Series JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 13.Epilogue: Knowing Jesus and His Word  |
Getting to Know the Master and His Word  |

Lesson 13 invites us to recognize Jesus and His Word in a deeper way. Through encounters, such as the one between Jesus and Peter, it becomes clear that God’s grace and our humility are the keys to true discipleship. The Gospel of John shows how people respond to Jesus—either by accepting the light and growing or by rejecting it and remaining blind. It teaches us to base our faith not on human ideas but on God’s Word.
The lesson reminds us that spiritual growth depends on staying in Jesus, trusting Him, and allowing His truth to work in our lives. Jesus is the center of all understanding, the light that shows us the way to the Father.

Memory Text: John 5:39 – “ ‘You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life; and these are they which testify of Me’ .”

Contents:
13.1 Meeting in Galilee
A New Beginning in Grace and Humility

John 21:1–19 reveals profound truths about God’s grace and human humility. The scene shows how Jesus meets the disciples, especially Peter, in Galilee and gives him the opportunity for restoration. Peter, who once denied Jesus three times, is now asked three times if he loves Him, symbolizing a deliberate restoration. In doing so, Peter recognizes his own inadequacy and responds humbly. This demonstrates that true humility—the awareness of one’s own faults and dependence on God’s grace—is essential for ministry and spiritual growth.

Jesus’ command to Peter to “feed my sheep” makes it clear that God’s forgiveness and calling do not depend on human perfection but on the willingness to place God at the center. This event is a powerful reminder that no one can stand before God based on their own achievements, but only through His immeasurable grace.

13.2 Keeping Your Eyes on Jesus
The Key to Discipleship

In John 21:20–22, it becomes evident how quickly the focus can shift from a personal relationship with Jesus to the circumstances of others. Peter curiously asks about the fate of John, but Jesus corrects him by saying, “What does it matter to you? Follow me!” This response shows that the path of discipleship is individual and not based on comparisons. Jesus redirects Peter back to the essential task: to focus on Him and fulfill His calling.

The misunderstanding about Jesus’ words—that John would remain until His return—highlights the importance of correctly understanding His message. John clarifies this confusion and refocuses attention on the central message: the focus should be solely on Jesus, our Savior and Master. This episode serves as a reminder that distractions and comparisons can lead us astray—the only path we should follow is the one Jesus shows us.

13.3 Light and Darkness
The Path to Truth

The texts from the Gospel of John emphasize the strong contrast between light and darkness, which is fundamental to understanding the truth. Light symbolizes Jesus Christ, who brings the truth and revelation of God, while darkness represents the world and its turning away from God. People often avoid the light because it exposes their actions, but only through the light can they recognize the true God. This contrast shows that true knowledge and relationship with God are not possible through our own strength but only through Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

Jesus makes it clear that faith based on a false foundation is dangerous, as was the case with the religious leaders of Israel. They relied on human perspectives and rejected the truth revealed in Christ. For us, this means that we must always measure our interpretations and reactions by the light of Christ, especially when biblical truths are challenging. Only then can we overcome the darkness of human misinterpretations and walk in the truth.

13.4 Theology From “Above” or From “Below”
Faith That Goes Beyond Human Ideas

A royal official came to Jesus with the desperate request to heal his sick son. However, his initial faith was based on the expectation of visible miracles—a “from below” theology that ties God’s actions to human conditions. But Jesus challenged him to believe His word without visible proof. The true theme here is the transition from a conditional faith to a trust that is based solely on Jesus and His Word.

Theology “from above” acknowledges God’s sovereignty and is guided by the Word of God, not by human ideas. Faith that springs from a loving relationship with Jesus leads to obedience that comes from the heart, not from legal obligation. Without love, obedience becomes a mechanical fulfillment of duty. But when love is the foundation, obedience becomes an expression of devotion and joy in God’s will.

13.5 Abiding in Jesus
The Key to True Discipleship

In John 12:32, Jesus describes His authority as one that draws all people to Himself when He is lifted up. This statement shows that Jesus is the central figure for understanding God’s will and the truth. The Gospel of John makes it clear that encounters with Jesus require decisions: either to accept the light and grow or to reject it and remain blind. Spiritual growth and health are only possible if we remain in Jesus, as illustrated by the relationship between the branches and the vine in John 15:1–11.

Jesus is the source of all life and truth. To grow spiritually, we must submit to His Word and His guidance, without placing our human ideas above divine truth. Faith rooted in Christ leads to a life that bears fruit and stands in love and obedience to God’s will. Thus, the Bible becomes the foundation by which everything is tested—the anchor for true life and true understanding.

13.6 Summary
Jesus—The Light That Leads to Truth

In Lesson 13, it is emphasized that encountering Jesus Christ requires a profound decision from each person. The disciples, especially Peter, experience God’s grace and forgiveness, which must be accepted through humility and faith. The contrast between light and darkness shows that true understanding and discipleship are only possible through turning to Jesus. Theology “from above” teaches us to trust God and place His Word above human ideas.

The secret to spiritual growth lies in remaining in Jesus, being guided by His Word, and bearing fruit for His kingdom. This lesson calls us to recognize Jesus as the center of our lives and to deepen our relationship with Him through faith, obedience, and love.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-lesson-13-epilogue-knowing-jesus-and-his-word-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection  |
The Cross and the Resurrection: The Turning Point of History   |

Lesson 12 deals with the central events of the Christian faith: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This week, we explore how the cross represents the fulfillment of God’s plan to save humanity and how the resurrection transforms the empty tomb into a symbol of hope. From the trial before Pilate to the encounter between the risen Christ and Mary Magdalene, God’s love and grace are powerfully demonstrated. Jesus’ last words, “It is finished,” mark the victory over sin and death. This lesson invites us to reflect on the significance of the cross and resurrection for our own lives and to embody the hope of the resurrection in our daily lives.

Memory Text: John 18:37 – “Then Pilate said to him, ‘So you are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king. For this purpose I was born and for this purpose I have come into the world—to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice’.”

Content:
12.1 What is Truth?
The Truth Stands Before Us: Pilate’s Missed Opportunity

The encounter between Jesus and Pilate in John 18:33–38 is more than just a political interrogation—it is a profound confrontation with the truth. Jesus makes it clear that His kingdom is not of this world and reveals that He has come to testify to the truth. Pilate’s question, “What is truth?” reflects his inner turmoil and confusion, yet he seeks no real answer. Instead, he ignores the truth that stands right before him and chooses the more convenient path, shaped by prejudice and external pressures. In the Gospel of John, truth is inseparably linked with Jesus, who is “the way, the truth, and the life.” This episode calls us to overcome our own prejudices and fears to recognize and accept the truth in Jesus.

12.2 Behold the Man!
The Irony of Judgment: The True King and the Lamb of God

In John 18:38–19:5, Pilate attempts to release Jesus by leaving the decision to the crowd. He presents Jesus, mocked and humiliated with a crown of thorns and a purple robe, saying, “Behold the man!” However, his strategy fails: the religious leaders and the people choose Barabbas instead of Jesus. Ironically, Pilate unknowingly presents Jesus not only as a ridiculed king but also as the Lamb of God who bears the sin of the world. This scene illustrates how political power, fear, and hatred can suppress truth and justice. It is telling that a pagan governor hesitates more to condemn Jesus than the spiritual leaders who should have recognized Him. This story warns us to be vigilant against prejudice and abuse of power and to courageously defend the truth.

12.3 “It Is Finished”
The Completed Work: Hope Through Jesus’ Sacrifice

The words “It is finished” mark the culmination of Jesus’ mission. On the cross, He completed the work of redemption that the Father had commissioned, fulfilling Scripture in every aspect. Pilate’s inscription, “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews,” became a silent testimony to Jesus’ true identity, even though it was intended as mockery. In the moving scene where Jesus entrusts His mother Mary to John, it is evident that even in suffering, His love and care for others are paramount. Jesus’ death is not the end but the beginning of new hope for humanity. For us, His accomplished work means forgiveness, redemption, and the possibility of living in a renewed relationship with God.

12.4 The Empty Tomb
The Empty Tomb: A Sign of Resurrection and Hope

The empty tomb is the central proof of Jesus’ resurrection and gives us the assurance that death does not have the final word. The description of the folded burial cloths, especially the linen wrappings, emphasizes that Jesus’ resurrection was not the work of grave robbers but a deliberate and divine act. John saw and believed—the order and calm in the tomb convinced him that something supernatural had occurred. For Jesus’ followers, this event marks the fulfillment of His promises and the foundation of their faith. Jesus’ resurrection means hope for new life and the overcoming of death and sin. The empty tomb challenges us to live in this living hope.

12.5 Jesus and Mary
A Personal Revelation: Mary Recognizes the Risen Lord

Mary Magdalene experiences a turning point in history at the empty tomb. Despite her grief and confusion, she is personally addressed by Jesus, and only by hearing her name does she recognize Him. This encounter demonstrates the personal relationship Jesus has with His followers. His resurrection changes everything—it not only brings comfort to Mary’s sorrow but also gives all of humanity hope and life. Mary becomes the first witness to the resurrection and is entrusted with spreading this message to the disciples. Without the resurrection, as Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 15:12–20, our faith would be in vain. But through Jesus’ resurrection, we have a solid foundation for our faith and hope.

12.6 Summary
The Cross and Resurrection: The Climax of God’s Plan of Redemption

In Lesson 12, the significance of Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection is highlighted as the climax of His redemptive work. During His trial before Pilate, Jesus explains that He has come to testify to the truth, yet people miss this truth through prejudice and power plays. On the cross, Jesus completes His mission with the words “It is finished,” bringing hope and redemption for humanity. The empty tomb confirms His resurrection and demonstrates that death has been overcome. Mary Magdalene, as the first witness to the resurrection, is personally addressed by Jesus and entrusted with the task of proclaiming the good news to the disciples. These events call us to live in the hope and faith of the resurrection and to accept the gift of redemption.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-lesson-12-the-hour-of-glory-the-cross-and-resurrection-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 11.The Father, the Son, and the Spirit  |
The Trinity: Unity in Love, Truth, and Redemption Plan  |

Lesson 11 is dedicated to the relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, demonstrating how the divinity works together in the creation and redemption of humanity. This unity in love, truth, and purpose is vividly described in the Gospel of John. The Father is the source of life and love, the Son reveals the Father through His life and sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit acts as the mediator of divine truth and power. Together, they work to restore humanity into a close relationship with God. This lesson invites us to recognize the love and unity of the divinity and to reflect it in our lives.

Memory Text: John 14:26 – “‘The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you’.”

Content:
11.1 The Heavenly Father
The Father: Origin of Love and Source of Redemption

The Gospel of John clearly highlights the central role of the Father in the redemption plan. The Father is at the center of creation and is actively involved in the redemption of humanity. John 3:16-17 reveals God’s immeasurable love by sending His Son to save the world. The Father works in close unity with Jesus, as emphasized in John 10:30: “I and the Father are one.” These verses show that the Father has assigned works to Jesus that reveal His divine nature and that He is the source of true teaching and guidance (John 14:10). God’s care and love are active and personal; He hears our prayers (John 16:23) and draws us to Himself through His grace (John 6:45). This truth testifies to the depth of the Father’s love for us and how intimately He is connected with humanity.

11.2 Jesus and the Father
Jesus: Revealer of the Father and Restorer of the Relationship with God

Sin has profoundly disrupted the personal relationship between humanity and divinity as planned by God, as clearly depicted in Genesis 3. However, instead of leaving humanity in separation, God actively sought them, demonstrating His immeasurable love and grace. Jesus, the Word, became flesh to reveal the Father’s glory and love (John 1:14–18). Through His life and sacrifice, He offered humanity the opportunity to restore the broken relationship. The verses from John show that Jesus and the Father work in perfect unity to grant redemption and eternal life. In Christ, we find not only hope but also the assurance that God actively approaches us in His love to save us.

11.3 Knowing the Son Is Knowing the Father
Jesus: The Way to the Father and Revealer of His Will

Jesus is the perfect revelation of the Father, as emphasized in John 1:18. Through His words and actions, He shows who the Father is and how closely He is connected with humanity. Jesus’ mission was to fulfill the Father’s will on earth, not His own (John 5:30), and in this submission, He reveals the unity between Himself and the Father. Jesus emphasizes that He was sent by the Father to redeem humanity and grant eternal life (John 6:40). His teachings and works are directly inspired by the Father, and He always acts in complete accordance with God’s will. This unity in love and action shows us that faith in Jesus is simultaneously faith in the Father—a central message of the Gospel.

11.4 The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit: Renewer and Guide into All Truth

The Holy Spirit plays a central role in Jesus’ mission and in the conversion of believers. John 1:13 shows that the new birth—the becoming of children of God—does not happen through human effort but solely through the work of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the divine power that helps us overcome sin, recognize righteousness, and find true life in Christ (John 3:5–8; 16:8–11). Jesus promised the disciples that the Spirit would come as a helper and teacher to lead them into all truth (John 14:26). Without the Holy Spirit, Christ’s sacrifice would have been ineffective. His role is to renew, strengthen, and lead believers to the knowledge of God—a priceless blessing.

11.5 The Prayer of Jesus
Jesus’ Prayer: Unity in Love and Truth

The prayer in John 17 reveals Jesus’ deep desire for unity and love among Himself, the Father, the Holy Spirit, and His disciples. It shows that Jesus wanted to lead people not only to love but also to truth. “Sanctify them by the truth! Your word is truth” (John 17:17) emphasizes that a genuine relationship with God is based on the knowledge of truth. Jesus took His mission to reveal the Father very seriously to correct misunderstandings about God and to lead humanity back into fellowship with God. Despite rejection, betrayal, and suffering, Jesus remained faithful to His mission to make the Father’s love and truth visible. His prayer is a call for us to reflect this love and unity in our lives.

11.6 Summary
The Unity of the Divinity: Love, Truth, and Redemption

Lesson 11 illuminates the close relationship between the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, as well as their roles in creation, redemption, and guidance of humanity. The Father is the source of all love, the Son reveals God’s nature through His life and sacrifice, and the Holy Spirit acts as the renewer and guide into all truth. Jesus demonstrated that the unity of the divinity is based on love, truth, and a common goal: the restoration of humanity into fellowship with God. Jesus’ high priestly prayer (John 17) emphasizes this unity and the desire for believers to partake in it. The lesson calls us to reflect God’s love and truth in our lives and to cultivate a personal relationship with the divinity.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-lesson-11-the-father-the-son-and-the-spirit-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 10.The Way, the Truth, and the Life  |
Jesus: The Way to Redemption and the Source of Divine Truth   |

Lesson 10 focuses on the unique role of Jesus Christ, who reveals Himself as the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). These words are part of His farewell discourse, in which He prepares His disciples for His departure and gives them hope for His return. Jesus’ washing of the disciples’ feet symbolizes humility and servant love, while His statements about the truth highlight His divine nature and mission. The Holy Scriptures are presented as the key that reveals the truth of Jesus and forms the foundation for our understanding of God’s plan. This lesson demonstrates how Jesus is the central path to God and the light for all who believe.

Memory Text: John 1:18 – “No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.”

Content:
10.1 I Have Given You an Example
Humility and Service: Jesus’ Legacy to His Followers

In the farewell discourse (John 13–17), Jesus teaches through words and actions what true humility and willingness to serve mean. In John 13:1–20, Jesus washes the disciples’ feet, a task typically reserved for servants. This extraordinary act shows that genuine authority lies not in ruling but in serving. Jesus’ example calls His followers to follow His path and lead lives of humility and dedication. Peter’s reaction underscores the profound significance of this event: without a willingness to humble oneself and be cleansed by Christ, there can be no true fellowship with Him. The rite of humility reminds Christians to serve selflessly and follow Christ in all things.

10.2 I Will Certainly Come Again
The Second Coming of Christ: Assurance from the Faithfulness of the Redeemer

In John 14:1–3, Jesus comforts His disciples in light of His impending departure with the promise of His return. These words look beyond the pain of the cross and the disciples’ confusion, providing them with firm hope. Jesus speaks of His return with such certainty that it is expressed in the present tense in Greek—as if it is already happening. The basis for trust in this promise lies not only in fulfilled prophecies but primarily in the character and faithfulness of Jesus, who already took up the cross to redeem us. His first coming guarantees His return, through which the work of redemption will be completed. This promise encourages believers to steadfastly hope for future glory.

10.3 I Am the Way, the Truth, and the Life
Jesus: The Path, the Revelation, and the Source of Life

Thomas’ question about the way reveals the disciples’ uncertainty as they hear Jesus’ words about His departure. Jesus responds that He Himself is the way, the truth, and the life—not only the way to the Father but also the revelation of the Father and the source of life. Through Jesus, the connection to God becomes possible, and He reveals God’s nature to a fallen world. In response to Philip, Jesus makes it clear that in Him the Father is made visible: whoever sees Jesus sees the Father. These words are a comfort to believers because they show that God’s nature is fully revealed in the person of Jesus. Without Jesus, there would be no secure access to the Father and no clarity about God’s truth and life.

10.4 I AM the Truth
Jesus: The Revelation of Truth and the Light of the World

In the Gospel of John, truth is inextricably linked with the person of Jesus Christ. He is not merely a teacher or proclaimer of truth but the truth itself—the embodiment of God’s nature and will. Biblical truth goes beyond facts and encompasses faithfulness, morality, and the revelation of God’s character. Jesus reveals this truth through His life, teachings, and sacrifice. Like the sun that illuminates the world, Jesus, the truth, enables believers to clearly understand the world and God’s plan. His claim to be the truth provides hope and guidance in a world full of confusion and deception.

10.5 The Scriptures and the Truth
The Bible: The Key to Revealing God and the Truth in Christ

The Holy Scriptures play a central role in revealing the truth, especially in portraying Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. In John 5:38–40, Jesus makes it clear that the Scriptures point to Him and have no full meaning without Him. In Luke 24:27, He shows the disciples how to understand His ministry and sacrifice through the Scriptures. The Bible provides the necessary context for understanding God’s plan, the meaning of life, and the future. It is more than a book of moral teachings—it is the key to revealing the divine truth that science alone cannot explain. The Scriptures lead us to the knowledge of Jesus, who Himself is the truth.

10.6 Summary
Jesus: The Path to Truth and Life in Fellowship with God

Lesson 10 highlights the central role of Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). In His farewell discourse, Jesus comforts His disciples, reveals His mission, and emphasizes the hope of His return. He demonstrates that true service is done in humility, as shown in the washing of the feet, and teaches that truth is not just a concept but a person: Himself. The Holy Scriptures are the foundation that reveals this truth and explains God’s plan. They consistently point to Jesus, who is the bridge to the Father and the light that illuminates the world. This lesson encourages believers to embrace Jesus as the center of truth, hope, and life.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-lesson-10-the-way-the-truth-and-the-life-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/

Series JESUS IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN with Pastor Mark Finley  |

Lesson 7.Blessed Are Those Who Believe  |
Witnesses of Faith in the Gospel of John  |

Lesson 7 of the Gospel of John invites us to view faith through the eyes of various witnesses of Jesus and to recognize the significance of faith without visible evidence. From Abraham to Thomas, it is shown how people in different situations responded to Jesus—with trust, doubt, or unconscious acknowledgment. These witnesses illustrate that faith often requires courage and enables a deeper insight into God’s workings. Jesus emphasizes the blessedness of faith that is not based on visible signs but on trust. By living this faith, we gain access to a vibrant relationship with God that gives us hope and life.

Memory Text: John 20:29 – “Jesus said to him, ‘Thomas, because you have seen Me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed’.”

Content:
7.1 Harking Back to Abraham
Abraham as a Witness of Faith and Promise

Jesus refers to Abraham to emphasize the continuity between the faith of the patriarchs and His own message. In John 8:56, Jesus shows that Abraham “saw his day” from afar and rejoiced over it—a reference to the Redeemer that Abraham experienced as part of God’s promise. Paul picks up this thought in Romans 4 by presenting Abraham as an example of justification by faith, independent of the works of the law. This emphasis on faith as the foundation of the relationship with God makes Abraham the father not only of the Jewish people but of all believers. Through Abraham’s story, the importance of faith that trusts in God’s promise is highlighted—a connection that Jesus reveals as the fulfillment of this promise.

7.2 The Witness of Mary
Mary’s Precious Gift as an Expression of Faith

Mary’s act of anointing Jesus with expensive oil was a profound testimony of her love and gratitude toward Him. The costly oil she used lavishly symbolized her complete devotion and recognition of Jesus as the one who brings forgiveness and new life. Her gesture was not only a sign of honor but also a prophetic act pointing to Jesus’ impending sacrifice. While Judas showed selfish motives in his criticism, Jesus defended Mary because He recognized the sincerity of her love and the faith in her heart. This story reminds us that Jesus looks beyond the exterior and knows the hearts—a call for us to let His transformative righteousness enter our lives.

7.3 The Unwitting Witness of Pilate
Pilate’s Unconscious Testimony of Truth

Pilate, the Roman governor, played a central role in the trial against Jesus and gave an involuntary testimony about Him. Although he declared Jesus innocent three times, he ultimately condemned Him to death—a decision influenced by the pressure from religious leaders and the crowd. By placing the sign “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews” above the cross, Pilate unwittingly affirmed Jesus’ true identity as portrayed in the Gospel of John. The drama surrounding Pilate’s decision highlights the danger of being swayed by external influences instead of following one’s conscience. This event reminds us of the importance of steadfastly standing by the truth, even when circumstances create pressure and doubt. Pilate’s wavering serves as a warning against the temptation to betray the convictions of the heart to please the masses.

7.4 The Witness of Thomas
From Doubt to Confession of Faith – Thomas’ Lesson

Thomas’ story shows how doubt can be transformed into a stronger conviction of faith. Thomas made the mistake of tying his faith to physical evidence and only acknowledged the resurrection under his own conditions. However, Jesus met him with understanding and invited him to touch the wounds in His hands and side, leading Thomas to a powerful confession: “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28). Jesus’ words, “Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed,” remind us that true faith is not based on visible evidence but on trust in God’s testimony and His creation. This encounter teaches us that doubt can often be part of the journey of faith, but the goal is to reach a trust that exists even without “seeing.” The faith that Thomas ultimately found is an open trust in the reliability of God and His promises.

7.5 Our Witness of Jesus
Our Testimony – Faith Strengthened by History and Experience

The Gospel of John calls us to give our own testimony about Jesus, inspired by the testimonies of those who experienced Him directly. We have the advantage of not only reading about Jesus’ life and miracles but also recognizing the fulfillment of many of His prophecies in history, such as the destruction of the temple and the worldwide spread of the Gospel. These historical confirmations provide us with reasons for faith that go beyond mere eyewitness accounts. Today, we are called to accept Jesus as the Savior through Scripture and the power of the Holy Spirit and to share this experience. Each of us has a unique story and a personal experience with Christ, and by sharing them, we continue what the first witnesses of Jesus began—a testimony of faith that also works life-changing in our world.

7.6 Summary
Faith Without Seeing – The Path to True Blessing

In Lesson 7, the Gospel of John emphasizes the importance of faith that is not based on visible evidence but on trust in God’s word. Through the testimonies of Abraham, Mary, Pilate, and Thomas, John illustrates various responses to Jesus and highlights the strength of faith that goes beyond the visible. Abraham trusted the promise, Mary showed deep gratitude, Pilate gave an unintended testimony, and Thomas learned to believe without seeing. Jesus Himself praises the blessedness of those who believe without proof and invites us to trust in God’s plan and word. This lesson reminds us that true faith is the foundation for a deeper relationship with God—a relationship that grants us life in His name.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-lesson-7-blessed-are-those-who-believe-sabbath-school-with-pastor-mark-finley/