Read: John 1:37-42, Mark 10:51, Luke 10:38-42
3 Steps to Bold Faith
The story of John the Baptist continues to make a way for Jesus in John 1:37–42, when two of John’s followers become some of Jesus’ first and closest followers.
Who are these disciples? We know for sure one is named Andrew. Andrew was a fisherman by trade. In John 1:38, it says, “Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, ‘What do you want?’”
This question is similar to one Jesus asks in Mark 10:51, where He asks a blind man what he wants. It may seem pretty obvious what the blind man would want—his sight. But Jesus doesn’t make any assumptions. His question is aimed at our heart, and our answer reflect where we are and the depth of our faith.
So through this passage in John 1:37–42, we see three steps to having bold faith.
Choose to believe. It’s pretty daring that these guys would follow someone they don’t even know. They’ve only heard about Jesus, but how do they know He is who John says He is? They chose to believe.
Spend time with Jesus. The disciples spent time with Jesus, and in verse 39, you’ll see God’s invitation to them. He loves for us to spend time with Him. There’s a story in Luke 10:38 where Jesus is visiting two sisters, Mary and Martha. You might relate to this story. Martha was so busy getting her party perfect for Jesus that she forgot to spend time with Jesus. Meanwhile, Mary is spending time at Jesus’ feet. Martha complains to Jesus about her sister’s lack of serving, but Jesus says the sister who spent time with Him chose wisely by not getting carried away with the worries of the world.
Spread the Word. John 1:40–42, talks about how the first thing Andrew did after following Jesus was find his brother, Simon, and tell him about it. He brought Simon to Jesus. In other words, he spread the Word so others could follow Jesus.
Bold faith starts with a choice. A choice to believe what God says in His Word and know that He’s more than enough. The only way we can know what He says is to spend time with Him. It’s how we get to really know God. And out of our experience and overflow, we can’t help but spread the good news so others can experience Him too.
Consider:
Are you ready for the things you ask God for?
What do you believe Jesus is capable of providing for you?
What does bold faith look like in your life?
Prayer:
Glorious Father, thank You for Your Word! In it, we find Your promises, Your presence, and Your peace. Open my heart to the truth of Your Word. Reveal Yourself to me through every verse so that I may have the boldness to share it with others. Today, I ask You for a bold faith that chooses You, spends time with You, and shares about You. Thank You for Your presence and Your never-ending patience.
We would like to thank Life.Church for providing this plan.