Notes on Verses 1-18
2:1 Creation is complete. There is no allowance here for creation to continue for eons of time to an eventual completion when Christ is born or any other such eventual ending date. This verse is clear in that it leaves no room for the idea that natural processes that exist today are responsible for the creation of our world and universe. It was finished.
2:2 God ended His work and rested.
2:3 God blessed the seventh day.
2:4 This is the first of several "signatures" applied to the different sections of the Book of Genesis. This section has no "patriarch" attached to it, since it doesn't describe the generations of a person, but rather the universe itself. It must have either been written down by God himself or revealed to Adam.
2:5 This verse reflects a mature creation. It was created and present on the Earth "before it grew". I take this to mean that it was created fully grown and began to grow after the rain started and it would begin reproduction at that time also.
2:6 The plants were watered by a heavy mist or dew from daily temperature cycles and the presence of humidity in the air.
2:7 Man's physical body is made up of the same physical elements at the actual Earth. This is something that is easily confirmed by modern science and was written down in this book long before the scientific tests were available. God delivered the "breath" of life to Man directly. If we had evolved from less complex animals, then we would have received our soul through that process.
2:8 It seems like God planted Eden especially for Adam. He had already created the heavens and the Earth and the plants and animals. He made a special place for man, His most treasured creation.
2:9 God "made to grow" in the garden the trees of life and the knowledge of good and evil. The tree of life was freely available to Adam and Eve. This fruit was not forbidden.
2:10 This river is most likely to be fed by springs, since God had not yet caused it to rain.
2:11-14 The names given do not correspond to any that presently exist. It is likely that the great flood changed the landscape dramatically.
2:15 Even in the Garden of Eden, man was expected to work. His life was not one of idleness and laziness, but one of service. He also had no possessions, so to speak, but was responsible for the whole Earth and its care-taking.
2:16-17 Adam was only given one rule. If he eats of the tree, he will die. He would be seperated from God (death) and he was be cast out and God would guard the tree of life and prevent Adam from eating its fruit.
2:18 God determined that Adam needed a "helper like him". This was on the sixth day.
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Study of Genesis - Week 3
Genesis 1:26-31
From the Defenders Study Bible:
"God consults with Himself here concerning the creation of man. Man is also differentiated from plants (which have a body) and animals (which have a body and consciousness) in that man was created in the image of God, with an eternal spirit capable of communication and fellowship with his Creator.
Man was not only created in God's spiritual image, he was also made in God's physical image. His body was specifically planned to be most suited for the divine fellowship (erect posture, upward-gazing countenance, facial expression varying with emotional feelings, brain and tongue designed for articulate speech - non of which are shared by animals). Furthermore, his body was designed to be like the body which God had planned from eternity that He Himself would one day assume - as Jesus Christ.
Question: How do you feel and what do you think about when you think that you were created in the image of God?
God's first command was that of producing abundant progeny sufficient to fill the earth. The animals may have been created in sufficient numbers to fill the earth, but humans began as only two people. The function of subduing the earth and having dominion over it would necessarily take a long time - first, for the growth of a large enough population to fill the earth, and second, for the acquiring enough knowledge and skill to enable man to bring it under full control and development.
The primevel commandmant to conquer and rule the earth has been called the dominion mandate (or first commission to mankind). It has not been revoked by God, but was specifically renewed and extended after the flood. The military terminology in no way implies hostility and resistence from the earth, for it was "very good". It suggests, rather, intensive study of the earth and its creatures and then application of that knowledge for the optimum benefit of mankind and the animals, and for the glory of God.
Note that no instruction was given to exercise dominion over other men, but only over the earth and the animals. Had man not rebelled against God's Word, all would have remained in perfect fellowship with God and, therefore, with one another. The situation was radically changed at the fall, and God's commandment accordingly expanded officially after the flood.
Question: How do you think this first commission from God applies today (since there are lots of people now)? How are we as people not being obedient?
It seems pretty clear that we were originally intended to be vegetarian. There was adequate nourishment and energy value available in fruits and herbs to enable both to accomplish the work God had given to them to do. The supply could not be exhausted, since the plants were designed to reproduce themselves through the seeds they produced.
Question: How did we shift from being vegetarian and is it possible to do that again? Is it a good goal or something that doesn't matter?
God says His creation was "very good". This verse demonstrates that the evolutionary ages that supposedly depict a billion-year evolution of life on the earth are not possible. A God that declares his creation is very good would be discredited by a billion years of inefficient waste and death that leads to an eventual evolution into a being that He created in His image. God is not a bumbler and not a cruel monster, but a God of love.
Question: How do you think God has demonstrated His love for us through His creation?
From the Defenders Study Bible:
"God consults with Himself here concerning the creation of man. Man is also differentiated from plants (which have a body) and animals (which have a body and consciousness) in that man was created in the image of God, with an eternal spirit capable of communication and fellowship with his Creator.
Man was not only created in God's spiritual image, he was also made in God's physical image. His body was specifically planned to be most suited for the divine fellowship (erect posture, upward-gazing countenance, facial expression varying with emotional feelings, brain and tongue designed for articulate speech - non of which are shared by animals). Furthermore, his body was designed to be like the body which God had planned from eternity that He Himself would one day assume - as Jesus Christ.
Question: How do you feel and what do you think about when you think that you were created in the image of God?
God's first command was that of producing abundant progeny sufficient to fill the earth. The animals may have been created in sufficient numbers to fill the earth, but humans began as only two people. The function of subduing the earth and having dominion over it would necessarily take a long time - first, for the growth of a large enough population to fill the earth, and second, for the acquiring enough knowledge and skill to enable man to bring it under full control and development.
The primevel commandmant to conquer and rule the earth has been called the dominion mandate (or first commission to mankind). It has not been revoked by God, but was specifically renewed and extended after the flood. The military terminology in no way implies hostility and resistence from the earth, for it was "very good". It suggests, rather, intensive study of the earth and its creatures and then application of that knowledge for the optimum benefit of mankind and the animals, and for the glory of God.
Note that no instruction was given to exercise dominion over other men, but only over the earth and the animals. Had man not rebelled against God's Word, all would have remained in perfect fellowship with God and, therefore, with one another. The situation was radically changed at the fall, and God's commandment accordingly expanded officially after the flood.
Question: How do you think this first commission from God applies today (since there are lots of people now)? How are we as people not being obedient?
It seems pretty clear that we were originally intended to be vegetarian. There was adequate nourishment and energy value available in fruits and herbs to enable both to accomplish the work God had given to them to do. The supply could not be exhausted, since the plants were designed to reproduce themselves through the seeds they produced.
Question: How did we shift from being vegetarian and is it possible to do that again? Is it a good goal or something that doesn't matter?
God says His creation was "very good". This verse demonstrates that the evolutionary ages that supposedly depict a billion-year evolution of life on the earth are not possible. A God that declares his creation is very good would be discredited by a billion years of inefficient waste and death that leads to an eventual evolution into a being that He created in His image. God is not a bumbler and not a cruel monster, but a God of love.
Question: How do you think God has demonstrated His love for us through His creation?
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Study of Genesis - Week 2
Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth."
The HCSB lists seven truths in this verse that the rest of the Bible is based:
1. God exists. The first step in our faith is to recognize that God exists.
2. God existed before there was a universe and will exist after the universe is gone.
3. God is the main character in the Bible.
4. God has done what no human could ever do - create. He is Creator God.
5. God is mysterious. The Hebrew word for God is plural, but all the verb tenses are singular, which alludes to His triune nature.
6. God is the Creator of Heaven and Earth. Not just manipulator of existing material - He calls it into being through His Word.
7. God is not dependent on the Universe, but it is totally dependent on God.
I think that it is interesting to note that there is no attempt to prove God exists in Genesis. This was written during or close to the time when no one doubted God. Adam and his family has no reason at all to doubt God existed.
Genesis Creation Story is Unique
The Genesis creation account is unique in ancient creation in five main areas:
1. The identity of God - God has no origin and no female counterpart. Many of the other stories were based in a sexual union of the male and female counterparts to create the world. The world in these stories is also divine, but Genesis places the world where it belongs, as a non-supernatural reality brought into existence by a supernatural God.
2. No rival Gods - The other versions are generally polytheistic and have some sort of struggle between rival gods.
3. Creation out of nothing - No preexisting eternal pre-created matter that was formed into our present reality. Other versions make use of some preexisting matter in one way or another.
4. The Value of Humanity - Humans have a special place in the Genesis account and are actually created in the image of God. Other versions place no real importance on humans in the created reality.
5. The Sabbath - This sabbath is not tied to the movement of the stars or some other naturalistic pattern and is unique to the Genesis account.
The theology presented in Genesis is so unique from that of the stories from surrounding areas that it is best explained as historical or divinely inspired and not the imagination of the author.
Read Genesis 1:1-25
Gap Theory - Some biblical scholars try to reconcile the Bible with Evolution by proposing a gap between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2. They change the word was to became and propose that this period was when Lucifer was cast down to earth. This doesn't follow the actual translation, etc...
Read Handout on old earth theory.
Question: Is there a particular issue that is giving you reason to doubt the Biblical account as literal (a day = a day, etc...)?
The HCSB lists seven truths in this verse that the rest of the Bible is based:
1. God exists. The first step in our faith is to recognize that God exists.
2. God existed before there was a universe and will exist after the universe is gone.
3. God is the main character in the Bible.
4. God has done what no human could ever do - create. He is Creator God.
5. God is mysterious. The Hebrew word for God is plural, but all the verb tenses are singular, which alludes to His triune nature.
6. God is the Creator of Heaven and Earth. Not just manipulator of existing material - He calls it into being through His Word.
7. God is not dependent on the Universe, but it is totally dependent on God.
I think that it is interesting to note that there is no attempt to prove God exists in Genesis. This was written during or close to the time when no one doubted God. Adam and his family has no reason at all to doubt God existed.
Genesis Creation Story is Unique
The Genesis creation account is unique in ancient creation in five main areas:
1. The identity of God - God has no origin and no female counterpart. Many of the other stories were based in a sexual union of the male and female counterparts to create the world. The world in these stories is also divine, but Genesis places the world where it belongs, as a non-supernatural reality brought into existence by a supernatural God.
2. No rival Gods - The other versions are generally polytheistic and have some sort of struggle between rival gods.
3. Creation out of nothing - No preexisting eternal pre-created matter that was formed into our present reality. Other versions make use of some preexisting matter in one way or another.
4. The Value of Humanity - Humans have a special place in the Genesis account and are actually created in the image of God. Other versions place no real importance on humans in the created reality.
5. The Sabbath - This sabbath is not tied to the movement of the stars or some other naturalistic pattern and is unique to the Genesis account.
The theology presented in Genesis is so unique from that of the stories from surrounding areas that it is best explained as historical or divinely inspired and not the imagination of the author.
Read Genesis 1:1-25
Gap Theory - Some biblical scholars try to reconcile the Bible with Evolution by proposing a gap between Genesis 1:1 and 1:2. They change the word was to became and propose that this period was when Lucifer was cast down to earth. This doesn't follow the actual translation, etc...
Read Handout on old earth theory.
Question: Is there a particular issue that is giving you reason to doubt the Biblical account as literal (a day = a day, etc...)?
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Study of Genesis
Study of Genesis
Materials used for study:
The New Defender's Study Bible, by Dr. Henry Morris
The Archaeological Study Bible
I will use other relevant materials to go into more detail on some topics throughout this study, but these are the main material that I will use, besides the scriptures, of course.
Genesis is the Book of Beginnings. It is foundational to our faith and our very existence. Genesis lays out for us in simple, but profound, language how we came to be and what we are doing here. The stories in Genesis are the first ones we teach to our kids, but seem to be to stories that we first put aside the more "educated" we become. The age of the earth, evolution, the origin of humans, and other subjects in popular science are sharply contrasted by what is contained in Genesis. I believe when we look at what facts are out there, we can find confidence in what is presented in Genesis and the foundation of what we believe. The basis of our faith - creation, sin, atonement, grace, redemption, faith, justification, salvation, and many others are presented in Genesis.
I believe that Genesis is very important to the life of a Christian. This book plainly lays out the history of the origin of mankind and of all creation. It also establishes our relationship to God and what he intends for our lives. The importance of our belief in Genesis comes down to this: is Genesis and the creation account, the fall, Abraham, and the tower of Babel, Noah and the flood, etc... just a collection of old legends or are they real history? I believe that the chief way that our young people begin to lose faith in what they are taught at church is how they are presented "facts" at school and on educational programs on TV, etc... about our origin that contradicts Genesis and its account of creation. Many of us Christians try to find a way to melt evolution theories together with creationism, which is not supported by what is written in Genesis.
Jesus himself referred often to Genesis and Genesis is referred to at least 200 times in the New Testament, which is more than any other book in the Old Testament. When Jesus appeared to the disciples on the Road to Emmaus, he referred to Genesis. Luke 24:27 says "Beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself."
Question: What do you think of when you hear about Evolution? How do you reconcile what popular science tells us about the age of the Earth and our creation with what the Bible says?
Author and Organization: Moses is the author/compiler. The first 11 books are called the "primeval history", books 12-50 are "patriarchal history". Moses wrote/compiled Genesis between 1440-1400 B.C. Genesis is really a collection of histories written by those that were there, beginning with Adam. Much of the book happened before Moses was born, but is written from an eye-witness account. There is no evidence that Moses was given this knowledge from God, so it is logical that he compiled writtings of previous authors. The sections are clearly defined by the inclusion of "These are the generations of ..." throughout the book. There are also some differences in the writing style between some of the sections, which supports this viewpoint.
The New Defender's Study Bible says "In sum, we can be absolutely confident that the events described in Genesis are not merely ancient legends or religious allegories, but the actual eyewitness accounts of the places, events, and people of those early days of earth history, written by men who were there, then transcribed to Moses, who finally compiled and edited them into a permanent record of those ancient times.
Question: If Genesis isn't historical fact, then what is it? What does Genesis present itself as - allegorical or factual. If Genesis is just stories, why is it in the Bible? Do you think it is possible that all of Genesis is an eyewitness account?
Materials used for study:
The New Defender's Study Bible, by Dr. Henry Morris
The Archaeological Study Bible
I will use other relevant materials to go into more detail on some topics throughout this study, but these are the main material that I will use, besides the scriptures, of course.
Genesis is the Book of Beginnings. It is foundational to our faith and our very existence. Genesis lays out for us in simple, but profound, language how we came to be and what we are doing here. The stories in Genesis are the first ones we teach to our kids, but seem to be to stories that we first put aside the more "educated" we become. The age of the earth, evolution, the origin of humans, and other subjects in popular science are sharply contrasted by what is contained in Genesis. I believe when we look at what facts are out there, we can find confidence in what is presented in Genesis and the foundation of what we believe. The basis of our faith - creation, sin, atonement, grace, redemption, faith, justification, salvation, and many others are presented in Genesis.
I believe that Genesis is very important to the life of a Christian. This book plainly lays out the history of the origin of mankind and of all creation. It also establishes our relationship to God and what he intends for our lives. The importance of our belief in Genesis comes down to this: is Genesis and the creation account, the fall, Abraham, and the tower of Babel, Noah and the flood, etc... just a collection of old legends or are they real history? I believe that the chief way that our young people begin to lose faith in what they are taught at church is how they are presented "facts" at school and on educational programs on TV, etc... about our origin that contradicts Genesis and its account of creation. Many of us Christians try to find a way to melt evolution theories together with creationism, which is not supported by what is written in Genesis.
Jesus himself referred often to Genesis and Genesis is referred to at least 200 times in the New Testament, which is more than any other book in the Old Testament. When Jesus appeared to the disciples on the Road to Emmaus, he referred to Genesis. Luke 24:27 says "Beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself."
Question: What do you think of when you hear about Evolution? How do you reconcile what popular science tells us about the age of the Earth and our creation with what the Bible says?
Author and Organization: Moses is the author/compiler. The first 11 books are called the "primeval history", books 12-50 are "patriarchal history". Moses wrote/compiled Genesis between 1440-1400 B.C. Genesis is really a collection of histories written by those that were there, beginning with Adam. Much of the book happened before Moses was born, but is written from an eye-witness account. There is no evidence that Moses was given this knowledge from God, so it is logical that he compiled writtings of previous authors. The sections are clearly defined by the inclusion of "These are the generations of ..." throughout the book. There are also some differences in the writing style between some of the sections, which supports this viewpoint.
The New Defender's Study Bible says "In sum, we can be absolutely confident that the events described in Genesis are not merely ancient legends or religious allegories, but the actual eyewitness accounts of the places, events, and people of those early days of earth history, written by men who were there, then transcribed to Moses, who finally compiled and edited them into a permanent record of those ancient times.
Question: If Genesis isn't historical fact, then what is it? What does Genesis present itself as - allegorical or factual. If Genesis is just stories, why is it in the Bible? Do you think it is possible that all of Genesis is an eyewitness account?
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Study of John - Lesson 18
John 3:1-8
Nicodemus came to Jesus at night. This was probably to keep it hush-hush. Jesus was quite a celebrity at the moment and the Pharisees were very interested in who He was and what He was going to do next. Nicodemus was a pharisee and possibly one of the top pharisees in the ruling counsel. He was the man selected to go to Jesus privately and find out what he could about Him.
The word "pharisee" means to separate or distinguish. It is clear that the Pharisees that are mentioned in the gospels were very influential in both national policy (under Roman rule), in local politics, and in religious matters throughout Israel. The Pharisees held the scriptures as how God expressed His will to the people. They believed people could and should make moral and life choices by applying the scriptures. This is not a bad thing, but they lost the meaning and relationship with God along the way.
The Pharisees had a particular problem with Jesus because He taught by His own authority, not only from the scriptures. Although Jesus taught by His own authority, the Pharisees were never able to prove how his teachings were contradictory to scripture. Jesus had a huge problem with the Pharisees because they were the teachers of the people, yet they missed the point of it all. They preached laws over relationship. Jesus preached relationship above all else.
I really love how Jesus always confounds the Pharisees and this is no exception. They ask leading questions and he traps them with their own words by looking into their hearts. In defense of Nicodemus, he isn't trying to trap Jesus, he just wants to know more about Him.
Knowing Nicodemus and the Pharisees, he began by confusing Nicodemus by giving him a simple "instruction" - that we must be born again. Nicodemus began immediately searching for a "formula" or set of rules that he could glean from Jesus' words. He was simply doing what he always did - taking scriptures and memorizing the "rules". He wasn't sure how someone could follow this rule, but he was willing to give it a shot. "But how can anyone be born when he is already old? Can he enter his mother's womb a second time and be born?", he asks.
Jesus goes on the explain that we must be born of water and spirit or we will never enter the kingdom of God. Being born represents new life. We were all born once. We must be made new again. Water is used here as a symbol of renewal and being made clean. He is also discussing the importance of becoming new or reborn through spiritual renewal. Baptism is a symbol and sign of our renewal in Jesus Christ. The Pharisees were very interested in baptism and send a group to see what John the Baptist was up to with his baptism and talk of repentance. Jesus knows this. He gets right to the point and explains that we must go ever further - past repentance to renewal. He explains how to reach the kingdom of God, we must take our rebirth to completion with a complete renewal. The old self passes away and the new man is born of the spirit. This is only possible through Jesus.
Question: Jesus challenged Nicodemus to look at things through different eyes. Nicodemus was used to taking the scriptures and turning them into a set of rules to follow. He may have had good intentions, but the Pharisees lost the meaning along the way. How has God challenged you to see something in your life through new eyes? Have you ever asked Jesus a leading question and been confounded by the answer?
Nicodemus came to Jesus at night. This was probably to keep it hush-hush. Jesus was quite a celebrity at the moment and the Pharisees were very interested in who He was and what He was going to do next. Nicodemus was a pharisee and possibly one of the top pharisees in the ruling counsel. He was the man selected to go to Jesus privately and find out what he could about Him.
The word "pharisee" means to separate or distinguish. It is clear that the Pharisees that are mentioned in the gospels were very influential in both national policy (under Roman rule), in local politics, and in religious matters throughout Israel. The Pharisees held the scriptures as how God expressed His will to the people. They believed people could and should make moral and life choices by applying the scriptures. This is not a bad thing, but they lost the meaning and relationship with God along the way.
The Pharisees had a particular problem with Jesus because He taught by His own authority, not only from the scriptures. Although Jesus taught by His own authority, the Pharisees were never able to prove how his teachings were contradictory to scripture. Jesus had a huge problem with the Pharisees because they were the teachers of the people, yet they missed the point of it all. They preached laws over relationship. Jesus preached relationship above all else.
I really love how Jesus always confounds the Pharisees and this is no exception. They ask leading questions and he traps them with their own words by looking into their hearts. In defense of Nicodemus, he isn't trying to trap Jesus, he just wants to know more about Him.
Knowing Nicodemus and the Pharisees, he began by confusing Nicodemus by giving him a simple "instruction" - that we must be born again. Nicodemus began immediately searching for a "formula" or set of rules that he could glean from Jesus' words. He was simply doing what he always did - taking scriptures and memorizing the "rules". He wasn't sure how someone could follow this rule, but he was willing to give it a shot. "But how can anyone be born when he is already old? Can he enter his mother's womb a second time and be born?", he asks.
Jesus goes on the explain that we must be born of water and spirit or we will never enter the kingdom of God. Being born represents new life. We were all born once. We must be made new again. Water is used here as a symbol of renewal and being made clean. He is also discussing the importance of becoming new or reborn through spiritual renewal. Baptism is a symbol and sign of our renewal in Jesus Christ. The Pharisees were very interested in baptism and send a group to see what John the Baptist was up to with his baptism and talk of repentance. Jesus knows this. He gets right to the point and explains that we must go ever further - past repentance to renewal. He explains how to reach the kingdom of God, we must take our rebirth to completion with a complete renewal. The old self passes away and the new man is born of the spirit. This is only possible through Jesus.
Question: Jesus challenged Nicodemus to look at things through different eyes. Nicodemus was used to taking the scriptures and turning them into a set of rules to follow. He may have had good intentions, but the Pharisees lost the meaning along the way. How has God challenged you to see something in your life through new eyes? Have you ever asked Jesus a leading question and been confounded by the answer?
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Study of John - Week 17
b. Verses 23-25
Jesus spent some time in Jerusalem focusing on the people. He healed the sick, and comforted the sorrowing, but He did not stand up and say that He was the Messiah. During this time, Jesus was enormously popular and could have easily taken advantage of this fact. Jesus already knew that people would accept him, but He also knew that many would fall away when He told them what He had to do and the changes that people had to make in their own lives.
Why didn’t Jesus seize the moment? Jesus was not living for the temporal world. He was thinking eternally. He knew that it didn’t matter in the long run and He was there for a purpose. He just wanted to love people and help them while he was in Jerusalem. If he had claimed to be the Messiah by actually saying it and proving it by some even greater sign, then He could have set off a celebration and word would have spread throughout Israel and the world. It would have been a pointless distraction and would have prolonged or prevented Jesus from accomplishing His actual task of dying on the cross as a payment for all sin. God placed the responsibility on Jesus. Jesus could have chosen not to go through with it. Jesus could have established Himself as King of the world and chosen not to die for our sins, but He didn’t. Just like we have a choice to accept Him or not, Jesus also had a choice.
Jesus knew that some people were not believers for the long haul and they just were there for the spectacle. Jesus never asked anyone to believe in Him unless they fully understood what that would mean. Also, Jesus did not need to prove to Himself the hearts of men, he already knew their hearts.
I think that Jesus could have taken advantage of His popularity and still found a way to accomplish His task in the end. Why didn’t He? He really reveals his heart. Jesus has a heart for us and He would rather spend time helping and ministering to people than being hailed as an earthly king or something. In other words, He isn’t in it for the fame; He’s in it for us.
Question: Have you ever had someone give up something in order to help you, like Jesus gave up the glory of the moment to be able to be close to the people and minister to them? Have you given up something to help someone else? What did it reveal to you about God and His heart for you?
Jesus spent some time in Jerusalem focusing on the people. He healed the sick, and comforted the sorrowing, but He did not stand up and say that He was the Messiah. During this time, Jesus was enormously popular and could have easily taken advantage of this fact. Jesus already knew that people would accept him, but He also knew that many would fall away when He told them what He had to do and the changes that people had to make in their own lives.
Why didn’t Jesus seize the moment? Jesus was not living for the temporal world. He was thinking eternally. He knew that it didn’t matter in the long run and He was there for a purpose. He just wanted to love people and help them while he was in Jerusalem. If he had claimed to be the Messiah by actually saying it and proving it by some even greater sign, then He could have set off a celebration and word would have spread throughout Israel and the world. It would have been a pointless distraction and would have prolonged or prevented Jesus from accomplishing His actual task of dying on the cross as a payment for all sin. God placed the responsibility on Jesus. Jesus could have chosen not to go through with it. Jesus could have established Himself as King of the world and chosen not to die for our sins, but He didn’t. Just like we have a choice to accept Him or not, Jesus also had a choice.
Jesus knew that some people were not believers for the long haul and they just were there for the spectacle. Jesus never asked anyone to believe in Him unless they fully understood what that would mean. Also, Jesus did not need to prove to Himself the hearts of men, he already knew their hearts.
I think that Jesus could have taken advantage of His popularity and still found a way to accomplish His task in the end. Why didn’t He? He really reveals his heart. Jesus has a heart for us and He would rather spend time helping and ministering to people than being hailed as an earthly king or something. In other words, He isn’t in it for the fame; He’s in it for us.
Question: Have you ever had someone give up something in order to help you, like Jesus gave up the glory of the moment to be able to be close to the people and minister to them? Have you given up something to help someone else? What did it reveal to you about God and His heart for you?
Study of John - Week 16
b. Verses 18-22
Jesus cleansing the temple was something that the Jews immediately reacted to. It seems obvious that they would. The temple was something that was more important to them than just about anything else. This act solidified the belief of the disciples and it got the attention of the Jewish religious leaders.
The disciples recalled the Psalm that the messiah would be consumed with zeal for the house of the Lord. This act was something that they recognized as a statement by Jesus of “Look everyone. I am the Messiah!” Although we don’t see Him actually saying it here, He was saying it with this act.
The Jewish leaders obviously were interested in who it was that was messing up the temple during the most important celebration of the year (and the most profitable). They demanded to know by what authority Jesus did this. They actually asked for a sign. This isn’t a question you ask someone unless you think that they might be God or a messiah. Jesus already had somewhat of a reputation and then he performs such a bold act right in the middle of Jerusalem, they knew better than to just arrest Him and throw Him in jail. Everyone recognized that Jesus was making a claim to be the messiah and they asked Him to prove it.
What did Jesus say? He said that if they would destroy this temple, He would rebuild it in three days. It was somewhat of a challenge to the Jewish leaders. What did He mean? Well, He was certainly referring to Himself. His disciples remembered what He said after He was raised from the dead. Also, he was referring to the temple and what it stood for. Jesus told the woman at the well that the day was coming when men would worship God, not in Mount Gerizim, nor in Jerusalem, but in spirit and truth (John 4:21). This is part of His message that day, that the importance of the physical structures and empty rituals were going away and He was ushering in a new covenant. When Jesus was crucified, the temple curtain that was what separated men from God in the temple was torn from top to bottom.
This was a little hard for the Jews to swallow, since they treasured their temple and had waited a long time to get it built the way it stood. The important concept to grab from these verses is that we have no way to God, but through Jesus. No temple, no ritual, no tax, no anything that we can do without Jesus. He came to show us the way, the truth, and the life and we have to recognize that. We are here without a way to God, except for Jesus. Jesus shows us a lot in this one act. Most importantly that He came to be the way for us and that the true temple is in each of us through Him.
Question: Have you ever asked for a sign from God? Have you ever received a sign from God? Has God ever shown you in some way that what you are most proud of has become a hindrance in your life (like the temple for the Jews)?
Jesus cleansing the temple was something that the Jews immediately reacted to. It seems obvious that they would. The temple was something that was more important to them than just about anything else. This act solidified the belief of the disciples and it got the attention of the Jewish religious leaders.
The disciples recalled the Psalm that the messiah would be consumed with zeal for the house of the Lord. This act was something that they recognized as a statement by Jesus of “Look everyone. I am the Messiah!” Although we don’t see Him actually saying it here, He was saying it with this act.
The Jewish leaders obviously were interested in who it was that was messing up the temple during the most important celebration of the year (and the most profitable). They demanded to know by what authority Jesus did this. They actually asked for a sign. This isn’t a question you ask someone unless you think that they might be God or a messiah. Jesus already had somewhat of a reputation and then he performs such a bold act right in the middle of Jerusalem, they knew better than to just arrest Him and throw Him in jail. Everyone recognized that Jesus was making a claim to be the messiah and they asked Him to prove it.
What did Jesus say? He said that if they would destroy this temple, He would rebuild it in three days. It was somewhat of a challenge to the Jewish leaders. What did He mean? Well, He was certainly referring to Himself. His disciples remembered what He said after He was raised from the dead. Also, he was referring to the temple and what it stood for. Jesus told the woman at the well that the day was coming when men would worship God, not in Mount Gerizim, nor in Jerusalem, but in spirit and truth (John 4:21). This is part of His message that day, that the importance of the physical structures and empty rituals were going away and He was ushering in a new covenant. When Jesus was crucified, the temple curtain that was what separated men from God in the temple was torn from top to bottom.
This was a little hard for the Jews to swallow, since they treasured their temple and had waited a long time to get it built the way it stood. The important concept to grab from these verses is that we have no way to God, but through Jesus. No temple, no ritual, no tax, no anything that we can do without Jesus. He came to show us the way, the truth, and the life and we have to recognize that. We are here without a way to God, except for Jesus. Jesus shows us a lot in this one act. Most importantly that He came to be the way for us and that the true temple is in each of us through Him.
Question: Have you ever asked for a sign from God? Have you ever received a sign from God? Has God ever shown you in some way that what you are most proud of has become a hindrance in your life (like the temple for the Jews)?
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Study of John - Week 15
b. Verses 12-17
Jesus makes a whip of cords and goes through the temple clearing out all the money changers and animals, etc… Jesus shows us his anger and how it can be applied to bring about a cleansing. Sometimes we feel like anger is a bad emotion and we need to learn to suppress it. Jesus shows us how anger can be a good emotion when it is used for the Lord’s purposes.
This event is also detailed in the other three Gospels put either this same event or another clearing of the Temple toward the end of Jesus’ ministry. The explanations are: 1. He did this twice; 2. John is right and the others are wrong; 3. John died before he could get this Gospel in final form and someone misplaced this passage; 4. John placed it here and wasn’t interested about placing it in the correct place. This last possibility makes sense from one stand point. The author was careful about addressing certain issues in the beginning of his gospel. This could have been placed here immediately after Jesus’ first miracle to show how Jesus was the fulfillment of prophecy and is the Messiah and Son of God.
Why did Jesus become so angry? It was outright extortion of God’s children that drove him to do what He did. He did it out of compassion for His children. This occurred during Passover and during that time Jewish pilgrims came from all over the world to celebrate Passover in Jerusalem. It is estimated that as many as two and a half million Jews traveled to the temple to celebrate the Passover. Part of the celebration was a tax and a sacrifice. The tax was a couple of day’s wages at the time and the sacrifice had to be an animal that was without flaw. Where the extortion came in was the only currency accepted for the tax was a Jewish shekel. These pilgrims that had brought with them other currency had to change their money and get Jewish shekels and they were charged as much as another day’s wage for the exchange. Also, the inspection of the animals that were purchased outside of the temple (which were much cheaper) would almost always result in a rejection. This meant that the only animals that were accepted as flawless were those purchased inside the temple. Again, these were much more expensive than those purchased outside. Jesus was filled with anger at the thievery taking place in the temple by those in charge of doing the work of the Lord.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay talks about the displeasure of God with empty sacrifices and says that this was part of what drove Jesus to cleanse the Temple. He not only hated the extortion, but hated the empty sacrifices for the sake of tradition and not from the heart. He mentions several verses in the Old Testament where the prophets talk about God growing tired of empty offerings and sacrifices, but I thought about God as a Father and how that would feel. If my kids only gave me hugs and kisses out of habit or because they were supposed to before they went to bed but there was no feeling – it would be devastating. That is how God feels about empty worship. His loves His children and wants us to return that love.
Another interesting thing about this story is that in Mark, Jesus says “My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer”. This in interesting because the area where the money changers had set up shop is the Court of the Gentiles. This is the area where Gentiles were allowed to enter and pray. There was so much going on in this area that no one could get any prayer done. It is also interesting how Jesus emphasizes here that the Lord’s house is for all nations and cleanses the area specifically used by the Gentiles.
How is it that one man could single handedly clear all of this from the Temple? He must have had an awesome presence. I can’t imagine that I could go in somewhere with a whip and really clear a place out. Someone would grab me and call the cops. How is it that Jesus was able to do this and the people scattered so quickly?
The disciples immediately thought of Psalms 69:9, which referring to the Messiah says, that He will be burning with zeal for the house of the Lord. This was immediately obvious to the disciples, but it was also obvious to the Jews that wanted to know by what authority Jesus did what he did. They knew that this act was one that would be done by the Messiah.
Question: What is in our “Temple” that keeps us from being able to worship God in a way that is meaningful to us and to God? How can we “cleanse” our temple and reestablish the natural reverence that we should have in His presence?
Jesus makes a whip of cords and goes through the temple clearing out all the money changers and animals, etc… Jesus shows us his anger and how it can be applied to bring about a cleansing. Sometimes we feel like anger is a bad emotion and we need to learn to suppress it. Jesus shows us how anger can be a good emotion when it is used for the Lord’s purposes.
This event is also detailed in the other three Gospels put either this same event or another clearing of the Temple toward the end of Jesus’ ministry. The explanations are: 1. He did this twice; 2. John is right and the others are wrong; 3. John died before he could get this Gospel in final form and someone misplaced this passage; 4. John placed it here and wasn’t interested about placing it in the correct place. This last possibility makes sense from one stand point. The author was careful about addressing certain issues in the beginning of his gospel. This could have been placed here immediately after Jesus’ first miracle to show how Jesus was the fulfillment of prophecy and is the Messiah and Son of God.
Why did Jesus become so angry? It was outright extortion of God’s children that drove him to do what He did. He did it out of compassion for His children. This occurred during Passover and during that time Jewish pilgrims came from all over the world to celebrate Passover in Jerusalem. It is estimated that as many as two and a half million Jews traveled to the temple to celebrate the Passover. Part of the celebration was a tax and a sacrifice. The tax was a couple of day’s wages at the time and the sacrifice had to be an animal that was without flaw. Where the extortion came in was the only currency accepted for the tax was a Jewish shekel. These pilgrims that had brought with them other currency had to change their money and get Jewish shekels and they were charged as much as another day’s wage for the exchange. Also, the inspection of the animals that were purchased outside of the temple (which were much cheaper) would almost always result in a rejection. This meant that the only animals that were accepted as flawless were those purchased inside the temple. Again, these were much more expensive than those purchased outside. Jesus was filled with anger at the thievery taking place in the temple by those in charge of doing the work of the Lord.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay talks about the displeasure of God with empty sacrifices and says that this was part of what drove Jesus to cleanse the Temple. He not only hated the extortion, but hated the empty sacrifices for the sake of tradition and not from the heart. He mentions several verses in the Old Testament where the prophets talk about God growing tired of empty offerings and sacrifices, but I thought about God as a Father and how that would feel. If my kids only gave me hugs and kisses out of habit or because they were supposed to before they went to bed but there was no feeling – it would be devastating. That is how God feels about empty worship. His loves His children and wants us to return that love.
Another interesting thing about this story is that in Mark, Jesus says “My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer”. This in interesting because the area where the money changers had set up shop is the Court of the Gentiles. This is the area where Gentiles were allowed to enter and pray. There was so much going on in this area that no one could get any prayer done. It is also interesting how Jesus emphasizes here that the Lord’s house is for all nations and cleanses the area specifically used by the Gentiles.
How is it that one man could single handedly clear all of this from the Temple? He must have had an awesome presence. I can’t imagine that I could go in somewhere with a whip and really clear a place out. Someone would grab me and call the cops. How is it that Jesus was able to do this and the people scattered so quickly?
The disciples immediately thought of Psalms 69:9, which referring to the Messiah says, that He will be burning with zeal for the house of the Lord. This was immediately obvious to the disciples, but it was also obvious to the Jews that wanted to know by what authority Jesus did what he did. They knew that this act was one that would be done by the Messiah.
Question: What is in our “Temple” that keeps us from being able to worship God in a way that is meaningful to us and to God? How can we “cleanse” our temple and reestablish the natural reverence that we should have in His presence?
Study of John - Week 14
iii. Chapter 2
a. Verses 1-11
Jesus performs his first miracle in these verses. He has revealed Himself to His disciples and given them a glimpse of what He is about. This miracle is unique to the Gospel of John and is filled with little insights into Jesus’ character. Cana was a small village that was visible from Nazareth, which partly explains why Mary and Jesus were invited to the feast.
A Jewish wedding was something in those days that took several days. By custom, the actual wedding ceremony took place on a Wednesday night (this means that Jesus actually met Andrew and John on the Sabbath), but the feast and celebration would last much longer. The couple was paraded all around town and would spend their first week of marriage hosting guests. They would wear crowns and would be treated as king and queen for a week. It was a huge occasion in a time where poverty and hard work were the norm. It was something everyone in town participated in and enjoyed.
Mary was apparently in a position of responsibility of some kind or at least in the inner circle of those that were responsible for preparing for the feast. She was in the know about the wine before it became common knowledge among the guests. It is in this situation that she turned to Jesus for help.
It is also apparent that Joseph (Jesus’ earthly Dad) was not present at the feast and it is believed that this is because he was already dead. It is also believed that Jesus had taken responsibility for His Mother and siblings. Jesus was only able to leave home and begin his ministry after the siblings were able to take care of themselves. Mary turned to Jesus because she was already in a habit of turning to Him and she knew that He would know what to do. She didn’t know what He would do, but that if she turned to Him for help, He would be able to take care of the situation. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions a legend that tells of the time when Jesus was a baby, that when people were troubled in Nazareth, that they would go and “look upon Mary’s child” and would find themselves feeling better. I think it was Mary’s habit to look to Jesus for help. It’s interesting that she doesn’t ask Him to do anything; she just tells Him the wine is gone.
First, he addresses His mother. It kind of seems a little harsh to us, but if we read it with the occasion in mind it was a kind exchange between Jesus and Mary. I can picture him smiling as he asks His mother why she is asking Him about the wine, when He already knows what she has in mind. Jesus says to her “Dear Woman, why do you involve me?” This is the same way He addresses her when He is on the cross (John 19:26). The situation with the wine was something that concerned Mary and not Jesus. She was the one involved in the preparations and He was just a guest. He also says, “My time has not yet come”, meaning He wasn’t sure that this was the time for him to reveal Himself in such a way to His disciples. Maybe He had been thinking about it or waiting on God to reveal the time to Him, but he wasn’t sure it would be when His mother asked Him to do something. It seems very human to me – maybe he was a little self conscious (maybe not). I imagine that Jesus may have done things like this throughout His life, but in a private way. In the end, he did take care of the situation that concerned His mother. He also helped prevent the embarrassment of the bridegroom.
I picture him telling the servants under his breath to fill the jars. They go and do it, not really knowing why, but most likely anticipating something unusual is about to happen. When they return, he again says quietly to them to draw it out and give it to the master of the banquet. By this time the disciples had been watching what was going on and took notice. I don’t think anyone that knew said anything at the time, since it wasn’t their place, but they didn’t forget.
This reveals a lot about Jesus. First of all, he was comfortable and welcome at a joyous occasion. When you look at other religious figure (take the Pope for example) they bring with them a gloom so to speak over a party. Also, Jesus cares about people and our trivial concerns. It isn’t really the end of the world to run out of wine. It may be embarrassing, but they would live through it. Jesus does this out of compassion for those that were celebrating. He didn’t perform this miracle at a huge gathering or where there were royalty, but did it at a place that was relatively humble.
The significance of the act itself tells a story. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions the number of jars was important, as well as, the amount of water in each. First, six jars is a number that signifies being incomplete. These represent the Law of Moses. Jesus took the imperfect Law and made it perfect. Next, each vessel held about 20-30 gallons, which adds up to a lot of wine (around 180 gallons). This signifies the superabundance of grace we have in Christ.
Question: In what way has Jesus met a small need of yours? What can we learn from Mary and her relationship with Jesus?
a. Verses 1-11
Jesus performs his first miracle in these verses. He has revealed Himself to His disciples and given them a glimpse of what He is about. This miracle is unique to the Gospel of John and is filled with little insights into Jesus’ character. Cana was a small village that was visible from Nazareth, which partly explains why Mary and Jesus were invited to the feast.
A Jewish wedding was something in those days that took several days. By custom, the actual wedding ceremony took place on a Wednesday night (this means that Jesus actually met Andrew and John on the Sabbath), but the feast and celebration would last much longer. The couple was paraded all around town and would spend their first week of marriage hosting guests. They would wear crowns and would be treated as king and queen for a week. It was a huge occasion in a time where poverty and hard work were the norm. It was something everyone in town participated in and enjoyed.
Mary was apparently in a position of responsibility of some kind or at least in the inner circle of those that were responsible for preparing for the feast. She was in the know about the wine before it became common knowledge among the guests. It is in this situation that she turned to Jesus for help.
It is also apparent that Joseph (Jesus’ earthly Dad) was not present at the feast and it is believed that this is because he was already dead. It is also believed that Jesus had taken responsibility for His Mother and siblings. Jesus was only able to leave home and begin his ministry after the siblings were able to take care of themselves. Mary turned to Jesus because she was already in a habit of turning to Him and she knew that He would know what to do. She didn’t know what He would do, but that if she turned to Him for help, He would be able to take care of the situation. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions a legend that tells of the time when Jesus was a baby, that when people were troubled in Nazareth, that they would go and “look upon Mary’s child” and would find themselves feeling better. I think it was Mary’s habit to look to Jesus for help. It’s interesting that she doesn’t ask Him to do anything; she just tells Him the wine is gone.
First, he addresses His mother. It kind of seems a little harsh to us, but if we read it with the occasion in mind it was a kind exchange between Jesus and Mary. I can picture him smiling as he asks His mother why she is asking Him about the wine, when He already knows what she has in mind. Jesus says to her “Dear Woman, why do you involve me?” This is the same way He addresses her when He is on the cross (John 19:26). The situation with the wine was something that concerned Mary and not Jesus. She was the one involved in the preparations and He was just a guest. He also says, “My time has not yet come”, meaning He wasn’t sure that this was the time for him to reveal Himself in such a way to His disciples. Maybe He had been thinking about it or waiting on God to reveal the time to Him, but he wasn’t sure it would be when His mother asked Him to do something. It seems very human to me – maybe he was a little self conscious (maybe not). I imagine that Jesus may have done things like this throughout His life, but in a private way. In the end, he did take care of the situation that concerned His mother. He also helped prevent the embarrassment of the bridegroom.
I picture him telling the servants under his breath to fill the jars. They go and do it, not really knowing why, but most likely anticipating something unusual is about to happen. When they return, he again says quietly to them to draw it out and give it to the master of the banquet. By this time the disciples had been watching what was going on and took notice. I don’t think anyone that knew said anything at the time, since it wasn’t their place, but they didn’t forget.
This reveals a lot about Jesus. First of all, he was comfortable and welcome at a joyous occasion. When you look at other religious figure (take the Pope for example) they bring with them a gloom so to speak over a party. Also, Jesus cares about people and our trivial concerns. It isn’t really the end of the world to run out of wine. It may be embarrassing, but they would live through it. Jesus does this out of compassion for those that were celebrating. He didn’t perform this miracle at a huge gathering or where there were royalty, but did it at a place that was relatively humble.
The significance of the act itself tells a story. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions the number of jars was important, as well as, the amount of water in each. First, six jars is a number that signifies being incomplete. These represent the Law of Moses. Jesus took the imperfect Law and made it perfect. Next, each vessel held about 20-30 gallons, which adds up to a lot of wine (around 180 gallons). This signifies the superabundance of grace we have in Christ.
Question: In what way has Jesus met a small need of yours? What can we learn from Mary and her relationship with Jesus?
Study of John - Week 13
g. Verses 43-51 “The next day Jesus decided to leave for Galilee. Finding Phillip he said to him, “Follow me.” Phillip, like Andrew and Peter, was from the town of Bethsaida. Phillip found Nathanael and told him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and whom the prophets also wrote – Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked. “Come and see,” said Phillip. When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, “Here is a true Isrealite, in whom there is nothing false.” “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Phillip called you.” Then Nathanael declared “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Isreal.” Jesus said, “You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You shall see greater things than that.” He then added, “I tell you the truth, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man.”
Jesus finds Phillip, in a town along the way and says simply “Follow me.” He did and also went to find someone right away and brought him to Jesus. This is a natural reaction when someone is excited about something. They want to show everybody while they are still excited. With Jesus, it is something that we have always longed for and were built to long for. It is natural for us to share this “pearl of great price” that we have found.
Simple testimony is the best. We really don’t need to know lots of scripture to win others to Christ; we just need to bring them to Him. In other words, it is the story of the cross and how it impacts our own life that is likely to win others to Christ, not our superior arguments or vast knowledge. He starts out talking about Moses and the prophets, but that isn’t really anything that impresses Nathanael. Phillip doesn’t argue with Nathanael, he just says “Come and see.”
Jesus does the same look over that he did with Peter and the result is the same. Nathanael’s name is not mentioned in the other gospels. It is presumed that he is the same person called Bartholomew in the other Gospels. The fig tree is also somewhat symbolic to Jews at the time and is a symbol of peace. Jesus speaks to Nathanael’s heart when he says that he saw him under the fig tree. It was as much about his inner longings as it was about his actual physical location.
Question: When is the last time you felt like Jesus was your treasure.
Jesus finds Phillip, in a town along the way and says simply “Follow me.” He did and also went to find someone right away and brought him to Jesus. This is a natural reaction when someone is excited about something. They want to show everybody while they are still excited. With Jesus, it is something that we have always longed for and were built to long for. It is natural for us to share this “pearl of great price” that we have found.
Simple testimony is the best. We really don’t need to know lots of scripture to win others to Christ; we just need to bring them to Him. In other words, it is the story of the cross and how it impacts our own life that is likely to win others to Christ, not our superior arguments or vast knowledge. He starts out talking about Moses and the prophets, but that isn’t really anything that impresses Nathanael. Phillip doesn’t argue with Nathanael, he just says “Come and see.”
Jesus does the same look over that he did with Peter and the result is the same. Nathanael’s name is not mentioned in the other gospels. It is presumed that he is the same person called Bartholomew in the other Gospels. The fig tree is also somewhat symbolic to Jews at the time and is a symbol of peace. Jesus speaks to Nathanael’s heart when he says that he saw him under the fig tree. It was as much about his inner longings as it was about his actual physical location.
Question: When is the last time you felt like Jesus was your treasure.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Study of John - Week 12
e. Verses 35-39 “The next day John was there again with two of his disciples. When he saw Jesus passing, he said, “Look, the Lamb of God!” When the two disciples heard him say this, they followed Jesus. Turning around, Jesus saw them following and asked, “What do you want?” They said, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” “Come,” he replied, “and you will see.” So they went and saw where he was staying, and spent that day with him. It was about the tenth hour.
Again we see John the Baptist pointing out Jesus as the Christ. This time it is to his disciples. He actually does this at the expense of losing two disciples. The two quickly leave John and follow Jesus. John was unable to keep from pointing others to Jesus once he knew who he was.
The interchange between Jesus and the two disciples is meaningful. Here we have two men who are interested in at least following some distance behind Jesus, but were either to shy or uncertain of how to approach him. Jesus does something that He does for us – he met them half way. Jesus took the first step – he was the first to speak and invite them into a dialogue. If our hearts are ready, Jesus is quick to meet us where ever we are. I don’t know if you would say the disciples took the first step, but they were at least willing and ready to meet him.
The disciples asked where he was staying. They weren’t satisfied with just asking him some question in particular, but were interesting in spending time with Him and getting to know Him. I think that the author may be one of the two disciples, since he quotes the exact time of day this occurred.
Question: Where has Jesus met you?
f. Verses 40-42 “Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which when translated, is Peter).”
Andrew went directly to someone he knew to tell him the good news. We have found the Messiah. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay talks about Andrew. Andrew is an example of how important it is to just plant seeds. We may not feel like we make any difference in anyone’s life, but when you look at what that little seed grows into, the fruit is obvious. Andrew is frequently referred to as Peter’s brother. He is not one of the inner circle of disciples, but he is the one who brought Peter to Jesus. What an important guy – the guy that brought PETER to see Jesus. Peter is the rock on which Jesus built his church. Peter is the guy who preached the first sermon after the Pentecost and when you think about it, we are here as followers of Jesus because of Andrew.
There are two other examples in scripture of Andrew bringing others to see Jesus. He was one of those guys who wasn’t the superstar, but got results. We wouldn’t have the miracle of Jesus feeding the multitude without Andrew bringing the boy to Jesus. Andrew brought some Greeks to see Jesus later in the Gospel of John. I guess he was the first missionary.
When Peter first stood in front of Jesus, Jesus gave him a good look over. The word the author used is emblepein, which is an intent concentrated gaze. Jesus looked not only at a rough, cursing fisherman (which Peter was), he saw that he had it in him to be a foundation on which the church could be built. In this way, Jesus can look at us and see not only what we are presently, but what we can be and what He intends for us to be.
Question: Has Jesus shown you a glimpse of what you are to become? Do you feel like you have been given a new name in Christ?
Again we see John the Baptist pointing out Jesus as the Christ. This time it is to his disciples. He actually does this at the expense of losing two disciples. The two quickly leave John and follow Jesus. John was unable to keep from pointing others to Jesus once he knew who he was.
The interchange between Jesus and the two disciples is meaningful. Here we have two men who are interested in at least following some distance behind Jesus, but were either to shy or uncertain of how to approach him. Jesus does something that He does for us – he met them half way. Jesus took the first step – he was the first to speak and invite them into a dialogue. If our hearts are ready, Jesus is quick to meet us where ever we are. I don’t know if you would say the disciples took the first step, but they were at least willing and ready to meet him.
The disciples asked where he was staying. They weren’t satisfied with just asking him some question in particular, but were interesting in spending time with Him and getting to know Him. I think that the author may be one of the two disciples, since he quotes the exact time of day this occurred.
Question: Where has Jesus met you?
f. Verses 40-42 “Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard what John had said and who had followed Jesus. The first thing Andrew did was to find his brother Simon and tell him, “We have found the Messiah” (that is, the Christ). And he brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which when translated, is Peter).”
Andrew went directly to someone he knew to tell him the good news. We have found the Messiah. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay talks about Andrew. Andrew is an example of how important it is to just plant seeds. We may not feel like we make any difference in anyone’s life, but when you look at what that little seed grows into, the fruit is obvious. Andrew is frequently referred to as Peter’s brother. He is not one of the inner circle of disciples, but he is the one who brought Peter to Jesus. What an important guy – the guy that brought PETER to see Jesus. Peter is the rock on which Jesus built his church. Peter is the guy who preached the first sermon after the Pentecost and when you think about it, we are here as followers of Jesus because of Andrew.
There are two other examples in scripture of Andrew bringing others to see Jesus. He was one of those guys who wasn’t the superstar, but got results. We wouldn’t have the miracle of Jesus feeding the multitude without Andrew bringing the boy to Jesus. Andrew brought some Greeks to see Jesus later in the Gospel of John. I guess he was the first missionary.
When Peter first stood in front of Jesus, Jesus gave him a good look over. The word the author used is emblepein, which is an intent concentrated gaze. Jesus looked not only at a rough, cursing fisherman (which Peter was), he saw that he had it in him to be a foundation on which the church could be built. In this way, Jesus can look at us and see not only what we are presently, but what we can be and what He intends for us to be.
Question: Has Jesus shown you a glimpse of what you are to become? Do you feel like you have been given a new name in Christ?
Monday, April 4, 2011
Study of John - Week 11
Week 11
d. Verses 32-34 “Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. I would not have known him, except that the one that sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down on and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God.
The baptism of Jesus convinced John the Baptist without a shadow of a doubt that he had met the Christ. At this time, the Pentecost had not yet occurred and people’s idea of the Holy Spirit was a Jewish understanding (although I don’t think it is that different). The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions that the Jewish idea of the Spirit of God brought three things to those who received it. First, it brought the truth of God. Second, it brought the power to recognize the truth when they saw it. Last, it brought the ability and courage to preach that truth to men. This Spirit came into Jesus during his baptism in a little bit different way than it had before. It came and it remained on him. This remaining is important. Jesus had received the mind and power of God.
John the Baptist had a pretty clear understanding at this point about what Jesus was there to do. He did not seem to think that Jesus was there to lead Israel in battle and overcome their enemies on earth, which was common idea of what the Messiah would do at the time. John says he is here to baptize with the Holy Spirit and take away the sins of the world.
What does it really mean that Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit? The act of baptizing is to completely soak something. Jesus can completely soak us in the Holy Spirit, where is dripping off. Completely permeated and saturated. John the Baptist baptism did two things (1) it cleansed; (2) it dedicated. This is different than what we receive from a baptism of the Holy Spirit. From Jesus’ baptism we receive (1) knowledge – our purpose in life and the will of God are clear; (2) strength – the strength to use the knowledge and to follow our purpose through to completion; and (3) purification – the baptism is also a baptism of fire that burn away our impurities and self and leaves us new and pure.
Question: When have you seen the Holy Spirit in action? Have you ever witnessed a miracle? If so, what did you do with that experience (how did it affect your life)?
d. Verses 32-34 “Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. I would not have known him, except that the one that sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down on and remain is he who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ I have seen and I testify that this is the Son of God.
The baptism of Jesus convinced John the Baptist without a shadow of a doubt that he had met the Christ. At this time, the Pentecost had not yet occurred and people’s idea of the Holy Spirit was a Jewish understanding (although I don’t think it is that different). The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions that the Jewish idea of the Spirit of God brought three things to those who received it. First, it brought the truth of God. Second, it brought the power to recognize the truth when they saw it. Last, it brought the ability and courage to preach that truth to men. This Spirit came into Jesus during his baptism in a little bit different way than it had before. It came and it remained on him. This remaining is important. Jesus had received the mind and power of God.
John the Baptist had a pretty clear understanding at this point about what Jesus was there to do. He did not seem to think that Jesus was there to lead Israel in battle and overcome their enemies on earth, which was common idea of what the Messiah would do at the time. John says he is here to baptize with the Holy Spirit and take away the sins of the world.
What does it really mean that Jesus will baptize with the Holy Spirit? The act of baptizing is to completely soak something. Jesus can completely soak us in the Holy Spirit, where is dripping off. Completely permeated and saturated. John the Baptist baptism did two things (1) it cleansed; (2) it dedicated. This is different than what we receive from a baptism of the Holy Spirit. From Jesus’ baptism we receive (1) knowledge – our purpose in life and the will of God are clear; (2) strength – the strength to use the knowledge and to follow our purpose through to completion; and (3) purification – the baptism is also a baptism of fire that burn away our impurities and self and leaves us new and pure.
Question: When have you seen the Holy Spirit in action? Have you ever witnessed a miracle? If so, what did you do with that experience (how did it affect your life)?
Study of John - Week 10
c. Verses 29-31 “The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world! This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Isreal.”
This is day number two in the ministry of Jesus. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions that by this time, Jesus had been baptized and tempted by the devil. This was when He went to work.
First, John the Baptist calls Jesus the “Lamb of God”. This is a reference to the “sacrificial lamb”. It is also a reference to the Passover and the blood of a lamb that was spread over the doorways of the Jews so that their first born children would be spared. Another more obscure reference was that the lamb was a symbol of a conqueror (Judas Maccabaeus, Samuel, David and Solomon are all referred to as the honored lamb). All of these references are perfect as a title to describe what Jesus means to us. His act of sacrifice as an attonement for our sin, His blood that spares us from death, and His victory over sin and death are all wrapped up in this reference.
The “sins of the world” is a broader statement than just the “sins of Israel’. John states here that Jesus has come for everyone and He is here to take away our sins. That in itself is a bold statement at the time. John goes on to say that he did not know Jesus was the Christ before he was baptized, but after he witnessed the Holy Spirit come down on Jesus, he was willing to point out Jesus and claim that Jesus was actually the Christ. That was a very bold statement. It was actually something that could be considered blasphemy and could have resulted in John being put to death. This statement wasn’t what caused John’s death, but it was very bold. John also reiterates his intent in ministry was to help other get ready to receive Jesus.
Question: If you were to act as boldly as John the Baptist, what would that look like in your life?
This is day number two in the ministry of Jesus. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions that by this time, Jesus had been baptized and tempted by the devil. This was when He went to work.
First, John the Baptist calls Jesus the “Lamb of God”. This is a reference to the “sacrificial lamb”. It is also a reference to the Passover and the blood of a lamb that was spread over the doorways of the Jews so that their first born children would be spared. Another more obscure reference was that the lamb was a symbol of a conqueror (Judas Maccabaeus, Samuel, David and Solomon are all referred to as the honored lamb). All of these references are perfect as a title to describe what Jesus means to us. His act of sacrifice as an attonement for our sin, His blood that spares us from death, and His victory over sin and death are all wrapped up in this reference.
The “sins of the world” is a broader statement than just the “sins of Israel’. John states here that Jesus has come for everyone and He is here to take away our sins. That in itself is a bold statement at the time. John goes on to say that he did not know Jesus was the Christ before he was baptized, but after he witnessed the Holy Spirit come down on Jesus, he was willing to point out Jesus and claim that Jesus was actually the Christ. That was a very bold statement. It was actually something that could be considered blasphemy and could have resulted in John being put to death. This statement wasn’t what caused John’s death, but it was very bold. John also reiterates his intent in ministry was to help other get ready to receive Jesus.
Question: If you were to act as boldly as John the Baptist, what would that look like in your life?
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Study of John - Week 9
b. Verses 19-28 “Now this was John’s testimony when the Jews of Jerusalem sent priests and Levites to ask him who he was. He did not fail to confess, but confessed freely, “I am not the Christ.” They asked him “Then who are you? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” Are you the Prophet?” He answered “No.” Finally they said “Who are you? Give us an answer to take back to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” John replied “I am the voice of the one crying in the desert, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.” Now some of the Pharisees who had been sent questioned him, “Why do you baptize if you are not the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” “I baptize with water,” John replied, but among you stands one you do not know. He is the one who comes after me, the thongs of whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.” This all happened at Bethany on the other side of the Jordan, where John was baptizing.
Here is where the narrative of Jesus’ ministry begins. The first 18 verses deal with the larger concepts of Jesus and the author clearly intends to show that Jesus is the Word (logos) of God, which means that He is the creative power, reason, and Son of God. While the first part of the book is somewhat theological and philosophical in nature, the rest of the book is the narrative and story of Jesus’ life. The author is very careful to insert a timeline in the narrative in a way no other gospel does. The first week is actually detailed day by day (day six is omitted) in the first two chapters.
These passages are about John the Baptist, who is actually related to Jesus. I am not sure exactly how they are related, but Luke 1:36 clearly states that Mary and Elizabeth (mother of John the Baptist) are related. In fact, the angel that appeared to Mary told her that Elizabeth would have a child, even though she was said to be barren. I don’t know how important this fact is, but it is interesting to know.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay states that if we read John carefully from this point to verse 2:11, we get a clear picture of the first week of Jesus’ ministry. This was a big week. The Pharisees took notice and felt that they needed to go out to the desert and visit John the Baptist and see what everyone was buzzing about. The priests (John the Baptist was a priest, since he was a descendent of Aaron), the Pharisees, and the Sanhedrin all sent some folks to talk to John. This was partly due to the fact that he was something of a celebrity at the time and many people were going to see him. He actually had a large following that believed that he was the Christ. He clearly disputes this idea here.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that the Gospel of John is two things. First, it is the story of God in Jesus Christ and second it is about the rejection of Jesus. An interesting thing about this gospel is that the Greek word for Jews (loudaioi ) occurs over seventy times and each the context is in opposition to Jesus. This gospel is as much about the rejection of Jesus as anything. Another way to put it is that is a story about love pitted against rejection and warning.
John the Baptist was what we should all be. He pointed to the Lord and helped others get their houses in order to receive Him. Those that listened to John either rejected his message, took it on board, or thought that John was something more than he claimed to be. His humble clothes and his desire to be forgotten only brought attention to him. He was quick to direct attention to Jesus.
This is interesting about baptism. In the Jewish faith, the allowance for baptism was reserved for those coming into Judaism from other faiths and was not for Israelites at all. In other words, an Israelite already belonged to God and baptism was not needed. John was baptizing everyone – Jews and I am sure some Gentiles. This was different and had the Pharisees wondering why and by what authority he was doing it.
The statement about the location (Bethany on the other side of the Jordan) is important, since there were actually two cities or areas named Bethany. From an archeological and geographic standpoint, this is very important. The Bethany mentioned elsewhere in the Bible is actually located a few miles from Jerusalem. The actual location of this Bethany is not known, except that it is on the other side of the Jordan. I expect that it was a rather desolate location, since it is known that John the Baptist lived in the desert.
Question: Have you ever given your testimony to someone? Have you ever had your faith questioned by someone with an agenda? What about someone who was just curious? Also, how does your life point others to Jesus?
Here is where the narrative of Jesus’ ministry begins. The first 18 verses deal with the larger concepts of Jesus and the author clearly intends to show that Jesus is the Word (logos) of God, which means that He is the creative power, reason, and Son of God. While the first part of the book is somewhat theological and philosophical in nature, the rest of the book is the narrative and story of Jesus’ life. The author is very careful to insert a timeline in the narrative in a way no other gospel does. The first week is actually detailed day by day (day six is omitted) in the first two chapters.
These passages are about John the Baptist, who is actually related to Jesus. I am not sure exactly how they are related, but Luke 1:36 clearly states that Mary and Elizabeth (mother of John the Baptist) are related. In fact, the angel that appeared to Mary told her that Elizabeth would have a child, even though she was said to be barren. I don’t know how important this fact is, but it is interesting to know.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay states that if we read John carefully from this point to verse 2:11, we get a clear picture of the first week of Jesus’ ministry. This was a big week. The Pharisees took notice and felt that they needed to go out to the desert and visit John the Baptist and see what everyone was buzzing about. The priests (John the Baptist was a priest, since he was a descendent of Aaron), the Pharisees, and the Sanhedrin all sent some folks to talk to John. This was partly due to the fact that he was something of a celebrity at the time and many people were going to see him. He actually had a large following that believed that he was the Christ. He clearly disputes this idea here.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that the Gospel of John is two things. First, it is the story of God in Jesus Christ and second it is about the rejection of Jesus. An interesting thing about this gospel is that the Greek word for Jews (loudaioi ) occurs over seventy times and each the context is in opposition to Jesus. This gospel is as much about the rejection of Jesus as anything. Another way to put it is that is a story about love pitted against rejection and warning.
John the Baptist was what we should all be. He pointed to the Lord and helped others get their houses in order to receive Him. Those that listened to John either rejected his message, took it on board, or thought that John was something more than he claimed to be. His humble clothes and his desire to be forgotten only brought attention to him. He was quick to direct attention to Jesus.
This is interesting about baptism. In the Jewish faith, the allowance for baptism was reserved for those coming into Judaism from other faiths and was not for Israelites at all. In other words, an Israelite already belonged to God and baptism was not needed. John was baptizing everyone – Jews and I am sure some Gentiles. This was different and had the Pharisees wondering why and by what authority he was doing it.
The statement about the location (Bethany on the other side of the Jordan) is important, since there were actually two cities or areas named Bethany. From an archeological and geographic standpoint, this is very important. The Bethany mentioned elsewhere in the Bible is actually located a few miles from Jerusalem. The actual location of this Bethany is not known, except that it is on the other side of the Jordan. I expect that it was a rather desolate location, since it is known that John the Baptist lived in the desert.
Question: Have you ever given your testimony to someone? Have you ever had your faith questioned by someone with an agenda? What about someone who was just curious? Also, how does your life point others to Jesus?
Study of John - Week 8
ix. Verses 15-17 “John testifies concerning him. He cries out saying “This was he of whom I said, ‘He who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me’. From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another.” John the Baptist placed himself below Jesus in importance. He is saying a couple of things here: first, in terms of eternity, Jesus has always existed; second, John is saying that his place in ministry has ended and Jesus’ has begun.
The next concept in these verses is the fullness of Christ. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that we have all drawn on the fullness of Christ. The word fullness in Greek is pleroma and it means the “sum total” of all that is God. We can go to Jesus with any need and have that need met. If it is knowledge that you seek, He is the supreme revelation. If it is love, forgiveness, or courage, all of these can be found in their ultimate expression in Jesus.
The Law came through Moses, but grace comes through Jesus. It changed the way we are to live. Instead of obeying a set of laws, we are now free to seek Him in love as sons and daughters.
QUESTION: Where have you experienced the fullness of God? Do you feel free in Christ or do you feel like you are supposed to follow a set of rules in life?
x. Verse 18 “No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.” Jesus is unique in that what was previously unseen is now seen and declared to the world. Jesus brings God to us and made the invisible visible and the unreachable within reach. God is no longer a distant stranger, but is a loving Father. Notice how he uses God to refer to God the Father and Jesus in the same verse.
Question: Have you ever really thought of Jesus as being the same as God? How do you picture them being the same, yet distinct? Does this change your feeling about what Jesus did for you?
WOW! That is a LOT. For next week read: John 1:19-51. Lots of verses, but two main themes and it should go a lot faster.
The next concept in these verses is the fullness of Christ. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that we have all drawn on the fullness of Christ. The word fullness in Greek is pleroma and it means the “sum total” of all that is God. We can go to Jesus with any need and have that need met. If it is knowledge that you seek, He is the supreme revelation. If it is love, forgiveness, or courage, all of these can be found in their ultimate expression in Jesus.
The Law came through Moses, but grace comes through Jesus. It changed the way we are to live. Instead of obeying a set of laws, we are now free to seek Him in love as sons and daughters.
QUESTION: Where have you experienced the fullness of God? Do you feel free in Christ or do you feel like you are supposed to follow a set of rules in life?
x. Verse 18 “No one has ever seen God, but God the One and Only, who is at the Father’s side, has made him known.” Jesus is unique in that what was previously unseen is now seen and declared to the world. Jesus brings God to us and made the invisible visible and the unreachable within reach. God is no longer a distant stranger, but is a loving Father. Notice how he uses God to refer to God the Father and Jesus in the same verse.
Question: Have you ever really thought of Jesus as being the same as God? How do you picture them being the same, yet distinct? Does this change your feeling about what Jesus did for you?
WOW! That is a LOT. For next week read: John 1:19-51. Lots of verses, but two main themes and it should go a lot faster.
Friday, March 11, 2011
Study of John - Week 7
viii. Verse 14 “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” The reason for the Gospel of John is right here in this verse. The Word (logos or the creative force - Jesus) was flesh, just like you and me. This was an entirely new concept to everyone in the world at that time. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions that the author uses the word “theasthai” in regard to seeing Jesus in this verse. This word means actual physical sight. This is not some spiritual understanding or spiritual sight, but the author is claiming here that the Word actually came to earth and was seen by human eyes. This idea flew in the face of Gnosticism, which held the idea that pure deity could not be joined with flesh, which was considered entirely evil. This idea so upset some people that there was a group in the Church that held that Jesus must have been a phantom because the flesh could never actually co-mingle with God.
The Ryrie Study Bible points out that Jesus has all the attributes of God (Phil 2:6) and all of the attributes common to all humanity. He was tempted, he had all of the emotions we all experience, and had desires like we all have (see Matt 4:1-11). Jesus had to give up or not use some of His Godly abilities and only rely on His relationship with the Father (see John 8:28). It had to be that way for Him to be an adequate savior. He had to be all human to suffer and die and He had to be God to conquer sin and death and to atone for the sins of the world. He will also live forever as the God-man in His resurrected body (Acts 1:11).
The Ryrie Study Bible mentions the fact that the author uses the words the “One and Only” to refer to the Word. This is to draw a distinction between someone who believes and is born as a child of God. This same wording is used elsewhere in the Bible to describe someone’s only son (Luke 7:12, Luke 8:42, and Heb 11:17).
QUESTION: Since Jesus was entirely human, do you think that we can do what Jesus did and live without sin? What about for a period of time? What about performing miracles?
The Ryrie Study Bible points out that Jesus has all the attributes of God (Phil 2:6) and all of the attributes common to all humanity. He was tempted, he had all of the emotions we all experience, and had desires like we all have (see Matt 4:1-11). Jesus had to give up or not use some of His Godly abilities and only rely on His relationship with the Father (see John 8:28). It had to be that way for Him to be an adequate savior. He had to be all human to suffer and die and He had to be God to conquer sin and death and to atone for the sins of the world. He will also live forever as the God-man in His resurrected body (Acts 1:11).
The Ryrie Study Bible mentions the fact that the author uses the words the “One and Only” to refer to the Word. This is to draw a distinction between someone who believes and is born as a child of God. This same wording is used elsewhere in the Bible to describe someone’s only son (Luke 7:12, Luke 8:42, and Heb 11:17).
QUESTION: Since Jesus was entirely human, do you think that we can do what Jesus did and live without sin? What about for a period of time? What about performing miracles?
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Study of John - Week 6
vi. Verses 10-11 “He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. He came to that which was his own, but his own did not recognize him.” These verses address the fact that the Jews and the rest of the world did not accept him as the Christ. In Romans 1:19-20, Paul says that we are all without excuse since God has revealed Himself through his creation. The rock band Live has a song that says:
“I don't need no one to tell me about heaven
I look at my daughter, and I believe.
I don't need no proof when it comes to God and truth
I can see the sunset and I perceive”
We should all have this type of faith that is based on what I think we all really know to be true in our hearts. If we truly seek truth and search our own hearts it will be revealed to us no matter our circumstances. It is revealed in ourselves and in our world. We each have an inner longing for the eternal and this is no mistake.
The author uses “the world” to refer to those that refuse to acknowledge or to seek God and instead pursue the “ways of the world” as you may have heard it said. I think another term that could be interchanged with this today is society.
The other concept in these two verses is about Jesus coming to earth in bodily form. He specifically came to His people (the Jews) and His land (the Holy Land). These are a people that have been set apart by God and a place that was special. It was in this setting that he was rejected. God’s people had been prepared for the task of receiving Jesus for centuries and they refused when the time came. It is the ultimate demonstration of love and humility that He demonstrates by allowing Himself to be rejected and killed by His own for their own good.
QUESTION: How has God prepared you to receive Him? Have you refused or dragged your feet?
vii. Verses 12-13 “Yet to all who receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural decent, not of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” Not everyone rejected him and for those that “receive him” there is a reward. The best model of this is adoption. Actually, in Jewish law someone can disown their naturally born children for certain things, but once a child was adopted, there is no such allowance. Once you are adopted, it is for good - there is no going back. That is the confidence we can have in our adoption as children of God. All of us are children of God in the sense that we owe our existence to Him. This fact does not allow us to approach God and establish a relationship with Him. In fact, the Jews did not even think that this was possible. Moses, Abraham, Noah, Adam and the prophets were approached by God first. This was the pattern of close relationship with God. The rest of us relied on the law to keep us in good with God. When Jesus came in the flesh, it allowed people to actually see and talk with God. Although not everyone understood this at the time, it was God approaching everyone and offering a way to bridge the abyss between us and God and establish a personal relationship. This was done at the will of God, not by any effort on the part of us. Another interesting thing is that it is referred to as a right, not a privilege. It is something that we can depend or even demand – a promise of God. It is ours as long as we receive Jesus.
QUESTION: How would you live differently if you had an adoption certificate showing that you had been adopted by God and He would be coming to get you soon?
“I don't need no one to tell me about heaven
I look at my daughter, and I believe.
I don't need no proof when it comes to God and truth
I can see the sunset and I perceive”
We should all have this type of faith that is based on what I think we all really know to be true in our hearts. If we truly seek truth and search our own hearts it will be revealed to us no matter our circumstances. It is revealed in ourselves and in our world. We each have an inner longing for the eternal and this is no mistake.
The author uses “the world” to refer to those that refuse to acknowledge or to seek God and instead pursue the “ways of the world” as you may have heard it said. I think another term that could be interchanged with this today is society.
The other concept in these two verses is about Jesus coming to earth in bodily form. He specifically came to His people (the Jews) and His land (the Holy Land). These are a people that have been set apart by God and a place that was special. It was in this setting that he was rejected. God’s people had been prepared for the task of receiving Jesus for centuries and they refused when the time came. It is the ultimate demonstration of love and humility that He demonstrates by allowing Himself to be rejected and killed by His own for their own good.
QUESTION: How has God prepared you to receive Him? Have you refused or dragged your feet?
vii. Verses 12-13 “Yet to all who receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural decent, not of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.” Not everyone rejected him and for those that “receive him” there is a reward. The best model of this is adoption. Actually, in Jewish law someone can disown their naturally born children for certain things, but once a child was adopted, there is no such allowance. Once you are adopted, it is for good - there is no going back. That is the confidence we can have in our adoption as children of God. All of us are children of God in the sense that we owe our existence to Him. This fact does not allow us to approach God and establish a relationship with Him. In fact, the Jews did not even think that this was possible. Moses, Abraham, Noah, Adam and the prophets were approached by God first. This was the pattern of close relationship with God. The rest of us relied on the law to keep us in good with God. When Jesus came in the flesh, it allowed people to actually see and talk with God. Although not everyone understood this at the time, it was God approaching everyone and offering a way to bridge the abyss between us and God and establish a personal relationship. This was done at the will of God, not by any effort on the part of us. Another interesting thing is that it is referred to as a right, not a privilege. It is something that we can depend or even demand – a promise of God. It is ours as long as we receive Jesus.
QUESTION: How would you live differently if you had an adoption certificate showing that you had been adopted by God and He would be coming to get you soon?
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Study of John - Week 5
v. Verses 6-9 “There came a man who was sent from God; his name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all men might believe. He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light. The true light that gives light to every man was coming into the world.” John the Baptist got an early start and “lept in his mother’s womb” when his mother heard Mary’s greeting while she was still pregnant with Jesus (see Luke 1:41). This guy was on fire for God even before he was born. His role is simply to be a witness. The follow on verses in John the Baptist talk about how he denies that he is the Christ or even a great prophet. The author also does not in any way diminish John the Baptist’s role, but actually shows how important he actually was.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that the author put in these verses at least partly because of a small number of people at that time that only recognized the baptism of John the Baptist (see Acts 19:1-7). I think that it is very interesting how the author addressed so many different groups and major concepts in such a short few paragraphs. First, specific things related to introducing the Gospel of Christ to the Gentiles and now language specific to the groups who only recognized John the Baptist. Although it has these specific groups and issues of that time in mind, it is still very meaningful and applicable today.
I thought about this group that thought more of John the Baptist than he claimed to be himself and how that applies to us today. I am sure you have heard of people or churches where some personality in the church (or outside the church) become the focal point and took people’s eyes off of Christ. People tend to gravitate toward things that they can actually see, so we have to be careful and remember that faith in what we cannot see is what is important.
Verse 9 shows how the light is available to everyone. It is also referred to a little differently as the “true light”. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that the Greek for this word is alethinos, which means real or genuine. I think this is very important because we must recognize that there can be truth in things, even those that are hostile to God. The “true” light is Christ, even if there is light in other things. For example, there are many beautiful ideas in Buddhism, things that are full of truth, but ultimately Buddhism falls short of the glory of God. To walk in the “true” light, you must walk with Jesus Christ.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay also mentions four concepts that are demonstrated by this verse - His coming dissipated the shadows of doubt, despair, darkness of death, and was available to every man. Jesus was able to demonstrate in front of their eyes the character of God. He took away despair by not only showing them the way, but giving them the power necessary to walk in the light. He brought an end to the fear of death. Lastly, this light was brought to all men, Jews and Gentile alike.
QUESTION: When in your life have you placed more importance on a blessing than on God? How can you get your focus back on God?
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that the author put in these verses at least partly because of a small number of people at that time that only recognized the baptism of John the Baptist (see Acts 19:1-7). I think that it is very interesting how the author addressed so many different groups and major concepts in such a short few paragraphs. First, specific things related to introducing the Gospel of Christ to the Gentiles and now language specific to the groups who only recognized John the Baptist. Although it has these specific groups and issues of that time in mind, it is still very meaningful and applicable today.
I thought about this group that thought more of John the Baptist than he claimed to be himself and how that applies to us today. I am sure you have heard of people or churches where some personality in the church (or outside the church) become the focal point and took people’s eyes off of Christ. People tend to gravitate toward things that they can actually see, so we have to be careful and remember that faith in what we cannot see is what is important.
Verse 9 shows how the light is available to everyone. It is also referred to a little differently as the “true light”. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that the Greek for this word is alethinos, which means real or genuine. I think this is very important because we must recognize that there can be truth in things, even those that are hostile to God. The “true” light is Christ, even if there is light in other things. For example, there are many beautiful ideas in Buddhism, things that are full of truth, but ultimately Buddhism falls short of the glory of God. To walk in the “true” light, you must walk with Jesus Christ.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay also mentions four concepts that are demonstrated by this verse - His coming dissipated the shadows of doubt, despair, darkness of death, and was available to every man. Jesus was able to demonstrate in front of their eyes the character of God. He took away despair by not only showing them the way, but giving them the power necessary to walk in the light. He brought an end to the fear of death. Lastly, this light was brought to all men, Jews and Gentile alike.
QUESTION: When in your life have you placed more importance on a blessing than on God? How can you get your focus back on God?
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Study of John - Week 4
Verse 5: “The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it.” To me, this verse beautifully illustrates how God works and reveals Himself to us with simple things.
Proverbs 2:12-14 talks about the darkness that is mentioned here by the author. We can see in nature how light cannot be extinguished by darkness. When I was a teenager, I was able to tour a cave in Carlsbad that was not on the normal route and was only open to guided tours. At the halfway point, the Park Ranger had us all turn off our flashlights and let our eyes adjust for a few seconds. It was complete darkness and the darkest place I have ever been in my life. In fact, you could not see your hand in front of your eyes (literally). He then turned around and lit a single candle (he had to turn around to protect our eyes). The single flame from the candle lit the enormous chamber that we were in. The chamber was roughly 100-yds by 70-yards and the ceiling was about 30-40 feet high. In this deep darkness, a single flame was enough to light it completely. In other words, all of the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the smallest flame. Jesus is the light of the world and no matter how much darkness is in the world, it cannot defeat the light.
The darkness cannot understand the light. This is a very important concept. The understanding of the things of God is given to us, not something that we have in ourselves apart from God. God grants understanding to those he chooses (those that are His children). 1 John 5:20 says “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true.” The world (or anyone who rejects God and Jesus) does not understand the light and is therefore hostile to it. It is a condition of the heart and God knows our hearts. Proverbs 2:1-6 says “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” The reward is shown here, but those that reject the understanding and wisdom that God can give do not receive it and therefore cannot understand the ways and truth of God. Proverbs 2:9 “Then you will understand what is right and just and fair – every good path.” Jesus Himself says in Matthew 11:25 “I praise you Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, but revealed them to little children.”
QUESTION: Where have you heard or seen something that was presented as if was good and everyone should do it, but you knew that it was full of darkness. How did you deal with it?
Proverbs 2:12-14 talks about the darkness that is mentioned here by the author. We can see in nature how light cannot be extinguished by darkness. When I was a teenager, I was able to tour a cave in Carlsbad that was not on the normal route and was only open to guided tours. At the halfway point, the Park Ranger had us all turn off our flashlights and let our eyes adjust for a few seconds. It was complete darkness and the darkest place I have ever been in my life. In fact, you could not see your hand in front of your eyes (literally). He then turned around and lit a single candle (he had to turn around to protect our eyes). The single flame from the candle lit the enormous chamber that we were in. The chamber was roughly 100-yds by 70-yards and the ceiling was about 30-40 feet high. In this deep darkness, a single flame was enough to light it completely. In other words, all of the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the smallest flame. Jesus is the light of the world and no matter how much darkness is in the world, it cannot defeat the light.
The darkness cannot understand the light. This is a very important concept. The understanding of the things of God is given to us, not something that we have in ourselves apart from God. God grants understanding to those he chooses (those that are His children). 1 John 5:20 says “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true.” The world (or anyone who rejects God and Jesus) does not understand the light and is therefore hostile to it. It is a condition of the heart and God knows our hearts. Proverbs 2:1-6 says “My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding, and if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” The reward is shown here, but those that reject the understanding and wisdom that God can give do not receive it and therefore cannot understand the ways and truth of God. Proverbs 2:9 “Then you will understand what is right and just and fair – every good path.” Jesus Himself says in Matthew 11:25 “I praise you Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, but revealed them to little children.”
QUESTION: Where have you heard or seen something that was presented as if was good and everyone should do it, but you knew that it was full of darkness. How did you deal with it?
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Study of John - Week 3
iii. Verse 4: “In Him was life, and the life was the light of men.” First of all, we are part of His creation. He is the source of life. This life that has always existed in Him, He has placed in us. The life that sustains Him, also sustains us. The life that sustains Him is the light of our life.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John, by William Barclay mentions that the author uses light and life repeatedly throughout the Gospel of John. This light is that which is within us through faith in Jesus. As the song goes “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine”. This little light is part of and connected to almighty God, the power of all creation, the source of truth, the strength that can start and stop hurricanes and tornadoes, the creator of the vastness of the universe and the delicate petals of a flower and any other awe inspiring thing that you can think of. The cool thing about that is this light is in us and it is not diluted in us. This little light in us has the potency of God, because it is our connection to Him and His strength, power, greatness, love, peace, wisdom, etc…. This is why Jesus said in Matthew 17:20 that nothing would be impossible for us, if we only have faith (mustard seed and moving mountains). He is in us and we can tap into that awesomeness and the only requirement is faith. The beauty of this is that the more we seek Him and we decrease, the more His power increases in our lives. Read Mark 11:22-26.
The author also mentions life. This is life as designed by the creator. The abundant, everlasting life that is only possible when you get in touch with the source – Jesus. Living is something other than merely existing. Life as intended is about abundance. Abundance isn’t about constant struggle or striving, there is always plenty. We aren’t talking about a creator who has just enough to get by and His creation reflects that. Abundance is all around us in nature. Look at all of excess in the natural world that we consider normal.
We can exist in this world and can even learn how to thrive here in certain aspects of our lives without achieving this abundant life. A man can learn how to take advantage of the Law of Prosperity and accumulate a massive fortune. God created the truths that anyone (even atheists) can put to work for himself, if we recognize these truths and apply them effectively. These laws are good and when applied will result in God’s intent, such as abundant wealth or health or any other blessing. In other words, God is happy for us to achieve great wealth, health, etc…, but that isn’t all there is to life and we all know it in our hearts. If a man has achieved great wealth, but does not know Jesus, he isn’t even really alive in eternal terms. When you think about eternity in mathematical terms our lifespan here on earth is zero when compared to infinity. A man can exist apart from Jesus, but he cannot even know or understand what true life is. He is not truly blessed and he doesn’t have true abundance, since these are only achieved through Christ Jesus.
If we put our lives on a scale of 0 to infinity, with 0 being completely undesirable and infinity being eternal bliss, there is a point somewhere along the line that we would not choose to have ever lived at all and some point along the line where we would feel our wildest dreams have come true. It sounds pretty drastic, but that is the choice we have in life – zero or infinity and nowhere in between is really an option. The narrow way or the wide easy way, it really is that simple (Matt 7:13-14). I love this: The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John, by William Barclay mentions the word aionios, which is repeatedly used in the Bible to describe God and it means eternal. In the true meaning of the word, only God is eternal. It would follow that an eternal life is God’s life. That is what Jesus offers us – the life that God lives. You can bet that is a pretty swell life.
QUESTION: Has there ever been an event in your life which enabled you to better understand God and His plans for you? Have you ever prayed for something or did something in faith and received an answer or miracle and you knew that it was God? How would a miracle change the way you lived your life?
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John, by William Barclay mentions that the author uses light and life repeatedly throughout the Gospel of John. This light is that which is within us through faith in Jesus. As the song goes “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine”. This little light is part of and connected to almighty God, the power of all creation, the source of truth, the strength that can start and stop hurricanes and tornadoes, the creator of the vastness of the universe and the delicate petals of a flower and any other awe inspiring thing that you can think of. The cool thing about that is this light is in us and it is not diluted in us. This little light in us has the potency of God, because it is our connection to Him and His strength, power, greatness, love, peace, wisdom, etc…. This is why Jesus said in Matthew 17:20 that nothing would be impossible for us, if we only have faith (mustard seed and moving mountains). He is in us and we can tap into that awesomeness and the only requirement is faith. The beauty of this is that the more we seek Him and we decrease, the more His power increases in our lives. Read Mark 11:22-26.
The author also mentions life. This is life as designed by the creator. The abundant, everlasting life that is only possible when you get in touch with the source – Jesus. Living is something other than merely existing. Life as intended is about abundance. Abundance isn’t about constant struggle or striving, there is always plenty. We aren’t talking about a creator who has just enough to get by and His creation reflects that. Abundance is all around us in nature. Look at all of excess in the natural world that we consider normal.
We can exist in this world and can even learn how to thrive here in certain aspects of our lives without achieving this abundant life. A man can learn how to take advantage of the Law of Prosperity and accumulate a massive fortune. God created the truths that anyone (even atheists) can put to work for himself, if we recognize these truths and apply them effectively. These laws are good and when applied will result in God’s intent, such as abundant wealth or health or any other blessing. In other words, God is happy for us to achieve great wealth, health, etc…, but that isn’t all there is to life and we all know it in our hearts. If a man has achieved great wealth, but does not know Jesus, he isn’t even really alive in eternal terms. When you think about eternity in mathematical terms our lifespan here on earth is zero when compared to infinity. A man can exist apart from Jesus, but he cannot even know or understand what true life is. He is not truly blessed and he doesn’t have true abundance, since these are only achieved through Christ Jesus.
If we put our lives on a scale of 0 to infinity, with 0 being completely undesirable and infinity being eternal bliss, there is a point somewhere along the line that we would not choose to have ever lived at all and some point along the line where we would feel our wildest dreams have come true. It sounds pretty drastic, but that is the choice we have in life – zero or infinity and nowhere in between is really an option. The narrow way or the wide easy way, it really is that simple (Matt 7:13-14). I love this: The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John, by William Barclay mentions the word aionios, which is repeatedly used in the Bible to describe God and it means eternal. In the true meaning of the word, only God is eternal. It would follow that an eternal life is God’s life. That is what Jesus offers us – the life that God lives. You can bet that is a pretty swell life.
QUESTION: Has there ever been an event in your life which enabled you to better understand God and His plans for you? Have you ever prayed for something or did something in faith and received an answer or miracle and you knew that it was God? How would a miracle change the way you lived your life?
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Study of John - Week 2
Get ready, folks! The beginning of John is DEEP. I will try to keep us above water!!
II. Chapter 1
a. Verses 1-18: These verses are the philosophical basis for the introduction of Jesus to the Gentiles. The foundation on which everything else is built. I truly think that these are some of the most powerful verses in the Bible. They say so much. In fact, they really get to the core of who God is, who Jesus is, who we are, how we were made, and how we relate to each other. They say much more than I realized when I began to prepare for this. There are some deep ideas here, but stick with me and we’ll get through it. The purpose John had in writing this book is in John 20:31 – so that we may hear and believe and have life in Jesus’ name.
i. Verse 1-2: “In the beginning was the Word, and Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the Beginning.” In the beginning – this phrase is also found in Genesis 1, which is also the phrase that begins the Bible. It is interesting that this goes even further back than Genesis. Prior to the creation of the heavens and the earth. The author is demonstrating that Jesus has been here from the beginning and through Him we can have a new beginning. It also ties Jesus to the beginning of all creation. Jesus (refer to verse 14-18) was here before time began with God. In other Words, God’s Word was not created, but existed before creation. The word “Word” here is Logos in Greek, which refers to “word, thought, concept, and the expression thereof” and in the Greek world was used to refer to “creative control and the ideas of reason” (Ryrie Study Bible, Moody). This was the Greek’s own word and John used it intentionally to declare to them that Jesus was the “Logos” that they constantly debated in their philosophical circles. Another way to state this is that Jesus is the “Word” personified.
The Word was God – God’s Word, His actual thought – existed prior to creation. His thought has creative power and becomes reality. Again, Jesus is the personification of this thought. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay lists a few passages in the Old Testament that also demonstrate this idea: Proverbs 3:18-20; Proverbs 4:5-13; and most importantly Proverbs 8:22-36. These verses talk about wisdom and equate it to thought and its creative power. Also, these verses establish that the creation of wisdom was prior to the rest of creation. This wisdom is His “Word”. His Word is eternal and not part of the creation, which was brought forth in time and space. Jesus and God are identical, yet distinct. I know that is hard to wrap your mind around, but let’s move on.
QUESTION: How would you define reality? Do you think that reality has anything to do with our relationship with God? Is reality purely a matter of what you perceive? Is reality relative or different for each person or is always the same? How does this impact your daily life?
ii. Verse 3: “All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created.” The creative force of the Universe – God’s Word (Jesus). All things that were ever created were made through Jesus. Jesus is this power and it does not exist without Him. The basic building blocks of reality, absolute truth, life, the physical and spiritual world do not exist but by Jesus. He says Himself later “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, but by Me.”, John 14:6. This statement of Jesus is meant to equate Himself with God. He has come to redeem that which has been His from the beginning.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions that the author included this idea partly because of the prevalence of Gnosticism at that time, which held the idea that the god of the Old Testament (evil God) created the world and was hostile to the god of the New Testament (good God), who was the father of Jesus. The author is refuting this idea, while demonstrating the unchanging nature of God quite beautifully. If Jesus is God and he existed in the beginning (before time), then the God of the Old Testament and the New Testament are the same and He has not changed and will not ever change. That is something that we can truly place our faith in and rely on.
As I thought about this, I compared God’s unchanging nature to something physical that I know is unchanging –gravity (maybe it changes some here on earth, I don’t really know but it seemed like a good example). I thought about how I personally put my trust everyday in the law of gravity (I am sure you do too - so what right?). I know that gravity is true and it will continue to be true, so I go about taking advantage of this law. I apply this law to my advantage every day. In other words, I don’t plan my day around the possibility that gravity may fail and I need to be tied down at all times so I don’t float off into space. Not taking advantage of this law would be a real waste of time and energy. The same concept applies to the laws and promises of God. God is the same before, now, and always and He has given us physical and spiritual truths and revealed them to us in numerous ways to help us understand how He set things up for us. These are laws – not like a rule that we must obey or we will be punished – but truths about life and how He set up this world in which we live that we can always rely on. We can either take advantage of these laws (it’s what God intends for us to do) or we can “kick against the goads” like Paul did before He met Jesus on the road to Damascus. These laws and truths he reveals to us are His nature.
QUESTION: How would you change your life if you listed out the promises of God and went about your life with total confidence that they were automatic and something that you could totally depend?
II. Chapter 1
a. Verses 1-18: These verses are the philosophical basis for the introduction of Jesus to the Gentiles. The foundation on which everything else is built. I truly think that these are some of the most powerful verses in the Bible. They say so much. In fact, they really get to the core of who God is, who Jesus is, who we are, how we were made, and how we relate to each other. They say much more than I realized when I began to prepare for this. There are some deep ideas here, but stick with me and we’ll get through it. The purpose John had in writing this book is in John 20:31 – so that we may hear and believe and have life in Jesus’ name.
i. Verse 1-2: “In the beginning was the Word, and Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the Beginning.” In the beginning – this phrase is also found in Genesis 1, which is also the phrase that begins the Bible. It is interesting that this goes even further back than Genesis. Prior to the creation of the heavens and the earth. The author is demonstrating that Jesus has been here from the beginning and through Him we can have a new beginning. It also ties Jesus to the beginning of all creation. Jesus (refer to verse 14-18) was here before time began with God. In other Words, God’s Word was not created, but existed before creation. The word “Word” here is Logos in Greek, which refers to “word, thought, concept, and the expression thereof” and in the Greek world was used to refer to “creative control and the ideas of reason” (Ryrie Study Bible, Moody). This was the Greek’s own word and John used it intentionally to declare to them that Jesus was the “Logos” that they constantly debated in their philosophical circles. Another way to state this is that Jesus is the “Word” personified.
The Word was God – God’s Word, His actual thought – existed prior to creation. His thought has creative power and becomes reality. Again, Jesus is the personification of this thought. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay lists a few passages in the Old Testament that also demonstrate this idea: Proverbs 3:18-20; Proverbs 4:5-13; and most importantly Proverbs 8:22-36. These verses talk about wisdom and equate it to thought and its creative power. Also, these verses establish that the creation of wisdom was prior to the rest of creation. This wisdom is His “Word”. His Word is eternal and not part of the creation, which was brought forth in time and space. Jesus and God are identical, yet distinct. I know that is hard to wrap your mind around, but let’s move on.
QUESTION: How would you define reality? Do you think that reality has anything to do with our relationship with God? Is reality purely a matter of what you perceive? Is reality relative or different for each person or is always the same? How does this impact your daily life?
ii. Verse 3: “All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created.” The creative force of the Universe – God’s Word (Jesus). All things that were ever created were made through Jesus. Jesus is this power and it does not exist without Him. The basic building blocks of reality, absolute truth, life, the physical and spiritual world do not exist but by Jesus. He says Himself later “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, but by Me.”, John 14:6. This statement of Jesus is meant to equate Himself with God. He has come to redeem that which has been His from the beginning.
The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay mentions that the author included this idea partly because of the prevalence of Gnosticism at that time, which held the idea that the god of the Old Testament (evil God) created the world and was hostile to the god of the New Testament (good God), who was the father of Jesus. The author is refuting this idea, while demonstrating the unchanging nature of God quite beautifully. If Jesus is God and he existed in the beginning (before time), then the God of the Old Testament and the New Testament are the same and He has not changed and will not ever change. That is something that we can truly place our faith in and rely on.
As I thought about this, I compared God’s unchanging nature to something physical that I know is unchanging –gravity (maybe it changes some here on earth, I don’t really know but it seemed like a good example). I thought about how I personally put my trust everyday in the law of gravity (I am sure you do too - so what right?). I know that gravity is true and it will continue to be true, so I go about taking advantage of this law. I apply this law to my advantage every day. In other words, I don’t plan my day around the possibility that gravity may fail and I need to be tied down at all times so I don’t float off into space. Not taking advantage of this law would be a real waste of time and energy. The same concept applies to the laws and promises of God. God is the same before, now, and always and He has given us physical and spiritual truths and revealed them to us in numerous ways to help us understand how He set things up for us. These are laws – not like a rule that we must obey or we will be punished – but truths about life and how He set up this world in which we live that we can always rely on. We can either take advantage of these laws (it’s what God intends for us to do) or we can “kick against the goads” like Paul did before He met Jesus on the road to Damascus. These laws and truths he reveals to us are His nature.
QUESTION: How would you change your life if you listed out the promises of God and went about your life with total confidence that they were automatic and something that you could totally depend?
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Study of John - Week 1
I. About the Book
a. Who wrote it?
i. John was written by “The disciple whom Jesus loved”. It was either John the disciple or another John (the Elder). The Ryrie Study Bible says that John was a Palestinian Jew who was an eyewitness of the events of Jesus’ life based on: 1. His knowledge of Jewish customs (7:37-39; 18:28); 2. His knowledge of the land of Palestine (1:44, 46; 5:2); 3. The fact that he also includes details of an eyewitness (2:6; 13:26; 21:8, 11).
b. When was it written?
i. 60-70 AD. These dates have been determined by various facts, including the other Gospels, the Book of Acts and the date of the death of Paul, among other things. Christ died in the years 30-33 AD, so this book was well within the lifetime of the actual eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life (27-40 years). Much of the eyewitness accounts would have been hard to falsify with so many people (including hostile eyewitnesses) still alive that would have seen them and been able to refute any bogus claims.
ii. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that compared to the other Gospels, John is most the work of the Holy Spirit. This is because it was the last written. I believe that the fact that John was not written the morning after Jesus appeared to the disciples and ascended into heaven is a fortunate thing for us. The reason is that there were most likely many things that John saw and heard that he did not understand the second they happened. God has a way of taking us along a journey in our spiritual walk and revealing things along the way, not all at the same time. John had worked through a great deal of issues by the time he wrote his book and was still learning. There were many things that the Holy Spirit had revealed to John by the time he wrote the book. Jesus said in John 16:12-13 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears and he will tell you what is to come.”
c. How reliable is the book based on historical evidence?
i. In The Case for Christ, Craig L. Blomberg says that compared to any other ancient historical writings, the Gospels were written so closely to the actual events that the gap in time is insignificant.
What this means is that there was not time for new legend to develop and make its way into the writings. For example, the earliest biographies of Alexander the Great were written more than 400 years after his death and are considered to be generally reliable. There has since been legendary material written later that is not historically reliable. So, within the first 500 years or so the story remained intact, but the legendary material was added in the centuries after this time period. With John being writing so close to the actual events, it is not accepted in scholarly circles that John contains any legendary or inflated material.
Archeological Note: The John Rylands Papyrus was discovered in 1920 in Egypt and is the oldest existing manuscript of the New Testament (fragment of Book of John) and is actual evidence of the Book of John in the first half of the 2nd Century, which supports a date of authorship of John is the latter part of the 1st Century.
d. How does John compare to the other Gospels?
i. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that it was also written with the intent of being a gospel to the Gentiles. This is very important in that the others were chiefly interested in conveying a message to other Jews. Jesus was of Jewish decent and spent his whole life in the area surrounding Judea. The Jews already understood the concept of a messiah and framed their view of Jesus and the gospel of Jesus with their understanding of the history of their people. The Greeks did not have this understanding of Jewish culture and history or where Jesus came from and John intended to write his gospel with this in mind. Christianity had reached Rome by 60 AD. The author decided to write a gospel that did not take non-Jews through Jewish ideas in order to present Jesus to them. In other words, this is Jesus for everyone, not just for the Jews.
ii. John has some more theological info than the other gospels. It is also highly spiritual. There are several stories relayed in John that are not in the other Gospels: The miracle of turning water into wine at Cana (2:1-11); Nicodemus coming to Jesus (3:1-15); the woman of Samaria (4); the raising of Lazarus (11); the way Jesus washed His disciples feet (13:1-17); Jesus’ teaching of the Holy Spirit in chapters 14-17. Only in John does Thomas speak, only John speaks of the crown of thorns, and there are many other examples. The HCSB states that 90% of the material in John is unique.
iii. The New Defender’s Study Bible states that all of the original apolstles (including Paul) had been martyred by the time that John wrote the Book of John (except for John). The HCSB Study Bible states that
e. The Archeological Study Bible states that the Book of John has three main themes:
i. Jesus is God
ii. Jesus is the Messiah
iii. Choose Belief or Unbelief
Reading for Week 2: John 1:1-18
a. Who wrote it?
i. John was written by “The disciple whom Jesus loved”. It was either John the disciple or another John (the Elder). The Ryrie Study Bible says that John was a Palestinian Jew who was an eyewitness of the events of Jesus’ life based on: 1. His knowledge of Jewish customs (7:37-39; 18:28); 2. His knowledge of the land of Palestine (1:44, 46; 5:2); 3. The fact that he also includes details of an eyewitness (2:6; 13:26; 21:8, 11).
b. When was it written?
i. 60-70 AD. These dates have been determined by various facts, including the other Gospels, the Book of Acts and the date of the death of Paul, among other things. Christ died in the years 30-33 AD, so this book was well within the lifetime of the actual eyewitnesses to Jesus’ life (27-40 years). Much of the eyewitness accounts would have been hard to falsify with so many people (including hostile eyewitnesses) still alive that would have seen them and been able to refute any bogus claims.
ii. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that compared to the other Gospels, John is most the work of the Holy Spirit. This is because it was the last written. I believe that the fact that John was not written the morning after Jesus appeared to the disciples and ascended into heaven is a fortunate thing for us. The reason is that there were most likely many things that John saw and heard that he did not understand the second they happened. God has a way of taking us along a journey in our spiritual walk and revealing things along the way, not all at the same time. John had worked through a great deal of issues by the time he wrote his book and was still learning. There were many things that the Holy Spirit had revealed to John by the time he wrote the book. Jesus said in John 16:12-13 “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears and he will tell you what is to come.”
c. How reliable is the book based on historical evidence?
i. In The Case for Christ, Craig L. Blomberg says that compared to any other ancient historical writings, the Gospels were written so closely to the actual events that the gap in time is insignificant.
What this means is that there was not time for new legend to develop and make its way into the writings. For example, the earliest biographies of Alexander the Great were written more than 400 years after his death and are considered to be generally reliable. There has since been legendary material written later that is not historically reliable. So, within the first 500 years or so the story remained intact, but the legendary material was added in the centuries after this time period. With John being writing so close to the actual events, it is not accepted in scholarly circles that John contains any legendary or inflated material.
Archeological Note: The John Rylands Papyrus was discovered in 1920 in Egypt and is the oldest existing manuscript of the New Testament (fragment of Book of John) and is actual evidence of the Book of John in the first half of the 2nd Century, which supports a date of authorship of John is the latter part of the 1st Century.
d. How does John compare to the other Gospels?
i. The Daily Study Bible – The Gospel of John by William Barclay says that it was also written with the intent of being a gospel to the Gentiles. This is very important in that the others were chiefly interested in conveying a message to other Jews. Jesus was of Jewish decent and spent his whole life in the area surrounding Judea. The Jews already understood the concept of a messiah and framed their view of Jesus and the gospel of Jesus with their understanding of the history of their people. The Greeks did not have this understanding of Jewish culture and history or where Jesus came from and John intended to write his gospel with this in mind. Christianity had reached Rome by 60 AD. The author decided to write a gospel that did not take non-Jews through Jewish ideas in order to present Jesus to them. In other words, this is Jesus for everyone, not just for the Jews.
ii. John has some more theological info than the other gospels. It is also highly spiritual. There are several stories relayed in John that are not in the other Gospels: The miracle of turning water into wine at Cana (2:1-11); Nicodemus coming to Jesus (3:1-15); the woman of Samaria (4); the raising of Lazarus (11); the way Jesus washed His disciples feet (13:1-17); Jesus’ teaching of the Holy Spirit in chapters 14-17. Only in John does Thomas speak, only John speaks of the crown of thorns, and there are many other examples. The HCSB states that 90% of the material in John is unique.
iii. The New Defender’s Study Bible states that all of the original apolstles (including Paul) had been martyred by the time that John wrote the Book of John (except for John). The HCSB Study Bible states that
e. The Archeological Study Bible states that the Book of John has three main themes:
i. Jesus is God
ii. Jesus is the Messiah
iii. Choose Belief or Unbelief
Reading for Week 2: John 1:1-18
Study of John - Introduction
I used various reference materials for the purpose of this study of John. Here they are:
Books and Commentaries:
The Case for Christ, Lee Strobel
The Daily Study Bible Series - The Gospel of John, William Barclay
Evidence That Demands a Verdict, Josh McDowell
Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis
Bibles:
Ryrie Study Bible - NIV, Moody
New Defenders Study Bible, KJV, Dr. Henry Morris
Archeological Study Bible, NIV, Zondervan
HCSB Study Bible, Holman
Additional Resources:
http://biblos.com/
I chose these books because they are chiefly concerned with the facts of the Bible and have been widely accepted in the Christian world. I am familiar with these books and they met the “gut check” test with me and I feel like the writers were in keeping with what is actually written in the Bible. In other words, I don’t think that they have taken any liberties and changed things or omitted things to suit some agenda. With that, the Bible is sufficient on its own and I will try to stick to it as much as possible. Since I am not a trained Bible scholar, these books help me with things that I might not be privy to, such as the Greek or Hebrew and references. They also give an additional viewpoint and commentary that we can draw from as a class. I have also used several different study bibles and translations to see what additional insight we can gain from these.
I also thought that for anyone who is interested, I could post the material on a blog. I will post the study material there and have it available in class. If you miss a week of class, you can get it off of the blog. You can go to the blog at http://mmumcsundayschool.blogspot.com/. I will review the material on Sunday night and post any additional information that I can come up with on the blog, so that is fresh for each lesson. I will also post the reading schedule for the next week at the end of the post, so you can make sure you are in the right spot for Sunday morning. I will do my best, although I am not much of a blog expert or anything. Also, where I say “the author”, I am talking about John who is the writer of the Gospel of John and not some other author of one of the books mentioned.
I have added my own thoughts and interpretations – mostly how I feel that it applies to my life, how I can apply it to my life, and how it has impacted my life. I ask that you go through this class with the mind set of how it applies to you personally and not as some additional facts that you can store in your mind in case you ever need them. Please fact check any of this stuff. That is what we are supposed to do (see how the Bereans did it to Paul in Acts 17:11). Lastly, please feel free to correct me if I am wrong, challenge anything I say, and check things out for yourself. As you study, ask God to reveal Himself to you and He will.
Books and Commentaries:
The Case for Christ, Lee Strobel
The Daily Study Bible Series - The Gospel of John, William Barclay
Evidence That Demands a Verdict, Josh McDowell
Mere Christianity, C.S. Lewis
Bibles:
Ryrie Study Bible - NIV, Moody
New Defenders Study Bible, KJV, Dr. Henry Morris
Archeological Study Bible, NIV, Zondervan
HCSB Study Bible, Holman
Additional Resources:
http://biblos.com/
I chose these books because they are chiefly concerned with the facts of the Bible and have been widely accepted in the Christian world. I am familiar with these books and they met the “gut check” test with me and I feel like the writers were in keeping with what is actually written in the Bible. In other words, I don’t think that they have taken any liberties and changed things or omitted things to suit some agenda. With that, the Bible is sufficient on its own and I will try to stick to it as much as possible. Since I am not a trained Bible scholar, these books help me with things that I might not be privy to, such as the Greek or Hebrew and references. They also give an additional viewpoint and commentary that we can draw from as a class. I have also used several different study bibles and translations to see what additional insight we can gain from these.
I also thought that for anyone who is interested, I could post the material on a blog. I will post the study material there and have it available in class. If you miss a week of class, you can get it off of the blog. You can go to the blog at http://mmumcsundayschool.blogspot.com/. I will review the material on Sunday night and post any additional information that I can come up with on the blog, so that is fresh for each lesson. I will also post the reading schedule for the next week at the end of the post, so you can make sure you are in the right spot for Sunday morning. I will do my best, although I am not much of a blog expert or anything. Also, where I say “the author”, I am talking about John who is the writer of the Gospel of John and not some other author of one of the books mentioned.
I have added my own thoughts and interpretations – mostly how I feel that it applies to my life, how I can apply it to my life, and how it has impacted my life. I ask that you go through this class with the mind set of how it applies to you personally and not as some additional facts that you can store in your mind in case you ever need them. Please fact check any of this stuff. That is what we are supposed to do (see how the Bereans did it to Paul in Acts 17:11). Lastly, please feel free to correct me if I am wrong, challenge anything I say, and check things out for yourself. As you study, ask God to reveal Himself to you and He will.
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