Episode 3: He Welcomes You Home

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Episode 3 of the series “Encountering Jesus Personally” by Walking with Purpose focuses on the Gospel of John and the “I am” statement of Jesus. The episode explores the idea of finding satisfaction in Jesus rather than in the opinions of others or material things. It features key scripture from John 10:7, where Jesus declares, “I am the door,” along with additional scripture passages from Matthew, Revelation, Ephesians, and Romans. The episode encourages reflection on personal experiences with closed doors and unmet needs, and mentions Fulton Sheen’s book “The Life of Christ.” It also invites listeners to subscribe to the podcast and join the private Facebook community.

In this week’s episode, titled “He Welcomes You Home,” Lisa and Laura from Walking with Purpose dive into the Gospel of John and unpack the significance of Jesus’s “I am the door” statement. They explore the metaphor of Jesus as the door, representing access to God and protection for His followers. The episode addresses obstacles to accessing God, such as negative experiences and self-doubt, and emphasizes the welcoming nature of Jesus, who invites all, regardless of their past or present circumstances, to come through the door and find abundant life in Him. The episode also includes questions for reflection, mentioning the podcast’s social media platforms and encouraging listeners to read more about their organization, Walking With Purpose.

Table of Contents

Introduction to Episode 3

Welcome back to the “Encountering Jesus Personally” series, where we dive deep into the Gospel of John and explore the profound impact of Jesus’ “I am” statements. This week, we focus on the statement “I am the door” and how it reveals something about Jesus’ character and our relationship with Him. Are you searching for validation in the opinions of others or material possessions? Join us as we unpack today’s scripture and discover the true satisfaction found in Jesus.

Unpacking the Gospel of John

Let’s begin by taking a closer look at the Gospel of John as a whole. Known for its distinctive features and themes, such as its emphasis on Jesus’ divinity, the Gospel of John offers a unique perspective on Jesus’ life and teachings. While the Synoptic Gospels focus more on Jesus’ earthly ministry, John highlights His divine nature and His role in our salvation.

The Significance of the ‘I am’ Statements of Jesus

One of the key aspects of the Gospel of John is the collection of “I am” statements made by Jesus. These statements hold great significance as they reveal not only Jesus’ character but also His claims of divinity. In Jewish tradition, the phrase “I am” held deep meaning, connecting back to God’s revelation of His name to Moses as “I am who I am.” By using these statements, Jesus proclaims His identity as the Son of God and invites us to know Him intimately.

Episode 3: He Welcomes You Home

Finding Satisfaction in Jesus

In our search for validation and satisfaction, it is easy to turn to external sources such as the opinions and approval of others or material possessions. However, Jesus offers us a deeper and lasting fulfillment. As we chase after the world’s standards, we often find ourselves running on a never-ending treadmill of striving and comparison. But Jesus offers us true satisfaction by letting go of external sources and finding our worth and validation in Him alone.

Scripture Focus: John 10:7

Let’s turn our attention to today’s scripture focus, John 10:7: “I am the door.” Jesus uses this metaphor to illustrate His role and purpose in our lives. Just as a door provides access to a house, Jesus provides us access to God. By entering through Him, we find salvation and the opportunity to go in and out and find pasture. Jesus also contrasts Himself with “thieves and robbers,” symbolizing the false promises and empty pursuits of the world.

Exploring Additional Scriptures

The Gospel of John is a rich source of Jesus’ teachings, and it is worth exploring passages that deepen our understanding of His message. By connecting these passages to other books in the Bible, such as Matthew, Revelation, Ephesians, and Romans, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the significance of Jesus’ words. These connections allow us to see the unity and continuity of God’s message throughout Scripture.

Reflecting on Closed Doors and Unmet Needs

Life is full of closed doors and unmet needs. We all experience moments of frustration and disappointment when things don’t go as planned. But in these moments, it is important to reflect on our faith and trust in God’s guidance. Closed doors can sometimes redirect us towards a better path or reveal unmet needs that only God can fulfill. By seeking God’s guidance and opening ourselves to His plans, we can find greater fulfillment and purpose.

Insights from Fulton Sheen’s ‘The Life of Christ’

Fulton Sheen’s book, “The Life of Christ,” offers valuable insights into Jesus’ life and mission. Sheen provides a deep understanding of Jesus’ teachings and their relevance for modern believers. By studying Sheen’s teachings, we can further apply Jesus’ message to our personal faith journeys and discover new depths of spiritual growth.

Subscribe and Connect

If you want to continue the conversation and join a community of like-minded individuals, we invite you to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform. Don’t miss an episode and stay connected by joining our private Facebook community. By subscribing and connecting, you will have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside others, deepening your understanding of Jesus and finding hope in His word.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Episode 3 of the “Encountering Jesus Personally” series explores the significance of Jesus’ statement “I am the door.” By understanding the Gospel of John, unpacking the ‘I am’ statements, and reflecting on satisfaction in Jesus, we can experience a transformative encounter with Him. Scripture focus on John 10:7 deepens our understanding of Jesus as the door to God, and exploring additional scriptures allows us to see the unity of God’s message. Reflecting on closed doors and unmet needs helps us seek God’s guidance, and insights from Fulton Sheen’s ‘The Life of Christ’ provide valuable teachings. Subscribe and connect to continue the conversation and find hope in Jesus’ transformative power.

Join us for Episode 3 in our seven-week series, Encountering Jesus Personally. In this week’s episode, Lisa and Laura dive into the Gospel of John, focusing on the famous I AM statement, “I am the door.” Each time we find Jesus saying, “I am,” He is giving us a glimpse into what He’s like. He’s revealing something about His character. Are you looking to people to know God’s love for you? Do you base your worth on what others think or how many “likes” you get on our Instagram post? Where do you go to feel satisfied if not Jesus? Join Lisa and Laura as they unpack today’s Scripture and apply it to our daily lives.

Open your Heart to our key Scripture.

John 10:7: I am the door.

Open your Bible to other Scriptures referenced in this episode.

John 9:2–3: “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in him.”

John 9:5: I am the light of the world.

John 9:39: Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may become blind.”

John 10:7–10: Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not heed them. I am the door; if any one enters by me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”

Matthew 9:12–13: Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick…I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.

Revelation 3:20: Behold, I stand at the door and knock; if any one hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.

Ephesians 2:13–14: But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near in the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility.

Romans 8:1: There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

John 10:9: I am the door; if anyone enters by me, he will be saved.

Invite Him in with this episode’s questions for reflection.

Can you remember when you felt the door was closed in your face? Did you mistakenly think God shut the door when it was actually someone else?

Are you the one closing the door on God?

What “other doors” are you trying to open in the hope that you’ll satisfy your unmet needs? Is it the door of pleasure, success, relief, or joy?

What are your unmet needs? Ask the Lord to reveal these to you. Only He can bring true healing.

Show mentions.

Fulton Sheen, The Life of Christ

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