Blog

Posted on

John: The Good Shepherd

Read John 10:1-21

The first part of chapter ten is somewhat like an epilogue to the story in chapter nine. Jesus is describing Himself as the good shepherd as a way of helping the Pharisees understand His actions. This time we read that “many” don’t understand while others are beginning to see what Jesus is saying. The division among the Jews widens as Jesus provides some of the most quoted phrases from the New Testament.

Good Shepherd – Part One

Jesus directs His words toward the Pharisees with some deep implications that set them in a defensive crouch.

Very truly I tell you Pharisees, anyone who does not enter the sheep pen by the gate, but climbs in by some other way, is a thief and a robber. John 10:1

If this story were merely about sheep and shepherds there would be no cause for alarm, but Jesus is clearly using this imagery to make a point. Everyone listening is on edge, waiting for the next phrase.

He continues to describe the perfect scenario of a shepherd with his sheep. In reality, sheep are not very smart but they do know a few things about their shepherd. They know when he speaks, they know to move when he says move and eat when he leads them into the pasture. At least most of the time. As I said, they’re not all that smart.

There is a gatekeeper that opens the gate, the only way in or out, but the sheep wait for the voice of the one they trust. They know his voice.

But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger’s voice. John 10:5

Good Shepherd – Part Two

The Pharisees didn’t understand what Jesus was saying (John 10:6), so He tries again starting with the same analogy, but stronger words.

Therefore Jesus said again, “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who have come before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep have not listened to them. John 10:7-8

Let’s make this clear, Jesus is the way. There is no other way. Those hearing this as if it is only about sheep are missing the point, so Jesus continues the story while elaborating further.

When He says, “I am the good shepherd,” Jesus clearly shifts the story to ensure there is no misunderstanding. He was sent by the Father for something no one else can do:

…I lay down my life for the sheep John 10:15b

A contractor, i.e., a hired hand, would not be willing to risk his life for the work before him. Jesus is not a hired hand. He is the one and only good shepherd.

Jesus explains that His sacrifice is offered willingly and in accordance with the Father, making it the perfect sacrifice.

The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.” John 10:17-18

The words here are very strong. Jesus speaks of authority and choice; He states explicitly that He is following the Father’s command.

The Pharisees and other Jews listening to Jesus’ words understand what He’s saying and once again they are divided.

Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and raving mad. Why listen to him?” But others said, “These are not the sayings of a man possessed by a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” John 10:20-21

The Choice is Ours

The evidence is presented over and over throughout the Bible. We have the great advantage of being able to flip through pages that the Pharisees didn’t have. Yet when we lean on our rules and procedures, our bylaws and board meeting minutes, we begin to look a lot like Pharisees. Jesus makes it clear and simple, but sometimes that’s the hardest thing for us to accept.

Is He raving mad? How can He be demon-possessed while doing such marvelous works? I pray you will sincerely seek to hear the voice of Jesus today as you remember these powerful words:

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10

To seasoned Christians, this is a familiar verse, one we’ve heard many times. My earnest desire is for you to avoid reading these words while nodding your head as if you’ve heard this a thousand times. May you hear the words of Jesus fresh this time, as if you had no food for days, then God provided manna from nowhere to nourish you fully. Have life to the full. Invite others to do the same. Go in peace today as you listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd.

Posted on

Reflecting on “Blind from Birth”

Read: John 9

Before we move on to John 10 and beyond, I have to stop and reflect on the three-part series that attempts to look at chapter 9. The conclusion that John presents provides an imperative for our lives: we have been presented with the truth of Jesus, we can see with our eyes and hear with our ears the plain message of the gospel. Will we fully commit to Christ? Or will we strap on our college degrees, our advanced intellect and cling to our guilt?

Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, “What? Are we blind too?” Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.’ John 9:40-41

Who are We Following?

The first question I have to ask myself is, “who am I following?” This seems simple enough, my answer hasn’t changed for decades, I’m a follower of Jesus Christ. The challenge isn’t my answer as much as the evidence of this assertion. If I am truly committed to following Christ, there should be fruit to demonstrate this conviction.

Here’s where the story gets foggy in my mind. In the past few years, my definition of success has changed. I used to think about church as a place we go to worship Christ, not as a checkbox to be checked, but as an authentic worship experience. The fruit of this conviction is therefore seen as a growing number of people who are interested in “going to church” more than actually following the commands of Jesus. In essence, many of us have gotten used to following the pastor more than following Jesus. Our measure of success is seen in human terms we can see physically.

Don’t get me wrong, please hear the whole idea. It’s great to get together and worship. Please find a place to worship, to hear the Word of God properly preached, and celebrate with others who are following Jesus Christ. Keep doing that and continue pushing the envelope to make it better and more meaningful.

But don’t convince yourself to believe that this is the goal. In my experience over the last decade, most of my effort and energy has been directed at enhancing, building, refining, and creating a Sunday morning experience that stirs people’s hearts and leads them along the journey of salvation. I’ve justified my time and money based on successfully delivering an experience, more than building relationships with people.

My challenge to churches today is to review their budgets in terms of money and time and figure out how much effort is focused on a few hours of the week. I seriously think that most will respond to this challenge with “What? Are we blind too?”

Perhaps I should rename this post, “Confessions of a Pharisee.”

The Great Commission

We’ve been commanded to go into the whole world and make disciples, to baptize and teach, and to trust that Jesus will be with us always in the process. By all means, use the church as a gathering place and make your gathering place a church that does what Jesus commanded. Both. Not either or. There is no need to wait for Sunday for anything.

No Longer Blind

We are no longer blind. We have heard the gospel clearly and the commands that follow. The modern concept of “come and see” must not forget the “go and do” part of the commission. If all we do is focused on going to church, we’ll never do what Jesus told us to do.

We no longer have an excuse. The concluding words of Jesus in chapter 9 are convicting, they demand we do more.

How you do this is between you and the Holy Spirit. What you do with this information will define your ministry as shaped by Him. I’m convinced it will look different in you than it does in me, but that’s the real beauty of the creative process we’re all a part of.

You have received power from the Holy Spirit, now go and do as Jesus commanded two thousand plus years ago:

…you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Acts 1:8b

 

Posted on

John: Blind from Birth Now Healed – Part 3

Read: John 9:35-41

John wraps up the story of the man who is no longer blind by showing the care and compassion that Jesus had not only for the man in the story but for all mankind.

The previous section concluded with the Pharisees kicking the man out of the synagogue. The shame that is associated with this action is hard for us to appreciate, but it was significant in their context and in their culture. The insult must have hurt deep. Just yesterday he was an outcast because he was blind and had to resort to begging for any hope of income. Now he can see and he’s rejected again because he simply tells the truth!

The conclusion begins with Jesus searching for the man. I don’t imagine it takes very long to locate him. Let’s pick up the story:

Jesus heard that they had thrown him out, and when he found him, he said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” “Who is he, sir?” the man asked. “Tell me so that I may believe in him.” Jesus said, “You have now seen him; in fact, he is the one speaking with you.” Then the man said, “Lord, I believe,” and he worshiped him. John 9:35-38

I doubt seriously that the man expected this interaction. Perhaps he thought Jesus might put his arm on his shoulder and offer some sympathetic words or some sort of comfort to show he was sorry about all that happened so quickly. But that’s not Jesus’ idea at all. He offers the man far more than his eyesight. Jesus offers him eternal life.

As a Jew who must have been steeped in culture, he knew what the Son of Man was, this was the one they have been waiting for. The question is not about “what,” rather, it’s about “belief,” it’s about faith. Jesus asks him if he believes. Jesus then utters the words that must have made the earth stand still, “he is the one speaking with you.” Wow! This is more than amazing!! The man’s reply was edited by John for our benefit. I’m pretty sure he said more than “Lord, I believe,” but that’s just my active imagination. I’m pretty sure this guy was beside himself. I’m confident I would have been a mess, crying like a newborn baby, laughing, shouting, bowing, jumping, on and on. How could anyone just sit still?

The Lesson

We now come full circle in the story. The beginning of the chapter asks the question about why this man was born blind. The reality is, we are all born blind. It is only the work of Jesus that can heal us from our sickness and give us true vision.

Jesus clarifies for all those present, even the Pharisees who are hanging out watching the scene:

Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” Some Pharisees who were with him heard him say this and asked, “What? Are we blind too?”  John 9:39-40

The Pharisees aren’t ignorant, they understand what Jesus is saying, they truly know the implication of His words, but they are offended by what Jesus is saying. The answer: leave them with a riddle.

Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.” John 9:39-41

I can see them mulling over the words, but the plain meaning is very clear. Right before their eyes, they see the Messiah–He’s right there. If they were not able to see Him, they would not be guilty of sin, but here He is and yet they deny Him. In their righteousness they claim to see, they claim to be the wise leaders of the Jewish people. It is because they are educated, that they know better, that they are completely guilty of sin. Faced with the truth, they choose to turn their backs.

Lord, may our eyes be opened to your truth and may we humbly accept that which is in plain sight. Open our eyes, Lord. Move our hearts. Break the walls that we’ve carefully constructed to hide from the guilt and shame that is clearly visible to you. We confess as this man did, Lord, I believe.

Posted on

John: Blind from Birth Now Healed – Part 2

Read: John 9:8-34

The first part of this chapter briefly captures the moment when Jesus healed this unnamed man who was blind from birth. The story now shifts focus to questions by the man’s neighbors, those that remember him as a beggar, his parents, and most significantly, the Jewish religious leaders. It’s amazing to hear how this man answers their questions–not just the answers. When you read this chapter, pay attention to how he responds. It’s certainly true that he can not see with his eyes, but his vision seems to be incredible on a much deeper level.

Neighbors– John 9:8-13

The first voices we hear from are the man’s neighbors, those who knew him well and those who passed him where he was seen begging.

His neighbors and those who had formerly seen him begging asked, “Isn’t this the same man who used to sit and beg?” Some claimed that he was. Others said, “No, he only looks like him.” But he himself insisted, “I am the man.” John 8:8-9

How can they be confused? It’s hard to imagine seeing someone who once was a beggar, someone who grew up in shame because he was born blind, now standing face to face with his neighbors. He actually has to convince them that he was, in fact, the blind beggar just yesterday. His eyes must have been shining so bright, his expression so brilliant, his posture so strong, that even those who knew him didn’t recognize him.

They asked him how this could happen. It’s a reasonable question that is answered quite easily. I would suggest his answer is probably too simple, so simple that only a fool would believe him, but it is the truth.

Pharisees– John 9:14-17

He must have created an incredible scene in the village, so much so that the Pharisees are asked to intervene. Once again, he tells the story about Jesus putting mud on his eyes then instructing him to wash in the Pool of Siloam to gain that which he longed for all his life.

Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the Sabbath.” But others asked, “How can a sinner perform such signs?” So they were divided. John 9:16

Once again, we see the debate about healing on the Sabbath. I can’t help but wonder where they added this clause in their legal documents. Perhaps they lumped miraculous healing into the category of medical doctors. It makes me wonder if those wounded could be tended to on the Sabbath. It seems the Pharisees are trying to hold onto anything that would subvert their authority or knowledge. They can’t believe what they’re hearing, so they summon the parents of the man.

Parents– John 9:18-23

The Pharisees put his parents on the hot seat, still in complete disbelief.

“Is this your son?” they asked. “Is this the one you say was born blind? How is it that now he can see?” “We know he is our son,” the parents answered, “and we know he was born blind. But how he can see now, or who opened his eyes, we don’t know. Ask him. He is of age; he will speak for himself.” John 9:19-21

His parents are in a difficult position. To dishonor the Pharisees risks the shame of being banned from the synagogue (see John 9:22), but they can’t deny this is their son. It’s really him! They play the only card they have: let him speak for himself.

Recently, I heard a talk about the “shame culture” that is prevalent in the Middle East, especially in biblical times. From this perspective, we completely understand. I don’t think their son had any ill-feelings toward his parents for this assertion. It made sense. His response is truly amazing.

The formerly blind man — John 9:24-29

The Pharisees accuse the man of lying. They demand that he “give glory to God by telling the truth” (John 9:24), then they tack on their own conclusion that Jesus is a sinner, probably because of the Sabbath violation. His response is remarkable! Imagine hearing the testimony of this blind beggar that now stands before you with confidence and strength:

He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” John 9:25

This is one of the most profound verses I’ve ever heard. It’s an incredible confession of faith and demonstration of a reality that I can only hope to reveal to others in this dark world.

The not-so-blind-man will now proceed to school the learned:

He answered, “I have told you already and you did not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you want to become his disciples too?” John 9:27

Now he’s getting sassy! That kind of talk will not win any favor from religious leaders any day of the week or at any time.

Kicked out of the synagogue — John 9:30-34

He’s not done yet. Before they completely shut him down and toss him out of the synagogue he has one more chance to poke them in the eye:

The man answered, “Now that is remarkable! You don’t know where he comes from, yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly person who does his will. Nobody has ever heard of opening the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.” John 9:30-33

The Pharisees are completely offended. Their response, as we expected, was to point out the fact that he was steeped in sin at birth (which is why he was born blind), then toss him out of the synagogue.

The cause and effect scenario was prevalent in their time, and still rather strong even in our postmodern world. The disciples began the chapter by asking the question about what caused the man’s blindness. It must have been someone’s fault. How can a newborn baby sin so significantly that they would deserve blindness? Even if we somehow figure there is a cause/effect scenario if sin caused blindness, what do we do with the fact that he is no longer blind? It seems logical that gaining sight means the sin that prevailed is no longer present.

But in reality, we know that neither is the case. The Pharisees are mostly insulted and are simply striking out as low as possible.

What I really want to focus on in this part of the chapter is the man’s incredibly lucid response. Not only can he see, but he has the ability to debate with the most educated in their society. He must have gained much more than his eyesight as a result of Jesus’ touch. We’ll see an amazing interaction with Jesus in the last part and get a hint of understanding this man’s ability.

Lord, may we be a people that hold on fast to the promise You provided. May we confess we were once blind, but now we see!

Posted on

John: Blind From Birth Now Healed – Part 1

Read John 9:1-7

The story in this chapter is amazing! There are many subtle details that describe the story of a man who was blind from birth but now is completely restored at the hands of Jesus. As we read this narrative, consider this in both literal and figurative terms. We are blind without Jesus. This man was born blind, so were we. Jesus comes into the world to heal our spiritual blindness. Whether He does that with spit and dirt or any other means is all just part of the story. The reality is this: Jesus is the light of the world. Through Him alone, we are able to see.

I wanted to cover this whole chapter in one post, but there are so many pieces that I thought it best to step back and take our time looking at the chapter in three parts. Here’s the outline:

  1. The blind man is healed — John 9:1-7
  2. Interrogations — John 9:8-34
    1. Neighbors– John 9:8-13
    2. Pharisees– John 9:14-17
    3. Parents– John 9:18-23
    4. The formerly blind man — John 9:24-29
    5. Kicked out of the synagogue — John 9:30-34
  3. Spiritual blindness — John 9:34-41

I highly recommend you read the whole chapter, then come back and look at part 1.

The blind man is healed

The story begins as Jesus and His disciples are walking along the streets. The disciples are always trying to learn from their master. Can you imagine? Every day there is something completely new to learn. They come across a man who has been blind since birth and they ask Jesus a question that we all would like to fully understand, even in these modern times.

“Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ John 9:2

The response includes a verse that probably causes issues because of the translation provided in most versions. Here’s the verse followed by an explanation from the NIV Application Commentary for us to consider.

3“Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus, “but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him. 4 As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. John 9:3-4

Compare the NIV translation to one that digs into the original Greek a bit further:

…we may translate it as follows: ‘ Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus. ‘But so that the work of God might be displayed in his life, we must do the work of him who sent me while it is still day.‘
The purpose clause now explains that Jesus must work so that God’s work may be displayed in this man’s life. God had not made the man blind in order to show his glory; rather, God has sent Jesus to do works of healing in order to show his glory. NIVAC Reference

The subtle difference is huge in my mind! God did not make this man blind so Jesus could one day walk along and use him as an object lesson. That is not the case. Our suffering does not bring God pleasure. The whole discussion of pain and suffering is far beyond the scope of this particular post, but something we must all wrestle with on many levels.

Let’s back up a minute. The passage begins with the entourage walking past a man who is blind. John skips over any introduction between Jesus and the man. Instead, he focuses on the conversation between Jesus and His disciples. This must have been pretty uncomfortable for the man who suddenly becomes the center of attention. My guess is he was sitting alongside the street with a bowl or something to beg for money (he’s not referred to as a beggar in verse 8). Being blind from birth in an agrarian society leaves you few options for employment.

Yet somehow Jesus approaches the man. In my mind, Jesus approaches him with great kindness. It’s just my imagination, but it seems like John doesn’t even mention His approach because this is how He approaches everyone, all the time. It’s just the Savior of the world reaching out to someone in need. Lord, help me to replay this scene in my mind the next time I run across someone in need!

Jesus uses spit and dirt to make a salve that is used to heal the man, then tells him to go wash in the Pool of Siloam. The pool is significant because this is the pool that provides fresh water to Jerusalem. This living water, i.e., not stale, is used by the priests in ceremonial washing. The symbolism is there for us to consider that Jesus is the living water, He provides eternal life. Just as living water flows into Jerusalem, Jesus himself is here to provide an even better alternative.

So the man went and washed, and came home seeing. John 9:7b

This part of the story ends with a miracle. The man born blind can now see. In the next section, we’ll get the idea that he was an adult by Jewish definition. His entire life up to this point was spent in darkness.

As we continue to read this chapter, the story gets more interesting, but I don’t want to miss the point that Jesus once again demonstrated His authority over nature. For the moment, sit back and consider the kindness Jesus shows to this man and the way He completely transformed his life in an instant.

NIVAC Reference: Wilkins, Michael J.; Garland, David E.; Bock, Darrell L.; Burge, Gary M.; Fernando, Ajith. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary) (Kindle Locations 64916-64919). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Posted on

John: Many Believed and Picked Up Stones to Stone Him

Read John 8:21-59

The title I’ve chosen to give this section of the narrative is meant to be provocative. As Jesus continues to explain who He is, many appear to be moved; many believed in him (John 8:30). Jesus seems to turn to these people and dive deep into a completely new theology. His teaching is true, and belief in Him is the only way to escape from the prison of sin. By the end of the chapter, those who believed in Him are so outraged they pick up stones to kill Him.

In previous writing, I’ve focused on smaller sections of scripture to take a detailed look at the words. However, it seems prudent to read the rest of the narrative to appreciate the scene for this chapter. The NIV Study Bible separates the text into three sections:

  1. The dispute over who Jesus is (John 8:21-30),
  2. the dispute over whose children Jesus’ opponents are (John 8:31-47), and
  3. Jesus’ claims about Himself (John 8:48-59).

Dispute Over Who Jesus Is

The verse before this one leaves us with the idea that Jesus had to make a rather hasty exit. He now reappears to continue the discussion for the crowds to hear.

Once more Jesus said to them, “I am going away, and you will look for me, and you will die in your sin. Where I go, you cannot come.” John 8:21

Once again, Jesus dives deep into a discussion they really can’t get their minds around. I’m not trying to sound too judgmental. I’m pretty sure I would not be able to follow this line of discussion. Looking at the words literally suggests that when He leaves, we won’t find Him and die in our sin. This statement is compounded when Jesus adds the provision that we also need to believe that He is the one:

if you do not believe that I am he, you will indeed die in your sins. John 8:24

While my mind is still trying to get a handle on this idea, Jesus goes on to explain that His authority to say all of this comes from God the Father. It seems His words convict the crowd. John ends this section with an astounding thought:

The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.” Even as he spoke, many believed in him. John 8:29-30

“…many believed in Him.” This is beyond incredible! Jesus shifts this discussion to focus on the group that seems to get it, at least at this point.

As we jump into this next section, I hope to learn that there are times when we share our faith with others that we might see a shift from belief to contempt. There are moments when it seems like everyone in the room is on the same page, ready for confession and baptism, then all of a sudden, someone flips a switch, and all the lights are off. The quick change of scene might tempt us to back off of our evangelistic opportunity, but I hope the lesson in this text would lead us to continue to tell the story of the Messiah boldly. Watch how quickly the scene turns in these few verses.

Dispute Over Whose Children Jesus’ Opponents Are

To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32

The first phrase doesn’t seem to raise any issues at first, but Jesus continues to elaborate on His teaching, and the conversation quickly goes south.

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. John 8:34

The crowd wants nothing of this “slave” discussion or any discussion about being freed. They have taken great pride in their heritage, not in the good sense of the word pride at all. God chose Israel to be His example to the world, but they turned that privilege into a point of pride and arrogance. Jesus clarifies their misguided hearts.

“Abraham is our father,” they answered. “If you were Abraham’s children,” said Jesus, “then you would do what Abraham did. John 8:39

In essence, Jesus says they are not Abraham’s true children. Read the chapter and feel the tension rise. Yet Jesus does not back off from this hard lesson:

Why is my language not clear to you? Because you are unable to hear what I say. John 8:43

We are unable to hear because we have closed our minds and hearts.

Jesus’ Claims About Himself

Our response is not unlike that of the Jews that were once believers. We must defend our selfish, silly pride with words that hold no weight. Look at their response:

The Jews answered him, “Aren’t we right in saying that you are a Samaritan and demon-possessed?”
“I am not possessed by a demon,” said Jesus, “but I honor my Father and you dishonor me. John 8:48-49

The dividing line between Jesus and the crowd grows wider. Jesus is from the Father, and they are not. Jesus provides the words for life, and they choose death.

Very truly I tell you, whoever obeys my word will never see death.” John 8:51

At the risk of cherrypicking words from the narrative, here are the beginning and ending phrases of the following two verses:

At this they exclaimed, “Now we know that you are demon-possessed!… Who do you think you are?” John 8:52,53

By all means, please read the entire chapter yourself, but pay particular attention to how quickly the scene turns from heads nodding in affirmation and understanding to hands that pick up stones to kill the very Son of God.

John ends the scene abruptly:

“Very truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “before Abraham was born, I am!” At this, they picked up stones to stone him, but Jesus hid himself, slipping away from the temple grounds. John 8:58-59

Do you see the exclamation point? Jesus is the I am! This is either the ultimate revelation, the great news of the Messiah, or it’s blasphemy, which is punishable by death in their culture. Their hearts are turned toward the latter. My prayer is that our mind, heart, and soul would hear and believe the former.

If you’ve stepped across the line of faith, don’t expect everyone you meet to agree with you suddenly. I hope we don’t have to run from stones being hurled at us for speaking the truth. Or maybe that would be better, something like our brothers and sisters in China have to consider. Maybe then we would not be quite so comfortable in our surroundings.

Posted on

John: Jesus Declares, “I Am the Light of the World”

Read John 8:12-20

Back to the Feast of Tabernacles, this passage picks up where John left off in the previous chapter. Lots of people have gathered to listen to Jesus. He draws a crowd with His words. There’s no water to wine or miraculous healing happening here. But His words of life are incredibly affirming. If He is who He claims to be, those who are listening have the opportunity for a life beyond their wildest imagination. Hear the words of Jesus, “I am the light of the world.”

Illumination of the Temple

At first glance, the historical reference to the “light ceremony” slipped by me, but on further reading (and Googling), the event caught my attention and imagination. It takes some effort, but imagine a time when there is very little light after sunset. Perhaps some oil lamps here and there. The concept of darkness to these people is deeper than our understanding. With the flip of a switch, a room is illuminated. For those so inclined, just say, “Alexa, turn the hall light on.” But for those hearing this story for the first time, there is a deep understanding of darkness.

There are several resources that provide details about the illumination of the temple during the Feast of Tabernacles.

Four large stands each held four golden bowls; these were placed in the heavily-used Court of the Women. These sixteen golden bowls (reached by ladders) were filled with oil and used the worn undergarments of the priests for wicks (m. Sukkah 5). When they were lit at night (so the rabbis said), all Jerusalem was illumined.NIVAC

All night long the fires illuminated the city to remind people that one day, the light of the world would come and there would no longer be any darkness. One day there will be no more pain or suffering. One day.

That day is here.

The Light of Life

Can you imagine someone coming to your all-church event, gathering people around, and saying this?

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12

The amazing claim here is that by following Jesus anyone can  “have the light of life.” Our Jewish ancestors were a people of hope. They waited and hoped for the Messiah year after year. During this week-long festival, they witness the illumination of the temple and remember the promise that God will send the light of the world. Now they hear Jesus explain that He is here.

It doesn’t surprise me to read the reaction of the Pharisees. Apparently, it did little to surprise Jesus as well. As if they missed the discussion from the previous chapter, the Pharisees search their rulebook and throw down their challenge flag:

The Pharisees challenged him, “Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid.” John 8:13

Jesus’ response to the Pharisees is based on the observation that they are far from God, “But you have no idea where I come from or where I am going” (John 8:14). They have no idea.

Jesus reminds them of their own Law, that which they rely on as sacred, a misplaced trust in that which is manmade, rules they created for their own and by which they judged everyone.

In your own Law it is written that the testimony of two witnesses is true. I am one who testifies for myself; my other witness is the Father, who sent me.” John 8:17-18

He spoke these words to the deaf ears of the Pharisees. They were so lost in their world of rules they were unable to process the evidence before them.

But in my mind, I see others present, and perhaps a rouge Pharisee, who heard the words and sought to draw near to Jesus to learn more. Do you hear that voice calling you?

As missionaries, we are called to proclaim the gospel to the least, the lost, and the lonely. We do so with words and deeds, with hands and feet. Lord, may we have a grain of patience that Jesus did with those that heard His words and saw His amazing deeds. May we point people to the true light of the world and may their eyes be open to that which is right in front of them. In front of all of us.

 

 

1Source: Wilkins, Michael J.; Garland, David E.; Bock, Darrell L.; Burge, Gary M.; Fernando, Ajith. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary) (Kindle Locations 64534-64537). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

Posted on

John: Woman Caught Committing Adultery

Read John 7:53-8:11

Here’s a story inserted in the middle of the Tabernacle of Feasts that is controversial for at least two reasons: 1) it’s not found in the earliest authorized transcripts and 2) Jesus forgives the unforgivable. I’m not likely to satisfy the debate in this brief discussion, but I hope you’ll be encouraged to think about the event and draw your own conclusions. The one thing I would encourage you is not to avoid difficulties in Bible translation issues or conversation. With or without this passage, there is no difference in the truth of the gospel message or the theology we hold onto as truth. Let’s dive in!

Not Found in the Original Texts

The first disturbing revelation about the passage today is that the most modern translations of the Bible either skip it altogether or, as in my case, the NIV renders it in italics with significant footnotes.

The earliest manuscripts and many other ancient witnesses do not have John 7:53-8:11. A few manuscripts include these verses, wholly or in part, after John 7:36, John 21:25, Luke 21:38 or Luke 24:53. NIV Study Bible, p. 1781

The NIV Application Commentary covers the issue in detail and it’s quite fascinating to read. Searching online you’ll find many places that discuss why the passage is in question. The writes of https://gotquestions.org provide a good explanation that includes this thought:

church leaders deemed the passage morally dangerous—since Jesus forgives the woman, wives might think they could commit adultery and get away with it. So, the church leaders tampered with the Word of God and removed the passage. To leave the passage in, they reasoned, would be to make Jesus seem “soft” on adultery. Later scribes, following the lead of the Holy Spirit, re-inserted the pericope, which should never have been removed in the first place. Got Questions

It’s a rather complex question that involves a lot of technical explanation. What I take from all the details is simply that God didn’t print the Bible for us. That is, He did not hand it to us on tablets or miraculously through the Gutenberg printing press. He chose to inspire mere mortals to write down words through the Holy Spirit to convey enough knowledge, wisdom, history, and teaching to help us learn to hear the voice of God.

The very fact that we, as Christ followers, are able to admit we have questions, that we would print the text in italics with footnotes, is a strong confession that we don’t know everything.

There is nothing inconsistent about the theme in the text for us to learn from. Let’s take a look at the event and consider the lessons we can draw from the text.

Jesus Forgives the Unforgivable

The text begins by putting a footnote on the previous discussion, “they all went home.” The Pharisees didn’t know what to do with Jesus, though their intentions are becoming clear.

Jesus makes an appearance at dawn and begins to teach again. The religious leaders seize the opportunity to present an open and shut case as a means of trapping Jesus: they caught a woman committing adultery! This should be a big win for them, so the parade the woman in front of everyone:

and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” John 8:4-5

Jesus appears to ignore their questions. For some reason, He is writing something on the ground with His finger.

When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” John 8:7

Jesus knows this is a trap and these not-so-wise scholars are tested by Jesus in return. They have, in fact, misinterpreted the law to their advantage. When we read Deuteronomy 22:23-24 we see that there are specific circumstances surrounding the immediate stoning. Probably the most important part is that both the man and the woman caught in the act are to be taken to the gate and stoned — not just the woman, and certainly not to the temple courts to please their egos.

The NIV Study Bible notes suggest that Jesus might have been writing the sins of those present in the dirt, that His divine knowledge of their hearts was being revealed on the ground for all to see.

At any rate, their argument was disarmed quickly. They had no choice but to leave the scene. Their failed attempt to trap Jesus was noted for all to see.

Jesus turns to the woman:

Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” John 8:10-11

Jesus knows the heart. He lets her go with a strong warning to leave her life of sin.

If we look at our own lives and insert our story into hers, I think we would all greatly appreciate the verdict and the challenge. Lord, help me to leave my life of sin and go into the world proclaiming Your message.

Posted on

John: Unbelief of the Jewish Leaders

John 7:45-52

The closing section of chapter 7 includes no words from Jesus. Instead, it’s a very brief debate between religious leaders as they try to figure out what to do with Jesus.  As if their decision. When we zoom out a bit we see this is a midpoint of the discussion during the Feast of Tabernacles. Chapters 7 and 8 are one story with an aside thrown in the middle that we’ll discuss next time.

The characters in this section are quite interesting. There are three groups to consider: the guards, the people, and the Pharisees, that is, the religious leaders.

Finally the temple guards went back to the chief priests and the Pharisees, who asked them, “Why didn’t you bring him in?” John 7:45

The Guards

Every time I’ve read this story, I’ve always considered the guards as somewhat inferior, not the brightest bulb in the factory. If this scene were ever written as a skit in church, those who would be chosen as guards would not be considered the major characters, to say the least. What I find interesting this time through is the Pharisees are offended at the guards’ inability to carry out their orders, but this offense has no punishment.

The way John puts it, they definitely looked down on the guards, but I’m not so sure that the guards are second class citizens. The bold statement is not one of ignorance, they were able to hear the authority from which Jesus spoke.

“No one ever spoke the way this man does,” the guards replied. John 7:46

The Pharisees response degraded the guards and the people.

“You mean he has deceived you also?” the Pharisees retorted. “Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed in him? No! But this mob that knows nothing of the law—there is a curse on them.” John 7:47-49

The People

John’s portrayal of the Pharisees is less than stellar. In this somewhat childish response, the Pharisees call the pilgrims who have journeyed from near and far a mob. The implication is simple: they’re too ignorant to understand scripture, how could they possibly understand? In some ways, there is truth in their statement. The laws they have contrived is complex. They’ve created a system that few understand, but the people should not be discarded as a meaningless mob. It seems that John writes these words to paint an ugly picture of religious leadership at its worst.

The Pharisees

There is a curse on them! That’s the best the Pharisees can conjure up. Someone has tricked them into believing a lesson they did not provide. Nicodemus has to chime in to try and shock them back to reality by pointing out that their own law requires a hearing. All they’re doing is responding to hearsay. To properly address their concerns, they need to have a conversation with Jesus.

They replied, “Are you from Galilee, too? Look into it, and you will find that a prophet does not come out of Galilee.” John 7:52

Their disdainful response to one of their own only makes matters worse. And by the way, Jonah, the prophet, came from Galilee. It’s likely that others did as well, and certainly, God could call a prophet from anywhere, even Galilee.

Anger is an emotion that leads to irrational behavior. The Pharisees in this scene are angry because they are convinced that this Jesus character is misleading people. Rather than stop and listen, they have drawn their conclusions and withdrawn to their ivory towers to defend their positions.

It’s my desire to remain calm at all times, but I fail too often. This story is a sober reminder that when anger and religious elitism meet, the results are worse than it appears on the surface. God is not honored. People are misled. The lost are not found.

The chaos of the moment led otherwise intelligent people to make poor choices. Lord, help us to remain calm and give us the wisdom to hear your words among the many who would love to distract us.

Posted on

John: Division Over Who Jesus Is

John 7:25-44

Who is this man? What is he teaching? There were dozens of questions in the minds of those present at the Feast of Tabernacles, the huge celebration for all Jews: sons and daughters, male and female servants that ran for an entire week. John points out the highlights in his narrative description of key events. In this third section of chapter 7, Jesus somehow hears dissension among the people and has to speak out loudly, cry out, and shout to get their attention. This isn’t the scene of someone hiding or trembling in fear of the authorities. Jesus is right there in front of them. The result: some believe while others firm up their disbelief. It’s interesting to see how people can watch the same event and walk away with completely divergent interpretations. Of course, this would never happen in our modern world, right?

In the last section, Jesus explained the origin of His authority and challenged the religious elite to use common sense with regard to the Sabbath. These were hard topics for this diverse crowd to understand. They couldn’t even agree on something we take for granted:

Have the authorities really concluded that he is the Messiah? But we know where this man is from; when the Messiah comes, no one will know where he is from.” John 7:26-27

Really? No one will know? There is confusion about their interpretation of the prophets versus where Jesus came from, that is, where He was born.

Then Jesus, still teaching in the temple courts, cried out, “Yes, you know me, and you know where I am from. I am not here on my own authority, but he who sent me is true. You do not know him, but I know him because I am from him and he sent me.” John 7:28-29

Jesus doesn’t give them the pleasure of answering their question in human terms. His answer was more profound: He came from heaven. Think about that for a moment.

The problem as Jesus explains it is that they don’t know the Father. This is a serious accusation, but one that makes complete sense from John’s perspective. They know the rules, the laws, the customs. They’re here celebrating the feast as is their custom. They wouldn’t miss an opportunity to check a box.

Jesus constantly points people back to the heart of the matter. He is not concerned with how many psalms we’ve memorized or if we can quote book, chapter, and verse. He was and is still most interested in changing hearts.

As with any large crowd, the people divide themselves into camps: some believed and some did not. Far worse, some tried to seize Jesus, but this was not the time or place for that event. John is keenly aware of how and when Jesus will be turned over to the authorities. His point here is that they intended to capture Jesus but somehow were unable to hold Him. The religious leaders sent in the temple guard, but even that was a futile effort.

Jesus said, “I am with you for only a short time, and then I am going to the one who sent me. You will look for me, but you will not find me; and where I am, you cannot come.” John 7:33-34

These are incredibly hard words: where I am, you cannot come. I can see Jesus looking directly into the eyes of those present and letting those words sink in. You cannot come because you do not know me. I’m confident that Jesus had many more words than the few that John captures here. He made the point perfectly clear to those present; He probably repeated the same statement in several ways to be sure they heard it correctly.

That’s why they had so many questions. Where is he going that we can’t find him? Is he going to hide among the Gentiles? The Greeks? They heard Jesus clearly, but they did not understand.

The crowds had two or three days of wondering about the message they heard. I’m sure there were lots of side discussions as they processed the message. Finally, as the festival draws to a close, Jesus pronounces that great news:

On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” John 7:37-38

Note that Jesus points them back to Scripture that they had available to them. Their lack of understanding was within their ability to fix. They simply were misunderstood because they were being misled. This is critical to appreciate.

John helps us understand the significance of the statement.

By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive. Up to that time the Spirit had not been given, since Jesus had not yet been glorified. John 7:39

As we’ve seen in this section before, some heard the message and believed while others heard the same message and wanted to kill Him. The latter group was likely stuck on Jesus’ birth certificate, His town of origin. They were so lost in their piety that they couldn’t hear the call to receive was from the Living Well.

John is giving us all we need to know to make the right decision. He walked with Jesus for years. He watched Jesus die from torture so brutal that we shudder to dwell on the event. John was just as confused as his brothers in ministry when he watched Jesus take His last breath, but he remembers the following week when they had breakfast on the beach! John saw it all!

Lord may we listen and learn from John’s testimony and reach out to find the living water that is poured out for each of us.

 

Proudly powered by WordPress