The Gospel of John Lesson 89 (12-07-14) John 19:37-20:1

The Gospel of John Lesson 89 (12-07-14)

Lesson 89 – John 19:37-20:1

The Easter events are an essential part of the Christmas message so our lesson today can be dubbed as a Christmas message to us concerning Christ because of the season that is upon us.

Okay. For most, from their perspective Jesus is now dead and gone. This was true even for many of His followers…or may I say most of His followers! The drama and the tactile virtual reality of what had just happened were now in the past. For most, from their perspective, came a new reality…life without Jesus.

Although what had just happened was more than virtual reality, being a reach out and touch experience, truly a real reality, now all that they had were just vivid memories. The birds singing was now their new reality and everyone began to drift back into what they had in the past perceived as ‘plain old life again’, or, what would be dubbed as ‘normal’ life drifting back into the grind and tyranny of life under Rome and the Jewish religious leadership.

Jesus had now been laid in the tomb and all that remained was a few loose ends to tie up, like the posting of the centuries and dealing with what could have been perceived as the spreading of miss information, possibly creating the ‘Elvis’ phenomena, I. e. having reports of seeing Jesus after His death when His body, at least for now, actually still laid in the grave.

However, in John chapter 20 and verse one, time was up. It is interesting that there was no one there at the tomb that morning waiting to see what would happen. The only ones there from the earthly realm were the guards that had been posted there to make the tomb sure, being sure that there was no foul play or deception concerning what would happen following these events. But, they, the guards, were posted there. They were forced to be there. They were not there because of their own beliefs or even their own curiosity. However, they were there.

It is funny how things work out. The guards were posted there supposedly to be sure that there was no foul play or deception and as it turns out the posting of the guards made sure that the event of Jesus’ resurrection from the dead really did happen.

However, there were others present at the tomb awaiting the upcoming events that day. Just as it was at His birth, in His coming to earth, so it was at His resurrection and return from the dead. All of heaven was watching there at His birth or His coming, Luke 1:8-14. So too, all of heaven was there watching at His resurrection. They were watching the tomb, awaiting the biggest event in not only all of history, but in reality all of eternity.

Miracles surrounded Jesus where ever He went. Consider the miracles when you are considering what to believe about Christ. It is true that just Jesus’ presence and works are more than enough to believe. But, it’s the miracles that surround His coming, His life and death and resurrection, that make the evidence concerning Him overwhelming.

God left us no doubt as to who He was! In all of history, and all of the events of history, no one is highlighted by history like Jesus. It’s the miracles surrounding Him that were given and performed by the Father and Holy Spirit that hold Him out to all of mankind saying ‘Here! Look! This is the One!’.

In reality there was no need to post the guards. Jesus had already proven Himself to be the One. It should have been evident what was about to happen! The Tomb should have been mobbed that day by those anticipating what was indeed about to happen. Only the Pharisee’s took Him serious. Not that they believed that He would rise from the dead, but they believed His words that something would indeed happen and that they had better make sure that there was no foul play or deception on the horizon.

You remember one of His encounters with the Pharisee’s when they questioned Him concerning the validity of His claim to be the Messiah. His reply to them was to consider the facts concerning the One that was to come, asking them which prophesy had He not fulfilled.

In John chapter 10 He used the analogy of the door, Him being the One and only one by which one could know God. His claim was that there was no one else. Only He satisfied the ridged and stringent requirements which included all of the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Promised One that was to come. Although they chose not to believe Him, they could not offer a valid reason disproving His claims.

Now we come to resurrection morning. Had everyone who had seen and experienced Jesus and the miracles surrounding Him so soon forgotten what they had seen? There was no one at the tomb waiting to see one way or another if what He claimed would come to pass, friend…or foe. Only the guards were there. They were there only because they were hired to keep a watch.

But…what about the Star of Bethlehem? What about the angles singing and making prophetic statements to real people who heard their proclamation. Where were they? What about John the Baptist’s witness concerning Him? Where were those who heard John’s proclamation concerning Jesus being the Messiah? Had they forgotten about the voice of God that was uttered from heaven that had confirmed that He was who He said He was?  

Death has a way of doing that. It has a sense of finality inherent in its meaning. While one is alive, especially one that has a reputation of doing great things, we think that anything is conceivably possible. Great things can be done by them, even things that are beyond our expectation or our belief. While alive really anything is possible. But, then there is death. Death has finality associated with it. All of the things that could have been conceivably possible are now not considered possible by any means imaginable following death.

So we come to resurrection morning. No one but the guards were present. Think about it! What special things would happen on this day in spite of all of the unbelief of those present! After waiting for days, that seemed like an eternity, the moment of truth was finally here. Now it was do or die…no pun intended. Make or break. Put up or shut up. No one was prepared for what would happen. The moment of truth was expected to pass like all others…uneventful. All others before Him could not make good on promises made after death had happened to them.  The events of this day would catch those there totally by surprise. No one was there expecting anything out of the ordinary to happen. Maybe it was the unexpected of the day that made that day so special.

The Gospel of John Lesson 88 (11-16-14) John 19:28-39

The Gospel of John Lesson 88 (11-16-14)

Lesson 88 – John 19:28-39

It goes on to tell us in v. 38 of John chapter 19 that after Jesus had been definitely proven to be dead that a rich man from the town of Arimathea went to Pilate and besought him wanting to take down the body of Jesus to bury Him. This was a bold move for Joseph, Mk. 15:42-3, for in the past he had remained anonymous concerning his faith even though he believed in Christ. It tells us in Mk. 15:44-5 and in v. 38 of John chapter 19 that Pilate did indeed give him permission to take Jesus’ body down, after verifying that Jesus was indeed dead from the centurion’s report. And, Joseph proceeded to go and do so.

However, we get another surprise in the next verse, v. 39. Following Jesus’ death we find all kinds of people making bold decisions. Not only do we see Joseph of Arimathea coming out of secrecy about his faith, but we also see Nicodemus reappear in the scriptures making a bold move to publically identify with Jesus bringing with him a mixture of herbs and spices for the purpose of the ceremonial preparing Jesus’ body for burial.

This indeed was a bold move for Nicodemus. You remember him from chapter 3 of this gospel. He came to Jesus at night in secret to ask Jesus some questions that were puzzling him. However, he being a religious leader and due to peer pressure was not allowed to acknowledge Jesus for anything good especially when it came to spiritual questions. So he had previously come at night in private to ask Jesus some spiritual questions that were troubling him concerning things that Jesus had said and taught.

However, that was then and this is now! At this point we do not know Nicodemus’ spiritual condition. But, we see him take a bold step publically to identify with the Savior, knowing in doing so that it will in all likelihood cost him at least his standing with the Jewish religious elite.

However, seeing Jesus die on the Cross moved him to a more sure and public stance. If he wasn’t a believer at this time, he was close. At least his identification with the Savior was now public. It must be stated that this decision was not just impulsive or spur of the moment being just an emotional response. In all likelihood it was premeditated for he had brought a large mixture of herbs with him for the purpose of anointing and preparing the body for burial.

In v. 40 they take Jesus’ body down off of the Cross and prepare it for burial according to the Jews tradition. This is significant for Jesus even though treated as a sinner came as a Jew, through the Jewish nation, and had committed no sin. He was entitled to a decent and appropriate burial. His followers knew the truth about Him. He deserved and was worthy to be fully associated with His nation Israel.

However, Isa. 53:9 it tells us that He made His grave with the sinners or wicked. It tells us in Mt. 27:57-60 that Joseph laid Him in a tomb that was actually his own located in the garden nearby where Jesus was crucified. They hastened to prepare His body because the Jews observance of Passover was at hand.

Everything was lining up. It was no coincidence that it was now Passover. The Passover Lamb had now been sacrificed. It was not enough that Jesus had died on the Cross. If Jesus was indeed the Savior of not only Israel, but also of the world, He would not only have to appear, do all of the Father’s will and work and fulfill all and every prophesy, but would also have to be sacrificed at the right and appropriated time. In John chapter 10 Jesus Himself told those present that the One that was to come would have to enter into the Door exactly right. He told them that they should examine His arrival to see if He was not indeed the One. Jesus knew that He was the One, but they had not honestly and objectively examined His claims.

Jesus had fulfilled every detail. He had now been sacrificed and laid in the tomb. For most, no… for every other great man claiming to be something special or the savior of our world, that would be it. That would be the end of the story for all others. But, not for Jesus. His death was not the end. The best was yet to come.

However, everyone else had either accepted the supposed facts of His end in His death or they had begun the process to do so. As far as anyone present was concerned, including His followers and Disciples, Jesus had died. From here, they could think about and apply the great lessons and principles that He had espoused, but from here on no new material. At this point Jesus was no different than any other supposedly great man. To them and everyone else Jesus was dead and although respected and revered by many, He had been placed in a grave, and there, from their perspective, He would remain.

I am sure that even Mary and Martha who had witnessed their brother Lazerus coming back from the dead saw this as the end. Jesus had brought Lazarus back from the dead, but who would bring Jesus back? The common comment of the day was, “He saved others, Himself He cannot save.” Mt. 27:42

But, we know that there is more to the story than that. This was an exciting ride. A lot had happened while Jesus was alive. But, now it appeared that the excitement was over and over the next few days they would find that it was time for everyone to go on with life and go home. Many did just that. It appears that no serious and sincerely faithful thought was given to Jesus’ words concerning His rising again.

Several days would pass before Jesus would fulfill His promise concerning His resurrection. However, to all present as the hours passed following His death to them the possibility of resurrection was not a viable choice. Again, who would help Jesus to rise from the dead? For one to raise them self from the dead by their own power would be unique…Unheard of. If death had overcome a person then it showed that that person had limitations to their greatness, even if proclaimed a deity. They did not realize that unlike other religions or beliefs where their deity needed help from some other outside sources to be resurrected Jesus being truly God did not.

So they waited, letting the days pass, not expecting anything supernatural to really happen, waiting to be sure that it was indeed really over. They remembered remotely something about His statement about rising from the dead, but if they truly had believed we would have seen them sitting on the doorstep of in the tomb, or at least looking over their shoulder at the door of it. But, we do not see that happening.

 To be sure, the Pharisees had remembered His statement even though they did not believe it, Matt. 27:62-6. They had gone to Pilate to get permission to secure the tomb so that Jesus’ disciples in their mind would not pull a fast one on them making it appear that Jesus had risen when He had not. They, the Pharisees, proceed to take steps to secure the tomb.

The Gospel of John Lesson 87 (11-09-14) John 19:28-37

The Gospel of John Lesson 87 (11-09-14)

Lesson 87 – John 19:28-37

So, Jesus gives His final and most important words of instruction to the newly beginning Church, vs. 26 and 27 in John chapter 19, and it says in v. 28 that after doing so now all things were accomplished or done. At this point He had suffered for man’s sin and payment was complete. He had accomplished or performed every detail of God’s will and the duty assigned to Him was done perfectly being fully obedient in all. All that was left at this point was to take His last drink of the bitterness of this life, vs. 28-9, and to willingly give up His spirit to the final blow that this world had to offer which was death.

The world gave Jesus nothing but abuse, pain and difficulty right up to the end. Vs. 28 and 29 is a prophetic fulfillment of Ps. 69:21 which describe how the world treated the Son of God when He had a legitimate request or need as He walked in this world.

Right to the end, when He had a legitimate request or need this world responded with abuse, injury and/or bitter antagonism. For His suffering and dying willingly, those of this world responded not with thanks, but with a jab, a poke, a slap, spit, a whip, a spear, nails, vinegar and in the end the final blow, the worst this world could offer, death. Yet, Jesus willingly received and even embraced the mal-intent that this world threw at Him, knowing that it was part of His sufferings for us and in reality part of our redemption. He got nothing, but He gave it all!

So, in v. 30 Jesus willingly received the final abusive blow that this world had to offer while He was alive, in the end dying for us completing our redemption. In vs. 31-7 we find this world continuing its abuse Him even after His death even when there was no chance of Him defending Himself. They wanted to be sure that they had indeed dealt their final blow to Him making sure that He indeed was dead.

In v. 31 the Jews go to Pilate wanting to get this thing over with as soon as possible, apparently not wanting to mess up or dishonor their religious observances. Think of it! They had just been the instrument and reason that a man was unjustly put to death and now, even now, having no conscious, they want to get on with their religious services naively believing that they could offer them as an offering to God. How blind!

In v. 31 of John chapter 19 they, the Jews, get permission to have the legs broken of all that were still hanging on a cross, which included Jesus. They wanted to be sure that everyone that hung on a cross would be dead so that they could take them down in preparation for their Passover.

Ironically the Jews knew the Law which said that it was a wrong to let a man, person, to be allowed to hang on a tree after death all night, Deut. 22:23-4. Unlike the Romans that used crucifixion as a tool of compliance, giving onlookers a visual example of what would happen to them if they did not comply, the Jews were given a Law and procedure for this sort of thing so as not to use it for their own purposes to manipulate the masses. Death by hanging on a tree, or crucifixion, was God’s department delivered and carried out by man per the instructions of God for the purpose of God’s justice and not man’s purposes. The Jews were right in wanting to bring Him and the others down. They were just wrong in putting Him up there in the first place. So the soldiers were sent forth to do so.

In v. 32 it tells us that there were some that had been crucified that when they went to carry out Pilate’s order that they had not as yet died. As a matter of fact it could appear that not enough time had passed to cause most that had been crucified at the time of Christ’s crucifixion to actually die needing assistance to do so if they were to die and be taken off of the cross before the Sabbath’s observances. This was the case of the two thieves that had been crucified with Jesus. When the soldiers came to them they were both still alive. To hasten the process of death the soldiers would break their legs.

One with an inquisitive mind might ask ‘How would this act of breaking the legs of someone being crucified actually hasten their death?’, ‘What is the mechanism that would actually cause the quickening of their death in doing so?’

At first one might think that the facilitation of the hastening of death in breaking their legs might be from the additional trauma inflicted or additional loss of blood in doing so. However, in most cases this does not appear to be true. If looked at objectively, the cause of death in crucifixion would possibly, and actually probably, be the same as the cause of death in crucifixion after the breaking of one’s legs, the only difference being the time it would take to die.

It is estimated that the time of death during crucifixion would vary considerably from person to person. It is estimated that death from crucifixion would occur anywhere from several hours to several days. In studying the so called art of crucifixion several methods may have been employed obviously yielding different outcomes as far as time and causes of death. Some accounts appear to employ the use of ropes to secure the victim to the upright posts and cross, whereas, other accounts appear to use large and long spike like nails driven through the wrists and feet.

We know from the Biblical account that the type of crucifixion that Jesus suffered was one that used nails to affix or attach Him to the Cross using John chapter 20 verse 25 and Colossians 2:14 as references. In doing so, those preforming the crucifixion would not drive the nails through the fleshy portion of the hands or feet which would easily tear from the weight of the one being crucified, but would instead drive the nails through the bones of the wrist, there being 8 of them bound together by tough fibrous ligaments, and through the feet in like fashion. Attaching the body to the cross in this way would not only allow for the support of weight, but would also keep the individual being crucified from removing himself from the cross due to the larger nail head that wound not fit through the fastening point.

Also, the ability to support the body weight of the person on the cross was most likely facilitated by the use of a block of wood at the feet by which the victim could temporarily relieve the pain on their wrists by painfully pushing up using the block of wood as a brace taking tension off of the nails in their wrists. No matter how you look at it everything about it, and every move, was full of pain. 

Eventually, time would win out and the victim would lose the ability to bear the weight of their body putting most of the weight on the wrists, making this pressure on the nailed wrists constant, causing a neurological reflex to the upper back, causing the victim to be unable to breathe thus initiating suffocation.

It is true that this process could initiate other physiological failures due to the intense pain or unrelenting muscle spasming. These things could in turn affect the heart or possibly other organs.  However, the most common cause of death in crucifixion when being nailed to the cross was asphyxiation or suffocation.

At any rate the two that were crucified with Jesus evidently were still alive when they came to break their legs, but not Jesus. Jesus was already dead. Jesus dying first had nothing to do with the other two being more resilient or stronger. We remember that in v. 30 of this chapter that it said that Jesus Himself gave up His spirit meaning that no man took His life. If they had had to break His legs that would have in turn forced Jesus to die and that He in doing this would not have given up His own spirit. But, it was His choice. He chose to die for us. It was His time, His place and for His purpose. This was a fulfillment of prophesy. It was prophesied that they would not break a bone in His body, Ps. 34:20.

Some because of the resurrection have conjectured that Jesus had actually not died and was not really dead at the time that the soldiers had come to Him to break His legs. However, these soldiers were on assignment and they had a job to do that must be done. Not only was their reputation at stake, but their lives were at stake if they did not carry out their orders.

We can forget all the conjecture about whether or not Jesus was actually dead because the soldier thinking the same thing took care of that detail for us. It says in vs. 33-4 that when the soldiers came to Jesus that first by visual examination He was pronounced dead. But, after the visual exam, the soldier wanting to be sure that He was indeed dead performed the litmus test. He took his spear and it says in v. 34 that he pierced Jesus’ side. In doing so there came out of the pierced area blood and water, or, a clear water like substance. Seeing the blood and water proved that Jesus had died because the blood had separated from the plasma and this does not happen in someone that is still alive. Convinced that Jesus was dead the soldiers went their way. Their job was to be sure that those on the cross were indeed dead. They had accomplished their task, and, in doing so they went their way.

It is interesting that, in all likelihood, the soldiers still most likely would have, or should have, for good measure, broken Jesus’ legs. Just to be sure. But, they did not do so. It tells us in vs. 36 and 37 that the exact details of what ended up happening was before ordained by God to happen exactly as it did. In v. 36 it tells us that His legs were not broken because God had already predicted it in Old Testament scripture to be this way and in v. 37 another scripture predicted that we would look on Him that was pierced. Amazing! In looking at the crucifixion of Christ, what the world saw was Jesus dying subject to the world’s will and demands. But, in reality, Jesus willing suffered and died for our sins knowing what was necessary, dying in His way, His time and for His purpose… for our benefit.

The Gospel of John Lesson 86 (11-02-14) John 19:25-7

The Gospel of John Lesson 86 (11-02-14)

Lesson 86 – John 19:25-7

In John 19:25-27 we find some of the most powerful words spoken by Jesus in the Bible. They were spoken to Mary saying, ‘Woman behold thy son’ and to John saying ‘Behold thy mother’! It is interesting that I find very few Bible teachers and commentators pause to highlight the truth and the fullness of this passage and its meaning. That may be because in reality they/we do not know what to do with it. Maybe it’s because it asks too much of us or it may seem unrealistic to apply in a fallen world.

What do these passages refer to? What is the significance of what Jesus spoke here to Mary His mother and John the apostle? What did Jesus mean, and, really what was Jesus saying when He told Mary that John was her son and telling John that Mary was His mother?

I find that this passage has a lot in practice and principle to do with the practical application of the Good Samaritan. It has a lot to do with ‘going the extra mile’, taking risks, being accountable…putting into practice the reality of one’s faith…where the rubber meets the road. Of such, was the early Church, Acts 2:42-6.

In reading a number of commentaries by reputable scholars I find that they seem to get hung up on who was there at the time that Jesus spoke these words, v. 25. Or… they pass this lesson and final message of instruction from Jesus completely by, highlighting Jesus’ actual final words on the Cross instead.

As important as Jesus’ final words on the Cross are, if you stop and think about it Jesus’ final instruction to us and those who follow Him was just before the very last words that He spoke. Usually someone’s last words are the most important. They are the thing or thought that they want to leave you with. The last words that someone would utter are the thing that that person would like those that they love or that are important to them to remember or to do.

So what did Jesus mean or want to convey to us in these final words. Obviously being His last words to those present, and probably meaning this for us in the Church also, what He would say would be significant. So why is this passage not highlighted as one of the most significant, or, the most significant passage in the Bible, or, at least in the Gospels? I believe it is because its message and practical application of what Jesus said is hard to actually believe, and/or fully receive. To receive what is said here, putting it into practical application and making it a part of our life, is a huge step for us. It asks a lot of us in practical application. However, as we will see the early Church got His meaning!

Some might look at and highlight this passage saying that it was a call to duty, and, they would not technically be wrong. Jesus in saying what He said was telling them to do something specific. He was asking them to see each other as family and treat each other accordingly, as being a blood relative of our own family. However, even though that is a part of what Jesus meant and said here in this passage, I believe that the meaning of His request goes even deeper than this. Understanding and applying His meaning is essential to honoring His request. I believe that this passage refers to belonging…belonging to a family, but, not just any family. I believe that Jesus’ request was to be accountable and care for God’s Family, the Family of God…His Church.

We all want to belong. We want to belong to something. Sometimes it is amazing what we will join just to belong. It is a basic part of who we are. God made us that way. Psychologists say that the thing that we fear the most is abandonment… being alone, not belonging to someone or something. Being alone or isolated for too long can have devastating effects. We all have a strong sense of wanting to be socially connected. And, not just being loosely attached ,hanging out on the periphery, but being an intimate part of those that we identify with. The strongest of these bonds is belonging to a family.

However, even though we have a strong drive to belong to those we love or want to identify with, we are reluctant to so. We give the excuse that we like our privacy. But, in reality we know that having intimate relationships and belonging costs us, And we are not often willing to pay the price that it costs to belong. The cost of belonging is being vulnerable, being honest, being trustworthy and being transparent, honestly, it is being willing to trust others.

Jesus in telling Mary to see John as her son and John to see Mary as his mother reminds us that in the ‘real world’ of the Church that we are supposed to have intimate relationships with those in the Church and not just occasional social encounters. Quite often we treat the Church and Church work or commitment more as a social responsibility than being a part of God’s Family, really caring while meeting one’s need.

The early Church got the message. It is interesting that some would say that the Early Church had its beginnings here in these passages. They functioned as a family. They most often met in homes or were found gathering where they lived and worked. Their faith and perspective was demonstrated in their actions and activities being evident by their meeting together frequently. They were more than just acquaintances. They lived life together. Any reason was a good reason to meet together. It mattered what was going on in another person’s life. Needs were not just needs that needed a quick fix or patch. It was a person with a need.

This is a concept that is all too often passed over in our present Church culture. We tend to live isolated lives only allowing controlled and managed encounters with other members of God’s family. We are willing to come together for a task or service, but that’s all. To meet together to be with each other… well that is a different story. It is easier for us to join God in what we perceive is His work, apparently thinking that we can earn a status or place with God while shunning fellowship with Him and His family in the process.

This was the approach and attitude of Cain. He offered his works to God which was not only rejected by God, but condemned by Him. In Cain’s offering, he denied the fellowship with God that God was offering to him. For Cain, like most of us, as hard as it is to admit it, it was easier to give an offering of works than it is to accept God’s offer of fellowship and forgiveness thru His sacrifice. To receive this gift of Family and fellowship one has to admit their need for God and His work found in His sacrifice on the Cross and in the process give up our self or self-righteousness. Jesus in the Gospels says that there is no other way.

There was a term used for the type of fellowship that we find Jesus referring to here in this passage (John 19:25-7) and that we find the early Church soon demonstrate and experience. It is called Koinonia. Koinonia is a transliterated form of the Greek word, κοινωνία. The dictionary definition defines it as a communion, joint participation; the share which one has in anything, participation, a gift jointly contributed, a collection, a contribution, etc. However, I define it as ‘belonging’. In God’s Kingdom there are no orphans. Everyone belongs and is not just a part of a family, but is a part of His Family, all owned and belonging to Him.

The early Church got it. In practice they got what Jesus had said to Mary and John. Quite likely the early Church got its start in true Biblical community, koinonia, from Jesus’ words here in this passage. The Apostle Paul put it this way in Ephesians 1:5, ‘Having predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of His will’. And He goes on to say in v. 13 of chapter one that ‘we are sealed’ into this family, and not loosely attached, but sealed into His own family by the most powerful bond possible, being sealed by Himself, or His Holy Spirit.

Incorporated in this is the principal that Jesus shared with His disciples is Mt. 10:39 where He told them that in order to find our life we have to lose it for Christ’s sake adopting His will and ways instead of our own. It is also found in the meaning of what Jesus shared with His disciples in John chapter 15 where He told them that real life and the ability to bear real fruit that pleases God and is beneficial to the Kingdom was found in abandoning our self-centered and selfish ways and adopting and abiding in His ways. This was what Cain was unwilling to do. By his actions and response to God Cain was telling God that God needed him instead of him needing God.

There is a great passage in the beginning chapters of the book of acts. In the beginning of the book of Acts what we refer to as the early Church was fresh and focused.  The practical application of their faith was simple, but in no time in the Church’s history was it more powerful. It took the resurrection of Christ to move or motivate them to action however. Prior to Christ’s resurrection they had put many of Christ’s principles and teachings on the shelf for at least the moment. But, His resurrection changed all of that. Knowledge and validating His resurrection supercharged the Church. In their mind and heart only Christ mattered.

In the second chapter of acts we see a demonstration of the power of God. Peter preaches a powerful message empowered by the Holy Spirit coupled with boldness which produces much fruit for the Kingdom. It tells us in v. 41 of Acts chapter 2 that because of this Spirit filled message about 3000 souls were added to the Church that day. But, look what follows as a result of this outpouring of the Holy Spirit. In v. 42 it tells us that this outpouring of the Spirit was not just a surface emotional response, but that it produced instant fruit. It says in v. 41 of Acts 2 that they not only made a profession of faith, but they followed it up by being baptized and in v. 42 by exhibiting Christian actions and virtues of the faith.

Look at what it says in v. 42 that they did, seemingly, immediately after their conversion and baptism. It highlights 4 practices that they did consistently or on a daily basis. In looking at these it may surprise us as to what some of them are. Dr. Luke tells us that they were steadfast in studying and applying the apostle’s doctrine and teachings, this would be equivalent to studying and applying the Scriptures for us, had a very high priority as part of and practicing their faith in meeting together or koinonia fellowship which included meeting each other’s needs, followed by communion or referred to here as the breaking of bread and last but not unexpected as one of their important priorities and focus was frequent, consistent prayer. In this list I see two of the practices as what one might expect as essentials practices of the faith, but, in our current culture, I see the other two listed essentials of the faith that were listed as would be surprises to us in our day.

It is interesting that listed in the number two position was fellowship. I do not think that this was an accident by Dr. Luke. I believe that he placed fellowship in one of the highest positions for a reason, and I believe that this is what Jesus was referring to in our passage here in John chapter 20 verses 25-7.

However, if we were to read on from our Acts 2:42 passage that the type of fellowship that Dr. Luke was referring to was exactly the type of fellowship and responsibility that Jesus had instructed Mary and the Apostle John in. It tells us in John 19:27, because of what Jesus had told them, John took Mary to his own house and his family cared for her, and she, Mary, cared for them.

 It is interesting when we read the passage in Acts 2, verse 42 and beyond that what they referred to as fellowship included acts such as John’s response to Jesus’ words. By Jesus saying what He did to Mary and John he placed caring fellowship as one of the highest priorities of the Christian Church.  It is unfortunate that by our practice we put fellowship in the fashion of the early Church as an option and not an essential, can’t do without element. Consider this. It is my conviction that Biblical fellowship is not only one of the essentials of the Church, but that there is no more powerful witness to the world of Jesus’ existence and their need for the Savior than this.

 Jesus told His disciples in John 13:35 the following, ‘By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.’ Jesus knew that Christian fellowship would be one of the essential not only as a witness to a lost world, but also be one of the most powerful tools to draw a lost world to the faith. Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves together.  

The Gospel of John Lesson 85 (08-24-14) John 19:19-24

The Gospel of John Lesson 85 (08-24-14)

Lesson 85 – John 19:19-24

(Just as a side to this study, as you can see there has been quite a pause or gap in these studies time wise. I felt led to inform you, if you have been following this blog, of the reason for the delay in posting. On August 29, 2014, after many months of progressing symptoms and episodes of health difficulties that eluded routine and conventional testing, a CT scan revealed the problem of stage IV cancer in several places. I was told that my condition was terminal, however, I am currently under treatment and with much prayer support I appear to be making progress. God be Praised in whatever the outcome! After several months of prayers and treatment I am able at this time to resume this study. Praise be to God for His goodness! I covet your prayers concerning this situation.)

So, Jesus was crucified between two thieves, numbered with sinners. In v. 19 Pilate had written a title and had it placed on the top of Jesus’ cross. It read, ‘Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews’. He does this not out of pity or respect for Jesus, or even because of what He believes about Jesus. His motivation in doing this is really meant as a slam directed at the Jews for giving him so much trouble. He knew that Jesus had made the claim that He was their king, and maybe in the back of his mind he wondered about this as a possibility after his conversations with Him, however, he really did not put much faith or stock in it.

He did know, however, that the Jewish leaders definitely did not affirm this belief and that it was a rather large point of contention between them and Jesus, and, His followers. In placing this inscription on the Cross above Jesus he knew that it would more than annoy them. Pilate at this time still held a fresh grudge against the Jews for backing him into a corner concerning Jesus’ crucifixion. In doing this he knew at least that he would have the satisfaction of getting back at them. Knowing that Jesus was crucified in a very public place where all would see, he wrote the inscription in all three common languages being understood by all who would pass, including and especially the Jews.

In v. 21 we see that Pilate had accomplished what he had in mind. The Jews not being annoyed but angry return to Pilate and ask him, with emotion, to change what he had written. But Pilate knowing that he had his moment refuses and sends them away. Revenge, even in a small amount to him was to be savored.

In v. 23 they, the soldiers, part Jesus’ clothing. It amazes me that they would even consider dividing and keeping His cloths. He had been beat and bruised and bloodied. Much of His clothing would have been stained with blood.

But clothing was worth something in that day and era. Often cloths were meant to last being made to last for years if not for one’s life. Often in a lifetime one would have one of something including certain articles of cloths and they was meant to last. Some things including cloths were passed down to the next generation or at least possibly the next of kin. In our affluent world it is hard to identify with the reality that they had to deal with that was a part and perspective of everyday life.

So they part Jesus’ clothing among four soldiers. It is too bad that they did not realize that someday this clothing would have been invaluable and worth much. Maybe they could have at least really profited by selling them and maybe, just maybe, they would have considered Him as someone to listen to and think about, possibly believing on Him as the Savior. However, they saw no value in Jesus’ clothing except for its immediate purpose and value. They parted His cloths dividing them by four.

However, when they came to His robe they were forced to pause and consider what to do. His robe was the prized piece of the lot. To them it was the most valuable. It had no seam being made of one piece; therefore, tearing the robe in any fashion would ruin it making it worthless.

However, every soldier knowing its value wanted it, or at least to have received the worth of its value in currency. So, being soldiers they chose the most natural means to them of settling the situation and chose to pretty much gamble for it casting lot.

Casting lots in the Bible was not always used as a form of gambling, but in this instance it was. So, in casting lots one got the prize. However, what they did not realize was that in doing so they were fulfilling God's prophesy found in Psalms chapter 22 verse 18 where it said, “They part my garments among them, and casts lots upon my vesture.” If only they would have known what was really happening, that in doing what they did they were performing the will of God, maybe they would have considered Jesus and His claims.

The Gospel of John Lesson 84 (08-17-14) John 19:18

The Gospel of John Lesson 84 (08-17-14)

Lesson 84 – John 19:18

Jesus arrives at Golgotha and is now nailed to a cross and is crucified between two thieves. When looking at the Cross we are often found taking a somewhat mechanical or chronological approach to the events that happened that day wanting to put all of the events and details of that day in some kind of systematic or chronological order. Doing so gives us what we think is more of a full picture of what happened that day.

Although this approach is not only helpful but necessary to understand the work of the Cross, it is not how the Gospel writers chose to give their description of what happened that day. In looking at their accounts some of them seemed to give more details than others and none of them seemed to put all of the details in chronological order. It is like when giving their accounts they were shooting from the hip, so to speak, not always concerned so much about the order of the events as much as being concerned about capturing and relaying the heart of what happened on that day.

When looking at the Cross a good starting place to really begin to know what happened or went on that day is to begin with Jesus and what was happening between Him and the Father. Most who were there that day were looking at the external events; however, as important as those offenses that were committed against our Lord that day were, there was more to the Cross then just those external events.

We will never know all that went on that day on the Cross. Much of it was personal, worked out between Jesus and the Father. While those who were there that day were watching the drama of the external events that was unfolding what was being missed by most was the actual purpose of the events that were happening. As often happens, the drama of the moment often hides what really happened.

Some there that day got it, however, but they were few. One of them was the thief on the Cross. At first even He missed it. Initially when first hung on his cross alongside of Jesus he was found casting dispersions upon Jesus along with the other thief and those present, finding fault in what he thought was Jesus’ inability to not live up to His claims.

The daughters of Jerusalem found in Luke chapter 23 also missed what was actually happening because of the external drama of the moment and the crowd as Jesus was passing them carrying His cross. They looked at Jesus’ physical position and situation and assumed the wrong thing. They had assumed that Jesus did not measure up to their expectation of Him being the Promised Messiah and King. They had expected a King and found Jesus to be out of their expected character being beaten and bruised and eventually hung on a cross of offense. Not the way that they had pictured their Savior.

However, what they there that day had missed was the reality of what was actually happening at that moment on that cross. Again what they saw was a supposed or would be king in no position to resemble that possibility. What they missed was the work of a true Savior that was being worked out between Jesus and the Father in the midst of these external events. Much like the daughters of Jerusalem that missed the reality of what Jesus was really doing in that moment, so to, those present at this moment while Jesus hung on the Cross were preoccupied by how things looked missing the reality of what was actually happening.

So what was happening at that moment on the Cross? We may never know the full story. However, God does give us a more personal and intimate look at the behind the scenes of the Cross in some of the prophetic passages of the Old Testament.

For a more personal look at what actually transpired that day one might take a look, for instance, at Psalm 22. In this Psalm we find a more personal look at what was going on between Jesus and the Father on the Cross. While others were looking at Jesus in His pitiful state bleeding on the Cross, Jesus was working out our salvation with the Father.

The 22^nd Psalm gives us an insight as to the dialog He was having with the Father. In Psalm 22:1-2 Jesus speaks of His being abandon by the Father because of our sins. Jesus had never known separation from the Father before. In Ps. 22:1 Jesus asks Him why He is so far from Him and why He does not come to His rescue. This verse is in direct correlation with Matthew’s account found in Mt. 27:46 Jesus asking “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me”.

V. 2 tells us that God did not answer Him when He called on Him. On the Cross we hear Jesus cry out, “My God, my God why has Thou forsaken me and V. 2 continues by saying that His soul found no rest. This verse correlates with Mt. 27:45 describing the periods of light and darkness while on the Cross.

In Psalm 22 verses 3-5 we find an example of Jesus praising the Father even in the midst of shame and physical torture. Even yet His Hope is sure. He is confident of it because His trust is in the Father.

In vs. 6-8 we see Him describe His situation calling and longing for relief and help. Verses 6-13 correlate with Matthew’s account in Mt. 27:39-44. In v. 9 Jesus reminds the Father not to forget that He was the one that birthed Him and in v. 10 that He is totally dependent on Him. In v. 11 He reminds the Father that He is His only hope.

In vs. 12 and 13 Jesus describes His place and position and that it is a dangerous one and that even though it is extremely dangerous that He is unable to defend Himself being completely and fully at the mercy of those around him. He also reminds the Father that those around Him are indeed strong while He is totally vulnerable. At this point Jesus is in no position to physically deal with those in front of Him that have the strength and determination of a ravenous lion, v. 13. Jesus sees what is before Him and can do nothing about it.

In vs. 14-5 He describes His spirit that it is all poured out and that there is nothing left. He is near unto death. All of His bones are out of joint and His heart is like wax that is pliable and can go in any direction of the emotions eventually melting being totally void of life. He is on impulse power, barely alive. His will does not drive His heart at this point. His heart is driven by emotions.

All of His strength is dried up like a broken pot that is unable to hold any water, v. 15. His spirit and body are so dry that His tongue now sticks to His mouth. If it wasn’t for the Cross He would have dropped to the ground by now due to total and complete physical exhaustion. He gives up and waits for God to lay Him on the ground waiting for the dust to consume Him.

V. 16 Even at this late stage, being completely vulnerable He realizes that He is surrounded by the wicked that are looking to do Him harm. They have pierced His hands and feet. V. 17 Because of His pain He can feel every bone in His body and because of His pain could count every bone in His body if He but had the energy.

His oppressors stand not only in front of Him, but over Him. They stare and gloat with intimidating looks. V. 18 there is nothing left. They take His garments and cloths from Him dividing them among them. Even Christ’s modesty is damaged. V. 18 is a clear prophetic passage referring to the casting of lots for a piece of His clothing.

Vs. 19-21, His last request that the Father come quickly to His aid and deliver Him from His adversaries and the forces of darkness that surround Him.

Vs. 22-4 Even when it appears that all is lost and He is at the end He is assured of the Father’s love and faithfulness, even in death. In v. 22 He proclaims that He will testify Himself being alive to His brothers of the Father’s faithfulness referring to His resurrection.

Others had the same hope that death could not separate them from God’s promise. Abraham was one of them believing that God would raise Isaac from the dead if necessary. However, unlike Abraham and Isaac Jesus knew that He would die. But, at the same time He was assured that He would personally testify of the faithfulness of the Father to His brothers being the first to rise from the dead. He encourages others in v. 23 to follow His example and not give up hope placing their hope in the Father and the resurrection.

In v. 25 He proclaims that the praise that He gives He has received from the Father and in v. 26 He encourages those that are afflicted to trust and remain faithful for the Lord will save His own.

In vs. 27-8 Jesus is assured a victory…even now when things look so grim. He proclaims in the end what He is doing will in the end affect and overcome the entire earth turning them toward the Lord. He proclaims that all families of the nations will worship before Him and He shall rule the nations.

V. 29 may refer to the kings and prominent that will come and sup with the Lord during the Millennium. Even those dead and in the dust will come forward and bow before Him. All are dependent upon this One that hangs before them that at present looks so helpless.

At the end of the chapter in v. 31 the Psalmist reminds us that this One that is hanging on the Cross that looks so helpless and so pitiful, ripped and torn with the Life squeezed out of Him is indeed the Victor and the One that has done this. Most of them there that day, at least at that time, missed this. But, we know that one did not. The thief right next to Him got it. He saw what was happening and placed his faith in the One next to him that looked so helpless.

In the end Jesus cries out to the Father and to them there like He did to the Daughters of Jerusalem that were unaware of what was really happening. In seeing the blindness of those that were there, and, for all that would look on this account thereafter, Jesus was moved with compassion in Luke 23:24 and prayed a prayer to the Father saying in essence that those present did not know what was really happening there that day, asking the Father to forgive them.

Most there that day being focused only on the externals missed what was really happening at the moment. As important as the external sufferings are to our salvation, may we not miss the important work that was done on the Cross between Jesus and the Father that made our redemption sure and complete.  As Jesus said in v. 30 of John chapter 19, “It is finished!”

Much more went on that day than met the eye. While onlookers watched external events Jesus was working out the details of the complete and full payment of our sins with the Father. May we not miss the reality of the work of the Cross on our behalf.  Like the thief on the cross that eventually got it, may we to acknowledge and receive His offer of forgiveness for our sin debt. May we do it today, for tomorrow may be too late. Praise Him!!

The Gospel of John Lesson 83 (08-10-14) John 19:16-7

The Gospel of John Lesson 83 (08-10-14)

Lesson 83 – John 19:16-7

Read Mt. 27:26-35a, Mark 15:15-23, Luke 23:24-5, 26-33 and John 19:15-8

So, Pilate now having done everything that he could do, using every possible approach in reasoning with the Jews that he could think of, finally gives up, washing his hands in front of them, declaring innocence to them, sends Jesus away to be crucified, Mt. 27:24. We know that Pilate was in no way innocent in the matter, for even though he was backed into a corner it was still his decision not to protect an innocent man handing Jesus over to the will of the people.

In Mark 15:15 we read that before Jesus was delivered to be crucified that He was first scourged. To scourge someone you would usually strip them of their clothing. A scourge would consist of numerous lashings, most often upwards of 30+, often 40 save one, using a whip, most often made of leather strips. However, this whip was special. It was designed as an instrument of punishment and cruel torture. At the end of the leather strands were knots tied with pieces of metal in them. These pieces of metal were usual made of lead which when applied would sink deep into the tissue causing resistance tearing the skin and tissue when retracted.

If this were not enough, the Romans having perfected the art of torture, would often tie pieces of sharp bone also in the tassels of the whip. These bones would not only embed themselves in the skin when applied, but would also tend to further rip the skin and underlying tissue penetrating further and deeper into the flesh usually ripping and lacerating the deeper underlying musculature. The end result of such a procedure, if one was fortunate enough to survive, was blood and sweat all over one’s body.

Much of this blood and sweat would very quickly begin to coagulate causing a sticky and tacky substance much like the consistency of glue. Again, at this point the one having the flogging or whipping most often was without cloths. John’s Gospel does not give us many of these details, but in Mark’s account it tells us that after Pilate had scourged Jesus and had delivered Him to be crucified, that Pilate delivered Jesus into the hands of a band of soldiers who had just for sport, or, in other words were having their fun at Jesus’ expense, had clothed Him in purple and planted a crown of thorns on His head mocking Him for being called or known as a king.

Well this robe when put on Him now stuck to His body somewhat like a form of glue. Even though the blood by this time had begun to coagulate some, Jesus’ wounds were still oozing profusely and to make matters worse He was now in the hands of a large number of soldiers who were not even yet at this time treating Him to nice. Jesus Himself was the object of their sport or entertainment.

Just so we can understand what was happening here, Jesus after Pilate had sentenced Him, placed Him in the hands of a band of soldiers. Many of the different commentaries that I had looked at placed a band of soldiers anywhere between as little as 60 soldiers to as many as 600. Most place the number between 100 and 120 soldiers. The other thing that is significant here, is that the longer the robe is left on Jesus the more attached the robe becomes attached to His wounds.

This is an interesting dynamic. Just think of what it would be like. A condemned man left unguarded with 100 +/- men, who were not just guards, but men of war where there were few restrictions as to what you could do. The only requirement was that they needed to keep Jesus alive enough to be crucified. It tells us that Jesus was so much the event or object of their sport for the night among this elite group of warriors (Mt. 27:27) that they even sent the word out for others in the palace to come and join in on the sport or their supposed good time.

It tells us that they had put the robe and a crown of thorns on Him mocking Him giving Him a reed for a staff. It goes on to say in Mark’s Gospel chapter 15 that after giving Him the staff and mocking Him as a king that they would take the staff away from Him and strike Him with it striking Him in the head in particular. These were men of war. I am sure that the blows to the head were not light taps. It is worth noting also that a reed was not a soft material that can be found in some reeds, but was more a hard stick like object that can cause injury when used as a weapon or instrument of discipline.

This is an ugly scene. Jesus is in the midst of at least 60 + men of war and almost all of them would want to get their licks in in one form or another. They mocked Him, they beat Him with the reed, they spat on Him, punched Him, kicked Him and all kinds of unimaginable abuse. Remember this was a large group of men of war. By themselves some of them may never have acted the way that they did that night, but get them with a group of guys and that competitive spirit kicks in and begins to take over and soon with a group that large there is no telling what you will find yourself doing. Again, the only restriction that these men were given was that they would need to be able to keep Jesus at least somewhat alive for crucifixion.

In Mark 15:20 it tells us that when they had had their fun that they pulled the robe off of Him… a big ouch! Can you imagine men of war taking off Jesus’ robe? Men of war are not known for their tact or bedside manner. As a matter of perspective their point of view in the matter would have most likely been the more pain in the process the better. It tells us that after taking off Jesus’ robe that they put His own cloths back on Him, leading Him away to be crucified.

It is amazing to me that Jesus at this time was even able to walk. After receiving this type of torture and treatment most would be unconscious and on the floor unable to move, if not already dead. It appears from John’s Gospel that at first Jesus was required to carry His own cross. Estimates vary as to how much the cross actually weighed. Some estimate it to be as much as 3-400 pounds.

At any rate, it is obvious that Jesus was unable to bear His cross very far alone. To me it is inconceivable that He could have carried it at all. However, John tells us that He did. But, He never would have made it to Golgotha on His own. The other three Gospels tell us that they grabbed a passerby named Simon. We are unsure as to exactly who this man really was, but is apparent that he was probably a Jew from North Africa in Jerusalem for the Passover. There is also good evidence that later two of his sons would be found to be prominent members and workers in the early Church.

It is also not clear as to what exactly is meant by the other Gospel writers by Simon carrying the Cross. Some have suggested that he may not have carried the Cross alone, but had assisted Jesus in carrying the Cross, Lk. 23:26. In doing so, I can only imagine what Simon was thinking in his heart seeing Jesus in this state right in front of him.

Not much is said about the actual journey to Golgotha except that in Luke’s Gospel it tells us that a great company accompanied Jesus as he went to the Cross and Luke also records an interesting conversation that Jesus had with some of the women of Jerusalem that were following Him. These women were bewailing and lamenting for Jesus. Rightly so, for Jesus was a sight to be seen. Anyone who had seen Jesus on that day should have had pity on Him.

However, an interesting thing happens. Jesus for the first time in some time breaks silence and has a conversation with them giving them a prophetic warning. It is amazing that here Jesus is all beat up and torn, carrying a heavy cross, barely able to move and He turns not to thank them for their pity for His present state, but instead to warn them of coming events that they had better beware of.

He warns them in particular about the coming desolation that would be coming very soon that would in all likelihood personally affect most of them present. He tells them not to weep or have pity for Him as bad as He looked, but He told them that they should have pity on themselves for even though they did not know it death and destruction lay at their door.

This statement from Jesus must have shocked, no… stunned them. Jesus in saying this was not at all rebuking them for their pity and compassion that they sincerely had for Him. But, in looking at Jesus they had assumed the wrong thing. In looking at Jesus they had assumed that He was in an unfortunate position and deserved their heartfelt sympathy. However, what they had failed to realize was that Jesus was exactly where He had chosen to be, even though it was a painful situation, and that although pity was still an appropriate response from them that very soon He would come forth as the Victor having completed His work.

However, their position was the position that was tenuous. Jesus knowing the future takes the time even in His present condition to warn them of coming events. Little did they realize that soon many of them would be in His position being the recipients of Roman fury. The only real difference however would be that they would be on their own. They as a nation of people had rejected the Savior that was right in front of them and soon would experience the consequences of that decision.

He tells them something very interesting at the end of His conversation with them. In v. 31 of Luke 19 He warns them in essence saying “If they, the Romans, treat an innocent man this way, a green tree, then what will they do to a rebellious nation that is dry and unruly toward them. Most believe that Jesus was warning these daughters of Jerusalem of the judgment that was about to fall upon them from Rome. When seeing the destruction that was to come they would cry out asking the mountains to fall upon them and cover them. It is believed that this was fulfilled in 70 AD.

Luke also records in Luke 23:42 that Jesus was not alone on His way to the Cross. Two others accompanied Him on that day. They would be put to death with Jesus, however, unlike Jesus they were sinners, guilty of their offenses. This would fulfill Isaiah’s prophesy in Isa. 53:12 that Jesus even though sinless would be numbered with transgressors.