“I chose you.” John 15:16-17
Have you ever had to apply for something in your life, like a job, a contest, etc., and you got chosen out of how many people?
How did you respond to the news that the organization chose you for the position? Picked? Were you excited, scared, appreciative? Let’s do a little word study on the word chosen. According to the Greek language, the word chose comes from exelezamen. It means “to pick out for myself, to select.” Now let’s put it into context. Jesus picked us out for Himself. He selected us to be His abiding branches which bear the fruit of that attachment.
Read Matthew 12:46-50. What stands out to you from this passage? What can we learn from this incident about being included in God’s family through a relationship with Jesus? Now read John 15:19. What are some of the uncomfortable bits that come with being chosen by Jesus? Are there ways that believers experience that discomfort today? What helps if that happens?
Read Acts 1:21-24, 22:3-16. What can we learn from this situation about seeking God when we decide that it affects others? What role might a follower believer play in helping someone know God chose him or her? What do you think it meant to Paul when Ananias did this for him? What cautions might apply to this kind of situation?
Look at the following passages about being chosen. Acts 10:38-43, 1 Corinthians 1:24-29, Ephesians 1:3-7, 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14, and James 2:5. Have you ever stopped to think about what it means to be chosen by Jesus? What thoughts, longings, or fears stir in your heart?
Many layers are implied by Jesus’s word of “I chose you!” It also says, I know you, I hear you, I see you, I want you, I forgive you, I protect you, I’m for you, I’m with you, I love you.
Take a moment and soak all of Jesus’ words. Soak in how much he does love you and chooses you.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for your love. Thank you for choosing us. Thank you for walking this life with us.
In Jesus Name
Amen
