Tag: teach

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Embracing the Outcasts

The series I’m creating here focuses on the Biblical mandate for serving the least, the lost, and the lonely. Those who are lonely are often the outcasts of society. The group transcends age, race, and income level. Someone can be incredibly wealthy and be inconsolably lonely. Loneliness leads to many mental health issues, and sadly, extreme loneliness is often the root of suicide.

Matthew was among this group. Though he was rich by worldly standards, I believe he was very lonely. To use the words of Jesus, he was sick.

On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mark 2:17

Jesus demonstrated His ability to look beyond outward appearances and look deep into the heart of man. While the context suggests He sees people as sick, He does not cast them into groups of haves and have nots. How He handles these situations are there for us to learn from. Jesus is not only permitting us to engage with sinners, but He also gives us a great example.

Mark’s Gospel account provides very little backdrop for the call of Matthew. In verse 14, Jesus simply says, “Follow me,” and Matthew’s life is instantly changed. While there was probably more to the interaction, the scene is consistent with how Mark writes the oldest of the Gospel accounts. He gets right to the point without superfluous details.

The only context we’re given for this great theological statement is the event that appears to follow Matthew’s decision to follow Jesus immediately:

While Jesus was having dinner at Levi’s house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Mark 2:15-17

The self-righteous in this story are looking down on Jesus because He is surrounded by sinners. Jesus goes out of His way to be in that position. This adds fuel to the fire of the Pharisees and teachers of the law. Doesn’t Jesus know about these people?

Do we see loneliness in people? Can you imagine having no friends, no family, no one to lean one when you’re having a bad day? Or for that matter, having a great day. Extend that thought by imagining no friends to relate to for a month, a year, or even years. It’s easy to see loneliness in the eyes of someone walking into a shelter, but even then it’s often disguised with alcohol or some other substance use disorder. Those who have been blessed with earthly possessions can hide their loneliness with things of earthly value, but little eternal significance. All deserve a chance to have a relationship with Jesus.

Discipleship is grounded in a relationship with Christ and fueled by our relationship with others. These relationships begin with the acceptance of those who would otherwise be labeled unacceptable.

May we learn to remove our judgment robes and love people the way Jesus demonstrated, especially those who are lonely.

Holy Spirit, give us the ability to see the lonely among us, to have a heart that breaks for their emptiness, and the courage to introduce them to the One who stands ready to fill the gap.

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Helping the Poor: My Religion

James, the brother of Jesus, is pretty clear in his short contribution to the New Testament when he talks about our responsibility to help those in need:

Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. James 1:27

The basic concept is this: true worshippers control what they say, are actively involved in doing what scriptures teach, and are careful to avoid sinning.

When we do these things, we are walking in step with the Father. The TEDx talk below provides an incredible example of a man living out these concepts. His words are kind, he is certainly doing the work of the Father, and by all accounts, his example is one to follow.

Kinship:
How can we achieve a certain kind of compassion that stands in awe at what the poor have to carry rather than stand in judgment of how they carry it. The measure of our compassion lies not in our service of those on the margins, but in our willingness to see ourselves in kinship with them, in mutuality. –Father Gregory Boyle

The incredibly positive impact of Homeboy Industries is the work of many people over several years.

Don’t be confused by the words, “true religion.” This is not a command to become pious.

The word “religious” (threskos) appears only here in the New Testament, though its root word (the noun threskia) is found elsewhere in the New Testament. It can refer to both the inner and outer qualities of worship; generally, however (as here), it points to external ceremonies. Paul uses it to refer to the worship of angels (Colossians 2:18). 1

Let us become true worshippers, those who tend to the needs of the orphans and widows, who care for and look after our brothers and sisters in need.

Here’s the home page for serving.

https://daverphillips.com/serving-the-least-the-lost-and-the-lonely/

 

1Guthrie, George H.. NIVAC Bundle 8: General Epistles, Revelation (The NIV Application Commentary). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.

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2John: Walking in the Truth

Read 2 John

The book of Second John contains a mere 13 verses as labeled by those who divided the Bible neatly for us around 500 years ago. This short epistle manages to expose some controversy for some in the church these days. I’m not going to try to stir the pot intentionally. Instead, I prefer to read the letter as if it were written to someone John knew well and wanted to encourage. My prayer is that we learn how to lead well by recognizing those who are in the trenches in ministry doing the work Christ called them to do.

John is a senior pastor or perhaps a bishop by modern definition. He feels the burden of responsibility to preach the Gospel as he heard it from Christ first hand, and he presses into his role as a leader of churches across the land.

The commentators agree that Second John was written in light of First John. That sounds funny just writing it there, but the point they seem to make is the second letter is not only brief, but it’s also somewhat incomplete without being viewed in the context of John’s former writing. In other words, you need to read First John before reading Second John. Using this as a background, we recall the thurst of the first letter was to warn the church about those who are trying to divide it into factions that propose false doctrine. John used the term “liar” to identify those who would suggest that Jesus was not fully man and fully God. There were those in the church that were woefully misguided and were leading many astray.

It’s helpful to glance back at First John before going too far.

Now that we have some context, it’s easy enough to imagine John writing to someone who is on the frontline of a young church fighting to keep people focused. Let these words minister to those of you who are struggling to keep people focused on the Gospel message:

To the lady chosen by God and to her children, whom I love in the truth—and not I only, but also all who know the truth 2 John 1:1

Two things immediately jump out to me: 1) this amazing lady and her children were chosen by God and 2) John and all of his leaders love what they’re doing.

Can you imagine getting a letter like that from someone you know is a great ministry leader? How about someone who personally knew Jesus Christ? I would be on my knees in a puddle of tears in no time. For those in leadership positions (which is just about everyone whether you know it or not), this is how we should address anyone who looks up to us. Begin by affirming God’s call in their life and reminding them they are deeply loved by the Father and by those of us who walk around in skin. You, my friend, are loved.

And…

The word “and” here is a crucial conjunction. John doesn’t begin with laudatory words followed by “but…” Not at all. He uses the word “and.” You can dive into the Greek via Long’s concordance at this point if you like, but don’t miss the point that John’s exhortation is a positive reminder.

And now, dear lady, I am not writing you a new command but one we have had from the beginning. 2 John 1:5a

What is that command? Remember how Jesus summarized the 600+ rules of Jewish law?

I ask that we love one another. And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. 2 John 1:5b-6

Those of you that know me have heard me say over and over again that we should love one another with everything we’ve got. As John reminds us here, we should be known as a people that walk in love.

Why so much emphasis on love? There are a few reasons that come to mind. We could say Jesus said so, but I think it’s much deeper than that. Though many among us prefer a checklist to execute, this is a reminder that we should walk in love because that was precisely what Jesus demonstrated during His brief ministry on earth. Everywhere He went, people wanted to touch Him, to hear Him; to see Him was enough.

You may think I’m strange, but I don’t see Jesus walking around with a grin pasted on His face giving high-fives to everyone in His path. There was something about the manner with which He talked to people that oozed out the kind of love we’re supposed to emulate. It’s difficult to define, but it’s incredibly easy to see. John reminds this dear lady and all those in her house that this kind of love is required and it is a joy to embrace.

John’s warning is strong at this point. He wants her to know that many are going around misleading others.

I say this because many deceivers, who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh, have gone out into the world. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be rewarded fully. 2 John 1:7-8

This is why we need to read Second John after First John. I the previous letter, John goes into more detail, so he doesn’t have to explain a lot here.

His guidance here is extreme:

If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not take them into your house or welcome them. Anyone who welcomes them shares in their wicked work. 2 John 1:10-11

The commentators’ perspective is helpful at this point. From what I’ve read from various sources, the custom of the early church was to invite traveling ministers into your house and take care of their basic needs. I can imagine people wandering from city to city and village to village as they proclaim the Gospel and spread the amazing news about Jesus. John draws the line here. Don’t endorse them in any way! Well, that doesn’t sound very loving, does it?

The NIV Application Commentary is helpful here:

These troubling verses should be viewed as “emergency regulations,” tied directly to the crisis at hand. They are directives from the battle zone, and they underscore the extreme danger the church is in when it not only tolerates, but actually invites into its ranks those whose teachings undermine traditional Christology.1

The early church was comprised of many house churches. The “rule” created here is put in place to keep disruptors from coming into your church and deceiving others. This is not a rule about shunning hospitality to strangers, not at all. The people John is referring to are seeking to disrupt the fellowship. They’re not merely wandering around looking for a bed and breakfast. John gives church leaders permission and authority to say no to those who would otherwise destroy the koinonia, the fellowship of believers.

Discerning who to say no to and who to tolerate is of utmost importance. John’s point is not trivial. He draws the line around those who deny the incarnation of Christ. The same would be true of those who are offended by the virgin birth or the reality of the resurrection. These are clearly inconsistent with the life and teaching of Jesus. But what about the current debate on sexuality? How about women in leadership?

We can quickly create a list of issues and apply the rule of locking the door, of saying you are not welcome here. Or we can just let anything go; every view is ok, right? No. That is not right. But herein lies the problem.

I want to suggest that we can love someone completely without agreeing with their theology. We can love someone who doesn’t know Jesus. We can love someone who worships a statue five times a day. We can absolutely love that person. But we must not let that person come in an teach in the church. This is truly black and white.

If it were only so easy to distinguish between the shades of gray, and so we don’t have all the clarity we might desire and the battles rage on. Our friends in the United Methodist Church are not so united anymore as a result of such fighting. Honestly, I think Screwtape is applauded when this happens.

John quickly closes his letter on a more positive note:

I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete. The children of your sister, who is chosen by God, send their greetings. 2 John 1:12-13

In other words, there’s lots more to say, but for now, I hope you get the point.

It’s funny how I started this post suggesting this was a short letter, then commenced to writing thoughts that only scratch the surface of what is taught here. We have a lot to learn. God helps us first to love each other and give us discernment that makes you smile. Help us see those who are intent on destroying that which you have given us to manage — even Your church.

 

  1. Guthrie, George H.. NIVAC Bundle 8: General Epistles, Revelation (The NIV Application Commentary). Zondervan. Kindle Edition.
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1John: Jesus in the Flesh is a Huge Barrier

Read 1 John 4:1-6

Today we get to listen to Pastor John as he speaks to his struggling church about something they shouldn’t be fighting about: the incarnation of Jesus Christ. The passage provides a clear we versus they framework along with details that we should view with great emphasis.

I’ve talked about how important the church-word “incarnation” is for Christ-followers in the past. Reading this passage stirs up that hornet’s nest once again. Forgive the soapbox, but as we seek to build relationships with those far from Christ, we simply must wrestle with this concept.

God in the Flesh

Those of us raised in Christian homes probably have never stopped to think about how crazy it sounds to question the authenticity of this assertion: Jesus was God in the flesh. We tend to jump straight to John 3:16 without hesitating to consider the full implication of the thought. But this is why Jesus stayed up late with Nicodemus in John 3. And probably why John had to summarize everything Jesus was teaching during that all-nighter. If you remember, the seminal verse is not offered in red letters. Look for yourself: John 3:16. The red letters stop at verse 15.

If we don’t believe Jesus was actually a man that walked and talked, we are truly lost. I’m very confident that anyone who is in their right mind would agree that Jesus was a man. But this isn’t the same as being God and human at the same time. This is the definition of incarnation. This is the big deal that John is addressing with his fledgling church.

To begin the discussion, John provides an important preface:

Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

The idea of false prophets is disturbing. Many look good on the outside but are absolutely wolves in sheepskin. John understands the problem and provides an answer key for his beloved church.

Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. 1 John 4:2-3

From John’s perspective, there is an obvious distinction between those who are and those who are not from God. Those who accept the truth of the incarnation are on the right and those who don’t are on the left.

Search your soul. Prayer and meditation offer the opportunity to hear from God. By this, I mean real prayer and sincere meditation. Music is one medium we can use to get lost in prayer, but I would encourage you to use music as a way to prepare yourself for hearing what God has to say. Get lost in the Spirit. Seek to discern His voice above everything else.

When we arrive at this point, the real voice of the loving Father is clear, and we are ready to hear this affirmation:

You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 1 John 4:4

We will hear the voice of the Spirit and know the truth.

We are from God, and whoever knows God listens to us; but whoever is not from God does not listen to us. This is how we recognize the Spirit of truth and the spirit of falsehood. 1 John 4:6

Surround yourself with people that are listening to this truth. Remind yourselves that there are many who haven’t tried to understand how amazing our God is that He would send Jesus in the flesh to walk and talk amongst dirty, lost, contrary, foolish humans.

If He was willing to get dirty, so will I. Great song. Listen to So Will I and pray for hearts that fully embrace the concept. Think about those who are far from Christ who can’t sing that song, who don’t understand the deep meaning behind each thought.

Know the truth: the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world.

Now go and be a light to a dark world.

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1John: Who is the Liar?

Read 1 John 2:18-27

In a world with many shades of gray, remember one thing which is clear: belief in Jesus or not. There is no in between. There is no gray. We are either with Jesus, or we stand against Him. While this sounds harsh to those who prefer an all-inclusive vacation resort where anything goes, I’m afraid it’s time to face reality.

Honestly, this had to break John’s heart. From everything I’ve read by John, he was truly gifted as a shepherd-teacher. He loved his flock and cared for each one as a precious jewel. I believe He wrote these words with tears in his eyes:

They went out from us, but they did not really belong to us. For if they had belonged to us, they would have remained with us; but their going showed that none of them belonged to us. 1 John 2:19

John was not the least bit concerned about the number of those attending weekend services; he focused on changing lives. The cold reality is that some will hear and understand the message, however eloquently presented, while others will not. Even worse, some will discern a different message than the pastor intended! We will lose some along the way. My hope and I think John’s perspective, is that one day those we have lost will regain their perspective, recant their mistakes, and return to Christ.

So many churches have split over minor differences, disputes that arose because one party could not appreciate the other person’s perspective. John clarified that this was not some petty difference.

I do not write to you because you do not know the truth, but because you do know it and because no lie comes from the truth. 1 John 2:21

He returns to the theme of this letter: who is the liar?

Who is the liar? It is whoever denies that Jesus is the Christ. Such a person is the antichrist—denying the Father and the Son. No one who denies the Son has the Father; whoever acknowledges the Son has the Father also. 1 John 2:22-23

These strong words get my attention, how about you? As mentioned at the beginning of this article, there is no room for gray. We either affirm or deny Jesus is the Christ. Those who choose the latter are antichrists.

These words are not designed to encourage us to mount our high-horse and puff out our chests with pride. I’m not advocating that we add this to our pious quiver of religious efficacy. Not at all. There will be those in churches who disagree on many matters, but this foundation is clear: we must acknowledge Jesus is the Christ. Everything else is second place and beyond.

This morning, Danielle Strickland’s Instagram post quoted Henri Nouwen that seems to fit this passage well:

Dear God,
I am so afraid to open my clenched fists!
Who will I be when I have nothing left to hold on to?
Who will I be when I stand before you with empty hands?
Please help me to gradually open my hands and to discover that I am not what I own, but what you want to give me. And what you want to give me is love, unconditional, everlasting love. Amen. Henri J.M. Nouwen

The thought that caught my eye was his second question: Who will I be when I stand before you with empty hands? This is a sobering reality that defuses self-righteousness completely. One day we will all stand before our Creator with open hands. When we do, what stories will we have to tell?

Jesus cleansed us from our sin, washed away our iniquities. This is the blessed assurance I have heard all my life, a hymn sung with full voice. My question is this, once all of that is washed away, what is left? May we have countless stories of love and sacrifice for the least, the lost, and the lonely. I pray that Jesus will sit next to me with a huge smile as proclaim, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ (Matthew 25:40)

Lord help us to have this posture of open hands today, long before we stand before You. Thank you for John’s reminder today:

As for you, see that what you have heard from the beginning remains in you. If it does, you also will remain in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he promised us—eternal life. 1 John 2:24-25

The promise of eternal life is somewhat difficult to wrap our minds around, but it helps keep present troubles and worries in perspective. John calls us to step back and take a broader view. I don’t know about you, but I need this reminder frequently.

John’s clear warning applies to us today as much as his young church in the first century.

I am writing these things to you about those who are trying to lead you astray. 1 John 2:26

There will be those who will try to lead us away from Christ. Some will do so in ignorance, others quite intentionally, perhaps lost in their world. We refer to these as cults, a topic worthy of discussion some other time. Suffice it to say at this point, be aware that they do exist and pray for discernment.

In John’s day the Gnostics proclaimed a different message. I briefly referred to the Gnostics in the introduction to this letter. That group is long gone, but others exist today. There are those who warp God’s word into versions that suit their desires and personal agendas. Don’t rely on Google or Wikipedia to explain the differences. Be a part of a fellowship of believers where you are free to ask questions. No topic should be off limits if we are to grow.

Remain In Him

John concludes this section with a loving reminder.

But as his anointing teaches you about all things and as that anointing is real, not counterfeit—just as it has taught you, remain in him. 1 John 2:27

We are anointed by Christ to do His work. This is a genuine privilege that demands our full attention. We’ve heard the lessons. Now it’s time to put words to action and live a life that reflects this reality.

 

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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: 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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John: Pilate’s Problem

Read John 18:28-19:16

I’m writing this post the day after International Holocaust Remembrance Day 2019. Honestly, I didn’t know there was such an event, but I am certainly moved to remember the atrocities committed against our Jewish brothers, sisters, moms, and dads. They weren’t killed by some supernatural phenomena, each person was corralled and killed by another human being, one who was out of touch with reality. I don’t want to be one of those who forgets; I’m sure you don’t either. Here’s an article from NPR that covered the story.

Perhaps you’re asking, why would I bring this up in light of the reading set before us today? I might be going out on a shaky limb, but the Roman occupation during the days of Jesus seems to bear the fingerprint of the Nazi invasion centuries later. Not the same, I get that but look at the DNA. More to the point, look at the common soldier or regiment commander that was “just doing his job.” This is Pilate’s problem.

Do I sympathize with Pilate? No. Please don’t get me wrong. He had the opportunity to dismiss Jesus and the Jews for their irrelevant arguments. Pilate could have simply ignored their request. Those who were in charge at Auschwitz could have ignored their orders as well if they were willing to put their own lives on the line. In my mind, there were two kinds of Nazi soldiers, those who were relieved when the Allied Troops liberated the camps and those who were angry. Both were wrong to do what they did, but I can understand the former much better than the latter group.

John’s narrative invites us to see Pilate as one who was trying to avoid doing what the Jews wanted. Look at these verses:

  • Pilate said, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” — John 18:31
  • “I find no basis for a charge against him…” [Bible]John 18:38[/bible]
  • “Look, I am bringing him out to you to let you know that I find no basis for a charge against him.” John 19:4
  • As for me, I find no basis for a charge against him. John 19:6
  • From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jewish leaders kept shouting John 19:12
  • Finally, Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified. John 19:16

The tension in this story is immense. The Jewish leaders finally got up the nerve to act on Judas’ betrayal, they were not about to back down now. The mock trial by Annas and Caiaphas are done, they march Jesus to the governor’s palace. As we read the beginning of the passage today, take note of their Jewish leaders’ concern for their laws above the life of Jesus:

By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness they did not enter the palace, because they wanted to be able to eat the Passover. John 18:18

These men handed Jesus over to be killed, then went home to celebrate God’s provision — The Passover. In their minds, somehow, they remained clean. To be clear, they presented Jesus to Pilate for one purpose: to have Him killed by crucifixion. There was no other reason for their actions. Pilate knew this quite clearly.

John records the interaction between Pilate and Jesus in the following verses. I’m confident there were many that heard the exchange and talked about it for days, perhaps to try and void themselves of guilt. That’s just my guess, but I don’t think I’m out of bounds.

Take a moment and read John 18:33-37. Pay particular attention to the conclusion and Pilate’s question that follows:

Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” “What is truth?” retorted Pilate. John 18:37-38

What is Truth?

Now we know the core issue, the root cause of the problem. Pilate can’t recognize truth when it is right in front of him. Neither could the Nazi commanders. Neither can the Planned Parenthood staff. While these groups are easily recognizable, the question really is this: can we see the truth? How about the 3rd-grade teacher that everybody loves? The pastor of the successful church down the road? Have we become so comfortable that we might join the masses that shout:

“No, not him! Give us Barabbas!” Now Barabbas had taken part in an uprising. John 18:40

And when we see Him paraded in front of us, would we react as expected? Will we puff up our chests and show the world how mighty we are?

And they slapped him in the face. John 19:3

This is profound. These people looked in the eyes of Jesus, stood within an arm’s reach of Him then took the initiative to raise their hand with a swift motion to slap Him in the face. No puppet strings attached. In their distorted minds, this somehow made sense.

Caught up in the moment, anonymous faces in the sea of people, they completely lost control of their humanity, let alone any memory of the One who healed the lame.

As soon as the chief priests and their officials saw him, they shouted, “Crucify! Crucify!” John 19:6

In our world, we will find such disdain for human life and dignity expressed in many forms. It might be disguised as a law passed in New York or a gunshot in the dark of night, but evil is alive and well. As I safely press the button that opens the gate to my neighborhood, lock the door to the garage as the door closes, I wonder if I’m safe or if I’m just sticking my head in the sand.

On one hand, I don’t want to be blinded by the evil that is present, but on the other, I don’t want to be consumed by it either. Where’s the balance? If I pray like Elisha to have my eyes opened, do I really want to see? His servant was able to see the host of those that surrounded Elisha. My fear is we would only see evil. Ah, that’s the word: fear. As Elisha might say, why are we so afraid?

Why was Pilate so afraid? How about the Nazi captain at Auschwitz? What is the Planned Parenthood physician thinking about? They are all blind and it is our mission to reveal the truth that we absolutely know is real. Don’t we?

Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?” Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.” John 19:10-11

The headlines read, Pilate Killed Three on a Hill. It was a story that ran in the back of the paper. It wasn’t news. Like the obits, they rarely make the front page. Just another day in the life of a Roman conqueror. But this wasn’t the end of the story. The greater sin was committed by those who knew better.

My prayer for you, if you’ve actually read to this point, is that you will recognize the truth when you see it, that I would know as well. We have Jesus with us, The Advocate lives in us. Elisha had the ability to see it all around.

Lord open our eyes to see that Your strength far outweighs the evil that invades our world. Let us be audaciously courageous! Remind us daily that Your power is far greater than that of the Deceiver.

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John: Jesus Questioned by the High Priest and Peter’s Denials

Read John 18:15-27

John provides a brief glimpse into the details of Jesus’ interrogation by Annas surrounded by Peter’s failure. As we read this section, it’s interesting to note the contrast painted by John. Peter lies. Jesus tells the truth. Lies, truth, lies. As we watch Peter keep warm with the late night party, there is no outward consequence of denying his association with Jesus. He’s a strong man with a convincing voice. When he says, “I am not,” those around him believed him. The way the story unfolds, there’s no indication that the three accusers heard his denial. One at a time the clock ticks.

A Servant Girl Asks an Innocent Question

The first test is an easy one to deny. A mere servant girl appears and asks the penetrating question. Would anyone believe her if she heard Peter admit his relationship with Jesus? As much as females were discounted in this society, someone else might have overheard the conversation. In my imagination, she has an annoying voice that everyone can hear. You know, that high-pitched whine the pierces through the silence — shut up girl! Enough of my embellishment. John is less dramatic:

15 Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Because this disciple was known to the high priest, he went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard, 16 but Peter had to wait outside at the door. The other disciple, who was known to the high priest, came back, spoke to the servant girl on duty there and brought Peter in. 17 “You aren’t one of this man’s disciples too, are you?” she asked Peter. He replied, “I am not.” John 18:15-17

The question asked is a definitive statement. She didn’t just ask if Peter knew Jesus or perhaps heard of Him. The tone of her question is accuses him of being a close follower, one who is complicit in the current trial. Peter certainly picked up on this when his first denial is uttered. I am not.

The Inquisition

At the same time, Annas is questioning Jesus, no doubt trying to trap Him with any one of the 600+ rules that governed the Jewish community. These were tense times. The Passover is about to start and literally, thousands of people would be making their way to Jerusalem. Any form of sedition must be stopped! Well, that’s the best I can do to support Annas’ questioning. We know it is pointless, but Jesus doesn’t give him the satisfaction of confessing something that is worthy of death. From John’s account, Annas only had a few questions, though I’m sure it took a while before Jesus responded.

“I have spoken openly to the world,” Jesus replied. “I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I said nothing in secret. Why question me? Ask those who heard me. Surely they know what I said.” John 18:20-21

Finally, Jesus breaks His silence with words that can’t be refuted. We recall several of the times when Jesus spoke with a loud voice in the temple courts. He wasn’t going around in secret!

One of those present couldn’t take it anymore!

When Jesus said this, one of the officials nearby slapped him in the face. “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” he demanded. “If I said something wrong,” Jesus replied, “testify as to what is wrong. But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?” John 18:22-23

No other words. Annas simply dismissed Jesus. It’s no surprise that Jesus doesn’t press the point. His rhetorical question is for the benefit of the fool that slapped the Savior. Such arrogant behavior is not new to this world. We are taught to pray for our enemies; Jesus provides the ultimate example.

Back to the Campfire

Another denial slips from Peter’s mouth as those gathered around the fire shift for warmer positions. The night is lingering on while the trial is moved to Caiaphas’ courtyard. Peter is quick to deny his relationship this second time. The third time is not so easy.

One of the high priest’s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, “Didn’t I see you with him in the garden?” Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow. John 18:26-27

Honestly, I’m really surprised that Peter was still hanging out so close to the action. Sunrise is coming and his face will be seen clearly very soon. The last person Peter wanted to see was a relative of Malchus, someone who would be keen to track down Peter with a sword of his own. I’d be pretty ticked, even if Jesus miraculously healed my cousin.

Third time’s a charm, as they say. The rooster crows and Peter remembers. At this point, he fades into the sunrise.

When I think of my failures, misspoken words, lies or half-truths, I think about Peter. Not out of comparison, but of empathy. Anytime my personal agenda is elevated above that of Christ, which happens more than I want to admit, the reminder of the rooster plays in my head. Well, I hope it plays in my head at full volume.

Jesus taught us better than to lie, cheat, or steal. He showed us as well. More than just words, He walked among us and demonstrated His willingness to hold onto the truth, even when it meant death on a cross. I know His mission was infinitely greater than ours, but the lesson is there for our benefit.

Lord help us to walk in the light, unafraid of the consequences mere humans would inflict on us. Teach us to endure slaps in the face while holding fast to your truths.

 

 

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