A study of John 6:1-15 reveals a Jesus spiritual fan base rather than genuine followers, two responses when God tests you, and a small offering in the hands of God yields big results.
A study of John 6:1-15 reveals a Jesus spiritual fan base rather than genuine followers.
Jesus went away to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. And a large crowd was following him… (ESV, John 6:1-2a)
The feeding of the 5,000 is the only miracle of Jesus recorded in all four Gospels. It occurred near the time of the Jewish passover. Jesus and his disciples had retreated to the east side of the Sea of Galilee. The Greek word for “mountain” is ŏrŏs, which means mountain and hill. But can also indicate hill country or high ground. In his gospel account, Mark (Mark 6:32) calls it a “desolate or solitary place.” Jesus and the disciples were sitting on the ground together as Jesus prepared for a teacher and disciples training session.
Jesus notices a crowd approaching in the distance. And John comments on why the crowd was pursuing him.
Because they saw the signs that he was doing on the sick. (ESV, John 6:2b)
In other words, they weren’t genuine followers. But fans. Not disciples seeking to grow in faith. But an audience desiring entertainment. A show. And we see a similar motivation today as well. People that attend a church worship service for its polished presentation. The compelling groove of upbeat music. A choregraphed worship team. Dazzling lights. And a positive, spiritual Ted Talk.
But Jesus also recognized something else. They were in a remote setting. And soon the eager crowd would also be hungry. Then what?
A study of John 6:1-15 reveals two responses when God tests you.
Jesus said to Philip, “Where are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat? (ESV, John 6:5) There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish, but what are they for so many?” (ESV, John 6:9)
So, Jesus turns to his disciple Phillip and asks where they can get food for the crowd. Why Phillip? Because Philip was from Bethsaida, a local town in the region. if anyone knew all the fine food establishments, he would. But Phillip responded with the pragmatic honesty of an empty glass. There was no food source anywhere close and even if there was two hundred denarii wouldn’t cover the cost for the crowd headed their way. An amount that equaled six months wages.
The disciple Nathan was also from Bethsaida. And his better idea was a boy willing to share his meal of five barley loaves and two small fish. Nathan admitted it was a futile suggestion. So, you wonder why he brought it up. Maybe to sound positive? Yes, it was meager and woefully inadequate. But it was at least something.
Barley loaves were the cheapest bread you could buy. And the Greek word for fish is ŏpsariŏn, which means a small fish like sardines. Likely, not fresh, but dried and salted for preservation. A poor person meal. And Phillip and Nathan offer two different ways to respond when God tests us. Throw up our hands in complete surrender. Or offer to Jesus the resources we have and trust his leading.
That one small meal was all Jesus needed to work with. And he already knew what he was going to do anyway.
A study of John 6:1-15 reveals a small offering in the hands of God yields big results.
So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves left by those who had eaten. (ESV, John 6:13)
Meals had historical meanings for the Jews. Such as the passover meal recorded in Exodus 12. During their Egyptian captivity, the Jews were instructed to sacrifice a lamb and spread some of its blood on the front door posts so the angel of death passed over their home. Then cook and eat the lamb for their evening meal.
Another account is recorded in Exodus 16. As Israel wandered in the wilderness on their way from Egypt to the promised land. And when they complained of hunger, God delivered manna from heaven on the ground for them to gather every morning. However, there was a restriction. They were limited to gathering only enough for each day. But for this meal, Jesus had them gather the leftovers. Is there something symbolic about a collection of 12 baskets and the 12 tribes of Israel? Or simply that 12 disciples did the collecting?
It’s uncertain what went through the minds of those in the crowd. But one thing is sure. A small amount of faith placed in the hands of God yields big results. The people were aware of the miracle. And that Jesus might be the promised Messiah. But the savior they anticipated was expected to free them from Roman occupation. And they were ready to make Jesus king by force.
So, Jesus quietly slipped away into the hills by himself. Because their expectation was not his mission. Instead, he was about to become the lamb sacrificed for the sins of the world.
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This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals Jesus’ judgment aligns with the father, witnesses that testify to Jesus, and self-glorification leads to rejection of Jesus.
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals Jesus’ judgment aligns with the father.
I can do nothing on my own. As I hear, I judge, and my judgment is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me. (ESV, John 5:30)
These words are opposite of our human experience. And explain why parenting is so challenging. Our children frequently don’t listen to us just like we disobeyed our parents. But this does not happen between God the father and son. The son always hears and follows the will of the father. But again. This is not a heirachical relationship of father over the son. They are equal as God. Rather, it is a relationship of mutual love and complete agreement.
And why do we fail to listen and obey? Because of our sin. The very reason that Jesus came to earth. Not to condemn but to save us from it. Therefore, we are all accountable for our choice. And ultimately, the son will judge us for it. However, the son does not judge on his own. Because in his judgment, as with all things, he listens and responds to the voice of the father. He doesn’t seek to prove himself. Draw from his own wisdom. Or gain personal glory. But simply obey the father’s will.
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals the witnesses that testify to Jesus.
If I alone bear witness about myself, my testimony is not true. (ESV, John 5:31)
In Jewish law a person could not be convicted of a crime on the word of an accuser. Or even an accuser with one witness. There had to be at least two corroborating witnesses. So, Jesus points out witnesses that testify on his behalf. Not because he needs them, since he is God. But to verify his Messianic claim according to their own legal system.
Five Witnesses
John the Baptist: John was a respected prophet whose entire ministry previewed the coming of God’s annointed one. He clearly proclaimed the coming of one who was greater than him. In V.35, John is called a “shining lamp.” The Greek word for “lamp” is lychnos, which must be lit by someone else. Jesus, however, is the “light,” which is the Greek word phōs.
Works: The Greek word for “works” is ĕrgŏn, which means to work, labor, and toil as an effort or occupation. It encompasses Jesus’ miracles, teaching, and everything else related to his ministry. His works testify that Jesus was sent by the father. When Nicodemus visited Jesus, he acknowledged that his works proved that God was with him.
The father: Mark 1:11 records the baptism of Jesus and Mark 9:7 the transfiguration. And both occasions include the affirming and audible voice of God. Furthermore, John 1:32 records where the Spirit descends on Jesus like a dove. Although there’s no clear indication in this passage John is alluding to any of them. So, he may be speaking in general that all of the father’s revealing work points to Jesus.
The scriptures: Jesus pointed out the Jews diligently studied the scriptures that bore witness of him. But they still didn’t turn to him for life. And we see the same thing today. People read the Bible, but don’t believe. Why? Do they fail to see because their minds are closed? Or maybe they reject what doesn’t fit their worldview?
Moses: The Jews revered Moses who wrote the first five books of the Old Testament. And Jesus points out to them that Moses also wrote about him. So, if they don’t believe Moses about him, how will they believe what he says?
A study of John 5:30-47 reveals self-glorification leads to rejection of Jesus.
How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? (ESV, John 5:44)
Sin at its core is a self-centered heart. One that seeks its own glorification, recognition, and approval from other people. However, Jesus sought only the father’s approval. Obedience to his will. And his glory. As Christ-followers, we should have the same aspiration. But it’s an ongoing battle against our natural self-centeredness. Self-glorification. Disobedience to God. And desire for the approval of others.
It is only accomplished through the Holy Spirit’s work in our hearts. The desire for attention and recognition must be met by a humble and contrite spirit that seeks to elevate God, rather than ourselves. Desires to please God rather than others. And glorify him rather than ourselves.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an 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.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 5:19-29 reveals father and son equality and the son’s obedience to the father, the key to passing from death to life, and Jesus’ authority to execute judgement.
A study of John 5:19-29 reveals father and son equality and the son’s obedience to the father.
Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, that the Son does likewise. (ESV, John 5:19)
Jesus was accused of breaking the Jewish sabbath because he healed a man on it, But he defends the miracle in 5:17 by saying his father always works and he does too. However, the claim also implies equality with the father. And that is what especially infuriates his accusers. To the point they want to kill him. So, you might expect Jesus to back off a little. Instead, in V.19, he pushes forward.
He starts with the words “truly, truly” which is a way of saying, “Listen up. This is really important.” Some scholars point out an imagery of apprenticeship in V.19-20. It was common in that day for sons to learn the trade of their fathers as an apprentice. And perhaps, Jesus drew from the experience of learning from Joseph, the trade of carpentry.
Furthermore, what he as God the Son does, comes from God the Father. Which reinforces the claim of equality. Because the son does “likewise” as the father. In addition, the “likewise” demonstrates the son’s submissive obedience to the father’s will. However, this submission is based on a sense of mutual love and purpose, not a hierarchy of authority. Therefore, as the son who acts according to the father’s will, Jesus is the complete revelation of God the Father.
A study of John 5:19-29 reveals the key to passing from death to life.
Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life. (ESV, John 5:24)
Jesus holds the key to eternal life. He says in V. 21, the “Son gives life to whom he will.” And identifies who he is talking about in V.24. Whoever hears Jesus’ word and believes. Therefore, the key to passing from death to life does not follow an action plan. But a person. Jesus Christ.
The Greek word for “hear” is akŏuō, which means to hear, give audience, come to the ears, and understand. And the Greek word for “believes” is pistĕuō, which means to entrust, commit, and have faith in. In other words, something occurs in the heart of a person after they hear Jesus’ words that leads to belief. Something beyond intellectual assent. But involves a willful decision of faith. And the moment you make that decision you pass from eternal death to eternal life.
It sounds straightforward. Simple. And anyone can do it, which is true. But not everyone does. Did the infirmed man by the pool believe Jesus could perform miracles after Jesus healed him? Absolutely! But did he believe in Jesus? Doesn’t appear so. Because that would take a personal committment. What about the Jews? Nope. They wouldn’t let go of their self-righteous legalism.
A study of John 5:19-29 reveals Jesus’ authority to execute judgment.
For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to execute judgment, because he is the Son of Man. (ESV, John 5:26-27)
Only God has life in himself. Therefore, to say the Son also has life in himself confirms that he too is God. And it is appropriate for the Son to serve as eternal judge. Why? Because he has shared our human experience. Including our temptation, but he was without sin. And most importantly, he died as a sacrifice to atone for our sins.
And yet, by his own words, not everyone who appears before his judgment seat passes into heaven.
On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness. (ESV, Matthew 7:22-23)
Jesus doesn’t malign their good deeds.
They were likely righteous acts. But righteous acts are not enough. God requires a righteous heart. And that occurs through repentance, confession of sin, and forgiveness.
But then, Jesus calls himself the “Son of man.” Why? The term originates in the Old Testament book of Daniel. As Daniel records a dream.
And behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, (ESV, Daniel 7:13-14)
In Daniel’s dream one called “a son of man” would rule an eternal kingdom. By using the term to refer to himself, Jesus confirms himself as the fulfillment of Daniel’s prophecy. The Messiah sent from the father to establish the kingdom of heaven.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an 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.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 5:1-18 demonstrates receiving from, but not recognizing the savior, a focus on legalism rather than grace, a call for repentance, and a constantly working God.
A study of John 5:1-18 demonstrates receiving from, but not recognizing the Savior.
When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, and while I am going another steps down before me.” (ESV, John 5:3-7)
Jesus visited Jerusalem during the time of a Jewish feast and passed the pool of Bethseda near the sheep gate. Its waters were periodically disturbed by what the people believed was an angel stirring the water. Although modern Bible scholars suggest it was underground springs feeding into it. But infirmed people gathered around the pool when a disturbance was anticipated because they believed the first sick person into the pool afterwards was healed.
Jesus arrives, surveys the crowd of sick people gathered around the pool and picks out one person. A man identified as an invalid for 38 years. Jesus asks if he wants to be healed. Which is like asking a starving wolf if he enjoys lamb. The man calls Jesus “sir” which is the Greek word Kyrie and indicates general respect.
So, there is no evidence of faith on his part. He doesn’t recognize Jesus or know he is the Son of God. Or that Jesus is contemplating a miracle. But replies he is too infirmed to ever reach the pool first after it is stirred. A New Testament example of victimhood. Perhaps, to evoke pity so Jesus might stick around and help him into the water. But Jesus did something much better.
He tells the man, “Get up, take up your bed, and walk.”
A study of John 5:1-18 demonstrates a focus on legalism rather than grace.
So the Jews said to the man who had been healed, “It is the Sabbath, and it is not lawful for you to take up your bed.” But he answered them, “The man who healed me, that man said to me, ‘Take up your bed, and walk.’” (ESV, John 5:10-11)
You’d think an invalid of 38 years might express a little gratitude for such a radical, life changing miracle. Maybe exchange names. But the man Just stands, rolls up the bedroll, and walks…away. But then, he meets Jews who rebuke him for breaking the Sabbath law by carrying the bedroll. Not the original sabbath commandment given by God, but an extra interpretation they added to it. Caught in the act, the man offers a quick excuse. The guy that healed him, told him to.
Wow! Don’t thank Jesus for healing you. Or even ask his name. But shift the blame on him to excuse your own actions. Not that any of us would do such a thing today. Praise God while everything is going well, but when things go wrong point accusing fingers at God with righteous indignation and ask, “why did you let this happen?”
So, the healed man blames Jesus to avoid trouble. The Jews can only focus on their legalistic view of the sabbath. Everyone is blind to grace. And no one considers the miracle a reason to glorify God.
A study of John 5:1-18 demonstrates a call for repentance.
Afterward Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse may happen to you.” (ESV, John 5:14)
Later Jesus encountered the man again in the temple. And now Jesus addresses his spiritual condition. Specifically, the need to address his sin. Why? So that something worse doesn’t happen to him.
Did Jesus speak from divine knowledge about past sinful behavior that caused the man’s illness? Perhaps. Scripture does speak about physical consequences to sin. But the eternal consequence to sin is worse. Because to reject Jeus is to miss salvation. Living with a physical disability on earth is difficult. But loss of salvation is forever.
Jesus was calling the man to repentance. And the same applies to us today. It doesn’t mean we won’t sin again. But to turn away from our sin and towards the righteousness of God. Because Jesus is interested in more than our well-being on earth. He seeks our presence in heaven.
A study of John 5:1-18 demonstrates Jesus is a constantly working God.
The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him. (ESV, John 5:15)
The man had two opportunities to follow Jesus. And he walked away both times. Even worse. On the second time, he points Jesus out to the Jews who confront him about healing on the sabbath. The Greek term for “the Jews” is hoi Ioudaioi. Techically, it refers to a group of Jewish people. But the apostle John used it frequently to refer to the Jewish leaders that opposed Jesus. They were often members of the Sanhedrin who focused on enforcing rabbinic traditions over the meaning of scripture. And according to their interpretation, for Jesus to miraculously heal the man and for that man to carry his mat were both forms of work that violated the sabbath. And then, Jesus drops a bomb.
Jesus answered them, “My Father is working until now, and I am working.”
Wait. Does this contradict Genesis chapter two that says God rested on the seventh day? No, because Genesis 2:3 says God rested from his work of creation. Not that he rested from everything. God doesn’t take holidays or every sabbath off. Why? The apostle Paul tells us here:
And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. (ESV, Colossians 1:17)
The Greek word for “hold together” is συνίστημι, which means stand together, cohere, and sustained. And it indicates a present, ongoing action. In other words, the universe is not self-sufficent. God created it and actively holds it together. Furthermore, God is always present and operating in the lives of humanity. And orchestrating circumstances and events as he works towards his sovereign purpose.
But what really infuriated the Jews is that Jesus had the audacity to claim equality with God. It amounted to blasphemy in their minds. But a claim proved at the resurrection.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an 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.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of John 4:43-54 reveals seeing is not always believing, desperate people turn to God, and belief in Jesus changes you and those around you.
A study of John 4:43-54 reveals seeing is not always believing.
So when he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the feast. For they too had gone to the feast. (ESV, John 4:45)
After leaving Samaria, Jesus traveled to Galilee and stopped at Cana where he had turned the water into wine at a wedding reception. But verses 44 and 45 seem to contradict each other. In verse 44, Jesus says, “a prophet is without honor in his home town.” And verse 45 says “The Galileans welcomed him having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem.” What should we make of this?
To understand, let’s consider two of the Greek words used. In V.44, the Greek word for “honor” is timē, which means esteem, dignity, honor, and precious. And the Greek word in V.45 for “having seen” is heōrakotes, which means to see or perceive. In other words, the people witnessed the things Jesus did in Jerusalem. They were present to observe his cleansing of the temple and miracles. But there is no indication it meant anything to them. No respect or honor for him as the Messiah or even a prophet. Entertaining perhaps. Amazing for sure. But it didn’t move them to put their faith in him. Or cause them to believe he was the Son of God. They welcome him for another show. But not as the God they should worship.
We see this same attitude expressed today. No one denies Jesus’ miracles. The wisdom of his teaching. Or his exemplary moral life as a religious leader. But seeing is not believing. You can see him, but keep him at arms length. Stop short of confessing him as Lord. It is an intellectual acknowledgement, but not a commitment of genuine faith. That is the requirement of true discipleship.
A study of John 4:43-54 reveals that desperate people turn to God.
When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. (ESV, John 4:47)
However, people will turn to God as a last resort. When they’ve tried everything else without success. And from the neighboring city of Capernum, an official comes and appeals to Jesus. The Greek word for “official” is basilikos and indicates someone who serves a king in an official capacity. He begs Jesus to go with him to his house and heal his son who is ill and on the brink of death.
There is no indication the man has any faith in Jesus. No declaration of Jesus as Lord. Or even an acknowledgement Jesus is a prophet from God. But he knew of Jesus’ miracles. And he was down to his last option and desperate for one. In response, Jesus expressed frustration. Why did the people demand miracles to believe in him? And treat him like he was a performer for their entertainment? When in fact, his miracles demonstrated his divinity as the Son of God. So that people would believe and put their faith in him.
And the same is true for today. We ask Jesus to solve our problems when he wants to save us from sin. And often express hopelessness for our circumstances with words like, “All we can do now is pray.” When prayer should be our first response. Because it’s not throwing your hands up in surrender. But reaching up to an almighty God. Although God does not quarantee a miracle, he does promise to never leave or forsake us. And despite the hard hearts of those gathered around him, Jesus tells the official. “Go. Your son will live.”
A study of John 4:43-54 reveals belief in Jesus changes your life and those around you.
The father knew that was the hour when Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live.” And he himself believed, and all his household. (ESV, John 4:53)
Give the official some credit. He did, at least, take Jesus at his word and leave. He met one of his servants on the way who shared good news. His son had returned to full health. And what did the official do? He asked at what time his son was healed.
There is a popular saying today: Trust but verify. It’s often used when an agreement is made with someone considered untrustworthy. And don’t keep their word. Go ahead and make the agreement. But verify they hold up their end of the deal.
That is unecessary with God because he always keeps his word. But when the servant verified his son was healed the exact moment Jesus said he would live, the official knew it was by the power of Jesus. And then he believed.
The Greek word for “believed” is pistĕuō, which means to have faith in, to trust, and entrust one’s spiritual well-being to Christ. It represents genuine belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Most Christ-followers today believe in Jesus without the benefit of witnessing a miracle. But trust Jesus’ claim that he is the Son of God. And place their faith in him as the Savior of the world.
And like the Samaritan woman, the official did not keep his new faith to himself. But shared it with his family and led them to believe in Jesus too. He asked Jesus to heal his son and ended up with something much better. Spiritual healing and eternal life for his entire family. In other words, he made disciples of the ones with whom he carried the most influence. And so should we.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an 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.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
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