THE SIGN OF HIS GRACE
John 4:46–54
Occasionally, a young person will ask me to serve as a reference for them. It may be for a job opportunity, a scholarship or a ministry assignment. I take each request seriously and consider it an honor to be asked.
With each request, I strive to answer the questions truthfully and highlight the applicant’s positive attributes. When soliciting a reference, you want someone to say good things about you. They probably know you are not perfect, but you hope they will extend grace. A good word can go a long way in helping someone.
These verses show the power of Jesus’ words and one man’s faith. Without God’s grace and our obedience, we will never experience salvation.
Take your needs to Jesus. (46–47)
As I read these verses, the old hymn “Tell it to Jesus” rings in my ears. “Are you weary, are you heavyhearted?/ Tell it to Jesus/ Tell it to Jesus/ Are you grieving over joys departed?/ Tell it to Jesus alone.” Having good friends and a pastor you can trust is a blessing, but no one you know can replace the love, comfort and hope you will find in Jesus.
When we complain, we tell others about our problems. When we brag, we talk about ourselves too much. However, when we go to Jesus, we humbly seek the help only He can provide.
This Gentile man was outside the accepted social and cultural circle of the Jewish people around him but that mattered not. What mattered most to him was finding Jesus and getting his son the help he desperately needed.
The grace and mercy of Christ will always break down walls and any barriers we construct.
Belief is taking God at His Word. (48–50)
This astonishing display of faith should resonate with us. When God tells us something, we can be assured it is the truth. Be careful in what you believe God is saying to you, and make sure it is not just what you want to hear. He will never place on your heart or mind anything contrary to Scripture or His character.
This unnamed man simply believed. We do not read of him asking Jesus if He was sure or to repeat Himself. The man returned home with the belief that his son was healed. Do we trust Jesus and His Word? We can through faith. He will never lie to us.
The power of Jesus is not limited by location or time. (51–54)
Imagine this: There are no copays, no deductibles and no hospital bills — just healing at the hands of Jesus. All of this took place from a distance. It was the first time telehealth was used.
This long-distance miracle resulted in salvation for the father and for the household. Miracles are an act of God’s grace toward people in need.
Yes, He still performs miracles today, but do not lose sight of the greatest miracle of all — the salvation He provides. This miracle is available to everyone. The cross still saves people 2,000 years later and thousands of miles away. There is no more incredible picture of grace than that of the grace of Jesus.
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
