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/

October 18, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 12

¹ Then Jesus six days before the passover came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, which had been dead, whom he raised from the dead.

² There they made him a supper; and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.

³ Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.

⁴ Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, which should betray him,

⁵ Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?

⁶ This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.

⁷ Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.

⁸ For the poor always ye have with you; but me ye have not always.

⁹ Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.

¹⁰ But the chief priests consulted that they might put Lazarus also to death;

¹¹ Because that by reason of him many of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.

¹² On the next day much people that were come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem,

¹³ Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord.

¹⁴ And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon; as it is written,

¹⁵ Fear not, daughter of Sion: behold, thy King cometh, sitting on an ass’s colt.

¹⁶ These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things were written of him, and that they had done these things unto him.

¹⁷ The people therefore that was with him when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare record.

¹⁸ For this cause the people also met him, for that they heard that he had done this miracle.

¹⁹ The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the world is gone after him.

²⁰ And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast:

²¹ The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.

²² Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus.

²³ And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.

²⁴ Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.

²⁵ He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.

²⁶ If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.

²⁷ Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour: but for this cause came I unto this hour.

²⁸ Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.

²⁹ The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.

³⁰ Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.

³¹ Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out.

³² And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

³³ This he said, signifying what death he should die.

³⁴ The people answered him, We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth for ever: and how sayest thou, The Son of man must be lifted up? who is this Son of man?

³⁵ Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.

³⁶ While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.

³⁷ But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:

³⁸ That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?

³⁹ Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again,

⁴⁰ He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.

⁴¹ These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him.

⁴² Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:

⁴³ For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

⁴⁴ Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.

⁴⁵ And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.

⁴⁶ I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.

⁴⁷ And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.

⁴⁸ He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.

⁴⁹ For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.

⁵⁰ And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

John 12 marks a critical phase in the life of Jesus, shortly before his crucifixion. This chapter highlights both moments of deep worship and the growing opposition against Jesus. It begins with the anointing of Jesus in Bethany, continues with his triumphant entry into Jerusalem, and concludes with important teachings about faith and the impending judgment. John 12 demonstrates the tension between the revelation of Jesus’ glory and the ongoing rejection by many of his listeners.

Commentary

John 12 combines worship, prophecy, and the inevitable approach of Jesus’ crucifixion. The anointing in Bethany is a symbolic act of preparation for Jesus’ death and reveals Mary’s deep understanding of the sacrifice Jesus would make. This scene contrasts with Judas’ materialistic thinking, illustrating how differently people respond to Jesus.

The entry into Jerusalem underscores the tension between the people’s Messianic expectations and Jesus’ true mission. While the people celebrate Jesus as a political liberator, they fail to see that his kingdom is spiritual and will be consummated through death. The metaphor of the grain of wheat indicates that Jesus’ death is not the end but the beginning of new life that will bear abundant fruit.

A central theme in this chapter is the division between belief and unbelief. Despite the many signs Jesus has performed, many people refuse to believe, which John explains through the prophecy of Isaiah. This hardening of the heart points to the tragedy that even in the face of truth, many choose not to accept it.

Jesus’ final words emphasize the life-saving potential of his work: He is the light that dispels darkness. However, his words also serve as a warning: those who reject him will ultimately be judged by this rejection. In this sense, John 12 presents the final opportunity to choose the light over darkness.

Summary

The chapter begins with a special event: Mary anoints Jesus in Bethany, which Judas Iscariot criticizes as wasteful. Jesus defends Mary and points out that her act prophetically signifies his burial. Shortly after, Jesus makes a triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where he is received as a king by an enthusiastic crowd. In doing so, he fulfills Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah.

Jesus speaks of his impending glorification through death and uses the metaphor of the grain of wheat that must die to bear fruit. He emphasizes that true life is gained only through devotion to God, while self-love leads to destruction. Amid these profound statements, a heavenly voice declares the confirmation of the divine plan.

Despite the many miracles Jesus performs, not everyone believes in him. John quotes the prophet Isaiah to explain that many hearts are hardened. Nevertheless, there are also some of the leading Jews who believe in Jesus but remain silent out of fear of the Pharisees.

The chapter concludes with Jesus’ statement that he has come into the world as the light to lead people out of darkness. He emphasizes that his mission comes from God and that his words signify eternal life.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/18-10-2024-john-chapter-12-believe-his-prophets/

3.5 Recurring Themes – Glory
Recurring Themes: Glory on the Cross

Read John 17:1–5. What did Jesus mean when He said, “Father, the hour has come: glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you”?

In John 17:1–5, Jesus speaks of His impending “hour” and asks the Father to glorify Him so that He may glorify the Father. This statement refers to the climax of His earthly ministry—the impending suffering, death, and resurrection. Although the cross is seen by humans as a place of shame and humiliation, it becomes a place of glory in God’s plan.

The glorification of Jesus begins at the cross, where He bears the sins of humanity. In the greatest human weakness, divine strength and love are revealed. The cross demonstrates God’s glory because it is the ultimate revelation of His love, grace, and redemption. Jesus glorifies the Father by fulfilling the plan of redemption and opening the way to God for humanity.

This paradoxical idea—that the greatest glory is revealed in the deepest shame—shows how closely human and divine histories are intertwined. God’s glory is not only visible in triumph and power but also in sacrifice, humility, and love.

Think about what it means that such a drastic matter—God Himself on the cross—was necessary to redeem us from sin. What should this tell us about how terrible sin really is?

The fact that God Himself had to come to the cross to redeem us from sin shows us how serious and destructive sin truly is. Sin is not just a minor moral failing or mistake but a deep separation from God that results in death and eternal separation from Him. The price of sin was so high that only the sacrifice of the perfect and sinless Son of God, Jesus Christ, could overcome this separation and reconcile humanity with God.

When we imagine the Creator of the universe coming in human form to die on the cross, the severity of sin becomes even more apparent. It shows that sin cannot be taken lightly—it is a radical break with God’s holiness and requires an equally radical solution. This sacrifice reveals the depth of God’s love, but it also shows that sin is a serious, life-altering matter that cannot be overlooked.

The message of the cross should deeply humble us and show us how desperate our need for redemption truly is. It reminds us that sin has destructive consequences, but also that God’s grace is greater than any sin when we turn to Him through Jesus Christ.

The connection between the glory of Jesus on the cross and our everyday lives and faith is profound and formative. The glorification that Jesus speaks of in John 17:1–5 shows us that God’s glory is not only revealed in moments of triumph and power but especially in moments of suffering, dedication, and sacrifice. This has several practical implications for our lives and faith:

1. Suffering with Purpose The fact that Jesus was glorified through suffering on the cross helps us see our own sufferings and difficulties in a new light. It shows that God can use even the darkest and most challenging situations to reveal His glory and love. So, when we go through challenges or pain, we can trust that God is present and carrying us through these times, shaping us through them.

2. Humility and Dedication Jesus glorified the Father through His dedication on the cross. This teaches us that true greatness and glory lie in humility and self-sacrifice. In our daily lives, we are called to be humble in our relationships and actions and to serve others, even if it costs us something. God’s glory is revealed when we are willing to let go of our ego and do the Father’s will.

3. Forgiveness and Grace On the cross, Jesus bore the sins of the world, showing us the depth of the forgiveness available to us through Him. In our daily lives, this reminds us of how serious sin is but also how great God’s grace is. It encourages us to receive forgiveness and to forgive others. The power of the cross works in us as we practice grace and forgiveness in our daily lives.

4. Life-Changing Love The glory of the cross shows us God’s unconditional love. This love should shape our daily lives by not only receiving this love but also passing it on to others. Jesus’ death on the cross is the ultimate sign of how far God is willing to go to save us. This should change our hearts and motivate us to love others with the same dedication and mercy.

5. Hope and Trust The cross is also a symbol of hope. In the eyes of the world, it was a moment of defeat, but in God’s plan, it was the moment of victory. This shows us that even in times when it seems like everything is lost, we can trust in God’s plan. His plan is greater than we can imagine, and He leads us through every crisis to His glory.

Conclusion:

The glory of Jesus on the cross reminds us that our faith is not only strong in times of success and happiness but also in suffering, dedication, and humility. God’s glory is revealed in moments when we give ourselves, serve others, and trust in God amidst challenges. These truths should deeply shape our daily lives and our relationship with God and others.

The true glory of God is not only revealed in triumph but especially in humility and sacrifice—a light that shines through the cross.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-the-prelude-the-prologue-3-5-recurring-themes-glory-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/