Finding Jesus
Pelham Associate Campus Minister
Although Jesus is welcome in Galilee, he is not honored. Most are interested only in Jesus’ ability to perform and meet their agenda. However, an official whose son is deathly ill models a humble dependence on Jesus. In the same way, God often uses suffering in our lives to show us our need for him and bring us to faith.
Study Questions
Although Jesus is welcome in Galilee, he is not honored. Most are interested only in Jesus’ ability to perform and meet their agenda. However, an official whose son is deathly ill models a humble dependence on Jesus. In the same way, God often uses suffering in our lives to show us our need for him and bring us to faith.Application
Reflect on the idea that God often uses pain as a critical part of our faith journey. Can you think of a time you experienced this in your life? How did suffering function to make you aware of your need for Jesus?
Many of the Galileans are distracted, judgmental, and demanding. Which of these three tendencies do you struggle with the most? How can you combat your natural inclination to make demands, judge God’s choices, or be distracted by the world?
Consider a time when God was clearly working in your life. Did you take time to reflect and honor him? What does it look like to honor Jesus for the ways he changed your life?
Key Points
As Jesus returns to his hometown, he knows he will not be honored. However, he is not driven by a need for affirmation.
Most of the Galileans miss Jesus because they are distracted, judgmental, and demanding. They want Jesus to meet their agenda.
The official finds Jesus because he is broken, humble, and dependent. He understands his need, which makes it possible for him to receive Jesus with faith.
God uses pain as a doorway to his love and mercy. While suffering is difficult to endure, we can be encouraged that God uses it to reveal himself and draw us closer to him.
The official responds in faith even when he has no evidence of his son’s healing. Often, the only way we know we have faith is by obeying.
After finding his son alive and well, the official honors Jesus. When Jesus acts on our behalf, we also should take time to respond in faith and worship.