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UNION GROVE CHURCH OF CHRIST, CLEVELAND TN.
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THE BOOK OF JOHN – BRIEF CONTENT OF EACH CHAPTER
1 – The Word, John the Baptizer’s testimony of Jesus, Jesus’ earliest disciples2 – Water to wine, Jesus cleanses the temple 3 – The new birth 4 – Jesus and the Samaritan woman, Jesus heals the son of a nobleman 5 – Jesus heals a man who had been sick 38 years, witnesses of Jesus 6 – Jesus feeds 5000, He walks on water, “the bread of life” 7 – “Never man spake like this man,” Jesus teaches in the temple during feast of Tabernacles 8 – Woman taken in adultery 9 – Jesus heals a blind man 10 – The good shepherd 11 – Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead 12 – Mary anoints Jesus, Jesus enters Jerusalem 13 – Jesus washed the apostles’ feet 14 – Jesus promises the apostles to send the Comforter (Holy Spirit) 15 – The vine and the branches 16 – If Jesus goes away, He will send the Comforter 17 – Jesus’ prayer for unity 18 – Judas betrays Jesus, Jesus is arrested 19 – Jesus’ death and burial 20 – Jesus’ resurrection from the dead 21 – 153 fish
THE BOOK OF JOHN
MIRACLES recorded (chapter # in parenthesis)
1. Water to wine (2) 2. “Miracles which he did” (2:23) 3. Healing of a nobleman’s son (4) 4. Healing of a man who had been sick 38 years (5) 5. Feeding of 5000 (6) 6. Walking on water (6) 7. Healing of a blind man (9) 8. Resurrection of Lazarus (11) 9. “So many miracles” (12:37) 10. Jesus’ resurrection (20) 11. 153 fish (21)
WHAT JESUS SAID ABOUT HIMSELF (The “I AM’S”) 4:26 “I … am he (Messiah)” 6:35 “I am the bread of life” 8:12 “I am the light of the world” 8:23 “I am from above” 8:58 “Before Abraham was, I am” 10:7 “I am the door of the sheep” 10:11 “I am the good shepherd” 10:36 “I am the Son of God” 11:25 “I am the resurrection and the life” 13:13 “I am (Lord and Master)” 14:6 “I am the way, the truth, and the life” 15:1 “I am the true vine”
JOHN CHAPTER ONE
1. 1:1-3,14 The Word 2. 1:4-13 Life and Light 3. 1:15-34 John the Baptizer testified of Jesus 4. 1:35-42 Andrew and Peter came to Jesus 5. 1:43-51 Two more disciples, Philip and Nathanael
I. HOW IS JESUS DESCRIBED OR CONFESSED IN THIS CHAPTER?
1. The Word (1,14) 2. God (1; Heb. 1:8; Isa. 9:6,7) 3. Light (7-9; 8:12) 4. Only begotten Son (14,18; 3:16) 5. Lamb of God (29,36; 1 Pet. 1:18,19) 6. He which baptizes with the Holy Spirit (33; Matt. 3:11) 7. Son of God (34) 8. Messiah/Christ (41) 9. The one of whom Moses and prophets prophesied (45) 10. Jesus of Nazareth (45) 11. King of Israel (49) 12. Son of man (51); Matt. 16:13
II. WHAT ELSE DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER?
1. He is eternal (1; 8:58; Isa. 9:6) 2. He is creator (3; Col. 1:16,17) 3. Rejected by Jews (11; 12:37-41) 4. Grace and truth came by Him (17; What about grace and truth in the O.T.?) 5. His purpose in coming (29; 6:38) 6. Fulfilled Old Testament prophecies (45; “as it is written”; “that it might come to pass”)
III. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE
1. How is the beginning of this book different from the beginning of Matthew-Luke? 2. The role of John the Baptizer (6,7,15,23; Lk. 1:15-17,76,77) 3. The humility of John (27; 3:30) 4. Andrew's example in bringing Peter to Jesus (40-42) 5. "Come and see" (39,46; Acts 26:26) 6. Andrew and Peter coming to Jesus (40-42) took place before their “call” that is recorded in Matthew 4:17-22 (to be fishers of men). The order of events is this: (1) Andrew & Peter 1st came to Christ (Jn. 1); (2) Jesus and John preached at the same time (Jn. 3:22-26); (3) John was imprisoned (Matt. 4:12); (4) After that Jesus called Andrew and Peter (Matt. 4:17,18). 7. BOOK OF JOHN – CHAPTER TWO
1. 2:1-11 Jesus' first earthly miracle (turned water to wine) 2. 2:12 Jesus' brief stay in Capernaum 3. 2:13-17 Jesus cleansed the temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Passover 4. 2:18-22 Jesus foretold His resurrection 5. 2:23-25 Jesus' miracles and miraculous knowledge of man's heart
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He has power to do miracles (water to wine; 23). 2. He attended social functions (1,2; We often read of Him eating a meal with someone). 3. He was still with family members at this early phase of His ministry (12). 4. He loved His Father's house and hated sin (13-17; Heb. 1:9). Note: He later cleansed the temple a second time, during the last week of His life (Mark 11:15-17). 4. He predicted His resurrection (19-21) 1) Other cases of His predictions (Matt. 16:21; 17:22,23). 2) Significance of His resurrection (Rom. 1:4; 4:25) 5. He knew the hearts of men (25; Heb. 4:12; This shows His Deity).
II. WHAT OTHER LESSONS CAN WE LEARN? 1. "Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it" (5; Matt. 17:5). 2. In what sense did His disciples "believe" on Him (12, 23)? 3. He claimed God as His Father (16; This is 1st recorded time after His baptism; Luke 2:49; Jn. 5:17,18) 4. John records a number of Jewish feasts in connection with Jesus' life: 1) Passover (2:13) 5) Dedication (10:22) 2) “A feast of the Jews” (5:1) 6) Passover (11:55) 3) Passover (6:4) 7) Jesus' age at death? (cf. Lk. 3:23 with feasts) 4) Tabernacles (7:2)
III. WAS THE WINE THAT JESUS MADE ALCOHOLIC? 1. What was the miracle? Jesus turned water into wine. What was miraculous about this? 2. The question is, was the wine intoxicating? 1) In the Bible "wine" can be alcoholic or nonintoxicating. We must note the context. 2) Proof of this seen in the word "winepress" (Isa. 16:10; Jer. 48:33; Matt. 21:33). That which comes from the winepress is pure grape juice, yet it is called "wine." 3) Isa. 65:8 3. How much wine did He make that day? 1) One “firkin” is about 9 gallons, so each pot could hold 18-27 gallons. With six pots, this would be 108-162 gallons. 2) Do we really believe that our Lord would play a part in helping people become drunk? 4. Jesus lived under the Law of Moses and never disobeyed the teaching of the Old Testament: 1) Prov. 20:1; 23:29-33 2) Hab. 2:15 3) If Jesus gave them alcohol to drink, then He put a stumblingblock before them (Lk. 17:1,2) 4) If Jesus gave them alcohol to drink, then He broke the law. This is impossible (Heb. 4:15). 5. Matthew 7:16-20 and the use of alcohol – take a look at the alcohol industry: is it helpful or harmful? 6. Note: Nobody drinks alcohol because of what Jesus did at Cana. People drink booze because they want to, and for no other reason. 7. If what Jesus did at Cana gives His followers the right to drink alcohol, then by the same reasoning it would also give them the right to produce it, sell it, encourage others to drink it, and make a living by such. Are we ready to accept this consequence, in view of Luke 17:1,2 and Matt. 7:16-20?
JOHN CHAPTER THREE
1. 3:1-13 Jesus' discussion with Nicodemus about the new birth 2. 3:14-18 Believers receive eternal life, unbelievers are condemned 3. 3:19-21 Those who do evil hate light, but love darkness. 4. 3:22-24 Jesus and John the Baptizer preached and baptized at the same time. 5. 3:25-30 John's joy was to be the friend of the bridegroom, Jesus. 6. 3:31-36 The Father loves the Son and has given all things into His hand.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He is a teacher come from God (2). How did Nicodemus know this? (5:36; 20:30,31). 2. He predicted His crucifixion (14; 11:32,33). He had also predicted His resurrection (2:19-21). 3. He is the Son of man (13,14) 4. He is the only Begotten Son of God (16,18). 5. He came into the world, not to condemn it, but to save it (17). What about when He comes again? 6. He baptized people (22,26; 4:1,2). 7. John calls Him "the bridegroom" (29). 8. He is above all (31; Matt. 28:18). 9. He testified of Himself (32,33; 8:18). 10. He spoke the words of God (the Father) (34; 7:16; 12:49). 11. The Father loved Him and gave all things into His hand (35).
II. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. In order to please God and enter His kingdom, one must be born again (3,5,7; Gal. 6:15). How do we know what role water and Spirit play in this? Does Jesus fully explain this in John 3? 2. What does it mean to be a "witness"? (11,32; cf. Acts 1:21,22; 2:32; 3:15; 4:33. . .) 3. What is the lesson from the brazen serpent? (14,15; Numbers 21:4-9). 4. The necessity of believing in Jesus as the only Begotten Son of God (15,16,18,36). 5. God showed His great love for man by sending His Son (16; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:9,10). 6. Every one that loves the truth comes to the light (19-21; 18:37). 7. Many truly hated Jesus (20; 15:18,19,23). If they hated Him, they will hate us also (15:18,24; 17:14). 8. The events recorded in verses 22-30 took place after Jesus was baptized, but before He began preaching that the kingdom was "at hand." Note what this means in connection with Mark 1:14,15. 9. John the Baptizer was satisfied with his role, and even rejoiced in it (29,30).
III. HOW DO WE ANSWER THE ARGUMENTS OF DENOMINATIONAL FRIENDS? 1. Some claim that "water" in verse 5 means the water of the mother's womb. 2. Some claim that "water" means the word. Would that really prove their position that baptism is not necessary for salvation? 3. Some claim that verse 16 (and others) prove that one is saved by faith only, and without baptism. 4. Some claim that verse 8 shows that the new birth is a mysterious, non-understandable process. what Jesus did in Cana of Galilee. People drink alcohol for one reason: they want to! They may do it with different motives, but they all do it because of the lust of the flesh, not to produce fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:19-21).
JOHN CHAPTER FOUR
1. 4:1-3 Jesus made disciples in Judaea, then left to go to Galilee 2. 4:4-26 Jesus' conversation with a woman in Samaria 3. 4:27-38 Jesus told His disciples of the coming harvest in Samaria 4. 4:39-42 Many Samaritans believed on Jesus 5. 4:43-54 Jesus healed the son of a nobleman (His second miracle in Galilee) Note: All the events of this chapter are recorded only in the book of John (They are not in Matt.- Luke).
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER/HOW IS HE DESCRIBED? 1. He baptized more people than John the Baptizer did, yet He personally baptized none (1,2; 3:22). 1) Why do you supposed Jesus personally baptized no one? 2) Who baptizes us is not important – Our salvation does not depend on the one who baptized us (1 Cor. 1:13-17). 2. He was not prejudiced vs. Samaritans like many Jews were (3,4,9). What about us? (James 2:1-9) 3. He used the opportunity to speak with this woman about “religion” the 1st time He ever met her (14). 4. He gives true, living water (10,14; 6:35) – One who drinks it will never thirst (he will be satisfied with what he receives from Christ and not feel the need for something else, Eph. 1:3; Matt. 5:6). 5. He is all-knowing (16-18; 2:24,25). 6. He is a prophet (19; Acts 3:22,23). 7. He is the Christ (25,26,29,42). 8. His “meat/food” was to do the Father's will (34; 6:38). What about us? (Eccl. 12:13; Matt. 7:21) 9. He is the Savior of the world (42; 1:29; 1 John 4:14). 10. He could perform miracles even when He was in one place (Cana), and the one whom He healed was in a different one (Capernaum) (46,47,50-53; cf. His healing of a centurion’s servant, Matt. 8:5-13).
II. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. Jesus describes the worship that is acceptable to God (20-24): 1) Verse 20 – "Ye say" – Really, it was Jehovah that chose Jerusalem as the place of worship. 2) Verse 21 – Why not worship in “this mountain” (Mt. Gerizim) or in Jerusalem? 3) Verse 22 – Salvation “is of the Jews” (Rom. 9:4,5). 4) Verse 23 – What does the Father desire? 5) Verse 23 – What does it mean to be a “true worshipper?” 6) Verse 24 – Three conditions of the worship that pleases God 7) What Jesus teaches about worship may not always be popular, but it is always right! 2. We see the great joy of finding Jesus (28-30; Acts 8:39; 16:34; Phil. 3:7-10). 3. Like the disciples who were personally with Jesus, we need to look unto the white harvest (35,36). 4. Those who “sow” and those who “reap” both have their own role and reward (36-38). 5. Real faith must be personal (39-42).
JOHN CHAPTER FIVE
1. 5:1-9 Jesus healed a man who had been sick for 38 years. 2. 5:10-18 The Jews criticized Jesus for healing on the sabbath day. 3. 5:19-24 The Father and the Son 4. 5:25-29 Judgment and the Son 5. 5:30-47 Witnesses to the Son
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He has the authority to tell men, “Sin no more” (14). 2. He is equal with God (17,18; 1:1; 8:58; 10:30). 3. The Jews accused Him of many things, but never found one mistake in Him (18; 1 Pet. 2:22). 4. Whatever the Father does, the Son does (19). 5. He raises the dead (21,25). Is this spiritual or physical? 6. The Father has committed all judgment to Him (22,27). 7. It is the Father's will that all men honor the Son as they honor the Father (23; 15:23). 8. He has life in Himself (26; 10:10; 14:6). 9. He will raise the physically dead (28,29). 10. He always sought the will of the Father Who sent Him (30; 4:34; 6:38). 11. The purpose of His miracles (36; 10:25).
II. OTHER LESSONS THAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. Re: the healing of the man who had been sick for 38 years: 1) Jesus did it by speaking (8). Any other examples of such? Lazarus? Calming a storm? 2) Immediate result (9). 3) Undeniable result (9,10). 4) On this occasion Jesus healed only one of many who were sick (3). 5) There is no proof that the man had faith before Jesus healed him. Cf. blind man (ch. 9) & Lazarus. 2. Jesus healed this man on the sabbath. Obviously He knew that such is acceptable. However the Jews thought that His action was wrong (16,18). When Deity and men disagree about something, man is always wrong – cf. Mark 7, where Jesus and the Jews disagreed about what makes a person unclean. 3. Accusation of sin does not equal proof of such (18; cf. Acts 24:12,13; 25:7). 4. Believers have eternal life, and no condemnation (24). Which believers? Don't forget John 3:5; Gal. 5:6. 5. There will be a resurrection of all the dead and a permanent separation (28,29). 6. The necessity of searching the Scriptures (39). 7. There is only one way to have "life" now and in the future (24,29).
III. WITNESSES OF JESUS 1. Jesus Himself (31; 8:17,18). 2. John the Baptizer (33,35). 3. The works of Jesus (36; 20:30,31). 4. God the Father (37). When? How? 5. The Old Testament Scriptures (39). 6. Moses (45,46).
Note: This section begins with the Jews accusing Jesus of breaking the sabbath, but ends with Jesus accusing them of:
1. Not honoring the Father (23) 4. Not accepting the mediator and writer of the law (46). 2. Not having God's word abiding in them (38). 5. Rejecting the law/scriptures (47). 3. Not having the love of God in them (42).
JOHN CHAPTER SIX
1. 6:1-15 Jesus healed 5000 men (Also recorded in Matthew 14; Mark 6; Luke 9). 2. 6:16-21 Jesus walked on water (Also recorded in Matthew 14 and Mark 6). 3. 6:22-59 Jesus preached a sermon about the bread of life in a synagogue in Capernaum. 4. 6:60-66 Many of Jesus' disciples quit following Him. 5. 6:67-71 Peter confessed Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God, and the One with the words of eternal life.
Note: From the time of the events in this chapter until the death of Jesus was only about one year (Passover, 6:4).
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. Some considered Him as the Prophet that should come into the world (14; Deut. 18:15-18). 2. He had a chance to become an earthly king, but He did not want to (15; 18:36; Col. 1:13). 3. He is the bread of life/living bread (35,48,51). 1) He who comes to Jesus – shall never hunger and never thirst (35; remember 4:14). 2) He who sees Jesus and believes on Him – may have everlasting life & Jesus will raise him up (40). 2) He who believes on Him – has everlasting life (47). 3) He who eats this bread – shall live forever (51). 4) He who eats His flesh and drinks His blood – has eternal life (54). 5) He who eats His flesh and drinks His blood – will be raised up by Jesus at the last day (54). 6) He who eats His flesh and drinks His blood – dwells in Him, and He in that person (56). 7) Is this talking about the Lord's supper? Apparently not, considering to whom it was spoken (not disciples only, but Jews) and the context. 3. He came down from heaven, being sent (38). 4. His desire was always to do the Father's will (38; 4:34; Lk. 22:42; We must imitate His desire, Phil. 2:5). 5. People, including His disciples, murmured against Him (41,43,61). 6. Men can be saved only through Jesus' great sacrifice – “for the life of the world” (51; 4:42). 7. On this occasion some thought that His teaching was hard (60). 8. His words are spirit and eternal life (63,68; Acts 5:20; Rom. 1:16). 9. He did not compromise or change His teaching when many of His disciples left Him (66-68). 10. He is the only one to Whom we can turn for salvation (68; 14:6; Acts 4:10-12). 11. He is the Christ, the Son of God (69; Peter later confessed Him again, Matt. 16:16). 12. He knew who would betray Him (64,70,71)
II. OTHER LESSONS THAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. Why did people follow Jesus? With various motives (1,2,26; cf. Luke 5:1). 2. Jesus gave thanks before eating/giving food to others to eat (11; feeding of 4000; 1 Tim. 4:3-5). 3. Why was the feeding of 5000 a miracle? 4. What four miracles took place on the Sea of Galilee in one night? (16-21; cf. Matt. 14:25-33). 5. We must seek after spiritual food that endures to everlasting life (27; Col. 3;1,2; Matt. 6:33). 6. Believing on Jesus/faith is a "work" of God (28,29; cf. Eph. 2:8,9). 7. The Father draws men to Jesus through the teaching of God’s word (44,45; Rom. 10:17; 2 Thess. 2:14). 8. Even when Jesus still lived on the earth, some disciples left Him (68). Was this Jesus' fault? 9. Like the apostles, we can be sure that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God (69).
JOHN CHAPTER SEVEN
1. 7:1-9 Jesus' brothers advise Him to go up to Jerusalem for the feast of Tabernacles 2. 7:10-13 Jesus secretly went up to the feast of Tabernacles 3. 7:14-36 Jesus conversation/controversy with the Jews in Jerusalem 4. 7:37-39 Jesus' promise concerning the Holy Spirit 5. 7:40-44 Division among the Jews over whether Jesus is Messiah or not 6. 7:45-53 The Jewish Sanhedrin's discussion about Jesus
I. HOW DID THE JEWS REACT TO JESUS? WHAT DID THEY THINK OF HIM? (12,43) 1. Some wanted to kill Him (1,19,25; cf. 5:17,18; Acts 3:17 – ignorance; Mk. 15:10 – envy). 2. His own brothers did not believe in Him (5; Mark 6:3. What about later on – Acts 1:13,14). 3. The world hated Him (7; 3:19,20; 15:23). 4. Some said that He was a good man (12; If this is so, then He must be Christ, God's Son. Why?). 5. Some said that He was a deceiver (12; Some say this today, but no one can prove it! Matt. 27:63). 6. Some marveled at how He taught, because He had never studied in a Jewish training school (15; Acts 4:13). 7. The people accused Him of having a demon (20; Some scribes earlier accused Him of casting out demons by Satan, Mk. 3:22,30). 8. Some thought that He must not be Christ, because no one would know where Christ is from (“We know this man whence he is,” 27; false Jewish tradition; from O.T. prophesies could know that Messiah will be a person, of the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, from the tribe of Judah, from the house of Jesse, of the family of David, born in Bethlehem . . .(Gen. 3:15; 22:18; 26:3-5; 28:13-15; 49:10 . . .). 9. Some confessed Him as the Christ (31,41; cf. Acts 28:23,24). 10. Some thought He was "the Prophet" (40; 6:14). 11. Some thought that He could not be Christ because He was from Galilee and not Bethlehem (41,42). 12. The Sanhedrin thought that He could not be a prophet, since "there are no prophets" from Galilee (52; What about swallowed-by-a-fish-Jonah?).
II. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. The thoughts and plans of man/the world are not the same as the Lord's (3-5; Isa. 55:8,9). 2. His time/hour had not yet come (6,30). God had a plan from the foundation of the world (Eph. 3:9; Gal. 4:4). 3. His doctrine and the Father's are the same (16; 12:49; “gospel of God" = “gospel of Christ"; 2 John 9). 4. One who desires to know God's will can find and learn it (17; Matt. 5:6; Luke 8:15). 5. Jesus always preached with love, but He spoke plainly of men's transgressions (19,26; 2 Tim. 4:2). 6. Jesus commanded the Jews to judge – to judge righteous judgment (24). 1) How does this compare to Matthew 7:1? Do we have the right to condemn? 2) Do we have the right to make decisions? cf. Matt. 7:15; 1 John 4:1; 2 John 9-11; 2 Thess. 3:6,14. 7. No man ever spoke like Jesus did (46). Note who admitted this! He was not just a good teacher – the Best! 1) He spoke with great authority (Matt. 7:28,29; 17:5; 28:20). 2) He spoke as God (7:16). 3) He taught and demanded the highest moral standard (Matthew 5-7). 4) He taught with the greatest love. 5) He taught what was appropriate, just what men needed to hear.
JOHN CHAPTER EIGHT
1. 8:1-11 A woman taken in adultery was brought to Jesus. 2. 8:12-20 The Father's witness to Jesus. 3. 8:21-30 The destiny of the Jews who do not believe in Jesus. 4. 8:31-36 The truth and Jesus make men free. 5. 8:37-47 The true children of Abraham and the children of the devil. 6. 8:48-59 The Jews sought to kill Jesus because He said that the Father honors Him and He (Jesus) is before Abraham.
I. WHAT DOES THIS CHAPTER TEACH US ABOUT JESUS? 1. He taught at all hours (2; cf. at night in 3:2-5). 2. His tenderness in dealing with this woman in front of others (11,4). 3. He is the light of the world (12; 9:5; 12:46). 4. He testified, and the Father testified of Him (13-18; 5:37). 5. He is from above, not of this world (23,42). 6. He spoke what He heard from the Father (28). 7. The Father was with Him, so He was never alone (28). 8. He always did the things that pleased the Father (29; 4:34; 6:38; Gal. 1:10). 9. He gives men true freedom (36; Gal. 5:1,13). 10. He always spoke/taught the truth (40,45,46). 11. No one could find sin in Him, for He was sinless (46; 1 Peter 2:21,22). 12. The Jews accused Him of having a demon or being a Samaritan (48; 7:20). 13. He honored the Father (49). 14. He sought not His own glory (50). 15. The Father honored Him (54). 16. "Before Abraham was, I am" (58; 1:1,14; 10:30; Ex. 3:14).
II. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE/LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. Misuse of verse 7 – According to one false idea, only those who have no sin can point out the sins of others (cf. all disciples are sinners, but John 7:24; Eph. 5:11). 2. Misuse of verse 11 – According to one false idea, Jesus approved/overlooked her sin, so maybe His mercy will overlook our sins. Jesus had no authority to condemn her without 2 witnesses – He told her to sin no more. 3. The necessity in believing in Jesus as Christ (21,24). 4. Who are the true disciples of Jesus? (31; 2 John 9). 5. The truth will make men free (32; 17:17). 6. Who is a servant of sin? (34; Rom. 6:16). 7. If someone is truly a child of God, then he/she will love Jesus (42; 14:15). 8. Satan is: 1) The father of those who don't follow Jesus (44); 2) A murderer (44) 3) A liar (44). 9. One who keeps Jesus’ word shall never die (51; 6:47,51; 11:26).
JOHN CHAPTER NINE
1. 9:1-7 Jesus healed a blind man on the sabbath day. 2. 9:8-12 The reaction of the blind man's neighbors when they heard of his healing. 3. 9:13-34 Discussion between the Pharisees and the former blind man and his parents. 4. 9:35-38 The former blind man believed on and worshipped Jesus. 5. 9:39-41 Jesus pointed out the blindness of the Pharisees.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. Jesus came to do the works of the Father (4). 2. Jesus was (is) the light of the world (5; 8:12; 12:46). 3. He healed people in different ways (6,7): 1) Some He healed simply by speaking. 2) Some He healed simply by touching them. 3) Some He healed when He was in one place, and the one healed was elsewhere. 4. Some said, "This man is not of God, because He keepeth not the sabbath" (16; 5:18; Matt. 12:10,12). 5. The blind man confessed Him as a prophet (17; 4:19; 6:14; 7:40). 6. Some accused Him of being a sinner. They said that they knew He was a sinner (24; 8:46; Heb. 4:15). 7. Jesus' miracles always had undeniable results (25,20,21,8-10; 11:47; Acts 4:16). 8. The Jewish leaders claimed that they did not know where Jesus was from (29; 6:38; 8:23). 9. "If this man were not of God, he could do nothing" (33; 3:1,2). 10. Jesus came into the world to judge (39; How does this compare to 3:17 and 12:47,48?).
II. OTHER LESSONS THAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER. 1. It is false to say that all sickness is a result of or punishment for sin (2,3; 2 Cor. 12:7; 1 Tim. 5:23). 2. Like Jesus, we must work while it is yet day (while we have the opportunity) (4; Eph. 5:16). 3. Jewish leaders tried to pressure people to not confess Jesus (22; 12:42,43; cf. modern examples). 4. Some fear men more than they do God (22; Matt. 10:28; Gal. 1:10). 5. To accuse is not equal to proving: with accusation there must be proof (24; Acts 24:13; 25:7). 6. "God heareth not sinners" (31; Psa. 66:18; Prov. 28:9; 1 Pet. 3;12). 7. Sometimes when people do not know how to answer arguments, they begin to make accusations (34; Some Jews said that Jesus had a demon; Festus said that Paul was "mad," Acts 26:24). 8. Sometimes pride prevents people from accepting the truth (34; We can learn from kids, Matt. 18:3,4). 9. One must have sufficient evidence and information before he can believe in Jesus (35,36; Heb. 11:1; Rom.10:17; Mark 16:15,16). 10. Who are those who are spiritually blind? Those who claim to see, but do not see their own sins and reject the truth (40,41; Compare what the Pharisees said in verses 24 & 34 about the sins of others).
JOHN CHAPTER TEN
1. 10:1-10 Jesus is the door of the sheep. 2. 10:11-21 Jesus is the good shepherd. 3. 10:22-39 The Jews wanted to kill Jesus because He said, "I and my Father are one." 4. 10:40-42 Many believed on Jesus east of the Jordan River.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He is the door of the sheep (7,9). 1) Salvation (9; 14:6 Acts 4:11,12). 2) All that we need (9; never thirst; Eph. 1:3). 2. He came to give men abundant life (10; 1 Tim. 1:15; Rom. 6:23). 3. He is the "good shepherd" (11,14; Heb. 13:20; 1 Pet. 5:4). 1) He gave His life for the sheep (11,15,17). 2) He knows His sheep, and they know Him (14,27; 1 John 2:4,5). 4. He knows the Father (15). 5. He has other sheep that are of a different fold (16; the Gentiles, Eph. 2:11-16; via gospel, 2 Thess. 2:14). 6. He is the one shepherd (16; Eph. 5:23,25). 7. He willingly gave His life (17,18). 8. The works that He did in His Father's name bore witness of Him (25,38; 5:36). 9. He gives eternal life (28). 10. He and the Father "are one" (30; in purpose, nature, power, will – note the context of vv. 28,29). 11. He did "many good works" (32; Acts 10:38). 12. The Jews accused Him of blasphemy (33,36,30; 19:7). 13. The Father sanctified Him and sent Him into the world (36; 6:38). 14. He is the Son of God (36). 15. The Father is in Him, and He is in the Father (38; 17:21,23).
II. WHAT OTHER LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER? 1. Unfortunately, in the religious world there are some who are thieves & robbers (1,8,10,12; 2 Pet. 2:1-3). 2. There is/Jesus has one fold (16; Eph. 4:4; 5:25; Acts 20:28). 3. The true sheep of Jesus follow Him (27; 8:31; 2 John 9). 4. No one is able to pluck Jesus' followers out of the hand of Deity (28,29). But what if one himself decides to leave the Lord, as in 6:60,66? What about James 5:19,20? 5. The scripture cannot be broken (35; Matt. 24:35). 6. John the Baptist, though filled with the Spirit from the womb (Luke 1:15), did no miracles (10:41).
JOHN CHAPTER ELEVEN – “I am the resurrection and the life”
1. 11:1-19 The death of Lazarus 2. 11:20-27 Jesus’ conversation with Martha 3. 11:28-37 Mary came to Jesus, then “Jesus wept.” 4. 11:38-44 The actual resurrection of Lazarus 5. 11:45,46 Some believed on Jesus, but some went to tell the Pharisees what Jesus had done. 6. 11:47-54 Though the Sanhedrin council admitted that Jesus did miracles, it made plans to kill Him. 7. 11:55-57 Some Jews who went early to the Passover wondered if Jesus would come or not.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. Though He loved all men, He had special love for/relationships with some individuals (3,5,36; 21:20; Such would also be acceptable for us, Phil. 2:22). 2. He is the Son of God (4,27). 3. His great courage – to return to the place where they wanted to kill him (8; Paul in Acts 14). 4. He is "the resurrection and the life" (25,26). 1) "He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live" (25; 5:25). 2) "And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die" (26; 4:14; 6:35). 3) "Believeth" in these verses must mean an obedient faith (cf. 12:42,43; James 2:17,24; Heb. 5:9). 5. Martha confessed: "I believe . . the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world" (27). 6. Could He have prevented Lazarus from dying? (37,21,32) 1) Could He later have come down from the cross? (Matt. 27:42,43) 2) Do we sometimes pray that our loved ones not die? Why? For whom do we offer such prayers? 3) What if no one ever died? (Heb. 9:27) 7. Jesus, as a man, had feelings like all human beings do (35,36). 8. The purpose of His miracle – it was not for Lazarus, Mary & Martha or Jesus Himself (41,42; 5:36). 9. He raised Lazarus simply by speaking (43; cf. other examples, beginning with Genesis 1:3). 10. Jesus died for the Jewish nation, but not for them only (51,52).
II. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. The courage of the apostles (16; Did they really understand the spiritual nature of the kingdom, Acts 1:6). 2. The attitude and faith of Martha and Mary: 1) "If thou hadst been here, my brother had not died" (21,32) – knew Jesus' power. 2) Martha knew that if Jesus asked something, then the Father would give it to Him (22). 3) Martha's confession of what she believed (27; other N.T. examples of confession). 4) Mary came quickly when Jesus called her (28,29). 3. The death of a loved one is a difficult time of great sadness, so there is a need to support and comfort those who have lost loved ones (19,31,33,35; Rom. 12:15). 4. This miracle was done for the glory of God (4,40). 5. As always, some believed, but some believed not (45,46; 12:37; Acts 28:24). 6. The Jewish Sanhedrin admitted Jesus' miracles (47; Mk. 3:22; Acts 4:16). 7. How did the Sanhedrin show its wickedness and impure motives? (48,53,57; 9:22).
III. QUESTIONS TO PONDER 1. How can we explain: "This sickness is not unto death . . . Lazarus sleepeth" (4,11-14). 2. Why did Jesus wait two days before going to His sick friend? (6) 3. The raising of Lazarus took place in the last four months of Jesus' life. Did the apostles not already believe in Jesus then? If so, then how do we explain Jesus' words "that ye may believe? (15; 2:11).
JOHN CHAPTER TWELVEPRIVATE
1. 12:1-8 Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, anointed Jesus. 2. 12:9-11 The chief priests wanted to kill Lazarus as well as Jesus. 3. 12:12-19 Jesus' “triumphal entry” into Jerusalem. 4. 12:20-22 Certain Greeks wanted to see Jesus. 5. 12:23-36 It was time for the Son to be glorified. 6. 12:37-43 The Jews' blinded eyes and rejection of Jesus fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy. 7. 12:44-50 Jesus is the light of the world and His word will judge those who reject Him.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He came into Zion as a King sitting on an ass's colt (15; Zech. 9:9; John 18:36). 2. He accepted the anointing of Mary (3,7,8; cf. Mark 14:7-9 and "memorial"). 3. "The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified" (23; "not yet come"; 12:27; 17:1). 4. It was necessary for Him to die (24; die on the cross, 32,33; 3:14,15). 5. Isaiah saw His glory and spoke of Him (41). 1) Verses 42,43 prove that this is speaking about Jesus. 2) Isa. 6:1,5,8,9,10 – Isaiah saw eternal God, Jehovah on His throne – Jesus is eternal (1:1; 8:58). 6. Any one that saw Jesus saw the One that sent Him, i.e. the Father (45; 14:6-9; Col. 2:9; 1:15). 7. He came as a light into the world (46; 8:12; 9:5). Does this mean that all men wanted such light? (3:19-21). 8. He came not to judge the world, but to save it (47; 3:17; Acts 10:42). 9. He spoke not of Himself, but what the Father told Him to speak (49,50; 7:16; 10:30; "gospel of God").
II. WHAT DID DIFFERENT GROUPS OF JEWS SAY OR DO IN RELATION TO JESUS? 1. Chief priests wanted to kill Lazarus – they did not want people to believe on Jesus (10,11; Lk. 8:12). 2. Some said, "Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord" (13; concept?). 3. The Pharisees said, "The world is gone after him" (19). Unfortunately this is not true (1:11; Lk. 13:24; 12:32). 4. "We have heard out of the law that Christ abideth for ever" (34). “Eternal” does not mean always on earth. 5. They saw his miracles, but believed not (37; fulfilled prophesies of Isa. 53:1; 6:10; Lk. 8:15). 6. Some believed on Him but did not confess Him (42,43; fear – 9:22; praises – Gal. 1:10; Matt. 10:32,33).
III. WHAT DOES JESUS TEACH ABOUT WHAT MEN MUST DO? 1. In order to have eternal life, one must hate his life in this world (25; Lk. 9:23; crucify old man, Rom. 6:6). 2. In order to faithfully serve Jesus, one must follow Him (26; 1 Pet. 2:21; Lk. 14:27,33; Jn. 14:15). 3. "While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light" (36; Eph. 5:8). 4. One who believes on and receives Jesus, receives the Father (44; God' testimony – 28,29; Matt. 3:17). 5. Jesus' word will judge one who rejects Him (48). There will be a judgment at “the last day” (2 Cor. 5:10).
IV. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. Judas was a thief (6). His words sounded good (5), but he was a hypocrite (Matt. 23:28). 2. When men cannot answer the truth or have no proof for their position, they often use immoral methods (10,11). 1) Because of envy the Jewish leaders gave Jesus to Pilate (Matt. 27:18). 2) The Jewish leaders admitted that Jesus did miracles (11:47; Mk. 3:22; Acts 4:16). 3) When the Jews could not answer Jesus and Stephen, they then decided to shut their mouths. 3. "Now shall the prince of this world be cast out" (12:31; "god of this world," 2 Cor. 4:4; Heb. 2:14,15).
JOHN CHAPTER THIRTEENPRIVATE
1. 13:1-17 Jesus washed the feet of His apostles. 2. 13:18-30 Jesus predicted that Judas would betray Him. 3. 13:31-35 Jesus' new commandment to love one another as He loved the apostles. 4. 13:36-38 Jesus predicted that Peter would deny Him.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. There are three points re: Jesus that we must see when we read this chapter: His humility, His miraculous knowledge, and His love. 2. He knew that His hour had come to depart from this world and return to the Father (1; 19:30; Phil. 2:8,9). 3. He loved His own until the end (1; complete love, unconditional love, sacrificial love, loyal love). 4. He knew He was come from God and went to God (3; He knew why He was here and what He was to do; 6:38; How about us, do we realize the same in our lives? What are we doing? Where are we heading?). 5. He washed the feet of the apostles (5,12). 1) In that time, servants washed the feet of guests. Thus, Jesus was acting as a servant to them. 2) He washed their feet because there was such a physical need, but it also had a symbolic meaning. He was showing them, and us, the lesson of humility: a teacher washing His students' feet! 3) What about us today? Are we obligated to wash the feet of disciples? A. First, that which is recorded in chapter 13 is not related to the worship assembly of the church. Interestingly, that same night Jesus also instituted the Lord's Supper, and we read of it later in the N.T. as part of the worship of the kingdom (Acts 20:7; 1 Cor. 11:20-29). The same is not true of the washing of disciples' feet. B. The only other N.T. reference to washing feet is 1 Tim. 5:10, and that reference is obviously about an affair that is part of one's personal life. C. What Jesus did was literally wash the apostles’ feet. However, this act had spiritual significance. This is plainly seen from verses 7,8,12. The apostles with their literal eyes saw that Jesus literally washed their feet, but Jesus wanted them to see the real meaning. 4) My son once commented that if the "pope" of the Catholic denom. is so humble, then why does he wash the feet of people on TV in front of millions of people! Good question. 5. He is "Master" or "Teacher" (13,14; Matt. 23:8; He taught daily, Mk. 14:49; He practiced what He taught, Ax. 1:1). 6. He is "Lord" (13,14; King of kings & Lord of lords; Eph. 4:5; Acts 2:36; Phil. 2:9,10). 7. Jesus always gave His disciples a good example (15; 1 Pet. 2:21; imitate Him & will never go wrong). 8. His supernatural knowledge of the future: 1) He knew that His hour had come (1). 2) He predicted His betrayal by Judas (19,21,26). 3) He predicted the denials by Peter (38). 9. Jesus was glorified, and the Father was glorified in Him (31,32; 17:1,4,5). 10. He has given the world the greatest example and highest standard of love (34,35; 15:12; 10:17,18; Matt. 7:12). How can we imitate such love? 11. He was going somewhere that His disciples could not go at this time (33,36; 14:2,3; Matt. 25:34).
II. OTHER LESSONS TO NOTE FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. To receive Jesus' messengers is to receive Him, and to receive Him is to receive the Father (20). 2. All O.T. prophecies re: Messiah were fulfilled in Jesus (18; Psa. 41:9; some say that Jesus did things to make the prophesies "work out" – this was impossible in many cases, such as John 19:23,24,32-37). 3. In what way is Jesus' commandment to love one another "new" (34,35; 15:12; Lev. 19:18)? 1) Exhortation to grow in love (1 Thess. 4:9,10) 2) What does love show? Be careful re: conclusions (cf. Luke 6:32,33). 4. Peter thought he was ready to die for Jesus (37; his sword later that night; Rev. 2:10; What about live for Him?). 5. From other passages we learn that Peter thought it was impossible for him to deny Jesus (1 Cor. 10:12).
JOHN CHAPTER FOURTEEN
1. 14:1-6 The only way to the Father is through Jesus. 2. 14:7-15 The Father is seen or revealed in His Son Jesus. 3. 14:16-31 Jesus promised to send the Comforter, the Holy Spirit. Key idea: Knowing that He will soon leave the apostles, Jesus speaks to comfort them (1,18,26,28).
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He said that He would go away to prepare a place for the apostles (2,3; ascension; Matt. 25:34). 2. He said He will come again to receive the apostles (3,28; certainty of His second coming; Ax. 1:11). 3. He is the way, the truth, and the life (6; living water; bread of life; 11:25; Acts 4:12). 4. He that saw Jesus saw the Father (9; 12:45; 10:30). 5. He is in the Father, and the Father in Him (10,11; 17:21). 6. The Father worked through Him – “believe me for the very works’ sake”(10,11; 10:25). 7. He will do for the apostles what they will ask in His name (13,14; Matt. 7:7,8; by Jesus’ authority). 8. He would not leave the apostles as orphans, but would come to them (18; Jas. 1:27; Come how?). 9. He and the Father will make their abode in one who keeps Jesus’ commands (23; indwelling of Deity). 10. His word is not His, but the Father’s who sent Him (24; 7:16; 12:49,50; 17:10). 11. He promised to leave peace to the apostles (27; source of peace, Phil. 4:6,7; cause of peace, Eph. 2). 12. He predicted these things (re: His going, coming of H.S., peace, etc.) so the apostles would see the fulfillment and believe (29; Remember from chapter 13 what He predicted re: Judas and Peter). 13. He loves the Father (31; How did He express that love?). 14. He did as the Father commanded (31; Obedient unto death, Phil. 2:8,9). 15. In summary, in order to comfort the apostles, Jesus-- 1) Promised to prepare a place for them (2,3); 2) Promised to come again and receive them (3); 3) Promised that they would do great works without Him being on the earth (12); 4) Promised to give them what they asked in His name (13); 5) Promised to not leave them as orphans (18); 6) Promised that they would see Him again (19); 7) Promised to leave them peace (27).
II. OTHER LESSONS THAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER. 1. If we truly love Jesus, then we will keep His commandments (15,21,23,24; 15:14; Heb. 5:9). 2. There are three in the Godhead (16,26; Matt. 3:16,17). 3. The “Spirit of truth” = “Comforter” = “Holy Spirit” (17,26). 4. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth, so all that comes from Him is truth (16; 1 Cor. 14:33). 5. Because Jesus lives, we shall also live (19; His resurrection gives us hope, 1 Cor. 15; 1 Pet. 1:3,4). 6. The Holy Spirit would come to the apostles to: 1) Teach them all things (26; 16:13); 2) Bring all things to their remembrance (26).
JOHN CHAPTER FIFTEEN
1. 15:1-8 Jesus wants His disciples to bear fruit. 2. 15:9-17 Disciples of Jesus must love one another as He loved them. 3. 15:18-25 The world will be against and hate Jesus’ disciples, just as it did Jesus. 4. 15:26,27 Jesus again promised that the Comforter would come to the apostles. Note: Same time and setting of events of chapters 13,14; Jesus continues to comfort His apostles.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He is the true vine (1,5; cf. other ways that He describes Himself in John). 2. Without Him His disciples can do nothing, can bear no fruit (4,5; Phil. 4:13). 3. He loved His apostles (9,12; 13:1). 4. He made known to His apostles what He received of the Father (15). 5. He chose the apostles (16,19; Lk. 6:12,13). 6. He did wonders like no one before Him (24; 9:32). 7. He was hated by the Jews (24,25; 1:11 – They received Him not, even hated Him – they lied, killed). 8. He again promised to send the Comforter (26,27; Who is He, and why send Him?).
II. OBLIGATIONS OF JESUS’ DISCIPLES 1. Obligation # 1 – Bear fruit (Jesus mentions this necessity at least 7 times in vv. 2,4,5,8,16). 1) Conclusion: to not bear fruit = cannot please the Lord! 2) Consequence of not bearing fruit (2,6). 3) Under what conditions can one bear fruit – must abide in Christ (4,5; 8:31; 2 John 9). 4) When is God glorified? When Jesus’ disciples bear fruit (8). 5) God wants us to bear more and more fruit (2; Continuously – we must serve until death). 6) What is the fruit that we must bear? (Gal. 5:22,23; Phil. 1:11; 2 Pet. 1:5-7). 2. Obligation #2 – Abide in Jesus’ love (9,10). How? 3. Obligation #3 – Love one another (12,13,17; 13:34,35; not a burden, should be natural, Eph. 5:1,2).
III. BLESSINGS FOR JESUS’ DISCIPLES 1. The apostles were cleansed through Jesus’ word (3; 1 Pet. 1:22,23; Rom. 1:16). 2. They will receive that for which they ask – conditional – abide in Jesus (7; 1 John 3:22; 5:14). 3. They are the friends of Jesus (14; 15:14; Matt. 12:30; Parable of 10 virgins – prepared friends).
IV. WARNINGS TO JESUS’ DISCIPLES 1. It is possible for one to be in Christ (be a child of God) and be cast off/out (5,6; Gal. 5:4; Jas. 5:19,20). 2. The world will hate those who follow Jesus (18-20): 1) His followers are not of the world (19; don’t belong to it; don’t think, speak, or act like it does). 2) We should not think this strange, because they first hated Jesus (2 Tim. 3:12; Acts 5:40-42).
JOHN CHAPTER SIXTEENPRIVATE
1. 16:1-6 Jesus predicts that the apostles will be persecuted, and their heart is filled with sorrow. 2. 16:7-15 More promises about the coming of the Holy Spirit. 3. 16:16-24 Jesus plainly announces that He will leave the apostles, but they will see Him again. 4. 16:25-33 Jesus speaks more clearly, not in parables, about what must come to pass. Note: setting, time, place, people, circumstances – all the same as chapters 13-15.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He is going to leave and go to the Father (7,16,28; Dan. 7:13,14; His ascension recorded in Acts 1:9-11). 2. The time would come when He would not more speak to apostles in parables (25; cf. illustrations that He had used that may not have been clear to them: raise up temple in 3 days, ch. 2; eat His flesh and blood, ch. 6). 3. He came from the Father into the world (28; 6:38; purpose, sacrifice of Father & Son). 4. The apostles knew that He knew all things, and thus they believed on Him (30). 5. Even when the apostles would forsake Him, He would not be alone, for the Father would be with Him (32; 8:29; What about us? 14:23; Rom. 8:31). 6. He spoke these things to the apostles so they would have peace (33; 14:27; Phil. 4:7) 1) But, we have not only peace, but tribulation (33; Acts 14:22). 2) In the midst of difficulties, temptations, and trials we must maintain a strong, unwavering faith. 7. "I have overcome the world" (33; the apostles must see Jesus' death and resurrection as a "victory"; 12:31 vs. Heb. 2:14; we can have victory because of Jesus' victory, 1 Cor. 15:57; "overcometh" in Rev. 2,3).
II. WHAT OTHER LESSONS CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER? 1. The apostles would be greatly persecuted (2-4; Matt. 10:22; 24:9) 1) Re: the Jews, they truly were zealous, and thought they were right (2,3; Acts 26:9). 2) Zeal without knowledge is dangerous (Rom. 10:1-3). 2. The sorrow of the apostles: they would need a Comforter (6,7,20) 1) Their sorrow would get worse (Mk. 16:10,11). 2) Their sorrow would turn to joy (20; Lk. 24:52,53). 3. Special teaching re: the Holy Spirit: 1) He would come to the apostles only when Jesus departed (7). 2) He would reprove the world of sin, of righteousness, and of judgment (8-11). How? 3) He would guide the apostles into all truth (13; 14:26; Eph. 3:5). A. 100% of truth was given to apostles in first century – the revelation from God. B. Was Jesus' promise fulfilled, or not? 4) He will not speak from Himself, but that which He hears (13,15; 1 Cor. 2:10). 5) He will show the apostles things to come (13; re: apostasy, 2nd coming, resurrection, judgment). 6) He will glorify not Self, but Jesus (14; would not glorify Joe Smith, Mohammed, etc.). 4. In the future, when the apostles would ask in Jesus' name, the Father would give them (23; 14:13). 5. The Father loves the apostles because of their reception of Jesus (27; 14:23).
JOHN CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
1. 17:1-5 Jesus prayed for Himself, that He might be glorified. 2. 17:6-19 Jesus prayed for His apostles. 3. 17:20-26 Jesus prayed for all who will believe on Him.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He is the Son of God (1) 2. The Father gave Him power over all flesh (2). 3. He gives/will give eternal life to all those whom the Father gave to Him (2). 4. He glorified the Father on the earth (4). 5. He finished the work that the Father gave Him to do (4). 6. He had glory with the Father before the foundation of the world (5,24). 7. He manifested the Father’s name unto those whom the Father gave Him (6). 8. He gave the words of the Father to the apostles (8,14). 9. “All mine are thine, and all thine are mine” (10). 10. “Now I am no more in the world . . . and I come to thee” (11,13). 11. “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name” (12). 12. “I am not of the world” (14,16). 13. “Even so have I also sent them into the world” (18). 14. “I sanctify myself” (19; 10:36). 15. He and the Father are one: “That they all may be one, as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee” (21,22). 16. The Father loved Him (23,24,26). 17. The Father gave Him glory (24). 18. The Father sent Him into the world (3,18,21,23,25).
II. WHAT WAS JESUS’ PRAYER FOR HIS APOSTLES? (6-19) 1. “Apostles” are not named, so how do we know He is praying for them? (11,20). 2. He prayed for their unity (11; cf. Luke 22:24-27). 1) They are clean through His word (15:3). 2) Now, they will be united through His words (8). 3. He prayed for their joy (13; their joy in 15:11; 16:20,22,24; Phil 4:4). 4. He prayed for their spiritual safety (14-16). 1) They must stay in the world, for they have a task to do (Mk. 16:15; Acts 1:8). 2) We live in the world, but are not of it. We are to be its light (Matt. 5:14,16). 5. He prayed for their sanctification (17-19). 1) Jesus was going to send them to preach, so they must be set apart (18). 2) How would the Father sanctify them? (17,19; role of the Spirit, Eph. 6:17).
III. WHAT DID JESUS PRAY FOR THOSE WHO WOULD BELIEVE ON HIM? 1. He prayed for their unity (20-23). 1) How is belief produced? (20; 20:30,31; 6:44,45; Rom. 10:17). 2) Is unity important? Is it possible to attain? 3) How can we have and maintain it? (Via the word – 17,19,20; 2 John 9; 1 John 1:7). 4) One must first be in Christ, then continue to obey Him (Gal. 3:27; Heb. 5:9). 5) Cf. action and attitude of modern denominations to the request of Jesus. 6) Division is condemned (1 Cor. 1:10). 2. An example of unity (21,22). 3. The wonderful consequences of unity: 1) The world would believe and know that the Father sent Jesus (21,23). 2) The world would know that the Father loved Jesus’ disciples as He loved Jesus (23). 4. He prayed for their eternal salvation with Him (24). 5. He prayed that both God’s love and Jesus Himself would be in them (26).
JOHN CHAPTER EIGHTEENPRIVATE
1. 18:1-11 Judas betrayed Jesus. 2. 18:12-14,19-24 Jesus was questioned before Annas and Caiaphas. 3. 18:15-18 Peter’s first denial of Jesus 4. 18:25-27 Peter’s second and third denials of Jesus 5. 18:28-40 Jesus was questioned before Pilate.
I. WHAT IS WRITTEN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? 1. He knew all things that would happen to Him (4; 13:1; predicted His death and resurrection; 16:30). 2. He admitted that He was “Jesus of Nazareth” (5,8; Acts 22:8; 2:22; 24:5). 3. He was prepared to drink the cup which the Father gave Him (11; Lk. 22:42). 4. He spoke openly, and hid nothing – His teaching was not a secret (20; Acts 26:26; 5:28). 5. He suffered, though He was innocent (22,23; 1 Pet. 2:19-23; What about us?). 6. There were serious accusations made against Him when they brought Him to Pilate: 1) Malefactor [«evildoer,» NKJV] (30) 2) Luke 23:1,2 (3 charges) 7. What words of Jesus were fulfilled when He was crucified? (32; 3:14,15; 12:32,33). 8. Jesus’ kingdom is not of this world (36,37; 6:15; Col. 1:13; Heb. 12:28). 9. He came to earth to bear witness of the truth (37; cf. other specific purposes of coming). 10. Three times Pilate admitted that he found no fault in Him (38; 19:4,6; 1 Pet. 2:22).
II. SOME OTHER LESSONS THAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER 1. Notice the actions of Peter: 1) His zeal (10,11; Matt. 26:51-54; Rom. 10:1-3). 2) He stood with unbelievers, so we are not surprised by his speech (18; 1 Cor. 15:33; Matt. 26:56). 3) Why did He deny Jesus? (17,25,27; fear from lack of faith; cf. Matt. 10:32,33 with Matt. 10:26,28,31). 2. Who were Annas and Caiaphas? 1) Both were high priests when John began to preach (Luke 3:2). 2) Romans removed Annas, but Jews continued to consider him as lawful high priest. 3. The hypocrisy of the Jews (28; cf. Mk. 14:55-64 & false witnesses; cf. stoning Stephen). 4. Why did the Jews deliver Jesus to Pilate? (31; Only Romans allowed to carry out capital punish.; Mk.. 15:10). 5. Everyone who is of the truth hears Jesus’ voice (37; 8:31,32; Heb. 5:9; Matt. 5:6). 6. Pilate’s attitude toward the truth (38; A good question, but it must be asked with the right attitude).
JOHN CHAPTER NINETEEN
1. 19:1-11 Jesus again stood before Pilate, and he decided to crucify Him. 2. 19:12-16 The Jews persuaded Pilate to crucify Jesus. 3. 19:17-37 The actual crucifixion of Jesus. 4. 19:38-42 Joseph of Arimathaea and Nicodemus buried Jesus.
I. WHAT DO WE LEARN ABOUT JESUS IN THIS CHAPTER? Note: Pilate tried Jesus, then sent Him to Herod Antipas (Luke 23:6-12), then Pilate tried Him again. 1. He again suffered, though He did no wrong (1; 18:22,23). 2. He was completely innocent, and this others admitted (4,6; 18:38; Matt. 27:4,19,54). 3. The Jews wanted to kill Him because He claimed to be God's Son (7; 5:17,18; 10:30; Mk. 14:62-64). 4. He admitted/recognized Pilate's authority to try and condemn Him (10,11; Acts 25:9-11; Rom. 13). 5. He willingly bore His cross and shed His blood on it for our sins (16,17; 10:17,18; Eph. 5:25). 6. His sayings from the cross: 1) "Woman, behold thy son. . ." He gave His mother into the care of one of His disciples (25-27) 2) "I thirst" (28). 3) "It is finished" (30; 17:4; Heb. 10:9). 7. Did He really die, and if so, when? (30-34; Mk. 15:43-45). 8. By Jewish custom He was buried on the day that He died (38-42).
II. OTHER LESSONS THAT WE CAN LEARN FROM THIS CHAPTER. 1. What can we say about Pilate? 1) Scourged Jesus (1). 2) Admitted Jesus' innocence three times that morning (4,6; 18:38). 3) Had power to release Jesus, and admitted He did no wrong, but instead crucified Him (10). 4) He desired to release Jesus, but did not (12; Lk. 23:20). 5) In the end, decided to crucify Jesus in order to protect his own job and life (12,13). 2. The hypocrisy of the Jews – they pledged allegiance to Caesar, when they really detested him (15,31; 18:28). 3. The Jews one last time denied Jesus again (21; Mk. 8:38). 4. Fulfilled prophecies connected with the death of Jesus: 1) Soldiers cast lots for Jesus' coat (23,24; Psa. 22:18). 2) Jesus knew that the Scriptures must be fulfilled (30). 3) "A bone of him shall not be broken" (36; Ex. 12:46; Num. 9:12). 4) "They shall look on him whom they pierced" (37; Zech. 12:10). 5. The purpose of John's writing was to prove the Deity of Jesus (35; 20:30,31). 6. In Joseph we see both fear and courage (38; What is courage? Where are the apostles?). 7. Nicodemus had grown in faith and courage (39; 3:1,2; 7:50,51).
JOHN CHAPTER TWENTYPRIVATE
I. The tomb of Jesus was found to be empty (20:1-10). II. Jesus first appeared to Mary Magdalene (20:11-18). III. Jesus appeared to ten apostles (Thomas was not with them) (20:19-23). IV. Jesus appeared to all the apostles (including Thomas) (20:24-29). V. John's purpose in writing this book (20:30,31)
I. THE TOMB OF JESUS WAS FOUND TO BE EMPTY (20:1-10). 1. On the first day of the week other women came with Mary Magdal. to anoint Jesus (Mk. 16:1; Matt. 28:1). 2. Mary Magdalene did not yet know that Jesus was risen (2; cf. message of angel to women in Matt. 28:6). 3. Clothes/everything in order in the tomb – Jesus' body was not stolen (7). 4. Why did the disciple whom Jesus loved believe? Not because of the Scriptures or predictions of Jesus, but because he saw the empty tomb (8,9; Apostles did not expect it).
II. JESUS FIRST APPEARED TO MARY MAGDALENE (20:11-18). 1. Mary is the first one to see Jesus after He arose (Mark 16:9). It is unfortunate that there are many false ideas or traditions about her. We see her demonstrate her faith and courage. 2. She confessed Jesus as Lord (13; Matt. 10:32,33; She was where she wanted to be). 3. Why did she not immediately recognize Jesus (14)? 1) She was crying. 2) Her heart was filled with grief. 3) She did not expect to see Him. 4. Mary demonstrated her faith and courage again when she asked for the body (15). 5. Jesus confessed His disciples as His brethren (17; Matt. 28:7,10). 6. What is the significance of Jesus' resurrection? (Rom. 1:4; 4:25; 1 Cor. 15:23). 7. How do some non-believers in Jesus try to explain why the tomb was empty on the first day of the week? 1) "He did not die, but simply swooned." 2) "The women went to the wrong tomb." 3) "His disciples stole His body." 4) "His enemies stole His body."
III. JESUS APPEARED TO TEN APOSTLES (THOMAS WAS NOT WITH THEM) (20:19-23). 1. At least the first five appearances of Jesus took place on the day that Jesus rose from the dead (Sunday). 2. The apostles’ fear and sorrow turned to joy (19,20; 16:20). 3. Breathing was possibly a symbol of life (22; Gen. 2:7). 4. Did the apostles immediately receive the Holy Spirit? (22; 16:7,13; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4,5,8; 2:4). 5. Jesus gave the apostles authority (23; Matt. 18:18).
IV. JESUS APPEARED TO ALL THE APOSTLES (INCLUDING THOMAS) (20:24-29). 1. "Doubting Thomas" 1) What about the other 10 – did they believe when they first heard of the resurrection? No. 2) All Thomas wanted was the same evidence that the other ten had received (Heb. 11:1). 2. "Be not faithless, but believing" (27). 3. "My Lord and my God" (28; 1:1; 5:18; 8:58; 10:30). 4. Blessed are those who have not seen, yet believe (29; 1 Pet. 1:8).
V. JOHN'S PURPOSE IN WRITING THIS BOOK (20:30,31) 1. Why were not all the miracles of Jesus recorded in this book? (30) 1) There were too many! (21:25) 2) Those that are recorded are sufficient (31; Review those that are recorded in 2,4,5,6,9,11,21). 2. Purpose of the book of John: to produce faith in the readers (31). 1) What was purpose of Jesus doing miracles before men? (5:36) 2) Today we believe in Jesus due to what is written in the Bible (17:20; Romans 10:17).
JOHN CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
1. 21:1-14 Jesus appeared to the apostles (as a group) for the third time after His resurrection. 2. 21:15-19 Three times Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him. 3. 21:20-23 Jesus talked with Peter about the disciple whom He loved. 4. 21:24,25 The writer’s witness of Jesus.
I. JESUS APPEARED TO THE APOSTLES FOR THE THIRD TIME (21:1-14). 1. Peter had returned to his former job, either out of necessity or some other reason (3). 2. Did the disciples recognize Jesus when they saw Him? 1) Not at first (4; cf. when Mary Magdalene saw Him; also the two disciples on the road to Emmaus). 2) Later they did recognize Him (7,12). 3. What was the miracle? 1) Either the knowledge of the Lord, or giving the abundance of fish (11). 2) Cf. Luke 5:1-11 and the occasion of the two sinking ships. 4. Did Jesus Himself eat or approve of eating meat or living things in which there was blood? (9,13). 1) Such was approved by the law of Moses – eating fish (Lev. 11:9,10), eating Passover lamb (Ex. 12). 2) Yes, O.T. forbid eating swine and some other meats, but what about N.T. teaching? (1 Tim. 4:3-5).
II. THREE TIMES JESUS ASKED PETER IF HE LOVED HIM (21:15-19). 1. If Jesus already knew the answer to His own question, then why ask Peter if he loved Him? 1) To test Peter – to see if he would show the same pride and overconfidence that he did before. 2) To test Peter’s love for Him. 3) Jesus manifests mercy and patience to Peter, giving him a chance to correct his past mistakes. 2. “Feed my sheep/lamb” (15,16,17; Luke 22:31,32; Peter’s role in the book of Acts; 1 Peter 5:1,2). 3. “Love” in this conversation: “agape” (the 1st two questions by Jesus, 15,16) and “phileo” (Peter’s 3 answers and Jesus’ 3rd question, 15,16,17). 4. Peter was to give glory to God in his death, as he would be killed for serving the Lord (19). 5. “Follow me” (19,22). 1) Cf. Matt. 4:19. 2) We see that one who is Christ’s disciple must continue to follow Him (1 Peter 2:21; 1 Cor. 11:1).
III. JESUS TALKED WITH PETER ABOUT THE DISCIPLE WHOM HE LOVED (20-23). 1. Peter had his own personal responsibility and personal life, and so did John (22). 2. People believed something about John, but it was not true (22,23). 3. We must listen careful to what we hear, and then repeat it accurately (22,23).
IV. THE WRITER’S WITNESS OF JESUS (24,25). 1. The writer is the disciple whom Jesus loved, the one who leaned on Jesus’ breast (24,20). 2. His testimony is true (24; 19:35). 3. How could he testify of Jesus? He was an eyewitness (1 John 1:1-3). 4. Why are not all the actions of Jesus recorded in this book? Because there were too many (25). Also, because what is written is sufficient to produce faith (20:30,31). |
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