Studying God's purpose

Yesterday we looked at the purpose of the scriptures . . . we're finishing our study of these verses today:

                      Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples,
                     which are not recorded in this book. ³¹ But these are written that you
                     may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by
                     believing you may have life in his name. (John 20:30-31)

Isn't that an awesome promise in that last verse?
Life in His name.

John's gospel, and all of scripture, was written so that we can know God, and know (heart knowledge) Jesus is the Messiah, our Savior, and also so that we can have life.

Those of us who believe may have a great, and glorious life! A life that includes pardon, holiness, well-being and peace, immortality, heaven . . . and more.
This life is not just the distant, promised life in heaven, but life "abundant" in the here and now! Our lives are connected to the person of Jesus, and our lives are lived in His name, and in His guidance. He comes into our sinful, dead hearts and quickens them and then life flows like an abundant river into us. When we stay in active relationship with Him (abiding in Him, remember?) He gives us life and growth.

How does this happen?
Our faith.
When we believe in Him, and trust ourselves to Him, He comes to us in fulfillment of His promise. Many of us just recently celebrated Easter. We can come to Him as Thomas did, and joyfully say, "My Lord and my God!"

                                 Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts
                                on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of
                                God. (Colossians 3:1)

                               We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death
                               in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the
                               glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. (Romans 6:4)
                               For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And
                               with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the
                               mighty power of God, who raised Christ from the dead.
                               (Colossians 2:12)

                               Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the
                               LORD rises upon you. (Isaiah 60:1)
                               because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives
                               life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
                               (Romans 8:2)

                               And this is the will of him who sent me, that I shall lose none
                              of all those he has given me, but raise them up at the last day.
                              (John 6:39)

Precious promises, all.

In the next two weeks we will study one of the most hope-filled chapters in the Bible. Hope you will join us!