4.5 The Witness of Nicodemus
Nicodemus and the Necessity of Spiritual Rebirth

Read John 3:1–21. How does Nicodemus’ testimony support the theme of the Gospel of John?

Nicodemus, a respected teacher and member of the Sanhedrin, comes to Jesus at night to seek answers to his inner questions (John 3:1–21). Although he acknowledges Jesus as Rabbi and sees the signs that testify to Jesus’ divine calling, he initially does not recognize Him as the Messiah. His encounter with Jesus illustrates the central theme of the Gospel of John: the necessity of spiritual rebirth and faith to see the kingdom of God. Jesus reveals to him that even a righteous Jew needs a profound transformation. This lesson overcomes Nicodemus’ doubts and lays the foundation for his later role as a follower of Jesus, highlighting the shift from intellectual understanding to true faith.

Read John 3:3–21. What did Jesus say to Nicodemus to show that He understood him?

When Nicodemus came to Jesus, Jesus immediately recognized his inner doubts and the ignorance that lay within him despite his position as a teacher of Israel. Jesus got straight to the heart of the matter and explained to Nicodemus that he, like all people, needs to be spiritually reborn to see the kingdom of God (John 3:3–21). This statement shook Nicodemus, who thought his Jewish heritage and knowledge of the law were sufficient. Jesus made it clear that external affiliation or knowledge is not enough; a deep, personal transformation by the Spirit is required. By confronting Nicodemus’ spiritual blindness, Jesus opened his eyes to the true nature of faith and salvation. Nicodemus’ later support of Jesus shows that this confrontation ultimately led to a profound change in him.

What does it mean to be “born again,” and why does Jesus place so much emphasis on it?

To be “born again” means to experience a fundamental inner renewal and transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit. This rebirth goes beyond a mere external change in behavior; it affects the deepest levels of the human heart and soul. In John 3:3–7, Jesus explains that rebirth is necessary to see the kingdom of God. This transformation does not occur through human effort but through the work of the Spirit, who renews the believer from within and grants a new life in Christ.

Jesus places so much emphasis on rebirth because it is the prerequisite for entering into a genuine relationship with God. Through this renewal, a person is enabled to recognize God’s truth, receive His love, and live a life no longer dominated by sin but by the Spirit of God. Rebirth is necessary because it sheds the old, sinful self and brings a person into a new life in Christ, which is crucial for salvation and eternal life.

Nicodemus’ testimony about the necessity of spiritual rebirth has a direct connection to our daily lives and faith. Jesus’ message to Nicodemus challenges us to go beyond mere religious knowledge or external affiliation. In our daily lives, it is easy to rely on traditions, routines, or intellectual understanding. But Jesus emphasizes that a deep, personal transformation is needed—a new heart and a renewed spirit—to truly be connected with God.

For our faith, this means that our daily relationship with God should be marked by inner change. Rebirth through the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to change our character and actions to align with God’s will. This renewal enables us to overcome sin, experience God’s love, and live our daily lives in trust in Him. Through this spiritual rebirth, we experience the true meaning of faith, which is not just intellectual assent but a living, transformative relationship with God.

True transformation begins in the heart when we allow God’s Spirit to renew us from within.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-witnesses-of-christ-as-the-messiah-4-5-the-witness-of-nicodemus-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

October 24, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 18

¹ When Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples.

² And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disciples.

³ Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons.

⁴ Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye?

⁵ They answered him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood with them.

⁶ As soon then as he had said unto them, I am he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.

⁷ Then asked he them again, Whom seek ye? And they said, Jesus of Nazareth.

⁸ Jesus answered, I have told you that I am he: if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way:

⁹ That the saying might be fulfilled, which he spake, Of them which thou gavest me have I lost none.

¹⁰ Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest’s servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant’s name was Malchus.

¹¹ Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

¹² Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound him,

¹³ And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest that same year.

¹⁴ Now Caiaphas was he, which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.

¹⁵ And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.

¹⁶ But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter.

¹⁷ Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of this man’s disciples? He saith, I am not.

¹⁸ And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself.

¹⁹ The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.

²⁰ Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.

²¹ Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said.

²² And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest thou the high priest so?

²³ Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou me?

²⁴ Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high priest.

²⁵ And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it, and said, I am not.

²⁶ One of the servants of the high priest, being his kinsman whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden with him?

²⁷ Peter then denied again: and immediately the cock crew.

²⁸ Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.

²⁹ Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusation bring ye against this man?

³⁰ They answered and said unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have delivered him up unto thee.

³¹ Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It is not lawful for us to put any man to death:

³² That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying what death he should die.

³³ Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews?

³⁴ Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself, or did others tell it thee of me?

³⁵ Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done?

³⁶ Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.

³⁷ Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.

³⁸ Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault at all.

³⁹ But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one at the passover: will ye therefore that I release unto you the King of the Jews?

⁴⁰ Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

John Chapter 18 depicts the pivotal events leading to the arrest, interrogation, and condemnation of Jesus. The section begins with Jesus’ prayer and concludes with His handing over to the Romans. Judas’ betrayal, the reactions of the disciples—particularly Peter’s denial—and the interrogation by the high priest and Pilate highlight the drama of the final hours before Jesus’ crucifixion. The chapter illuminates Jesus’ willingness to fulfill the divine plan as He stands before His accusers and the promises of Scripture come to fruition.

Commentary:

John Chapter 18 marks a crucial turning point in the life of Jesus, as it narrates the dramatic events that lead to His crucifixion. The chapter begins with the arrest of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, where Judas, one of the twelve disciples, becomes the betrayer and leads the guards to Jesus. This moment signifies deep betrayal and simultaneously the fulfillment of the divine plan, which Jesus willingly accepts. The dynamics of the events described in this chapter open up several theological and human perspectives worthy of closer examination.

Firstly, we observe Jesus’ conscious and sovereign attitude toward the forthcoming events. Jesus knows what is coming and shows no fear or hesitation when Judas arrives with the soldiers. This scene emphasizes His determination to fulfill God’s plan. He actively confronts the soldiers, asking whom they seek, and then responds, “I am He,” which carries profound theological resonance. The response echoes God’s self-revelation to Moses in the Old Testament, where God said, “I AM WHO I AM” (Exodus 3:14). With these words, Jesus consciously presents Himself as the Messiah and the Son of God.

A remarkable reaction follows Jesus’ statement: the soldiers and servants “stepped back and fell to the ground” (John 18:6). This gesture illustrates that even at the moment of His impending arrest, Jesus’ divine authority remains unbroken. The power and majesty of Jesus are so overwhelming that those who come to arrest Him fall down involuntarily. It indicates that the worldly power exercised here is ultimately subject to the power of God.

Peter’s role in this scene is also highly significant. In his impulsive manner, he attempts to defend Jesus by cutting off the ear of the high priest’s servant, Malchus. Peter demonstrates his zeal and loyalty, but his action is stopped by Jesus. Jesus urges Peter to put away his sword and reminds him that He must drink the “cup” the Father has given Him (John 18:11). This underscores that Jesus’ suffering and death are not accidents or the result of human decisions but part of the divine plan for humanity’s redemption. In this moment, Jesus shows complete submission to the Father’s will, ready to bear the suffering that lies ahead.

Another important theme in John 18 is Jesus’ interrogation and Peter’s denial. As Jesus is taken and brought before Annas and Caiaphas, the Jewish religious leaders, Peter follows from a distance. Here, we witness the human weakness and fear within Peter’s character. When questioned by the servants if he is a disciple of Jesus, he denies it three times, just as Jesus had previously foretold (John 13:38). Peter, who had been so courageous before, fails in this moment, highlighting the tension between human courage and fear. His denial is a symbolic moment that shows how even the most faithful followers of Jesus can falter in moments of weakness.

Peter’s denial starkly contrasts with Jesus’ demeanor during His interrogation. While Peter denies out of fear, Jesus responds calmly and directly to the high priest’s questions. He emphasizes that He has always taught openly and done nothing in secret. Even when struck by a servant, He does not react aggressively but calmly questions why He is being struck if He has done nothing wrong (John 18:23). This demonstrates Jesus’ integrity and composure in the face of injustice and violence.

The scene with Pilate adds another dimension to the story. Pilate, the Roman governor, finds himself in a difficult position between the demands of the Jewish leaders and his own assessment that Jesus is innocent. The interaction between Jesus and Pilate is profound. When Pilate asks if Jesus is the “King of the Jews,” Jesus responds with an explanation that goes beyond the purely political. He states that His kingdom is not of this world (John 18:36), indicating that Jesus’ kingship is a spiritual reality not comparable to earthly kingdoms. Jesus explains that He has come to testify to the truth, and everyone who is of the truth hears His voice (John 18:37). This statement underscores Jesus’ mission as a witness to divine truth and challenges listeners to decide whether to heed this truth.

Pilate’s question, “What is truth?” (John 18:38), is particularly significant. It reflects the skepticism and perhaps confusion of a man caught between political pragmatism and the profound, spiritual truth embodied by Jesus. Although Pilate recognizes that Jesus is innocent, he succumbs to the pressure of the crowd and condemns Jesus to crucifixion. This decision reflects the weakness of worldly power, which often does not serve justice but bends to external circumstances.

At the end of the chapter, we see the crowd demanding the release of the criminal Barabbas instead of Jesus. Barabbas, a murderer and insurrectionist, is favored, while the innocent Jesus is sentenced to execution. This exchange of Barabbas for Jesus can be understood as a symbol of the greater work of redemption: the innocent Jesus takes the place of the guilty to save humanity.

Summary:

In John Chapter 18, Jesus is arrested after being betrayed by Judas and brought before the Jewish high priest and the Roman governor Pilate. Despite the accusations against Him, Jesus remains calm and explains that His kingdom is not of this world. Peter, who follows Him, denies knowing Him three times, fulfilling Jesus’ prediction. Pilate, finding no fault in Jesus, yields to the crowd’s demands to release the criminal Barabbas and condemns the innocent Jesus to be crucified.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/24-10-2024-john-chapter-18-believe-his-prophets/

4.4 Philip and Nathanael
Nathanael: From Doubt to Faith

Read John 1:43–46. What does Philip’s message already reveal about his faith in Jesus?

In John 1:43–46, Philip already reveals his deep faith in Jesus. When he tells Nathanael about Jesus, he calls Him “the one about whom Moses and the prophets wrote,” indicating that Philip recognized Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament promises. This recognition attests that Philip had a fundamental understanding of Scripture and was expecting the Messiah. Nevertheless, he remains simple and direct by also referring to Jesus as “Jesus of Nazareth.” This precise designation emphasizes that Jesus is not only a heavenly figure but also a man with a specific background.

Prejudice and Faith      

Nathanael’s prejudice against Nazareth, a small and seemingly insignificant town, highlights how easily prejudices can distort the perception of truth. For Nathanael, it was unimaginable that the promised Messiah could come from such a humble place as Nazareth. This serves as a reminder of how often our preconceived opinions and ideas prevent us from recognizing God’s truth.

The Simple Invitation: “Come and See!”

Philip’s response to Nathanael’s skepticism is remarkably simple and wise. Instead of engaging in a theological debate or directly refuting Nathanael’s prejudice, Philip simply invites him: “Come and see!” This invitation shows that the true way to overcome doubts and prejudices lies in a personal encounter with Jesus. Philip had already experienced who Jesus is and trusted that a direct encounter would also reveal the truth to Nathanael.

Significance for Our Lives

This encounter teaches us that faith is not always about complex arguments or proofs. Often, the greatest power lies in inviting others to have their own experience with Jesus. Like Philip, we should help others lay aside their own prejudices and doubts by encouraging them to “see” Jesus personally—through studying Scripture, prayer, and living out their faith. It is a call to be humble and open so that God’s truth can penetrate our lives and the lives of others.

Philip shows us that true faith is not just based on understanding, but on the willingness to lead others to the truth by inviting them to encounter Jesus.

Read John 1:47–51. How does Jesus convince Nathanael of who He is, and how does Nathanael respond?

In John 1:47–51, we see how Nathanael responds to his friend Philip’s invitation, despite his initial skepticism about Jesus. He overcomes his prejudice against Nazareth and decides to meet Jesus personally. This decision marks a turning point in his life, for through this encounter, Jesus reveals something that deeply touches and convinces Nathanael.

The Revelation by Jesus

When Nathanael approaches Jesus, Jesus speaks to him in an astonishingly positive tone and calls him “an Israelite in whom there is no deceit” (John 1:47). This surprises Nathanael, who had previously regarded Jesus dismissively. Instead of reprimanding Nathanael for his earlier doubts, Jesus meets him with understanding and recognizes Nathanael’s sincerity. Jesus points out that He has already seen Nathanael “under the fig tree,” implying a private, possibly deep spiritual experience. This reveals Jesus’ divine insight and shows Nathanael that Jesus knows him better than he himself was aware.

Nathanael’s Reaction: Faith and Confession

This simple statement—that Jesus saw Nathanael under the fig tree—is enough to convince Nathanael of Jesus’ identity. Nathanael suddenly realizes that he is dealing with someone who possesses divine knowledge, and his initial skepticism gives way to deep faith. He responds with an impressive confession: “Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel!” (John 1:49). This is a powerful profession of faith, showing how quickly and completely Nathanael was convinced by Jesus.

Significance for Our Faith Life

Nathanael’s experience reminds us that Jesus knows us deeply even before we truly know Him. Often, a seemingly small revelation—a personal encounter or a moment when we sense His presence—is enough to lead us to deeper faith. Jesus meets us with understanding, even when we have doubts or prejudices, and reveals Himself in moments when we least expect it. Like Nathanael, we are called to lay aside our prejudices and be open to the encounter with Jesus that can change our lives.

This story also shows that it is often the personal, intimate moments—like the experience under the fig tree—that deepen our relationship with God and lead us to a stronger profession of faith.

The story of Philip and Nathanael, as described in John 1:43–51, shows us many parallels to our faith life and how we can respond to God’s invitation in daily life. It illustrates how doubts and prejudices often stand in our way, but also how a personal encounter with Jesus can transform our lives.

1. Overcoming Prejudices

Nathanael begins his journey with prejudices—he doubts that anything good can come from Nazareth. In our daily lives, we often encounter situations or people that we quickly judge based on prejudices or preconceived opinions. This story reminds us how important it is to open our hearts and lay aside these prejudices. Often, it is only through openness to experience new things that we can truly recognize God’s truth.

2. Invitation to Encounter

Philip’s simple and wise response to Nathanael, “Come and see!”, shows us that faith is not always strengthened through debates or evidence, but through the invitation to encounter Jesus personally. In our daily lives, we should be ready to invite others to a personal experience with Jesus, whether through Bible study, prayer, or sharing about our faith. This invitation is more powerful than any argument because it brings faith to a personal level.

3. The Personal Encounter with Jesus

Nathanael’s skepticism disappears when he meets Jesus and realizes that Jesus already knows him. This realization—that Jesus saw him under the fig tree—becomes a turning point. In our lives, there are such moments when we sense that Jesus knows us, our struggles, our prayers, and our hearts. These personal moments with Jesus can profoundly change our relationship with Him and strengthen our faith.

4. Growth in Faith

Nathanael’s reaction shows that even small revelations—like the mention of the fig tree—can lead to deep faith. In our faith lives, we often experience similar moments where small but significant revelations about God’s presence and guidance deeply move us. These experiences challenge us to lay aside our doubts and hold firmly to Jesus with renewed conviction.

Conclusion

This story reminds us that faith is a journey shaped by personal encounters with Jesus. Like Nathanael, we are often skeptical, but when we are willing to meet Jesus in our lives, even the smallest revelations can profoundly change our faith. We are called to be open, lay aside our prejudices, and invite others into similar encounters with Jesus. This way, our faith life grows daily and leads to a deeper relationship with Christ.

Be open to God’s guidance, for often the greatest revelations lie in the smallest encounters with Him.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-witnesses-of-christ-as-the-messiah-4-4-philip-and-nathanael-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

October 23, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 17

¹ These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:

² As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.

³ And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.

⁴ I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.

⁵ And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.

⁶ I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

⁷ Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee.

⁸ For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me.

⁹ I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine.

¹⁰ And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them.

¹¹ And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

¹² While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled.

¹³ And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.

¹⁴ I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

¹⁵ I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

¹⁶ They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.

¹⁷ Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.

¹⁸ As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.

¹⁹ And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.

²⁰ Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;

²¹ That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.

²² And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:

²³ I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.

²⁴ Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.

²⁵ O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.

²⁶ And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

John Chapter 17, known as the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus, serves as a central conclusion to the Gospel of John and marks the transition from Jesus’ public ministry to His impending suffering, death, and resurrection. In this prayer, Jesus speaks immediately before His arrest and crucifixion, revealing His intimate relationship with the Father, His concern for the disciples, and future believers. This chapter offers deep insights into Jesus’ mission, His unity with the Father, and His plea for protection, sanctification, and unity for His followers.

Commentary

Verses 1-5: Jesus’ Request for Revelation and Completion of His Work

Jesus begins His prayer by asking the Father to glorify Him, just as the Father has glorified Him. This refers to the upcoming events of His suffering and resurrection, which will complete His redemptive work. Jesus emphasizes His authority to grant eternal life and defines eternal life as knowing the only true God and Jesus Christ. He acknowledges that His time on earth is finished and asks the Father to glorify Him with the glory He had before the world began.

Verses 6-16: Intercession for the Disciples

Jesus now prays for His immediate disciples. He acknowledges that they have been given out of the world and are under the protection and preservation of the Father. Jesus emphasizes the special relationship between the Father and the disciples and asks for their sanctification in the truth, which is God’s word. He desires that the disciples be strengthened in their faith and kept from evil without taking them out of the world, as they do not belong to the world.

Verses 17-19: Sanctification Through the Truth

Jesus calls for the sanctification of His disciples through the truth, which is rooted in God’s word. He explains that just as the Father sent Him into the world, He is likewise sending the disciples into the world. This sending is a continuation of His own ministry and a sign of the unity between the Father and the Son.

Verses 20-23: Prayer for Future Believers and Unity

Jesus expands His prayer to include all who will believe in Him through the disciples. His desire is that all believers may be one, just as the Father and the Son are one. This unity is meant to be a testimony to the world and to strengthen the belief in Jesus’ mission. Jesus emphasizes that this unity is based on the shared glory that the Father has given Him.

Verses 24-26: Conclusion of the Prayer

In the concluding part of His prayer, Jesus asks the Father that those who believe in Him may also see His glory. He underscores the Father’s eternal love for Him, which existed before the creation of the world. Jesus acknowledges that the Father does not know the world, but He Himself knows the Father and makes the Father’s name known to the believers. This revelation is intended to strengthen the love between the Father and the believers.

Summary

John Chapter 17 presents Jesus’ profound prayer to the Father shortly before His Passion. In this High Priestly Prayer, Jesus shares His desires and requests for Himself, His disciples, and all future believers. He asks for glorification through the completion of His redemptive work, for the protection and sanctification of the disciples in the truth, and for unity among believers that reflects the unity between the Father and the Son. This chapter emphasizes Jesus’ close relationship with the Father, His care for His followers, and the central role of truth and unity in the lives of believers. Overall, John 17 highlights the deep love and sacrifice of Jesus for humanity and His vision of a united and holy community of believers.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/23-10-2024-john-chapter-17-believe-his-prophets/

4.3 The Two Disciples of John
The Disciples Recognize Jesus as the Messiah

Read John 1:35–39. What did the two disciples do after they heard John’s testimony about Jesus?

In John 1:35–39, we learn that two disciples of John the Baptist—among them Andrew—were standing with him as Jesus passed by. When John pointed to Jesus and exclaimed, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” (John 1:36), the two disciples immediately responded. They left John and followed Jesus because they recognized that Jesus was the fulfillment of the message that John had proclaimed to them. This was a decisive moment, as the disciples recognized the true Messiah through John’s testimony and changed their lives.

The Decision to Follow Jesus

After hearing John’s testimony, the two disciples sought the proximity of Jesus. They spent the day with Him to learn more and build a deeper relationship with Him. This is a significant step: they did not follow out of mere curiosity, but from a genuine desire to find the truth. This encounter with Jesus must have been deeply impressive, for it did not take long for Andrew to feel the need to share the good news further. He immediately sought out his brother Simon (Peter) and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (John 1:41).

The Transformative Encounter

This first encounter of the disciples with Jesus had a transformative power. Andrew’s enthusiasm shows how strongly the encounter with the Messiah changed the disciples’ lives. Jesus already knew Peter when he came to Him and gave him a new name: Cephas (Peter). This name change indicates that Jesus recognizes the hearts of people and sees their destiny before they themselves know it. The Gospel of John places particular emphasis on the fact that Jesus knows and understands each person deeply, which was of great significance for Peter and the later events.

The Significance for Our Lives

This section reminds us how crucial it is to listen to the testimony about Jesus and to follow Him. The disciples followed Jesus not out of tradition or a sense of duty, but out of a deep conviction that He is the true Messiah. Their decision to stay with Jesus and learn from Him led to a radically changed life that later resulted in the spread of the message. We too are called to respond to the testimony about Jesus in our lives and to build a personal relationship with Him to proclaim the truth of salvation in the world.

John the Baptist’s testimony led the disciples to Jesus, and their reaction shows how important it is to be open to God’s call. Their encounter with Jesus brought light to their understanding of Scripture and made them witnesses of the good news, which is the central concern of the Gospel of John.

How has Christ and your faith in Christ changed your life? What other changes would you like to see?

My faith in Christ has changed my life in many ways. He has given me a deeper sense of purpose and a firm anchor in daily life, especially in difficult times. Through my faith, I have learned to trust more in God’s guidance instead of relying on my own strength. Christ has shown me what it means to experience true love and forgiveness and to pass that on to others. Faith has also transformed my perspective on dealing with people, my priorities, and my values—towards a life founded on love, compassion, and community.

Regarding changes, I wish to grow even more in daily following of Jesus—with more patience, patience with myself and others. I strive to listen more to God’s voice, to let go of my fears and doubts, and to trust Him completely in all areas of life. A stronger prayer life and the ability to focus my thoughts more on Christ are also among my goals for future changes.

The story of John’s disciples who followed Him after hearing the testimony about Jesus has a direct connection to our daily lives and faith. It shows us how an encounter with Jesus can radically change life and what it means to consciously align one’s life with Christ.

1. Openness to God’s Call

Just as the two disciples responded to John’s testimony and followed Jesus back then, we today are called to listen to God’s call in our lives. This requires sensitivity and openness. In our daily lives, there are often moments when we feel that God wants to lead us in a new direction. Whether through reading the Bible, prayer, or encountering other believers—God speaks to us, and it is up to us to respond as the disciples did.

2. Seeking the Nearness of Jesus

The disciples consciously decided to stay with Jesus and spend the day with Him. In our lives, it is also important to spend time with Jesus through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. This strengthens our relationship with Him and deepens our understanding of His teachings. The decision to follow Jesus changes our daily lives because we then consciously seek His guidance and make our decisions in the light of His truth.

3. Being Witnesses and Sharing the Message

Like Andrew, who felt the need to bring his brother to Jesus after his encounter, we are also called to share the gospel. The transformative encounter with Jesus is something that cannot remain hidden. Our task is to share the joy and hope we have received through Jesus with those around us—family, friends, coworkers. The testimony about Jesus must be reflected in our words and in our daily actions.

4. Willingness to Change

The disciples, especially Peter, experienced a name change, symbolizing the profound change Jesus effected in their lives. We too experience inner renewal through our faith in Christ. We should be willing to leave behind old habits, doubts, and fears and allow God to lead us into new roles and tasks. Faith is a continual growth process, where we are led deeper into trust in God.

Conclusion

The story of the two disciples who followed Jesus reminds us how important it is to listen to God’s call, stay close to Jesus, and share the transformative power of faith with others. These principles have a direct connection to our daily lives, encouraging us to consciously live as followers of Christ and to give testimony to His love and salvation through our lives.

Be open to God’s call, and let Him renew your heart daily so that you can share His love and truth.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-4-witnesses-of-christ-as-the-messiah-4-3-the-two-disciples-of-john-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/