A study of John 13:18-30 reveals Jesus’ chosen disciples, the progression of a hardening heart, and the final rejection of Jesus.
A study of John 13:18-30 reveals Jesus’ chosen disciples.
I am not speaking of all of you; I know whom I have chosen. But the Scripture will be fulfilled, ‘He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’ (ESV, John 13:18)
The disciples gathered with Jesus at the Passover meal looked like a rag tag bunch of unlikely leaders, but they were individually chosen by Jesus. Including Judas who betrayed him. The scripture Jesus quotes is Psalm 41:9 which reads: Even my close friend in whom I trusted, who ate my bread, has lifted his heel against me.
This Psalm written by David conveys his emotional anquish of betrayal by a close, trusted friend. And it expresses the same painful rejection that Jesus feels in his betrayal by Judas. Chosen as one of his twelve inner disciples. Someone he trusted and poured his life into. But in the end, who personally handed him over to his enemies.
Judas knew Jesus at a level of closeness matched by only eleven other men. He lived and ministered with Jesus. Watched him perform amazing miracles, teach incredible sermons, live a sinless life, and still rejected him as the Son of God. Although by outward appearance, Judas was a loyal disciple. Only Jesus knew the truth. Because he saw directly into Judas’ heart where geniune belief in Jesus is formed. God’s direct gaze into a person’s heart is how he identifies true believers today as well.
A study of John 13:18-30 reveals the progression of a hardening heart.
Disciples grow in spiritual maturity as they strive to imitate Jesus and conform to his image. Likewise, unbelief and a hardened heart also advance over time. Although Judas’ betrayal is foretold, he still exercised a choice and is ultimately responsible for it. But let’s track his progression.
First there was unbelief. Despite the compelling evidence that Jesus was the Son of God, Judas did not believe in him as Jesus regularly called on people to do.
“However, there are some of you who do not believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and who would betray Him. (ESV, John 6:64)
As that unbelief took hold, sinful behavior followed. Outwardly, Judas appeared to be a faithful disciple. But the sinful thoughts in his heart began to express themselves.
But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was going to betray Him, asked,” “Why wasn’t this perfume sold for three hundred denarii and the money given to the poor?” “Judas did not say this because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief. As keeper of the money bag, he used to take from what was put into it.” (ESV, John 12:4-6)
The steady descent of sinful thoughts
Sin presents a constant spiritual battle for believers. In 2 Corinthians 10:5, Paul tells us to take our thoughts captive and in Philippians 4:8 to direct our minds towards pure, lovely and admirable thoughts. But even then, we still sin. So 1 John 1:9 says to regularly confess our sins and God will faithfully forgive and cleanse us from them. But for unbelievers, sinful thoughts collect and sink lower into moral corruption. As Judas allowed Satan’s influence to grow stronger his thoughts formed a conspiracy.
“The evening meal was underway, and the devil had already put into the heart of Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus.” (ESV, John 13:2)
Judas begins to actively plan the betrayal. He hasn’t fully committed to an action and can still turn back, but he’s on a precipice leaning forward.
Then one of the Twelve, the one called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and asked, ‘What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?’” So from then on Judas looked for an opportunity to betray Jesus. (ESV, Matthew 26:14-16)
Finally, Judas gives Satan complete control of his heart, makes his final decision, and moves forward to carry it out.
Then He dipped the morsel and gave it to Judas son of Simon Iscariot. And when Judas had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him. (ESV, John 13:26-27)
Belief and unbelief are both a choice everyone makes and we are individually responsible for our decision. The one that determines eternal outcomes.
A study of John 13:18-30 reveals the final rejection of Jesus.
After saying these things, Jesus was troubled in his spirit, and testified, “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” (ESV, John 13:21)
Troubled in spirit, Jesus suddenly blurts out to his disciples that one of them will betray him. It causes an immediate reaction among them as they wonder who it is. Was Jesus signalling to Judas he knew it was him? Maybe as a final chance for Judas to confess and repent? Certainly, Jesus was carrying a heavy weight of emotional stress. In spite of it, Jesus feeds Judas a morsal of food. A final, loving gesture toward Judas who accepts the food, but returns no loving response.
It reminds us that God’s love is an ongoing offer along with the opportunity for repentance. But in V.27, Judas’ own internal conflict comes to a close.
Then after he had taken the morsel, Satan entered into him.
Satan moves beyond influence to complete control of Judas. And recognizing that Judas is completely lost, Jesus tells him to act quickly. So Judas leaves and John adds the words:
And it was night.
They appear to represent both a physical reality and a symbolic meaning. Judas went out at night time but also into spiritual darkness to betray Jesus. A similar idea is presented in chapter three when Nicodemus visited Jesus at night with questions that revealed his spiritual darkness. It tells us that when people give themselves over to evil, their hearts are darkened with sin. But God reveals himself to those who genuinely seek him.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
A Family Friendly Funny Book
Family Stew is a warm, laugh-out-loud collection of stories on life in a middle-class, suburban Christian family. With a storyteller’s heart and a comedian’s timing, Tudor captures the messiness, chaos, and joy experienced when faith, parenting, and daily routines collide.
A study of John 13:1-17 reveals an act of godly humility, a spiritual meaning in the godly act, and a godly example for disciples to follow.
A study of John 13:1-17 reveals an act of godly humility.
Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. He laid aside his outer garments, and taking a towel, tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet and to wipe them with the towel that was wrapped around him.(ESV, John 13:1,4-5)
As Jesus celebrated the Passover meal with his disciples he knew his crucifixion was near and time with his disciples limited. How might he best make a lasting impression with a defining moment that would impact their ministry when he was gone? His decision was a teaching moment through an act of love as V.1 reminds us:
Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.
The Greek word for “end” is telo, which means complete, end, fullest extent, and the point aimed at as a limit. In other words, Jesus loved his disciples to the fullest measure and to the very end of his earthly life. So he removed his outer garments, tied a towel around his waist, poured water into a basin, and washed their feet one by one. All them, including Judas who was about to betray him.
The common task of foot washing
People in that day wore sandals. So footwashing dusty feet was a common practice after entering someone’s home. But it was a menial task reserved for servants. For a rabbi like Jesus to willingly perform it was very uncommon. You can imagine the raised eybrows and exchanged, puzzled looks between the disciples at Jesus’ actions.
The Greek term for “laid aside” in John 13:4 is tithēmi and is the same term used in John 10:11. “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” It described a physical act, but also carries a theological meaning. Jesus laid aside his deity to die for us. The Apostle Paul affirms this in his letter to the Philippians.
Who though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped,but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (ESV, Philippians 2:6-8)
A study of John 13:1-17 reveals a spiritual meaning in the godly act.
Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.The one who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but is completely clean.(ESV, John 13:8,10)
Peter objects when Jesus prepares to wash his feet. For Jesus to perform the task of a slave was unthinkable to him. Maybe even shamed him a bit considering the times he and the other disciples argued about who among them was the greatest. But his understanding of Jesus’ actions was based on a physical level. Therefore, Jesus pointed out the spiritual meaning those actions represented.
He bluntly says that without the washing Peter would have no share with him. Jesus once again uses something from everyday life to communicate a profound, spiritual meaning. In this case, it was the necessity of spiritually washing away Peter’s sin through his sacrifice on the cross.
Without the spiritual cleansing provided by Jesus there is no forgiveness of sin, union with Christ, or eternal life. Peter likely didn’t fully understand what Jesus was saying, but sensed its spiritual importance and became immediately enthusiasic in his acceptance. And even suggested additional cleaning beyond his feet.
The spiritual need for ongoing cleaning
Jesus continues with another another spiritual truth to the footwashing. Once Peter’s body is spiritually cleansed by Jesus he is granted eternal life. But he still continues to sin. And he is soiled by that sin like dust soils his sandal clad feet. Therefore, regular confession and forgiveness of sin becomes an ongoing practice of discipleship.
This is also true for Christ-followers today. We are saved when we believe in Jesus, confess our sins in repentance and follow him. But we still sin and it collects in our hearts in daily life. Our salvation is secure in Jesus Christ. But the daily collection of sin must be washed off like the collection of dust on our feet through regular confession and forgiveness. Full washing represents salvation. Foot washing represents ongoing sanctification of the believer pursuing a holy life.
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (ESV, 1John 1:9)
A study of John 13:1-17 reveals a godly example for disciples to follow.
You call me Teacher and Lord, and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do just as I have done to you. (ESV, John 13:13-15)
There is beautiful simplicity in the spiritual message of the footwashing. There’s the deep, theological meaning of Jesus washing away our sins and granting us eternal life. And at the same time, an example of what genuine spiritual leadership involves. It moves beyond giving directions to demonstrating servanthood. Beyond telling to showing.
Did Jesus instruct and give commands? Yes. But in the end, in the final moments of his ministry with the disciples, the last lesson was on loving those he led and demonstrating that love through service. Ultimately by sacrificing his life. His lasting impression was an action that spoke louder than words.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
A Family Friendly Funny Book
Family Stew is a warm, laugh-out-loud collection of stories on life in a middle-class, suburban Christian family. With a storyteller’s heart and a comedian’s timing, Tudor captures the messiness, chaos, and joy experienced when faith, parenting, and daily routines collide.
A study of John 12:37-50 reveals why people reject Jesus, the power of social pressure, and Jesus as Savior and God’s Word as judge.
A study of John 12:37-50 reveals why people reject Jesus.
He has blinded their eyes and hardened their heart, lest they see with their eyes, and understand with their heart, and turn, and I would heal them. (ESV, John 12:40)
This statement is taken from Isaiah 6:10. A prophetic word spoken around 700 years earlier. And it’s hard for us to understand why the people rejected him other than it fulfilled prophecy. Clearly, the crowds were amazed by Jesus’ authoritative teaching and divine miracles. Not to mention he was sinless. But still, many did not believe in him and most of the Jewish religious leaders wanted to kill him. So he hid himself in order to carefully guard his public appearances until the right moment for his crucifixion arrived.
Today, many people claim nonbelief in Jesus based on intellectual reasoning. Their cognitive claim is the Bible is full of myths, legends, and contradictions that don’t fool intelligent people. However, both Isaiah and John identify the real problem as a hardened heart.
What is a hardened heart?
The Greek word for “hardened” is pōrŏō, which literally means to make hard like stone, petrify, render stupid, and make calloused. It originally referred to hard stone, thickened skin, and a callus over tissue.
In scripture it means spiritually desensitized, morally dull, and stubborn towards God. The conscience grows calloused, spiritual perception dull, and resistant to truth. Hearts grow hardened through persistent sin and unbelief. And then God judicially hardens them more in divine judgment. Furthermore, a hardened heart represents spiritual blindness as the Apostle Paul points out.
The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. (ESV, 1 Corinthain 2:14)
The difference between intellectual acknowledgment and belief is apple to oranges. The first takes place in your head and the second in your heart. The first is an admission. The second a commitment.
A study of John 12:37-50 reveals the power of social pressure.
Nevertheless, many even of the authorities believed in him, but for fear of the Pharisees they did not confess it, so that they would not be put out of the synagogue; for they loved the glory that comes from man more than the glory that comes from God. (ESV, John 12:42-43)
Up to now in John’s Gospel, it appears Jesus was universally hated and rejected by the religious leaders. He challenged their hypocrasy, debated their theology, and invoked their jealousy. But here, John says many religious leaders did believe in him. Unfortunately, they did not openly declare their faith because of potential consequences. They might be put out of the synagogue.
The difference between the Jewish temple and synagogue?
In the Old Testament, God appointed the temple as the one central place of sacrificial worship for Israel. And during the Roman period it was located in Jerusalem. The temple hosted sacrifices, the priesthood, major feast observances, and visibly represented the Mosaic covenant. It was also home to the holy of holies where the High Priest entered alone once a year on the Day of Atonement to offer sacrifices. Its importance in Judaism explains why the Jews frequently traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate religious feasts and important celebrations.
Synagogues likely developed during or after the Babylonian exile when many Jews lived far from Jerusalem. They helped preserve Jewish identity and were well established throughout the Roman empire. They were not divinely instituted like the temple and could not offer sacrifices, but became local gatherings for scripture reading, teaching, prayer, and functioned both religiously and socially. To be banned from it was both religious and social ostracism. John points this out in chapter nine when the religious leaders question the parents of the blind man that Jesus healed.
His parents said these things because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone should confess Jesus to be Christ, was to be put out of the synagogue. (ESV, John 9:22)
Believers silenced by fear
The hatred of the religious leaders as a whole toward Jesus was so intense, even those in this priviledged position feared banishment from the synagogue for confessing their faith in Jesus. And it stopped them from publicly declaring their faith. It reminds us of the human need for belonging and acceptance. That social rejection is a powerful form of influence. And the compromises we’ll make to fit in.
A study of John 12:37-50 reveals Jesus as Savior and God’s Word as Judge.
If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world. The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day. (ESV, John 12:47-48)
Jesus closes out his public ministry with a final reminder. He did not come to judge the world but to save it. At first this looks like good news. Like the story of the woman caught in adultery in John 7:53–8:11. In his final word to her, Jesus expresses grace with a gentle warning.
And Jesus said, “Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.” (ESV, John 8:11)
Unlike the religious leaders who brought the woman to him, Jesus does not condemn her. But offers her grace. Amazing considering he was the only perfect human with the right to condemn her. However, he follows with “go and sin no more.” In other words, sin will eternally separate you from God. And he draws her attention to it because she can experience forgiveness and eternal life through him.
And here Jesus also presents an opportunity and warning. His mission is not one of condemnation but salvation. And the words he spoke to them were from the father. Words that invite listeners to believe in and follow him for eternal life. But those who reject him are condemned by those words.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
A Family Friendly Funny Book
Family Stew is a warm, laugh-out-loud collection of stories on life in a middle-class, suburban Christian family. With a storyteller’s heart and a comedian’s timing, Tudor captures the messiness, chaos, and joy experienced when faith, parenting, and daily routines collide.
A study of John 12:20-36 reveals one truth from two opposites, a sacrifice for all mankind, and a spiritual lesson from light and darkness.
A study of John 12:20-36 reveals one truth from two opposites.
Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him. (ESV, John 12:26-27)
During religious feasts like the Passover, both Jews and Greeks traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate it in the Jewish capital. In this passage, some Greeks approach Phillip and ask to see Jesus. The term “Greeks” in V.20 suggests they weren’t specifically from Greece, but Gentiles from a Greek speaking region. Possibly one close to Bethsaida where Phillip was from. And maybe they approached Phillip because he had a Gentile name and they felt a kinsmanship with him, even though he was a Jew.
Who were these Greeks that wanted to see Jesus?
They could have been proselytes who converted to Judaism, non-converts who feared God, or simply curious due to Jesus’ growing reputation. John doesn’t say. And Phillip seems unsure what to do. So he asks Andrew who takes him to ask Jesus. And the engagement we anticipate evaporates like a puff of smoke. Because instead, Jesus announces his time to be glorified has come and then he shares a metaphor.
I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. (ESV, John 12:24)
Looking back today, the metaphor makes sense. But probably didn’t to those at the time. Because Jesus was talking about his crucifixion, the resurrection, and the new spiritual life that would grow from his death. It would have a life producing, multiplying effect.
The lesson of love and hate
Jesus goes on to say those who love their life will lose it and those who hate their life will keep it for eternity. What does he mean by this?
His point is not about the two emotions, but on a loyalty they represent. People that love their life focus on themselves. It is the I in sin that also defines it. In contrast, Jesus teaches us to serve him by serving others. To look outward rather than inward. And he demonstrated it by washing the feet of the disciples during the last supper. It is the power of his indwelling Spirit that moves us beyond self-interest to demonstrating interest in others.
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. (ESV, John 12:24)
Jesus again alludes to his death. Just as a kernel of wheat germinates when it dies and grows to produces a crop, Jesus would also die. But his resurrection would produce a crop and therefore a spiritual harvest of people who through faith in him would gain eternal life.
A study of John 12:20-36 reveals a sacrifice for all mankind.
Now is my soul troubled. And what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour? But for this purpose I have come to this hour. Father, glorify your name.” Then a voice came from heaven: “I have glorified it, and I will glorify it again.” (ESV, John 12:27-28)
Jesus pauses to express anxiety as he anticipates what is ahead. The Greek word for “troubled” is tarassō, which means to trouble, stir or agitate as to roil water. And he even mentions a potential rescue by his father. Like us, in his humanity, he considers “what if” regarding his choices. But then reasserts his commitment to carry out the father’s purpose to glorify his name. And a voice from heaven affirms Jesus is indeed, glorifying the father.
What does it mean for Jesus to be glorified?
The Greek word for “glorified” is doxazō, which means to be glorified, honored, exalted, and made manifestin splendor. In his Gospel, John means to honor, magnify and reveal greatness. And Jesus does this through obedience to the father in his sacrificial death on the cross and resurrection.
Jesus then speaks about his death with more detail and an additional meaning.
And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself.” He said this to show by what kind of death he was going to die. (ESV, John 12:32-33)
Two meanings for “lifted up from the earth.”
First, there is the physical act of lifting Jesus up on the cross. But there is also his ultimate exaltation to the right hand of God after his resurrection that will draw all people to him. By sacrificing himself for us and rising from the dead, Jesus defeated both sin and death. And through him we can too.
The Greek word for “draw” is hĕlkō, which literally means to drag, draw, pull, haul or compel by forceful movement. It’s used to describe Peter drawing his sword when Jesus is arrested and hauling in a catch of fish. In this context it is used figuratively to mean powerfully attracting people to Jesus in faith. The words “all people” doesn’t mean everyone will put their faith in Jesus. But to communicate the inclusivity of the Gospel. Jesus invites all mankind–Jew and Gentile–to compose the New Testament church.
John records Jesus speaking about this earlier in his Gospel.
“I have other sheep which are not of this fold. I must bring them also, and they will hear my voice. They will become one flock with one shepherd.” (ESV, John 10:16)
A study of John 12:20-36 reveals a spiritual lesson from light and darkness
So Jesus said to them, “The light is among you for a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you. The one who walks in the darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.” (ESV, John 12:35-36)
The people are confused when Jesus says he must be lifted up. It illustrates their misunderstanding about his real purpose as a sacrificial savior. And they express this misunderstanding.
We have heard from the Law that the Christ remains forever. How can you say that the Son of Man must be lifted up? Who is this Son of Man? (ESV, John 12:34)
In other words, the Messiah they expected was a conquering king who would establish an earthly kingdom and rule forever. However, the kingdom Jesus spoke of was spiritual rather than physical. But rather than accept this they questioned if Jesus was actually the one they expected. Perhaps the Son of Man, as he called himself, was someone completely different.
It once again illustrates the stubborness of human hearts. People fail to recognize who Jesus is because he doesn’t meet their expectations. So it is important that we study the scriptures and form expectations on what scripture reveals about the character of God, his purpose, and plan for the eternal order.
Light and Darkness
Light and darkness are common spiritual themes in John and throughout the New Testament. And here it includes a warning of future judgment. Perhaps in a modern, hip paraphrase, Jesus might say, “Wake up people and open your eyes! The light is right before you. It’s me.”
The Greek word for “overtake” is katalambanō, which means to take eagerly, seize, and possess. For us, sunset represents a gradual descent of the sun as darkness overtakes the earth. But when Jesus is gone, the darkness will be immediate and overwhelming. Perhaps the idea of being seized and possessed by it better describes a spiritual reality without God’s illumination. So don’t let darkness seize you. Instead, seize the moment, believe in Jesus, and become sons of light. Or as John says in his first chapter.
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God. (ESV, John 1:12)
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
A Family Friendly Funny Book
Family Stew is a warm, laugh-out-loud collection of stories on life in a middle-class, suburban Christian family. With a storyteller’s heart and a comedian’s timing, Tudor captures the messiness, chaos, and joy experienced when faith, parenting, and daily routines collide.
A study of John 12:12-19 reveals Jesus’ triumphant entry, a messianic rather than military procession, and desperation when power is threatened.
A study of John 12:12-19 reveals Jesus’ triumphant entry.
The next day the large crowd that had come to the feast heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem. So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel! (ESV, John 12:12-13)
After Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead and the two shared a dinner together, excitement stirred among the people. But groups were still divided in their response. Many were eager to see and consider following Jesus, but the Jewish leaders rejected him. They were full of jealousy, hatred, and feared for their positions of power. And they wanted to kill him.
When it became known Jesus was heading to Jerusalem, an excited crowd went out to meet him carrying palm branches. Matthew 21:8 describes it this way. Most of the crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. In addition, the people cried, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord, even the King of Israel!”
The significance of palm branches
Palm branches had an Old Testament history too. They were used in Israel’s worship as recorded in Leviticus 23:40
And you shall take on the first day the fruit of splendid trees, branches of palm trees and boughs of leafy trees and willows of the brook, and you shall rejoice before the Lord your God seven days. (ESV, Leviticus 23:40)
Palm branches were used as an expression of joy before God and celebrated his provision and deliverance. And they further symbolized a theme of salvation, not just politics.
A study of John 12:12-19 reveals a messianic rather than military procession.
Fear not, daughter of Zion; behold, your king is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt!” (ESV, John 12:15)
Following victorius battles, Roman generals often entered cities in a military procession displaying their spoils of war. Usually riding in a chariot or on a war horse to project dominance and power. As the people of the city watched, they often joined in with shouts of celebration. But John descibes Jesus as entering in a different manner as prophesied by Zechariah.
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king is coming to you; righteous and having salvation is he, humble and mounted on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. (ESV, Zechariah 9:9)
In contrast to Roman generals who projected dominating power, Jesus’ entrance was marked by righteousness and salvation. And his manner demonstrated humility. He projected both his godly character and spiritual intentions.
Furthermore, the proclamation of the crowd recorded by John is also found in Old Testament scripture.
O LORD, save us, we pray…Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD. (ESV, Psalm 118:25–26)
The psalm was sung during pilgrimage feasts like the Passover. And it includes the imagery of a procession toward the temple in anticipation of a coming deliverer and sacrifice. In other words, the crowd unknowingly participated in a messianic procession symbolizing the savior’s sacrifice. But missed it because they expected a savior that delivered them from Roman oppression, not sin. And a physical, earthly king rather than a spiritual, heavenly one.
A study of John 12:12-19 reveals desperation when power is threatened.
The reason why the crowd went to meet him was that they heard he had done this sign. So the Pharisees said to one another, “You see that you are gaining nothing. Look, the world has gone after him.” (ESV, John 12:18-19)
The news about Lazarus spread rapidly among the people for a simple reason. As John records, the people who saw Jesus raise Lazarus from the grave continued to bear witness to the event. The excitement, enthusiasm, and curiosity it sparked attracted a large crowd of people to meet Jesus on his way into Jerusalem. In similar fashion, the testimony of believers today continues to draw people to Jesus. But sharing often takes courage.
Because now like then, a hostile crowd seeks to silence voices that proclaim Jesus. And see him as a threat to their lifestyle rather than savior from their sin. The Pharisees exemplify closed minds and hard hearts as they declare in V.19, “You see that you are gaining nothing. Look, the world has gone after him.”
The Pharisees’ determination to protect their power would result in desperate measures as future events demonstrate. But then, many of the crowd that goes out to meet him quickly turns on him too when he fails to meet their expectations.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
A Family Friendly Funny Book
Family Stew is a warm, laugh-out-loud collection of stories on life in a middle-class, suburban Christian family. With a storyteller’s heart and a comedian’s timing, Tudor captures the messiness, chaos, and joy experienced when faith, parenting, and daily routines collide.
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