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 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 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.
What’s the mind of Christ? Because the apostle Paul claims to have it in 1 Corinthians 2:11-13. Do you? And if so, what does it mean? Here are some thoughts to consider.
Your perspective, attitudes, and behaviors originate and incubate in your mind. So the prevailing content there plays a major role on the actions that follow. The mind of Christ directs you towards actions that honor God.
What’s the mind of Christ? It’s the presence of God’s Spirit
For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him? Even so the thoughts of God no one knows except the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. (ESV, 1 Corinthians 2:11-13)
The mind of Christ comes with the presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christ-follower. He enters your life when you ask Jesus Christ to be Savior and Lord. The Spirit’s indwelling presence conforms your desires to imitate Christ and align your thoughts with God’s thoughts as revealed in His word. It begins by demonstrating the same attitude as Jesus.
The natural person lacks this presence because the Spirit responds by invitation only. And the natural person is further handicapped because understanding spiritual truth requires spiritual discernment. And God’s Spirit is the discernment interpreter.
What’s the mind of Christ? It’s a perspective that makes seeking the Kingdom of God a priority
Seek first the kingdom of God and all these things will be added to you as well. (ESV. Matthew 6:33)
The Kingdom of God is an eternal game changer for those who seek it first. Because it replaces eternal uncertainty with confidence. Rather than face death with anxiety, you’re filled with hope of an everlasting joy. And the anticipation of a forever future that is better than here and now.
It involves an agenda of selfless service rather than selfish indulgence. A counter intuitive expression of God’s love. Because when you seek the Kingdom of God, you care about what God cares about. Seek to know and follow His will. And form your perspective by filtering the messages of this world through the lens of scripture.
It’s a mind on a purposeful, ongoing journey of transformation
Those with the mind of Christ focus on thoughts that honor God. They study God’s word and follow His precepts. But recognize that sinful failure is inevitable in this world, Fortunately, the mind of Christ is renewable. And is spiritually restored through confession and repentance.
It’s a purposeful journey of discipleship that starts and stops, rises and falls, advances and retreats. Fueled by faith and driven by trust and obedience. Always pursuing but never arriving in this life. A journey travelled with other disciples in community that forms itself in the image of Christ. Navigating all the struggles and difficulties this world presents. But pressing on with the promises and power of God.
Because God’s grace cannot be subverted. His mercy won’t be denied. And His Kingdom will prevail. FOREVER.
A reasonable approach to Christian faith. Is the Christian faith the complete opposite of intellectual reason? I don’t think so and here’s why.
A reasonable approach to Christian faith. They are more similar than you think.
Some claim that Christian faith and intellectual reason are mutually exclusive. But I think they actually work together.
Let me explain.
The argument that pits faith against reason generally goes like this: Christian faith is a subjective, religious experience that is based on little or no evidence.
Reason on the other hand, involves facts. And it logically follows the evidence to intelligently reach a conclusion.
In short, faith is subjective and reason is objective.
Now I will be the first to admit that faith is subjective in nature. There’s no getting away from it. But at the same time, an honest discussion of Christian faith must include the OBJECT of its faith—Jesus Christ.
A reasonable approach to Christian faith. Jesus Christ is the object of our faith.
When Christians talk about faith, they talk about faith in Jesus Christ. And Jesus Christ is a historical figure. A real person. The things He said and did are recorded by eye witnesses. So the details around His birth, the miracles He performed, the claims He made, His death by Roman crucifixion, and the disappearance of His body from the grave are all confirmed facts. They are all evidence for you to consider.
It’s where reason comes in.
And there is all kind of literature for you to explore and reason through—Scriptural as well as non-religious, historical documents.
Anyone that is truly committed to intellectual integrity should at least understand what Christianity is about before dismissing it. Why not start with a general overview of its basic beliefs? You’ll find an easy to read explanation of them in the book, Christianity for the Average Joe.
Of course, no matter how convincing or unconvincing you consider the evidence, there won’t be enough proof either way.
You’ll have to make your decision based on faith. And so my definition.
Christian faith is the place you stand between what you know and believe.
There is a lot of information about Christianity for you to explore. A lot of evidence to reason through. But ultimately it comes down to faith. That’s where you’ll have to stand to make your final decision…to believe.
Yes…faith is subjective. And yes…it is an experience. One that leaves you forever changed.
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.
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