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/

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.

 

 

 

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

3.6 Summary
The Background of the Gospel: The Prologue and the Divine Word

Lesson 3 focuses on the introduction of the Gospel of John, which reveals profound theological truths about Jesus Christ, the eternal Word (Logos). John begins with the statement that Jesus existed from the beginning and, as the Word of God, was not only with God but is God Himself. The prologue highlights the creative power of Jesus: through Him, all things were made.

A central point is the incarnation of Jesus. John describes how the divine Word became flesh and lived among us (John 1:14). This shows God’s radical nearness to humans and the depth of His love. Jesus came as the Light into the world to dispel darkness, yet not everyone accepted Him. Here, we encounter the theme of faith and unbelief—those who accept the light become children of God, while others reject it and remain in darkness.

Finally, the lesson shows that the glorification of Jesus is paradoxical: it begins at the cross, a place of apparent shame where God’s greatest glory is revealed. The prologue connects the eternity and divinity of Jesus with His human mission to bring salvation and shows how people respond to this revelation—through faith or rejection.

The lesson encourages us to consciously live in the light of Jesus in our daily lives and to accept His call to experience the true glory of God.

The connection of the prologue from John 1 to our daily lives and faith lies in the central message that Jesus Christ is the eternal Word of God who became man to redeem us. This fundamental truth has practical implications for our daily lives:

1. Experiencing God’s Nearness The prologue shows that God is not distant or abstract but has come near to us in Jesus. This means that in our daily lives, we can trust that God understands our struggles and worries because He has experienced human life in all its aspects. Our faith in a near and understanding God gives us comfort and strength in everyday life.

2. Light and Darkness The theme of light and darkness introduced in the prologue reminds us that every day we face the decision to live in the light of Jesus or be led by darkness. In daily life, this means consciously seeking God’s truth and aligning our lives with His word. Faith is not just a belief but an active decision to follow the light.

3. Faith as an Active Action Faith, as described in the Gospel of John, is a living and dynamic relationship with Jesus that is reflected in our behavior. Our faith should not only exist in words but become visible through actions—in how we serve others, forgive, show love. This shapes our daily actions and our interpersonal relationships.

4. Hope and Redemption Through the Cross The glorification of Jesus on the cross shows that God Himself is present in the darkest moments and brings salvation. In our daily lives, this means that even in times of suffering and uncertainty, we can trust in God’s redemptive plan. The cross is a sign of hope that God Himself can create new life and redemption out of pain and loss.

Conclusion:

The lesson reminds us that the incarnation of Jesus and His role as the Light of the world are not just theological truths but have profound practical implications for our daily lives. By living in the light of Jesus, placing our trust in Him, and actively living out our faith, we experience God’s nearness, love, and glory in our everyday lives.

In daily life, we can experience God’s nearness by consciously walking in the light of Jesus and accepting His call to love and dedicate ourselves.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-the-prelude-the-prologue-3-6-summary-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/