Creative Space for Wanderers
Read John 13:1-17 Before we begin this reading, it’s interesting to note that the NIV Application Commentary divides the book of John into two parts: Part 1, Chapters 1-12, is referred to as the “Book of Signs,” and Part 2, Chapters 13-21, comprise the “Book of Glory.” The first part includes an account of Jesus’ …
Read John 12:20-37 John is about to turn the corner on his Gospel account of Jesus’ ministry. This section begins with outsiders, from the Jewish perspective, who are trying to see Jesus. This is the time when Jesus changes the talk from, “his hour had not yet come,” to “the hour has come.” Don’t miss the …
Continue reading “John: Jesus Predicts His Death — The Hour Has Come”
Read John 12:1-11 Chapter 12 begins with two references: this is the week before Passover and a reminder that Lazarus is the one Jesus raised from the dead. Just in case you missed it or forgot somehow. With that quick intro, John tells his first story about Martha and Mary, Lazarus’ sisters. Martha is always …
Read Once again John provides a detailed story that demonstrates the humanity of the immortal, the love of God so vast that it transcends time and strikes us in the deepest parts of our being. I titled this, Jesus Wept, because I think this is the point of the story beyond His ability to raise …
Read: Before we move on to John 10 and beyond, I have to stop and reflect on the three-part series that attempts to look at chapter 9. The conclusion that John presents provides an imperative for our lives: we have been presented with the truth of Jesus, we can see with our eyes and hear …
Who is this man? What is he teaching? There were dozens of questions in the minds of those present at the Feast of Tabernacles, the huge celebration for all Jews: sons and daughters, male and female servants that ran for an entire week. John points out the highlights in his narrative description of key events. …
Read It looks like Jesus couldn’t stay away from the Festival of Tabernacles any longer. Halfway through the week-long celebration, He made an appearance. When He did, He didn’t find some side tent or hidden area, He went straight to the temple courts. The Jews there were amazed and asked, “How did this man get …
Continue reading “John: Jesus Teaches at the Festival of Tabernacles”
Read 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 …
Read John records some incredibly striking words in the continuation of Jesus’s response to the religious leaders who were so upset that they literally couldn’t think straight. The passage begins with a discussion about who is testifying for whom. Then we read some very convicting words like, “nor does his word dwell in you” and “I …
Continue reading “John: Testimonies About Jesus — The Canal”
Read: 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 …