New Realities 2

" The real scandal is that by crucifying Jesus and that for the most corrupt of motives- they serve God's providential purposes in slaughtering the God-man whose death accomplishes God's redemptive purposes," Scandalous, D.A. Carson.

This quote is talking about how Caiaphas prophesied about Jesus, "that one man die for the people, and that the whole nation not perish, "John 11:50. These men are doing what they truly thought was the right thing to do for their nation. They thought that by crucifying Jesus, their nation would be better off and their places in politics would be solidified.

When I read this part in the book, I was utterly amazed at how the Lord uses corrupt, horrible leaders to accomplish his will on this earth. It gives me hope in so many facets of life, but most recently in our youth group. Sometimes I am SO SO SO discouraged about the lack of ability from the main leaders of the youth, but I have hope that the Lord is using them to further His kingdom and His plans in the lives of the children. It is hard though to sit back and see just how awful some of the situations are, the lack of theological understanding, the lack of discipline, the lack of organization...just in general a lack of true leadership.

"We preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength," 1 Cor. 1:23-25.

Boy am I glad of this not just concerning our youth group, but also in my own personal life! God uses my best and worst efforts, redeems them, and uses them to further His kingdom. We serve His providential purposes... amazing. I am thankful that He is above all and in all. His grace is amazing.