“We want to see Jesus” John 12: 20-26

Grace ChurchSeptember 4, 2011

John 12

•  20 Now there were some Greeks among those who went up to worship at the festival. 21 They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. “Sir,” they said, “we would like to see Jesus.” 22 Philip went to tell Andrew; Andrew and Philip in turn told Jesus.  

• 23 Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. 24 Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. 25 Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.

Jesus’ Reply

• 3 Key Truths to Encountering Jesus:

The Cross is the Path to SalvationLoving My Life is a sure way to Losing itFollowing Jesus is more than Worship

and Serving

The Seed Must Die

• Death was planned – no surprise• Not a popular option• Cross (1 Cor.1:18) - foolishness to the perishing

- power of God to the saved• Price paid for My Sin (Rom. 4:25)

• Raised from death to bring New Life (Rom. 6:4)

• Multiplication results – “bringing many sons to glory” (Heb 2:10)

Loving Life and Losing it

• Loving Life– What is the focus of my life?– What pre-occupies me?– Not necessarily wrong– What do my choices reveal?

• What does God say?– Set you heart on things above (Col. 3:2)

– Lesson from the ‘Rich Fool’ (Lk. 12:21)

– Jesus my example – Phil. 2:7

Called to Follow

• More than worship/serving• Consistent theme in Scripture

“Love the Lord your God with all…” (Deut. 6:5)“…search for me with all your heart” (Jer. 29:13)“..deny yourself take up your cross daily and follow

me” (Lk. 9:23)

• To know Jesus ► walk in relationship24/7 relationshipPriority #1“Make a Mary choice” (Lk. 10: 38-42)

What is My Response?

• What does Jesus’ death mean to me?• Who/what is the focus of my life?

What am I living for?I’m not Perfect but am I being Transformed?

• Am I a disciple?How is my walk with God?Am I growing in my relationship – past

months/years

• Choose/Decide/Act - TodayHave someone pray with youBe accountable