Kingdom Kernel #4 – The Good Shepherd’s Example

Jeremiah 23:1-8 – Shepherds of the Flock: Divine Leadership from Jeremiah’s Prophecy to Christ’s Perfect Model

The concept of “shepherds” in Jeremiah 23:1-8 serves as both a warning and an encouragement to disciple-makers, with Jesus Christ standing as the ultimate exemplar of shepherding leadership. This passage, set against the backdrop of Judah’s impending exile, presents a stark contrast between unfaithful leaders and the promise of a righteous shepherd-king.

Etymology and Biblical Context

The Hebrew word for shepherd, derives from the root raw-aw’ (Strongs H7462), meaning to pasture, tend, or graze. This term encompasses not only the literal occupation of caring for sheep but also metaphorically represents leadership, particularly in a spiritual or governmental context.

In Jeremiah 23:1-8, God pronounces judgment on the “shepherds” who have failed in their duty to care for His people. These leaders, primarily referring to the kings and religious authorities of Judah, have “scattered the flock” through their negligence and self-serving actions.

The Failure of Human Shepherds

The indictment against these shepherds is severe. They have:

1. Destroyed and scattered the sheep

2. Driven them away

3. Failed to attend to their needs

This failure of leadership resulted in the people’s spiritual and moral decay, ultimately leading to national calamity.

Jesus: The Perfect Shepherd

In contrast to these failed leaders, Jesus Christ emerges as the perfect shepherd. He embodies the ideal qualities that God demands of His shepherds:

1. Goodness: Jesus is inherently good, reflecting the very character of God. (John 10:11)

2. Protection: He safeguards His flock, ensuring their eternal security. (John 17:12)

3. Guidance: Jesus leads His followers in paths of righteousness. (John 10:3-4)

4. Nurture: He tenderly cares for the weak and vulnerable. (Matthew 11:28-30)

5. Sacrifice: Ultimately, Jesus lays down His life for His sheep. (John 10:11,15)

The Promise of Restoration

Jeremiah’s prophecy doesn’t end with condemnation. God promises to:

1. Gather the remnant of His flock

2. Bring them back to their pasture

3. Raise up shepherds who will care for them properly

4. Establish a righteous Branch from David’s line

This messianic promise finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd who perfectly embodies God’s leadership.

Implications for Disciple-Makers

For contemporary disciple-makers, this passage offers crucial lessons:

1. Warning: Leadership in God’s kingdom carries weighty responsibility. Neglect or self-interest can have devastating consequences on those under our care.

2. Encouragement: God Himself intervenes to restore and care for His people. Our efforts in discipleship are ultimately undergirded by His sovereign work.

3. Model: Jesus provides the perfect example of shepherding leadership. Disciple-makers should emulate His selfless care, protection, and guidance.

4. Hope: The promise of God’s restoration reminds us that our labor is not in vain. He is working to gather and nurture His flock, even in the face of human failure.

Jeremiah 23:1-8 presents a powerful contrast between human failure and divine faithfulness in spiritual leadership. It points us to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise to shepherd His people. For disciple-makers, this passage serves as both a sobering reminder of our responsibility and an encouraging assurance of God’s overarching care and provision for His flock.

Disciple-Maker’s Short Story

“The Gentle Shepherd’s Way”

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through Kathy’s cozy kitchen, mingling with the warm sunlight streaming through the windows. Sarah sat at the breakfast table, her hands wrapped around a steaming mug, her eyes fixed on Kathy with a mixture of affection and concern.

“Kathy,” Sarah began, her voice gentle but firm, “I’ve noticed you’ve been a bit… intense with Julie lately. I think it’s time we talked about the concept of shepherding like Jesus.”

Kathy’s brow furrowed. “What do you mean, Sarah? I’m just trying to help her grow in her faith.”

Sarah nodded, understanding in her eyes. “I know, and your heart is in the right place. But let’s explore this idea of ‘Shepherds of the Flock’ from Jeremiah’s prophecy to Christ’s perfect model. It might give us a new perspective.”

As Sarah began to explain, Kathy’s defensive posture slowly relaxed. She listened intently as Sarah painted a vivid picture of the failed shepherds in Jeremiah’s time, contrasting them with the promise of a righteous shepherd-king.

“You see,” Sarah continued, “Jesus exemplified what it truly means to be a good shepherd. He led with gentleness, protected His flock, and ultimately sacrificed Himself for them. That’s the model we’re called to follow in our discipleship.”

Kathy’s eyes widened with realization. “Oh,” she whispered, “I think I see what you mean. I’ve been pushing Julie so hard to pray more, but maybe I’ve been more of a taskmaster than a shepherd.”

Sarah reached across the table, squeezing Kathy’s hand. “It’s an easy trap to fall into. We all want to see growth, but we need to remember that true shepherding is about nurturing, not forcing.”

Just then, the doorbell chimed. Julie had arrived for their coffee date. As she entered the kitchen, Kathy felt a newfound sense of purpose and humility wash over her.

“Julie!” Kathy greeted her warmly. “We were just talking about prayer. How have you been doing with that lately?”

Julie’s shoulders slumped slightly. “To be honest, I’ve been struggling. I know I should pray more, but it feels like such a chore sometimes.”

Kathy caught Sarah’s eye, receiving an encouraging nod. Taking a deep breath, she reflected on the gentle shepherd she aspired to be.

“Julie, I want you to know that God loves you, regardless of how much you pray,” Kathy said softly. “Let’s think about prayer differently. Instead of a task to complete, what if we viewed it as a conversation with someone who cares deeply for us?”

Julie’s eyes glistened with unshed tears. “That… that sounds nice. But how do I start?”

“Why don’t we pray together right now?” Kathy suggested. “Nothing formal, just a chat with our Heavenly Father.”

As the three women bowed their heads, Kathy led a simple, heartfelt prayer. She thanked God for His love, asked for His guidance, and expressed gratitude for their friendship. When they finished, Julie’s face shone with a newfound peace.

“That felt different,” Julie admitted. “Like I was actually connecting with God, not just reciting words.”

Sarah beamed at Kathy, pride evident in her eyes. Kathy felt a warmth in her chest, realizing that in learning to shepherd like Jesus, she was not only helping Julie but also growing closer to Christ herself.

As they continued their conversation over coffee, Kathy marveled at the transformation. By embracing the role of a gentle shepherd, she had opened the door to deeper, more meaningful discipleship. And in doing so, she felt her own heart aligning more closely with the ultimate Shepherd, Jesus Christ.

When Tradition Goes South – #103

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Welcome Back! Today, we’ll be looking at the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and John to see what Jesus thinks about traditions that trump the commands of God.

So let’s get started.

(Click here to get a copy of the Gospel Sync document)

Matthew 15:1–9, Mark 7:1–13, John 7:1

After this, Jesus traveled throughout Galilee. He did not want to travel in Judea, because the Jews there were trying to kill Him. Then some Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and gathered around Him and they saw some of His disciples eating with hands that were defiled—that is, unwashed. Now in holding to the tradition of the elders, the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat until they wash their hands ceremonially. And on returning from the market, they do not eat unless they wash. And there are many other traditions for them to observe, including the washing of cups, pitchers, kettles, and couches for dining.

So the Pharisees and scribes questioned Jesus: “Why do Your disciples break the tradition of the elders and not walk according to them? They do not wash their hands before they eat. Instead, they eat with defiled hands.”

Jesus answered them, “Isaiah prophesied correctly about you hypocrites, as it is written:

‘These people honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men.’

You have disregarded the commandment of God to keep the tradition of men. So why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?” He went on to say, “You neatly set aside the command of God to maintain your own tradition. For God said through Moses, ‘Honor your father and mother’ and ‘Anyone who curses his father or mother must be put to death.’ But you say that if anyone says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever you would have received from me is Corban’ (that is, a gift devoted to God)’he is no longer permitted to do anything for his father or mother. Thus you nullify the word of God by the tradition you have handed down. And you do so in many such matters.”

My Thoughts

Think about how traditions can sometimes work against their original purpose like when men over engineer a mighty river. Just as a diverted river can leave its natural bed dry and lifeless, human-made traditions can sometimes drain the life from God’s commandments.

Consider the ancient practice of “Corban” mentioned in the Biblical passage. Here was a tradition that, on its surface, appeared to honor God through dedicated offerings. Yet in practice, it created a loophole that allowed people to circumvent their basic responsibility to care for their aging parents. It’s like building a dam that redirects a river’s life-giving water away from the communities that depend on it, all while claiming to “improve water management.”

This example reveals a crucial distinction: not all traditions serve their intended purpose. While some traditions carry forward vital values like rivers carrying water, others can become like stagnant pools that trap and distort the original flow of divine wisdom. The religious leaders of the time had created an intricate delta of rules and traditions that, rather than clearly expressing God’s commandments, effectively buried them under layers of human interpretation and nefarious motives.

The warning here is clear – when our traditions begin to contradict or supersede fundamental moral obligations, we’ve lost our way. It’s akin to a river that’s been so extensively engineered that it no longer serves its essential purpose of sustaining life along its banks. The religious leaders had become such skilled navigators of their traditional rules that they’d forgotten the destination – showing love and honor to both God and people.

Tradition isn’t meant to be a clever system of bypassing moral obligations, but rather a channel through which eternal truths can flow freely from one generation to the next. Just as a healthy river system needs regular clearing of obstacles and restoration of natural flows, our traditions need constant examination to ensure they’re not damming up the very values they’re meant to convey.

The solution isn’t to abandon tradition entirely – that would be like trying to live without rivers. Instead, we need to ensure our traditions remain true to their source, allowing divine love to flow freely through them rather than being diverted by human convenience. When traditions begin to obstruct rather than facilitate our ability to honor God and care for others, it’s time to clear the channel and let the original flow resume its course.

My Story

How long does it take for some good practice to become a tradition in danger of losing its purpose? Can it happen in 6 months? You bet your boots it can! Deb and I were introduced to a method of sharing the gospel that was not only effective, it went viral. People were using it around the world in multiple languages and it was intoxicatingly exciting. But something started to happen very quickly that tarnished our enthusiasm. Without people recognizing their actions, it became “THE” way to share. They started pitching the method as the “silver bullet.” There were even cases where people resented someone suggesting another way to share the gospel. Pride had crept in and had done its dirty damage to what started out so well. And yes, it only took 6 months.

The most striking aspect of this mistake is its relevance today. How often do we find ourselves upholding traditions that, while comfortable and familiar, might actually be preventing us from fulfilling our allegiance and obedience to God? Like those religious leaders of old, we might be excellent navigators of our traditional practices while missing the deeper current of compassion and obedience that should guide our actions.

Just as every river eventually seeks its true path, our traditions must ultimately serve, not subvert, the timeless commandments they were meant to preserve and transmit. Otherwise, we risk creating elaborate systems of practice that leave the heart of faith as dry as a riverbed that once flowed freely.

Our Action Plan

Now it’s time for application. Here’s some ideas;

Do a personal inventory of your “traditions.” Are they truly fulfilling the original intent?
Do a Bible study on what Jesus and Paul said about tradition with those you are discipling.
As you look at Scripture, make a distinction between Principles and Methods. Principles should drive the method, never methods the principles.

Traditions, like rivers, should flow with life-giving purpose, not dam up our obedience to God’s commands. Let’s ensure our practices channel divine love freely, rather than diverting it for human convenience.

Cuando la tradición se desmorona – 103

¡Bienvenidos nuevamente! Hoy, analizaremos los Evangelios de Mateo, Marcos y Juan para ver qué piensa Jesús sobre las tradiciones que prevalecen sobre los mandamientos de Dios.

Comencemos.

Mateo 15:1-9, Marcos 7:1-13, Juan 7:1

Después de esto, Jesús viajó por toda Galilea. No quería viajar por Judea, porque los judíos de allí estaban tratando de matarlo. Entonces algunos fariseos y escribas vinieron a Jesús desde Jerusalén y se reunieron alrededor de Él. Y vieron a algunos de Sus discípulos comiendo con manos impuras, es decir, sin lavar. Ahora bien, según la tradición de los ancianos, los fariseos y todos los judíos no comen sin lavarse las manos ceremonialmente. Y al regresar del mercado, no comen sin lavarse. Y hay muchas otras tradiciones que ellos deben observar, incluyendo el lavamiento de vasos, jarras, teteras y lechos para comer.

Entonces los fariseos y escribas preguntaron a Jesús: “¿Por qué Tus discípulos quebrantan la tradición de los ancianos y no andan conforme a ellos? No se lavan las manos antes de comer. En cambio, comen con manos impuras”.

Jesús les respondió: «Hipócritas, bien profetizó Isaías de vosotros, como está escrito:

“Este pueblo me honra con los labios, pero su corazón está lejos de mí. Me rinden culto en vano; enseñan como doctrina preceptos de hombres”.

Habéis dejado de lado el mandamiento de Dios de guardar la tradición de los hombres. ¿Por qué, pues, quebrantáis el mandamiento de Dios por vuestra tradición?»

Habéis dejado de lado el mandamiento de Dios para guardar vuestra propia tradición. Pues Dios dijo por medio de Moisés: “Honra a tu padre y a tu madre”, y: “El que maldiga a su padre o a su madre será condenado a muerte”. Pero vosotros decís que si alguien dice a su padre o a su madre: “Todo lo que quisieras recibir de mí es Corbán (es decir, un regalo consagrado a Dios), ya no le está permitido hacer nada por su padre o por su madre. De este modo, anuláis la palabra de Dios con la tradición que habéis transmitido. Y lo mismo hacéis en muchas cosas como éstas».

Mis Pensamientos

Pensemos en cómo las tradiciones a veces pueden ir en contra de su propósito original, como cuando los hombres sobredimensionan un río caudaloso. Así como un río desviado puede dejar su lecho natural seco y sin vida, las tradiciones creadas por el hombre a veces pueden quitarle vida a los mandamientos de Dios.

Pensemos en la antigua práctica del “Corbán” mencionada en el pasaje bíblico. Se trataba de una tradición que, en la superficie, parecía honrar a Dios mediante ofrendas dedicadas, pero en la práctica creaba un vacío legal que permitía a las personas eludir su responsabilidad básica de cuidar a sus padres ancianos. Es como construir una presa que redirige el agua vivificante de un río lejos de las comunidades que dependen de ella, todo mientras se afirma que “mejora la gestión del agua”.

Este ejemplo revela una distinción crucial: no todas las tradiciones cumplen su propósito original. Mientras que algunas tradiciones transmiten valores vitales como los ríos que transportan agua, otras pueden convertirse en estanques estancados que atrapan y distorsionan el flujo original de la sabiduría divina. Los líderes religiosos de la época habían creado un intrincado delta de reglas y tradiciones que, en lugar de expresar claramente los mandamientos de Dios, los enterraban bajo capas de interpretación humana y motivos nefastos.

La advertencia aquí es clara: cuando nuestras tradiciones comienzan a contradecir o reemplazar obligaciones morales fundamentales, hemos perdido el rumbo. Es como un río que ha sido diseñado de manera tan exhaustiva que ya no cumple su propósito esencial de sustentar la vida a lo largo de sus orillas. Los líderes religiosos se habían convertido en navegantes tan hábiles de sus reglas tradicionales que habían olvidado el destino: mostrar amor y honor tanto a Dios como a las personas.

La tradición no tiene por objeto ser un sistema inteligente para eludir las obligaciones morales, sino más bien un canal a través del cual las verdades eternas pueden fluir libremente de una generación a la siguiente. Así como un sistema fluvial saludable necesita la limpieza regular de obstáculos y la restauración de los flujos naturales, nuestras tradiciones necesitan un examen constante para asegurar que no estén obstaculizando los mismos valores que se supone que deben transmitir.

La solución no es abandonar por completo la tradición, pues eso sería como intentar vivir sin ríos. En cambio, debemos asegurarnos de que nuestras tradiciones permanezcan fieles a su fuente, permitiendo que el amor divino fluya libremente a través de ellas en lugar de desviarse por conveniencia humana. Cuando las tradiciones comienzan a obstruir en lugar de facilitar nuestra capacidad de honrar a Dios y cuidar de los demás, es hora de despejar el canal y dejar que el flujo original reanude su curso.

Mi Historia

¿Cuánto tiempo se necesita para que una buena práctica se convierta en una tradición que corre el riesgo de perder su propósito? ¿Puede suceder en seis meses? ¡Puede apostar a que sí! Deb y yo conocimos un método para compartir el evangelio que no solo era eficaz, sino que se volvió viral. La gente lo usaba en todo el mundo en varios idiomas y era embriagadoramente emocionante. Pero algo comenzó a suceder muy rápidamente que empañó nuestro entusiasmo. Sin que la gente reconociera sus acciones, se convirtió en “LA” manera de compartir. Comenzaron a promocionar el método como la “bala de plata”. Incluso hubo casos en los que la gente se resintió cuando alguien sugirió otra manera de compartir el evangelio. El orgullo se había infiltrado y había hecho su sucio daño a lo que comenzó tan bien. Y sí, solo tomó seis meses.

El aspecto más llamativo de este error es su relevancia hoy. ¿Con qué frecuencia nos encontramos defendiendo tradiciones que, aunque cómodas y familiares, en realidad podrían estar impidiéndonos cumplir con nuestra lealtad y obediencia a Dios? Al igual que aquellos líderes religiosos de la antigüedad, podemos ser excelentes navegantes de nuestras prácticas tradicionales, pero perder de vista la corriente más profunda de compasión y obediencia que debería guiar nuestras acciones.

Así como todo río finalmente busca su verdadero camino, nuestras tradiciones deben, en última instancia, servir, y no subvertir, los mandamientos eternos que se suponía que debían preservar y transmitir. De lo contrario, corremos el riesgo de crear sistemas elaborados de práctica que dejan el corazón de la fe tan seco como el lecho de un río que alguna vez fluyó libremente.

Nuestro Plan de Acción

Ahora es el momento de ponerlas en práctica. Aquí tienes algunas ideas:

Haz un inventario personal de tus “tradiciones”. ¿Están cumpliendo verdaderamente la intención original?

Haz un estudio bíblico sobre lo que dijeron Jesús y Pablo acerca de la tradición con aquellos a quienes estás discipulando.

Al examinar las Escrituras, haz una distinción entre principios y métodos. Los principios deben impulsar el método, nunca los métodos los principios.

Las tradiciones, como los ríos, deben fluir con un propósito vivificante, no obstaculizar nuestra obediencia a los mandamientos de Dios. Asegurémonos de que nuestras prácticas canalicen libremente el amor divino, en lugar de desviarlo para la conveniencia humana.

Si ve un problema importante en la traducción, envíeme una corrección por correo electrónico a charleswood1@gmail.com

Kingdom Kernel #3 – “There Is None Like You”

Jeremiah 10:6-7 – “There Is None Like You”: Divine Uniqueness and the Eternal Kingdom of Christ

The biblical concept “There is none like You” as expressed in Jeremiah 10:6-7 encapsulates a profound theological truth about God’s unparalleled nature and sovereign rule. This phrase, rooted in the Hebrew “‘în kᵊmô” (Strongs H369 and H3644) literally translates to “there is not like you,” emphasizing God’s absolute uniqueness.

Linguistic and Theological Significance

The Hebrew construction uses the negative particle “‘în” combined with the preposition “ka” (like) and the second-person masculine singular pronoun “mocha” (you). This grammatical structure intensifies the concept of God’s incomparability. The repetition of this idea throughout Scripture underscores its centrality to biblical theology.

In the context of Jeremiah 10:6-7, this phrase is juxtaposed with God’s greatness and might, as well as His rightful position as “King of the nations.” This juxtaposition reveals that God’s uniqueness extends beyond mere attributes to His very essence and authority.

Christological Fulfillment

Jesus Christ, as the incarnate Word, perfectly embodies this concept of divine uniqueness. In Him, we see the fullness of God’s incomparable nature made visible (Colossians 1:15). Jesus’ teachings about the Kingdom of God directly connect to this idea of God’s unique sovereignty.

Christ’s miracles, teachings, and ultimately His resurrection demonstrate that there is indeed none like Him. He is the perfect representation of the Father’s unparalleled nature (Hebrews 1:3). Jesus’ claim to have “all authority in heaven and on earth” (Matthew 28:18) echoes the Jeremiah passage’s assertion of God’s kingship over all nations.

Implications for the Kingdom of God

The concept of God’s uniqueness is foundational to understanding the Kingdom of God. Jesus, as the Messiah-King, inaugurates a kingdom that reflects the incomparable nature of God Himself. This kingdom operates on principles that are radically different from earthly empires, characterized by truth, compassion, and forgiveness.

The phrase “There is none like You” implies that God’s kingdom is likewise unique. It is not limited by geographical boundaries or temporal constraints. Instead, it is an eternal reign that encompasses “every square inch” of creation, Abraham Kuyper as famously stated.

Transformative Power for Believers

Recognizing that there is none like our God transforms how believers view themselves and their place in the world. It instills a sense of awe and worship, as we contemplate a Being so far beyond our comprehension yet intimately involved in our lives.

This concept also challenges believers to reflect God’s unique character in their own lives. As subjects of this incomparable King, Christians are called to live in ways that demonstrate the distinctive nature of God’s rule. This involves embodying the compassion, justice, and love that characterize God’s kingdom.

The biblical assertion that “There is none like You” serves as a cornerstone for understanding God’s nature, Christ’s role, and the believer’s place in the Kingdom. It reminds us that we serve a God who is utterly unique, whose ways are higher than our ways, and whose kingdom transcends all earthly powers. As we grasp this truth, we are inspired to live lives that reflect the incomparable nature of our King, Jesus Christ.

Disciple-Maker’s Short Story

“A Taste of Truth”

The soft glow of candlelight danced across the faces of Will and Janet as they sat at their favorite corner table in Bangkok Spice. The aroma of lemongrass and ginger wafted through the air, mingling with the quiet murmur of conversation around them. At 65, their love had only deepened, like a fine wine aging to perfection.

Janet’s eyes twinkled as she leaned in, her voice barely above a whisper. “You won’t believe what happened during my Bible study this week, Will.”

Will raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “Oh? Do tell, my dear.”

“Well, we were discussing the uniqueness of Christ, and Sarah – you know, the new girl – she piped up and said, ‘But don’t we all serve the same god, just with different names?'” Janet’s brow furrowed. “I wasn’t quite sure how to respond. How would you have handled that, Will?”

Will’s eyes softened, a gentle smile playing on his lips. He reached across the table, taking Janet’s hand in his. “Ah, the age-old question of universalism. It’s a tricky one, isn’t it?”

Just then, their server approached – a young man with kind eyes and a name tag that read ‘Hasan.’ As he set down their steaming plates of Pad Thai, Will felt a nudge from the Holy Spirit.

“Hasan,” Will began, his voice warm and inviting, “if you don’t mind me asking, what faith do you follow?”

Hasan’s eyes lit up. “I am Muslim, sir. But please, do not worry – we all have one god, we just call him different names, yes?”

Will nodded thoughtfully, seeing Janet lean in with interest. “That’s a common belief, Hasan. But you know, I’ve found something truly unique in Jesus Christ.”

Hasan tilted his head, curiosity piqued. “How so?”

Will’s eyes sparkled with passion as he spoke. “You see, Hasan, the Bible tells us in Jeremiah 10:6-7 that there is none like our God. He’s not just another name for a universal deity – He’s utterly unique in His nature and His actions.”

Janet watched in awe as Will continued, his words flowing with gentle conviction.

“Jesus claimed to be God in the flesh, Hasan. He performed miracles, taught with unparalleled authority, and ultimately rose from the dead. These aren’t just stories – they’re historical events that set Him apart from any other religious figure.”

Hasan’s brow furrowed, but he listened intently.

Will leaned in, his voice softening. “But what truly makes Jesus unique is His love, Hasan. And He didn’t just teach about God’s love – He demonstrated it by sacrificing Himself for us. He offers forgiveness and a personal relationship with God that no other faith can match. Which gives Him the right to say; “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father but through Me.”

Janet’s eyes welled with tears as she witnessed her husband’s gentle yet powerful testimony.

Hasan stood silent for a moment, clearly processing Will’s words. “I… I have never thought of it that way before,” he admitted. “You have given me much to consider, sir.”

As Hasan excused himself, Janet squeezed Will’s hand. “That was beautiful, darling. You’ve shown me exactly how to address this issue – with love, respect, and unwavering truth.”

Will smiled, a hint of moisture in his own eyes. “It’s all Him, Janet. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. There truly is none like Him.”

As they savored their meal, both Will and Janet felt a renewed sense of purpose. Their date night had become more than just a romantic evening – it was a reminder of their calling to share the incomparable love of Christ with a world hungry for truth.

In that moment, surrounded by the warmth of candlelight and the lingering aroma of Thai spices, they silently recommitted themselves to being living testimonies of the unique and transformative power of Jesus Christ.

Kingdom Kernel #2 – The Unstoppable Force

1 But there will be no more gloom for her who was in anguish; in earlier times He treated the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali with contempt, but later on He shall make it glorious, by the way of the sea, on the other side of Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles. 2 The people who walk in darkness will see a great light; those who live in a dark land, the light will shine on them. 3 You shall multiply the nation, you shall increase their gladness; they will be glad in Your presence as with the gladness of harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil.

4 For You shall break the yoke of their burden and the staff on their shoulders, the rod of their oppressor, as at the battle of Midian. 5 For every boot of the booted warrior in the battle tumult, and cloak rolled in blood, will be for burning, fuel for the fire. 6 For a child will be born to us, a son will be given to us; and the government will rest on His shoulders; and His name will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace.

7 There will be no end to the increase of His government or of peace, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and righteousness from then on and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this. (Isaiah 9:1-7)

Isaiah 9:1-7 – The Unstoppable Force of Divine Passion: God’s Zeal and the Kingdom

In the tapestry of biblical prophecy, Isaiah 9:1-7 stands out as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path from darkness to light. At the heart of this passage lies a powerful declaration: “The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this.” This statement encapsulates the driving force behind God’s plan for His kingdom and His people.

Understanding Divine Zeal

The Hebrew word for zeal used here is “קִנְאָה – qinʾā,” which carries connotations of ardor, jealousy, and passionate intensity . This zeal is not a mere emotion but an active, consuming force that propels God’s redemptive plan forward. It’s the fire that fuels His commitment to establish His kingdom on earth.

The Context of Isaiah’s Prophecy

Isaiah speaks to a people walking in darkness, burdened by oppression and gloom. Yet, in this bleak landscape, he proclaims a startling reversal:

– A great light will dawn

– Joy will multiply

– Burdens will be broken

At the center of this transformation is a child whose very names echo with divine authority: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace .

The Significance of God’s Zeal for His Kingdom

God’s zeal is the guarantee that His kingdom will be established. It’s not just a feeling or wish, but a divine promise backed by the full weight of God’s character and power. This zeal assures us of several key aspects of God’s kingdom:

1. Unstoppable Growth: There will be no end to the increase of His government or peace.

2. Eternal Reign: The Messiah will rule on David’s throne forever.

3. Justice and Righteousness: His kingdom will be upheld with justice and righteousness.

The Zeal of the Lord in Action

God’s zeal is not a passive attribute but an active force in history and in our lives:

– It drove the incarnation, bringing the promised Messiah into the world.

– It fuels the expansion of God’s kingdom, even in the face of opposition.

– It ensures the fulfillment of every divine promise.

The Personal Impact of God’s Zeal

For believers, God’s zeal offers profound assurance:

– It guarantees God’s intense love and unstoppable devotion to His people.

– It promises His relentless commitment to accomplish His purpose in our lives.

– It secures our future and salvation in Him.

Conclusion: The Zeal That Changes Everything

The zeal of the LORD of hosts is not just a historical footnote. It’s an ongoing reality, continuing to work in our world and in our lives. It’s the assurance that God’s promises are not empty words, but certainties backed by divine passion.

As we contemplate the kingdom of God, we can take heart. The same zeal that promised a Savior and brought Him into the world is still at work today. It’s transforming lives, renewing hearts, and moving inexorably toward the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this. It’s not just a possibility—it’s a divine certainty.

Disciple-Maker’s Short Story

The Warehouse Disciples

The rhythmic hum of conveyor belts and the occasional beep of barcode scanners filled the cavernous warehouse. Amidst the organized chaos of cardboard boxes and forklifts, two figures stood apart, their conversation a stark contrast to the mechanical symphony around them.

Ed, a middle-aged warehouse supervisor with a lean, athletic build and eyes that reflected years of thoughtful experience, leaned against a stack of pallets. Beside him stood Carter, a younger man with eager eyes and a restless energy that seemed barely contained by his work uniform.

“You see, Carter,” Ed began, his voice low but intense, “when Isaiah said ‘The zeal of the LORD of hosts will accomplish this,’ he wasn’t just throwing words around. He was revealing the very engine of God’s kingdom.”

Carter’s brow furrowed. “Zeal? Sounds like a fancy word for motivation.”

Ed chuckled, a warm sound that seemed to soften the harsh fluorescent lighting. “It’s so much more than that, my friend. It’s a divine passion, an unstoppable force. Imagine the most determined person you’ve ever met, then multiply that by infinity. That’s God’s zeal.”

As Ed spoke, his eyes lit up with an inner fire that made Carter lean in closer. “God’s zeal isn’t just about feeling strongly. It’s His guarantee that what He promises, He’ll do. No matter what.”

Carter nodded slowly, his mind grappling with the concept. “So when God says He’ll establish His kingdom…”

“It’s as good as done,” Ed finished. “You can take that to the bank.”

Just then, a coworker named Don walked by, his curiosity piqued by the intensity of their conversation. “What’s this about banks?” he asked, pausing mid-stride.

Ed turned to Don, his face alight with the opportunity. “We’re talking about the most secure investment in the universe, Don. God’s promises.”

Don’s skepticism was evident in his raised eyebrow. “Right. Because those always pan out.”

Instead of being deterred, Ed’s enthusiasm seemed to grow. “Let me ask you this, Don. Have you ever had someone promise you something and then follow through, no matter what?”

Don’s face softened slightly. “Yeah, my grandma. She said she’d be at my graduation, even though she was sick. Made it happen, wheelchair and all.”

Ed nodded encouragingly. “That’s beautiful, Don. Now imagine that kind of determination, but perfect and infinite. That’s God’s zeal. It’s the force behind every promise He makes.”

As Ed spoke, Carter found himself nodding along, the concept crystallizing in his mind. He saw an opening and jumped in. “It’s like… it’s not just that God wants good things for us. He’s actively, passionately working to make them happen.”

Don looked thoughtful, his initial skepticism giving way to curiosity. “Sounds nice, but how do you know it’s real?”

Ed’s response was immediate and heartfelt. “Because I’ve seen it in my own life, Don. When I was at my lowest, feeling like everything was falling apart, I clung to God’s promises. And let me tell you, He came through in ways I couldn’t have imagined.”

As Ed shared his testimony, his words seemed to resonate not just with Don, but with several other coworkers who had drifted over, drawn by the passionate discussion.

Carter, watching this unfold, felt something stir within him. He saw in Ed not just a mentor, but a living example of the very zeal they were discussing. Ed’s passion for God’s kingdom was contagious, and Carter found himself wanting to embody that same unstoppable force.

As their break came to an end and the group dispersed, Carter turned to Ed. “I want to be like that,” he said quietly. “To have that kind of passion, that certainty in God’s promises.”

Ed placed a hand on Carter’s shoulder, his eyes twinkling. “That’s the beauty of it, Carter. God’s zeal isn’t just about Him accomplishing His will. It’s about transforming us in the process. As we align ourselves with His kingdom, that same unstoppable force begins to work through us.”

As they returned to their stations, Carter felt a new sense of purpose. He realized that becoming like Jesus wasn’t about striving harder, but about tapping into the divine zeal that Ed had described. It was about allowing God’s unstoppable passion to flow through him, changing him from the inside out.

The warehouse resumed its rhythmic pace, but for Carter, everything had changed. In the midst of cardboard boxes and inventory lists, he had glimpsed the unstoppable force of divine passion, and he knew he would never be the same.

Index for Kingdom Kernels

Is Jesus Enough? – #101

ENGLISH / ESPAÑOL

Welcome Back! Today, we’ll be looking at the Gospel of John to see how we are to focus on Jesus and Him alone to meet our needs.

So let’s get started.

(Click here to get a copy of the Gospel Sync document)

John 6:30–41

So they asked Him, “What sign then will You perform, so that we may see it and believe You? What will You do? Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is My Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is He who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.”

“Sir,” they said, “give us this bread at all times.” Jesus answered, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger, and whoever believes in Me will never thirst. But as I stated, you have seen Me and still you do not believe. Everyone the Father gives Me will come to Me, and the one who comes to Me I will never drive away. For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but to do the will of Him who sent Me. And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that I shall lose none of those He has given Me, but raise them up at the last day. For it is My Father’s will that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in Him shall have eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day.” At this, the Jews began to grumble about Jesus because He had said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.”