A study of John 4:43-54 reveals seeing is not always believing, desperate people turn to God, and belief in Jesus changes you and those around you.
A study of John 4:43-54 reveals seeing is not always believing.
So when he came to Galilee, the Galileans welcomed him, having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem at the feast. For they too had gone to the feast. (ESV, John 4:45)
After leaving Samaria, Jesus traveled to Galilee and stopped at Cana where he had turned the water into wine at a wedding reception. But verses 44 and 45 seem to contradict each other. In verse 44, Jesus says, “a prophet is without honor in his home town.” And verse 45 says “The Galileans welcomed him having seen all that he had done in Jerusalem.” What should we make of this?
To understand, let’s consider two of the Greek words used. In V.44, the Greek word for “honor” is timē, which means esteem, dignity, honor, and precious. And the Greek word in V.45 for “having seen” is heōrakotes, which means to see or perceive. In other words, the people witnessed the things Jesus did in Jerusalem. They were present to observe his cleansing of the temple and miracles. But there is no indication it meant anything to them. No respect or honor for him as the Messiah or even a prophet. Entertaining perhaps. Amazing for sure. But it didn’t move them to put their faith in him. Or cause them to believe he was the Son of God. They welcome him for another show. But not as the God they should worship.
We see this same attitude expressed today. No one denies Jesus’ miracles. The wisdom of his teaching. Or his exemplary moral life as a religious leader. But seeing is not believing. You can see him, but keep him at arms length. Stop short of confessing him as Lord. It is an intellectual acknowledgement, but not a commitment of genuine faith. That is the requirement of true discipleship.
A study of John 4:43-54 reveals that desperate people turn to God.
When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea to Galilee, he went to him and asked him to come down and heal his son, for he was at the point of death. (ESV, John 4:47)
However, people will turn to God as a last resort. When they’ve tried everything else without success. And from the neighboring city of Capernum, an official comes and appeals to Jesus. The Greek word for “official” is basilikos and indicates someone who serves a king in an official capacity. He begs Jesus to go with him to his house and heal his son who is ill and on the brink of death.
There is no indication the man has any faith in Jesus. No declaration of Jesus as Lord. Or even an acknowledgement Jesus is a prophet from God. But he knew of Jesus’ miracles. And he was down to his last option and desperate for one. In response, Jesus expressed frustration. Why did the people demand miracles to believe in him? And treat him like he was a performer for their entertainment? When in fact, his miracles demonstrated his divinity as the Son of God. So that people would believe and put their faith in him.
And the same is true for today. We ask Jesus to solve our problems when he wants to save us from sin. And often express hopelessness for our circumstances with words like, “All we can do now is pray.” When prayer should be our first response. Because it’s not throwing your hands up in surrender. But reaching up to an almighty God. Although God does not quarantee a miracle, he does promise to never leave or forsake us. And despite the hard hearts of those gathered around him, Jesus tells the official. “Go. Your son will live.”
A study of John 4:43-54 reveals belief in Jesus changes your life and those around you.
The father knew that was the hour when Jesus had said to him, “Your son will live.” And he himself believed, and all his household. (ESV, John 4:53)
Give the official some credit. He did, at least, take Jesus at his word and leave. He met one of his servants on the way who shared good news. His son had returned to full health. And what did the official do? He asked at what time his son was healed.
There is a popular saying today: Trust but verify. It’s often used when an agreement is made with someone considered untrustworthy. And don’t keep their word. Go ahead and make the agreement. But verify they hold up their end of the deal.
That is unecessary with God because he always keeps his word. But when the servant verified his son was healed the exact moment Jesus said he would live, the official knew it was by the power of Jesus. And then he believed.
The Greek word for “believed” is pistĕuō, which means to have faith in, to trust, and entrust one’s spiritual well-being to Christ. It represents genuine belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. Most Christ-followers today believe in Jesus without the benefit of witnessing a miracle. But trust Jesus’ claim that he is the Son of God. And place their faith in him as the Savior of the world.
And like the Samaritan woman, the official did not keep his new faith to himself. But shared it with his family and led them to believe in Jesus too. He asked Jesus to heal his son and ended up with something much better. Spiritual healing and eternal life for his entire family. In other words, he made disciples of the ones with whom he carried the most influence. And so should we.
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 4:1-42 reveals Jesus Christ is the living water that satisfies the soul, and the God of true worship who saves sinners.
A study of John 4:1-42 reveals that Jesus Christ is the living water.
Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him, and he would have given you living water.” (ESV, John 4:10)
Jesus and his disciples were on their way from Galilee to Judea. The road they traveled passed through Samaria and they stopped to rest near the town of Sychar. Jesus waits at Jacob’s well, named after his forefather, while his disciples go in town to buy food. As he rests, a Samaritan woman from town comes to draw from the well. And Jesus asks her for a drink of water.
She is surprised Jesus speaks to her because it breaks two social conventions. First, in Jewish culture, men did not speak to women in public. And second, there was long history of racial prejudice and animosity between Samaritans and Jews. And the woman is quick to note both in her reply. She was probably thinking to herself, who is this guy who doesn’t understand or play by the rules?
But like his encounter with Nicodemus, Jesus cuts straight to spiritual truth. If she knew who he was she would ask him for “living water.” The words are composed of the Greek zaō for “living” and hýdōr for “water.” And represent regeneration and eternal life. Her curiosity piqued, the woman keeps the conversation going with another practial observation. You don’t even have a bucket. How will you access this living water?
A study of John 4:1-42 reveals that Jesus satisfies the soul
Jesus said to her, “Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” (ESV, John 4:13-14)
But Jesus didn’t answer her question. Why? Because he WAS the living water. And remains so today. He satisfies the spiritual thirst of our human soul. And provides the refreshing spring of eternal life. He ends the search for meaning, purpose, and significance. Explains why we’re here. What happens when we die. And how to live an abundant life on earth.
Now he has her complete attention. And the conversation flips. From her satisying his physical thirst to him satisfying her spiritual thirst. But first, she carries some baggage that must be addressed. The same problem with sin that we all carry today. And Jesus uncovers it with a simple statement. “Go call your husband and come here.”
A study of John 4:1-42 reveals that Jesus is the God of true worship
The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ). When he comes, he will tell us all things.” Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he. (ESV, John 4:25-26)
Jesus points out her sin. Not in general. But specifically. She has been married and divorced five times and currently lives with a man outside of marriage. And now she is flabergasted. A stranger she has just met knows the familar and unsavory details of her life. And her reaction is also familar. Because it reflects ours as well.
Admitting sin
Rather than admit and confess our sin, we rationalize and deflect. Talk about religion in general terms. Discuss spirituality as a human endeavor. Quote obscure Biblical passages out of context to make sweeping claims. And then defend our goodness. “I’m not so bad.” “Everybody is doing it.” “We all make mistakes.” And, “my life is not nearly as bad as the guy down the street.”
The woman tried to dodge the spiritual discussion. But like a fish on the line, Jesus slowly drew her in, narrowing the discussion along the way until she is out of excuses. And she reaches the pinnacle of her religious belief. The awaited Messiah. He will explain it all when he comes. She declares it as a discussion ender. Top rung on the ladder. Where the other person has no other comeback. But to her complete astonishment, Jesus replies that’s who he is.
He is literally the end of all spiritual discussion. Especially concerning worship. Because true worship is in spirit and truth. It’s not contingent on location or building architecture. Nor defined by celebration or reverence. A litany of traditions, confessions, and creeds. But is directed to God through the person of Jesus Christ. As we reflect on, praise, and exalt his name.
A study of John 4:1-42 reveals that Jesus saves sinners
They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of what you said that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Savior of the world.” (ESV, John 4:42)
Right after Jesus revealed himself as Messiah to the woman, the disciples return with food. And things get a bit confusing. The disciples want to ask Jesus why he is talking to a Samaritan woman but don’t. Then try to give him food to eat, but he declines talking instead about spiritual food that nourishes him and fields white for harvest. In the mean time, the Samaritan woman leaves her water jar behind, rushes into town, and excitedly tells everyone about her encounter with Jesus at the well. A man who knew everything about her. Could he be the Christ?
Many from the town went out to meet him. They convinced him to stay with them for two more days. And when he left, many professed their faith in him as Savior of the world. The story demonstrates both the influence of personal witness and the transforming power of Jesus Christ. He cares about and pursues people that others reject and spiritually transforms all who believe in and respond to his gift of salvation.
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 1:1-14 reveals the Word is preexistent and eternal, God’s agent for creation and salvation, and the physical revelation of God as man.
Background:
The Gospel of John was written by John the apostle near the end of his life around 80-95 AD. And identifies himself as the disciple “whom Jesus loved.” At this time in history, original Jewish leaders like Peter, James the brother of Jesus, and Paul had been martyred and there were more Gentiles in the Christian church than Jews. It is this mixed audience that John writes to.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is the preexistent and eternal God.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. (ESV, John 1:1-2)
Who is Jesus Christ? This was the central question during Jesus’ earthly ministry, among the early churches, and we still ask it today. The Gospel of John provides a clear answer. And he does so by going back to the beginning.
The Greek word for “beginning” in John is arche, which means beginning, origin, and first cause. And the Hebrew word for “beginning” in Genesis is berēʾšît, which means beginning, first, or first fruits. Both point to the beginning of creation.
John strategically refers to Jesus as the “word” which is the Greek word logos. It had a unique meaning to both groups in his audience.
Word = Logos
To the Jews, “word” carries power. God spoke the world into existence. Jesus calmed a raging storm with commanding words. And God’s written word communicates his covenantal law and reveals his will. However, to the Greeks, logos meant reason. The Stoics said logos was the divine rational principle that brought order to chaos, pervaded all things, and structured the cosmos.
And now, John makes an audacious claim. The Word was present at the time of creation, which means he is eternal and preexistent. Furthermore, he was with God and was God. In other words, he is a different person, but has the same divine essence as God the Father. The second person of the trinity composed of God the Father, Son, and Spirit.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals Jesus is God’s agent for creation and the light of men
All things were made through him, and without him was not any thing made that was made. (ESV, John 1:3)
The world did not evolve by chance. A random, uncaused spark out of nothingness that exploded into somethingness–a completely ordered universe of marvel and wonder. Rather, it was intentional. An Almighty design from divine imagination, yet precisely engineered and structured for mankind. And not just made by the Word, but held together by him too.
They are darkened in their understanding, alienated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them, due to their hardness of heart. (ESV, Ephesians 4:18)
But the Word is also a light for humanity. Because shortly after creation, the sin of Adam and Eve plunged the world into spiritual darkness. One that separates us from God and we can’t fix on our own. But the Word illuminates the way back to God.
REFLECTION:
How do you answer the question: Who is Jesus?
Describe the background story that forms your spiritual life today.
Do you relate more to the Jewish or Greek concept of logos? Explain your thoughts.
Describe your understanding of spiritual darkness. How is Jesus a light for you?
A study of John 1:1-14) reveals Jesus is God’s agent for salvation
But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God. (ESV, John 1:12-13)
You’d think everyone would run to the light. But that is not the case and John readily admits it. Many people reject Jesus for different reasons. However, those who turn from spiritual darkness to the light and receive Jesus as Savior and Lord are spiritually reborn as children of God.
The Greek word for “Receive” is Lambano which means to receive a person, give access to one’s self, and take possession of.
In other words, receiving the light involves more than passive acceptance. Like simply accepting a gift. It expects a response. Not just a simple, do you receive this gift? But are you opening yourself up to what you are receiving? Will you fully embrace it? Make a whole hearted commitment to it? In other words, if you receive Jesus are you all in?
The Greek word for “believe” is pisteuō and means to trust, rely on, and cling to. It indicates that belief in Jesus is more than intellectual assent. Like believing in the existence of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. A superficial belief that requres nothing from you. Belief in Jesus involves a personal commitment. A willingness to follow Jesus as a disciple. To put your eternal life in his hands and trust him for the salvation that only he offers.
A study of John 1:1-14 reveals that Jesus is the physical revelation of God as man.
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son. (ESV, John 1:14)
Jesus didn’t simply put on a human form, like a set of clothes. He was fully human and fully God. And he experienced human life in every way that we do. The uncertainties, fears, hardships, pain, emotions, and temptations. Therefore, he understands our struggles. And he guides and supports us as we strive to follow him.
In Jesus, we see the Father. Through him, we are relationally restored with God. And by following him, we glorify God as we walk by faith in his righteousness.
REFLECTION:
Does the idea that “receiving” Jesus is more than passive acceptance change your ideas about the salvation process? Describe what you think belief in Jesus involves.
What is significant about the fact that Jesus is the agent of both creation and the spiritual recreation of mankind?
John makes it clear that Jesus is God in a completely human form. Why is this an important truth?
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview.This blog is originally published here.
Looking for a small group Bible Study?
This four week study dives directly into God’s word. It includes an individual study with an exegetical approach that examines word meaning, provides background information, and thought provoking questions for reflection and journaling, And a weekly, group study guide that promotes a lively group discussion around other scripture references, personal stories, and life experiences that help apply scriptural truth to life.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of authentic relationships in the church, making disciples, and ministry engagement of church members.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of authentic relationships in the church
V.15 Give my greetings to the brothers at Laodicea, and to Nympha and the church in her house.
As Paul concludes his theological teaching he turns his attention to another important matter. Fostering authentic relationships. Because he asks the Colossians to greet the brothers at Laodicea and the house church that meets in the home of Nympha.
Start up churches in first century Christianity often met in homes. Especially since congregations were usually small. But hosting regular meetings in a home is no small thing. Then or now, because it takes much preparation. Perhaps specifically mentioning Nympha in his greeting was a way to affirm her.
Regardless, it reminds us that Christianity is a journey of faith with other believers. And those relationships must be intentionally nurtured and maintained.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance in making disciples
V.16 And when this letter has been read among you, have it also read in the church of the Laodiceans; and see that you also read the letter from Laodicea.
Paul’s apostolic teaching was considered authoritative by the early Christians. And his letters were passed around and read among the churches. But rather than let a ministry position inflate his ego, he recognized his own sin, unworthiness, and God’s grace to him. Look at Romans 7:15-20, 1 Timothy 1:15, and 1 Corinthians 15:9-10 for examples.
Nevertheless, Paul recognized his teaching as authoritative because he instructs the Colossians to swap letters with the Laodiceans. Did he know his writing was inspired by the Holy Spirit? It’s unclear if he knew, but we know because 1 Timothy 3:16-17 confirms it.
What happened to the letter to Laodicea? Some scholars speculate it was today’s book of Ephesians and others say the original letter was lost. Regardless, we know our Bible today is God’s complete word and we need not worry about anything missing.
A study of Colossians 4:15-18 reveals the importance of ministry engagement of church members
V.17 And say to Archippus, “See that you fulfill the ministry that you have received in the Lord.”
We get more background information about Archippus in Paul’s letter to Philemon where he calls him a “fellow soldier.” Philemon hosted a house church and Archippus was part of it. And some scholars suggest, possibly his son. The title “fellow soldier” indicates a ministerial role. Perhaps as a pastor, but more likely a lay leader.
And notice the ministry was “received in the Lord.” In other words, God calls lay leaders into ministry too. Because pastors can’t possibly carry out church ministry by themselves. Of course, that doesn’t mean every church volunteer position requires a special calling. Often, the only qualification is a willing spirit and obedient heart. But when God calls we should respond with obedience.
On a practical note, pastors often prayerfully seek God’s guidance for filling various church leadership roles. And from pastoral experience I can tell you He often brings certain people to mind. So if a staff member approaches you about a particular ministry opportunity in your church, don’t immediately turn it down. It might be God’s way of calling you.
V.18 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
In the midst of Paul’s concern for the Colossians he asked for their thoughts and prayers on his behalf. He was still in prison, uncertain of the future, and needed prayer support. A good reminder that while pastors often pray faithfully FOR their congregation, they still need prayers from FROM their congregation too.
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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