Washington United Methodist Church

Book of John

WEEK ONE

Introduction

He spoke, and galaxies whirled into place, stars burned the heavens, and planets began orbiting their suns – words of awesome, unlimited, unleashed power. He spoke again, and the waters and lands were filled with plants and creatures, running, swimming, growing, and multiplying – words of animating, breathing, pulsing life. Again He spoke, and man and woman were formed, thinking, speaking, and loving – words of personal and creative glory. Eternal, infinite, unlimited – He was, is, and always will be the Maker and Lord of all that exists.

And then He came in the flesh to a speck in the universe called planet earth. The mighty Creator became a part of the creation, limited by time and space and susceptible to aging, sickness, and death. But love propelled Him, and so He came to rescue and save those who were lost and to give them the gift of eternity. He is ‘the Word’; He is Jesus, the Christ

It is this truth that the apostle John brings to us in this book. John’s Gospel is not a life of Christ; it is a powerful argument for the incarnation, a conclusive demonstration that Jesus was, and is, the very heaven-sent Son of God and the only source of eternal life.

John, the devoted follower of Christ, has given us a personal and powerful look at Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God. As you read his story, commit yourself to believe and follow him.

Answer these questions by reading John 1

1) Who was/is the Word (1:1)

2) Who made all things? (1:3)

Footnote: When God created, He made something from nothing. Because we are created beings, we have no basis for pride. Remember that you exist only because God made you, and you have special gifts only because God gave them to you. With God YOU are something valuable and unique. Do you ever feel that your life is too complex for God to understand? God created you; He is alive today, and His love is bigger than any problem you may face.

3) Who was sent from God? (1:6)

Footnote: In this book, the name John refers to John the Baptist

4) What is John’s purpose? (1:7-8)

Footnote: We, like John the Baptist, are not the source of God’s light; we merely reflect the light. Jesus Christ is the true Light; He helps us see our way to God and shows us how to walk along that way.

5) To whom did the true light come? (1:11)

Footnote: Although Christ created the world, the people He created didn’t recognize Him (1:10). Even the people chosen by God to prepare the rest of the world for the Messiah rejected Him (1:11), although the entire Old Testament pointed to His coming.

6) What was given to those who believed and did receive Him? (1:12-13)

Footnote: All who welcome Jesus Christ as Lord of their lives are reborn spiritually, receiving new life from God. Through faith in Christ, this new birth changes us from the inside out – rearranging our attitudes, desires, and motives. Being born makes you physically alive and places you in your parents’ family. Being born of God makes your spiritually alive and puts you in Gods family. Have YOU asked Christ to make you a new person? This fresh start in life is available to all who believe in Christ.

7) What was given through Moses? (1:17)

8. Grace and truth came through who? (1:17)

9) How does John the Baptist describe himself? (1:23)

10) Where is John baptizing? (1:28)

11) How does John say that he recognized Jesus? (1:32)

Footnote: At Jesus’ baptism, John the Baptist had declared Jesus to be the Messiah. At that time God had given John a sign to show him that Jesus truly had been sent from God (1:33)

John the Baptist’s job was to point to Jesus, their long-awaited Messiah. TODAY people are looking for someone to give them security in an unsecure world. Our job is to point them to Christ and to show that he is the one whom they seek.

12) Who are Jesus’ first disciples, as listed by our writer? (1:40-51)

Footnote: These new disciples used several names for Jesus: Lamb of God (1:36), Rabbi (1:38), Messiah (1:41), Son of God (1:41), and King of Israel (1:49). As they got to know Jesus, their appreciation for him grew. The more time WE spend getting to know Christ through studying his word and prayer, the more we will understand and appreciate who he is.

My prayer for you this week as you study God’s Word is that He will make his Word come alive and will make you hungry for more!

Do YOU personally know Jesus as Lord and Savior? Ask Him for forgiveness of your sins and to come into your heart to become Lord of your life. Then you will have been “born again”, a spiritual rebirth into the family of God!

** NIV Life Application Bible as well as the Life Application Commentary are referenced for this Bible study.

WEEK TWO

Read Chapter 2 and answer the following questions:

1) Where did the wedding take place? (2:1)

Footnote: Weddings in Jesus’ day were week-long festivals.

2) What had they run out of? (2:3)

3) What instructions did Jesus’ mother Mary give to the servants? (2:5)

Footnote: Mary submitted to Jesus’ way of doing things. She recognized that Jesus was more than her human son – he was the Son of God. When we bring our problems to Christ we may think we know how he should take care of them. But he may have a completely different plan. Like Mary, WE should submit and allow him to deal with the problems as he sees best. And that is hard to do.

4) What was Jesus’ first miracle? (2:11)

Footnote: Miracles are not merely superhuman events, but events that demonstrate God’s power.

5) What did Jesus find in the temple court and how did he deal with it? (2:14-16)

Footnote: God’s temple was being misused by people who had turned it into a marketplace. They had forgotten, or didn’t care, that God’s house is a place of worship, not a place for making a profit. OUR attitude towards the church is wrong if we see it as a place for personal contacts or business advantage. Make sure you attend church to worship God.

6) What did the people think Jesus meant when he said, “Destroy this temple, and I will raise it in three days?” (2:19)

Footnote: The Jews understood Jesus to mean the temple out of which he had just driven the merchants and money changers.

7) What temple was Jesus speaking of? (2:21)

Footnote: Jesus was not talking about the temple made of stones, but about his body. His listeners didn’t realize it, but Jesus was greater than the temple (Matthew 12:6). His word would take on meaning for his disciples after his resurrection. That Christ so perfectly fulfilled this prediction became the strongest proof for his claims to be God.

8. What Feast was going on in Jerusalem? (2:23)

Footnote: Passover was observed for one day, and it celebrated when God spared the lives of Israel’s firstborn children in Egypt and freed the Hebrews from slavery.

My prayers for you this week as we draw to a close with chapter 2, is that God will have created within YOU a desire to read His word, and praise Him for all he has shown you thru His word.

Have you ever asked Jesus to forgive you for your sins and to come into your heart and make you a new person? He will but only if you ask Him. If you did, then you are one of God’s children and a very important part of God’s family. Has it been a long time ago and you haven’t been living right? Confess that to God and he will forgive you, get back into a daily devotional time and experience the joy of being his will. Read Psalm 32:5

Chapter 3 next week

SW

** NIV Life Application Bible as well as the Life Application Commentary are referenced for this Bible study.

WEEK THREE

1) What did Nicodemus say to Jesus? (3:2)

2) What was Jesus’ reply? (3:3)

Footnote: Jesus revealed to this devout Pharisee that the kingdom would come to the whole world, not just the Jews, and that Nicodemus wouldn’t be a part of it unless he was personally born again.

3) How did Nicodemus respond? (3:4)

4) How did Jesus answer him? (3: 5-8)

Footnote: Jesus was explaining the importance of a spiritual rebirth, saying that people don’t enter the kingdom by living a better life, but by being spiritually reborn.

5) Who is the Holy Spirit? (3:6)

Footnote: God is three persons in one-the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. God became a man in Jesus so that Jesus could die for our sins. Jesus rose from the dead to offer salvation to all people through spiritual renewal and rebirth. When Jesus ascended into heaven, his physical presence left the earth, but he promised to send the Holy Spirit so that his spiritual presence would still be among mankind (see Luke 24:49).

6) Who is Israel’s teacher and what didn’t he understand? (3: 9-13)

Footnote: This Jewish teacher of the Bible knew the Old Testament thoroughly, but he didn’t understand what it said about the Messiah. Knowledge is not salvation. You should know the Bible, but even more important, you should understand the God whom the Bible reveals and the salvation that God offers.

7) For God so loved who? (3:16)

Footnote: Put your name in the above question and reread verse 16. God so loved YOU! that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life. Praise God!!! The ENTIRE gospel comes to a focus in this verse.

8.  Who is not condemned? (3:18)

Footnote: People often try to protect themselves from their fears by putting their faith in something they do or have: good deeds, skills or intelligence, money or possessions. But only God can save us from the one thing that we really need to fear – eternal condemnation.

9) What is the verdict? (3:19-21)

Footnote: Many people don’t want their lives exposed to God’s light because they are afraid they will be revealed. They don’t want to be changed. Don’t be surprised when these same people are threatened by your desire to obey God and do what is right, because they are afraid that the light in you may expose some of the darkness in their lives. Rather than giving in to discouragement, keep praying that they will come to see how much better it is to live in light than in darkness.

10) Why did John the Baptist continue to baptize after Jesus came onto the scene? (3: 22-30)

Footnote: God had given him his work, he had to continue it until God called him to do something else. John’s main purpose was to point people to Christ. Even with Jesus beginning his own ministry, John could still turn people to Jesus.

11) Who is Jesus Christ? (3: 31-36)

Footnote: Jesus says that those who believe in Him HAVE (not will have) everlasting life. To receive eternal life is to join in God’s life, which by nature is eternal. Thus, eternal life begins at the moment of spiritual rebirth. To put off the choice is to choose not to follow Christ. Indecision is a fatal decision.

Who is Jesus Christ to you? Have you ever thought about where you will spend eternity? Ask God to reveal to you the life in his son. Confess you are a sinner and ask Jesus into your heart and become Lord of your life. Join the family of God!

I pray God will speak to your heart and will create a desire to further study His Word.

Chapter 4 next week!

Blessings to you!

SW

WEEK FOUR

Jesus Talks To A Woman At The Well

Jesus has to pass thru Samaria on his way to Galilee.  In Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman and with the Samaritans in Sychar, he revealed that he is the expected Messiah.  Furthermore, Jesus pointed the Samaritans to the truth about salvation, God’s nature, and the worship of God: Salvation comes from among the Jews ( Messiah is a Jew ), God is spirit, and God must be worshiped in spirit and in truth.                                  ( NIV Commentary )

Read Chapter 4 and answer the following questions:

1.  Who are the Pharisees?

FOOTNOTE:  Don’t feel bad if you don’t know, even I had to look this group up in my Bible Dictionary!  I knew a little, that they were a religious and political  party in Palenstine in New Testament times, but I discovered how they came “to be”.  Very interesting!

2.  If Jesus didn’t baptise with water, who did?  (4:2)

3.  What was the name of the town in Samaria that Jesus visited? (4:5)

4.  Who was the well named after? (4:6)

FOOTNOTE:  Jacob’s well was on the property originally owned by Jacob.  It was not a spring-fed well, but a well into which water seeped from rain and dew, collecting at the bottom.  NIV

5.  What was the conversation between Jesus and this Samaritan woman?  (4:7-26)

FOOTNOTE:  This woman was a Samaritan, a member of the hated mixed race, was known to be living in sin, and was in a public place.  No respectable Jewish man would talk to a woman under such circumstances.  But Jesus did.  The gospel is for every person, no matter what his or her race, social position, or past sins.  WE MUST be prepared to share this gospel at any time and in any place.  Jesus crossed all barriers to share the gospel, and we who follow him must do no less.                                                   NIV

6.  What did Jesus mean by “living water”? (4:10)

FOOTNOTE:  In saying he would bring living water that could forever quench a person’s thirst for God, Jesus was claiming to be the Messiah.  Only the Messiah could give this gift that satisfies the soul’s desire.  How about you? Are you thiristry? Believe me when I say the more your read God’s Word the more you are satisfied.  AND the more you want to read and study.  It’s amazing!                         NIV

7.  Do you think this Samaritan woman understood what Jesus was saying?  (4:15)

FOOTNOTE:  The woman did not immediately understand.  It takes time to accept something that changes the very foundations of your life.  Jesus allowed the woman time to ask questions and put pieces together for herself.  Sharing the gospel will not always have immediate results.  When YOU ask people to let Jesus change their lives, give them time to weigh the matter.  Remember, YOU can plant the seed but it’s God who does the work!  Pray for Him to cause that seed to sprout and grow.  God uses each of us to further His kingdom, planting the seed and then faithful prayer could be YOUR spiritual gift!                                                    NIV

8.  What do you think Jesus meant when he said salvation is from the Jews?  (4:22)

FOOTNOTE:  He meant that only through the Jewish Messiah would the whole world find salvation.

9.  What food was Jesus talking about? (4:31-34)

FOOTNOTE:  The “food” about which Jesus was speaking was his spiritual nourishment.  It includes more than Bible study, prayer, and attending church.  Spiritual nourishment also comes from doing God’s will and helping to bring his work of salvation to completion.  We are nourished not only by what we take in, but also by what we give out for God. NIV

10.  Who is ripe for the harvest? (4:35)

FOOTNOTE:  Look around you, ask God to provide the opportunities to share His word with someone.  Pray for courage too!  Practice ahead of time, write it out.  It’s serious business.

11.  Is the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ true? (4:36-38)

12.  Which one are you?

13.  What happened when the Samaritan woman went back to town and shared her testimony? (4:39-42)

FOOTNOTE:  Perhaps there are sins in our past of which we are ashamed.  But Christ changes us.  As people see these changes, they become curious.  Use these opportunities to introduce them to Christ.                                               NIV

14.  What town did Jesus travel to next?  (4:43)

15.  Was he welcomed?  Why?  (4:44-45)

16.  When did Jesus heal this royal official’s son? (4:46-53)

FOOTNOTE:  This miracle was more than a favor to one official; it was a sign to all the people.  John’s Gospel was written to all mankind to urge faith in Christ.  Here a government official had faith that Jesus could do what he claimed.  The official believed; THEN he saw a miraculous sign.  He not only believed Jesus could heal; he also OBEYED Jesus by returning home, thus demonstrating his faith.  It isn’t enough for us to say we believe that Jesus can take care of our problems.  We need to act as if he can.  When you pray about a need or problem, live as though you believe Jesus can do what he says.                          NIV

FAITH is a gift that grows as we use it!

How is YOUR faith?  Do you believe Jesus is the only way to heaven?  I prayerfully hope so.  All you have to do is acknowledge you are a sinner and are lost without Jesus, tell Him how sorry you are and invite Him into your heart, your life and become Lord of your life.  You are never to old to do this, it doesn’t make any difference how you have lived your life up to this time in your life.  He forgives all and wants you to be saved and a very important part of the Family of God.

Blessings this week to all of you, chapter 5 next week!

SW

WEEK FIVE

JOHN CHAPTER 5

INTRODUCTION:  JESUS HEALS A LAME MAN BY A POOL
 

God gives salvation freely through Jesus Christ.  But to receive salvation, a person must believe.  The lame man by the pool at Bethesda had to want to be healed.  Then Jesus approached him later to explain to him that he needed to believe and receive spiritual healing as well.  God makes the offer and God performs the miracle, but we must respond to his offer and accept it. 
 

Answer the following questions: 

1.  Why did Jesus go to Jerusalem? (5:1) 
 
 

FOOTNOTE:  All Jewish males were required to come to Jerusalem to attend three feasts: (1) the Festival of Passover and Unleavened Bread, (2) the Festival of Weeks (also called Pentecost), and (3) the Festival of Shelter.                                                   NIV Commentary 
 

2.  Why do you think the disabled were lying around the pool called Bethesda? (5:2-3) 

Does your bible have Vs 4?  Mine doesn’t so I thought it was a type error and dug further in my commentary and it stated that all the oldest manuscripts were copied without the latter part of v3 and all of v4!  However, my King James did have v4.  Interesting!  The passage was probably inserted later by scribes who felt it necessary to provide an explanation for the gathering of disabled people and the stirring of the water mentioned in v7.  The water would stir and it was believed that an angel disturbed it.  The superstition was that the first person into the pool after the water stirred would be healed. 
 

3.  How many years had the man been an invalid? (5:5) 

FOOTNOTE:  This man’s problem had become a way of life, no one had ever helped and he had no hope of ever being healed.  The man’s situation looked hopeless. No matter how trapped YOU feel in your infirmities, God can minister to your deepest needs.  Don’t let a problem or hardship cause you to lose hope!  God may have special work for you to do in spite of your condition, or even because of it.  Many have ministered effectively to hurting people because they have triumphed over their own hurts.                                          NIV 
 

4.  What did Jesus tell him to do? (5:8) 
 

5.  What were the Jews concerned about? (5:10) 
 

FOOTNOTE:  According to the Pharisees, carrying a mat on the Sabbath was work and was therefore unlawful.  It did not break an Old Testament law, but the Pharisees’ interpretation of God’s command to “remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy” (Exodus 20:8).  This was just one of hundreds of rules they had added to the Old Testament law. 
 

6.  Why were the Jews trying to kill Jesus? (5:16-18) 
 

FOOTNOTE:  The Jewish leaders saw both a mighty miracle of healing and a broken rule.  They threw the miracle aside as they focused their attention on the broken rule, because the rule was more important to them than the miracle.  God is prepared to work in OUR lives, but we can shut out his miracles by limiting our views about how he works. 
 

7.  Who is Jesus claiming to be? (5:19-23) 
 

FOOTNOTE:  Because of his unity with God, Jesus lived as God wanted him to live.  Because of our identification with Jesus, we must honor him and live as he wants us to live.  The questions “What would Jesus do?” and “What would Jesus have me do?” may help us make the right choices. 
 

8.  Who has eternal life? (5:24) 
 

9.  Who will hear the voice of the Son of God? (5:25) 
 

FOOTNOTE:  In saying that the dead will hear his voice, Jesus was talking about the spiritually dead who hear, understand, and accept him.  Those who accept Jesus, the Word, will have eternal life. 
 

10.  What happens to those who have done evil?  (5:28-29) 
 

FOOTNOTE:  Those who have rebelled against Christ will be resurrected too, but to hear God’s judgment against them and to be sentenced to eternity apart from him.  There are those who wish to live well on earth, ignore God, and then see death as final rest.  Jesus does not allow unbelieving people to see death as the end of it all.  There is a judgment to face!  It doesn’t make any difference if they don’t believe that.  There is a judgment!                          NIV   
 

11.  Who was the witness that testified to the truth?  (5:31-35) 
 

12.  Who diligently studies the Scriptures? (5:36-40)   
 

FOOTNOTE:  The religious leaders knew what the Bible said but failed to apply its words to their lives.  They knew the teachings of the Scriptures but failed to see the Messiah to whom the Scriptures pointed.  They knew the rules but missed the Savior.  Entrenched in their own religious system, they refused to let the Son of God change their lives.  Don’t become so involved in “religion” that you miss Christ.                                                                               NIV        
 

13.  Whose praise do YOU seek?  (5:41-44) 
 

FOOTNOTE:  The religious leaders enjoyed great prestige in Israel, but their stamp of approval meant nothing to Jesus.  He was concerned about God’s approval.  This is a good principle for us.  If even the highest officials in the world approve of our actions and God does not, we should be concerned.  But if God approves, even though others don’t, we should be content.                                   NIV 
 

14.  Who is their accuser if Jesus isn’t? (5:45-47) 
 

FOOTNOTE:  The Pharisees prided themselves on being the true followers of their ancestor Moses.  They were trying to follow every one of his laws to the letter, and they even added some of their own.  Jesus’ warning that Moses would accuse them stung them to fury.  Moses wrote about Jesus (Genesis 3:15; Numbers 21:9; 24:17; Deuteronomy 18:15), yet the religious leaders refused to believe Jesus when he came.                                                      NIV 
 

Wow!  We have covered a lot of information in this lesson and I tried not to go into a lot of detail but to focus on what I believe God wants you to know.  My prayer for you is that you will “see” the Son of God in his Scriptures, and that you will see your need for the Savior in your life.  
 
 

And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ, filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ-to the glory and praise of God.     (Philippians 1:9-11)   NIV 
 

Chapter 6 next week!

SW

CHAPTER 6

INTRODUCTION:  JESUS FEEDS 5,000

Once again in this Gospel, John selects a particular place for presenting a spiritual truth about Christ.  Earlier, the well in Samaria was an excellent setting for Christ to teach about the fountain of living water.  Here, in chapter 6, the multiplication of the loaves provides a way for Christ to present himself as the Bread of Life.

1.  Jesus crossed to the far shore of what Sea? (6:1)

FOOTNOTE:  This great body of water (which is acturally a lake, thirteen miles by seven miles) given the name of the Sea of Tiberias by Herod Antipas in honor of the Roman emperor Tiberias in A.D. 20.

2.  Why did a great crowd follow him? (6:2)

3. What did Jesus ask Philip? (6:5)

FOOTNOTE:  If anyone knew where to get food, it would have been Philip because he was from Bethsaida, a town about nine miles away.

FOOTNOTE:  When Jesus asked Philip where they could buy a great amount of bread, Philip started assessing the probable cost.  Jesus wanted to teach him that financial resources are not the most important ones.  WE can limit what God does in us by assuming what is and is not possible.  Is there some impossible task that you believe God wants you to do?  Don’t let your estimate of what can’t be done keep you from taking on the task.  God can do the miraculous; trust him to provide the resources.                                                NIV

4.  How many loafs of bread and fish did the boy have?  (6:9)

FOOTNOTE:  The boy gave what little he had, and it made all the difference.  If we offer nothing to God, he will have nothing to use.  But he can take what little we have and turn it into something great.

In performing his miracles, Jesus usually preferred to work through people.  Here he took what a young child offered and used it to accomplish one of the most spectacular miracles recorded in the Gospels.  Age is no barrier to Christ.  Never think YOU are too young or old to be of service to him!                                                      NIV

5.  How many men were fed and what happened with the pieces left over?  (6:10-13)

FOOTNOTE:  There is a lesson in the leftovers.  God gives in abundance.  He takes whatever we can offer him in time, ability or resources and  multiplies its effectiveness beyond our wildest expectations.  If YOU take the first step in making yourself available to God, he will show YOU how greatly YOU can be used to advance the work of his kingdom.                                                       NIV

6.  Describe what happens in vs 16-21.

FOOTNOTE:  We often face spiritual and emotional storms and feel tossed about like a small boat on a big lake.  In spite of terrifying circumstances, if we trust our lives to Christ for his safekeeping, he will give us peace in any storm.  I know at times it’s really tough to stay focused on Christ and wait patiently for help.  We are so desperate for an answer NOW, for help NOW that we tend to try and fix it ourselves.  Faith is a mind-set that expects God to act.  When we act on this expectation, we CAN overcome our fears.  NIV

7.  What happened when the crowd realized Jesus and his disciples were gone?  (6:22-24)

8.  When the crowd find Jesus on the other side of the lake, what is his response to their questions?  (6:26-40)

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus criticized the people who followed him only for the physical and temporal benefits and not for the satisfying of their spiritual hunger.  Many people use religion to gain prestige, comfort, or even political votes.  But those are self-centered motives.  True believers follow Jesus simply because they know he has the truth and his way is the way to live.

People eat bread to satisfy physical hunger and to sustain physical life.  We can satisfy spiritual hunger and sustain spiritual life only by a right relationship with Jesus Christ.  No wonder he called himself the bread of life.  But bread must be eaten to sustain life, and Christ must be invited into our daily walk to sustain spiritual life.  NIV

Jesus said he would not lose even one person whom the Father had given him.  Thus anyone who makes a sincere commitment to believe in Jesus Christ as Savior is secure in God’s promise of eternal life.  Christ will not let his people be overcome by Satan and lose their salvation.  Those who put their faith in Christ will be resurrected from physical death to eternal life with God when Christ comes again.  (see 1 Corinthians 15:52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16)

9.  What was the “Jews” response to Jesus claiming to be the “bread” from heaven? (6:41-42)

FOOTNOTE:  Many people reject  Christ because they say they cannot believe he is the Son of God.  In reality, the demands that Christ makes for their loyalty and obedience are what they can’t accept.  So to protect themselves from the message, they reject the messenger.                                                                            NIV

10.  How does Jesus answer the Jews? (6:43-51)

FOOTNOTE:  God, not man, plays the most active role in salvation.  When someone chooses to believe in Jesus Christ as Savior, he or she does so only in response to the urging of God’s Holy Spirit.  God does the urging; then we decide whether or not to believe.  Thus no one can believe in Jesus without God’s help.                      NIV

How can Jesus give us his flesh as bread to eat? To eat living bread means to accept Christ into our lives and become united with him.  We are united with Christ in two ways: (1) by believing in his death (the sacrifice of his flesh) and resurrection and (2) by devoting ourselves to living as he requires, depending on his teaching for guidance and trusting in the Holy Spirit for power.

11.  What did Jesus mean when he stated “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him”?(6:52-59)

FOOTNOTE:  This was a shocking message-to eat flesh and drink blood sounded cannibalistic.  Jesus was not talking about literal blood, of course.  He was saying that his life had to become their own, but they could not accept this concept.  The apostle Paul later used the body and blood imagery in talking about communion (see 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

12.  Why did Jesus’ words cause many of his followers to desert him? (6:60-66)

FOOTNOTE:  As we grow in our faith, we may be tempted to turn away because Jesus’ lessons are difficult.  Will your response be to give up, ignore certain teachings, or reject Christ?  Instead, ask God to show you what the teachings mean and how they apply to your life.  Then have the courage to act on God’s truth.         NIV

13.  What did Jesus ask the remaining Twelve? (6:67-71)

FOOTNOTE: There is no middle ground with Jesus.  When he asked the disciples if they would also leave, he was showing that they could either accept or reject.  Jesus was not trying to repel people with his teachings.  He was simply telling the truth.  The more the people heard Jesus’ real message, the more they divided into two camps-the honest seekers who wanted to understand more, and those who rejected Jesus because they didn’t like what they had heard..

Many people today turn away from Christ.  Others pretend to follow, going to church for status, approval of family and friends, or business contacts.  But there are only two real responses to Jesus-you either accept him or reject him.  How have YOU responded to Christ?

My prayer for you this week is for you to remain steadfast, seek Christ thru prayer and your bible, ask God to show you that His word is true and He will never leave you once you are a child of God. 

What is a relationship with God based on?  Faith, the heartfelt inner confidence that God is who he says he is and does what he says he will do.

Blessings to all, chapter 7 next week!

SW

Life Application Bible  NIV

Life Application New Testament Commentary

CHAPTER 7

Read Chapter 7 and answer the following questions:

1.  Why do you suppose Jesus’ brothers had a difficult time in believing who he really was?  (7:1-5)

FOOTNOTE:  Some of these brother’s would eventually become leaders in the church, but for several years they were embarrassed by Jesus.  It wasn’t until after he died and rose again that they finally believed who he was.  WE today have every reason to believe because we have the full record of Jesus’ birth, miracles, death and resurrection.  We also have the evidence of what the gospel has done in people’s lives, as well as how he has changed my life and your’s!                                                                           NIV

2.  Why did the world hate Jesus? (7:7)

3.  Why did Jesus have to travel in secret? (7:10)

FOOTNOTE:  People today, especially here in America do not have to worry about persecution.

4.  Why were people afraid to say anything about Jesus publicly?  (7:11-13)

FOOTNOTE:  The religious leaders had alot of power and being excommunicated from the synagogue for believing in Jesus was the threat used.  Do we speak up for Jesus? Or are we afraid of what people will say?  Fear can stifle our witness.

5.  What was Jesus response when the Jews asked, “How did this man get such learning whithout having studied?”  (7:14-18)

6.  Do you think the crowd was surprised that someone was trying to kill Jesus at this time in his life?  (7:19-20)

FOOTNOTE:  Most of the people were not aware of the plot to kill Jesus.  There was a small group looking for the right opportunity to kill him, but most were still trying to decide what they believed about him.                                                                                        NIV

7.   What’s the point Jesus is trying to make? (7:21-24)

8.  What reaction do the people have about Jesus? (7:25-30)

FOOTNOTE:  This chapter shows the many reactions people had toward Jesus.  They called him a good man (7:12), a deceiver (7:12), a demon-possessed man (7:20), the Christ (7:26), and the Prophet (7:40).  WE must make up our own minds about who Jesus is, knowing that whatever we decide will have eternal consequences.  NIV

9.  Why couldn’t they seize Jesus? (7:30)

FOOTNOTE:  This was the first spontaneous attempt to restrain Jesus.

10.  What was the conversation among the Jews?  (7:32-36)

FOOTNOTE:  The Jewish leaders, not understanding that Jesus’ statement referred to his death, wondered if he was speaking about going to the Jews in other lands or even to the Gentiles.

                                                                NIV Commentary

11.  What did Jesus mean when he said as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him? (7:37-39)

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus used the term living water in 4:10 to indicate eternal life.  Here he uses the term to refer to the Holy Spirit.

12.  What questions were some of the people asking? (7:40-44)

FOOTNOTE:  Some believed who Jesus was, some were hostile and others disqualified Jesus as the Messiah because he was from Nazareth, not Bethlehem.  But he was born in Bethlehem.  If they had looked more carefully, they would not have jumped to the wrong conclusion.  When YOU search for God’s truth, make sure you look carefully and thoughtfully at the Bible with an open heart and mind.  Don’t jump to conclusions before knowing more of what the Bible says.

13.  Why didn’t the temple guards bring Jesus in?  (7:45-46)

FOOTNOTE:  The temple guards couldn’t find one reason to arrest Jesus.  And as they listened to Jesus to try to find evidence, they couldn’t help hearing the wonderful words he said.

14.  Why were the Pharisees upset with the temple guards? (7:47-49)

15.  What question did Nicodemus ask? (7:50-52)

FOOTNOTE:  This passage offers additional insight into Nicodemus, the Pharisee who visited Jesus at night (chapter 3).  Apparently Nicodemus had become a secret believer.  Nicodemus risked his reputation and high position when he spoke up for Jesus.  His statement was bold, and the Pharisees immediately became suspicious.  After Jesus’ death, Nicodemus brought spices for his body (19:39).  That is the last time he is mentioned in Scripture.

                                                                                           NIV

What about YOU, who do you say Jesus is?  My prayer for you if you are unsure, is that our Heavenly Father will reveal to you who His Son is.  Ask Him earnestly to speak to your heart and mind and to show you the truth in His Word.

Chapter 8 next week,

Blessing to all,

SW

JOHN CHAPTER 8 

JESUS FORGIVES AN ADULTEROUS WOMAN

1.  Why did the Pharisees bring this woman caught in adultery to Jesus?  (8:6)

FOOTNOTE:  The Jewish leaders had already disregarded the law by arresting the woman without the man.  The law required that both parties to adultery be stoned.  The leaders were using the woman as a trap so they could trick, Jesus.  If Jesus said the woman should not be stoned, they would accuse him of violating Moses’ law.  If he urged them to excute her, they would report him to the Romans, who did not permit the Jews to carry out their own executions. NIV

 2.  Did anyone throw the first stone?  (8:7-9)

FOOTNOTE:  By saying that only a sinless person could throw the first stone, he highlighted the importance of compassion and forgiveness.  When others are caught in sin, are you quick to pass judgment?  To do so is to act as though you have never sinned.  It is God’s role to judge, not ours.  Our role is to show forgiveness and compassion.                                                                             NIV

3.  What did Jesus ask her? (8:10-11)

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus didn’t condemn the woman but neither did he ignore or condone her sin.  He told her to leave her life of sin.  Jesus stands ready to forgive any sin in YOUR life, but confession and repentance mean a change of heart.                                      NIV

4.  What did Jesus mean when he said, “I am the light of the world?” (8:12-20)

FOOTNOTE:  The Pharisees thought Jesus was either a lunatic or a liar.  Jesus provided them with a third alternative:  he was telling the truth.  Because most of the Pharisees refused to consider the third alternative, they never recognized him as Messiah and Lord.  If YOU are seeking to know who Jesus is, do not close any door before looking through it honestly.  Only with an open mind will you know the truth that he is Messiah and Lord.

5.  What was Jesus response when asked who he was? (8:21-26)

FOOTNOTE:  People will die in their sins if they reject Christ, because they are rejecting the only way to be rescued from sin.  Sadly, many are so taken up with the values of this world that they are blind to the priceless gift Christ offers.  Where are you looking?  Don’t focus on this world’s values and miss what is most valuable–eternal life with God.                                                                  NIV

6.  Many put their faith in Jesus after he said what? (8:27-30)

7.   What does Jesus say to the Jews who had believed in him? (8:31-32)

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus himself is the truth that sets us free.  He is the source of truth, he frees us from the consequences of sin.  He shows us clearly the way to eternal life with God.  Thus Jesus does not give us freedom to do what we want, but freedom to follow God.  As we seek to serve God, Jesus’ perfect truth frees us to be all that God meant us to be.

8.  What does Jesus say when they claim to never have been slaves of anyone? (8:34-37)

FOOTNOTE:  Sin has a way of enslaving us, controlling us, dominating us, and dictating our actions.  Jesus can free you from this slavery that keeps you from becoming the person God created you to be.  If sin is restraining, mastering, or enslaving you, Jesus can break its power over your life.                                           NIV

9.  What is Jesus response when they claim they are free just by being Abraham’s descendants? (8:34-47)

FOOTNOTE:  In a number of places Jesus intentionally challenged his listeners to test him.  He welcomed those who wanted to question his claims and character as long as they were willing to follow through on what they discovered.  Jesus’ challenged clarifies the two most frequent reasons that people miss when encountering him:  (1) they never accept his challenge to test him, or (2) they test him but are not willing to believe what they discover.  Have you made either of those mistakes?                                                                NIV

10.  What was Jesus’ response when the Jews accussed him of being demon-possessed? (8:48-58)

11.  What were the Jews ready to do to Jesus? (8:59)

FOOTNOTE:  In accordance with the law given in Leviticus 24:16, the religious leaders were ready to stone Jesus for claiming to be God.  They well understood what Jesus was claiming, and because they didn’t believe he was God, they charged him with blasphemy.  It is ironic that they were really the blasphemers, cursing and attacking the very God they claimed to serve!                                        NIV

What about YOU?  Do you believe that Jesus is God?  Do you believe that He is the only way into heaven? Ask God to show you the way.  Search His Word yourself, I pray He will reveal Himself to you.

Have a blessed week and we will look at chapter 9 next week.

SW

JOHN CHAPTER 9

JESUS HEALS THE MAN WHO WAS BORN BLIND 

All of Jesus’ miracles pointed to who he was.  John follows Jesus’ discourse about being “the light of the world” (8:12; 9:5) with the account of Jesus restoring sight to a man born blind.  This story illustrates the spiritual truth of Christ being the Light of the World.  As the blind beggar comes to “see” that Jesus is the Messiah, so Jesus offers us spiritual sight to enable us to see him as our Savior and Lord.  We too are born spiritually blind and need the gift of sight that only the Light of the World can provide.  The Light of the World becomes our light when we put our faith in Jesus Christ. 
 

1.  Why did the disciples ask Jesus who had sinned, this man or his parents?  What was Jesus response? (9:1-3) 
 

NOTE:  In Old Testament texts like Exodus 34:7 they believed that a disability such as blindness was a punishment for sin.  Many people around the world believe that suffering results from sin.  People tend to believe that displeasing God leads to punishment.  Regardless of the reasons for our suffering, Jesus has the power to help us deal with it.  When YOU suffer from a disease, tragedies, or disability, try not to ask, “Why did this happen to me?” or “what did I do wrong?” Instead, ask God to give you strength for the trial and a clearer perspective on what is happening. 
 

2.  What did Jesus mean when he said night was coming? (9:4-5) 
 

NOTE:  Jesus was speaking of himself.  The night would come, that is Jesus would soon die, the coming of the night speaks of the shortness of time He had left to fulfill his prupose on earth.  But while he was still in the world, Jesus would be the Light of the world. 
 

3.  What was this man’s neighbors questions? (9:8-12) 
 
 

4.  Why did the people bring the man to the Pharisees? (9:13-17) 
 
 

NOTE:  Jesus had healed the man on the Sabbath and had realized they would want to know.  The Pharisees had made a long list of specific do’s and don’ts regarding the Sabbath, healing was considered work and therefore was forbidden. 
 

5.  Who did the Pharisees send for to disprove the man had been blind since birth?  Why were they fearful? (9:18-23) 

NOTE:  To say Jesus was the Messiah would cause them them to be expelled from the synagogue.  Jewish regulation stipulated two kinds of excommunication: one that would last for thirty days until the offender could be reconciled, and one that was a permanent “ban” accompanied by a curse.  Because the synagogue controlled every aspect of life (civic, recreational, legal, and religious), and individual cut off from the synagogue would suffer severe isolation. 
 

6.  When they summoned the man a second time, what was his response to their questions? (9:24-34) 
 

NOTE:  By now the man who had been blind had heard the same questions over and over.  He did not know how or why he was healed, but he knew that his life had been miraculously changed, and he was not afraid to tell the truth.  YOU don’t need to know all the answers in order to share Christ with others.  It is important to tell them how he has changed your life.  Then trust that God will use your words to help others believe in him too. 
 

7.  What was the man’s response when he realized Jesus was the Son of Man? (9:35-39) 

NOTE:  This man not only gained physical sight as he recognized Jesus first as a prophet (9:17), then as his Lord.  When YOU turn to Christ, you begin to see him differently.  The longer you walk with him, the better you will understand who he is.  Peter tells us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18). If YOU want to know more about Jesus, keep walking with him. 
 

8.  Were the Pharisees upset when they heard Jesus’ statement in Verse 39?  (9:40-41) 
 

NOTE:  The Pharisees were shocked that Jesus thought they were spiritually blind.  Jesus countered by saying that it was only blindness (stubbornness and stupidity) that could excuse their behavior.  To those who remained open and recognized how sin had truly blinded them from knowing the truth, he gave spiritual understanding and insight.  But he rejected those who had become complacent, self-satisfied, and blind. 

How about YOU? Where are you in life? Do you believe Jesus is the only way?  Is He the Light in your life?  If you don’t know for sure, my prayer for you is that you will call upon the Lord to give you “spiritual” sight  and show you the way to Him.  Don’t wait, you never know when your life is going to end.  Make sure you know where you will spend eternity, it’s too late once your life is over.  There is a day of reckoning coming, not believing in Jesus being the only way to Heaven, doesn’t make it not true.  Be sure! 

Chapter 10 next week 

With the Love of Christ to all of you!

sw 
 

CHAPTER 10

THE SHEPHERD AND HIS SHEEP 

 1.  Who is the Good Shepherd?  (10:1-6) 
 

NOTE: Jesus, the Good Shepherd, cares for his flock (those who follow him).  The prophet Ezekiel, in predicting the coming of the Messiah, called him the shepherd ( Ezekiel 34:23). 

2.  Who is the gate for the sheep? (10:7) 
 

NOTE:  In the sheep pen, the shepherd functioned as a gate, letting the sheep in and protecting them.  Jesus is the gate to God’s salvation for us.  He offers access to safety and security.  Christ is our protector.  Some people resent that Jesus is the gate, the only way of access to God.  But Jesus is God’s Son-why should we seek any other way or want to customize a different approach to God? NIV 

3.  Who comes only to steal, kill and destroy? (10:10) 
 

NOTE:  In contrast to the thief who takes life, Jesus gives life.  The life he gives right now is abundantly richer and fuller.  It is eternal, yet it begins immediately.  Life in Christ is lived on a higher plane because of his overflowing forgiveness, love, and guidance.  Have YOU taken Christ’s offer of life?                                                 NIV 

4.  Who lays down his life for the sheep? (10:11)  And why does the hired man run away? (10:12-13) 
 

NOTE:  A hired hand tends the sheep for money, while the shepherd does it for love.  The shepherd owns the sheep and is committed to them.  Jesus is not merely doing a job; he is committed to love us and even lay down his life for us.  False teachers and false prophets do not have this committment.                                                   NIV 

5.  Who was Jesus talking about when he said,”I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen”?(10:14-16) 
 

NOTE:  The “other sheep” were non-Jews.  Jesus came to save Gentiles as well as Jews.  This is an insight into his worldwide mission-to die for the sins of the world. people tend to want to restrict God’s blessings to their own group, but Jesus refuses to be limited by the fences we build.                                                                  NIV 
 

6.  Why does the Father love him? (10:17-18) 
 

NOTE:  It has been said that these verses alone tell us so very much about Jesus.  He saw his whole life as an act of obedience to God, God had given him a task to do, Jesus also always saw the Cross and the glory together.  He never doubted that he must die; and equally he never doubted that he would rise again.  It tells us in a way that we cannot possibly mistake that Jesus’ death was entirely voluntary.                                                             
 

7.  Why were the Jews again divided? (10:19-21) 
 

NOTE:  Jesus’ miracles proved his word was true-he really was God. 
 

8.  What was Jesus response when asked by the Jew if he was the Christ? (10:25-30) 
 

NOTE:  This is the clearest statement of Jesus’ divinity he ever made.  Jesus and his Father are not the same person, but they are one in essence and nature.  Thus Jesus is not merely a good teacher-he is God.  His claim to be God was unmistakable.  The religious leaders wanted to kill him because their laws said that anyone claiming to be God should die.  Nothing could persuade them that Jesus’ claim was true.                                                    NIV 
 

9.  Why did the Jews again pick up stones to stone him? (10:31-33) 
 

NOTE:  The Jewish leaders attempted to carry out the directive found in Leviticus 24:16 regarding those who blaspheme (claim to be God).  They intended to stone Jesus. 

10.  What was Jesus’ response? (10:34-38) 
 

NOTE:  “The Scripture cannot be broken” in Vs 35 is a clear statement of the truth of the Bible  If we accept Christ as Lord, we also must accept his testimony to the Bible as God’s Word. 
 

11.  Were did Jesus escape to when they again tried to seize him? (10:40-42) 
 

Do YOU have any doubt as to who the Good Shepherd is?  Does He recognize you as one of His own? Not for sure?  I pray that this week you will seek the truth through His Word and prayer.  Ask Him to show you the truth and He will! 

Have a good week and we’ll see you next time for Chapter 11,

Blessings,

SW 

LIFE APPLICATION BIBLE NIV & LIFE APPLICATION COMMENTARY

                                                JOHN 11

READ 11:1-3

1.  Mary and Martha are sisters of who? (11:1-2)

2.  Who did they send word to that Lazarus was sick? (11:3)

NOTE:  Mary and Martha believed in Jesus’ ability to help their brother because they had seen his miracles.  WE too know of Jesus’ miracles, both from Scripture and through changed lives we have seen.  When WE need extraordinary help, Jesus offers extraordinary resources.  We should not hesitate to ask him for assistance.  NIV

READ 11:4-6

3.  Who will be glorified through this illness? (11:4)

NOTE:  Any difficult situation a believer faces can ultimately bring glory to God because God can bring good out of any bad situation.  When trouble comes, do you whine, complain, and blame God, or do you see your problems as opportunities to honor him?

READ 11:7-10

4.  What did Jesus mean when he talked about daylight and night? (11:9-10)

NOTE:  Day symbolizes the knowledge of God’s will, and night the absence of this knowledge.  When we move ahead in darkness, we will be likely to stumble.

READ 11:11-16

5.  Why did the disciples think Lazarus was just sleeping? (11:11)

6.  Why do you suppose Thomas stated,”Let us also go, that we may die with him,”?

NOTE:  Look at verse 8.  The disciples knew the danger of going with Jesus to Jerusalem, and they tried to talk him out of it. When their objections failed, they were wiling to go and die with Jesus.  They may not have understood why Jesus would be killed, but they were loyal. There are unknown dangers in doing God’s work.  It is wise to consider the high cost of being Jesus’ disciple.                       NIV

READ 11:17-27

7.  What was Martha’s response when Jesus said,”Your brother will rise again,?” (11:27)

8.  What do YOU think Jesus meant when he said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die?” (11:25-26)

NOTE:  Jesus has power over life and death as well as power to forgive sins.  This is because he is the Creator of life (John 14:6).  He who is life can surely restore life.  Whoever believes in Christ has a spiritual life that death cannot conquer or diminish in any way.  When we realize his power and how wonderful his offer to us really is, how can we help but commit our lives to him! To those of us who believe, what wonderful assurance and certainty we have: “Because I live, you also will live”(14:19).

READ 11:28-37

9.  What did Jesus ask Mary when he saw her weeping? (11:34)

NOTE:  Verse 35 is the shortest verse in the whole Bible.

NOTE:  John stresses that we have a God who cares. This portrait contrasts with the Greek concept of God that was popular in that day-a God with no emotions and no messy involvement with humans.  Here we see many of Jesus’ emotions-compassion, indignation, sorrow, even frustration.  He often expressed deep emotion, and we must never be afraid to reveal our true feelings to him.  He understands them, for he experienced them.  Be honest, and don’t try to hide anything from your Savior, He cares.                               NIV

READ 11:38-44

10.  What happened when the stone was taken away? (11:43-44)

NOTE:  Tombs at this time were usually caves carved in the limestone rock of a hillside.  A tomb was often large enough for people to walk inside.  Several bodies would be placed in one tomb.  After burial, a large stone was rolled across the entrance to the tomb.

Some eyewitnesses to the raising of Lazarus reported to the Pharisees in Jerusalem, only a couple of miles away.  This fresh evidence of Jesus’ power threw the Pharisees into a panic.  What followed is a priceless opportunity for us who know the full story to see how badly mistaken people can be in their assessment of events.

READ 11:45-53

11.  What were the chief priests and the Pharisees afraid of? (11:48)

NOTE:  Even when confronted point-blank with the power of Jesus’ deity, some refused to believe.  These eyewitnesses not only rejected Jesus; they plotted his murder.  They were so hardened that they preferred to reject God’s Son rather than admit that they were wrong.  Beware of pride.  If we allow it to grow, it can lead us into enormous sin.                                                                               NIV

NOTE:  The Jewish leaders knew that if they didn’t stop Jesus, the Romans would discipline them.  Rome gave partial freedom to the Jews as long as they were quiet and obedient.  Jesus’ miracles often caused a disturbance.  The leaders feared that Rome’s displeasure would bring additional hardship to their nation.

READ 11:54-57

12.  Why were there many people traveling to Jerusalem? (11:55)

NOTE:  This Passover probably occurred in A.D. 30, the year of Jesus’ death.  Everyone in Jerusalem during the Passover celebration knew that the chief priests and Pharisees wanted to arrest Jesus.  Furthermore, they were under strict orders to report Jesus’ whereabouts.  Into this tense scene Jesus would make his triumphal entry.                                             NIV COMMENTARY

Is God speaking to your heart?  Do you need answers and don’t know where to turn?  Has someone hurt you and you can’t trust anyone anymore?  Turn to Jesus, He will never let you down.  He will carry you through and He will change your life.  He promises he will always be there for you.  Take Him up on it! You won’t be sorry.

Chapter 12 next week,

SW

CHAPTER 12

INTRODUCTION:  The chapter opens with a portrayal of Mary anointing Jesus, accompanied by a wide range of reactions.  

Read 12:1-3 

1.  How did Mary anoint Jesus?  (12:3) 
 

NOTE:  Pure nard was a fragrant ointment imported from the mountains of India.   Thus it was very expensive.  The amount Mary used was worth a year’s wages.  NIV 

Read 12:4-8 

2.  Why did Judas Iscariot object? (12:6) 

NOTE:  Judas used a pious phrase to hide his true motives.  But Jesus knew what was in his heart.  Judas’s life had become a lie, and the devil was entering him (13:27).  Satan is the father of lies, and a lying character opens the door to his influence.  Jesus’ knowledge of us should make us want to keep our actions consistent with our words.  Because we have nothing to fear with him, we should have nothing to hide.                                                                      NIV 

3.  What was Jesus’ response? (12:7-8) 

NOTE:  This act and Jesus’ response to it do not teach us to ignore the poor so we can spend money extravagantly for Christ.  This was a unique act for a specific occasion-an anointing that anticipated Jesus’ burial and a public declaration of faith in him as Messiah.  Jesus’ words should have taught Judas a valuable lesson about the worth of money.  Unfortunately, Judas did not take heed; soon he would sell his Master’s life for 30 pieces of silver. 
 

Read 12:9-11 

4.  Why were there plans to kill Lazarus? 
 

Read 12:12-15 

5.  What did Jesus sit upon to ride into Jerusalem? (12:14) 

NOTE:  Jesus began his last week on earth by riding into Jerusalem on a donkey under a canopy of palm branches, with crowds hailing him as their king.  These hailing him as kind had the wrong idea about Jesus.  They were sure he would be a national leader who would restore their nation to its former glory, and thus they were deaf to the words of their prophets and blind to Jesus’ real mission.  When it became apparent that Jesus was not going to fulfill their hopes, many people turned against him. 

Read 12:16-19 

NOTE:  After Jesus’ resurrection, the disciples understood for the first time many of the prophecies that they had missed along the way.  Jesus’ words and actions took on a new meaning and made more sense.  In retrospect, the disciples saw how Jesus had led them into a deeper and better understanding of his faith.  Stop now and think about the events in your life leading up to where you are now.  How has God led you to this point? As you grow older, you will look back and see God’s involvement more clearly than you do now. 

Read 12:20-26 
 

6.  What was Jesus’ talking about when he made reference to a kernal of wheat? (12:24) 

NOTE:  This is a beautiful picture of the necessary sacrifice of Jesus.  Unless a kernel of wheat is buried in the ground, it will not become a blade of wheat producing many more seeds.  Jesus had to die to pay the penalty for our sin, but also to show his power over death.  His resurrection proves he has eternal life.  Because Jesus is God, Jesus can give this same eternal life to all who believe in him. 

THIS IS ALL FOR THIS WEEK, WE WILL FINISH CHAPTER 12 NEXT WEEK 

My prayer for you this week is that you will “see” that Jesus can be Lord of your life, all you have to do is confess you are a sinner and invite Jesus into your heart and make him Lord of your life.

sw

   JOHN 12, PART 2

READ 12:27-34 

7.  Why was Jesus heart troubled? (12:27) 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Jesus knew his crucifixion lay ahead, and because he was human he dreaded it.  He knew he would have to take the sins of the world on himself, and he knew this would separate him form his Father.  He wanted to be delivered from this horrible death, but he knew that God sent him into the world to die for our sins, in our place.  Jesus said no to his human desires in order to obey his Father and glorify him.  Although we will never have to face such a difficult and awesome task, we are still called to obedience.  Whatever the Father asks, we should do his will and bring glory to his name. NIV 

 

 

 

8.  Who is the prince of this world? (12:31) 
 

 

 

 

NOTE:  The prince of this world is Satan, an angel who rebelled against God.  Satan is real, not symbolic, and is constantly working against God and those who obey him.  Satan tempted Eve in the garden and persuaded her to sin; he tempted Jesus in the desert and did not persuade him to fall (Matthew 4:1-11).  Satan has great power, but people can be delivered from his reign of spiritual darkness because of Christ’s victory on the cross.  Satan is powerful, but Jesus is more powerful.  Jesus resurrection shattered Satan’s deathly power (Colossians 1:13,14).  To overcome Satan we need faithful allegiance to God’s Word, determination to stay away from sin, and the support of other believers. NIV 

 

 

 

9.  Why was the crowd asking who is this ‘Son of Man’? 

 

 

 

NOTE:  The crowd could not believe what Jesus is saying about the Messiah.  They were waving palm branches for a victorious Messiah who would set up a political, earthly kingdom that would never end.  Jesus’ words did not mesh with their concept of the Messiah.  First he had to suffer and die-then he would one day set up his eternal kingdom.  What kind of Messiah, or Savior, are you seeking?  Beware of trying to force Jesus into your own mold-he won’t fit. NIV 

 

 

 

READ 12:35-36 

 

 

 

10.  What light was Jesus talking about? 
 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Jesus said he would be with them in person for only a short time, and they should take advantage of his presence while they had it.  Like a light shining in a dark place, he would point out the way they should walk.  If they walked in his light, they would become “sons of light”, revealing the truth and pointing people to God.  As Christians, we are to be Christ’s light bearers, letting his light shine through us.  How brightly is your light shining?  Can others see Christ in your actions? 

 

 

 

READ: 12:37-41 

 

 

 

11.  Why did some not believe? 
 

 

 

 

NOTE:  People in Jesus’ time, like those in the time of Isaiah, would not believe despite the evidence.  As a result, God hardened their hearts.  Does that mean God intentionally prevented these people from believing in him? No, he simply confirmed their own choices.  After a lifetime of resisting God, they had become so set in their ways that they wouldn’t even try to understand Jesus’ message.  For such people, it is virtually impossible to come to God-their hearts have been permanently hardened. 

 

 

 

READ 12:42-43 

 

 

 

12.  Why were some of the leaders afraid to confess their faith? (12:42) 
 

 

 

 

NOTE:  The praise of others is fickle and short-lived, we should be much more concerned about God’s eternal acceptance than about the temporary approval of other people. 
 

 

 

 

READ 12:44-50 
 

 

 

 

13.  If Jesus did not come into the world to judge it, what did he come for? 

 

 

 

NOTE:  THE PURPOSE OF JESUS’ FIRST MISSION ON EARTH WAS NOT TO JUDGE PEOPLE, BUT TO SHOW THEM THE WAY TO SALVATION AND ETERNAL LIFE. 

 

 

 

NOTE:  When he comes again, one of his main purposes will be to judge people for how they lived on earth.  Christ’s words that we would not accept and obey will condemn us.  On the day of judgement, those who accepted Jesus and lived his way will be raised to eternal life, and those who rejected Jesus and lived any way they pleased will face eternal punishment. Decide now which side you’ll be on, for the consequences of your decision last forever.    NIV 

 

 

 

Have a blessed week!

SW       

 

JOHN 13

INTRODUCTION:  John begins his Gospel with eternity and ends with Jesus coming to earth again.  He features Jesus teaching his disciples privately just before his arrest and death.  We see, clearly the deep love Jesus has for the believer, and the peace that comes from faith.  Knowing the love Jesus has for believers, we too should believe and allow Jesus to forgive our sins.  Only then will we experience peace in a world filled with turmoil.                      NIV  

READ: 13:1-5 

1.  Who was going to betray Jesus? (13:2) 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Jesus knew he would be betrayed by one of his disciples, disowned by another, and deserted by all of them for a time.  Still “he now showed them the full extent of his love.”  God knows us completely, as Jesus knew his disciples.  He knows the sins we have commited and the ones we will yet commit.  Still he loves us.  How do YOU  respond to that kind of love?                                 NIV 

 

 

 

2.  Why was Jesus washing the disciples feet? 
 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Jesus was the model servant, and he showed his servant attitude to his disciples.  Washing guests’ feet was a job for a household servant to carry out when guests arrived.  But Jesus wrapped a towel around his waist, as the lowliest slave would do, and washed and dried his disciples’ feet.  If even he, God in the flesh, is willing to serve, we his followers must also be servants, willing to serve in any way that glorifies God.  Are YOU willing to follow Christ’s example of serving? Whom can you serve today? There is a special blessing for those who not only agree that humble service is Christ’s way, but who also follow through and do it. 

READ:  13:6-11 

3.  Why did Peter object to Jesus washing his feet? 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Seeing his Master behave like a slave must have confused Peter.  He still did not understand Jesus’ teaching that to be a leader, a person must be a servant.  This is not a comfortable passage for leaders who find it hard to serve those beneath them.  How do YOU treat those who work under you ( whether children, employees, or volunteers)? 

READ: 13:12-17 

4.  What did Jesus mean when he said that no servant is greater than his master? 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Jesus did not wash his disciples’ feet just to get them to be nice to each other.  His far greater goal was to extend his mission on earth after he was gone.  These men were to move into the world serving God, serving each other, and serving all people to whom they took the message of salvation. 

READ:  13:18-20 

5.  Who was Jesus referring to when he said ‘He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.’? 
 

 

 

 

NOTE:  This passage stresses the fact that all this tragedy is somehow within the purpose of God, and that it is fully and unquestioningly accepted by Jesus. 
 

READ: 13:21-27 

 

 

 

6.  What happened when Judas took the bread Jesus offered? (13:27) 
 

NOTE: Satan’s part in the betrayal of Jesus does not remove any of the responsibility from Judas.  Disillusioned because Jesus was talking about dying rather than setting up his kingdom, Judas may have been trying to force Jesus’ hand and make him use his power to prove he was the Messiah.  Or perhaps Judas, not understanding Jesus’ mission, no longer believed Jesus was God’s chosen one.  Whatever Judas thought, Satan assumed that Jesus’ death would end his mission and thwart God’s plan.  Like Judas, Satan did not know that Jesus’ death was the most important part of God’s plan all along. 

READ: 13:28-30 

 

 

 

7.  Did the other disciples understand what Jesus meant? (13:29) 

READ: 13:31-35 

 

 

 

8.  What was the new command Jesus gave? (13:34) 

NOTE: To love others was not a new commandment, but to love others as much as Christ loved others was revolutionary.  Now we are to love other’s based on Jesus’ sacrificial love for us.  Such love will not only bring unbelievers to Christ; it will also keep believers strong and united in a world hostile to God. Jesus was a living example of God’s love, as we are to be living examples of Jesus’ love. Jesus says that our Christ like love will show we are his disciples.  Do people see petty bickering, jealousy, and division in your church? Or do they know you are Jesus’ followers by your love for one another? 

READ: 13:36-38 

 

 

 

9.  Do you think Peter truely understood where Jesus was going? 

 

 

 

10. How many times would Peter deny Jesus? (13:38) 

NOTE:  Peter proudly told Jesus that he was ready to die for him.  But Jesus corrected him.  He knew Peter would deny that he knew Jesus that very night to protect himself.  In our enthusiasm, it is easy to make promises, but God knows the extent of our commitment.  Paul tells us not to think of ourselver more highly than we ought. Instead of bragging, demonstrate your commitment step by step as you grow in your knowledge of God’s Word and in your faith. 

I pray each of you are finding the answers you are seeking.  I pray God is revealing himself more and more each week as you study his Word.  

Blessings!

SW 

 

JOHN 14

READ 14:1-3 

1.  Where is Jesus going? (14:2) 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Jesus’ words show that the way to eternal life, though unseen, is secure-as secure as your trust in Jesus.  He has already prepared the way to eternal life.  The only issue that may still be unsettled is your willingness to believe. 

There are few verses in Scripture that describe eternal life, but these few verses are rich with promises.  Here Jesus says, “I am going there to prepare a place for you,”and “I will come back.” We can look forward to eternal life because Jesus has promised it to all who believe in him.  Although the details of eternity are unknown,we need not fear because Jesus is preparing for us and will spend eternity with us. 

READ 14:4-6 

2.  Who is the”way and the truth and the life?” (14:6) 

 

 

 

NOTE:  This is one of the most basic and important passages in Scripture.  How can we know the way to God? ONLY through Jesus. Jesus is the way because he is both God and man.  By uniting our lives with his, we are united with God.  Trust Jesus to take you to the Father, and all the benefits of being God’s child will be yours. 

Jesus says he is the only way to God the FAther.  Some people may argue that this way is too narrow.  In reality, it is wide enough for the whole world, if the world chooses to accept it.  Instead of worring about how limited it sounds to have only one way, we should be saying, “Thank you, God, for providing a sure way to get to you!” 

READ 14:7-14 

3.  What was Jesus response to Philip when Philip ask Jesus to show him the Father? (14:9) 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Jesus is the visible, tangible image of the invisible God.  He is the complete revelation of what God is like.  Jesus explained to Philip, who wanted to see the Father, that to know Jesus is to know God.  The search for God, for truth and reality, ends in Christ. 

READ 14:15-18 

4.  Why cannot the world accept the Counselor? (14:17) 

 

 

 

NOTE:  The word translated Counselor combines the ideas of comfort and counsel.  The Holy Spirit is a powerful person on our side, working for and with us. 

READ 14:19-21 

5.  Who is the one who loves Jesus? (14:21) 

 

 

 

NOTE :  Sometimes people wish they knew the future so they could prepare for it.  God has chosen not to give us this knowledge.  He alone knows what will happen, but he tells us all we need to know to prepare for the future.  When we live by his standards, he will not leave us; he will come to us, he will be in us, and he will show himself to us through it all, we need not fear.  We don’t have to know the future to have faith in God; we have to have faith in God to be secure about the future. 

Jesus said that his forrowers show their love for him by obeying him.  Love is more than lovely words; it is a commitment and conduct.  If you love Christ, then prove it by obeying what he says in his Word. 

READ 14: 22-25 

6.  Who sent Jesus? (14:24) 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Because the disciples were still expecting Jesus to establish an earthly kingdom and overthrow Rome, they found it hard to understand why he did not tell the world at large that he was the Messiah.  Not everyone, however, could understand Jesus’ message.  Ever since Pentecost, the gospel of the kingdom has been proclaimed in the whole world, and yet not everyone is receptive to it.  Jesus saves the deepest revelations of himself for those who love and obey him. 

READ: 14:26-27 

7.  Who will teach believers all things once Jesus is gone? (14:26) 

 

 

 

NOTE :  Jesus promised the disciples that the Holy Spirit would help them remember what he had been teaching them.  This promise ensures the validity of the New Testament.  The disciples were eyewitnesses of Jesus’ life and teachings, and the Holy Spirit helped them remember without taking away their individual perspectives.  We can be confident that the Gospels are accurate records of what Jesus taught and did.  The Holy Spirit can help us in the same way.  As we study the Bible, we can trust him to plant truth in our mind, convince us of God’s will and remind us when we stray from it. 

READ 14:28-31 

8.  Who is the prince of this world? 

 

 

 

NOTE:  Although Satan, the prince of this world, was unable to overpower Jesus, he still had the arrogance to try.  Satan’s power exists only because God allows him to act.  But because Jesus in sinless, Satan has no power over him.  If we obey Jesus and align ourselves closely with God’s purposes, Satan can have no power over us. 

FOOD FOR THOUGHT:  There comes a time when we have to believe what we cannot prove and to accept where we cannot understand.  If, in the darkest hour, we believe that somehow there is a purpose in life and that that purpose is love, even the unbearable becomes bearable and even in the darkness there is a glimmer of light. 

Jesus is the light! 

Blessings to all this week,

SW 

Life Application Bible New International Version

 

JOHN 15

Jesus teaches about the Vine and Branches.  Jesus knew that his physical presence with his precious disciples would soon end.  He also knew that these men would need a clear understanding of their position with God, as well as what was expected of them.  So he consciously filled their minds with pictures and ideas to help them to survive the days to come.  But these same lessons also provide vital resources for preparing future generations of disciples to grow in their faith.

READ 15:1-4

1.  Who is the gardener? (15:1)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus makes a distinction between two kinds of pruning (1) separating and (2) cutting back branches.  Fruitful branches are cut back to promote growth.  In other words, God must sometimes discipline us to strengthen our character and faith.  But branches that don’t bear fruit are cut off at the trunk because not only are they worthless, but they often infect the rest of the tree.  People who won’t bear fruit for God or who try to block the efforts of God’s followers will be cut off from his life-giving power.

READ 15:5-8

1.  Who are the branches? (15:5)

 

 

 

 

1. If you remain in him and his words remain in you, what happens? (15:7)

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Many people try to be good, honest people who do what is right.  But Jesus says that the only way to live a truly good life is to stay close to him, like a branch attached to the vine.  Apart from Christ our efforts are unfruitful.  Are you receiving the nourishment and life offered by Christ, the vine?  If not, you are missing a special gift he has for you.

READ 15:8-17

1. What is Jesus command? (15:12)

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  We are to love each other as Jesus loved us, and he loved us enough to give his life for us.  We may not have to die for someone, but there are other ways to practice sacrificial love: listening, helping, encouraging, giving.  Think of someone in particular who needs this kind of love today.  Give all the love you can, and then try to give a little more.

1.  Who chose us? (15:16)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus made the first choice-to love and to die for us, to invite us to live with him forever.  We make the next choice-to accept or reject his offer.  Without “his” choice, we would have no choice to make.

Christians will get plenty of hatred from the world; from each other we need love and support.  Do you allow small problems to get in the way of loving other believers? Jesus command that you love them, and he will give you the strength to do it.

READ 15:18-25

1. Why does the world hate you if you are a follower of Christ? (15:19)

 

 

 

 

1.  Why are both Jesus and the Father hated by the world? (15:21-24)

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus did two things, first, he exposed sin.  He told people of the things which grieved God and of the way in which God wished them to live.  Second, he provided the remedy for sin; and he did that in a double sense.  He opened the way to forgiveness for past sin, and he provided the power which would enable people to overcome sin and do what is right. W. Barclay.

READ 15:26-27

1. Who is Jesus sending to us from the Father? (15:26)

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus uses two names for the Holy Spirit-Counselor and Spirit of truth.  The word Counselor conveys the helping, encouraging, and strengthening work of the Spirit.  Spirit of  truth points to the teaching, illuminating, and reminding work of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit ministers to both the head and the heart, and both dimensions are important.

I pray your Holidays were a time of reflecting the reason we celebrate & I pray you were able to spend time with family and friends.  May you be looking forward to the new year of 2012.

See you next week!

sw

JOHN 16

Not all the news for the disciples was grim.  There would be persecution, but Jesus comforted his followers with the promise that they would not be alone; he would send them the Counselor, The Spirit of truth.

READ John 16:1-4

1. Who was Jesus speaking to?

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  In his last moments with his disciples, Jesus (1) warned them about further persecution, (2) told them where, when, and why he was going, and (3) assured them that they would not be left alone, but that the Spirit would come, Jesus knew what lay ahead, and he did not want the disciples’ faith shaken or destroyed.  God wants YOU to know you are not alone.  You have the Holy Spirit to comfort you, teach you the truth, and help you.

READ John 16:5-11

1. Who was Jesus going to send to us once he went away? (16:7)

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Unless Jesus did what he came to do, there would be no gospel.  If he did not die, he could not remove our sins; he could not rise again and defeat  death.  If he did not go back to the Father, the Holy Spirit would not come.  Christ’s presence on earth was limited to one place at a time.  His leaving meant he could be present to the whole world through the Holy Spirit.

READ John 16:12-15

1. Who will guide you into all truth? (16:13)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  The truth into which the Holy Spirit guides us is the truth about Christ.  The Spirit also helps us through patient practice to discern right from wrong.

READ 16:16-24

1. What did Jesus mean when he stated,”in a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me?”

 

 

 

1. What did Jesus mean when he said they will weep and mourn while the world rejoices?

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  What a contrast between the disciples and the world! The world rejoiced as the disciples wept, but the disciples would see him again (in three days) and rejoice.  The world’s values are often the opposite of God’s values.  This can cause Christians to feel like misfits.  But even if life is difficult now, one day we will rejoice.  Keep your eye on the future and on God’s promises.

READ 16:25-28

1. Why does the Father himself love us? (16:27)

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus is talking about a new relationship between the believer and God.  Previously, people approached God through priests.  After Jesus’ resurrection, any believer could approach God directly.  A new day has dawned and now all believers are priests, talking with God personally and directly.  We approach God, not because of our own merit, but because Jesus, our great high priest, has made us acceptable to God. Praise the Lord!!

READ 16:29-33

1. Why do you think the disciples finally believed who Jesus really was and where he came from?  (16:30)

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  There is a strange light here on how the disciples finally surrendered to Jesus.  They suddenly leapt into full belief because they realized Jesus did not need to ask anyone anything.  What did they mean?  Back in verses 17 & 18, we find them puzzled by what Jesus had said.  Beginning in verse 19, Jesus starts to answer their questions’ without asking them what they were.’  In other words, he could read their hearts like an open book.  That is why they believed in him.

I love verse 33 when Jesus says “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble.  But, take heart! I have overcome the world.”

I pray you have this kind of a relationship with Jesus, he came to take the punishment for YOUR sins, he died on that cross in your place.  Why?  Because he loves you that much. By accepting that and believing in him and surrendering your life to him, you now have direct access to God the Father.  You have a place reserved for you for all of eternity, in Heaven.  Praise God!

Have a great week and share your faith with someone, you can do it, because you have the Holy Spirit living in your heart and He will give you the courage.

See you next week,

Sw

 

Life Application Study Bible New International Version  and Life Application New Testament Commentary used.

 

 

JOHN 17

INTRODUCTION:  This chapter contains Jesus’ great intercessory prayer.  It is not the prayer of agony in the Garden of Gethsemane but an open conversation with the Father about his followers. It expresses the deepest desires of Jesus’ heart for his return to the Father and for the destiny of his chosen ones.  Jesus asked the Father to grant the believers the same kind of unity that he and the Father enjoyed from eternity—a unity of love.

READ 17:1-5

1. Who is Jesus praying for? (17:1-5)

 

 

 

1. How do we get eternal life? (17:3)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus tells us clearly here—by knowing God the Father himself through his Son, Jesus Christ.  Eternal life requires entering into a personal relationship with God in Jesus Christ.  When we admit our sin and turn away from it, Christ’s love lives in us by the Holy Spirit.

READ 17:6-8

1.  Who is Jesus praying for?

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  These were the men God had selected to give his Son as his disciples. Their faith wasn’t perfect, and they would fail their Savior in the coming hours; but their commitment was in the right place, and they would return to this faith and to obedience to God.

READ 17:9—19

1. What did Jesus mean when he said ”glory has come to me through them”? (17:10)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  God’s glory is the revelation of his character and presence.  The lives of Jesus’ disciples reveal his character, and he is present to the world through them.  Does YOUR life reveal Jesus’ character and presence?

FOOTNOTE:  Joy is a common theme in Christ’s teachings—he wants us to be joyful.  The key to immeasurable joy is living in intimate contact with Christ, the source of all joy.  When we do, we will experience God’s special care and protection and see the victory God brings even when defeat seems certain.

READ 17:20-21

1. What are the three requests in Verse 21?

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE: They hinge on one another.  1. The Lord asked for unity—that they will be one. 2.  Jesus prayed for a unity among the believers, and 3. That the world would receive this Savior as their own.  I had to reread this verse many times before I could truly understand what the requests were.  So you see, there is always something to learn, something new that you hadn’t seen or thought about before.  I hope this study of John is helping you, it has me.

READ 17:22—26

1. Who is Jesus praying for in Verses 20—26?

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Jesus prayed for all who would follow him, including YOU and others you know.  He prayed for unity, protection from the evil one, and sanctity (holiness).  Knowing that Jesus prayed for us should give us confidence as we work for his kingdom.

Have a good week,

Sw

Life Application Bible New International Version & Life Application New Testament Commentary

 

JOHN 18

READ John 18:1-11

1.  Which disciple betrayed Jesus?  (18:2)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  for the first time, Judas openly betrayed Jesus before the other disciples.

 

1. Why did the soldier’s draw back and fall to the ground?

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  The men may have been startled by the boldness of Jesus’ question, or by the words “I am he,” a declaration of his divinity.  Or perhaps they were overcome by his obvious power and authority.

 

1.  Why do you think Peter drew his sword to strike the high priest’s servant, cutting off his ear?  (18:10)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Trying to protect Jesus, he pulled out his sword.  But Jesus told him to put it away and let God’s plan to unfold.

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  At times it is tempting to take matters into our own hands, to force the issue.  Most often such moves lead to sin.  Instead we must trust God to work out his plan.

 

1.  What do you think Jesus was referring to when he talked about this “cup.”?  (18:11)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  The cup means the suffering, isolation, and death that Jesus would have to endure in order to atone for the sins of the world.

 

READ 18:12-14

1.  Who was Annas? (18:13)

 

1.   Who was Caiaphas?

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Both Caiaphas and Annas cared more about their political ambitions than about their responsibility to lead the people to God.  Though religious leaders, they had become evil.  As the nation’s spiritual leaders, they should have been sensitive to God’s revelation.  They should have known that Jesus was the Messiah about whom the Scriptures spoke, and they should have pointed the people to him.

 

READ:  18:15-16

 

1.  Who was the other disciple?

 

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  Probably John, the author of this Gospel.

 

READ:  18:17-24

 

1.  Why did Annas strike Jesus?

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  We can easily get angry at the Sanhedrin for their injustice in condemning Jesus, but we must remember that Peter and the rest of the disciples also contributed to Jesus’ pain by deserting and disowning him.

 

READ 18:25-27

 

1.  How many times did Peter deny being one of Jesus disciples? (18:17,25,26)

 

 

 

FOOTNOTE:  This fulfilled Jesus’ words to Peter after he promised he would never disown him. (John 13:38)

 

We will stop here and continue next, have a blessed week!

SW

 

 

Life Application Bible New International Version