The Vineyard- April 3, 2016

The Vineyard- April 3^rd, 2016

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. – John 15:5

Pray for God to speak to you through the reading of His word. 

Jesus’ Ascension tells us he reigns in heaven

-          Jesus’ ascended to return to his rightful place, with the Father. 

-          If Jesus is reigning with his Father, sitting at his right hand in heaven, there is nothing outside of Jesus’ control. 

-          What comfort comes from knowing that everyone, even evil people who fail to acknowledge God, will one day be forced to bow before the Lord?

-          Passages to Consider: Philippians 2:9-11; Hebrews 1:1-4; 10:12-13

Jesus’ Ascension tells us he intercedes for us in heaven

-          Who is the best person you can think of to stand before God on your behalf?

-          That person, Jesus, stands in the very presence of his Father, bringing before him our petitions, and securing our forgiveness. 

-          What does it mean to you that Jesus’ is pleading your case in heaven?

-          Passages to Consider: Hebrews 7:25; 9:24; I John 2:1

Jesus’ Ascension tells us we have the Holy Spirit to empower us

-          Jesus’ first disciples were understandably upset by the notion that Jesus would be leaving them. 

-          And yet, Jesus said his departure was actually to their benefit, because once he left he would send another to comfort, strengthen, and help them- the Holy Spirit. 

-          As you try to follow Jesus each day, are you relying on your own ability and will, or are you leaning on the Holy Spirit which is promised to every believer?

-          Passages to Consider: John 16:7

Jesus’ Ascension tells us we are to be Christ’s witnesses

-          Did you know that the word martyr, which we use to describe someone who dies for their faith, is from the Greek work for “witness”?

-          Jesus said that when he ascended, it would be up to his disciples to be his witnesses.  All of us should be martyrs, or witnesses. 

-          What are you doing to bear witness to Christ to those around you?

-          Passage to Consider: John 15:26-27

Praise God for our risen Savior, who sits at the Father’s right hand, interceding for us!

Pray for an increased measure of the Spirit, and the desire to cultivate the Spirit in your life. 

Commit yourself to living a life that bears witness to Christ this week!