Chapter 5: The Outcasts
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For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3, 16 Thank you, Heavenly Father, for your unfathomable love for me. No one will ever or could ever love me with the pure and unconditional love you have for me. You ask me to believe, believe in your Son and the price he paid out of his love for me.

I wept in gratitude when I realized how selfish I am in comparison to His astounding love. I lift my voice in praise and sing joy to the world. The Lord has come and heaven and nature sing. Prepare our hearts, Lord, to receive the greatest gift of knowing Jesus. Fill our hearts with joy as we sing praises for Your glorious goodness. Amen.

Stay tuned to immerse yourself in the greatest stories ever told from Pray.com's podcast, Heroes in the Bible.

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Welcome to the greatest story ever told. It is the story of a shepherd's heart for his sheep, a father's love for his children, and a hero's triumph over death and darkness. This is a story that continues to shape and mold the world around us, bringing the divine heart of God right into the hearts of you and me.

In this episode, Jesus' heart for the outcast is put on full display. This episode features one compelling interaction after another. While some of the Gospels put an emphasis on the public ministry of Jesus, the Gospel of John is unique with its greater emphasis on the one-on-one interactions Jesus had with selected individuals.

This episode highlights many of those connections, reminding us that Jesus wasn't just a public figure, but a friend and mentor. He took time for people, noticed those on the fringe, and revealed his glory through simple conversations. This episode introduces us to famous characters like Nicodemus and the woman at the well, as well as lesser-known figures like the father with the sick son and the invalid by the pools.

All of these individuals came face-to-face with Jesus and were changed forever because of him. Nobody can truly meet Jesus and remain neutral. Anyone who comes face-to-face with him must make a decision about who he is to them. Ironically, the religious elite and pious leaders had a harder time accepting him than the sick and social outcasts. As it turns out,

Self-righteous religion can keep people from truly seeing Jesus for who he is. In this episode, I want to challenge all of us to see the ways in which Jesus interacts with the outcast. How does he speak with people who have been rejected by society? To what lengths will Jesus go to comfort and compel people's hearts? Before we dive into this next time in Jesus' ministry, we will have a prelude, a story captured from another time and space.

We are introduced to David, an outcast in his own way who became a king. His life is an example to us all of God's heart for the people on the fringe. The small shepherd boy's rise to power shows us that God prefers to use the weak things of the world to display his strength. I hope it encourages you today.

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Brought to you by State Farm. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Prelude to Chapter 5. A thousand years before the birth of Christ, a young shepherd boy lounged under the clouds. He watched the sheep graze and frolic while strumming the lyre. The solitude of a shepherd's life did not bother him. His father had nearly forgotten him altogether anyways, and his brothers were self-consumed, if he was being honest. He preferred the company of sheep

As dull as they were, they were endearing. They needed his guidance, protection, and provision. Without him, they would surely fall off a cliff or starve to death. The boy thought about his relationship with God this way. He would often look at his sheep and ponder how God was his shepherd, guiding, protecting, and providing for him. In the solitude of the sheep pasture, the young shepherd strummed a hymn to

He played passionately for an audience of one. These tender moments happened often between him and he was constantly after his heart. He knew that his sheep's well-being was dependent on its closeness to the shepherd. So the boy drew close to the Lord daily, singing to him and meditating on his law. As small and unassuming as he was, he was not without courage.

Wolves and lions would often prowl on the perimeter of the pasture looking to feast on the helpless sheep. The shepherd boy was continually alert and ready for battle. He had to slay a few wolves and lions in his time. However, nobody would assume that of the boy. He was ruddy and clearly the runt of his family. He did not carry himself like his brothers or his father. They were regal, sturdy, and king-like. However, the boy was content with his sheep.

He loved that they needed him. When the nation of Israel needed a champion to rise up and defeat the giant Goliath and his Philistine army, no soldier stepped forward. There were no princes, warriors, or noblemen brave enough to fight. The prophet and judge of Israel, Samuel, was sent by God to find a man worthy enough to lead the nation. He looked at the strong, the tall, and the noble. He considered the men who carried themselves like kings.

However, the Lord had rejected them as his chosen servant. Instead, he had Samuel look to the pastures where the shepherd boy tended to the sheep. And looks at the outward appearance, God told Samuel. However I look beyond what men see, I look at the heart. Samuel looked at the ruddy shepherd boy. He did not have a kingly demeanor. He was the rejected son of his family and an outcast.

However, dwelling within him was a heart after God. The Lord called the shepherd boy and empowered him to slay giants. He would go on to be the greatest king Israel had ever known. The otherwise unassuming and weak boy was a hero and God's chosen champion, King David. These are the people God chose to lead armies, restore nations, and proclaim his truth's

He chose the weak to showcase His strength. He chose the homeless and gave them a home. He chose the rejected and gave them purpose. For God chose the foolish things of this world to put to shame all those who felt wise or strong in their own right. God was in the business of choosing the outcasts. Chapter 5. The Outcasts Jesus' name began to grow in popularity.

As John the Baptist faded into anonymity, more and more people who used to follow him began to follow Jesus. However, the true identity of Jesus was still only seen in part. Some people called him the Messiah, but they were still not entirely sure what that meant. Many people thought the Messiah would be a political hero. Some thought the Messiah would be a man of war. However, not many predicted a carpenter from a small town.

Jesus' words reflected the prophetic description of the Messiah, but the way he carried himself seemed almost too humble and too unassuming. So people followed Jesus, curious as to what he would do next. It was Passover, a time when people from the entire region would gather near the temple to worship.

Millions of people flowed in and out of the city streets, bringing their families, sacrifices, and prayers to offer up to the Lord. It was a grand celebration of God redeeming His people from slavery in Egypt. It was also a time of deep contemplation. Men and women considered the depth of God's love for them and His blessing over them as a holy nation and chosen people.

Jesus walked among the sea of faces towards the temple. The top of the temple could be seen in the distance. It was radiant and a glorious image of God's presence dwelling in the middle of the city. It was Jesus' desire that all would experience God at the center of their own lives. His heart was warmed as he saw Jews, Greeks, and people of all creeds and cultures gathering to worship.

"The heart of God is for all to enter in and seek his face." Jesus walked through the temple gates. His brow furrowed as he saw the people within. In the temple courtyard, he found people selling sacrifices and haggling prices. Men were bringing oxen, pigeons, goats, and sheep, claiming they were special and therefore required to make a sacrifice.

The temple officials also had a special currency, and the exchange rate was too steep for many people to buy a sacrifice. Jesus watched in horror as the temple was being used as a place to exploit people. Foreigners brought their own sacrifices and were swiftly turned away if they could not afford a new temple-certified sacrifice. Jesus' blood boiled within him.

The courtyard he was standing in was a special place. It was the courtyard that Gentiles and foreigners were allowed to come and worship. Yet the religious leaders used it to grow rich. A quiet rage dwelled within the gentle Son of God. A rage so pure and so righteous that if he wished, he could send fire down from heaven. Jesus looked at the money changers and the swindlers haggling near the steps.

They were selling salvation. They were selling a connection with God. Jesus would not allow it. He looked to his left to see palm fronds laying on the floor. He also saw some netting used to hold animals draped over the side of the steps. Jesus gathered these things, sat down, and began to weave. No one noticed him methodically sewing leaves and rope together. They were too consumed with making a profit.

When God established the nation of Israel, He commanded that they would be a sanctuary for every nation. He commanded that they be a safe haven for refugees and foreigners. He also commanded that anyone who desired to repent and seek His face would not be denied blessing. The people appointed to reflect God's heart had given in to corruption. Jesus would not allow anybody to be separated from the loving embrace of God.

He would not allow the foreigner to be turned away. He would not allow the poor to be put in debt because they couldn't afford a nicer sacrifice. It was King David who said, "For you will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it. You would not be pleased with a burnt offering." The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit.

A broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise. With these words burning in his heart, Jesus rose to his feet. He raised his hand high in the air to reveal a whip of cords. Then, with a strong swing of his hips, Jesus slashed the whip forward to hit the oxen. The animals panicked and paged. They knocked over the carts and sent people fleeing in a panicked bane. Jesus marched over to the money changers.

with the mighty heart of God. Jesus lifted the stone tables and flipped them over. The heavy structures crashed to the floor, shaking the ground. Gold and silver spilled all over the courtyard floor, and the money changers frantically picked them up like birds pecking at bread. Jesus stood above the temple steps, holding the whip in one hand and a crate of doves in another. He had single-handedly destroyed the temple marketplace,

Raising the doves in the air, he smashed the crate to the ground, releasing the doves. People stopped there panicking for a moment to look at Jesus. Huffing, he pointed at the Pharisees and scribes watching from the corner. This is where men and women are meant to seek the face of their God. Yet you have set up monuments to greed. You have made my father's house a house of trade. And you have rejected the outcasts.

The scribes had heard rumors of Jesus, but this was their first time meeting him. "What gives you the right to do these things? What sign shall you give us to prove your authority?" they retorted. The crowd was stirring. Jesus began walking towards them. A few of the disciples saw Jesus. They looked at the fire in his eyes. They remembered the words of David when he prophesied about the Messiah, saying, "Zeal for your house will consume me."

They watched Jesus march forward with a strength even greater than David's. He had a passion for the house of God and for all those who would seek him in it. Destroy this temple, Jesus began, and in three days I will raise it up. It will stand in greater glory than before. A chuckle could be heard from the crowd.

One of them scoffed at him and said, "It took forty-six years to rebuild that temple, and you think you could do so in three days?" Jesus shook his head and walked down the steps. Jesus' words confused them. However, Jesus was speaking of his own destruction and his own resurrection to come. His disciples did not understand these things at the time, but they would. Jesus dropped his whip and left the temple.

No one dared to go after him. The scribes and the Pharisees watched Jesus leave. Then a small applause followed. They looked out at the sea of people cheering for Jesus. They looked at one another, afraid of what this man from Nazareth might do to their power. Many of the scribes, Pharisees, and religious leaders scoffed at Jesus and wrote him off as a madman. There were many zealots and radicals during that time.

They pegged him as just another voice crying out in insanity. They were wrong. They were dangerously wrong. They had not even come close to what Jesus' purpose really was. His display of anger was quickly dismissed and spat at. However, not all the religious leaders were so flippant with Jesus. One of them in particular was curious.

Nicodemus had been teaching God's law for many years. He had spent his entire life poring over the scriptures and encouraging the masses that one day the Messiah would come. So when he saw Jesus, he could not help but wonder. It was late, and Jesus was staying in a home before departing for Galilee. The city streets were dark and silent, all except a single hooded figure lurking its way towards the house.

He held a small lantern and approached the door with the utmost of caution. Jesus heard a small knock at the door and opened it. Standing with his face slightly illuminated by the lantern was Nicodemus. "Come in," Jesus said with a smile. Jesus knew why Nicodemus had come so late. He was afraid to be seen with Jesus after the day's events at the temple. However, his curiosity peaked and he had questions that needed answering.

Jesus gestured for Nicodemus to have a seat and have a drink. A few of Jesus' disciples were sitting by the fire. To what do I owe this pleasure, Nicodemus? Jesus asked. Surely, a ruler of the Jews such as yourself is busy with many things. Nicodemus stared at his cup for a while. Where would he begin? For so long, Nicodemus had lived with this angst about the direction of the Pharisees. He knew that in many ways, the people had fallen further from God

He looked up to see Jesus staring at him attentively. "Rabbi," Nicodemus said, "there is no doubt in my mind that you are a brilliant teacher with a heart that is close to God. Truly, he must have sent you, for no one can do or say the things you do without being blessed." Jesus nodded in agreement. He looked at the fire for a moment to ponder what Nicodemus had just said. He was more than just a teacher, and Nicodemus would soon learn that.

Jesus saw in Nicodemus a man without answers yet forced to pretend he had them. "Unless one is born again, he will be unable to truly see the kingdom of God," Jesus said. Nicodemus was puzzled. He looked around at the disciples. They shrugged. They didn't know what Jesus was saying either. "I'm not following," Nicodemus admitted. "Are you saying that in order to inherit heaven,

One must re-enter his mother's womb and be born a second time? Nicodemus was beginning to fear Jesus actually was a madman. Jesus laughed. No, no. You see, we're all born in flesh, yes? We enter this world with our bodies from our mother's womb. Nicodemus nodded in agreement.

Jesus continued, saying, "But you must be born a second time, not of flesh and not through a womb, but of God's Spirit." Nicodemus was still having difficulty understanding. Nicodemus was a teacher himself and very respected among the religious elite. He was not used to being lost in the discussion regarding philosophy.

Jesus sensed his confusion and leaned forward. Do not be perplexed, Nicodemus. The wind blows and no one can see it, except when the leaves rustle. It is the same with being born by the Spirit. You cannot see the Spirit itself. However, when it compels a person, it becomes obvious. Nicodemus was beginning to understand, in part. However, more questions flooded his mind. How can one be born again in the Spirit? he asked.

You are a teacher of God's word, Nicodemus. Jesus replied, You should understand this. What I have begun has been foretold. The words I speak have been poured out, and the acts I perform have become evident. Yet you and the rest of the Pharisees still do not see."

You are blind! How could I possibly explain heavenly matters to you when your eyes are fixed on earthly things? Jesus' words struck a chord with Nicodemus. He knew that greed, power, and piety had tainted the good intentions of the religious leaders. He was guilty of the same thing. How could he truly see heaven if he was so focused on earthly matters such as influence and money?

Jesus discerned the shame welling up within Nicodemus. He could see his heart. He was not like the others. Nicodemus truly longed to see God move. Jesus stretched out his hands and warmed them by the fire. "Do you remember the bronze serpent that was raised up by Moses to heal the people of Israel in the wilderness?" Jesus asked. Nicodemus nodded. It was a well-known story. The people of Israel had been afflicted with venomous snakes.

So Moses erected a bronze serpent high in the air and all who looked upon it were healed. It is the same thing for the Messiah. He too must be lifted up so that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. Jesus said. Nicodemus' eyes widened. Jesus removed his gaze from the fire and looked at him. There was a moment of silence as Nicodemus processed what Jesus had just said.

Just as the serpent was a representation of what was killing Israel, so the Son of Man must be lifted up as a representation of what is killing humanity. Sin. Jesus could see cogs turning in Nicodemus' mind. It is because of love, Nicodemus. Jesus said,

For God so loved the world that he gave up his only son. And whoever looks upon him and believes will not perish. They will live and they will have life everlasting. Nicodemus' heart was beating out of his chest as he listened to Jesus speak. All was beginning to become clear. Jesus continued. God did not send the son to condemn the world. No, he sent him so that all might be saved.

The fire popped and embers flew up in the air next to the two men. It was joy in Jesus' voice. Although not everyone in the room understood him fully, his words were powerful. They sank deep like a seed planted in rich soil. Jesus leaned over and the flickering flame of the fireplace reflected in his eyes. The light of God has come to the world, Jesus said. Yet people love their darkness. They hide in it.

The sinful heart delights in the shadows. Evil hates the light because light exposes all that lurks in darkness. Yet there will be those that cling to the truth. Those are the people that dwell in the light. They will see their works blessed by God. Nicodemus smiled and nodded. He could not quite grasp all of what Jesus was saying. However, he had the feeling that he had not heard the last from Jesus.

Nicodemus would keep a close watch on him, looking for signs of God. Nicodemus stood to his feet and gestured goodbye to Jesus and the others in the room. He thanked them and left without his hood. He did not want to be another man dwelling in the shadows. Are you ready to have your bacon-loving mind blown?

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The Jews hated the Samaritans and held deep prejudices against them. Usually, any Jewish traveler walked around Samaria. Not Jesus. He decided to travel through it. About halfway through their journey, some of the disciples went into town to retrieve some food. Jesus remained on the road, seeing a small well just a few feet ahead. Jesus walked towards the well. A woman was there drawing water.

Jesus approached and sat on a small bench beside the well. The woman noticed him but paid no attention. Instead, she methodically brought up the bucket and poured the water into a basin. Jesus peered up at the sun. Its light was draining and he found himself parched. He looked at the woman. "Would you mind drawing me some water?" Jesus asked politely. The woman looked up at him. Her eyes were glazed over and impassive. She shook her head with apathy.

Now why would a Jewish man want a Samaritan woman to draw him water? She asked. I seem to recall your people hating my people. What do you call us again? Dirty dogs? She continued drawing water for herself, earthed at Jesus sitting across from her. Jesus leaned back slightly, unbothered by the woman's tone.

He smiled and squinted back up at the sun. "If you knew who was asking you for water, you wouldn't be so dismissive," Jesus said. "In fact, you'd be asking me for living water." The woman stopped, annoyed at Jesus' peppy tone. "It looks like you have been traveling, Jew. Where would you even get living water from? You have no bucket to draw water with, and there is not a river for miles." The woman's tone was harsh.

She was sweating from the sweltering heat and wanted to be done drawing water. Normally, the other women in the city would draw water in the morning before the day became too hot. However, she was not accepted by the other women. She was an outcast and shamed by them. So, to save herself the ridicule, she drew her water alone during the afternoon. Jesus stood up and walked closer to the well. He took the bucket and drew from the well.

He poured it into the woman's basin and smiled. You see this water? Jesus asked. If you drink this water, you'll be thirsty again. And then you'll need to come back and the cycle will repeat itself. Whoever drinks this water will inevitably need more. However, whoever drinks the water I give them, they'll never thirst again. The woman perked up with interest. If she could get her hands on some of that water.

she wouldn't have to come draw water in the middle of the day. "How can I get this water?" she asked impatiently. "Drawing water is difficult, and I would like to save myself the time." Jesus continued to draw water and pour it into the woman's basin. She was so intent on Jesus' words that she didn't notice him drawing water for her. "All right," Jesus said. "Go and call your husband, and I will tell you." The woman's lips pursed. She shrugged and looked down at the ground.

I don't really have a husband, she admitted. Jesus nodded in agreement. You're right to say you have no husband. You've had five husbands in your past, and the man you're sleeping with now isn't even your husband. The woman was taken aback. Her rough exterior was beginning to crack as Jesus revealed these things about her. However, she did her best to remain calloused.

Holding back tears, she put on a fake smile and changed the subject. "I perceive you are a prophet," she said, clearing the frog in her throat. "Then you probably know how sacred this well is. Our forefathers worshipped on this very mountain. However, you Jews say the temple is the correct place to worship now." The woman's voice was hoarse. Her eyes were watering. She thought religious small talk would deflect what Jesus had said.

Jesus sat beside the woman and gestured for her to sit as well. He could feel the anguish in her heart. His words had struck a deep chord. Her five divorces were a source of shame for her. They were the reason she was an outcast in her own city.

Jesus looked far off into the distance, knowing that eye contact would only make the woman more uncomfortable. Believe me, the time is coming when people won't even worship on a mountain or a temple. The true worshippers will worship in spirit and in truth, Jesus said. The woman was pleased that Jesus was playing along with her religious small talk. She nodded, saying,

Yes, it is a mystery. However, I am sure the Messiah will come and tell us all we need to know about worship. Jesus turned his gaze towards the woman. His smile was warmer than the sun itself. "Yes, he will," Jesus said. "I am he." The woman turned her head swiftly. Her eyes met Jesus's. The second the words came out of his mouth, she knew it to be true. That is why he had known about the depth of her shame.

That is why he was able to slowly crack the walls she put between her and others. As Jesus spoke to the woman, his disciples were returning with lunch. They could see Jesus speaking with the Samaritan woman and immediately judged him. However, they said nothing. They couldn't hear their conversation. However, they saw the woman leap to her feet at something Jesus said and run off back to the city.

The woman ran fast into the city, knocking on every door she could find. I have found him! She yelled. Come and see for yourself! People began to emerge from their homes to see the commotion. You must meet this man by the well. He told me everything about me. I believe he may be the Messiah. So many of the Samaritans dropped what they were doing and came to Jesus. They sat at his feet and listened as he spoke about the kingdom of heaven.

The woman was front and center, beaming from ear to ear at every word proceeding from Jesus' mouth. She was once an outcast, but in Jesus she found a sense of belonging and hope. Many heard and believed. Then, after two days, Jesus departed to Galilee. As Jesus and his followers came to Galilee, word had spread that he had been preaching new truths about the kingdom of God. Eventually, they reached a town called Capernaum.

Only moments had passed before Jesus heard the loud noise of a man yelling in the distance. "Jesus!" the voice yelled. "Jesus!" The group looked back and saw a portly man huffing his way up an incline. He was determined to reach them. Jesus stopped as the man fell at his feet. "Jesus, they said you had come to Capernaum." The man was out of breath and keeled over from running. "Please, you must heal my son."

He's dying. There were many who had approached Jesus already, asking for signs and wonders to prove himself. Jesus was not interested in being their magician or proving his deity to all who asked. Unless you see signs and wonders, you will not have faith, Jesus said, beginning to walk away. The man was red and could barely stand, but he was able to raise himself and run after Jesus. No, my Lord, please. Please.

The man fell on his face, whimpering from the pain. "My son! Please heal my son! Please come before I lose him!" He begged. This was the heart Jesus desired. This man genuinely desired for Jesus to use his power to heal, not to put on a show or prove a point. Jesus knelt down and helped the man to his feet. He brushed the dust off his cloak and smiled. "Go, your son is healed," Jesus said.

The man nodded and left. That very hour, the man's son was healed. This was the second miracle performed by Jesus. This time, it was in response to a father's heart for his son. This was a love Jesus knew well. Eventually, Jesus made his way to Nazareth alone. It had been a while since he stepped foot in his home. Jesus walked down the bumpy road, greeting people as he passed. He passed the well where his mother would often take him as a

A few children came up to Jesus and climbed up onto his shoulders. Jesus was beloved in his town. He and his family were craftsmen and were very much loved by everyone. He visited his mother and siblings, enjoying the quaint and quiet atmosphere. Jesus gazed out at the town where he grew up. It was dusty and dull, but brimming with potential. The next day, Jesus went to the synagogue.

It was Sabbath, and it was custom for one of the rabbis to stand up and read from the word of God. Jesus stood up among the people he knew and loved and opened the scroll of Isaiah. The crowd smiled, pleased to see the son of Joseph back in their midst. Jesus straightened the scroll and spoke clearly, saying, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me. He has called me to proclaim good news to those who are poor.

He has sent me out so I may bring liberty to the captives, give the blind their sight, and set free all who are oppressed. It is I who proclaim the year of the Lord's favor. Jesus rolled up the scroll and stood before the congregation. He had just read a well-known prophecy about the mission of the Messiah. Jesus drew a deep breath and opened up his arms. Today, my friends, this scripture has been fulfilled.

The crowd stirred a little. They looked at one another, perplexed. Did he just call himself the Messiah? One of them asked. Isn't this Joseph's son? A few of them rose to their feet. Prove these claims to us! They shouted. The crowd continued to bicker and laugh at Jesus for saying such nonsense. They had all known him since he was a boy. To them, he was just the carpenter's son and nothing else. Jesus sighed.

I know many of you were looking for signs and wonders like the ones I performed in Capernaum. However, no prophet is accepted in his hometown. Jesus shook his head. Although I suppose it comes as no surprise. In the days of Elijah, many people had rejected his works and many Gentiles accepted them. As Jesus said these things, the entire synagogue unleashed in an uproar. Their objections grew violent and they drove Jesus out of the building.

Foaming with rage, the people cornered Jesus to the brow of a hill. Jesus took a step back to see he had no more room. The hill dropped off into a gorge below. They spat and clawed at Jesus, proclaiming deity over them. Jesus was backed against the bluff. He looked at the steep drop right behind him. They were going to throw him off. Their anger was from a deep well of insecurity. They could not stand the thought of Jesus being elevated above them.

The mob lunged at him in a fury. Jesus had very little time to think. He jumped to the side, avoiding their initial attack. Jesus weaved through the crowd before any could grab him. He left Nazareth without a goodbye. He was now an outcast in his own town and rejected by his own people. Days had passed and Jesus was back in Jerusalem for the Feast of the Jews. By the sheep gate there was a pool called Bethesda.

The pool was surrounded by five roof colonnades that protected the water below. Jesus drew closer to see hundreds of invalids, blind, lame, and paralyzed, surrounding the pools. Many loved ones were slowly leading them beside the water. It was believed back then that an angel would stir up the water once a year to heal the sick, lame, blind, and afflicted.

It was a silly tradition, but Jesus admired the faith of those who brought their loved ones down to the pool. Jesus walked beside the pillars, observing those who had been afflicted with disease, blindness, and other disabilities. His compassion was stirred for them. As he was walking, he stumbled upon a man sitting on the floor with his back leaned up against a pillar. The man's brow was furrowed, and his lips were clenched as he glared at people by the pool.

Jesus could see that this man was an invalid and had been for quite some time. The man lay there, steaming in anger towards the crowd of people. Jesus sat beside the man and turned to him. Do you want to be healed? Jesus asked. The man's body was ravaged with sickness. His eyes were weary, and he looked at Jesus with complete disdain. There is no one to drop me in the pool, the man said. He looked away from Jesus, longing after the pool.

Jesus could sense that there was a deep desire to be healed, but also a desire for someone to care enough to bring him to the pool. He was an outcast even among the crippled. "Anytime I've tried to go down to the pool, another cuts in front of me. Why do I even bother?" the man said, his eyes watered from pain and anguish. Jesus stood to his feet. He had asked the man if he wanted to be healed. Although the man did not answer the question,

Jesus knew the answer. "Well, get up then, gather your things, take your bed and walk." The man darted his eyes up, ready to yell, but then he felt a jolt in his abdomen and legs. A warm sensation rose from his toes to the top of his head. The man's eyes widened in radiant glee. He could not believe what was happening. The man placed his hands and knees on the floor and slowly stood to his feet. Tears streamed down his face.

He lucked up to thank Jesus, but he was gone. The man took his bed and ran to the temple. His smile was infectious as he danced in the temple courtyard like a child. The religious leaders saw that he was carrying his bed and took notice. You cannot carry something that large on the Sabbath! They yelled.

The man was too delighted by his freedom to consider such things. A few moments ago I was unable to walk. A man came and healed me, and he told me to pick up my bed and go. So here I am, with my bed in my arms, unashamed. The man ran out of the temple courtyard, skipping and humming with new life.

As the man left the gates, a figure caught his eye. It was him, the man who healed him. The man walked towards Jesus, overjoyed to see him again. Jesus smiled and gave him a fatherly hug. "Yes, you are well. Now go and sin no more." The man went away and eventually told the religious leaders that it was Jesus who healed him. They scoffed that Jesus would do such a thing on the Sabbath.

Over the years, the religious leaders had created a litany of unnecessary laws around the Sabbath. A man could not drag a chair across the dirt because it would be considered plowing. So many rules, so much rigidity. The lack of joy was choking the people of Israel and Jesus was determined to return them to the heart of God. Jesus stood before the religious leaders and said plainly, My Father is working good things in His people.

This was the heart of Jesus. He would extend his reach to the outcasts. He would bring people back to a pure and simple devotion to God. Not only this, but he would do just as Isaiah prophesied. He would proclaim good news to the poor. He would bring liberty to the captives.

He would restore sight to the blind, and for all who felt oppressed, rejected, or unloved, he would pour forth his liberating spirit. It was now time for the Lord to do a new work for his people.

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God's heart is for the outcast. This was exemplified in the very beginning with our prelude. He chose a forgotten son of a herdsman to become king. King David's life and rise is a reminder to us that God cares less about regality and religiosity and more about drawing close to the heart of his people. Jesus reflected the heart of God in this episode, especially when he confronts the money changers in the temple.

Jesus noticed that the religious leaders had created a system to exploit the outsiders and the poor. Unless you were wealthy, established, and local, it was very hard to make a sacrifice at the temple. Barriers were created between people and God, and Jesus had come to build bridges. It is rare when we get to see Jesus angry, so when it happens, we must pay attention. The exploitation of the poor and powerless drove Jesus to rage.

He flipped tables, coiled a whip, and released the animals into the streets. The scriptures concerning worship and sacrifice were very clear. Everyone should be able to come before God to repent. Jesus' mission was to make God accessible to people of every culture, color, creed, and class.

Jesus violently flipping tables in the temple is a picture. Just as Jesus destroyed these physical barriers between people and God, he would also destroy the spiritual barriers between people and God. The cross of Christ was a proverbial flipping of tables, breaking down the religious systems that kept people from a connection with God. Jesus became a friend of the outcasts, but an enemy of the establishment. The religious leaders questioned Jesus' authority, unable to understand what he was saying.

Jesus often confused the self-righteous. Those who thought they were morally superior struggled to understand the concept of grace. Jesus will have an ongoing ideological battle with the religious leaders. The tension between them represents the tension between the old and new covenants and the battle we all have between our own righteousness and the righteousness given by God. Not all religious leaders hated Jesus, though. One in particular found his words and actions compelling.

Nicodemus met with Jesus under the cover of midnight, seeking answers to his questions. Jesus was happy to oblige. The conversation with Nicodemus gave us the famous John 3.16. For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever should believe in him will have everlasting life.

Slowly but surely, Jesus is revealing to others, and us, who he is. Nicodemus is astounded but unable to make a true commitment to Jesus. We see an important trait of Jesus in this episode. He is always willing to engage with the needy and the outcast. This story highlighted three times when Jesus was met by or went to meet someone on the fringe. The first was the woman at the well.

The Samaritan woman was rejected by her own people due to her several affairs. On top of that, it was taboo for Jews to have any interaction with Samaritans, let alone a Samaritan woman. Jesus' willingness to engage with this woman tells us at least three things.

One, he cares very little about societal norms, especially if they are founded on prejudice. Two, he is willing to risk his reputation in order to connect with people that need him. Three, he desires to cross cultural boundaries to make connections. Another thing worth mentioning about this interaction is the water in the well.

Not only does Jesus use it as a conversation starter to talk about living water in reference to the Holy Spirit, but the act of drawing water is in and of itself a picture. This woman had deep hurt within her, like water in a well. Jesus patiently and methodically, without her noticing, draws water out of the well. In the same way, he is drawing out her pain and past to refresh and renew her soul.

The next interaction Jesus had with someone in need was the man whose son needed healing. Jesus showed him and his son mercy because he too has a father's heart. Let me pause for a moment and remind you that God loves you like a devoted father. Some of you had wonderful fathers and you understand in some way the love of Christ. However, some of you might have grown up without the love of your father.

Be encouraged that God loves you with an undying and devoted fatherly love. He went to great lengths to tell you how much he loves you. Jesus made sure this man wasn't asking for a sign from him out of pettiness. The fatherly heart of this man was drawn out, just like the broken heart of the woman at the well. Jesus rewarded him, and his son was healed. The final interaction Jesus had with someone on the fringe was the invalid. He said by the pools, bitter at the world that he couldn't be healed.

This man wasn't just on the fringe because he was an invalid, but he wasn't even accepted among the crippled community. Jesus asked him a simple question, do you want to be healed? The answer to that question seems obvious, doesn't it? Of course this man wants to be healed. But instead of giving a yes or no, the man explains how nobody cared enough to lower him into the pool.

To him, the main reason he wasn't healed was because nobody paid attention to him or showed him any mercy. Jesus was happy to extend that mercy. The man walked, cheered, and ran around proclaiming what had happened to him. I want to point out an absurdity in this episode that can't go unnoticed. The Pharisees, when seeing this man walking with his bed, reprimanded him for breaking the Sabbath traditions.

Regulations like these were not explicitly stated in the Law of Moses. Rather, they were rules created by the religious leaders on top of the law. In their attempt to be righteous, they put undue burdens on people and kept them from closeness with God. Conflicts around the Sabbath are going to be a common occurrence between Jesus and the Pharisees.

Look for them as the series continues and ask yourself why Jesus is so passionate about pushing the boundaries around Sabbath tradition. Also, ask yourself why these men were so passionate about the Sabbath.

In future episodes, we will explore the conflicting philosophies of Jesus and the Pharisees and scribes. For now, I want to leave you with a thought to ponder. If Jesus is supposed to be a greater king than David, what do you think about his kingdom so far? On the surface, it doesn't seem very grand or powerful. If Jesus is establishing a kingdom on earth, then what is that kingdom supposed to look like?

Given Jesus' actions thus far, how are we supposed to participate in building the kingdom of God where we are, in our homes, churches, workplaces, schools, and communities? Ponder these things and pray that his kingdom would come and his will would be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

Thank you for joining me for today's episode. In our next episode, Jesus' popularity grows, and with it his need for helpers. He chooses some men to walk alongside him, learn, and perform miracles. What warriors, philosophers, or noblemen do you think Jesus will choose? Find out in Episode 6, The Twelve.

Thanks again for listening. For more inspiring stories, daily prayers, and wisdom to last a lifetime, go to Pray.com. And to expand your Heroes in the Bible journey, download the Heroes of the Faith devotional at TonyEvans.org forward slash heroes.

Please write a review and let me know how Jesus and this podcast has impacted your life. God bless. When the time comes to plan your next big getaway, know we got a destination idea for you. Orlando. Just think about it. The thrills at their 15 world-class theme parks, followed by awesome outdoor adventures, amazing food festivals, and top-notch dining spots. Orlando has all that and much more than you'd expect.

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Tackle these situations in stride and of course be annoyed when an unplanned expense comes up, but not let it be something that slows me down. Right. As I did with repairing my credit, you know, hiring somebody to do credit repair for me. That was a gift that I gave myself that allowed me to then, you know, get my first apartment. Right.

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