Are You Celebrating Jesus?

ARE YOU CELEBRATING JESUS? John 12:1-11 INTRODUCTION v.1-2a In this last week we have heard talk of unity, unity of our nation, unity of political parties. In this passage we see that Jesus did not have unity even within His disciples, in fact Jesus divides, among the division is some truly amazing results in having a saving relationship with Jesus. In this passage we see that a celebration thrown for Jesus in the town of Bethany at Simon the Leper’s house, with Jesus’ good friends, Lazarus, Mary and Martha, and the disciples. It is just six days from His Crucifixion. T.S In this Celebration we see 3 characteristics of a believer’s life that is focused on Jesus: WORKING, WORSHIPING and WITNESSING. MARTHA WORKING FOR JESUS v.2b Change in attitude - for Jesus Gratitude - her brother / Salvation It was what she was good at. (Mary probably helped cook and served) Wonderful example of serving the Lord… MARY WORSHIPING JESUS v.3,7-8 Fragrance filled the room How lavish is your sacrificial love for Jesus? Wonderful example of worshiping the Lord… LAZARUS AND SIMON’S WITNESS FOR JESUS v.2c,9-10. People heard and saw Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead! v. 9-10. Many were believing in Jesus because of Lazarus, v.11 Not from anything Lazarus did or said (nothing Lazarus said is recorded in the Scriptures), but what Jesus did for Lazarus. I am sure people were amazed that Simon the Leper was healed of his leprocy, something only God could do! Both amazing actions of Jesus were an incredible witness to who Jesus is, the Messiah, the Son of God! God! Just like with us… it is the change that Jesus makes in our lives that people see that draws them to believe in Jesus for themselves. CONCLUSION v.11 In this Celebration we see 3 characteristics of a believer’s life that is focused on Jesus: WORKING, WORSHIPING and WITNESSING. Sacrificial -Dowery? (Wasn’t used for Lazarus’) Costly - 1 year’s pay (rare, from India/China/Burma) Loving - anointed Jesus only It is what really unifies true Believers - keeping Jesus the main thing! Are you Celebrating Jesus, by Working for Him, by Worshiping Him and by Witnessing for Him. If you are then… Criticism - (JUDAS v.4-6) expect it when you follow and worship Jesus. (Division) …others will put their faith in Jesus too! V.11 Glory - hair - normally didn’t let down hair in public, she didn’t care what others thought…