The Thief, Accountability, and Abundant Life

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  Title: Understanding John 10:10, Exodus 22, and the 8th Commandment In the Bible, several verses and teachings emphasize the importance of upholding God's commandments and living a righteous life. Among these are John 10:10, Exodus 22, and the 8th Commandment ("Thou shalt not steal"). Let's explore these passages and how they are connected to the concept of accountability and the promise of abundant life in Jesus. John 10:10 : This verse is part of a larger teaching where Jesus contrasts Himself as the Good Shepherd with the thief. Jesus says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." Here, the thief can be interpreted as the enemy, including Satan, whose intentions are purely destructive and harmful. In contrast, Jesus brings life and abundance to those who follow Him. Exodus 22 : In this passage, God outlines laws for restitution and justice, including how to handle theft. A thief is held
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Meeting Jesus: A Resurrection Sunday Reflection

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Meeting Jesus: A Resurrection Sunday Reflection


Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

On this glorious Resurrection Sunday, let us pause to reflect on the profound encounter of Meeting Jesus, as illustrated in Mark 15:16-21. In this passage, we witness Simon of Cyrene, thrust into an unexpected rendezvous with our Savior—a moment that would forever alter his life and echo through the ages.

Imagine Simon, an ordinary passerby, suddenly confronted with the staggering sight of Jesus, battered and bruised, bearing the weight of the cross. Little did he know, this encounter would transform him from bystander to bearer of the cross—a role that would leave an indelible mark on his life and legacy.

"And they compelled a passerby, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming in from the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to carry his cross." - Mark 15:21 (ESV)

Indeed, something must have changed within Simon in that moment, for in Romans 16:13, we see the son of Rufus greeted by Paul—an affirmation of the enduring impact of encountering Jesus. Simon's encounter with the crucified Christ paved the way for future generations to experience His transformative love and grace.

"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." - 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)

Today, as we celebrate the triumph of our risen Savior, the call to action resounds with clarity: Let us, like Simon, meet Jesus at the cross and allow His presence to revolutionize our lives. Let us embrace the call to carry our own crosses, following in the footsteps of our Redeemer, and sharing the message of His love and redemption with all we encounter.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." - John 3:16 (ESV)

As we bask in the joy of Easter morning, may we be emboldened to meet Jesus afresh and commit ourselves to following Him faithfully, so that generations to come may also experience the power of His resurrection and the beauty of His grace.


In the radiant light of the risen Christ,

J.K. Woodall, Ph.D.

Senior Pastor, Revival Center Hesperia. 

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