WEBVTT 00:00:00.740 --> 00:00:05.900 Our scripture reading for today is John 20, beginning at verse 19 until the end of the chapter. 00:00:06.640 --> 00:00:15.400 As I read it here and you follow along, remember this is God's inspired, inerrant, infallible, clear, and sufficient word. 00:00:15.759 --> 00:00:19.120 It's God's very own word for you, for me, his people. 00:00:19.879 --> 00:00:22.440 After I'm done reading this, I'll say, this is the word of the Lord. 00:00:22.960 --> 00:00:26.519 And if Jesus is your Lord, you say, thanks be to God as we receive his word. 00:00:26.519 --> 00:00:30.160 John 20, starting at verse 19. 00:00:32.619 --> 00:00:42.060 On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, 00:00:42.700 --> 00:00:49.060 Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, peace be with you. 00:00:50.019 --> 00:00:53.620 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. 00:00:53.619 --> 00:00:57.859 Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 00:00:58.799 --> 00:01:02.140 Jesus said to them again, peace be with you. 00:01:02.420 --> 00:01:06.479 As the father has sent me, even so I am sending you. 00:01:07.819 --> 00:01:13.920 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, receive the Holy Spirit. 00:01:14.719 --> 00:01:18.259 If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them. 00:01:18.599 --> 00:01:22.120 If you withhold forgiveness from any, it is withheld. 00:01:22.120 --> 00:01:24.620 Verse 24. 00:01:25.620 --> 00:01:30.520 Now Thomas, one of the 12, called the twin, was not with them when Jesus came. 00:01:30.620 --> 00:01:33.400 So the other disciples told him, we have seen the Lord. 00:01:34.080 --> 00:01:40.300 But he said to them, unless I see his hands and the mark of his nails and the place in place, 00:01:40.400 --> 00:01:44.860 my finger into the mark of the nails and place my hand into his side, 00:01:45.200 --> 00:01:47.300 I will never believe. 00:01:47.299 --> 00:01:54.599 Eight days later, when his disciples were inside again, and Thomas was with them. 00:01:55.239 --> 00:02:00.879 Although the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, peace be with you. 00:02:01.959 --> 00:02:09.199 Then he said to Thomas, put your finger here and see my hands and put your hand and place it in my side. 00:02:09.199 --> 00:02:12.839 Do not disbelieve, but believe. 00:02:13.799 --> 00:02:17.599 Thomas answered him, my Lord and my God. 00:02:17.599 --> 00:02:22.539 Jesus said to him, have you believed because you have seen me? 00:02:23.239 --> 00:02:27.519 Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed. 00:02:28.519 --> 00:02:35.019 Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. 00:02:35.439 --> 00:02:40.699 But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, 00:02:40.699 --> 00:02:44.939 and that by believing you may have life in his name. 00:02:45.639 --> 00:02:46.959 This is the word of the Lord. 00:02:47.280 --> 00:02:48.939 Thanks be to God. 00:02:49.000 --> 00:02:49.560 You may be seated. 00:02:49.560 --> 00:03:12.480 Would you pray with me? 00:03:12.479 --> 00:03:24.659 Father, we confess, as we just read in Psalm 29, the word of the Lord is powerful. 00:03:25.620 --> 00:03:29.199 The voice of the Lord is full of majesty. 00:03:31.019 --> 00:03:36.019 So I ask my gracious master and my God, assist me to proclaim. 00:03:36.020 --> 00:03:42.719 Help us as a congregation to spread through all the earth abroad the honors of thy name, 00:03:43.120 --> 00:03:47.939 that many more may know your peace and have life in Jesus Christ, we pray. 00:03:48.400 --> 00:03:48.879 Amen. 00:03:58.700 --> 00:04:02.100 Well, you've likely been to a birthday party in the last few months, at least. 00:04:02.099 --> 00:04:08.180 I invite you to imagine with me what that anticipation would be like if you arrive at the party, 00:04:08.280 --> 00:04:10.599 but you're waiting for the person you're celebrating. 00:04:11.340 --> 00:04:12.959 You see the delicious food. 00:04:13.139 --> 00:04:15.680 It's all laid out perfectly, so beautifully. 00:04:16.060 --> 00:04:17.500 The drinks are ready and they're poured. 00:04:18.719 --> 00:04:24.959 But can you imagine how disappointing it would be if the person you all came together to celebrate never showed up? 00:04:24.959 --> 00:04:29.399 After a while, it would just feel awkward. 00:04:30.060 --> 00:04:32.639 That delicious banquet feast starts to go cold. 00:04:33.799 --> 00:04:36.899 We all just have no reason to really be here at all. 00:04:37.319 --> 00:04:39.639 We should go home in disappointment. 00:04:42.639 --> 00:04:50.120 In John 20, the living Jesus Christ shows up. 00:04:50.120 --> 00:04:55.920 And he exceeds the expectations of his gathered people. 00:04:58.360 --> 00:05:01.220 So, beloved congregation of our Lord Jesus Christ, 00:05:02.220 --> 00:05:06.899 my prayer as I've prepared for today has been to walk through this passage 00:05:06.899 --> 00:05:15.259 and to show you how our Lord loves to minister to you, his people, on his day. 00:05:15.259 --> 00:05:20.259 I hope to persuade you that Jesus never disappoints. 00:05:21.779 --> 00:05:28.860 He set a pattern in human history that has continued every Lord's Day since his resurrection. 00:05:29.579 --> 00:05:31.180 And he loves to minister. 00:05:32.180 --> 00:05:34.879 To minister means to attend, to serve. 00:05:35.500 --> 00:05:39.899 It means to apply the power of an office to real needs. 00:05:40.899 --> 00:05:42.300 Jesus loves to do that. 00:05:42.300 --> 00:05:49.139 Hebrews 8, 2 says that Christ is a minister of the heavenly sanctuary. 00:05:50.379 --> 00:05:54.580 And he comes to minister to his people every single Lord's Day. 00:05:56.120 --> 00:05:58.020 Would you walk through this passage with me? 00:05:58.939 --> 00:06:03.139 The first reason I think this is true is this. 00:06:04.840 --> 00:06:11.980 Christ loves to stand in the midst of his disciples to give them his peace on the Lord's Day. 00:06:12.960 --> 00:06:17.000 I emphasize that it's on the Lord's Day because I think that's what John emphasizes. 00:06:17.780 --> 00:06:20.500 Notice how the very beginning of chapter 20 begins. 00:06:20.600 --> 00:06:21.819 Do you see the first few words? 00:06:22.960 --> 00:06:24.199 Chapter 20, verse 1. 00:06:24.920 --> 00:06:26.600 On the first day of the week. 00:06:28.199 --> 00:06:29.379 That's the eighth day. 00:06:29.740 --> 00:06:31.439 That's Sunday morning. 00:06:32.439 --> 00:06:34.840 While it was still dark, before the sun comes up, 00:06:34.839 --> 00:06:36.679 the grave is empty, 00:06:37.099 --> 00:06:39.579 and the gardener turns Mary to himself. 00:06:41.299 --> 00:06:43.199 Now what all happened on this same day? 00:06:43.779 --> 00:06:45.259 This might be new. 00:06:45.839 --> 00:06:49.639 You might not be aware all of these stories happened on this one first Lord's Day. 00:06:51.019 --> 00:06:55.939 Matthew 28 says that they departed quickly from the sepulcher with fear and great joy. 00:06:56.500 --> 00:06:57.779 This is Mary and the other women. 00:06:57.779 --> 00:07:00.619 to bring word to the disciples. 00:07:02.079 --> 00:07:03.859 And as they went to tell his disciples, 00:07:04.019 --> 00:07:05.779 behold, Jesus met them saying, 00:07:06.259 --> 00:07:06.639 All hail. 00:07:09.139 --> 00:07:10.639 Now while this is happening, 00:07:11.299 --> 00:07:17.500 Luke 24 tells us that the world was seeking to cover up the living Jesus on the Lord's Day. 00:07:18.439 --> 00:07:21.239 Luke 24 says that as the women were on their way, 00:07:21.240 --> 00:07:26.000 some of the guards went into the city and reported to the chief priests everything that had happened. 00:07:26.780 --> 00:07:30.699 These are the guards that were guarding the tomb when Jesus resurrected. 00:07:31.420 --> 00:07:35.160 Luke 24, 13, we're told that same day. 00:07:35.920 --> 00:07:37.540 It's the first Lord's Day. 00:07:38.160 --> 00:07:40.699 The disciples were going to the village of Emmaus, 00:07:41.660 --> 00:07:43.060 seven miles from Jerusalem. 00:07:44.240 --> 00:07:46.639 In Luke 24, verse 27, 00:07:46.639 --> 00:07:50.300 beginning with Moses and all the prophets, 00:07:50.899 --> 00:07:52.639 Jesus, the resurrected Lord, 00:07:52.839 --> 00:07:55.860 explained to these disciples as they walked on this road 00:07:55.860 --> 00:07:59.740 what was said in all the scriptures concerning himself. 00:08:00.599 --> 00:08:01.899 On his resurrection day, 00:08:02.399 --> 00:08:06.019 he's opening up God's word and ministering to God's people. 00:08:07.419 --> 00:08:09.779 They reported in verse 31 of Luke 24, 00:08:09.779 --> 00:08:14.319 our hearts burned within us as he talked with us on the road 00:08:14.319 --> 00:08:16.639 and opened the scriptures to us. 00:08:17.300 --> 00:08:20.579 And then their eyes were opened and they recognized him. 00:08:21.159 --> 00:08:22.579 And that's in the passive verb. 00:08:23.139 --> 00:08:24.420 Their eyes were opened. 00:08:25.240 --> 00:08:29.040 Because the Lord was ministering his word to them. 00:08:30.339 --> 00:08:34.000 And they recognized Jesus is the son of God. 00:08:36.519 --> 00:08:40.340 The world loves to cover up Jesus Christ on his day. 00:08:40.340 --> 00:08:44.740 But Jesus causes his disciples to discover him. 00:08:45.759 --> 00:08:49.980 He reveals himself to his people on his day. 00:08:50.860 --> 00:08:52.379 Now we come to our sermon text. 00:08:52.460 --> 00:08:53.420 Look at verse 19. 00:08:54.820 --> 00:08:57.200 So this is John chapter 20, verse 19. 00:08:58.379 --> 00:09:00.019 The same day. 00:09:00.720 --> 00:09:02.519 John is emphasizing the day of the week. 00:09:02.879 --> 00:09:04.440 And in case you're confused, 00:09:04.560 --> 00:09:06.100 he's referring back to verse 1. 00:09:06.100 --> 00:09:10.159 And in case we're going to miss this and think of something different, 00:09:10.259 --> 00:09:11.980 he says, being the first day of the week. 00:09:12.399 --> 00:09:13.540 He's repeating himself. 00:09:14.460 --> 00:09:15.399 The first Lord's Day, 00:09:15.800 --> 00:09:20.879 Jesus came and stood in the midst of his disciples that evening 00:09:20.879 --> 00:09:22.480 and said to them, 00:09:22.899 --> 00:09:24.060 peace be unto you. 00:09:25.680 --> 00:09:26.980 He gives them shalom. 00:09:29.320 --> 00:09:30.560 Peace with God. 00:09:31.620 --> 00:09:35.000 Given by the Passover lamb of God. 00:09:35.000 --> 00:09:40.840 Peace is a state of reconciliation between parties that were at war. 00:09:41.299 --> 00:09:41.879 It's harmony. 00:09:42.320 --> 00:09:43.940 It's heavenly rest. 00:09:44.320 --> 00:09:45.059 It's happiness. 00:09:46.240 --> 00:09:49.779 And Jesus says to his disciples who are gathered in his name on the Lord's Day, 00:09:50.240 --> 00:09:51.940 peace be unto you. 00:09:55.159 --> 00:09:56.860 O. Palmer Robertson pointed out, 00:09:56.980 --> 00:09:58.139 by these appearances, 00:09:58.519 --> 00:10:00.200 on the first day of the week, 00:10:00.200 --> 00:10:04.399 the resurrected Lord set a pattern for meeting with his disciples. 00:10:05.000 --> 00:10:08.559 He's the one setting this pattern to meet with his disciples. 00:10:09.659 --> 00:10:14.039 They began expecting to meet with him on the day of his resurrection, 00:10:14.320 --> 00:10:16.679 which is the first day of the week. 00:10:16.820 --> 00:10:17.820 It's our Sunday. 00:10:19.740 --> 00:10:21.240 Matthew 18, 20. 00:10:21.460 --> 00:10:22.860 Jesus had promised them this. 00:10:22.940 --> 00:10:23.240 He says, 00:10:23.240 --> 00:10:26.659 where two or three are gathered together in my name. 00:10:27.039 --> 00:10:30.039 I am there among them. 00:10:32.799 --> 00:10:38.539 And his presence among his people is the only source of peace. 00:10:40.740 --> 00:10:42.600 Do you need more peace in your life? 00:10:44.539 --> 00:10:45.019 Amen. 00:10:45.019 --> 00:10:50.899 There's no peace without the presence of Jesus Christ in your life and in mine. 00:10:53.299 --> 00:10:56.879 But it was the Passover lamb of God who secured shalom. 00:10:57.659 --> 00:10:59.460 And he alone can give shalom. 00:10:59.460 --> 00:11:04.600 We need more peace in every relationship. 00:11:05.519 --> 00:11:09.080 Maybe you're feeling this or seeing it in those you love. 00:11:09.200 --> 00:11:10.980 More peace between husband and wife. 00:11:11.720 --> 00:11:13.060 Between parent and child. 00:11:13.860 --> 00:11:14.840 Between siblings. 00:11:17.340 --> 00:11:22.200 There's no peace unless we were in the presence of Jesus Christ. 00:11:22.200 --> 00:11:25.420 We look at him. 00:11:26.540 --> 00:11:27.940 We receive from him. 00:11:29.560 --> 00:11:31.720 Then we look at one another and we declare, 00:11:32.360 --> 00:11:33.540 worthy is the lamb. 00:11:34.860 --> 00:11:38.280 Jesus had promised all his disciples in John 14. 00:11:38.480 --> 00:11:38.860 He said, 00:11:39.420 --> 00:11:42.759 do not let your heart be troubled or fearful. 00:11:43.620 --> 00:11:46.020 I am with you. 00:11:47.860 --> 00:11:50.160 My peace I give you. 00:11:50.159 --> 00:11:58.219 Because Christ loves to stand in the midst of his disciples to give them peace. 00:11:58.519 --> 00:12:00.279 And especially on the Lord's day. 00:12:03.860 --> 00:12:11.120 The second argument I want to bring before you is that our Lord Jesus Christ loves to replace fear with gladness. 00:12:11.779 --> 00:12:12.959 On the Lord's day, 00:12:13.740 --> 00:12:17.139 Jesus Christ loves to replace fear with gladness. 00:12:17.139 --> 00:12:23.799 Did you notice in verse 19 that the disciples had assembled with the doors shut? 00:12:24.620 --> 00:12:29.460 And that phrase signifies the doors were locked, barred, and bolted. 00:12:30.319 --> 00:12:31.980 And we're given the reason for this. 00:12:32.059 --> 00:12:34.360 It's for fear of the Jews. 00:12:36.539 --> 00:12:38.659 Maybe you've been hiding somewhere. 00:12:39.299 --> 00:12:41.019 Maybe it's even just a game of hide and seek. 00:12:41.019 --> 00:12:45.000 But there are certain sounds that make you get that butterflies in your stomach. 00:12:45.639 --> 00:12:47.919 I can only imagine if you're with those disciples, 00:12:48.139 --> 00:12:51.460 the sound of a lot of people walking on the street or soldiers, 00:12:51.639 --> 00:12:53.240 maybe the temple guard in your imagination, 00:12:53.460 --> 00:12:56.019 marching again with those torches and lanterns. 00:12:57.279 --> 00:12:59.480 The sound of a knock would be terrifying. 00:13:00.240 --> 00:13:01.840 Make your skin curdle. 00:13:03.620 --> 00:13:06.539 See, the authorities had already killed their leader, Jesus. 00:13:06.539 --> 00:13:09.759 It would be nothing for them to kill his followers next. 00:13:10.539 --> 00:13:15.120 On top of that, there were rumors spreading that very day that they had stolen the body. 00:13:18.059 --> 00:13:21.240 God loves to turn those fears into gladness. 00:13:21.779 --> 00:13:23.079 He transforms it. 00:13:24.099 --> 00:13:28.019 I think it's helpful for you and for me today to just put that before the Lord. 00:13:28.120 --> 00:13:31.240 What is a fear that you have and that I have? 00:13:31.240 --> 00:13:36.659 And pray, Lord, would you please turn this exact fear into your gladness? 00:13:37.799 --> 00:13:43.240 For me, there's a fear of criticism, a fear of rejection, a fear of being mocked, 00:13:44.240 --> 00:13:49.299 a fear of losing everything that I've come to expect and that I'm comfortable with. 00:13:50.720 --> 00:13:54.299 I need God to transform that fear into his gladness. 00:13:55.700 --> 00:13:59.039 In verse 20, Jesus stood in their midst and he said, 00:13:59.039 --> 00:14:00.480 God, peace. 00:14:01.620 --> 00:14:05.299 And then he showed them his hands and his side. 00:14:06.759 --> 00:14:09.139 He's showing them it's the same person. 00:14:09.879 --> 00:14:11.259 It's the same body. 00:14:12.719 --> 00:14:16.059 That's now resurrected and glorified. 00:14:17.039 --> 00:14:18.259 It's not a ghost. 00:14:18.259 --> 00:14:29.319 It's the living man being truly God glorified, but with his scars as part of his glory. 00:14:32.319 --> 00:14:33.980 He didn't have to do this, you know. 00:14:35.340 --> 00:14:36.939 We believe there will be no weeping. 00:14:36.940 --> 00:14:44.000 All of your physical ailments that you have now, we believe those won't be in your glorified body in heaven. 00:14:44.860 --> 00:14:48.360 Those that are born disabled, they'll be glorified. 00:14:49.700 --> 00:14:53.100 But Jesus keeps his scars in heaven. 00:14:53.100 --> 00:14:58.920 So in heaven, we will look at Jesus. 00:15:01.639 --> 00:15:05.639 And by simply looking at him, we'll remember he was mocked. 00:15:06.279 --> 00:15:07.620 He was pierced. 00:15:07.620 --> 00:15:15.639 But it won't cause us weeping of conviction because we will be reminded of the glorious gospel. 00:15:16.379 --> 00:15:21.419 It will cause us to rejoice and to be full of gladness in seeing him. 00:15:21.419 --> 00:15:26.779 So there will be Jesus Christ in the center of heaven. 00:15:28.179 --> 00:15:33.699 The angels and all those he ransomed gathering around him. 00:15:34.699 --> 00:15:35.779 And in heaven. 00:15:36.959 --> 00:15:40.699 His open side, the holes in his hands and his feet. 00:15:41.179 --> 00:15:49.959 So that all can behold the lamb of God who now rules from his throne and declare worthy is the lamb. 00:15:51.419 --> 00:15:54.719 We read in verse 20. 00:15:55.199 --> 00:16:03.699 Then, after seeing Jesus glorified with his scars, the disciples were glad. 00:16:04.779 --> 00:16:07.839 They were only glad after they saw the Lord. 00:16:10.079 --> 00:16:15.519 To be glad means to be pleased, to be affected with pleasure. 00:16:16.759 --> 00:16:20.059 That happened to them when they saw the Lord. 00:16:21.419 --> 00:16:25.379 Psalm 1611 says, 00:16:26.159 --> 00:16:32.199 You, God, have revealed the paths of life for me and you fill me with gladness in your presence. 00:16:33.459 --> 00:16:36.539 They're getting to experience that now like never before. 00:16:37.199 --> 00:16:39.839 In verse 21, then Jesus said again, 00:16:40.279 --> 00:16:42.059 Peace be unto you. 00:16:42.059 --> 00:16:44.819 This word peace, John Gill commented, 00:16:45.239 --> 00:16:53.139 It's expressive of all prosperity in soul and body, inward and outward, spiritual and temporal. 00:16:53.919 --> 00:16:57.619 He wants wholeness, complete shalom for you. 00:16:57.620 --> 00:17:00.240 Jesus says, 00:17:00.299 --> 00:17:04.279 As my father has sent me, even so send I you. 00:17:05.220 --> 00:17:08.720 In Romans 815, Paul writes to the church, 00:17:08.779 --> 00:17:12.259 You did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. 00:17:12.799 --> 00:17:15.599 Instead, you received the spirit of adoption. 00:17:15.599 --> 00:17:18.500 1 John 418 says, 00:17:18.839 --> 00:17:22.240 There is no fear in love because fear involves punishment. 00:17:23.059 --> 00:17:25.359 And if you fear, then you are not complete in love. 00:17:25.459 --> 00:17:28.119 But perfect love drives out fear. 00:17:29.480 --> 00:17:34.159 Do you see why the gladness comes after seeing his wounds? 00:17:35.859 --> 00:17:37.240 Perfect love. 00:17:37.679 --> 00:17:39.240 There's no fear of punishment. 00:17:39.639 --> 00:17:42.279 You see it in the person, in the work of Christ. 00:17:42.279 --> 00:17:47.339 And as you behold his work, you're filled with gladness, 00:17:47.500 --> 00:17:50.759 which expels and drives out all fear. 00:17:52.480 --> 00:17:54.579 We're getting ahead in the story of redemption. 00:17:55.319 --> 00:17:57.779 But in Acts 2, verse 14, 00:17:58.039 --> 00:18:01.460 Peter, Peter, the one who had denied Jesus, 00:18:01.720 --> 00:18:05.420 stood up with the disciples and he raised his voice 00:18:05.420 --> 00:18:08.779 and he preached as one sent by the Lion Lamb of heaven. 00:18:09.319 --> 00:18:12.099 Because Peter knew this was true from experience. 00:18:12.279 --> 00:18:15.359 Jesus Christ took my punishment. 00:18:17.240 --> 00:18:19.920 Jesus faced my worst fears. 00:18:20.980 --> 00:18:24.779 And now Peter was full of gladness and of the Holy Spirit. 00:18:25.420 --> 00:18:27.339 And there was no more fear of man. 00:18:28.819 --> 00:18:32.420 God had replaced his fear with gladness from heaven. 00:18:33.500 --> 00:18:35.399 Do you want God to do that for you today? 00:18:35.400 --> 00:18:41.880 Our Lord Jesus Christ, he loves to minister to you. 00:18:42.519 --> 00:18:46.220 He loves to take that fear that you feel right now, 00:18:46.540 --> 00:18:49.400 that felt this week, and replace it with his gladness. 00:18:50.259 --> 00:18:53.019 He promised he would do this in John 14. 00:18:53.200 --> 00:18:55.280 Do not let your heart be troubled or fearful. 00:18:55.740 --> 00:18:57.400 I am with you. 00:18:58.360 --> 00:19:01.200 My peace I give to you. 00:19:01.200 --> 00:19:09.519 The third insight here is that Christ loves to fill a glad heart 00:19:09.519 --> 00:19:14.340 with his Holy Spirit for ministry. 00:19:14.339 --> 00:19:16.859 First, he makes you glad. 00:19:17.299 --> 00:19:18.939 Then he raises you up to minister. 00:19:20.519 --> 00:19:21.679 First, he heals you. 00:19:22.199 --> 00:19:25.240 Then his Holy Spirit empowers you to declare the gospel, 00:19:25.339 --> 00:19:26.379 just like he did with Peter. 00:19:27.119 --> 00:19:30.159 So on the Lord's day, Christ loves to fill a glad heart 00:19:30.159 --> 00:19:33.500 with his Holy Spirit for ministry. 00:19:33.500 --> 00:19:39.500 Verse 22, we read that next Jesus breathed on the disciples 00:19:39.500 --> 00:19:42.799 and said to them, receive the Holy Spirit. 00:19:43.740 --> 00:19:48.299 In Zechariah 12, verse 10, God had already foretold this. 00:19:48.619 --> 00:19:52.539 He said, I will pour out a spirit of grace and prayer, 00:19:53.400 --> 00:19:57.900 and they will look at me whom they have pierced. 00:19:59.339 --> 00:20:02.940 Fulfilled beautifully now in Jesus Christ and his apostles. 00:20:04.380 --> 00:20:09.220 God, the Holy Spirit, is breathed out, spirates from. 00:20:09.920 --> 00:20:14.640 He's exhaled from, breathed out by the Father and the Son. 00:20:16.920 --> 00:20:20.220 In John 3, Jesus had said, the wind blows wherever it pleases, 00:20:20.339 --> 00:20:22.680 and unless you are born of the Spirit as it blows, 00:20:23.160 --> 00:20:25.140 you cannot enter the kingdom of heaven. 00:20:26.660 --> 00:20:29.839 Ephesians 3, 19, we read that we know Christ's love 00:20:29.839 --> 00:20:33.380 that surpasses knowledge, and that's how we may be filled. 00:20:33.500 --> 00:20:35.420 With all the fullness of God. 00:20:35.880 --> 00:20:40.900 Ephesians 5, 18, he tells the church, be filled with the Spirit. 00:20:42.759 --> 00:20:47.339 Well, this is fulfilled, what Christ is giving them as a prophetic act. 00:20:47.920 --> 00:20:52.700 It pours out on them in Acts 2, verse 4, at Pentecost. 00:20:52.700 --> 00:20:58.000 You know the story in Acts 2 as they're gathered. 00:20:59.059 --> 00:21:01.759 And they're gathered, by the way, it's another Lord's Day. 00:21:02.080 --> 00:21:03.120 It's the eighth day. 00:21:03.960 --> 00:21:10.180 Because Pentecost, the number five penta, it's 50, the number 50. 00:21:10.259 --> 00:21:11.100 Where do we get that from? 00:21:11.160 --> 00:21:14.880 It's seven Sabbaths after the Sabbath of the Passover. 00:21:15.660 --> 00:21:19.400 So there's the Sabbath of the Passover, times seven, the number of completion, 00:21:19.840 --> 00:21:21.160 seven times seven, 49. 00:21:21.820 --> 00:21:23.960 But that would be the Sabbath, the Saturday. 00:21:24.580 --> 00:21:27.800 And the Pentecost is the day after, the 50th day. 00:21:28.480 --> 00:21:31.160 That the Spirit of God is poured out on all of the disciples. 00:21:31.300 --> 00:21:32.340 They're filled with the Spirit. 00:21:32.339 --> 00:21:39.279 And from there, they overflow into Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, into the ends of the earth. 00:21:41.279 --> 00:21:43.539 Whosoever sins, you remit, Jesus says. 00:21:43.679 --> 00:21:44.919 They are remitted unto them. 00:21:46.019 --> 00:21:48.220 The original language is a binding and loosing. 00:21:49.179 --> 00:21:50.919 And whosoever sins, you retain. 00:21:51.159 --> 00:21:51.859 They're retained. 00:21:53.299 --> 00:21:57.139 Now, this has been interpreted wrongly in church history. 00:21:57.140 --> 00:22:01.740 A very obvious example is the Roman Catholic Church had said that the Pope, 00:22:02.060 --> 00:22:06.080 and whatever means he ordains, is the only way that sins can be forgiven. 00:22:07.040 --> 00:22:12.200 And so one of Martin Luther's 95 theses in the Reformation, this is theses number six. 00:22:13.080 --> 00:22:16.660 Luther asserted the Pope cannot remit guilt, 00:22:17.200 --> 00:22:21.180 except by declaring and showing that it has been remitted by God. 00:22:21.180 --> 00:22:26.100 So this is something very important that the church in the Reformation had to clear up. 00:22:27.240 --> 00:22:31.500 The power of remitting or binding sins is in the power of declaring God's Word. 00:22:32.440 --> 00:22:34.080 And Jesus is the one who ministers. 00:22:34.279 --> 00:22:36.060 There's no mediator between God and man. 00:22:36.700 --> 00:22:39.060 It's the declaration of the Word of God. 00:22:39.600 --> 00:22:44.060 And it's God who binds or looses your sins as His Word is faithfully declared. 00:22:46.640 --> 00:22:49.160 Now, this is good news because Jesus is saying, 00:22:49.160 --> 00:22:52.380 what you read in the New Testament, given by my apostles, 00:22:52.960 --> 00:22:55.080 this is legal language. 00:22:55.660 --> 00:23:00.160 Your standing before God is bound and secured by what I have revealed 00:23:00.160 --> 00:23:02.040 through my apostles in the New Covenant. 00:23:03.920 --> 00:23:08.259 Specifically, if a judge finds you either innocent or guilty 00:23:08.259 --> 00:23:10.500 and makes his verdict, it stands. 00:23:11.920 --> 00:23:14.920 And the New Testament unfolds for us this glorious truth, 00:23:14.920 --> 00:23:19.720 that Jesus Christ has been appointed judge by the Father. 00:23:20.880 --> 00:23:24.700 Jesus Christ, the very one who saves you, is your judge. 00:23:26.340 --> 00:23:28.180 Jesus said in John 8, 36, 00:23:28.340 --> 00:23:31.800 if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. 00:23:32.820 --> 00:23:35.140 So when Satan accuses you, Christian, 00:23:36.700 --> 00:23:40.279 Satan says you are still bound by the consequences of your own sin 00:23:40.279 --> 00:23:41.899 to be condemned. 00:23:44.839 --> 00:23:48.200 Satan does not have the power to change the judge's verdict. 00:23:49.000 --> 00:23:51.500 If Jesus has declared you are justified, 00:23:52.799 --> 00:23:56.299 Satan has no power over your legal standing before God. 00:23:56.299 --> 00:24:02.259 The glorious truth of the gospel is that the judge is the Lamb. 00:24:03.379 --> 00:24:07.279 The Lamb of God, the only one who is worthy. 00:24:08.039 --> 00:24:12.639 He has fully paid for all my sins with his precious blood. 00:24:14.000 --> 00:24:18.579 So remember this phrase by Thomas Adams, 00:24:18.720 --> 00:24:19.839 one of the Puritan ministers. 00:24:20.460 --> 00:24:21.180 He wrote, 00:24:21.180 --> 00:24:21.940 Oh, Christian, 00:24:23.299 --> 00:24:29.039 your sins are so remitted as if they had never been committed. 00:24:30.220 --> 00:24:35.539 Your sins are so remitted as if they were never committed. 00:24:36.400 --> 00:24:38.019 That's what Jesus declares. 00:24:38.519 --> 00:24:44.960 I have fully paid, fully paid for all your sins with my precious blood. 00:24:45.660 --> 00:24:47.259 Who is there to condemn you? 00:24:48.440 --> 00:24:50.160 Worthy is the Lamb. 00:24:51.180 --> 00:24:52.759 Do not let your heart be troubled. 00:24:53.140 --> 00:24:54.240 I am with you. 00:24:54.799 --> 00:24:57.180 And my peace I give you. 00:24:58.600 --> 00:24:59.799 We just sang of this. 00:24:59.960 --> 00:25:03.200 Jesus, the name that charms our fears, 00:25:03.200 --> 00:25:05.820 that bids our sorrows cease. 00:25:06.440 --> 00:25:08.799 Tis music in the sinner's ears. 00:25:09.620 --> 00:25:12.680 Tis life and health and peace. 00:25:12.960 --> 00:25:13.200 Amen. 00:25:15.220 --> 00:25:18.279 Jesus Christ loves to fill a glad heart 00:25:18.279 --> 00:25:20.440 with his Holy Spirit for ministry. 00:25:20.440 --> 00:25:21.720 Number four, 00:25:21.840 --> 00:25:25.500 Christ loves to personally apply his gracious work 00:25:25.500 --> 00:25:28.279 to every single believer. 00:25:30.220 --> 00:25:31.519 On the Lord's day, 00:25:31.860 --> 00:25:32.779 Christ himself, 00:25:32.940 --> 00:25:34.480 who ministers among his people, 00:25:34.580 --> 00:25:37.960 he loves to apply his own gracious work 00:25:37.960 --> 00:25:39.880 to every single believer. 00:25:40.120 --> 00:25:41.259 That's you and me personally. 00:25:41.259 --> 00:25:43.519 We read in verse 24, 00:25:44.220 --> 00:25:44.660 Thomas, 00:25:45.440 --> 00:25:48.200 which in Hebrew means twin, 00:25:48.879 --> 00:25:50.740 was also called Didymus, 00:25:50.940 --> 00:25:52.240 which means twin in Greek, 00:25:52.900 --> 00:25:54.680 was not with them when Jesus came. 00:25:55.519 --> 00:25:57.019 This is that first Lord's day. 00:25:57.599 --> 00:25:58.220 Verse 25, 00:25:58.220 --> 00:26:00.160 the other disciples therefore said unto him, 00:26:00.500 --> 00:26:01.539 we have seen the Lord. 00:26:04.019 --> 00:26:04.460 See, 00:26:04.519 --> 00:26:07.559 the Lord has made Christ's resurrection undeniable. 00:26:08.720 --> 00:26:09.880 In 1 Corinthians 15, 00:26:09.960 --> 00:26:13.500 we read that he appeared to over 500 eyewitnesses. 00:26:13.500 --> 00:26:15.440 In Matthew 27, 00:26:15.559 --> 00:26:17.099 verses 52 and 53, 00:26:17.720 --> 00:26:20.539 we read that bodies of many holy people 00:26:20.539 --> 00:26:22.759 who had died were raised to life. 00:26:23.200 --> 00:26:24.400 And they came out of the tombs 00:26:24.400 --> 00:26:26.019 after Jesus's resurrection 00:26:26.019 --> 00:26:28.299 and went into the holy city 00:26:28.299 --> 00:26:30.400 and appeared to many people. 00:26:31.220 --> 00:26:32.319 God made it undeniable. 00:26:33.160 --> 00:26:34.259 But Thomas said to them, 00:26:34.400 --> 00:26:36.960 unless I see his hands, 00:26:37.720 --> 00:26:38.960 the print of the nails, 00:26:39.099 --> 00:26:41.240 and put my finger into the print of the nails, 00:26:41.240 --> 00:26:43.660 and thrust my hand into his side, 00:26:43.920 --> 00:26:45.940 I will not believe. 00:26:47.319 --> 00:26:49.920 And that's because you and I cannot believe 00:26:49.920 --> 00:26:51.900 unless God regenerates us. 00:26:53.120 --> 00:26:54.039 That's us too. 00:26:54.220 --> 00:26:56.980 I would not believe unless God regenerates me, 00:26:57.140 --> 00:26:57.759 opens my eyes, 00:26:57.799 --> 00:26:59.220 and causes me to be born again 00:26:59.220 --> 00:27:01.880 and behold Jesus Christ as my Savior. 00:27:02.660 --> 00:27:04.740 See, Jesus had already accomplished 00:27:04.740 --> 00:27:06.680 Thomas's salvation. 00:27:08.480 --> 00:27:09.799 He had already died, 00:27:09.799 --> 00:27:11.000 was buried, and resurrected. 00:27:11.240 --> 00:27:13.140 And Thomas would believe, we know that. 00:27:13.640 --> 00:27:14.480 But in this moment, 00:27:15.059 --> 00:27:16.779 Thomas's salvation had been accomplished, 00:27:17.039 --> 00:27:18.480 but not yet applied to him. 00:27:19.759 --> 00:27:20.759 In Jesus Christ, 00:27:20.839 --> 00:27:22.400 he had finished his work, 00:27:23.059 --> 00:27:26.460 and now he loves to personally apply it 00:27:26.460 --> 00:27:29.359 to Thomas and to you. 00:27:30.359 --> 00:27:31.819 In verse 26, we read, 00:27:32.500 --> 00:27:33.779 after eight days. 00:27:34.140 --> 00:27:35.779 Now this is the Hebrew way 00:27:35.779 --> 00:27:37.359 of counting days inclusively. 00:27:37.799 --> 00:27:38.799 It's just like we have, 00:27:38.799 --> 00:27:39.180 you know, 00:27:39.240 --> 00:27:40.539 the Lord died on Good Friday, 00:27:40.659 --> 00:27:41.819 we celebrate Sunday morning. 00:27:42.220 --> 00:27:44.480 In our not inclusive way of counting, 00:27:44.539 --> 00:27:45.240 that would be two days. 00:27:45.559 --> 00:27:46.240 But the Jewish way, 00:27:46.299 --> 00:27:47.240 you count the day you're on, 00:27:47.440 --> 00:27:48.319 plus the Sabbath, 00:27:48.440 --> 00:27:48.839 the Saturday, 00:27:49.000 --> 00:27:49.740 and then the Lord's Day. 00:27:49.819 --> 00:27:50.119 So that's, 00:27:50.200 --> 00:27:51.180 we call that three days. 00:27:51.619 --> 00:27:52.960 So this inclusive way of counting, 00:27:53.119 --> 00:27:53.879 staying consistent, 00:27:54.419 --> 00:27:56.419 eight days would be the next Sunday, 00:27:56.539 --> 00:27:57.460 the next Lord's Day. 00:27:58.619 --> 00:28:00.299 His disciples were within doors, 00:28:00.299 --> 00:28:02.200 and Thomas now was with them. 00:28:04.139 --> 00:28:05.279 Robertson again commented, 00:28:05.460 --> 00:28:06.700 God's new covenant people 00:28:06.700 --> 00:28:07.940 were making it a habit 00:28:07.940 --> 00:28:09.159 to assemble together 00:28:09.159 --> 00:28:10.919 on the first day of the week, 00:28:11.000 --> 00:28:12.799 the day of Christ's resurrection. 00:28:14.059 --> 00:28:14.500 We read, 00:28:14.599 --> 00:28:15.559 then came Jesus. 00:28:16.740 --> 00:28:17.000 See, 00:28:17.099 --> 00:28:18.940 Jesus honored these assemblies, 00:28:19.079 --> 00:28:19.720 Robertson wrote, 00:28:19.799 --> 00:28:21.460 by appearing to the disciples 00:28:21.460 --> 00:28:22.559 at this time 00:28:22.559 --> 00:28:24.519 and encouraged their faith in him 00:28:24.519 --> 00:28:26.460 as the resurrected Lord. 00:28:27.700 --> 00:28:28.460 And he appeared again 00:28:28.460 --> 00:28:29.299 through shut doors, 00:28:29.420 --> 00:28:29.759 we read, 00:28:30.019 --> 00:28:30.779 and he came 00:28:30.779 --> 00:28:32.420 and he stood in their midst 00:28:32.420 --> 00:28:33.039 and he said, 00:28:33.420 --> 00:28:34.980 peace be unto you. 00:28:37.340 --> 00:28:39.319 We need to learn. 00:28:40.900 --> 00:28:42.440 Christ loves to minister 00:28:42.440 --> 00:28:43.980 among his gathered people 00:28:43.980 --> 00:28:46.140 on the day of his resurrection 00:28:46.140 --> 00:28:47.819 that we celebrate every week. 00:28:48.140 --> 00:28:49.720 So we need to attend 00:28:49.720 --> 00:28:52.100 the gatherings of God's disciples. 00:28:52.920 --> 00:28:53.840 We need to do that. 00:28:54.240 --> 00:28:55.480 The flesh will fight against it. 00:28:55.519 --> 00:28:56.759 The world will try to distract it 00:28:56.759 --> 00:28:57.440 and cover him up. 00:28:57.440 --> 00:28:58.460 We need to attend 00:28:58.460 --> 00:28:59.759 the gatherings of God's people. 00:29:00.380 --> 00:29:01.120 And as we attend, 00:29:01.200 --> 00:29:02.340 we need to expect him 00:29:02.340 --> 00:29:04.400 to minister among us 00:29:04.400 --> 00:29:06.120 because he loves to do that. 00:29:06.860 --> 00:29:07.960 John Gill pointed out, 00:29:08.279 --> 00:29:09.160 here in these gatherings 00:29:09.160 --> 00:29:10.539 of God's disciples 00:29:10.539 --> 00:29:11.400 on the Lord's Day, 00:29:11.500 --> 00:29:13.200 God comes and blesses his people. 00:29:13.980 --> 00:29:15.500 Jesus grants his presence. 00:29:15.940 --> 00:29:17.120 The graces of the Spirit 00:29:17.120 --> 00:29:17.900 are increased 00:29:17.900 --> 00:29:20.299 and drawn forth into exercise. 00:29:20.980 --> 00:29:22.559 Souls that have lost sight 00:29:22.559 --> 00:29:23.640 of Christ find him. 00:29:24.559 --> 00:29:26.080 Disconsolate ones are comforted 00:29:26.079 --> 00:29:27.639 and weak ones are strengthened. 00:29:28.359 --> 00:29:29.980 The hungry souls are fed. 00:29:30.899 --> 00:29:32.759 So assemble with God's people. 00:29:32.919 --> 00:29:34.980 Do not stop meeting together. 00:29:36.399 --> 00:29:37.579 In verse 27, 00:29:37.679 --> 00:29:39.379 we read Jesus speaking 00:29:39.379 --> 00:29:40.639 directly to Thomas, 00:29:40.799 --> 00:29:41.879 personally applying 00:29:41.879 --> 00:29:43.139 his finished work. 00:29:43.839 --> 00:29:44.279 He says, 00:29:44.419 --> 00:29:44.699 Thomas, 00:29:45.179 --> 00:29:46.599 reach in your finger. 00:29:46.740 --> 00:29:47.740 Behold my hands. 00:29:48.079 --> 00:29:48.879 Reach in your hand. 00:29:49.039 --> 00:29:50.639 Push it into my side. 00:29:51.119 --> 00:29:52.079 Be not faithless, 00:29:52.079 --> 00:29:52.879 but believing. 00:29:55.500 --> 00:29:57.220 In his unregenerate state, 00:29:57.399 --> 00:29:59.439 Thomas wanted physical proof 00:29:59.439 --> 00:30:02.179 that Jesus had in fact died 00:30:02.179 --> 00:30:04.240 and the same man who was buried 00:30:04.240 --> 00:30:06.099 now truly rose to life. 00:30:06.859 --> 00:30:07.819 Jesus gives Thomas 00:30:07.819 --> 00:30:08.879 that physical proof 00:30:08.879 --> 00:30:09.980 and much more. 00:30:10.759 --> 00:30:12.579 He gives him a spiritual proof 00:30:12.579 --> 00:30:13.779 that he's alive 00:30:13.779 --> 00:30:14.939 by regenerating him, 00:30:15.460 --> 00:30:17.240 by applying his finished work 00:30:17.240 --> 00:30:18.779 to Thomas personally. 00:30:18.779 --> 00:30:23.319 Jesus loves to apply 00:30:23.319 --> 00:30:24.180 his finished work 00:30:24.180 --> 00:30:25.579 to you personally, 00:30:26.000 --> 00:30:27.099 to me personally. 00:30:27.579 --> 00:30:29.160 In a spiritual sense, 00:30:29.220 --> 00:30:30.660 we need to receive this 00:30:30.660 --> 00:30:31.720 and touch him 00:30:31.720 --> 00:30:32.920 for ourselves. 00:30:33.539 --> 00:30:34.220 Spurgeon said, 00:30:34.339 --> 00:30:35.099 we need to realize 00:30:35.099 --> 00:30:36.599 how it was our sin 00:30:36.599 --> 00:30:39.319 that we drove inside of him 00:30:39.319 --> 00:30:40.379 like those very nails 00:30:40.379 --> 00:30:41.440 in his hands and his feet. 00:30:41.859 --> 00:30:43.139 We lifted him up 00:30:43.139 --> 00:30:43.980 on the cross 00:30:43.980 --> 00:30:45.299 of our transgressions. 00:30:45.299 --> 00:30:47.419 Then we pierced his heart 00:30:47.419 --> 00:30:48.099 through 00:30:48.099 --> 00:30:49.299 with the spear 00:30:49.299 --> 00:30:50.740 of our unbelief. 00:30:52.559 --> 00:30:54.220 And when Jesus applies 00:30:54.220 --> 00:30:55.419 his accomplished work, 00:30:56.539 --> 00:30:57.919 look at the effect 00:30:57.919 --> 00:30:59.279 this has in verse 28. 00:31:00.359 --> 00:31:01.139 Thomas answers, 00:31:01.859 --> 00:31:03.399 saying to Jesus, 00:31:04.039 --> 00:31:05.299 it's a personal encounter, 00:31:06.180 --> 00:31:07.279 my Lord 00:31:07.279 --> 00:31:09.279 and my God. 00:31:09.279 --> 00:31:12.700 Have you seen 00:31:12.700 --> 00:31:13.920 that it was your sins 00:31:13.920 --> 00:31:15.720 that pierced Jesus? 00:31:17.779 --> 00:31:18.500 If so, 00:31:18.579 --> 00:31:19.619 the only response 00:31:19.619 --> 00:31:20.220 is for you 00:31:20.220 --> 00:31:21.359 to respond to Jesus 00:31:21.359 --> 00:31:21.899 and say, 00:31:22.019 --> 00:31:22.599 my Lord, 00:31:23.039 --> 00:31:24.019 my God. 00:31:26.359 --> 00:31:27.480 And Jesus will say 00:31:27.480 --> 00:31:28.099 back to you 00:31:28.099 --> 00:31:28.879 in his own words 00:31:28.879 --> 00:31:29.740 from John 14, 00:31:30.420 --> 00:31:32.039 do not let your heart 00:31:32.039 --> 00:31:32.639 be troubled 00:31:32.639 --> 00:31:34.079 or fearful anymore. 00:31:35.339 --> 00:31:37.099 I am with you 00:31:37.099 --> 00:31:38.779 and my peace 00:31:38.779 --> 00:31:40.079 I give 00:31:40.079 --> 00:31:40.959 to you. 00:31:42.639 --> 00:31:43.740 And we sing back 00:31:43.740 --> 00:31:44.079 to him 00:31:44.079 --> 00:31:44.919 with all of those 00:31:44.919 --> 00:31:45.519 he saved. 00:31:46.059 --> 00:31:46.480 Worthy 00:31:46.480 --> 00:31:47.219 is the land. 00:31:48.659 --> 00:31:49.399 The fifth 00:31:49.399 --> 00:31:50.179 and final truth 00:31:50.179 --> 00:31:51.179 I want to put 00:31:51.179 --> 00:31:51.779 in front of you 00:31:51.779 --> 00:31:52.419 is that Christ 00:31:52.419 --> 00:31:53.480 loves to bless 00:31:53.480 --> 00:31:55.459 with spiritual life 00:31:55.459 --> 00:31:56.500 everyone 00:31:56.500 --> 00:31:57.819 who receives 00:31:57.819 --> 00:31:58.619 him by faith. 00:31:59.399 --> 00:32:00.459 On the Lord's Day, 00:32:00.579 --> 00:32:00.980 Christ 00:32:00.980 --> 00:32:01.939 loves 00:32:01.939 --> 00:32:03.119 to bless you 00:32:03.119 --> 00:32:04.579 with spiritual life 00:32:04.579 --> 00:32:05.419 and that's 00:32:05.419 --> 00:32:06.099 everyone 00:32:06.099 --> 00:32:07.199 whoever has 00:32:07.199 --> 00:32:08.059 an ear to hear 00:32:08.059 --> 00:32:08.959 and an eye 00:32:08.959 --> 00:32:09.559 to see him 00:32:09.559 --> 00:32:10.179 in his glory. 00:32:10.459 --> 00:32:11.379 He wants to bless 00:32:11.379 --> 00:32:11.639 you 00:32:11.639 --> 00:32:13.079 by receiving 00:32:13.079 --> 00:32:13.519 him 00:32:13.519 --> 00:32:14.559 in faith. 00:32:15.379 --> 00:32:16.079 In verse 29, 00:32:16.279 --> 00:32:17.199 Jesus said to him, 00:32:17.639 --> 00:32:18.059 Thomas, 00:32:18.839 --> 00:32:21.019 I just love 00:32:21.019 --> 00:32:21.659 how personal 00:32:21.659 --> 00:32:22.859 Jesus is. 00:32:23.459 --> 00:32:24.199 He calls him 00:32:24.199 --> 00:32:24.919 twin. 00:32:26.639 --> 00:32:27.500 Because you have 00:32:27.500 --> 00:32:27.980 seen me, 00:32:28.299 --> 00:32:29.159 you have believed. 00:32:29.679 --> 00:32:30.299 Blessed are they 00:32:30.299 --> 00:32:31.059 that have not 00:32:31.059 --> 00:32:31.799 seen 00:32:31.799 --> 00:32:32.799 and yet they 00:32:32.799 --> 00:32:33.879 have believed. 00:32:33.880 --> 00:32:33.960 Pete. 00:32:35.580 --> 00:32:36.180 Psalm 32, 00:32:36.300 --> 00:32:36.720 one says, 00:32:36.880 --> 00:32:37.780 blessed are you 00:32:37.780 --> 00:32:39.100 if your transgression 00:32:39.100 --> 00:32:39.780 is forgiven 00:32:39.780 --> 00:32:41.160 and if your sin 00:32:41.160 --> 00:32:41.840 is covered. 00:32:42.640 --> 00:32:43.540 So make that 00:32:43.540 --> 00:32:43.960 personal. 00:32:44.540 --> 00:32:45.340 We've got some 00:32:45.340 --> 00:32:46.040 fun nicknames 00:32:46.040 --> 00:32:46.880 in our congregation. 00:32:48.060 --> 00:32:48.700 Blessed are you, 00:32:48.820 --> 00:32:49.040 Nene. 00:32:49.660 --> 00:32:50.440 Blessed are you, 00:32:50.540 --> 00:32:50.760 Lili. 00:32:51.600 --> 00:32:52.340 Blessed are you, 00:32:52.420 --> 00:32:52.720 Raya. 00:32:53.560 --> 00:32:54.120 Blessed are you, 00:32:54.200 --> 00:32:54.480 Ezzie, 00:32:54.960 --> 00:32:55.900 if your transgression 00:32:55.900 --> 00:32:56.600 is forgiven, 00:32:57.100 --> 00:32:58.520 if your sin 00:32:58.520 --> 00:32:59.060 is covered. 00:33:00.060 --> 00:33:00.780 Jesus is that 00:33:00.780 --> 00:33:01.240 personal. 00:33:01.240 --> 00:33:03.880 He loves 00:33:03.880 --> 00:33:04.940 to bless you 00:33:04.940 --> 00:33:05.420 and give you 00:33:05.420 --> 00:33:06.420 life if you 00:33:06.420 --> 00:33:06.920 receive him 00:33:06.920 --> 00:33:07.500 by faith. 00:33:09.160 --> 00:33:09.640 In verse 30, 00:33:09.720 --> 00:33:10.120 we read that 00:33:10.120 --> 00:33:10.980 many other sins 00:33:10.980 --> 00:33:12.140 Jesus truly did 00:33:12.140 --> 00:33:12.779 in the presence 00:33:12.779 --> 00:33:14.099 of his disciples 00:33:14.099 --> 00:33:14.819 that are not 00:33:14.819 --> 00:33:15.440 written in this 00:33:15.440 --> 00:33:15.740 book. 00:33:16.299 --> 00:33:17.180 But these are 00:33:17.180 --> 00:33:17.640 written that 00:33:17.640 --> 00:33:18.579 you might believe 00:33:18.579 --> 00:33:19.099 that Jesus 00:33:19.099 --> 00:33:19.940 is the Christ, 00:33:20.099 --> 00:33:21.019 the Son of God, 00:33:21.059 --> 00:33:21.440 and that by 00:33:21.440 --> 00:33:21.880 believing, 00:33:22.299 --> 00:33:22.779 you might have 00:33:22.779 --> 00:33:23.799 life through 00:33:23.799 --> 00:33:24.420 his name. 00:33:25.759 --> 00:33:26.519 This comes 00:33:26.519 --> 00:33:27.980 true as the 00:33:27.980 --> 00:33:28.500 church goes 00:33:28.500 --> 00:33:28.960 forth. 00:33:28.960 --> 00:33:30.640 In Acts 20, 00:33:30.720 --> 00:33:31.180 verse 7, 00:33:31.259 --> 00:33:31.620 we're told 00:33:31.620 --> 00:33:32.539 that in Troas, 00:33:32.680 --> 00:33:33.299 a city in 00:33:33.299 --> 00:33:33.559 Greece, 00:33:33.740 --> 00:33:34.100 Paul and 00:33:34.100 --> 00:33:34.700 Luke had 00:33:34.700 --> 00:33:35.420 assembled with 00:33:35.420 --> 00:33:35.860 the people 00:33:35.860 --> 00:33:36.299 of God 00:33:36.299 --> 00:33:36.720 to break 00:33:36.720 --> 00:33:37.079 bread, 00:33:37.180 --> 00:33:37.440 and Paul 00:33:37.440 --> 00:33:38.039 preached the 00:33:38.039 --> 00:33:38.380 word of 00:33:38.380 --> 00:33:39.140 God on 00:33:39.140 --> 00:33:39.559 the first 00:33:39.559 --> 00:33:39.840 day of 00:33:39.840 --> 00:33:40.200 the week. 00:33:41.840 --> 00:33:42.319 Thomas 00:33:42.319 --> 00:33:43.460 Watson shows 00:33:43.460 --> 00:33:43.860 how this 00:33:43.860 --> 00:33:45.160 pattern continues. 00:33:45.799 --> 00:33:46.360 How is it 00:33:46.360 --> 00:33:47.039 in time 00:33:47.039 --> 00:33:47.960 that the 00:33:47.960 --> 00:33:48.600 triune God 00:33:48.600 --> 00:33:49.480 gives life 00:33:49.480 --> 00:33:50.500 in the name 00:33:50.500 --> 00:33:50.980 of Jesus? 00:33:52.019 --> 00:33:52.480 He pointed 00:33:52.480 --> 00:33:53.140 out first, 00:33:53.579 --> 00:33:53.980 God has 00:33:53.980 --> 00:33:55.200 eternally decreed 00:33:55.200 --> 00:33:56.299 each believer's 00:33:56.299 --> 00:33:56.799 salvation. 00:33:57.240 --> 00:33:58.140 1 Corinthians 2, 00:33:58.200 --> 00:33:58.500 7, 00:33:58.500 --> 00:33:59.359 God decreed 00:33:59.359 --> 00:34:00.119 our glory 00:34:00.119 --> 00:34:00.980 with Jesus 00:34:00.980 --> 00:34:01.779 Christ before 00:34:01.779 --> 00:34:02.299 the ages. 00:34:03.299 --> 00:34:03.720 2 Corinthians 2, 00:34:03.720 --> 00:34:05.519 God accomplishes 00:34:05.519 --> 00:34:06.539 in history 00:34:06.539 --> 00:34:07.539 the salvation 00:34:07.539 --> 00:34:08.340 of each 00:34:08.340 --> 00:34:08.760 believer. 00:34:09.920 --> 00:34:11.079 In John 17, 00:34:11.179 --> 00:34:11.400 4, 00:34:11.500 --> 00:34:11.980 Jesus says, 00:34:12.159 --> 00:34:12.460 I have 00:34:12.460 --> 00:34:13.139 glorified 00:34:13.139 --> 00:34:13.719 you, 00:34:13.880 --> 00:34:14.079 Father, 00:34:14.219 --> 00:34:14.639 on earth 00:34:14.639 --> 00:34:15.159 because I 00:34:15.159 --> 00:34:15.659 accomplished 00:34:15.659 --> 00:34:16.280 the work 00:34:16.280 --> 00:34:16.900 that you 00:34:16.900 --> 00:34:17.340 gave me 00:34:17.340 --> 00:34:17.820 to do. 00:34:18.460 --> 00:34:18.619 3 Corinthians 3, 00:34:18.619 --> 00:34:18.980 and third, 00:34:19.679 --> 00:34:21.000 God applies 00:34:21.000 --> 00:34:22.579 the salvation 00:34:22.579 --> 00:34:23.940 he accomplished 00:34:23.940 --> 00:34:24.440 for each 00:34:24.440 --> 00:34:24.760 believer 00:34:24.760 --> 00:34:25.239 through the 00:34:25.239 --> 00:34:25.860 effectual 00:34:25.860 --> 00:34:26.559 calling and 00:34:26.559 --> 00:34:27.039 regeneration 00:34:27.039 --> 00:34:27.800 of the Holy 00:34:27.800 --> 00:34:28.260 Spirit. 00:34:28.260 --> 00:34:36.960 You know that this is yours when you personally lay hold of the forgiveness of sins of Jesus Christ's righteousness as your own. 00:34:38.820 --> 00:34:45.460 Romans 5.5 says that God poured his love into your heart by the Holy Spirit. 00:34:45.740 --> 00:34:47.320 He applies it to you. 00:34:48.680 --> 00:34:51.620 Believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. 00:34:52.120 --> 00:34:55.460 And by believing, you have life through his name. 00:34:55.460 --> 00:35:03.780 1 John 5.11 says that God gave us eternal life and this is life in his Son. 00:35:05.599 --> 00:35:10.900 So that ancient prophecy of Zechariah 12.10, that's for you today. 00:35:11.460 --> 00:35:12.480 That's for the church. 00:35:13.780 --> 00:35:22.139 The spirit of grace put into the hearts of those who see him whom you have pierced. 00:35:22.139 --> 00:35:26.179 What was the effect of this on Thomas? 00:35:27.679 --> 00:35:33.940 Well, church history has it that Thomas then started walking and he became a missionary in Syria. 00:35:33.940 --> 00:35:41.679 And the church was established there and historians can show you this is a church that traces all the way back to the first century. 00:35:42.639 --> 00:35:46.400 And then the story continues that he made it all the way to the border with China. 00:35:47.039 --> 00:35:53.320 And there's a city with a Christian church in China that dates back to that first century as well. 00:35:53.760 --> 00:36:00.139 Thomas became a missionary, one that God would send out to the corners of the world so that they too would say, 00:36:00.139 --> 00:36:05.099 My Lord and my God, worthy is the lamb. 00:36:05.799 --> 00:36:09.259 No longer do our hearts need to be troubled or fearful. 00:36:10.039 --> 00:36:12.000 We are gathered in the name of Jesus. 00:36:12.519 --> 00:36:17.739 And he says, I am with you and my peace I give you. 00:36:17.739 --> 00:36:25.019 Beloved congregation of Jesus, every Lord's Day we gather here. 00:36:25.419 --> 00:36:31.719 We gather to honor Christ, not as a guest, but as our host, as our minister. 00:36:32.659 --> 00:36:34.459 This is his spiritual feast. 00:36:35.259 --> 00:36:36.359 We don't hide. 00:36:37.939 --> 00:36:39.419 We don't need to have fear. 00:36:40.479 --> 00:36:41.699 Our doors are open. 00:36:41.699 --> 00:36:44.619 Sometimes we even go to the open air. 00:36:45.399 --> 00:36:48.399 And every time with his help, we expect him. 00:36:48.879 --> 00:36:50.379 We expect him to minister. 00:36:50.980 --> 00:36:52.939 It's his presence with us. 00:36:53.399 --> 00:36:55.719 That's our only reason to gather. 00:36:55.960 --> 00:36:56.119 Amen. 00:36:57.099 --> 00:36:58.519 He never disappoints us. 00:36:58.579 --> 00:37:00.679 He always exceeds expectations. 00:37:02.059 --> 00:37:05.199 If Jesus didn't show up, neither should we. 00:37:05.199 --> 00:37:11.019 But we can trust that Jesus loves to minister on his day. 00:37:11.639 --> 00:37:13.679 He is with his church. 00:37:14.099 --> 00:37:17.019 And he loves to give you and me his peace. 00:37:17.879 --> 00:37:19.119 Would you thank him with me? 00:37:30.480 --> 00:37:33.500 Oh, Lord, we testify the truth from the hymn we sang. 00:37:33.500 --> 00:37:35.619 You speak. 00:37:36.800 --> 00:37:42.139 And as he speaks, the power of reigning sin sets the prisoner free. 00:37:43.039 --> 00:37:46.179 His blood can make the foulest clean. 00:37:46.840 --> 00:37:48.619 His blood availed for me. 00:37:49.760 --> 00:37:54.619 He speaks and listening to his voice, new life the dead receive. 00:37:55.219 --> 00:37:57.900 The mournful, broken hearts rejoice. 00:37:58.820 --> 00:38:00.880 The humble poor believe. 00:38:00.880 --> 00:38:01.380 Amen. 00:38:05.840 --> 00:38:10.340 Hallowed be your name, O triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. 00:38:11.039 --> 00:38:14.780 Thank you for electing each believer to belong to you. 00:38:15.340 --> 00:38:19.640 Thank you for accomplishing the justification for each believer. 00:38:19.639 --> 00:38:27.199 Thank you for calling each converted sinner to belong to you by your living, active word and the power of the Holy Spirit. 00:38:27.679 --> 00:38:30.839 Thank you for regenerating and washing each believer. 00:38:31.259 --> 00:38:35.440 O Holy Spirit, thank you for sanctifying those that you have justified. 00:38:35.440 --> 00:38:37.440 And may your kingdom come. 00:38:37.940 --> 00:38:41.159 May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. 00:38:41.820 --> 00:38:47.800 We ask this in the name of our precious Savior, Jesus Christ, the only one who is worthy. 00:38:48.000 --> 00:38:49.039 Our worthy lamb. 00:38:49.619 --> 00:38:49.880 Amen. 00:38:49.880 --> 00:38:50.000 Amen. 00:38:51.559 --> 00:38:54.260 Let's take a moment to respond to the gospel you've heard. 00:38:54.260 --> 00:38:54.320 Amen.