The Power of a Gaze
Blue Church
John 3:14–15; Numbers 21:4–9
Scripture References:
John 3:14–15 | Numbers 21:4–9 | Romans 12:14 | Matthew 5:44 | Luke 6:38 | Romans 5:3–5 | John 12:32
Background
- Israel, after 40 years in the wilderness, faces disappointment and discouragement as the Edomites force them to take the long way around.
- The people complain, rebel, and are bitten by poisonous snakes—a consequence of their rebellion.
- God’s solution is strange: look at a bronze serpent lifted up on a pole and live.
- Jesus references this story with Nicodemus, pointing to Himself as the ultimate “lifted up” One.
Main Points
1. Life’s “Snakes” and God’s Strange Solution
- Life is full of “snakes”—dangers, disappointments, and consequences of sin.
- We often want God to remove the snakes, but sometimes He calls us to look up in faith instead.
- God’s command: Look at the bronze serpent and live.
- No ritual, no potion—just obedience and trust.
Reflection:
- What “snakes” are you facing right now?
- Are you looking for a quick fix, or are you willing to trust God’s strange solution?
2. Gaze = Believe
- Jesus connects the bronze serpent to Himself: “Just as Moses lifted up the snake… so the Son of Man must be lifted up.”
- Looking up is about belief—faith that leads to obedience.
- The power is not in the symbol, but in the One who saves.
Reflection:
- What does it mean for you to “gaze on Jesus” this week?
- Where do you need to move from just knowing to truly believing and obeying?
3. Obedience Unlocks the Blessing
- Believing God’s commands demands obedience. The blessing comes with obedience, not just belief.
- Many Israelites died because they refused to look—excuses and pride kept them from God’s healing.
- We make similar excuses today: “God knows my heart,” “I’m spiritual, not religious,” “If God really wanted me to, He’d give me a sign.”
Reflection:
- What excuses keep you from obeying God’s clear commands?
- What step of obedience is God calling you to take?
4. God’s “Strange” Commands for Us
- Bless those who persecute you (Romans 12:14)
- Love your enemies and pray for them (Matthew 5:44)
- Give, and it will be given to you (Luke 6:38)
- Rejoice in suffering (Romans 5:3–5)
- These commands seem strange, but God brings healing, peace, and hope through them.
Reflection:
- Which of these “strange” commands is hardest for you to obey?
- How might God want to bless you through obedience?
Gospel Connection
- The cross—an instrument of death and shame—becomes the place of hope, forgiveness, and new life.
- Jesus was lifted up so that all who believe in Him may have eternal life.
- Gaze on Jesus, not just for a moment, but with the “maximum concentration” of your heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Discussion & Application
- What “snakes” or struggles are you facing that you wish God would just remove?
- Where is God calling you to gaze on Jesus instead of looking for your own solution?
- What is one “strange” command of Jesus you will obey this week?
Prayer
Lord, help us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Give us courage to obey, even when Your ways seem strange. May our gaze be fixed on You, and may we find healing, hope, and life in Your presence. Amen.
For further study: