THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 13

The Lord’s Supper, Jesus Washes the Disciple’s feet, Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

There is no coincidence in the timing of these events taking place just before the Feast of the Passover – a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites’ deliverance from Egyptian slavery, as described in Exodus 12. This event is central to Jewish identity and religious practice, involving the sacrifice of a lamb and the eating of unleavened bread. This highlights the connection between Jesus as the Lamb of God and the sacrificial lamb of Passover. The setting underscores the impending sacrifice of Jesus, aligning with the prophetic symbolism of the Passover lamb.

It is sad to say, but as twenty-first century believers, having read and heard the words of this chapter preached so often that we can lose our amazement and wonder that the One Who is calling Himself the Messiah, the Christ, having performed so many miracles and having fulfilled so many of the Messianic prophesies to this point, is now explaining that He is set to step out of this natural realm, and into the wonders and powers of the Kingdom of Heaven and to be seated at the Right Hand of the Father! Put another way, if Jesus time and activities on this earth were not enough to convince even the hardest of hearts, He will now do something that has never even entered the mind of any person. He is saying that He will be crucified and die for the sins of this world; be buried and lie in the grave for three days; He will come back to life and, once again, walk among the living and then will rise from the earth, into the heavens in the sight of many. (see Acts 1:1-5, 9-11).

Let’s read, meditate, pray and be amazed once again!

The Lord’s Supper

John 13:1, Now before the Feast of the Passover, Jesus, knowing that His hour had come that He would depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.

(Commentary Break): The final sacrifice for sins is now forecast by the Sacrificial Lamb Himself. Imagine, if you can, that Jesus knows that He is going to suffer crucifixion as a man and that all the sins of the entire world will be put on him; as God, that He will ascend from and transcend this natural world and return to a reality not made or created but on which is eternally pre-existent, the Kingdom of Heaven; and that He will be seated at the Right Hand of God the Father, interceding for us until He brings us to the home He has prepared for us.

Secondly, the phrase “having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end” should give us pause. This is the same love that He commanded us to show our Christian brothers and sisters, and I would hope it would provoke us to spend time in prayer and study at how Jesus interacted with and treated His disciples. We may then stop being confused by the world’s definition of “love” will then come to know what true love looks like – a balance between an unconditional selfless, and sacrificial love. (agape), and a love that is met with loving reverential obedience (see John 14;15). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 2. And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray Him, verse 3, Jesus, knowing that the Father had handed all things over to Him, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God, verse 4, got up from supper and laid His outer garments aside; and He took a towel and tied it around Himself.

Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet

Verse 5. Then He poured water into the basin, and began washing the disciples’ feet and wiping them with the towel which He had tied around Himself. Verse 6. So He came to Simon Peter. He said to Him, “Lord, You are washing my feet?” Verse 7. Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing, you do not realize right now, but you will understand later.” Verse 8. Peter said to Him, “Never shall You wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no place with Me.” Verse 9. Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, then wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head!” Verse 10. Jesus said to him, “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet; otherwise he is completely clean. And you are clean — but not all of you.” Verse 11. For He knew the one who was betraying Him; it was for this reason that He said, “Not all of you are clean.”

Verse 12. Then, when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done for you? Verse 13. You call Me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord’; and you are correct, for so I am. Verse 14. So if I, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. Verse 15. For I gave you an example, so that you also would do just as I did for you. Verse 16. Truly, truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. Verse 17. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

(Commentary Break): The washing of feet in the postmodern church is widely misunderstood and misrepresented – and is often used as a means of manipulation.

Biblically, it symbolizes purification and the need for spiritual cleansing, pointing to the greater cleansing that Jesus would accomplish through His death and resurrection. This act also prefigures the humility and sacrifice that Jesus would demonstrate on the cross. Peter’s reaction is a reminder of the human tendency to resist divine plans that challenge our expectations.

Jesus, the Master and Teacher, models humility by performing a servant’s task. As followers of Christ, we are called to lead by serving others, regardless of our position.

Peter’s initial resistance to Jesus washing his feet reflects a common struggle to understand God’s ways. We must trust in Jesus’ actions and teachings, even when they challenge our expectations.
The act of foot washing symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing. As believers, we must regularly seek forgiveness and purification from sin.

Jesus’ example calls us to embrace servanthood in our daily lives, serving others with love and humility as an expression of our faith.
Peter’s interaction with Jesus teaches us to be open to correction and growth in our spiritual journey, allowing Jesus to transform our understanding and actions. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 18. I am not speaking about all of you. I know the ones whom I have chosen; but this is happening so that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘HE WHO EATS MY BREAD HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME.’ Verse 19. From now on I am telling you before it happens, so that when it does happen, you may believe that I am He. Verse 20. Truly, truly I say to you, the one who receives anyone I send, receives Me; and the one who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.”

(Commentary Break): Here, Jesus asserts His divine knowledge and authority in choosing His disciples. This choice is not merely about selection for ministry but also encompasses the foreknowledge of their actions and destinies. Theologically, this reflects the doctrine of divine election, where God’s choices are purposeful and sovereign. It also reassures the faithful disciples of their secure place in His plan.

This is a direct reference to Psalm 41:9, where David laments betrayal by a close friend. In the cultural context, sharing bread was a sign of fellowship and trust, making the act of betrayal even more poignant. The phrase “lifted up his heel” suggests an act of treachery and hostility. By applying this scripture to Judas, Jesus identifies Himself with the suffering servant motif and foreshadows His impending betrayal, linking His experience to the broader narrative of redemptive history.

We should be mindful that receiving Jesus’ messengers is equated with receiving Jesus Himself. This reflects the intimate connection between Christ and His followers, as well as the unity of the body of Christ. It underscores the idea that the acceptance of the gospel message is tantamount to accepting Christ personally, a theme echoed in Matthew 10:40.

This reinforces the personal relationship between the believer and Jesus. It suggests that faith in Christ is not merely an intellectual assent but involves a personal acceptance and relationship. This is consistent with the emphasis on abiding in Christ (see John 15:4-5). This also emphasizes and establishes the direct link between the acceptance of Jesus and the acceptance of God, highlighting the unity of the Father and the Son and those whom He has called. This connection is central to understanding the nature of Jesus’ ministry and the divine plan of salvation. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

Verse 21. When Jesus had said these things, He became troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Truly, truly I say to you that one of you will betray Me.”

(Commentary Break): It is interesting that although Jesus is fully aware of the coming events, “He became troubled in spirit” as he testified “Truly, truly I say to you that one of you will betray Me.” The phrase indicates Jesus’ deep emotional distress. This mirrors other moments in the Gospels where Jesus experiences human emotions, such as in the Garden of Gethsemane. Whether His distress emanates from disappointment of betrayal by a trusted disciple, or from the coming suffering and death He will face, it highlights His dual nature as fully God and fully man. The Greek word used here, “tarassō,” conveys a sense of agitation and turmoil, emphasizing the weight of the impending betrayal. A similar distress is often felt by those serving God and even for the same or similar events, but we can take some measure of comfort by rejecting the shame of failure see that our Lord has walked this path before us.  (End Commentary Break).

Verse 22. The disciples began looking at one another, at a loss to know of which one He was speaking. Verse 23. Lying back on Jesus’ chest was one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. Verse 24. So Simon Peter nodded to this disciple and said to him, “Tell us who it is of whom He is speaking.” Verse 25. He then simply leaned back on Jesus’ chest and said to Him, “Lord, who is it?” Verse 26. Jesus then answered, “That man is the one for whom I shall dip the piece of bread and give it to him.” So when He had dipped the piece of bread, He took and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. Verse 27. After this, Satan then entered him. Therefore Jesus said to him, “What you are doing, do it quickly.” Verse 28. Now none of those reclining at the table knew for what purpose He had said this to him. Verse 29. For some were assuming, since Judas kept the money box, that Jesus was saying to him, “Buy the things we need for the feast”; or else, that he was to give something to the poor. Verse 30. So after receiving the piece of bread, he left immediately; and it was night.

(Commentary Break): These verses speak for themselves. They are reminiscent of a modern mystery novel, but this is no novel and it certainly is not fiction. It does tell us however, that even some of those who are seen as walking with Jesus, spending their time with His disciples, may not be one of His. In these Last Days, we are told that there will be a rise of false teachers and false prophets, an increase in deception and great apostasy. We may not always be able to tell who is a true follower and disciple of Jesus except perhaps by their fruit.  Even in cases that require church discipline, we are to approach the matter with caution and great patience. And when uncertain, we are told to keep our eyes and hearts fixed on Jesus, and to leave it to the Lord to sort out the wheat from the tares. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 31. Therefore when he had left, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in Him; verse 32, if God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and will glorify Him immediately. Verse 33. Little children, I am still with you a little longer. You will look for Me; and just as I said to the Jews, now I also say to you: ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ Verse 34. I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another. Verse 35. By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”

(Commentary Break): Again, this requires a good understanding of what true gapáō love means. It is “to prefer, to love; for the believer, preferring to “live through Christ” (1 John 4:9,10), i.e. embracing God’s Will, choosing His choices and obeying them through His power. Agapáō preeminently refers to what God prefers as He “is love” (1 John 4:8,16). (See agapē).

With the believer, agapáō, (to love), means actively doing what the Lord prefers, with Him and by His power and direction). True agapáō, (“loving”), is always defined by God. It is a “discriminating affection which involves choice and selection” (1 John 4:8,16,17), it is Christ living His life through the believer. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 36. Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, where are You going?” Jesus answered, “Where I am going, you cannot follow Me now; but you will follow later.” Verse 37. Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I not follow You right now? I will lay down my life for You.” Verse 38. Jesus replied, “Will you lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly I say to you, a rooster will not crow until you deny Me three times. (End Chapter 13).

It is as Jesus has said, all true believers and followers of Jesus will follow Him later. We must stay on the alert and be on guard that we do not become complacent or arrogant saying “I will lay my life down for you, Jesus”, for I do not know if my testing may cause me to deny Him at some point. But I do know that if I continue to follow Him, doing the very things He has commanded us to be doing, I will be kept humbled and dependent on Him and in His strength and not dependent on my own ways.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: (coming soon), THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 14,  Jesus comforts His disciples, One with the Father, The Holy Spirit.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 12, Mary anoints Jesus, Triumphal entry, Greeks seek Jesus, Jesus foretells His death.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 12

Mary anoints Jesus, Triumphal entry, Part 1.

Focused. Through the unfolding events leading up to Jesus arrest and crucifixion, Jesus is ever focused on His Mission. Every step, every twist and turn always brings us back to His Purpose. He has not come to judge the world (at this time), but He has come to save it. He is clear that a day of judgment is coming and it will be through the Word that He is speaking. If any willfully deviates from His Word, they will be judged on the Last Day.

NOTE TO THEOLOGIANS, PASTORS, BIBLE TEACHERS, CHURCH LEADERS – those who carry influence within the church: If you continue to change, as you have been doing, even the smallest letter or stroke of a letter from the Law, or nullify one of the least of the commandments until all is accomplished, and teaches others to do the same, they shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven. And to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God will take away his part from the tree of life and from the holy city, which are written in this book. It is written.

Mary Anoints Jesus

John 12:1, Therefore, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.

(Commentary Break): This phrase situates the events in a specific timeframe, just before the Jewish festival of Passover, which commemorates the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. The timing is significant as it marks the beginning of the final week of Jesus’ earthly ministry, leading to His crucifixion. Passover is a time of pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and many Jews would be traveling to the city, heightening the anticipation and tension surrounding Jesus’ actions and teachings. The Passover lamb, central to the festival, is a type of Christ, the Lamb of God, who would soon be sacrificed for the sins of the world. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 2. So they made Him a dinner there, and Martha was serving; and Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him. Verse 3. Mary then took a pound of very expensive perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. Verse 4. But Judas Iscariot, one of His disciples, the one who intended to betray Him, said, verse 5, “Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the proceeds given to poor people?” Verse 6. Now he said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he kept the money box, he used to steal from what was put into it. Verse 7. Therefore Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of My burial. Verse 8. For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.”

(Commentary Break): This could be the profile for all the “Judas’s” among us. Self-centered, vocal, money-oriented, false compassion, manipulative and a thief, (and please notice scriptures do not say “Judas stole” – it says he is a thief! Unfortunately, this kind of person usually believes they are “basically good people” and have even convinced themselves that they mean to do good. They can be charismatic and persuasive and with the right educational background or credentials they find their way into leadership roles within the church. But their core is rotten. They are predisposed to lie, cheat, steal and kill. The lesson here? Ask the right questions beforehand. Watch the behavior. Be discerning and don’t doubt that uneasy feeling they leave you with. And finally, pray and check yourself while you are at it. The Church deserves humility and devoted holiness of its servants.

All this said and in this particular instance, Jesus knew about Judas’ character and what he would do, ahead of time. Judas was allowed, by God to execute his nefarious plan of deceit and complicity in murder. It was written. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 9. The large crowd of the Jews then learned that He was there; and they came, not on account of Jesus only, but so that they might also see Lazarus, whom He raised from the dead. Verse 10. But the chief priests planned to put Lazarus to death also, verse 11, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and were believing in Jesus.

(Commentary Break): “He came but to steal, kill and destroy”, found in John 10:10, is the description of Satan and his minions. This is their mission. So when Jesus refers to the Pharisees and chief priests as hypocrites, fools, blind guides, robbers, self-indulgent, whitewashed tombs, lawless, snakes, vipers (see Matthew 23), He is identifying them with Satan. Again in John 8:44, Jesus says to them, “Your father is the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He as a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he tells a lie, he speaks from his own nature, because he is a liar and the father of lies”.

Let me say that anyone and everyone who practices these things are of the devil and no amount of good works or excellent oratory, (including sermons), will change that fact. You will know them by their fruits. You can see them in government, politics and they are in the church. And as pleasing as they may act, do not be fooled. Purge them out. (End Commentary Break).

The Triumphal Entry

Verse 12. On the next day, when the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, verse 13, they took the branches of the palm trees and went out to meet Him, and began shouting, “Hosanna! BLESSED IS HE WHO COMES IN THE NAME OF THE LORD, indeed, the King of Israel!” Verse 14. Jesus, finding a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written: verse 15, “DO NOT FEAR, DAUGHTER OF ZION; BEHOLD, YOUR KING IS COMING, SEATED ON A DONKEY’S COLT.” Verse 16. These things His disciples did not understand at the first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written of Him, and that they had done these things for Him. Verse 17. So the people, who were with Him when He called Lazarus out of the tomb and raised him from the dead, continued to testify about Him. Verse 18. For this reason also the people went to meet Him, because they heard that He had performed this sign. Verse 19. So the Pharisees said to one another, “You see that you are not accomplishing anything; look, the world has gone after Him!”

(Commentary Break): Jesus’ message was clear and His actions were uncompromising. This instilled confidence and boldness in His disciples and stoke the flames of faith within them. When the people saw this fulfillment of prophecy being fearlessly played out before them, they went after Him. So it should me – must be – with us in these last days!

See these 2 video clips:

(End Commentary Break).

PART 2.

Greeks Seek Jesus

Verse 20. Now there were some Greeks among those who were going up to worship at the feast; verse 21, these people then came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and were making a request of him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” Verse 22. Philip came and told Andrew; then Andrew and Philip came and told Jesus. Verse 23. But Jesus answered them by saying, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. Verse 24. Truly, truly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. Verse 25. The one who loves his life loses it, and the one who hates his life in this world will keep it to eternal life. Verse 26. If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also; if anyone serves Me, the Father will honor him.

(Commentary Break): These verses carry four major turns of events: (1). The Greeks (Gentiles) were taking notice of Jesus and want to know more about Him. (2). Jesus is reminding His disciples that He came specifically for the House of Israel – the Jews. Jesus knows that Paul will come later as a messenger to the Gentiles. Therefore they cannot know enough about Him at this point, but they will after Jesus is glorified (crucified, buried, raised again to life and ascended). (3). Jesus is the “grain of wheat” that will bear much fruit – as will those who follow Him. There will be a great spreading of the Gospel and a multiplication of believers to come. (4). There is the promise for those who follow Him in life and in death, that they will be with Him (again) and the Father will honor them.

We, Christians throughout the ages and particularly in our day, must know that we too are that grain of wheat which must fall into the earth and so our life in Christ will bear much fruit. If you or I love our life and loses it, if we hate our life in this world then you and I will keep it to eternal life. Only if we serve Him, and follow Him – in our life and our death, will we be where He is; and in this way we can be said to have served Him, and the Father will honor us.

Just going to church and calling ourselves Christians and participating in programs, yet sitting idly by watching the sky for His return will not do it. We must actually follow Him, doing as He as done. There is no other way. (I admit that I am humbled and broken and troubled as I write this). (End Commentary Break).

Jesus Foretells His Death

Verse 27. “Now My soul has become troubled; and what am I to say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour. Verse 28. Father, glorify Your name.” Then a voice came out of heaven: “I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.” Verse 29. So the crowd who stood by and heard it were saying that it had thundered; others were saying, “An angel has spoken to Him!”

(Commentary Break): Jesus soul is troubled? Yes. The word here for troubled is ‘tarassó’, meaning stirred, disturbed, terrified. It carries the idea of inner turmoil or outward commotion – a sudden shock that rattles the emotions. But He does not shrink back (see Hebrews 10:39). And in the face of this ‘tarassó’, Jesus prays, “what am I to say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour”. Father, glorify Your name.” God responded to the Son and He will respond to you as you take this step as you follow Jesus. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 30. Jesus responded and said, “This voice has not come for My sake, but for yours. Verse 31. Now judgment is upon this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out. Verse 32. And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself.” Verse 33. Now He was saying this to indicate what kind of death He was going to die.

(Commentary Break): Jesus, through these few words, gives us a synopsis, a brief summary of what is to come: The Judgment; The defeat of Satan, the antichrist and their forces; the salvation and rapture of the saints of God.

1. 1. 1. This Word is for us – so we will know. And now it has been said. “Now judgment is upon the world”. There are no clearer words to say to us that the Judgment of God has begun. This is a clear statement by Jesus that the first phase of the Last Days, the End of the Age, the tribulation period, also called the period of the Birth Pains of the tribulation has begun (see Matthew 24:4-8).
      2. After the final Judgments (see Tribulation Seals six through the Tribulation Trumpets and the Tribulation Bowls), The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords defeats the forces of Satan, and he and the false prophet are bound and cast into the eternal lake of fire.
      3. And He will be lifted up and draw all people to Himself – a picture both of salvation and of The Greek word from this term “rapture” is derived appears in 1 Thessalonians 4:17, translated “caught up.” The Latin translation of this verse used the word rapturo. The Greek word it translates is harpazo, which means to snatch or take away. (This is also seen in Matthew 24:30-31, “And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory. And He will send forth His angels with a great trumpet blast, and they will gather, (episunagó – to gather together; to bring together to others already assembled; to gather together in one place), together His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.” (End Commentary Break).

Verse 34. The crowd then answered Him, “We have heard from the Law that the Christ is to remain forever; and how is it that You say, ‘The Son of Man must be lifted up’? Who is this Son of Man?” Verse 35. So Jesus said to them, “For a little while longer the Light is among you. Walk while you have the Light, so that darkness will not overtake you; also, the one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. Verse 36. While you have the Light, believe in the Light, so that you may become sons of Light.”

These things Jesus proclaimed, and He went away and hid Himself from them. Verse 37. But though He had performed so many signs in their sight, they still were not believing in Him. Verse 38. This happened so that the word of Isaiah the prophet which he spoke would be fulfilled: “LORD, WHO HAS BELIEVED OUR REPORT? AND TO WHOM HAS THE ARM OF THE LORD BEEN REVEALED?” Verse 39. For this reason they could not believe, for Isaiah said again, Verse 40. “HE HAS BLINDED THEIR EYES AND HE HARDENED THEIR HEART, SO THAT THEY WILL NOT SEE WITH THEIR EYES AND UNDERSTAND WITH THEIR HEART, AND BE CONVERTED, AND SO I WILL NOT HEAL THEM.” Verse 41. These things Isaiah said because he saw His glory, and he spoke about Him. Verse 42. Nevertheless many, even of the rulers, believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they were not confessing Him, so that they would not be excommunicated from the synagogue; verse 43, for they loved the approval of people rather than the approval of God.

Verse 44. Now Jesus cried out and said, “The one who believes in Me, does not believe only in Me, but also in Him who sent Me. Verse 45. And the one who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. Verse 46. I have come as Light into the world, so that no one who believes in Me will remain in darkness. Verse 47. If anyone hears My teachings and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world, but to save the world. Verse 48. The one who rejects Me and does not accept My teachings has one who judges him: the word which I spoke. That will judge him on the last day. Verse 49. For I did not speak on My own, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a commandment as to what to say and what to speak. Verse 50. And I know that His commandment is eternal life; therefore the things I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.” (End chapter 12 text).

Jesus has come to save the world. It is the person who does not believe Him are judged already because of their own unbelief. If you have any misgivings or doubts that lead to unbelief, then pray for help. If you have confusion about scriptures, just decided to believe even if you do not see. “Blessed is the one who has not seen but believes” (John 20:24-29).

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 13, The Lord’s Supper, Jesus Washes the Disciple’s feet, Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 11, The Death and Resurrection of Lazarus, The Conspiracy to Kill Jesus.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 10

The Parable of The Good Shepherd, Jesus Asserts His Deity

 It is easier for a contemporary Christian to read these words from John chapter ten as simply a narrative about Jesus claiming to be The Good Shepherd (The Lord) of God’s people, than it is to understand the astounding-to-unbelievable claims Jesus is making.  And to the Jew, the nature of Jesus remarks are both astounding and outrageous. Jesus opens the doors of a spiritual reality, revealing the truth of a relationship to God through His Son, (the Messiah). He explains this in ways that are unmistakable to the Jew. (And this same truth, later, is to be applied to all people claiming the name of Christian).

Each person who reads this should be asking, at the least, these two questions: “Am I hearing the voice of God through the one I am following?”, and, “Does the one appointed over me for my spiritual safety, hear and follow the voice of Christ?”.

Be reminded these words are inspired by God, have been recorded and preserved and are meant for our instruction, our rebuke and correction for our training in righteousness.

Parable of the Good Shepherd

Verse 1.“Truly, truly I say to you, the one who does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbs up some other way, he is a thief and a robber. Verse 2. But the one who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep. Verse 3. To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep listen to his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.

(Commentary Break): These metaphors are laden and rich both with spiritual truth that leads to life and warnings against deceit.

The “door of the sheepfold” is God’s Word. (John 1:1-3, 14, tells us that “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us; and we saw His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”) “The sheepfold” is God’s protective enclosure of safety for His sheep, His redeemed followers.

When anyone claiming to be a leader or a protector of His sheep who “does not enter by the door into the fold of the sheep” – in other words, He does not adhere strictly to the Word of God, he innovates, violates or abrogates God’s clear instructions, “he is a thief and a robber”. There is no room for error here. Ignorance of God’s Word is no excuse – it is one of many clear violations that disqualifies a person from representing Christ as a leader, pastor, teacher or prophet.

“But the one who enters by the door is a shepherd of the sheep. To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep listen to his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.” The doorkeeper (gatekeeper) represents the Holy Spirit who opens the door for the Good Shepherd and for those who represent Him today. Do not be deceived. I am heartbroken and alarmed that so many churches are being led by thieves and robbers. They excuse embracing homosexuality in leadership; turn a blind eye to sexual deviancy and promiscuity; they allow women to preach and rule over the men; they raid the treasury for their own profits; they seek success, fame, glory and admiration. You know them – you see them – avoid them. Flee from them or you are complicit in their evil and wicked deeds and you will share in paying the consequences. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 4. When he puts all his own sheep outside, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. Verse 5. However, a stranger they simply will not follow, but will flee from him, because they do not know the voice of strangers.” Verse 6. Jesus told them this figure of speech, but they did not understand what the things which He was saying to them meant.

(Commentary Break): The true sheep of God willingly follow the Shepherd – in other words they hear the Word of God and practice that Word by following it. But if you hear strange teachings, this is the voice of a stranger. Flee and call to the other sheep to flee. Do not be like those who heard these words from Jesus and did not understand what the things which He was saying to them meant. Know the Word of God and follow it. (End Commentary Break)

Verse 7. So Jesus said to them again, “Truly, truly I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. Verse 8. All those who came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. Verse 9. I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. Verse 10. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.

Verse 11. “I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. Verse 12. He who is a hired hand, and not a shepherd, who is not the owner of the sheep, sees the wolf coming, and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters the flock. Verse 13. He flees because he is a hired hand and does not care about the sheep.

(Commentary Break): Verses seven through thirteen are clear and plain language. Jesus makes clear the choice and the consequences at stake. “I am the door; if anyone enters through Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came so that they would have life, and have it abundantly.” You can attend a church all of your life and still find that you will have been robbed of life, killed in your soul and you will be destroyed. We must put our own selfish desires to death and be born again and follow the True Shepherd.

Listen, please. If you are attending a church or following a man (or, God forbid, a woman) who puts themselves forward as a representative of Christ, and who has a cloud of suspicion hanging over them – flee. The man of God appointed to pastor God’s sheep will lead a holy and humble life, blameless and will live his life above reproach – and he will know the Word of God and be able to correctly preach and practice that word. A “hired hand” is not like this. He is there for the paycheck, the recognition, for what he can get for himself. These kind are usually cowardly in the face of opposition, controlling, unrelenting in disputes, and spiritually abusive. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 14. I am the good shepherd, and I know My own, and My own know Me, verse 15, just as the Father knows Me and I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. Verse 16. And I have other sheep that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will listen to My voice; and they will become one flock, with one shepherd. Verse 17. For this reason the Father loves Me, because I lay down My life so that I may take it back. Verse 18. No one has taken it away from Me, but I lay it down on My own. I have authority to lay it down, and I have authority to take it back. This commandment I received from My Father.”

(Commentary Break): It is noteworthy that Jesus is forecasting His coming death as the substitutionary sacrifice for the sins of many. And that He now comments that He has other sheep – Gentile sheep – that are not of this (Jewish) fold; He says He must bring them also, and that they will listen to His voice; and that they will become one flock, with one shepherd. Obviously, this would have been a mystery at this point in time. Jesus is speaking a prophetic truth which is, as is always the case, coming to pass. It is just not possible to over-emphasize the importance of what Jesus is saying in this chapter and in these verses and is still true and applicable today. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 19. Dissension occurred again among the Jews because of these words. Verse 20. Many of them were saying, “He has a demon and is insane. Why do you listen to Him?” Verse 21. Others were saying, “These are not the words of one who is demon-possessed. A demon cannot open the eyes of those who are blind, can it?”

Jesus Asserts His Deity

Verse 22. At that time the Feast of the Dedication (Now known as Hanukkah, also known as the Feast of Lights) took place in Jerusalem; verse 23, it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple area, in the portico of Solomon. Verse 24. The Jews then surrounded Him and began saying to Him, “How long will You keep us in suspense? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.” Verse 25. Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe; the works that I do in My Father’s name, these testify of Me. Verse 26. But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep. Verse 27. My sheep listen to My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; verse 28, and I give them eternal life, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand. Verse 29. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. Verse 30. I and the Father are one.”

(Commentary Break): Rather than comment here, I ask you to imagine. Imagine walking with Jesus and asking Him “are you the Christ” and His response is “I told you, and you do not believe; the works that I do in My Father’s name, these testify of Me. But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep.” This is still the litmus test today. You can be walking with Him and ask (through prayer), “are you the Christ?”. Don’t be afraid to ask. The Apostle John asked this very question as he was facing his death, (see Luke 7:18-23). You see, we are redeemed by Christ and saved from the coming Messianic judgments by God’s grace, through our faith in Christ Jesus. It is not of ourselves, It is a gift of God. So, yes. Ask in faith. Seek and knock and He will give all these things to you!  (End Commentary Break).

Verse 31. The Jews picked up stones again to stone Him. Verse 32. Jesus replied to them, “I showed you many good works from the Father; for which of them are you stoning Me?” Verse 33. The Jews answered Him, “We are not stoning You for a good work, but for blasphemy; and because You, being a man, make Yourself out to be God.” Verse 34. Jesus answered them, “Has it not been written in your Law: ‘I SAID, YOU ARE GODS’? Verse 35. If he called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be nullified), verse 36, are you saying of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’? Verse 37. If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; verse 38, but if I do them, even though you do not believe Me, believe the works, so that you may know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I in the Father.” Verse 39. Therefore they were seeking again to arrest Him, and He eluded their grasp.

(Commentary Break): (From BibleHub.com bible study), This phrase, : ‘I SAID, YOU ARE GODS’?,  is a direct quotation from Psalm 82:6, where God addresses the judges of Israel, calling them “gods” because of their role as representatives of divine justice. In the cultural and historical context, judges and leaders were seen as God’s agents on earth, tasked with upholding His laws and justice. Jesus uses this reference to argue that if human judges can be called “gods” in the Scriptures, then it is not blasphemous for Him, the Son of God, to claim a unique relationship with the Father. This argument underscores Jesus’ divinity and His fulfillment of Old Testament types and prophecies concerning the Messiah. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 40. And He went away again beyond the Jordan to the place where John was first baptizing, and He stayed there. Verse 41. Many came to Him and were saying, “While John performed no sign, yet everything John said about this man was true.” Verse 42. And many believed in Him there. (End Chapter 10 text).

It should seem incredible, then and now, that even after His testimony, His amazing works (miracles), that there continue to be dissension and divisions. But these same dissensions and divisions concerning Jesus continue to this day – and in fact, the religious and doctrinal fractures outside and inside the church have become chasms. It would appear that the church in 2025 is divided against itself. But that is not the case.

It is true that the enemy has invaded the church in a last ditch effort to thwart and pervert the Gospel Message and the mission and cause of Jesus as the Christ. God has addressed the shortcomings of the Church in a message to the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. But for now, God has said we are to tend to the “wheat” (the true believers) in the church and that He will remove the tares (the weeds or the non-believers) from our midst in the final harvest (see Matthew 13:30).

So, what may appear to be an errant or deliberately rebellious church is actually a counterfeit of Jesus’ Church, the Body of Christ. (The term “counterfeit church of Satan” often refers to groups or organizations that mimic true Christian teachings but promote false doctrines, misleading followers away from genuine faith. These groups are seen as deceptive, using tactics similar to those of Satan to lead people astray from the truth of the gospel. The term “Counterfeit Church of Satan” refers to religious groups or movements that mimic true Christian teachings but distort them to promote false doctrines. These groups often present themselves as legitimate expressions of faith while leading followers away from the core truths of Christianity.

Characteristics of Counterfeit Churches

Biblical Warnings

The Bible warns against such counterfeits. For instance, the Apostle Paul cautioned that Satan disguises himself as an “angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14), indicating that false teachings can appear attractive and convincing.

Conclusion

Recognizing the counterfeit church involves understanding the core tenets of true Christianity and being vigilant against teachings that deviate from biblical principles. Engaging with scripture and seeking genuine spiritual guidance are essential steps in avoiding deception.

You will know them by their fruit. (see Spiritual Counterfeit by Tim Challies and GotQuestions.Org).

 We must be Berean, diligent in examining the Scriptures, as exemplified by the Bereans in Acts 17:10-12, who carefully checked the teachings of Paul and Silas against the Old Testament to verify their truth. This approach emphasizes the importance of seeking truth through prayer and personal study of the Bible.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

NEXT: (coming soon), THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 11, The Death and Resurrection of Lazarus, The Conspiracy to Kill Jesus.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 9, Healing the Man Born Blind, Controversy Over The Man, Jesus Affirms His Deity.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 9

Healing the Man Born Blind, Controversy Over The Man, Jesus Affirms His Deity

If you did not know better, you might suppose this chapter was a playscript written ahead of time. It plays out so perfectly, that the events which unfold in this chapter lead to one predetermined conclusion: Jesus is the Son of God, The Living Word, God in the flesh who dwelt among us. This is a truth the religious were either incapable of seeing or unwilling to see, and for that Jesus declares them as being blind to the truth, blind toward God, and that they remain blinded by their self-righteousness.

This is both a narrative of Jesus mission as the Christ, and a warning to us in this day and time., that we do not follow the failures of the  Pharisees’ persistent unbelief and rejection of Jesus’ message because of our self-righteousness, leaving us in a state of condemnation.

As you read this chapter, please recognize the irony and keep in mind that The Eternal and Almighty God is standing before His creation, explaining to them that He has come to redeem them from their sins and from destruction and they reject Him, and argue with Him, saying they know more than Him, calling Him sinful.

Healing the Man Born Blind

John 9:1, As Jesus passed by, He saw a man who had been blind from birth. Verse 2. And His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?” Verse 3. Jesus answered, “It was neither that this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him.

(Commentary Break): The stage is set. This man had been blind from birth in preparation for this moment – so that the works of God might be displayed in him. I can hear the objections now. ‘Could God be that cruel for His own purposes?’ If you or someone you know or have heard about, has suffered or is suffering a malady, ask yourself “is it an unfortunate happenstance, a sad coincidence, or could it be so the works of God might be displayed?” This is a question only you can ask of yourself, because only you can answer such a question for yourself. But if you truly believe that God is omniscient, omnipresent and omnipotent, you must believe these two things: (1) Nothing happens by accident. Like it or not, everything has a purpose. (2). God causes all things to work together for the good of those who love Him and are of those who are called according to His purpose! This is a profound truth for those who can see. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 4. We must carry out the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming, when no one can work. Verse 5. While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.”

(Commentary Break): Once again, the mysterion of the Word of God. This is an example of Jesus speaking in terms and language of the Kingdom of God which is being manifest in the natural realm of His creation.  Jesus is revealing that He is indeed on mission from His Father and that the time allotted for His works is limited. He has clearly included you, His followers, in these Works. (We must carry out the works of Him who sent Me). He is saying that a time is coming when His Work is finished and there will be no help for those who have failed to respond to Him. He emphasizes this saying “While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world”, because there is a moral, spiritual and physical darkness coming, a time of judgement, that no one can escape. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 6. When He had said this, He spit on the ground, and made mud from the saliva, and applied the mud to his eyes, verse 7, and said to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which is translated, Sent). So he left and washed, and came back seeing. Verse 8. So the neighbors, and those who previously saw him as a beggar, were saying, “Is this not the one who used to sit and beg?” Verse 9. Others were saying, “This is he,” still others were saying, “No, but he is like him.” The man himself kept saying, “I am the one.” Verse 10. So they were saying to him, “How then were your eyes opened?” Verse 11. He answered, “The man who is called Jesus made mud, and spread it on my eyes, and said to me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash’; so I went away and washed, and I received sight.” Verse 12. And they said to him, “Where is He?” He said, “I do not know.”

Controversy over the Man

Verse 13. They brought the man who was previously blind to the Pharisees. Verse 14. Now it was a Sabbath on the day that Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes. Verse 15. Then the Pharisees also were asking him again how he received his sight. And he said to them, “He applied mud to my eyes, and I washed, and I see.” Verse 16. Therefore some of the Pharisees were saying, “This man is not from God, because He does not keep the Sabbath.” But others were saying, “How can a man who is a sinner perform such signs?” And there was dissension among them. Verse 17. So they said again to the man who was blind, “What do you say about Him, since He opened your eyes?” And he said, “He is a prophet.”

Verse 18. The Jews then did not believe it about him, that he had been blind and had received sight, until they called the parents of the very one who had received his sight, verse 19, and they questioned them, saying, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? Then how does he now see?” Verse 20. His parents then answered and said, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; verse 21, but how he now sees, we do not know; or who opened his eyes, we do not know. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself.” Verse 22. His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jewish leaders; for the Jews had already reached the decision that if anyone confessed Him to be Christ, he was to be excommunicated from the synagogue. Verse 23. It was for this reason that his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”

(Commentary Break): “The Jews had already reached the decision that if anyone confessed Him to be Christ, he was to be excommunicated from the synagogue.” Their minds were made up ahead of time. This is the condition of many in our day and time and their fate will be the same as the Jews. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 24. So for a second time they summoned the man who had been blind, and said to him, “Give glory to God; we know that this man is a sinner.” Verse 25. He then answered, “Whether He is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” Verse 26. So they said to him, “What did He do to you? How did He open your eyes?” Verse 27. He answered them, “I told you already and you did not listen; why do you want to hear it again? You do not want to become His disciples too, do you?” Verse 28. They spoke abusively to him and said, “You are His disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. Verse 29. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where He is from.”

(Commentary Break): Jesus heals the man blind from his birth and there were witnesses. The Jews interrogated the man and his parents. The Jewish leader interrogate the man a second time. The evidence is gathered, but “The Jews had already reached their decision.” (End Commentary Break).

Verse 30. The man answered and said to them, “Well, here is the amazing thing, that you do not know where He is from, and yet He opened my eyes! Verse 31. We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if someone is God-fearing and does His will, He listens to him. Verse 32. Since the beginning of time it has never been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind. Verse 33. If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.” Verse 34. They answered him, “You were born entirely in sins, and yet you are teaching us?” So they put him out.

(Commentary Break): Here is the simple but sound logic of the man

(1). “Well, here is the amazing thing, that you do not know where He is from, and yet,

(2). He opened my eyes! The man is saying that where Jesus is from is irrelevant to him!

(3). We know that God does not listen to sinners; but if someone is God-fearing and does His will, He listens to him.

(4). Since the beginning of time it has never been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind.

(5). If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.”

(6). The Jews answered him saying, “You were born entirely in sins, and yet you are teaching us?”

(7). So the Jewish leaders put the man who had been blind out of their presence. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus Affirms His Deity

Verse 35. Jesus heard that they had put him out, and upon finding him, He said, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” Verse 36. He answered by saying, “And who is He, Sir, that I may believe in Him?” Verse 37. Jesus said to him, “You have both seen Him, and He is the one who is talking with you.” Verse 38. And he said, “I believe, Lord.” And he worshiped Him. Verse 39. And Jesus said, “For judgment I came into this world, so that those who do not see may see, and those who see may become blind.”

(Commentary Break): The man who had been blind from birth has received both his natural and his spiritual sight – and now he is being saved! (End Commentary Break).

Verse 40. Those who were with Him from the Pharisees heard these things and said to Him, “We are not blind too, are we?” Verse 41. Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no sin; but now that you maintain, ‘We see,’ your sin remains.

(Commentary Break): In this context, Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees, who were religious leaders in Israel. The term “blind” here is metaphorical, referring to spiritual blindness or ignorance. In biblical times, blindness was often seen as a physical ailment that rendered a person helpless, symbolizing a lack of understanding or insight. Jesus uses this metaphor to address the Pharisees’ inability to recognize Him as the Messiah. This echoes Isaiah 42:7, where the Messiah is prophesied to open the eyes of the blind, both physically and spiritually.

Here, Jesus suggests that if the Pharisees were truly ignorant of their spiritual state, they would not be held accountable for their sin. This reflects a biblical principle found in Leviticus 5:17, where unintentional sin is treated differently from willful disobedience. The concept of accountability is central in Scripture, as seen in James 4:17, which states that knowing the right thing to do and failing to do it is sin.

The Pharisees prided themselves on their knowledge of the Law and their spiritual insight. Their claim to “see” indicates their self-righteousness and confidence in their own understanding. This is reminiscent of Proverbs 26:12, which warns about the danger of being wise in one’s own eyes. The Pharisees’ claim contrasts with the humility required to truly understand spiritual truths, as seen in Matthew 5:3, where Jesus blesses the poor in spirit.

Jesus concludes by stating that their guilt remains because they refuse to acknowledge their spiritual blindness. This is a direct indictment of their hypocrisy and rejection of Jesus as the Light of the World (John 8:12). The concept of remaining in guilt is tied to the idea of unrepentance and hardness of heart, as seen in Hebrews 3:12-13. The Pharisees’ persistent unbelief and rejection of Jesus’ message leave them in a state of condemnation, as highlighted in John 3:19-20, where people love darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil. (Note: the foregoing four paragraphs are taken from BibleHub.com Study Bible).  (End Commentary Break).

It is glaringly obvious that we, the postmodern Church, are increasingly behaving like the Jewish religious leaders as cited in this chapter. We say we believe, but our beliefs are based on our church forerunner’s ideas, traditions, and upon our experiences. We do not follow Jesus, thinking as He thinks, acting as He acts and doing as He does. We have modified and even perverted His Word to satiate our own wants, thoughts, ideas, desires and demands. We have strayed far from what The Living Word says, demonstrated to us and warned that if we depart from His Ways we will perish. It is the one who “endures to the end, who will be saved”. We should repent quickly, for the Kingdom of Heaven is now at hand!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 10, The Parable of The Good Shepherd, Jesus Asserts His Deity.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, Part 3, The Truth Will Set You Free.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, Part 3

The Truth will Set You Free

It would be easy to read this chapter as if it were spoken to and meant for the Jews and the Pharisees in particular. But, as a reminder this chapter reveals the most profound truths of Jesus’ Mission, His Purpose, His Identity as the “son of man” and The Son of God and of our destiny as believers, both now and for all eternity.

John 8:26. I have many things to say and to judge regarding you, but He who sent Me is true; and the things which I heard from Him, these I say to the world.”

Verse 27. They did not realize that He was speaking to them about the Father. Verse 28. So Jesus said, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am, and I do nothing on My own, but I say these things as the Father instructed Me. Verse 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.” Verse 30. As He said these things, many came to believe in Him.

(Commentary Break): These words of Jesus were a riddle to some, such as “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I Am.” This phrase introduces a direct statement from Jesus, emphasizing His role as a teacher and authority. In the Gospel of John, Jesus often uses direct speech to reveal deep spiritual truths and to clarify His identity and mission. This setting is part of a larger discourse where Jesus is addressing the Pharisees and the people in the temple courts.

The term “lifted up” is a reference to Jesus’ crucifixion. In the cultural and historical context, crucifixion was a Roman method of execution, symbolizing shame and suffering. However, Jesus uses it to signify His glorification and the fulfillment of His mission. The title “Son of Man” is a messianic term from Daniel 7:13-14, indicating both His humanity and divine authority. This phrase foreshadows the crucifixion as a pivotal event for revealing Jesus’ true identity.

“Then you will know that I am He”, points to the recognition of Jesus’ divine identity post-crucifixion. The phrase “I am He” echoes the divine name revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14, suggesting Jesus’ unity with God. The crucifixion and subsequent resurrection serve as the ultimate revelation of Jesus as the Messiah and Son of God, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and confirming His teachings.

Jesus says, “I do nothing on My own”, emphasizing His complete dependence on and unity with the Father. This reflects the consistent theme in John’s Gospel of Jesus’ submission to the Father’s will. It highlights the Trinitarian relationship and the divine mission of Jesus, who acts not independently but in perfect harmony with God’s plan.

Finally, Jesus says “I speak exactly what the Father has taught Me”, which underscores the divine origin of Jesus’ teachings. In the cultural context of first-century Judaism, a rabbi or teacher would often speak on their own authority or tradition. However, Jesus claims His teachings come directly from God the Father, affirming His role as the ultimate prophet and teacher. This aligns with Deuteronomy 18:18, where God promises to raise a prophet who will speak His words. Jesus’ teachings are thus presented as the ultimate revelation of God’s truth. (Green text is from Biblehub.com commentary).

Others recalled that what Jesus is saying was foretold in scriptures and came to believe. A good example for us. (End Commentary Break).

The Truth Will Set You Free

Verse 31. So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples; verse 32, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Verse 33. They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants and have never been enslaved to anyone; how is it that You say, ‘You will become free’?”

(Commentary Break): “If you continue in My word, then you are truly My disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” It is worth repeating. Jesus has said elsewhere that it is those who endure to the end who will be saved (Matthew 24:8). You will be made safe, whole, made well and you will be set free from the penalty the power and the curse of sin – which is death. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 34. Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. Verse 35. Now the slave does not remain in the house forever; the Son does remain forever. Verse 36. So if the Son sets you free, you really will be free. Verse 37. I know that you are Abraham’s descendants; yet you are seeking to kill Me, because My word has no place in you. Verse 38. I speak of the things which I have seen with My Father; therefore you also do the things which you heard from your father.” Verse 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. Verse 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. Verse 41. You are doing the deeds of your father.” They said to Him, “We were not born as a result of sexual immorality; we have one Father: God.” Verse 42. Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I came forth from God and am here; for I have not even come on My own, but He sent Me. Verse 43. Why do you not understand what I am saying? It is because you cannot listen to My word. Verse 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 tells a lie, he speaks from his own nature, because he is a liar and the father of lies. Verse 45. But because I say the truth, you do not believe Me. Verse 46. Which one of you convicts Me of sin? If I speak truth, why do you not believe Me? Verse 47. The one who is of God hears the words of God; for this reason you do not hear them, because you are not of God.”

(Commentary Break): These verses and the ones to follow give us deep insights into the true relationship with God through His Son, Jesus. They are both amazingly and frighteningly true beyond natural comprehension. Additionally, Jesus is addressing these Pharisees, Jews, and is speaking to them through their own historical, religious practices and cultural context. Jesus tells them they are slaves to sin, and that being a slave to sin means, (1), the person has no rights or permanent residence in the ‘household’ in which they claim to reside and (2), they have no control over their destiny. Their future is separate from the spiritual family of Abraham, with a lonely eternal death. However, Jesus tells them that if He sets you free, you are not only set free from the penalty and curse of sin, but He has removed the shackles of sin and you are free to become a child of God and a brother of Jesus, with full rights as a joint heir. But these Pharisees who claim descendancy of Abraham, fail to recognize that birth descendancy is insufficient to claim a permanent relationship with God; and secondly, they ignorantly and defiantly wish to kill Jesus, Who comes from the Father as the prophesied Messiah. If they were truly of Abraham then they would know He is Who He claims to be. But they do not know and cannot know because His words has not place in Him, and their true spiritual father is not Abraham, but is the devil. This should be a clear and stark warning to all of us, who presently claim the name of Christ, yet do not what He says. According to Hebrews 6:4-6, “It is impossible, in the case of those who have once been enlightened and have tasted of the heavenly gift and have been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the age to come, and then have fallen away, to restore them again to repentance, since they again crucify to themselves the Son of God and put Him to open shame.”  (End Commentary Break).

Verse 48. The Jews answered and said to Him, “Do we not rightly say that You are a Samaritan, and You have a demon?” Verse 49. Jesus answered, “I do not have a demon; on the contrary, I honor My Father, and you dishonor Me. Verse 50. But I am not seeking My glory; there is One who seeks it, and judges. Verse 51. Truly, truly I say to you, if anyone follows My word, he will never see death.” Verse 52. The Jews said to Him, “Now we know that You have a demon. Abraham died, and the prophets as well; and yet You say, ‘If anyone follows My word, he will never taste of death.’ Verse 53. You are not greater than our father Abraham, who died, are You? The prophets died too. Whom do You make Yourself out to be?” Verse 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’; verse 55, and you have not come to know Him, but I know Him. And if I say that I do not know Him, I will be a liar like you; but I do know Him, and I follow His word. Verse 56. Your father Abraham was overjoyed that he would see My day, and he saw it and rejoiced.” Verse 57. So the Jews said to Him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and You have seen Abraham?” Verse 58. Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly I say to you, before Abraham was born, I am.” Verse 59. Therefore they picked up stones to throw at Him, but Jesus hid Himself and left the temple grounds. (End Chapter 8, part 3).

(Commentary Break): What we read and hear in verses 48 through 59 is a clear contrast between an earthly or natural physical perspective and understanding versus a heavenly and a Spiritual perspective view which gives wisdom. The former is of the flesh which leads to death, and the latter is of the Spirit which leads to life. (End Commentary Break).

Romans 8:5-9 tells us that “For those who are in accord with the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who are in accord with the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.” From the Greek language, to ‘set their mind on’ translates to mean to ‘frame up, to enter into and become captive to or imprisoned by one’s own continual thoughts’. If it is of the flesh, then it a death camp, a prison holding cell, where one is held until their sentence of death is executed. However if it is of the Spirit, it is a waiting room, so-to-speak, for heaven – which leads to life and peace.

This message from Jesus was not intended solely for the Pharisees of His day, but for anyone and everyone of a ‘Pharisaical spirit’ of all the ages.

(The adjective pharisaical literally means “similar to the Pharisees.” In common usage, though, the word pharisaical is employed to describe someone who is hypocritical and-or self-righteous, traits that the Pharisees in the New Testament were known for. The Pharisees elevated their own traditions to the level of Scripture. While not denying the value of some traditions, we should make sure we hold to our traditions lightly while we have an iron grip on God’s Word. The Pharisees pretended to be passionate for God while their hearts were far from Him. We should strive to obey the law of Christ and urge others to do the same, declaring God’s truth with compassionate love (Ephesians 4:15)).

Let’s set our minds on the Spirit and be set free!

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 9, Healing the Man Born Blind, Controversy Over The Man, Jesus Affirms His Deity.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, Part 2

Jesus is the Light of the World.

It is important that you and I be careful not to read these verses just as an observer of a past event, or we will have missed the profundity of these prophetic words. There are few places you will find Jesus explaining and claiming His Deity as the Son of God as He does here. It is best if, before you read further, to pray and ask God to enlighten the eyes of your heart and mind with the truth of His wisdom. Then, as you read, place yourself there, with Jesus, as He speaks these words of light and truth into the darkness of the world and to the darkened minds of the ruling religious elite of that day. (You and I must come away from this exchanged as a changed person, in light of Who Jesus truly is.)

John 8:12, Then Jesus again spoke to them, saying, “I am the Light of the world; the one who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”

(Commentary Break): Jesus begins with “I Am”. He uses the Koine Greek word, “egó” for “I”, which is only used or expressed when emphatic; juxtaposed with “am”, or “self-existent”. This clearly communicates that Jesus is claiming Deity. Even to His own disciples, this is an amazing, and to some, a shocking statement. Those of us who have been Christians for any time have heard that Jesus is God, so many times, that we have become far too accustomed to, and emotionally numbed to what should be a shocking, humbling and amazing reality. Additionally, Jesus speaks these words in the “aorist” tense, which combines past, present and future tenses in one – “I was, I am, and I forever shall be”. Jesus is saying He has always existed, is here now and shall be forevermore. Only God can make such a claim and Jesus puts an exclamation on this realty when He is crucified, is raised from the dead and then ascends into the heavens to sit at the Right Hand of The Father, forevermore.

Jesus flatly states that “I am the Light of the world; the one who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.” Simply put, Light is life, darkness is death. Those who follow Jesus in the resurrection will abide with Him and, as He says in Revelation 22:5, “And the night will be no more. They will need no light of lamp or sun, for the Lord God will be their light, and they will reign forever and ever.” Otherwise, those who do not follow Him will be cast into an outer darkness where there is wailing and gnashing of teeth, into an eternal lake of fire (Matthew 13:41-43). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 13. So the Pharisees said to Him, “You are testifying about Yourself; Your testimony is not true.” Verse 14. Jesus answered and said to them, “Even if I am testifying about Myself, My testimony is true, because 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. Verse 15. You judge according to the flesh; I am not judging anyone. Verse 16. But even if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone in it, but I and the Father who sent Me. Verse 17. Even in your Law it has been written that the testimony of two people is true. Verse 18. I am He who testifies about Myself, and the Father who sent Me testifies about Me.” Verse 19. 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.” Verse 20. These words He spoke in the treasury, as He taught in the temple area; and no one arrested Him, because His hour had not yet come.

(Commentary Break): The Son of God, being God Himself, speaking directly to God’s own chosen people, and they do not believe Him. The same can be said about our unbelieving world. So, if God Himself, comes to them and us, in the flesh, in the form of a man, cannot convince them of the truth, what does this say about our testimony and our ability to lead others to believe? It says that we cannot lead others to believe. However, Jesus says that “No one can come to Me unless the Father Who sent Me draws Him.” (John 6:44), but we are to “Go and make disciples” of those He draws.

(Concurrently, Jesus says that “And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people unto Myself” Now, He was saying this to indicate what kind of death He was going to die.)

Again, it should be a shocking revelation that God’s own chosen race would reject Him as if they were not drawn by Him to Himself. Here is the seeming mystery that although God draws all people, the choice is still in their hands. And Jesus’ words are true for those who claim to know God but do not follow Him, “You know neither Me nor My Father; if you knew Me, you would know My Father also.” So, for all those who willingly and willfully ignore the Words and commandments of God while claiming to believe?  (End Commentary Break).

Verse 21. Then He said again to them, “I am going away, and you will look for Me, and will die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come.” Verse 22. So the Jews were saying, “Surely He will not kill Himself, will He, since He says, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come’?” Verse 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. Verse 24. Therefore, I said to you that you will die in your sins; for unless you believe that I am, you will die in your sins.”

(Commentary Break): What Jesus is saying to the Pharisees is applicable to anyone and everyone who does not believe and follow Jesus. When Jesus says “I am going away, and you will look for Me, and will die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come. You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world”, He is warning that when that day comes, when your physical body dies and you, at that point, look for Jesus to rescue you, it will be too late. You cannot come to Him nor with Him.

Jesus also explains the established order of “Higher and Lower”. It is not only God’s established order of authority, i.e., “as it is in heaven, so it shall be on the earth”. The things below the earth are temporal and bound for destruction, and the things from above are eternal. So, if you die in your sins (from the Greek word, ‘hamartia’, meaning “to miss the mark, and the ‘mark’ is being redeemed, saved by Jesus, and becoming a joint heir in the Kingdom of God) you miss all that God had planned for you, both now and eternally. “If you die in your sins” whether a Jew or a Gentile. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 25. Then they were saying to Him, “Who are You?” Jesus said to them, “What have I even been saying to you from the beginning?

(Commentary Break): It is as if Jesus is speaking to rebellious and truant children – and indeed He is. Ask yourself, “How would Jesus speak to me about this question?” (End Commentary Break – End Chapter 8, Part 2).

John chapter 8, verses 12 through 25 are among the most mysterious in the Bible. Jesus is speaking from a spiritual, heavenly perspective, words too deep for the natural mind to grasp. But it is now well known, even from a scientific perspective, that matter is never destroyed. It can change form, but it is eternal. Same with our bodies and minds. We die but we do not cease to exist. We simply change form from the natural man or woman, boy or girl, and continue in a spiritual state, and that spirit will either go to an eternal darkness or will live and abide in the Eternal Light and presence of God.

Jesus’ and His Words, in fact, lead to life. Follow Him.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: (coming soon), THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, Part 3, The Truth will Set You Free

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, Part 2, The Adulterous Woman.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, Part 1

The Adulterous Woman

This chapter reveals the most profound truths of Jesus’ Mission, His Purpose, His Identity as the “son of man” and The Son of God and of our destiny as believers, both now and for all eternity.

John 8:1, But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Verse 2. And early in the morning He came again into the temple area, and all the people were coming to Him; and He sat down and began teaching them. Verse 3. Now the scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman caught in the act of adultery, and after placing her in the center of the courtyard, verse 4, they said to Him, “Teacher, this woman has been caught in the very act of committing adultery. Verse 5. Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women; what then do You say?” Verse 6. Now they were saying this to test Him, so that they might have grounds for accusing Him. But Jesus stooped down and with His finger wrote on the ground.

(Commentary Break): There are at least four major takeaways from these verses. (1). Accusations of sin. (2). Sinners and sin. (3). The penalty of sin. (4). The deception of sin. This is always the pattern, is it not? We, or someone, sees or perceives sin, so they accuse, either through private judgment, gossip or a direct and public accusation. We brand others as sinful and deserving some kind of punishment, and in this case the scribes and the Pharisee’s edict or punishment for this sin is a physical death of the accused. Therein lies the deception, both in the life of the accused and of the accusers.

Oddly, however, at this point Jesus says nothing, but stoops down and writes on the ground with his finger. Perhaps He was just letting this scenario play out? No one can know what He was writing, but don’t get the idea that He was ‘doodling’ while He listened and pondered the matter. Jesus knew. He knew what the woman had done, how she felt, He knew her mindset, her remorse and her fears. He also knew the heart and the motive of the scribes and the Pharisees was to test and accuse Him and this woman was just a sinner worthy of collateral damage, as far as they were concerned. So, Jesus waited. (End Commentary Break)

Verse 7. 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.” Verse 8. And again He stooped down and wrote on the ground. Verse 9. Now when they heard this, they began leaving, one by one, beginning with the older ones, and He was left alone, and the woman where she was, in the center of the courtyard. Verse 10. And straightening up, Jesus said to her, “Woman, where are they? Did no one condemn you?” Verse 11. She said, “No one, Lord.” And Jesus said, “I do not condemn you, either. Go. From now on do not sin any longer.”

(Commentary Break): Now we see three more major takeaways in these verses. (1). Revelation. (2). Realization. (3). Redemption. Jesus stand straight up, faces the accusers and reveals what is hidden – no one, no not one, is without sin. All are guilty. The scribes and Pharisees realize they have been found out, so they leave, one by one, the older ones (perhaps signifying greater awareness) first. Then it is just Jesus and the sinner – the woman. And once again Jesus stands straight up, faces the woman, forgives her and sends her on her way reminding to sin no more. The Pharisees believed that only God can forgive, so this would have been a visual testimony to Jesus’ claim of Deity. (End Commentary Break).

These verses present us a pattern and an example for us to follow. When we hear an accusation of sin, like Jesus, it is wise to quietly and patiently consider the source of the accusation, the accuser, the sin, and the sinner, knowing that even now, the penalty of sin is death – even spiritual death. And where there is sin, deception abound. So, we are to stand up and face the accusations with patience and Godly wisdom, and allow God to reveal what is hidden, and realize that none of us are without sin, but there is forgiveness and redemption in Christ Jesus. This is our example.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: (coming soon), THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, Part 2, Jesus is the Light of the World, The Truth will Set You Free

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 7, Part 2, People Divided over Jesus.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 7, Part 2

People Divided over Jesus

One could say that Jesus, in this chapter and in these verses, is stating His case as the Son of God, the Messiah, the prophesied and the promised One. Some are believing, others are not believing.

And this is exactly what Jesus was talking about when He said, “For I came to turn a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a person’s enemies will be the members of his household”, and “do not think I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword”.

People then and people now decided who Jesus is by their opinions, religious law, tradition, and by physical and natural standards. But some will judge Who He is because God will draw them to Jesus. The end result will be life complete and eternal or eternal death and the horrors of an outer darkness.

John 7:25. So some of the people of Jerusalem were saying, “Is this man not the one whom they are seeking to kill? Verse 26. And yet 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? Verse 27. However, we know where this man is from; but when the Christ comes, no one knows where He is from.”

Verse 28. Then Jesus cried out in the temple, teaching and saying, “You both know Me and you know where I am from; and I have not come of Myself, but He who sent Me is true, whom you do not know. Verse 29. I do know Him, because I am from Him, and He sent Me.” Verse 30. So they were seeking to arrest Him; and yet no one laid a hand on Him, because His hour had not yet come. Verse 31. But many of the crowd believed in Him; and they were saying, “When the Christ comes, He will not perform more signs than those which this man has done, will He?”

(Commentary Break): The wording in the preceding verses, from the NASB, could be a little confusing to understand without context. So, I will re-phrase, hopefully for clarity: Verse 25, So some of the people of Jerusalem were saying, “Isn’t this the man the Jewish authorities are trying to kill? But look at Him. Verse 26. Still, He is teaching out in the open where everyone can hear Him, and no one is trying to stop Him from His teaching. Have the authorities have decided that He really might be the Messiah, and that is why they are leaving Him alone? Verse 27. And besides, when the ‘real Messiah’ comes, no one will know where He comes from – He will just appear – and we know where this man’s hometown is. Verse 28. And while Jesus was still teaching in the Temple, He shouted out and said, “So you say you know Me and where I am from? Yes, but you know very little about that. Listen. I am here but not on my own volition; I am sent by One who is very Real, but you don’t know Him! Verse 29. But, I know Him because He is the One (speaking of God the Father) Who sent Me.

Still, there were many in the crowd that believed Him, saying that if He must be the Messiah based on the signs and miracles He has done – and even if there was another Messiah, how could He do more than Jesus has done?

Now to you and to me: Do you ever find yourself doubting about Jesus? After all, they said He was coming back, and now it’s been over 2,o00 years and still He has not arrived, and the world is getting darker, more chaotic and more dangerous by the day. Is it even true that He is alive and coming back to get us? It was hard for the people in His day to believe, so how much harder for us today? But, try to understand and accept that we really do not walk just by sight, but by faith. And, Jesus has told us that if you cannot believe just by the Words He spoke, then believe Him because of the Works He has done! (John 14:11).

Henry Blackaby, in his book and study, ‘Experiencing God’ speaks of ‘spiritual markers’. A spiritual marker identifies a time of decision when you clearly know that God guided you. Can you remember the moment you became a child of God? There were specific times when He called you to His ways of living? Point to times when He clearly guided you in a decision? Those times when He spoke powerfully to you about a commitment you should make? Keep track of these important moments! Regularly rehearse them and notice the steady progression in the way God has led you. This will help you understand God’s activity in your life now, and give you a sense of direction as you face future decisions. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 32. The Pharisees heard the crowd whispering these things about Him, and the chief priests and the Pharisees sent officers to arrest Him. Verse 33. Therefore, Jesus said, “For a little while longer I am going to be with you, and then I am going to Him who sent Me. Verse 34. You will seek Me, and will not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come.” Verse 35. The Jews then said to one another, “Where does this man intend to go that we will not find Him? He does not intend to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks, and teach the Greeks, does He? Verse 36. What is this statement that He said, ‘You will seek Me, and will not find Me; and where I am, you cannot come’?”

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

(Commentary Break): Jesus will explain these things several times before His crucifixion and resurrection to emphasize that once they see Him ascend to the Father, they will know where He has gone and that can know that He will come back to get them, just as He has said He would. Then, Jesus gives instructions on how they can follow Him once the Spirit is given, and He is glorified, both now and then in the Resurrection! “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to Me and drink. The one who believes in Me, as the Scripture said, ‘From his innermost being will flow rivers of living water.’” (End Commentary Break).

People’s Division over Jesus

Verse 40. Some of the people therefore, after they heard these words, were saying, “This truly is the Prophet.” Verse 41. Others were saying, “This is the Christ.” But others were saying, “Surely the Christ is not coming from Galilee, is He? Verse 42. Has the Scripture not said that the Christ comes from the descendants of David, and from Bethlehem, the village where David was?” Verse 43. So a dissension occurred in the crowd because of Him. Verse 44. And some of them wanted to arrest Him, but no one laid hands on Him.

Verse 45. The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, and they said to them, “Why did you not bring Him?” Verse 46. The officers answered, “Never has a man spoken in this way!” Verse 47. The Pharisees then replied to them, “You have not been led astray too, have you? Verse 48. Not one of the rulers or Pharisees has believed in Him, has he? Verse 49. But this crowd that does not know the Law is accursed!” Verse 50. Nicodemus (the one who came to Him before, being one of them) *said to them, Verse 51. “Our Law does not judge the person unless it first hears from him and knows what he is doing, does it?” Verse 52. They answered and said to him, “You are not from Galilee as well, are you? Examine the Scriptures, and see that no prophet arises out of Galilee.” Verse 53. And everyone went to his home. (End Chapter 7).

This debate still rages today. Is Jesus the Messiah, the Savior of the world? Does He meet all the prophetic requirements of the Messiah? Is He really God or just a good man and a good teacher? Are our established religions and religious orders to be believed, or is what Jesus taught the truth? Is He really the only way to God the Father and into heaven and eternal life?

You have to decided. But be aware of this: It is not possible to believe if the Father has not first drawn you. Pray and ask so you may believe.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 8, The Adulteress Woman, Jesus is the Light of the World, The Truth will Set You Free

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 7, Part 1

Jesus Teaches at the Feast

I want to remind myself and you, the reader, that the New Testament of the Bible, generally speaking, and chiefly the Book of John and specifically these verses, are not just a religious documentary or a simple narrative of “The Life and Times of Jesus”, but they are (1) the fulfillment of Biblical prophecy, (2) useful for our teaching, reproof, correction and training in righteousness, and (3) are the very breath, “the breathed out Word” of a Living God. (This is the potential of what you are holding when you hold a Bible in your hands. Think about it.)

It is as if Jesus is simultaneously living two realities for us to see and witness – because He IS simultaneously living two realities for us to see and witness. First, He is the only One True Living God, the living Word of God – The Son of God, the Second part of the Trinity of God; He is the Son of Man. Secondly, He is the Son of man, God made flesh, living among us, Emmanuel, God with us. So, what we see with our natural eyes is the manifestation of “God the Son” appearing to us as has pierced through time, space and reality. He has come to us from His Kingdom, as the scripture say, “Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand”, which is the Spiritual realm of God; and He has come to us, walking among us in the natural world. Put another way, we are seeing the manifestation of God’s Will within His created natural world: “His Kingdom come, His Will be done, on earth as it is in heaven”.

With these things in mind, don’t just read these words, but “eat them and drink them”, for they are His Flesh and His Blood which give life!

Jesus Teaches at the Feast

John 7:1, After these things Jesus was walking in Galilee, for He was unwilling to walk in Judea because the Jews were seeking to kill Him. Verse 2. Now the feast of the Jews, the Feast of Booths, was near. Verse 3. So His brothers said to Him, “Move on from here and go into Judea, so that Your disciples also may see Your works which You are doing. Verse 4. For no one does anything in secret when he himself is striving to be known publicly. If You are doing these things, show Yourself to the world.” Verse 5. For not even His brothers believed in Him. Verse 6. So Jesus said to them, “My time is not yet here, but your time is always ready. Verse 7. The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify about it, that its deeds are evil. Verse 8. Go up to the feast yourselves; I am not going up to this feast, because My time has not yet fully arrived.” Verse 9. Now having said these things to them, He stayed in Galilee.

(Commentary Break): ‘Jesus was walking in Galilee’ is significant by both definition and the tense of this verb. It is saying “He was continually walking, on purpose and with a purpose”. This was not a casual or curiosity stroll. Jesus is on mission. He is executing the Will and Plan of His Father. This is a clear mandate to any and all of His followers, including you and me. Every minute of every day we should be aware that we too are on mission for God, going about with His purpose on and in our mind, doing His Will.

It is also significant that this event in scriptures is taking place during the Feast of the Booths, or Feast of Tabernacles, also known as Sukkot, is a Torah-commanded Jewish holiday celebrated for seven days, beginning on the fifteenth day of the month of Tishrei. It is one of the Three Pilgrimage Festivals on which Israelites were commanded to be at a certain place at an appointed time – in this case, a pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem. Biblically an autumn harvest festival and a commemoration of the Exodus from Egypt. We should realize that The Exodus, a freeing of the Jews from captivity, was a pattern, a foreshadowing of our being set free from our captivity to sin and death. THIS IS NOT A PHILOSPHY or a metaphor. It is a reality of what has already occurred in the Heavens and is now being manifest upon this earth. We are called, just like the Jews, at Sukkot, to be at a certain place at a certain time. More on this to follow.

Next, Jesus’ disciples begin to encourage Him to become more public so more people and especially His disciples would see His works and believe in Him. Jesus responds by contrasting His divine mission with the worldly perspective of His brothers. Their “time” refers to their freedom to act according to their own desires and schedules. This reflects our human tendency to operate independently of God’s timing and purpose. In a broader sense, it highlights the difference between human and divine perspectives on time and purpose. This is the lesson we should take from this.

Jesus’ remark that “My time has not yet come”, underscores Jesus’ awareness of His divine mission and the specific timing ordained by God. Throughout the Gospels, Jesus is conscious of the “hour” or “time” set by the Father for His actions, particularly His crucifixion and resurrection. This reflects the prophetic nature of His ministry, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah. It also emphasizes His obedience to the Father’s will, a key aspect of His role as the perfect servant and sacrifice. And, once again, this is the model for all of us, His disciples. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 10. But when His brothers had gone up to the feast, then He Himself also went up, not publicly, but as though in secret. Verse 11. So the Jews were looking for Him at the feast and saying, “Where is He?” Verse 12. And there was a great deal of talk about Him in secret among the crowds: some were saying, “He is a good man”; others were saying, “No, on the contrary, He is misleading the people.” Verse 13. However, no one was speaking openly about Him, for fear of the Jews.

Verse 14. But when it was now the middle of the feast, Jesus went up into the temple area, and began to teach.

(Commentary Break): The timing, “halfway through,” indicates that Jesus chose a moment when the city was bustling with activity and the religious atmosphere was heightened, allowing His message to reach a wide audience.

The temple courts were the outer areas of the Temple in Jerusalem, accessible to all people, including Gentiles. This setting was significant as it was a central place for teaching and discussion, where rabbis and teachers would often engage with the public. Jesus’ presence here underscores His role as a teacher and His willingness to engage with the religious leaders and the people in a public forum. The temple was the heart of Jewish religious life, making it a strategic location for Jesus to reveal His teachings. Dear friends, this is our pattern and model.

Jesus’ teaching in the temple courts highlights His authority and wisdom, which often astonished those who heard Him. Unlike the scribes and Pharisees, Jesus taught with direct authority, often challenging traditional interpretations and focusing on the heart of the Law. His teachings were rooted in the Hebrew Scriptures, fulfilling prophecies and revealing deeper truths about God’s kingdom. (the foregoing 2 paragraphs are taken from BibleHub.com bible study notes).

Verse 15. The Jews then were astonished, saying, “How has this man become learned, not having been educated?”  Verse 16. So Jesus answered them and said, “My teaching is not My own, but His who sent Me. Verse 17. If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know about the teaching, whether it is of God, or I am speaking from Myself. Verse 18. The one who speaks from himself seeks his own glory; but He who is seeking the glory of the One who sent Him, He is true, and there is no unrighteousness in Him.

(Commentary Break): Now, please pay careful attention. Jesus is not only fulfilling prophetic scriptures, He is teaching and training His disciples for when their time comes. Jesus says, “My teaching is not My own, but His who sent Me. If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know about the teaching, whether it is of God, or I am speaking from Myself.” I hear so many Christians ask or pray saying, “if it be your will”, as if His Will is always an unknown and unknowable thing. Yet Jesus says that “if anyone is willing to do His will, he will know…”

Jesus is teaching that which is Right, what is Good and Acceptable and Perfect, to Abstain from evil and lust, and to Give Thanks in all things!

First you must know the Will of God if you are to do His Will. And you don’t need to guess or wonder about His Will. You can know The Will of God from His Word. For example, the phrase “the will of God” is used a total of twenty-four times in the Bible (“The NASB version”).

The frequency of the use of a word or phrase in the Bible potentially tells us the importance or uniqueness of that word or idea communicated by that word or phrase. But, regardless of the frequency of this phrase, I would say that the “Will of God” is a pretty important idea.

So, use the Bible to decide what God says about GOD’S Will, and here are four instances of the twenty-five occurrences of the phrase “God’s Will” from the Bible, where the Bible clearly explains God’s Will:

1 Peter 2:15, “For such is the will of God, that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men.”

Romans 12:2, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect.”

1 Thessalonians 4:3, “For this is the will of God, your sanctification; that is, that you abstain from sexual immorality;”

1 Thessalonians 5:18, “in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Do you want to know about the teaching, whether it is of God? Then you must know and do the Will of God. Then you can see the power of God’s Word and His Spirit work for good in your life? Does using these four verses sound too simple? You can expand on these verses, but, just try these for a start.

DO RIGHT. (1 Peter 2:15),

RENEW YOUR MIND TO THAT WHICH IS GOOD AND ACCEPTABLE AND PERFECT. (Romans 12:2),

ABSTAIN FROM SEXUAL IMMORALITY. (1 Thessalonians 4:3),

IN EVERYTHING, GIVE THANKS. (1 Thessalonians 5:13).

Interesting, isn’t it? Knowing and doing God’s Will produces a life that is RIGHT, GOOD, ACCEPTABLE, PERFECT and produces THANKSGIVING. Isn’t that what you want for every circumstance in your life? Think about it. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 19. “Did Moses not give you the Law, and yet none of you carries out the Law? Why are you seeking to kill Me?” Verse 20. The crowd answered, “You have a demon! Who is seeking to kill You?” Verse 21. Jesus answered them, “I did one deed, and you all are astonished. Verse 22. For this reason Moses has given you circumcision (not that it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and even on a Sabbath you circumcise a man. Verse 23. If a man receives circumcision on a Sabbath so that the Law of Moses will not be broken, are you angry at Me because I made an entire man well on a Sabbath? Verse 24. Do not judge by the outward appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.”

(Commentary Break): Jesus points out that they seek to kill Him because the say He is deliberately breaking the Law of Moses. The crowd deflects and suggests that Jesus has a demon who is causing Him this strife.

Now Jesus points out their ignorance of the Law and of their hypocrisy. The Law of Moses made an exception in the Law for circumcision on the Sabbath, yet they hold Jesus as guilty of breaking the law if He would heal or make whole, the entire person on the Sabbath. He then tells them not to judge by outward appearances, i.e., by strict legalistic standards (by the letter of the Law), but look at the heart on the intentions of a person before you judge.

If there is one great failing in Christendom, this is the one. We are so quick to judge unfairly, but equally as quick to overcompensate and to overlook evil in the name of forgiveness.  If you have ever been judged unfairly, you have felt the sting of legalism and injustice. But, then you see someone else deliberately sin and find forgiveness just because of who they are or who they know, you have to stomach they hypocrisy. This is the fall of the Church.

Brothers and Sisters, let’s do all we can, by the grace and power of God to not judge and criticize and condemn others unfairly with an attitude of self-righteous superiority as though assuming the office of a judge, so that you will not be judged unfairly. For just as you hypocritically judge others when you are sinful and unrepentant, so will you be judged; and in accordance with your standard of measure used to pass out judgment, judgment will be measured to you. Think about it, why do you look at the insignificant speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice and acknowledge the similar egregious log that is in your own eye? Use godly wisdom, common sense, and moral courage together with God’s written word to discern right from wrong, to distinguish between morality and immorality, and to judge doctrinal truth. There are many judgments that are not only legitimate, but are commanded (John 7:24; 1 Corinthians 5:5, 12; Galatians 1:8, 9; 1;  John 4:1-3; 2 John 10; however, do not judge another without carefully examining their intentions and without examining your own heart and actions. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus’ teaching is both revolutionary and counter-cultural and the path to life more abundant. But not as the world sees abundance. This is an abundance of life that is worth living. A life of peace, love, joy, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. A prosperity of the heart, mind and soul. It is a life that begins in the spirit and is then manifest in the world, “As it is in heaven, so it shall be on earth”.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 7, Part 2, People Divided over Jesus.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 6, Part 2, Jesus Walks on Water, I Am The Bread of Life, The Words of Eternal Life.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 6, Part 2,

Jesus Walks on Water, I Am The Bread of Life, The Words of Eternal Life.

Please pay particular attention to the fact that Jesus has performed miracles in the presence of the Jews and His disciples and they react with astonishment and say, “This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world”, and were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Then, almost inexplicably, because these same people do not hear or get what they want, they turn away from Jesus. Please pay attention that this is not true in your life. There are those who follow Jesus around for what they can get that pleases them, and there are followers of Jesus. There is a difference and the outcomes are vastly different. One leads to life, the other will perish into the outer darkness.

Jesus Walks on Water.

John 6:16, When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, verse 17, got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. Verse 18. The sea became rough because a strong wind was blowing. Verse 19. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were frightened. Verse 20. But he said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Verse 21. Then they were glad to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.

(Commentary Break): Remember the details of this event. It was dark, stormy, and they were three or four miles from land and they see Jesus walking on water. He enters the boat and suddenly they were at the land. This is both unforgettable and undeniable by those disciples. Now the stage is set, so to speak, for what is to come. This is important for you and me to understand so we can apply it to our lives daily, so we do not fear, or fail to trust Jesus.

Faith may be a malleable thing. One day we say we believe, but with enough pressure we can begin to doubt. A helpful remedy is to remember God’s purpose and plan for all our lives is perfecting us to the image and likeness of Jesus and to prepare us for an eternity with one another as believers in His perfect presence. This process of being sanctified and ever present and never ending, until we are finally with Him.

 “For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified. Hebrews 10:14. (End Commentary Break).

I Am the Bread of Life.

Verse 22. On the next day the crowd that remained on the other side of the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone.

Verse 23. Other boats from Tiberias came near the place where they had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks. Verse 24. So when the crowd saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus.

Verse 25. When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?”

(Commentary Break): Please do not miss the point here, that the crowd confirms that Jesus has miraculously appeared on the other side of the lake without the evidence of travelling with the disciples.

But Jesus will seemingly ignore their question about His whereabouts and will turn their minds and attention to the point all of these events have been leading to. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 26. Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Verse 27. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. For on him God the Father has set his seal.”

(Commentary Break): Once again, this will reveal the true intent of those who claim to be following Jesus; “you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill”. So, let me ask, why are you following Jesus? Is it because you want to satisfy your own desires and physical needs, or is it to repent and to find forgiveness of your sins – to be set right with God? This is important for your eternal future.

Jesus instructs the Jews and His disciples to not work for the food that perishes but food that endures to eternal life (now talking about the things that satisfies the spirit and not the body), which only Jesus can provide. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 28. Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” Verse 29. Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He has sent.”

Verse 30. So they said to him, “Then what sign do you do, that we may see and believe you? What work do you perform? Verse 31. Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” Verse 32. Jesus then said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but my Father gives you the true bread from heaven. Verse 33. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” Verse 34. They said to him, “Sir, give us this bread always.”

(Commentary Break): Appearing to understand what Jesus is saying, they ask, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” But, Jesus stays on point, “This is the work of God: that you believe in Him (The Son of Man – Jesus) whom He (God the Father) has sent.” This would go against the teachings of the Pharisees and Sadducees. So the crowd of Jews ask for further proof. The crowd asks for again for a sign or a miracle so they can believe. Instead, Jesus quotes the Word of God and the crowd exclaims “Sir, give us this bread always.” (End Commentary Break).

Verse 35. Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst. Verse 36. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. Verse 37. All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. Verse 38. For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. Verse 39. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. Verse 40. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day.”

(Commentary Break): Now Jesus make clearer Who He is, “I am the bread of life that came down from heaven”, a direct reference to the manna that God miraculously to the Israelites during their wandering in the wilderness. Furthermore, Jesus say He has come down from heaven  to do the will of God, and lays claim to be the Son of God with the authority to raise people up on the last day, to eternal life.

Now, I am asking you to imagine standing before a man today who would making such a claim. How would that affect you and what would you think? This is exactly what you must do, although not seeing Him but hearing His words through this account. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 41. So the Jews grumbled about him, because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven.” Verse 42. They said, “Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? How does he now say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?” Verse 43. Jesus answered them, “Do not grumble among yourselves. Verse 44. No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. Verse 45. It is written in the Prophets, ‘And they will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me— verse 46, not that anyone has seen the Father except he who is from God; He has seen the Father. Verse 47. Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. Verse 48. I am the bread of life. Verse 49. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. Verse 50. This is the bread that comes down from heaven, so that one may eat of it and not die. Verse 51. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. And the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”

(Commentary Break): “So the Jews grumbled” (gogguzó). This is more than just dismissive grumbling. This is an onomatopoetic term that shows a smoldering discontent. Notice how these Jews went from calling Jesus the Christ and wanting to make Him their king, to utter disdain.

Jesus then ‘doubles down’ so-to-speak, and says that if anyone eats of this bread, they will live forever because this bread is His flesh. He then informs them that only those who are drawn by God can come to Him, so they are trapped in a manner of speaking. If they feel repelled by Jesus, then He is saying they God is rejecting them and they have no life with God. But if they are drawn to Him, they must live with the confusion, doubt and disgust they feel. It all is so unacceptably incongruous to them. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 52. The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” Verse 53. So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Verse 54. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. Verse 55. For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. Verse 56. Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. Verse 57. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. Verse 58. This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread the fathers ate, and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” Verse 59. Jesus said these things in the synagogue, as he taught at Capernaum.

(Commentary Break): Leviticus 17:11 says, “For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life.” But drinking blood was strictly forbidden in Jewish law (Leviticus 17:10-14), making this statement particularly shocking to the Jew. (It signifies the new covenant in Jesus’ blood, which is essential for eternal life. This anticipates the sacrificial death of Christ and the shedding of His blood for the forgiveness of sins.)

Additionally, we are told that Jesus is the Word of God. So, metaphorically speaking, eating His flesh is tantamount to getting your spiritual nourishment from The Word of God. (End Commentary Break).

The Words of Eternal Life.

Verse 60. When many of his disciples heard it, they said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” Verse 61. But Jesus, knowing in Himself that his disciples were grumbling about this, said to them, “Do you take offense at this? Verse 62. Then what if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? Verse 63. It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh is no help at all. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. Verse 64. But there are some of you who do not believe.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning who those were who did not believe, and who it was who would betray him.) Verse 65. And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.”

Verse 66. After this many of his disciples turned back and no longer walked with him. Verse 67. So Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you want to go away as well?” Verse 68. Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, verse 69, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” Verse 70. Jesus answered them, “Did I not choose you, the twelve? And yet one of you is a devil.” Verse 71. He spoke of Judas the son of Simon Iscariot, for he, one of the twelve, was going to betray him.

(Commentary Break): A man once told me, after hearing a teaching from the Bible, that it was that kind of absolutism that would turn people away from Jesus. But clearly, our own words do not have the power to draw or repel people from Jesus. It is the Father alone who has that power. These words alone were not what drove many away from Jesus. These Jews were simply never drawn to Him by God. They were just following Him around for what they could get for themselves, such as the miracles.

Finally, Jesus turns His attention to His twelve disciples and asks, “Do you want to go away as well?” And from this we know that at least Peter knew the truth and was a true follower of Jesus, but that Judas was only following Jesus around, but that he was not a follower of Jesus! (End Commentary Break – End of Chapter 6).

Many churches and church leaders today have made the sad mistake of teaching that it is you and your words or your behaviors and your lifestyle that will draw others to Jesus or will drive them away. For example, one church in Winter Springs, Florida advertises itself as The F.. (full name hidden) …y – A Better You, A Better World. They say, “We believe God is working in you to create a better you and through you to create a better world. Come join us in reclaiming God’s intended reality!”

Another well-known preacher emphasizes the positive attributes of men and women while minimizing the effects of sin and the reality of hell. He has written several wildly popular books, such as “Your Best Life Now”, “Be Your Best You, Now”, “Empty out the Negative” and “Speak the Blessing”. While all these titles might represent some good ideas, they have absolutely nothing to do with being a disciple of Jesus, follow Him, being saved by Him or serving God. They are all about YOU!

Dear friends, following Jesus and being a Christian is a wonderful but a deadly serious matter. You can ‘live your best life now’ but spend eternity in an outer darkness “where there is wailing and gnashing of teeth”, condemned to the deadly fires of hell. Or you can live your life for Jesus now, and live with Him in heaven for all of eternity. The choice is yours to make. But, please, don’t make “the careless choice” of rebelliousness and recklessness toward God and thereby teach the same to others through your attitudes and actions. For “whoever nullifies even the least of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (see Matthew 5:19-20).

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: (coming soon), THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 7, Jesus Teaches at the Feast, People Divided over Jesus.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 6, Part 1, Five Thousand Men Fed, Jesus Walks on Water.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 6, Part 1

Five Thousand Men Fed

These verses tell of 5,000 men, and Matthew 14:21 says they numbered about five thousand men, besides women and children. So they numbered well over 10,000 men, women and children. Please ask yourself ‘what is the importance of a narrative of Jesus feeding a crowd of people numbering in the thousands’? Would it be to increase your faith, or to create a curiosity? Is it to further aggrandize the Name and Person of Jesus? Let’s look deeper into the words of these verses and see if we can discover the nuance, the symbolism, the meaning, the teaching of a profound truth and the application for our lives – God’s Word.

Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand

John 6:1, After this Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. Verse 2. And a large crowd was following him, because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick.

(Commentary Break): Note that this chapter begins with the words, “After this”. We need to remember that Jesus has just healed a man at the pool of Bethsaida and a crowd of Jews were accusing Jesus of unlawfully healing a man on the Sabbath. Therefore they were seeking to were seeking to kill him, because not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but they said that he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus finished testifying to His authority as the Son of God and His mission. And still a large crowd follows Him because of the miracles He has performed with the sick. If there is anything to gather here it would be that even those who are healed from physically illnesses will die one day. We should seek Jesus, not just for our physical needs, but for the healing that leads to eternal life.

Finally, one might assume Jesus that was escaping to the other side of the Sea of Galilee to find respite. But, Jesus is aware that His time is short and there is much to be done. Please read on. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 3. Jesus went up on the mountain, and there he sat down with his disciples. Verse 4. Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand.

(Commentary Break): It is beyond simply interesting that whenever you read that Jesus “goes upon the mountain”, [and please notice that it is called “THE mountain, and not “A mountain” – an unnamed mountain, which is indicative of symbolism], that He is going there to pray, to draw near to His Father, and a teaching, is about to follow, usually accompanied by or followed by miracles: For examples, see Matthew 5;1, Matthew 14:23, Matthew 15:29, Mark 3:13, Mark 6:46,  Luke 9:28, John 6:3.

It is significant that the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. The Hebrew word for “feasts” (moadim) literally means “appointed times.” God has carefully planned and orchestrated the timing and sequence of each of these seven feasts to reveal to us a special story. The seven annual feasts of Israel were spread over seven months of the Jewish calendar, at set times appointed by God. They are still celebrated by observant Jews today. But for both Jews and non-Jews who have placed their faith in Jesus, the Jewish Messiah, these special days demonstrate the work of redemption through God’s Son. 

The Passover was an annual Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt, and it holds significant meaning within biblical history. The Passover Jesus portrays redemption through the sacrifice of the “Lamb of God.” When John the Baptist saw Jesus, he declared: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29). This label directly connected Jesus to the Passover lamb-offered at the first sign of national deliverance for Israel. The New Testament writers consistently link Jesus’ atoning work with that of the sacrificial lamb demanded by God’s justice.

The Passover (Leviticus 23:5), pointed to the Messiah as our Passover lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7) whose blood would be shed for our sins. Jesus was crucified during the time that the Passover was observed (Mark 14:12). Christ is a “lamb without blemish or defect” (1 Peter 1:19) because His life was completely free from sin (Hebrews 4:15). As the first Passover marked the Hebrews’ release from Egyptian slavery, so the death of Christ marks our release from the slavery of sin (Romans 8:2). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 5. Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a large crowd was coming toward him, Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?” Verse 6. He said this to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. Verse 7. Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii (the equivalent of a day’s wages for a laborer) worth of bread would not be enough for each of them to get a little.” Verse 8. One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, Verse 9. “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” Verse 10. Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, about five thousand in number. Verse 11. Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated. So also the fish, as much as they wanted.

(Commentary Break): Then, as suspected, a large crowd came toward Jesus. And right on cue, Phillip, again as Jesus suspected, was seeing through a human perspective, worries, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?”

Please consider here, that we are seeing a microcosm of how God orchestrates our lives. Phillip, in this case, represents everyman and everywoman. Phillip is worrying about the cares of life and calculating his own solutions for this ‘God sized problem’. And although God is standing right at his side, Phillip neglects to turn to Him for answers – and Jesus was aware that he would do this.

Then Andrew joins the chorus and offers his idea: “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?”

Then Jesus steps in and instructs the people to sit down. [This is symbolically significant]. Then Jesus takes the loaves, gives thanks, and distributes them to those who were seated, and they ate as much as they wanted, until they were filled.

(Please notice that He distributes them to those who were seated! This is significant if one assumes that others did not sit down, perhaps not committed to stay and listen. But those who sat down, were there to hear and see Jesus.)

Please also consider the magnitude of this situation. The setting is in a rural mountain region, in a open field, and were likely over 10,000 in attendance, considering around 5,000 men and women with children (see Matthew 14:21). And yes, the miracle is beyond astounding. But the miracle is not the main point.

The main point is the contrast between the lack of faith – not the smallness of their faith, but the absence of the disciples faith – and the willingness of God to provide.

Please hear me. This is not an isolated incident. This is not just a ‘teaching moment’ or an exception to God’s nature to provide. This is the very nature of God for those who will follow Him and obey His voice!

When we find ourselves in the remoteness of life, finding ourselves stranded on a faraway hillside with no or only meek provisions, even when we are following God, we must not worry or doubt. God always provides – always. We must find a means to deny our flesh, our own intellect and cunning and turn to God. “Ask and He will answer. Seek and you will find. Knock and the door will be opened to you.  For how much more will your Father Who is in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him?” (see Matthew 7:7-11). (End Commentary Break).

Verse 12. And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost.” Verse 13. So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten.

(Commentary Break): “They had eaten their fill.” Their bellies were filled, so they were satisfied. (At least one half of the equation is satisfied).

Now, please consider each word here and see the symbolism and the main points of this narrative and Jesus’ prophetic intent:

Now Jesus instructed the disciples to “Gather up the leftover fragments, that nothing may be lost (“For the Son of Man came to seek and save the lost.”) So they gathered them up and filled twelve (the 12 Tribes of Israel – completed), baskets with fragments (the scattered ones) from the five barley loaves (Barley loaves hold significant symbolic and practical importance in the biblical narrative, representing sustenance, provision, and divine intervention. Barley, a grain more affordable and accessible than wheat, was a staple food in ancient Israel and often associated with the common people and the poor. Its mention in the Bible underscores themes of humility, provision, and God’s care for His people.) left by those who had eaten.”

This prophetic word is still true for us. We are to gather up the leftover fragments of our family, friends, acquaintances and those nearby by who are in danger of being tossed aside, left behind and lost, for the Son of Man has come to seek and save those who are lost. We are to bring them the Good News of God’s sustenance, provision, and divine intervention to the spiritually humble and poor. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 14. When the people saw the sign that he had done, they said, “This is indeed the Prophet who is to come into the world!”

Verse 15. Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the mountain by himself.

The people still do not understand the spiritual significance of the miracle of the loaves and the fish as being a prophetic reminder of what was, what is and what is to come: The Savior of the World, a suffering servant and the Lamb of God.

Now, how about us? Are we seeing God for what He can do for us in this world, considering the saving of our soul and eternal life just as an added benefit? Beware if this might be the hidden case. Jesus has warned that you cannot serve God and mammon; for you will love one and despise the other.

Trust, follow and worship God for Who He is and give Him thanks for what He has done.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 6, Part 2, Jesus Walks on Water, I Am The Bread of Life, The Words of Eternal Life.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 5 Part 2, Two Resurrections – The Testimony of John the Baptist, The Testimony of Works, The Testimony of The Father, The Testimony of The Scriptures

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 5, Part 2

Two Resurrections – The Testimony of John the Baptist, The Testimony of Works, The Testimony of The Father, The Testimony of The Scriptures

Jesus has established His relationship with the Father and established the role and relationship of His disciples. Now He completes His proclamation as the Son of God and tells us of our eternal future. Just as the greatest commandments of the Bible, according to Jesus, are “to love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself”, I for one, would consider this chapter of John to be the greatest explanation of our future and the greatest proclamation about Christ, by Jesus, Himself.

Two Resurrections

John 5:25. Truly, truly, I say to you, a time is coming and even now has arrived, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. Verse 26. For just as the Father has life in Himself, so He gave to the Son also to have life in Himself; verse 27, and He gave Him authority to execute judgment, because He is the Son of Man. Verse 28. Do not be amazed at this; for a time is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear His voice, verse 29, and will come out: those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the bad deeds to a resurrection of judgment.

(Commentary Break): Jesus, in these verses, first, clearly spells out what happens after you die and how that happens; and, secondly, Jesus explains that He is the reason, the Life, and Judge. By the phrase, “Truly, truly, I say to you, a time is coming and even now has arrived”, Jesus is point to Himself and clearly saying the dead will hear His voice and will live! And at a future time He will be the Judge and those who committed bad deeds will experience the Wrath of the Lamb and the full fury of His judgment. What does this mean to you? (#1), Call on Jesus, follow Him in obedient surrender and live; Call on Jesus, now, and escape the coming judgment.

The Pharisees believed in a resurrection, and with Jesus claiming to be the raison d’être would certainly have put them into a rage, not unlike the atheists and deniers of our day. The Sadducees did not believer in a resurrection, so they had twice the reasons to hate Him. In both cases, they were condemning themselves to the judgment of the wicked. What does this have to do with you? Listen. There are modern-day Pharisees and Sadducees leading churches today, spreading lies and countering the Words of Christ. Jesus said they would come and they are here. Do not listen to them. Do not believe them. Run from them. There are others, in our church pulpits, ignoring these truths, and in effect negating their importance to you. They are liars by their silence!

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Some Christians will say that they don’t see the necessity to tell others about Jesus because, even according to these verses, some will hear His voice and live and others will not hear Him and will be condemned. So what difference can we make. God, through His Word, has included us, as Christians, in His redemptive plan. Romans 10:14 asks, “How then are they to call on Him in whom they have not believed? How are they to believe in Him whom they have not heard?” So we, like John the Baptist, are a messenger, a voice calling out, catching their attention to hear His Voice. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 30. “I can do nothing on My own. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of Him who sent Me.

(Commentary Break): Jesus, through these amazing words, tells us about His relationship with The Father and thereby helps us understand our relationship with Him. We can do nothing on our own. As we hear Jesus, we judge; and our judgment will be righteous, because we do not seek our own will but the will of Jesus who sends us!” We do not claim to heal others. It is Jesus. We do not claim to save. It is Jesus. We do not have special revelations or new prophecies. It is Jesus. There is nothing new, only what has already been written in and by His Word. We take no credit and no glory. All credit and glory belongs to Jesus. Those who will claim all these things, even in His Name, are the false teachers, the false prophets, and liars Jesus warns about. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 31. “If I alone testify about Myself, My testimony is not true. Verse 32. There is another who testifies about Me, and I know that the testimony which He gives about Me is true.

(Commentary Break): Once again, Jesus points to the Father. Although He and the Father are One, Jesus is pointing out the order of “higher authority”. We would do well to remember that even Jesus submits to the Father, even though He and the Father are One. (End Commentary Break).

Testimony of John the Baptist

Verse 33. You have sent messengers to John, and he has testified to the truth. Verse 34. But the testimony I receive is not from man, but I say these things so that you may be saved. Verse 35. He was the lamp that was burning and shining, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.

Testimony of Works

Verse 36. But the testimony I have is greater than the testimony of John; for the works which the Father has given Me to accomplish—the very works that I do—testify about Me, that the Father has sent Me.

Testimony of the Father

Verse 37. And the Father who sent Me, He has testified about Me. You have neither heard His voice at any time, nor seen His form. Verse 38. Also you do not have His word remaining in you, because you do not believe Him whom He sent.

Testimony of the Scripture

Verse 39. You examine the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is those very Scriptures that testify about Me; verse 40, and yet you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life. Verse 41. I do not receive glory from people; verse 42. But I know you, that you do not have the love of God in yourselves. Verse 43. I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, you will receive him. Verse 44. How can you believe, when you accept glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the One and only God? Verse 45. Do not think that I will accuse you before the Father; the one who accuses you is Moses, in whom you have put your hope. Verse 46. For if you believed Moses, you would believe Me; for he wrote about Me. Verse 47. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe My words?”

(Commentary Break): These final verses are directed at the Pharisees, but they could be directed at so many today. The false teachers, false prophets and wolves in sheep’s clothing that reside in our churches today. Jesus is matter-of-factly stating their doom. Do not play around with the fire of this judgment. The Wrath of the Lamb is coming soon enough. (End Commentary Break).

Jesus, in these chapters, has put the world on notice. His message is that He is sent by the Father. He has come to save, not to judge. In Him is Life. Those who do not believe are already judged, will die and will perish. He has come to do the will of the Father and as such, all things are subject to Him. The greatest announcement the world has ever heard, You are to “repent, for the Kingdom of God is now at hand” and that “God so loves the world that He has sent His only Son, and those who believe in Him will not perish but will have everlasting life”.

Dear friends, brothers and sisters, please know that this cannot be taken lightly. We are called, and we are sent in His Cause. Preachers and pastors also. The burden is on you as well, if not even more so. You are the tip of this spear. Get out from behind the pulpit, out of your committee meetings and conferences, and go. Go and make disciples, teaching them all that God has commanded you, The time is short and Jesus is waiting.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 6, Part 1, Five Thousand Men Fed, Jesus Walks on Water.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 5 Part 1, The Healing at Bethesda – Jesus’ Equality With God .

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 5, Part 1

The Healing at Bethesda – Jesus’ Equality With God

The words and the events of this chapter are so astounding, so revealing, and so important for the believer and to the watching world, that I will break this chapter into 2 parts so we do not hurry through and fail to absorb this enriched spiritual bread for the nourishment of our souls.

This testifies to the power, the presence the nature and the purpose of the One and Only Living God, Immanuel. Please read slowly and carefully, believe and receive.

The Healing at Bethesda

John 5:1, After these things there was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem.

(Commentary Break): After the conclusion of the great events of the Feast of Trumpets, the commemoration of the Creation and the Law giving in chapter four, Jesus went to Jerusalem. Now, the coming events will c0rrespond with that theme. Furthermore, the fact that this particular miracle on the sabbath would be referred to a few months later in Jerusalem, on Christ’s third appearance there, is no coincidence. Bear in mind that Judaean emissaries in Galilee had been bitterly assailing Jesus, on the ground of his persistent determination to heal sickness and hopeless maladies on the sabbath day. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 2. Now in Jerusalem, by the Sheep Gate, there is a pool which in Hebrew is called Bethesda, having five porticoes.

(Commentary Break): The Encyclopedia from BibleHub.com, tells us that “The symbolism of the Sheep Gate takes on a deep meaning with the advent of Jesus Christ, the “Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). The Sheep Gate can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ’s sacrificial death. Just as sheep entered through this gate for sacrifice, Jesus entered Jerusalem, ultimately to be sacrificed for the sins of humanity. This connection highlights the fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system in the person and work of Christ.”

“Furthermore, in John 10:7, Jesus refers to Himself as the “gate for the sheep”: “So He said to them again, ‘Truly, truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep.'” Here, Jesus identifies Himself as the entry point to salvation, emphasizing that through Him alone can one enter into a relationship with God. This metaphorical use of the gate imagery reinforces the idea that Jesus is the ultimate means of access to spiritual safety and eternal life.”

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“In a broader theological context, the Sheep Gate also symbolizes the believer’s journey. Just as sheep entered through the gate to be consecrated for sacrifice, believers are called to enter through Christ, the gate, to offer themselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God (Romans 12:1). This act of spiritual worship is a response to the grace and mercy received through Christ’s sacrifice.”
“The Sheep Gate, therefore, is rich in symbolism, pointing to the central themes of sacrifice, atonement, and access to God. It serves as a reminder of the continuity and fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ, the ultimate Lamb and the true gate for the sheep.”

Please put yourself into this event. You are one of the sheep, waiting for your Shepherd at the gate. Good News for you is now at hand! (End Commentary Break).

Verse 3. In these porticoes lay a multitude of those who were sick, blind, limping, or paralyzed. Verse 5. Now a man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. Verse 6. Jesus, upon seeing this man lying there and knowing that he had already been in that condition for a long time, said to him, “Do you want to get well?” Verse 7. The sick man answered Him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” Verse 8. Jesus said to him, “Get up, pick up your pallet and walk.” Verse 9. Immediately the man became well, and picked up his pallet and began to walk.

(Commentary Break): Once again, please continue to see yourself as the man who had been ill for 38 years. Or at the very least, put yourself there as a first hand witness to what is happening. Imagine, as far as you can see is the horrendous sight of a multitude of sick, blind, limping and paralyzed people. Jesus focuses in on this one man out of a multitude who was lying there.

How did this man care for himself? How did he manage to get there? One can only guess his appearance was pitiful or appalling. His odor was probably repelling. Why did Jesus choose this one?

Jesus, then comes straight to the point, as He always does, and asks the man, “Do you want to get well?”

Take note of the man’s excuse in place of an answer, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I am coming, another steps down before me.” Some might say that his answer is as pathetic is his condition. You or I might ask, “Why didn’t he just say ‘yes’?!

But, after 38 years of lying in his sickness and filth, helpless and hopeless, who can blame him for his hopeless reply? What would you have done after 38 years of unrequited prayers and efforts?

Matthew 5:3 says, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Being made “poor in spirit” literally translates to be crushed in your spirit; to be pinched by toil, hopelessness and extreme poverty; A beggar with no hope of rescue on the verge of death and perishing, helpless and powerless to accomplish an end; destitute of wealth, influence and honor; destitute of Christian virtue; destitute of the wealth of learning and intellectual culture which the schools afford.

It should cause one to wonder, how could they possibly be considered “Blessed” if they are made “poor in spirit”.

It is, however, because people of this class are the ones most ready to give themselves up to Christ’s teaching and proved themselves fitted to lay hold of the heavenly treasure. 

It is when life deals you crushing blows, which seem to be your end with no way of escape, that this marvelous work of salvation, redemption and sanctification can begin; and not before. 

We hear it said “you must come to the end of yourself to enter the Kingdom of God” which is true enough, but none of us have the will power to bring ourselves to such a desperate state.  It is God, alone, who will allow or bring crushing circumstances to bear on our lives which will cause us to turn to God for help.  And only God can save us from such desperate circumstances, redeem us to a state of wholeness, health and safety which is His Sanctification (holiness) of our lives.

Then, when all is said and done,  Jesus tells him, “Get up, pick up your pallet and walk.” And, IMMEDIATLEY the man became well, and picked up his pallet and began to walk.

This is for you and for me today! (End Commentary Break).

Now it was a Sabbath on that day. Verse 10. So the Jews were saying to the man who was cured, “It is a Sabbath, and it is not permissible for you to carry your pallet.” Verse 11. But he answered them, “He who made me well was the one who said to me, ‘Pick up your pallet and walk.’” Verse 12. They asked him, “Who is the man who said to you, ‘Pick it up and walk’?” Verse 13. But the man who was healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had slipped away while there was a crowd in that place. Verse 14. Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “Behold, you have become well; do not sin anymore, so that nothing worse happens to you.” Verse 15. The man went away, and informed the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. Verse 16. For this reason the Jews were persecuting Jesus, because He was doing these things on a Sabbath. Verse 17. But He answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.”

(Commentary Break): Most of these verse simply and powerfully speak for themselves. But I would like to focus our attention of verses 14 through 17. Verse 14: Please pay close attention to Jesus’ instruction “Behold, you have become well; do not sin anymore, so that nothing worse happens to you.” The word ‘sin’ or from the Greek language, ‘harmartano’, translates literally as “to miss the mark of God’s intentions, plans and purpose for you and to miss out on what He has planned for you; to lose your share in the prize and a joint heir of Jesus”. Being saved by Jesus means you are being made well, made safe, made whole, given a life of purpose and this manifests from the Spiritual into the natural or physical world – i.e., it is manifested in your life. What worse could have happened to this man that being lame and disable for 38 years? It would be to lose one’s soul to hell. One cannot imagine.

Verse 17: But He answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I Myself am working.” Jesus is saying God is always at work, and His care and provision for us are constant and unlimited. We are to recognize that His sovereignty and power to act is outside of human limitations and constraints.

The Sabbath is the symbolism of the rest we find in Christ. We are to find our true rest in Jesus and not in religious legalistic observances.

Jesus is saying, in essence, that God desires mercy instead of sacrifice.

He is inviting us to join Him in what He is already doing, not in creating solutions in our own imagination.

The main lesson for us here is to always and simply say “Yes” to Jesus! (End Commentary Break).

Jesus’ Equality with God

Verse 18. For this reason therefore the Jews were seeking all the more to kill Him, because He not only was breaking the Sabbath, but also was calling God His own Father, making Himself equal with God.

(Commentary Break): Verse eighteen clearly and concisely describes the heart of the Religious Jewish mindset which is rigid, legalistic and deadly. On the one hand it might be admirable that the Jews are so profoundly committed to their belief system if it were not, on the other hand, so unforgiving and fatal.

(I have personally experienced the wrath of legalism when it comes to the various doctrines of eschatology, the matters of the rapture and the tribulation. Although eschatological matters have little effect on one’s salvation, I have seen hate-filled schisms in the Body of Christ over these matters and the selfishness of the ego.)

Nonetheless, the final conflict for the hearts, souls and minds of people is under way and Jesus is showing us the way to safety. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 19. Therefore Jesus answered and was saying to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in the same way. Verse 20. For the Father loves the Son and shows Him all things that He Himself is doing; and the Father will show Him greater works than these, so that you will be amazed. Verse 21. For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so the Son also gives life to whom He wishes. Verse 22. For not even the Father judges anyone, but He has given all judgment to the Son, verse 23, so that all will honor the Son just as they honor the Father. The one who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent Him. Verse 24. “Truly, truly, I say to you, the one who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.

(Commentary Break): Jesus, in these verses, forcefully and powerfully declares His unity with God the Father as His Son. A unity that makes them indistinguishable except by Jesus’ own words. It is incumbent on every Christ follower to understand the profundity and the gravity of these words, to accept them as truth and to embrace them as the only way through death, unto life eternal and the Father. These are the Hallmarks of a true believer, a true Christian. (End Commentary Break).

(End Part 1, Chapter 5).

The word ‘disciple’ from the Greek, ‘mathētḗs’ (math = the “mental effort needed to think something through”) + a learner; a disciple, a follower of Christ who learns the doctrines of Scripture and the lifestyle they require; someone catechized with proper instruction from the Bible with its necessary follow-through of life-applications.

The term ‘disciple’ is a central concept in the New Testament, reflecting the relationship between Jesus and His followers. It signifies more than just a student; it implies a committed follower who seeks to emulate the teacher’s life and teachings. In the Gospels, the twelve disciples are often referred to as His disciples, highlighting their role as Jesus’ closest followers who were chosen to learn directly from Him and to carry on His mission.

The role of a disciple involves both learning and living out the teachings of the master. In Matthew 28:19, Jesus commands His disciples to “go and make disciples of all nations,” indicating that the process of discipleship involves both teaching and baptizing new believers into the faith. This underscores the transformative aspect of being a disciple as it requires a change in both understanding and lifestyle.

Therefore, we can safely and accurately say that this chapter of John is part of the bedrock of our faith as disciples of Christ, just as Matthew chapters four through ten are the detailed instructions for every disciple of Jesus.

Jesus, in part 2 of Chapter 5, completes His proclamation as the Son of God and tells us of our eternal future. Just as the greatest commandments of the Bible, according to Jesus, are “to love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself”, I for one, would consider this chapter of John to be the greatest explanation of our future and the greatest proclamation about Christ, by Jesus, Himself.

Let’s study it; Meditate on it; Believe it; Do it.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 5, Part 2. Two Resurrections – The Testimony of John The Baptist, of Works, of The Father, of Scripture.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 4, Jesus goes to Galilee, The Woman of Samaria, Samaritans, Healing of an official’s son.

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THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 4

Jesus goes to Galilee, The Woman of Samaria, Samaritans, Healing of an official’s son.

A gentle reminder, or two: I encourage you to please, do not read these verses with a contemporary eye. In other words, it is very important to understand that these events were spoken and written in the culture of that day. So, it is not completely helpful to attempt to understand them through a contemporary lens. Secondly, as I have said before, my commentaries are not meant to be comprehensive in language nuances, politics, social customs or mores, religious traditions, habits and rituals, and so forth, although I may touch on them from time to time. My commentary breaks are for our application. Please ask yourself, when there is so much God could have recorded in His Word, why He would emphasize what seems to be incidental events? Is it for our casual reading or for our temporary interests? It is because we are to learn from them so we can fix our mind on the Ways and Methods of God and to do them – inculcate them into our mind, heart and soul. It is part of the process preparing us for the sanctifying work God is doing in our lives. Do the Works He has prepared for us, ahead of time, to walk in, and as preparation for an eternity with Him.

Now, I encourage you to gird up the loins of your mind for action!

Jesus Goes to Galilee

John 4:1, So then, when the Lord knew that the Pharisees had heard that He was making and baptizing more disciples than John, verse 2, (although Jesus Himself was not baptizing; rather, His disciples were), verse 3, He left Judea and went away again to Galilee. Verse 4. And He had to pass through Samaria. Verse 5. So He came to a city of Samaria called Sychar, near the parcel of land that Jacob gave to his son Joseph; verse 6, and Jacob’s well was there. So Jesus, tired from His journey, was just sitting by the well. It was about the sixth hour.

(Commentary Break): Jesus is headed back to Galilee, which by the way can be translated as ‘circle of Gentiles’, which is no coincidence, but a harbinger of things to come, and has been referred to at times as Jesus’ hometown.

It is also no coincidence that He would pass through Samaria and to Jacob’s well. Jesus will be speaking their language and not just linguistics or in the words of their known language. He will begin the conversation speaking to this woman in the context of her culture, history, belief systems and of her religious attitudes. This exactly how He speaks to us. Learn from this. The stage is set. (Commentary Break).

The Woman of Samaria

Verse 7. A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” Verse 8. For His disciples had gone away to the city to buy food. Verse 9. So the Samaritan woman said to Him, “How is it that You, though You are a Jew, are asking me for a drink, though I am a Samaritan woman?” (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.) Verse 10. Jesus replied to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who is saying to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.”

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(Commentary Break): Again, notice that Jesus begins the conversation speaking to this woman in the context of her culture, history, belief systems and of her religious attitudes.

The woman replies to let Jesus know that she is aware of the rules of her society and religious beliefs. But, once she responds in the context of the cultural norms, she is hooked like a fish and her mind is now prepped to hear. And it is at this point that Jesus turns the dialog from the ‘natural’ to the ‘spiritual’. “

First, Jesus dispels here supposed knowledge, saying, “If you knew”, because she does not know. And we do not know as Jesus knows. Then Jesus utters these four prophetic words of God’s Plan, Purpose, Method and Way: “The Gift of God”. One could shorten John 3:16-18 to these four words, and John 1:1 into the 6 words, “He would have given you living water”. Jesus has presented the Gospel Message to a ready, willing and listening world, in just 10 words! (End Commentary Break).

Verse 11. She said to Him, “Sir, You have no bucket and the well is deep; where then do You get this living water? Verse 12. You are not greater than our father Jacob, are You, who gave us the well and drank of it himself, and his sons and his cattle?” Verse 13. Jesus answered and said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again; verse 14, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him shall never be thirsty; but the water that I will give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up to eternal life.”

(Commentary Break): The woman weakly deflects Jesus’ remarks to her saying something about a ‘deep well’, but return quickly to the matter of living water! Then her challenge to Jesus is, in actuality, a plea for clarification. It as if she wants to believe. And Jesus does not leave her wondering. Dispatching of former beliefs in her legacy, Jesus returns her to “water springing up to eternal life.” Please remember, this woman represents EVERY MAN, WOMAN BOY AND GIRL and how Jesus is calling to them. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 15. The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water so that I will not be thirsty, nor come all the way here to draw water.”

(Commentary Break): Now, like so many of us today, she still mixes her newfound salvation with the ways of the world. She is asking for what she can get to make her life easier, neglecting the fact that Jesus is offering a way to permanently quench all the thirsts of her life, not just in a physical sense, but in a spiritual and eternal sense.

There a major denominations and movements that offer these same things. It is called “syncretism”. It is like ‘having your cake and eating it too’. They make offers of both fame, success, power and riches in this natural world and eternal life with God. But Jesus is clear. You cannot serve two masters – the natural world (mammon) and God – you will come to hate one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.

Please dear friend, do not fall for the foolishness of this world. If you or I find wealth or success, remember if you can, it is from God and you may enjoy the fruits of wealth, but it is to be used in service to Him. Wealth is fleeting. Learn to live without it, first; then perhaps you can learn to live with it. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 16. He said to her, “Go, call your husband and come here.” Verse 17. The woman answered and said to Him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You have correctly said, ‘I have no husband’; verse 18, for you have had five husbands, and the one whom you now have is not your husband; this which you have said is true.” Verse 19. The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. Verse 20. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and yet you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one must worship.”

(Commentary Break): Now Jesus pulls the covers back, so to speak. He reveals what is hidden, as He always does. And please remember the same is true in your life and in my life. There is nothing hidden that will not be revealed by the Lord. You can choose to deny it or accept it and repent. This woman admits the truth, in part, then continues to deflect, challenging Jesus about where one must worship.

Please dear friend. Look to see yourselves here. We confess our sins but continue to argue with God about how or where we must worship Him? Such foolishness! True repentance requires true surrender. We must crucify our flesh in order to hear and to follow Jesus. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 21. Jesus said to her, “Believe Me, woman, that a time is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. Verse 22. You Samaritans worship what you do not know; we worship what we do know, because salvation is from the Jews. Verse 23. But a time is coming, and even now has arrived, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. Verse 24. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”

(Commentary Break): Now Jesus reveals the truth and she is almost ready to hear. It would be wise for us to memorize this method and these words of Jesus as we encounter our ‘woman (or man) at the well’.  (End Commentary Break).

Verse 25. The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming (He who is called Christ); when that One comes, He will declare all things to us.” Verse 26. Jesus said to her, “I am He, the One speaking to you.”

(Commentary Break): She has heard from the Living Water, the Christ, the Messiah and now she recalls. And Jesus drives the ‘final nail home’. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 27. And at this point His disciples came, and they were amazed that He had been speaking with a woman, yet no one said, “What are You seeking?” or, “Why are You speaking with her?”

(Commentary Break): I could say too much, here, about how we followers of Christ Jesus, will still challenge His Methods and Ways when they do not fit our idea of righteousness. In this case, the disciples question goes unanswered. They are left to figure this out own their own or at another time. (End Commentary Break).

Verse 28. So the woman left her waterpot and went into the city, and *said to the people, verse 29, “Come, see a man who told me all the things that I have done; this is not the Christ, is He?” Verse 30. They left the city and were coming to Him.

(Commentary Break): Has this woman at the well now become a disciple, witnessing to others about the Christ? And, how about you? (End Commentary Break).

Verse 31. Meanwhile the disciples were urging Him, saying, “Rabbi, eat something.” Verse 32. But He said to them, “I have food to eat that you do not know about.” Verse 33. So the disciples were saying to one another, “No one brought Him anything to eat, did he?” Verse 34. Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of Him who sent Me, and to accomplish His work. Verse 35. Do you not say, ‘There are still four months, and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I tell you, raise your eyes and observe the fields, that they are white for harvest. Verse 36. Already the one who reaps is receiving wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that the one who sows and the one who reaps may rejoice together. Verse 37. For in this case the saying is true: ‘One sows and another reaps.’ Verse 38. I sent you to reap that for which you have not labored; others have labored, and you have come into their labor.”

(Commentary Break): Having opened this woman’s eyes, Jesus now teaches His disciples deeper truths contrasting ‘earthly matters’ such as sowing, reaping, food, hunger, sowing, reaping and harvesting. This is meant for ALL of Jesus’ disciples for all the ages. This is for me and for you: “Your food is to do the will of Him who sent Jesus, and to accomplish His work. Do you not say, ‘There are still four months, and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I tell you, raise your eyes and observe the fields, that they are white for harvest. Already the one who reaps is receiving spiritual wages and is gathering fruit for eternal life, so that the one of us who sows and the one of us who reaps NOW, in this day and time, may rejoice together. Jesus sent you and me to reap that for which we have not labored; others have labored, and you and I have come into their labor.” THUS SAYS THE LORD TO US! (End Commentary Break).

The Samaritans

Verse 39. Now from that city many of the Samaritans believed in Him because of the word of the woman who testified, “He told me all the things that I have done.” Verse 40. So when the Samaritans came to Jesus, they were asking Him to stay with them; and He stayed there two days. Verse 41. Many more believed because of His word; verse 42, and they were saying to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves and know that this One truly is the Savior of the world.”

(Commentary Break): Please read and hear verses 39 through 42 again. And Jesus told them, “Behold, the sower went out to sow. And some seed fell on good soil and yielded a crop, some a hundred, some sixty, and some thirty times as much.” The ones who have ears, let them hear. (End Commentary Break):

Verse 43. And after the two days, He departed from there for Galilee. Verse 44. For Jesus Himself testified that a prophet has no honor in his own country. Verse 45. So when He came to Galilee, the Galileans received Him, only because they had seen all the things that He did in Jerusalem at the feast; for they themselves also went to the feast.

(Commentary Break): It is true that a prophet has no honor in his own country, as it is true that Jesus could not do many miracles in His hometown, Nazareth of Galilee. (see Matthew 13:53-58). This should serve as a caution and a warning to us about familiarity as Christians and the dangers of becoming lethargic and routine in our faith. We must not mistake God’s mercy, goodness, grace and abundance for us as license as so many do. (End Commentary Break).

Healing an Official’s Son

Verse 46. Therefore He came again to Cana of Galilee, where He had made the water into wine. And there was a royal official whose son was sick at Capernaum. Verse 47. When he heard that Jesus had come from Judea into Galilee, he went to Him and began asking Him to come down and heal his son; for he was at the point of death. Verse 48. Then Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you simply will not believe.” Verse 49. The royal official said to Him, “Sir, come down before my child dies.” Verse 50. Jesus said to him, “Go; your son is alive.” The man believed the word that Jesus spoke to him and went home. Verse 51. And as he was now going down, his slaves met him, saying that his son was alive. Verse 52. So he inquired of them the hour when he began to get better. Then they said to him, “Yesterday at the seventh hour the fever left him.” Verse 53. So the father knew that it was at that hour in which Jesus said to him, “Your son is alive”; and he himself believed, and his entire household. Verse 54. This is again a second sign that Jesus performed when He had come from Judea into Galilee.

(Commentary Break): Time and again Jesus observed and commented about people’s lack of faith. Even His own disciples were recalcitrant in their belief at times. Still, Jesus gave freely, out of mercy, withholding nothing so that many would believe. (End Commentary Break).

Matthew 4:23-25 gives us an overview of “Jesus going about in all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people.

And the news about Him spread throughout Syria; and they brought to Him all who were ill those suffering with various diseases and severe pain, demon-possessed, people with epilepsy, and people who were paralyzed; and He healed them. Large crowds followed Him from Galilee and the Decapolis, and Jerusalem, and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan.

The Book of John gives us a closeup view of Jesus’ ministry and Him doing the Work of His Father. And because very little is left undisclosed, this is an excellent book for our training in becoming His disciple. Jesus’ attitude, motives and methods are clear. The Works of the Last Days have begun. Now,  He says we are to join Him in doing the Father’s work.

Your Brother and Friend,

Mike Young.

NEXT: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 5, Part 1, The Healing at Bethesda – Jesus’ Equality With God.

PREVIOUS: THE BOOK OF JOHN, Chapter 3, The New Birth, John the Baptist’s Last Testimony.

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