Excel Still More
The Excel Still More podcast is designed to help Christians excel in their faith, their relationships, and really every part of their lives. If you are interested in growth in your faith, this is the show for you. If you want to see yourself reach greater heights, achieve powerful spiritual goals, and be a better servant of Christ, we are here to help. Each episode introduces a proven principle for achieving more. Then we show how the Word of God amplifies the idea. Finally, each episode will leave you with at least one practical project so you can put these tools into action today!Thanks for joining! Live your best life in Christ, and in whatever you do: Excel Still More!
Excel Still More
John 19 - Daily Bible Devotional
Good morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:
Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)
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Youtube Video Introducing the Content
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John 19
Pilate has Jesus scourged with whips and places a crown of thorns upon His head. He then parades Jesus before the Jews while openly claiming to find no guilt in Him. Even though Pilate makes efforts to release Jesus, the Jews threaten to report Pilate to Caesar unless he crucifies Him. Pilate relents and delivers Jesus over to death. He writes “The King of the Jews” over the Savior’s cross, though the Jewish masses oppose this designation. Jesus is then crucified with His mother and other disciples looking on. He asks John to care for His mother after His passing. Jesus announces, “It is finished” and bows His head in death. Joseph and Nicodemus, two secret followers of Jesus, take Jesus’s body and bury Him in a new tomb.
The central event of human history is the death of Jesus on the cross for our sins. Jesus had the power to prevent this. He tells Pilate he has no authority over Him. And yet, our Savior is willingly led like a lamb to the slaughter. John’s gospel reveals three statements of Jesus on the cross, each revealing something about Him. His call to John to care for Mary shows Jesus’ love for His own. He then said, “I am thirsty,” indicating He physically suffered for us. When Jesus said, “It is finished,” this proved that He was devoted to the Lord’s will, even unto death. Jesus demonstrated love, sacrifice, and faith. These qualities live on in those who follow Him.
Holy Father, we praise You for sending Your Son to die in our place and to take away our sins. We see in Him deep love for others, a sacrificial spirit, and undying trust in You and Your plan to save souls. God, we are so grateful. But plant within us something more than just gratitude. Form within us the desire to live like Jesus in this world. Please help us develop selfless love for others, a willingness to pay the cost of discipleship, and a trust in You and Your will that cannot be diminished by anything or anyone.
Thought Questions:
- Pilate is a tragic character. He knew Jesus was innocent but was too weak to stand up for Him. How are you stronger than Pilate?
- Jesus had the power to stop His crucifixion. Why did He go through with it, and how can that same spirit be seen in your life?
- Joseph and Nicodemus were disciples who emerged from secrecy. Are there areas in your life where it is time to do this as well?