sovereign grace statements” from John’s gospel, we study one of the grandest of them all, when our Lord Jesus proclaimed “It Is Finished” before giving His life on the cross.

Radio broadcast for January 1, 2023.

By the way! As of the first Sunday in 2023, Words of Grace turns 15 years old! Thanks for your continued support of this ministry. Continue reading “It Is Finished”

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The Church at Sardis

The Lord’s words to the church at Sardis were terrifying: They had the reputation of a living church, but were indeed as good as dead. Ouch! One can only imagine how their pastor’s heart sunk as he learned that news. The good thing, there was even hope for a church in such a poor shape. Through strengthening the remaining life and repenting, they could walk with Christ and continue. That’s helpful for us to know today!

Radio broadcast for February 6, 2022. Continue reading “The Church at Sardis”