A study of John 7:37-8:1 reveals living water as the Holy Spirit, a mixed response to the identity of Jesus, and Jesus’ rejection by the spiritual elite.
A study of John 7:37-8:1 reveals living water as the Holy Spirit.
On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and cried out, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’ (ESV, John 7:37-38)
The week long feast of the Tabernacle included a religious ritual that brings Jesus’ words to life. During the first six days, a gold pitcher was filled with water from the Pool of Siloam and carried to the temple. Three blasts on a ram’s horn announced when they reached the water gate. And at the temple, they circled the altar singing songs of praise and shaking palm branches. Then the temple priest poured the water into a silver bowl on the alter and then over the alter. It symbolized the belief that when the Messiah appeared, he would provide manna and water like Moses did in the wilderness.
Jesus uses the same Greek words for “living water” in V.38 as in John 4:10 when he talked to the Samaritan woman at the well. Jesus is the source of that living water, which refers specifically to the Holy Spirit. And what makes the statment outrageous is it claims equality with God. A blasphemous statement to the religious leaders.
In V.39, John further predicts an outpouring of the Spirit on believers after Jesus is glorified. This is fulfilled and recorded in Acts 2. However, today, God’s Spirit fills every person the moment they believe on Jesus and confess him as Savior and Lord.
A study of John 7:37-8:1 reveals a mixed response to the identity of Jesus.
When they heard these words, some of the people said, “This really is the Prophet.” Others said, “This is the Christ.” But some said, “Is the Christ to come from Galilee? (ESV, John 7:40-41)
The people listening to Jesus expressed different opinions about his identity. In Deuteronomy 18:15, Moses foretells that God will raise up “a prophet like me from among your brothers.” Therefore, many Jews expected a prophet to appear separate from the Messiah. And perhaps, Jesus was the prophet Moses spoke about rather than Messiah.
Others were convinced he was the Christ, which is the Greek Christos, and means annointed one. They didn’t see how anyone else could be more spectacular than Jesus. Therefore, they believed he was the Messiah. But others rejected him because he came from Galilee and scriptures said the Messiah was a descendent of David who was born in Bethlehem.
The irony, of course, is Jesus fulfilled both of those prophecies. And those unbelievers would have discovered that had they explored further. So it makes you wonder. Had they already formed their unbelief and simply looked to support it rather than open mindedly pursue the truth? Would the truth convince them or simply force another excuse for unbelief?
A study of John 7:37-8:1 reveals Jesus’ rejection by the spiritual elite.
The officers then came to the chief priests and Pharisees, who said to them, “Why did you not bring him?” The officers answered, “No one ever spoke like this man!” (ESV, John 7:45-46)
In John 7:32, the chief priests and Pharisees send officers to arrest Jesus. They were likely Levites who functioned as security to enforce order within the temple. And they exercised wider authority under the command of the chief priests. But they aren’t mentioned again all the way through V.44. Did they drop into a narrative black hole? Or is John using creative storytelling? Describe an action and immediately shift to another scene to increase dramatic tension?
Because finally, in V.45, the officers report back to the chief priests and Pharisees empty handed. And when asked why, they simply respond, “No one ever spoke like this man!” In other words, there was something extraordinary about Jesus’ teaching. More than captivating. But true.
The religious leaders responded by mocking the officers. Essentially calling them stupid. How can you believe Jesus’ lies? None of us among the intellectually elite believe in him. And that is proof enough that neither should you. Unfortunately, what the religious leaders considered intellectual superiority was actually spiritual blindness.
Furthermore, it was not true that all the religious leaders rejected Jesus. Although not ready to publicly declare his beliefs, Nicodemus spoke on Jesus’ behalf by reminding the others that Jewish law did not allow judgement without a fair hearing. Although that too would soon face a test.
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 7:25-36 reveals the bold teaching of Jesus, the difference between human and spiritual perception, and Jesus’ final destination.
A study of John 7:25-36 reveals the bold teaching of Jesus.
Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, “Is not this the man whom they seek to kill?And here he is, speaking openly, and they say nothing to him! Can it be that the authorities really know that this is the Christ? (ESV, John 7:25-26)
When Jesus went to the feast of the tabernacle in Jerusalem, he kept a low profile until about halfway through the week. Then he appears in the Jewish temple and teaches. He commands the attention of a crowd, speaks boldly, and sparks controversary. And everyone wonders. Who is this guy anyway?
Surely he knew about the threats on his life. And yet he presents himself publicly as an open target. No security detail. Stepping in and out of the shadows. Chasing popularity or political power. But boldly declaring truth, answering questions, and confronting religious adversaries. And the people began to question. Had the religious leaders concluded Jesus was the Messiah after all?
If so, it added to their confusion. Because it challenged a popular Jewish belief: No one would know where the Messiah came from. And they all agreed this was not the case for Jesus.
But we know where this man comes from, and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from.” (ESV, John 7:27)
A study of John 7:25-36 reveals the difference between human and spiritual perception.
So Jesus proclaimed, as he taught in the temple, “You know me, and you know where I come from. But I have not come of my own accord. He who sent me is true, and him you do not know. I know him, for I come from him, and he sent me. (ESV, John 7:28-29)
But the idea no one would know where the Messiah came from wasn’t exactly true. Many prophecies identified him. Including these two important ones.
But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose coming forth is from of old, from ancient days. (ESV, Micah 5:2)
Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The Lord is our righteousness.’ (ESV, Jeremiah 23:5-6)
Jesus’ lineage and birthplace
The people knew at least two important facts about the Messiah. He was a direct descendent of King David and born in the city of Bethlehem. What they meant by “no one will know where he comes from” is that the Messiah would appear mysteriously and suddenly, as if from nowhere. But people knew of Jesus’ ministry in Galilee. And that he was raised in Nazareth and currently lived in Capernaum. So he did not conform to their popular belief.
But Jesus challenges their knowledge. And maybe is better paraphrased: So you think you know where I come from, huh? Well, guess again. Because the one who sent me is True.And I know him, but you don’t. In other words, it’s impossible to recognize Jesus as the Son of God through human perception. He is only truly seen through spiritual perception by exercising faith.
A study of John 7:25-36 reveals Jesus’ final destination.
Jesus then said, “I will be with you a little longer, and then I am going to him who sent me. You will seek me and you will not find me. Where I am you cannot come.” (ESV, John 7:33-34)
Jesus shares another spiritual truth. He will remain on earth a little while longer, and then return to the one who sent him in heaven. And they can’t follow him there. But the people still fail to see beyond human perception. And only think of his destination as somewhere on earth.
Does he intend to go to the Dispersion among the Greeks and teach the Greeks? What does he mean by saying, ‘You will seek me and you will not find me,’ and, ‘Where I am you cannot come’?” (ESV, John 35b-36)
So the people stretch their imagination as far as earthly possible. Perhaps Jesus plans to disappear in the dispersion?
What is the dispersion?
The Greek word for “dispersion” is diaspora, which means “scattering” or “dispersion.” It refers to the Jews who lived outside of the land of Israel, spread among the Gentiles and spoke Greek. It first occurred when the Assyrian (8 BC) and Babylonian (6 BC) empires invaded Israel and exiled them to other lands. And this dispersion continued later under Persian, Greek, and Roman rule as the Jews migrated throughout the ancient world. Perhaps, Jesus intended to go and teach among those people.
It all comes down to a decision.
Yet many of the people believed in him. They said, “When the Christ appears, will he do more signs than this man has done?” (ESV, John 7:31)
In the end every person decides. Is Jesus the Son of God or not? Because if so, his life, death, and resurrection change everything. But that change occurs one heart at a time. And many of his listeners took that step of faith and believed in him. Today, two thousand years later, many people are still believing in him too.
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 7:1-13 reveals how Jesus managed his public appearance in Judea, why the world hates him, and the division between who is for and against him.
A study of John 7:1-13 reveals how Jesus managed his public appearance in Judea.
After this Jesus went about in Galilee. He would not go about in Judea, because the Jews were seeking to kill him. (ESV, John 7:1)
Jesus was raised in the city of Nazareth and established his ministry base in Capernaum. Both were located in the region of Galilee. Judea was about 70-100 miles away with Samaria sandwiched in between the two regions, Judea’s major cities included Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Bethany, and Jericho.
The Jewish temple was located in Jerusalem along with the religious establishment—known as the Sanhedrin and composed of Pharisees, Sadducees, and scribes. They were also the ones who wanted to kill Jesus which is why he remained in Galilee. It was considered more rural and less sophisticated by the comsmopolitan Judeans. But this never bothered Jesus who regularly socialized with sinners and tax collectors.
Now the Jews’ Feast of Booths was at hand. So his brothers said to him, “Leave here and go to Judea, that your disciples also may see the works you are doing. For no one works in secret if he seeks to be known openly. (ESV, John 7:2-4)
Remembering the wilderness journey
The Feast of the Booths or Tabernacles was a seven day event in late September and early October. It celebrated God’s provision and protection during Israel’s 40 year wilderness journey. As part of the feast, Jews built temporary shelters to stay in during the week to represent the temporary shelters they inhabited while in wilderness.
The Greek word for “brothers” is adelphós and indicates Jesus’ biological half-brothers. They encourage Jesus to make a public appearance in Judea during the feast. Sensible advice, right? If you aspire to make a name for yourself in religious circles, then Judea is where to showcase yourself. Especially when the cities like Jerusalem are crowded with out of town Jews observing the feast. Although you might wonder about his brothers’ motivation, since as John points out, they don’t believe in Jesus at this time.
A study of John 7:1-13 reveals why the world hates Jesus.
Jesus said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always here. The world cannot hate you, but it hates me because I testify about it that its works are evil. (ESV, John 7:6-7)
Jesus answers his brothers like he did his mother at the wedding in Cana when she told him they were out of wine. (John 2:4) And it demonstrates two things: First, his miracles and ministry were not about gaining attention and fame. Second, he carefully obeyed the father’s will throughout his life and ministry.
The Greek word for “time” is kairos, which means appointed time. Earlier Jesus says his words are given to him by the father.
For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for he gives the Spirit without measure. (ESV, John 3:34)
And timing matters too.
Jesus’ words and actions conformed to his father’s will. And included how, when, and where he spoke and acted. Although his brothers had no time restrictions and could go to the feast whenever they wanted.
But why does the world hate Jesus?
The Greek word for “testify” in V.7 is martyréō, which means to bear witness. Jesus called for repentance of sin without condemning individuals for their sinful acts. How does this work? Repentance recognizes your sinful condition, confesses it, and asks Jesus Christ for forgiveness. And then, rather than condemnation, God extends grace.
And yet, Jesus’ life of righteousness illuminated the sin of others. The one group Jesus regularly did confront was the religious establishment. He called out their pride, self-righteousness, and hypocrasy. But rather than repent and believe in Jesus, they plotted to kill him. We should keep in mind that followers of Jesus who pursue righteous and holiness also illuminate the darkness. And those hiding in it don’t want exposure and may seek to extinguish the light.
A study of John 7:1-13 reveals the division between who is for and against Jesus.
And there was much muttering about him among the people. While some said, “He is a good man,” others said, “No, he is leading the people astray.”Yet for fear of the Jews no one spoke openly of him. (ESV, John 7:12)
Jesus shows up at the feast later but he does so quietly. And John notes that people were watching for him. The religious leaders wanted to kill him, but the rest were divided on who Jesus was.
He publicly performed miracles that healed seriously ill people and were considered good. But he also claimed to be the Son of God in human flesh who came to sacrifice himself for the sin of the world. Was it true or not? And if someone makes false claims that lead people away from the truth, can that person be considered good?
Liar, lunatic, or Lord?
In his book, Mere Christianity, author C.S. Lewis says an emphatic “no.”
I am trying here to prevent anyone from saying the really foolish thing that people often say about Him: ‘I’m ready to accept Jesus as a great moral teacher, but I don’t accept his claim to be God.’ That is the one thing we must not say. A man who was merely a man and said the sort of things Jesus said would not be a great moral teacher. He would either be a lunatic– on a level with the man who says he is a poached egg– or else he would be the Devil of Hell. You must make your choice. Either this man was, and is, the Son of God: or else a madman or something worse.
Is he or is he not the Son of God? We must individually decide. And to dismiss him with indifference is to choose.
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 6:35-47 reveals the call of God and security of believers, Jesus’ obedience to God’s will, and a consistent message of belief in Jesus for eternal life.
A study of John 6:35-47 reveals the call of God and security of believers
But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never cast out. (ESV, John 6:36-37)
A crowd of people had been following Jesus, mostly to watch him perform miracles. But he offered much more than that. And reminds them in V.35 that those who believe in him will have their spiritual hunger and thirst satisfied. Then he acknowledges in V.36 that many who saw his miraculous works, still didn’t believe in him. And it raises the question: why do some people believe in Jesus and others don’t? Especially, when everyone has the same opportunity to listen, observe, and respond to him. Jesus answers the question in V.37. People who believe are the ones the Father gives me. And he clarifies it further in V.44. No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him.
The Greek word for “draw” is helkysē, which means to drag, draw, and pull. It presents the idea of moving against resistance. God’s Spirit doesn’t just invite us to believe in Jesus. But moves us toward him.
When you hear God’s voice
This means the decision to follow Jesus is not solely on human volition. Where we intellectually consider the facts and decide on our own. It is a faith decision that extends beyond the physical realm to the spiritual realm. And involves spiritual intervention. God himself draws us to Jesus through the work of his Spirit. The Apostle Paul put it this way.
And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified. (ESV, Romans 8:30)
Some people mistakenly think they can believe in Jesus at any time. Enjoy life on their own terms and decide to follow Jesus near the end of life so they can enter heaven. But scripture suggests otherwise. Therefore, if you sense the Spirit of God calling you to believe in Jesus, make an immediate decision. Don’t assume it’s an open invitation to accept at your convenience. However, when you turn to him, Jesus welcomes you with open arms.
And whoever comes to me I will never cast out. (ESV, John 6:37b)
A study of John 6:35-47 reveals Jesus’ obedience to God’s will
For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day. (ESV, John 6:40)
Jesus explains the reason he came from heaven. Not to do his will, but the will of the father. And it is the father’s will that everyone who believes in Jesus receives eternal life and is resurrected on the last day.
Ironically, no one in the crowd argued against the divine source of power in Jesus’ miracles. But they suddenly questioned his claim of coming from heaven. Because they all knew he was the son of Joseph and Mary. And watched him grow up with all the other children in town. Perhaps, there were also lingering rumors and questions around the betrothed pregnancy of his mother. But conception of a virgin by the Holy Spirit was not one of them.
Did the unbelievers reject him because he didn’t offer enough miraculous proof? Maybe he was too human for them to believe he was God? Or was it simply an excuse? And what reasons do people give for rejecting Jesus today? Fortunately, God’s will does not change. He wills that we all believe in Jesus and receive eternal life. And when we follow him, Jesus secures us until the day of resurrection.
A study of John 6:35-47 reveals a consistent message of belief in Jesus for eternal life.
Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life. (ESV, John 6:47)
Jesus ends the passage where he began. Telling the crowd to believe in him for eternal life. And his consistent message is proclaimed throughout the New Testament. The Greek word for “believes” is pisteuō, which means to believe, to entrust oneself, rely upon, and have faith in. It’s more than intellectual assent. But means personally trusting and relying on the one you believe in. And it is not one and done but ongoing belief.
However, the repetition didn’t drive home the message. Instead, it made the people grumble. Why? Because they didn’t believe he came down from heaven or they finally realized all his talk about bread was symbolic. It represented spiritual belief in him rather than actual bread. And meant they weren’t getting a lifelong food supply.
In V.45 Jesus’ words “And they will all be taught by God” refers to Isaiah 54:13. All your children shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the peace of your children. It supports and further elaborates on V.44. God draws people to believe in Jesus, not just through the voice of his Spirit. But also, the illuminated truth of God’s word.
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 6:16-34 covers Jesus walking on the water, the bread that satisfies spiritual hunger, and the bread of God who gives eternal life.
A study of John 6:16-34 covers Jesus walking on the water.
They saw Jesus walking on the sea and coming near the boat, and they were frightened. (ESV, John 6:
You’re in a boat at night. In a raging storm. Wind howling. Flashes of lightning. Cracks of thunder. Massive waves tipping you side to side. And you’re rowing mightily, but going nowhere. Suddenly, a shadowy figure appears on the surface of the water. Looks human, but obscure. You’re shaking in fright. Expecting the worst and no idea what that is. Like the surrealistic scene from a sci-fi novel. Except it’s a real life event from the Bible. When Jesus appears walking on the water.
It’s also described in the gospels of Matthew and Mark. And in all three it occurs immediately after the feeding of the 5,000. But there are variations among the stories. Matthew and Mark explain that after feeding the 5,000, Jesus sends the disciples to cross over the Sea of Galilee without him while he dismissed the crowd. And then he goes alone into the hills to pray.
Mark and John say that Jesus saw the disciples struggling on the sea against the storm in the boat. Perhaps, because of a higher vantage point since the Sea of Galilee is 600 feet below sea level and Jesus was up in the hills. Matthew is the only one who tells of Peter getting out of the boat to walk on the water with Jesus. And John points out that when Jesus gets in the boat it immediately reaches land.
Three accounts with different details, but one truth. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, commands all creation.
A study of John 6:16-34 covers the bread that satisfies spiritual hunger.
Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. (ESV, John 6:26)
It frustrated Jesus. Curious people who followed him, but wouldn’t believe. Looking for another free meal. Attracted to the physical satisfactions he offered without making a comittment of faith. A god formed in their own image who conveniently fit their worldview and lifestyle. Eventually the crowd caught up with him. And in a similar manner that Jesus used a conversation around water with the Samaritan woman at the well, he now uses the recent miraculous meal to drive a spiritual discussion around bread.
Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give to you. (ESV, John 6:27)
In other words, think beyond your physical needs to your spiritual needs. Like physical hunger, there is spiritual hunger that is only satisfied by spiritual bread. However, the people tried to divert the spiritual discussion.
What must we do, to be doing the works of God? (ESV, John 6:28)
“The works of God” is more clearly translated “works God requires.” It was then, as today, a works based belief about eternal life. If I can just do enough good things, God will deem me worthy, and I will earn my way into heaven. But it is an idea that scripture does not teach. And Jesus returned them to the spiritual truth.
Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.” (ESV, John 6:29)
Good works will not save you. It is belief in Jesus that gains salvation. A commitment of faith and discipleship. And you strive for good works because you are now saved and follow Jesus. And seek to please him through righteous living,
A study of John 6:16-34 covers the bread of God who gives eternal life.
Our fathers ate the manna in the wilderness; as it is written, ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’ (ESV, John 6:31)
Forced back into a spiritual discussion, the people recall an event from their religious history. The story in Exodus 16:1-31 where God provided manna to eat during their wilderness journey as they were led by Moses. They expected the coming of another great prophet like Moses and if Jesus was the one, they wanted further proof.
Jesus responded with two reminders. First, it was not Moses that provided the manna from heaven, but God. And second, he is much more than Moses.
My father gives you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he who comes down from heaven and gives life to the world. (ESV, John 6:32b-33)
Jesus moved the topic from food to a person. The Son of God who comes from heaven in human flesh and gives life to the world.
The Greek word for “life” is zoe, which literally means life. But it means more than existence. It’s used in the New Testament to indicate the essence and quality of life. Specifically, the life that comes from God. And it’s available through Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Vibrant, abundant, and everlasting.
Finally, Jesus had their spiritual attention. Something they could really sink their teeth into. They asked Jesus to give them this bread “always.” The Greek word for “always” is pantote, which means always, at all times, and on every occasion. Finally, Jesus has their attention. Does he have ours?
Right Now Media is a good tool for group Bible studies. But sometimes, your small group should dive directly into God’s word. That’s what this four-week study does. 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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