KNOWING ME, KNOWING CHRIST!

PSK 084. KNOWING ME, KNOWING CHRIST! (John 10:11-16; 22-30)

Text: John 10:11-14, 27.

 

 

Welcome to Sunday, the *_16th day of MARCH 2025._* This is the third Sunday in March, in THE YEAR OF OUR ULTIMATE TRIUMPH! Receive your *GOOD NEWS* as we continue our ultimate *_march from trials to triumph!_*

 

  *_In this year of Ultimate Triumph, your stolen virtues will be pleasantly restored; your relationships will bloom into deep divine connections; your experience of ‘giving up as fulfilment becomes almost realised’ will end, making you take your possession of lasting success, and your household will experience such gladness that never wanes. The Almighty God has favoured you, annulling your frustration: God will manifest His glory in your life, ministry and family in Jesus’ Name!_*

 

AMEN! 

 

 

(The accompanying video is Courtesy of MelHarmonic Virtual Choir)

 

 

https://youtu.be/74LFIV6g6_c?si=PvjgKOFFZaMSgJ4H

 

 

 

  Our Hymn: MHB 438 – JESU, MY LORD, MY GOD, MY ALL.

 

Methodist Hymn-Book with Tunes ‎#438

Text:	Jesu, my Lord, my God, my All
Author:	Henry Collins, 1827-1919
Tune:	ST. CHRYSOSTOM
Composer:	J. Barnby, 1838-96
Inspiration:	John 10: 10-16, 27.

 

 

*1:*

 

JESU, my Lord, my God, my All,
Hear me, blest Saviour when I call;
Hear me, and from Thy dwelling-place.
Pour down the riches of Thy grace:

 

*Refrain:*

*_Jesu, my Lord, I thee adore,_*
*_O make me love thee more and more._*

 

*2:* 

 

Jesu, too late I Thee have sought;
How can I love Thee as I ought?
And how extol Thy matchless fame,
The glorious beauty of Thy Name?

 

*Refrain:*

 

*3:*

 

Jesu, what didst Thou find in me,
That Thou hast dealt so lovingly?
How great the joy that Thou hast brought,
So far, exceeding hope or thought!

 

*Refrain:*

 

4: Jesu, of Thee, shall be my song;
To Thee my heart and soul belong;
All that I have or am is Thine,
And Thou, blest Saviour, Thou art mine:

 

*Refrain:*

 

*_Amen._*

 

 

https://youtu.be/74LFIV6g6_c?si=PvjgKOFFZaMSgJ4H

 

 

 

 The *THEME –* Our *GOOD NEWS –*  for this Sunday is titled:

   *_“KNOWING ME, KNOWING CHRIST!“_* 

 

   *BIBLE PASSAGE: John 10:10-16, 22-30* (NKJV).  

 

 

*John 10:10-16, 22-30* (NKJV): Knowing Me Knowing Christ.

 

10. *_The thief does not come except to steal, kill, and destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly._*

11. *_“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep._*
12. *_But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them._*
13. *_The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep._*
14. *_I am the good shepherd, and I know My sheep and am known by My own._*
15. *_As the Father knows Me, even so, I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep._*
16. *_And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd._*

 

22. *_It was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter._*
23. *_And Jesus walked into the temple on Solomon’s porch._*
24. *_Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.”_*
25. *_Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s Name, they bear witness of Me._*
26. *_But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep, as I said to you._*
27. *_My sheep hear My voice; I know them, and they follow Me._*
28. *_And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand._*
29. *_My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all, and no one can snatch them out of My Father’s hand._*
30. *_I and My Father are one.”_*

 

 

 

 

 Our Theme is *_“KNOWING ME, KNOWING CHRIST!“_*

 *Text: John 10:11-14, 27.*

 

 

   Let us succeed like our LORD, Jesus Christ, who started with prayers -Welcome to our… *SEVEN-FOLD PRAYER RAID:*

 

1) *Topic: _From Death to Life._*
*Link:* God’s breath revives what was dead.
*Anchor Verse: Ezekiel 37:5 –* _“Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Surely I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live.”_  

*Prayer: _Lord, breathe Your life into every dead area of my life, restoring my hope and purpose anew, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

2) *Topic: _Hearing His Voice._*
*Link:* God speaks to those who listen.
*Anchor Verse: John 10:27 –* _“My sheep hear My voice: I know them, and they follow Me.”_

*Prayer: _Heavenly Father, help me to discern Your voice amidst the distractions so I may follow Your guidance faithfully, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

3) *Topic: _Intimacy with the Shepherd._*
*Link:* Knowing Christ leads to a genuine relationship.
*Anchor Verse: John 10:14 –* _“I am the good shepherd, and I know My sheep, and I am known by My own.”_  

*Prayer: _Lord, deepen my relationship with You so that I may know You more intimately and reflect Your love to others, in Jesus Christ’s Name. *

 

4) *Topic: _Restoration of Hope._*
*Link:* Christ restores what is lost.
*Anchor Verse: Psalm 23:3 –* _“He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake.”_

*Prayer: _Lord, restore my brokenness and fill me with hope so that I may walk in Your righteous paths, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

5) *Topic:* _Strength in Vulnerability._*
*Link:* God’s strength is made perfect in weakness.
*Anchor Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9 –* _“My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.”_

*Prayer: _Lord, in my moments of weakness, let Your strength be my foundation, empowering me to overcome all challenges, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

6) Topic: Unity in Christ.
Link: Together, we are stronger in faith.
*Anchor Verse: Ephesians 4:3 –* _“Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”_

*Prayer: _Lord, unite us as one body in Christ, that we may serve and love one another in harmony, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

7) *Topic: _Faithful Discipleship._*
*Link:* Following Christ requires commitment.
*Anchor Verse: Luke 9:23 –* _“If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross daily, and follow Me.”_  

*Prayer: _Lord, grant me the courage to deny myself and faithfully follow You each day, embracing the call of discipleship, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*  

 

 

*_Exhortation._*

 

Our Theme is: *_“KNOWING ME, KNOWING CHRIST!“_*

 

*TEXT: John 10: 11-14, 27.* (NKJV.)   

 

11. *_“I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep._*
12. *_But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them._*
13. *_The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep._*
14. *_I am the good shepherd, and I know My sheep, and I am known by My own._*
15. *_My sheep hear My voice; I know them, and they follow Me._*

 

 

Beloved in Christ,

I have visited the flock of Christ in small villages nestled in the countryside hills, where the sound of sheep bleats fills the air. On one of my visits, I saw my shepherd friend and Church member arise before dawn, calling out to his flock. The sheep know his voice; it is familiar and comforting. They respond, following him out to lush pastures. However, I tried to lure the sheep with sweet words and tempting treats. The sheep hesitate and look back at the shepherd, calling them gently.

 

This scenario mirrors our spiritual journey. Just as the sheep recognise the voice of their shepherd, we must learn to discern Christ’s voice amidst the world’s cacophony. In John 10:10-16, 22-30, Jesus emphasises His role as the Good Shepherd, who knows His sheep and calls them by name. He offers us abundant life, yet we often chase after distractions that lead us astray.

 

In our lives, we hear fleeting advertisements and voices that promise fulfilment but ultimately lead us to emptiness. We need to deepen our relationship with Christ and honestly know Him so that we can recognise His voice calling us away from danger and towards everlasting life.

 

As we embark on this journey of *_“Knowing Me, Knowing Christ,”_* let us reflect on how well we listen to the Shepherd’s call. Are we attuned to His voice or strayed into the world’s cacophony? Today, let’s focus on how knowing Christ intimately transforms our understanding of who we are and how we live.

 

In our passage today, Jesus presents Himself as the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep intimately and calls them to follow Him. The relationship between the shepherd and the sheep illustrates believers’ deep connection with Christ, emphasising the importance of knowing Christ personally and understanding the depth of His love and sacrifice for humanity.

 

*_“Knowing Me, Knowing Christ,”_* throw divine lights on *The Intimacy of Relationship:* Our Text (John 10:11-14, 27) does justice to our entire discourse, but let us look into John 10:14, which states:

 

*_“I am the good shepherd, I know My sheep, and I am known by My own.”_* (John 10:14, NKJV)

 

This verse provides profound insights into the relationship between God and His followers. Here are my humble key points considered:

 

1. *Mutual Knowledge.*

 

The phrase *_“I know My sheep, and I am known by My own”_* underscores the intimate relationship God desires from His people. It is not just one-sided knowledge; while God fully knows His followers, believers are also expected to come to know Him. This mutual knowledge fosters a deep, personal connection.

 

2. *Character of the Shepherd.*

 

In this context, Jesus refers to Himself as the *_“good shepherd.”_* This title portrays Him as protective, attentive, and caring for His flock. Understanding that God is a good shepherd encourages us to trust Him, recognising He has our best interests at heart. Knowing God means understanding His character, which is rooted in love, compassion, and holiness.

 

3. *Personal Relationship.*

 

The use of *_“My sheep”_* indicates possession and belonging. Those who belong to Christ experience a personal relationship with Him. Knowing God involves intellectual acknowledgement and experiential knowledge – walking with Him, listening to His voice, and following His lead.

 

4. *Discerning His Voice.*

 

A key aspect of knowing God is hearing and recognising His voice, among many others. In verses following John 10:14, Jesus emphasises that His sheep hear His voice (confirmed with John 10:27). This points to the importance of being attuned to God’s guidance through prayer, reading the Scripture, and being sensitive to the workings of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

 

5. *Assurance of Belonging.*

 

The passage reassures us (believers) of our identity in Christ. To be known by Him means that we are secure in His love and care. In the context of knowing God, reflecting on the assurance of being recognised and valued by our Creator is invaluable.

 

6. *Call to Discipleship.*

 

The “mutual knowing” further calls believers to discipleship. Knowing Him allows us to reflect His character to the world. The relationship is reciprocal; understanding God’s love and grace towards us encourages us to embody those qualities in our interactions with others.

 

Jesus emphasises that He knows His sheep, and they also know Him (John 10:14). This reflects the mutual knowledge and relationship believers are called to have with Christ.

 

7. *Eternal Life and Assurance*

 

Jesus states that He gives eternal life to His sheep, and they will never perish (John 10:28). This assurance is fundamental to knowing Christ and understanding His role as Saviour.

 

8. *Recognition of His Voice.*

 

The passage highlights that His sheep hear His voice and follow Him (John 10:27). This can be interpreted as knowing Christ through His teachings and guidance.

 

9. *Unity with the Father.*

 

The declaration that Jesus and the Father are one (John 10:30) reinforces the idea that knowing Christ is also about understanding His divine nature and relationship with God. Those who are merely religious will do what Satan pushes humankind to do… (See John 10 verse 31). They will feel offended by Christ’s divinity and rebel due to their reprobate mindset.

 

10. Worship is our key.

 

Worship—our weapon—is a fragrance that turns into fire: Our worship’s smoke (fragrance) links us into a super connection with God, helping us win our battles! Most Nigerian Christians daily use that *_fire_* a lot, and it works!

 

This bible passage (John 10:10-14, 22-30) provides profound insights into the relationship between God and His followers. Here are my humble key points that apply to a notable few, including you and me:

 

1. The Government of Nations.

Governments should prioritise understanding their citizens and acting with the care and integrity of a shepherd. Leaders must embody compassion and justice, guiding their nations towards unity and welfare. This means making decisions that reflect the people’s needs and aspirations rather than personal or political gain.

 

As leaders of nations, it is vital to understand that authentic leadership is rooted in serving the people with a shepherd’s heart. Knowing Christ allows you to discern moral paths for governance. Lead with compassion, integrity, and the assurance that you are accountable to a higher authority. Seek God’s wisdom in your decisions, ensuring policies promote unity, justice, and the common good, thus reflecting His love for the nation.

 

 

1. Businesses and Corporate Firms.

In the corporate realm, successful businesses thrive on relationships. Leaders should cultivate environments where employees and customers feel valued, mirroring the Good Shepherd’s care. By integrating Christ-like values into their practices, businesses can enhance morale and build loyalty, while neglecting these values may lead to discontent and failure of the enterprise.

 

Knowing Christ can transform your approach to challenges in times of economic hardship. Lead your organisations with fairness, integrity, and a commitment to serving others. Encourage an environment of support and teamwork, knowing that when you align your practices with God’s principles, you create a workplace grounded in trust and resilience. This fosters loyalty and enhances productivity through a shared sense of purpose.

 

 

III. An Individual Who Has Lost All Hope.

For that brother or sister who feels hopeless, *_Knowing Me, Knowing Christ_* offers comfort and restoration, especially for you: You are unique. Christ’s intimate awareness of our struggles reassures individuals that circumstances do not define their worth. Hope can be rekindled through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, leading to a future filled with purpose and direction.

 

If you are in despair, feeling abandoned or voiceless, remember that Christ, as the Good Shepherd, knows you intimately. He calls you by name, offering hope and restoration. Lean into His voice; He invites you to release your burdens and trust His guidance. Seek community, prayer, and the Word, for in knowing Christ, you will rediscover your worth and purpose.

 

 

1. Atheistic Personalities.

For atheists, the call to know Christ can encourage the exploration of the virtues of love, compassion, and morality. Understanding these qualities can resonate beyond belief systems, prompting reflections on ethical living and caring for others.

 

If you are sceptical or doubt the existence of God, consider the profound love and sense of belonging that many find in their faith. The concept of the Good Shepherd provides a comforting image of care and guidance. You are invited to explore this relationship—not through blind faith, but by seeking answers and experiencing the love and support of a community that believes in the transforming power of knowing Christ.

 

 

1. Religious Authorities in a Troubled World.

My colleagues and religious leaders must reflect the character of the Good Shepherd, emphasising humanity in relationships over the perceived superiority of their religious doctrine. Today, clerics of the same religious divide engage in critical cold wars against one another! Our teachings should promote unity and foster personal encounters with Christ, guiding communities towards a deeper understanding of love and service.

 

To our fellow clerics, regardless of your faith or tradition, remember that our shared goal is to guide our communities toward love and understanding.

 

*_Knowing Me, Knowing Christ,_* as articulated in the Gospel, encourages a depth of relationship that transcends mere doctrine—Emphasise compassion, kindness, and humility in your teachings. Let your ministry reflect the heart of the Good Shepherd, focusing on reconciling individuals with their Creator and each other.

 

 

In all these contexts, the exhortation “Knowing Me, Knowing Christ “ serves as a transformative invitation, challenging everyone to deepen their relationships and embody the principles of compassion, care, and integrity in their lives and interactions.

 

As we reflect on the above points, remember that *_Knowing Me, Knowing Christ_* is a transformative journey which encourages us all to engage in a relationship that shapes our identity, ignites our passions, and empowers us to live out love in tangible ways.

 

 

Let us commit to listening to God’s voice, allowing our lives to testify to His goodness and grace. Let us acknowledge our call and respond to His invitation to know Him deeply and personally.

 

 

Finally, John 10:14 encapsulates the invitation to develop a deep and personal relationship with God. It encourages believers to seek a fuller understanding of who God is, how He relates to us, and how we can live in response to His love and guidance. Knowing God is a journey that involves trust, learning, and transforming our lives to reflect His nature.

 

*_May God bless you all as you grow in knowledge and relationship with our Good Shepherd, in Jesus’ Name._*

 

*Amen.*

 

 

 

 

 

*LET US PRAY these Consolidation Prayers:*

 

 

8) Topic: Blessings for Our Nation.
*Link:* God blesses those who seek His will.
*Anchor Verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14 –*  _“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves and pray… then I will heal their land.”_

*Prayer: _Lord, heal our nation and guide our leaders to seek Your wisdom and righteousness in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

9) *Topic: _Integrity in Business._*
*Link:* Christ-centered values lead to success.
*Anchor Verse: Proverbs 10:9 –* _“He who walks with integrity walks securely.”_

*Prayer: _Lord, instil a spirit of integrity within our businesses so that they may thrive and reflect Your character in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

10) *Topic: _Community Transformation._*
*Link:* Christ’s love transforms lives.
*Anchor Verse: Matthew 5:16 –_* _“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”_

*Prayer: _Lord, empower our community to reflect Your light, transforming lives through acts of love and service, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

11) *Topic: _Provision for Families._*
*Link:* God is our provider in every need.
*Anchor Verse: Philippians 4:19 –* _“And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”_  

*Prayer: _Lord, provide for every family in our community, meeting their needs and filling their homes with Your peace and abundance, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

12) *Topic: _Healing in Relationships._*
*Link:* Christ restores broken relationships.
*Anchor Verse: Colossians 3:13 –* _“Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do.”_  

*Prayer: _Lord, heal the rifts in our relationships, teaching us to forgive as You have forgiven us, and restore our bonds in love, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

13) Topic: Empowerment for Leaders.
*Link:* God equips leaders for service.
*Anchor Verse: James 1:5 –* _“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”_*

*Prayer: _Lord, grant wisdom and courage to our leaders in every sector, helping them to serve with integrity and compassion, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

14) *Topic: _Hope for the Hopeless._*
*Link:* Christ is the hope for all despair.
*Anchor Verse: Romans 15:13 –* _“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”_  

*Prayer: _Lord, bring hope to those who feel lost and hopeless, reminding them of Your love and the promise of a brighter future, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

15) *Topic: _Courage in Adversity._*
*Link:* God strengthens us in trials.
*Anchor Verse: Isaiah 41:10 –* _“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; yes, I will help you.”_  

*Prayer: Lord, grant us courage to face our challenges, knowing You are with us, providing strength and support in every trial, in Jesus Christ’s Name. *

 

16) *Topic: _A Legacy of Faith._*
*Link:* Our faith impacts future generations.
*Anchor Verse: Psalm 78:4 –* _“We will not hide them from their children, telling the generation to come to the praises of the Lord.”_  

*Prayer: _Lord, help us to pass down a legacy of faith to the next generation, instilling in them the love and knowledge of Christ, in Jesus Christ’s Name._*

 

 

 *_I now command every sickness – including emotional, financial or spiritual barrenness – and failure in your life, home, and ministry to be cast into the desolate places, NOW, in Jesus’ Name._*

 

*_Amen._* 

 

* * *

  *_At Christ Jesus’ inspired word, the great help of God will cause you to flourish, annihilating your fears and destroying the traps set for you at these dangerous times, in Jesus’ mighty Name. ONLY BELIEVE!_*  

GLORY BE TO GOD!

*_Alleluia!_*

As God’s Anointed, I humbly prophesy, according to the Word of God, the evil declarations against your life are NOW divinely annulled and defeated, in Jesus’ mighty Name.

*_Every plan of the Kingdom of darkness against your soul has perished – forever, in Jesus’ mighty Name._*

 

  *_As for me and my household – including these prayer partners reading, hearing and praying along – we shall serve the living God in sound health, good wealth and prosperity of our souls, in Jesus’ Name!_*

*_“KNOWING ME, KNOWING CHRIST!“_*

 

 

 

 

 

*_I love you, in Jesus’ Name!_* 

 

*God Bless You!*

 

 

  *Enter To Worship… Depart To Serve!*  

 

 

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  *Bless Someone Today: It’s Your Happy Sunday!* I seize this opportunity to bless those notable persons whose birthdays or special anniversaries are today. May you continue to receive power to excel, unmerited favour, love and grace to overcome evil, in Jesus’ Name! Amen.

 

YOU HAVE OVERCOME THE IDES OF MARCH; NOW YOU ARE ON THE RIGHT PATH TO DIVINE FULFILMENT, in Jesus’ Name.