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 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 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.
A Study of John 1:29-42 presents the public identification of Jesus, how he is recognized as the Messiah, and John the Baptist’s descending and Jesus’ ascending ministry.
A Study of John 1:29-42 presents the public identification of Jesus
The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! (ESV, John 1:29)
John 1:1-14 is a biography of Jesus that begins in Genesis. It tells us he already existed at the time of creation, so he is God. But more specifically, he is the second person of the trinity, God the Son and agent of creation. He lived among us as God in human form, and yet, many people failed to recognize him. But those who did and received him became adopted children of God.
Wow! A lot of divine revelation in a few verses. And now, John the Baptist publicly identifies him and announces his mission. To save the world from sin.
The role of sacrificial lambs
The Mosaic law involved a complex system of sacrifice that included sacrificial lambs. Especially used for the atonement of sin.
For the life of the flesh is in the blood, and I have given it for you on the altar to make atonement for your souls, for it is the blood that makes atonement by the life. (ESV, Leviticus 17:11)
Sacrificial lambs were considered innocent and had to be unblemished for moral purity. They were a temporary, not a permanent fix. And regularly offered because they covered sin rather than eliminate it. The Greek word for “takes away” is airō, which means takes away, to bear, and remove. In other words, Jesus’ sacrifice is a permanent solution. It removes the sin of the “world.” And the Greek word Kosmos means all of humanity–past, present, and future.
A Study of John 1:29-42 presents how Jesus is the recognized Messiah
And John bore witness, saying, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and He remained upon Him. I did not know Him, but He who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘Upon whom you see the Spirit descending, and remaining on Him, this is He who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.” (ESV, John 1:32-34)
John the Baptist’s role was not to just pave the way for Jesus, but to publicly identify him. However, John must firm confirm Jesus is the one he is expecting.
Throughout scripture God uses signs to authenticate, confirm, and reveal his redemptive plan. The miracles Jesus performed were signs of his divinity. And God gave John the Baptist a sign for recognizing the Messiah–he would see the Holy Spirit descend on him like a dove.
Matthew 3:13-17 and Luke 3:21-22 both record Jesus presenting himself to John the Baptist for baptism. And as Jesus exits the water, the heavens open and the Holy Spirit descends on him like a dove. Furthermore, a voice declares, “This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased.” The event confirms the prophecies in Isaiah 11:2, 42:1 and 61:1. And now, John the Baptist bears witness that Jesus fulfills all the expectations and is the Son of God.
A Study of John 1:29-42 presents John the Baptist’s descending and Jesus’ ascending ministry
Again, the next day, John stood with two of his disciples. And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God! (ESV, John 1:35-36)
John the Baptist enthusiastically pointed to Jesus over himself. And humbly claimed he was unworthy to even untie Jesus’ sandals. In modern terms, John the Baptist was the warm up act and Jesus the main event. John’s spotlight on Jesus included encouraging his own disciples to follow Jesus instead of him. And in this passage two make that switch. One who is identified as Andrew.
The two disciples seem tentative as they follow Jesus. So Jesus stops and asked them a question. “What are you seeking?” The Greek word for “seeking” is zēteite and means to seek, desire, strive for, aim at, and endeavor to obtain. It’s more than a casual, “What’s up, Dude?” And even, “What’s your five year plan?” But probes into their hearts. What deeper meanings in life are you searching for? When it comes to Jesus, it’s a good question for us all to reflect on. Because Jesus is the answer.
Perhaps they were caught off guard because their response was superficial. “Where are you staying? Jesus simply responds, “Come and see” which they do. And while we don’t know what their time together involved, Andrew clearly found the answers he sought. Because the next day he takes his brother, Simon, to meet Jesus. And rather than a question, Jesus makes a statement. He will call Simon by a new name. Peter. The rock.
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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