1. The statement of Mary in John 2:5 has to do with the occasion when Jesus turned water into wine. 2. According to vs.11, this was the Lord's first miracle. a. By performing this miracle, Jesus "manifested forth his glory." b. As a result of seeing this miracle, the Lord's "disciples believed on him." 3. John recorded this miracle and several others to lead us to believe that Jesus is God's Son (John 20:30-31). 4. In our lesson we are concentrating on the statement that Mary made to the servants at the marriage feast in vs.5--"Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it." 5. We are examining an occasion in each of the Gospels when Jesus told various people what to do. 6. Some practical lessons can be learned from the responses that were made.
Discussion:
I. (Matthew 4:18-22) JESUS TOLD 4 FISHERMEN WHAT TO DO
A. (vs.18-20) Jesus first called Peter and Andrew, and they followed Him. B. (vs.21-22) Jesus also called James and John, and they followed Him. C. These 4 men were eventually chosen to serve as apostles, and the Lord made them "fishers of men." D. It all began with these men following Jesus as He instructed them. E. As a practical consideration, these men made sacrifices to follow Jesus; however, He assured them that they would be blessed in return (19:29). F. Peter, Andrew, James, and John followed Mary's advice.
II. (Mark 10:17-22) JESUS TOLD THE RICH YOUNG RULER WHAT TO DO
A. This man had many things going for him, and Jesus could have used what he had to offer. B. Unfortunately, he had a problem, and Jesus knew about it. C. (vs.21) Jesus told him what to do. D. (vs.22) He left with a heart filled with sadness and grief. E. To avoid this man's mistake, we must give careful attention to the Lord's instructions in Mark 8:34-38. F. The rich young ruler did not follow Mary's advice.
III. (Luke 9:1-2) WHEN HE GAVE THE LIMITED COMMISSION, JESUS TOLD THE APOSTLES WHAT TO DO
A. (vs.6) The apostles followed the Lord's instructions. B. (vs.10a) They enjoyed great success. C. By way of application, the Lord will bless our efforts when we follow His instructions (James 1:25). D. The apostles followed Mary's advice.
IV. (John 9:6-7a) JESUS TOLD A MAN BORN BLIND WHAT TO DO
A. (vs.7b) He did what Jesus told him to do, and he was able to see. B. This poor man had to endure a lot of grief from the Pharisees (vs.28-34). C. Jesus came to his rescue (vs.35-38). D. When a person is serious about doing the Lord's will he can expect some criticism, but the Lord will always be present to help (Hebrews 13:5b-6). E. The man born blind was blessed when he followed Mary's advice.
Conclusion:
1. Mary certainly gave some wise advice when she instructed the servants to do whatever Jesus told them. 2. Let us notice 2 statements that Jesus made (John 14:15; 15:14). 3. To be saved, Jesus gave His requirements in: a. John 8:24 b. Luke 13:3 c. Matthew 10:32-33 d. Mark 16:16. 4. Do you love the Lord? (Loving Him will lead us to keep His commandments) 5. Are you the Lord's friend? (His friends do what He says)