Faith & Reason Nexus

John 2:1-11

This passage from John, where Jesus turns water into wine at the wedding in Cana, illustrates the concept that God’s best is often saved for the end. It contrasts with the ways of the world, where the best is often given first.

The Devil Always Gives the Best First

The devil’s way of tempting people is often with immediate pleasures that ultimately lead to ruin. These pleasures may seem like the best, but they result in spiritual emptiness.

1. Sin of Drink
   Proverbs 23:31-32
   The danger of alcohol is highlighted, showing that while it may seem appealing at first, it leads to destruction and regret.
2. Sin and Riotous Living
   Luke 15:14
   The prodigal son wasted his inheritance on riotous living, seeking immediate pleasure, but found himself in poverty and despair. His indulgence led to a fall from grace.
3. Sin of Lust
   Proverbs 5:3-5
   The allure of lust is dangerous, as it may seem attractive initially but leads to destruction and bitterness.

Man Always Gives the Best First

Human actions and choices often reflect the desire for immediate gratification, which can have negative consequences.

1. Cain
   Genesis 4
   Cain offered the best of his crops, but his heart was not right with God, which led to the rejection of his offering and jealousy towards his brother Abel.
2. Judas
   Mark 14
   Judas, who followed Jesus and received many blessings, chose betrayal for thirty pieces of silver, forsaking the true treasure that was in Christ.
3. The Man at the Wedding Feast
   John 2
   The host at the wedding feast had provided wine, but Jesus, by turning water into wine, demonstrated that God’s best comes after what man offers. Jesus provided wine that was far superior, just like God’s ultimate blessings.

God Keeps the Best Until Last

God’s way is to reserve His best for the end, showing that the ultimate rewards for those who follow Him are far greater than what the world can offer.

1. In Creation, the Best Came Last
   Genesis 1:26-27
   After creating the world, God created mankind in His image, the crowning achievement of His creation. This shows that God’s plan always builds to a magnificent conclusion.
2. In the Life of Christ, the Best Came Last
   Jesus’ life culminated in His death and resurrection, which were the ultimate manifestation of God’s love, grace, and power. The crucifixion, though painful, brought the greatest glory to God and salvation to mankind.
3. In the Life of the Christian, the Best is Yet to Come
   1 Corinthians 2:9
   The ultimate reward for Christians is still ahead—an eternity with God, beyond anything we can comprehend. The best, the fullness of God’s presence, is still to come.

Will You Give Your Best to the Lord… Now?

This challenge calls us to offer our best to God in the present. Just as God gives His best last, we are called to serve Him wholeheartedly, putting our trust in His future promises while faithfully honoring Him now.