John 8:56-59 - The Incarnate I Am

John 8:56-59

56 Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day, and he saw it and was glad.” 57 So the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have You seen Abraham?” 58 Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was born, I am.” 59 Therefore they picked up stones to throw at Him, but Jesus hid Himself and went out of the temple.

Message: The Incarnate I Am

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: Jesus continues to speak and the Jews and those around him continue to listen and things remain tense. Jesus is proclaiming who He is to these people, sharing He is sent by God and believing in Him is the same as believing in God. People are missing the point, His point. He is offering them freedom, but they say they are not enslaved (v. 32-33). They are claiming allegiance to Abraham as their father, but because they do not see that Jesus is indeed the work of Abraham-- Jesus therefore says their allegiance is to Satan, the father of lies (v.44) (conclusion: if you don't accept Jesus you are living by Satan's ways).  Jesus states He is greater than Abraham, greater than the prophets. They died, but he infers that he will not die. And now he mentions that Abraham knew also that Jesus would be here, at this time. And then Jesus exclaims that before Abraham was born, "I am." And immediately the Jews knew this to be blasphemy and took up stones to throw at him.  

Verse 56 could be referring to the belief that Abraham died in faith, looking forward to the deliverance of the Messiah, the complete fulfillment of God's promises -- Hebrews 11:13 - "All these died in faith, without receiving the promises, but having seen them and having welcomed them from a distance, and having confessed that they were strangers and exiles on the earth." But there was probably also among the rabbi's and religious leaders that the secrets of the Messiah had been revealed to Abraham. Clearly Jesus knows more of the story than even these leaders. This is the point that he continues to make over and over. He is to be believed in and He is to be seen as coming from the Father and equal with God. 

This is the culmination of the past 2 chapters. That Jesus is proclaiming that before Abraham existed that He existed. Sent from the Father. Equal to the Father. I Am. 

Summary: Jesus culminates His deity now by announcing that before Abraham was born, I am, igniting the leaders to stone him for blasphemy. 

Promise: Christianity and Jesus' claim that He is God incarnate separates itself from all other world religions. We are to declare it. 

Prayer: Lord, it has taken me a while to get through this text after getting sick last week and struggling to concentrate myself on Your Words. Thank you for bringing me through that and then we spent Thanksgiving time in Atlanta with Sherry and Aron and once again, out of my element, I also struggled to make the time to be with You, and one day turns into two and three and more. You are there. You are present. Your Word is alive. Thank you for the conversations that I could have, namely with Aron and his desire to help out those that are in need that I know. Thank you for this message that You continue to put forth that people everywhere are to accept You as I am and sent from the Father. Lord, help us all to make you known. Thank you for repairing things with Pamela and Sherry yesterday morning and help my wife to be confident in herself. Help Derek now to stop smoking and be encouraged to not do this to help his stomach be normal. Lord, give me strength this week as I get back into the swing of things. Direct my path. Thank you for health and being able to feel well again. Give me compassion on those who are struggling. Please help Harris to find work that will sustain him and his future. Give me wisdom on how to encourage him. I praise You Lord and I do want to make your name known. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

John 8:48-55 - The One Who Seeks Christ's Glory

John 8:48-55

48 The Jews answered and said to Him, "Do we not say rightly that You are a Samaritan and have a demon? 49 Jesus answered, "I do not have a demon, but I honor My Father and you dishonor Me. 50 But I do not seek My glory; there is One who seeks and judges. 51 Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death." 52 The Jews said to Him, "Now we know that You have a demon. Abraham died, and the prophets also, and You say, "If anyone keeps My word, he shall never taste of death." 53 Surely You are not greater than our father Abraham, who died? The prophets died too, whom do You make yourself out to be?" 54 Jesus answered, "If I glorify Myself, My glory is nothing; it is My Father who glorifies Me, of whom you say, 'He is our God'; 55 and you have not come to know Him, but I know Him; and if I say that I do not know Him, I shall be a liar like you, but I do know Him, and keep His word. 

Message: The One Who Seeks Christ's Glory

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: Jesus has just stated that those who are of God are the ones that hear the word of God. Jesus is stating this because the Jews that are speaking to Him (in Jerusalem) are not believing in Him. In verse 43 He says, "You cannot hear My word." In some of my previous studies I have seen that the only way people can hear of God is if God awakens them to be able to hear. In John 6:44 Jesus says, "No one came come to Me, unless the Father who sent Me draws him." It seems we are drawn by the Father, awakened by the Spirit or born of the Spirit (3:6). And yet the Jews are stating that because of being the offspring of Abraham, they are not enslaved (3:33) and do not need to be set free (3:32) and yet Jesus makes known that everyone is born of sin is a slave of sin (3:34). But the Jews continue to focus on their relationship to Abraham. And because they do not accept Jesus and His words, Jesus also states they are of the devil (3:44). Strong words. Confrontational words. Sort of attacking words. 

Because following Jesus stating that they don't hear from God, the Jews now (v. 48) follow up by stating Jesus is a Samaritan and a demon. These words by the Jews are I think more of an assertion that Jesus is a heretic. Jews believed the Samaritans were the worst of the human race. And the confrontation that He is of the devil or Satan is more that he has an evil spirit. 

Jesus continues in his conversation to state that He is only interested in advancing the Father - honoring Him. He is not even focused on His own glory (v. 54). These are necessary words as well toward His audience. Jesus is unselfish and while He wants people to Believe in Him this is because the Father has sent him for this purpose - to believe in Him and not perish, but to have eternal life. And then in the process people will do great things (7:38). 

Jesus is also speaking that people that believe in Him will not perish and will not taste death, but will truly live. As He has been speaking of eternal life. The Jews understood what He was saying as they mention that Abraham and the prophets died (v. 52). And so the Jews see that Jesus is asserting that He is indeed greater than Abraham and the prophets (v. 53). Jesus is consistent. He has been stating this message throughout John and this is the message John wants to present to us. 

Summary: Jesus is all about the Father's glory, though the Jews believe he has an evil spirit. 

Promise: We can conquer death, but only by believing in Jesus, agreeing with the Father, who glorifies Jesus. 

Prayer: Jesus you are Lord. You are the only way for me to have eternal life. I do believe in You and agree that the Father sent you to be glorified. Father, draw people to You. Transform lives. Help people to discover the real meaning of the Gospel. Thank you for the clarity of Your Word and how it penetrates me. And brings life to me. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

John 8:41-47 - Children of the Devil

John 8:41-47

41 "You are doing the deeds of your Father." They said to Him, "We were not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God." 42 Jesus said to them, "If God were your Father, you would love Me; for I proceeded forth and have come from God, for I have not even come on my own initiative, but He sent Me. 43 Why do you not understand what I am saying? It is because you cannot hear My word. 44 You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature; for he is a liar, and the father of lies. 45 But because I speak the truth, you do not believe Me. 46 Which one of you convicts Me of sin? If I speak truth, why do you not believe Me? 47 He who is of God hears the words of God, for this reason you do not hear them, because you are not of God." 

Message: Children of the Devil

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: These are hard truths that Jesus is conveying in these verses I have been reading. He continues (from chapter 7, verse 14) to communicate the base teaching of:

• believing in Him, 
• he being the one sent from the Father, and 
• by believing we have eternal life and we will minister to people. 
• We will be a light to the world. 
• Your sins will be forgiven. 
• We are to abide in His word and we will be free. 
• Love Me. 

He is hammering theses truths home to them. Jesus only wants what is best for us. And yet the blinders of our being are being held up. We are accustomed to believe and think about life a certain way and in a way, throughout all of those moments, I think Jesus is communicating that we are missing the point. 

As I study scripture and these passages, I continually see these contrasts of thought. And today is one of those contrasts as Jesus compares His words and what He wants to the desires and ways of the devil. He makes it clear that if we are not of the Father and if we are not believing in Jesus, then that person is of the devil and abides by the devil's ways (verse 44). 

I also see in verse 47 how those who are not of God do not hear the words of God. This reminds me that I should not be so surprised when the world is not practicing spiritual truths. Because Scripture tells me that people who are not of God will not hear the words of God. 

I have been reading Bono's (from the musical group U2) biography of sorts called Surrender. And in the most recent chapter he remarks that he does not have much patience for people that preach towards him. He thinks rather that the preaching that we should do in our lives should be more about how we are living our lives. And in a way that is true, for people do have a hard time hearing God's words that are not of Him, and so yes, our lives should be lived in a Godly manner and those lives then will be a witness. But, I don't agree completely in this. I think in ways we need to find more palpable ways to communicate truth. And yet there are many that are zealous in their proclamation and have success. So maybe what is important is that we need to communicate repeatedly, in many different ways and forms. 

Coming back to this text, it is on the heels of the Jews commenting in verse 33 that they are Abraham's offspring and so being made free is something that they don't think they need. And so it is important to communicate to them, and that is what Jesus does, to help them see that they can't simply defend their lineage as the means to gain God's acceptance. The reality is they are sinners. And in Jesus they are made free (verse 36). And like Abraham, we need to align ourselves with God and Jesus is from God so we need to accept Him. 

Summary: If we are not of the Father and if we are not believing in Jesus, then that person is of the devil and abides by the devil's ways.

Promise: For those that reject Christ, our response should be not to hate them but to pray and plead with him to believe. 

Prayer: Thank you Father for the understand I have of You being the Father of all and for sending Your Son to be my Savior and Lord. I believe in You Jesus. And I am confident of the salvation I have in Christ and the peace that this brings. Make me humble and help me to always be a light to those that are in the darkness. Give me patience and understanding. Help me to never condemn. Help me to look down upon, but to simply live my life and plead for people to come to know You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

John 8:33-40 - Children of Abraham

John 8:33-40

33 They answered Him, "We are Abraham's offering, and have never yet been enslaved to anyone; how is that You say, "You shall become free?" 34 Jesus answered them, "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. 35 And the slave does not remain remain in the house forever, the son does remain forever. 36 If therefore the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed. 37 I know that you are Abraham's offspring; yet you seek to kill Me, because My word has no place in you. 38 I speak the things which I have seen with My Father; therefore you also do the things which you heard from your father." 39 They answered and said to Him, Abraham is our father." Jesus said to them, "If you are Abraham's children, do the deeds of Abraham. 40 But as it is, you are seeking to kill Me, a man who has told you the truth, which I heard from God; this Abraham did not do." 

Message: Children of Abraham

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: The Lord delivered thoughts yesterday that we have come to view as the mark of a true discipleship and that was the idea that we need to abide in His word and in the process of doing this we will be made free by this truth. The first response often would be someone saying, "I did not realize I was lost." As my friend and I would often share with people at the mall it was with the premise that people did not know they were entangled by sin. In order to hear the Good news of Jesus, there needs to be some sort of realization that a person has a need for this. Today, very often in our population, people are not looking to God for help or guidance or even seeing God as someone they need. Perhaps, this was the mood of some listening to Him at this time. Especially Jewish officials who believed they already had what they needed. 

And so in this passage Jesus is helping the hearer see that the problem they have is that "everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin." That is a key message. What makes us need to be set free is that we are sinners and we need to get freed from being a slave of sin. And we are slaves simply because we sin. Jesus states in verse 35 and 36 that because someone is a slave to sin they do not dwell with Jesus in his forever house. But the Son can make you free. Believing in Him with a belief that will then abide in His Word - this will then be a person that is free indeed. Thus, the salvation message is one of freedom. 

Jesus often responds to their claim that they do not have a problem of being entangled or being a slave because they are of the offspring of Abraham. The Jew makes this common claim that because of their tradition and because of being grafted into the line of Abraham as a Jew that because of this they are not lost. The traditional idea among the rabbis was that the descendants of Abraham were in a higher position spiritually from others. Jews did not seem themselves as being in bondage to wickedness like the Gentiles. 

Most plainly Jesus responds that if they are truly of the offspring of Abraham then why are they seeking to kill him because like Abraham who did the deeds of God, Jesus is the same. Jesus is doing the deeds of God. These deeds are in response to what the Father has told Him to do. He has heard directly from God, something Abraham does not have. Jesus is from the father and He speaks to an audience that is to believe in Him, abide in His word and in doing this they will be set free. We are only set free by the Free One - Jesus Christ. 

Summary: Everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin. To be free like Abraham is to be a servant of Christ. 

Promise: When we move from being enslaved by sin to being a slave of Christ, then are empowered to serve Him, abiding by His word, being set free through the deeds of God. 

Prayer: O God, you are good and you have freed me from sin. I have freedom in you Jesus. Thank you for giving me that recognition that I am a sinner and can only be freed by You. Bring people to salvation, on the street in which I live, at the place in which I work, throughout this land. Help people to see that they cannot hold onto an allegiance simply and that there life needs to be changed from the inside/out. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

John 8:31-32 - The Mark of True Discipleship

John 8:31-32

31 Jesus therefore was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, "If you abide in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; 32 and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." 

Message: The Mark of True Discipleship

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: In these verses Jesus follows up with the Jews or those that have believed Him, stating that by abiding in His words, they will be true disciples. And then He marks a 2 step process with a conclusion that (1) abiding in My word will bring about (2) knowing the truth and this will then (3) make you free. 

Jesus has said a lot up to this point about belief or believing in Him, primarily centering on a faith in who Jesus is - born again, living water, bread of life, light of the world. Here we acknowledge Jesus as our Savior and Lord. We start fresh and see that Jesus will be the one that provides us with a living water that will yield eternal life, that Jesus and all He embodies will be our bread of life. And He is the light in the darkness. And in all of this is the full meaning of being born again. 

Along the way we have seen that even in this belief, people do not always follow. In essence there isn't always 'abiding in His word.' People have an intellectual belief, but even in this, Jesus makes mention that there isn't a complete faith. John 2:23-24 mentions "Many believed in His name...but Jesus, was not entrusting Himself to them." And in John 6:65-66 there is mention that "no one can come to Me (Jesus) unless it has been granted him from the Father." And following this statement, "As a result many of His disciples withdrew, and were not walking with Him anymore." There is more to this belief than meets the eye. The Father must draw people to Himself. So it would seem that mere belief without the Father drawing someone is not true belief. And this could be what happened back in John 2:23-24. 

Jesus further clarifies that meaning here now in these verses and the idea is basically that "actions speak louder than words." What needs to occur in the life of the one who has believed is a desire to abide in My (His) word. And what I see is a complete abiding. How can we say there is abiding if we are picking and choosing what we are willing to follow. We must be willing to surrender our entire lives. We must give Jesus every part of our house - I've always enjoyed this treatise - "My Heart Christ's Home." I first was given it in high school from one who was mentoring/discipling me. This was a process I think of surrendering my life to the Lord, giving Him everything in my life. 

The reading takes a person through areas of his life - what he reads, watches, has hanging on his wall of his house and then moves to what quenches his thirst and consumes him - money, academic degrees, stocks, articles on fame and fortune. And then to the living room where he spends time with the Lord, first starting out rich and meaningful and then under the burden of responsibility the time with the Lord shrinks and shrinks to the point that we are rushing by and simply sampling His words. The workroom was where he did what he could do to follow the Lord, but it wasn't until he surrendered himself and let the Lord work through Him that he had success building things. And then to the rec room where he admitted the Lord would probably not enjoy the places he went, but once he had the Lord define his recreation He brought in plenty of joy and laughter. And then to the hall closet where he hid his things that he did not want anyone to see. But he becomes free when he gives the Lord control of the closet. What we need to do is not be the owner of our house, but rather let him be the owner and master.

I feel like I do okay with this in my life, giving him control of things. I feel like I am just struggling with my time and how I spend it and whether I am working on things that matter most. 

Sometimes I feel my focus is more on verse 31. And it becomes hard for me to understand what it means to the "truth making you free." At age 56, what am I free from now? For the Jews at the time, there was in Him a desire to be free from Roman rule. But beyond that, there was a need in Jesus' time to be free from the snare of Legion or Satan and his angels/demons, like in Mark 5:9 and Luke 8:30 where there is the need to be free from unclean spirits. Today, do we think about these things? Either being free from the stronghold of government or that there are demons inhabiting us? I don't think so. At least in my life, I don't have this in my words, but maybe I should. In Africa, I see people talking about getting the spirit of idolatry out of a person. 

Overall in this passage I see a conclusion that to be His disciples, following belief is abiding in His word (what he says as recorded in this Bible of mine). And in these words is truth and in this truth I will be free. Now to discover what freedom means to me. 

Summary: Being a disciple is abiding in Jesus' words, to know the truth so that I will be free.  

Promise: It is not belief or profession that saves me, but it is possessing faith - changing me - seeing it make a difference in my life. 

Prayer: Lord, I want You to change my life. I want you to change my desires and change who I am. Every day I want this. Help me to define this in my life, to define you. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's. 

John 8:21-30 - How Not to Die in Sin

John 8:21-30

21 He said therefore again to them, "I go away, and you shall seek Me, and shall die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come." 22 Therefore, the Jews were saying, "Surely He will not kill Himself, will He, since He says, 'Where I am going, you cannot come?' 23 And He was saying to them, "You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. 24 I said therefore to you, that you shall die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am He, you shall die in your sins." 25 And so they were saying to Him, "Who are You?" Jesus said to them, "What have I been saying to you from the beginning? 26 I have many things to speak and to judge concerning you, but He who sent Me is true; and the things which I heard from Him; these I speak to the world." 27 They did not realize that He had been speaking to them about the Father. 28 Jesus therefore said, "When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He, and I do nothing on My own initiative, but I speak these things as the Father taught Me. 29 And He who sent Me is with Me; He has not left Me alone, for I always do the things that are pleasing to Him." 30 As He spoke these things, many came to believe in Him. 

Message: How Not to Die in Sin

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: This section is called, "The Light of the World" through the end of the chapter. He has said he is the light of the world. And then he mentions how he states He is true based upon the witness of two, "The Father who sent Me bears witness." And so, "If you know true the Father, then you will know also the Son." 

Then, Jesus records words I don't recall before from John as he states he will go away one day (verse 21). And He mentions people dying in their sin. He is from above, not of this world. And people will die in their sins unless you believe. There is a contrast here that he speaks of once again. Those who die in their sin and those that do not by believing, "I am." That He has authority. The I am phrase is the same phrase used in the Greek translations of Exodus 3:14 and Isaiah 40-55 where God refers to Himself. He has been sent by God. He is living water, bread of life, light of the World. Or do not believe in this and you will die in your sin. There is a contrast in beliefs. There is mere belief that Jesus is the Christ, but there is belief that goes beyond that, to acceptance of all Jesus said He is. This is growing more clear as we read more and more. 

See, Jesus has so much to say to them. It is another reason why his time has not yet come for him to go. He will go away one day. But now is not the time. 

And Jesus continues to speak from the Father. They often did not believe Him but maybe as He speaks from the Father, people will believe. 

And after speaking these words, John proclaims to us that many came to believe in Him. 

Summary: Jesus says he will be going away and to be with him one must believe in Him or die in their sin. He is I am and is sent by the Father. 

Promise: If we die in our sins, our end will be Judgment, but if we die in faith, in believing in Jesus and who He said He is, we will live with Christ forever. 

Prayer: O God, you are rich in love and power. Your ways are different. You are from the Father. I trust You and believe in You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

John 8:12-20 - The Light of the World

John 8:12-20

12 Again therefore Jesus spoke to them, saying, "I am the light of the world; he who follows Me shall not walk in the darkness, but shall have the light of life." 13 The Pharisees therefore said to Him, "You are bearing witness of Yourself; Your witness is not true. 14 Jesus answered and said to them, "Even if I bear witness of Myself, My witness is true; for I know where I came from, and where I am going; but you do not know where I come from, or where I am going. 15 You people judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone. 16 But even if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone in it, but I and He who sent Me. 17 Even in your law it has been written, that the testimony of two men is true. 18 I am He who bears witness of Myself, and the Father who sent Me bears witness of Me." 19 And so they were saying to Him, "Where is your Father? Jesus answered, "You know neither Me, nor my Father, if you knew Me, you would know My Father also." 20 These words He spoke in the treasury, and He taught in the temple; and no one seized Him, because His hour had not yet come. 

Message: The Light of the World

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: Now in verse 12, Jesus continues where we left off in chapter 7, verse 52. He is in Jerusalem, having arrived there for the Feast of Booths and then going to the temple to speak and teach, while also the Pharisees heard and questioned. But Jesus has been firm and clear - we are to seek Him. We are to believe in Him. In Him, our thirsts are quenched. Jesus is sent by God. And what I see Jesus doing over and over is adding more reason to do this, but also pronouncing more and more that He is the answer. 

I am constantly amazed at man's thirst to find answers that primarily include self as the answer. I see it as this training that occurs in our life that to achieve results we must perform. And Jesus here over and over is declaring that He is the answer, not obedience to a construct, like the Law and not obedience to a pattern of living. Our lives need right living that we are reminded of continually by the Law but this right living doesn't result in God's acceptance because as good as the design, we are broken and fail and not perfect, as such not Holy as He is. And so we must keep turning our necks to God and to Him and what He provides for us. 

And so Jesus does that again, here. He says, "I am the light of the world" which is really again a sort of audacious statement, as well as even pompous. He is stating He is it and the Pharisees respond with, "No, you are not." But Jesus is saying that He is the preferred contrast. He is the light to the darkness. 

What follows is what has continued to be consistent in this book - Jesus' defense for who He is - the Father sent Him. 

The complaint by the Pharisees was that Jesus could not self-proclaim Himself. Jesus states that the second witness is the Father. And Jesus mentions Deuteronomy 19:15 - "..on the evidence of two or three witnesses a matter shall be confirmed." It is interesting because that idea is a tie in to the last passage when the Pharisees brought the woman caught in adultery. 

Summary: Jesus proclaims Himself as the Light of the World based upon two witnesses, Him and the Father. 

Promise: We are prone to look for light and guidance everywhere but in Christ. Let us turn from these attempts and seek only the light of Christ. 

Prayer: Lord, You are the light. You not only shine, but you are the contrast to the darkness and a contrast to the dark and dissatisfying world in which we live. I know You to be My Light. And I pray that You would lead me continually to uphold it and make You known. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

John 8:7-11 - Showing Mercy and Upholding the Law

John 8:7-11

7 But when they persisted in asking Him, He straightened up, and said to them, "He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." 8 And again He stooped down, and wrote on the ground. 9 And when they heard it, they began to go out one by one, beginning with the older ones, and He was left alone, and the woman, where she was, in the midst. 10 And straightening up, Jesus said to her, "Woman, where are the? Did no one condemn you?" 11 And she said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said, "Neither do I condemn you, go your way. From now on sin no more." 

Message: Showing Mercy and Upholding the Law

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: As mentioned last lesson, these verses are most likely inserted here in this text as the best place to put them as many of the original manuscripts don't have these verses, but it is believed (throughout history) that these words still belong to Christ. In verse 6 and 8, Jesus stoops down to write on the ground - both times I had a note that Jesus perhaps did this to place him in the advantage and to prevent others from speaking. Or he just took a pause. I notice this often from preachers and teachers that I listen to. Some speak hurriedly while others take a moment to pause and think about the words that are spoken. 

Jesus in verse 7 in reply to the Jewish officials (scribes and Pharisees bringing a woman caught in adultery to him to trap him) turns it back to the accuser and voices, "He who is without sin among you, let him first throw a stone at her." In other words, "All have sinned. (Romans 3:23)." It even has a similar meaning to Matthew 7:1, "Judge not, lest you be judged." First stone. 

In voicing what He did Jesus still uphold the law. He wasn't saying it was not so for he did even say a thrown could be thrown at her, but He said that if you want to enforce the Law, so be it, but start with yourself. The Bible actually prescribes this in Deuteronomy 19:15-21. "if the witness is a false witness and he has accused his brother falsely, then you shall do to him just as he had intended to do to his brother." One must be sure of their accusation. 

Here, Jesus is saying that is not that simple to accuse someone. The fact that his accusers had only brought the woman was a problem as they had simply pulled the woman from where she was at in order to trap Jesus. Thus, they were not without sin and Jesus knew this, but it wasn't because He had special powers at this moment, but he saw the obvious, only one was brought - the woman. And so what resulted was the accusers left for they knew their mistake. 

And Jesus responds to the lady. He knows, meaning He does have special powers in that moment and He know that she has sinned when saying, "Go and sin no more." It seems Jesus did not do anything because the charges brought against her were improper and he also no longer had any witnesses. Either way, both with the accuser and the accused he addresses the issue at hand: sin. People sin, but we should have the goal of not sinning. 

On a side note, for many years it seemed the mantra in our country was, "Innocent until proven guilty" but in recent years we seem to have shifted to "Guilty until proven innocent." In an effort it seems to protect the accuser we seem to have moved to this sort of case. Unfortunately, it also inflicts the greatest damage on people and we are a people more and more that do not seem to have a problem labeling people and also blotting the record of the rich and famous. I've seen this most recently in an incident involving a football coach. 

Summary: In response to the accusation brought by officials of a woman in adultery, Jesus tells them to examine themselves first before throwing stones. 

Promise: In our pursuit of justice, we also must be sensitive to mercy, when it is appropriate to do so. 

Prayer: Lord, I have not modeled this well. I am still haunted at the accusations I have made towards those that I love the most - my children and my wife. I have been a person that is too quick to find guilt in them rather than the investigations that I do now in my job when these things arise. Forgive me Lord. I feel such shame and remorse over my accusation towards my children. The regrets abound. Heal me from this and help me to move on and show them mercy and love continually. And help me in going forward to exercise mercy. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

John 7:53-8:6 - The Woman Caught in Adultery

John 7:53-8:6

7:53 And everyone went to his home. 

8:1 But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. 2 And early in the morning He came again into the temple, and all the people were coming to Him; and He sat down and began to teach them. 3. And the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, and having set her in the midst, 4 they said to Him, "Teacher, this woman has been caught in adultery, in the very act. 5 Now in the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?" 6 And they were saying this, testing Him, in order that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down, and with His finger wrote on the ground.

Message: The Woman Caught in Adultery

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: This passage which begins with verse 53 of chapter 7 up to verse 11 of chapter 8 is footnoted in my Bible as saying, "Not found in most of the old manuscripts." This is true. That said, the church has thought that it records an authentic episode from the life of Christ, but even here, in looking at the "I am" statement that begins in verse 12, it seems that it is inserted here in this passage. It is a passage that is not even clear that it belongs to the writings of John as one manuscripts has it with Luke. So as we read the first two verses, they are not referring to the conversation that most recently occurred at the end of chapter 7 and in verse 1 of chapter 8 as it mentions the Mount of Olive, this is not elsewhere mentioned by John. 

Now, as the passage explains Jesus has returned to the temple where people were coming to him and he was teaching them. Of note is that temple teaching is a practice that we continue to teach today as we assemble regularly at our churches, bible studies, weekly gatherings to listen to teaching and be taught. Jesus practiced this and we as well. And as was the occasion when He taught, the Pharisees and scribes were present to catch him hopefully with an error. His authority obviously bothered their authority. 

As the passage records, these Jewish officials bring a woman. Only a woman. Not a man also as two would be responsible. The Law mentions in Leviticus 20:10 that both the man and the woman were to be punished, not only the woman. But these officials seem to only be concerned about the woman or she is all they could find as the purpose here is to trap Jesus. And the trap was set. If Jesus agrees with punishment then he would side with Rome, enforcing capital punishments. If he excused her behavior, then he could be accused of not following the Law. So he writes in the dirt, buying a little time, having them wait for his answer. 

Summary: A woman is brought by Jesus officials which Jesus is teaching at the temple, stating the woman has been caught in adultery and Jesus is asked to determine her fate. 

Promise: As God's people, we must be concerned with justice, with making sure the innocent are protected and the guilty held accountable. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, than you for your grace and for extending it to me, though I am guilty of many of crime and sin against You, against my neighbor, family, self and others. But you forgive and thank you for forgiving. Thank you for making me whole and thank you for the examples you have in scripture of the way you taught and how we are to live. Thank you for the manuscripts that were discovered and have given us these texts today to read and study and apply to our lives. Thank you for that lasting message. You have gifted so many people and your grace is extended to many and your living waters of goodness, love and mercy are ever present. You are praised and lifted high. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

John 7:47-52 - The Prophet from Galilee

John 7:47-52

47 The Pharisees therefore answered them, "You have not also been led astray, have you? 48 No one of the rulers or Pharisees has believed in Him, has he? 49 But this multitude which does not know the Law is accursed." 50 Nicodemus said to them (he who came to Him before, being one of them), 51 "Our Law does not judge a man, unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing, does it? 52 They answered and said to him, "You are not also from Galilee, are you? Search, and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee." 

Message: The Prophet from Galilee

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: Chapter has mostly taken place over an 8 day period of the Feast of Booths in Jerusalem after Jesus' brothers asked him to go there with them, though Jesus went privately rather than publicly, focused on the idea that it is not yet His time (to be apprehended or seized). In Jerusalem he goes to the Temple and continues to speak of His origin being from the Father and the Father has sent Him. He is the living water but also mentions an important verse in 38 that those who believe in Jesus will flow forth rivers of living water. So we will pass on the water that He is, the Life that He is, the compassion that He is, the sympathy that He is. We will bear great fruit as the Spirit of God comes upon us. There are still some that think He is a prophet only, and not also the Messiah. And the last passage gives the idea the Pharisees are ready to seize Him but the officers will not apprehend Him because they seem to believe He is someone different. 

Despite the officers not arresting Jesus, the Pharisees who had sent the officers were not fooled and now in these verses believe that Jesus has fooled the officers. These Pharisees will not be persuaded by Jesus and are hardened, not willing to see Him for who He is. They even remark this in verse 48 - "No one of the rulers or Pharisees has believed in Him, has he?" Meaning none of the rulers and none of the Pharisees actually believed in Jesus. And this was Jesus' outcry or plea or request always - that people would believe in Him. And reminds me once again what is wrapped up in that word belief. For Jesus it is more than agreeing He is who He said He is. It is receiving as mentioned in John 1:12 - "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God." And then his talk of being born again, of living Water, and the bread of Life - these texts signify it is more than belief but an all consuming belief that changes our lives and how they are to be lived. 

And the Pharisees had a disdain for the multitude in verse 49. They state that they do not know the Law. Even today, I think we see this that accepting Christ is for the uneducated. It is for the pipe dream people that are simply holding onto a hope of the future. But it is not for the educated. It is not for the smart scientist, but it is for the simple person. But with the Pharisees is the thought it is not for the one's actually well versed in the Law. But rather, what occurred is those who knew not the Law believed in the one who authored it. We can get too smart for our own britches is the catch phrase. 

But then Nicodemus comes on the scene. The one who asked Jesus about being born again in John 3:4. He, being one of the Pharisees, states that Jesus deserves a fair trial. He stated that Jesus needs to be heard. But again, the Pharisees response is the same stating that he too must have been misled, stating again what others have said (verse 41) that Jesus could not have come from Galilee. This however was only folklore, not based upon Scripture but tradition that the prophet could not come from Galilee. 

Summary: The Pharisees believe the multitudes have been misled by Jesus and later state the same of one of their own - Nicodemus. Some will not believe no matter what Jesus says. 

Promise: Gaining knowledge is a good think but we must be careful it does not puff us up. We must still be willing to listen, realizing that something different may still be what we need to learn. 

Prayer: You are Savior and Lord. You are living water, the bread of life, and we need to be born again, all of us. Help me Jesus to always listen to You and be careful that I am not stuck in my own ways. Draw people to yourself. Give people an understanding of you, like so many around me. Thank You for the truth of who You are and the joy of discovering those truths in the reading of Your word now, today. Even now. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

John 7:40-46 - Jesus Brings Division

John 7:40-46

40 Some of the multitude therefore, when they heard these words, were saying, "This certainly is the Prophet." 41 Others were saying, "This is the Christ." Still others were saying, "Surely, the Christ is not going to come from Galilee, is He?" 42 "Has not the Scripture said that the Christ comes from the offspring of David, and from Bethlehem, the village where David was?" 43 So there arose a division in the multitude because of Him. 44 And some of them wanted to seize Him, but no one laid hands on Him. 

45 The Officers therefore came to the chief priests and Pharisees, and they said to them, "Why did you not bring Him?" 46 The officers answered, "Never did a man speak the way this man speaks." 

Message: Jesus Brings Division

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)." 

What the Lord is Saying: As I read and study scripture, it is always important to consider the time period and what people around Jesus were experiencing at this time as He walked and talked on this earth. This was 2,000 years ago. This text helps me to think about this. As Jesus spoke in the previous verse about being the living water, I learn today from verse 40 that these words and other things he was doing made people have different opinions about who Jesus is and was and why He had come. He was being clear that He had been sent by Father God to do His will, so what is that will. 

The first century Jews were hoping for freedom from Roman occupation. Back in the days of Moses, the Jews were looking for freedom from Egypt. Deuteronomy 18:15 reminds us that the Jews were looking for someone like Moses. And seeing that Jesus talks of water and sees miracles happening (like feeding the 5,000 recorded in Chapter 6.

But others had a different idea, thinking that Jesus was the Messiah (Note Deut. 18:15 the prophet and Messiah are thought to be the same person). But those listening, many did not remember that Jesus had come from Bethlehem thinking that He only came from Galilee. 

Either way, the words of Jesus were disturbing people and making them think and wonder. And even the officers, sent by the Pharisees, did not seize him as they recognized Jesus as being very different from anyone else (7:45-46). 

Summary: Jesus's coming is causing division among people following and observing him over who He really is: only a prophet or also a Messiah. And officers are not seizing Him. 

Promise: When confronted by Jesus, no one is neutral. Some will believe and some will refuse. We must have Him as He is and not make Him someone else. 

Prayer: You are the Christ Jesus and You came to save me and those that are lost without You. You are the source of all that is good. You are living water and all the good in this world is from You and through You. As you have changed me and awakened me, please awaken others. Awaken more and let the numbers grow. Light a fire in me and give me a joy that is contagious. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

John 7:37-39 - Rivers of Living Water

John 7:37-39

37 Now on the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, "If any man is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. 38 He who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, "From his innermost being shall flow rivers of living water." 39 But this He spoke of the Spirit, whom those who believed in Him were to receive; for the Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified. 

Message: Rivers of Living Water

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: Jesus is still in Jerusalem and the Feast of Booths is happening and this verse mentions the last day of that festival or the 8th day. This means we can think of Chapter 7:10 till now to be 8 days. On this last day Jesus says words that he has spoken previously from John 4 about being the living water but He also seems to quote from Scripture. And John comments in verse 39 that Jesus is speaking of the Spirit, the Spirit that was coming to indwell in people. 

As a reminder, the Feast of Booths celebration was focused on remembering God's faithfulness in sheltering the people of Israel while in the wilderness. In Numbers 11, God promises through Moses that the Spirit will come upon the people of Israel. And the provision of water was also characteristic of God's work with the Israelites. 

And so Jesus, as He has spoken before, declares that the provision of water or the source of water is He Himself. One is to believe in Jesus. The quote that Jesus gives here is nowhere found in Scripture. And yet the thought is present in the Old Testament:

• Exodus 17:6 - “Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb; and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink.” And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
• Numbers 20:11 - Then Moses lifted up his hand and struck the rock twice with his rod; and water came forth abundantly, and the congregation and their beasts drank.
• Psalm 114:8 - Who turned the rock into a pool of water, The flint into a fountain of water.
• Isaiah 44:3 - For I will pour out water on the thirsty land And streams on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your offspring And My blessing on your descendants;
• Isaiah 55:1 - “Ho! Every one who thirsts, come to the waters; And you who have no money come, buy and eat. Come, buy wine and milk Without money and without cost."
• Isaiah 58:11 - “And the LORD will continually guide you, And satisfy your desire in scorched places, And give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.
• Joel 2:23 - So rejoice, O sons of Zion, And be glad in the LORD your God; For He has given you the early rain for your vindication. And He has poured down for you the rain, The early and latter rain as before.
• Joel 3:18 - And in that day The mountains will drip with sweet wine, And the hills will flow with milk, And all the brooks of Judah will flow with water; And a spring will go out from the house of the LORD To water the valley of Shittim.
• Ezekiel 47:1 - Then he brought me back to the door of the house; and behold, water was flowing from under the threshold of the house toward the east, for the house faced east. And the water was flowing down from under, from the right side of the house, from south of the altar.
• Ezekiel 47:12 - “By the river on its bank, on one side and on the other, will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither and their fruit will not fail. They will bear every month because their water flows from the sanctuary, and their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.”
• Zechariah 13:1 - “By the river on its bank, on one side and on the other, will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither and their fruit will not fail. They will bear every month because their water flows from the sanctuary, and their fruit will be for food and their leaves for healing.”
• Zechariah 14:8 - And in that day living waters will flow out of Jerusalem, half of them toward the eastern sea and the other half toward the western sea; it will be in summer as well as in winter.

And so it is fitting that Jesus calls Himself the living water and yet He shows that He is the source of the living water. Water that everyone needs and wants and provides for us. And yet today, maybe it is hard for us to be affected by these words, especially in the western world, in which we have water in abundance and perhaps take it for granted. Because of that provision that is already overflowing, do we struggle comprehending the full meaning of this or maybe we miss the full impact because of all that we have? I wonder. 

The Rivers of Living Water is the abundant provision that will not come about until the Spirit descends into people's lives following Jesus' ascension. And it speaks in verse 38 that this provision of living water will be from his innermost being. Or in King James, from his belly. As such there will be spiritual blessings that will flow forth from the believer in Jesus. There will be good works of abundance coming from this person in Christ. We will be a people full of blessings, overflowing generosity. We will be a people helping other people in many ways, providing for their needs, their health and well-being. As in birthing hospitals and aiding people when disasters hit. While Christ is the source, the people of God will be the conduits. The people of God will be the working on this earth of all of this flowing river. Rivers are incredible to me because they are constantly in flow. The source is not always apparent but under the ground and yet it keeps coming. 

Summary: Jesus is the source of living water, providing life to those who believe in Him and the waters will flow in the form of blessings to many people, continually. 

Promise: We ourselves are not sources of living water, but Christ empowers us by His Spirit and works through us to bless others. 

Prayer: Lord, I want to be eager for You to use me in this way, blessing others, from the source of living water that You provide. I see rivers and streams and waterfalls that flow with power and flow continually and it reminds me of the power of giving and helping those in need. And providing others what they need. You are the source of giving and life and all that is good. Even as my atheist friend shares of the way he helps a young man with learning difficulties, you are still the source of all of this. Our spirit enjoys this and is impacted by this. Help him to realize the source of this giving. You work God, not only in believers, but continually in people's lives. May more people recognize You as the source of Life and believe in You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

TABLETALK - April 2018

I continue in my daily studies to be guided by Tabletalk magazine. 2018 was a study on the Gospel of John and its straightforward presentation of the person and work of Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, and other doctrines. 

• January 2018 (July 4, 2023 - July 23, 2023) John 1:1-2:22 - The preexistence of Christ, the ministry of John the Baptist and the person of Christ. 
• February 2018 (July 24, 2023 - August 10, 2023) John 2:23 - 3:36 - Regeneration and our need to believe in Christ for Salvation
• March 2018 (August 13, 2023 - September 30, 2023) John 4:1 - 5:29 - Christ is the incarnate Son of God
• April 2018 (October 1, 2023 - November 6, 2023) John 5:30 - John 7:36 - Jesus is as necessary to our souls as food is to our body; Jesus teaches in the temple during the Feast of Booths

John 5 continued

Testifying to Jesus (John 5:30-36) - John testified of Jesus prior to His coming and Jesus is sent by the Father and in the miracles He performed this also testified of Him. 

The Witness of Moses and the Scriptures (John 5:37-47) - The witness of Jesus continues with the words of Moses and the writings of Scripture, which testify of Jesus Christ and His glory. 

John 6

Multiplying Loaves and Fishes (John 6:1-14) - Jesus feeds the multitudes following Him multiplying 5 loaves and 2 fish to provide for more than enough and the people testify that He is the prophet prophesied. 

Withdrawing from a Confused Crowd (John 6:15) - Upon hearing that the crowd thought he was their Prophet to shake things up politically, Jesus withdrew and went back to the mountain, alone. 

Walking on the Sea of Galilee (John 6:16-21) - The disciples go out onto the sea, get hit by a storm and Jesus shows up, walking on the water saying, "Fear not."

The Work God Requires (John 6:22-29) - Jesus talks to the multitudes, helping them see that they only need to believe in Him in this life and not go after that which meets their own temporary needs of this life. 

True Bread from Heaven (John 6:30-35) - Jesus tells the multitude that the Father provides the true bread of life that they need and Jesus is this bread, giving us eternal life and therefore, we shall not hunger or thirst again. 

The Father's Gift to the Son (John 6:36-40) - The Father has gifted people to the Son to be saved and the Son gives eternal life and possessing these people, Jesus will not cast them out ever and He will never lose them.

Drawing People to Faith (John 6:41-44) - Jesus is the Bread from Heaven, sent by God. God enlightens the mind and urges people to yield themselves to the Savior. 

The Bread of Christ's Flesh (John 6:45-51) - We must eat the bread of heaven in order to have eternal life, and this eating consists in believing in Christ. 

Eating and Belief (John 6:52-59) - As Jesus is the bread of life, to eat his flesh and drink His blood is to abide in Him and to trust in Him completely for salvation practicing all that He has provided for us to grow in Christ.

Grumbling and Disbelief (John 6:60-65) - True followers of Christ are true believers, that have been drawn by the Father, the Spirit gives them life, and they understand all that Jesus is saying to them. 

Persevering Disciples (John 6:66-71) - After some have left following Jesus, Jesus turns to the 12 for them to examine themselves as he knows one will betray Him at some point and will they all continue to follow Him. 

John 7

At the Feast of Booths (John 7:1-13) - Jesus' brothers ask him to join them on their journey to Jerusalem for the Feast of Booth and to publicly speak to people, but Jesus knows His time not yet come and will go in private.

Judging with Right Judgment (John 7:14-24) - In Jerusalem, Jesus speaks in the temple, speaking from the will of God, and defends healing on the Sabbath reminding people that we need to remember motives and intention over rule-keeping. 

Speculating About the Christ (John 7:25-31) - Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem now provides clarity that His origin is from the Father, whom they do not know. 

A Perplexed Opposition (John 7:32-36) - As Jesus speaks and continues to speak, people are perplexed by His words. The Pharisees want him seized. But it not yet Jesus' time. He will be on this earth a little longer.

Difficult Teachings of Jesus

Wolves in Sheep's Clothing - Burk Parsons - The greatest threat of false teachers is within the church. They quote scripture. They are nice people. It is not so much what they teach, but rather what they do not teach. They might speak of Jesus, salvation, gospel, faith, but will often twist words to suit their own wants. To prevent this we must be committed to the sound preaching of all of God's words and to contend for the faith. 

The Origin and Presence of False Teaching - Fred Greco (Senior pastor of Christ Church in Katy, Texas) - The enemy wants us to say, "It can't happen here" because then our guard is dropped (I Cor. 10:12). We must be careful about our interaction with culture, how we read difficult passages and the power of sin. Jesus warned that false teachers will come from outside the community of believers, hiding true intentions (Matt. 7:15-20). Peter warns of them coming from within (2 Peter 2:1). The scripture also speaks of disastrous results (Gal. 1:6-9; I Timothy 6:3-5). It may not be glaring but subtle. The first attack on man was, "Did God really say that?" 3 Danger avenues - (1) the desire for new teaching: We must be careful of those that claim they have a new understanding of scripture or can decipher meaning that no one else has discovered previously. Often this leads to confusion and changing the understanding of historical doctrines. We should be quick instead to look at the people in the past and how they have understood truth rather than re-inventing ways. [Here is one I saw recently.] (2) overreaction to error: Sometimes in people's attempt to quiet a false teaching on a Christian doctrine, they go too far in the other direction and along the way start teaching a different sort of false teaching. One example, Eutyches responding to false teaching on person of Christ, in understand how he is both human and divine taught that His divinity overwhelmed His humanity (later he denied this but followers had already started a movement on it). (3) the desire to avoid criticism: sometimes we start shying away from doctrines the world struggles with and in the process, start to teach doctrines in a different way (i.e. women leading men in the church, homosexuality, creationism, watered down gospel messages). Be careful we are not always simply accommodating the latest cultural thinking. 3 concerns remain - we need to have a love for the Bible, a love for reading and understanding the Scriptures and not simply a love to listen to the preaching of the Word; we need to seek opinion from others and leaders need to be part of a church or process where they are accountable; pastors and elders need to be well trained and willing to confront falsehood. 

False Teaching Out There and In There - Sean Michael Lucas (Senior pastor of Independent Presbyterian Church in Memphis, TN) - Heresies often began from a biblical platform, within the church. We can't simply say something is "biblical." In nearly every letter of the NT heresy is being exposed, like 1 Corinthians in which teachers denied the bodily resurrection of Jesus. The most common heresy under the guise of the gospel is moralism, the idea that once the true gospel is preached and it is, it is up to the believer to fly right. Thus God blesses those who live a good life. And as such our obedience is our pathway to financial success. It is a sort of prosperity gospel thinking. Legalism is another problem that teaches that certain types of obedience earn favor with God. There are these type of verses like "Love me, you will keep my commandments (John 14:15)" but this love is in response to the love of God shown in Jesus Christ not loving in order to gain acceptance or good measure. Antinomianism is another problem because it denigrates the role of imperative in scripture. While obedience doesn't earn favor, we do need to be careful in our obedience and follow what scripture says like being involved at church, attending and serving, exercising church discipline. And then also cultural messages. Examples - God and country gospel thinking our country is a redeemer nation, but we must distinguish God's kingdom from America. Another looks at races or "blood" being distinguished from other races, but Jesus divides the wall to make one humanity (Eph. 2:14-16).  In addition, culture is legitimizing sins and the church often won't speak of those things - homosexual marriage, gender exchange, sex before marriage, cohabitation before marriage - in the process people define these as they see fit. A no hell false teaching is also more pervasive as all faiths become acceptable avenues to God. Thus, corporate worship must include the preaching of God's word, all of it. Rather than topical messages, we need to preach through books of the Bible, allowing the books to determine the messages. We need to include the Old Testament in this, show how all is necessary. Also, some messages are too encouraging focused, but we need to be challenged, remembering 2 Tim. 4:2 to "reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching." Church work is laboring for the gospel, but also laboring for all the messages of the Bible. God's word is the beset means for growing solid Christians. 

False Teaching and the Peace and Purity of the Church - Eric Landry (Senior pastor of Redeemer Church in Austin, Texas) - As has been mentioned false teaching often takes place within the church walls. Author mentions a couple getting involved in leadership that did not accept any marriage after divorce and that all remarried couples should separate. The Pastor confronted them stating they were disrupting the church and the people's doctrine not in line with the church. We need to not be lax but also not have a state of paranoia. Churches need to have high standards for leadership. Leaders need to watch what they are quoting in sermons and teachings, making sure the writers line up with their theology. Church leaders need to visit other classes and make sure teaching lines up with church teaching. And finally gather together regularly for praying and teaching sessions. We need to work for the peace and purity of the church. 

Teaching the Truth - John MacArthur (Pastor teach of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, CA) - We are reminded that the pastor of a church has many expectations placed on Him - to counsel, visit people. share the gospel regularly, be available to people regularly in the church. And studying the Word in preparation for teaching is assumed to just to happen. But the pastor or shepherd or elder must be a person that has giftedness for teaching. The pastor is to teach faithfully and not succumb to tickling people's ears (2 Timothy 4:3-4). 

Christian Friends - James L. Harvey III (Senior pastor of Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Newark, Delaware) - Finding a friend is finding someone that you share a common interest or insight and this can lead to a warm and lasting resonance between two people. We can have non-Christian friends, but between Christians, we always have Someone in common, and these friendships experience further closeness when we can safely share how we can be in encouraged to follow Christ - and thus the culture of friendship shifts from mundane talk to "What? You too? I thought I was the only one." 

Confessing Jesus with Your Mouth - Steffen Muelller (Church planting pastor of Gospel Church Munchen in Munich, Germany) - Went through two year confirmation as a kid in South Germany, received "confirmation Bible verse" which for some is their life verse. I was given Matthew 10:32: “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven.” Over the years, it has reminded him of the importance of talking about Jesus in our conversations, as we converse with people in all walks of life. There is no salvation apart from Christ and so Jesus needs to be front and center in our lives. 

Abiding In Christ - Jon D. Payne (Senior minister of Christ Church Presbyterian in Charleston, SC) - As I study John, I see he repeatedly mentions believing in Him, and then in John 15 he remarks that are to abide in Him. It seems this moves beyond belief to a faith in Him that overshadows our faith or belief in anyone else. Thus, I cling to Christ through His word, sacraments, and prayer. It is to devote myself continually to Word of God teaching, fellowship, praying and living my faith daily, speaking to all the faith I have in Him. It is devoting myself to all things that are written in this Book. 

Palm Trees and Tent Pegs - Rebecca Vandoodewaard (Author and Mother) - The nurturing instinct for women is God given, and so is the instinct to fight. We are to engage both. Example Deborah, holding court under a palm tree and sorting out people's disputes (thus, nurturing/maternal). She is prophetess and judge. But also leads an army (Judges 4:14). Also Jael, stay-at-home wife of a Kenite, also with a nurturing, fighting spirit. "When the army beats Sisera, general of the Canaanites, he flees from the Israelite settlements and finds himself at Jael's door. She realizes who he is, and her nurturing, fighting spirit is clear. She gives him a warm drink, tucks him into bed, and hammers his head to the ground." Fighting as well as nurturing is a part of spiritual survival. 

Peaceful Feelings - Robert Rothwell (Associate editor of Tabletalk Magazine) - As feeling of anxiety come our way and trouble, we are looking for peace to settle us. As Jesus looked to the cross, he sensed trouble (John 12:27). He agonized over it (Luke 23:39-46). And yet he had an objective of peace still as He knew He would accomplish God's will. But he did not go forward with peace or how he felt at the time, but went forward looking to peace. Sometimes we experience trouble or agony when setting out on an objective. We go forward because of what the Lord has commanded and told us, knowing that even with lack of peace He will be glorified. 

Working out Your Salvation - Hywel R. Jones (Professor emeritus of practical theology at Westminster Seminary California) - Philippians 2:12-13 has perplexed many (though I think it to be consistent with Ephesians 2:10 - work follows faith). The problem is many take the word salvation to mean that we must work for this. Salvation does not always refer to admission into His kingdom. Working out was not just a individual charge but a global church charge. Remember, sanctification occurs only because God is already at work and lives in the believer. Thus this verse presupposes that salvation has already occurred. Verse 13 is the key for it mentions God is at work in us. It is His work in us that brings God glory, not our work independent of God. Thus salvation has already occurred prior to this command but we still need to follow through on good deeds all the days of our lives. 

Attending Corporate Worship - Jared Wilson (Director of Content Strategy for Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, MO) - Hebrews 10:24-25 commands us to be in fellowship each week? We grow in our faith this way, exercising spiritual gifts. (1) Attendance is an encouragement to others - presence is impressive and communicates even if we don't - people notice you are there and then the plus is having a kind word or helping hand; (2) Attendance is a rebellion against self-sovereignty - stifling the selfish human desire for autonomy - it is His will be done, not ours - it is helpful to our growth; (3) Attendance is a witness to your neighbors - going to church is countercultural - no rest is better than being with Jesus; (4) - Attendance is a foretaste of heaven - people gathering despite differences to celebrate their union with Christ and their unity in Christ. It is the most heavenly thing we can do. 

Generosity as Witness - Randy Alcorn (Founder and director of Eternal Perspective Ministries) - Giving follows grace. In our giving and generosity to those in need that the world notices. In Acts 2:45-47 this resulted in people getting saved. We don't give to get noticed but it is true that our light should shine through our good works. There are countless examples of natural disasters that occur and result in the action of God's people to help those in need. 

A Good Mystery - Michael Allen (John Dyer Trimble Professor of Systematic Theology and Academic Dean at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, FL) - The Mystery of Faith has been spoken throughout the ages. In Bible times, there were many gods present. Our Lord God must be different; He must strangely glorious. He is incomprehensible. 

Various Scripture - Difficult Teachings of Jesus

Luke 13:1-5

l Now on the same occasion there were some present who reported to Him about the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. 2 And He answered and said to them, "Do you suppose that these Galileans were greater sinners than all other Galileans, because they suffered this fate? 3 I tell you, no, but, unless you repeat, you will all likewise perish. 4 Or do you suppose that those eighteen on whom the tower of Siloam fell and killed them, were worse culprits than all the men who live in Jerusalem? 5 I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish. 

What the Lord is Saying: As I have read and studied these texts so far in John, I see that often Jesus is explaining something that is not immediately apparent, and yet as He explains the meaning it becomes apparent. Based upon uses of things in society, we are somewhat conditioned or trained to think of things a certain way. Some horrible acts have happened in history so where was God in these events? Luke 13:1 mentions Pilate attacking some worshipers and mixing their blood with the animal sacrifices they were offering. And then Jesus also mentions a nondeliberate act in which the tower in Siloam fell on 18 people, crushing them. Jesus responds then to people who think that the people did something wrong to merit this. Suffering and sickness may be due to a person's sin, but not always. These events are to wake us up to the need to repent and get ourselves right with God. This is what Jesus is saying in verse 5. 

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Matthew 24:36 - But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. 

What the Lord is Saying: We are often focused on His return. We like figuring out the unknown, the discovery. And yet Jesus says, no one know, but how is that He includes Himself in this? We know Jesus lived fully man and fully God on this earth. His responses reveal this and this is one place where it seems His response to Him not knowing was Him speaking as a man. Much of what Jesus is trying to convey to people in the Gospels is that He has been sent from the Father to do the Father's will. And this is, in a way, another example. 

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Mark 11:12-14

12 And on the next day, when they ha departed from Bethany, He became hungry. 13 And seeing at a distance a fig tree in leaf, He went to see if perhaps He would find anything on it; and when He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. 14 And He answered and said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again!" His disciples were listening. 

What the Lord is Saying: How could a morally pure individual curse an innocent fig tree? Like the fig tree, the Jews were supposed to bear good fruit. However, in Jesus’ day, He could not find much spiritual fruit among the religious authorities and even many of the people (Mark 11:20–33; see Matt. 23). He cursed the fig tree to warn the people what would happen to them if they did not repent of their fruitlessness.

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Matthew 12:22-32 

22 Then a demon-possessed man who was blind and mute was brought to Jesus, and He healed him, so that the mute man spoke and saw. 23 All the crowds were amazed, and were saying, “This man cannot be the Son of David, can he?” 24 But when the Pharisees heard this, they said, “This man casts out demons only by Beelzebul the ruler of the demons.”

25 And knowing their thoughts Jesus said to them, “Any kingdom divided against itself is laid waste; and any city or house divided against itself will not stand. 26 If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then will his kingdom stand? 27 If I by Beelzebul cast out demons, by whom do your sons cast them out? For this reason they will be your judges. 28 But if I cast out demons by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. 29 Or how can anyone enter the strong man’s house and carry off his property, unless he first binds the strong man? And then he will plunder his house.

30 He who is not with Me is against Me; and he who does not gather with Me scatters.

31 “Therefore I say to you, any sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven people, but blasphemy against the Spirit shall not be forgiven. 32 Whoever speaks a word against the Son of Man, it shall be forgiven him; but whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him, either in this age or in the age to come.

What the Lord is Saying: The unforgivable sin has troubled many. Blasphemy is a sin involving words, against God. The problem was the Pharisees were thinking that Jesus was acting by the devil. Thus, they were committing blasphemy, attributing sinful acts to God. Jesus was trying to prevent the Pharisees from carrying out this sin. We must all be careful of our intent toward God. 

John 7:32-36 - A Perplexed Opposition

John 7:32-36

32 The Pharisees heard the multitude muttering these things about Him; and the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to seize Him. 33 Jesus therefore said, "For a little while longer I am with you, then I go to Him who sent Me. 34 You shall seek Me, and shall not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come." 35 The Jews therefore said to one another, "Where does this man intend to go that we shall not find Him? He is not intending to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks, is He? 36 What is this statement that He said, "You will seek Me, and will not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come?"

Message: A Perplexed Opposition

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: Jesus is in Jerusalem, at the temple and teaching once again that He has been sent by the Father and He is from the Father. He has an origin. He is clearing up some of the confusion at the time that the Messiah or Christ coming will simply appear. But Jesus does have earthly parents and was born but ultimately He is from God. People are still confused. In 32 we pick up the Pharisees hearing that the multitudes voicing their confusion about Jesus. And now they are sending officers to seize Him. But Jesus states that He will remain here with them a little longer. One day He will be seized and people will be looking for Him and not find Him. He will ascend and people will not be able to immediately follow Him. 

Throughout Jesus being on earth and speaking he has spoken in perplexing ways. About being born again, being the Living water, the Bread of Life, during the Feast of Booths it was questions about His identity, and also going to prepare a place for others and that He won't be on this earth long, only for a season and now where He is going, people won't be able to follow. People found his teaching difficult. 

People are still discovering Jesus and who He is and they do not posses the entire picture of Him that we have today. Something to remember as this text is read and we think of the followers of Him and what they are experiencing. 

Summary: As Jesus speaks and continues to speak, people are perplexed by His words. The Pharisees want him seized. But it not yet Jesus' time. He will be on this earth a little longer. 

Promise: In this perplexing times, the Spirit of God is still drawing people and convincing people to believe. May God open people's hearts and minds to His truth. 

Prayer: Thank you God for helping me to know You and for this great study of John and the daily joy of reading and understanding You, in my ways for the first time through this book. You are eternal life and thank you for giving me eternal life through belief and living my life for you. Open people's eyes and give them understanding Spirit of God of who Jesus is and who the Father has sent to save us from our sins. Draw people to yourself. Awaken your church. Raise up people to share your message and speak to the harvest. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.  

John 7:25-31 - Speculating About the Christ

John 7:25-31

25 Therefore some of the people of Jerusalem were saying, "Is this not the man whom they are seeking to kill? 26 And look, He is speaking publicly, and they are saying nothing to Him. The rulers do not really know that this is the Christ, do they? 27 However, we know where this man is from; but whenever the Christ may come, no one knows where He is from." 28 Jesus therefore cried out in the temple, teaching and saying, "You both know Me and know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know. 29 I know Him; because I am from Him, and He sent Me." 30 They were seeking therefore to seize Him; and no man laid his hand on Him, because His hour had not yet come. 31 But many of the multitude believed in Him; and they were saying, "When the Christ shall come, He will not perform more signs than those which this man has, will He?" 

Message: Speculating About the Christ

Time: John most likely wrote between A.D. 85 and 90. John's purpose in writing was, "that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name (John 20:31)."

What the Lord is Saying: Jesus is still in Jerusalem, having arrived there from Capernaum where he also spoke to people in the synagogue and here in Jerusalem he is speaking in the temple (7:14). In many ways this text today is similar to what He said in Capernaum in the synagogue in which He spoke of the Father having sent Him (6:39). In those verses he mentions He is the Bread of Life (6:48) and in believing in Him a person will have eternal life (6:47). 

He is in Jerusalem sort of incognito. He has arrived there perhaps a little secretly. He will continue to preach but He also knows that His time has not yet come to die on the cross and John lets us know this as well (7:30). 

The difference in these verses is what Jesus says as recorded in verse 28 and 29. First that "He sent Me." He is sent by God the Father. And "I am from Him." I need to remember He is in a different place. While I hear similar words form John 6, Jesus is speaking to a different crowd and perhaps based upon what has been said earlier, a more hostile crowd. There was a hope for the Messiah at this time and for many people they are probably studying Jesus to determine if He is the Christ. 

His words to those that are listening are hard words as He tells them that they do not know God. He says in verse 28, "He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know." This must have angered those listening. In the previous verse it is stated that no one should know where the Messiah has come from. This is what they had been taught and so in Jesus they do not believe He is the Messiah. It is interesting to consider where this idea came from as there instances in the Old Testament that speak of Jesus coming from the seed of a woman (Gen. 3:15). John 7:42 mentions that from the Scripture it says Jesus will come out of the seed of David and out of Bethlehem.  And yet Isaiah 53:2 refers to a root out of dry ground. Isaiah 7:14 says - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." Many Rabbi's spoke of him not coming from earthly parents or appearing out of the blue, but those were Rabbi's. It seems his origin was varied in ideas. So what Jesus does here is make it clear. He makes it clear that He is from God. He has been sent by God. 

There are more speculations that could be considered, but Jesus has already mentioned His authority in other ways, albeit other cities and other settings. We can be confident in Him and only Him. We must be leery of others who claim being sent by God. 

Summary: Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem now provides clarity that His origin is from the Father, whom they do not know. 

Promise: From Matthew Henry, "This declaration, that they knew not God, with his claim to peculiar knowledge, provoked the hearers; and they sought to take him, but God can tie men's hands, though he does not turn their hearts."

Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your origin and speaking with authority and coming from God and the confident that we can have in You as our Savior and Lord, to this day. Open people's eyes to this. Open my family's eyes and those I am in contact with. Help me to bring light of understand to others as You direct me. Be praise. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.