The Gospel of John Lesson 7– John 2:13-25 (10-28-2012)

The Gospel of John (10-28-2012)

Lesson 7 – John 2:13-25

The First Passover after Jesus Begins His Ministry

V. 13 It must have been interesting for the Passover Lamb to show up at the Jerusalem Passover knowing that very soon He would be the sacrifice spoken of and observed in that event. It would have been one thing to show up at this celebration and find those who participated in this observance being supported and encouraged by the rich symbolism bringing into better focus the reason and purpose for this event and season. But, He showed up and He found everything out of place. The emphasis was on the wrong syllable. The focus was all wrong.

The observance was in the right place. It was at the right time of the year. And, they were in essence in reality following the right script. But, even with doing all these things right they had gotten it all wrong. It was like so often with man, take a good thing and change the perspective making something off of the deal. Selfishness and greed had now naturally become part of the equation. Now the focus was on the money and not the event missing completely its symbolism and meaning.

It had gotten so bad that one might ask the meaning of the specific items of these rituals and many would have no idea, not being able to give a good answer for parts of or even the whole of the observance. It had boiled down to traditions that in actuality had become tainted and now instead of them being positive reinforcements for the truth they had become stumbling blocks having the end result being a negative impact or effect.

(May want to show the clip from ‘Fiddler on the Roof’, the scene and song about traditions.)

They had traveled to Jerusalem in droves. This was a big event. A big thing. A common salutation and greeting that you would hear frequently among the Jews was ‘See you in Jerusalem’ in essence meaning let’s get together and spend some meaningful time together during the Passover in Jerusalem. But this celebration and event had been turned into an opportunity. The focus had completely turned away from its meaning. It had gotten so bad that it actually made God angry…So angry that he had made a scourge to drive them out demonstrating His displeasure.

Can you imagine? It is hard for me to actually visualize a scene like this. It made them stop and take notice. It makes me stop and think and examine my life wondering what common thing that I do out of habit or routine displeases Him so.

God had not become upset because it was not just perfectly right. He was not just being picky and a perfectionist. In essence the entire observance had grown to be all wrong, now having none of its original meaning and in actuality had probably gotten so bad that it actually turned those who attended away from God instead of toward Him.

Many of those coming were looking for something. This event and celebration was intended to be a recharge time, a spiritual refocus. Many of those attending were serious about this observance. But, then, they arrived and were met with obstacles…Hurdles that they could not get past…barring them from meeting with God and others in this observance. Most of it centered around money and expectations…false expectations that had no value…expectations that were not from God, but were packaged as if they were… giving those who attended a bad impression and feeling about God and their relationship with Him.

Most of the problem focused around the underlying impression that to please God you had to buy a better offering. Those traveling to Jerusalem would sometimes come from a substantial distance and bringing a suitable offering for the Passover was not always easy. The practice of selling Passover offerings may have started as a service and may in its original intent been a good one, but it had grown into something that turned those who attended against the whole affair. It had turned into a show of who could afford the best sacrifice having a side benefit of possibly buying favor, connections and status with some of the religious leaders. They had forgotten that God is not a respecter of persons. His perspective was to look at the attitude of the heart and not our purchasing power.

But if you were to ask man’s opinion he would see nothing wrong with how things were done. And, actually they would have probably responded in the affirmative believing that their offering of attempted worship in observing this event was not only satisfactory, but was substantial or even superb or excellent. We see this in v. 18 when they ask Jesus to justify His actions indicating that they saw nothing wrong with their Passover celebration.

If questioned about this part of the Passover, offering the so called service of providing the convenience of purchasing an offering on site, they probably would have responded with several reasons that on the surface would not have appeared so bad,…maybe even appearing to be good.

One of the probable arguments would have been that those that traveled especially from far distances would have arrived with sacrifices that were not quite what they started out to be, having arrived a little worn and battered from the trip not being looked at as the best sacrifice that they could offer. They would have quoted O T passages sighting that one’s sacrifice was required to be spotless and without blemish. It said so in the Law the temple leaders would say.

It is true that the Lord had required them to not give Him junk or give Him what would have been thrown away anyway having no value. There were required standards set down by God to adhere to, this was true. But, the underlying intent in this requirement was to help man with his heart in having the right attitude toward God in his sacrifice to God, giving that which was good and offering it freely and gladly with a heart of thanksgiving.

 But, as stated earlier this had turned into a show containing no real heart value at all. This important observance had been turned into a money making event. The priests would examine the sacrifices that were brought by those attending and would often deem them inferior. Too inferior to be used as one’s offering. Then they would recommend and often require them to purchase a so called better, more suitable offering in the nearby convenient vestibule. It is believed that this took place in the outer court of the Temple called the court of the Gentiles. These were often offered at inflated or premium prices. There was big money to be made in breeding and providing Passover sacrifices. It is believed that the priests themselves also profited from this practice in a big way.

It also mentions the money changers here. The region was diverse and currencies varied greatly. For those who came there was a temple tax required of one half shekel. It is said that the priests would only accept the local currency. Of course there was a fee for the exchange. Commerce and trading dominated the whole affair,…much like our Christmas celebration today. This was not what God had in mind. It had become a ritual with no meaning. It made Him angry…Very angry. So angry that He took a whip and drove them out.

The disciples seeing this take place were reminded of a passage that they had been taught in their upbringing. It is found in Ps. 69:9. As we study John’s Gospel we will see Jesus identifying with us in His humanity repeatedly. In this situation His actions remind His disciples of David when he poured out his heart in a similar situation. In His spirit Jesus just couldn’t stand by and not address the issue. It ate Him up. He was consumed with God’s perspective which others seemed blind to or had at least accepted as just the way it was. In Ps. 69:9 David was eaten up by this injustice and it says in the last half of that verse that he was convicted to take it upon himself to join God in what was right and right the wrong doing something about it. It seemed when reading the surrounding verses to v. 9 in Ps. 69 that David was alone in his crusade stating that his brethren separated themselves from him, Ps. 69:8.

In v. 18 of John chapter 2 it says that the Jews questioned Jesus concerning His actions. The Jews mentioned here would have most likely included the priests and the temple leaders including the Pharisees, but also could have included other Jews involved in some way or fashion of temple activity for this observation. This was a Jewish affair and those involved had Jewish background and upbringing.

It is likely that as Jesus drove them out and turned over the tables of commerce that He quoted Scripture and cited to them the reasons for His indignation and for His actions. The quotes and reasons that He used in all probably had gotten their attention, for they could not deny His reasoning using just and good reasons for doing what He had done. Not being able to deny His reasoning for His actions they ask for justification or proof of His authoritative actions. He was speaking for God. They could tell that there was something to what He was saying even though they were essentially blind to it. But, they ask for a sign.

It is not clear as to what they were really looking for here. Were they asking for discussion and reasoning so they could understand His point of view, or were they actually looking for a miracle proving that He and His message were from God. It says in v. 23 that miracles did accompany this trip to Jerusalem and in all probability He had also performed miracles other than the turning water into wine which they were probably aware of.

But, in v. 19 He responds by identifying Himself to them as the Passover Lamb making reference to the destroying of His body referring to it as a temple. This was not what they were looking for. When He made reference to the temple they took it as the temple worship center that they were in. In reality, no one there except Jesus would have understood Jesus’ response, not even His disciples. Not yet anyway. He identifies Himself as the Passover Lamb and in a riddle sort of way even gives them some of the details but does not make it very clear as to what He is referring to.

In the next couple of verses the Jews and Jesus discuss the details. There He was the Passover Lamb standing right before them. But, they were not looking for the Passover Lamb in their observance. This observance was instituted so that when He showed up they would recognize Him. To them this ritual was just for the purpose of historical remembrance and observation.

For some reason He chose not to share with the Jews, at least at this time, the rest of the details of what He was talking about. We see that John gives us some of these additional details so that we may understand, but Jesus did not choose to explain Himself to them. One would ask why? Why did He not just explain the situation giving the other details so they might understand what He was talking about? For His own reasons He chose not to. In vs. 24-5 we may be given a hint or indication as to why. It says that He did not commit Himself to them knowing their heart, that it could not be trusted, not trusting them with those details at this time. Only He knew how they would have reacted. In His wisdom He deemed that it was not the time.

The Gospel of John Lesson 6 – John 2:1-12 (10-21-2012)

The Gospel of John 

Lesson 6 – John 2:1-12

John 2:1-12 (Jesus and the relatives)

The Apostle John continues in chapter two as Jesus’ ministry continues to unfold. Following His baptism His ministry and purpose for coming now becomes very public and visible. He is called to attend a wedding. It is interesting that John begins his examples of Jesus’ miracles with this event. None of the other Gospel writers mention this event and at first glance one might ask the question why? Why would John begin his letter to us attempting to convince us that Christ is the One that we need to consider giving up our own way and following Him with our life by using this as his beginning example of His greatness? Some would argue that he could have started with a better more dramatic example, one more representative of His ability.

Matthew starts with the cleansing of a leper (Matt. 8:1). Mark a paralytic man healed (Mk. 2:1) Luke begins with the casting out of demons (Lk. 4:31). I think that John would have said in his defense that ‘You should have been there’, for the end result of this miracle turned hearts toward the Savior.

At first glance one might consider this miracle one to pass by going on to a more important and maybe dramatic example of Jesus’ capabilities as the Savior of the world. But, we will see the Apostle John use examples like this throughout his Gospel. We will see John use examples in his gospel that to some might seem insignificant or that maybe the other Gospel writers did not feel compelled to record whatever their reason. But, John will consider these examples important enough to share them with us as part of his argument.

It is possible that one of the reasons that the other Gospel writers do not record this event is that all of the disciples may not have been present at this event. We do not know for sure who Jesus had called by this time. However, even though all of the Gospel writers may not have been present at this wedding you can be sure all of His disciples would have heard the details of this event at some point and would have been familiar with it and could have included it in their account if they had been led too do so.

This is such a common event that one might think that even Jesus would have declined the offer to attend having too much to do and much more important things to do now that His ministry had officially begun. But, Jesus had come for people, and as we will see so often throughout the Gospels we will find Him with the people that He came to save doing common everyday things in common everyday settings.

This wedding had some interesting parameters and connections to it that one might pass at first glance. It appears that those in this wedding had a close connection to Jesus, his mother, probably His family and possibly His disciples. In v. 2 we read that Jesus did not come as a tag along and helper to His mother being invited only because of His mother’s connection to those in the wedding. It appears that He had also been directly invited. It is also interesting to note in v. 2 that not only was He invited, but his disciples seemed to be included in this invitation giving the impression that they were also familiar with those in the wedding party.

We are unsure just what the connection might have been, whether it was immediate family, or friend, or distant relative it does not tell us. His disciples being invited might have been because of their connection with Jesus and His ministry at this point. However, it is evident that this connection with those in the wedding must have been a pretty strong one because in v. 3 Mary, Jesus’ mother, takes personal responsibility for making sure that some of the details were taken care of. In this instance her immediate concern was one of having enough wine for the wedding party’s guests.

Wine was an important item in the wedding ceremony of that day. It was considered an essential item to make your guests feel comfortable and at home making them feel welcomed. When looking at this event, it seems that everyone wants to focus on the debate of whether the wine mentioned here was fermented or not. For the sake of argument, let us mention here that it does not say whether it was or wasn’t, and I will not argue the point in this study one way or the other. However, there is no debate that the wine mentioned in this time period was an important and common item in daily life and was especially important at an event such as this. It would have been considered as an essential part of the celebration.

In reality, wine would have taken center stage in an event like this. The better the quality of wine, the more impressed the guests would have been that this was a special occasion and that the host appreciated them being there. We have to remember that weddings such as this in that time were family and fellowship events. Travel was poor and taking the time and making the sacrifice to travel was substantial. It was rare that family and friends had opportunities like this to be with each other.

At any rate…they ran out of wine. Normally, in our day, if you were out or beverages you would just grab someone slip them a $20 bill and tell them to go and get some more drinks. Some would argue that it appears that this is what Mary was doing. But, when looking at the dialog and conversation that went on between Jesus and Mary you would have to wonder if there was more to it than just a request to go buy some more to drink.

When considering this encounter we need to remember that in all probability it was not that easy to come by the amount of wine that would be needed for such an event as this. We do not know for sure how much was needed, but, as we will see later, Jesus eventually makes enough wine to feed an army. And, in doing so He makes quite an impression. In all likelihood this was a well attended event.

But, when we consider what Mary says to Jesus and the way she puts her request to Him one could consider that Mary’s request may not have been a request out of her duty to meet a need for this wedding, but a request from a bystander who is seeing a need and knowing her son has the ability to do special things, she makes a request to her son. She knowing Him to be God asks Him to fix an impossible situation.

Looking at the details of this encounter it would appear that Mary was not sure what He would/could do to fix this problem, but it appears that she knew that He was capable of doing something about it. We know this by her response that she gives to the attendants who were present at that time. V. 5

The interchange between Mary and Jesus here is interesting. She says to Him ‘They have no wine’. This again appears to be spoken out of compassion for someone else’s need. Jesus’ response is interesting. At first glance His response could appear to be somewhat pointed and possible rude or somewhat disrespectful. But, at a closer look it seems that Jesus could be challenging her to remember who He is. It could be that she had come to Him with a request that could have been considered a prayer request, but Mary was caught between Jesus as her son and Jesus the Savior, her Savior God. She had an interesting position. Jesus was her son and she had in reality also been a mother to Him. But, over the years, now 30, she surely had observed Him like no one else could have knowing Him as a one of a kind, special person. Who knows what she had seen in those 30 years. You can bet that even though their household was not strange, that it was a little unusual. Some would tag it ‘Special’. He was probably asking her with His reply ‘Who are you really asking, ‘your son or your Son the Savior God’?

This though is born out in her response. It must have been extremely difficult for Mary at times to keep it straight. Jesus’ comment made her examine her heart and her request. Her response yields to Him being able to handle an impossible situation calling for a miracle. She tells the attendants to do whatever He says and turns and walks away. She yields to His ability to perform a miracle honoring Him in her heart. Wow! What a tender and precious moment. John would have said that we should have been there. Special!

It is good to remember that Mary had a unique position, a one of a kind relationship with her Savior. Being the mother of the Savior only happened once and to one person. Over the years of personal Bible study I have come to love, appreciate and respect Mary more all the time for the person that she must have been and she continues to encourage me in my faith even more as the years go by. She truly was a unique person and an excellent example of the Christian faith.

But her relationship with her Savior son encourages me in another way. It reminds me how personal my relationship with the Savior needs to be. A relationship like this is really what He came for.

I often watch my wife with my children and in particular my boys and am amazed with the interaction and relationship that a good mother has with her children. I frequently ponder and wonder what it was like in the Mary and Joseph household with Jesus in it as a boy. Only Mary and Joseph will know for sure. But, there must have been some very tender moments. Even though Jesus was now older, this indeed was one of them to be added to the list.

As we walk through this Gospel and have referenced other related passages I am already very much impressed with the personalities that we have found here and what good Christian people they are. These are real people who did these things. They have already lived life and left something behind worth looking at and following. John the Baptist, Andrew, Peter, Philip, Nathanial and now Mary…real people, great people…a great Christian foundation laid down in their life, having been lived out in them and now being revealed to us through the pages of Scripture. One might ask what will we leave behind for those that follow us? I am thankful for these real people found in the Scriptures. Although I personally have many favorites from the pages of Scripture, I would have to say that Mary ranks as one of the highest for me. No one can deny that she was/is a special person and handled her mission well.

In v. 6-7 Jesus begins to answer her prayer request. He instructs the attendants to fill 6 large water pots with plain water. It is estimated that these water pots would hold 20-30 gallons of water apiece. They were rather large. Together they would have totaled approximately 150 +/- gallons. Notice that the attendants also must have believed that something was about to happen for when given the request to fill the water pots they not only fill them up, but they filled them to the brim or the top.

It is true that it may have been that Jesus’ actual request might have contained an element in this instructing them to fill the pots right to the top possibly losing a little meaning in our translation. But, it is interesting that these attendants followed His request filling them to the top even though it might have been a little more effort on their part. The interaction between Mary and Jesus and the attendants also may show some familiarity with Mary and Jesus because of this response. The attendants’ actions show full and maybe even more than full compliance indicating that they expected something to happen. Their response was not half hearted.

In v. 8 Jesus tells the attendants or servants now to draw out what they had just put in the pitchers and are instructed to give some to the governor or the presider over this ceremony. It is interesting that they obey His instructions seemingly without any excuses or apprehensions. Remember they had just been a part of and witnessed all that had occurred prior to this point and knew that when they handed the goblet to the governor of the feast that he would be expecting to taste wine. But, these servants knew that they had just put water into these pitchers. It would have been a cruel trick and in all likelihood an insult to the governor to give him water instead of wine. In the end of v. 8 it says that they bore it to the governor as instructed seemingly without a comment or apology for what might happen. In v. 9 we see that even they, the servants, must have been waiting to see what would happen for they waited to observe his response.

In v. 9 the governor tastes what’s in the glass expecting to taste wine and is surprised at what he finds.  To his surprise he not only finds wine as he would expect, but finds wine of extremely great quality which was completely unexpected. This was late in the ceremony. The wine that they had set aside for this event had already run out. Maybe the guests were enjoying themselves too much and ended up staying longer than expected. In any case, it was late in the ceremony and at this stage you serve only what you could get your hands on or what you bought at a lesser price and lesser quality just in case the wedding went on longer than expected.

But to his surprise, the governor finds the opposite and is extremely impressed. So much so that we find him calling the bridegroom over and commends him on being such a good host. In all probability he would commend him openly making a public announcement to their guests. It would not be long before the miracle that had occurred would have been known by most if not all that were there. Remember they had 150 +/- gallons of excellent wine to account for. The bridegroom being put on the spot would have to explain himself. He would in all likelihood make some gesture toward Mary who in turn would look over at Jesus wondering what to say or do. The net result and effect was His disciples believed on Him. To some this miraculous event could seem somewhat small or low on the scale of miracles, but it made an impression on those who were there. John would have said ‘you had to be there’. Jesus leaves for Capernaum…

The Gospel of John Lesson 5 – John 1:35-51 (10-14-2012)

The Gospel of John

Lesson 5 – John 1:35-51

In v. 35 of the first chapter of John’s Gospel Jesus’ ministry begins to unfold. The day following Jesus’ baptism John the Baptist encounters Jesus again and again he testifies publicly that He is the One. Again John refers to Jesus as the ‘Lamb of God’ signifying that He will be God’s sacrifice for man’s sins…the sins of the whole world. In the following verses we see something interesting happen. We know after reading Isaiah’s prophesy that John the Baptist’s purpose concerning his ministry was to prepare the way for those that he came in contact with helping them to recognize Jesus and to prepare their hearts to follow Him when He appeared. We see here two of John’s disciples do just that. Read Jn. 1:35-8.

At first when we read this it is only natural to feel kind of sad for John in losing his followers. But, John had prepared them for this. They were following John’s instructions and teachings by doing this. The two mentioned here were not weak willed individuals being easily influenced church hopping leaving one church or ministry for a better or more prominent ministry, but they were in fact in all likelihood well grounded solid young men ready to give up their life to follow the Messiah when He had appeared. In their turning and following Jesus John knew that he had accomplished his mission.

Jesus’ ministry at this point would not have been very large, it was just beginning. As these two began to leave John for Christ I can see them look over their shoulder as they began to follow Christ, looking at John being sure that it was ok. John would reply silently to them with a nod and smile in his eye telling them to go ahead, this is what he had prepared them for.

In Jn. 3:22-30 we read John the Baptist’s response to those leaving his ministry to follow the Messiah. He summed it up to them in Jn. 3: 30 by saying ‘He must increase, but I must decrease’. The preceding verse, v. 29, tells us John’s heart saying that it was Joy for John to see this happening. A true best man is focused on the bridegroom and not on his own joy during a wedding ceremony. For the moment his only focus is on the bridegroom and what he can do to make this event a success for him. In our present culture this is truly a rare perspective. But, for John, this was the bridegroom’s moment and John had no problem stepping aside for the more prominent and timely ministry.

In John’s disciples leaving him for Jesus’ ministry in John chapter 1, we find that these two disciples were probably among the more mature and well grounded of John’s disciples. Not all of John’s disciples left to follow Jesus. They, however, recognized Jesus and Who He was right off following their God and Savior, willing to leave everything else behind. In taking this step we see them demonstrating their faith and commitment to Christ.

As they begin to follow Jesus He turns and asks them a very direct and pointed question, v. 38. He asks them ‘What do you seek’. This is a good question for all of us to ask ourselves and hear and analyze our answer as we come to Christ and begin our journey with Him. In other words, we need to ask ourselves, ‘what are you looking for’ and, or ‘what do you expect to get out of this encounter or relationship’.

It is interesting that they answered it correctly. They call Him ‘Master’, rightly so, and they even capitalized it giving it the right emphasis, and, go on to ask Him the right follow up question. They ask Him ‘where do you live?’ This is no casual encounter or conversation. Their desire was to come close and be with the Master and learn of Him. Their commitment was not a quick prayer and then on with life. They were not interested in having a false or superficial relationship. They were serious about what they are looking for.  John the Baptist had instructed them well.

Jesus responds by inviting them to come close, v. 39. He invites them to come and spend the day with Him. It was morning..around ten o’clock. It is interesting that John uses Roman time in his Gospel whereas the other Gospel writers make their references to time according to Hebrew system.

One of the disciples that followed Jesus was Andrew and in v. 40 and 41 we see the natural response of a truly committed follower of Jesus Christ. It tells us that Andrew did that which was natural for a committed Christ follower. He went public with his faith, being open about his decision and he went and told others inviting them to come and see also.

In v. 41 Andrew makes a bold statement concerning the One he has found. He does not beat around the bush or in this instance is not overly concerned with a fancy presentation. It is worth noting that he is sharing this with another family member, his brother Peter. This may have influenced his presentation somewhat. But, Andrew tells it like it is, sharing his experience of the day and closes with an invitation to come with him and see for himself.

Andrew’s story is convincing, Peter goes with him. Andrew having just been at Jesus’ dwelling place, Christ’ current residence knows where to find the Master and takes Peter there personally. Upon their arrival, Jesus recognizes Peter instantly, knowing not only who he is, but being able to see into Peter’s future as to what he will become. At this point in Peter’s life he was anything but stable and could in no way have been seen as a solid rock of stability. One thing that we do know about Peter is that he was influential concerning those around him being frequently mentioned as a natural leader with those that he was found to be with. Here we begin to see the foundation of what will become the Great Church of God being laid down.

v. 43-6 The days of Jesus’ ministry continues to unfold. We find Him going north to Galilee there finding Philip calling him also as a follower and disciple. It will be interesting to watch Christ develop this cast of characters with various backgrounds and different personalities into fully devoted followers of Jesus Christ that will eventually be willing to give their life for Him. That is all, except one of course who in reality did not commit to Him at all.

John, as well as the other Gospel writers, will portray to us real people each having their own strengths and weaknesses and their own challenges to overcome and conquer as they mature in their faith.  We will see that Phillip had his doubts to work through concerning the Savior and His ability (the feeding of the five thousand), but here we see Phillip do the same thing that we found Andrew doing. He goes and finds a friend and brings him to Jesus. To a new believer this is the most natural thing that they can do. One could ask what happens as we grow in our faith to change this dynamic??

Phillip goes and finds Nathanael, and Nathanael’s first response back after hearing Phillip’s comments was not so positive. He, Nathanael, evaluated what Phillip had told him and disqualified Phillip’s claims on the basis of origin. Nazareth was not a prominent town and was known for little to nothing. Phillip’s claims were large, much larger than someone coming from an out of the way no place like Nazareth. Nathanael’s response in essence was, ‘You have got to be kidding me. Not likely.’ But, Phillip’s witness was convincing. Nathanael gave in to curiosity and went with Phillip to see…in actuality probably not expecting too much.

In v. 47 we see Jesus greeting Nathanael as they are coming before any conversation has transpired. Jesus begins by telling Nathaniel things about himself that only someone that knew him would know. It is interesting to consider those that Jesus has chosen to follow Him so far. These were fine guys…good young men, young men with good reputations. They were good in character and were well grounded in the Scriptures and in the knowledge of spiritual things, present and future.

Nathanael’s response tells you that he was curious concerning Jesus’ comments and inquires as to the source of this information. Jesus’ response surprises Nathanael even further and makes quite an impression on him. Nathanael’s response back to Him was that there is no way that the One He was talking to could know such things except something supernatural was at work. He wastes no time giving in and acknowledging Jesus’ Lordship calling Him not only the Son of God, but also the King of Israel.

It is interesting to note that he not only acknowledges Christ as the Son of God, but also acknowledges Him as Israel’s King…the Prophesied One that they were looking for to arrive. Christ’s Kingship and the establishing of His Kingdom, which includes the Gospel of salvation, is the central theme of the Gospels and a main focus of the New Testament overall and was the fulfillment and expectation of Old Testament believers. Jesus will spend much time instructing His followers concerning the things of the Kingdom to come making it a focused destination for His followers. They all joined Him and followed Him knowing that He claimed to be the coming King of Israel that was prophesied to come in the O. T. Scriptures. Their commitment to Him as their Savior was just as strong as their commitment to Him as their King. Both of these details were wrapped up and were inseparable to them and were received as a package when they answered the call committing to following Him. Mk. 1:14, 38-9. Lk. 4:43 Acts 1:3, 6

In vs. 50 and 51 Jesus goes on with a somewhat prophetic statement telling Nathanael and those that were there to hold onto their hat and get strapped in because in essence they have not seen anything yet! In the chapters to come we will see Jesus live up to this claim. The Apostle John opens his argument with a bang and ends the first chapter with the same. In the chapters to come we will see Him continue to lay down a solid foundation for the Church adding to and establishing the Church, building a foundation that will withstand the test of time.

The Gospel of John Lesson 4 (10-06-2012)

The Gospel of John

Lesson 4 – John 1:25-34

In vs. 25-8 they question John about his baptizing equating baptizing as being done only in a valid way by someone special such as the Messiah or by Elijah. By baptizing John steps up his claim as to who he is. By doing so he also demands that those that hear him put a greater value on his message. As such he takes the authority position declaring he is worthy to be followed to the One he represents. He did not say this of himself, but, was commissioned to do so from the Lord.

It is interesting here that we do not know for sure what form of baptism John employed. This passage, as well as other references, does not tell us and therefore it is left open for debate as to whether John dunked, poured or sprinkled. John’s baptism, however, was referred to as one of  repentance for the remission of sins and, therefore, in all likelihood had reference to the ceremonial cleansing found in the O. T. in Leviticus chapter 15 and parts of chapter 16 resembling the taking of a bath cleansing away impurities. In Lev. 16:4 and 24 it refers to a ceremonial washing or cleansing followed by the putting on of holy garments which is the symbolism found in the New Testament baptismal event. This is probably why the priests and Levites found here in John 1:19-25 were familiar with John’s procedure and questioned him on it.

However, it appears that John’s baptism took this O. T. practice to a deeper and much more symbolic level equating his baptism with the remission of all sins and the looking for and the committing their life to the coming Messiah which was at their doorstep. The cleansing that John preached and spoke of was thorough and complete not just dealing with one specific act or action, but the putting off of man’s sin and his sinful nature and the putting on of ‘new garments’ found in Christ. In Jn. 3:23 it appears that he, John, needed much water to perform his baptisms, indicating that he in all probability entered into the water to baptize, again leading to the Leviticus symbolism. We also see other examples of this in Scripture to support this line of thinking such as Phillip when he baptized the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:36-9 going down into the water to baptize him.

In the sixth chapter of Romans the Apostle Paul adds to the symbolism by giving us the picture of identifying with Christ’s death in baptism, being buried, i. e. in the water, followed by being raised back up out of the water symbolizing alive again anew…in Christ. Paul again in Col. 2:12-3 uses this symbolism of being buried with Christ in baptism and followed by being raised with Christ being made alive again in newness of life. This form and practice of baptism will eventually be given to Christ’ followers, which will eventually become the Church, baptism being one of the only two sacraments given by Christ.

Concerning John’s baptism, John warned them harshly not to confuse the outward cleansing of the O. T. ceremonial washing with his baptism which symbolized an inward cleansing of man’s heart which was full and complete and as such prompted a change in action and was not just an event.

Although John was humble being fully content with who he was and the mission he was given he was also totally confident of that mission and Who he was serving. He had received his commission to preach and to baptize from the Lord directly. He had also received his message from the same. He told them in essence that he did not baptize to show his authority, but he did so because of his authority and his mission given to him by God.

In vs. 26 and 28 John declares his message to those sent from the Pharisees. In v. 26 he gives them in essence a warning by giving them a message to carry back to those who sent them telling them that they did not know the One that he represented and that they needed to pay attention to his message and to what was about to happen.

In Matthew chapter 3 v. 2 it tells us that John had been preaching a strong message proclaiming that the Kingdom of Heaven was about to appear. In the other Gospels John the Baptist is recorded as saying a little bit more when asked this question concerning baptism replying in essence that they needed to wake up and take notice telling them that ‘they haven’t seen anything yet!’

His reply in the other Gospels included that the baptism that is about to appear will not be with water which is initiated by man’s will desiring a change toward God. John did not see this step by man demonstrated by water baptism as insignificant. He viewed his baptism and those who came to God in this way as significant. But, what was about to appear had far greater significance and benefit to man, appearing as a ‘baptism of fire’ burning up sin and rebellion toward God in man’s heart making a completely ‘new’ and ‘different’ person. In Matthew chapter 3 v. 12 it says that this ‘fire’ of the ‘Holy Spirit’ will thoroughly purge impurities and will burn up the ‘chaff’ or these impurities with ‘unquenchable fire’.

Here too in v. 26 of John he is probably giving them an initial warning that when the ‘Real Prophet’ appears that they should not to be found responding to Him with externalism or going through the motions having no change of heart or life. Again, referencing Matthew’s Gospel in chapter 3 Matthew records John the Baptist speaking very pointedly and in a confrontational manor warning this same group found in John chapter 1 to not even bother coming if they don’t mean business with God expecting a change in they’re life. In this section concerning baptism John in essence told them that baptism was not a fashion statement, but more of a dividing point between the old way of life which was ‘against God’ and the new way of life ‘following after God’.

After giving us this background Jesus shows up on the scene, v. 29. It says that He showed up very shortly after John’s dialog with those sent from Israel’s religious leaders. Read vs. 28-34. It tells us in v. 31 that John did not know Jesus prior to them meeting, but that God had told John that he would recognize Him when he saw him. God also gave John a sign to look for of confirmation that would validate John’s encounter when it happened.

However, in v. 29 we read that when John first saw Jesus that he knew right away that He was it, He was the Promised One. We do not know for sure, but there is a good possibility that those sent from the Pharisees were still present, John being able to point Jesus out to them directly. As Jesus was coming toward John he declares ‘Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world’. In v. 31 he makes sure that they, and us, have no doubt as to who he says this One is. He tells them that this One was before him which is very significant. John and Jesus were in actuality related to each other as far as family goes. John’s mother Elisabeth and Jesus’ mother Mary were cousins (Lk. 1:36) . We know from the historical account that John was physically born first, being born about 6 months before Jesus’ birth. John’s reference here that Jesus was before him implies Jesus’ existence before John’s birth.

It is also interesting to note that even though John had never physically seen Jesus, that this was not the first time that they met…kinda, sorta. In Luke’s Gospel chapter 1 v 41 we read that Mary had gone to visit her cousin, Elisabeth, and when Mary and Elisabeth met it says that John leaped for Joy when he heard Mary greeting Elisabeth. It says that even in the womb John knew Christ’ Presence even though he had never physically laid eyes on Him. It is good to remember that the account of John tells us that John the Baptist was ‘full of the Holy Spirit’ right from birth and we read also in Jn. 1:33 that God spoke directly to John as He did to several others in the past. There is no way John could have been fooled.

In any case, John knew Christ right away…in other words, from John’s perspective Christ was easy to identify. His identity was unmistakable. There was no need for John to ask probing questions to be sure. However, God would validate John’s recognition of the Savior in a way that would make this encounter iron clad to John. God had told him to watch and he would see the Spirit of God descend upon the One that was the real McCoy. He testified to John that the Spirit would descend and stay upon the Promised One. John testified in Jn. 1:32 that this indeed happened. Now there was no doubt. Other Gospel accounts would add that at the time of this event that one more thing happened as further validation that this was indeed the Christ. It says that a voice from heaven spoke verifying that this was indeed Christ.

John’s testimony and the events that surrounded it would be enough to validate Jesus’ claim to the throne. In almost any court case one solid expert witness can often be enough to clinch the case. It is significant that all of the Gospel writers highlight John the Baptist’s testimony and encounter concerning these events as part of their argument. If one were considering these facts this would be enough, but the Apostle John will present much more.

As we continue toward the end of this chapter we see that Jesus after His baptism now goes public with His mission and ministry and begins to build and lay the foundation of the Church. Before we begin to look at the beginnings of the Church, I think that there are a couple additional points that are worthy of mentioning here concerning John the Baptist and his ministry.

First it is estimated that Jesus began His public ministry somewhere around the age of 30 years old. That would mean that John the Baptist was just a little older than that at the time of this meeting. We often wonder about the years prior to Jesus’ public ministry. There is not much recorded concerning them. But, the same could be asked about John the Baptist. John’s prior years to the events stated here are somewhat of a mystery. The question could be asked ‘what was John’s life like before these events?’ setting the stage for his public ministry. 

We know that he was anointed by God in a special way being filled with the Holy Spirit from his mother’s womb, Lk. 1:15. Although John was not perfect in nature and needed a Savior we know that he was a unique child in that he exhibited a wisdom and power and zeal for God at an early age. It says in Lk. 1:80 that he grew and became ‘strong’ in the spirit. Lk 1:17 tells us that this spiritual growth eventually matured and exhibited a life similar to the strength, power and influence and effectiveness to that of the prophet Elijah. It can be assumed that like Jesus, as a boy he was not only a spiritually wise child, but he was also a good boy. It says in Lk. 2:51and 52 that Jesus obeyed His parents and grew in wisdom and stature and in favor with both God and man, and John being ‘full of the Spirit’ in all likelihood was not much different. He would have held to the same standards and personality as Christ obeying his parents and the having favor with those around him.

Another interesting personality trait about John was that even as a young lad he loved the outdoors and seemed at home in the wilderness and wild settings. John was a young man that walked with God and it seems that he sought out these wilderness places to commune and grow strong in his relationship with God. It is interesting that his parents did not stop him for doing so and seemed to recognize God’s call on his life.

From what we know of him he appeared to be a rugged young man probably physically strong in nature. But, although he was physically strong it appears that he had a heart of compassion for the people for in Lk. 1:17 it says that though he had a straightforward message like Elijah, his message must have contained compassion for it melted the hearts of the fathers turning them toward their children and broke the heart of the disobedient and rebellious causing them to change their ways beginning a new life and new direction toward wisdom and repentance toward God.

John had an uncompromising message, but did not seem judgmental in spirit as he proclaimed the truth. We can assume that this was also true of him as a young man. The people heard his message and those seeking the truth loved to listen to him. It tells us in MK. 6:20 that even Herod whom John confronted concerning a sinful practice and lifestyle highly respected John, even protecting him, hearing John’s message gladly. We see in Jn. 1:35 that John had disciples and followers so he wasn’t a loner.

One more thing concerning the appearance of John the Baptist and the prophecy that surrounds him found in Isaiah. Is. 40:3-5 It is easy to understand how John can be the fulfillment of the first part of this prophesy. However, although the last part of this prophesy could be more figurative, many scholars believe it to be literal and yet to be fulfilled with the onset of the coming Millennial Kingdom when the Lord returns to earth for His reign. John’s testimony to Jesus being the Christ is a powerful one and carries a lot of weight in the Apostle John’s argument. 

The Gospel of John Lesson 3 (09-30-2012)

The Gospel of John

Lesson 3 – John 1:14-24

As we begin to take a look at v.14 I feel that it is important to do so as if we were in John’s shoes. If we were to be able to see or be with John when he wrote v. 14 I believe we would have seen him become overcome with emotion as he began to write this verse. In his own mind I believe that he would have had to pause before he penned this verse to examine what he was about to put down on paper. For what he was about to say was literally impossible no matter how you looked at it, I. e. the God of the universe becoming one single man. Impossible one might say, except for God.

Before penning v. 14 he would have had to stop and run through in his mind all or at least many of his experiences to see if what he had experienced would measure up to what he was about to say. John’s desire was to give us an accurate account. Here John lays it all on the line. He is going to make the claim that the One that he walked with was the One and the same as the One he has been describing in the previous verses, the God of all creation. He will eventually share many of his real life experiences backing up this claim found in v. 14, but on this end of his account I believe that he would have had to pause at this point and run through these experiences in his mind before he wrote down what he was about to say.

As he looked back in the past, as he played back through the experience in his mind, the one thing that would have stuck out in his mind above all else would have been the image that he saw of Christ. As he thought through things, if I were John I would have stopped when beholding the image of Christ that I saw in my memory and probably would have held up that image comparing it to what I was about to say. Remember, he was about to compare this image in his mind’s eye with the Word that he had just spoken of in the previous verses, i.e. the God of all the universe. But, John would have many memories that would measure up to what he was about to say and he is going to share them with us as we continue in this account.

Although he would have many memories to examine and think about, there were several of these memories that I think would have taken center stage in his mind right away. He would have probably thought about Jesus walking on the water, and… probably would have flashed back to the feeding of the five thousand. He also probably would have thought about the voice from heaven confirming that Jesus was the One and only the Son of God at Jesus’ baptism.

But the experiences that I think that he would have remembered the most and would have dominated his thoughts would have been those surrounding three events, the Transfiguration, the crucifixion and the resurrection and all of the happenings that surrounded them.

He would remember the bright light and our Lord being transfigured being found discussing future events with Moses and Elijah…the voice also testifying at that time that this was God (Mt. 17). He would have remembered the blackness of the day of the crucifixion (Mt. 27:45), the earth quaking,… the rending of the temple veil immediately following His death, the wind blowing, graves being opened (Mt. 27:50-4). And of course he would have remembered the resurrection and the events preceding and including our Lords ascension.

After running through many memories and replaying the experiences and encounters with Christ he would pen v. 14. There would be no way that it would not add up to what he was about to say. The evidence and the memories of his encounters with Christ would be overwhelming. After telling us in the previous verses Who this God was/is, he now connects the facts by saying that the Word described in vs. 1-5 became flesh, actually becoming a man. Read v. 14.

John after running through his memories of his experiences states that ‘we beheld His Glory, the Glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of Grace and Truth’. It would be something that would play back again and again to him. These events probably would have continually been on his mind. He would not be able to get it out of his head, nor would he want to.

He would repeat v. 14 again in a different way in his next letter that he would write to the Church abroad in I Jn. 1:1-2. In those verses he would again refer to the One he is talking about using the term ‘the Word’ also connecting this Word with all ‘life’ as he does in his Gospel in 1:4-5, 9. After reviewing these memories in his mind he would have no problem writing v. 14. In actuality he would have been compelled to write it after thinking of these things.

He goes on in vs. 15-34 backing up his claim by coming back to the witness of John the Baptist. (Read) By doing this he reminds us that John the Baptist is a significant witness to the truth of Jesus. Jesus had to come through the right door appearing on the scene in the right way at the right time or one would seriously doubt His validity.

Jesus Himself would make this statement in John chapter 10 telling us to make a close examination being sure of Who we are looking at and Who John is asking us to follow. Jesus makes a clear statement in John 10 to take a close look for there are many that will make unfounded claims deceiving also many. Jesus in John 10 tells us that He is the only One that fits this bill using strong language in that passage calling all others thieves and robbers who try to make such claims falsely trying to impersonate Him.

He also in John 10 offers us proof to validate His claim to the throne. Later in John chapter 10 he would tell the religious leaders of Israel the same, telling them to look at the details, telling them that when they look it will all be there. This is important. All false religions have individuals that are not able to back up their claim to the Throne because they enter the wrong way not having all of the details. Jesus tells us to look close at Him and you will find that it is all there. Not one detail can be found lacking or he would be deemed an imposter. He appears with all the details. Not one is missing. John the Baptist was one of those details. A Big one! Without John’s witness one would have serious doubts concerning the Apostle John’s claims.

But, in these verses, vs.15-34, the Apostle John makes it clear that John the Baptist gave the One that he is talking about a ‘Full’ endorsement, also giving us reasons for it. John the Baptist himself could have been voted number one by many if he had been seeking position and was not full of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus Himself eulogizes John in two of the Gospel accounts, Matthew 11:1-19 and Luke 7:18-35 making the comment in Matthew 11:11 that John was on the top as far as righteousness and being a servant of God goes. Jesus says in Matthew 11:11 that there was none greater born among women that lived such a righteous life as John. Matthew also says in that chapter that he was more than a prophet, 11:9. In v. 11:14 Matthew says that he was on the level with Elijah that great prophet. Jesus said that there was none greater in all of history than John. This is/was significant. John’s testimony carries a lot of weight.

The people also knew this to be true about John. They all came out to see John and would have followed him at the drop of a hat. All of the Gospel writers give John prominence in their accounts. 

But, John the Baptist had come with a purpose and he knew what it was. It was not to please himself. Nor did he come to please men. We see in v. 21  of chapter 1 of John’s Gospel that he attracted such attention and interest because of his ministry and righteous living that a delegation of Jewish priests and Levites was sent to question him and check him out wanting to know if he was that Great Prophet that was suppose to come mentioned in Deut. 18:15-19. It says in v. 20 of John’s Gospel that his life was so bold and righteous that they believed that he could have been the Christ talked about in Scripture.

But, John made it plain that he was not the Christ, but was the servant to the One they were looking for. He warned them that they needed to be ready for His appearing telling them that the Christ was about to show up, Jn. 1:15. John goes on to say that he is nothing compared to the One he is bearing witness to, v.23, and confesses that he himself was bringing a simple straightforward message, a message of repentance and commitment. A message that anyone could understand, bringing this message from the back woods so to speak. It was a message that pulled no punches. He will tell it like it is. He, John, will confess that he is nothing compared to the One that he represents not even being worthy to tie His shoe. But, at the same time John will have boldness in his message being fully faithful in the mission given him performing it to its completion.

In vs. 16-8 John the Baptist begins to give an account of the One he represents backing up the Apostle John’s claim. He says in v. 18 that Jesus is a ‘look alike’ to God, in actuality going further saying that Christ is ‘the exact replica’ and in reality going further still saying when you have seen Jesus you have seen God equating Jesus fully with the One and only God.

In vs. 16-7 he will make a differentiation between the Old and the New telling us that the Old through Moses brought the law, the standard of God that was unattainable to man and his efforts, and, the New that was offered to man in a totally different package. On the one hand was the one that man had to earn at a cost that was far too great for man to pay and was way out of man’s ability and league to satisfy. The other, the New, was very costly and precious, however, fully paid by Someone else, offered to man as a gift…grace.

The Apostle John will expound on this later in chapter 3 vs. 17-8 when he states clearly that under the Old because of God’s justice all stand condemned and that the purpose of Christ coming bringing the New was to offer God’s grace to man at His, God’s expense.

In v. 23 John the Baptist tags himself to Isaiah’s prophesy found in Isaiah chapter 40 v. 3. It is good to remember in reading this section that our Lord came to us in ‘humble beginnings’ on purpose, Himself being born in the lowly manger and sending us such a prominent messenger and message coming to us crying from the wilderness. God chose the method He would use to declare this very important message. John would be perfect for the part. It reminds us to be sure to look carefully for God and what He is doing or we may miss Him as we try to follow Him. We see other examples of those that God chose who had humble beginnings using them as they were to declare a great message, i. e. Mary, David, Joseph, Abraham…

I often wonder about the package that we look for God in in the American church of our day. It reminds me somewhat of how the Pharisees as Jews might have expected God to show up or work in they’re day. I am sure that the Pharisees were somewhat perplexed by John’s package and how such a prominent message could come through one like him. Initially I am sure that they probably passed him right by. If it wasn’t for John’s life and his powerful message they wouldn’t have given him a thought. They had been looking for a King to show up not a babe in a lowly manger or a voice that was crying out of the wilderness.

We to in our day need to be careful not to miss God if He is shows up in a simple package. God may show up in our life at an unlikely time through an unlikely source, bringing a word of wisdom or a practical message for us that could be easy to miss. We must always judge the message, this is true. But we must also be careful not to trip over the package that it may come in missing the message altogether. The Pharisees even as blind as they were could not deny that John the Baptist had a message from God that they might want to hear.