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.
A study of John 12:1-11 reveals honoring Jesus and extravagant love, an altruistic guise and spiritual vision, and seeking spectacle over substance.
A study of John 12:1-11 reveals honoring Jesus and extravagant love.
So they gave a dinner for him there.Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him. Then Mary took about a pintof pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped his feet with her hair. (ESV, John 12: 2-3)
This story is similarly recorded in Matthew 26:6-13, Mark 14:3-9, and Luke 7:36-50. A woman annoints Jesus with a jar full of expensive perfume. But there are variations among the authors. So how do we make sense of it? The account in Luke has several differences in time, location, and story characters and is therefore a separate event. But Matthew, Mark, and John can be explained as different writer viewpoints and perspectives of the same event. Like the story variations between different eyewitnesses describing the same incident.
In this account, Lazarus, Martha, and Mary host a dinner for Jesus who recently raised Lazarus from the dead in a dramatic fashion before a crowd of eyewitnesses. And the dinner both honors Jesus and celebrates Lazarus who participates in the occasion as a living testimony to the power of God. Martha works as a server. And in the middle of dinner, Mary expresses her devotion to Jesus in a dramatic, emotional act of extravagance. She pours a jar of expensive perfume on the feet of Jesus and dries his feet with her hair.
It was a selfless expression of humility, devotion, and love. But of course, there are always people who judge the actions of others out of the sinful desires in their own hearts. And in this case, it was Judas Iscariot.
A study of John 12:1-11 reveals an altruistic guise and spiritual vision.
Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.He 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 help himself to what was put into it. (ESV, John 12: 5-6)
Proper stewardship of God’s resources is a legitimate concern for every organization in Christian ministry. And those responsible for the finances must decide how to best disperse money towards benevolence, ministry, missions, and facilities. Who gets what, when, and why? The ultimate goal is to both honor God and support ministry. But sin has a way of spoiling things.
And sinful motives are easily hidden under the guise of altruism as demonstrated by Judas Iscariot. Although he raises a good point. The perfume Mary just poured over Jesus’ feet could have helped many poor people. Especially since it represented a year of income for the average worker of that day. But Judas didn’t really care about the poor. He was thinking about himself. Specifically, how he might help himself to it since he handled the ministry money purse.
But to our surprise and Judas’ disappointment, Jesus sides with Mary.
Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of my burial. For the poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.” (ESV, John 12:7-8)
Mary demonstrates spiritual vision
Spiritual vision requires humility, submission, and faith. And Mary demonstrated it in washing Jesus’ feet. Of course, caring for the poor was important. But the work of Christ was essential. For without his sacrifice for sin, mankind was doomed. Mary didn’t have it all figured out. But she confessed Jesus for who he was–the Son of God. And though her understanding was probably limited, she saw that at this particular moment he was the most significant person who deserved her full devotion.
And that is what spiritual vision involves. People of God who prayerfully seek and prioritize actions by looking beyond human reasoning and acting on faith to perform God’s work. Ideally, a church congregation collectively and prayerfully seeks God’s will and exercises faith to pursue a Spirit led direction.
A study of John 12:1-11 reveals seeking spectacle over substance.
Certainly, it was a dramatic sight when Lazarus emerged alive from the tomb in burial wrappings. And Mary’s display was impressive too, enhanced by a sweet aroma that filled the home. As John notes, the spectacle attracted a large crowd of people who wanted to see both Jesus and Lazarus. The two stars in a miracle show beyond all others.
But there was substance too for those looking with spiritual eyes. The mighty power of God. A Savior who was the resurrection and the life. And an opportunity for eternal life. The problem, however, is when spectacle overshadows substance.
So the chief priests made plans to put Lazarus to death as wellbecause on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus. (ESV, John 12:10-11)
Spectacle impresses us with the WOW factor. But substance sustains us in following Jesus Christ. And the spectacle of raising Lazarus caused many Jews to believe in Jesus. John makes no other comment so we must assume they were sincere decisions of faith. But the religious leaders grew even more determined to eliminate Jesus and kill Lazarus too since his resurrection was drawing more people to Jesus.
Today we are also surrounded with Christian spectacle. Worship services and church programs that attract consumers rather than spiritually form followers. And the question we must individually consider: Am I attending worship as a spectator or a follower of the living Lord?
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 11:45-57 reveals a divide between belief and unbelief, prophecy from a non-believer, and a cautious Savior as he completes his mission.
A study of John 11:45-57 reveals a divide between belief and unbelief.
Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him, but some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. (ESV, John 11:45-46)
After Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead the people who witnessed the miracle are spiritually divided. Some believe in Jesus but others go to the Pharisees to report the event. They knew the religious establishment wanted to arrest him and would want to know about such a spectacular miracle.
The Greek word for “believed” is pistĕuō, which means to put trust in, have faith in, entrust one’s spiritual well-being, commit to. John doesn’t comment on the genuineness of these believers in their faith. But the way he positions thems against those who reported to the Pharisees suggests the reporters are delivering intel on the enemy. Raising Lazarus from the dead was an awesome disply of God’s power. And yet, people hardened their hearts toward Jesus.
We see the same divide between belief and unbelief today. Along with the hostility toward Jesus and his followers. It’s why Jesus warns us to beware of a sinful and often hostile world.
Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. (ESV, Matthew 10:16)
A study of John 11:45-57 reveals prophecy from a non-believer
Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin. “What are we accomplishing?” they asked.(ESV, John 11:47)
The Sanhedrin was the Jewish ruling council during the time of Jesus. It operated as a religious, judicial, and political authority under Roman rule. It included 70 members made up of chief priests, pharisees, and scribes led by the high priest. And they met to discuss the problem posed by Jesus. The first thing to note is they don’t deny that Jesus performed miracles.
Here is this man performing many signs.
They acknowledged the power of God in his miracles, but they hardened their hearts against Jesus as the Son of God.
The motive for seeking Jesus’ death.
If we let him go on like this, everyone will believe in him, and then the Romans will come and take away both our temple and our nation.
Jesus’ popularity was growing and their influence declining. And the religious leaders worried Jesus might spark a messianic movement. In that case Rome would certainly crush it, but they might be replaced in the process. Then Caiphas, the high priest, prophesizes on two levels.
You know nothing at all. Nor do you understand that it is better for you that one man should die for the people, not that the whole nation should perish. (ESV, John 11:49-50)
Humanly speaking, Caiphas makes a cold, calculated statement. Jesus must die to protect the people of Israel and preserve their power. But his words also proclaim the gospel.
And not only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one. (ESV, John 11:52)
John points out that Caiphas prophesied without realizing the spiritual depth to his words. Jesus would die for the nation of Israel and the entire world. But not because the Sanhedrin conspired to bring it about. He was obeying the father and sacrificing himself for the sins of the world.
A study of John 11:45-57 reveals a cautious savior as he completes his mission.
So from that day on they plotted to take his life.Jesus therefore no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there to the region near the wilderness, to a town called Ephraim, and there he stayed with the disciples. (ESV, John 11:53-54)
The Greek word for “plotted” is ebouleusanto and actually means resolved. In other words, the Sanhedrin agreed Jesus must die. Now to formulate a plan and execute it. And like cutting to the next scene in a movie, the biblical text jumps to where Jesus makes a decision. Rather than appearing openly in Judea he moves to the remote village of Ephraim with his disciples to make sure all goes according to the father’s will.
The Passover celebration was approaching. And the Jewish religious leaders anticipated Jesus making a public appearance. So they ordered the people to alert them if they saw 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.
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