Introduction
The Gospel is the good news about Jesus Christ. John's account of Jesus is the story of all stories. Who is Jesus Christ? This is John's main question and he invites us to join him as we read his gospel. Jesus is more than a humanitarian, a teacher or a compassionate miracle worker. John highlights the main theme of the entire Bible in his gospel, the person and the work of Jesus Christ. It is the evangelistic book in the Bible (20:30-31). Once Jesus asked His disciple a personal question" Who do you say that I am?" (Matt 16:15). Peter answered, ‘You are the Christ, the Son of the living God”. Peter recognized the deity of Jesus Christ because it was supernaturally revealed to him. Natural man can never understand Christ because He is a mystery to him (1 Tim 3:16). Mystery can't be understood apart from divine revelation. History is incomprehensible without Christ. Someone has said "History is His story". The four gospels are the historical account of Jesus' life and ministry. In fact the gospel is Jesus Christ. The force of the Gospel is revealed in the book of Acts and the clear interpretation of the Gospel is given in the Epistles. The central theme of the Bible is Jesus Christ. Christ is predicted in the Old Testament, revealed in the Gospels, preached in the book of Acts, explained in the Epistles and anticipated in the book of Revelation. There is no study greater than the study of Jesus Christ.
Authorship and Date:
John the apostle wrote this gospel. He was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He wrote his gospel to silence the philosophical speculation that denied the deity of Christ and to prove that Jesus is the Son of God (20:31). Matthew presents Jesus as the promised Messiah and the hope of Israel (Matthew 1:21). Mark was a close associate of apostle Peter and he presents Jesus as the Servant of God (Mark 10:45). Luke presents Jesus as the Savior of the world (Luke 19:10). He was with Paul in his missionary journey. John was an eyewitness of Jesus Christ and present him as the Son of God (John 1:1,14). John is known as the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 13:23). The church fathers often quoted from the John's Gospel and attributed its authorship to apostle John. Scholars suggest that John wrote his gospel between A.D 85 and 95 from Ephesus.
Purpose:
Apostle John identifies the purpose of writing his gospel in Chapter 20:30-31. He wrote it to show that Jesus is the Son of God and that by believing in him we will have eternal life. John presents eight miracles and reviews the seven “I Am" claims of Jesus to prove His deity. The three key words in this gospel are Sign, Believe and Life. The first three Gospels are called synoptic Gospels because they look similar in the chronological account of Christ’s life. But John's Gospel is different from other Gospels in many ways. It was written in a narrative format. John’s Gospel is the interpretation of the historic account of the life of Jesus Christ. Scholars suggest that ninety percent of its content is not discussed in the synoptic Gospels. The heartbeat of John’s Gospel is evangelism (John 1:29). This gospel highlights the central themes of the entire Bible including creation, the fall and the redemption of sinners. John took half of his gospel to describe the last week of Jesus' suffering and death (12:1-20:25). Some consider John's gospel as the most amazing book ever written. It is commonly recommended to new believers. John 3:16 is the best-known and loved Bible verse. John begins his Gospel in eternity past (1:1). There is no genealogy of Jesus in this Gospel because God has no genealogy. God became man, yet Jesus never ceased being God (Matt 1:20). His birth was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies (Isaiah 7:14). The incarnation of Christ is a very important Christian doctrine. Christ's conception was supernatural but His birth was natural. The the eternal being invaded the fallen world to redeem sinners.
Christ's genealogy:
Matthew begins his gospel with the legal genealogy of Jesus through the line of Joseph to prove that He is the promised Messiah. Luke gives His natural genealogy through the line of Mary. It was not a customary practice to include names of women in the Jewish genealogy. The inclusion of women with questionable background shows how gracious and merciful is our God. This reminds us that God accepts sinful people and removes all the man-made barriers. God wants to save Jews and gentiles, male and female, good and bad. Jesus came to seek and save those who are lost in their sins (Luke 19:10). In the Messianic line there was a curse pronounced upon king Jeconiah that his descendant shall never reign in the throne of David (Jeremiah 22:24-30). Since Jesus was supernaturally conceived and came through the line of Mary this curse was removed and do not affect Jesus' right to reign in the throne of David.
Jesus was born in the fullness of time:
Jesus was born in Bethlehem according to the prophecy (Micah 5:2). It was a spiritual and mental awakening period in the history. The Greek culture and language united people in the world. But there was a spiritual vacuum among people. The philosophers and reformers couldn't fill that vacuum. Only Jesus could fill the spiritual vacuum in lives. Roman Empire was in its prime time. Roman law brought law and order in the society. Roman roads linked people everywhere. Christ's birth was not an accident but a divine appointment. He was born in the fullness of time (Gal 4:4). We are all born to live but Christ was born to die (Mark 10:45). Jesus came to His own people and even his own received Him not (John 1:11). Jesus said, “Foxes have holes, birds have nests but the Son of man has no place to lay His head". The Son of God became Son of Man that sons of men could become sons of God. Those who believe in Jesus, he gave them the right to become children of God (John 1:12).
Authorship and Date:
John the apostle wrote this gospel. He was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. He wrote his gospel to silence the philosophical speculation that denied the deity of Christ and to prove that Jesus is the Son of God (20:31). Matthew presents Jesus as the promised Messiah and the hope of Israel (Matthew 1:21). Mark was a close associate of apostle Peter and he presents Jesus as the Servant of God (Mark 10:45). Luke presents Jesus as the Savior of the world (Luke 19:10). He was with Paul in his missionary journey. John was an eyewitness of Jesus Christ and present him as the Son of God (John 1:1,14). John is known as the disciple whom Jesus loved (John 13:23). The church fathers often quoted from the John's Gospel and attributed its authorship to apostle John. Scholars suggest that John wrote his gospel between A.D 85 and 95 from Ephesus.
Purpose:
Apostle John identifies the purpose of writing his gospel in Chapter 20:30-31. He wrote it to show that Jesus is the Son of God and that by believing in him we will have eternal life. John presents eight miracles and reviews the seven “I Am" claims of Jesus to prove His deity. The three key words in this gospel are Sign, Believe and Life. The first three Gospels are called synoptic Gospels because they look similar in the chronological account of Christ’s life. But John's Gospel is different from other Gospels in many ways. It was written in a narrative format. John’s Gospel is the interpretation of the historic account of the life of Jesus Christ. Scholars suggest that ninety percent of its content is not discussed in the synoptic Gospels. The heartbeat of John’s Gospel is evangelism (John 1:29). This gospel highlights the central themes of the entire Bible including creation, the fall and the redemption of sinners. John took half of his gospel to describe the last week of Jesus' suffering and death (12:1-20:25). Some consider John's gospel as the most amazing book ever written. It is commonly recommended to new believers. John 3:16 is the best-known and loved Bible verse. John begins his Gospel in eternity past (1:1). There is no genealogy of Jesus in this Gospel because God has no genealogy. God became man, yet Jesus never ceased being God (Matt 1:20). His birth was the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies (Isaiah 7:14). The incarnation of Christ is a very important Christian doctrine. Christ's conception was supernatural but His birth was natural. The the eternal being invaded the fallen world to redeem sinners.
Christ's genealogy:
Matthew begins his gospel with the legal genealogy of Jesus through the line of Joseph to prove that He is the promised Messiah. Luke gives His natural genealogy through the line of Mary. It was not a customary practice to include names of women in the Jewish genealogy. The inclusion of women with questionable background shows how gracious and merciful is our God. This reminds us that God accepts sinful people and removes all the man-made barriers. God wants to save Jews and gentiles, male and female, good and bad. Jesus came to seek and save those who are lost in their sins (Luke 19:10). In the Messianic line there was a curse pronounced upon king Jeconiah that his descendant shall never reign in the throne of David (Jeremiah 22:24-30). Since Jesus was supernaturally conceived and came through the line of Mary this curse was removed and do not affect Jesus' right to reign in the throne of David.
Jesus was born in the fullness of time:
Jesus was born in Bethlehem according to the prophecy (Micah 5:2). It was a spiritual and mental awakening period in the history. The Greek culture and language united people in the world. But there was a spiritual vacuum among people. The philosophers and reformers couldn't fill that vacuum. Only Jesus could fill the spiritual vacuum in lives. Roman Empire was in its prime time. Roman law brought law and order in the society. Roman roads linked people everywhere. Christ's birth was not an accident but a divine appointment. He was born in the fullness of time (Gal 4:4). We are all born to live but Christ was born to die (Mark 10:45). Jesus came to His own people and even his own received Him not (John 1:11). Jesus said, “Foxes have holes, birds have nests but the Son of man has no place to lay His head". The Son of God became Son of Man that sons of men could become sons of God. Those who believe in Jesus, he gave them the right to become children of God (John 1:12).
Chapter 1
The Word Became Flesh:
(Read John 1:1-18)
John begins his Gospel in eternity past. Who is Jesus? This is John's question and he invites us to join him as we read his account of Jesus. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word (LOGOS) was with God and the Word was God (John 1:1) John uses the Greek word LOGOS here for the Word. LOGOS has many meanings. It means, a thought or an idea. Philosophers suggested that LOGOS was the first cause, the unknown intelligence or reason behind the universe. It is the creative power of God (Psalms 33:9). But John defines the Word as a person. When time began the LOGOS was in existence. The WORD became flesh in Jesus and dwelt among us full of grace and truth (John 1:14). God became man, yet Jesus never ceased being God. Jesus is eternally, equally and essentially God. Eternity is the duration without beginning or ending. Jesus said, “before Abraham was I am" (John 8:58). He was with the Father before the world began (John 17:5; Heb 1: 8, 9).
The Word was with God: 1:1.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word was face to face with God. Who is Jesus? Jesus is a distinct person, eternally one with the Father (John 1:2). He enjoyed fellowship with the Father (17:5). The deity of Christ is the fundamental doctrine in the Bible. Jesus means Savior (Matt 1:21). He is the anointed Savior, who was promised in the Old Testament (Dan 9:26). He is the begotten Son of God, the one and only Son (John 1:18). This speaks of his unique relationship with the Father. He came to reveal the Father and save sinners. He is the only hope of the world. Jesus claimed that He is coequal with the Father (John 5:17-18, 20:28). So Jews sought to kill Jesus because He claimed to be God. John says that the Word became flesh (John 1:14).
The Word was God:1:1.
Jesus is essentially God (10:30). Some argue that Jesus was only a great man and He never claimed deity for Himself. But the Jewish court and the high priest had no such doubt. When the high priest asked Jesus directly; "Are you the Christ, the Son of the blessed One?" Jesus answered plainly "I am, you shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven" (Mark 14:62). The court immediately voted to condemn Jesus to death, since blasphemy was a capital crime. He is called “Lord” in the New Testament some 250 times. He is the Lord of Glory and the Holy One (Acts 3:14). Jesus claimed that He possessed the attributes of God (Matt 16:17). He was unique in His moral perfection. His works were Godlike works. He is the creator and preserver of the universe (John 1:3, Heb 1:2,3). He directs and Controls the course of history. Jesus has the power to forgive sin and to raise the dead (Mark 2:5-7; John 11:25). Only God could forgive sins. All power of judgment is given to Jesus (John 5:22). He deserves equal honor with the Father (John 5:23). To know Jesus is to know God (John 8:19). To see Jesus is to see God (John 12: 45). To receive Jesus is to receive God (Mark 9:37). To honor Jesus is to honor God (John 5:23). What more evidence we need to believe his deity? What a great Savior!
Jesus is the Creator: 1:3.
He is the creator all things (John 1: 3). Apart from Him nothing came into being. We are created by Him and for Him (Col 1: 16). Everything owe their existence to Jesus (1 Cor 8: 6). He is the sovereign source and the divine agent of all creation. For His use all things were created (Col 1:16). We are not the product of some unplanned chemical process. Jesus controls everything by the power of His Word (Heb 1:3). In creation we see God's power and wisdom. Christ is the power and the wisdom of God (1 Cor 1:24). He will bring all things to their final destiny and perfection.
Jesus is the Source of life: 1:4-5.
Jesus is the source of both physical and spiritual life (John 1:4). In Him was life and the life was the light of men. Christ is the true light of reason and conscience. This light shines in the darkness. This world is in spiritual darkness. In the Bible darkness is the picture of sin and unbelief (John 3:19). There is always hostility between darkness and light. The light shines in darkness and darkness can never overcome the light (John 1:5).
John the Baptist was not the true light: 1:6-10.
John the Baptist was the forerunner of Jesus Christ (Isiah 40:3-5; Malachi 3:1). He was sent to bear witness of the Light. Jesus is the true light. John came to prepare the way of the Lord (Matt 3:2). John testified that he is not the Christ, or Elijah or the other prophet (John 1:21). His ultimate desire was that Christ must increase and he must decrease. John was the last Old Testament prophet. Jesus testified of John that he is the greatest among all prophets because he had the privilege to see the Christ and introduce him to the world (Matt 11: 11, John 1:29). John may be the great prophet but Jesus is the great Savior!
His own received Him not: 1:11-12.
Jesus came to His own creation. He was born under the Law. Christ came to fulfill the promises of God and to destroy the works of the devil (Heb 2:14; 1 John 3:8). God promised Abraham that "In him all the families of the earth will be blessed" (Gen 12:3). It was fulfilled in Christ (Gal 3:16; 1 Peter 2:24; Luke 4:19.28). Jesus came to His own nation but they rejected Him as their Messiah. The world rejected its only Savior. But as many as received Jesus to them God gave the right to become children of God (John 1:12). To receive Jesus means to accept Christ as Savior and Lord. To believe means to place one's trust in Jesus. Only by believing we receive Christ as our Savior. They are delivered from sin and its consequences. They have everlasting life and shall not come under judgment but have passed from death into life (John 5:24). Salvation is the entire experience of Christian life. Those who are saved will be transformed into the image of Christ. Our family heritage and good works will not save us (Rom 3:20). Salvation is a gift from God. We are saved by grace alone and through faith alone and in Christ alone. Grace is God’s undeserving favor toward sinners. It is God’s riches at Christ expense. Christ came to fulfill the law and to deliver us from sin (Rom 8:2-4). Salvation is initiated by God. When we were utterly helpless and still sinners Christ died for us (Romans 5:6-8). Also Salvation is not an afterthought of God but it was included in the eternal plan of God (1 Peter 1: 18-20). Christ became our substitute and died on the cross to save us (2 Cor 5:21) . Reformation and conformation will not save us. Pharisees were conformed to the law and they were also reformed religious leaders. But they were not saved (John 3:5). Salvation is the supernatural work of God. Those who are born and brought up in Christian homes and who are conformed to morality can be mistakenly think that they are saved. Nicodemus is a prime example of it. Those who receive Jesus as Lord and savior are the sons of God (John 1:12). Receive means to welcome Christ as one's Lord and Savior. To believe is more than mental agreement but persuaded of Christ's claim. Satan believes that there is a God but also trembles (James 2:19). Believe simply means, active trust in Christ with the desire to treat Him as Lord and Savior in life.
We have seen His Glory:1:14.
Apostle John was an eyewitness of the glory of Christ. Christ is eternally, equally and essentially God. Yet He was willing to be born as a man. This is called incarnation. It is a great mystery (1 Tim 3:16). His coming was voluntary. God sent His own Son in a human body like ours to become a sin sacrifice for us (Rom 8:3). In His incarnation Jesus never ceased being God or exchanged His deity for humanity. But He voluntarily emptied the independent use of His divine attributes. He came to reveal the Father to us (John 1:18). Only God himself can do that. He became obedient even unto the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). He had to be made like His brethren in all things, yet without sin (Heb 2:17). John was an eyewitness of His glory. Glory is the visible manifestation of God. Many people saw the miracles Jesus did but failed to see His glory. Only the disciples believed in Him (2:11). Satan has blinded the minds of sinner to see Christ's glory. Jesus was full of grace and truth. John saw in Jesus the glory of God's unfailing love, the truth and his faithfulness. Truth is the reality of God. Jesus came to bear the witness of truth (John 18:37). There is a perfect balance in the revelation of grace and truth in Christ. Have you received Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Let us love and adore this wonderful Savior!
Testimony of John the Baptist
(Read John 1:15-34)
John came to bear witness of Jesus Christ. He was a bridge between the Old Testament and New Testament. From the fullness Christ, the disciples have received grace upon grace. Moses gave the Law. The purpose of the Law was to reveal sin and to lead us to Christ (Gal 3:24). Grace and Truth came through Jesus Christ. Grace is God's undeserving favor to sinners. The truth says that the salvation is only through the sacrifice of Christ. Sin separated us from God. It was entirely of God's grace and mercy that Christ came to save us (Titus 2:11). He came to destroy the power of death by His own death and resurrection. He is able to set us free from the fear of death. This is the unbelievable transaction story. By taking our mortality, Christ has imparted to us His immortality. By experiencing our weaknesses, He has strengthened us by His power (2 Cor 13:4). By becoming poor He has made us rich spiritually (2 Cor 8:9). By taking our sins upon himself Christ has clothed us with His righteousness (2 Cor 5:21). John the Baptist came to prepare the way of the Lord. John was unworthy of even to untie His sandal. John baptized people in water as an outward sign of repentance. But Christ came to baptize them with the Holy Spirit. Only Christ has the power to forgive sin. When John saw Jesus coming towards him; he said, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (1:29). Only Christ could take away the sin of the world. John testified that Jesus is the Son of God because it was revealed to him at the baptism of Jesus (Matt 3:13-17). Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises (1:20-21). John was a faithful witness but Jesus is the great Savior.
Jesus Said "Follow Me"
(Read John 1:35-51)
John the baptist introduced his disciples to Jesus. "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (1:29). Two of his disciples followed Jesus hearing his testimony. There is no greater calling than to follow Jesus Christ. John records the calling of six of the His twelve disciples of Jesus: Peter, Andrew, James, John and Philip. John and Andrew followed Jesus When they heard the testimony of John the Baptist about Jesus. They received the invitation from Jesus to "Come and see". They spent the day with Jesus and believed Him as their Messiah (John 1:38-39). Little did they know that by. coming to Christ, they would see much more than where He lived. They were willing to place Christ ahead of every other pursuit in their life. Discipleship is costly (Luke 14:33).. One of the two disciples was Andrew. He went to his brother Simon and told him that he has found the Messiah. Andrew brought his brother, Simon to Jesus. A true disciple of Christ never be ashamed of Him but always eager to bring others to Jesus Christ. The Lord changed Simon's name to Peter. Jesus found Philip and invited him to follow Him. Philip brought Nathanael to Jesus. When Nathanael voiced objection, Philip did not to argue with him. He knew that he may win argument but lose the soul. Jesus knew all about Nathanael and said that he is without deceit. He did not twist the Law as the Pharisees or followed the man made traditions. Nathaniel was amazed that Jesus knew all about him (Ps 139:2-4). He identified Jesus as "Rabbi, the Son of God and the King of Israel"(1:49). The greatest knowledge any human being can have is to understand the identity of Jesus Christ. Jesus knows our deepest thoughts and fears. He hears our cry and delivers us from all our fears. Jesus told Nathaniel that he was going to see angels ascending and descending upon Him. Jesus is the pathway to heaven (John 14:6). There is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Jesus alone has the power on earth to forgive sin. In this chapter Jesus is identified as "the Lamb of God, the Messiah, the Son of God, the King of Israel and the Son of Man" (1:29, 41, 49, 51). Witnessing of Christ can be done only in the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). Someone has said "Witnessing is one beggar telling another beggar where he found the bread" (2 King 7:3-11). It was the dying request of our Savior (Mark 16:15). The open sacrifice of Christ demands our open witnessing (Heb 13:13). The Day of Judgment seat requires it (Matt 10:32). The examples of apostles compel us us to witness Christ (John 9:25). We can witness Christ by our open confession of Christ, our godly living and by our association with other Christians (Rom 10:9; Matt 5:16; Heb 10:25). The great-commission of Christ is to make disciples of all nations (Mat 28:18-20). All our ministries must have an evangelistic purpose. Pray that Christ would give us grace to embrace the gospel and make Christ known to this dying world. Let us become His witnesses. It is the urgent need in the lost and dying world. Our time is short, souls are perishing and opportunities will be lost. The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:26). Are you a disciple of Jesus Christ?
(Read John 1:1-18)
John begins his Gospel in eternity past. Who is Jesus? This is John's question and he invites us to join him as we read his account of Jesus. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word (LOGOS) was with God and the Word was God (John 1:1) John uses the Greek word LOGOS here for the Word. LOGOS has many meanings. It means, a thought or an idea. Philosophers suggested that LOGOS was the first cause, the unknown intelligence or reason behind the universe. It is the creative power of God (Psalms 33:9). But John defines the Word as a person. When time began the LOGOS was in existence. The WORD became flesh in Jesus and dwelt among us full of grace and truth (John 1:14). God became man, yet Jesus never ceased being God. Jesus is eternally, equally and essentially God. Eternity is the duration without beginning or ending. Jesus said, “before Abraham was I am" (John 8:58). He was with the Father before the world began (John 17:5; Heb 1: 8, 9).
The Word was with God: 1:1.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word was face to face with God. Who is Jesus? Jesus is a distinct person, eternally one with the Father (John 1:2). He enjoyed fellowship with the Father (17:5). The deity of Christ is the fundamental doctrine in the Bible. Jesus means Savior (Matt 1:21). He is the anointed Savior, who was promised in the Old Testament (Dan 9:26). He is the begotten Son of God, the one and only Son (John 1:18). This speaks of his unique relationship with the Father. He came to reveal the Father and save sinners. He is the only hope of the world. Jesus claimed that He is coequal with the Father (John 5:17-18, 20:28). So Jews sought to kill Jesus because He claimed to be God. John says that the Word became flesh (John 1:14).
The Word was God:1:1.
Jesus is essentially God (10:30). Some argue that Jesus was only a great man and He never claimed deity for Himself. But the Jewish court and the high priest had no such doubt. When the high priest asked Jesus directly; "Are you the Christ, the Son of the blessed One?" Jesus answered plainly "I am, you shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power and coming in the clouds of heaven" (Mark 14:62). The court immediately voted to condemn Jesus to death, since blasphemy was a capital crime. He is called “Lord” in the New Testament some 250 times. He is the Lord of Glory and the Holy One (Acts 3:14). Jesus claimed that He possessed the attributes of God (Matt 16:17). He was unique in His moral perfection. His works were Godlike works. He is the creator and preserver of the universe (John 1:3, Heb 1:2,3). He directs and Controls the course of history. Jesus has the power to forgive sin and to raise the dead (Mark 2:5-7; John 11:25). Only God could forgive sins. All power of judgment is given to Jesus (John 5:22). He deserves equal honor with the Father (John 5:23). To know Jesus is to know God (John 8:19). To see Jesus is to see God (John 12: 45). To receive Jesus is to receive God (Mark 9:37). To honor Jesus is to honor God (John 5:23). What more evidence we need to believe his deity? What a great Savior!
Jesus is the Creator: 1:3.
He is the creator all things (John 1: 3). Apart from Him nothing came into being. We are created by Him and for Him (Col 1: 16). Everything owe their existence to Jesus (1 Cor 8: 6). He is the sovereign source and the divine agent of all creation. For His use all things were created (Col 1:16). We are not the product of some unplanned chemical process. Jesus controls everything by the power of His Word (Heb 1:3). In creation we see God's power and wisdom. Christ is the power and the wisdom of God (1 Cor 1:24). He will bring all things to their final destiny and perfection.
Jesus is the Source of life: 1:4-5.
Jesus is the source of both physical and spiritual life (John 1:4). In Him was life and the life was the light of men. Christ is the true light of reason and conscience. This light shines in the darkness. This world is in spiritual darkness. In the Bible darkness is the picture of sin and unbelief (John 3:19). There is always hostility between darkness and light. The light shines in darkness and darkness can never overcome the light (John 1:5).
John the Baptist was not the true light: 1:6-10.
John the Baptist was the forerunner of Jesus Christ (Isiah 40:3-5; Malachi 3:1). He was sent to bear witness of the Light. Jesus is the true light. John came to prepare the way of the Lord (Matt 3:2). John testified that he is not the Christ, or Elijah or the other prophet (John 1:21). His ultimate desire was that Christ must increase and he must decrease. John was the last Old Testament prophet. Jesus testified of John that he is the greatest among all prophets because he had the privilege to see the Christ and introduce him to the world (Matt 11: 11, John 1:29). John may be the great prophet but Jesus is the great Savior!
His own received Him not: 1:11-12.
Jesus came to His own creation. He was born under the Law. Christ came to fulfill the promises of God and to destroy the works of the devil (Heb 2:14; 1 John 3:8). God promised Abraham that "In him all the families of the earth will be blessed" (Gen 12:3). It was fulfilled in Christ (Gal 3:16; 1 Peter 2:24; Luke 4:19.28). Jesus came to His own nation but they rejected Him as their Messiah. The world rejected its only Savior. But as many as received Jesus to them God gave the right to become children of God (John 1:12). To receive Jesus means to accept Christ as Savior and Lord. To believe means to place one's trust in Jesus. Only by believing we receive Christ as our Savior. They are delivered from sin and its consequences. They have everlasting life and shall not come under judgment but have passed from death into life (John 5:24). Salvation is the entire experience of Christian life. Those who are saved will be transformed into the image of Christ. Our family heritage and good works will not save us (Rom 3:20). Salvation is a gift from God. We are saved by grace alone and through faith alone and in Christ alone. Grace is God’s undeserving favor toward sinners. It is God’s riches at Christ expense. Christ came to fulfill the law and to deliver us from sin (Rom 8:2-4). Salvation is initiated by God. When we were utterly helpless and still sinners Christ died for us (Romans 5:6-8). Also Salvation is not an afterthought of God but it was included in the eternal plan of God (1 Peter 1: 18-20). Christ became our substitute and died on the cross to save us (2 Cor 5:21) . Reformation and conformation will not save us. Pharisees were conformed to the law and they were also reformed religious leaders. But they were not saved (John 3:5). Salvation is the supernatural work of God. Those who are born and brought up in Christian homes and who are conformed to morality can be mistakenly think that they are saved. Nicodemus is a prime example of it. Those who receive Jesus as Lord and savior are the sons of God (John 1:12). Receive means to welcome Christ as one's Lord and Savior. To believe is more than mental agreement but persuaded of Christ's claim. Satan believes that there is a God but also trembles (James 2:19). Believe simply means, active trust in Christ with the desire to treat Him as Lord and Savior in life.
We have seen His Glory:1:14.
Apostle John was an eyewitness of the glory of Christ. Christ is eternally, equally and essentially God. Yet He was willing to be born as a man. This is called incarnation. It is a great mystery (1 Tim 3:16). His coming was voluntary. God sent His own Son in a human body like ours to become a sin sacrifice for us (Rom 8:3). In His incarnation Jesus never ceased being God or exchanged His deity for humanity. But He voluntarily emptied the independent use of His divine attributes. He came to reveal the Father to us (John 1:18). Only God himself can do that. He became obedient even unto the point of death on the cross (Philippians 2:8). He had to be made like His brethren in all things, yet without sin (Heb 2:17). John was an eyewitness of His glory. Glory is the visible manifestation of God. Many people saw the miracles Jesus did but failed to see His glory. Only the disciples believed in Him (2:11). Satan has blinded the minds of sinner to see Christ's glory. Jesus was full of grace and truth. John saw in Jesus the glory of God's unfailing love, the truth and his faithfulness. Truth is the reality of God. Jesus came to bear the witness of truth (John 18:37). There is a perfect balance in the revelation of grace and truth in Christ. Have you received Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Let us love and adore this wonderful Savior!
Testimony of John the Baptist
(Read John 1:15-34)
John came to bear witness of Jesus Christ. He was a bridge between the Old Testament and New Testament. From the fullness Christ, the disciples have received grace upon grace. Moses gave the Law. The purpose of the Law was to reveal sin and to lead us to Christ (Gal 3:24). Grace and Truth came through Jesus Christ. Grace is God's undeserving favor to sinners. The truth says that the salvation is only through the sacrifice of Christ. Sin separated us from God. It was entirely of God's grace and mercy that Christ came to save us (Titus 2:11). He came to destroy the power of death by His own death and resurrection. He is able to set us free from the fear of death. This is the unbelievable transaction story. By taking our mortality, Christ has imparted to us His immortality. By experiencing our weaknesses, He has strengthened us by His power (2 Cor 13:4). By becoming poor He has made us rich spiritually (2 Cor 8:9). By taking our sins upon himself Christ has clothed us with His righteousness (2 Cor 5:21). John the Baptist came to prepare the way of the Lord. John was unworthy of even to untie His sandal. John baptized people in water as an outward sign of repentance. But Christ came to baptize them with the Holy Spirit. Only Christ has the power to forgive sin. When John saw Jesus coming towards him; he said, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (1:29). Only Christ could take away the sin of the world. John testified that Jesus is the Son of God because it was revealed to him at the baptism of Jesus (Matt 3:13-17). Jesus is the fulfillment of the Old Testament promises (1:20-21). John was a faithful witness but Jesus is the great Savior.
Jesus Said "Follow Me"
(Read John 1:35-51)
John the baptist introduced his disciples to Jesus. "Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world" (1:29). Two of his disciples followed Jesus hearing his testimony. There is no greater calling than to follow Jesus Christ. John records the calling of six of the His twelve disciples of Jesus: Peter, Andrew, James, John and Philip. John and Andrew followed Jesus When they heard the testimony of John the Baptist about Jesus. They received the invitation from Jesus to "Come and see". They spent the day with Jesus and believed Him as their Messiah (John 1:38-39). Little did they know that by. coming to Christ, they would see much more than where He lived. They were willing to place Christ ahead of every other pursuit in their life. Discipleship is costly (Luke 14:33).. One of the two disciples was Andrew. He went to his brother Simon and told him that he has found the Messiah. Andrew brought his brother, Simon to Jesus. A true disciple of Christ never be ashamed of Him but always eager to bring others to Jesus Christ. The Lord changed Simon's name to Peter. Jesus found Philip and invited him to follow Him. Philip brought Nathanael to Jesus. When Nathanael voiced objection, Philip did not to argue with him. He knew that he may win argument but lose the soul. Jesus knew all about Nathanael and said that he is without deceit. He did not twist the Law as the Pharisees or followed the man made traditions. Nathaniel was amazed that Jesus knew all about him (Ps 139:2-4). He identified Jesus as "Rabbi, the Son of God and the King of Israel"(1:49). The greatest knowledge any human being can have is to understand the identity of Jesus Christ. Jesus knows our deepest thoughts and fears. He hears our cry and delivers us from all our fears. Jesus told Nathaniel that he was going to see angels ascending and descending upon Him. Jesus is the pathway to heaven (John 14:6). There is no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Jesus alone has the power on earth to forgive sin. In this chapter Jesus is identified as "the Lamb of God, the Messiah, the Son of God, the King of Israel and the Son of Man" (1:29, 41, 49, 51). Witnessing of Christ can be done only in the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8). Someone has said "Witnessing is one beggar telling another beggar where he found the bread" (2 King 7:3-11). It was the dying request of our Savior (Mark 16:15). The open sacrifice of Christ demands our open witnessing (Heb 13:13). The Day of Judgment seat requires it (Matt 10:32). The examples of apostles compel us us to witness Christ (John 9:25). We can witness Christ by our open confession of Christ, our godly living and by our association with other Christians (Rom 10:9; Matt 5:16; Heb 10:25). The great-commission of Christ is to make disciples of all nations (Mat 28:18-20). All our ministries must have an evangelistic purpose. Pray that Christ would give us grace to embrace the gospel and make Christ known to this dying world. Let us become His witnesses. It is the urgent need in the lost and dying world. Our time is short, souls are perishing and opportunities will be lost. The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch (Acts 11:26). Are you a disciple of Jesus Christ?
Chapter 2
Jesus can make the Difference:
(Read John 2:1-12)
The miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana of Galilee was the first of the seven miracles that John chose to record. Jesus did miracles to validate His deity. We learn in this miracle that Jesus has power over the material universe. He is the source of all blessings (James 1:17). Jesus and his disciples were invited to this wedding. The mother of Jesus was there and Mary was concerned that the wine had ran out during the celebration. Wine was a normal drink at that time. It was a public humiliation in a wedding to run out of wine. Mary spoke to Jesus about this problem. She knew that Jesus could do something about it. Jesus replied "Woman my hour has not yet come"(2:4). He was not showing any disrespect to Mary by addressing her, "Woman". Mary told the servants “Do whatever He tells you to do”. Jesus did all things according to heavenly timetable (17:1). Jesus asked the servants to fill the six stone jars with water. These were used for the Jewish purification. Each jar could hold about 30 gallons of water. Jesus transformed the water into wine. When the governor of wedding tasted he found it very good. Thus Jesus proved that he has power over the material universe. Jesus could bring joy and satisfaction in the wedding. Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ. Servants obeyed and filled the Jars. An obedient heart is evidence that we believe God. Then God will fill our cup of salvation with overflowing blessings. Only Jesus can bring satisfaction in life. Though Jesus performed many miracles, only 36 of them are recorded in the Gospel account. Christ can fill our empty heart with joy and satisfaction. Jesus did this to manifest His glory. Many people saw the miracles but only the disciples saw His glory. Miracles were not performed to show off Christ's power. Miracle always points to something greater than itself and often followed with a message (John 5:14-24). Miracles cannot save sinners. Satan has blinded unbelievers to see His glory (2 Cor 4:4). This miracle teaches that Jesus does all things for God's glory and for our good. We cannot justify drunkenness based on this passage. Drunkenness is condemned in the Bible (Pro 23:21). Drunkenness can lead to riotous and sinful lifestyle (Rom 13:13). Jesus is the true source of joy. Only those who put their trust in Christ find hope and satisfaction.
Jesus Cleanses the Temple:
(Read John 2:13-22)
John also gives the account of the cleansing of the temple in this chapter. Temple worship was very important to Jews. God chose to dwell in the midst of Israel in the tabernacle and in the temple. Every male Jew was required to attend three annual feasts in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 16:16). God fearing people come to Jerusalem to attend these feasts. The temple had many barriers. The outer court was for the Gentiles. In the next court the was for women. They came to worship God. In the main court the Jewish men were allowed to bring their sacrifices. The priests were allowed to enter the Holy place. Only the High Priest could enter the the most Holy place once a year on the day of Atonement (Leviticus 16). Passover was one of Israel's feasts. During this feast, the temple's outer court was taken over by religious leaders for marketing and money exchange. Religious leader considered this as a service to worshipers. They saw godliness as a means of gain. Many preachers twist the truth for personal gain. Truth must be preached so that the lost world will flee from sin and get saved. Jesus saw how broken and sinful their worship had become. Jesus cleansed the Temple because they made His Father’s house a place of merchandise. It was the fulfillment of a prophecy (Psalms 69:9). Jews demanded a sign to prove His authority for His conduct. Christ said "Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up”. This prophecy was fulfilled when the disciples saw Jesus raised from the dead on the third day. Jesus is the true and final temple. In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily (Col 2:9). The temple was never intended to be God's permanent dwelling. It was only a type of Christ. Today believers gather unto Jesus to worship God. The Church is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 3:16). Christ is the one through whom we have access to God the Father (Heb 10:19-22). Christ is our only mediator (1 Tim 2:5). The Law that separated us from God is now removed forever. The religious leaders were not seeking truth. They were seeking evidence to condemn Jesus. We should study God's Word daily to know the truth. Only in Christ we have access to God the Father through the Spirit (Eph 2:18).
Jesus knows His own: 2:23-25.
When Jesus was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in His name because they saw the miracles. They were convinced that Jesus is the Messiah. But Jesus did not trust them because they were only professing followers. Their faith was only superficial (2:24-25). Jesus knows those who trust him with genuine faith. They depart from iniquity and live a life that reflects the character of God (2 Tim 2:19). Many people seek Jesus as a miracle worker rather than their Savior and Lord. Seeing miracle does not mean believing. Only faith in Christ will save sinners (Rom 10:9). Many traveled with Christ but few followed Him. Jesus needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man. Are you a follower of Christ or a fellow traveler? Is Christ your Lord and Savior?
(Read John 2:1-12)
The miracle of turning water into wine at the wedding in Cana of Galilee was the first of the seven miracles that John chose to record. Jesus did miracles to validate His deity. We learn in this miracle that Jesus has power over the material universe. He is the source of all blessings (James 1:17). Jesus and his disciples were invited to this wedding. The mother of Jesus was there and Mary was concerned that the wine had ran out during the celebration. Wine was a normal drink at that time. It was a public humiliation in a wedding to run out of wine. Mary spoke to Jesus about this problem. She knew that Jesus could do something about it. Jesus replied "Woman my hour has not yet come"(2:4). He was not showing any disrespect to Mary by addressing her, "Woman". Mary told the servants “Do whatever He tells you to do”. Jesus did all things according to heavenly timetable (17:1). Jesus asked the servants to fill the six stone jars with water. These were used for the Jewish purification. Each jar could hold about 30 gallons of water. Jesus transformed the water into wine. When the governor of wedding tasted he found it very good. Thus Jesus proved that he has power over the material universe. Jesus could bring joy and satisfaction in the wedding. Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ. Servants obeyed and filled the Jars. An obedient heart is evidence that we believe God. Then God will fill our cup of salvation with overflowing blessings. Only Jesus can bring satisfaction in life. Though Jesus performed many miracles, only 36 of them are recorded in the Gospel account. Christ can fill our empty heart with joy and satisfaction. Jesus did this to manifest His glory. Many people saw the miracles but only the disciples saw His glory. Miracles were not performed to show off Christ's power. Miracle always points to something greater than itself and often followed with a message (John 5:14-24). Miracles cannot save sinners. Satan has blinded unbelievers to see His glory (2 Cor 4:4). This miracle teaches that Jesus does all things for God's glory and for our good. We cannot justify drunkenness based on this passage. Drunkenness is condemned in the Bible (Pro 23:21). Drunkenness can lead to riotous and sinful lifestyle (Rom 13:13). Jesus is the true source of joy. Only those who put their trust in Christ find hope and satisfaction.
Jesus Cleanses the Temple:
(Read John 2:13-22)
John also gives the account of the cleansing of the temple in this chapter. Temple worship was very important to Jews. God chose to dwell in the midst of Israel in the tabernacle and in the temple. Every male Jew was required to attend three annual feasts in Jerusalem (Deuteronomy 16:16). God fearing people come to Jerusalem to attend these feasts. The temple had many barriers. The outer court was for the Gentiles. In the next court the was for women. They came to worship God. In the main court the Jewish men were allowed to bring their sacrifices. The priests were allowed to enter the Holy place. Only the High Priest could enter the the most Holy place once a year on the day of Atonement (Leviticus 16). Passover was one of Israel's feasts. During this feast, the temple's outer court was taken over by religious leaders for marketing and money exchange. Religious leader considered this as a service to worshipers. They saw godliness as a means of gain. Many preachers twist the truth for personal gain. Truth must be preached so that the lost world will flee from sin and get saved. Jesus saw how broken and sinful their worship had become. Jesus cleansed the Temple because they made His Father’s house a place of merchandise. It was the fulfillment of a prophecy (Psalms 69:9). Jews demanded a sign to prove His authority for His conduct. Christ said "Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up”. This prophecy was fulfilled when the disciples saw Jesus raised from the dead on the third day. Jesus is the true and final temple. In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily (Col 2:9). The temple was never intended to be God's permanent dwelling. It was only a type of Christ. Today believers gather unto Jesus to worship God. The Church is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 3:16). Christ is the one through whom we have access to God the Father (Heb 10:19-22). Christ is our only mediator (1 Tim 2:5). The Law that separated us from God is now removed forever. The religious leaders were not seeking truth. They were seeking evidence to condemn Jesus. We should study God's Word daily to know the truth. Only in Christ we have access to God the Father through the Spirit (Eph 2:18).
Jesus knows His own: 2:23-25.
When Jesus was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many believed in His name because they saw the miracles. They were convinced that Jesus is the Messiah. But Jesus did not trust them because they were only professing followers. Their faith was only superficial (2:24-25). Jesus knows those who trust him with genuine faith. They depart from iniquity and live a life that reflects the character of God (2 Tim 2:19). Many people seek Jesus as a miracle worker rather than their Savior and Lord. Seeing miracle does not mean believing. Only faith in Christ will save sinners (Rom 10:9). Many traveled with Christ but few followed Him. Jesus needed no one to bear witness about man, for he himself knew what was in man. Are you a follower of Christ or a fellow traveler? Is Christ your Lord and Savior?
Chapter 3
You Must Be Born Again:
(Read John 3:1-10)
The third chapter of John's Gospel gives the account of the conversion of Nicodemus. He was an old, religious and moral teacher. Yet he had to learn the truth about new birth. The natural man cannot understand spiritual thing because he is spiritually blind. So Jesus explained the doctrine of new birth to Nicodemus. Nicodemus was a humble and godly teacher who came to Jesus by night. He knew that Jesus was a teacher who came from God because no one could do these miracles unless God is with him. Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of Jewish religious court, Sanhedrin. He was also an influential teacher, wealthy and old (John 19:39). In spite of all his learning, he failed to understand that Jesus is the Messiah. Nicodemus was curious to know Jesus but not committed. Only the Holy Spirit can enlighten our spiritual understanding (1 Cor 1:14). Jesus told Nicodemus “unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God". Nicodemus did not understand the nature of the kingdom of God. Christ explained to him the difference between physical birth and spiritual birth. Here water is not referred to water baptism. Water baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. Apart from the work of God's Spirit, the natural man can never understand spiritual things (1 Cor 1:18). Becoming a Christian is a supernatural work of God's grace. Those who trust Christ become new creation in Him ( 2 Cor 5:17). God gives them new life through the Holy Spirit to produce Christlikeness. A new desire, a new attitude will be produced to love and obey Christ. Understanding is not a prerequisite for salvation but faith in Christ. Faith is more than mental assent of some biblical facts but active trust in the promises of God. It is the conviction of things concerning Christ that he is trustworthy. Baptism is not a requirement for salvation. Otherwise none of the Old Testament saints, including the thief on the cross could be saved.
Why we must be born again?
Read John 3:11-15.
The natural man is spiritually dead and at enmity with God (Rom 3:23). “Human heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). Regeneration is the the supernatural work of God. When we get saved the Holy Spirit takes residence in us. Thus we become new creation in Christ (2 Cor 5:17). All three Persons in God-head are involved in our salvation. We are born again because of the mercy of God the Father (1 Peter 1:3). Christ gives us eternal life (John 10:28). It is the very life of Christ (John 14:6). The Holy Spirit imparts this life in us to live a godly life (Gal 5:25; 2 Pet 1:3). To illustrate regeneration, Christ uses two examples. The wind and the brazen serpent. The wind is a mystery. The Spirit is likened to wind, invisible and active and powerful. Wind is not visible yet we feel its effect. Likewise when a person get saved, he will be changed. While we can never be sure of the salvation of any sinner, we can be sure that the gospel will never return void. Nicodemus was familiar with new birth yet not saved (Ezekiel 36:26-27). The new birth is a miracle and faith in Christ is the key that open s the door. Jesus was lifted up on the cross like the brazen serpent was lifted up in the wilderness. When people bitterly complained against God and Moses, God sent poisonous snakes and many died. When people cried out for deliverance God said to Moses to put a replica of a snake on a pole. When those who were bitten, they looked at it and were healed (Num 21:4-9). God is the one who provided the brazen serpent for deliverance of Israel (Num 21:8-9). When Jesus was lifted up on the cross, he took God's judgment for us so that those who look to him will receive eternal life (John 3:36) All those who looked to the brazen serpent found deliverance. Regeneration is entirely of God. The brazen serpent is a picture of Jesus Christ who died on the cross. He took our judgment of sin on himself (1 Pet 2:24). Those who look to Jesus in faith will receive eternal life. Have you received eternal life by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ?
John 3:16-21.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son". This verse speaks of the extent of God’s love. Out of His great love, God sent His son to save sinners. He loved the whole world. It is the greatest love the world has ever known. While we were yet sinners God sent his Son to die for us (Rom 5:8). It is the sacrificial love. This is the most expensive love, God gave His only begotten Son. There is no greater love than God's love. Whosoever believes in Christ should not perish but have eternal life. It is the universal love. There is no greater love like the love of a dying Savior. It is also an exclusive love, those who believe in Christ will be saved. It is the undeserving love in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us (Rom 5:8). Also it is the restoring love (Heb 12:6). It is the providential love that makes the sun to rise on the evil and good (Mat 5:45). God's love is not earned by good works. God is the essence of love and He extended his love to guilty sinners. It is like the sun shines on me because that's what the sun does. God is love (1 John 4:8-10). Those who believe in Christ will be saved. This childlike faith is a stumbling block to the proud because it implies weakness in their sight. We believe in many things in our daily life. They can let us down. But faith in Jesus will never disappoint us. The best way to see God's great love is to see Jesus who died on the cross for us (3:16). God did not send His Son to condemn the world but to save the world. God's purpose of sending his Son was redemption and not judgment. Those who reject Christ are already under judgment (John 3:36). The sinners need forgiveness is because they are condemned already. Every time they sin they are storing up judgment on them. People do not believe in Christ because they do not want their sin to be exposed (John 3:20). This is not an intellectual problem but a moral problem. Those who believe in Christ will receive eternal life. Eternal life is defined as knowing God and His Son and experiencing His life (John 17:3). When we put our faith in Christ we share the relational intimacy of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. When Christ returns, we will experience the fullness of it (2 Pet 1:11). Have you experienced God's undeserving love in your life? (Rom 5:8). Pray that God would give an insight to see his great love in the face of Jesus Christ. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you shall be saved. Begin each day thinking of the great love and be thankful.
The testimony of John the Baptist:
(Read John 3:22-36)
John the Baptist came to bear witness of Jesus Christ. John rejoiced over Jesus' popularity and desired that Jesus must increase and he must decrease. John acknowledged that Jesus came from heaven. John baptized people with water and testified that Jesus will baptize them with the Holy Spirit. Only Jesus gives eternal life. Eternal life speaks of the quality of divine life we receive from God. The relationship with Jesus is described in terms of a marriage (3:39). Jesus is the perfect bridegroom and we are the unworthy bride (2 Cor 11:2). Jesus took upon him the wrath we deserve in order to give us eternal life. Jesus is the only Savior of the world. Salvation is a relationship. Either we are with Christ or against Christ. The basis of our salvation is God's grace and Christ's death on the cross. Christ endured the judgement of sin we deserve. Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone and in Christ alone. God desires that all should be saved and come to the knowledge of truth (2 Tim 2:4). Bible does not teach limited atonement (2 Cor 5:21). God's wrath is his settled attitude toward sin. Disobedience results in wrath but faith in Christ results in salvation. God does not want anyone to perish in their sin (2 Pet 3:9). Faith in Christ alone results in salvation. Are you saved? Pray that God would open your eyes to see the glory of God in Jesus Christ and be saved. What a gracious Savior!
(Read John 3:1-10)
The third chapter of John's Gospel gives the account of the conversion of Nicodemus. He was an old, religious and moral teacher. Yet he had to learn the truth about new birth. The natural man cannot understand spiritual thing because he is spiritually blind. So Jesus explained the doctrine of new birth to Nicodemus. Nicodemus was a humble and godly teacher who came to Jesus by night. He knew that Jesus was a teacher who came from God because no one could do these miracles unless God is with him. Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of Jewish religious court, Sanhedrin. He was also an influential teacher, wealthy and old (John 19:39). In spite of all his learning, he failed to understand that Jesus is the Messiah. Nicodemus was curious to know Jesus but not committed. Only the Holy Spirit can enlighten our spiritual understanding (1 Cor 1:14). Jesus told Nicodemus “unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God". Nicodemus did not understand the nature of the kingdom of God. Christ explained to him the difference between physical birth and spiritual birth. Here water is not referred to water baptism. Water baptism is an outward expression of an inward change. Apart from the work of God's Spirit, the natural man can never understand spiritual things (1 Cor 1:18). Becoming a Christian is a supernatural work of God's grace. Those who trust Christ become new creation in Him ( 2 Cor 5:17). God gives them new life through the Holy Spirit to produce Christlikeness. A new desire, a new attitude will be produced to love and obey Christ. Understanding is not a prerequisite for salvation but faith in Christ. Faith is more than mental assent of some biblical facts but active trust in the promises of God. It is the conviction of things concerning Christ that he is trustworthy. Baptism is not a requirement for salvation. Otherwise none of the Old Testament saints, including the thief on the cross could be saved.
Why we must be born again?
Read John 3:11-15.
The natural man is spiritually dead and at enmity with God (Rom 3:23). “Human heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked” (Jeremiah 17:9). Regeneration is the the supernatural work of God. When we get saved the Holy Spirit takes residence in us. Thus we become new creation in Christ (2 Cor 5:17). All three Persons in God-head are involved in our salvation. We are born again because of the mercy of God the Father (1 Peter 1:3). Christ gives us eternal life (John 10:28). It is the very life of Christ (John 14:6). The Holy Spirit imparts this life in us to live a godly life (Gal 5:25; 2 Pet 1:3). To illustrate regeneration, Christ uses two examples. The wind and the brazen serpent. The wind is a mystery. The Spirit is likened to wind, invisible and active and powerful. Wind is not visible yet we feel its effect. Likewise when a person get saved, he will be changed. While we can never be sure of the salvation of any sinner, we can be sure that the gospel will never return void. Nicodemus was familiar with new birth yet not saved (Ezekiel 36:26-27). The new birth is a miracle and faith in Christ is the key that open s the door. Jesus was lifted up on the cross like the brazen serpent was lifted up in the wilderness. When people bitterly complained against God and Moses, God sent poisonous snakes and many died. When people cried out for deliverance God said to Moses to put a replica of a snake on a pole. When those who were bitten, they looked at it and were healed (Num 21:4-9). God is the one who provided the brazen serpent for deliverance of Israel (Num 21:8-9). When Jesus was lifted up on the cross, he took God's judgment for us so that those who look to him will receive eternal life (John 3:36) All those who looked to the brazen serpent found deliverance. Regeneration is entirely of God. The brazen serpent is a picture of Jesus Christ who died on the cross. He took our judgment of sin on himself (1 Pet 2:24). Those who look to Jesus in faith will receive eternal life. Have you received eternal life by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ?
John 3:16-21.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son". This verse speaks of the extent of God’s love. Out of His great love, God sent His son to save sinners. He loved the whole world. It is the greatest love the world has ever known. While we were yet sinners God sent his Son to die for us (Rom 5:8). It is the sacrificial love. This is the most expensive love, God gave His only begotten Son. There is no greater love than God's love. Whosoever believes in Christ should not perish but have eternal life. It is the universal love. There is no greater love like the love of a dying Savior. It is also an exclusive love, those who believe in Christ will be saved. It is the undeserving love in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us (Rom 5:8). Also it is the restoring love (Heb 12:6). It is the providential love that makes the sun to rise on the evil and good (Mat 5:45). God's love is not earned by good works. God is the essence of love and He extended his love to guilty sinners. It is like the sun shines on me because that's what the sun does. God is love (1 John 4:8-10). Those who believe in Christ will be saved. This childlike faith is a stumbling block to the proud because it implies weakness in their sight. We believe in many things in our daily life. They can let us down. But faith in Jesus will never disappoint us. The best way to see God's great love is to see Jesus who died on the cross for us (3:16). God did not send His Son to condemn the world but to save the world. God's purpose of sending his Son was redemption and not judgment. Those who reject Christ are already under judgment (John 3:36). The sinners need forgiveness is because they are condemned already. Every time they sin they are storing up judgment on them. People do not believe in Christ because they do not want their sin to be exposed (John 3:20). This is not an intellectual problem but a moral problem. Those who believe in Christ will receive eternal life. Eternal life is defined as knowing God and His Son and experiencing His life (John 17:3). When we put our faith in Christ we share the relational intimacy of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. When Christ returns, we will experience the fullness of it (2 Pet 1:11). Have you experienced God's undeserving love in your life? (Rom 5:8). Pray that God would give an insight to see his great love in the face of Jesus Christ. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ you shall be saved. Begin each day thinking of the great love and be thankful.
The testimony of John the Baptist:
(Read John 3:22-36)
John the Baptist came to bear witness of Jesus Christ. John rejoiced over Jesus' popularity and desired that Jesus must increase and he must decrease. John acknowledged that Jesus came from heaven. John baptized people with water and testified that Jesus will baptize them with the Holy Spirit. Only Jesus gives eternal life. Eternal life speaks of the quality of divine life we receive from God. The relationship with Jesus is described in terms of a marriage (3:39). Jesus is the perfect bridegroom and we are the unworthy bride (2 Cor 11:2). Jesus took upon him the wrath we deserve in order to give us eternal life. Jesus is the only Savior of the world. Salvation is a relationship. Either we are with Christ or against Christ. The basis of our salvation is God's grace and Christ's death on the cross. Christ endured the judgement of sin we deserve. Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone and in Christ alone. God desires that all should be saved and come to the knowledge of truth (2 Tim 2:4). Bible does not teach limited atonement (2 Cor 5:21). God's wrath is his settled attitude toward sin. Disobedience results in wrath but faith in Christ results in salvation. God does not want anyone to perish in their sin (2 Pet 3:9). Faith in Christ alone results in salvation. Are you saved? Pray that God would open your eyes to see the glory of God in Jesus Christ and be saved. What a gracious Savior!
Chapter 4
Jesus went to Samaria:
(Read John 4:1-4)
The story of the conversion of the Samaritan woman and the healing of the nobleman’s son are described in this chapter. This shows that none of us are beyond the reach of God's grace. Christ is the master soul winner. Jesus helped this woman to see her need of salvation despite her sin and shame. His compelling compassion drove him to Samaria. Jesus knows the need of all people. The woman was shocked that a Jewish man would speak openly to a Samaritan woman. Jesus confronts racism and sexism. He did not come to condemn the world but to save sinners. Unlike the moral Nicodemus, the woman of Samaria was a pagan, ill reputed, despised, and a confused person. She was from a mixed race and Jews had no dealing with Samaritans. They worshiped Jehovah God along with heathen gods. They believed only the first five books of the Old Testament. Jews hated them because they were not full-blooded Jews. But Jesus saw the value of their souls and crossed all man made barriers of race to save them. He made contact with the woman to share the the good news of salvation. Are we willing to cross all man-made barriers to share the gospel of grace with others?
Jesus gives Living Water:
(Read John 4:5-19)
Jesus met the woman who came to draw water from the well in the noonday. He was tired and weary due to long journey. Jesus was human and experienced hunger and tiredness like all of us while on earth. Here Jesus took the initiative to make contact with the woman who was broken and powerless in the society. He said to the woman "Give me a drink”. This request surprised her because Jews refused to have any relationship with Samaritans. No Jewish rabbi ever spoke to a woman in public. Jesus knew her spiritual need and sought to win her soul. Jesus' request won her confidence and she desired for the living water. Jesus offered to her the living water and said “One who drinks the water I give will never thirst”. She failed to understand the spiritual meaning of living water. She was going to the broken cisterns to quench her thirst (Jeremiah 2:13). She said "Are you grater than our father Jacob, who gave us this well?" (John 4:12). He explained to her that he was not speaking of spring water that may quench her thirst. Jesus said to her “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again but whoever drinks of the water I give will never be thirty” (John 4:13, 14). The woman wanted the living water Jesus was offering. She was ready for salvation but her heart should be prepared for that. By nature we all resist God's grace like this woman did. We want to do something to get saved. Jesus told her to call her husband. She said I don’t have a husband. In fact she had five husbands and she was not married to the man she was living with now. There can be no conversion without conviction of sin and repentance. Repentance is more than feeling sorry for sin, it is turning from our sin to God. She admitted her sin and acknowledged that Jesus is a prophet. Bible says that there is none who seek God. People need to understand that without being made righteous they are lost in our sins. Every time we sin, we are storing up God's wrath (Rom 2:4-6). They should cry "God be merciful to me, a sinner" (Luke 18:13).
What is True Worship:4:20-29.
Jesus asked the woman to believe Him. Believe means persuaded and has life changing impact on a person. Belief in Christ governs our actions and eternal destiny. When we believe Jesus, we receive life through the Holy Spirit. Belief is a matter of human will and it is a choice. It is sad that many people refuse to believe Christ in their pride. This is the gospel message, the unspeakable gift of God (2 Cor 9:15). The woman wanted to shift the discussion from moral sin to religion and worship. Jesus understood her spiritual poverty and explained to her about true worship. We can make substitute god and religion. By nature we are allergic to God's grace and want to do something to earn salvation. Like this women we look for ways to avoid Jesus. Samaritans worshiped on Mount Gerizim and Jews on Mount Zion. Jesus promised that the time is coming for true worshipers will worship in spirit and truth (4:24). Jesus was referring to His crucifixion and his resurrection. Worship should rise from our spirit, controlled by the Holy Spirit and according to the Word of God. It is the missing jewel in the church today. Arch Bishop William Temple defines worship as the "Quickening of conscious by His holiness, nourishment of mind by His truth, purifying of our imagination by His beauty, opening of our heart to His love and submission of our will to His purpose". Worship is an attitude of reverence and submission to God. It is affirming and ascribing the worthiness of God. God is not indifferent toward the object and the manner of worship. The end of witnessing is worship of God. Worship is the highest exercise of human soul and the chief occupation of the church. It is the constant activity in heaven. Only the saved, separated, Spirit filled and prepared people can worship God. Our worship must be sincere and truthful. The New Testament worship is spiritual in nature and Christ centered. The believers are holy priesthood to offer sacrifice of praise continually to God (Heb 13:15; 1 Per 2:9). The woman attempted to stop the conversation by saying "When Messiah comes he will tell us all things". Jesus said, "I am the Messiah “. Jesus cared about her and pursued her even when she was resistant. This filled her with hope and confidence in Christ. She left her water pot, went to her city and introduced Jesus to others. Her understanding grew about Jesus from a Jew to a prophet and to Messiah. Only the gospel can bring spiritual transformation in life. Do we have a concern for perishing souls? (2 Cor 5:14).
Jesus is the Savior of the world:
(Read John 4:30-44)
God's great love pursued us even when we were resistant to his grace. Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman were in need of salvation. The living water is sweet only to those who know the bitter taste of their sinfulness. Understanding is never a requirement for salvation. Only faith in Jesus Christ saves sinners. To understand Christ one must desire to do His will (John 7:17). The Samaritan woman became the witness of Christ. She rushed to her village and told people about Jesus who saved her. They came to see Jesus and requested Him to stay with them. Jesus stayed with them for two days. Many believed in Him and acknowledged that Jesus is the Savior of the world. Here we see how the testimony of an unnamed woman could impact the whole village. Personal testimony is one of the effective methods of witnessing. Let us not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When the disciples returned, they saw their Master speaking to Samaritan woman. They wanted Him to eat. Christ replied that His food is to do the will of the Father who sent him. Jesus reminded them of the urgency of witnessing. He said "you know the saying, there are four months between planting and harvesting. Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the field, they are ready for harvest” (John 4:35). The seeds were already sown. Philip saw that the Samaritans were ready to get saved and preached the gospel. He reaped the harvest that was already ready and there was great joy (Acts 8:5-8). We are entrusted with the gospel to share with others. In the spiritual harvest one sows and another reaps. We are ambassadors for Christ (2 Cor 5:20). We are engaged in a rescue mission. Souls are perishing, time is short and opportunity will be lost. We are co-laborers with God and others. At times we have the privilege of harvesting what others have planted. No single person can take credit for the harvest. Pray for opportunities to tell others about Jesus. May God give us a passion for souls to share the gospel of grace. Pray that God may enable us to lead many people to the saving grace of God.
Jesus Heals an Official's Son:
(Read John 4:45-54)
The healing of official's son happened when Jesus went to Cana in Galilee. This Roman official came from Capernaum and requested Jesus to come down and heal his son. He believed that Jesus had power over death. He thought that Jesus had to come to Capernaum to heal his son. Jesus said to him "Go your way, your son lives". The official believed Jesus and went home. While on his way he met his servants with the good news that his son is healed. The healing was instantaneous and his whole family believed in Jesus. Faith means act upon God's promise. This was the second miracle Jesus did in Cana. Thus Jesus proved that He is the all-powerful God and nothing is impossible to him. The greatest of all miracles was the love God displayed on the Cross. Have you responded to that great love by believing Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
(Read John 4:1-4)
The story of the conversion of the Samaritan woman and the healing of the nobleman’s son are described in this chapter. This shows that none of us are beyond the reach of God's grace. Christ is the master soul winner. Jesus helped this woman to see her need of salvation despite her sin and shame. His compelling compassion drove him to Samaria. Jesus knows the need of all people. The woman was shocked that a Jewish man would speak openly to a Samaritan woman. Jesus confronts racism and sexism. He did not come to condemn the world but to save sinners. Unlike the moral Nicodemus, the woman of Samaria was a pagan, ill reputed, despised, and a confused person. She was from a mixed race and Jews had no dealing with Samaritans. They worshiped Jehovah God along with heathen gods. They believed only the first five books of the Old Testament. Jews hated them because they were not full-blooded Jews. But Jesus saw the value of their souls and crossed all man made barriers of race to save them. He made contact with the woman to share the the good news of salvation. Are we willing to cross all man-made barriers to share the gospel of grace with others?
Jesus gives Living Water:
(Read John 4:5-19)
Jesus met the woman who came to draw water from the well in the noonday. He was tired and weary due to long journey. Jesus was human and experienced hunger and tiredness like all of us while on earth. Here Jesus took the initiative to make contact with the woman who was broken and powerless in the society. He said to the woman "Give me a drink”. This request surprised her because Jews refused to have any relationship with Samaritans. No Jewish rabbi ever spoke to a woman in public. Jesus knew her spiritual need and sought to win her soul. Jesus' request won her confidence and she desired for the living water. Jesus offered to her the living water and said “One who drinks the water I give will never thirst”. She failed to understand the spiritual meaning of living water. She was going to the broken cisterns to quench her thirst (Jeremiah 2:13). She said "Are you grater than our father Jacob, who gave us this well?" (John 4:12). He explained to her that he was not speaking of spring water that may quench her thirst. Jesus said to her “Everyone who drinks of this water will thirst again but whoever drinks of the water I give will never be thirty” (John 4:13, 14). The woman wanted the living water Jesus was offering. She was ready for salvation but her heart should be prepared for that. By nature we all resist God's grace like this woman did. We want to do something to get saved. Jesus told her to call her husband. She said I don’t have a husband. In fact she had five husbands and she was not married to the man she was living with now. There can be no conversion without conviction of sin and repentance. Repentance is more than feeling sorry for sin, it is turning from our sin to God. She admitted her sin and acknowledged that Jesus is a prophet. Bible says that there is none who seek God. People need to understand that without being made righteous they are lost in our sins. Every time we sin, we are storing up God's wrath (Rom 2:4-6). They should cry "God be merciful to me, a sinner" (Luke 18:13).
What is True Worship:4:20-29.
Jesus asked the woman to believe Him. Believe means persuaded and has life changing impact on a person. Belief in Christ governs our actions and eternal destiny. When we believe Jesus, we receive life through the Holy Spirit. Belief is a matter of human will and it is a choice. It is sad that many people refuse to believe Christ in their pride. This is the gospel message, the unspeakable gift of God (2 Cor 9:15). The woman wanted to shift the discussion from moral sin to religion and worship. Jesus understood her spiritual poverty and explained to her about true worship. We can make substitute god and religion. By nature we are allergic to God's grace and want to do something to earn salvation. Like this women we look for ways to avoid Jesus. Samaritans worshiped on Mount Gerizim and Jews on Mount Zion. Jesus promised that the time is coming for true worshipers will worship in spirit and truth (4:24). Jesus was referring to His crucifixion and his resurrection. Worship should rise from our spirit, controlled by the Holy Spirit and according to the Word of God. It is the missing jewel in the church today. Arch Bishop William Temple defines worship as the "Quickening of conscious by His holiness, nourishment of mind by His truth, purifying of our imagination by His beauty, opening of our heart to His love and submission of our will to His purpose". Worship is an attitude of reverence and submission to God. It is affirming and ascribing the worthiness of God. God is not indifferent toward the object and the manner of worship. The end of witnessing is worship of God. Worship is the highest exercise of human soul and the chief occupation of the church. It is the constant activity in heaven. Only the saved, separated, Spirit filled and prepared people can worship God. Our worship must be sincere and truthful. The New Testament worship is spiritual in nature and Christ centered. The believers are holy priesthood to offer sacrifice of praise continually to God (Heb 13:15; 1 Per 2:9). The woman attempted to stop the conversation by saying "When Messiah comes he will tell us all things". Jesus said, "I am the Messiah “. Jesus cared about her and pursued her even when she was resistant. This filled her with hope and confidence in Christ. She left her water pot, went to her city and introduced Jesus to others. Her understanding grew about Jesus from a Jew to a prophet and to Messiah. Only the gospel can bring spiritual transformation in life. Do we have a concern for perishing souls? (2 Cor 5:14).
Jesus is the Savior of the world:
(Read John 4:30-44)
God's great love pursued us even when we were resistant to his grace. Nicodemus and the Samaritan woman were in need of salvation. The living water is sweet only to those who know the bitter taste of their sinfulness. Understanding is never a requirement for salvation. Only faith in Jesus Christ saves sinners. To understand Christ one must desire to do His will (John 7:17). The Samaritan woman became the witness of Christ. She rushed to her village and told people about Jesus who saved her. They came to see Jesus and requested Him to stay with them. Jesus stayed with them for two days. Many believed in Him and acknowledged that Jesus is the Savior of the world. Here we see how the testimony of an unnamed woman could impact the whole village. Personal testimony is one of the effective methods of witnessing. Let us not be ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. When the disciples returned, they saw their Master speaking to Samaritan woman. They wanted Him to eat. Christ replied that His food is to do the will of the Father who sent him. Jesus reminded them of the urgency of witnessing. He said "you know the saying, there are four months between planting and harvesting. Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look on the field, they are ready for harvest” (John 4:35). The seeds were already sown. Philip saw that the Samaritans were ready to get saved and preached the gospel. He reaped the harvest that was already ready and there was great joy (Acts 8:5-8). We are entrusted with the gospel to share with others. In the spiritual harvest one sows and another reaps. We are ambassadors for Christ (2 Cor 5:20). We are engaged in a rescue mission. Souls are perishing, time is short and opportunity will be lost. We are co-laborers with God and others. At times we have the privilege of harvesting what others have planted. No single person can take credit for the harvest. Pray for opportunities to tell others about Jesus. May God give us a passion for souls to share the gospel of grace. Pray that God may enable us to lead many people to the saving grace of God.
Jesus Heals an Official's Son:
(Read John 4:45-54)
The healing of official's son happened when Jesus went to Cana in Galilee. This Roman official came from Capernaum and requested Jesus to come down and heal his son. He believed that Jesus had power over death. He thought that Jesus had to come to Capernaum to heal his son. Jesus said to him "Go your way, your son lives". The official believed Jesus and went home. While on his way he met his servants with the good news that his son is healed. The healing was instantaneous and his whole family believed in Jesus. Faith means act upon God's promise. This was the second miracle Jesus did in Cana. Thus Jesus proved that He is the all-powerful God and nothing is impossible to him. The greatest of all miracles was the love God displayed on the Cross. Have you responded to that great love by believing Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Chapter 5
The Healing of the Lame Man:
(Read John 5:1-9)
John gives clear identity and mission of Jesus in his gospel. The healing of sick man was the fulfillment of prophecy of the mission of the Messiah (Isaiah 35:6). It is the declaration that the kingdom of God has begun. Jesus healed a man on Sabbath who had been disabled for 38 years. It happened at the sheep gate, near the pool of Bethesda, which means house of mercy. Jesus singled out this man and asked him “Do you want to be healed". Jesus wanted him to admit that he is helpless and was in need of healing. He showed no appreciation for Jesus in the beginning. But Jesus' question must have awakened his hope. Only when we admit that we are sinners we can be saved. Jesus is able and willing to meet all our needs. Jesus told him to , "Get up, take up your bed and walk”. Only Jesus has power on earth to forgive sin. Jesus knew his problem and gave him the power to obey His command. There is power in His Word. His obedience brought complete and immediate healing. Jesus gave him strength to carry his bed and walk. He began a new life and told others what Christ had done for him. This symbolizes our spiritual healing. Christ has not only saved us from judgment of sin but also from the power of sin. Walking, symbolizes our spiritual life. Those who are saved must grow in the grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. We are not only saved by faith but also live by faith. Christ does all things for our good and for his glory. In Jesus, the kingdom of God has come near. Pray that God would use you in the kingdom work by giving you opportunities to share the gospel. Christians have a high calling to share the gospel to the dying world.
Christ fulfilled the Law:
(Read John 5:10-15)
The healing of the lame man happened on Sabbath is significant. It was a weekly day designated for rest (Ex 20:8-11). It shows that Jesus has authority over Sabbath. Jesus said, "My Father has been working until now and I have been working". The Father cannot be separated from the Son. God was in Christ reconciling the world back to Himself (2 Cor 5:19). Consider the life Joseph. If we love God, we should never think that the things that happen to us have no purpose (Rom 8:28). Only through Jesus we can enter into true Sabbath rest God has promised. (Matt 11:28). All other efforts are futile. This man's greatest need was not his physical healing but the salvation of his soul. The healed man immediately ran into opposition. The Jewish leaders became very upset because the man was healed on Sabbath. The man did not know who healed him. Jesus met the man in the temple and said to him “Sin no more". He was called to live a life that reflects God's mercy and grace. He was perfectly forgiven yet he was told not to sin that something worse may happen to him. Though we are forgiven our sinless perfection is yet to come. Believers should not take God's grace for granted and continue in sin. All who believes in Christ are new creation (2 Cor 5:17). God saved us to live a holy life. This is possible only through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. When sin entered the world, God’s rest was broken. Jesus fulfilled the Law perfectly and by his death put an end to the legal demands of the Law . Christ is able to give rest to all those who believe in Him. He sets us free from the burden of law by fulfilling the law. On the cross Jesus said, "It is finished" (John 19:30). He is the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:28). Christ rose from the dead on the third day. From earliest days of the church, most Christians observed Sunday as the Lord's day. It is not Christian Sabbath day but a day of remembrance of Christ's death and resurrection. It is a day to rest, rejoice and to reflect upon Christ in worship. Have you received Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Jesus is God:
(Read John 5:16-30)
The conflict intensified between Jewish leaders and Jesus because he claimed equality with the Father. It amounts to blasphemy in the eyes of the Jews (5:18). Jesus said, "My Father never stops working, so am I" (John 5:17). God was working His purposes in Joseph's life. Christians should never think that things that happen to them have no purpose (Rom 8:28). Jesus justified the healing of the sick man on Sabbath day. God is the everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6). Christ is co-equal with the Father (John 1:1; 17:5). Son reveals the nature of the Father (John 1:18). Christ claimed, "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30). Father was never without Son or Son without Father. This relationship has no beginning or end. This speaks of Christ's unique divine nature. All that Father does, Son does. He claimed that he could raise the dead to life by raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44). He forgave sin which only God could do. We pass from judgment to life because Jesus took our judgment on the cross. Father committed all judgment to Son. Son is equal in authority and honor with the Father. Father and Son share the same life. Jesus came to reveal the Father. If you put your faith in Jesus you can personally know God as your Father (John 1:12). To honor Jesus means to honor the Father (John 5:23). So Christ claims to be equal with Father by His work, authority and judgment. Jesus offers everlasting life to all those who believe Him (5:24). If sinners prefer hell to heaven, that is their choice. Raising the dead is not a marvelous act for God. Nothing is impossible for Him who created the universe. If Jesus could do nothing without Father's help, how much more do we need His help (John 15: 5). God's acceptance of us is without reservation because of the finished work of Christ on the cross for us. Do you know Christ?
Witnesses to Jesus:
(Read John 5:31-47)
The entire Bible bears witness to Jesus Christ (John 5:39-40; Luke 24:44-47). The Bible is all about what God has done through Christ for us. Jewish law requires two witnesses to establish any claim. Christ furnished many witnesses to validate His claim that He is God. The testimony of John the Baptist (33-35), His miracles (36), the testimony of the Father (37-38), and the Scriptures (39-47) bear witness of it. John the baptist was a burning light who testified of Christ. Jesus said, "There was no one born of women greater than he" (Luke 7:28). Jesus is the true light and John was only a reflection of it. Jews always searched the scripture because they knew that in them they have eternal life (5:39). Searching the scriptures without humility will not benefit anyone. God bless those who are poor and of contrite spirit and who trembles at His word (Isaiah 66:2). Those who love God will honor Him and embrace His Word. Jesus said scriptures bear witness of Him. Yet they refuse to believe Christ. They sought praise from men rather than from God. This is the worst sin (Pro 29:25). The religious leaders were impressive outside but their heart was full of sin. With their long prayers they sought the praise of men. What matters is whether we are born again or not. When we are born again Christ dwells in us through the Holy Spirit and we are sealed for eternity. We are saved by faith. Someone has said, "Faith is like a parachute defying the gravity of sin and death". We are weak against the pull of sin, but faith makes us strong to delver us from the fear of death. They had great respect for Moses but they did not believe what Moses testified of Christ (Luke 24:27; Deut 18:15-18). We should not seek man's approval. Christ's atoning sacrifice is sufficient to save us. Only God's approval really matters. The gospel will only make sense when we admit that we are sinners. The Law makes us aware of our sin and leads us to the Savior. They put their confidence in the finished work of Jesus Christ for salvation. If Jews believed the words of Moses, they would have received the words of Jesus. Millions of people are lost because they do not want to believe Christ. Have you believed Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
(Read John 5:1-9)
John gives clear identity and mission of Jesus in his gospel. The healing of sick man was the fulfillment of prophecy of the mission of the Messiah (Isaiah 35:6). It is the declaration that the kingdom of God has begun. Jesus healed a man on Sabbath who had been disabled for 38 years. It happened at the sheep gate, near the pool of Bethesda, which means house of mercy. Jesus singled out this man and asked him “Do you want to be healed". Jesus wanted him to admit that he is helpless and was in need of healing. He showed no appreciation for Jesus in the beginning. But Jesus' question must have awakened his hope. Only when we admit that we are sinners we can be saved. Jesus is able and willing to meet all our needs. Jesus told him to , "Get up, take up your bed and walk”. Only Jesus has power on earth to forgive sin. Jesus knew his problem and gave him the power to obey His command. There is power in His Word. His obedience brought complete and immediate healing. Jesus gave him strength to carry his bed and walk. He began a new life and told others what Christ had done for him. This symbolizes our spiritual healing. Christ has not only saved us from judgment of sin but also from the power of sin. Walking, symbolizes our spiritual life. Those who are saved must grow in the grace and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ. We are not only saved by faith but also live by faith. Christ does all things for our good and for his glory. In Jesus, the kingdom of God has come near. Pray that God would use you in the kingdom work by giving you opportunities to share the gospel. Christians have a high calling to share the gospel to the dying world.
Christ fulfilled the Law:
(Read John 5:10-15)
The healing of the lame man happened on Sabbath is significant. It was a weekly day designated for rest (Ex 20:8-11). It shows that Jesus has authority over Sabbath. Jesus said, "My Father has been working until now and I have been working". The Father cannot be separated from the Son. God was in Christ reconciling the world back to Himself (2 Cor 5:19). Consider the life Joseph. If we love God, we should never think that the things that happen to us have no purpose (Rom 8:28). Only through Jesus we can enter into true Sabbath rest God has promised. (Matt 11:28). All other efforts are futile. This man's greatest need was not his physical healing but the salvation of his soul. The healed man immediately ran into opposition. The Jewish leaders became very upset because the man was healed on Sabbath. The man did not know who healed him. Jesus met the man in the temple and said to him “Sin no more". He was called to live a life that reflects God's mercy and grace. He was perfectly forgiven yet he was told not to sin that something worse may happen to him. Though we are forgiven our sinless perfection is yet to come. Believers should not take God's grace for granted and continue in sin. All who believes in Christ are new creation (2 Cor 5:17). God saved us to live a holy life. This is possible only through the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. When sin entered the world, God’s rest was broken. Jesus fulfilled the Law perfectly and by his death put an end to the legal demands of the Law . Christ is able to give rest to all those who believe in Him. He sets us free from the burden of law by fulfilling the law. On the cross Jesus said, "It is finished" (John 19:30). He is the Lord of the Sabbath (Mark 2:28). Christ rose from the dead on the third day. From earliest days of the church, most Christians observed Sunday as the Lord's day. It is not Christian Sabbath day but a day of remembrance of Christ's death and resurrection. It is a day to rest, rejoice and to reflect upon Christ in worship. Have you received Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Jesus is God:
(Read John 5:16-30)
The conflict intensified between Jewish leaders and Jesus because he claimed equality with the Father. It amounts to blasphemy in the eyes of the Jews (5:18). Jesus said, "My Father never stops working, so am I" (John 5:17). God was working His purposes in Joseph's life. Christians should never think that things that happen to them have no purpose (Rom 8:28). Jesus justified the healing of the sick man on Sabbath day. God is the everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6). Christ is co-equal with the Father (John 1:1; 17:5). Son reveals the nature of the Father (John 1:18). Christ claimed, "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30). Father was never without Son or Son without Father. This relationship has no beginning or end. This speaks of Christ's unique divine nature. All that Father does, Son does. He claimed that he could raise the dead to life by raising Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44). He forgave sin which only God could do. We pass from judgment to life because Jesus took our judgment on the cross. Father committed all judgment to Son. Son is equal in authority and honor with the Father. Father and Son share the same life. Jesus came to reveal the Father. If you put your faith in Jesus you can personally know God as your Father (John 1:12). To honor Jesus means to honor the Father (John 5:23). So Christ claims to be equal with Father by His work, authority and judgment. Jesus offers everlasting life to all those who believe Him (5:24). If sinners prefer hell to heaven, that is their choice. Raising the dead is not a marvelous act for God. Nothing is impossible for Him who created the universe. If Jesus could do nothing without Father's help, how much more do we need His help (John 15: 5). God's acceptance of us is without reservation because of the finished work of Christ on the cross for us. Do you know Christ?
Witnesses to Jesus:
(Read John 5:31-47)
The entire Bible bears witness to Jesus Christ (John 5:39-40; Luke 24:44-47). The Bible is all about what God has done through Christ for us. Jewish law requires two witnesses to establish any claim. Christ furnished many witnesses to validate His claim that He is God. The testimony of John the Baptist (33-35), His miracles (36), the testimony of the Father (37-38), and the Scriptures (39-47) bear witness of it. John the baptist was a burning light who testified of Christ. Jesus said, "There was no one born of women greater than he" (Luke 7:28). Jesus is the true light and John was only a reflection of it. Jews always searched the scripture because they knew that in them they have eternal life (5:39). Searching the scriptures without humility will not benefit anyone. God bless those who are poor and of contrite spirit and who trembles at His word (Isaiah 66:2). Those who love God will honor Him and embrace His Word. Jesus said scriptures bear witness of Him. Yet they refuse to believe Christ. They sought praise from men rather than from God. This is the worst sin (Pro 29:25). The religious leaders were impressive outside but their heart was full of sin. With their long prayers they sought the praise of men. What matters is whether we are born again or not. When we are born again Christ dwells in us through the Holy Spirit and we are sealed for eternity. We are saved by faith. Someone has said, "Faith is like a parachute defying the gravity of sin and death". We are weak against the pull of sin, but faith makes us strong to delver us from the fear of death. They had great respect for Moses but they did not believe what Moses testified of Christ (Luke 24:27; Deut 18:15-18). We should not seek man's approval. Christ's atoning sacrifice is sufficient to save us. Only God's approval really matters. The gospel will only make sense when we admit that we are sinners. The Law makes us aware of our sin and leads us to the Savior. They put their confidence in the finished work of Jesus Christ for salvation. If Jews believed the words of Moses, they would have received the words of Jesus. Millions of people are lost because they do not want to believe Christ. Have you believed Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Chapter 6
Feeding the five thousand:
(Read John 6:1-14)
Throughout this chapter, John describes Jesus in a way that reminds us of the Old Testament story of Moses and the exodus. He wants us to see Jesus as the greater saver than Moses. Moses led Israel from Egypt to the promise land. Jesus came to provide the deliverance from sin. Jesus decided to go away with his disciples for a needed rest. Their destination was the hill country above the Sea of Galilee. And a large crowd was following him. Jesus saw a crowd and moved with compassion because they were like sheep without shepherd. This chapter begins with the feeding of the 5000. This happened just before Passover feast. John wants us to see a connection between the meal that Jesus provided and the salvation of Israel in exodus. Jesus is the bread of life. Bread represents life. Jesus made this claim to show that He is the only one who can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Also Jesus used this incident to prove His deity. This happened at the peak of Christ’s popularity. The people wanted to make him king. They were looking for a political kingdom rather than the spiritual kingdom. Many people don't believe Christ because He does not meet their expectation. Jesus said to Philip "Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?" Jesus asked this question to test his faith. The Lord knew what he was going to do. Philip said that 200 days of wage would not be enough to feed this crowd. Andrew found a lad with five loaves of bread and two fishes. Andrew always brought someone to Christ. The boy gave all he had to Christ. Nothing is mentioned about the boy except that he gave all he had to Jesus. Jesus gave thanks and fed the five thousand. Like the lamp that was sacrificed to save lives at Passover, Jesus himself became the Passover meal to save us (1 Cor 5:7). He wants to use us to satisfy the spiritual needs of many. By giving thanks for food, Christ acknowledges that God is the source of all blessings (James 1:17). Only Jesus can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Jesus told his disciples to gather the left over and there were twelve baskets full. Do you feel compassion toward needy and lost as Jesus felt? Are you willing to give yourself to Christ so that he can use you to meet the spiritual needs of others?
Walking on the water:
(Read John 6:15-21)
John continues to draw connection between Jesus and the exodus story. The people thought that Jesus is the prophet who came to save them (Deut 18:15-18). But He withdrew to a mountain to be alone. Jesus longed for fellowship with His Father in solitude. He knew that His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:16). Jews wanted to make Jesus their king. It is so easy for men to seek Christ for the wrong reasons. Jesus asked the disciples to go to the other shore of the Sea of Galilee. They were hindered by darkness and storm. Sometimes God will allow storms in our life to test our faith. Trials are common to all people. God is faithful, who will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able to endure, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape (1 Cor 10:13). Jesus is able to deliver us from the storms of life. When Israel face the crisis at the Red Sea God brought Israel to safety at the Red Sea. Similarly Jesus miraculously rescued the disciples from danger. Disciples saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming toward their boat. They were frightened. Jesus said to them “It is I, do not be afraid". Jesus is the ever present help in trouble. Jesus who met the need of five thousand now met the need of twelve disciples. Immediately the sea became calm and the boat was at the other side of the lake. Thus Jesus demonstrated his deity. Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
Jesus is the Supreme Teacher:
(Read John 6:22-40)
Jesus did many miracles to authenticate his message and deity. They were meant to teach divine truth that He is God. The phrase "Truly I tell you" is used more than 100 times in the gospel account. Jesus alone claimed such authority. Someone has suggested that at least 45 times Jesus is called, teacher in the gospel account. He seized the opportunities to teach individuals and large crowds. People recognized Jesus as a different kind of teacher from scribes. He taught them with authority (Matt 7:28, 29). His words were gracious words (Luke 4:22). Never a man spoke like Him (John 7:46). His teaching transformed lives and shaped the course of history. In Jesus is hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge ( Col 2:3). He knows our motives and desires. When people sought Jesus, He said to them "Do not seek me for the food that perishes but for the food that endures to eternal life". God provided manna for Israel in the wilderness. Jesus said "I am the bread of life" (6:35). Only Christ could ultimately satisfy us. This is the first of the seven "I am" statements that Jesus made about himself. It is a reference to his deity (Ex 3:14). People asked "What should we do to receive eternal life"? Jesus said, "This is the only work God wants from you, Believe in the One Father has sent" (6:29). We can't earn salvation with our good works. Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross is the basis of our salvation. Natural man prefers bread that fills him now rather than eternal Word of God. Jews demanded Jesus to perform a miracle that was greater than what Moses did so that they may believe him. Jesus said "He is the living bread sent by the Father to give life to the world. Those who ate manna perished but those who believe in Him will have eternal life". The miracles can be misleading (Rev 13). Christ identified Himself as the bread of life. Those who believe in Him will be spiritually satisfied. Jesus said, “All those the Father gives me will come to me and I will never reject them" (6:37). This verse describes God's sovereignty and human responsibility in salvation. Believers are Father's gift to His Son. Seeing is not believing. Jesus said "Whoever comes to me, I will never turn away" (6:37). Sinners are saved by faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31). Believing in Christ means experience a relation with Christ. This relation begins through repentance and faith in Christ. When we trust in Christ, we are doing the work of God.
Many Disciples Desert Jesus:
(Read John 6:41-71)
Jesus said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven” (6:41). The Jews murmured at this unusual claim of Christ because they knew His heritage. He gave enough proof of his divine authority through his sinless life, miracles, and his teaching. He claimed equality with God. Yet they did not believe him. Jesus said "Unless Father draws, no one can come to me". Moses gave them Manna to meet their physical need. Christ is the bread of life who gives eternal life. To reject the Son is to reject the Father. Jesus said "Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you cannot have eternal life within you" (6:53). Being a Christian means having assurance that he is saved. This confidence is not based on our feelings but on God's faithful promises. Jews were offended at His teaching because they misunderstood the message. The gospel is offensive to many because it reveals our sin. Those who trust in their cleverness and ability for salvation resist God's grace. He did not want them to eat His flesh or drink His blood. He was using physical things to teach spiritual truth. Jesus was not speaking of physical cannibalism but spiritual truth. He is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He shed his blood on the cross to cleanse our sins. Here eating and drinking simply means identifying with Christ and what he has done for us. Eating means to trust Christ and his promises. His flesh clearly refers to His vicarious death on the cross. The word Jesus spoke was spirit and life (6:63). Only the Holy Spirit can give life. But unbelief prevented Jews from coming to Christ. They no longer followed Jesus. Christ now turned to the twelve disciples and asked " Do you also want to go away"? Simon Peter answered “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have believed and know you are the Holy One of God” (6:68, 69). Assurance comes when we know that we are saved by grace and live in obedience to Christ. We should never forget what we deserve. God should have given us hell, but instead He gave us heaven. We are kept by the power of God (Ephesians 2:8-9; Rom 8:38-39; John 10:27-29). Even our faith is a grace gift. We are predestined to be conformed to Jesus Christ. We are sealed by the Holy Spirit for eternal inheritance (Phil 1:4-6; Rom 8:29-30; Ephesians 1:13-14). Jesus said, "Have I not chosen you, the twelve? Yet one of you is a devil". This Jesus spoke of Judas Iscariot who was going to betray Him. The Lord knows his own (2 Tim 2:19). Do not allow discouragement to take your focus off Jesus. Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior? Do you have the assurance of salvation?
(Read John 6:1-14)
Throughout this chapter, John describes Jesus in a way that reminds us of the Old Testament story of Moses and the exodus. He wants us to see Jesus as the greater saver than Moses. Moses led Israel from Egypt to the promise land. Jesus came to provide the deliverance from sin. Jesus decided to go away with his disciples for a needed rest. Their destination was the hill country above the Sea of Galilee. And a large crowd was following him. Jesus saw a crowd and moved with compassion because they were like sheep without shepherd. This chapter begins with the feeding of the 5000. This happened just before Passover feast. John wants us to see a connection between the meal that Jesus provided and the salvation of Israel in exodus. Jesus is the bread of life. Bread represents life. Jesus made this claim to show that He is the only one who can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Also Jesus used this incident to prove His deity. This happened at the peak of Christ’s popularity. The people wanted to make him king. They were looking for a political kingdom rather than the spiritual kingdom. Many people don't believe Christ because He does not meet their expectation. Jesus said to Philip "Where can we buy bread to feed all these people?" Jesus asked this question to test his faith. The Lord knew what he was going to do. Philip said that 200 days of wage would not be enough to feed this crowd. Andrew found a lad with five loaves of bread and two fishes. Andrew always brought someone to Christ. The boy gave all he had to Christ. Nothing is mentioned about the boy except that he gave all he had to Jesus. Jesus gave thanks and fed the five thousand. Like the lamp that was sacrificed to save lives at Passover, Jesus himself became the Passover meal to save us (1 Cor 5:7). He wants to use us to satisfy the spiritual needs of many. By giving thanks for food, Christ acknowledges that God is the source of all blessings (James 1:17). Only Jesus can satisfy our spiritual hunger. Jesus told his disciples to gather the left over and there were twelve baskets full. Do you feel compassion toward needy and lost as Jesus felt? Are you willing to give yourself to Christ so that he can use you to meet the spiritual needs of others?
Walking on the water:
(Read John 6:15-21)
John continues to draw connection between Jesus and the exodus story. The people thought that Jesus is the prophet who came to save them (Deut 18:15-18). But He withdrew to a mountain to be alone. Jesus longed for fellowship with His Father in solitude. He knew that His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:16). Jews wanted to make Jesus their king. It is so easy for men to seek Christ for the wrong reasons. Jesus asked the disciples to go to the other shore of the Sea of Galilee. They were hindered by darkness and storm. Sometimes God will allow storms in our life to test our faith. Trials are common to all people. God is faithful, who will not allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able to endure, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape (1 Cor 10:13). Jesus is able to deliver us from the storms of life. When Israel face the crisis at the Red Sea God brought Israel to safety at the Red Sea. Similarly Jesus miraculously rescued the disciples from danger. Disciples saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming toward their boat. They were frightened. Jesus said to them “It is I, do not be afraid". Jesus is the ever present help in trouble. Jesus who met the need of five thousand now met the need of twelve disciples. Immediately the sea became calm and the boat was at the other side of the lake. Thus Jesus demonstrated his deity. Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
Jesus is the Supreme Teacher:
(Read John 6:22-40)
Jesus did many miracles to authenticate his message and deity. They were meant to teach divine truth that He is God. The phrase "Truly I tell you" is used more than 100 times in the gospel account. Jesus alone claimed such authority. Someone has suggested that at least 45 times Jesus is called, teacher in the gospel account. He seized the opportunities to teach individuals and large crowds. People recognized Jesus as a different kind of teacher from scribes. He taught them with authority (Matt 7:28, 29). His words were gracious words (Luke 4:22). Never a man spoke like Him (John 7:46). His teaching transformed lives and shaped the course of history. In Jesus is hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge ( Col 2:3). He knows our motives and desires. When people sought Jesus, He said to them "Do not seek me for the food that perishes but for the food that endures to eternal life". God provided manna for Israel in the wilderness. Jesus said "I am the bread of life" (6:35). Only Christ could ultimately satisfy us. This is the first of the seven "I am" statements that Jesus made about himself. It is a reference to his deity (Ex 3:14). People asked "What should we do to receive eternal life"? Jesus said, "This is the only work God wants from you, Believe in the One Father has sent" (6:29). We can't earn salvation with our good works. Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross is the basis of our salvation. Natural man prefers bread that fills him now rather than eternal Word of God. Jews demanded Jesus to perform a miracle that was greater than what Moses did so that they may believe him. Jesus said "He is the living bread sent by the Father to give life to the world. Those who ate manna perished but those who believe in Him will have eternal life". The miracles can be misleading (Rev 13). Christ identified Himself as the bread of life. Those who believe in Him will be spiritually satisfied. Jesus said, “All those the Father gives me will come to me and I will never reject them" (6:37). This verse describes God's sovereignty and human responsibility in salvation. Believers are Father's gift to His Son. Seeing is not believing. Jesus said "Whoever comes to me, I will never turn away" (6:37). Sinners are saved by faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31). Believing in Christ means experience a relation with Christ. This relation begins through repentance and faith in Christ. When we trust in Christ, we are doing the work of God.
Many Disciples Desert Jesus:
(Read John 6:41-71)
Jesus said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven” (6:41). The Jews murmured at this unusual claim of Christ because they knew His heritage. He gave enough proof of his divine authority through his sinless life, miracles, and his teaching. He claimed equality with God. Yet they did not believe him. Jesus said "Unless Father draws, no one can come to me". Moses gave them Manna to meet their physical need. Christ is the bread of life who gives eternal life. To reject the Son is to reject the Father. Jesus said "Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink His blood, you cannot have eternal life within you" (6:53). Being a Christian means having assurance that he is saved. This confidence is not based on our feelings but on God's faithful promises. Jews were offended at His teaching because they misunderstood the message. The gospel is offensive to many because it reveals our sin. Those who trust in their cleverness and ability for salvation resist God's grace. He did not want them to eat His flesh or drink His blood. He was using physical things to teach spiritual truth. Jesus was not speaking of physical cannibalism but spiritual truth. He is the lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He shed his blood on the cross to cleanse our sins. Here eating and drinking simply means identifying with Christ and what he has done for us. Eating means to trust Christ and his promises. His flesh clearly refers to His vicarious death on the cross. The word Jesus spoke was spirit and life (6:63). Only the Holy Spirit can give life. But unbelief prevented Jews from coming to Christ. They no longer followed Jesus. Christ now turned to the twelve disciples and asked " Do you also want to go away"? Simon Peter answered “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have believed and know you are the Holy One of God” (6:68, 69). Assurance comes when we know that we are saved by grace and live in obedience to Christ. We should never forget what we deserve. God should have given us hell, but instead He gave us heaven. We are kept by the power of God (Ephesians 2:8-9; Rom 8:38-39; John 10:27-29). Even our faith is a grace gift. We are predestined to be conformed to Jesus Christ. We are sealed by the Holy Spirit for eternal inheritance (Phil 1:4-6; Rom 8:29-30; Ephesians 1:13-14). Jesus said, "Have I not chosen you, the twelve? Yet one of you is a devil". This Jesus spoke of Judas Iscariot who was going to betray Him. The Lord knows his own (2 Tim 2:19). Do not allow discouragement to take your focus off Jesus. Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior? Do you have the assurance of salvation?
Chapter 7
No one ever spoke like Jesus:
(Read John 7:1-9)
Jesus remained in Galilee because of Jewish plot to kill him in Judea. Though Jesus did all things well, only few followed him. As Jesus revealed himself more clearly the opposition grew increasingly. He knew rejection more than anybody else (John 1:11; John 6:66; John 7:34). Yet God's plan did not fail. His teaching was remarkably simple. He used common, everyday objects to illustrate eternal truth. He taught from life's situations. His own family failed to understand his identity (7:5). His family advised him to go to Jerusalem to perform mighty works to influence the crowd. Only after his resurrection did his brothers believe in Jesus (Mark 3:21; 1 Cor 15:7). Jesus said "My time has not yet come" (7:8). He came to his own and His own received Him not. The Bible speaks of Jesus as Mary's firstborn son (Luke 2:7). The most logical conclusion is that Jesus had siblings (Mat 13:55-56). Jesus never tried to gain popularity or influence the people with his miracle. He did all things to glorify the Father. When sinners obey the gospel, they discover that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself
(2 Cor 5:19). Christians are saved to follow Christ's example.
Jesus at the Feast:
(Read John 7:10-24)
Midway through the festival of Tabernacle, Jesus went up to the temple and began to teach openly. Those who heard Jesus were divided in their opinion of him. Some thought he is a good man while others thought he is a deceiver. Jewish leaders were amazed at his teaching. They said "Where did He get this knowledge without any formal training". His teaching was with authority because it came from God. Many received Jesus with joy and others rejected him with contempt. Religious leaders accused Jesus of breaking the Law. But He is the only human being who had ever kept the Law perfectly in thought and deeds. Because of the fear of expulsion from synagogue no one spoke favorably of Jesus. Jesus said "Those who want to do the will of God will recognize his teaching whether it is from God or is merely his own" (7:17). This is the timeless principle for understanding the scripture. Understanding is not a requirement for salvation but faith in Christ. Faith is not an intellectual issue but a moral issue. Christ's teaching should be received with joy. Jesus never sought his own glory. Jews accused Jesus for healing a man at the pool of Bethesda on Sabbath. It was a divine miracle and an expression of love and kindness. Instead of seeing it that way the religious leaders planned to kill him. People assumed that Jesus was insane and was possessed with demon. Jesus said to them "Do not judge by appearance but judge with right judgment" (7:24). God's Word exposes what is in our hearts. Pray that we would respond to the scripture as it reveals our sin and need of salvation.
Is Jesus the Christ?
(Read John 7:25-36)
People were amazed that Jesus spoke boldly and openly in the temple. They thought, maybe He is the Messiah. Jewish leaders dismissed this idea and wanted to arrest Jesus. They did not come to Jesus from a sincere desire to do the will of God but came from evil heart. The gospel is only understood by those who fear God. The produces this necessary fear and help people to depart from evil (Pro 16:6). The religious leaders tried to kill Jesus but his appointed time had not yet come. Every moment of His life was planned by God. There is no panic in heaven or caught off guard by the betrayal of Judas. Jesus knew what the future would bring. He would go to His Father and be seated at the right hand of God. Yet many believed in Jesus because of the miracles. Jewish leaders sent guards to arrest Jesus but they were powerless to arrest him. They said, ”No one ever spoke like Jesus” (7:46). Jesus told them that He will be with them for a little while, and then he will return to his Father. This was a reference to his death, resurrection and ascension. The Jews did not understand the spiritual significance of what Jesus said (7:36). Only those who trust in Christ understand him and have the certainty of their salvation.
Rivers of Living Water:
(Read John 7:37-39)
The Feast of the Tabernacle was a joyful festival in Jerusalem. It was celebrated by Jews living in the tents. It was to commemorate their wilderness journey. During the course of this one-week celebration, water was poured upon the Alter in remembrance of the water that had come forth miraculously out of the rock in the wilderness (Ex 17:1-7). Jesus was making the claim that He is the rock from which the life giving water flows
(1 Cor 10:1-4). After Jesus ascended to heaven, God poured out the Holy Spirit upon the church. On the last day of the great feast Jesus stood and cried out “If any one thirsts, let him come to me and drink (7:37). Jesus is the source of eternal life. Only he could satisfy our spiritual hunger. Those who believe in Christ not only be satisfied but also become channel of blessing to others (7:37). This invitation is extended to everyone. Here Jesus was referring to the coming of the Holy Spirit after His ascension (7:39). Only the indwelling Spirit can bring satisfaction and blessings in our lives.
Are you a Secret Follower?
(Read John 7:40-53)
Jesus said, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink". A sinner must come to Jesus thirsting for righteousness. Riches will be worthless on the day of wrath (Pro 11:4). People responded differently to Christ’s invitation. Some thought that Jesus is a Prophet. Others said He is the Messiah. Still others said, "How can the Messiah come from Galilee? Pharisees accused the officers who returned without arresting Jesus. The officers said “No one ever spoke like this man". The Pharisees answered them "Have you also been deceived? Being one of the members of the religious court, Nicodemus defended Jesus and requested a fair hearing. Instead of answering his legitimate request, his fellow rulers ignored him and said search the scripture and see for yourself that no prophet comes from Galilee. Thus they have shown their ignorance of the Scripture, since Jonah and Nahum came from Galilee. Nicodemus was not yet ready to declare his loyalty to Christ openly. No one can be a secret follower of Jesus Christ forever. Like Nicodemus we are all in the process of being transformed by Christ.
Christians are the salt of the earth. Are you causing sinners to desire the righteousness that will deliver them from God's wrath?
(Read John 7:1-9)
Jesus remained in Galilee because of Jewish plot to kill him in Judea. Though Jesus did all things well, only few followed him. As Jesus revealed himself more clearly the opposition grew increasingly. He knew rejection more than anybody else (John 1:11; John 6:66; John 7:34). Yet God's plan did not fail. His teaching was remarkably simple. He used common, everyday objects to illustrate eternal truth. He taught from life's situations. His own family failed to understand his identity (7:5). His family advised him to go to Jerusalem to perform mighty works to influence the crowd. Only after his resurrection did his brothers believe in Jesus (Mark 3:21; 1 Cor 15:7). Jesus said "My time has not yet come" (7:8). He came to his own and His own received Him not. The Bible speaks of Jesus as Mary's firstborn son (Luke 2:7). The most logical conclusion is that Jesus had siblings (Mat 13:55-56). Jesus never tried to gain popularity or influence the people with his miracle. He did all things to glorify the Father. When sinners obey the gospel, they discover that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself
(2 Cor 5:19). Christians are saved to follow Christ's example.
Jesus at the Feast:
(Read John 7:10-24)
Midway through the festival of Tabernacle, Jesus went up to the temple and began to teach openly. Those who heard Jesus were divided in their opinion of him. Some thought he is a good man while others thought he is a deceiver. Jewish leaders were amazed at his teaching. They said "Where did He get this knowledge without any formal training". His teaching was with authority because it came from God. Many received Jesus with joy and others rejected him with contempt. Religious leaders accused Jesus of breaking the Law. But He is the only human being who had ever kept the Law perfectly in thought and deeds. Because of the fear of expulsion from synagogue no one spoke favorably of Jesus. Jesus said "Those who want to do the will of God will recognize his teaching whether it is from God or is merely his own" (7:17). This is the timeless principle for understanding the scripture. Understanding is not a requirement for salvation but faith in Christ. Faith is not an intellectual issue but a moral issue. Christ's teaching should be received with joy. Jesus never sought his own glory. Jews accused Jesus for healing a man at the pool of Bethesda on Sabbath. It was a divine miracle and an expression of love and kindness. Instead of seeing it that way the religious leaders planned to kill him. People assumed that Jesus was insane and was possessed with demon. Jesus said to them "Do not judge by appearance but judge with right judgment" (7:24). God's Word exposes what is in our hearts. Pray that we would respond to the scripture as it reveals our sin and need of salvation.
Is Jesus the Christ?
(Read John 7:25-36)
People were amazed that Jesus spoke boldly and openly in the temple. They thought, maybe He is the Messiah. Jewish leaders dismissed this idea and wanted to arrest Jesus. They did not come to Jesus from a sincere desire to do the will of God but came from evil heart. The gospel is only understood by those who fear God. The produces this necessary fear and help people to depart from evil (Pro 16:6). The religious leaders tried to kill Jesus but his appointed time had not yet come. Every moment of His life was planned by God. There is no panic in heaven or caught off guard by the betrayal of Judas. Jesus knew what the future would bring. He would go to His Father and be seated at the right hand of God. Yet many believed in Jesus because of the miracles. Jewish leaders sent guards to arrest Jesus but they were powerless to arrest him. They said, ”No one ever spoke like Jesus” (7:46). Jesus told them that He will be with them for a little while, and then he will return to his Father. This was a reference to his death, resurrection and ascension. The Jews did not understand the spiritual significance of what Jesus said (7:36). Only those who trust in Christ understand him and have the certainty of their salvation.
Rivers of Living Water:
(Read John 7:37-39)
The Feast of the Tabernacle was a joyful festival in Jerusalem. It was celebrated by Jews living in the tents. It was to commemorate their wilderness journey. During the course of this one-week celebration, water was poured upon the Alter in remembrance of the water that had come forth miraculously out of the rock in the wilderness (Ex 17:1-7). Jesus was making the claim that He is the rock from which the life giving water flows
(1 Cor 10:1-4). After Jesus ascended to heaven, God poured out the Holy Spirit upon the church. On the last day of the great feast Jesus stood and cried out “If any one thirsts, let him come to me and drink (7:37). Jesus is the source of eternal life. Only he could satisfy our spiritual hunger. Those who believe in Christ not only be satisfied but also become channel of blessing to others (7:37). This invitation is extended to everyone. Here Jesus was referring to the coming of the Holy Spirit after His ascension (7:39). Only the indwelling Spirit can bring satisfaction and blessings in our lives.
Are you a Secret Follower?
(Read John 7:40-53)
Jesus said, "If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink". A sinner must come to Jesus thirsting for righteousness. Riches will be worthless on the day of wrath (Pro 11:4). People responded differently to Christ’s invitation. Some thought that Jesus is a Prophet. Others said He is the Messiah. Still others said, "How can the Messiah come from Galilee? Pharisees accused the officers who returned without arresting Jesus. The officers said “No one ever spoke like this man". The Pharisees answered them "Have you also been deceived? Being one of the members of the religious court, Nicodemus defended Jesus and requested a fair hearing. Instead of answering his legitimate request, his fellow rulers ignored him and said search the scripture and see for yourself that no prophet comes from Galilee. Thus they have shown their ignorance of the Scripture, since Jonah and Nahum came from Galilee. Nicodemus was not yet ready to declare his loyalty to Christ openly. No one can be a secret follower of Jesus Christ forever. Like Nicodemus we are all in the process of being transformed by Christ.
Christians are the salt of the earth. Are you causing sinners to desire the righteousness that will deliver them from God's wrath?
Chapter 8
The woman caught in Adultery:
(Read John 8:1-11)
The eighth chapter begins with the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery. The Pharisees brought a woman caught in the act of adultery before Christ to trap him. This was their brilliant plan to turn the people against him. They said according to Law of Moses, adultery was punishable by death. So what do you say? If Jesus let her go, He is guilty of breaking the law. If He passes judgment on her, they could blame Him for breaking the Roman law. Jesus challenged their conscience by saying "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her" (8:7). Then Jesus bent down and wrote on the ground. May be Jesus was writing the Ten Commandments or the sins of those who brought the woman before Him. When the accusers heard this, they all dropped their stones and walked away probably out of conviction of their own sin. That is what the Law dies. It accuses of sin in our conscience. The woman was left alone before Jesus. He did not condemn her. In mercy and love Jesus forgave her and said "Go and sin no more". After shown such mercy, how could one ever goes back to sin? Only Christ can forgive sin because He is God. In Christ, our sins are easily washed away. When we are truly repentant and trust in Jesus alone, our sins are completely forgiven and hearts are purified. He can save anyone, anytime, anywhere.
Jesus is the Light of the World:
(Read John 8:12-30)
Following the incident of the adulterous woman Christ made his second claim "I am the light of the world". At the Feast of Tabernacle four golden lamps were lit in the temple court. During this celebration Jesus made this statement, “I am the light of the world whoever follows me will not live in sin but have the light of life” (8:12). Light is a rich Old Testament symbol. It was the first thing God created (Gen 1:3). Israel was led by the pillar of cloud and the pillar of light in their wilderness. King David sang that "The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear (Psalm 27:1). God himself would be our light in the New Jerusalem (Rev 22:5). Jesus is the light promised in the Old Testament. Sin always brings condemnation. He came not to judge but to save the world (John 17-18). We often focus on other's sin rather than our own sins. Sins can eat away our conscience. There is plenty of forgiveness with Christ for those who come to Him. When we turn to Jesus the source of truth, we find no condemnation but grace and forgiveness. Religious leaders questioned Christ and refused to believe His claim. No one can question the validity of Jesus claims because of the witness of the Father. His resurrection and ascension prove that Jesus is the Son of God (Romans 1:3). The Word of God testifies of Him (John 5:37-39). His transforming power of life is another evidence of His deity. Pharisees missed their last chance to turn to Jesus as their Messiah (8:21, 22). Refusing to believe in Christ is the unpardonable sin. Those who believe Jesus as Lord and Savior will be saved. They will see the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus and follow Him.
Jesus gives freedom from sin:
(Read John 8:31-38)
People believed in Jesus for various reasons. Jesus said to them, "If you abide in my Word, you are truly my disciples. You will know the truth and the truth will set you free" (8:31, 32). Our family heritage and religious background are no guarantee of our salvation. We don't have to die to know the truth. Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life" (John 14:6). The test of true faith is our abiding in the Word. Abide simple means to continue in His Word. The closer we live in obedience to His Word; the more we experience God’s presence in life. Jews claim they are the descendants of Abraham. By not obeying Christ they proved that they are not Abraham's sons. If they serve God, they would accept Jesus Christ as their Messiah. True freedom requires right relationship with God. Jesus came to proclaim the good news and set the captives free (Luke 4:16-21). He came to bring truth to the world (John 18:37). Truth is the reality of God revealed in the scripture and in the person of Christ. Jesus is the embodiment of truth and grace (John 1:14). Apart from Christ there is no spiritual freedom. He who practices sin is in the bondage of sin. Jesus said "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (8:36). Family heritage will not free us from bondage of sin. Jews claimed that Abraham is their Father. Abraham believed God but Jews sought to kill Jesus. The Devil is a murderer from the beginning. He is a liar and the father of all lies. None can claim God as their Father who would not receive his Son as their Savior. Jesus Challenged the Jews “Which one of you will convict me of sin"? None could bring any accusation against Jesus. Jesus provides the ultimate freedom from the bondage of sin. What a great Savior!
Before Abraham was, I AM:
(Read John 8:39-59)
Jews claimed that Abraham is their Father but they did not believe Jesus. If Abraham was their father, they would have listened Jesus because He came from God. But they did not listen Jesus because of their pride and stubbornness. They had a moral law but made it ineffective through their unbelief and tradition. Though Jesus was less than fifty years old, he claims to have lived before the time of Abraham (8:57-58). He was from eternity and is the great I AM. Of all great claims of Jesus none is greater than this claim. Jesus was without sin and lived a perfect life. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is the eternally "I AM" (Exodus 3:14). Also Jesus Said, Abraham rejoiced to see His day. Abraham saw in faith Jesus, in the birth of Isaac (Gen 12:3). He saw the promise afar off (Heb 11:13). Jesus claimed his divinity is an unmistakable term here. He later said that "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father" (14:9). So Jewish leaders pick up stones to kill him. They accused Jesus that he is a demon possessed Samaritan. But none of His accusers could find fault with Him. They did not realize that they are sinners and under the wrath of God. Wrath against evil is evidence of the goodness of God. But Jesus hid himself from them and went out of the temple. There is no clearer revelation of God than Jesus Christ (Heb 1:3; John 1:1,14,18). The religious leaders sought honor and the praise of men. Christians should seek the praise that comes from God in all things. Do you know this Savior who loved you and gave Himself for you? Jesus is the light of the world. Pray for those who are enslaved to sin and live in spiritual darkness. Ask God to show them freedom that is available in Christ.
(Read John 8:1-11)
The eighth chapter begins with the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery. The Pharisees brought a woman caught in the act of adultery before Christ to trap him. This was their brilliant plan to turn the people against him. They said according to Law of Moses, adultery was punishable by death. So what do you say? If Jesus let her go, He is guilty of breaking the law. If He passes judgment on her, they could blame Him for breaking the Roman law. Jesus challenged their conscience by saying "Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her" (8:7). Then Jesus bent down and wrote on the ground. May be Jesus was writing the Ten Commandments or the sins of those who brought the woman before Him. When the accusers heard this, they all dropped their stones and walked away probably out of conviction of their own sin. That is what the Law dies. It accuses of sin in our conscience. The woman was left alone before Jesus. He did not condemn her. In mercy and love Jesus forgave her and said "Go and sin no more". After shown such mercy, how could one ever goes back to sin? Only Christ can forgive sin because He is God. In Christ, our sins are easily washed away. When we are truly repentant and trust in Jesus alone, our sins are completely forgiven and hearts are purified. He can save anyone, anytime, anywhere.
Jesus is the Light of the World:
(Read John 8:12-30)
Following the incident of the adulterous woman Christ made his second claim "I am the light of the world". At the Feast of Tabernacle four golden lamps were lit in the temple court. During this celebration Jesus made this statement, “I am the light of the world whoever follows me will not live in sin but have the light of life” (8:12). Light is a rich Old Testament symbol. It was the first thing God created (Gen 1:3). Israel was led by the pillar of cloud and the pillar of light in their wilderness. King David sang that "The Lord is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear (Psalm 27:1). God himself would be our light in the New Jerusalem (Rev 22:5). Jesus is the light promised in the Old Testament. Sin always brings condemnation. He came not to judge but to save the world (John 17-18). We often focus on other's sin rather than our own sins. Sins can eat away our conscience. There is plenty of forgiveness with Christ for those who come to Him. When we turn to Jesus the source of truth, we find no condemnation but grace and forgiveness. Religious leaders questioned Christ and refused to believe His claim. No one can question the validity of Jesus claims because of the witness of the Father. His resurrection and ascension prove that Jesus is the Son of God (Romans 1:3). The Word of God testifies of Him (John 5:37-39). His transforming power of life is another evidence of His deity. Pharisees missed their last chance to turn to Jesus as their Messiah (8:21, 22). Refusing to believe in Christ is the unpardonable sin. Those who believe Jesus as Lord and Savior will be saved. They will see the light of the glorious gospel of Jesus and follow Him.
Jesus gives freedom from sin:
(Read John 8:31-38)
People believed in Jesus for various reasons. Jesus said to them, "If you abide in my Word, you are truly my disciples. You will know the truth and the truth will set you free" (8:31, 32). Our family heritage and religious background are no guarantee of our salvation. We don't have to die to know the truth. Jesus said "I am the way, the truth and the life" (John 14:6). The test of true faith is our abiding in the Word. Abide simple means to continue in His Word. The closer we live in obedience to His Word; the more we experience God’s presence in life. Jews claim they are the descendants of Abraham. By not obeying Christ they proved that they are not Abraham's sons. If they serve God, they would accept Jesus Christ as their Messiah. True freedom requires right relationship with God. Jesus came to proclaim the good news and set the captives free (Luke 4:16-21). He came to bring truth to the world (John 18:37). Truth is the reality of God revealed in the scripture and in the person of Christ. Jesus is the embodiment of truth and grace (John 1:14). Apart from Christ there is no spiritual freedom. He who practices sin is in the bondage of sin. Jesus said "If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (8:36). Family heritage will not free us from bondage of sin. Jews claimed that Abraham is their Father. Abraham believed God but Jews sought to kill Jesus. The Devil is a murderer from the beginning. He is a liar and the father of all lies. None can claim God as their Father who would not receive his Son as their Savior. Jesus Challenged the Jews “Which one of you will convict me of sin"? None could bring any accusation against Jesus. Jesus provides the ultimate freedom from the bondage of sin. What a great Savior!
Before Abraham was, I AM:
(Read John 8:39-59)
Jews claimed that Abraham is their Father but they did not believe Jesus. If Abraham was their father, they would have listened Jesus because He came from God. But they did not listen Jesus because of their pride and stubbornness. They had a moral law but made it ineffective through their unbelief and tradition. Though Jesus was less than fifty years old, he claims to have lived before the time of Abraham (8:57-58). He was from eternity and is the great I AM. Of all great claims of Jesus none is greater than this claim. Jesus was without sin and lived a perfect life. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. He is the eternally "I AM" (Exodus 3:14). Also Jesus Said, Abraham rejoiced to see His day. Abraham saw in faith Jesus, in the birth of Isaac (Gen 12:3). He saw the promise afar off (Heb 11:13). Jesus claimed his divinity is an unmistakable term here. He later said that "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father" (14:9). So Jewish leaders pick up stones to kill him. They accused Jesus that he is a demon possessed Samaritan. But none of His accusers could find fault with Him. They did not realize that they are sinners and under the wrath of God. Wrath against evil is evidence of the goodness of God. But Jesus hid himself from them and went out of the temple. There is no clearer revelation of God than Jesus Christ (Heb 1:3; John 1:1,14,18). The religious leaders sought honor and the praise of men. Christians should seek the praise that comes from God in all things. Do you know this Savior who loved you and gave Himself for you? Jesus is the light of the world. Pray for those who are enslaved to sin and live in spiritual darkness. Ask God to show them freedom that is available in Christ.
Chapter 9
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind:
(Read John 9:1-12)
As Jesus passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. Jesus is always looking for people who are in need of help. Blind man never requested healing yet the Lord healed him. He knows our need and willing to restore us. Meanwhile the disciples asked Jesus a loaded question. Was the blindness is the result of the man's sin or his parents' sin? How quick we are to judge others. Even though the man and his parents were sinners, his blindness had nothing to do with their sin. It was an opportunity for the work of God to be revealed in him. There was a common belief among Jews that physical sickness is the result of sin. Jesus replied that his blind is not caused by something he or his parents did. Job’s friends’ thought that terrible things happened to him because of his sin. They were wrong. God Himself settled the issue in Chapter 38 to 41. All sufferings in the world can be traced to the fact that we live in a fallen world. Sometime God allows suffering in our lives because he loves us (Heb 12:3-11). God uses suffering to accomplish His purpose (Phi 1:12). God is also able to save some from suffering, some through suffering, and some out of suffering. Jesus has come to rescue us from the ultimate suffering of sin. We have an eternal hope laid up in heaven that we will be like Christ. There is no suffering in heaven. Jesus told the blind man to "Go and wash your eyes in the pool of Siloam which means "Sent". Perhaps Jesus chose this method to test his faith and obedience. He responded immediately and was healed. Thus Jesus proved that he is the light of the world. God who created man from dust. Christ has used dust to restore his sight. Pharisees accused Jesus because this happened on the Sabbath day.
Jesus is the Source of all Comfort:
(Read John 9:12-34)
There was confusion and skepticism about this healing. We should never assume that once we are saved there will not be any problem and suffering. Suffering is part of Christian life (16:33). Christians are saved from ultimate suffering and condemnation. Now they are under the care of the loving Father who provides hope and strength in their sufferings (2 Cor 12:9). The religious leaders asked the man his opinion of Jesus. He responded that Jesus is a prophet. Jews refused to admit his testimony. They asked his parents whether their son was born blind? They wanted their son to speak for himself because they were afraid of Jews. The Pharisees wanted the blind man to attribute the miracle to God and to admit that Jesus is a sinner. At that time with unshakable conviction the man responded, "I know this, I was blind and now I see” (9:25). Highly educated Pharisees could not keep up with his conviction. They insulted him for telling the truth. For him it was not an intellectual issue but a moral and spiritual issue. In many ways, believers are like this man. We were formerly blind to see the glorious light of the gospel (2 Cor 4:4). But Christ opened our eyes to see our real need and we respond to Christ’s saving grace. Now we have a story to tell to the nations. We may not be scholars of scripture but like this blind man, we can share with others what Christ has done in our lives. We need to tell the spiritually blind that they need to go to the Light of the world. Only Jesus can open their understanding . While the gospel is good news, it is ineffective for sinners without faith and obedience. Gospel is the power of God to save sinners. Those who are saved would say, “Once I was blind but now I see".
Spiritual Blindness:
(Read John 9:35-41)
Jews excommunicated the man from the synagogue because of his faith in Christ. He knew that God listens to those who do his will and if Christ was a sinner, Christ could not have healed him. Jesus found him and asked “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” He answered "Who is he, that I may believe in Him".The blind man was ready to believe but needed help. Jesus said "You have now seen him and it is he who is speaking to you". Suddenly he understood that he was looking at the Messiah and worshiped him. He started his journey by calling Jesus a Man (9:11) and then a Prophet (9:17). Finally he responded his faith in Christ and worshiped him. Many people don't understand what believing in Jesus means. It does not mean mean believing in Jesus intellectually as a historical figure. It means to be persuaded Jesus is trust worthy and and rely upon Him for eternal life. He is our sin bearer (John 1:29). We need to see our desperate need for the mercy of God. Jesus did to come to judge the world but to save us. We are all by nature spiritually blind and poor. If we reject the Jesus habitually, God may send judgment in for form of hardness of heart and delusion (2 Thess 2:11). When we are enlightened by the Holy Spirit, we discover our previous sight had been blindness indeed. How is our faith journey progressing? Christ came to offer spiritual insight but Pharisees chose to remain blind. In contempt religious leaders asked Jesus “Are we also blind?” Jesus said to them “If you were blind you would have no guilt, but you remain guilty because you claim you see”. They failed to understand that all they needed was Christ. Have you ever thanked Jesus for what He has done for you? Have you received spiritual sight by believing in Jesus Christ?
(Read John 9:1-12)
As Jesus passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. Jesus is always looking for people who are in need of help. Blind man never requested healing yet the Lord healed him. He knows our need and willing to restore us. Meanwhile the disciples asked Jesus a loaded question. Was the blindness is the result of the man's sin or his parents' sin? How quick we are to judge others. Even though the man and his parents were sinners, his blindness had nothing to do with their sin. It was an opportunity for the work of God to be revealed in him. There was a common belief among Jews that physical sickness is the result of sin. Jesus replied that his blind is not caused by something he or his parents did. Job’s friends’ thought that terrible things happened to him because of his sin. They were wrong. God Himself settled the issue in Chapter 38 to 41. All sufferings in the world can be traced to the fact that we live in a fallen world. Sometime God allows suffering in our lives because he loves us (Heb 12:3-11). God uses suffering to accomplish His purpose (Phi 1:12). God is also able to save some from suffering, some through suffering, and some out of suffering. Jesus has come to rescue us from the ultimate suffering of sin. We have an eternal hope laid up in heaven that we will be like Christ. There is no suffering in heaven. Jesus told the blind man to "Go and wash your eyes in the pool of Siloam which means "Sent". Perhaps Jesus chose this method to test his faith and obedience. He responded immediately and was healed. Thus Jesus proved that he is the light of the world. God who created man from dust. Christ has used dust to restore his sight. Pharisees accused Jesus because this happened on the Sabbath day.
Jesus is the Source of all Comfort:
(Read John 9:12-34)
There was confusion and skepticism about this healing. We should never assume that once we are saved there will not be any problem and suffering. Suffering is part of Christian life (16:33). Christians are saved from ultimate suffering and condemnation. Now they are under the care of the loving Father who provides hope and strength in their sufferings (2 Cor 12:9). The religious leaders asked the man his opinion of Jesus. He responded that Jesus is a prophet. Jews refused to admit his testimony. They asked his parents whether their son was born blind? They wanted their son to speak for himself because they were afraid of Jews. The Pharisees wanted the blind man to attribute the miracle to God and to admit that Jesus is a sinner. At that time with unshakable conviction the man responded, "I know this, I was blind and now I see” (9:25). Highly educated Pharisees could not keep up with his conviction. They insulted him for telling the truth. For him it was not an intellectual issue but a moral and spiritual issue. In many ways, believers are like this man. We were formerly blind to see the glorious light of the gospel (2 Cor 4:4). But Christ opened our eyes to see our real need and we respond to Christ’s saving grace. Now we have a story to tell to the nations. We may not be scholars of scripture but like this blind man, we can share with others what Christ has done in our lives. We need to tell the spiritually blind that they need to go to the Light of the world. Only Jesus can open their understanding . While the gospel is good news, it is ineffective for sinners without faith and obedience. Gospel is the power of God to save sinners. Those who are saved would say, “Once I was blind but now I see".
Spiritual Blindness:
(Read John 9:35-41)
Jews excommunicated the man from the synagogue because of his faith in Christ. He knew that God listens to those who do his will and if Christ was a sinner, Christ could not have healed him. Jesus found him and asked “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” He answered "Who is he, that I may believe in Him".The blind man was ready to believe but needed help. Jesus said "You have now seen him and it is he who is speaking to you". Suddenly he understood that he was looking at the Messiah and worshiped him. He started his journey by calling Jesus a Man (9:11) and then a Prophet (9:17). Finally he responded his faith in Christ and worshiped him. Many people don't understand what believing in Jesus means. It does not mean mean believing in Jesus intellectually as a historical figure. It means to be persuaded Jesus is trust worthy and and rely upon Him for eternal life. He is our sin bearer (John 1:29). We need to see our desperate need for the mercy of God. Jesus did to come to judge the world but to save us. We are all by nature spiritually blind and poor. If we reject the Jesus habitually, God may send judgment in for form of hardness of heart and delusion (2 Thess 2:11). When we are enlightened by the Holy Spirit, we discover our previous sight had been blindness indeed. How is our faith journey progressing? Christ came to offer spiritual insight but Pharisees chose to remain blind. In contempt religious leaders asked Jesus “Are we also blind?” Jesus said to them “If you were blind you would have no guilt, but you remain guilty because you claim you see”. They failed to understand that all they needed was Christ. Have you ever thanked Jesus for what He has done for you? Have you received spiritual sight by believing in Jesus Christ?
Chapter 10
I Am the Good Shepherd:
(Read John 10:1-30)
The tenth chapter of John's Gospel begins with a warning. Jesus is the promised shepherd (Zech 13:7-9). The imagery of sheep and shepherd was familiar to Israel. Jesus warned Jews about false shepherds. They are thieves and robbers. They abandon and abuse the sheep. They are greedy and illegitimate leaders. They claim revelation from God but do not give any evidence of it. True shepherd enters by the door. In this chapter Jesus claimed that He is the door and the good shepherd. He saw the people like sheep, fainted and scattered abroad and without shepherd (Matt 9:36). Sheep usually get lost easily and prone to follow strangers. Without shepherd they are in danger. Shepherding is hard work. Shepherds have unique relationship with the sheep. When sheep enters the sheepfold he would hold a rode low at the entrance and allow the sheep to pass under the rode. He makes sure whether the sheep needs attention or not. In fact Jesus is the only door into the sheepfold (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Those who enter by Him will be saved. David said "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalms 23:1). Jacob knew the Lord as the one who has been his shepherd all his life (Gen 48: 15). Jesus said, "I am the Good shepherd who gives his life for the sheep". What a glorious act of love! He died to take away our sin. Christ gave His life as a voluntary act of sacrifice. He has the power to lay it down and take it back. He enters the sheepfold by the authorized gate. He came to do the will of the Father. He knows his sheep by their name (10:14). Good shepherd goes ahead of his sheep and leads them to pastures , provides shelter and security. His fold includes both Jews and Gentiles. Jesus warned Jews that their religious leaders are hired shepherds. They have no love for the sheep and run away in danger. But Jews did not believe Christ because they were not His sheep. Only His sheep hear His voice and follow Him. Jesus said "I will give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father who has given them is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are one” (10:27-30). Jesus is the good shepherd and He is one with God the Father.
Jesus gives Eternal Life:
(Read John 10:31-42)
This passage explains believer's eternal security and assurance of salvation. Eternal security is based on the finished work of Christ on the cross. Salvation is always by grace and not by works (Eph 2:8-10). Man does not initiate salvation. It is not man reaching out to God but God reaching out to man (Rom 5:6-8). Also salvation is not an afterthought of God. It was His eternal plan (1 Pet 1:18-20; 2 Tim 1:9). Eternal security is not assurance of salvation. Someone has said, “Security is God-ward and assurance is man-ward". God promised to give eternal life (10:28-3). Assurance is the confident realization that we have eternal life. Sheep hears the voice of shepherd and follow him. Living in obedience to Christ gives assurance of salvation (10:27). Once a person is saved, he is saved forever. No one can snatch believers from Jesus' hand or from the Father's hand (10:28). Why? Because Jesus and the Father are one (10:30). Also this is an affirmation on Trinity. There is one God who eternally exists in three distinct persons; the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. They are in agreement in everything. Jesus held them secure by the grip of his grace. Jesus Claiming equality with the Father angered the Jews. They picked up stones to stone Jesus. They failed to recognize Jesus as their Messiah. He challenged them by saying, "For which of my good works are you stoning me”? They said "You have made yourself equal with God”. Christ asked them to consider His works and believe on Him. They sought to arrest him, but Jesus escaped from their hands. Yet many believed in him. Jesus is not merely a religious teacher. He is one with God the Father. He is worth of our worship and devotion. Do you know Jesus as your Lord and savior? Do you have the assurance of salvation? Do you acknowledge him as your God and Savior?
(Read John 10:1-30)
The tenth chapter of John's Gospel begins with a warning. Jesus is the promised shepherd (Zech 13:7-9). The imagery of sheep and shepherd was familiar to Israel. Jesus warned Jews about false shepherds. They are thieves and robbers. They abandon and abuse the sheep. They are greedy and illegitimate leaders. They claim revelation from God but do not give any evidence of it. True shepherd enters by the door. In this chapter Jesus claimed that He is the door and the good shepherd. He saw the people like sheep, fainted and scattered abroad and without shepherd (Matt 9:36). Sheep usually get lost easily and prone to follow strangers. Without shepherd they are in danger. Shepherding is hard work. Shepherds have unique relationship with the sheep. When sheep enters the sheepfold he would hold a rode low at the entrance and allow the sheep to pass under the rode. He makes sure whether the sheep needs attention or not. In fact Jesus is the only door into the sheepfold (John 14:6; Acts 4:12). Those who enter by Him will be saved. David said "The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalms 23:1). Jacob knew the Lord as the one who has been his shepherd all his life (Gen 48: 15). Jesus said, "I am the Good shepherd who gives his life for the sheep". What a glorious act of love! He died to take away our sin. Christ gave His life as a voluntary act of sacrifice. He has the power to lay it down and take it back. He enters the sheepfold by the authorized gate. He came to do the will of the Father. He knows his sheep by their name (10:14). Good shepherd goes ahead of his sheep and leads them to pastures , provides shelter and security. His fold includes both Jews and Gentiles. Jesus warned Jews that their religious leaders are hired shepherds. They have no love for the sheep and run away in danger. But Jews did not believe Christ because they were not His sheep. Only His sheep hear His voice and follow Him. Jesus said "I will give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father who has given them is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand. I and the Father are one” (10:27-30). Jesus is the good shepherd and He is one with God the Father.
Jesus gives Eternal Life:
(Read John 10:31-42)
This passage explains believer's eternal security and assurance of salvation. Eternal security is based on the finished work of Christ on the cross. Salvation is always by grace and not by works (Eph 2:8-10). Man does not initiate salvation. It is not man reaching out to God but God reaching out to man (Rom 5:6-8). Also salvation is not an afterthought of God. It was His eternal plan (1 Pet 1:18-20; 2 Tim 1:9). Eternal security is not assurance of salvation. Someone has said, “Security is God-ward and assurance is man-ward". God promised to give eternal life (10:28-3). Assurance is the confident realization that we have eternal life. Sheep hears the voice of shepherd and follow him. Living in obedience to Christ gives assurance of salvation (10:27). Once a person is saved, he is saved forever. No one can snatch believers from Jesus' hand or from the Father's hand (10:28). Why? Because Jesus and the Father are one (10:30). Also this is an affirmation on Trinity. There is one God who eternally exists in three distinct persons; the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. They are in agreement in everything. Jesus held them secure by the grip of his grace. Jesus Claiming equality with the Father angered the Jews. They picked up stones to stone Jesus. They failed to recognize Jesus as their Messiah. He challenged them by saying, "For which of my good works are you stoning me”? They said "You have made yourself equal with God”. Christ asked them to consider His works and believe on Him. They sought to arrest him, but Jesus escaped from their hands. Yet many believed in him. Jesus is not merely a religious teacher. He is one with God the Father. He is worth of our worship and devotion. Do you know Jesus as your Lord and savior? Do you have the assurance of salvation? Do you acknowledge him as your God and Savior?
Chapter 11
The Death of Lazarus:
(Read John 11:1-16)
Jesus enjoyed a special relationship with Lazarus and his sisters. This family provided friendship to Jesus in a world that was hostile to him. When Jesus heard that Lazarus was sick, he waited two days longer to respond. God does all things well and his ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8). He does all things in his time for his purpose. This is the last miracle Jesus did before His crucifixion and the highest point in His public ministry. Lazarus died and his body was buried. Jesus responded by saying that this sickness is not unto death but for the glory of God. Sometimes God permits sickness and death in order to reveal His glory. In this case raising Lazarus manifested the greater glory. Why Jesus who loved them delayed and allowed them to go through such difficulty? Because Jesus wants to reveal his compassion and power in a glorious way. David said, "It is good for me that I have been afflicted to learn His statues"(Psalm 119:71). God allows sufferings to warn us of our failures and wake us up from our spiritual slumber (Heb 12:11). It is for our good and for His glory (9: 3). God comforts us in our sufferings so that we can comfort others (2 Cor 1:3, 4). We are commanded to comfort one another (1 Thess 4:18). We should pray for those who suffer and help them. God allows trials to bring us to maturity (Jam 1:2-4). The gospel is the story of God doing all things well. God's ways are much better.
Jesus said, “I am the Resurrection and the Life”:
(Read John 11:17-27)
Martha and Mary questioned Jesus' decision to delay his visit. The delay is the hardest lesson to learn. God's plans some times do not make sense to us. Jesus never yielded to human pressure but did all things according to Father's timetable. His timing always brings the best result. Jesus said Lazarus has fallen asleep. For believers death is often referred as sleep. When believers die, they enter into a restful and conscious life in heaven (Phi 1:23). At last Jesus arrived the home He loved the most. Jesus assured the grieving Martha that her brother will rise again. Jesus said to her "I am the resurrection and life. whoever believes in me, though he may die, yet shall he live" (10:25). If we believe in Christ for eternal life while we are still alive, we will never die spiritually. This is His fifth "I AM" statement Jesus claimed. Martha and Mary would soon find this to be true. Death is not the last word in the Christian vocabulary. Christians may go through death but they will also experience resurrection when Christ returns (1 Cor 15: 54). When Jesus saw Mary weeping, He was deeply moved in His spirit and wept. Jesus grieved over result of sin in this fallen world. Jesus was willing to suffer emotionally and physically to deliver us from sin and death (Heb 2:14, 15; 5:7). He is our great high priest who can sympathize with us in our weaknesses (Heb 4:15, 16). Jesus identifies with us in our pain and loss. What a compassionate Savior! Do you know this great Savior?
If you believe you would see the Glory of God:
(Read John 11:28-44)
Jesus came to the tomb and ordered to roll away the stone. Jesus said to Martha "If you believe you would see the glory of God". World says, "Show us, then we believe". Christ said, "Believe, then you will see the glory of God". Jesus wanted that the people might believe that Father has sent him. With a loud voice Jesus said "Lazarus come forth". Lazarus came out still bound by the grave cloths (11:44). Jesus said, “Loose him, and let him go”. Here we see the picture of a believer made alive in Christ. We are saved but still bound by the grave cloth of sinful flesh. We need to be set free to serve the Lord. Only Christ is able to set us free from the penalty and power of sin (John 8:31, 32). The resurrection of Lazarus was only a preview of Jesus' power over sin and death. Christ's resurrection gives hope to all who have put their faith in Christ. Many believed in Jesus when they saw the miracle. Christ’s resurrection power is now working in every believer (Rom 8:10-11). Jewish leaders became angry and planned to kill Jesus. Caiaphas, the high priest said, "Jesus must die for the people, than for the whole nation be destroyed" (11:50). It was a prophecy that Christ would die for the entire nation. With this incident Christ removed Himself from the public view. People longed to see Jesus and wondered whether He would come to the feast. The God was working out his plan at all time. Do you know Christ as your Savior? Someone has said, “To believe Christ is to know God (John 8:19; 14:7). To see Christ is to see God (John 14:9). To receive Christ is to receive God (Mk 9:37). To honor Christ is to honor God (John 5:23)". In the resurrection of Lazarus, we see that Christ did all things according to his time table and for God's glory. He is the Lord of compassion and understands what it's like to have a broken heart. Jesus did miracles so that Father was glorified and people believed in Him (John 20:30-31). May God help my readers to have a personal relationship with Christ. Pray that God would increase your faith.
(Read John 11:1-16)
Jesus enjoyed a special relationship with Lazarus and his sisters. This family provided friendship to Jesus in a world that was hostile to him. When Jesus heard that Lazarus was sick, he waited two days longer to respond. God does all things well and his ways are not our ways (Isaiah 55:8). He does all things in his time for his purpose. This is the last miracle Jesus did before His crucifixion and the highest point in His public ministry. Lazarus died and his body was buried. Jesus responded by saying that this sickness is not unto death but for the glory of God. Sometimes God permits sickness and death in order to reveal His glory. In this case raising Lazarus manifested the greater glory. Why Jesus who loved them delayed and allowed them to go through such difficulty? Because Jesus wants to reveal his compassion and power in a glorious way. David said, "It is good for me that I have been afflicted to learn His statues"(Psalm 119:71). God allows sufferings to warn us of our failures and wake us up from our spiritual slumber (Heb 12:11). It is for our good and for His glory (9: 3). God comforts us in our sufferings so that we can comfort others (2 Cor 1:3, 4). We are commanded to comfort one another (1 Thess 4:18). We should pray for those who suffer and help them. God allows trials to bring us to maturity (Jam 1:2-4). The gospel is the story of God doing all things well. God's ways are much better.
Jesus said, “I am the Resurrection and the Life”:
(Read John 11:17-27)
Martha and Mary questioned Jesus' decision to delay his visit. The delay is the hardest lesson to learn. God's plans some times do not make sense to us. Jesus never yielded to human pressure but did all things according to Father's timetable. His timing always brings the best result. Jesus said Lazarus has fallen asleep. For believers death is often referred as sleep. When believers die, they enter into a restful and conscious life in heaven (Phi 1:23). At last Jesus arrived the home He loved the most. Jesus assured the grieving Martha that her brother will rise again. Jesus said to her "I am the resurrection and life. whoever believes in me, though he may die, yet shall he live" (10:25). If we believe in Christ for eternal life while we are still alive, we will never die spiritually. This is His fifth "I AM" statement Jesus claimed. Martha and Mary would soon find this to be true. Death is not the last word in the Christian vocabulary. Christians may go through death but they will also experience resurrection when Christ returns (1 Cor 15: 54). When Jesus saw Mary weeping, He was deeply moved in His spirit and wept. Jesus grieved over result of sin in this fallen world. Jesus was willing to suffer emotionally and physically to deliver us from sin and death (Heb 2:14, 15; 5:7). He is our great high priest who can sympathize with us in our weaknesses (Heb 4:15, 16). Jesus identifies with us in our pain and loss. What a compassionate Savior! Do you know this great Savior?
If you believe you would see the Glory of God:
(Read John 11:28-44)
Jesus came to the tomb and ordered to roll away the stone. Jesus said to Martha "If you believe you would see the glory of God". World says, "Show us, then we believe". Christ said, "Believe, then you will see the glory of God". Jesus wanted that the people might believe that Father has sent him. With a loud voice Jesus said "Lazarus come forth". Lazarus came out still bound by the grave cloths (11:44). Jesus said, “Loose him, and let him go”. Here we see the picture of a believer made alive in Christ. We are saved but still bound by the grave cloth of sinful flesh. We need to be set free to serve the Lord. Only Christ is able to set us free from the penalty and power of sin (John 8:31, 32). The resurrection of Lazarus was only a preview of Jesus' power over sin and death. Christ's resurrection gives hope to all who have put their faith in Christ. Many believed in Jesus when they saw the miracle. Christ’s resurrection power is now working in every believer (Rom 8:10-11). Jewish leaders became angry and planned to kill Jesus. Caiaphas, the high priest said, "Jesus must die for the people, than for the whole nation be destroyed" (11:50). It was a prophecy that Christ would die for the entire nation. With this incident Christ removed Himself from the public view. People longed to see Jesus and wondered whether He would come to the feast. The God was working out his plan at all time. Do you know Christ as your Savior? Someone has said, “To believe Christ is to know God (John 8:19; 14:7). To see Christ is to see God (John 14:9). To receive Christ is to receive God (Mk 9:37). To honor Christ is to honor God (John 5:23)". In the resurrection of Lazarus, we see that Christ did all things according to his time table and for God's glory. He is the Lord of compassion and understands what it's like to have a broken heart. Jesus did miracles so that Father was glorified and people believed in Him (John 20:30-31). May God help my readers to have a personal relationship with Christ. Pray that God would increase your faith.
Chapter 12
Jesus Anointed at Bethany:
(Read John 12:1-8)
This chapter gives the contrast between Mary and Judas. This chapter records the end of Christ's public ministry. There are six separate sections in this chapter. Mary anoints Jesus at Bethany, Jews plot to kill Lazarus, The triumphal entry of Jesus on a donkey to Jerusalem, Greeks seeking Jesus, Jesus predicts His crucifixion and Christ emerges as the true Messiah. Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where a dinner was arranged in the house of Simon the leper to thank Jesus for what He has done (Matt 26:6-13). There we see Martha and Mary at their best serving and worshiping Christ. Mary anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. It was the costly perfume perhaps saved for her wedding or burial. It was a sacrificial giving her life saving. Also this was an extravagant act of her love and devotion to the Lord. It also shows her humility and faith in the Lord in anointing him for his burial. When Judas was critical of the generosity of Mary, Jesus rebuked him. He was also critical of Jesus accepting her worship. Critical spirit can crush the heart of others. Jesus accepted Mary 's worship. Only God is to be worshiped. Judas was judgmental and sought personal gain for himself. God demands worship from us and it is costly. Those who have been forgiven much, love much. Jesus said "Mary would be remembered wherever the gospel is preached". Those who are forgiven much love much. Nothing is wasted if it is given to the Lord. The house was filled with fragrance. True worship is in truth and spirit, for the Father is seeking such worship (John 4:24). Is your worship acceptable to God?
The Triumphal Entry of Jesus:
(Read John 12:9-19)
A large crowd came to see Jesus and Lazarus whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So the religious leaders planned to kill Lazarus because many had believed in Christ because of him. Believers should expect hostility from the world (16:33). This world is not our home and we are just passing through. You may be the Lazarus, the world is watching. So we must be diligent in our walk with the Lord. Next day (Sunday) Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey . In the Old Testament donkey is a symbol of peace and horse a symbol of war. It was the fulfillment of the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. There was spontaneous outpouring of praise from the pilgrims, singing Hosanna to Christ. The waving of palm branches speak of their devotion and expectation. Though they acknowledged Jesus as their king, they failed to understand that Jesus did not come to establish a political kingdom (Psalms 118:25, 26). He came to establish a reign of grace and peace in the heart of his followers (Rom 14:17). The disciples understood this truth only after the ascension of Christ. Pharisees said "The whole world has gone after Jesus". This was fulfilled when the Greeks came to see Jesus. Pray that God would give you a greater anticipation of the heavenly blessings to come.
Jesus Predicts His Death:
(Read John 12:20-36)
Now the attention is turned from Jews to the Greeks. Some Greeks who came to worship at Jerusalem came to Philip and asked, "Sir, we wish to see Jesus". Philip consulted with Andrew and they went Jesus with their request. Jesus said, "The hour has come for the Son of man to be glorified". It was a reference to His death. Thus the promise to Abraham was fulfilled in Jesus that Abraham would be the father of many nations. Jesus came into the world to seek and to save the lost. Jesus knew that the time for his suffering was now at hand (12:23). In His humanity Christ experienced agony as he approached his death. His desire was to glorify the Father through his death. He received the testimony from the Father that "I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again" (12:28). Then Jesus said "When I am lifted upon the cross, I will draw all people to myself". Jesus is the savior of the world. He died to set us free from sin. By his death he triumphed over death and devil (Heb 2:15). His death and resurrection give us the certainty that Christ will have the final victory. God speaks to us through the cross about His great love. Sinners are saved by the cross and the believers are sanctified by the cross. Jews failed to believe that their Messiah would die. Jesus warned them that while you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light. Jesus is the light of the world. Do you know him?
The Unbelief of the people:
(Read John 12:37-50)
John tells us that many Jewish leaders believed in Jesus, but they were afraid to express their faith openly. They loved the praise of men more than the praise that comes from God. This shows how depraved is human heart. There is no secret discipleship. Though Jesus did many miracles Jews did not believe him. It was a fulfillment of what Isaiah prophesied (Isiah:5-12). Believing Jesus is the equivalent to believing God the Father (12:44-45). They loved the praise men more the the glory that comes from God (12:43). Only the grace of God can remove our spiritual blindness to see the glory of Jesus Christ. Pray that sinners would see the glory of Christ and receive Him as their Savior. Knowing Christ personally and intimately is salvation. Do you live for the glory of Christ or for the praise of others? Pray that you would see the glory of God's grace more clearly today.
(Read John 12:1-8)
This chapter gives the contrast between Mary and Judas. This chapter records the end of Christ's public ministry. There are six separate sections in this chapter. Mary anoints Jesus at Bethany, Jews plot to kill Lazarus, The triumphal entry of Jesus on a donkey to Jerusalem, Greeks seeking Jesus, Jesus predicts His crucifixion and Christ emerges as the true Messiah. Six days before the Passover Jesus came to Bethany, where a dinner was arranged in the house of Simon the leper to thank Jesus for what He has done (Matt 26:6-13). There we see Martha and Mary at their best serving and worshiping Christ. Mary anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. It was the costly perfume perhaps saved for her wedding or burial. It was a sacrificial giving her life saving. Also this was an extravagant act of her love and devotion to the Lord. It also shows her humility and faith in the Lord in anointing him for his burial. When Judas was critical of the generosity of Mary, Jesus rebuked him. He was also critical of Jesus accepting her worship. Critical spirit can crush the heart of others. Jesus accepted Mary 's worship. Only God is to be worshiped. Judas was judgmental and sought personal gain for himself. God demands worship from us and it is costly. Those who have been forgiven much, love much. Jesus said "Mary would be remembered wherever the gospel is preached". Those who are forgiven much love much. Nothing is wasted if it is given to the Lord. The house was filled with fragrance. True worship is in truth and spirit, for the Father is seeking such worship (John 4:24). Is your worship acceptable to God?
The Triumphal Entry of Jesus:
(Read John 12:9-19)
A large crowd came to see Jesus and Lazarus whom Jesus had raised from the dead. So the religious leaders planned to kill Lazarus because many had believed in Christ because of him. Believers should expect hostility from the world (16:33). This world is not our home and we are just passing through. You may be the Lazarus, the world is watching. So we must be diligent in our walk with the Lord. Next day (Sunday) Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey . In the Old Testament donkey is a symbol of peace and horse a symbol of war. It was the fulfillment of the prophecy of Zechariah 9:9. There was spontaneous outpouring of praise from the pilgrims, singing Hosanna to Christ. The waving of palm branches speak of their devotion and expectation. Though they acknowledged Jesus as their king, they failed to understand that Jesus did not come to establish a political kingdom (Psalms 118:25, 26). He came to establish a reign of grace and peace in the heart of his followers (Rom 14:17). The disciples understood this truth only after the ascension of Christ. Pharisees said "The whole world has gone after Jesus". This was fulfilled when the Greeks came to see Jesus. Pray that God would give you a greater anticipation of the heavenly blessings to come.
Jesus Predicts His Death:
(Read John 12:20-36)
Now the attention is turned from Jews to the Greeks. Some Greeks who came to worship at Jerusalem came to Philip and asked, "Sir, we wish to see Jesus". Philip consulted with Andrew and they went Jesus with their request. Jesus said, "The hour has come for the Son of man to be glorified". It was a reference to His death. Thus the promise to Abraham was fulfilled in Jesus that Abraham would be the father of many nations. Jesus came into the world to seek and to save the lost. Jesus knew that the time for his suffering was now at hand (12:23). In His humanity Christ experienced agony as he approached his death. His desire was to glorify the Father through his death. He received the testimony from the Father that "I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again" (12:28). Then Jesus said "When I am lifted upon the cross, I will draw all people to myself". Jesus is the savior of the world. He died to set us free from sin. By his death he triumphed over death and devil (Heb 2:15). His death and resurrection give us the certainty that Christ will have the final victory. God speaks to us through the cross about His great love. Sinners are saved by the cross and the believers are sanctified by the cross. Jews failed to believe that their Messiah would die. Jesus warned them that while you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light. Jesus is the light of the world. Do you know him?
The Unbelief of the people:
(Read John 12:37-50)
John tells us that many Jewish leaders believed in Jesus, but they were afraid to express their faith openly. They loved the praise of men more than the praise that comes from God. This shows how depraved is human heart. There is no secret discipleship. Though Jesus did many miracles Jews did not believe him. It was a fulfillment of what Isaiah prophesied (Isiah:5-12). Believing Jesus is the equivalent to believing God the Father (12:44-45). They loved the praise men more the the glory that comes from God (12:43). Only the grace of God can remove our spiritual blindness to see the glory of Jesus Christ. Pray that sinners would see the glory of Christ and receive Him as their Savior. Knowing Christ personally and intimately is salvation. Do you live for the glory of Christ or for the praise of others? Pray that you would see the glory of God's grace more clearly today.
Chapter 13
Jesus Washes the Disciple's Feet:
(Read John 13:1-2)
As Jesus prepares his disciples for his death and departure, he assured them that he loves them to the end (13:1). No one loves us like Jesus. John gives the account of Lord's private ministry to his disciples from chapter 13 to 17. This is also known as the upper room discourse of Jesus. These disciples are God's treasured gift to Christ. Jesus knew that his appointed time has come to leave the world (12:27). There is no love like the love of the dying Savior (Rom 8:39). Jesus came not to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Jesus practiced what He preached (John 13:1-20). The scene was the last supper. Jesus longed to fellowship with His disciples before his death. At Passover, Jesus was going to die as the Sacrificial Lamb of God. Meanwhile the disciples were arguing among themselves asking "Who would be the greatest in the coming kingdom" (Luke 22:24). And the Satan had already enticed Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus.
Jesus Washes His Disciple's Feet:
(Read John 13:3-17)
Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over all things. As Jesus humbly washes the disciples' feet, it symbolizes the cleansing of the heart that Christ will accomplish through His Word. He already washed them from their sin when they got saved (Eph 1:7; Col 1:14). His blood cleanses us from all sins. It was customary in the oriental homes for servant to wash the feet of guests. The disciples were too proud to perform this menial task. Peter's refusal to be washed demonstrates our natural resistance to God's grace. By this lowly act, Jesus demonstrated that true greatness is realized in serving others. This was a graphic illustration of his humility, love and compassion. Peter was only thinking about physical washing. Jesus said to him "If I don't wash you, you have no share with me" (13:8). Unless we are willing to admit that we are unclean and in need of washing by the blood of Christ, we can't be saved or have fellowship with Him. We are washed by the blood of Christ when we got saved (Titus 3:5). Since our feet get dirty in this sinful world, we need daily washing to have fellowship with God (1 John 1:9). But disciples did not get this message. Jesus said, "Since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other's feet" (13:14). Christ did not institute an ordinance of foot washing here. The baptism and the Lord's Supper are the only two ordinances given to the New Testament Church. Those who trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior should be willing to serve one another. Jesus demonstrated the spiritual cleansing we need daily. Jesus said "If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them (13:17). True joy and blessing come only when we practice a life of humility. Jesus should become our Savior before he becomes our example. Our ability to serve one another in humility comes from Christ. His gracious love should motivate us to serve one another.
Jesus Predicts His Betrayal:
(Read 13:18-30)
Jesus came to do what we could never do for ourselves. In the upper room Jesus begins to feel the agony of his coming suffering. Jesus warned the disciples about his betrayal (13:21). The disciples were very sorrowful. Jesus did not identify betrayer by name but by giving him a piece of bread, dipped in sauce. This was a token of friendship. Even in his betrayal, Jesus loved Judas and given him a chance to repent. But he chose to be a hypocrite and traitor. Satan possessed Judas and he went out to betray Jesus. And it was night. Judas plunged into the darkness of the blackness of sin. This shows the depravity of human heart. Judas was remorseful but not repentant of his sin (Matt 27:3-5). Repentance is a deliberate change of mind that leads life into a new direction. How do we make sense that a close disciple could betray the Lord? Only God's grace can explain why any of us would turn from sin to put our trust in Jesus. Only godly sorrow can lead a sinner into repentance (2 Cor 7:10). With the exit of Judas, Jesus knew that his death is at hand. Jesus also knew that the Father would glorify the Son by his death, resurrection and ascension.
A New Commandment:
(Read John 13:31-35)
Christ commands the disciple to love one another just as He has loved them. It can be understood only in light of the finished work of Jesus on the cross. Christ gave a new definition to the old command (Rom 5:8). God wanted Israel to love their neighbors (Leviticus 19:18). Christ loved the world with His sacrificial love. We are commanded to love our enemies. Jesus said "By this all people would know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another" (13:35) It is not through our orthodoxy we make a difference in this world but by our love for one another. The disciples were different in their personalities and temperaments. Because they have experienced the gracious love of Christ, now they are motivated to love others. Christians are called to love the unlovely and oppressed (Rom 5:5). Our worship, ministry and sacrifice are of no eternal value if they are not motivated by love (1 Cor 13:1-3). Someone has said "To show God's love Jesus died for us, to show our love we live for Him". Does Christ's love compel you to share the gospel with others?
Jesus predicts Peter’s Denial:
(Read John 13:36-38)
Peter wanted to follow Christ always. Jesus said to him "You can't follow me now, but you will follow me afterward". Peter said "I will lay down my life for you". He was ready even to die for Christ. Jesus knew all about Peter and predicted that he will deny Him three times before rooster crows. Perhaps Jesus wanted to teach Peter that he should find his confidence in the Lord rather than in his own strength. Jesus promised Peter that he would restore him to usefulness. The Lord knows how weak we are without him. We can do nothing without Christ (15:5; 21:17). Pray that God would enable us to live and serve him in the power of the Holy spirit.
(Read John 13:1-2)
As Jesus prepares his disciples for his death and departure, he assured them that he loves them to the end (13:1). No one loves us like Jesus. John gives the account of Lord's private ministry to his disciples from chapter 13 to 17. This is also known as the upper room discourse of Jesus. These disciples are God's treasured gift to Christ. Jesus knew that his appointed time has come to leave the world (12:27). There is no love like the love of the dying Savior (Rom 8:39). Jesus came not to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). Jesus practiced what He preached (John 13:1-20). The scene was the last supper. Jesus longed to fellowship with His disciples before his death. At Passover, Jesus was going to die as the Sacrificial Lamb of God. Meanwhile the disciples were arguing among themselves asking "Who would be the greatest in the coming kingdom" (Luke 22:24). And the Satan had already enticed Judas Iscariot to betray Jesus.
Jesus Washes His Disciple's Feet:
(Read John 13:3-17)
Jesus knew that the Father had given him authority over all things. As Jesus humbly washes the disciples' feet, it symbolizes the cleansing of the heart that Christ will accomplish through His Word. He already washed them from their sin when they got saved (Eph 1:7; Col 1:14). His blood cleanses us from all sins. It was customary in the oriental homes for servant to wash the feet of guests. The disciples were too proud to perform this menial task. Peter's refusal to be washed demonstrates our natural resistance to God's grace. By this lowly act, Jesus demonstrated that true greatness is realized in serving others. This was a graphic illustration of his humility, love and compassion. Peter was only thinking about physical washing. Jesus said to him "If I don't wash you, you have no share with me" (13:8). Unless we are willing to admit that we are unclean and in need of washing by the blood of Christ, we can't be saved or have fellowship with Him. We are washed by the blood of Christ when we got saved (Titus 3:5). Since our feet get dirty in this sinful world, we need daily washing to have fellowship with God (1 John 1:9). But disciples did not get this message. Jesus said, "Since I, the Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash each other's feet" (13:14). Christ did not institute an ordinance of foot washing here. The baptism and the Lord's Supper are the only two ordinances given to the New Testament Church. Those who trust Jesus as their Lord and Savior should be willing to serve one another. Jesus demonstrated the spiritual cleansing we need daily. Jesus said "If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them (13:17). True joy and blessing come only when we practice a life of humility. Jesus should become our Savior before he becomes our example. Our ability to serve one another in humility comes from Christ. His gracious love should motivate us to serve one another.
Jesus Predicts His Betrayal:
(Read 13:18-30)
Jesus came to do what we could never do for ourselves. In the upper room Jesus begins to feel the agony of his coming suffering. Jesus warned the disciples about his betrayal (13:21). The disciples were very sorrowful. Jesus did not identify betrayer by name but by giving him a piece of bread, dipped in sauce. This was a token of friendship. Even in his betrayal, Jesus loved Judas and given him a chance to repent. But he chose to be a hypocrite and traitor. Satan possessed Judas and he went out to betray Jesus. And it was night. Judas plunged into the darkness of the blackness of sin. This shows the depravity of human heart. Judas was remorseful but not repentant of his sin (Matt 27:3-5). Repentance is a deliberate change of mind that leads life into a new direction. How do we make sense that a close disciple could betray the Lord? Only God's grace can explain why any of us would turn from sin to put our trust in Jesus. Only godly sorrow can lead a sinner into repentance (2 Cor 7:10). With the exit of Judas, Jesus knew that his death is at hand. Jesus also knew that the Father would glorify the Son by his death, resurrection and ascension.
A New Commandment:
(Read John 13:31-35)
Christ commands the disciple to love one another just as He has loved them. It can be understood only in light of the finished work of Jesus on the cross. Christ gave a new definition to the old command (Rom 5:8). God wanted Israel to love their neighbors (Leviticus 19:18). Christ loved the world with His sacrificial love. We are commanded to love our enemies. Jesus said "By this all people would know that you are my disciples if you have love for one another" (13:35) It is not through our orthodoxy we make a difference in this world but by our love for one another. The disciples were different in their personalities and temperaments. Because they have experienced the gracious love of Christ, now they are motivated to love others. Christians are called to love the unlovely and oppressed (Rom 5:5). Our worship, ministry and sacrifice are of no eternal value if they are not motivated by love (1 Cor 13:1-3). Someone has said "To show God's love Jesus died for us, to show our love we live for Him". Does Christ's love compel you to share the gospel with others?
Jesus predicts Peter’s Denial:
(Read John 13:36-38)
Peter wanted to follow Christ always. Jesus said to him "You can't follow me now, but you will follow me afterward". Peter said "I will lay down my life for you". He was ready even to die for Christ. Jesus knew all about Peter and predicted that he will deny Him three times before rooster crows. Perhaps Jesus wanted to teach Peter that he should find his confidence in the Lord rather than in his own strength. Jesus promised Peter that he would restore him to usefulness. The Lord knows how weak we are without him. We can do nothing without Christ (15:5; 21:17). Pray that God would enable us to live and serve him in the power of the Holy spirit.
Chapter 14
Do not be troubled:
(Read John 14:1-3)
Jesus told His disciples that He was going to leave them soon. The disciples were troubled by the uncertainty of their future. Jesus comforted them by saying “Let not your hearts be troubled, believe in God, believe also in me” (14:1). Worry is a choice. Believers should replace worry with trust in God. Jesus gave them the message of hope and encouragement to trust in God and also in him. Only faith in God's promises settle our troubled hearts because God's Word never changes (Matt 24:35). Jesus gave the reason for His departure. He is going to prepare a place for them in heaven. Their troubles and trials are only temporary. Here the emphasis is not the place but the person of Christ. “You will be with me”. There is no more sorrow and separation when Christ will come to take us home. Jesus will personally come to escort us to the Father's house. Heaven's blessings will far outweigh earth's sorrows (2 Cor 4:17). One day we will be in the presence of the Lord. There will be no more fear, no more death, no more pain and no more sorrow. This is our blessed and comforting hope (Titus 2:13; 1 Thess 4:18). This hope should motivate us to live a holy and faithful life (1 John 3:3). It should make us more enthusiastic in the Lord's work (1 Cor 15:58). Heaven is a prepared place for prepared people. Yes, we can trust God at His word. We will never be separated from our blessed Savior.
Jesus is the only way to the Father:
(Read John 14:4-17)
The disciples did not understand where Jesus is going. Thomas said "Lord, we do not know where you are going, so how can we know the way?" Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6). Christ is the only way to the Father (John 10:9). He is not one of many ways to get to heaven but the only way. In this pluralistic world many people hate these exclusive claim. Jesus alone is the source of truth and life. And who ever has the Son has life. Christ is the embodiment and fulfillment all truth (John 8:32). Those who believe in Christ know the truth and the truth shall set them free (8:32). Truth is the reality of God, revealed in the scriptures and in the person of Christ. Jesus is the source of eternal life. He gives eternal life to all those who receive him as Lord and Savior. Eternal life speaks of the quality of relationship we have with God. Philip requested "Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us". Jesus said "Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? Those who see Jesus, see God the Father. To know Christ means to know the Father" (14:9-10). Christ's words and works show the unique relationship between the Father and the Son. Christ promised the disciples that they would do greater work than he does. When Christ's work was limited to a small geographical area, disciples are able to reach the whole world with the gospel. Jesus is actually working in and through us. If we love Jesus, we will obey his command. Jesus said "If you ask anything in my name I will do it for you". His name speaks of his character. Effective prayer is in agreement with the character of Christ and his will. We should pray in Christ's name because there is only mediator between God and men. God wants us to bring our requests to Him, and wants to answer our prayers. Pray that God would teach you to pray according to his will (14:13-14). Jesus said "If you love me, you will keep my commandments". His works will continue even though He is going to the Father.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit:
(Read John 14:18-31)
Jesus said to His disciples that He will not leave them as orphans. He promised to send the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit is the comforter, helper and the counselor. He comes along side to help us in our needs. Christ would go away but the Holy Spirit will come to abide with believers forever. Holy Spirit is the third person in the trinity. He has the same quality and character of Christ. Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but the third person in the divine trinity. We see the three persons of Godhead in the baptism of Christ, in the believer's baptism, in the creation of the universe and in the benediction of Paul (Matt 3:16-17; 28:19; Gen 1:26; 2 Cor 13:14). Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth who guides us into all truth. His indwelling presence gives believers the ability to love and obey God. The Bible is inspired by the Holy Spirit (2 Tim 3:16). Apart from the work of the Holy Spirit nobody can be saved (John 3:6). All believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:9; Gal 4:6). But the Holy Spirit gets more of us as we live in obedience to Christ. This is called the filling of the Holy Spirit We should be filled with the Holy Spirit so that the Scripture becomes alive in us (Ephesians 5:18, 19). The obedience is the proof of our love for the Lord. Our obedience demonstrates our gratitude for Christ who has given His life for us. Christ promised his disciples that "When the Holy Spirit comes, he will teach them all things and bring to their remembrance all that he has said to them (14:26). That was fulfilled in the writing of the New Testament. When the Holy Spirit takes up residence in us, we become the temple of God (Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Cor 6:19). Jesus promised his peace to his disciples (14:27). This peace is different from the peace the world offers. Only this peace could clam our troubled hearts. When we live in obedience to Christ, we will enjoy this peace. Jesus is the perfect Son of God, and Satan had no claim on Him. Are you troubled in your hearts? Are you fearful of the future? Jesus is able to deliver you from all your fears. Satan is powerful but he is no match for Jesus. Jesus is the prince of peace. Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
(Read John 14:1-3)
Jesus told His disciples that He was going to leave them soon. The disciples were troubled by the uncertainty of their future. Jesus comforted them by saying “Let not your hearts be troubled, believe in God, believe also in me” (14:1). Worry is a choice. Believers should replace worry with trust in God. Jesus gave them the message of hope and encouragement to trust in God and also in him. Only faith in God's promises settle our troubled hearts because God's Word never changes (Matt 24:35). Jesus gave the reason for His departure. He is going to prepare a place for them in heaven. Their troubles and trials are only temporary. Here the emphasis is not the place but the person of Christ. “You will be with me”. There is no more sorrow and separation when Christ will come to take us home. Jesus will personally come to escort us to the Father's house. Heaven's blessings will far outweigh earth's sorrows (2 Cor 4:17). One day we will be in the presence of the Lord. There will be no more fear, no more death, no more pain and no more sorrow. This is our blessed and comforting hope (Titus 2:13; 1 Thess 4:18). This hope should motivate us to live a holy and faithful life (1 John 3:3). It should make us more enthusiastic in the Lord's work (1 Cor 15:58). Heaven is a prepared place for prepared people. Yes, we can trust God at His word. We will never be separated from our blessed Savior.
Jesus is the only way to the Father:
(Read John 14:4-17)
The disciples did not understand where Jesus is going. Thomas said "Lord, we do not know where you are going, so how can we know the way?" Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me (John 14:6). Christ is the only way to the Father (John 10:9). He is not one of many ways to get to heaven but the only way. In this pluralistic world many people hate these exclusive claim. Jesus alone is the source of truth and life. And who ever has the Son has life. Christ is the embodiment and fulfillment all truth (John 8:32). Those who believe in Christ know the truth and the truth shall set them free (8:32). Truth is the reality of God, revealed in the scriptures and in the person of Christ. Jesus is the source of eternal life. He gives eternal life to all those who receive him as Lord and Savior. Eternal life speaks of the quality of relationship we have with God. Philip requested "Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us". Jesus said "Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? Those who see Jesus, see God the Father. To know Christ means to know the Father" (14:9-10). Christ's words and works show the unique relationship between the Father and the Son. Christ promised the disciples that they would do greater work than he does. When Christ's work was limited to a small geographical area, disciples are able to reach the whole world with the gospel. Jesus is actually working in and through us. If we love Jesus, we will obey his command. Jesus said "If you ask anything in my name I will do it for you". His name speaks of his character. Effective prayer is in agreement with the character of Christ and his will. We should pray in Christ's name because there is only mediator between God and men. God wants us to bring our requests to Him, and wants to answer our prayers. Pray that God would teach you to pray according to his will (14:13-14). Jesus said "If you love me, you will keep my commandments". His works will continue even though He is going to the Father.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit:
(Read John 14:18-31)
Jesus said to His disciples that He will not leave them as orphans. He promised to send the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit is the comforter, helper and the counselor. He comes along side to help us in our needs. Christ would go away but the Holy Spirit will come to abide with believers forever. Holy Spirit is the third person in the trinity. He has the same quality and character of Christ. Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but the third person in the divine trinity. We see the three persons of Godhead in the baptism of Christ, in the believer's baptism, in the creation of the universe and in the benediction of Paul (Matt 3:16-17; 28:19; Gen 1:26; 2 Cor 13:14). Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth who guides us into all truth. His indwelling presence gives believers the ability to love and obey God. The Bible is inspired by the Holy Spirit (2 Tim 3:16). Apart from the work of the Holy Spirit nobody can be saved (John 3:6). All believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit (Rom 8:9; Gal 4:6). But the Holy Spirit gets more of us as we live in obedience to Christ. This is called the filling of the Holy Spirit We should be filled with the Holy Spirit so that the Scripture becomes alive in us (Ephesians 5:18, 19). The obedience is the proof of our love for the Lord. Our obedience demonstrates our gratitude for Christ who has given His life for us. Christ promised his disciples that "When the Holy Spirit comes, he will teach them all things and bring to their remembrance all that he has said to them (14:26). That was fulfilled in the writing of the New Testament. When the Holy Spirit takes up residence in us, we become the temple of God (Ephesians 2:19-22; 1 Cor 6:19). Jesus promised his peace to his disciples (14:27). This peace is different from the peace the world offers. Only this peace could clam our troubled hearts. When we live in obedience to Christ, we will enjoy this peace. Jesus is the perfect Son of God, and Satan had no claim on Him. Are you troubled in your hearts? Are you fearful of the future? Jesus is able to deliver you from all your fears. Satan is powerful but he is no match for Jesus. Jesus is the prince of peace. Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Savior?
Chapter 15
Jesus is the True Vine:
(Read John 15:1-10)
John's Gospel chapter 15 is all about Christian relationship. Here we see our relationship with Jesus and with one another (15:12-17). The image of a vine and branches highlights how our salvation works from beginning to end. Jesus is the true vine and believers are the branches. The Holy Spirit unties us to Jesus as branches. In the Old Testament vine is the symbol of Israel. We did not choose Jesus, but he chose us and appointed us that we should bear fruit (15:16). Our calling is to simply abide in Jesus. Jesus is the life giver. He is the living water. He is the bread of life and the source of eternal life. Christians cannot bear fruit unless they have an abiding relationship with the Jesus Christ (15:5). To abide means to live by faith in Christ by immersing in His Word. We become the branches of true Vine when we believe in Jesus Christ. By the Holy Spirit we have been united to Jesus as branches. We are in Jesus. This relationship between Jesus and the believers is invisible but real. When we abide in Christ we become fruitful. Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing. When we bear fruit, God is glorified. Fruit bearing is the proof that we are his disciples (15:8). We should stay close to the Master to be fruitful. God the Father is the Gardner. He prunes the branches to bear more fruit. Pruning is a painful process but it is necessary to produce more fruit (Heb 12:6-11). It is done through the Word of God (17:17). But every branch that does not bear fruit is removed from the vine and thrown into the fire (15:6). This does not mean that believers can lose their salvation. This verse should be understood contextually with the exit of Judas Iscariot. The fruitless branches are counterfeit Christians who are not saved. True Christians will persevere in the faith.
God who began the good work within us will continue His work until it is finally finished on Christ's returns.
The secret of fruit bearing is abiding:
(Read John 15:11-17)
We must depend on Christ to bear fruit. Apart from Jesus we can do nothing. We do not bear fruit in order to be accepted by God. We obey Christ because we love Him. Someone has said "The secret of fruit bearing is abiding, the secret of abiding is obeying, the secret of obeying is loving, and the secret of loving is knowing Christ". When we abide in Christ our prayers will be answered. Jesus said "You are my friends if you obey me" (15:14). We can not earn His love or forgiveness by good work. They are given freely by grace. His friendship towards us is constant and real. He does not stop loving when we fail. Christ commands us to love one another as he loved us. Love is more than an emotional feeling but a sacrificial act of giving. The secret of Christian joy is obedience (John 15:11). When we abide in Christ, we are assured of his love. His love motivates us to serve one another. Christ's commands us to love one another. Because of Christ's amazing grace His commands are not burdensome. Jesus called His disciples friends. Grace transforms our status from servant-hood to friendship. Jesus came to reveal all that he heard from the Father (15:15). Knowing Christ intimately gives assurance of salvation and confidence in life. Disciples are chosen and appointed to bring forth fruit. Fruit produced through union with Christ will remain for eternity. Only grace can free us to obey Jesus out of love. They no longer worship and serve God out of fear but of love for what He has done for them. Are you a fruit bearing Christian?
The world would hate us:
(Read John 15:18-27)
The more we abide in Jesus, the richer our fellowship with the Father. Grace came to us so that it might flow through us. Christians should not be surprised at the growing opposition in this world. The world that rejected Christ will reject His followers also. We are entrusted with the gospel so that it should flow through us. Our personal relationship with God strengthens us to share the gospel with the hostile world. The world system is under the control of Satan. The world loves its own. Christians are chosen out of the world to represent Christ. Why does the gospel draws opposition from the world? Because, it points out sin. We are not of this world, but just passing through. We should not be surprised at growing opposition or persecution. Even though Christ has performed many miracles, many Jews rejected Him. They are without excuse. Christ promised the disciples that they are not alone in this world. He will send the Holy Spirit to comfort them. The Holy Spirit will give them the power to witness Christ. The best way to show our love for Christ is to obey his commands. Then we will experience the overflowing joy. The obedient Christian is the happy Christian. Those who don't follow Jesus will not rejoice at the work of Jesus. Pray that Christ would give you strength and courage to face opposition as you become his witness in this world.
(Read John 15:1-10)
John's Gospel chapter 15 is all about Christian relationship. Here we see our relationship with Jesus and with one another (15:12-17). The image of a vine and branches highlights how our salvation works from beginning to end. Jesus is the true vine and believers are the branches. The Holy Spirit unties us to Jesus as branches. In the Old Testament vine is the symbol of Israel. We did not choose Jesus, but he chose us and appointed us that we should bear fruit (15:16). Our calling is to simply abide in Jesus. Jesus is the life giver. He is the living water. He is the bread of life and the source of eternal life. Christians cannot bear fruit unless they have an abiding relationship with the Jesus Christ (15:5). To abide means to live by faith in Christ by immersing in His Word. We become the branches of true Vine when we believe in Jesus Christ. By the Holy Spirit we have been united to Jesus as branches. We are in Jesus. This relationship between Jesus and the believers is invisible but real. When we abide in Christ we become fruitful. Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing. When we bear fruit, God is glorified. Fruit bearing is the proof that we are his disciples (15:8). We should stay close to the Master to be fruitful. God the Father is the Gardner. He prunes the branches to bear more fruit. Pruning is a painful process but it is necessary to produce more fruit (Heb 12:6-11). It is done through the Word of God (17:17). But every branch that does not bear fruit is removed from the vine and thrown into the fire (15:6). This does not mean that believers can lose their salvation. This verse should be understood contextually with the exit of Judas Iscariot. The fruitless branches are counterfeit Christians who are not saved. True Christians will persevere in the faith.
God who began the good work within us will continue His work until it is finally finished on Christ's returns.
The secret of fruit bearing is abiding:
(Read John 15:11-17)
We must depend on Christ to bear fruit. Apart from Jesus we can do nothing. We do not bear fruit in order to be accepted by God. We obey Christ because we love Him. Someone has said "The secret of fruit bearing is abiding, the secret of abiding is obeying, the secret of obeying is loving, and the secret of loving is knowing Christ". When we abide in Christ our prayers will be answered. Jesus said "You are my friends if you obey me" (15:14). We can not earn His love or forgiveness by good work. They are given freely by grace. His friendship towards us is constant and real. He does not stop loving when we fail. Christ commands us to love one another as he loved us. Love is more than an emotional feeling but a sacrificial act of giving. The secret of Christian joy is obedience (John 15:11). When we abide in Christ, we are assured of his love. His love motivates us to serve one another. Christ's commands us to love one another. Because of Christ's amazing grace His commands are not burdensome. Jesus called His disciples friends. Grace transforms our status from servant-hood to friendship. Jesus came to reveal all that he heard from the Father (15:15). Knowing Christ intimately gives assurance of salvation and confidence in life. Disciples are chosen and appointed to bring forth fruit. Fruit produced through union with Christ will remain for eternity. Only grace can free us to obey Jesus out of love. They no longer worship and serve God out of fear but of love for what He has done for them. Are you a fruit bearing Christian?
The world would hate us:
(Read John 15:18-27)
The more we abide in Jesus, the richer our fellowship with the Father. Grace came to us so that it might flow through us. Christians should not be surprised at the growing opposition in this world. The world that rejected Christ will reject His followers also. We are entrusted with the gospel so that it should flow through us. Our personal relationship with God strengthens us to share the gospel with the hostile world. The world system is under the control of Satan. The world loves its own. Christians are chosen out of the world to represent Christ. Why does the gospel draws opposition from the world? Because, it points out sin. We are not of this world, but just passing through. We should not be surprised at growing opposition or persecution. Even though Christ has performed many miracles, many Jews rejected Him. They are without excuse. Christ promised the disciples that they are not alone in this world. He will send the Holy Spirit to comfort them. The Holy Spirit will give them the power to witness Christ. The best way to show our love for Christ is to obey his commands. Then we will experience the overflowing joy. The obedient Christian is the happy Christian. Those who don't follow Jesus will not rejoice at the work of Jesus. Pray that Christ would give you strength and courage to face opposition as you become his witness in this world.
Chapter 16
In this world you will have Tribulation:
(Read John 16:1-4)
As Jesus' departure drew near, He warned the disciples about the persecution they would face in this future. Also He encouraged them with the promise of the future ministry of the Holy Spirit. Christ never promised a trouble free Christian life. He said, "In this world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world" (16:33). The world will hate, isolate, reject and even kill us, thinking that they are serving God. They do this because they do not know the Father. Christ wanted that the disciples should be prepared for the coming tribulation. Christian life is not a trouble free, healthy, wealthy and happy life. But they will experience the blessing of God's presence in their trouble through the indwelling Spirit (Gal 3:2; Rom 8:9). He will fill them with divine comfort in the midst of their trials. So they should not be shaken or confused when the world hates them. Christians should not be assimilated to the values of this world. Pray that God would give you the grace to appreciate the ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life.
The Work of the Holy Spirit:
(Read John 16: 5-15)
The disciples were sad that Christ was going away. Jesus told them that it was necessary for him to go, so that the Holy Spirit would come. Jesus encouraged the disciples with the promise of the future ministry of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will take permanent resident in them (Rom 8:9). He helps us to live the Christian life. We cannot live Christian life in our own strength. The Holy Spirit baptizes believers in to the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13). He indwells the believers when they get saved (Rom 8:9). Also the Holy Spirit seals the believer (Eph 1:13). The believers are commanded to be filled by the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18). The Holy Spirit inspired the apostles by reminding them of His teachings to write the New Testament. He also gives us the confidence that the Bible is trustworthy. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, of righteousness and of judgment. He would convict the world concerning sin by warning about the danger of not believing in Christ. The world's ultimate sin is that it refuses to believe Christ (6:9). Conviction of sin leads to salvation. Secondly the Holy Spirit convicts the world of righteousness. Christ is the righteous one. God declared Christ's righteous when He raised Christ from the dead (Rom 1:4). Only the Holy Spirit can convicts us of this true. The Holy Spirit constantly draws attention to Jesus and transforms us to see the glories of Christ. Thirdly the Holy Spirit will convict the world of the final judgment. Satan the ruler of this world. Judgment will come because Satan is already been judged. The Holy Spirit will convict those who reject Christ in the final judgment (Rev 20:11-15). Are you willing to be filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit? The Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are Children of God (Rom 8:16). The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the Bible and reveals more of the glories of Christ. Pray that the values of the world should not distract us from our commitment to Christ.
The Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth:
(Read John 16:16-24)
Jesus knew that the disciples will be sorrowful because he is no longer with them. He said that after a while they will see him and be joyful. Jesus compared this to a mother when she gives birth to a child. They will be sorrowful at Christ's death, but joyful at His resurrection. It gave them living hope to endure oppositions (1 Pet 1:3). The Holy Spirit will guide believers into all truth. This promise has its immediate fulfillment in the writing of the New Testament. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the Scripture. The disciples were confused and sorrowful when Jesus said He would go away and after a while you will see me again. He was referring to his death and the coming of the Holy Spirit. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit gives us the living hope of our eternal inheritance (1 Pet 1:4). Our sorrow will turn to lasting joy (1 Pet 1:8). Since Christ has returned to the Father to intercede for us, we pray in his name. Now we pray to God on the merits of the finished work of Christ and his supreme position in heaven. Jesus is our great and only mediator (1 Tim 2:5). The Father will answer our prayers because we pray in the name of Christ. Our joy and comfort will be completed when Christ returns.
Jesus Overcame the World:
(Read John 16:25-33)
Christians should anticipate difficulty while they wait for the return of Christ. His victory guarantees our victory over Satan. Our faith in the finished work of Christ, helps to overcome the world (1 John 5:4-5). Only Jesus can give peace because He has overcome the world (16:33). We will someday experience the fullness of victory but in the meantime Christ gives us peace in the midst of suffering. We are united with Christ to overcome the world together with Him (1 John 5:4-5). Jesus told the disciples that they will be scattered at his arrest and he would be alone. Yet Christ is not alone because the Father is with him. Difficult circumstances do not have to destroy our inner peace when Christ is with us. If you are fearful, present your worries to Christ because He promised to guard our hearts and minds with his peace (Phil 4:6-7). Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior?
(Read John 16:1-4)
As Jesus' departure drew near, He warned the disciples about the persecution they would face in this future. Also He encouraged them with the promise of the future ministry of the Holy Spirit. Christ never promised a trouble free Christian life. He said, "In this world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world" (16:33). The world will hate, isolate, reject and even kill us, thinking that they are serving God. They do this because they do not know the Father. Christ wanted that the disciples should be prepared for the coming tribulation. Christian life is not a trouble free, healthy, wealthy and happy life. But they will experience the blessing of God's presence in their trouble through the indwelling Spirit (Gal 3:2; Rom 8:9). He will fill them with divine comfort in the midst of their trials. So they should not be shaken or confused when the world hates them. Christians should not be assimilated to the values of this world. Pray that God would give you the grace to appreciate the ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life.
The Work of the Holy Spirit:
(Read John 16: 5-15)
The disciples were sad that Christ was going away. Jesus told them that it was necessary for him to go, so that the Holy Spirit would come. Jesus encouraged the disciples with the promise of the future ministry of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will take permanent resident in them (Rom 8:9). He helps us to live the Christian life. We cannot live Christian life in our own strength. The Holy Spirit baptizes believers in to the body of Christ (1 Cor 12:13). He indwells the believers when they get saved (Rom 8:9). Also the Holy Spirit seals the believer (Eph 1:13). The believers are commanded to be filled by the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18). The Holy Spirit inspired the apostles by reminding them of His teachings to write the New Testament. He also gives us the confidence that the Bible is trustworthy. The Holy Spirit convicts the world of sin, of righteousness and of judgment. He would convict the world concerning sin by warning about the danger of not believing in Christ. The world's ultimate sin is that it refuses to believe Christ (6:9). Conviction of sin leads to salvation. Secondly the Holy Spirit convicts the world of righteousness. Christ is the righteous one. God declared Christ's righteous when He raised Christ from the dead (Rom 1:4). Only the Holy Spirit can convicts us of this true. The Holy Spirit constantly draws attention to Jesus and transforms us to see the glories of Christ. Thirdly the Holy Spirit will convict the world of the final judgment. Satan the ruler of this world. Judgment will come because Satan is already been judged. The Holy Spirit will convict those who reject Christ in the final judgment (Rev 20:11-15). Are you willing to be filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit? The Holy Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are Children of God (Rom 8:16). The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the Bible and reveals more of the glories of Christ. Pray that the values of the world should not distract us from our commitment to Christ.
The Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth:
(Read John 16:16-24)
Jesus knew that the disciples will be sorrowful because he is no longer with them. He said that after a while they will see him and be joyful. Jesus compared this to a mother when she gives birth to a child. They will be sorrowful at Christ's death, but joyful at His resurrection. It gave them living hope to endure oppositions (1 Pet 1:3). The Holy Spirit will guide believers into all truth. This promise has its immediate fulfillment in the writing of the New Testament. The Holy Spirit helps us to understand the Scripture. The disciples were confused and sorrowful when Jesus said He would go away and after a while you will see me again. He was referring to his death and the coming of the Holy Spirit. The indwelling of the Holy Spirit gives us the living hope of our eternal inheritance (1 Pet 1:4). Our sorrow will turn to lasting joy (1 Pet 1:8). Since Christ has returned to the Father to intercede for us, we pray in his name. Now we pray to God on the merits of the finished work of Christ and his supreme position in heaven. Jesus is our great and only mediator (1 Tim 2:5). The Father will answer our prayers because we pray in the name of Christ. Our joy and comfort will be completed when Christ returns.
Jesus Overcame the World:
(Read John 16:25-33)
Christians should anticipate difficulty while they wait for the return of Christ. His victory guarantees our victory over Satan. Our faith in the finished work of Christ, helps to overcome the world (1 John 5:4-5). Only Jesus can give peace because He has overcome the world (16:33). We will someday experience the fullness of victory but in the meantime Christ gives us peace in the midst of suffering. We are united with Christ to overcome the world together with Him (1 John 5:4-5). Jesus told the disciples that they will be scattered at his arrest and he would be alone. Yet Christ is not alone because the Father is with him. Difficult circumstances do not have to destroy our inner peace when Christ is with us. If you are fearful, present your worries to Christ because He promised to guard our hearts and minds with his peace (Phil 4:6-7). Do you know Christ as your Lord and Savior?
Chapter 17
Jesus Prays of Himself:
(Read John 17:1-5)
John's Gospel chapter 17 is called Christ's high priestly prayer. Christ's appointed “hour” has finally arrived to glorify the Father. The hour that Christ referring was the hour of his death, his resurrection and exaltation. Here Jesus was praying for his disciples before he was betrayed. He began and ended the last supper with unity of disciples on His mind. Jesus was praying for himself, for the immediate disciples and also for the entire church (1-5; 6-19; 20-26). His mission on earth was to glorify the Father by his death on the cross. Jesus asks his Father to restore him to his original state of glory in heaven (17:1, 5). Jesus glorified the Father by accomplishing the work of salvation he was sent to do. Christ has brought eternal life to all those who believe in him. The eternal life is knowing the Father and His Son personally (17:3). Eternal life is, knowing and experiencing the divine life God gives (2 Pet 1:3; Gal 5:22-23). Though Christians have already begun to see the reality of salvation, they will experience the fullness of its glory when Christ returns (17:24; 2 Cor 4:6). Have you received eternal life by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ?
Jesus Prayed for the Disciples:
(Read John 17:6-19)
Jesus considered the disciples as treasured gift from the Father. He revealed the Father to them and they obeyed his word (17:6). He cherishes us as a bridegroom cherishes his bride (Ephesians 5:22-23). Jesus prayed not for the world but for his disciples. They believed that Christ came from God and the Father has sent him. He prays that they may be protected from the wicked one (17:15). Jesus prays that disciples would be filled with His joy (17:13). He also prays for their godliness through the study of the Word. During His earthly ministry Christ protected the disciples. Judas was lost by his own choice. Now Christ was about to leave the world (17:11). Christian unity is not uniformity. Our unity is based on what Christ has done for us. Christ wants us to have the essential or organic unity that comes as a result of shared life. We are exhorted to give diligence to this existing unity produced by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:3). Christ did not pray that disciples should be taken out of the world, but be kept from the evil one. The disciples do not belong to the world, they belong to Christ.(17:9-10). Jesus prays that the Father would sanctify them by truth (17:17). Christ is the embodiment of truth (John14:6). Only God's Word creates in us the desire to consecrate us for his use. As the Father has sent the Son, we are sent to witness Christ on earth. The consecration occurs only when see the grace and glory of Christ revealed in the gospel. Christians are the royal priesthood called to proclaim the praise of Him in this dark work (1 Pet 2:9).
Jesus Prays for the Entire Church:
(Read John 17:20-26)
Jesus now prays for the entire church on the night of his betrayal. Jesus' prayer also includes the future believers (17:20). They are the fruit of his labor (17:6). Jesus prays for the unity of all believers (17:21-22). The Holy Spirit is a crucial part of Christian unity (Eph 4:1-3). The Father had manifested His glory through the Son, now the Son manifests himself through his followers (17:22; Mat 5:16). When Christians live in unity and love, the world will see Christ through them (13:35). Those who are saved are part of God’s family. The Christian harmony is the result of our identity with Christ. All human differences are secondary. This unity we see in God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit in our salvation. The gift of eternal life is wonderful beyond words! Through the Holy Spirit we love Jesus with the same love that the Father has for the Son (17:26 ; Rom 5:5). Jesus is confident that because the Father is faithful, He would answer his request for his followers. What a wonderful Savior! Have you received eternal life by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ?
(Read John 17:1-5)
John's Gospel chapter 17 is called Christ's high priestly prayer. Christ's appointed “hour” has finally arrived to glorify the Father. The hour that Christ referring was the hour of his death, his resurrection and exaltation. Here Jesus was praying for his disciples before he was betrayed. He began and ended the last supper with unity of disciples on His mind. Jesus was praying for himself, for the immediate disciples and also for the entire church (1-5; 6-19; 20-26). His mission on earth was to glorify the Father by his death on the cross. Jesus asks his Father to restore him to his original state of glory in heaven (17:1, 5). Jesus glorified the Father by accomplishing the work of salvation he was sent to do. Christ has brought eternal life to all those who believe in him. The eternal life is knowing the Father and His Son personally (17:3). Eternal life is, knowing and experiencing the divine life God gives (2 Pet 1:3; Gal 5:22-23). Though Christians have already begun to see the reality of salvation, they will experience the fullness of its glory when Christ returns (17:24; 2 Cor 4:6). Have you received eternal life by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ?
Jesus Prayed for the Disciples:
(Read John 17:6-19)
Jesus considered the disciples as treasured gift from the Father. He revealed the Father to them and they obeyed his word (17:6). He cherishes us as a bridegroom cherishes his bride (Ephesians 5:22-23). Jesus prayed not for the world but for his disciples. They believed that Christ came from God and the Father has sent him. He prays that they may be protected from the wicked one (17:15). Jesus prays that disciples would be filled with His joy (17:13). He also prays for their godliness through the study of the Word. During His earthly ministry Christ protected the disciples. Judas was lost by his own choice. Now Christ was about to leave the world (17:11). Christian unity is not uniformity. Our unity is based on what Christ has done for us. Christ wants us to have the essential or organic unity that comes as a result of shared life. We are exhorted to give diligence to this existing unity produced by the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:3). Christ did not pray that disciples should be taken out of the world, but be kept from the evil one. The disciples do not belong to the world, they belong to Christ.(17:9-10). Jesus prays that the Father would sanctify them by truth (17:17). Christ is the embodiment of truth (John14:6). Only God's Word creates in us the desire to consecrate us for his use. As the Father has sent the Son, we are sent to witness Christ on earth. The consecration occurs only when see the grace and glory of Christ revealed in the gospel. Christians are the royal priesthood called to proclaim the praise of Him in this dark work (1 Pet 2:9).
Jesus Prays for the Entire Church:
(Read John 17:20-26)
Jesus now prays for the entire church on the night of his betrayal. Jesus' prayer also includes the future believers (17:20). They are the fruit of his labor (17:6). Jesus prays for the unity of all believers (17:21-22). The Holy Spirit is a crucial part of Christian unity (Eph 4:1-3). The Father had manifested His glory through the Son, now the Son manifests himself through his followers (17:22; Mat 5:16). When Christians live in unity and love, the world will see Christ through them (13:35). Those who are saved are part of God’s family. The Christian harmony is the result of our identity with Christ. All human differences are secondary. This unity we see in God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit in our salvation. The gift of eternal life is wonderful beyond words! Through the Holy Spirit we love Jesus with the same love that the Father has for the Son (17:26 ; Rom 5:5). Jesus is confident that because the Father is faithful, He would answer his request for his followers. What a wonderful Savior! Have you received eternal life by trusting in the Lord Jesus Christ?
Chapter 18
The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus:
(Read John 18:1-11)
After the prayer, Jesus crossed the Kidron valley with his disciples and entered the garden of Gethsemane. Judas came there with large number of soldiers to arrest Jesus. What an irony that they came there with torches to arrest the one who is the light of the world? They came with weapons to get the prince of peace. Judas approached Christ with a kiss. It did not surprise Jesus because he was completely aware of Judas's plan. Jesus came forward and said “Whom do you seek"? They said "Jesus of Nazareth". Jesus said, "I am He" and thus stated His deity (John 8:58). At this statement they all drew back and fell to the ground. Again Jesus asked, “Who you are looking for?” They replied “Jesus of Nazareth”. Before they could arrest Jesus, he requested that His disciples be left alone. Even in this crucial hour of betrayal, his concern was not for himself, but for his disciples. Jesus knew that disciples were not ready to face the test of their faith. Peter tried to protect Jesus by cutting off the ear of Malchus. Jesus loved his enemies and mercifully healed him (Luke 22:51). Jesus rebuked Peter for his impulsiveness and said, “Shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” Oh, how low Jesus stooped to show mercy to those who do not deserve it. The good shepherd was willing to lay down his life for the sheep. No one takes Jesus’ life from him; he freely laid it down for us (John 10:17-18).
Peter Denies Jesus:
(Read John 18:12-18)
The temple guards took Jesus to Annas for the preliminary trial. Annas was the father-in-law of Caiaphas the high priest. He had great influence over the Sanhedrin. Caiaphas had already drawn the conclusion about Jesus that it is expedient that one man should die for the people. Peter denied Jesus as predicted and Jesus still loved him to the end (John 13:36-38). Peter was ready to lay down his life for Christ yet he failed. This reminds us of the depth of human frailty. What led Peter to deny Christ? He was standing with those who arrested Jesus (18:18). He followed Jesus at a distance (Matt 26:58). Peter was also sitting among the enemies of Jesus (Luke 22:55). He denied Jesus before a servant girl. Fear, anger and insecurity contributed to Peter’s failure. We are not immune from these failures either. We deny Christ when we are ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Peter's failures and sin did not separate him from Christ’s love. Jesus loved him to the end (13:1). Peter’s threefold denial was answered by Jesus’ threefold restoration (John 21:15-19). Peter remembered the words of Jesus and wept bitterly. He was restored back to fellowship. Jesus is able to restore us from our sins and failures. Our sins and failures do not separate us from the love of Christ. The self-sacrificing generosity of Jesus was shown through out the his arrest and trials. We do not deserve this love, yet Jesus loves us.
Jesus’ Trials:
(Read John 18:19- 40)
Jesus was willing to endure the illegal trials. First, Annas who was not a high priest to conduct the trial. Secondly, His trial took place at night. Thirdly, Jesus was bound and beaten before he was charged. Fourthly, false witnesses were hired to testify against Christ. Jesus went through three stages of Jewish trials and three stages of Roman trials. He was falsely accused of subversion. They said Jesus opposed paying taxes to Caesar and claimed that He is the king. Sanhedrin found Jesus guilty but could not legally pass the death sentence on Him. Jews used the method of stoning to execute the criminals. They took Jesus to Roman Governor Pilot. Pilot asked them the formal accusation for bringing Jesus before him. Jews had none. Jews wanted Pilot to pass death sentence on Jesus. So Jesus could suffer crucifixion as predicted (Matt 20:17-19). Pilot asked Jesus “Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus replied that his kingdom is not political but spiritual (Rom 14:17). The kingdom of God being established as the Holy Spirit transforms hearts through the preaching of the gospel. He was born to be King. He is the eternal King, the King of kings. Pilot failed to understand who Jesus is. Many people see Jesus as a good man, a humanitarian, and a promoter of love and the teacher of golden rule. But they miss the opportunity to acknowledge Him as their Savior and Lord. He came to bear witness to the truth. Pilot asked Jesus "What is truth?” Pilot failed to understand that the truth is the reality of God. Christ is the embodiment of all truth (John 14:6). Pilot found no guilt in Jesus (18:38). But he was fearful of the angry Jewish leaders. Pilot tried the customary method at Passover to release one prisoner to spare Jesus. But the crowd chose Barabbas, a robber rather than their King (18:40). Pilot tried to place the responsibility of Christ's death on Jews. But it must be remembered that each person is responsible for rejecting Jesus as their Savior. Jesus came to save sinners by dying on the cross. Have you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Pray that God would strengthen you to bring sinners under the reign of Christ through the sharing of the gospel. Christ has come to make all things new (2 Cor 5:17).
(Read John 18:1-11)
After the prayer, Jesus crossed the Kidron valley with his disciples and entered the garden of Gethsemane. Judas came there with large number of soldiers to arrest Jesus. What an irony that they came there with torches to arrest the one who is the light of the world? They came with weapons to get the prince of peace. Judas approached Christ with a kiss. It did not surprise Jesus because he was completely aware of Judas's plan. Jesus came forward and said “Whom do you seek"? They said "Jesus of Nazareth". Jesus said, "I am He" and thus stated His deity (John 8:58). At this statement they all drew back and fell to the ground. Again Jesus asked, “Who you are looking for?” They replied “Jesus of Nazareth”. Before they could arrest Jesus, he requested that His disciples be left alone. Even in this crucial hour of betrayal, his concern was not for himself, but for his disciples. Jesus knew that disciples were not ready to face the test of their faith. Peter tried to protect Jesus by cutting off the ear of Malchus. Jesus loved his enemies and mercifully healed him (Luke 22:51). Jesus rebuked Peter for his impulsiveness and said, “Shall I not drink the cup that the Father has given me?” Oh, how low Jesus stooped to show mercy to those who do not deserve it. The good shepherd was willing to lay down his life for the sheep. No one takes Jesus’ life from him; he freely laid it down for us (John 10:17-18).
Peter Denies Jesus:
(Read John 18:12-18)
The temple guards took Jesus to Annas for the preliminary trial. Annas was the father-in-law of Caiaphas the high priest. He had great influence over the Sanhedrin. Caiaphas had already drawn the conclusion about Jesus that it is expedient that one man should die for the people. Peter denied Jesus as predicted and Jesus still loved him to the end (John 13:36-38). Peter was ready to lay down his life for Christ yet he failed. This reminds us of the depth of human frailty. What led Peter to deny Christ? He was standing with those who arrested Jesus (18:18). He followed Jesus at a distance (Matt 26:58). Peter was also sitting among the enemies of Jesus (Luke 22:55). He denied Jesus before a servant girl. Fear, anger and insecurity contributed to Peter’s failure. We are not immune from these failures either. We deny Christ when we are ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Peter's failures and sin did not separate him from Christ’s love. Jesus loved him to the end (13:1). Peter’s threefold denial was answered by Jesus’ threefold restoration (John 21:15-19). Peter remembered the words of Jesus and wept bitterly. He was restored back to fellowship. Jesus is able to restore us from our sins and failures. Our sins and failures do not separate us from the love of Christ. The self-sacrificing generosity of Jesus was shown through out the his arrest and trials. We do not deserve this love, yet Jesus loves us.
Jesus’ Trials:
(Read John 18:19- 40)
Jesus was willing to endure the illegal trials. First, Annas who was not a high priest to conduct the trial. Secondly, His trial took place at night. Thirdly, Jesus was bound and beaten before he was charged. Fourthly, false witnesses were hired to testify against Christ. Jesus went through three stages of Jewish trials and three stages of Roman trials. He was falsely accused of subversion. They said Jesus opposed paying taxes to Caesar and claimed that He is the king. Sanhedrin found Jesus guilty but could not legally pass the death sentence on Him. Jews used the method of stoning to execute the criminals. They took Jesus to Roman Governor Pilot. Pilot asked them the formal accusation for bringing Jesus before him. Jews had none. Jews wanted Pilot to pass death sentence on Jesus. So Jesus could suffer crucifixion as predicted (Matt 20:17-19). Pilot asked Jesus “Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus replied that his kingdom is not political but spiritual (Rom 14:17). The kingdom of God being established as the Holy Spirit transforms hearts through the preaching of the gospel. He was born to be King. He is the eternal King, the King of kings. Pilot failed to understand who Jesus is. Many people see Jesus as a good man, a humanitarian, and a promoter of love and the teacher of golden rule. But they miss the opportunity to acknowledge Him as their Savior and Lord. He came to bear witness to the truth. Pilot asked Jesus "What is truth?” Pilot failed to understand that the truth is the reality of God. Christ is the embodiment of all truth (John 14:6). Pilot found no guilt in Jesus (18:38). But he was fearful of the angry Jewish leaders. Pilot tried the customary method at Passover to release one prisoner to spare Jesus. But the crowd chose Barabbas, a robber rather than their King (18:40). Pilot tried to place the responsibility of Christ's death on Jews. But it must be remembered that each person is responsible for rejecting Jesus as their Savior. Jesus came to save sinners by dying on the cross. Have you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? Pray that God would strengthen you to bring sinners under the reign of Christ through the sharing of the gospel. Christ has come to make all things new (2 Cor 5:17).
Chapter 19
Behold the man:
(Read John 19:1-16)
In this chapter we see the account of Jesus’ trial before Pilot and His crucifixion. From the human standpoint this trial was the greatest crime and the mockery of Roman law. But from divine standpoint it was the fulfillment of the scriptures (Acts 2:23). Pilot orders Jesus to be flogged, beaten and insulted. The soldiers tortured and forced the crown of thorns on His head. Pilot presented Jesus before Jews saying that 'Behold the man". He hoped that the cruel punishment Jesus received would spare him from execution. But the people cried out "Crucify him, crucify him". Jews were so settled in their mind to crucify Jesus. Pilot declared third time the innocence of Jesus. Jews said "Jesus had claimed to be the God and by Jewish law, He should die" (Leviticus 24:16). Pilot was warned by his wife about Jesus to “Leave that righteous man alone” (Matt 27:19). Pilot asked Jesus “Where are you from?" But Jesus gave him no answer. So Pilot said to Him “Will you not speak to me?” Jesus replied "You have no authority over me unless it had been given from above". Pilot sought to release Jesus. But Jews said "You are not Caesar’s friend if you release Jesus". Driven by fear of guilty of treason against Rome, Pilot yielded to the wishes of the Jews. Jews and pilot thus became guilty of the sin of delivering the innocent Jesus to be crucified. In fact the whole world is guilty of it. The fulfillment of the scripture runs through the entire crucifixion story of Jesus (19:24, 28, 36). In the crucifixion of Jesus nothing was left to chance but was within the eternal purpose of God’s will and plan (Isaiah 53:10).
The Crucifixion:
(Read John 19:17-27)
Pilot was fearful, confused and spiritually blind. He handed Jesus over to Jews to be crucified. What a tortured situation, knowing the right thing and not able to do it because of fear! Jesus who was weak and beaten was forced to carry His cross by the soldiers. They crucified him between two thieves at Golgotha. Pilot posted a sign above the cross that reads "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." The chief priest demanded that the title should be changed. Pilot refused his demand and said "What I have written, I have written". Each soldier took one garment but they cast lot for the inner garment because it was seamless and woven in one piece from top to bottom. Thus the scripture was fulfilled (Psalms 22:18). Christ was crucified naked before the angry mob. The crucifixion was considered one of the most barbaric, torturous and humiliating death ever conceived by mankind. Even during those painful hours, Jesus was focusing on others. There was a small group gathered at the foot of the cross including His mother and John. When Jesus saw His mother, He told John to take care of His mother. Thus Christ sets a good example for us to follow. Only gospel can create this kind of compassionate and caring community.
The Death and Burial of Jesus:
(Read John 19:28-42)
Jesus knew that everything was now fulfilled and said, “I am thirsty". He hung on the cross, wounded, burning, swollen up, and dehydrated for our sin. This is the only time Jesus spoke of His physical suffering. It was also the fulfillment of scripture (Psalms 22:15). He became thirty so that those who believe in Him never thirst again. No one knows suffering like our blessed Savior. Jesus endured the vicarious suffering on the cross for sinners. He said, “It is finished" and gave up his spirit. That was the greatest announcement of victory ever spoken. The long night of His suffering is over. He finished the work the Father has given Him to do (John 17:4). His death was not an accident. Jesus died according to the scripture. He gave His life as a ransom for our salvation. By His death He has redeemed us from the bondage of sin, Satan and death. His death satisfied the righteous demands of God (Rom 3:25). He died in our place. This is the greatest exchange ever happened (2 Cor 5:21). When soldiers came to Jesus, they did not break His legs because Jesus was already dead. One of the soldiers took a spear and pierced His side. This happened so that the scripture might be fulfilled (Zachariah 12:10). Even the wicked soldiers were involved in fulfilling the scriptures. Everything needful for our redemption was accomplished. Nothing was left undone. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus prepared the body of Jesus for burial. They were members of the Sanhedrin, the religious court of Jews (Luke 23:51; John 3:1). They were also the followers of Christ. Nicodemus who met Jesus at night brought about 75 pounds of the mixer of myrrh and aloes to wrap Jesus body with linen. The body was laid in a new tomb that belonged to Joseph of Arimathea. This tomb was near the place of crucifixion. This was also a fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 53:9). Several women witnessed where his body was laid (Luke 23:55). The tomb was sealed and guarded by the Roman guards. Our salvation was not an after thought of God. The crucifixion of Jesus was predicted in the Old Testament. It was planned before the foundation of the world (Eph 1:4). Everything needed for our redemption was accomplished. Our salvation is free gift but it came at the cost of the life of Jesus Christ.
The Last Statements of Jesus From the Cross:
The cross of Christ reveals man’s sin at its worst and God’s love at its best. The Gospels give us a graphic description of Golgotha, where Jesus hung on the cross for six long hours. There we see the extent of God's great love (John 3:16). There was never a love like the love of our dying Savior. The extent of His love is revealed in the seven statements Jesus made from the cross. Meditate on the seven statements of Christ from the cross.
The First Statement:
"Father, forgive them for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34). Our Savior was scourged, mocked, beaten and crucified by His enemies. He hung on the cross between the two thieves, abandoned by disciples and experiencing excruciating pain. Father's love was beyond His reach at this time. Yet Jesus was praying for those who were crucifying Him. He repeatedly prayed for them when they had no idea what they are doing to Jesus (1 Cor 2:8). They did not desire that anyone would pray for them, yet Jesus prayed for their forgiveness. He could have called legions of angels to destroy them but He chose to suffer the judgment they deserve (Is 53:12). He practiced what He preached (Matt 6:15; Luke 7:47). You may hate Jesus but He loves you anyway. Three times Jesus addresses "Father" from the cross, in the beginning, in the middle and at the end. His own nation rejected him, his disciples failed him even the Father allowed him die on the cross. Yet nothing threatened His eternal relationship with the Father. He taught us to forgive and love our enemies. Only those who are forgiven can appreciate the extent of Christ's love. The self-righteous are blind to see Christ's love for them. The greatest sin is the sin of rejecting God's love and forgiveness. Forgiveness is not cheap. It cost Jesus His own life. When Christians Hold back forgiveness, it grieves the Holy Spirit and destroys harmony among them (Heb 12:15). We should forgive others because we ourselves have been forgiven ( Ephesians 4:32). When God forgives sins, He will remember them no more ( Heb 8:12). Jesus became the sin offering for us so that we might be forgiven. In Him we have redemption and forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7)
The Second Statement:
"Verily I say unto you, today you shall be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43). Jesus was nailed to the cross between two thieves. Christ is always in the center. He is able to save sinners from anywhere. One of the two thieves railed at Jesus said "If you are Christ save yourself and us". But the other thief rebuked the one railing and said, "Don't you fear God even when you are dying?" And he asked Christ for forgiveness and he received it. Jesus said to him "Today you will be with me in paradise". He was saved in the same hour. Our salvation is based on Christ's work on the cross and not on our good works (Ephesians 2:8,9). Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone and in Christ alone. Christ came to save sinners. Saved people are not on probation. They serve Jesus because they love Him. Are you saved?
The Third Statement:
“Woman behold, your son, here is your son” (John 19:25, 27). Jesus saw three women standing near the cross (John 19:25). One among them was Mary the mother of Jesus. The disciple whom Jesus loved was John. He was also there. Jesus saw His mother and said to her "Woman behold your son and to John, behold your mother”. Although Mary was His earthly mother, Christ was her Redeemer and Savior (Luke 2:46-47). Even in that crucial hour, Christ sets an example for us to take care of our parents. In this statement we see Christ's humanity and divinity. Christians should be a caring and compassionate community.
The Fourth Statement:
"My God, my God why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matt 27:46). Here we see the high cost of our redemption. From noon until 3:00 P.M. there was darkness. Why Jesus was forsaken and bore our sins on the cross? Here we see the ugly color of our sin. On the cross Christ endured our hell. Hell is real as cross is real. It is a place of blackness of darkness. Jesus willingly suffered our judgment. He was separated from the love of God. What a picture of hell! Here we see God’s indescribable love. Here the righteousness and the mercy of God met together. The focal point of Christ's earthly life was His death on the cross. The number of chapters allotted to the final week of His life shows the importance of Christ's death. His death was more than an example but obedience to His Father's will. His death was not the death of a martyr or a death of a criminal. But the sinless One was dying for the sinful (Rom 5:8). His life was the ransom paid for our redemption. Jesus died in our place as our substitute (Isaiah 53:6; 2; 2 Cor 5:21). He died to reconcile us to holy God (2 Cor 5:18.19). He died to satisfy all the righteous demands of holy God (Rom 3:25). Those who do not believe in Christ are lost in their sins forever. Christ paid the ultimate price for our salvation by dying on the cross. He came to seek and save those who are lost. Will you flee from hell today by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ?
The Fifth Statement:
“I am thirsty” (John 19:28). Jesus knew that His end is near. Last six hours Jesus was on the cross, wounded, burning, swollen up and dehydrated. He experienced intense agony for you and me. He said, “I am thirsty”. It was a fulfillment of prophecy written a thousand year before when crucifixion was unknown to the world (Psalms 22:15). This is the only time Jesus spoke of His physical suffering from the cross. He understands our sufferings and able to help us in our needs (Heb 4:15-16). Do you experience pain in your body? Jesus knows what you are going through. Are you misunderstood and marginalized by others? So is Jesus. No one can help us like Jesus. Jesus is the creator of heavens and earth. Yet heaven denied Him light and earth denied Him water. They gave Jesus vinegar. The one who is source of living water became thirty for us. Jesus is the smitten rock from where the living water flows (1 Cor 10:4).Only those who believe Jesus Christ will be satisfied. The living water flows from Jesus to the whole world. Are you satisfied by drinking that living water Jesus Christ offer?
The Sixth Statement:
"It is finished"(John 19:30). Jesus came to do the will of the Father (John 2:4; 4:34). Christ has brought glory to the Father by completing the work of redemption (John 17:4). He came through intense suffering and agony. Now that work is completed. This was the greatest announcement of victory ever made. The decisive battle with Satan is over. By His death Jesus destroyed the power of death and the devil. He died to released those who were living in the fear of death (Heb 2:14, 15). Jesus willingly offered Himself to God. His death met all God's righteous demands. Atonement for our sin was paid in full. Nothing can be added to it. He did not say I am finished but it is finished. Slave who completes a given task would say at the end “It is finished” or “Tettalastai”. The priest who offers a perfect sacrifice and an artist who completes the artwork successfully would say, “It is finished”. A merchant who gives the receipt to the buyer would say you have paid the bill in full, "It is finished". Christ by His perfect sacrifice paid our debts in full. He cancelled out the record of our debt by nailing it on the cross (Col 2:14). Jesus triumphed over Satan and death. By His death he bought our redemption. By His one sacrifice He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified (Heb 10:14). In the Tabernacle, Priests were not allowed to sit. But Christ offered one sacrifice and sat down (Heb 10:12). The veil is rent from top to bottom. Now believers have access into the presence of God. They are complete in the risen and glorified Christ (Col 2:10).
The Seventh Statement:
“Father into thy hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46). Having said this Jesus gave up His spirit. "Father" is the first and the last word Jesus spoke from the cross. He endured hell on the cross for us and came through it. Now He calls God as Father in triumph. Jesus died on His own free will. He dismissed His spirit with a loud voice. Usually last words of dying people are weak whisper. Jesus’ last word was loud and victorious. The centurion heard it, glorified God and said "Certainly this was a righteous man" (Luke 23:47). Nobody died like Jesus. He loved us and gave Himself for us (Gal 2:20). The cross is important because Christ died there for us. Isaac Watts wrote, "When I survey the wondrous cross on which the prince of glory died". Someone has said, “Seeing the cross means, meeting Jesus who died on it. Surveying the cross means, not turning our eyes away from the one who loved us and gave Himself for us”. Seeing the crucified Christ is salvation. Surveying the glorified Christ is transformation. Do you know this great and wonderful Savior? Is Jesus your Lord and Savior? Prayerfully let us reflect on Christ who loved us and gave himself for us.
(Read John 19:1-16)
In this chapter we see the account of Jesus’ trial before Pilot and His crucifixion. From the human standpoint this trial was the greatest crime and the mockery of Roman law. But from divine standpoint it was the fulfillment of the scriptures (Acts 2:23). Pilot orders Jesus to be flogged, beaten and insulted. The soldiers tortured and forced the crown of thorns on His head. Pilot presented Jesus before Jews saying that 'Behold the man". He hoped that the cruel punishment Jesus received would spare him from execution. But the people cried out "Crucify him, crucify him". Jews were so settled in their mind to crucify Jesus. Pilot declared third time the innocence of Jesus. Jews said "Jesus had claimed to be the God and by Jewish law, He should die" (Leviticus 24:16). Pilot was warned by his wife about Jesus to “Leave that righteous man alone” (Matt 27:19). Pilot asked Jesus “Where are you from?" But Jesus gave him no answer. So Pilot said to Him “Will you not speak to me?” Jesus replied "You have no authority over me unless it had been given from above". Pilot sought to release Jesus. But Jews said "You are not Caesar’s friend if you release Jesus". Driven by fear of guilty of treason against Rome, Pilot yielded to the wishes of the Jews. Jews and pilot thus became guilty of the sin of delivering the innocent Jesus to be crucified. In fact the whole world is guilty of it. The fulfillment of the scripture runs through the entire crucifixion story of Jesus (19:24, 28, 36). In the crucifixion of Jesus nothing was left to chance but was within the eternal purpose of God’s will and plan (Isaiah 53:10).
The Crucifixion:
(Read John 19:17-27)
Pilot was fearful, confused and spiritually blind. He handed Jesus over to Jews to be crucified. What a tortured situation, knowing the right thing and not able to do it because of fear! Jesus who was weak and beaten was forced to carry His cross by the soldiers. They crucified him between two thieves at Golgotha. Pilot posted a sign above the cross that reads "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews." The chief priest demanded that the title should be changed. Pilot refused his demand and said "What I have written, I have written". Each soldier took one garment but they cast lot for the inner garment because it was seamless and woven in one piece from top to bottom. Thus the scripture was fulfilled (Psalms 22:18). Christ was crucified naked before the angry mob. The crucifixion was considered one of the most barbaric, torturous and humiliating death ever conceived by mankind. Even during those painful hours, Jesus was focusing on others. There was a small group gathered at the foot of the cross including His mother and John. When Jesus saw His mother, He told John to take care of His mother. Thus Christ sets a good example for us to follow. Only gospel can create this kind of compassionate and caring community.
The Death and Burial of Jesus:
(Read John 19:28-42)
Jesus knew that everything was now fulfilled and said, “I am thirsty". He hung on the cross, wounded, burning, swollen up, and dehydrated for our sin. This is the only time Jesus spoke of His physical suffering. It was also the fulfillment of scripture (Psalms 22:15). He became thirty so that those who believe in Him never thirst again. No one knows suffering like our blessed Savior. Jesus endured the vicarious suffering on the cross for sinners. He said, “It is finished" and gave up his spirit. That was the greatest announcement of victory ever spoken. The long night of His suffering is over. He finished the work the Father has given Him to do (John 17:4). His death was not an accident. Jesus died according to the scripture. He gave His life as a ransom for our salvation. By His death He has redeemed us from the bondage of sin, Satan and death. His death satisfied the righteous demands of God (Rom 3:25). He died in our place. This is the greatest exchange ever happened (2 Cor 5:21). When soldiers came to Jesus, they did not break His legs because Jesus was already dead. One of the soldiers took a spear and pierced His side. This happened so that the scripture might be fulfilled (Zachariah 12:10). Even the wicked soldiers were involved in fulfilling the scriptures. Everything needful for our redemption was accomplished. Nothing was left undone. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus prepared the body of Jesus for burial. They were members of the Sanhedrin, the religious court of Jews (Luke 23:51; John 3:1). They were also the followers of Christ. Nicodemus who met Jesus at night brought about 75 pounds of the mixer of myrrh and aloes to wrap Jesus body with linen. The body was laid in a new tomb that belonged to Joseph of Arimathea. This tomb was near the place of crucifixion. This was also a fulfillment of prophecy (Isaiah 53:9). Several women witnessed where his body was laid (Luke 23:55). The tomb was sealed and guarded by the Roman guards. Our salvation was not an after thought of God. The crucifixion of Jesus was predicted in the Old Testament. It was planned before the foundation of the world (Eph 1:4). Everything needed for our redemption was accomplished. Our salvation is free gift but it came at the cost of the life of Jesus Christ.
The Last Statements of Jesus From the Cross:
The cross of Christ reveals man’s sin at its worst and God’s love at its best. The Gospels give us a graphic description of Golgotha, where Jesus hung on the cross for six long hours. There we see the extent of God's great love (John 3:16). There was never a love like the love of our dying Savior. The extent of His love is revealed in the seven statements Jesus made from the cross. Meditate on the seven statements of Christ from the cross.
The First Statement:
"Father, forgive them for they do not know what they do" (Luke 23:34). Our Savior was scourged, mocked, beaten and crucified by His enemies. He hung on the cross between the two thieves, abandoned by disciples and experiencing excruciating pain. Father's love was beyond His reach at this time. Yet Jesus was praying for those who were crucifying Him. He repeatedly prayed for them when they had no idea what they are doing to Jesus (1 Cor 2:8). They did not desire that anyone would pray for them, yet Jesus prayed for their forgiveness. He could have called legions of angels to destroy them but He chose to suffer the judgment they deserve (Is 53:12). He practiced what He preached (Matt 6:15; Luke 7:47). You may hate Jesus but He loves you anyway. Three times Jesus addresses "Father" from the cross, in the beginning, in the middle and at the end. His own nation rejected him, his disciples failed him even the Father allowed him die on the cross. Yet nothing threatened His eternal relationship with the Father. He taught us to forgive and love our enemies. Only those who are forgiven can appreciate the extent of Christ's love. The self-righteous are blind to see Christ's love for them. The greatest sin is the sin of rejecting God's love and forgiveness. Forgiveness is not cheap. It cost Jesus His own life. When Christians Hold back forgiveness, it grieves the Holy Spirit and destroys harmony among them (Heb 12:15). We should forgive others because we ourselves have been forgiven ( Ephesians 4:32). When God forgives sins, He will remember them no more ( Heb 8:12). Jesus became the sin offering for us so that we might be forgiven. In Him we have redemption and forgiveness of sins according to the riches of His grace (Ephesians 1:7)
The Second Statement:
"Verily I say unto you, today you shall be with me in paradise" (Luke 23:43). Jesus was nailed to the cross between two thieves. Christ is always in the center. He is able to save sinners from anywhere. One of the two thieves railed at Jesus said "If you are Christ save yourself and us". But the other thief rebuked the one railing and said, "Don't you fear God even when you are dying?" And he asked Christ for forgiveness and he received it. Jesus said to him "Today you will be with me in paradise". He was saved in the same hour. Our salvation is based on Christ's work on the cross and not on our good works (Ephesians 2:8,9). Salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone and in Christ alone. Christ came to save sinners. Saved people are not on probation. They serve Jesus because they love Him. Are you saved?
The Third Statement:
“Woman behold, your son, here is your son” (John 19:25, 27). Jesus saw three women standing near the cross (John 19:25). One among them was Mary the mother of Jesus. The disciple whom Jesus loved was John. He was also there. Jesus saw His mother and said to her "Woman behold your son and to John, behold your mother”. Although Mary was His earthly mother, Christ was her Redeemer and Savior (Luke 2:46-47). Even in that crucial hour, Christ sets an example for us to take care of our parents. In this statement we see Christ's humanity and divinity. Christians should be a caring and compassionate community.
The Fourth Statement:
"My God, my God why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matt 27:46). Here we see the high cost of our redemption. From noon until 3:00 P.M. there was darkness. Why Jesus was forsaken and bore our sins on the cross? Here we see the ugly color of our sin. On the cross Christ endured our hell. Hell is real as cross is real. It is a place of blackness of darkness. Jesus willingly suffered our judgment. He was separated from the love of God. What a picture of hell! Here we see God’s indescribable love. Here the righteousness and the mercy of God met together. The focal point of Christ's earthly life was His death on the cross. The number of chapters allotted to the final week of His life shows the importance of Christ's death. His death was more than an example but obedience to His Father's will. His death was not the death of a martyr or a death of a criminal. But the sinless One was dying for the sinful (Rom 5:8). His life was the ransom paid for our redemption. Jesus died in our place as our substitute (Isaiah 53:6; 2; 2 Cor 5:21). He died to reconcile us to holy God (2 Cor 5:18.19). He died to satisfy all the righteous demands of holy God (Rom 3:25). Those who do not believe in Christ are lost in their sins forever. Christ paid the ultimate price for our salvation by dying on the cross. He came to seek and save those who are lost. Will you flee from hell today by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ?
The Fifth Statement:
“I am thirsty” (John 19:28). Jesus knew that His end is near. Last six hours Jesus was on the cross, wounded, burning, swollen up and dehydrated. He experienced intense agony for you and me. He said, “I am thirsty”. It was a fulfillment of prophecy written a thousand year before when crucifixion was unknown to the world (Psalms 22:15). This is the only time Jesus spoke of His physical suffering from the cross. He understands our sufferings and able to help us in our needs (Heb 4:15-16). Do you experience pain in your body? Jesus knows what you are going through. Are you misunderstood and marginalized by others? So is Jesus. No one can help us like Jesus. Jesus is the creator of heavens and earth. Yet heaven denied Him light and earth denied Him water. They gave Jesus vinegar. The one who is source of living water became thirty for us. Jesus is the smitten rock from where the living water flows (1 Cor 10:4).Only those who believe Jesus Christ will be satisfied. The living water flows from Jesus to the whole world. Are you satisfied by drinking that living water Jesus Christ offer?
The Sixth Statement:
"It is finished"(John 19:30). Jesus came to do the will of the Father (John 2:4; 4:34). Christ has brought glory to the Father by completing the work of redemption (John 17:4). He came through intense suffering and agony. Now that work is completed. This was the greatest announcement of victory ever made. The decisive battle with Satan is over. By His death Jesus destroyed the power of death and the devil. He died to released those who were living in the fear of death (Heb 2:14, 15). Jesus willingly offered Himself to God. His death met all God's righteous demands. Atonement for our sin was paid in full. Nothing can be added to it. He did not say I am finished but it is finished. Slave who completes a given task would say at the end “It is finished” or “Tettalastai”. The priest who offers a perfect sacrifice and an artist who completes the artwork successfully would say, “It is finished”. A merchant who gives the receipt to the buyer would say you have paid the bill in full, "It is finished". Christ by His perfect sacrifice paid our debts in full. He cancelled out the record of our debt by nailing it on the cross (Col 2:14). Jesus triumphed over Satan and death. By His death he bought our redemption. By His one sacrifice He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified (Heb 10:14). In the Tabernacle, Priests were not allowed to sit. But Christ offered one sacrifice and sat down (Heb 10:12). The veil is rent from top to bottom. Now believers have access into the presence of God. They are complete in the risen and glorified Christ (Col 2:10).
The Seventh Statement:
“Father into thy hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46). Having said this Jesus gave up His spirit. "Father" is the first and the last word Jesus spoke from the cross. He endured hell on the cross for us and came through it. Now He calls God as Father in triumph. Jesus died on His own free will. He dismissed His spirit with a loud voice. Usually last words of dying people are weak whisper. Jesus’ last word was loud and victorious. The centurion heard it, glorified God and said "Certainly this was a righteous man" (Luke 23:47). Nobody died like Jesus. He loved us and gave Himself for us (Gal 2:20). The cross is important because Christ died there for us. Isaac Watts wrote, "When I survey the wondrous cross on which the prince of glory died". Someone has said, “Seeing the cross means, meeting Jesus who died on it. Surveying the cross means, not turning our eyes away from the one who loved us and gave Himself for us”. Seeing the crucified Christ is salvation. Surveying the glorified Christ is transformation. Do you know this great and wonderful Savior? Is Jesus your Lord and Savior? Prayerfully let us reflect on Christ who loved us and gave himself for us.
Chapter 20
The Resurrection of Christ:
(Read John 20:1-10)
The resurrection of Christ is central to Christian faith. It is not a made up story or a myth. The testimonies of historians, the character of Christ and the eyewitness account of disciples validate this historical fact. His miracles were never challenged or disputed by anybody. His burial was public and secured. His tomb was guarded by Roman guards and sealed with Roman seal. The breaking of the Roman seal will result in capital punishment. Bible gives convincing evidence of His resurrection. It was predicted in the Old Testament. Jesus himself predicted this numerous times to his disciples. After resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples many times. It transformed the fearful disciples into bold witnesses. They were willing to die for their faith in Christ. Still some people want evidence to believe the resurrection of Christ. They should answer these questions. If Christ is not risen? Who rolled away the stone from the tomb? Who overcame the Roman soldiers? How the whole world was impacted by the gospel? How the 500 witnesses lie about it at the same time? Who gave the disciples power over their doubts, confusion, sadness and fear? Christ died for our sins. Prophet says "He was wounded for our transgression and was crushed for our iniquities" (Isaiah 53:5, 6). Jesus was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification (Rom 4:25). What a great Savior!
Resurrection is a historical Fact:
(Read John 20:11-23)
The original witnesses of resurrection of Christ were women (Mark 16:1). Early morning Mary Magdalene went to the tomb with spices to anoint the body of Christ. She was wondering, who would remove the stone from the entrance of the tomb. But nothing could stop her from going to the tomb. How appropriate that she was the first to arrive at the tomb while it was still dark. There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear (1 John 4:18). Mary found that the body was missing. She runs to tell the news to Peter and John. They reached the tomb and Peter entered the tomb. He saw that the body was missing, but was not sure about resurrection (20:9). Peter and John were slow to accept the reality of Jesus' resurrection. Only the Holy Spirit helps us to understand what the scriptures reveal about the person and work of Christ. Mary returned to the tomb after Peter and John left. Jesus spoke her name Mary and she recognized Jesus. She was told to go and tell the good news to other disciples. This command given to Mary is given to all of us. Men have tried to honor their heroes by erecting monuments such as pyramids for their dead. But Christ’s tomb remains empty. The resurrection of Christ is the essential part of the gospel message. It is the climax and conclusion of the gospel. It is the miracle of miracles. It is the proof that Jesus is the Son of God (Rom 1:4). Christianity stands or falls on the doctrine of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Resurrection Transforms Lives:
(Read John 20:25-29)
The resurrection of Christ has changed fearful disciples into bold preachers of the gospel. The original witnesses were women (Mark 16:1). Mary Magdalene went and told John and Peter and said "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him". They immediately went to the tomb and saw that everything was neat and orderly except that the body was missing. Their sight now turned to faith. Until then they did not understand that Jesus must rise from the dead. Then Jesus appeared to all the disciples (except Thomas) and gave them the great commission. Jesus' gracious encounter with the fearful disciples gave them courage. Only gospel affirms life, hope and immortality. Christ gave them the authority to proclaim the gospel of the forgiveness of sin. Jesus promises his peace to all those who receive him. Jesus also appeared to Thomas and shown him His nail prints. Thomas immediately acknowledged Jesus and said "My Lord and my God" (20:28). His doubt has turned to faith and assurance. Jesus said to Thomas "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed”. What a merciful Savior! Seeing does not mean believing. Facts are good but faith is better. Those who do not believe in Christ often get stuck in their prideful doubts.
Resurrection is the greatest Miracle:20:30-31.
The greatest sign found in the gospel is the sign of the resurrection of Christ. The empty tomb of Jesus was not hard to prove. If there was a body in the tomb, it was impossible for the resurrection story to survive. Jews substantiated the fact that tomb was empty because they said disciples have stolen the body of Christ. It was suicidal for disciples to steal the body. Where they could hide it? Women were the first witnesses of this empty tomb. At that time women did not have any voice in the society and were not allowed to bear testimony in a court of law. The Apostolic message was “Jesus is alive”. It is relevant because it answers questions about our past, present and future. There is forgiveness of sin in Him. Our future is secured because He is alive. Jesus is the reason for our living. Nobody can be neutral to this truth. This Gospel message is that God loves you, He forgives sin and willing to give eternal life to all those trust Christ. It is the urgency and necessary message to hear for salvation. Those who believe in the Son of God will be saved and have eternal life. The purpose of the writing of the gospel is given in verses 20:30-31. Signs are miracles Jesus performed to prove His deity. "Believe" simply means, persuaded and trust in Christ. Eternal life is the result of believing in the Son of God. Christ commissioned apostles to go forth and make disciples of all nations (20:21). Jesus gave them authority to preach the gospel of forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ. What a privilege and awesome responsibility! Jesus said "As the Father has sent me, so I send you" (20:21). Pray for the millions of people who never heard the gospel of Christ yet. Are you willing to go and share the gospel with them?
(Read John 20:1-10)
The resurrection of Christ is central to Christian faith. It is not a made up story or a myth. The testimonies of historians, the character of Christ and the eyewitness account of disciples validate this historical fact. His miracles were never challenged or disputed by anybody. His burial was public and secured. His tomb was guarded by Roman guards and sealed with Roman seal. The breaking of the Roman seal will result in capital punishment. Bible gives convincing evidence of His resurrection. It was predicted in the Old Testament. Jesus himself predicted this numerous times to his disciples. After resurrection Jesus appeared to His disciples many times. It transformed the fearful disciples into bold witnesses. They were willing to die for their faith in Christ. Still some people want evidence to believe the resurrection of Christ. They should answer these questions. If Christ is not risen? Who rolled away the stone from the tomb? Who overcame the Roman soldiers? How the whole world was impacted by the gospel? How the 500 witnesses lie about it at the same time? Who gave the disciples power over their doubts, confusion, sadness and fear? Christ died for our sins. Prophet says "He was wounded for our transgression and was crushed for our iniquities" (Isaiah 53:5, 6). Jesus was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification (Rom 4:25). What a great Savior!
Resurrection is a historical Fact:
(Read John 20:11-23)
The original witnesses of resurrection of Christ were women (Mark 16:1). Early morning Mary Magdalene went to the tomb with spices to anoint the body of Christ. She was wondering, who would remove the stone from the entrance of the tomb. But nothing could stop her from going to the tomb. How appropriate that she was the first to arrive at the tomb while it was still dark. There is no fear in love. Perfect love drives out fear (1 John 4:18). Mary found that the body was missing. She runs to tell the news to Peter and John. They reached the tomb and Peter entered the tomb. He saw that the body was missing, but was not sure about resurrection (20:9). Peter and John were slow to accept the reality of Jesus' resurrection. Only the Holy Spirit helps us to understand what the scriptures reveal about the person and work of Christ. Mary returned to the tomb after Peter and John left. Jesus spoke her name Mary and she recognized Jesus. She was told to go and tell the good news to other disciples. This command given to Mary is given to all of us. Men have tried to honor their heroes by erecting monuments such as pyramids for their dead. But Christ’s tomb remains empty. The resurrection of Christ is the essential part of the gospel message. It is the climax and conclusion of the gospel. It is the miracle of miracles. It is the proof that Jesus is the Son of God (Rom 1:4). Christianity stands or falls on the doctrine of the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Resurrection Transforms Lives:
(Read John 20:25-29)
The resurrection of Christ has changed fearful disciples into bold preachers of the gospel. The original witnesses were women (Mark 16:1). Mary Magdalene went and told John and Peter and said "They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him". They immediately went to the tomb and saw that everything was neat and orderly except that the body was missing. Their sight now turned to faith. Until then they did not understand that Jesus must rise from the dead. Then Jesus appeared to all the disciples (except Thomas) and gave them the great commission. Jesus' gracious encounter with the fearful disciples gave them courage. Only gospel affirms life, hope and immortality. Christ gave them the authority to proclaim the gospel of the forgiveness of sin. Jesus promises his peace to all those who receive him. Jesus also appeared to Thomas and shown him His nail prints. Thomas immediately acknowledged Jesus and said "My Lord and my God" (20:28). His doubt has turned to faith and assurance. Jesus said to Thomas "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed”. What a merciful Savior! Seeing does not mean believing. Facts are good but faith is better. Those who do not believe in Christ often get stuck in their prideful doubts.
Resurrection is the greatest Miracle:20:30-31.
The greatest sign found in the gospel is the sign of the resurrection of Christ. The empty tomb of Jesus was not hard to prove. If there was a body in the tomb, it was impossible for the resurrection story to survive. Jews substantiated the fact that tomb was empty because they said disciples have stolen the body of Christ. It was suicidal for disciples to steal the body. Where they could hide it? Women were the first witnesses of this empty tomb. At that time women did not have any voice in the society and were not allowed to bear testimony in a court of law. The Apostolic message was “Jesus is alive”. It is relevant because it answers questions about our past, present and future. There is forgiveness of sin in Him. Our future is secured because He is alive. Jesus is the reason for our living. Nobody can be neutral to this truth. This Gospel message is that God loves you, He forgives sin and willing to give eternal life to all those trust Christ. It is the urgency and necessary message to hear for salvation. Those who believe in the Son of God will be saved and have eternal life. The purpose of the writing of the gospel is given in verses 20:30-31. Signs are miracles Jesus performed to prove His deity. "Believe" simply means, persuaded and trust in Christ. Eternal life is the result of believing in the Son of God. Christ commissioned apostles to go forth and make disciples of all nations (20:21). Jesus gave them authority to preach the gospel of forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ. What a privilege and awesome responsibility! Jesus said "As the Father has sent me, so I send you" (20:21). Pray for the millions of people who never heard the gospel of Christ yet. Are you willing to go and share the gospel with them?
Chapter 21
Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples:
(Read John 21:1-14)
In this chapter we read about our Lord's appearance to seven disciples and the restoration of Peter. Jesus appeared again to the disciples by the Sea of Galilee. After the resurrection of Jesus, Peter decided to go for fishing. It was his vocation when Jesus called him to follow. Though he did not invite others, some disciples volunteered to go with him. His decision might have influenced others to follow him. Our decision can negatively influence others. There is no indication that Peter intended to return to his old occupation permanently. They caught nothing during the night. Peter may have failed again in his impulsiveness. Then in the early morning hour they heard a voice of a stranger from the shore “Children, do you have any fish?" They said no. Jesus said, "Through your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some". They obeyed Jesus. Whatever our vocation, Jesus meets us there. There was something compelling about Jesus' command. They caught 153 large fish and the net was not torn. They could not draw in the net because it was so heavy. Jesus filled their net with fish. The same Jesus filled the church with three thousand souls at the preaching of Peter on the day of Pentecost. Without Jesus we can do nothing (John 15:5). Then John said to Peter "It is the Lord”. How did John recognize Jesus? Jesus had done the same thing before (Luke 5:4-11). Immediately Peter jumped into the water and reached the shore. Other disciples joined Peter. By that time Christ had already prepared a meal for them. Jesus asked them to bring some fish they have just caught. Thus Christ manifested His glory. Jesus invited them to come and dine. He served them bread and fish. They ate in silence under the weight of their guilt. Only Jesus could fill the net. Fisher men changed into fishers of men. Jesus is filling the church with saved souls through the preaching of the gospel (Acts 2:41). Without Christ we can do nothing (John 15:5).
Jesus Restores Peter:
(Read John 21:15-19)
Here we see one of the greatest restoration story (John 21:15-17). Jesus did not hurry the process of peter's restoration. When Peter realized that he had denied his Lord, he went out and wept bitterly (Luke 22:62). Peter also knew that Jesus had forgiven him. He had denied Jesus three times. Now the Lord asks Peter to affirm his love three times. The gospel of grace brings godly sorrows which leads to repentance and forgiveness of sin. Jesus asked Peter "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these"? The Lord was probing the sincerity of Peter's love. Jesus wanted to bring internal transformation in Peter's life. First two times Jesus used the word Agape. It means God's sacrificial love. Peter responded I love you. He was using the word Phileo which means deep affection. Jesus asked Peter third time, "Do you love me with Phileo love? Peter was grieved and responded "Lord , you know everything . You know that I love you". Here peter used the word Phileo, which means friendship love. Thus Peter affirmed his devotion to the Lord before receiving the call to feed the sheep. Jesus reaffirmed his ministry to Peter by saying "Feed my sheep". Jesus knew that Peter would fail again yet His grace is sufficient for him (Gal 2:11-21). Jesus is the good Shepherd who gave his life for the sheep. He is also the chief Shepherd who restores His sheep. They are under His care. And when the chief Shepherd appears, they will receive the crown of glory for their faithful service (1 Pet 5: 2-4). Love for God must be our motivation to serve Christ. If we love God, we will obey him (John 14:23). Then we love the things Christ loved and hate what He hated. Those who love the Lord will long for His return. Like Peter, we all have failed the Lord many times. When Peter repented, he was restored. The grace of God brings godly sorrows that leads us away from sin and results in salvation (2 Cor 7:10). Our Lord is forgiving Savior. Jesus will restore all those who come to him in repentance. Christ is seeking devotion and commitment from his disciples. The first and the last invitation Peter received from the Lord was “follow me” (Mark 1:17; John 21:19). Do you follow Jesus Christ?
Conclusion:
(Read John 21:18-25)
Peter was told to expect a death similar to the one the Lord experienced (21:18). The phrase, “When you are old” may indicate that Peter will have a long and useful years of service. Peter’s attention immediately turned to John. He asked Jesus, what about John? Jesus said to Peter, “You just follow me”. Peter was fully restored but not fully transformed yet. He was distracted by the thought about the future of John. How easy it is for us to become distracted by other's calling and their ministry. It is dangerous thing to be envious on others calling and ministry. We must not compare us with others but remain committed to our calling. Every Christians has a unique role in the ministry of the gospel. The good shepherd leads his sheep as he pleases. Jesus not only gives us saving grace but also serving grace. The disciple mentioned in verse 24 refers to John who wrote the gospel. The entire Gospel is the testimony of John about the deity of Jesus Christ. John says that he could write only a small portion of what Jesus has done. Jesus is asking each one of us this question, "Do you love me"? Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? God bless you all.
(Read John 21:1-14)
In this chapter we read about our Lord's appearance to seven disciples and the restoration of Peter. Jesus appeared again to the disciples by the Sea of Galilee. After the resurrection of Jesus, Peter decided to go for fishing. It was his vocation when Jesus called him to follow. Though he did not invite others, some disciples volunteered to go with him. His decision might have influenced others to follow him. Our decision can negatively influence others. There is no indication that Peter intended to return to his old occupation permanently. They caught nothing during the night. Peter may have failed again in his impulsiveness. Then in the early morning hour they heard a voice of a stranger from the shore “Children, do you have any fish?" They said no. Jesus said, "Through your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some". They obeyed Jesus. Whatever our vocation, Jesus meets us there. There was something compelling about Jesus' command. They caught 153 large fish and the net was not torn. They could not draw in the net because it was so heavy. Jesus filled their net with fish. The same Jesus filled the church with three thousand souls at the preaching of Peter on the day of Pentecost. Without Jesus we can do nothing (John 15:5). Then John said to Peter "It is the Lord”. How did John recognize Jesus? Jesus had done the same thing before (Luke 5:4-11). Immediately Peter jumped into the water and reached the shore. Other disciples joined Peter. By that time Christ had already prepared a meal for them. Jesus asked them to bring some fish they have just caught. Thus Christ manifested His glory. Jesus invited them to come and dine. He served them bread and fish. They ate in silence under the weight of their guilt. Only Jesus could fill the net. Fisher men changed into fishers of men. Jesus is filling the church with saved souls through the preaching of the gospel (Acts 2:41). Without Christ we can do nothing (John 15:5).
Jesus Restores Peter:
(Read John 21:15-19)
Here we see one of the greatest restoration story (John 21:15-17). Jesus did not hurry the process of peter's restoration. When Peter realized that he had denied his Lord, he went out and wept bitterly (Luke 22:62). Peter also knew that Jesus had forgiven him. He had denied Jesus three times. Now the Lord asks Peter to affirm his love three times. The gospel of grace brings godly sorrows which leads to repentance and forgiveness of sin. Jesus asked Peter "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these"? The Lord was probing the sincerity of Peter's love. Jesus wanted to bring internal transformation in Peter's life. First two times Jesus used the word Agape. It means God's sacrificial love. Peter responded I love you. He was using the word Phileo which means deep affection. Jesus asked Peter third time, "Do you love me with Phileo love? Peter was grieved and responded "Lord , you know everything . You know that I love you". Here peter used the word Phileo, which means friendship love. Thus Peter affirmed his devotion to the Lord before receiving the call to feed the sheep. Jesus reaffirmed his ministry to Peter by saying "Feed my sheep". Jesus knew that Peter would fail again yet His grace is sufficient for him (Gal 2:11-21). Jesus is the good Shepherd who gave his life for the sheep. He is also the chief Shepherd who restores His sheep. They are under His care. And when the chief Shepherd appears, they will receive the crown of glory for their faithful service (1 Pet 5: 2-4). Love for God must be our motivation to serve Christ. If we love God, we will obey him (John 14:23). Then we love the things Christ loved and hate what He hated. Those who love the Lord will long for His return. Like Peter, we all have failed the Lord many times. When Peter repented, he was restored. The grace of God brings godly sorrows that leads us away from sin and results in salvation (2 Cor 7:10). Our Lord is forgiving Savior. Jesus will restore all those who come to him in repentance. Christ is seeking devotion and commitment from his disciples. The first and the last invitation Peter received from the Lord was “follow me” (Mark 1:17; John 21:19). Do you follow Jesus Christ?
Conclusion:
(Read John 21:18-25)
Peter was told to expect a death similar to the one the Lord experienced (21:18). The phrase, “When you are old” may indicate that Peter will have a long and useful years of service. Peter’s attention immediately turned to John. He asked Jesus, what about John? Jesus said to Peter, “You just follow me”. Peter was fully restored but not fully transformed yet. He was distracted by the thought about the future of John. How easy it is for us to become distracted by other's calling and their ministry. It is dangerous thing to be envious on others calling and ministry. We must not compare us with others but remain committed to our calling. Every Christians has a unique role in the ministry of the gospel. The good shepherd leads his sheep as he pleases. Jesus not only gives us saving grace but also serving grace. The disciple mentioned in verse 24 refers to John who wrote the gospel. The entire Gospel is the testimony of John about the deity of Jesus Christ. John says that he could write only a small portion of what Jesus has done. Jesus is asking each one of us this question, "Do you love me"? Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? God bless you all.
