Day #1 - Jesus' Mission: from God

Day 1

Jesus’ Mission: from God

Read: John 5:16-30

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This first week we explore why Jesus came, what he purposed to do; his mission.  Exploring Jesus’ mission is an absolute essential to truly understanding him. Not to simply project our own ideas on to him of what we think he is about, or what we would like him to be.

Corporate or personal mission statements are established practice. Carefully devised, designed and developed agendas. Many statements are at heart “self-interest-focused,” others are outward-focused

No mission statement is as “other-focussed” as Jesus’ mission declaration, “to do the Father’s will.” The reading in John’s gospel shows us unmistakably that Jesus’ agenda was “wholeheartedly doing God’s will, not his own.”

In Luke’s gospel, the source of Jesus’ mission is encapsulated in Luke’s many references to Jesus praying.  Recurrently we read of Jesus withdrawing to a quiet place to pray. Often it is just before a major event or decision. His baptism, (3:21) choosing the disciples, (6:12) Peter’s confession of faith, (9:18), the transfiguration, (9:28-29), and the cross (22:41). There’s more, read 5:16, 11:1, 22:32, 23:34, 46 on other times of Luke recording Jesus’ prayers.

With Jesus, prayer is the key to mission remaining on track.  Through prayer, he was un-swayed by others’ agendas, or diversionary desires. Prayer refreshes and maintains mission focus.

Ponder Point (reflect)

• Jesus’ mission came from God

Consider (respond)

• What’s my life mission look like, how does it relate to Jesus?