A study of John 1:15-28 confirms the preeminence of Christ who brings grace and truth, reveals the Father, and introduces John the Baptist who paves the way for Jesus.
A study of John 1:15-28 confirms the preeminence of Christ
“He who comes after me ranks before me, because he was before me.”
John the Baptist was recognized as a prophet with an established ministry when he spoke these words. Crowds from Jerusalem and all Judea gathered to hear him preach. And many responded by confessing their sins followed by a baptism of repentance in the Jordan river. Furthermore, priests and levites from Jerusalem came to investigate him, which adds further credibility to his ministry.
So why does John the Baptist suddenly proclaim the coming of another ministry leader? And the wording of the announcement is, well, rather odd.
To say, “My ministry was here first, but his ministry is greater because he was before me.” Wait, what? Is this ministerial theatrics? A clever word play? Or babble to confuse us? Let’s take a closer look.
The Greek word for “ranks before me” is emprosthen, which means ahead in rank or status. In other words, Jesus’ ministry is more spiritually important. Why? Because Jesus was “before” him. The Greek term for “before” is protos, which means foremost in time, place, order or importance. In other words, Jesus existed at the time of creation because he is God. Therefore, he is preeminent.
A study of John 1:15-28 confirms that grace and truth comes through Jesus Christ
For from his fullness we have all received, grace upon grace.For the law was given through Moses; grace and truth came through Jesus Christ. (ESV, John 1:16-17)
The Greek word for “fullness” is pleroma, which means that which is complete, full, or the sum total. It refers to the complete sufficiency of Jesus and the abundance of grace he offers to those who believe. Jesus came because the Law of Moses was never meant to be God’s method of salvation for mankind. But to reveal God’s holiness, identify righteousness, and point to our sin.
For since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities… (ESV, Hebrews 10:1)
Yes. We should strive to follow the law in the pursuit of righteousness. But it won’t make us completely righteous because we will continue to sin. Jesus, however, is God’s complete solution. The redeemer who offers us grace and the complete forgiveness of our sin.
REFLECTION
Read Colossians 1:18. The term “preeminent” refers to first in rank, authority, or importance. Why is this is an important Biblical doctrine? Describe how it applies to Christ.
How does the idea that Jesus was “before” John the Baptist provide further support?
How do the two concepts–grace of Jesus and law of Moses–each contribute to your understanding of the gospel and guide your walk of faith?
A study of John 1:15-28 confirms that Jesus reveals the Father
No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the Father’s side, he has made him known.”
“The only God” is the Greek word mŏnŏgĕnēs, which means only born, only begotten child. Isaiah 7:14 foretells this and both Matthew and Luke record the virgin birth of Jesus who was conceived by the Holy Spirit. And here, John affirms it too. Furthermore, many scripture passages in both the Old and New Testament acknowledge that Jesus sits at the right hand of the father.
The point is, Jesus is not a warm and fuzzy abstract concept. A friendly apparition that floats through the air. But the physical revelation of God. Fully God and fully man. The incarnate Son. He is the embodiment of God’s truth and the fulfillment of all God’s promises.
So you can’t just ignore him. His physical reality demands serious consideration.
A study of John 1:15-28 introduces John the Baptist who paves the way for Jesus.
The Jews longed for liberation from Roman rule during this period. And a common, misinterpretation of Old Testament prophecies led to the expectation of a Messiah who was a political or military leader. This heightened sense of longing among the Jewish people fostered an environment that produced many claiming to be prophets and the Messiah. Even Jesus warned his followers to beware of those making false claims.
For false christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect. (ESV, Matthew 24:24)
Therefore, it is no suprise the religious leaders in Jerusalem sent priests and levites to verify the legitimacy of John the Baptist. Old Testament prophecies included three expected figures:
Messiah: Daniel 7:13-14 and Psalm 2
Elijah the prophet: Malachi 4:5-6
A prophet like Moses: Deuteronomy 18:15
John the Baptist replied “no” when the team sent to investigate him asked about each one in turn. But he quoted from Isaiah when further pressed on his identity.
A voice cries: In the wilderness prepare the way of the Lord; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. (ESV, Isaiah 40:3)
John the Baptist purposely, publicly, and humbly directed attention away from himself and toward Jesus. And he fulfilled prophecy in doing so. We would do well to follow his example.
REFLECTION
Read Isaiah 7:13, Matthew 1:18 and Luke 1:26-35. How do they all confirm John’s claim?
As you consider the life Jesus demonstrated what are some things it reveals to you about the Father?
Do you think from a human perspective, it might have been hard for John the Baptist watch his own ministry fade as he directed attention toward Jesus? What are some ways you might follow John’s example?
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.
Jephthah’s foolish vow is found in Judges 11:1-40. Impulsive, foolish words, said without thinking. And then followed by tragic actions. That’s the story of Jephthah. Here’s the vow he made, its consequences, and some lessons from it.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Don’t bargain with God
And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD and said, ‘If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace… shall be the LORD’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering. (ESV, Judges 11:30–31)
When God assigns us to a spiritual mission, he provides the resources we need. Sometimes, God confirms his call with a sign, but most often, he simply expects us to trust and obey.
In this story, Jephthah went beyond reassurance and tried to bargain with God to ensure an outcome. Rather than seeking God’s will, he tried to manipulate God to his will. Sound familiar? This is never a good idea and a recipe for disaster. It’s also helpful to keep in mind that God doesn’t call us to serve him because he needs our help. But to bless us with an opportunity to glorify him.
Who is Jephthah?
The period of time in Israel’s history between Joshua’s death and the rule of King Saul is known as the time of the Judges. It was a spiritually dark and politically unstable time when Israel was surrounded by hostile nations who sought to conquer and oppress it. Judges were primarily military leaders that God raised up to protect and deliver the nation.
Jephthah was the son of a prostitute who was rejected by his half-brothers and eventually associated with men of illrepute. A self-fulfilled prophecy of worthlessness. Except for one exceptional attribute. He was a skillful warrior. And when the people who rejected him were threatened by enemies, they turned to Jephthah for help.
Let’s root for Jephthah!
The underdog and social reject. Suddenly with the chance to be a hero. Step up for God and become another feel good, Bible success story.
Except in real life, Bible heros are often flawed and uncertain. Wondering if they’re simply God’s pity pick. But that’s exactly how God often works. He surprises us by making our last pick his first. And using the ones everyone else rejects to further the Kingdom of God. Because God prefers availability over ability.
But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 1:27-29)
To go from zero to hero probably caught Jephthah by surprise. So it makes sense he would seek validation. Divine assurance. And he sought to bargain with and manipulate God. However, that’s when he stepped into the bad idea zone.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Think before you speak.
“And Jephthah made a vow to the LORD and said, ‘If you will give the Ammonites into my hand, then whatever comes out from the doors of my house to meet me when I return in peace… shall be the LORD’s, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering.’” (ESV, Judges 11:30–31)
Seriously, Jephthah. You will sacrifice the first thing to come out of your house? Why not what comes out of the old shed next to the house? The creek out back? And what did you expect to come out of your house anyway? A mouse? Snake? Your mother-in-law? Perhaps in all his fights, Jephthah got whacked in the head too many times with a dumb stick.
Because the first thing to exit his home and greet him when he arrived was his young daughter and only child.
And while we shake our heads at such a ridiculous scenario, are we without sin? Have we not also made foolish claims and then doubled down on them with actions that make things worse? To admit foolishness, requires humility. And willingly confront our sin, confess it, and seek God’s forgiveness.
Jephthah’s foolish vow. Don’t follow foolish words with a sinful action
And he did with her according to his vow. (ESV, Judges 11:39)
God forbids human sacrifice in Leviticus 18:21, Deuteronomy 12:31, and 2 Kings 16:3. And a personal vow–especially a foolish one–does not take priority over God’s law. And yet, strangely, Jephthah felt bound by his oath and went through with it even though it broke God’s law. Did he really think it was a noble form of integrity?
Not at all. It represented both foolish words and warped thinking that was driven by pride. The same thing that drives our foolish words and sinful actions. However, godly humility leads to confession and repentance. The story illustrates the importance of measuring our words against God’s word and adjusting our actions accordingly.
Don’t make vows at all
Jesus said to avoid vows completly and simply use “yes” and “no.” We kid ourselves to think adding vows carries more weight in truthfulness. That only happens when our actions support our words. A reputation for integrity is built on consistent, righteous living. Not vows.
Fortunately, God did except one human sacrifice. His Son, Jesus Christ, who sacrificed himself on a cross for our sins.
Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. (ESV, Ephesians 5:2)
Through Jesus, we are forgiven of our sins, made right with God, and presented the gift of eternal life. The tragic story of Jephthah’s foolish vow points us to the Gospel of Jesus. Where his sacrifice offers us new life.
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.
Enjoy Christian Fiction?
Check out these two detective novels with a mystery, witty dialogue, and Christian message. Soul Pursuit is the first book and Finding Grace the sequel.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals the Word is preexistent and eternal, God’s agent for creation and salvation, and the physical revelation of God as man.
Background:
The Gospel of John was written by John the apostle near the end of his life around 80-95 AD. And identifies himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved.” At this time in history, original Jewish leaders like Peter, James the brother of Jesus, and Paul had been martyred and there were more Gentiles in the Christian church than Jews. It is this mixed audience that John writes to.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is the preexistent and eternal God.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. (ESV, John 1:1-2)
Who is Jesus Christ? This was the central question during Jesus’ earthly ministry, among the early churches, and we still ask it today. The Gospel of John provides a clear answer. And he does so by going back to the beginning.
The Greek word for “beginning” in John is arche, which means beginning, origin, and first cause. And the Hebrew word for “beginning” in Genesis is berēʾšît, which means beginning, first, or first fruits. Both point to the beginning of creation.
John strategically refers to Jesus as the “word” which is the Greek word logos. It had a unique meaning to both groups in his audience.
Word = Logos
To the Jews, “word” carries power. God spoke the world into existence. Jesus calmed a raging storm with commanding words. And God’s written word communicates his covenantal law and reveals his will. However, to the Greeks, logos meant reason. The Stoics said logos was the divine rational principle that brought order to chaos, pervaded all things, and structured the cosmos.
And now, John makes an audacious claim. The Word was present at the time of creation, which means he is eternal and preexistent. Furthermore, he was with God and was God. In other words, he is a different person, but has the same divine essence as God the Father. The second person of the trinity composed of God the Father, Son, and Spirit.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is God’s agent for creation and the light of men
All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. (ESV, John 1:3)
The world did not evolve by chance. A random, uncaused spark out of nothingness that exploded into somethingness–a completely ordered universe of marvel and wonder. Rather, it was intentional. An Almighty design from divine imagination, yet precisely engineered and structured for mankind. And not just made by the Word, but held together by him too.
They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. (ESV, Ephesians 4:18)
But the Word is also a light for humanity. Because shortly after creation, the sin of Adam and Eve plunged the world into spiritual darkness. One that separates us from God and we can’t fix on our own. But the Word illuminates the way back to God.
REFLECTION:
How do you answer the question: Who is Jesus?
Describe the background story that forms your spiritual life today.
Do you relate more to the Jewish or Greek concept of logos? Explain your thoughts.
Describe your understanding of spiritual darkness. How is Jesus a light for you?
A study of John 1:1-14) reveals Jesus is God’s agent for salvation
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. (ESV, John 1:12-13)
You’d think everyone would run to the light. But that is not the case and John readily admits it. Many people reject Jesus for different reasons. However, those who turn from spiritual darkness to the light and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord are spiritually reborn as children of God.
The Greek word for “Receive” is Lambano which means to receive a person, give access to one’s self, and take possession of.
In other words, receiving the light involves more than passive acceptance. Like simply accepting a gift. It expects a response. Not just a simple, do you receive this gift? But are you opening yourself up to what you are receiving? Will you fully embrace it? Make a whole hearted commitment to it? In other words, if you receive Jesus are you all in?
The Greek word for “believe” is pisteuō and means to trust, rely on, and cling to. It indicates that belief in Jesus is more than intellectual assent. Like believing in the existence of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. A superficial belief that requres nothing from you. Belief in Jesus involves a personal commitment. A willingness to follow Jesus as a disciple. To put your eternal life in his hands and trust him for the salvation that only he offers.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals that Jesus is the physical revelation of God as man.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son. (ESV, John 1:14)
Jesus didn’t simply put on a human form, like a set of clothes. He was fully human and fully God. And he experienced human life in every way that we do. The uncertainties, fears, hardships, pain, emotions, and temptations. Therefore, he understands our struggles. And he guides and supports us as we strive to follow him.
In Jesus, we see the Father. Through him, we are relationally restored with God. And by following him, we glorify God as we walk by faith in his righteousness.
REFLECTION:
Does the idea that “receiving” Jesus is more than passive acceptance change your ideas about the salvation process? Describe what you think belief in Jesus involves.
What is significant about the fact that Jesus is the agent of both creation and the spiritual recreation of mankind?
John makes it clear that Jesus is God in a completely human form. Why is this an important truth?
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.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. The Bible describes a hard heart as one that rejects God’s word and is blind to his truth. Isaiah 6:9-10 presents signs that indicate it.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. It is blind to and resists truth.
Keep on hearing, but do not understand; keep on seeing, but do not perceive. (ESV, Isaiah 6:9)
I enjoy watching sports on TV. But run for snacks during commercial breaks to skip all the promotional messages. And many people approach the Bible’s message with the same indifference. Good for you if Christianity floats your boat, but leave me out. However, a hard heart goes beyond indifference. It’s a complete rejection of God’s word. The confrontation between Moses and Pharaoh in Exodus is a good example.
And the Lord said to Moses, “When you go back to Egypt, see that you do before Pharaoh all the miracles that I have put in your power. But I will harden his heart, so that he will not let the people go. (ESV, Exodus 4:7)
Despite all the miracles Moses performed, Pharaoh had his mind made up and refused to let the Israelites go. And people today have their minds made up too. They reject the idea of following rules, giving up control, and want complete freedom to live as they please. In short, the Bible cramps their lifestyle. Ironically, a life with no moral restraints leads to oppression while Jesus Christ sets you free.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. It is not about intellect but about the heart.
Make the heart of this people dull, and their ears heavy, and blind their eyes. (ESV, Isaiah 6:10a)
Some people reject the Bible based on intellect. It’s simply a make-believe fantasy that doesn’t fool intelligent people. However, the Bible is not meant to be proven, but accepted on faith. And this is not a matter of intellect, but the heart. This too, is often culturally misunderstood.
The Bible views the heart to include our mind, will, conscience, and spirit. It’s the center of our desires, thinking, choosing, and believing. The “dull heart” in this verse is spiritually sluggish, insensitive, and slow to perceive. What we call desensitized. The social acclimation to moral decline. What was once, morally unacceptable in the culture slowly becomes an accepted norm.
For example, profanity was rarely expressed in political discourse a few years ago. Now it’s the new cool people seem eager to join. But it’s a slow fade that leads us away from the righteousness and holiness that God desires.
The word for “heavy” means to make stubborn. And to “hear with their ears” means to be attentive. Therefore, a hard heart doesn’t reject God because someone is too smart. But too proud.
Biblical signs of a hard heart. The opposite of a hard heart is humble repentance.
Lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed. (ESV, Isaiah 6:10b)
The opposite of pride is humility, which fosters a receptive heart. The Apostle Paul describes it this way.
Having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, (ESV, Ephesians 1:18)
Seeing with our hearts involves spiritual self-awareness. It recognizes that our sin separates us from God. And this leads to confession and repentance, which Isaiah calls a “turn”–meaning a turn away from sin to God. And the forgiveness of Jesus Christ brings spiritual healing and a restored relationship with God.
But the greatest tragedy of a hard heart is missing the opportunity to experience God’s amazing grace and gift of eternal life.
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.
Faith going through the roof. When Jesus teaches a crowd of people in a home, four men bring him a paralyzed man on a mat. But they can’t get through the crowd. So they cut a hole in the roof and let the man down inside. Here are lessons from the story.
Faith going through the roof. Genuine faith is demonstrated.
But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. (ESV, James 2:18)
James urges Christ-followers to demonstrate faith by actions. And the story in Mark 2:1-12 takes it to a higher level. Literally.
Jesus is in a home teaching a crowd of people. Four men carry a paralyzed man on a mat to him for healing. But a thick crowd extends to outside the house blocking their way. So they climb to the roof, dig a large hole in it, and lower the paralyzed man down inside the house.
How is this possible? Well, roofs in towns like this were often flat and used as extended living space for things like storage, drying clothes, and praying. Exterior stairs and ladders provided access. And roof construction consisted of wooden beams covered by layers of dried mud or mud-baked and clay tiles. So, this was an ambitious endeavor, but not an impossible one.
Faith going through the roof. It’s easier to say than do
When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralyzed man, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” (ESV, Mark 2:5)
I can imagine Jesus watching with the scene unfold with a smile. The men had a problem, Jesus was the solution, and they weren’t taking “no” for an answer. Or at least, not let something trivial like a thick crowd and tiled roof stop them. Jesus might have said, “Nice of you to drop in.” But the eyes of God see beyond the obvious and penetrate the human heart.
The man obviously had a physical problem. But he had a spiritual one too. And that’s the one Jesus addressed by declaring, “Son, your sins are forgiven.” Today, like then, we often appeal to God for physical healing. But God cares more about our spiritual condition.
And Jesus addressed it in a first century drop the mic moment. Because a group of Jewish teachers of the law were in the crowd to check Jesus out. Who was this man they heard spoke with authority and performed miracles? And they thought to themselves…
Why does this fellow talk like that? He’s blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” (ESV, Mark 2:7)
But Jesus knew and answered their thoughts.
Which is easier: to say to this paralyzed man, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? (ESV, Mark 2:9)
Jesus confirmed the man was paralyzed. And what he was about to do was no cheap parlor trick. But of course, talk is cheap. Can you back up your words with actions? Show there is real divine power behind your words? That’s what the religious leaders wanted to know. And people today want to know it too. Don’t just talk about the power of God. I want to know if his power can make any difference in my life. If so, show me.
Faith going through the roof. They were amazed and praised God.
I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” (ESV, Mark 2:9&11)
Jesus understood the paralyzed man’s spoken and unspoken needs. And he does with us too. The paralyzed man immediately got up, picked up the mat he arrived on, and carried it as he walked away. And the mic drop moment changed to jaw dropping. Did the people applaud? Say, oohs and aahs? Or hush in speechless awe?
We don’t know. But Jesus clearly backed up his words with a display of divine power. There was no other explanation.
And everyone was amazed and praised God. We don’t know if the religious leaders joined in the celebration, but they certainly didn’t object. Although that would change over the course of Jesus’ three year ministry.
Jesus didn’t heal to entertain. Razzle and dazzle people. And put on a show. But to glorify God. And prove he was the Son of God. Even then, despite the obvious miracle, people did not believe in him. Just like people today. What about you?
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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