Category: ReadScripturePlan

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1John: Why John Wrote this Letter

Read 1 John 2:12-17

The art of storytelling is an ancient craft. Those who are gifted know how to build tension early to capture the reader’s attention. John knows his audience well. He begins his first letter reminding us that Jesus is the Word of life and just in case you don’t read the whole letter, he makes sure you get this point right up front. In the next section, John presents a problem and suggests we could be liars, the truth has escaped us. Ouch! That hurts to read!

The reading today begins with a segue. I think John is saying, “Now that I have your attention, let me tell you why I’m writing to you.” This letter is personal, written to the people he loves. These are the sheep of his flock, those with whom he is personally responsible. He is providing us with a great example of how to love others inside the body of Christ. When we do this well, others will want to know more, but that’s not the main point. He wants us to be encouraged and strong, bold and faithful. If we are out in the world trying to make disciples, seeking the lost, serving the least and lonely, we will grow weary. We need to hear words of encouragement. This poem is music to our ears.

I am writing to you, dear children, because your sins have been forgiven on account of his name.
I am writing to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.
I am writing to you, young men, because you have overcome the evil one.
I write to you, dear children, because you know the Father.
I write to you, fathers, because you know him who is from the beginning.
I write to you, young men, because you are strong,
and the word of God lives in you, and you have overcome the evil one.
1 John 2:12-14

Your sins have been forgiven by Jesus, on the account of His name! We talked about this last week at a Bible study. This bold proclamation runs completely counter to what the great deceiver is whispering (or shouting) in our ears. Jesus took care of our sin. We are a new creation.

Unlike anything else in history, you know Him, you know the Father. He lives in you. Remember these words, my friends, and take them to heart. There is no “if” or “but” in John’s thoughts here.

You are strong. You have overcome the evil one.

Please print this affirmation and put it in a place where you can read it every morning if that helps. He that is within you has won. You are part of the victorious family!

Don’t Love the World

John anticipates our reaction to his affirming words by reminding us that the world is not going to agree with what he just said. In fact, we should expect the opposite when we effectively preach the gospel. To be clear, John provides some overall definitions to guide our thinking.

For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 1 John 2:16

Lust and pride are key issues we all have to deal with. Rest assured those who are far from Christ are affected by these problems as well. Pornography feeds the lust of eyes and flesh in this country, perhaps the entire world. John’s ancient words are clearly the target of such desires. Don’t you think it’s odd that John would write this in the first century? It’s not a new issue!

The challenge for us is to shine the light into the darkest places without coming across as those who are so holy that we are immune from worldly issues. Yes, we are strong. Yes, we have overcome the evil one. But while we are walking around in skin, we’re going to be tempted to think otherwise.

It’s important to be reminded of this reality:

The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever. 1 John 2:17

We are temporary residents of earth. I think it’s important to remember this truth to keep me focused. Lord, when I am tempted by what the world has to offer, please remind me that my days are numbered, that I have limited time to do the work You have called me to do. Remind me that Your strength is within me, I am Yours.

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1John: Obedience in Love

Read 1 John 2:3-11

Once again, John boldly points out the distinction between those walking in light versus darkness, liars, and truthtellers. The lesson is as relevant today as it was thousands of years ago. When we avoid speaking the truth in love, we fall into a trap. Sometimes this happens when we mistake being kind and considerate for truly being loving. We listen to the voice that encourages doubt by pointing out something that is true. The challenge, of course, is the second half of the equation: in love. If you love me, you will tell me when I’m about to walk into a buzzsaw with my eyes closed. Right? I think that’s what John is doing with this letter to his friends and fellow Christ followers. He’s reminding them of what they already know is true.

Before we jump in, I find myself asking this question, what was he responding to? Did he get a letter from a church member complaining about so and so? Or is this the third time someone visited him from the different church plants with the same issue? The church leaders must have told John there were problems and I think he sees a trend that needed to be addressed right away. His strong response is meant to get their attention.

3 We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. 4 Whoever says, “I know him,” but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. 1 John 2:3-4

If I were to ever preach on this passage, I think I’d title the sermon, Liar. I would unpack the idea of doing what He commands a bit, perhaps the part about making disciples. What do you think? If someone from stage asks you if you are actively making disciples of Jesus and you honestly answer negatively, where does that put you?

Regretfully, I have to confess that I would have been that person just a handful of years ago. I have memorized the verse that said go and make disciples, but I had not mobilized the passage. There’s a huge difference! From my incorrect vantage point,  making disciples was for the paid staff or something. My job was to pull off a great Sunday experience, someone else did the disciple-making. Am I the only one?

Before jumping off the deep end, make sure you read the rest of the story. It’s never too late to start.

5 But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did. 1 John 2:5-6

Fortunately for us, we have the Word available to us in many forms. It must have been a lot harder for the first century Christians, but we have little excuse to miss His commands.

Oddly enough, it’s not new.

Dear friends, I am not writing you a new command but an old one, which you have had since the beginning. This old command is the message you have heard. 1 John 2:7

Sorry, you and I can’t claim we didn’t know. This is nothing new. John is merely reminding us of something we should already know.

Yet I am writing you a new command; its truth is seen in him and in you, because the darkness is passing and the true light is already shining. 1 John 2:8

The “new” part of the command is that Jesus came as the true light to the world. When Jesus taught on love and hate, His words extended the old commands far deeper and wider than anyone ever imagined. The battle begins within the family of Christ.

But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them. 1 John 2:11

What does it mean to hate a brother or sister? Some obvious answers come to mind immediately, but there are also many subtle thoughts as well.  The word darkness is repeated three times in that one verse five times in today’s reading. Perhaps this is something we should stop and consider. And I’m confident that John’s reference to brother or sister extends beyond the biological family to all of those that claim Jesus as Lord.

Thoughts that dwell in darkness are not from Christ. These are whispers from the chief of lies, the one who lives in darkness and runs from the light.

Hate is different from disagreement. Don’t fall into that trap. John doesn’t suggest we all agree on every little thing. Hate is much deeper; it is something that resides in the heart. You can’t have hate and love in the same heart. You have to have one or the other. The good news is this; Christ replaced our hearts! This is the great reminder from John.

Holy Spirit fill our hearts with Your love and chase away any darkness that blinds us. Help us to speak the truth in love and rid ourselves from all malice, anger, envy, and thoughts that are not from You.

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1John: Light, Darkness, Sin, and Forgiveness

Read 1 John 1:5-2:2

John set the stage in the preamble to his brief letter; now he dives right into the problem of sin. While the topic is undoubtedly timeless, it is essential to consider those who would be reading this letter in the first century. Their view of God is probably a lot different than ours, but He is the same. And so we bounce back and forth from ancient to modern, an exercise that’s worth the effort. I’m trying to read the letter from both perspectives to get a better understanding of how this applies to us today.

This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. 1 John 1:5

The idea of light versus darkness is significant. When John wrote this letter, there were no light switches. Even in our modern age, bad things tend to happen more frequently in the dark of night than in broad daylight, though the latter is possible. I’m hoping to have a Ride-Along with our local police department soon, 12 hours of darkness to learn about our city from the dark side.

God is light, not a statue or some engraved image. In this instance, the right answer begins with, because Jesus said so. John will explain a bit further, but he recalls one of the major themes Jesus made clear during His earthly ministry. Light is pure. It’s not possible to have darkness within the light. Sure, are brighter than others, but the presence of light eliminates darkness.

Fellowship With God

The concept of being in fellowship with God is incredible. If we fully believe that He is the creator of the universe, immortal, invincible, all powerful, all knowing, how can we casually read over this next verse?

If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:6-7

Would you like to have fellowship with God? Honestly, outside of the walls of the church or circle of Christian friends, what does that mean? In my mind, the concept of fellowship is a two-way street. We are each contributing our part to the relationship. It’s a mutual friendship. Honestly, that’s elevating me way above what I deserve, but this is what Jesus said He wanted.

We have the opportunity to walk in the light, to do what is right by following His example. John’s not afraid to call us out, though. If we put on the badge that claims we are following Christ but continue sinning, we are lying. We are liars. The truth is not in us. The fellowship will not last if we say one thing while doing another.

If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:8

Brothers and sisters, do not be deceived. Hear this amazing news that John preached over and over again:

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9

I’ve often though our Catholic friends were onto something when they created the confessional. I’m not sure how it works, but the idea of being able to speak our sins out loud to a human that cares about our relationship with Christ is a beautiful thought. The key, however, isn’t found in our earthly relatives. Jesus is faithful and just and forgives our sins. He went to the cross to bear the burden and purify us.

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. 1 John 2:2

The whole world is put back in harmony with God through the blood of Jesus. We can enjoy fellowship when we follow His commands. The idea of koinonia can become real, and when it does, people will want to be a part of the family. They will go out of their way to figure out what we’re up to and how to get in on the action. Not by our elaborate productions, but by our love. We’ll see this theme of love unfold in John’s writing to the early church.

Lord help us to be a body of believers that love each other, that confesses to one another, that forgives and moves forward. Teach us how to love the way you showed us. And we will give You all the glory!

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1John: Introduction and the Word of Life

Introduction

Having read John’s words in his Fourth Gospel, we now get to hear his appeal to a few of his church plants. We’ll take this one piece at a time, but let me encourage you to imagine John wrote these letters to you.  There are only five chapters in 1 John, so that shouldn’t be a great challenge.

Researchers suggest these letters were written just after the Fourth Gospel, sometime after the significant event in Jewish history–the destruction of the temple in A.D. 70. While the author of the letters isn’t explicitly noted, that is, John did not add his signature, scholars agree he is the author.

The target of these letters is entirely different from the Fourth Gospel. Toward the end of his gospel account, John made his purpose clear:

But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:31

The letters, however, are written to churches John started to address specific issues. Those who first read these letters were already believers, or at least that was the assumption. Keep this in mind as we read along.

The theology supported in these letters help us appreciate the relationship of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but I think the emphasis of these letters is to teach us that struggles in the church are genuine. Our current efforts may not directly correspond to those who met around A.D. 70 but knowing they had issues is somewhat comforting.

Many commentators pay particular attention to the influence of Gnostics on the early church. John may not use the term precisely; instead, he focuses his words on the importance of love for one another as Christ commanded. He reminds the church that they should demonstrate their faith by their actions. And he provides some tests for them to consider when they have doubts.

Perhaps the most critical purpose of John’s letters is the way he demonstrates how to address concerns. As long as imperfect humans are involved in running churches, we will have problems. The moment we think we have found the perfect church is the precise time when it will disappoint us in some way or another.

Read 1 John 1:1-4

Similar to the Fourth Gospel, John begins this letter by stepping back and reminding us that the Word of life is eternal.

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked at and our hands have touched—this we proclaim concerning the Word of life. The life appeared; we have seen it and testify to it, and we proclaim to you the eternal life, which was with the Father and has appeared to us. 1 John 1:1-2

If I could bold some words in my Bible, I’d point out the words shown above. Jesus wasn’t something they heard about; He was real. Jesus came in human form. John touched Him. They embraced, laughed, cried, shared meals, and much more for something like three years. John watched Him die, then had breakfast with Him the following week. Remember that!

John can’t help but proclaim what was seen and heard. The whole point of this fellowship is the relationship with the Father, Son, and Spirit. Our human relationships should reflect the same–completely unity and harmony. This is a beautiful thing!

Three times in John’s gospel he wrote about the concept of joy becoming complete. I think this must be an important idea.

  • John 3:29 – That joy is mine, and it is now complete.
  • John 15:11 – I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.
  • John 16:24 – Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.

We write this to make our joy complete. 1 John 1:4

John is not alone. He and his fellow ministers remind us of the joy found in knowing that Jesus came and fulfilled His mission. We all celebrate together.

Lord, may our lives reflect the joy that is found complete in You. Remind us of what we’ve seen, heard, and touched so we may be Your witnesses here and to the ends of the world.

 

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John: Peter is Reinstated by Jesus

Read John 21:15-25

Breakfast on the beach with Jesus continues from the previous story. The early morning fishing expedition that seemed like a rout turned out to be fantastic because of Jesus. That shouldn’t be surprising. When Jesus is in the middle of anything we do, we should expect amazing results. This time is no different. This time, however, we get a bonus.

Peter is sitting next to His master, or perhaps Jesus walks up to Peter to begin the conversation.

When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.” John 21:15

In this compelling question, Peter is asked to examine his heart. Think about it, what are these? Jesus is there with Peter looking at the spectacular catch of fish. On the one hand, if he could do this every day, he could become quite wealthy. But Jesus asks him a question that cuts through the trappings of success and fortune. Do you love Jesus more than success and money?

I’m just guessing that Jesus let the thought linger for some time before asking again. After all, the three denials from a few days ago took some time to unravel Peter.

Again Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.” John 21:16

Peter doesn’t hesitate, though it’s unlikely he understands or appreciates the significance of the question.

The third time hurts. I think Peter is exasperated when he responds:

“Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.” John 21:17

Jesus finally elaborates.

Jesus said, “Feed my sheep. Very truly I tell you, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, “Follow me!” John 21:17b-19

Peter thought about the words of his Master and accepted their significance. However, his humanity continues to appear. Here is one of the things I love about the way John crafts the story. Peter looks around at the men enjoying the feast and picks out John.

“Lord, what about him?” John 21:21

Seriously Peter, what are you thinking? Jesus’ reply gives us some great insight to consider:

Jesus answered, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” John 21:22

In a meeting a few weeks ago, a friend who has an amazing post-incarceration ministry gave me some great advice: stay in your lane. The John in my personal story knows firsthand what it’s like to be distracted by others. They can lead you into trouble, to be sure, but worse, they can cause you to take your eyes off of the One who is calling your name.

When Jesus calls you and me, He is calling us as our Lord and Master. If we follow this story, we would be wise to do that which Jesus is calling us to do. Whatever that is and wherever that leads.

Hear the words of Jesus:

Do you love me?

Feed my lambs.

Take care of my sheep.

Feed my sheep.

Follow me.

One More Thing

Before we close the chapter and the Gospel according to John, we have one last reminder (this is really the last reminder).

Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written. John 21:25

As we ponder the words of Jesus, our Lord, our Master, consider the words from this old hymn:

Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made;
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade;
To write the love of God above
Would drain the ocean dry;
Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.

May the words inspire you to love all those around you from the greatest to the least.

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John: Jesus and the Miraculous Catch of Fish

Read John 21:1-14

The last chapter ended with a purpose statement for the entire Fourth Gospel. This chapter bridges the gap with a word that makes me wonder: afterward. After how long? Jesus showed the disciples definitively that the resurrection was more than a prophecy, it was genuine. He was quite alive. But what did they do with this information?

The chapter starts with this:

Simon Peter, Thomas (also known as Didymus), Nathanael from Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two other disciples were together.  “I’m going out to fish,” Simon Peter told them, and they said, “We’ll go with you.” So they went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. John 21:2-3

I have an idea, let’s go fishing! Jesus appeared to His disciples in the locked room, talked to them, perhaps explained how His resurrection worked, the guards, the stone was rolled away, and more. I’m just guessing, of course. My point is they heard from Jesus. It was His voice speaking to them once again. The impossible was possible after all.

I’d love to ask John, “How long was afterward?” Is chapter 21 an Epilogue of sorts? Both chapters 20 and 21 end with concluding remarks, so it seems that we are privileged to have a few additional stories to fill in a few gaps. The first story covered in this section shows that Jesus does have a sense of humor.

The men are perhaps 100 yards from the shore when Jesus sneaks up on the scene.

He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” John 21:5-6a

I wonder if they merely said “no” to the man walking along the beach. I imagine they were a bit ticked off at this point. Thomas was giving Peter a hard time for suggesting they go fishing. Nathanael and the Zebedee brothers were tired of the fruitless effort. Now this wiseguy from the beach has a great idea.

Perhaps it was Peter that suggested they follow the man’s advice. What could it hurt to try one more time?

When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, “It is the Lord,” he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. John 21:6b-7

John was the first to figure out it was Jesus enjoying the moment. Peter gets excited and jumps out of the boat, wishing he really could walk on water, and makes his way to the beach while the rest of the crew managed the fish and steered for the shore.

Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish you have just caught.” So Simon Peter climbed back into the boat and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” John 21:10-12

153 Fish — Let’s Have Breakfast

At this point, I suspect you’re waiting for me to explain the number 153 with such eloquence that you’ll make an appointment with the nearest tattoo artist, right? I actually thought about it, but I think the truth behind the number will remain a mystery. Go ahead and Google the question, then come back here for the rest of today’s story. Here’s my favorite answer:

“Large quantities of ink have gone into explaining why there should be 153 fish. At the purely historical level, it is unsurprising that someone counted them, either as part of dividing them up amongst the fishermen in preparation for sale, or because one of the men was so dumbfounded by the size of the catch that he said something like this: ‘Can you believe it? I wonder how many there are?'” D.A. Carson (see reference below)

John tells us this is the third time Jesus appeared to the disciples since His resurrection. On this occasion, He breaks break and has a meal with His friends. I’m really in awe of this event. Jesus is resurrected but doesn’t seem to be in a hurry at all. The balance of the world is in His hands, yet He is willing to take the time to sit down and eat with these men who will change the world.

There is much work to do, but we don’t have to run around as the world depends on every twitch of each muscle. One of the lessons here is to move with confidence that Jesus’ timing is better than mine. As I think back on the previous 20 chapters, I don’t recall a point where Jesus displayed any anxious movements. Here’s the thing, if we fully believe that the Spirit is alive and well within us, that our DNA has truly changed to include that of God the Father, how can we be anxious?

I’m not recommending we sit back and watch God do His work, but I am suggesting we do the work before us with confidence. Remember, He called us His friends and promised He would be with us always.

Cast your net again. Try the other side this time. These all sound like words of action, not complacency. Do your work and anticipate His blessing.

Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. John 21:13

 

 

 

Reference: D.A. Carson, The Gospel according to John (Pillar NT Commentary; Eerdmans, 1990), p. 672.

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John: The Purpose of this Gospel

Read John 20:30-31

Just before the last chapter, and just after Jesus appeared to Mary and the disciples, John pressed pause to remind us why he was inspired to tell the stories presented in the Fourth Gospel. These two simple verses are very significant in my mind.

Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book.John 20:30

Many super religious fundamentalists will demand that we study and memorize the Bible as God’s inerrant word. Some have even said the foundation of their faith is the Bible. The Bible reveals God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit to us, but Jesus is the rock. The foundation of my faith is Jesus. I hope and pray I haven’t offended anyone at this point.

If you’ve been reading my blog at all, you must know that I think the Bible is amazing! It is the inspired word of God provided for us for many reasons. It teaches us everything we need to know about getting along in this world and prepares us for the one beyond. It is the most important book in the world. No doubt.

By embracing the Bible as the authoritative document, we join hands with people around the world. We have a common language and enjoy similar experiences through stories that encourage us much of the time, challenge us to have faith beyond our tiny minds can understand while exhorting us to keep doing better.

We absolutely need to read and understand what is written in the Bible.

But it is not all that God said or did.

It is only the highlight reel, the tip of the proverbial iceberg. The Bible puts us on an even playing field and points us in the right direction.

The stories contained in this amazing work are here for a reason.

But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:31

Thomas needed to see Jesus with his eyes, hear with his ears, touch with his hands. He was one of a few hundred that enjoyed that brief opportunity. Those who saw Him are far fewer than those who did not. We have the Bible as a guide to help us appreciate what He’s done while emphasizing what He will do. The Bible is available in many forms that we may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God.

Thank you, Lord, for providing the Bible for us in this modern age. Blessed are those who believed in You without seeing You or having a Bible. May I use this resource to point people to You.

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John: Jesus Appears

Read John 20:11-29

Jesus is resurrected! He is alive! Just like He said. He appears to Mary Magdalene, the disciples, then a special visit to Thomas. John recalls these moments with great fondness, almost playfully if that doesn’t sound too irreverent for you! Look at the interactions:

Mary Magdalene

Mary was the first one to arrive on the scene, even while it was still dark. Her loyalty and concern for how Jesus was buried seem to have earned her the spotlight. She was the first to discover the tomb and tell the disciples to come and see. Now she will be honored by being the first to see, touch, and hear the voice of the resurrected Savior of the world.

They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” John 20:13

This is a rare moment. Two angels appear to Mary and she is not the least bit frightened. She is mourning the death of someone she loved and now His body was taken. It’s interesting that she doesn’t accuse these two of taking His body. Then another man appears.

He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” John 20:15

Though she doesn’t accuse this man, she is beginning to wonder if they might know what was done with the body. Perhaps they saw others carrying it away. She’s far beyond any concern for herself, she simply wants to do what is right for her departed friend. Then she hears a familiar voice.

Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” (which means “Teacher”). John 20:16

Yes! It is Jesus! She doesn’t just turn toward Him, she immediately hugs Him without reservation. The best I can do is imagine losing a daughter, then suddenly seeing her again. The embrace would be deep and strong, joy would flood my heart. Mary has this moment with Jesus before anyone else in the world. This is beyond amazing!

For some reason that’s not completely clear, Jesus tells her not to hold onto Him but dispatches her for the second time to tell the others what she has seen.

Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her. John 20:18

I imagine the darted back to the tomb and found it quite empty, no sign of gardener or angels, but now their hope was beginning to ignite. I’m completely convinced that they believed Mary. (We’ll discuss Thomas separately!) But what should they do next? His body is gone, Mary has seen Him and even had a conversation, however brief, with Jesus. This is fantastic! Actually, it’s beyond words.

The Disciples

They return to the room. In my imagination I see them telling Mary to repeat the story over and over again. “Tell it again, Mary, tell us exactly what He said!” The excitement is beyond belief. Jesus doesn’t make them wait too long, but He does make them wait as they kept themselves hidden in fear.

On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jewish leaders, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord. John 20:19-20

Overjoyed indeed. It’s all starting to make sense…well, a little sense that is.

Doubting Thomas

Thomas was absent when Jesus first appeared to the disciples. When they told him they had seen the risen savior, he had doubts. I’m sure I would have had doubts as well. Even if we talk about impossible events in our wildest imagination, actually seeing it come true is another thing altogether. John’s sense of humor is not the least bit impaired.

Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” John 20:26-27

I think Jesus had some fun with Thomas. Most of my life I’ve heard these words to Thomas as a rebuke, words spoken with force, even a condescending tone. Perhaps a Gandolf moment if that makes any sense. In my old age, I see things differently.

God created us and wants us to live a life of joy. He created music and art to stir our hearts and He created laughter and play. I’m not suggesting this was overly playful, nor that He was laughing at Thomas, but I honestly think that Jesus loved this man Thomas and spoke these words as a friend would spur on another friend. You can take or leave that for all it’s worth. The God I read about is the One who went out of His way to show His love for all of us. He is all-powerful, no doubt, but His love is even stronger. Now Thomas knows. And soon he will fully engage in the mission of telling the world.

Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29

Again, I want to encourage you to read the words of Jesus from a perspective of encouragement and not a scolding demand. So many more will be asked to believe in Jesus without seeing Him. Jesus said He was going to ascend to the Father. He taught them just a few days ago that He was leaving them while sending the Advocate, the Holy Spirit. They’re not going to see Him, but they are going to tell the world. How could they not!!

Last Sunday, Theresa spoke and gave us a beautiful portrait of how Jesus sees us. She used the woman at the well to emphasize how Jesus sees beyond our outward appearances and looks straight at the heart. “I see you,” she said. It’s true. Jesus sees you and me beyond addiction, failures, and mistakes. He sees us beyond fancy clothing, cars, and opulent houses. He sees us when we’re down and when we’re flying high. And He saw Thomas.

Jesus is risen, just as He said! It’s the last day of January. Let’s celebrate Easter today and every day! Let your joy be complete in Christ Jesus!!

 

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John: The Empty Tomb

Read John 20:1-10

The pain of the events leading up to the mock trial, the insanity of Jewish leaders and the crowd they mustered, Pilate’s capitulation, and the soldier’s mechanical actions that led to the death of their beloved. Three years went by in a flash. Now He was dead and buried.

Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance. John 20:1

To make matters worse, someone had the audacity to steal the body. He was gone. The guards had their story, not covered by John probably because it was irrelevant! No one truly expected this to happen. Seriously, if we didn’t know the story, we would not skip over these verses so quickly. John’s account is so brief we can easily miss the magnitude of the moment.

Mary’s reaction is highlighted by John. She didn’t need to investigate, she needed help.

So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!” John 20:2

Peter and John are together, probably with the other disciples. I can only imagine that Peter spent hours grieving with his brothers in Christ. I’m sure he told them about his denials and the ominous, echoing rooster that tortured his mind. His brothers consoled him, at least in my mind. They were together and the women that supported their ministry knew it.

Peter and John take off running for the tomb. I have no idea how far, but apparently John was the better runner! He got to the gravesite first, but Peter didn’t stop when he arrived.

Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. John 20:6-7

His heart was beating wildly in his chest, Peter wasn’t going to stop. He was no longer afraid of what people would say. Jesus was dead, anyway, so it really didn’t matter. What could they do to him now? John finally stepped into the tomb as well. Confused. Perhaps angry. I think they were drained. Knees weak. Breathing was difficult.

In hindsight John adds this parenthetical comment:

(They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.) John 20:9

What else could they do?

the disciples went back to where they were staying. John 20:10

Yes, I know there’s much more to the story, but for this moment may I suggest we pause and slip into Peter and John’s sandals and meditate. Let the emotions of this moment make a mark in my heart, O Lord.

I know I can’t bear the pain they felt, nor would I really want to if somehow I could, but I do want to sense the weight of the moment. If I could, then perhaps my heart would truly break for those who are far from Christ. If I could look into the faces of the eleven men and a number of women that filled that small space, maybe then I would be able to hear Your voice. Perhaps even my heart would break for the least, the lost, and the lonely.

It’s cold outside. I know people are sleeping on the ground. You know people sleeping behind dumpsters. Sure, they’ve made mistakes, battle mental giants and perhaps addictions, but they are people.

Perhaps worse, it’s cold inside. Hearts of stone that need to melt. Warm our hearts O Lord, and show us what we should do next. Please be patient as I stumble and fall, still chasing demons that haunt me from the past, failures that I hold onto. One by one, show me how to wrestle them to the ground, then release them to You.

The tomb is empty. What happens next was impossible.

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John: Jesus Crucified

Read John 19:16-42

If you think my previous post regarding Pilate’s problem exonerated his actions, make sure you read the first part of this passage carefully.

19Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS. 20Many of the Jews read this sign, for the place where Jesus was crucified was near the city, and the sign was written in Aramaic, Latin and Greek. 21The chief priests of the Jews protested to Pilate, “Do not write ‘The King of the Jews,’ but that this man claimed to be king of the Jews.” 22Pilate answered, “What I have written, I have written.” John 19:19-22

Pilate gave orders to have the sign posted and translated to make sure everyone could read it, “What I have written, I have written.” He was not an innocent political puppet. He twisted the knife himself.

I’m not gloating in the least; I’m actually very sad for his words and actions. The soldiers follow orders. Just another day at their post in Jerusalem. I wonder if this was one of “those” assignments you get in the military, one of the despised places where you have to deal with super religious people.

John records very few words from Jesus during His crucifixion. I think it’s because he is overcome with emotion as he watches his friend, his master, his savior brutally tortured as a public spectacle. He recalls the moment when Jesus somehow had the strength to speak to His earthly mother Mary:

When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to her, “Woman, here is your son,” and to the disciple, “Here is your mother.” John 19:26-27a

John, the disciple whom He loved, was not far away, not hidden or in the shadows. He was there within eyesight of Jesus. He heard Jesus pass the baton to him, to take care of His mother. Obviously, Joseph is no longer with us. He must have died some time ago as he is not mentioned at all during Jesus’ years of ministry. As the eldest son in their family, Jesus assumed the role of patriarch. This made good sense, but it’s interesting that Jesus picked John to take His role. We know that James, the brother of Jesus, was somewhere and based on words John recorded earlier, he wasn’t the only sibling. So why pass the mantle to John?

John’s response is definitive. He will do as his master asked.

From that time on, this disciple took her into his home. John 19:27b

The Death of Jesus

As I mentioned earlier, John provided few words, perhaps the least required, to document the agonizing event.

28Later, knowing that everything had now been finished, and so that Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty.” 29A jar of wine vinegar was there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put the sponge on a stalk of the hyssop plant, and lifted it to Jesus’ lips. 30When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit. John 19:28-30

Let there be no doubt, Virginia, the body of Jesus was no longer alive, He was fully dead. Once again, Pilate enters the scene to expedite the savage spectacle by having the soldiers remove the carcasses from the wooden structures. I know that sounds crass, but I think that’s how they viewed their jobs. These weren’t people, these were less than humans that deserved to be brutally beaten in an effort to teach the public a lesson. Beyond sad.

The man who saw it has given testimony, and his testimony is true. He knows that he tells the truth, and he testifies so that you also may believe. John 19:35

The man who saw it. I’m pretty sure this is John, once again diverting attention from himself to that which is more important.

he testifies so that you also may believe.

Later, as Luke records, when Jesus “opens their minds to the Scriptures“ they will understand the precise reason for each action that happened on this day. John will add his notes to highlight the most significant points.

The Burial of Jesus

We’re not quite done with Pilate. Once again, there is interaction with the governor. This time a wealthy Jew who hid his relationship with Jesus somehow approached Pilate:

Later, Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jewish leaders. With Pilate’s permission, he came and took the body away. John 19:38

Joseph came with Nicodemus. Remember his interaction with Jesus back in chapter 3? Make sure you look at the additional comment I added to this post based on a video I watched by Rich Mullins.

Taking Jesus’ body, the two of them wrapped it, with the spices, in strips of linen. This was in accordance with Jewish burial customs. John 19:40

It was certainly Jewish customs that motivated them to wrap the body of Jesus, but it’s odd that these two prominent men would do the work. They would certainly be declared unclean by touching a dead body and thus be self-eliminated from any of the Passover feasts.

I don’t think they even gave that one thought. They took care of the one they loved without regard to rules or regulations. They stepped across the line of comfort and tradition and did what was right. There was no show, no spectacle or scene for those to see. John comforted Mary as best he knew how while their friends, Joseph and Nicodemus, took care of the difficult business of laying Jesus’s body in a tomb.

The end. So they thought.

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