Tag: disciple

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John: Jesus at the Feast of Tabernacles

Read John 7:1-13

If we were Jewish or celebrated with our Jewish brothers, this would be the time of year when the Feast of Tabernacles would kick into high gear. John uses the backdrop of this festival to highlight some significant lessons for us to consider. The first vignette is a look at the interaction between Jesus and His brothers. We read words about the growing separation between those who follow Jesus and those who are convinced He is dangerous. In effect, He certainly is dangerous, but not for the reasons anyone is proposing.

It’s been about six months since the last chapter. John picks up the story by giving us just a little background, things people in the first-century church would have known well.

Jesus went around in Galilee. He did not want to go about in Judea because the Jewish leaders there were looking for a way to kill him. But when the Jewish Festival of Tabernacles was near… John 7:1-2

John continues to remind us to look for those who are conspiring to kill Jesus throughout his narrative. Think of it this way, imagine you are watching a movie with someone who knows how the mystery is solved. Throughout the show, they keep saying things like, “did you see that person?” or “watch this part carefully.” Beyond just spoiling the movie, they’re trying to help you see how the plot unfolds. This is how John writes.

The setting is during the last festival of the year. The Feast of Tabernacles was designed to be a joyous time of celebration for the whole Jewish community.

Be joyful at your festival—you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levites, the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns. For seven days celebrate the festival to the Lord your God at the place the Lord will choose. For the Lord your God will bless you in all your harvest and in all the work of your hands, and your joy will be complete. Deuteronomy 16:14-15

Sons and daughters, male and female servants, even foreigners, widows and orphans are welcomed and expected to join in the seven-day festival. Wow! Can we not keep some of these old customs? Can you imagine a celebration that went on for an entire week?

Jesus’ earthly father was Joseph. Though we don’t know how long Joseph was around after His birth, I’m convinced he took Jesus to all the festivals, that he participated with the rest of the village. I like to think that this was something their whole family looked forward to each year, every season. It’s helps me to think this way because it puts me in their sandals for a bit. This was a big deal.

With that context, listen in on the conversation that John records between Jesus and His brothers.

Jesus’ brothers said to him, “Leave Galilee and go to Judea, so that your disciples there may see the works you do. No one who wants to become a public figure acts in secret. Since you are doing these things, show yourself to the world.” For even his own brothers did not believe in him. John 7:3-5

His own brothers did not believe in Him. It would be a while before James would become a follower of his brother. I’m pretty sure I’d be with His brothers, chiding Him along, suggesting that He do His miracle “show” for all to see (sarcasm sign flashing brightly).

You can’t see the cursor flashing on my screen. I’m sitting here replaying the scene in my imagination. His brothers have no idea what’s going on, they’re too close to the fire, they can’t see the flame. Jesus is patient with them. He doesn’t call down fire on them and vanquish them from the earth. He simply tries to explain that this is not His time.

Therefore Jesus told them, “My time is not yet here; for you any time will do. The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify that its works are evil. You go to the festival… John 7:6-8a

He gives them a lesson about the world that they’ll have to think about for a while. In a relatively short time, Jesus will be crucified in front of them. These are some heavy words He wants them to ponder.

Jesus sends them on to the feast without Him. I imagine this was the first time in their life that this happened. I can’t prove that, but it makes sense given their heritage. I also imagine James making a note. At least I hope so.

Secretly, Jesus shows up after the festival gets going. The leaders and the crowds are wondering why He hasn’t shown up. It’s odd. He’s usually around during these events.

Rumors begin to spread: “Where is he?”, “He is a good man”, “No, he deceives people.”

But no one would say anything publicly about him for fear of the leaders. John 7:13

Lots of gossip, whispers in the crowds are heard, but not loud enough to get the attention of the religious leaders.

This is the tension I feel these days when I’m surrounded by nominal Christians, those checking their boxes, completing their duties, yet lacking the heart of one who truly follows Christ. Not that I have my act together, but I am seeking to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit, attempting to become an authentic Christ follower. I’m closer today than a year ago, but still have a way to go.

We don’t have to wait too long this time. Jesus makes His appearance in the next section. Until then, think about what it feels like to go to something like this festival without your brother for the first time. Imagine what it’s like to turn and walk away, convinced that he is the one who is lost. Dwell in that place for a short time, but don’t stay there. You know the rest of the story. My prompt is meant to slow you down a bit. Let the dissonance hang.

 

 

Every biblical holiday given to the Jewish people has three aspects. Israel was to observe the holiday in the present in order to remember something God had done in the past while looking forward to some future prophetic purpose hidden within each festival. This is true for their weekly observance of Shabbat, as well as for the annual pilgrimage festivals of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles.

During the Feast of Tabernacles or Sukkot, the Jewish people were to gather together in Jerusalem not only to remember God’s provision in the Wilderness but also to look forward to that promised Messianic age when all nations will flow to this city to worship the Lord.

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John: Who Can Accept This Hard Teaching?

Read John 6:60-71

The last section in this chapter challenges us all to accept that which is hard to understand. Those of us that have worn the Christian badge for many years might have a hard time understanding the challenge here, but I want to strongly encourage you (exhort) to read this chapter from the eyes of one who does not yet believe. If His closest disciples found this concept difficult, we need to check our own hearts as well.

There are two groups of disciples in this narrative: The Twelve and The Many. I’m not exactly sure how this all worked in those days, but the concept of discipleship was common in that culture. Actually, it’s common in our culture, but we don’t use the term outside of church very often. Apprentice might be a more universally accepted title. The structure is the same, however. One learns from someone who is a bit farther down the road in their learning. Nothing new here, just setting the stage for understanding the hierarchy that existed amongst those who are listening to Jesus.

As with the previous post, it’s important to look one verse back to appreciate the current text. In this case, we see that Jesus is teaching in the synagogue. The group that’s gathered there chose to be in the audience; they came to learn. In other words, this is not a random group of people on a street corner, the people in this story are those who were immersed in Jewish culture.

Since this is the last post for chapter six, I also want to zoom out a bit and look at the lesson John is teaching us in this writing. If we examine the chapter as a single lesson with multiple parts, we gain some rich insight into how John is trying to help us understand Jesus’ methods.

Let’s expand the structure with what we’ve learned in each post:

  • John: Feeding Thousands – John 6:1-15.
    • Jesus cares about our physical needs.
    • The crowd wants to control Jesus.
    • They eventually ask for food that does not spoil.
  • John: Jesus Walks on Water – Don’t Be Afraid – John 6:16-24.
    • Jesus cares about His disciples.
    • They are afraid, but Jesus comforts them.
    • Between the two episodes, reverence for Jesus is increased.
  • John: Jesus is the Bread of Life – John 6:25-59.
    • Jesus is the answer to eternal life.
    • He is the Son of God.
    • He must die in order to be raised up.
    • Blood must be shed.
    • Eternal life is ONLY possible through His death and resurrection (this becomes clear as we read more of John’s teaching).
  • Many Disciples Desert Jesus – John 6:60-71.
    • Many, if not most, won’t be able to accept this teaching.
    • The Twelve are confused; this is a new lesson for everyone.
    • Those who were on the fence about Jesus simply can’t accept this teaching.

It’s amazing that the disciples have the guts to say this is hard to understand.

On hearing it, many of his disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?” John 6:60

I don’t know about you, but I find great comfort in the fact that they not only thought this, but they said it out loud. They had to know that Jesus wasn’t going to let this slip by; He was going to confront them. That’s what I love about these guys and that’s the kind of community I hope to be a part of. Don’t just accept the answers, ask more questions. At the same time, don’t be cynical! This is not a prompt to be confrontational! Not at all!

Jesus said to them, “Does this offend you? Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was before! John 6:61-62

Jesus explains that the Spirit gives life, the flesh is meaningless. He knows that not all will believe in these words.

For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray him. He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless the Father has enabled them.” John 6:64-65

Jesus is not one to hold back, especially with His chosen disciples.

“You do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.” John 6:67-69

Peter’s answer is the response that we know we should have deep in our hearts. When we reflect on this mortal life, I hope we too would come to the same conclusion: to whom shall we go? It’s a bit sobering to think in terms of eternity when we look at our daily activity.

Was this the event that pushed Judas over the edge?

Then Jesus replied, “Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!” (He meant Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, who, though one of the Twelve, was later to betray him.) John 6:70-71

Perhaps he had too much pride to walk away with those who couldn’t accept this teaching. In his mind, he “had” to stay. John adds the parenthetical note to be sure we don’t miss the point that early on in Jesus’ earthly ministry He is fully aware of Judas’ intentions. I think it’s safe to say that John didn’t get it at the time; his discernment alarm was not that finely tuned at the time.

We’re all pretty good about hiding feelings, even when they betray us. In our culture, admitting we don’t understand something is looked down upon. That’s what I love about one-on-one discipleship. In these personal settings, our discussions have the capacity to ask questions without the facade. At least that’s my prayer!

As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, I hope you’ll read this chapter from the eyes of one who does not yet believe and remember that His closest disciples found this concept difficult. Lord help us to check our own hearts as well. Help us to see the difficulty in accepting that which we have become comfortable in believing so that we can lead others to Christ.

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John: Jesus is the Bread of Life

Read John 6:25-59

John dedicates the third section in chapter six to answer some questions and raise even more. Some of the crowd finally track Jesus down after His water-walking escape. They’re confused. Their motivation is for signs and wonders more than understanding the message. John records the highlights of the conversation which ends with a section that radically alters the view of religion. Take a deep breath. This is a heavy section.

Today’s story picks up in John 6:24 where the crowds realized that Jesus and the disciples somehow slipped away without any fanfare. They ask a logistical question, “when did you get here?”, but Jesus answers the deeper question that is on their hearts.

Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. John 6:27

They pick up on the word “work.” This is a concept they can relate to, i.e., give them something to do and receive the reward. Right? Nope.

Jesus answered, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” John 6:29

We might scoff at their response, but oddly enough, it all sounds incredibly familiar in this day and age: show us a sign, do something special. They recall the story of Moses and manna and try to convince Jesus by using scripture. Jesus knows the story better than they do, so He begins to broaden their minds by providing a lesson that promises life to the world. This is exciting news!

At this point it seems like they are tracking with Jesus: “Sir, always give us this bread” (John 6:34). They want the bread of life until they find out what Jesus is talking about.

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. John 6:35

Hang on, it gets deeper:

For I have come down from heaven not to do my will but to do the will of him who sent me. John 6:38

Now they’re totally confused. Isn’t this Joseph’s boy? You know, the carpenter’s son? What is this talk about coming down from heaven? And back up a few verses, what do you mean by “it is my Father?”

Jesus explains to them using a metaphor to build on their understanding of physical events:

I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” John 6:51

Their response reminds me of Nicodemus back in chapter 3,

Then the Jews began to argue sharply among themselves, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” John 6:52

Seriously? Are they missing the point? Ok, let’s go along with this line of argument and feed you with words to build upon their ignorance:

Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them. John 6:56

Like the private conversation with Nicodemus, they know Jesus is not talking about cannibalism. The words here hold deep meaning and require that they completely agree that Jesus is who He says He is. That, my friends, is too much for them to handle.

It turns out, it’s a hard pill for the disciples to swallow, but that’s covered in the next lesson.

The good news is presented here, Jesus is the way. We have the advantage of having the whole story presented to us in the form of the Bible, especially here in John’s gospel. John captures seven incredible truths for us to ponder:

  1. I am the bread of life: John 6:35
  2. I am the light of the world: John 8:12
  3. I am the gate for the sheep: John 10:7,9
  4. I am the good shepherd: John 10:11,14
  5. I am the resurrection and the life: John 11:25
  6. I am the way and the truth and the life: John 14:6
  7. I am the true vine: John 15:1,5

In the next post, I’ll attempt to wrap up chapter six and learn from all the lessons John is trying to teach us here.

Lord, help us to grasp the essence of what is said in this passage and give us the faith to fully believe. Fill the gaps between the large spans between these two extremes.

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John: Jesus Walks on Water — Don’t Be Afraid

Read John 6:16-24

John’s version of Jesus walking on water is concise. We have to look around for some more details, but we shouldn’t miss the point that Jesus is Lord of all and wants us to know that we should not be afraid as we fight the battles in this life.

John sets up the story by emphasizing the disciples were acting as a group separated from Jesus.

When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them. John 6:16-17

Looking back at verse 15 we remember that Jesus “withdrew again to a mountain by himself.” This is somewhat remarkable to me, not only did He find time by Himself–He did it again! This isn’t the first or last time that Jesus will separate Himself from others.

Why didn’t they wait for Jesus?

Matthew and Mark add some insight into this story (see: Matthew 14:22-33 and Mark 6:45-51

Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. Matthew 14:22
Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. Mark 6:45

Now it makes sense why they were in the boat without Jesus. Perhaps John leaves this detail out to focus on the miracle itself. In other words, it’s more important to focus on the idea that they were miles out in rough waves when Jesus appeared to them.

But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” John 6:20

Try and imagine the scene. The day began with crowds gathering and Jesus teaching the masses. They witnessed the miracle of feeding thousands with a few loaves and fishes, then Jesus slipped away. He sent these select few away, told them to take a boat and go. They obeyed their Master. Shortly before dawn, in the darkest of times, the disciples are in the middle of the lake, a storm is tossing them about, and they see someone walking toward them. I’m delirious just thinking about the scene.

How is it possible that Jesus is walking on the water towards them?

It is not possible, except for this: Jesus is God incarnate. He is Lord of all. He demonstrated His power by feeding thousands, now He shows His authority over nature. Who saw this? A handful of faithful followers. What was His main message?

Do not be afraid.

All three accounts of the story agree on this point. Jesus is teaching lots of things at one time, but the most important lesson is to not be afraid. To say this in a positive way, be courageous.

We’re going to have to be courageous to follow His command to seek and save the lost, to go and make disciples. We will likely have trouble in earthly terms like wind and waves, but the battle in the spiritual realm is far greater, much riskier, and far more deadly. We rage war against the Prince of Darkness. We need to hear the words: don’t be afraid!

One of the most frightening thoughts I’ve had in the last few days is that of the evil that is present in every city, every town, and shows up relentlessly on a daily basis. I don’t watch the news, but I do look at news sources online. I’m saddened by accidents on highways that claim lives, but I’m moved much deeper by accounts of men and women perpetrating crimes.

The ones we read about are the ones that get caught. Others happen that we know nothing about. What we do know is that they are inspired by a force that we are told to fight against.

And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Matthew 16:18-19

Don’t be afraid. There is a lot to be afraid of in this world, but we who are called to be followers of the One who walks on water, who feeds thousands with a word, who heals the infirmed, must not be afraid. The short time we walk on earth is an opportunity to be a people that stand against the gates of hell and we will not lose!

Each of us is called into the battle, into the fight. If you hear nothing else, hear this: Don’t be afraid. Jesus promises to be with us in this battle.

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John: Feeding Thousands

Read John 6:1-15

The commentators recommend reading the entire chapter to get the complete understanding of John’s perspective. The essence of the chapter is being fed by God, both physically and spiritually. We start with physical nourishment, but Jesus uses this miracle as a huge teaching point that most, including those closest to Him, cannot understand. Just thinking about it in these terms causes me to pause and wonder. When we look at this quick outline of the chapter, I think I can understand why:

Notice that Jesus recognized and participated in Jewish traditions. He was all about change, but He respected the feasts and other events that were part of Jewish culture during His time on earth. Most of these feasts were established during the time of Moses.

The references to Moses are not random or arbitrary. These people revere Moses as one of the most important men in history. He led them through the Red Sea; Jesus walked on water. The people complained and through Moses, they received manna (from God, of course); Jesus fed thousands from little. The people remember that Moses was the leader who stood up to Pharoah, but Jesus will not be seen as the leader these people expect.

One of my motivations for blogging through the Old Testament a few years ago was the need to understand the history that was in the minds of the disciples. They knew the old stories well; I did not. When Jesus makes tangential references to Moses, Elisha, etc., we can understand the concept much more when we have a grasp of the whole story. My goal here is to motivate you to read the Old Testament through this perspective if nothing else! Here are a few links:

Read the whole chapter with these thoughts in mind, then come back and consider the first part.

Feeding Thousands

One of the rare parallels through all four gospel records includes this miracle. Some suggest that John used Mark’s notes to write this section. That may be the case, but what is significant to me is the fact that all four include this narrative: Matthew 14:13-21, Mark 6:35-44, and Luke 9:10-17.

In John’s account of this miracle, Jesus does more than just feed people, He tests Philip (and likely the other disciples who weren’t about to jump to Philip’s aid).

When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do. John 6:5-6

Philip has no idea how to answer Jesus; the task is far too daunting. Andrew chimes in with an idea, but he’s cautious:

Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” John 6:8-9

Did they actively search the vast crowd? In my imagination, I can see the disciples trying to help Philip out, looking for an answer that might come close enough that their Master would fill in the gaps. Andrew takes the bold step with a caveat to save himself from certain embarrassment.

Side note: John points out that the bread Andrew found was from that of a boy and that it was made from barley. Commentators report that barley loaves were considered poor man’s bread, something like our present day pita bread. The reference to a boy is not unique, but it brings to mind the contribution of children to the kingdom. The vast majority of secret churches in China are run by teenage girls. Who would have thought boys and girls would play such important roles in advancing the kingdom? End of side note.

Jesus blesses the bread and fish and thousands of people are fed. Five thousand men were not alone. The total crowd size would have likely exceeded 10,000 people. This isn’t the point. Even if it was only 5,000 the miracle is far beyond any expectations. The crowd is moved by the miracle. Something special is going on here!

After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” John 6:14

It’s interesting that there’s no reference to the teaching that Jesus no doubt provided. Such a large crowd must have included a worship band, prayers of the people, and of course, a sermon! Sorry, I’m a bit cynical. Forget that last part.

The food provided a sign that His message must have indicated. They heard His words, I’m sure of it, but more than that, they saw His hands perform a miracle. This is what they’ve been waiting for.

Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself. John 6:15

Jesus and the disciples were way outnumbered. He escapes and sends the disciples out by boat. We’ll cover that story next!

Jesus is Not an Idol

We cannot put Jesus on display as our personal Lord and Savior — He’s not an idol to put on a mantle. He will not be placed in a box, not with a fox, not in a house, not with a mouse. No Sam I am, He will not. Ah, the wisdom of Dr. Seuss and Green Eggs and Ham.

Jesus withdraws from the crowd that wants to be led from the tyranny of the Roman empire. While this is a noble cause, it misses the point that we’ll discover as we continue reading.

Lord, help us understand the whole story as we wrestle to appreciate each piece!

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John: Healing at the Pool — Do You Want to Get Well?

As we head into chapter 5, I found it interesting that the NIV Application Commentary suggests the purpose of chapter 5 is to begin building the case against Jesus (cite below this post). This outline is helpful to give us some context for discussion:

The Crime (John 5:1–15)

  • A man at Bethesda is healed on the Sabbath
  • The man is interrogated
  • The criminal [Jesus] is identified

The Decision to Prosecute (John 5:16–18)

  • First basis: Jesus violates the Sabbath
  • Second basis: Jesus is making divine claims

Jesus Goes to Trial (John 5:19–47)

  • Jesus describes his “criminal” work
  • Jesus brings witnesses in his defense
  • Jesus prosecutes his opponents
  • Jesus identifies their crimes
  • Jesus challenges their ability to appeal

Read: John 5:1-15

In contrast to the request in the previous post where the principal character begs Jesus to heal his son, we now read a story where Jesus initiates the conversation. Instead of appealing to Jesus for help, Jesus sees the man and reaches out to him. While the man is not named in John’s gospel account, he would have been well known by the people from that area. After decades of inability to walk, people would certainly know him and his family.

In our modern culture, we can hide away in our houses and avoid our neighbors by slipping in and out of the garage by remote control. Not so back in the times represented here. Even though there were lots of people showing up for the special waters at Bethesda, this man was not nameless.

When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, “Do you want to get well?” John 5:6

The man’s response is one of logistics, he knows the process, but perhaps after so many years of sitting and waiting he has few friends or family that will do more than drop him off at the pool. Do the math. There are nearly 14,000 days in 38 years. That’s a lot of days to put up with a friend or relative that can’t walk! I don’t know if they transported him daily, but they certainly had to tend to his needs in some way or another.

“Sir,” the invalid replied, “I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.” John 5:7

When the healing waters of Bethesda are stirred, there’s a chance you can be healed if you’re placed in the water at the right time in the right location. Jesus doesn’t even address this superstition, nor does He denounce any potential medicinal benefits of minerals contained in the water. He simply says,

“Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. John 5:8-9

After years of sitting and waiting, the man is healed in an instant! No wading in the pool. No special anointing oil or board of elders with hands on his legs. Jesus doesn’t tell the disciples to gather around and see how this is done. None of this implies any spectacle or special gathering. No spotlight, no microphones, and no additional words of instruction. The guy didn’t even know who Jesus was and most importantly, there was no public confession of faith before he was healed. None of that. Just a command.

The Pharisees check their rulebook and throw a flag:

The day on which this took place was a Sabbath, and so the Jewish leaders said to the man who had been healed, “It is the Sabbath; the law forbids you to carry your mat.” John 5:9-10

Seriously? For the first time in nearly 40 years, this man is able to walk, he is actually able to carry his mat, and you want to play the Sabbath card?

It takes them a while, but eventually, the Pharisees find out it is Jesus who committed the crime, He healed a man on the Sabbath.

Stop Sinning

The story is of a real person at a real place at a time when people saw a direct correlation between sin and suffering. If you are a sinner, you suffer. Do good and you will be rewarded. Right? Not exactly, but Jesus’ response directed at this man opens up a floodgate of questions:

Later Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, “See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.” John 5:14

Stop sinning certainly implies the man has been sinning and the rest of the statement leaves us to believe his infirmity was the result of said sin. This is problematic.

What do we do with this story?

John must have had a particular reason to share this story. Was he trying to establish that the Pharisees had lost their way as the NIVAC outline suggests? Is this story about superstitions versus miraculous healing? Should we focus on the relationship of sin to suffering? Pass the mic around. I’d love to hear what you think!

For this man and in this case it appears that he needs to repent and have a change of heart. I think he showed up in the temple because he understood that God is to be honored for such a miracle. When Jesus tells him to stop sinning with a warning, it’s pretty clear that there is some relationship between sin and suffering for this man at this time. I would hope that I would be open to hearing such words in my own life! If there was any inclination that my infirmity would return because of sinful actions, I believe I would heed the words of Jesus.

 

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 62791-62798). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

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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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