Jesus The Gift Of God Series

JESUS THE GIFT OF GOD

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: John 3:16

Key Verse: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” – John 3:16

Supporting Texts: Romans 5:8; 2 Corinthians 9:15; Ephesians 2:8-9; John 1:14; Isaiah 9:6

INTRODUCTION:

God’s love for humanity is incomprehensible in its depth and magnitude, and the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, demonstrates this love in the most tangible way. By giving His only begotten Son, God offered mankind a path to salvation, eternal life, and fellowship with Him.

The gift of Jesus was not merely a historical event but a living reality that continues to impact every believer. It signifies God’s proactive initiative to reconcile humanity to Himself, providing mercy, grace, and redemption to all who believe.

Understanding Jesus as the gift of God should inspire gratitude, worship, and a lifestyle of obedience. It calls believers to live in the light of divine love, reflecting God’s gift through acts of kindness, faith, and sharing the gospel.

1. JESUS IS THE EXPRESSION OF GOD’S LOVE

The gift of Jesus demonstrates that God’s love is sacrificial, unmerited, and unconditional.

a) Sacrificial Love (Romans 5:8): God’s gift of His Son reveals the ultimate sacrifice, given even when humanity was undeserving.

b) Unconditional Grace (Ephesians 2:8-9): Jesus is God’s free gift, available to all who believe, independent of works or merit.

c) Eternal Assurance (John 10:28): Through Jesus, believers are assured of eternal life, a promise grounded in God’s loving character.

d) Reconciliation with God (2 Corinthians 5:18): Jesus’ gift restores humanity’s broken relationship with the Father, bringing peace and forgiveness.

Biblical Example: The story of Nicodemus illustrates that Jesus, as God’s gift, brings illumination and understanding to those seeking truth (John 3:1-21).

2. JESUS IS THE SOLUTION TO SIN AND DEATH

God’s gift addresses the consequences of sin and the reality of death, offering eternal life to all who believe.

a) Redemption from Sin (Colossians 1:13-14): Through Christ, believers are delivered from the dominion of darkness and brought into God’s kingdom.

b) Victory over Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57): Jesus’ resurrection ensures that death no longer has the final word for believers.

c) Forgiveness of Sins (Acts 10:43): All who believe in Jesus receive complete forgiveness, demonstrating God’s love and mercy.

d) Eternal Life (John 17:3): The gift of Jesus guarantees fellowship with God and life that transcends temporal limitations.

Biblical Example: The conversion of the thief on the cross demonstrates that even in final moments, accepting Jesus as God’s gift secures eternal life (Luke 23:42-43).

3. JESUS EMPOWERS BELIEVERS TO LIVE IN GOD’S LOVE

Receiving Jesus transforms lives, enabling believers to experience and express God’s love daily.

a) Spiritual Transformation (2 Corinthians 5:17): Believers become new creations, reflecting the love and character of God in their lives.

b) Empowered to Love Others (1 John 4:19-21): Experiencing God’s gift enables believers to extend love to others genuinely.

c) Boldness in Faith (Acts 4:31): God’s gift inspires confidence and courage to live and witness boldly.

d) Abundant Life (John 10:10):

Jesus empowers believers to live life abundantly, demonstrating the richness of God’s gift.

Biblical Example: Mary Magdalene, touched by Jesus’ love and forgiveness, became a faithful witness to His resurrection, illustrating the transformative power of God’s gift (John 20:11-18).

4. JESUS’ GIFT REQUIRES FAITHFUL RECEIPT

The gift of God is received through faith, surrender, and a willing heart to obey Him.

a) Faith in the Gift (John 1:12): Believing in Jesus activates the benefits of God’s gift, granting adoption into God’s family.

b) Commitment to Obedience (James 2:17): Receiving Jesus requires action and obedience, not mere acknowledgment.

c) Gratitude and Worship (Psalm 116:12-13): Responding to God’s gift with thanksgiving and worship honours Him.

d) Sharing the Gift (Matthew 28:19-20): Believers are called to share the message of Jesus, extending God’s gift to others.

Biblical Example: The Samaritan woman at the well received Jesus and immediately shared the good news, demonstrating active reception of God’s gift (John 4:28-30).

CONCLUSION:

Jesus is the ultimate gift from God, expressing divine love, mercy, and grace. Recognising Him as God’s gift should inspire believers to live in faith, obedience, and gratitude.

Receiving and sharing this gift transforms lives, empowers believers to overcome sin, and ensures eternal fellowship with the Father. Embrace Jesus fully and reflect His love in every area of your life.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me fully receive the gift of Jesus in my heart.

2. Father, empower me to live in the light of Your love revealed in Christ.

3. Lord, let the gift of Jesus bring transformation in every area of my life.

4. Jesus, grant me grace to walk in Your ways daily.

5. Father, help me extend Your love to others as I have received it.