Amazedنموونە

Together

When Jesus claimed equality with God, he wasn’t being competitive. He didn’t intend to steal the divine spotlight. His words were indicative that He and His Father are one and work together in perfect unison (John 10:30). This became increasingly evident through His words and his actions.

The Gospel of Mark is one place where Jesus’ unequaled teachings are recorded at a synagogue in Capernaum; “The people were amazed at his teaching, because he taught them as one who had authority, not as the teachers of the law” (Mark 1:22, NIV). Thus, Jesus’ teaching was evidence of a “divine” authority that was different from others. When combined with his works (such as the healing in John 5), they begin to reveal that he is Lord over all things. For instance, Jesus is Lord over the spiritual as he delivers people from demonic possession and oppression (Mark 1:23-29). He is Lord over the physical as observed in his numerous healings (Mark 1:29-31). He is Lord over nature, as he calms the stormy sea (Mark 4:35-41). And, in the days ahead, we’ll examine how he’s Lord over life and death.

Even though Jesus is Lord and God, His life on earth was lived in obedience to the will of His Father (John 6:38). His entry into human history is characterized by humility and obedience culminating in his death on the cross (Philippians 2:6-8). Because of his humility, Jesus didn’t act independently, but only in response to what His Father was doing. This is highlighted further by Jesus’ statement: “Very truly I tell you, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does” (John 5:19).

Everything that took place in the life of Jesus, from his miracles to the places he went and the words he spoke, was initiated and given by the Father (John 3:34, 7:16, 17:8). As the Father worked, Jesus worked with Him. As a result, more people would come to realize who he is and the impact he has on people’s lives.

Reflection: How do Jesus’ words in John 5:19 connect with Jesus’ words in John 15:5?

Mark 1:21-34
John 15:1-8