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20.10.2024 – John Chapter 14 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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October 20, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 14
1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.
9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?
10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.
11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.
12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.
13 And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
14 If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
15 If ye love me, keep my commandments.
16 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
17 Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
18 I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.
19 Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.
20 At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.
21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
22 Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?
23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
24 He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.
25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.
26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
27 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
28 Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.
29 And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.
30 Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.
31 But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
Introduction
John Chapter 14 is a central section in the Gospel of John, offering profound insights into Jesus’ teachings about His relationship with the Father, the Holy Spirit, and the future of believers. This chapter forms an essential part of the so-called “Comfort Discourses” of Jesus, which are found in chapters 14 through 17 of the Gospel of John. In these speeches, Jesus prepares His disciples for His impending ascension, provides them with comfort, and gives them instructions for life after His physical departure. John 14 addresses key themes such as Jesus’ identity as the way to the Father, the promise of the Holy Spirit, and the unique peace that Christ grants to His followers.
Commentary
Jesus, the Way to the Father (Verses 1-4)
Jesus begins the chapter with an encouragement to His disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me!” (Verse 1). These words are meant to comfort the disciples in a time of uncertainty and fear. Jesus emphasizes that He is the way, the truth, and the life (Verse 6). This statement underscores His unique role as the mediator between God and humanity. Only through Him can believers gain access to the Father. Jesus assures His disciples that He is going to the Father to prepare a place for them and that He will return to take them to Himself. This strengthens the disciples’ trust in His divine mission and the eternal fellowship with Him.
The Promise of the Holy Spirit (Verses 15-17)
Jesus promises His disciples the Holy Spirit, the “other Comforter” or “Advocate” (Verse 16). The Holy Spirit is to remain with believers and work within them to teach them and remind them of everything Jesus has said (Verse 26). This promise ensures that the disciples will not be left alone after Jesus’ departure. The Holy Spirit will function as a source of truth and spiritual assistance, strengthening and guiding believers in their discipleship.
The Peace of Christ (Verses 27-31)
Jesus speaks about the peace He leaves with the believers: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you” (Verse 27). This peace differs from what the world offers, as it encompasses deeper spiritual and emotional tranquility. Jesus encourages His disciples not to be afraid, as His peace dwells within them. He reminds them that He is going to the Father and assures them that through their faith in Him, they will share in His life (Verse 19). This peace is a sign of divine presence and support in life’s challenges.
The Unity of the Father, Son, and Spirit (Verses 20-21)
Jesus emphasizes the deep unity between Himself, the Father, and the believers: “On that day you will realize that I am in my Father, and you are in me, and I am in you” (Verse 20). This unity implies a close fellowship and dependence of the believers on Christ and the Father. Those who keep Jesus’ commandments show their love for Him and are loved by God. This relationship is characterized by mutual love and revelation, highlighting the intimate connection between God and the believers.
The Significance of the Word and the Holy Spirit (Verses 22-26)
Jesus explains that His word comes directly from the Father and that those who love Him will keep His word (Verse 23). Jesus’ word is an expression of the Father’s will and character, giving believers a direct insight into God’s nature and intentions. The Holy Spirit serves as a teacher and reminder, keeping the believers mindful of Jesus’ teachings and supporting them in their spiritual growth.
The Farewell Conversation and the Assurance of Peace (Verses 27-31)
In the concluding part of the chapter, Jesus once again assures His disciples of His peace and encourages them not to fear. He explains that the ruler of this world—Satan—has no power over Him and that His return will mark the completion of His work. This assurance gives believers confidence and hope for the ultimate overcoming of evil.
Summary
John Chapter 14 provides a profound teaching from Jesus about His divine mission and the future relationship of believers with God. Through His statements as the way, the truth, and the life, Jesus conveys to His disciples that access to the Father is only possible through Him. The promise of the Holy Spirit as Comforter and Teacher ensures that believers will be spiritually supported even after His departure. The peace that Jesus grants is distinct from worldly peace, offering deep inner tranquility and security in God’s presence. Finally, Jesus emphasizes the unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and encourages believers to live in love and obedience to His commandments. This chapter strengthens believers’ trust in Jesus’ leadership and the ongoing divine support through the Holy Spirit.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 72—“In Remembrance of Me”
This chapter is based on Matthew 26:20-29; Mark 14:17-25; Luke 22:14-23; John 13:18-30.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 72 deals with one of the most central moments in the life of Jesus and Christian theology: the institution of the Lord’s Supper, which Jesus celebrated with His disciples during the Passover festival. This moment, described in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, marks the transition from the Jewish tradition of Passover to a new covenant, symbolized by the bread and wine that Jesus referred to as His body and blood. This act points both to His impending sacrifice on the cross and to the hope of Christ’s return. This chapter describes the profound significance of the Lord’s Supper, the despair of the disciples in the face of the impending betrayal, and the symbolic power of the promise of redemption.
Commentary
In this chapter, Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper, making it a central rite for His followers. During the Last Passover meal, which traditionally commemorates the liberation of Israel from Egyptian bondage, Jesus gives the meal a new meaning. He takes the bread and the wine and declares that these elements represent His body and His blood, which are given for the sins of the world. Thus, the Passover, which was a symbol of the Jews’ liberation from physical slavery, is transformed into the Lord’s Supper, which signifies the liberation of humanity from the bondage of sin through Jesus’ death.
The institution of the Lord’s Supper marks the beginning of the “New Covenant,” which is sealed by Jesus’ death and resurrection. This new order replaces the old Jewish law and the ritual sacrifices. Instead, Jesus’ sacrifice and the remembrance thereof take center stage in the believers’ faith life. The chapter makes it clear that the Lord’s Supper is not merely a symbolic act but a means of spiritual strengthening that fosters community with Christ and among the believers themselves.
Judas’ behavior, as he focuses on his betrayal amidst this sacred act, highlights the stark contrast between Jesus’ gracious offer and human sin. Jesus is aware of Judas’ betrayal but continually gives him opportunities to repent, underscoring Jesus’ infinite patience and mercy. Despite the darkness surrounding Judas, the invitation to grace remains open until the last moment.
Another central point in this chapter is the emphasis on spiritual preparation and self-examination before partaking in the Lord’s Supper. Believers are called to participate at the Lord’s table in holiness and reverence. No one is to be excluded from this celebration, but it is necessary for each individual to examine their own heart before partaking in the Lord’s Supper.
Summary
Chapter 72 of the book The Life of Jesus offers a deep reflection on the institution of the Lord’s Supper by Jesus during the Passover festival. Jesus uses this opportunity to explain the bread and wine as symbols of His impending death, which will free humanity from sin. This new celebration replaces the traditional Jewish Passover and marks the beginning of the New Covenant, established through Christ’s sacrifice. The act in which Judas plans to betray Jesus demonstrates the serious consequences of sin and betrayal. At the same time, Jesus demonstrates God’s profound mercy through His patience and offer of grace. The chapter highlights the significance of the Lord’s Supper as a source of spiritual strength and community with Christ and among believers, and emphasizes the necessity of self-examination and preparation before participation. It reminds believers to live in anticipation of Jesus’ return, which is proclaimed in every celebration of the Lord’s Supper.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/20-10-2024-john-chapter-14-believe-his-prophets/

Themes in the Gospel of John – Lesson 4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah | Sabbath School with Pastor Mark Finley

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Series JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN with Pastor Mark Finley  |
Lesson 4.Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah  |
Jesus Christ – The True Messiah   |
Lesson 4 deals with the various testimonies that confirm Jesus Christ as the promised Messiah. The Gospel of John shows how different people—from John the Baptist to the first disciples—recognize Jesus as the Savior and point to Him. This lesson emphasizes that Jesus did not meet the expectations of a political or military savior but was the one who, through His sacrifice, was to renew the relationship between God and humanity. The testimonies we examine in this lesson reveal Jesus as the “Lamb of God” and fulfill the Old Testament promises about the Messiah. They invite us, just as the witnesses of that time did, to acknowledge Jesus as the true Savior.
Memory Text: John 3:3 – “Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God’.”
Content:
4.1 The Testimony of John the Baptist
John the Baptist: A Witness for the True Messiah
John the Baptist clearly understood his role as the forerunner of Jesus Christ. In John 1:19–23, he testifies that he is not the Messiah but merely one who points to the coming Savior. His mission was to prepare people for the Messiah’s arrival by directing their hearts toward repentance and spiritual renewal. John quoted Isaiah 40 to illustrate that he is the “voice crying out in the wilderness,” preparing the way of the Lord. As Seventh-day Adventists, we are similarly called to point to Christ and prepare people for His second coming through our service by proclaiming the message of repentance and salvation.
4.2 The Lamb of God
Jesus, the Lamb of God: The Messiah as a Sacrifice for the World
John the Baptist reveals Jesus as “the Lamb of God,” who takes away the world’s sin (John 1:29). This image of the lamb refers to the Old Testament sacrificial system, where lambs were offered as atonement sacrifices to atone for the people’s sins. Jesus fulfills this sacrificial promise by giving His own life to free humanity from sin. John’s proclamation corrects the misunderstood image of a military Messiah by presenting Jesus as the gentle and humble Savior who renews the relationship between God and humans through self-sacrifice. This conception of Jesus as the Lamb of God leads us to a deeper understanding of the high cost of redemption and God’s unconditional love.
4.3 The Two Disciples of John
The Disciples Recognize Jesus as the Messiah
When John the Baptist called Jesus “the Lamb of God,” two of his disciples decided to follow Him (John 1:35–39). They left John because they recognized that Jesus was the promised Messiah, greater than John. After spending time with Jesus, they felt deeply moved and inspired, prompting Andrew to immediately bring his brother Simon (Peter) to Jesus. This encounter changed their lives as they recognized the true Messiah. The Gospel of John illustrates the transformative power of encountering Christ and how it leads to spreading His message. Just as the disciples were changed, our faith in Christ calls us to also transform our lives and proclaim His message.
4.4 Philip and Nathanael
Nathanael: From Doubt to Faith
Philip demonstrates deep faith in Jesus when he tells Nathanael that they have found the one Moses and the prophets wrote about: Jesus of Nazareth (John 1:43–46). Despite Nathanael’s skepticism due to prejudices against Nazareth, Philip simply invites him to “come and see.” This invitation shows that true conviction often comes through personal encounter and experience. When Nathanael meets Jesus, he recognizes through Jesus’ knowledge of his life and prayers that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Nathanael makes a profound confession of faith by acknowledging Jesus as Rabbi, Son of God, and King of Israel. This encounter shows how Jesus, through divine insight, can bring revelation and faith even to the most skeptical hearts.
4.5 The Witness of Nicodemus
Nicodemus and the Necessity of Spiritual Rebirth
Nicodemus, a respected teacher and member of the Sanhedrin, sought out Jesus at night to learn more about His divine mission (John 3:1–21). Although he recognized Jesus as a Rabbi and saw His signs as evidence of divine calling, he did not yet understand that Jesus was the Messiah. Jesus sees through his heart and confronts him with an unexpected truth: he must be born again to see the Kingdom of God. This statement shows that even a righteous Jew needs profound spiritual renewal. Nicodemus, a teacher of Israel, had not yet grasped this fundamental truth. However, he later becomes a follower of Jesus, demonstrating how transformative encounters with Christ can awaken the heart. The rebirth that Jesus refers to emphasizes the necessity of complete inner renewal by the Spirit, regardless of one’s background or status.
4.6 Summary
The Diverse Testimonies About Jesus as the Messiah
The Gospel of John presents various testimonies pointing to Jesus as the Messiah. John the Baptist clearly explains that he is not the Christ but acts as a witness for the true Messiah. He calls Jesus the “Lamb of God,” referencing the Old Testament sacrificial system and underscoring Jesus’ role as the Savior. John’s disciples, such as Andrew and Philip, also recognize Jesus as the Messiah and follow Him after hearing his testimony. Nathanael overcomes his prejudices and confesses Jesus as the Son of God, while Nicodemus, a respected teacher, is taught by Jesus that spiritual rebirth is necessary to see the Kingdom of God. These testimonies emphasize Jesus’ role as the fulfillment of prophecy and as the Savior of humanity.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-lesson-4-witnesses-of-christ-as-the-messiah-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Lesson 3.The Prelude: The Prologue | 3.7 Questions | THEMES IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN | LIVING FAITH

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1.Why does John begin by speaking about Jesus in His role as Creator? What does this tell us about the significance of creation in the entire theology? Why is it important that we have a correct understanding of creation as revealed in Holy Scripture?
John begins his Gospel by speaking about Jesus in His role as Creator to emphasize the divine nature of Jesus and to clearly establish His eternal existence. Through the words “In the beginning was the Word… and all things were made through Him” (John 1:1–3), it becomes clear that Jesus was not just a human but the eternal God who brought the universe into existence. This creative activity shows that Jesus existed before time and was actively involved in the creation of all things.
Significance of Creation in Theology:
Creation is a fundamental theme in theology because it reveals who God is—the Creator of the universe, the origin of all life, and the source of order and meaning in the world. Creation lays the foundation for many central biblical teachings, including the sovereignty of God, the nature of humans as the image of God, and humanity’s responsibility for creation. Understanding creation helps us recognize the glory of God in His work and His power over everything that exists.
Why is a correct understanding of creation important?
A correct understanding of creation, as revealed in Holy Scripture, is important because it shapes our entire worldview and faith life. When we comprehend creation as God’s work, we recognize His authority and the significance of His commands. Moreover, it deepens our understanding of redemption since the Creator who brought everything into being is also the one who redeems the fallen creation through Jesus Christ.
A biblical understanding of creation also protects us from ideological errors, such as believing that the world arose by chance or that humans have no special place in creation. It reminds us that we were intentionally created by a loving God and that our lives have a deeper purpose beyond mere physical existence.
In summary, John’s emphasis on Jesus as Creator shows that our faith in Christ is closely tied to our understanding of creation. This understanding helps us recognize God’s greatness and glory and lays the foundation for a deep, holistic theological worldview.
2.Engage more deeply with the question posed at the end of the Sunday section. What happens to the cross if not the eternal God, but a created being dies on it? What would we lose if Jesus were anything other than the eternal God?
If Jesus were not the eternal God but merely a created being, it would have profound implications for the meaning of the cross and the entire Christian doctrine of salvation. The redemption and sacrifice of Jesus would not be sufficient to bear the sins of all humanity and redeem us from separation from God. Here are some key points that illustrate what is at stake:
  1. Effectiveness of the Sacrifice Only God Himself—the infinite, eternal, and perfectly holy Creator—could offer a sacrifice that is large enough to take upon Himself the sin of the entire world. A created being, even if perfect, could never pay the infinite price required by sin. The sacrifice of a created being would be limited and not universally valid. However, because Jesus is the eternal God, His death on the cross has infinite value and is sufficient to atone for the sins of all humanity.
  2. Divine Sinlessness A created being could fall into temptation and sin, as happened with Adam and Eve. Only God is absolutely holy and impeccable. If Jesus were not the eternal God, His ability to remain perfectly sinless and thus be the perfect sacrifice would be in question. However, because Jesus is God, He was able to live a completely sinless life, which is necessary for the redemption of humanity.
  3. Authority Over Life and Death Only the eternal God has authority over life and death. If Jesus were not God, He would not have the authority to willingly give His life and take it up again (John 10:18). His resurrection would be meaningless, and thus the Christian hope of eternal life would be undermined. But because Jesus is God, He has authority over death and grants eternal life to all believers through His resurrection.
  4. Perfect Revelation of God If Jesus were not God, He could not be the perfect revelation of God. The prologue of the Gospel of John (John 1:1–3) clearly states that Jesus is the “Word” of God—the perfect image of the Father. He reveals who God is because He Himself is God. If Jesus were a created being, our revelation of God would be incomplete and distorted.
  5. Access to God Through Jesus, the Son of God, we have access to the Father (John 14:6). If Jesus were not the eternal God, this access would not be possible. He is the mediator who heals the rift between God and humans because He perfectly represents both God and man. Without His divinity, this mediating role would fall apart, and we would have no way to relate to God.
Conclusion:
If Jesus were not the eternal God, the cross would lose its meaning and power. The entire Christian hope of salvation would be called into question. We would lose the assurance that our sins are fully forgiven, that we can attain eternal life, and that Jesus is the perfect and impeccable Redeemer. Therefore, the divinity of Jesus is a central component of the Christian faith that forms the foundation for our salvation and relationship with God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-the-prelude-the-prologue-3-7-questions-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

19.10.2024 – John Chapter 13 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS

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October 19, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 13
1 Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end.
2 And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him;
3 Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God;
4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.
5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
6 Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet?
7 Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.
8 Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me.
9 Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.
10 Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all.
11 For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean.
12 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?
13 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.
14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.
15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.
16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.
17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.
18 I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.
19 Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he.
20 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth me; and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.
21 When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.
22 Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.
23 Now there was leaning on Jesus’ bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.
24 Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake.
25 He then lying on Jesus’ breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?
26 Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon.
27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.
28 Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.
29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.
30 He then having received the sop went immediately out: and it was night.
31 Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.
32 If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him in himself, and shall straightway glorify him.
33 Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you.
34 A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
36 Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards.
37 Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee now? I will lay down my life for thy sake.
38 Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my sake? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow, till thou hast denied me thrice.
King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary
Introduction:
John 13 describes a significant turning point in the life of Jesus and His disciples. In this chapter, Jesus prepares them for His impending suffering, glorification, and death. It begins with the symbolic act of washing the disciples’ feet, where Jesus teaches them to serve one another in humility. He then reveals that one of them will betray Him and finally gives the “new commandment” of love, which is meant to characterize all His disciples. This chapter is marked by profound lessons on humility, betrayal, and unconditional love that Jesus imparts to His followers.
Commentary:
John 13 contains several deep teachings and events that encapsulate the central message of Jesus’ ministry: humility, love, and dedication to the utmost. The foot washing is not only a symbolic act of cleansing but also a powerful example that true greatness lies in serving others. Jesus, the Lord and Master, takes the lowest position to show His disciples that true discipleship requires self-sacrifice and love. This gesture also highlights the necessity of inner purification and the connection between outward actions and inner transformation.
Another important theme in this chapter is the betrayal by Judas. It illustrates the tragedy of free will: despite his closeness to Jesus and all the grace he has received, Judas turns away from Him. This reminds us that faith requires not only external affiliation but also a deep internal decision.
The “new commandment” of love that Jesus gives to His disciples is the heart of the Christian community. This love is to be selfless and sacrificial, just as Jesus shows His love for them to the utmost. Emphasizing love as the hallmark of discipleship is both a challenge and a call to imitation. It is the love that makes the world recognize that we are Jesus’ disciples—a love that is ready to serve, forgive, and dedicate itself to others.
Finally, the announcement of Peter’s denial serves as another example of human weakness. Peter, who fervently declares his loyalty, later fails out of fear. However, this also shows that Jesus is aware of our weaknesses and still offers His love and mercy. Overall, John 13 calls readers to live in humility, love one another, and trust in Jesus’ grace, even in moments of failure.
John 13 is a powerful chapter with deep theological and practical significance for the lives of believers. The foot washing, with which the chapter begins, is an impressive example of Jesus’ humility and His love for His disciples. Although He is aware of His divine power and authority, He shows that true greatness lies in serving others. This act is a clear lesson for His followers that, regardless of their position, they must be willing to serve one another with the same selflessness.
The revelation of the impending betrayal by Judas highlights the tragedy of human unfaithfulness. Despite all the time Judas spent with Jesus and his closeness to Him, his heart was influenced by Satan. This scene reminds us that proximity to religious matters does not always mean that one has truly changed internally. Judas stands here as a symbol of betrayal but also as a warning to all who ignore the true call of Christ.
The new commandment of love that Jesus gives to His disciples highlights love as the central feature of Christian life. Jesus calls not only for general charity but for a deep, sacrificial love that He Himself has exemplified to them. This love, characterized by dedication and service, is the mark of those who belong to Him. It is cited as the distinguishing feature of His disciples that sets them apart in the world.
Summary:
John 13 begins with the foot washing, where Jesus gives a strong sign of humility and service. He emphasizes that the disciples should serve one another in the same way He has demonstrated. Later, Jesus reveals that one of His disciples will betray Him and points to Judas before he goes out to carry out his betrayal. Afterwards, Jesus speaks about His upcoming glorification and gives His disciples the commandment to love one another. He explains that love will be the sign by which the world will recognize His disciples. The chapter concludes with the announcement that Peter will deny Him three times before the rooster crows.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 70—In the Outer Court
This chapter is based on John 12:20-42.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 70 deals with the Parable of the Great Judgment, in which Jesus describes how He will separate people into two groups at His second coming: the “sheep” on the right and the “goats” on the left. Each person’s eternal destiny is not judged based on the size or significance of their actions, but rather on the mercy they have shown toward the “least brothers”—the needy. It is about practical love that serves Christ Himself in the service of fellow human beings.
Commentary
This parable illustrates a central message of Jesus: that the true signs of faith lie in practical mercy and care for those in need. Jesus makes it clear that people will be judged by their actions toward the weakest and most needy. He identifies Himself with the hungry, thirsty, strangers, sick, and imprisoned, explaining that every act of kindness given to these individuals is considered a service to Himself.
It becomes evident that theological knowledge or status is not the primary focus, but rather the heart of service and humanity. Those who act spontaneously and lovingly will be rewarded, while those who live selfishly and ignore the plight of others will be condemned. The surprising reaction of the righteous, who did not even know that they were serving Jesus, demonstrates that genuine neighborly love comes from the heart and does not seek recognition.
The parable also serves as a challenge to those who live in prosperity. Jesus points out that wealth brings responsibility and that God expects the rich to care for the needy. Yet all too often, the wealthy remain selfish and isolate themselves from the suffering of the poor.
Summary
Chapter 70, based on Matthew 25:31-46, shows that people’s eternal fate depends on their practical love and mercy toward the needy. Jesus identifies Himself with the weakest and explains that every service to them is a service to Himself. This parable calls Christians to live out Christ’s love in their daily lives by helping the needy and demonstrating true discipleship through their mercy. Love for one’s neighbor is presented here as the most important sign of a living faith.

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 71—A Servant of Servants
This chapter is based on Luke 22:7-18, 24; John 13:1-17.
Read online here

 

Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 71 describes the last evening of Jesus with His disciples before His death. During the final Passover meal, Jesus reveals to His disciples through a humble act what true greatness in serving others entails. The chapter focuses on the foot washing as an example of humility and selfless service that Jesus has left to His followers. The scene unfolds in an atmosphere of sorrow, as Jesus is aware of His impending sacrifice.
Commentary
The Last Supper and the Foot Washing (Chapter 71)
In the upper room of a house in Jerusalem, Jesus prepared to celebrate the Passover with His disciples. He knew that His time had come and that He would be the true sacrificial lamb. On this pivotal night, He wanted to teach His disciples what true greatness and discipleship mean. While the disciples continued to argue about their own positions and superiority, Jesus decided to provide them with a powerful example of humility and love. Instead of preaching about their faults, He washed their feet, a task typically reserved for a servant. This act demonstrated that true leadership and greatness lie not in being served but in serving others.
The foot washing became a symbol of the cleansing of the heart. Although the disciples were physically cleansed, they still needed spiritual purification from pride, jealousy, and discord. Peter, who was initially horrified when Jesus attempted to wash his feet, later understood the deeper meaning of this act: it was about the inner cleansing that only Jesus can provide.
Jesus used this moment to make it clear to the disciples that true discipleship involves serving others, just as He did. Through His service, He set an example for them to follow: “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you” (John 13:15). Jesus taught that humility, love, and selflessness are the keys to true fellowship and discipleship.
Summary
Chapter 71 deals with the last evening of Jesus with His disciples, during which He provides them with a lasting example of humility and service through the foot washing. Jesus demonstrates that true greatness does not lie in power or position but in selfless service to others. This lesson, conveyed through His act of foot washing, becomes a fundamental teaching of Christian life: “By love, serve one another.” Jesus’ example encourages us to open our hearts to His cleansing grace and to serve our fellow human beings with love and humility.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/19-10-2024-john-chapter-13-believe-his-prophets/

Adventist News Network – October 18, 2024: ADRA provides aid and solidarity & More Global News

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Adventist News Network – October 18, 2024: ADRA provides aid and solidarity & More Global News  |
This week on ANN:  |
· ADRA provides aid and solidarity to victims of severe flooding in Romania.
· The first Women’s Convention in Malaysia inspires hundreds with messages of faith and spiritual growth.
· Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, gathers thousands of Pathfinders to celebrate faith and promote emotional health.
· Also, Adventist Medical Aviation in the Philippines receives NGO support to protect girls from abuse.
· Pacific Press celebrates 150 years of proclaiming God’s love through literature.
· Stay tuned as ANN brings everything you have to know about what is happening in the church worldwide.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/adventist-news-network-october-18-2024-adra-provides-aid-and-solidarity-more-global-news/

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