How did Jesus Surprise His Followers?

• Asking to be baptised, whereas John asked Jesus to baptise him
• Underwent massive temptation, rather than avoiding it
• Taught principles that lay behind laws, rather than the laws themselves
• Told people that the Kingdom of God was within, rather than in rules or politics
• Showed God as Father more than as King or Judge
• Healed many of all classes
• "Even the wind and waves obey him"
• Eating rather than fasting
• Told people to keep quiet about his miracles and the insights they had, rather than seeking publicity

• Engaged with women as equals, rather than looking down on them
• Associated with those thought particularly sinful or hated
• Associated with people of Samaria
• Dignified children, rather than ignored them
• Challenged would-be followers, rather than wanting their acclamation
• Told the disciples that the grand temple would be utterly destroyed

• Rode on a donkey rather than a horse
• King of peace, not war; prince of peace, not conquering hero
• Openly criticised those who were doctrinally correct
• Openly criticised the authorities
• His criticism was on the basis of hypocrisy, not doctrine

• Washed disciples' feet
• His death was the main point of his coming (atonement), rather than an unfortunate mistake.
• Rose to life after dying.
• Established no monument or tomb by which to be remembered

Challenge: find the Scripture passages where each of these is found? And try to find Scripture passage that prophesy each. The fact that God surprises us is found in Isaiah 43:18-19.

If you can think of others to add to these lists, please write them here and press 'Send'.

Thank you. That will send an email to me, which I can add to the above list.

Andrew.

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Created: 13 March 2016. Last updated: 7 November 2024 canon, .end, .nav.