October 17, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 11

¹ Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.

² (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment, and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick.)

³ Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick.

⁴ When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.

⁵ Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus.

⁶ When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was.

⁷ Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judaea again.

⁸ His disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither again?

⁹ Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.

¹⁰ But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.

¹¹ These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep.

¹² Then said his disciples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do well.

¹³ Howbeit Jesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.

¹⁴ Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.

¹⁵ And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the intent ye may believe; nevertheless let us go unto him.

¹⁶ Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his fellowdisciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.

¹⁷ Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the grave four days already.

¹⁸ Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen furlongs off:

¹⁹ And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.

²⁰ Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house.

²¹ Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

²² But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.

²³ Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.

²⁴ Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.

²⁵ Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:

²⁶ And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

²⁷ She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.

²⁸ And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.

²⁹ As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him.

³⁰ Now Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was in that place where Martha met him.

³¹ The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the grave to weep there.

³² Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.

³³ When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled.

³⁴ And said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see.

³⁵ Jesus wept.

³⁶ Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him!

³⁷ And some of them said, Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died?

³⁸ Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.

³⁹ Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.

⁴⁰ Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?

⁴¹ Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.

⁴² And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.

⁴³ And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

⁴⁴ And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.

⁴⁵ Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.

⁴⁶ But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done.

⁴⁷ Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a council, and said, What do we? for this man doeth many miracles.

⁴⁸ If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and take away both our place and nation.

⁴⁹ And one of them, named Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all,

⁵⁰ Nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.

⁵¹ And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation;

⁵² And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad.

⁵³ Then from that day forth they took counsel together for to put him to death.

⁵⁴ Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; but went thence unto a country near to the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples.

⁵⁵ And the Jews’ passover was nigh at hand: and many went out of the country up to Jerusalem before the passover, to purify themselves.

⁵⁶ Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves, as they stood in the temple, What think ye, that he will not come to the feast?

⁵⁷ Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a commandment, that, if any man knew where he were, he should shew it, that they might take him.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

John chapter 11 narrates the moving story of the raising of Lazarus. This event is not only a powerful sign of Jesus’ authority over death but also paves the way for the central events of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection. Through this miracle, Jesus reveals his divine authority and his deep emotional connection to his friends and followers. At the same time, the hostility of the religious leaders against him escalates.

Commentary

Lazarus Falls Ill and Dies (John 11:1-16)

Lazarus, the brother of Mary and Martha, becomes ill. The sisters send a message to Jesus asking for help. Although Jesus loves Lazarus dearly, he deliberately delays his arrival by two days. This delay may seem strange, but Jesus explains that it will happen “so that the glory of God may be revealed.” He knows that he will raise Lazarus from the dead to strengthen the faith of his disciples and other witnesses.

The Encounter with Martha and Mary (John 11:17-37)

When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has already been in the tomb for four days. Martha hurries to meet him and expresses her belief that Jesus could have healed Lazarus if he had come earlier. She believes in the resurrection on the last day, but Jesus reveals to her that he is “the resurrection and the life” and that all who believe in him will live eternally. This statement underscores Jesus’ divine power over life and death.

Mary later meets Jesus and falls at his feet, weeping. Jesus is deeply moved by the grief of the sisters and the surrounding Jews. He shows his own human sorrow when “Jesus wept,” one of the shortest but most emotionally significant passages in the Bible. This scene reveals Jesus’ deep emotional connection to people and his compassion.

The Raising of Lazarus (John 11:38-44)

Jesus orders the stone to be removed from the tomb. Martha warns him that the body already smells, as Lazarus has been dead for four days. But Jesus reminds her of his promise to see the glory of God if she believes. After the stone is rolled away, Jesus prays publicly to strengthen the faith of the onlookers. Then he calls out loudly, “Lazarus, come out!” And Lazarus, still wrapped in burial clothes, emerges from the tomb. This powerful raising of Lazarus demonstrates Jesus’ divine power and serves as a crucial sign for many to believe in him.

The Plan to Kill Jesus (John 11:45-57)

After this extraordinary miracle, many of the witnesses believe in Jesus, but some report the event to the Pharisees. The Pharisees see Jesus’ growing popularity as a threat to their authority and fear that the Romans might take action against the Jews if the movement around Jesus continues to gain momentum. The high priest Caiaphas pragmatically suggests that it is better for one man (Jesus) to die for the people than for the whole nation to perish. Unknowingly, he speaks prophetically about Jesus’ impending sacrifice for humanity. From this moment on, the religious leaders devise plans to kill Jesus.

Summary

John chapter 11 showcases Jesus’ divine power over death through the raising of Lazarus. The story not only reveals Jesus’ deep compassion and humanity but also highlights the central truth of his nature as “the resurrection and the life.” This miracle strengthens the faith of many, but it also leads the religious leaders to decisively resolve to kill Jesus, as they see him as a threat to their power and the nation’s security.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/17-10-2024-john-chapter-11-believe-his-prophets/

3.4 Reappearing Themes – Belief and Unbelief
The Reaction to the Light

Read John 3:16–21, John 9:35–41, and John 12:36–46. How do these texts repeat the theme of faith versus unbelief that appears in the prologue?

In John 3:16–21, John 9:35–41, and John 12:36–46, the central theme of faith and unbelief, which is already introduced in the prologue of the Gospel, is reiterated. These texts show a clear division between those who believe in Jesus and accept Him as the Light of the world and those who reject Him and remain in darkness.

John consistently presents two groups in his Gospel: those who recognize Jesus as the Messiah and those who, despite having the opportunity, reject Him. Faith here is not just a passive agreement but an active process manifested in openness to Jesus and His light. This is reflected in the Greek verb “pisteuō,” which is used 98 times in this Gospel. It emphasizes that faith is a living, active action—a constant trust and walking in the light of Jesus.

Those who believe in Jesus open themselves to His light and allow themselves to be shaped by Him, even when He confronts or corrects them. They are willing to let their lives be reflected by the light of Jesus and are thereby transformed. On the other hand, unbelievers reject the light because they prefer darkness. They often meet Jesus with resistance, wanting to preserve their own traditions and ideas, and they judge Him instead of allowing His light to judge them.

These recurring themes of faith and unbelief highlight that faith in Jesus is not merely an intellectual assent but a fundamental decision for the light and truth that transforms life.

In what way do you live out your faith in Jesus, rather than merely giving intellectual assent to Him as the Messiah? Why is it important to know the difference? (See Matthew 7:21–23.)

It is important to recognize the difference between living out faith and merely giving intellectual assent to Jesus because genuine faith is demonstrated through actions. Matthew 7:21–23 warns us that it is not enough to simply know the right things about Jesus or to verbally confess Him; our faith must be expressed through obedient actions. Jesus says that not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” will enter the kingdom of God, but only those who do the will of the Father.

Living faith is shown in the decisions we make daily: how we treat others, how we trust God in difficult situations, how we practice love and forgiveness, and how we strive to live according to God’s commands. It involves making our faith active and letting it shape our lives rather than remaining on a theoretical level.

It is important to recognize the difference because mere intellectual faith does not bring about real change in the heart and lifestyle. Genuine faith transforms us, while simply knowing about Jesus without application does not build a deep relationship with Him. The goal of faith is to be in a living, obedient relationship with Jesus that shapes our lives and positively affects the lives of others.

The connection between the theme of “Faith and Unbelief” and our daily lives and faith is profound and practical. John’s Gospel shows us that faith is not just an intellectual agreement but an active, lived decision that fundamentally shapes our lives. This decision to believe or not believe in Jesus has direct implications on how we live our daily lives.

1. Faith as a Lifestyle Faith, as depicted in the Gospel of John, is not just a belief in the mind but a daily choice to follow Jesus and His light. This means that our faith must be reflected in our behavior—in our relationships with others, in our integrity, and in our willingness to be shaped by Jesus. Faith is not something we live only in church or when reading the Bible but something that manifests in every decision and action.

2. Light and Darkness in Daily Life John often speaks of light and darkness as metaphors for faith and unbelief. In daily life, this means consciously choosing to live in the light of Jesus by allowing God’s truth to penetrate our lives. This can involve acknowledging difficult truths about ourselves, admitting our mistakes, and letting God’s light guide us, even when it is uncomfortable. On the other hand, it means avoiding darkness—things like self-deception, selfishness, and sin that lead us away from God.

3. Faith in Action As seen in Matthew 7:21–23, it is not enough to merely say “Lord, Lord.” Living faith is demonstrated in our actions. This means that in everyday life, we do not only believe in Jesus theoretically but practice love, forgiveness, patience, and mercy in our behavior. Faith in Jesus should transform us so that we positively influence our surroundings and the people around us.

4. Dealing with Challenges The kind of faith John speaks about also involves trust. In daily life, this means trusting God in difficult situations instead of relying on our own strength or control. Faith leads us to look to God in crises, uncertainty, and suffering, trusting that He is working everything for good.

5. The Importance of Obedience Faith is inseparably linked with obedience. In daily life, this means that we not only know what God expects from us but also do it. This might involve making difficult decisions, letting go of old habits, or standing up courageously for what is right, even when it costs us something.

Conclusion:

The themes of faith and unbelief that John addresses in his Gospel challenge us to actively live out our faith in daily life. Faith is not just a mental agreement to theological truths but a deep transformation that is reflected in how we interact with others, respond to challenges, and choose to live in the light of God. This decision shapes our lives and brings us into a living, powerful relationship with God.

Our faith in Jesus is not only shown in words but in the active decision to accept His light in our lives and follow Him.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-3-the-prelude-the-prologue-3-4-reappearing-themes-belief-and-unbelief-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

October 16, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 10

¹ Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.

² But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.

³ To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.

⁴ And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.

⁵ And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

⁶ This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.

⁷ Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.

⁸ All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.

⁹ I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.

¹⁰ The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

¹¹ I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.

¹² But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.

¹³ The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.

¹⁴ I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.

¹⁵ As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.

¹⁶ And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.

¹⁷ Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.

¹⁸ No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

¹⁹ There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings.

²⁰ And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad; why hear ye him?

²¹ Others said, These are not the words of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open the eyes of the blind?

²² And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was winter.

²³ And Jesus walked in the temple in Solomon’s porch.

²⁴ Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly.

²⁵ Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness of me.

²⁶ But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.

²⁷ My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

²⁸ And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

²⁹ My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

³⁰ I and my Father are one.

³¹ Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him.

³² Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?

³³ The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.

³⁴ Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?

³⁵ If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken;

³⁶ Say ye of him, whom the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blasphemest; because I said, I am the Son of God?

³⁷ If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.

³⁸ But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works: that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I in him.

³⁹ Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out of their hand,

⁴⁰ And went away again beyond Jordan into the place where John at first baptized; and there he abode.

⁴¹ And many resorted unto him, and said, John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true.

⁴² And many believed on him there.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

John Chapter 10 contains the well-known teaching of Jesus about the “Good Shepherd.” Jesus uses the image of the shepherd to explain His relationship with the believers. He portrays Himself as the good shepherd who is willing to lay down His life for the sheep. Throughout this chapter, Jesus’ care, guidance, and willingness to sacrifice are highlighted, while He simultaneously depicts the religious leaders of His time as “hired hands” who do not genuinely care for the well-being of the people.

Commentary

The Good Shepherd (John 10:1-18)

In this passage, Jesus uses the image of the shepherd and His sheep to explain His role as Savior and Protector. Jesus emphasizes that a true shepherd enters the sheepfold by the door and that the sheep listen to the shepherd’s voice. He explains that He is the “door” through which the sheep are saved, and that all who do not come through Him are like thieves and robbers. This refers to false teachers and religious leaders who lead God’s people astray.

Jesus calls Himself the “Good Shepherd” who is willing to lay down His life for the sheep. This act of dedication demonstrates His love and commitment to the believers. In contrast, the “hired hands” flee when danger threatens because they do not truly love the sheep. Jesus also reveals His divine authority by explaining that He willingly lays down His life and can take it up again. This allusion to His impending crucifixion and resurrection underscores the depth of His plan for the redemption of humanity.

Jesus and the Religious Leaders (John 10:19-30)

Jesus’ words lead to a renewed division among the listeners. Some accuse Him of being possessed by a demon, while others acknowledge His miracles and view His words in a different light. The discussion becomes even more intense when Jesus speaks in the temple during the Festival of Dedication. The Jews demand a clear statement from Jesus about whether He is the Messiah. Jesus responds that His works testify about Him and that those who believe in Him are His “sheep,” who hear His voice and follow Him.

Jesus promises eternal life to the believers and emphasizes that no one can snatch them out of His hand. This statement highlights the security and protection that Jesus offers to His followers. However, His words “I and the Father are one” (v.30) again enrages the listeners, as they understand this as blasphemy.

The Accusation of Blasphemy (John 10:31-42)

The Jews pick up stones to stone Jesus because they believe He has made Himself equal with God. Jesus defends Himself by referring to the Scriptures that call people “gods” and emphasizes that His works demonstrate that He was sent by the Father. Despite their attempts to arrest Him, Jesus escapes and withdraws beyond the Jordan, where many believe in Him.

Summary

John Chapter 10 emphasizes Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd who knows, protects, and lays down His life for His sheep. Jesus explains that only through Him can salvation and eternal life be attained. His statements about His unity with God the Father and His divine authority lead to sharp confrontations with the religious leaders. The passage highlights the division between those who believe in Jesus and those who reject Him. Ultimately, Jesus assures His followers that they are safe in His hand and that no one can separate them from Him.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/16-10-2024-john-chapter-10-believe-his-prophets/

October 15, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 9

¹ And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth.

² And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?

³ Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.

⁴ I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.

⁵ As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.

⁶ When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay,

⁷ And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing.

⁸ The neighbours therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and begged?

⁹ Some said, This is he: others said, He is like him: but he said, I am he.

¹⁰ Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes opened?

¹¹ He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash: and I went and washed, and I received sight.

¹² Then said they unto him, Where is he? He said, I know not.

¹³ They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind.

¹⁴ And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.

¹⁵ Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see.

¹⁶ Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.

¹⁷ They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet.

¹⁸ But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight.

¹⁹ And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see?

²⁰ His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind:

²¹ But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself.

²² These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.

²³ Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him.

²⁴ Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner.

²⁵ He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.

²⁶ Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes?

²⁷ He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples?

²⁸ Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses’ disciples.

²⁹ We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is.

³⁰ The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes.

³¹ Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.

³² Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind.

³³ If this man were not of God, he could do nothing.

³⁴ They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.

³⁵ Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God?

³⁶ He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him?

³⁷ And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.

³⁸ And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.

³⁹ And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.

⁴⁰ And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?

⁴¹ Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

John Chapter 9 tells the story of a man who was born blind and is healed by Jesus. This healing, which takes place on the Sabbath, sparks a heated discussion between Jesus, the Pharisees, and the healed man. The chapter highlights themes such as faith, spiritual blindness, and Jesus’ work as the light of the world.

Commentary

Healing of the Man Born Blind (John 9:1-7)

As Jesus passes by a man who was born blind, His disciples ask whether the blindness was a punishment for the man’s sins or his parents’ sins. Jesus rejects this notion and explains that the blindness serves to reveal the works of God. He emphasizes that He is the “Light of the World” and takes the opportunity to heal the man using an unusual method: He makes a paste of saliva and dirt, applies it to the man’s eyes, and instructs him to wash in the Pool of Siloam. As a result, the man regains his sight.

Reaction of the Pharisees (John 9:8-34)

The healing on the Sabbath leads to controversy, especially among the Pharisees. While some Pharisees view Jesus’ work as sinful because it occurred on the Sabbath, others recognize the miraculous power behind the healing. The healed man repeatedly testifies that Jesus healed him and is interrogated by the religious leaders. His parents, fearing the Pharisees, only confirm that he was blind to avoid punishment.

The Pharisees attempt to portray Jesus as a sinner, but the healed man boldly contradicts them, stating that only someone sent by God could perform such a miracle. These statements ultimately lead to the man being expelled from the synagogue.

Faith and Spiritual Blindness (John 9:35-41)

Jesus finds the expelled man and reveals Himself as the “Son of God.” The man believes in Jesus and worships Him. Jesus explains that He has come to “judge” so that those who are blind will see, and those who think they see will remain in their spiritual blindness. This statement is a clear reference to the Pharisees, who, in their self-righteousness, refuse to acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah.

Summary

John Chapter 9 illustrates the healing of a man who was blind from birth and addresses the spiritual blindness of those who refuse to believe in Jesus. While the healed man gradually comes to faith in Jesus, the Pharisees reject His divine authority despite the obvious miracles. Jesus makes it clear that true spiritual blindness lies not in the physical inability to see but in the refusal to recognize God’s truth.

 

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/15-10-2024-john-chapter-9-believe-his-prophets/

October 14, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – John Chapter 8

¹ Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.

² And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.

³ And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,

⁴ They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.

⁵ Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?

⁶ This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.

⁷ So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

⁸ And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.

⁹ And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.

¹⁰ When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?

¹¹ She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

¹² Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

¹³ The Pharisees therefore said unto him, Thou bearest record of thyself; thy record is not true.

¹⁴ Jesus answered and said unto them, Though I bear record of myself, yet my record is true: for I know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go.

¹⁵ Ye judge after the flesh; I judge no man.

¹⁶ And yet if I judge, my judgment is true: for I am not alone, but I and the Father that sent me.

¹⁷ It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true.

¹⁸ I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.

¹⁹ Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye neither know me, nor my Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also.

²⁰ These words spake Jesus in the treasury, as he taught in the temple: and no man laid hands on him; for his hour was not yet come.

²¹ Then said Jesus again unto them, I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come.

²² Then said the Jews, Will he kill himself? because he saith, Whither I go, ye cannot come.

²³ And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.

²⁴ I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.

²⁵ Then said they unto him, Who art thou? And Jesus saith unto them, Even the same that I said unto you from the beginning.

²⁶ I have many things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things which I have heard of him.

²⁷ They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.

²⁸ Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things.

²⁹ And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.

³⁰ As he spake these words, many believed on him.

³¹ Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

³² And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

³³ They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?

³⁴ Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

³⁵ And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.

³⁶ If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

³⁷ I know that ye are Abraham’s seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in you.

³⁸ I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.

³⁹ They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham.

⁴⁰ But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.

⁴¹ Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him, We be not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.

⁴² Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.

⁴³ Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.

⁴⁴ Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.

⁴⁵ And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not.

⁴⁶ Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?

⁴⁷ He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God.

⁴⁸ Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil?

⁴⁹ Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me.

⁵⁰ And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth.

⁵¹ Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death.

⁵² Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.

⁵³ Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself?

⁵⁴ Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God:

⁵⁵ Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying.

⁵⁶ Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad.

⁵⁷ Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham?

⁵⁸ Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.

⁵⁹ Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of them, and so passed by.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

John Chapter 8 is a powerful chapter that encompasses important events and teachings of Jesus. It begins with the story of the woman caught in adultery, showcasing Jesus’ mercy and justice. As the chapter progresses, Jesus reveals Himself as the “Light of the World” and emphasizes the true freedom that comes through faith in Him. The confrontations between Jesus and the religious leaders become more intense, particularly in the discussion about His divine origin and His unity with God the Father.

Commentary

The Woman Caught in Adultery (John 8:1-11)

The story of the adulterous woman is often viewed as an example of Jesus’ mercy and the necessity of inner cleansing. The Pharisees and scribes brought the woman to Jesus to trap Him. If He had agreed to the stoning, He would have appeared unmerciful; if not, He would have broken Moses’ law. However, Jesus responded with profound wisdom: “Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone” (v.7). This statement caused the accusers to depart in shame, and Jesus forgave the woman and instructed her not to sin anymore. This demonstrates the balance between grace and justice that is evident in Jesus’ actions.

Jesus as the Light of the World (John 8:12-20)

In this passage, Jesus declares Himself to be “the light of the world,” guiding the way to salvation and true knowledge. The Pharisees doubted Jesus’ statement because He spoke of Himself. However, Jesus referred to His unity with the Father, who also testifies about Him. This revelation of Jesus as the light points to His role as the one who shows people the way to God and to the truth.

True Freedom (John 8:31-36)

Jesus teaches that true freedom can only be attained through the recognition of the truth He proclaims. When the Jews argue that they have never been slaves, Jesus explains that everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Only the Son, Jesus, can truly set people free. This passage shows that freedom is not achieved through external circumstances but through liberation from sin and the acceptance of Jesus as Savior.

Conflict Over Jesus’ Descent and Unity with God (John 8:37-59)

In this section, the controversy over Jesus’ true origin and identity intensifies. The religious leaders reject Jesus’ teaching and claim that they are children of Abraham. However, Jesus explains that true descendants of Abraham would do Abraham’s works, namely to love God and His truth. He points out that their rejection and hatred toward Him indicate that their father is the devil, who from the beginning was the father of lies and murder. The climax of this section is Jesus’ statement: “Before Abraham was, I am” (v.58), which is a clear revelation of His divine pre-existence. This leads to an attempt to stone Him, but Jesus escapes unharmed.

Summary

John Chapter 8 emphasizes several central teachings of Jesus. The encounter with the adulterous woman demonstrates His mercy and the principle of forgiveness. As the “Light of the World,” Jesus reveals that He brings truth and life. True freedom lies in liberation from sin, which is only possible through Him. In the intense confrontation with the religious leaders, Jesus declares His divine unity with the Father, which angers the religious elites and leads to an attempted attack on Him. This chapter highlights Jesus’ central role as Redeemer and divine Son of God, who brings grace, truth, and liberation.

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/14-10-2024-john-chapter-8-believe-his-prophets/