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John: Take Jesus at His Word

Read: John 4:43-54

Are you willing to take Jesus at His word and believe? The central character in this story is an officer in Herod’s regime, “a certain royal official,” who begs Jesus to heal his son. The passionate plea was met with a sharp response, but Jesus healed the son anyway. The official had faith while the Jews kept their distance and watched.

Time with Gentiles

This story begins as a continuation of the previous interaction with the Samaritans. “After the two days” (John 4:43) refers to Jesus’ stay with them as a result of the woman’s testimony. Many Samaritans came to believe. Now we see another example of a Gentile, that is a non-Jew, interacting with Jesus. I wonder if He grew tired of the political and social divisions that separated people? In Pastor Kurt Stutler’s message yesterday, he pointed out that social segregation was far worse in the days of Jesus’ earthly ministry than we see in 2018. It’s hard to believe, yet true!

Welcome or Not?

On the surface, this verse seems favorable:

When he arrived in Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him. They had seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the Passover Festival, for they also had been there. John 4:45

However, as we look at the parenthetical comment in the previous verse along with Jesus’ assertion that they only want to see signs and wonders, we have to conclude that the phrase “welcomed him” should have had air-quotes around it. What they wanted was the show to continue, to a lesson to learn. The last thing these Jewish people wanted was to hear what Jesus had to say. Instead, they wanted more wine and miraculous healing.

The Official

The unlikely encounter with a Gentile official from Herod’s court shows that Jesus is not one to be put in a box. Somehow the official humbles himself and begs Jesus for the life of his son. As a parent, it’s pretty easy to understand. True life and death situations involving our children have a tendency to strip off all signs of pretense and authority. The official had heard about Jesus. This might be his only chance.

When this man heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death. “Unless you people see signs and wonders,” Jesus told him, “you will never believe.” The royal official said, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” “Go,” Jesus replied, “your son will live.” The man took Jesus at his word and departed. John 4:47-50

The official goes from frantically finding Jesus and begging for Him to make the 20-mile journey to his home and heal his son to simply hearing and believing in one simple moment. What did that look like? Did the official have a come-back to Jesus’ rhetorical question?  Did they lock eyes? Did the disciples form a circle and let the man in to meet Jesus? Who knows?

At some point, the man had an encounter with Jesus and knew without a shadow of a doubt that His word was the word. Enough said. It is done.

The disciples spent hours and hours with Jesus and yet they struggled to have the faith of a Gentile serving in the oppressive court of Herod. We may be in good company, but that’s no excuse to lack faith.

Then the father realized that this was the exact time at which Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live.” So he and his whole household believed. John 4:53

Lord help us to look into your eyes and believe. Increase our faith. Replace unbelief with radical courage. Holy Spirit, You are alive in us. Shake us up to be on mission for Christ as you have gifted us so that all would believe!

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John: The Disciples at the Well

Read: John 4:27-42

There are actually two distinct parts to this section: the disciples and the woman. Both are significant, but I chose the title to reflect the part that I really hadn’t focused on very much. I’ll try to cover both parts here briefly. It’s up to you to dive into that which speaks to your heart at this time.

The Disciples

When the disciples catch up with Jesus at the well they demonstrate an amazing lack of concern for Jesus. I guess their spiritual gifts list did not include helps & service, giving, mercy, and the like! John makes of point of writing:

But no one asked, “What do you want?” or “Why are you talking with her?” John 4:27

Instead, it seems they were satisfied to simply be surprised, or perhaps Jesus was so exhausted from their travels that He wasn’t thinking clearly. Their solution? Offer something to eat (John 4:31). Jesus uses this as a teaching moment, a lesson that leaves them scratching their heads. Did someone one bring Him food? Surely not that woman!

“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work. Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together.” John 4:34-36

Jesus’ words don’t exactly clear things up. I don’t see the disciples shaking their heads and nodding in agreement. Not that they’re dense. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t buy into the notion that the disciples were a group of uneducated middle school dropouts. I honestly think they were wise in their own right, just not thinking on the same level as Jesus. Seriously, friends, I have no preconceived notion that I am anywhere near that level of thinking.

I’m not judging the disciples as much as it sounds like. John is using this interaction as a lesson for us to learn from. Their puzzled expression is for our benefit, “so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together” (John 4:36). Jesus wants to be in communion with us.

God’s desire to be with us stems from a very long time ago. This morning, as I was preparing for discussing this concept from Moses’ writings, I was struck with awe by this verse:

“Then have them make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell among them. Exodus 25:8

From way back then God wanted to dwell among His people. This was a foreshadowing of an event far into the future, the day when God would send His Holy Spirit to dwell within us. This is in our DNA. We should long for sensing His presence within us. Then we can be glad together. This theme will be seen again, especially in John 17.

The Woman

The woman, on the other hand, was so taken by Jesus’ words that she left her water jar and told everyone she could that she might have just met the Messiah.

“Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?” John 4:29

It’s amazing that though these people knew this woman well, her reputation was no doubt well known, yet they came to see. I’d like to propose that her level of resolve and commitment overshadowed her personal life. She spoke with a conviction that was out of character. It was compelling and exciting to think that perhaps the Messiah was actually there in their presence.

They came to see Jesus because of the woman’s testimony. Imagine that. One who had to collect water in the middle of the day to avoid being seen with others is the one who leads them to the One.

So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. And because of his words many more became believers. John 4:40-41

She probably didn’t have it all right. Perhaps her theology was out of order or misspoken. But she knew what she knew and was excited to share this amazing news.

You and Me

That leaves you and me. The image I’m trying to paint above is that of a person who knows she is broken. She’s been reminded every day for who knows how long. I’d be lying to you if I tried to say I don’t feel this way all too often. My thoughts are not so pure and holy that they should inspire anyone except for this idea: meet Jesus.

Don’t take my word for it, please don’t put your faith in me at all. Let me introduce you to the One who is sitting at the well. He wants to be with you. He wants you to be part of His family.

Friends, this is more exciting than the crazy people at a football game seem to express (College or Pro). You don’t even have to paint your body in school colors or wear a shirt with J or E or S or U. You can if you want, but people will accurately assess that you’re crazy…unless it’s for football.

May I simply suggest we consider the incredibly good news of the Gospel and share with people as if their lives depended on this knowledge. As if.

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John: Jesus and the Woman at the Well — Part 2

Read John 4:16-26

In the first part of this story, the woman at the well was enjoying the debate with Jesus about living water. The unheard of conversation between a well-known Rabbi (Jesus) and a woman that has to draw water at noon to avoid other people went from bad to worse. I’m suggesting “bad” because no self-respecting single Jew would be caught alone with a woman such as this and “worse” because Jesus is about to talk about marital issues! This is crazy talk and the disciples are poised to set Jesus straight!

Remember the Setting

Let’s back up one verse to set the stage for this part of the conversation.

The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.”
He told her, “Go, call your husband and come back.”
“I have no husband,” she replied. John 4:15-17

She is intrigued by this notion of living water. There’s a number of reasons she might be interested in this discussion, there were many beliefs about special pools and springs that could heal people. Jesus wants to shift the conversation to a subject that’s at the very least painful.

No Husband

Jesus not only knows about this woman’s current living situation, He’s completely aware of her past.

Jesus said to her, “You are right when you say you have no husband. The fact is, you have had five husbands, and the man you now have is not your husband. What you have just said is quite true.” John 4:17-18

Ok, fine. You know everything about me! Let’s get back to the subject at hand and forget about marital issues!

True Worship

John’s edited version of this story leaves us with gaps in understanding all that is being discussed here. He doesn’t explain the significance of living water or the string of marriages that have failed this woman. Each of these lines of discussion might deserve a separate study.

Perhaps John is telling us these are important, but not the most important part of the story. May I suggest take a seat as the woman in this story and listen to what Jesus has to say specifically. Insert your name in the place where Jesus says, “woman” in the following excerpt:

“______,” Jesus replied, “believe me, a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem…a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:21,23-24

It’s pretty obvious that the woman is deflecting the conversation away from her personal life. She draws on a hotly contested debate between the Samaritans and the Jews that includes where and how to worship. I’m sure she’s a bit confused about this discussion, but it’s really interesting that she doesn’t grab her bucket and leave.

Somehow, even though Jesus gets personal, she is not so offended that she picks up her things and leaves. She sticks around to ask more questions. There’s something to learn about that in and of itself. I wonder how many other conversations happened between Jesus and someone where the person simply walked away. Lord, help me to have the fortitude to stay in the conversation, even when it turns ugly!

I Am

In case we’re confused about who is speaking, Jesus cuts through all the noise and provides this statement captured by John:

The woman said, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” Then Jesus declared, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” John 4:25-26

I cannot overemphasize how profound this statement is. John wastes no time in moving to this conclusion early in his gospel writing. Jesus is the Messiah. He is the long-awaited one foretold by the prophets.

The Samaritans were familiar with all of these stories, yet they were notorious for picking and choosing which parts to believe. Does this sound familiar? Commentary writers and biblical scholars tell us that they sided with the Sadducees and focused only on the Torah. Read more here if you like.

Our Challenge

Jesus knows all. God knows all. The Spirit is ever-present. We cannot hide. Yet the Savior we serve does not focus on our transgressions. He does not look back and remind us of how we’ve failed.

This is what Jesus wants from those who worship:

true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. John 4:23

Lord, may we be true worshipers this day and every day. Show us how. Surround us with other believers who long to worship you in Spirit and in truth! Amen.

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John: Jesus and the Woman at the Well — Part 1

Read: John 4:1-15

Imagine Billy Graham sitting at a bus stop in downtown Atlanta engaged in conversation with a well-known prostitute. Don’t get me wrong, the woman at the well is not a prostitute, though her moral character is questionable, I am trying to set the stage for a conversation that is completely out of step with anything the disciples could have imagined. It made perfect sense for Jesus to stay up all night talking with a Pharisee named Nicodemus, but to sit and chat with an unnamed Samaritan woman was unheard of. Be shocked and amazed, then listen to the voice of the Spirit as we dive into chapter 4.

The Irony

Before we begin let’s consider the ironic juxtaposition of the two primary characters. John could have told us a hundred different stories to begin his account of the life of Jesus. After reviewing his notes he chose to give us back to back stories that force us to look in the mirror with new eyes. Chapter 3 presents a Pharisee by name, a religious leader who eventually gets mentioned a few more times, but who seems to exit the story after verse 15. Compare this to chapter 4 where the woman is unnamed, yet goes on to evangelize the whole town (see John 4:39), a Samaritan town at that.

Don’t miss the intentional placement of the stories either. Nicodemus came under cover of darkness, perhaps his own spiritual darkness. The interaction with the woman is at noon, in the middle of the day, out in the open where all can see what was happening. Two completely different settings for very specific reasons for us to see and learn.

The story begins by moving us from Judea to Galilee through the forsaken route of Samaria. John says, “he had to go through Samaria” in verse 4. Historians tell us that the Jews would go far out of their way to avoid Samaria, so what does John mean by saying he “had to” take this route? My answer tends to agree with those that suggest He had to go this route in order to set the stage for evangelizing Gentiles. He had to go this way because this is where He meets us: the lost, the least, and the lonely. He had to go this way because we need to learn how to go into places that would make our religious friends cringe.

John makes a point of showing Jesus’ humanity in verse 6,

and Jesus, tired as he was from the journey, sat down by the well. It was about noon. John 4:6

As I often confess in these writings, some portions of stories jump out to me like never before. The “had to” series above is one example. Another one is the point here: Jesus was tired. I don’t know if that’s significant, but the idea that Jesus, the One who was and is and will be needs to sit down catches my attention. It’s the middle of the day and he needs a break. Is this a signal for us to stop and pause from time to time? If Jesus needs to take a break, how about you? Obviously, this isn’t the point of the story, but it is an interesting sidenote.

John explains that the disciples have gone ahead into town to get some food leaving Jesus alone. This probably wasn’t all that unusual. Jesus went off to pray by Himself often; He didn’t need disciples tending to Him all the time.

The Woman

Jesus begins the conversation by asking the woman for a drink of water. Apparently, the well is deep and there is no communal bucket there for just anyone to drop and get some water. You’re supposed to show up with a rope and bucket.

The Samaritan woman said to him, “You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) John 4:9

Jesus’ answer is not expected. The conversation quickly turns into a theological discussion.

Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” John 4:10

This lady is sharp! She immediately jumps into the debate with Jesus by showing her knowledge of Jewish history. This wasn’t just a well, this was Jacob’s well and the concept of living water had many important distinctions.

but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”
The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” John 4:14-15

At this point, the story changes focus, so I suggest we pause here and reflect. Imagine we’re sitting with John as he is telling this story. I’m convinced he did this a hundred times — that’s why he wrote it down. John might have let this thought linger before transitioning into the life and history of the woman in the next part. Perhaps he would look into the eyes of those present and ask a few questions like, what water was Jesus referring to? What is this spring of water that leads to eternal life?

Instead of jumping ahead to read the rest of this story, take a moment and pray that the Spirit would speak to your heart about the lesson thus far. Imagine you are at the well and Jesus is talking to you. He actually wants to give you much more than that which you requested. You asked a simple question, but His response is for eternity.

This is our Master. This is our Lord and Savior. I truly believe He stands ready to give us far more than we could imagine if we would humble ourselves and simply ask with selfless hearts.

Continue to Part 2 — Jesus and the Woman at the Well

 

 

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Seeing Constellations Among the Stars

If we could find a place beyond the city lights, on a clear night we would see a billion stars in the sky. Some of these, on closer observation, would be planets and moons, asteroids and comets. The wonder of the heavenly bodies would become apparent to us when someone reveals their existence.

A constellation is a connection of dots with no concept of space or distance except in the mind and imagination of the observer. Once the pattern is revealed, its beauty begins to unfold. I can remember traveling the world and searching the night sky for Orion’s belt. It reminded me of the beauty of God’s creation and how His love spans the globe — we just have to look for it.

At some point in my childhood, I was fascinated by space, the final frontier. Yes, I was one of those people. I invested hours in learning some of the constellations like the Big Dipper, the Little Dipper, Orion, etc. As I learned the patterns and understood where and when to look for them, I found myself enjoying the night sky more and more. What was once the darkest part of the night became warm and inviting. I bought a cheap telescope and a few books that I could afford to see better and understand more.

Spiritual Maturity

The road to Spiritual Maturity in Christ is like this. At some point we find ourselves in complete darkness, then the sky clears and we see the majesty of the stars. We’re overwhelmed by the beauty of creation, but where do we begin? So many heavenly bodies! Our minds can quickly become overwhelmed, but we’re not alone.

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. 1 Peter 2:9-10

We are a community, a priesthood of believers. Some have been looking at the stars for a long time and have learned the patterns. They can help explain the constellations and in so doing the night sky not only becomes friendlier, it becomes inviting.

Disciple Makers

Such is the role of a disciple maker. One who simply reveals that which has been there all along. The road to Spiritual Maturity is a process of pointing out when and where to look for constellations if you get the metaphor. If I’m doing a great job, the disciple begins to see the patterns themselves. The last thing on my mind is for them to look at me. That makes no sense! Look at the heavens to appreciate the wonder.

And be amazed!

Do all of this in love with the understanding that the Jesus not only commanded that we love each other, He calls us His friends.

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. John 15:12-15

Now go and find someone else who is walking in total darkness. Show them the patterns. Help them make sense of it all. Get excited when they see constellations you missed or planets that skipped your attention. Enjoy the journey and celebrate the discoveries as you continue to point people to the heavens.

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John: The Baptist Teaches About Jesus

Read: John 3:22-36

The episode with Nicodemus comes to a close in the first part of chapter 3. It’s as if John says, “next slide,” and continues his presentation with a completely different thought that builds his case for Christ. In some respects, this is the challenge of reading one excerpt at a time, at least for me. I have to keep reminding myself of the previous events. That’s one reason I really appreciate The Bible Project’s image that portrays the entire Gospel of John on one page. While it’s a bit overwhelming to look at all at once, it does help remind me of where we are in the story.

Here’s a portion of the illustration to keep us in context:The Bible Project Illustration

John the Baptist Teaches about Jesus the Christ — Again

The latter half of chapter 3 is not included in the picture above. John segues into verse 22 by writing, “After this…”

After this, Jesus and his disciples went out into the Judean countryside, where he spent some time with them, and baptized. John 3:22

From a literary perspective, it suggests we need to keep the previous picture in mind as we continue to read. Think about this, Nicodemus was the central character in the previous narrative, but all of the disciples were gathered around listening. They were learning at the same time. This was all new information for them as well.

The gospel narrative was written in hindsight so John is able to insert thoughts that were developed over many years as he looks back. He obviously has a lot of respect for John the Baptist since he included the Baptist’s work at the beginning of his account, then again after the lesson with Nicodemus.

Sidenote: John clarifies in John 4:2 that Jesus wasn’t actually the one baptizing people. This is significant once His true identity is revealed. It’s not that it was beneath Jesus to perform the baptism, rather, it seems more important to demonstrate that you don’t have to be the Son of God to baptize.

Jesus and John have parallel ministries going on in this scene and it creates some confusion among those who are working with John the Baptist.

An argument developed between some of John’s disciples and a certain Jew over the matter of ceremonial washing. They came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, that man who was with you on the other side of the Jordan—the one you testified about—look, he is baptizing, and everyone is going to him.” John 3:25-26

It’s interesting to note that the argument is about ceremonial washing. Nicodemus is wondering what it takes to see the Kingdom of God and John’s disciples are arguing about becoming clean through this washing ministry. Both are seeking to gain favor with God, to restart. There are many theories about John’s ministry of baptism, but it seems clear that those who were drawn to John had a change of heart. They were committed to demonstrating their new life by publicly being baptized.

John the Baptist Defers to Jesus

John was never confused about his role or place on earth. To be honest, I’m envious. His calling is laser focused. Many are attracted to him because of his single-mindedness. His own disciples might be a bit confused, but they are serious about life change. I want to be that kind of person.

John the Baptist sets the record straight.

He must become greater; I must become less.” The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. John 3:30-31

One of the amazing things about the Bible is how complete thoughts are summarized into short phrases. We can read this chapter aloud in a few minutes, but the conversations recorded probably went on for hours. John’s disciples certainly didn’t have just one question or one argument. They were in ministry together. There were lots of conversations and words about these events. We’re only getting the highlights, the key principles behind significant statements.

The temptation is to get lost in a single sentence, but I hope we can learn to hear God’s voice through the words and not get lost in thought. From my perspective, that’s why John, the gospel writer, ends this lesson with the following:

Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them. John 3:36

Whoever believes, anyone and everyone. Whether you’re a scholar like Nicodemus or a new disciple following the teaching of another disciple, the key to eternal life rests in your ability to humble yourself and believe in the Son.

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God Did Not Send Jesus to do His Dirty Work

Read: John 3:16-21

I know we just discussed this here, but there is much more to say before moving on. As I read the NIV Application Commentary over and over again, I’m struck by the need to explain John’s statements further. The phrase that leaps off the page is the title of this post:

God did not send Jesus to do His dirty work.

God was and is for us. It is His greatest desire that all would come to accept that which the world has taught us otherwise: there is absolute truth and that truth is wrapped up in the incarnated life and sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

The following is an excerpt from the NIV Application Commentary that dives deep into the subject in a much more eloquent manner than I can express. Please take time to read this three or four times. It’s that significant.

 

 

Today’s intellectual climate is offended by the absolute claim of religious truth, but a faithful rendering of New Testament Christology demands this. This theme will continue to come up throughout the Gospel of John, but at this juncture, John has said something important that we must pause and note.

Many Christians today think about the work of Christ with an unfortunate, ill-informed understanding of God and Christ. I see this again and again both in classes I teach and in the church.

The imaginative picture used by many to express the work of Christ is that Jesus has died in order to placate an angry God, whereas the cross expresses the love of Christ for us and his work appeases God’s threatening wrath. This makes God an opponent and an adversary while Jesus is our ally.

But this is not what John says in 3:16. “God so loved the world…” The work of Christ is God at work, God saving the world, God extending himself into the condition of our humanity and bringing about reconciliation. The center of this error is a deficient view of the Trinity or, more precisely, a deficient understanding of what the church’s earliest theologians were trying to express at the Council of Nicea (A.D. 325).

Christ was not created— there was no time in history when he “was not”— and so he enjoys an eternal existence precisely like God. Further, he shares the very essence or being of God (the Council of Nicea used the word homoousios to express this concept). Why is this important? Because it means that God himself is on our side. God himself is at work on our behalf.

He did not send a messenger (Jesus) to do the dirty work. God himself came to the cross and suffered in order to bring his beloved creation back to himself.

This understanding is expressed repeatedly by Paul. In 2 Corinthians 5: 18–19 he describes the goodness of God in rescuing us and remarks: “All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” Or again, in the words of [Bible]Colossians 1:19–20[/bible]: “For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in [Christ], and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.”

The cross is thus God’s work. Jesus Christ came to earth, not in order to change God’s mind, but to express God’s mind.

 

Who can understand why God chose this method or the timing? Why did He wait 430 years to call Moses and lead His people out of slavery? Why, what, how? I can’t answer these things sufficiently because the explanation requires some degree of faith. It requires belief in something greater and more powerful than mankind. I’m required to confess that I lack the intellectual capacity to answer these questions to appease the cynic and skeptic and I have the audacity to conclude there is a God that is responsible for all creation that is not bound by time nor offended by my opinions. He is God. I am not.

I tried to explain my perspective in this post: Reason for the Hope I have in Jesus Christ a few months ago. The current study of John’s gospel continues to rattle the chain and begs me to investigate more. My prayer is these words will stir something in your heart and keep you awake at night. I suggest this is the Holy Spirit stirring in your heart. Listen to that voice. Turn off the streams of worldly advice and hear from the voice of One who loves you more than my words can express.

 

 

Source: 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 61930-61950). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

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John: For God So Loved the World

Read: John 3:16-21

John presses pause after recounting the story of Nicodemus. In one concise and elegant statement, John captures the essence of Jesus Christ’s primary mission on earth. I’m sure there are stats somewhere, but this has to be one of the most well-known verses in the Bible; probably among any book. The verse introduces a short discourse that needs to be read together in light of the Nicodemus discussion.

May I suggest we overlook the fact that Nicodemus was one of the religious elite and likely very wealthy in earthly terms and simply look at him as one who is seeking to understand. From this perspective, most of us can pull up a chair and listen to John’s response.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16

These powerful words have reshaped hearts for generations. My mind is filled with wonder as I drink in the words of Jesus and how John shapes the memory for us all. The NIV Application Commentary writer has amazing words to say about this passage. Take a moment and let this sink in:

“Christianity is not something that you follow as much as it is a power that transforms. It is possible to get one’s theology right but to get one’s relationship with God all wrong. There is a pathology to theological education— a spiritual disease that can distance us from God. Nicodemus was a theologian. I am a theologian. Mature Christians are theologians. We must always be on the alert to see if we are linked to the spiritually unpredictable Holy Spirit of God.“1

When the Holy Spirit is involved, you just might be completely changed. It’s a risk that will likely change the course of your life.

John provided a story to set the stage, something we could relate to. As mentioned in the previous post, I’m sure the discussion went well into the night. Jesus explains that the choice at hand is one between light and dark. Nicodemus came during the night to hear from The Light. The stakes couldn’t be higher.

His purpose is clear:

For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. John 3:17

And the choice is either/or, no in between:

Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. John 3:18

These strong words leave little doubt as to where we stand in the end. We all enter life on earth through birth and leave through death. But for those who have seen the light and recognize eternity awaits, we have a choice to make before the Judge of all.

This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God. John 3:19-21

I truly believe Nicodemus entered the conversation as someone who was somewhat skeptical, perhaps cynical. He was one who was highly intelligent and didn’t want to hear fanciful language or illustrations. He probably didn’t think he was in the dark, after all, he was well educated in the ways of Yahweh. He came to receive hard evidence and a clear explanation. What he received was more valuable than he could ever have imagined.

What about you? Will you remain skeptical and cynical? What more do you need to step out in faith and accept the One who came that all would have the opportunity for everlasting life?

 

1Wilkins, Michael J.; Garland, David E.; Bock, Darrell L.; Burge, Gary M.; Fernando, Ajith. NIVAC Bundle 6: Gospels, Acts (The NIV Application Commentary) (Kindle Locations 61893-61894). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

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John: Jesus Teaches Nicodemus

Read: John 3:1-15

The reading today takes us up to the infamous verse, John 3:16. It’s important to remember the context, so the title I chose for this post is intentionally focused on Nicodemus. He’s the Pharisee that heard about Jesus and sought Him after hours, under cover of darkness. Jesus has a lot to say to Nicodemus (and us) before John summarized the lesson in a statement that almost everyone has heard. This section paints the picture in dark or light, black or white. There is no gray mentioned here. It’s a tough lesson for a religious zealot from a few thousand years ago and it’s hard for many to accept in this present time. Let’s dive in and take a look!

Visitation at Night

Imagine you were part of a minority group that is trying to get a nation back on track with God. The Pharisees had a strong voice and were convinced their way was right. Their main rival was the Sadducees, the group that held a majority of positions in the Sanhedrin. The Sadducees were bound to the Torah, the first five books of what we call the Bible. They denied the resurrection, afterlife, and even the spiritual realm. Their beliefs seemed out of step with reality from our perspective and definitely something the Pharisees were trying to overshadow. (See GotQuestions.org for more.)

The picture I’m trying to paint is one of political maneuvering among the religious elite. This background is essential to understanding why Nicodemus, a member of the Jewish ruling council, had to show up at night — this was significant and unusual.

In addition, recall the events covered in John’s first few chapters: John the Baptist, calling of the disciples, miraculous water into wine, and clearing of the temple. There were probably other events that prompted Nicodemus to seek out Jesus, but John wants us to consider these before reading this chapter.

He came to Jesus at night and said, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the signs you are doing if God were not with him.” John 3:2

Teaching the Teacher

As we begin to dive deep into this lesson, I have one last observation to set the stage. The Pharisees are notoriously at odds with Jesus. We know they were the group in particular that wanted to have Jesus killed. Yet Jesus accepted the opportunity to meet with Nicodemus. I would suggest His words are meant to encourage Nicodemus, not speak down to him. I read the interaction with great kindness, with care and love.

I hope this is an example for us to speak to others who are truly seeking to understand the essence of our faith. It’s impossible to show anyone what the heavenly realms look like, there has to be a leap of faith. That leap must be from a sure foundation to a certain destination. The foundation is Christ. The destination is eternal life with the Father.

Nicodemus is a teacher of teachers who came to learn from the greatest teacher of all. Perhaps he set out to test Jesus, to see where He stood on the Torah. He doesn’t even ask a question before Jesus jumps into an intense thought.

Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again.” John 3:3

Nicodemus is a learned man. I’m convinced he knew that Jesus had more to say on this subject, but he’s trying to understand how to teach this to someone else.

“Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother’s womb to be born!” John 3:4

Jesus now explains that which is difficult to understand. His explanation he gently rebukes Nicodemus,

“You are Israel’s teacher,” said Jesus, “and do you not understand these things? John 3:10

Even so, He provides details to challenge and stretch the imagination of many.

“Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.” John 3:5-6

We Speak and You People Don’t Believe

These few verses jump out at me this morning. Here Jesus’ words are “we speak” versus “you people.” Something is going on here. Pay particular attention to this passage in that light.

Very truly I tell you, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony. I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things? John 3:11-12

Let the thought sink in. Jesus goes on to provide an example of Moses lifting up the snake in the wilderness, just as He will be lifted up on a cross. His testimony is compelling. I think they talked until dawn. In my imagination, I see Nicodemus with tears as he hears the words of the Messiah. I think he’s convinced and stuck at the same time.

We’ll see Nicodemus a few more times in this gospel account. My prayer that I would learn from his humility and great desire to learn from the Master.

I intended to include the next few verses, but as I got to this point, I wanted to pause and reflect on how much I am like Nicodemus. Raised in the church, steeped in religion, blessed beyond measure, yet lost in the world. I need to hear and appreciate the ensuing verses, but I need to wait a moment.

Lord, fill this place right now. Cast a light into the darkness that surrounds us. Show us that if we hold tightly to that which the world honors we will miss the blessing You have for each of us. This is a hard lesson to understand, but essential to our growth.

Breathe into us, Holy Spirit, fill our lungs with Your breath so we may be a blessing to everyone we meet today. Everyone.

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John: Jesus Clears the Temple Courts

Read: John 2:13-25

John wastes no time in documenting Jesus’ reaction to those making a profit off of people coming to the temple to offer sacrifices. Matthew, Mark, and Luke all place the event much later in their message, so I have to wonder why John places his emphasis so early in this account. It’s also important to keep in mind the significance of the previous discussion about turning water into wine. These events have deep meaning when we take time to step back and consider John’s intentions when compiling his narrative. Let’s dive in and take a look at the scene.

It’s nearly Passover, the huge event for all Jews since the days of Moses. Think of this as Christmas times ten (or more). It’s a very big deal. The people are coming to the temple as required by their law to offer sacrifices. Some of these folks have to travel a long way. It’s difficult and complicated. The solution: set up a system to buy what you need and save yourself some trouble! Hence, the merchants appear.

Convenience isn’t always synonymous with evil, so don’t get me wrong. I like having the Bible available in multiple translations on my mobile devices. It’s convenient. There’s no badge of honor to gain by carrying around fifty pounds of books. But there’s a problem when we choose the convenience and comfort over sacrifice and change of heart.

The system probably began with good intention, but humans are notorious for taking something good and making it bad by turning it into a self-serving profit-making opportunity. Jesus sees the heart. He’s not the least bit distracted by our outside appearances.

In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money. So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.John 2:14-15

Note: the animals were for sacrificing and money exchanging facilitated changing a wide variety of currencies into that which facilitated paying the temple tax. Here’s an interesting article if you want to go deeper [ Link ].

The disciples think back to what the Old Testament prophets described as one who was zealous about heartfelt worship, one who would not tolerate mechanical worship. The mere thought sends chills down my spine. Would Jesus come into our courts of worship with a whip? Take a look at my comment on the previous post. I truly don’t think Jesus was pleased with half-hearted, checkbox worship back then and I don’t think He’s the least bit happy about it now.

The Jewish leaders are completely confused. I have to imagine there was a ton of discussion and debate about this scattering of money and dispensing of animals. John only gives us a few highlights to reveal the religious leaders are completely confused. This bridges the span between water to wine in Cana and the next chapter when Nicodemus has to sneak in to talk to Jesus. Again, I’m fascinated with how John crafts the story.

The Jews then responded to him, “What sign can you show us to prove your authority to do all this?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days.” John 2:18-19

Here’s where the writing gets a bit cryptic. Jesus’ answer leaves them scratching their heads. Well, I’m in the same boat. John explains that Jesus is making the point that He is the temple and He will be resurrected, but Jesus’ brief response at that moment would not have adequately explained His authority or even come close to answering the question.

John is using the scene to make a point, he is setting up his Gospel account to tell the story of Jesus’ life while introducing us to theology that helps us understand why Jesus did what He did. The Jews can’t and won’t see the signs and wonders right before their eyes. Most are lost in a system of laws and rules that prevent them from understanding. Sound familiar?

Even back in those days, they were able to look back and see why He did these things.

After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken. John 2:22

John is looking back at the events to provide a current explanation. This is beautifully written for us to appreciate the simple complexity. Compare, “Then they believed” here in verse 22 to “and His disciples believed in Him” in verse 11. Do you see how John is building his case for Christ?

I’ll leave you with John’s words today, much better than anything I might add:

But Jesus would not entrust himself to them, for he knew all people. He did not need any testimony about mankind, for he knew what was in each person. John 2:24-25

 

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