Shaped by Jesus: The Transformation of James & John | Sunday Message (Pastor Jonathan Laurie)
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Mar 2, 2025
Explore the remarkable transformation of disciples James and John as they journey from impulsive, self-seeking individuals to dynamic leaders in faith. This discussion delves into how God's discipline shapes us through life's trials. Each setback becomes an opportunity for spiritual refinement, reminding us that we all have flaws and are called to grow. Embrace the lifelong process of sanctification, and recognize the power of community through prayer, service, and presence in each other's lives.
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insights INSIGHT
Imperfect People
Biblical figures' flaws are recorded to show God's power in weakness.
Their stories encourage us because Jesus transforms willing people, not perfect ones.
question_answer ANECDOTE
James and John: Key Figures
James is mainly mentioned alongside John, while John wrote the Gospel of John, Revelation, and his epistles.
John is also known as the disciple whom Jesus loved.
insights INSIGHT
Transformation
Despite witnessing miracles, James and John struggled with pride, impatience, and impulsive zeal.
Their transformation highlights how Jesus refines our flaws over time.
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Luke 4 details Jesus' forty-day temptation by Satan in the wilderness, followed by His return to Galilee where He begins teaching and performing miracles. It also includes His rejection in Nazareth and His healing of a man with an unclean spirit in Capernaum.
The House of David Devotional
The House of David Devotional
Greg Laurie
Revelation
Jen Wilkin
Hebrews
Richard D. Phillips
The Gospel of John
John the Apostle (attributed)
The Gospel of John is the fourth of the New Testament's canonical gospels. It presents a highly schematic account of Jesus' ministry, focusing on seven 'signs' or miracles that demonstrate Jesus' divinity, and seven 'I am' discourses that highlight his divine identity. The gospel is divided into sections: a prologue introducing Jesus as the Word of God, the 'Book of Signs' detailing Jesus' ministry, the 'Book of Glory' covering his final night, arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection, and a conclusion stating the gospel's purpose. The author's intent is clear: 'that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name' (John 20:31)[2][4][5].
Mark
Zondervan Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament
Mark Strauss
This commentary provides a detailed analysis of the Gospel of Mark, exploring its structure, themes, and theological implications. It is designed for pastors and Bible teachers, offering insights into the text's meaning and application.
Job
Job
The Third Epistle of John
The Third Epistle of John
John the Apostle
The Third Epistle of John is a short letter addressed to Gaius, a faithful member of the early Christian church. The Apostle John praises Gaius for his unselfish devotion and hospitality to itinerant Christian teachers who were spreading the Gospel. John also warns Gaius about Diotrephes, a church leader who opposed John's authority and refused to receive his messengers. The letter emphasizes the importance of walking in the truth, supporting those who minister the Gospel, and following good examples like Demetrius, who had a good testimony. The epistle is part of the New Testament and is believed to have been written between A.D. 80 and 95[1][4][5].
God doesn’t want us to remain how He found us. He wants us to grow, to be refined. It’s a lifelong process, and it’s one even the most famous biblical figures experienced.
Notes:
Focus verses - Mark 1, Mark 10
Jesus picked ordinary men.
We all are called by God.
Jesus meets us where we are; not where we think we should be.
You are called by God.
James and John struggled with pride, impatience, and a fiery zeal.
#1 The Raw Elements Mark 1:19–20
James and John were impulsive.
Jesus is constantly calling us closer to Himself.
Read Luke 9:53–56
James and John were nicknamed “The Sons of Thunder.”
#2 The Refining Process Mark 10:37–41
God’s discipline is a sign of His love.
"But He knows where I am going. And when He tests me, I will come out as pure as gold." Job 23:10 (NLT)
James and John started out as rough, impulsive, self-seeking men, but they didn’t stay that way.
#3 The Finished Product Acts 12:1–2
“I, John, both your brother and companion in the tribulation and kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the island that is called Patmos for the word of God and for the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Revelation 1:9 (NKJV)
The process of being refined by God is lifelong.
1. Pray 2. Serve 3. Give 4. Be Present
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Learn more about Greg Laurie and Harvest Ministries at harvest.org.
This podcast is supported by the generosity of our Harvest Partners.