May 9, 2021

The Costs of Belief

Overview: 2 Kings 7-8, John 3:1-21

The Lord fulfills a prophecy from Elisha that sees the Syrians flee, a famished people fed, and a doubting king’s death. Later, Elisha witnesses the evil deeds of Hazael and the various kings of Israel.

Jesus tells a leader in the Jewish religious establishment that he must be born again to become a child of God. He gives the most famous summary of the Gospel in the entire Bible when he explains how God showed His love for the world.

Observation and Activation

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” - John 3:16

In 2 Kings, the Lord keeps his promises, no matter how big or how small. Elisha’s prophecy comes true as the Lord protects Israel, despite their unbelief.

In John, Jesus explains that God gave his Son to bear the sins of the world and that only belief in Him leads to eternal life. He uses imagery that Nicodemus can understand by referencing Moses and the serpent (Number 21:4-9).

What can you do today to put more trust in God? Take a moment to ask God to help your unbelief in places you have doubts about Him.