April 3, 2021

Surrender Leads to Life

Overview: Judges 10-12, Luke 9:1-36

Over the next seventy-six years, Israel has six more judges. During this time, the people continue the cycle of turning from God, oppression, calling out to God, and deliverance from a judge raised up by the Lord.

In Luke 9, Jesus empowers His disciples for ministry by feeding five thousand men and their families with five loaves and two fish. This section ends with the transfiguration of Jesus when Peter, John, and James are allowed to see His glory.

Observation and Activation

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” - Luke 9:23-24

The wandering hearts of the Israelites remind us of the truth. Israel was crushed by the people whose gods they were worshipping, and our sin turns to crush and oppress us as well. 

The power over sin is found in Jesus and surrendering to Him leads to life. His miracles and teaching prepare His disciples to wrestle with the question He poses to them, “Who do you say that I am?” 

Who do you say that Jesus is? Is He your Savior? Do you trust Him for your deliverance?