There were certain Greeks … the same came therefore to Philip, …. and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus ~ John 12:20-21.
Introduction
Over the ages, the wonderfulness of Jesus Christ has been a subject of poignant interest among believers. And, rightly so, as Jesus Christ is the One who defies every adjective that attempts to qualify Him in limited terms. He is, in all respects, wonderful - in all He is and in all He has.
History, both ancient and modern, is replete with various examples of the wondrous works of the Almighty God – from making a highway in the midst of the Red Sea and preserving a people in the wilderness, to leading them to a land avowed to their forefathers many years afore; from feeding five thousand with five loaves of bread and two pieces of fish, to walking on water and calming the storm. And, most amazing of all, reproducing Himself and dwelling in millions of believers across the earth.
Meanwhile, the wonderfulness of Jesus transcends the sheer awesomeness of the things that He did and still does. It is intrinsic to His divine person.
Even before the Master walked the shores of the earth, the wonder of His person had been known to some, by revelation. For instance, when Prophet Isaiah foretold the first coming of Jesus, he proclaimed that “His name [would] be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace”(Isaiah 9:6). Note that all the attributes inherent in the other names – His guidance, might, everlasting love, the peace He gives – are best summed up in one word: wonderful.
In an angelic form, He mercifully visited the home of Manoah, whose wife was barren at that time. Manoah was clearly overwhelmed, and He asked, “What is thy name”. And, the angel answered: “it is wonderful” (Judges 13:18, ASV).
Again, while in captivity, Daniel saw a revelation of Jesus and His “dominion .... which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed”
(Daniel 7:14). What a wonder – a universal kingdom and dominion that knows no end! Yet, nothing tells the story of His wonder as much as His matchless love, which saw Him voluntarily take on the human form and submit Himself to the death on the cross (John 3:16).
Truly mind-blowing! But, the most exciting part of the story for the believers is that we can actually live as proxies of Jesus’ wonder on the earth – because Jesus Christ Himself dwells within us (Luke 17:21; 1 Corinthians 3:16)!
Desiring More of Him and of His Sure Mercies
Now, those that would have the true knowledge of Christ must seek it. Those who really perceive the fragrance of His matchless grace cannot but ask for more of Him and of His sure mercies. And, receiving any lasting blessing from God (including salvation of the soul) often comes through in an atmosphere of curiosity. Hence, all great men and women of all ages, who enjoyed true communion with Christ, showed considerable desire to have a spiritual sight of Him, the glories of His person and the fullness of His grace. Yes, indeed, He is all in all to them that truly know Him.
The Greek worshippers, in wisdom, approached Phillip and insisted, “Sir, we would see Jesus”(John 12:21). This implies a strong desire to know Jesus better, and to hear more from Him. They wished to see the Person of whom they had heard so many wonderful things. And in pursuit of this, they demonstrated great diligence in making their application to Philip, one of His disciples.
We should improve our acquaintance with good people who know the Lord, if our knowledge of Christ must increase, and we must defer to His ministers, whom He had appointed for this purpose, if we would see Jesus by faith now. Paul must send for Ananias, and Cornelius must send for Peter.
Please, Respect Grace to Attract It!
Note that the Greeks here addressed Philip with a title of respect as one worthy of honour, because he was in relation to Christ: “Sir, we would see Jesus”.
Disrespect for persons deserving of reverence has shut more doors for many people than most demons have been able to. If you disrespect grace, you are denied of it; if you disrespect anointing, you miss its workings in your life. Respect is what excites the glory (John 12:23). And, it is what you respect that you attract!
In all our attendance unto holy ordinances, including fellowship with the brethren, the greatest desire of our souls should be to see Jesus, to deepen our knowledge of Him. Our dependence on Him should be encouraged, and our conformity to Him enhanced by His grace. Certainly, any man that fails to see Jesus has missed all already.
Conclusion
Friends, I ask in conclusion, how are you fitting into God’s plans now as we await the Second Coming of Christ? Are you truly focussed on Him, or entangling yourself with the affairs of this life? (2 Timothy 2:1-7). Are you fully committed and faithfully serving Him, or disobeying the biddings of the Holy Spirit? (Colossians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 15:58). Are you giving necessary attention to spiritual things, reaching the unreached with the life-changing gospel of Jesus Christ by all worthy means, or allowing distractions that could in many ways undermine your destiny? (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).
More than ever, we must must arise now and allow Christ’s love to perfect us (1 John 4:17). And, still cruising on the platitude of His love, and regardless of the situations, we should live ready to always glorify Him, our Redeemer, who has chosen us as His people on earth. Rejoice and keep your heart stayed on Him. He is ever set to make you, like the Psalmist, a wonder unto many (Psalms 71:7). Happy Sunday!
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Bishop Taiwo Akinola,
Rhema Christian Church,
Otta, Ogun State, Nigeria.
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