A study of John 3:22-36 covers when ministries compete. Motives should be examined, humility expressed, and Jesus exalted.
A study of John 3:22-36 covers when ministries compete. Motives should be examined
And they came to John and said to him, “Rabbi, he who was with you across the Jordan, to whom you bore witness—look, he is baptizing, and all are going to him.” (ESV, John 3:26)
Jesus’ final command to his followers before ascending to heaven was to make disciples. It is our primary mission. And should unite us in a common cause. So, why is it rather than cooperating, we often compete? Both among and within churches.
Our church is better than your church. With ministries for everyone. Cooler worship. And relevant sermons that pack a spiritual punch. Seldom said out loud, of course. But hinted in subtle ways. Like mentioning our tremendous church growth. The near, professional level of our worship team. Multitude of baptisms. And so on.
We smile and say “praise” God at the glowing report of another church. But a twinge of jealousy pricks our hearts. And we secretly rejoice when they encounter hardship. We should examine our motives when these feelings arise. Because it is sin that drives apart rather than unifies in godly purpose. And we should confess them to God who cleanses us with his forgiveness.
However, it’s not new. Ministry jealousy appears front and center in this scripture passage. The crowds following Jesus were increasing as more people followed him rather than John the Baptist. And John’s disciples went to him about this unsettling shift in ministry popularity. Their concern pressing. Worry in their voices. Followers were flocking to Jesus instead of John. And while they didn’t come out and say it, you can sense it on the tip of their tongues. “Jesus is taking away all our followers. We have to do something!”
A study of John 3:22-36 covers when ministries compete. Humility should be expressed
You yourselves bear me witness, that I said, ‘I am not the Christ, but I have been sent before him. Therefore this joy of mine is now complete. He must increase, but I must decrease.” (ESV, John 3:28-30)
In my mid 20’s, I attended a church Bible Study composed of young, entry level professionals. It was taught by a businessman who had reached the pinnacle of professional success. A senior leadership position in the company. Big home in an exclusive neighborhood. Expensive cars. But during one class he shared he had also reached a point in his Christian faith where material possessions were no longer important to him. He could easily give all these things up and still be happy. As we all quietly digested this humble brag, a voice in the back asked, “Can I have them?”
Expressing humility
John the Baptist made a humble statement about himself in John 1:20. He was not the Christ, but sent before him. Furthermore, he says in 1:27. “He who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” It was the kind of unpretentious claim you expect from a minister. Humble. Contrite. But never tested. Until now. Because now, John’s thriving ministry was actually fading into the background. And perhaps, to the surprise of his disciples, rather than devise a new ministry growth plan, John the Baptist affirmed that, “He must increase, but I must decrease.”
It was an expression of genuine humility. Which is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking about yourself less. John understood that his mission was to pave the way for Jesus. And it demonstrates another truth. God calls every Christ-follower to serve in a form of ministry. Some are high profile. Others behind the scenes. But all are equally important in the Kingdom of God. Furthermore, God does not measure your level of success but of your faithfulness. And to acknowledge in everything that all credit goes to God.
A study of John 3:22-36 covers when ministries compete. Jesus should be exalted
He who comes from above is above all. He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony.Whoever receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. (ESV, John 3:31-33)
The word “above” is repeated twice in the first sentence, but has different meanings. The Greek word for “from above” is anōthĕn, which means from above, the top, from the first, and from the beginning. It refers to the divine, eternal Son of God. The second “above all” is the Greek word ĕpanō, and means amount, place, and rank. In other words, John exalts Jesus as the almighty God who reigns supreme. It is the antidote to ministry competition,comparison, and jealousy. By exalting Jesus’ name in praise.
It places us in humble submission to our Savior and Lord. And encourages us to celebrate every spiritual victory without scoring who gets the gets the credit. By reminding us we all serve the Kingdom of God for the glory of God.
Sure. Positive affirmation and the words, “good job” are always appreciated. But the ultimate satisfaction awaits when Jesus says, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
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 3:16-21 covers the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the spiritual difference between light and darkness, and the clearly seen works carried out in God.
A study of John 3:16-21 covers the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. (ESV, John 3:16-17)
John 3:16 is one of the most often quoted verses in the Bible. Why? Because it presents the good news of Jesus Christ in a nutshell. Starting with powerful, hope filled words: God so loved the world.
“Love” in the English language has different meanings depending on the context it’s used in. However, Greek has different words to distinguish types of love. The Greek word for “loved” here is agapaō, the verb form of the noun agape. It refers to a deliberate,covenantal lovethat seeks the good of those who are loved. Unlike the Greek phileō (affection/friendship) or erōs (romantic/sexual desire), agapaō originates in the character of the one who loves, not the worthiness of its object. And agapē love reflects action more than feeling. In God’s case, love is ultimately demonstrated by Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross.
The Greek word for “world” is kosmos. Although it can refer to the physical universe, its context in this verse refers to fallen humanity. Because of sin, humanity is doomed to eternal separation from God. But those who believe in Jesus are granted eternal life.
Belief in Jesus versus non-belief
But then, John addresses the other side of salvation. What happens if you don’t believe in Jesus? And the answer is condemnation. “Condemned” in V.20 is the Greek word krinō, which means to declare guilty, to try, decree, determine, and judge. Wait. Does this mean God is Dr. Jeckyl and Mr. Hyde? Loving and benevolent one minute but angry and condemning the next?
No. But it is important to understand that God is both perfectly love and perfectly just. So everyone may choose to believe in or not believe in Jesus. But he is God’s provision to save us from sin. And to reject that provision has consequences. Because unbelief is not morally neutral. It is a choice we all make. Either you believe or you don’t.
However, God loves us regardless because God IS love. Therefore, condemnation is not an expression of God’s emotion, but of his justice. It is the red line crossed for those who choose unbelief over belief. A habitation for those who reject the Son of God.
A study of John 3:16-21 covers the spiritual difference between light and darkness.
And this is the judgment: the light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. (ESV, 3:19)
Light and dark are used symbolically in scripture to represent good and evil. And here, the light refers specifically to Jesus Christ. The Greek word for “loved” in V.19 is the same agapaō, but expresses a different sediment than God’s love. Because God’s love is pure, holy, and good. However, in this verse, agapao expresses love for what is morally evil. Behavior that is unholy, unrighteous, and disobedient to God. But people knowingly and willfully still choose.
The reality of Sin
Sin is often profitable, pleasurable, and fun. At least for a moment. Because it can also wreck devastation that lasts a lifetime and beyond. But in the moment, it’s easy to overlook the consequences. And get lost in the fun.
The Greek word for “exposed” in V.20 is ĕlĕgchō, which means to admonish, convict, rebuke, and reprove. But who is the one admonishing? Scripture identifies two sources. One is a conscience God installs in each person. An intuitive sense of right and wrong we all possess. Second is the Holy Spirit who indwells every Christ-follower and convicts us of sin. And guides us on a path of righteousness.
For when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law. They show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, while their conscience also bears witness, and their conflicting thoughts accuse or even excuse them.” (ESV, Romans 2:14-15)
Because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. (ESV, 1 Thessalonians 1:5)
A study of John 3:16-21 covers the clearly seen works carried out in God.
But whoever does what is true comes to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that his works have been carried out in God.”
John observes one last difference between light and darkness. The motivation behind the choice of each one. Those who reject Christ and pursue a self-centered, sinful lifestyle avoid his light. And seek the darkness to hide their sin. Of course, not all sin is malevolent behavior. In fact, much sin occurs in our thoughts. And in forms we easily shrug off and rationalize like jealousy, anger, greed, and pride. But those who follow Jesus and the truth of his word go toward the light.
Why?
So they can self-righteously showcase all their good deeds? On the contrary. Every believer who confesses Jesus as Lord first confesses to him their sin. It is his forgiveness that cleanses and his grace that covers our ongoing sin. But the desire to please God draws us to him and motivates us to pursue his righteousness. And we acknowledge our good works are not to our credit, but to God’s glory and his power working through us.
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 3:1-15 covers the need for spiritual rebirth, an explanation of spiritual regeneration, and the act of a sacrificial savior.
A study of John 3:1-15 covers the need for spiritual rebirth.
Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God. (ESV, John 3:3)
Nicodemus was a religious leader who visited Jesus at night. A member of an important body of Jewish religious leaders called the Sanhedrin. The word “ruler” is the Greek archōn and implies significant authority. So, Nicodemus held an important position in the community. But why visit Jesus at night? Some commentators suggest he wanted to keep his spiritual interaction with Jesus from the public square. Conduct his own investigation under the radar. He wouldn’t be alone in this motive. At a critical moment, Jesus’ disciple Peter also publicly denied knowing him. Even today, people avoid publicly confessing Jesus by claiming they maintain a private faith. But then again, maybe Nicodemus visited at night because he worked all day.
He started respectfully by calling Jesus “rabbi.” And acknowledged Jesus’ miracles were signs his power came from God. But he stopped short of confessing him as the Son of God. Curious, but not ready to commit in faith. And that presented a puzzle. Then who was Jesus?
However, Jesus didn’t wait for Nicodemus to ask his first question. No small talk about sports or the weather. Inquiries on his family. Debate on Roman politics or Jewish law. Jesus already knew all his thoughts. Instead, he looked divinely into Nicodemus’ heart and addressed the most profound question on earth. What happens when you die?
And his answer? Nicodemus must be “born again.” The two words in Greek are gennēthē anōthen. Gennethe means to regenerate, be born and bring forth. And anothen means from above, from the beginning, and the top.
In other words, the most pressing need for every person is a spiritual rebirth that comes from God. But Nicodemus, one of the most learned religious teachers of his day, didn’t get it. And he responded in terms of physical human birth.
A study of John 3:1-15 covers an explanation of spiritual regeneration.
Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. (ESV, John 3:5-6)
Jesus answers Nicodemus’ question about human birth with a further explanation. There are different interpretations on the meaning of the phrase: born of water and the Spirit. Here are a few of the most popular ones.
Physical birth versus spiritual birth
Nicodemus asked how he could physically re-enter his mother’s womb for a second birth. And some theologians suggest the phrase is describing two births. One physical and the other spiritual. But the idea of birth as “of water” was not part of the ancient culture. So while the idea makes sense to us today, it wouldn’t to Nicodemus. Furthermore, the Greek construction of the phrase “water and spirit” promotes a similar idea rather than two different ones.
Water refers to water baptism
This fits with our modern understanding of salvation followed by water baptism. But it wouldn’t to Nicodemus. Baptism was a new spiritual practice introduced by John the Baptist. And since Jesus rebuked Nicodemus as a Jewish teacher, it makes more sense he would speak to him from an Old Testament perspective. Additionally, this interpretation of the phrase implies that baptism is a requirement for salvation.
Water and Spirit present a unified thought
When water is used figuratively in the Old Testament, it often refers to renewal or cleansing. And there are many Old Testament passages that speak about the heart. Consider this passage from the prophet Ezekiel that puts them together.
I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules. (ESV, Ezekiel 36:25-27)
In this sense then, water signifies cleansing from impurity and the Spirit, regeneration of the heart. As a religious leader, Nicodemus likely considered obedience to the law his primary religious duty. Perhaps, Jesus was trying to open his eyes to a different perspective. One that emphasized the importance of a cleansed, new heart. And if he looked, he would see this concept presented in the law.
A study of John 3:1-15 covers the act of a sacrificial savor.
And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. (ESV, John 3:14)
It is the Holy Spirit who regenerates the human heart and Jesus explains him a little further. And he does so by comparing the Spirit to wind, using the same Greek word neuma for both. In Acts 2:1-4, Luke records an event on the Jewish celebration of Pentecost when all the new Christ-followers gathered together and were filled with the Holy Spirit. He describes the sound of a mighty rushing wind (Greek: pnoe) that filled the entire house and all the believers with the Holy Spirit (Greek: pneuma).
The point is that both the wind and the Spirit move invisibly in a mysterious fashion. But we can see their effect. And often, the demonstration of a great, moving force.
Finally, Jesus connects two events. The first is in Numbers 21:4-9. As Moses led Israel from Egypt into the wilderness, the people began to complain. As punishment, God sent poisonous snakes into their camp and those bitten died. When the people repented, God told Moses to fashion a bronze serpent on a pole and anyone bitten by a snake would live if they looked at the bronze serpent.
The next event was his future crucifixion. Jesus would be lifted up on a cross and sacrificed for the sin of mankind. And just like the people who physically looked on the bronze serpent and were healed, those who spiritually looked on Jesus and “believed” would be spiritually healed from their sin and granted eternal life. The Greek word for “lifted” is hupsŏō, which means to lift up, to elevate, and exalt. So beyond just the physical raising of Jesus on the cross, it also presents the exaltation of Jesus Christ as the Son of God.
The Greek word for “believes” in V.15 is pisteuōn and means ongoing trust. It affirms that belief in Jesus involves an ongoing comittment of discipleship and is not just a one time experience.
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 2:13-25 shows Jesus’ zeal for true worship, his authority as the Son of God, and vision into the heart of mankind.
A study of John 2:13–25 shows Jesus’ zeal for true worship
And making a whip of cords, he drove them all out of the temple. His disciples remembered that it was written, ‘Zeal for your house will consume me.’” (ESV, John 2:15,17)
What does true worship look like? A full room with hands lifted up? A driving beat in worship music? Three point sermon with bulleted practical application?
Jesus had a genuine, religious zeal for the house of God. And he demonstrates it in this passage through righteous anger. But what set Jesus off? To understand, let’s begin with the Jewish temple design.
It was composed of courts that moved from outside to inside. Each with a restricted level of access.
The Court of the Gentiles: Open to everyone, includingnon-Jews
The Court of Women: Jewish men and women
The Court of Israel: Only Jewish men
The Court of Priests: Only Levitical priests
The Holy Place: Only priests during scheduled service
The Most Holy Place (Holy of Holies)Only theHigh Priest, once a year on the Day of Atonement
In V. 16, Jesus said, “Do not make my Father’s house a house of trade.”What did Jesus mean by this?
The Mosaic Law, required worshipers to offer animals without blemish for temple sacrifice. But animals from outside the temple were often rejected by temple inspectors. So, people purchased pre-approved animals from temple vendors at inflated prices. Furthermore, Roman currency was exchanged for temple currency with another high markup.
And all of these enterprises were set up for business in the Court of the Gentiles. An area of worship for Gentiles seeking the one true God. So, the problem was not that vendors themselves were dishonest. But that commercial enterprise supplanted worship. And this is what set Jesus off in righteous anger.
A study of John 2:13-25 shows Jesus’ authority as the Son of God
Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” (ESV, John 2:19)
Fashioning a whip from ropes, Jesus drove the animals along with merchants from the Court. And he over turned the money changer tables. The temple authorities responded indignantly. Who did Jesus think he was? And they demanded a sign. Why? Because they cared about Jesus’ divinity? No. But to challenge his authority. In other words, “We’re in charge here. Who gives you the right to supersede our authority?”
Jesus’ prophetic answer points to himself as the Messiah. He would die on a cross and resurrect three days later. And if the religious leaders knew the scriptures and were truly looking for the Son of God, they might have understood. And maybe recognized his actions demonstrated the words of Psalm 69:9.
A study of John 2:13-25 shows Jesus’ vision into the heart of mankind.
Many believed in his name when they saw the signs that he was doing. But Jesus on his part did not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people. (ESV, John 2:23-24)
Many people believed in Jesus because of his miracles. And while it’s a good start, it won’t last for long term discipleship. Because genuine faith is tested and refined over time. Deepened, strengthened, and proven by the rigors of life. Jesus knew this. And he taught about it in the parable of the sower in Matthew 13:1-9.
But as the Son of God, he also had the divine vision David wrote about it in Psalm 139. And God affirms in 1 Samuel 16:7.
For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.
Therefore, Jesus did not entrust himself to superficial faith. Perhaps that’s why he often spoke in parables. And avoided public claims he was the Messiah. He was side stepping Roman politics and carefully building the spiritual kingdom of God.
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, Furthermore, a weekly, group study guide 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 2:1-12 shows God’s concern about small problems, how Jesus honored his earthly mother, glorified God, and deepened the belief of his disciples.
A study of John 2:1-12 shows God’s concern about small problems.
When the wine ran out, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” (ESV, John 2:3)
Does God care when our car has a flat tire? We suffer an ingrown toenail? Lose our cell phone? We hesitate to inconvenience God for these small problems since he has such bigger concerns in managing the entire universe.
But it didn’t stop his human mother, Mary, from presenting a small problem. Her comment to Jesus they were out of wine carried an implied plea for help.
Jesus was attending a wedding in the town of Cana in Galilee near his hometown of Nazareth along with his five new disciples. The wedding couple are not named, but we can speculate likely relatives or close friends. And Mary was responsible for helping in some manner.
Joseph isn’t mentioned, which suggests Mary is a widow. And as the oldest son, Jesus now financially supported the family as a carpenter. He hadn’t performed any miracles yet, so we shouldn’t assume Mary expected one. But probably leaned on Jesus as the male leader in the home to address the problem.
It wasn’t a global disaster, but represented an embarrassing, social disaster for the wedding family. Is that serious enough for God’s attention? Mary thought so.
A study of John 2:1-12 shows how Jesus honored his earthly mother.
And Jesus said to her, “Woman, what does this have to do with me? My hour has not yet come. (ESV, John 2:4)
The Greek word for “woman” is gynai which means woman or wife. It was not inherently, disrespectful, but culturally used in a manner similar to the way we use “ma’am” today. Polite, but a bit more formal than “Mom.” And the same word Jesus used from the cross in John 19:26-27 when when he assigned the parental care of Mary to John the Apostle.
Jesus could have used the Greek word mētēr which also means mother and conveys the biological and relational closeness of Mary as his earthly mother.
So why not?
Jesus’ gentle rebuke to Mary suggests a reason. First, he was no longer a boy under her authority, but a man. Not just her son, but the Son of God. And second, his messianic mission must take priority over his earthly responsibilities. Their relationship was therefore now subject to that mission. As a sinner, Mary had to relate to him as Savior, just like we do today. Believe on him as the Son of God by faith and follow him as a disciple.
Luke 2:41-51 presents another story of Jesus’ relationship with his parents as a boy. On a family trip to Jerusalem when he was twelve, his parents accidently left him behind as they left for home. When they realized he wasn’t with anyone in the family, they returned to Jerusalem and found him in the temple listening to and interacting with the teachers. His answer to their parental rebuke was probably, surprisingly unexpected.
And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house? (ESV, John 2:49)
Even at the age of twelve, Jesus clearly recognizes himself as the Son of God. It makes the next verse even more astounding.
And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart. (ESV, Luke 2:51).
Jesus as the perfect, Son of God, was submissive to his imperfect, human parents. Therefore, it’s no surprise he honored his human mother with her problem. But he did so in a spectacular, miraculous manner that only he could pull off.
A study of John 2:1-12 shows Jesus glorified God and deepened the belief of his disciples.
This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory. And his disciples believed in him. (ESV, John 2:11)
There were six large pots for water that each held 20-30 gallons. And Jesus instructed servants to fill them all to the brim with water and then draw some out for the master of the feast to taste. Somewhere between the filling with water to the taste test, it turned into wine. And not the cheap stuff you expect after taste buds dull, but the best for last.
Imagine the surprise from both the servants and the disciples!
But it more than a favor for Mary. And even honoring her as his mother. It was a miraculous sign that he was the Messiah. A purposeful act that revealed his divine nature and glimpse of his glory as the incarnate Son of God.
There were miracles to come that would be more spectacular and before large crowds. This one was seen by only a handful of people. But for those–especially his disciples–it was significant because it deepened their belief in him. And today, those who are paying attention can also see, believe in, and respond to Jesus as Savior and Lord. The incarnate Son of God.
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.
Check Out My Author Interview
I recently appeared as a guest author to discuss my Christian detective novel Finding Grace on the website of Deena Adams, a fellow Christian author and editor. Here’s a link if you’d like to check it out.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of relationships in discipleship, spending time with Jesus, and spiritual discernment.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of relationships in discipleship
Immediately after becoming a disciple of Jesus, Andrew took his brother Simon to meet him. And likewise, when Phillip became a disciple of Jesus, he invited his friend Nathaniel to meet him too.
We have found him of whom Moses in the Law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. (ESV, John 1:45)
But Nathaniel expressed a social bias that made him harder to convince.
“Can anything good come out of Nazareth?”
Nazareth was a rural village in lower Galilee. Small and insignificant. And its residents likely considered country bumpkins compared to cool cities like Jerusalem. Perhaps, Nathaniel would have responded differently if Philip associated Jesus with his birthplace, Bethlehem. Its royal ties as the city of David would have raised Jesus’ social standing.
But we are not so different today. And quick to form unmerited biases toward other people that pridefully make us feel superior.
However, Phillip was not detered and responded simply, “Come and see.”
This illustrates another truth. Discipleship begins and is built on relationships. Inviting others to meet Jesus and then walking together as followers. It leans on the influence of one godly life rubbing off on another.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of spending time with Jesus.
When Andrew and his fellow disciple of John the Baptist asked Jesus where he was staying, Jesus invited them to “Come and see.” The same words Phillip used in responding to Nathaniel’s objection. In each case, Andrew and Nathaniel became followers simply by spending time with Jesus. Today, it is still the presence of Jesus that radically transforms every disciple.
And we should note it is not our job as disciple makers to “sell” Jesus. It is the Holy Spirit who draws people to Jesus and convicts them of their sin. Our role is to provide a Gospel witness and invite others to meet Jesus. Of course, we should know what and how to share in a compelling manner. But it is the Holy Spirit and the abiding presence of Jesus Christ that produces disciples.
Furthermore, every disciple should make spending regular time with Jesus a priority through reading God’s word. Because spiritual transformation is an ongoing pursuit of growing more Christ-like. And involves the mutual, support, encouragement, and accountability of walking with other believers.
A study of John 1:43-51 shows the importance of spiritual discernment.
There’s a stark contrast between how Jesus and Nathaniel assess one another. Before they meet Nathaniel utters a put down on Jesus based on his home town. But when they meet, Jesus declares a positive affirmation about Nathaniel.
“Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!”
An astute observation or a divine peak into Nathaniel’s heart? Maybe both. Nathaniel appeared startled by the spontaneous assessment. And his own biased assertion next to Jesus’ compliment may have also been convicting. How could Jesus know him so intimately when they had never met before? When Nathaniel asked, Jesus explained he saw Nathaniel under a fig tree.
Seems like an odd and evasive answer. What did Jesus mean by it?
The shade provided by broad leafed fig trees made them a popular respite from the hot sun. But they also carried a symbolic meaning in Jewish culture. Mentioned in both 1 Kings 4:25 and Micah 4:4, they were considered a place of prayer, meditation, and communion with God. Of course, the divine Jesus could see inside Nathaniel’s heart. And yet, something observable about Nathaniel’s body language also provided clues.
It reminds us that God sees everything in our heart. Sinful desires. Selfish motivations. And evil intentions. Therefore, we should be honest before God and quick to confess our sins. Furthermore, while our default is to grant others the benefit of the doubt, we should exercise spiritual discernment by observing righteous behavior.
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.
Join my list and I'll notify you of new blog posts and send you a monthly newsletter. It features inspirational thoughts, writing tips, and a peek into writing projects. I'll also include my article: Exaggerate to Make Your Presentations Funny. It shows you how to punch up presentations with humor and make them more compelling.
