Jesus continues to drop jaws.
He heals people. He tells the religious rulers that acceptance with God is not based on perfection. And now he’s about to tell someone that it has nothing to do with place.
This was big back then. Everything was about the temple. That’s where people worshiped. But while Jesus is talking with a Samaritan woman he drops this truth bomb on her:
“But the time is coming—indeed it’s here now—when true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth. The Father is looking for those who will worship him that way. For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” The woman said, “I know the Messiah is coming—the one who is called Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus told her, “ I AM the Messiah!” John 4:23-26 (NLT)
Worshiping God is not about perfection, not about a place, but rather about Spirit… and Truth. What does he mean by this? It’s about the heart. It’s about integrity. It’s about honesty. It can even symbolize the Trinity – Worshiping the FATHER is all about the Holy SPIRIT and the Son who brings TRUTH.
But notice who Jesus tells this to… a Samaritan scandalous woman. She’s had multiple husbands, she’s an ethic halfbreed in the minds of Jews, and she’s a woman – often overlooked in that society. And Jesus tells her his secret. “I am the Messiah.”
Worship is not about perfection, place, and now persons. This good news is for everyone.
Is there anyone in your world right now who you think the Gospel is not for? Be honest. The answer might even be you.
Jesus says… it’s for all.
Worship is not about Perfection – Grateful for something to engage our minds with leading up
to Easter. Moving forward in the spirit of God with the truth of God for the glory of God
John 23-24 (The Message)
“It’s who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That’s the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration.”
Praise Jesus, our Messiah and Savior, who die for all! Glory to His matchless name!
Jesus came for all of us. However, sometimes we forget that when we watch so much evil being done in this world. Father give us hearts filled with grace and compassion. In Jesus name. Thank you for Pastor Rusty.