Category Archives: John

A Look at John’s Manger (1)

John’s nativity scene is much different than what we find in Luke’s account. There’s no trip to Bethlehem, shepherds in the field, or angels singing. It’s more theological than biographical. It consists of him telling us that “the Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us,” (1:14). That’s a pretty impressive resume and youContinue reading “A Look at John’s Manger (1)”

Shine Jesus Shine!

The background of Jesus’ claim to be the light of the world is the Feast of the Tabernacles (John 7:2,37; Leviticus 23:33-43). During this feast, not only did the Israelites live in booths/shelters for seven days as commanded, but the Levites built huge menorahs which they placed in the temple courtyard to illuminate the eveningContinue reading “Shine Jesus Shine!”

Forgiveness, Confession & Commission

John’s gospel reaches its high water mark with Thomas’ confession that Jesus is his Lord and God (20:28). This is where John wants to bring his readers. He ties everything together by stating in v. 30-31 that the signs he had recorded are for that purpose—to bring people to belief in Jesus and the life that comes from suchContinue reading “Forgiveness, Confession & Commission”

“Do You Want To Get Well?”

Who else but Jesus? Would anyone else dare ask a man who had been unable to walk for 38 years if he wanted to get well?  Insulting?  It certainly could be taken that way, but that wasn’t Jesus’ intent Neither was it something spoken in ignorance of the man’s situation.  The text tells us that His question was prompted byContinue reading ““Do You Want To Get Well?””

To Believe or not to Believe

In faith there is enough light for those who want to believe and enough shadows to blind those who don’t. It was the French mathematician and philosopher, Blaise Pascal, who spoke those words. They call to our attention to something that is too often overlooked—God doesn’t force faith on anyone. Nobody is overwhelmed into believingContinue reading “To Believe or not to Believe”

The Possibility of Glory

After Judas has left to betray Him, John tells us that Jesus begins to speak to His disciples of His coming death (13:31ff). It’s a lengthy, intimate conversation that stretches across three chapters. But maybe the most remarkable thing is how it begins. Jesus starts by telling them that His death is an occasion of glory. He usesContinue reading “The Possibility of Glory”

The Light from Bethlehem

I saw just a piece of a program on the Discovery Channel. The opening promised us a show about fearless exploration. They would leave no stone unturned. They would question everything. It featured a scientist and a paranormal researcher who were dressed like a 21st century version of Indiana Jones. They were searching for answers to theContinue reading “The Light from Bethlehem”

The Deeper Reach

Can you imagine the social media storm Jesus would have instigated? I’m referring to when he asked the man who had been unable to walk for 38 years, Do you want to get well? You can see some responses, can’t you? Wow, read the room Jesus! You just asked a man who has been unable toContinue reading “The Deeper Reach”