Extolling God

Ray was caught by the word “Extol.”

Acts 10:46 says, “they heard them speaking in tongues and extolling God.”

The Psalmist says, “O sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things!”

John calls us “friends” of Jesus, a term he uses when talking about the best man at the wedding feast. He extols his friend in his toasts and duties.

1 John tells us the Spirit testifies with us. It is as the people in the house of Cornelius were filled with the spirit that they extolled God.

The word “extol” is the same term Mary uses in the magnificat, “Magnify the Lord.”

How do you magnify one who is bigger than creation? It must be in our experience. It is by loving, obeying him.

In this farewell discourse we see the church as the beloved community. The disciples are his dear friends. If we would be his friends we should obey his commands.

Cliff was caught by that “if.” Does it mean that Jesus’ friendship with us is conditional? Or does it mean that it is the friends joy to obey. A friend wouldn’t dream of ignoring his dear friend’s dying wish. His servant only does what his duty requires, his friend does all he can from the love of Him.