Participants:
Series Code: SF
Program Code: SF000056A
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00:13 From the days of eternity,
00:15 the Lord Jesus Christ was one with the Father. 00:19 He was the image of God, 00:21 the image of His greatness and majesty, 00:24 the outshining of His glory. 00:27 It was to manifest this glory that He came to our world, 00:32 to the sin darkened earth. 00:34 He came to reveal the right of God's love 00:37 to be God with us. 00:41 God's purposes know no haste and no delay. 00:47 In heaven's council, 00:49 the hour for the coming of Christ 00:50 had been determined. 00:52 When the great clock of time pointed to that hour, 00:56 Jesus was born in Bethlehem. 00:59 Welcome to the story of Jesus, presented by Harbert Hills 01:03 of Great Lakes Adventist Academy. 01:05 Come, join us on this musical journey 01:07 from the manger to the cross and back to glory. 01:31 La, la, la, la 01:33 La, la, la, la 01:35 La, la, la, la 01:37 La, la, la, la, la 01:40 We three kings of Orient are 01:45 Bearing gifts we traverse afar 01:49 Field and fountain, moor and mountain 01:54 Following yonder star 01:58 O star of wonder, star of night 02:04 Star with royal beauty bright 02:08 Westward leading, still proceeding 02:13 Guide us to thy perfect light 02:22 Born a king on Bethlehem's plain 02:26 Gold I bring to crown Him again 02:31 King forever, ceasing never 02:36 Over us all to reign 02:39 O star of wonder, star of night 02:46 Star with royal beauty bright 02:51 Westward leading, still proceeding 02:55 Guide us to 02:58 Thy perfect light 03:04 Glorious now behold Him arise 03:08 King and God and sacrifice 03:13 Alleluia, alleluia! 03:16 Sounds through the earth and skies 03:20 O star of wonder 03:27 Star of night 03:30 Star with royal beauty bright 03:36 Westward leading 03:40 Still proceeding 03:47 Guide us to 03:51 Thy perfect light 04:05 The Jordan River connects Mount Herman, 04:08 Lake Hula, and the Sea of Galilee 04:10 to the Dead Sea in a straight line 04:12 over 75 miles long. 04:14 But because of the winding back and forth, 04:17 it measures a distance of almost 200 miles. 04:20 It flows north to south as the elevation drops 04:24 over 2,300 feet down to the Dead Sea. 04:27 This river is mentioned frequently 04:29 in both the Old and New Testaments, 04:32 but it's most memorable contribution was that 04:34 it hosted Jesus' baptism 04:36 by His cousin, John the Baptist. 04:39 Even though He was sinless, 04:41 Jesus left us this most meaningful symbol 04:44 of dying to our sins and being raised 04:47 in a new fullness of life. 04:50 Jesus did not receive baptism 04:51 as a confession of guilt on His own account. 04:54 He identified Himself with sinners, 04:57 taking the steps that we ought to take, 04:59 and doing the work that we must do. 05:02 His life of suffering and patient endurance 05:05 after His baptism was also an example to us. 05:10 Since the beginning of the Christian era, 05:12 baptism has served as a symbol 05:15 for the passage from death in to new life in God. 05:19 On Jordan stormy banks, 05:21 the recently freed Hebrew nation 05:23 stood waiting to pass over the Jordon, 05:26 leaving their slavery behind them, 05:28 and entering into the long awaited Promised Land of God. 05:32 Baptism today is a symbol 05:34 of our passing from death and sin to life in Christ. 05:38 One day, we will gather at the river 05:40 that flows by the throne of God and there for all eternity 05:45 in the true Promised Land 05:46 on the other side of the stormy banks 05:49 currently separating us from our Heavenly Father, 05:52 we will worship Him face to face. 05:54 He will be our Promised Land, there we will worship Him 05:58 for blazing our way through this life, 06:00 through the waters of the Jordon 06:02 to bring us as His people back to Himself. 06:40 Yes, we'll gather at the river 06:47 The beautiful 06:49 The beautiful river 06:55 Gather with the saints at the river 07:03 That flows 07:04 By the throne of God 07:12 On Jordan's stormy banks I stand 07:16 And cast a wishful eye 07:20 To Canaan's fair and happy land 07:24 Where my possessions lie 07:28 I am bound for the Promised Land 07:31 I am bound for the Promised Land 07:35 Oh, who will come and go with me? 07:39 I am bound for the Promised Land 07:47 Come, Thou Fount of every blessing 07:51 Tune my heart to sing Thy grace 07:55 Streams of mercy, never ceasing 07:59 Call for songs of loudest praise 08:03 I am bound for the kingdom 08:05 Will you go to glory with me? 08:07 Hallelujah, praise the Lord 08:11 Hallelujah, praise the Lord 08:19 I am bound for the Promised Land 08:23 I am bound for the Promised Land 08:27 Will you come and go with me? 08:30 I am bound for the Promised Land 08:35 I am bound for the Promised Land 08:38 I am bound for the Promised Land 08:42 Will you come and go with me? 08:46 I am bound for the Promised Land 08:51 Hallelujah, praise the Lord 08:54 Hallelujah, praise the Lord 09:01 Praise the Lord 09:17 Water was a recurring theme in the ministry of Jesus. 09:20 His first miracle in Cana about 14 miles from His home 09:23 in Nazareth was to turn water into wine at a wedding. 09:27 Another use of water came in Christ encounter 09:29 with the woman at the well. 09:31 By speaking to the Samaritan woman 09:33 and asking for drink from her cup, 09:35 He broke Jewish customs, 09:37 offering her living water 09:39 which was eternal life through Him, 09:41 gave her brand new purpose for living 09:43 and opened up His ministry to the Samaritan gentiles. 09:47 With this living water, she would never thirst. 09:51 Our redeemer thirst for the love of those 09:53 whom He purchased with His own blood. 09:55 He longs inexpressible desire 09:57 that they should come to Him and have life. 10:00 Scripture culminates and closes 10:02 with the final invitation to the water of life. 10:05 The voice of the Holy Spirit invites anyone 10:07 who is willing to come freely to taketh the water of life, 10:11 free of charge 10:13 while still and there's sometimes seemingly 10:15 God forsaking desert of a planet 10:17 where entire need of that water from Christ to sustain us. 10:21 One day, we will drink freely of the water of heaven 10:23 and joy will be the everlasting reward of those who love God. 10:27 Looking towards this eternal future, 10:29 we cannot yet see over the horizon 10:31 into deep eternity, 10:33 but the last glimpse of our destiny 10:34 as shown in scripture is a never ending, 10:37 ever deepening joy in the presence 10:39 of the one who loves us most. 10:41 There is a river that flows deep 10:43 with the life and love of a God who love sinners. 10:46 Come freely to the river and receive forgiveness 10:49 and new life from Christ. 11:15 There is 11:19 A river 11:24 And it flows 11:27 From deep within 11:35 There is 11:39 A fountain 11:44 That frees 11:47 The soul from sin 11:55 Come 11:57 To this water 12:04 There is 12:07 A vast supply 12:15 There is 12:19 A river 12:24 That never shall 12:29 Run dry 12:34 There was 12:37 A thirsty woman 12:44 She was drawing 12:47 From the well 12:54 Seeing her life 12:57 Was ruined and wasted 13:04 And her soul 13:07 Was bound for hell 13:13 Oh, but then 13:17 She met the Master 13:24 And He told her 13:27 Of her sin 13:34 And He said, 13:37 "If you drink this water, 13:44 You'll never thirst 13:51 Again" 13:55 There is 14:00 A river 14:04 And it flows 14:07 From deep within 14:15 Where there 14:20 Is a fountain 14:24 That frees the soul 14:29 From sin 14:35 Come 14:38 To this water 14:45 There is 14:47 A vast supply 14:55 There is 15:00 A river 15:05 That never shall 15:11 Run dry 15:29 I'm standing 15:31 on the eastern side of Jerusalem, 15:33 where it is believed to be 15:34 the site of the pools of Bethesda. 15:36 Because the Romans did such a thorough job 15:39 of destroying the city in 70 A.D. 15:42 proving archeological sites is very challenging. 15:46 Bethesda means House of Mercy. 15:49 And in Jesus' time, 15:50 the pool seemed to be a merciful oasis 15:53 for people with physical ailments. 15:55 Five porches were contained around this pool 15:58 and it was spring fed. 16:00 Jesus healed a man here 16:01 who had been crippled for 38 years. 16:04 Jesus does not ask this sufferer 16:06 to exercise faith in Him. 16:08 He simply says, 16:10 "Rise, take up thy bed and walk." 16:13 But the man's faith takes hold upon that word, 16:16 every nerve and muscle thrills with new life, 16:19 and healthful action comes to his crippled limbs. 16:23 Without question, he sets his will 16:24 to obey the command of Christ 16:26 and all his muscles respond to his will. 16:29 Springing to his feet, he finds himself an active man. 16:33 Jesus has given him no assurance of divine help. 16:36 The man might have stopped to doubt 16:38 and lost his one chance of healing, 16:41 but he believed Christ's word and in acting upon it 16:45 he received strength, 16:47 thorough the same faith 16:48 we may receive spiritual healing. 16:51 The message of the healing at Bethesda 16:53 is still relevant today. 16:55 The smallest bit of sincere faith 16:57 in the power of Jesus is more than a match 17:00 for the strongholds of evil. 17:02 That faith, if acted upon 17:04 will be the means to our victory 17:06 in this life and for the next. 17:08 We have the hope and confidence 17:11 that the name of Jesus is powerful. 17:13 There is not a thing He cannot do, 17:16 for anyone who believes He can. 17:18 Faith is the victory and it is anchored 17:21 in our confidence in the blessed name of Jesus. 17:47 Blessed be the name! 17:49 Blessed be the name! 17:51 Blessed be the name 17:55 Of the Lord! 18:04 For a thousand tongues to sing 18:09 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 18:13 The glories of my God and king! 18:18 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 18:22 Blessed be the name! 18:25 Blessed be the name! 18:27 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 18:31 Blessed be the name! 18:33 Blessed be the name! 18:35 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 18:42 All hail the power of Jesus' name! 18:46 Let angels prostrate fall 18:50 Bring forth the royal diadem 18:54 And crown Him Lord of all 19:01 Bring forth the royal diadem 19:06 And crown Him Lord of all 19:13 Blessed be the name! 19:15 Blessed be the name! 19:17 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 19:21 Blessed be the name! 19:23 Blessed be the name! 19:26 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 19:32 Let every kindred, every tribe 19:36 On this terrestrial ball 19:40 To Him all majesty ascribe 19:45 And crown Him Lord of all 19:51 To Him all majesty ascribe 19:56 And crown Him Lord of all 20:03 Blessed be the name! 20:05 Blessed be the name! 20:07 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 20:12 Blessed be the name! 20:14 Blessed be the name! 20:16 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 20:20 All hail the power of Jesus' name! 20:25 Blessed be the name of the Lord! 20:40 Here in the quiet fishing village of Capernaum, 20:43 nestled on the northern shoreline of the Sea of Galilee 20:46 was the home of Peter and Andrew. 20:49 I'm standing among the impressive pillars 20:51 from Capernaum's old synagogue. 20:53 Capernaum has been referred to as Christ's own city. 20:56 Jesus touched this community performing more miracles 20:59 than in any other city. 21:01 In the excitement which then pervaded Capernaum 21:04 because of His miracles there was a danger 21:07 that the object of His mission would be lost sight off. 21:10 Jesus was not satisfied to attract attention to Himself 21:13 merely as a wonder worker 21:15 or a healer of physical diseases. 21:17 He was seeking to draw men to Him as their Savior. 21:22 Wherever Jesus went He healed 21:24 and brought the good news of the gospel. 21:26 The Prophet Malachi prophesied 21:28 over time when the Son of Righteousness 21:30 would rise up with healing in His wings 21:33 and the people would go free weeping for joy. 21:36 Not only did Jesus set people physically free, 21:38 but He also sets people 21:40 emotionally and spiritually free too. 21:42 His power is no less today 21:44 than it was when He walked on earth. 21:46 Actually His rising from the dead 21:49 and ascending to the throne of God 21:51 has put all powers in heaven and earth 21:53 under His authority. 21:55 Jesus can heal you and me today, 21:58 no matter what is holding you in a form of bondage or sorrow, 22:01 Jesus is still the leader that He was 2,000 years ago. 22:05 The story of Jesus is the story of the world 22:08 being made new, 22:09 one life at a time as He writes His story on each heart. 23:05 Tell me the story of Jesus 23:11 Write on my heart every word 23:18 Tell me the story most precious 23:25 Sweetest that ever was heard 23:31 Tell how the angels in chorus 23:38 Sang as they welcomed His birth 23:44 Glory to God in the highest! 23:51 Peace and good tidings to earth 23:58 Tell me the story of Jesus 24:04 Write on my heart every word 24:11 Tell me the story most precious 24:17 Sweetest that ever 24:20 Was heard 24:26 Tell me the old, old story 24:31 Of unseen things above 24:36 Of Jesus and His glory 24:42 Of Jesus and His love 24:48 Tell me the story simply 24:52 As to a little child 24:57 For I am weak and weary 25:03 And helpless and defiled 25:08 Tell me the old story 25:13 Tell me the old story 25:19 Tell me the old, Old story 25:30 Of Jesus 25:35 And His love 25:49 Tell of the cross 25:51 where they nailed Him 25:56 Writhing in anguish and pain 26:03 Tell of the grave where they laid Him 26:10 Tell how He liveth again 26:16 Love in that story so tender 26:22 Clearer than ever I see 26:29 Stay, let me weep while you whisper 26:35 Love paid the ransom for me 26:41 I love to tell the story 26:46 Of unseen things above 26:51 Of Jesus and His glory 26:57 Of Jesus and His love 27:02 I love to tell the story 27:07 Because I know 'tis true 27:13 It satisfies my longings 27:18 As nothing else can do 27:24 I love to tell the story 27:29 'Twill be my theme in glory 27:34 To tell the old, old story 27:40 Of Jesus and His love 27:46 To tell the old, old story 27:53 Of Jesus 27:58 And His love 28:25 Located on the east side of Jerusalem, 28:27 the Mount of Olives represents the place 28:29 of many significant events to Christians. 28:32 Just from here that Jesus ascended to heaven. 28:34 Zechariah writes that here that one day 28:36 the mount was split open providing the place 28:38 for the New Jerusalem to descend upon and rest. 28:41 The Mount of Olives was a place Christ would go to seek quiet, 28:44 solitude and evening retirement. 28:46 It was during one of these evenings of rest 28:48 that Nicodemus sought out Jesus for a private interview. 28:51 Nicodemus is being drawn to Christ 28:54 as the Savior explains to him concerning the new birth, 28:57 he longed to have this change right in himself. 29:00 But what means could it be accomplished? 29:02 Jesus answered the unspoken question 29:04 as Moses lifted up the serpent in wilderness. 29:07 Even so must the Son of man must be lifted up, 29:09 that whosoever believeth in him should not perish 29:12 but have eternal life. 29:14 Here was ground with which Nicodemus was familiar, 29:17 the symbol of the uplifted serpent 29:18 made plain to him the Savior's mission. 29:21 As beings created in the image of God, 29:23 our entire purpose is to mere His life 29:25 and character to this world. 29:27 As image bearing creatures, we're uniquely designed 29:29 to be filled by something outside of ourselves. 29:32 The calling to all Christians is a call 29:34 to full surrender of self. 29:37 We can only be full of Jesus 29:38 if we are first empty of anything other than Him. 29:41 As John the Baptist said, 29:42 "He must increase and I must decrease." 29:45 As Jesus said, "Unless a grain of wheat 29:47 fall to the ground and dies, it remains alone, 29:50 but if it dies it produces much grain." 29:53 We all live only to lift up the name of Jesus Christ. 29:56 But when He is lifted up, He draws all others to Himself. 30:00 When self dies, everything is gained. 30:02 We truly find our lives when we lay them down. 30:06 It is in dying that we are born again. 30:08 To lift Jesus up is everything. 30:44 Lift Him up, 30:49 'Tis He that bids you 30:52 Let the dying look and live 31:00 To all weary, thirsting sinners 31:05 Living waters will He give 31:11 And though once so meek and lowly 31:16 Yet the Prince of Heav'n was He 31:22 And the blind, who grope in darkness 31:27 Through the blood of Christ 31:30 Shall see 31:36 Lift Him up, this precious Savior 31:42 Let the multitude behold 31:47 They with willing hearts shall seek Him 31:53 He will draw them to His fold 31:58 They shall gather from the wayside 32:03 Hastening on with joyous feet 32:07 They shall bear the cross of Jesus 32:12 And shall find salvation sweet 32:17 Lift Him up, the risen Savior 32:22 High amid the waiting throng 32:27 Lift Him up, 'tis He that speaketh 32:32 Now He bids you flee from wrong 32:48 Lift Him up in all His glory 32:52 'Tis the Son of God on high 32:57 Lift Him up, His love shall draw them 33:02 E'en the careless shall draw nigh 33:07 Let them hear again the story 33:11 Of the cross, the death of shame 33:16 And from tongue to tongue repeat it 33:21 Mighty throngs will bless His name 33:28 O then lift Him up in singing 33:33 Lift the Savior up in prayer 33:38 He, the glorious Redeemer 33:43 All the sins of men did bear 33:48 Yes, the young shall bow before Him 33:53 And the old their voices raise 33:58 All the deaf shall hear hosannah 34:02 And the dumb shall shout His praise 34:08 Lift Him up, the risen Savior 34:13 High amid the waiting throng 34:17 Lift Him up, 'tis He that speaketh 34:22 Now He bids you flee from wrong 34:27 Lift Him up, 34:31 The risen Savior 34:35 High amid the waiting throng 34:42 Lift Him up, 34:45 'Tis He that speaketh 34:49 Now He bids you flee 34:54 From wrong 35:06 Now He bids 35:12 You flee 35:17 From wrong 35:38 Here beside the Sea of Galilee, 35:40 a place that witnessed many of Jesus' miracles, 35:43 a leper was guided to the Savior. 35:45 Jesus is teaching beside the lake, 35:47 and the people are gathered about and standing far off. 35:50 The leper catches a few words from the Savior's lips. 35:53 He sees Him lying His hands upon a sick, 35:56 he sees the lame, the blind, the paralytic 35:59 and those dying of various maladies 36:01 rise up in health, praising God for their deliverance. 36:05 Faith strengthens in his heart. 36:07 He draws nearer and get nearer to the gathering throng. 36:10 The restrictions laid upon him, the safety of the people, 36:13 and the fear with which men regard him are forgotten. 36:16 He thinks only of the blessed hope in healing. 36:20 At the sight of him, people fall back in terror. 36:22 The crowd upon one another and their eagerness 36:25 to escape from contact with him. 36:27 He sees only the Son of God. 36:30 He hears only the voice that speaks life to the dying. 36:34 Presenting to Jesus he cast himself 36:36 at His feet with the cry, 36:38 "Lord, if thou will, thou can make me clean." 36:41 Jesus replied, "I will." 36:44 Be thou may clean and laid His hand upon Him. 36:46 There are many today who see 36:48 who Jesus is and what He has to offer. 36:51 But they're afraid to come to Him 36:53 because of what someone may say or think, 36:55 or maybe they have become convinced of the lie 36:58 that Jesus is only for people who have their act together. 37:02 Perhaps you feel that 37:03 you are too much of mess for Him, 37:05 nothing could be farther from the truth. 37:07 It's the sick, not the healthy that need a doctor. 37:10 Jesus' healing touch to this leper 37:12 came as a shock to the community. 37:14 But it goes to show that the God almighty 37:17 loves humans and is in the business 37:19 of taking them as they come 37:21 and making them into something beautiful. 37:51 Shackled by a heavy 37:56 Burden 38:01 'Neath a load of guilt 38:05 And shame 38:11 Then the hand of Jesus 38:17 Touched me 38:21 And now I am no longer 38:27 The same 38:32 He touched me 38:34 Oh, He touched me 38:41 And, oh, the joy 38:46 That floods my soul! 38:52 Something happened 38:57 And now I know 39:02 He touched me 39:04 And made 39:07 Me whole 39:12 Since I met this blessed 39:17 Savior 39:22 Since He cleansed 39:24 And made me whole 39:32 I will never cease 39:37 To praise Him 39:41 I'll shout it while eternity rolls 39:49 He touched me 39:54 Oh, He touched me 39:59 He touched me 40:00 And, oh, the joy 40:05 That floods my soul! 40:11 Something wonderful happened 40:16 And now I know 40:20 He touched me 40:23 And made me whole 40:38 The Sea of Galilee 40:39 is the chief source of water in Israel. 40:42 Fed by the Jordan River in the north, 40:44 the sea measures 30 miles long and 6 miles wide. 40:48 This majestic body of water is loaded 40:50 with an abundance of fish. 40:53 Some of Jesus' disciples were fishermen 40:55 that frequently applied their craft on this very sea. 40:59 It was here that Jesus and His disciples 41:01 encountered a raging storm. 41:04 While Jesus slept on the boat, 41:05 the disciples desperately tried to ride their ship. 41:09 Losing sight of Jesus in the darkness, 41:12 they screamed for Him to save them. 41:14 Jesus stood up in the boat and utter the powerful words, 41:18 "peace be still," the storm stopped. 41:22 As Jesus rested by faith in the Father's care, 41:25 so we ought to rest in the care of our Savior. 41:28 If the disciples had trusted in Him, 41:31 they would have been kept in peace, 41:33 their fear in the time of danger 41:35 reveal their unbelief. 41:37 In their efforts to save themselves, they forgot Jesus. 41:41 And it was only when in despair of self-dependence, 41:45 they turn to Him that He could give them help. 41:48 How often is the disciples experience our own? 41:52 If there is one enduring message 41:55 of the lives of the disciples after Jesus' ministry 41:59 or of the history of God's faithfulness all together, 42:03 it is the idea that peace 42:04 has always marked the people of God. 42:07 No matter what circumstances arise, 42:10 we can take hope in knowing that 42:13 Jesus has never left the boat. 42:16 The eyes of the Father see all. 42:19 We have a strange peace 42:20 that the world does not understand. 42:23 He who spoke peace in to the Galillean Sea 42:26 is still speaking peace into the chaos of our lives 42:31 and will continue to 42:32 until all the world is one day remade in the knowledge 42:37 and perfect peace of God. 43:04 Master, the tempest is raging 43:08 The billows are tossing high 43:12 The sky is o'er shadowed with blackness 43:16 No shelter or help is nigh 43:21 Carest Thou not that we perish? 43:25 How canst Thou lie asleep 43:29 When each moment so madly is threatening 43:33 A grave in the angry deep? 43:37 The winds and the waves shall obey thy will 43:42 Peace be still 43:46 Although the tempest may seek to kill 43:50 Peace be still 43:55 Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea 43:59 Or demons or men or whatever it be 44:03 They all shall sweetly obey my will 44:08 Peace, peace be still 44:20 Oh, Master, with anguish of spirit 44:25 I bow in my grief today 44:29 The depths of my sad heart are troubled 44:33 Oh, waken and save, I pray 44:38 Torrents of sin and of anguish 44:41 Sweep o'er my sinking soul 44:46 And I perish, I perish, dear Master 44:50 Oh, hasten and take control 44:55 The winds and the waves shall obey thy will 44:59 Peace be still 45:03 Although the tempest may seek to kill 45:07 Peace be still 45:12 Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea 45:15 Or demons or men or whatever it be 45:19 They all shall sweetly obey thy will 45:24 Peace, peace be still 45:47 Oh, Master, the terror is over 45:51 The elements sweetly rest 45:55 Earth's sun in the calm lake is mirrored 46:00 And heaven's within my breast 46:04 Linger, o blessed Redeemer 46:08 Leave me alone no more 46:12 And with joy I shall make the blest harbor 46:17 And rest on the blissful shore 46:21 The winds and the waves shall obey thy will 46:25 Peace be still 46:29 Although the tempest may seek to kill 46:34 Peace be still 46:38 Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea 46:42 Or demons or men or whatever it be 46:46 They all shall sweetly obey thy will 46:51 Peace, peace be still 47:05 Be still 47:27 A mile and a half east of Jerusalem, 47:30 just pass the south eastern slope 47:32 of the Mount of Olives lies Bethany. 47:36 Bethany was a village where Jesus frequently found 47:39 rest in the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus. 47:43 I'm sitting in the tomb of Lazarus, 47:46 one of Christ's greatest miracles 47:48 most likely took place at this spot, 47:51 the raising of Lazarus from the dead. 47:54 Here the Bible records that Jesus wept, 47:57 it was not only because of His human sympathy 48:01 with Mary and Martha that Jesus wept. 48:03 In His tears there was a sorrow as high above human sorrow 48:07 as the heavens are higher than the earth. 48:10 Christ did not weep for Lazarus, 48:13 for He was about to call him from the grave. 48:16 He wept because many of those now mourning for Lazarus 48:20 would soon plan the death of Him 48:23 who was the resurrection and the life. 48:26 Christ powerful order, "Lazarus come forth" 48:29 is one of the most steering commands 48:31 the world has ever witnessed. 48:34 The power of Jesus Christ still cause 48:36 life out of death today. 48:39 Up until this moment at this tomb, 48:42 Jesus had not performed this powerful miracle. 48:46 And yet it only foreshadowed the miracle 48:49 of His own resurrection. 48:51 And because of His resurrection, 48:53 He can come to life in any person today 48:57 who professes faith in Him as their Savior. 49:01 As Paul said, 49:02 "Jesus can give life to our mortal bodies 49:06 through His Spirit who dwells in us." 49:09 Those circumstances may not often make sense 49:12 and it often seems like God has neglected us 49:15 or simply not heard us. 49:17 We can take comfort in knowing, God's timing is always right 49:22 and it's never too late to bring to life 49:25 all that is dead inside of us. 49:47 The news came to Jesus 49:52 Please come fast 49:57 Lazarus is sick 49:59 And without your help he will not last 50:07 Mary and Martha 50:12 watched their brother die 50:17 They waited for Jesus 50:19 He did not come 50:22 And they wondered why 50:27 The death watch was over 50:32 Buried four days 50:37 Somebody said He'll soon be here 50:42 The Lord's on His way 50:47 Martha ran to Him 50:51 And then she cried 50:56 Lord, if you had been here 50:59 You could have healed him 51:01 He'd still be alive 51:07 But You're four days late 51:11 And all hope is gone 51:16 Lord, we don't understand 51:20 Why You've waited so long 51:25 His way is God's way 51:30 Not yours or mine 51:34 And isn't it great 51:37 When He's four days late 51:39 He's still on time 51:44 Jesus said Martha 51:48 Show me the grave 51:53 But she said, Lord You don't understand 51:58 he's been there four days 52:03 The grave stone was rolled back 52:08 Then Jesus cried 52:13 Lazarus come forth 52:15 Then somebody said 52:17 He's alive, He's alive 52:24 Alive, he's alive 52:27 You may be fighting 52:33 A battle of fear 52:38 You've cried to the Lord 52:40 I need You now 52:43 But he has not appeared 52:47 Friend, don't be discouraged 52:52 Cause He's still the same 52:57 He'll soon be here 52:59 He'll roll back the stone 53:01 And He'll call out your name 53:06 But You're four days late 53:11 And all hope is gone 53:16 Lord, we don't understand 53:20 Why You've waited so long 53:25 But His way is God's way 53:29 Not yours or mine 53:34 And isn't it great 53:36 When He's four days late 53:39 He's still on time 53:48 Oh, isn't it great 53:53 When He's four days late 53:59 The Lord's right on time 54:24 I'm standing between the old city of Jerusalem 54:26 and the Mount of Olives in the Kidron Valley. 54:28 This section near the Garden of Gethsemane 54:31 was called the Valley of Jehoshaphat 54:32 in the Old Testament. 54:34 It's filled with graves 54:35 because the Jews didn't bury the dead inside the city walls. 54:39 Jesus crossed this area when He walked from Jerusalem 54:42 to the Garden of Gethsemane. 54:44 On the evening of His arrest, 54:46 Jesus had been earnestly conversing 54:47 with His disciples and instructing them. 54:50 But as He neared Gethsemane, He became strangely silent. 54:54 He'd often visited this spot for meditation and prayer, 54:57 but never with the heart so full of sorrow 55:00 as upon this night of His last agony. 55:03 Throughout His life on earth, 55:05 He walked in the light of God's presence, 55:08 but now He seemed to be shut out 55:10 from the light of God's sustaining presence. 55:12 Now He was numbered with the transgressors, 55:15 the guilt of fallen humanity He must bear, 55:18 upon Him who knew no sin 55:20 must be laid the iniquity of us all. 55:23 And yeah, Isaiah tells us 55:25 that He pleas to God to crush Him 55:27 because thorough His death many would be made righteous. 55:30 Even Jesus Himself, 55:32 the despising the coming shame of the cross, 55:34 look past the shame 55:36 to the joy that was set before Him. 55:38 The joy of the accomplished work of salvation 55:41 for people like you and me. 55:43 Near this very spot, 55:45 Jesus made a decision to go through 55:47 with the will of His Father and the redemption of mankind. 55:51 Though He dreaded the cup of agony 55:53 of suffering before Him, 55:54 His determination to do the will of God 55:57 was His chief goal. 55:59 Such sacrifice cause us to greater faithfulness 56:02 in God's will. 56:03 When I survey the wondrous cross, 56:05 I see a God of love 56:07 worthy of my surrender to His leading. 57:09 When I survey 57:14 The wondrous cross 57:21 On which the Prince 57:26 Of glory died 57:34 My richest gain 57:39 I count but loss 57:46 And pour contempt 57:51 on all my pride 58:22 Forbid it, Lord, 58:27 That I should boast 58:35 Save in the death 58:40 Of Christ my God! 58:48 All the vain things 58:52 That charm me 58:57 Most 59:01 I sacrifice them 59:07 To His blood 59:41 See from His head, 59:47 His hands, His feet 59:54 Sorrow and love 59:59 Flow mingled down! 01:00:07 Did e'er such love 01:00:11 And sorrow meet 01:00:19 Or thorns compose 01:00:23 So rich a crown? 01:00:30 Were the whole realm 01:00:35 Of nature 01:00:39 Mine 01:00:43 That were a present 01:00:48 far too small 01:00:55 Love so amazing, 01:01:00 So divine 01:01:13 Demands my soul, 01:01:19 My life, 01:01:25 My all 01:01:41 Jerusalem, majestic holy city to Christians, 01:01:44 Jews, and Muslims is a marvelous yet tragic city. 01:01:48 Jerusalem is a city where there has been 01:01:49 some of the greatest love the world has ever seen 01:01:52 and yet has hosted the most undeserving cruelty 01:01:55 of all times. 01:01:56 It says, we need that experience the triumphal entry 01:01:59 and a cross borne exit. 01:02:01 Here Jesus perfectly shared the loving character of God, 01:02:04 ministering to scores of people, 01:02:06 and yet was condemned falsely and killed as a criminal. 01:02:10 With the greatest focus ever displayed by any man, 01:02:13 Jesus faced an illegal, dishonest trial. 01:02:16 Crazy brutality and death on the cross 01:02:18 with a humble dignity that was only matched 01:02:20 by His overwhelming love for mankind. 01:02:24 The Savior paused and left unsaid 01:02:26 would might have been the condition of Jerusalem 01:02:28 had she accepted the gift that God desired to give her, 01:02:31 the gift of His beloved Son. 01:02:34 If Jerusalem had known what it was her privilege to know 01:02:37 and had heeded the light which heaven had sent her, 01:02:40 she might have stood forth in the pride of prosperity, 01:02:43 the queen of kingdoms free 01:02:45 in the strength of her God given power. 01:02:47 There would have been no arm soldiers standing at her gates, 01:02:50 no Roman banners waving from her walls, 01:02:53 the glorious destiny that might have blessed Jerusalem had 01:02:56 she accepted her redeemer rose before the Son of God. 01:03:00 The greatest tragedy of the city of Jerusalem 01:03:03 is not merely its past failures or modern political tensions, 01:03:07 the greatest tragedy is all that it could have been 01:03:10 and yet refused to be. 01:03:12 God had chosen Israel as a holy nation of priests, 01:03:15 to give the light of God to the world with Jerusalem 01:03:18 at the centre of His mission. 01:03:20 But scripture describes at the time 01:03:22 when then new Jerusalem will descend 01:03:24 and be the presence of God in the midst of His people 01:03:26 as was the intention from the beginning. 01:03:29 Only this time, there will be no more sin, sorrow, 01:03:32 or need for priests or temple 01:03:35 because all the earth 01:03:36 will be full of the knowledge of the Lord. 01:03:38 Until that day, the ancient holy city of Jerusalem 01:03:41 stands as a reminder of all that God 01:03:43 desires to do in our lives, if we will just let Him. 01:04:07 Last night I lay asleeping 01:04:11 There came a dream so fair 01:04:15 I stood in old Jerusalem 01:04:18 Beside the temple there 01:04:22 I heard the children singing 01:04:26 And ever as they sang 01:04:30 Methought the voice of angels 01:04:33 From Heav'n in answer rang 01:04:36 Me thought the voice of angels 01:04:42 From Heav'n in answer rang 01:04:49 Jerusalem! 01:04:53 Jerusalem! 01:04:58 Lift up your gates and sing 01:05:03 Hosanna in the highest 01:05:10 Hosanna to your King! 01:05:31 And then me thought my dream was changed 01:05:35 The streets no longer rang 01:05:38 Hushed were the glad hosannas 01:05:42 The little children sang 01:05:46 The sun grew dark with mystery 01:05:50 The morn was cold and chill 01:05:53 As the shadow of a cross arose 01:05:57 Upon a lonely hill 01:06:00 As the shadow of a cross arose 01:06:06 Upon a lonely hill 01:06:13 Jerusalem! 01:06:17 Jerusalem! 01:06:21 Hark! how the angels sing 01:06:27 Hosanna in the highest 01:06:33 Hosanna to your King 01:06:55 And once again the scene was changed 01:06:59 New earth there seem'd to be 01:07:02 I saw the Holy City 01:07:06 Beside the tideless sea 01:07:10 The light of God was on its streets 01:07:14 The gates were open wide 01:07:17 And all who would might enter 01:07:22 And no one was denied 01:07:28 No need of moon or stars by night 01:07:34 Or sun to shine by day 01:07:40 It was the new Jerusalem 01:07:46 That would not pass away 01:07:51 It was the new Jerusalem 01:07:57 That would not pass away 01:08:04 Jerusalem! 01:08:08 Jerusalem! 01:08:12 Sing, for the night is o'er! 01:08:18 Hosanna in the highest 01:08:24 Hosanna for evermore! 01:08:31 Hosanna in the highest 01:08:44 Hosanna for evermore! 01:09:08 Imagine that early Sunday morning, 01:09:11 in a tomb like this contained a body of our crucified Savior, 01:09:15 a guarded state of death that was to become 01:09:17 a glorious spectacle of the resurrective power 01:09:20 of the living King of the universe. 01:09:22 An earthquake mark the hour when Christ laid down His life, 01:09:25 another earthquake witnessed the moment 01:09:27 when He took it up in triumph. 01:09:29 He who had vanquish death in the grave, 01:09:32 came forth from the tomb with a tread of a conqueror, 01:09:35 amid reeling of the earth, the flashing of lightning 01:09:38 and the roaring of thunder. 01:09:40 The empty tomb of Jesus Christ 01:09:42 is a central truth of Christianity. 01:09:45 The full guarantee of the overthrow 01:09:47 of death and sin, 01:09:48 thus ending began hear in Jerusalem 01:09:51 when Jesus emerged in brilliant victory, 01:09:53 eternally free of death hold. 01:09:56 And now His victory is available 01:09:57 to all who ask and have faith in Him. 01:10:00 The empty tomb of Jesus is evidence 01:10:02 that sorrow's days are numbered. 01:10:05 Jesus' resurrection guarantees that the dawn is coming 01:10:08 and joy will have the last say as the angel said, 01:10:11 "He is not here, for He is risen." 01:10:14 No matter what life brings, nothing can take away our hope. 01:10:18 We know how the story ends because He lives. 01:10:39 Sing, oh, sing of my Redeemer 01:10:45 With His blood He purchased me 01:10:51 On the cross He sealed my pardon 01:10:57 Paid the debt, and made me free 01:11:04 I will sing of my Redeemer 01:11:09 And His wondrous love to me 01:11:14 On the cruel cross He suffered 01:11:18 From the curse 01:11:20 To set me free 01:11:27 I will tell the wondrous story 01:11:32 How my lost estate to save 01:11:36 In His boundless love and mercy 01:11:41 He the ransom freely gave 01:11:46 Sing, oh, sing of my Redeemer 01:11:52 With His blood He purchased me 01:11:58 On the cross He sealed my pardon 01:12:04 Paid the debt, and made me free 01:12:23 I will praise my dear Redeemer 01:12:27 His triumphant pow'r 01:12:30 I'll tell How the victory He giveth 01:12:36 Over sin, and death, and hell 01:12:43 He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives today 01:12:49 He walks with me and talks with me 01:12:52 Along life's narrow way 01:12:55 He lives, He lives, 01:12:59 Salvation to impart 01:13:03 You ask me how I know He lives? 01:13:09 He lives within my heart 01:13:15 Sing, oh, sing of my Redeemer 01:13:21 With His blood He purchased me 01:13:28 On the cross He sealed my pardon 01:13:33 Paid the debt, and made me free 01:13:51 He lives 01:13:58 I'm standing in front of the walls 01:14:00 of Old Jerusalem. 01:14:01 Although almost of these walls 01:14:02 were built 1500 years after Christ, 01:14:04 in early 16th century by the Ottoman Sultan, 01:14:07 Suleiman the Magnificent. 01:14:09 They surround the sea that goes back 01:14:10 almost 3,000 years earlier and it's witnessed 01:14:13 the greatest act of love in history. 01:14:15 Two people are recorded in the Bible 01:14:17 as weeping over the city, Jeremiah and Jesus. 01:14:20 Christ came to save Jerusalem through children, but pride, 01:14:24 hypocrisy, jealousy, and malice had prevented Him 01:14:27 from accomplishing His true purpose. 01:14:29 Jesus knew the terrible attribution 01:14:31 which would be visited upon this doomed city. 01:14:34 Luke said that when he approached 01:14:35 and saw the city, he wept over. 01:14:38 And yet it wasn't really the city that made him weep, 01:14:40 it was the countless number of people in this chosen city 01:14:43 who had miss out on true joy and purpose by rejecting Him. 01:14:48 It was the fact that they did not know 01:14:49 that God Himself was among them to heal and save them. 01:14:53 I find it a comforting thought that God cares so much, 01:14:55 He cries over His children. 01:14:58 One day Christ will return, 01:15:00 and I want to be ready for that day. 01:15:02 It's encouraging to know that the Jesus 01:15:04 who is returning is the same one who wept over Jerusalem. 01:15:07 If you never get to walk in the Old Jerusalem, 01:15:09 make sure you do not miss out 01:15:11 on being part of the New Jerusalem. 01:15:30 I want to be ready 01:15:33 I want to be ready 01:15:36 I want to be ready 01:15:39 To walk in Jerusalem, just like John 01:15:42 I want to be ready 01:15:45 I want to be ready 01:15:49 I want to be ready 01:15:52 To walk in Jerusalem, just like John 01:15:54 Oh, John, oh John, now what did you say 01:15:58 Walking in Jerusalem, just like John 01:16:01 That you'll be there on that day 01:16:04 Walking in Jerusalem, just like John 01:16:07 I want to be ready 01:16:10 I want to be ready 01:16:13 I want to be ready 01:16:16 To walk in Jerusalem, just like John 01:16:20 I want to be ready 01:16:23 I want to be ready 01:16:26 I want to be ready 01:16:29 To walk in Jerusalem, just like John 01:16:32 And Jesus rides in the middle of the air 01:16:36 Walking in Jerusalem, just like John 01:16:39 I pray the Lord will all be there 01:16:44 Walk into Jerusalem, just like, just like John 01:16:48 I want to be ready 01:16:50 I want to be ready 01:16:53 I want to be ready 01:16:56 To walk in Jerusalem Great day Great day, 01:17:03 the righteous marching 01:17:04 Great day 01:17:08 Walk in Jerusalem, just like John 01:17:11 I want to walk In Jerusalem, just like John 01:17:15 I want to walk In Jerusalem, just like John 01:17:19 In Jerusalem, in Jerusalem Just like John 01:17:24 I want to walk In Jerusalem, just like John 01:17:27 I want to walk In Jerusalem, just like John 01:17:30 I want to walk In Jerusalem, in Jerusalem 01:17:34 Just like John 01:17:36 Walk in Jerusalem, just like John 01:17:47 I'm sitting on the rooftop of what is believed by many 01:17:49 to be location of the Upper Room. 01:17:51 The Savior desire to keep the Passover feast 01:17:53 alone with His 12 disciples. 01:17:55 He knew that His hour had come. 01:17:57 He Himself was the true Passover lamb. 01:18:00 And on the day of the Passover would end, 01:18:02 He was to be sacrificed. 01:18:04 He was about to drink the cup of wrath. 01:18:06 He must soon receive the final baptism of suffering, 01:18:09 but a few quiet hours yet remain to Him 01:18:12 and these were to be spent for the benefit 01:18:14 of His beloved disciples. 01:18:16 How fitting it was that Christ last hours 01:18:18 would benefit us as His disciples. 01:18:20 How fitting it was that at the same Upper Room 01:18:23 the followers of Jesus would be showered 01:18:25 with the Holy Spirit, 01:18:26 empowering them to carry on the mission 01:18:29 that Jesus gave them to the world. 01:18:31 During the early phases of the Christian church, 01:18:33 selfless communal love 01:18:35 was one of its distinctive features. 01:18:37 It was reported that even though Christians were hated 01:18:40 and despised, the Roman world 01:18:42 and the churches enemies often comment, 01:18:44 "My, how these Christians love each other?" 01:18:47 This was all because of the transforming power 01:18:49 of Christ living in the lives of the believers. 01:18:52 Jesus' entire mission was about living 01:18:55 and dying in service to others. 01:18:57 The Upper Room was the site of washing the feet 01:18:59 including Judas' feet. 01:19:01 It was also a place where the believers gathered 01:19:03 to confess sins and collectively pray 01:19:05 that they will be effective in carrying forward 01:19:08 the self-sacrificing work of Christ. 01:19:10 When the Spirit of the living God 01:19:12 dwells in us, 01:19:13 the uplifting and restoration of our fellowman 01:19:15 is our primary focus. 01:19:17 So important is God's Spirit in God's work 01:19:19 that Jesus ordered His disciples 01:19:21 to wait for His presence before entering their work. 01:19:24 Jesus said, "Without Me, you can do nothing." 01:19:27 Neither life of Christ, 01:19:29 by the power of Holy Spirit living each one of us 01:19:32 that He living in us will reach the world 01:19:35 with His heart and His strength. 01:19:44 Spirit of the Living God 01:19:52 Fall a fresh on me 01:19:59 Spirit of the Living God 01:20:07 Fall a fresh on me 01:20:15 Break me, melt me, 01:20:23 Mold me Fill me 01:20:30 Spirit of the Living God 01:20:38 Fall a fresh on me 01:20:46 Amen! 01:20:52 Amen! 01:21:09 Here on the northeast side of Old Jerusalem 01:21:12 is the Citadel, 01:21:13 commonly known as the Tower of David. 01:21:16 Even though the structure of the Citadel was built 01:21:18 during the Middle Ages, 01:21:20 recent archeological excavations 01:21:22 haven't covered remains dating back 01:21:24 to the 2nd century B.C. 01:21:26 and underground fortifications 01:21:28 that would have been part of Herod's palace. 01:21:31 On the evening of the Jesus' trial, 01:21:33 Pilate longed to deliver Jesus, 01:21:36 but he saw that he could not do this 01:21:38 and retain His own position and honor. 01:21:41 Rather than lose his worldly power, 01:21:43 he chose to sacrifice an innocent life. 01:21:46 How many to escape loss or suffering, 01:21:49 in like manner sacrifice principle. 01:21:51 Conscience and duty point one way 01:21:53 and self interest points in other. 01:21:56 The current sets strongly in the wrong direction 01:21:59 and He who compromises with evil, 01:22:01 is swept away 01:22:03 into the thick darkness of guilt. 01:22:05 Despite the lack of justice, beatings, acquisitions, 01:22:09 and finally crucifixion, 01:22:11 Jesus stayed true to His mission of redemption 01:22:14 to His last breath uttering the words, 01:22:17 "It is finished." 01:22:19 If John, Peter, 01:22:21 or any other of Jesus' followers 01:22:23 would have been near this spot and listening to the crowds 01:22:26 as Jesus was tried, 01:22:28 I can only imagine 01:22:29 they would have been deeply disheartened 01:22:32 at the outcry for His death, 01:22:34 and at the demon possession of the Jewish leaders. 01:22:37 Sometimes we are surrounded by hardship and corruption, 01:22:40 and we cannot see 01:22:42 beyond the current state of darkness in our world. 01:22:45 And yet in the midst of all that confusion and injustice, 01:22:49 Jesus did not fall from His Father's will. 01:22:52 He knew exactly what He was doing, 01:22:54 His life had been building up to this moment 01:22:57 because of His death 01:22:59 He will provide atonement for many. 01:23:01 We too can have assurance in God's plan, 01:23:04 despite the seeming hopelessness 01:23:06 of our circumstances. 01:23:08 It is finished because Jesus stayed 01:23:11 the course of obedience to His Father. 01:23:54 There's a line that is drawn 01:24:00 Through the ages 01:24:04 On that line 01:24:07 Stands an old rugged cross 01:24:14 On that cross, 01:24:17 A battle is raging 01:24:24 For the gain a man's soul 01:24:29 Or it's loss 01:24:33 On one side, 01:24:36 March the forces of evil 01:24:43 All the demons and devils 01:24:48 Of hell 01:24:53 On the other, 01:24:56 The angels of glory 01:25:03 And they meet 01:25:05 On Golgotha's hill 01:25:13 The earth shakes with the force 01:25:17 Of the conflict 01:25:22 And the sun refuses 01:25:27 To shine 01:25:32 For there hangs God's son, 01:25:38 In the balance 01:25:42 And then through the darkness 01:25:47 He cries 01:25:51 It is finished, 01:25:54 The battle is over 01:26:01 It is finished, 01:26:04 There'll be no more war 01:26:11 It is finished, 01:26:14 The end of the conflict 01:26:21 It is finished 01:26:23 And Jesus is Lord 01:26:36 Yet in my heart, 01:26:39 The battle was still raging 01:26:47 Not all prisoners of war 01:26:58 These were battlefields 01:27:01 Of my own making 01:27:09 I didn't know that the war 01:27:13 Had been won 01:27:17 Oh, but then I heard 01:27:22 The king of the ages 01:27:29 He had fought all those battles 01:27:34 Just for me 01:27:39 And that victory was mine 01:27:44 For the claiming 01:27:49 And now praise his name, 01:27:54 I am free 01:27:58 It is finished, 01:28:02 The battle is over 01:28:09 It is finished, 01:28:12 There'll be no more war 01:28:17 It is finished, 01:28:21 The end of the conflict 01:28:28 It is finished 01:28:31 And Jesus is Lord 01:28:38 It is finished 01:28:41 Jesus is Lord 01:29:05 We have loved sharing the story of Jesus with you. 01:29:08 I have been so blessed to walk in the footsteps of Jesus 01:29:12 as we films in the places of His earthly ministry. 01:29:15 I saw deep meaning in all the places we filmed 01:29:18 because of the companion work of this production, 01:29:20 The Desire of Ages. 01:29:22 Personally I've read this book many times, 01:29:25 in fact it's been one of the most 01:29:26 influential books in my life. 01:29:29 The picture it gives of Jesus 01:29:31 as our best friend and Savior melts 01:29:33 in my heart as a young girl. 01:29:35 I know that if you read this amazing devotional 01:29:38 on the life of Christ, you will be blessed. 01:29:42 For your free download of the book, 01:29:43 please visit thedesireofages.com 01:29:46 or for your free audio book, 01:29:48 visit the desire ofagesproject.com. 01:29:51 On behalf of all the Harbert Hills, 01:29:53 thank you for watching. |
Revised 2018-11-12