"Looking into Jesus: The Source of Our Faith"
In a world filled with distractions and challenges, it's essential to keep our focus on what truly matters. Today, we explore the biblical call to "Look into Jesus" and the profound impact it can have on our faith journey. Our text for today is Hebrews 12:2, which reminds us to "fix our eyes on Jesus."
- Jesus is the Word - John 1:1
- Jesus is Lord - Romans 10:9-13
- Jesus is the righteous king (Jeremiah 23:5-8; Luke 1:32-33; 1 Cor. 1:30; 2 Cor. 5:21)
- We were brought together and reconciled by the blood/cross of Jesus (Ephesians 2:14-16).
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I. "Fixing Our Eyes on Jesus" (Hebrews 12:2a)
The author of Hebrews encourages us to "fix our eyes on Jesus," emphasizing the importance of unwavering focus on our Lord and Savior. By keeping our gaze fixed on Him, we are drawn into a deeper relationship with Christ, which is the essence of our faith.
II. "Walking on Water" - Peter Looking at Jesus (Matthew 14:28-31)
In Matthew 14:28-31, we see the story of Peter walking on water towards Jesus. Initially, Peter succeeds, but as soon as he takes his eyes off Jesus and becomes distracted by the storm, he begins to sink. This narrative illustrates the perils of losing sight of Christ when facing life's challenges.
III. The Effect of Looking to Jesus in Times of Crisis (Psalm 34:5)
In Psalm 34:5, we read, "Those who look to him are radiant, and their faces shall never be ashamed." When we turn our attention to Jesus, especially in times of crisis, we become radiant with the hope and assurance that come from our relationship with Him. Our faith shines through even in the darkest moments.
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IV. Looking to Jesus as Savior (John 3:14-15)
In John 3:14-15, Jesus references the Old Testament story of the bronze serpent raised in the wilderness. He compares that to His own purpose, saying, "so the Son of Man must be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life." Looking to Jesus as our Savior is the foundation of our faith. He provides the way to eternal life through His sacrifice on the cross.
- Sermon on God's Presence in all Times Isaiah 41:10
- Sermon on The Promise of Isaiah 40:31
- Sermon on Be still and know that I am God Psalm 46:10
Conclusion:
The call to "Look into Jesus" is a constant refrain throughout the Bible. It's an invitation to place our trust in the Author and Perfecter of our faith, who leads us through life's storms and challenges. Just as Peter found himself sinking when he took his eyes off Jesus, so can we lose our way when we neglect to keep Him at the center of our lives.
By fixing our eyes on Jesus, we become radiant with faith, hope, and love, even in the face of adversity. He is our Savior, the source of our eternal life, and the unwavering foundation of our faith. May we heed the call to "Look into Jesus" and find strength, peace, and purpose in Him.
