Bible Study: Ashdod (Azotus) - A Philistine Stronghold and Point of Contact

April 03, 2025 Biblical Studies

Bible Study: Ashdod (Azotus) - A Philistine Stronghold and Point of Contact

Introduction:

Ashdod, also known as Azotus in the New Testament, was a major city of the Philistines, playing a significant role in the Old Testament narratives. This study will explore the biblical references to Ashdod, examining its historical context, its role as a Philistine stronghold, and its later appearance in the New Testament.

I. Scriptural References to Ashdod:

• Joshua 11:22:

◦ "There were none of the Anakim left in the land of the people of Israel. only in Gaza, in Gath, and in Ashdod did some remain."

◦ This passage indicates Ashdod's early presence and strength, even during the Israelite conquest.

• 1 Samuel 5:1; 6:17:

◦ "When the Philistines captured the ark of God, they brought it from Ebenezer to Ashdod."

◦ "And these are the golden tumors, which the Philistines returned for a trespass offering unto the Lord; for Ashdod one, for Gaza one, for Askelon one, for Gath one, for Ekron one."

◦ These verses describe the Philistines' placement of the Ark of the Covenant in Ashdod, and the subsequent plague that affected the city, showcasing Ashdod as a major Philistine city.

• 2 Chronicles 26:6:

◦ "He went to war against the Philistines and broke through the wall of Gath, the wall of Jabneh, and the wall of Ashdod, and he built cities in the territory of Ashdod and elsewhere among the Philistines."

◦ This passage recounts King Uzziah's conquest of Ashdod, illustrating periods of Israelite control.

• Nehemiah 4:7:

◦ "But when Sanballat and Tobiah and the Arabs and the Ammonites and the Ashdodites heard that the repairing of the walls of Jerusalem was going forward and that the breaches were beginning to be closed, they were very angry."

◦ This verse highlights the Ashdodites' opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls, demonstrating their continued hostility towards Israel.

• Nehemiah 13:23:

◦ "In those days also I saw Jews who had married women of Ashdod, Ammon, and Moab."

◦ This passage reveals the problem of intermarriage between Jews and Ashdodite women, leading to religious and cultural compromise.

• Jeremiah 25:20:

◦ "and all the mixed tribes, all the kings of the land of Uz, all the kings of the land of the Philistines (Ashkelon, Gaza, Ekron, and what remains of Ashdod)."

◦ Jeremiah includes Ashdod among the nations that would face God's judgment.

• Amos 1:8:

◦ "I will cut off the ruler of Ashdod and the one who holds the scepter in Ashkelon. I will turn my hand against Ekron, till the last of the Philistines perish,” says the Sovereign Lord."

◦ Amos pronounces judgment against Ashdod, reflecting God's justice.

• Zephaniah 2:4:

◦ "Gaza will be abandoned and Ashkelon left in ruins. They will drive out the people of Ashdod at midday, and Ekron will be uprooted."

◦ Zephaniah prophesies Ashdod's destruction.

• Acts 8:40:

◦ "But Philip found himself at Azotus, and as he passed through he preached the gospel to all the towns until he came to Caesarea."

◦ This verse marks Ashdod's appearance in the New Testament, under its Greek name Azotus, where Philip preached the gospel.

II. Related Passages and Themes:

• Isaiah 20:1:

◦ This passage speaks of Ashdod, and its capture by Sargon king of Assyria.

• Amos 3:9:

◦ This passage mentions the palaces of Ashdod.

• Zechariah 9:6:

◦ This passage mentions the mixed population of Ashdod.

• Philistine Stronghold: Ashdod was a major Philistine city, representing their power and opposition to Israel.

• Divine Judgment: The prophets pronounced judgment against Ashdod for its wickedness.

• Cultural Contact: The narrative in Nehemiah highlights the dangers of cultural assimilation and intermarriage.

• Gospel Proclamation: In the New Testament, Ashdod becomes a point of contact for the spread of the gospel.

III. Application and Discussion:

• How does the history of Ashdod illustrate the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Philistines?

• What does the prophetic judgment against Ashdod reveal about God's justice and sovereignty?

• How does the account in Nehemiah highlight the dangers of cultural compromise?

• What is the significance of Ashdod's appearance in the New Testament as a place where the gospel was preached?

• How can we apply the lessons learned from Ashdod's history to our lives today, particularly regarding cultural influences and faithfulness to God?

• How does the transition of the city from old testament enemy, to a city where the gospel is preached, show the power of God?

Bible Study: Ashdod (Azotus) - A Philistine Stronghold and Point of Contact

Conclusion:

Ashdod, a prominent Philistine city, plays a significant role in the Old Testament narrative, symbolizing opposition to Israel and facing prophetic judgment. Its appearance in the New Testament as a place where the gospel was preached marks a significant transition, highlighting the transformative power of God's grace. Studying Ashdod provides valuable insights into the historical, cultural, and theological context of the Bible.

Preaching on The Assembly of the Early Christians

April 03, 2025 Sermons

The Assembly of the Early Christians – The Power of the Gathering of the Saints

Let us turn our attention to the powerful example of the early Christians, their dedication to gathering, and the profound impact of their assemblies.

1. The Promise of Christ's Presence in the Gathering of Believers (Matthew 18:20)

Jesus Himself assured us, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20). This is not merely a comforting thought, but a divine promise. The church is not a building, but the living, breathing communion of saints, united in His name. When we gather, we invite His very presence into our midst.

2. The Disciples Gathered After the Resurrection (John 20:19)

Even in fear and uncertainty, the disciples gathered. “Now when it was evening on that first day of the week, and the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst and said to them, ‘Peace be with you.’” (John 20:19).

Their gathering, born of fear, became a moment of divine encounter. Jesus, the risen Lord, brought peace and encouragement, transforming their fear into faith.

3. The First Assembly Before Pentecost (Acts 1:4,14)

Before the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the disciples gathered in obedience to Jesus’ command. “And being assembled together with them, he commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which (he said) ye have heard of me.” (Acts 1:4). “These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.” (Acts 1:14).

Their unity and persistent prayer were essential. They waited together, as one body, for the promised Holy Spirit.

4. The Church Born at Pentecost (Acts 2:1)

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.” (Acts 2:1). The Holy Spirit descended upon a united church, birthing the great revival and the evangelistic mission that would transform the world. The power of God is unleashed when His people gather in unity.

5. Prayer and Power in the Church Assembly (Acts 4:31)

“And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken: and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and spake the word of God with boldness.” (Acts 4:31). Their collective prayer moved heaven and earth. Their gathering was a place of power, where they were filled with the Holy Spirit and emboldened to witness.

6. Seeking God in Prayer Assemblies (Acts 16:13)

Even in simple places, by the riverside, the early Christians gathered to pray. “And on the sabbath day we went out of the city by the river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down and spoke to the women who were assembled.” (Acts 16:13). Where there is a heart that seeks God, He is found. Their gatherings were a testament to their hunger for His presence.

7. The Practice of the Supper and Worship on the First Day of the Week (Acts 20:7)

“Now on the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul talked with them, intending to depart the next day, and continued speaking until midnight.” (Acts 20:7). They gathered on the Lord’s Day for fellowship, the breaking of bread, and the teaching of the Word. Their gatherings were a celebration of their communion with Christ.

8. Order and Respect in the Assembly (1 Corinthians 11:33)

“Therefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.” (1 Corinthians 11:33). Paul reminds us that our gatherings should be marked by order, respect, and unity. They should be a time of edification, communion, and reverence for God.

Preaching on The Assembly of the Early Christians

Conclusion

Let us learn from the example of the early Christians. Let us cherish the power of gathering, seeking God’s presence, and building up one another in faith. Let us come together in unity, in prayer, and in love, that we may experience the fullness of His glory. Amen.

Preaching on Bad Associations – The Danger of Bad Company

April 03, 2025 Sermons

Bad Associations – The Danger of Bad Company

Let us heed the warnings of Scripture and consider the profound danger of bad associations.

Results

Misery Num 33:55 Judg 16:4
Apostasy 1Ki 11:2
God's wrath 2Ch 19:2 Ezr 9:14 Prov 13:20
Parental shame Prov 28:7
Denial of Christ John 18:17 John 18:25
Corruption 1Co 15:33

1. Warning Against Following the Crowd in Error (Exodus 23:2)

“You shall not follow the crowd to do evil; nor speak in a cause, leaning toward the multitude, to pervert what is right.” (Exodus 23:2). The allure of the crowd can be powerful, but the majority is not always aligned with God’s truth. We must stand firm in righteousness, even when we stand alone.

2. The Corrupting Influence of the Wicked (Exodus 23:33)

“They shall not dwell in your land, lest they make you sin against Me; if you serve their gods, it will surely be a snare to you.” (Exodus 23:33). God warned Israel of the insidious nature of bad company. It can slowly erode our faith and lead us astray from His path.

3. The Danger of Alliances with Unbelievers (Exodus 34:12)

“Beware that you make no covenant with the inhabitants of the land where you are going, lest they become a snare in your midst.” (Exodus 34:12). Wrong alliances can trap us in sin, compromising our integrity and distancing us from God’s purpose.

4. Blessed is He Who Does Not Walk with the Ungodly (Psalm 1:1)

“Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers.” (Psalm 1:1). True blessedness begins with wise choices, with discerning the path of righteousness and avoiding the company of those who would lead us astray.

5. Don't Walk with Sinners (Proverbs 1:15)

“My son, do not walk with them; keep your foot from their paths.” (Proverbs 1:15). This is not a call to isolation, but a call to discernment. We must choose our companions carefully, lest we be drawn into their destructive ways.

6. Avoiding the Way of the Wicked (Proverbs 4:14)

“Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil men.” (Proverbs 4:14). The path of the wicked is a treacherous road, leading to ruin and despair. We must turn away from it and walk in the light of God’s truth.

7. Avoiding Friendships with Angry People (Proverbs 22:24)

“Do not be a companion of a quarrelsome man, and do not associate with a hot-tempered man.” (Proverbs 22:24). The temperament of those around us can influence our own. Uncontrolled anger breeds conflict and sin.

8. Not Desiring the Food of the Envious (Proverbs 23:6)

“Do not eat the bread of one who has an evil eye, and do not desire his delicacies.” (Proverbs 23:6). The allure of worldly riches can be a trap, leading us into the company of those with corrupt hearts.

9. Do Not Be Envious of Sinners (Proverbs 24:1)

“Do not envy evil men, nor desire to be with them.” (Pro Proverbs 24:1). The apparent success of the wicked is fleeting and deceptive. Our focus should be on God’s eternal rewards.

10. Do Not Associate with False Brothers (1 Corinthians 5:9,11)

“I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people.” (1 Corinthians 5:9). “But now I have written to you not to associate with anyone called a brother who is a sexually immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such a person do not even eat.” (1 Corinthians 5:11). Even within the church, we must guard against those who profess faith but live in unrepentant sin.

11. The Christian and the Unequal Yoke (2 Corinthians 6:14)

“Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14). Partnerships and alliances with unbelievers can compromise our faith and hinder our walk with God.

12. Do Not Receive or Listen to Heretics (2 John 10)

“If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or greet him.” (2 John 10). We must be vigilant against false doctrines and deceitful teachers, guarding our hearts and minds against error.

Preaching on Bad Associations – The Danger of Bad Company

Conclusion

Let us choose our companions wisely, seeking those who will uplift us and strengthen our faith. Let us walk in the light of God’s truth, avoiding the darkness of bad associations. Amen.

Preaching on Touching Jesus – Heals Those Who Touch

April 03, 2025 Sermons

Preaching on Touching Jesus – Heals Those Who Touch

Let us reflect on the transformative power of faith, as demonstrated by those who sought healing through the touch of Jesus.

1. The Touch of Faith of the Woman with the Issue of Blood (Matthew 9:20)

“And behold, a woman who had an issue of blood for twelve years came behind him and touched the fringe of his garment.” (Matthew 9:20). This woman, burdened by years of suffering and societal ostracization, possessed a faith so profound that it drove her to seek Jesus amidst the crowd. She believed that a mere touch of His garment would bring her healing, and her faith was rewarded.

2. All Who Touched Him Were Healed (Matthew 14:35-36)

“And when the men of that place recognized Him, they sent into all that region, and brought to Him all who were sick. And they begged Him that they might just touch the hem of His garment: and as many as touched it were made whole.” (Matthew 14:35-36). Jesus’ healing power was not limited to a select few; it was available to all who approached Him with faith. This passage highlights the universality of His grace, and the completeness of the healing received.

3. Jesus Healed Many Through Touch (Mark 3:10)

“For he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed on him to touch him.” (Mark 3:10). The crowds understood that proximity to Jesus, even a simple touch, could bring about miraculous healing. Their faith propelled them forward, causing them to press upon Him, seeking their own deliverance.

4. The Power That Came Out of Jesus When He Was Touched (Luke 6:19)

“And the whole crowd sought to touch him, because power went out from him and healed them all.” (Luke 6:19). Jesus’ very presence radiated healing power. The faith of those who touched Him activated this power, resulting in miraculous cures. This demonstrates that faith is not passive; it is an active force that draws upon the divine.

6. The Touch of Healing for All Who Believe (Mark 6:56)

“And wherever he entered, into villages, cities, or countryside, they laid the sick in the streets, and begged him that they might just touch the hem of his garment; and as many as touched him were made well.” (Mark 6:56). Jesus’ healing ministry extended to all, regardless of location or circumstance. The physical touch symbolized the spiritual faith that unlocked the power of God. It was a tangible expression of their belief in His ability to heal.

It ensures health and comfort to those who are touched by it (the touch of Christ)

The purifying touch Mt 8:3
The soothing touch Mt 8:15
The illuminating touch Mt 9:29 Mt 9:30
The encouraging touch Mt 17:7 Mt 20:34
The liberating touch Mk 7:33 Mk 7:35
The blessing touch Mk 10:13 Mk 10:16
The healing touch Lk 22:51

Preaching on Touching Jesus – Heals Those Who Touch

Conclusion

These accounts remind us that faith is not merely an intellectual assent, but a powerful force that connects us to the divine. Like those who pressed upon Jesus, we must approach Him with unwavering faith, believing that His power can transform our lives. Let us reach out and touch the hem of His garment, and experience the healing that only He can provide. Amen.

The Separation of the Righteous from the Wicked

April 03, 2025 Sermons

The Separation of the Righteous from the Wicked

Let us consider the solemn and inescapable truth of the separation of the righteous from the wicked, a reality that Scripture presents with unwavering clarity.

1. The Final Harvest – The Tares and the Wheat (Matthew 13:30)

“Let both grow together until the harvest. And at harvest time I will say to the reapers, ‘Gather the tares first and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.’” (Matthew 13:30). In this parable, Jesus reveals that the righteous and the wicked will coexist until the appointed time of harvest, the final judgment. This truth reminds us that present appearances can be deceiving, but God’s justice will ultimately prevail.

2. The Angels Will Separate the Righteous from the Wicked (Matthew 13:49)

“So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come forth and separate the wicked from among the righteous.” (Matthew 13:49). The angels, as God’s messengers, will execute the divine decree, separating those who belong to God from those who do not. There will be no ambiguity, no room for doubt; the division will be clear and final.

3. Two Workers – One Will Be Taken, One Left (Matthew 24:40)

“Then two will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.” (Matthew 24:40). This passage underscores the suddenness and finality of the separation. It will occur in the midst of ordinary life, catching many unprepared.

4. The Nations Will Be Separated Like Sheep and Goats (Matthew 25:32)

“And all the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats.” (Matthew 25:32). Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows His own. He will discern those who have served Him from those who have rejected Him, and the separation will be precise and just.

5. The Final Destination: Eternal Life or Eternal Punishment (Matthew 25:46)

“And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into everlasting life.” (Matthew 25:46). The consequences of this separation are eternal. There will be no second chances, no opportunity for repentance. Each person will receive the reward they have earned through their choices in this life.

6. A Great Unbridgeable Chasm (Luke 16:26)

“Besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who would pass from here to you cannot, and those who would pass from there cannot pass to us.” (Luke 16:26). The separation is irreversible. Once the judgment is rendered, there will be no crossing from one side to the other. This emphasizes the urgency of making the right choice now.

7. Two in a Bed – One Will Be Taken, One Left (Luke 17:34)

“I tell you, in that night there will be two in one bed; one will be taken and the other left.” (Luke 17:34). The coming of Christ and the separation will be immediate and personal. Even those who share the closest proximity in life may face different eternal destinies.

8. The New Jerusalem and Those Who Will Be Left Out (Revelation 22:15)

“Outside are the dogs, and those who practice magic arts, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie.” (Revelation 22:15). Only the redeemed, those who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, will enter the New Jerusalem. Those who reject God’s grace will be excluded forever.

The Separation of the Righteous from the Wicked

Let us take these warnings to heart. Let us live in a manner that reflects our commitment to God, so that when the final separation comes, we may be found among the righteous. Let us seek God, and walk in his ways, and accept his son Jesus Christ, as our lord and savior. Amen.

Preaching on The Amazement Caused by Christ

April 03, 2025 Sermons

The Amazement Caused by Christ

Let us explore the profound and recurring theme of amazement that surrounded Jesus Christ, a testament to His divine nature and power.

1. The Amazement of Jesus' Wisdom (Matthew 13:54)

“And when he came to his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom and these mighty works?” (Matthew 13:54). Even those who knew Jesus from childhood were astounded by His wisdom. Yet, while many marveled, few truly embraced Him as Lord.

2. Amazement at the Miracles of Jesus (Matthew 15:31)

“Then the multitudes marveled when they saw the mute speaking, the maimed whole, the lame walking, and the blind seeing: and they glorified the God of Israel.” (Matthew 15:31). Jesus’ miracles were not mere spectacles; they were tangible demonstrations of God’s power, inspiring awe and leading people to glorify His name.

3. Amazement at His Teachings (Matthew 22:22,33)

“And when they heard it, they marveled, and left him, and went their way.” (Matthew 22:22). “And the multitude, when they heard this, were greatly astonished at his doctrine.” (Matthew 22:33). Jesus’ teachings, filled with wisdom and truth, challenged the status quo and revealed the kingdom of God. His words left a lasting impact, even on those who ultimately rejected Him.

4. The Amazement After the Healing of the Paralytic (Mark 2:12)

“And he arose immediately, and took up his bed, and went out in the sight of them all: so that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw anything like this.” 1 (Mark 2:12). The healing of the paralytic was a powerful display of Jesus’ authority over both physical and spiritual ailments, prompting awe and worship.

5. Amazement at the Power Over Nature (Mark 4:41)

“And they were filled with great fear, and said among themselves, What manner of man then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:41). Jesus’ calming of the storm revealed His dominion over creation, leaving even His closest disciples in awe and wonder.

6. The Amazement of Jesus' Power in Healing and Deliverance (Mark 7:37)

“And they were exceedingly astonished, saying, He doeth all things well: he maketh the deaf to hear, and the dumb to speak.” (Mark 7:37). Jesus’ healing power extended beyond physical ailments, bringing restoration and wholeness to lives shattered by sickness and despair.

7. Amazement at Christ's Words on Salvation (Mark 10:24)

“And the disciples were astonished at his words: but Jesus answered them again, and said unto them, Children, how hard it is for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!” (Mark 10:24). Jesus’ teachings challenged the world’s values, revealing the true nature of the kingdom of God and the path to salvation.

8. The Amazement at the Wisdom of the Child Jesus (Luke 2:48)

“And when they saw him, they marveled: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee anxiously.” (Luke 2:48). Even as a child, Jesus displayed extraordinary wisdom, foreshadowing His divine nature and purpose.

9. Amazement at Jesus' Gracious Words (Luke 4:22)

“And all bare him witness, and marveled at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth, and said, Is not this Joseph's son?” (Luke 4:22). Jesus’ words were filled with grace and authority, captivating His listeners, yet many failed to recognize His true identity.

10. Amazement at the Power Over Spirits (Luke 4:36)

“And they were all amazed, and they talked among themselves, saying, What is this word, that with authority and power he commandeth even the unclean spirits, and they come out?” (Luke 4:36). Jesus’ authority over the spiritual realm demonstrated His power to break the chains of darkness and set captives free.

11. Amazement at Jesus' Control Over Nature (Luke 8:25)

“And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they were afraid, and marveled, saying one to another, Who then is this, that he commandeth even the winds and the water, and they obey him?” (Luke 8:25). Jesus’ mastery over the elements left His disciples in awe, prompting the crucial question: “Who is this?” He is the Son of God, the Lord of all creation.

Preaching on The Amazement Caused by Christ

Conclusion

Let us not merely marvel at Jesus, but let us embrace Him as our Lord and Savior. Let His amazing power and wisdom transform our lives, and lead us into His eternal kingdom. Amen.

Bible Study: Divine Attraction - The Drawing Power of God

April 03, 2025 Biblical Studies

Bible Study: Divine Attraction - The Drawing Power of God

Introduction:

The concept of "divine attraction" speaks to the irresistible pull of God's love and grace, drawing individuals into a relationship with Him. This study will explore the biblical references to this divine attraction, examining its nature and its effects on those who experience it.

I. General References to Divine Attraction:

• Song of Solomon 1:4:

◦ "Draw me after you; let us run! The king has brought me into his chambers."

◦ This verse expresses a deep desire for intimate communion with God, acknowledging His drawing power.

• Jeremiah 31:3:

◦ "The Lord appeared to him from far away. ‘I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have continued my faithfulness to you.’"

◦ This passage highlights God's enduring love as the source of His drawing power, emphasizing His initiative in seeking relationship.

• Hosea 11:4:

◦ "I led them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love. To them I was like one who lifts a little child to the cheek, and I bent down to feed them."

◦ This verse portrays God's gentle and loving approach in drawing His people, using "cords of human kindness" and "ties of love."

• John 6:44:

◦ "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them up at the last day."

◦ This passage emphasizes the Father's active role in drawing individuals to Christ, highlighting the divine initiative in salvation.

• John 12:32:

◦ "And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself."

◦ This verse reveals Jesus' sacrificial love on the cross as the ultimate expression of divine attraction, drawing all people to Himself.

• Hosea 2:14:

◦ "Therefore, behold, I will allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably unto her."

◦ This displays God's desire to restore his people through allurement.

II. Examples of People Seeking Christ:

• Mark 1:37:

◦ "And when they found him, they said to him, ‘Everyone is looking for you.’"

◦ This verse illustrates the widespread desire to encounter Jesus, driven by His miraculous works and compelling teachings.

• Luke 4:42:

◦ "At daybreak, Jesus went out to a solitary place. The people were looking for him and when they came to where he was, they tried to keep him from leaving them."

◦ This passage shows the people's persistent pursuit of Jesus, seeking His presence and healing.

• Luke 19:3:

◦ "And he was seeking to see who Jesus was, but on account of the crowd he could not, because he was small in stature."

◦ This verse describes Zacchaeus's intense desire to see Jesus, overcoming obstacles to encounter Him.

• John 6:24:

◦ "So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus."

◦ This passage demonstrates the people's determination to find Jesus, crossing the sea to seek Him.

• John 12:21:

◦ "They came to Philip and asked him, ‘Sir, we wish to see Jesus.’"

◦ This verse highlights the desire of Gentiles to see Jesus, indicating the universal appeal of His presence.

III. Key Themes:

• Divine Initiative: God actively draws individuals to Himself, demonstrating His love and desire for relationship.

• Irresistible Love: God's love is a powerful force, attracting people to Him with cords of kindness and ties of love.

• Sacrificial Love: Jesus's sacrifice on the cross is the ultimate expression of divine attraction, drawing all people to Himself.

• Human Response: People respond to God's drawing power with a desire to seek and encounter Him.

• Universal Appeal: The desire to seek Jesus transcends cultural and social barriers, demonstrating the universal appeal of His presence.

IV. Application and Discussion:

• How have you experienced God's drawing power in your life?

• What are the "cords of human kindness" and "ties of love" that God uses to draw people to Himself?

• How does Jesus's sacrifice on the cross demonstrate the depth of God's love and His desire for relationship with us?

• How should we respond to God's drawing power in our lives?

• How can we participate in God's work of drawing others to Himself?

• What does the fact that people from all backgrounds seek Jesus reveal about His nature?

Bible Study: Divine Attraction - The Drawing Power of God

Conclusion:

Divine attraction is a powerful and transformative force, drawing individuals into a loving relationship with God. God's initiative, love, and sacrifice on the cross are the source of this attraction, prompting a human response of seeking and desiring His presence. Understanding this concept deepens our appreciation for God's grace and our role in His redemptive plan.