All of John
Friday, January 15, 2010 by Thomas Ling
of this did John learn about Him through his experience at Christ’s baptism? Do
these truths mean something to you?
Note. Verse 29. ‘He saw Jesus coming’: probably after the forty days in the wilderness, when He was tempted by Satan. That Jesus’ baptism had already taken place is shown by verse 32. Cf. Lk. 3:21, 22.
STUDY 3 John 1:35-51
1 Describe what it was that brought each of these five men to Jesus. How far did
they understand who Jesus was? What account of Him can you give to others?
2 Verses 48,49. Why did Jesus’ answer elicit the response of Nathanael? See 2: 25.
What do verses 47—50 reveal of Nathanael’s character?
Notes
1 Verse 42. Cephas = Peter = Rock.
2 Verses 47,51. An allusion to the story of Jacob in Gn. 32: 24—29 and 28:12,13.
3 Verse 51. This word, as shown by the plural ‘you’, was spoken not about
Nathanael only, but about all the disciples. Jesus would be revealed to them
as the true and final Mediator between God and man.
STUDY 4 John 2:1—22
1 Verses 1—11 present the first of the seven ‘signs’ (see Introduction), which
reveal the identity of Jesus and stimulate faith (verse ii). What particular
aspect of Jesus’ glory does this miracle display?
What change in our life does turning the water into wine represent? Cf. 2
Cor.5:17. What can we learn from Mary’s response to Jesus?
2 The idea of the ‘Temple’ unites verses 13—17 with 18—22. How does Jesus appear in
each incident? By what authority does He drive out the traders? Cf. Mal. 3:1—3.
What crisis does this incident foreshadow in the mind of Jesus? What did He
foresee concerning the cost and character of His mission?
Notes
1 Verse 4. The English, even in RSV, makes Jesus’ words seem disrespectful, but in
the Greek the form of address is perfectly courteous. Jesus makes it clear that
He depends upon no human instructions, even from His mother, but only upon that
which God appoints. He is awaiting His Father’s instructions.
2 Verses 14—16. See TNTC (p. 61) for discussion whether there were two cleansings
of the Temple, one at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, as here, and one at the
end, as recorded in the Synoptics.
STUDY 5 John 2:23—3:21
1 Why was Jesus not satisfied with the faith spoken of in 2:23? Cf. 4:48; 6:26, 30;
Mt. 13:54. Is my faith the kind that pleases God?
2 What was right and what was lacking in Nicodemus’ assessment of Jesus? How did Jesus’ answer correct him? What is involved in being ‘born of the Spirit’, and why is it needed? Cf. Mt. 18:3 Jn. 1:12, 13; 2Cor.5:17; Rom. 8:8,9.
3 Why was the lifting up of the Son of man necessary? (Note ‘must’ in verse 14.) On what ground are men judged and condemned? Where do you stand in relation to these truths?
Notes
1 Verse 5. ‘Born of water’ probably refers to John’s baptism.
2 Verse 8. As with the wind, so with the movement of the Spirit, the effect
is real and recognizable, although the process is hidden.
3 Verses 12,13. The gospel speaks of heavenly things, of which Christ is the sole
revealer. Cf. 3:31, 32; Mt. 11:27.
STUDY 6 John 3: 22—36
1 How might one have expected John to have replied to the statement of verse 26?
Consider the quality of character and the principles brought out in his answer.
How far do you share his attitude to Christ? How does it apply to your situation?
2 What is said about Jesus in verses 31, 32, 34, 35, which set Him apart from and
above all others?
3 ‘Receives his testimony’, ‘believes in the Son’, ‘does not obey the Son’ (verses
33, 36). What kinds of response to Jesus Christ do these phrases describe? To
what consequences do they lead?
Notes
1 Verse 32. ‘No one’: i.e., generally speaking; it is qualified in verse 33.
2 Verse 33. ‘Sets his seal’: he both confirms his acceptance of the truth of
God’s word and in his consequent experience proves the truth of it. Cf. 7: 17.
STUDY 7 John 4:1-26
1 What did our Lord mean by ‘living water’ (verse 10)? Why, when He had wakened in
the woman a desire for it, did He not at once grant her request? What was
necessary before He could do so?
2 Trace the successive steps by which Jesus brought the woman to feel her need of
salvation, and pointed her to Himself. What can we learn from this to help us as
we seek to lead others to Him?
3 In verses 19, 20 was the woman evading the demand for a personal response? How
does Jesus’ answer meet the need of those today who evade the claims of God by
professing to follow a correct form of worship? Where must all look for salvation?
Note. Verse 20. ‘This mountain’: i.e., Mount Gerizim, where the Samaritans had built a temple. The temple had been destroyed, but the Samaritans regarded the place as holy.
STUDY 8 John 4: 27-54
1 How do the previous verses explain and verses 35—38 develop the truth which Jesus
expressed in verse 34? What gives you most satisfaction in life?
2 Two groups of Samaritans and the Capernaum official all believed in Jesus, but
through different means. What was the particular truth about Him which brought
each of them to faith? To what did ‘the second sign’ (verse 54) point? What
aspect of the Lord’s character or power led you to Him?
3 Verse 48 seems to be a test of the man’s sincerity. How would you explain Jesus’
words here?
Note. Verses 35—38. In the natural world there were yet four months until harvest, but in the spiritual sphere in this instance reaping was possible at once. Someone else had done the sowing.
STUDY 9 John 5: 1—29
1 Verses 2—9, the third ‘sign’. What features of Jesus’ power does it reveal? What did He do for the man, and demand from the man, apart from making him walk? See verses 6 and 14.
2 Verses 17—29. In what terms is Jesus’ relationship with God described? What functions concerning judgment has God given to Jesus, and why? How do these truths concern us?
3 Verses i6—18. What connection has Jesus’ statement in verse 17 with His healing on the sabbath? How does this agree with Gn. 2: 2, 3, and how does it answer the Jews’ criticism of His action?
Note. Verse 25. What is meant here is spiritual resurrection from the death of sin. Contrast verses 28, 29.
STUDY 10 John 5:30-47
1 To what four different testimonies to Himself does Jesus appeal? Which does He
Himself regard as of least importance, and why? Contrast 8: 14.
2 Verses 39,40. Is it still possible to study the Bible without finding life? If so,
what is lacking? What reasons does Jesus give for the Jews’ failure? Cf. 2 Cor. 3:
14—16.
Note. Verse 31. ‘Not true’: in the sense of not being accepted as true. Cf. Dt. 19:15; Mt. 18:16; Jn. 8:13,14.
STUDY 11 John 6: 1-21
1 Taking this fourth ‘sign’ in the context of verses 1—13, note what it reveals concerning (a) why the people were attracted to Jesus;
(b) His own attitude to the people; (c) His testing of His disciples’ faith; (d) His use of their co—operation; (e) the source of the answer to men’s need. What over—all lesson was this miracle intended to convey?
2 Verse 55. Why did not Jesus wish to be made king by these people? What may we learn from His withdrawing from the place of success to be by Himself?
Cf. Lk. 5: 15, 16.
Notes
1 Verse 7. A denarius may be valued as a day’s wage for a labourer; cf Mt. 20:2.
2 Verse 14. ‘The prophet who is to come’: cf. Dt. 18: 15; Mt. 11:3; He is
here identified by the people with the Messiah, as verse 15 shows.
STUDY 12 John 6:22—40
The miracle of verses 4—13 is the basis of the dialogue between Jesus and the Jews in verses 25—59.
1 The people saw the outward form of the miracle, but failed to discern what it signified spiritually (verse 26). Why? From what motives did they seek Jesus? Are you more concerned about spiritual development than material prosperity (verse 27)?
2 ‘Labour’ in verse 27 is literally ‘work for’. How did the people relate this word (a) to the work they were expected to do (verse 28), (b) to the work of Moses compared with Jesus (verses 30, 31)? What work did Jesus (a) require from them (verse 29) and (b) offer from Himself (verse 32—40)? What, therefore, is the answer to the question in verse 28?
3 How do verses 35—40 present God’s answer to man’s hunger?
Note. Verses 22—25 explain the astonishment of the crowd at finding Jesus next day on the Capernaum side of the lake. They had noticed that He had not gone with the disciples.
STUDY 13 John 6: 41-71
Today’s portion falls into four parts:
(a) verses 41—51,Jesus’ reply to murmurings of the Jews;
(b) verses 52—59, Jesus’ answers to the wranglings of the Jews;
(c) verses 6o—65, Jesus’ reply to murmurings of His disciples;
(d) verses 66—75, Jesus asks the Twelve, ‘Will you also go away?’
1 Comparing verses 36, 37 with 43—45, why do you think some people will not accept Jesus’ words? By what steps do others come to experience salvation?
2 The closing verses 60—71 make clear that what Jesus offers to men is not fleshly or material gain (cf. verse 27), but spiritual life through union with Himself. What three reasons does Peter give why he and his fellow disciples remained faithful when many others went back?
3 How did Jesus give His flesh for the life of the world? What is meant by eating His flesh and drinking His blood?
Notes
1 Verse 62. The return of the Son of man to heaven (cf. 3:13) will be a greater wonder than the words just spoken. It will confirm the divine character of Jesus and of His words.
2 The approaching Passover Feast was clearly in our Lord’s thought as He spoke, and there may be anticipating allusions to the Lord’s Supper; but Jesus is speaking in this discourse, not of the sacrament itself, but of the truths of which the sacrament is only one expression. Note the manner of true participation (verses 35, 63, 68, 69).
STUDY 14 John 7: 1-24
Chapters 7:1 — 10:21 give an account of Jesus’ visit to Jerusalem at the Feast of Tabernacles six months before His death. The story vividly portrays the various attitudes towards Jesus among different groups. These groups fall into two main classes: one, ‘the Jews’, who included the chief priests, Pharisees, rulers and ‘the people of Jerusalem’, and the other, ‘the people’, that is, the general multitude from all parts, who were attending the feast. The first of these two classes was, in the main, hostile to Jesus.
1 How do the words of Jesus’ brothers in verses 3—8 show that they did not understand Him? What did Jesus mean by ‘my time’? The world’s attitude to Jesus prevented Him from showing Himself to them, as other men might (verses 4, 7). Can you expect any different reception from the world (cf. I5: 18—21)? Has verse 13 any reproach for you?
2 Verses 17,18. What two tests does our Lord suggest by which a man can discover whether Jesus’ teaching was true and of divine origin? What will it cost you to apply these tests?
Notes
1 Verses 8, 10. Jesus did not break His word. He meant that He was not going up to the feast just then, and at their direction.
2 Verses 21—24. The law of Moses commanded circumcision on the eighth day after birth (Gn. 17:12; Lv. 12:3), and it was the practice of the Jews to perform the rite on that day, even if it fell upon the sabbath. Jesus argued that to make a man’s whole body well on the sabbath had even more justification than to circumcise him.
STUDY 15 John 7: 25-52
1 What illustrations are found in these verses (a) of the deep impression made by the Lord Jesus upon many; and yet (b) how their incipient faith was checked by ignorance (verses 27—29), or prejudice (verses 35, 36), or pride (verses 48—52)? Is one of these hindering me?
2 The chief priests and the Pharisees by no means saw eye to eye in most matters, but they were united against Jesus. What action did they take at this time, and what prevented its success? It is often said, ‘No thinking person now believes that. . . ‘. What example of this attitude can you find in this passage?
3 In what way is the promise of verses 37, 38 an advance on that of 4:13,14? What difference does the Holy Spirit make to your life? Cf. Acts 1: 8.
Note. Verse 39. The Spirit was already present and active in the world, but the particular promise of Joel 2:28 was not fulfilled until the ascended and enthroned Christ gave the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. See Acts 2:16—18, 33.
STUDY 16 John7:53—8:29
1 For the passage 7:53 — 8:11, see Introduction. It has perhaps been introduced here as an illustration of 8:15. What two different types of sinner can you see in the Pharisees and in the woman? Why did Jesus treat her so gently? Would His words to her bring conviction of her sin?
2 In verses 13—29 what does Jesus say about His origin, His ultimate destination, His relation to the world, His relation to God?
3 What was lacking in the Pharisees which prevented them from recognizing the truth of Jesus’ words? How can I see the light of truth? How does light lead to life? See verses 12, 24.
Notes
1 8:12. An allusion to the pillar of fire which guided the Israelites on their journey through the wilderness (see Nu. 9: 15—23), and which was commemorated during the Feast of Tabernacles by brilliant lighting of the Temple.
2 Verses 13,14. There is no contradiction with 5:31. There Jesus says that if He had been the sole witness in His own cause, His witness would not have been true. But in both passages He goes on to point out that He is not alone in His witness. See verses 17, 18.
STUDY 17 John 8:30-59
1 The form of expression in Greek rn verse 31 shows that ‘the Jews’ here did not commit themselves to Jesus as much as the ‘many’ in verse 30. What steps leading to full freedom are seen in verses 31—36? What is this freedom? In what sense did the Jews claim to be free? Are you truly free?
z This section is concerned with the real meaning of parentage. For what reasons did Jesus argue that these Jews were not truly the children of Abraham or of God, but of the devil? What evidence did Jesus give that He is God’s Son? Why were they not able to see this?
Notes
1 Verse 51. ‘He will never see death’: i.e., know the experience of that death
which is God’s judgment on sin; cf. Gn. 2:17; Jn. 5:24; 11:26.
2 Verse 56. ‘My day’: Abraham in faith saw ahead to the day of Christ’s incarnation,
and anticipated His saving work.
3 Verse 58. ‘I am’: the divine name, as in Ex. 3:14.
STUDY 18 John 9
1 This is the sixth of the seven ‘signs’. To which aspect of Jesus’ work does it point? See verses 5, 39. In how many ways is the opening of this man’s eyes to be compared with the giving of spiritual sight? Does your personal experience of Jesus’ power give you the same assurance in answering His critics as this man had?
2 Explain verses 39—41. Detail the ways in which the words and actions of the Pharisees in verses 53—34 illustrate this passage.
Note. Verse 14. The ‘work’ for which the Pharisees condemned Jesus as breaking the sabbath was making clay, as well as healing. The latter was allowed, but only in an emergency.
STUDY 19 John 10:1—21
Compare Je. 23:1—4. By their attitude to the blind man of chapter 9 the Pharisees, who claimed to be the spiritual guides of Israel as the people of God, had shown themselves to be ‘thieves and robbers’ (verses 1, 8), like the false prophets of the Old Testament.
1 Verses 1-10. Why does Jesus call Himself ‘the door of the sheep’? What are the privileges and blessings of those who enter in? How do the sheep recognize the true shepherd? What does he do to them? Do you know his voice?
2 What are the marks of the good shepherd? Can you find in verses 11—18 (a) proof that our Lord’s death was not a mere martyrdom, (b) the purpose of His life and death, and (c) an incentive to missionary work? Cf. Rev. 7:9, 10, 15—17.
Notes
1 Verse 3. ‘Hear’: i.e., listen attentively to, and so obey.
2 Jesus is both ‘door’ and ‘shepherd’. Others also are under-shepherds (Acts
20: 28, 29; 1 Pet. 5: 2—4) who must themselves first enter through the ‘door’.
STUDY 20 John 10: 22—42
1 Why would a plain answer to the Jews’ question of verse 24 have been useless? What indications of the nature of Jesus’ Person were already being given? See verses 25, 32, 37, 38. Why were the Jews incapable of seeing this? Do your works corroborate your words?
2 In the statements of verses 27, 28 how is the sheep’s relation to the shepherd described, and how the shepherd’s relation to the sheep? On what grounds given in verses 28, 29 can you be sure that you will never perish?
3 In what terms does Jesus describe His relationship with God, and what evidence does He give in support of His claim? How far are the words of the Jews at the end of verse 33 correct? What ought they to have done?
Notes
1 Verse 30. The word ‘one’ is neuter in the Greek: ‘a unity’, not ‘one person’.
2 Verses 34—36. See Ps. 82: 6. Even the judges of Israel, acting as God’s representatives, were called ‘gods’. The Jews should have seen that Jesus was far superior to them. This comparison with the men of the Old Testament is sufficient argument to refute the charge of blasphemy. Jesus does not imply that He is merely a man like them.
STUDY 21 John 11: 1-27
The seventh ‘sign’.
1 Compare verse 4 with 9: 3. Explain the apparent contradiction both in verse 4 and also in verses 5, 6. See verses 14, 15. Can you see why God sometimes seems to delay answering your prayer?
2 What direction and assurance do verses 9, 10 give for the conduct of your life? Cf. 9: 4, 5.
3 In verses 21, 22, 24 Martha makes three correct but limited statements. In respect to each of them Jesus’ answer in verses 25, 26 reveals that He has within Himself infinitely greater powers than she knew. What are they?
Note. Verse 26. ‘Shall never die’: for the believer death is no longer death. It introduces him into a new state of life. See Note on Jn. 8: 51.
STUDY 22 John 11: 28—44
1 What is the special significance of this seventh ‘sign’? How is it related to the events which Jesus was shortly to experience as the climax of His work? In what way was the glory of God revealed?
2 Why did Jesus pray aloud before calling Lazarus from the tomb? What does this teach about the means by which His miracles were accomplished? Cf. Jn. 5: 19, 20; 14: 10.
Note. Verses 33—38. The word ‘weep’ in verse 33 is the wailing of mourners; that in verse 35 implies silent tears of sympathy. The rendering of RSV in verse 33, ‘he was deeply moved in spirit’, does not give the full force of the Greek, for which Prof. Tasker suggests, ‘He was enraged in spirit and troubled Himself’ (TNTC, p. 140). His anger was roused against the evil powers of death, which caused such distress to mankind, and which He was about to conquer, here by a mighty display of divine power, and finally on the cross by His own death and resurrection.
STUDY 23 John 11:45 - 12:19
1 Observe the varied effects of the miracle. See especially II: 45,46, 47—53, 54; 12:10,11, 17—19; and cf. Lk. i6: 31. How is it that the same act quickens faith in some, and hatred in others? Cf. 11: 47,48; 12:11, I9; Mt. 27: 18.
2 12: 1—8. What insights does Mary’s action reveal? How far does your love for the Lord lead you to understand Him, and to serve Him without counting the cost?
3 In 11: 47—53 and 12: 12—16 there are two examples of God overruling men’s words and actions to fulfill His own purposes. What is the real purpose of God to which each points?
Note. 11: 48. The Jewish leaders feared that Jesus might lead a revolt for which the Romans would exact severe punishment.
STUDY 24 John 12:20-36
The Greeks who inquired for Jesus were a token of the world of people beyond Israel who would be saved through Jesus’ atoning death and resurrection (cf. 10:16; 12:32). Their coming therefore introduces the consummation of Jesus’ work; see verse 23.
1 Give examples of the ways in which you can love your life, or hate it. To whom does Jesus primarily refer in verse 24? In view of this, what is involved in following Him (verse 26)?
2 In what sense did the coming ‘hour’ (verse 23) bring about the glorifying of the Son of man and of the Father (verse 28)? How did His being lifted up involve the judgment of this world (verses 31—34)?
3 Verses 35, 36 give Jesus’ last appeal to the nation. What is meant by walking and believing in the light? Are you doing this?
STUDY 25 John I2:37-50
This passage presents the problem of unbelief in face of manifest evidence of God’s power and presence.
1 Both quotations from Isaiah in verses 38—40 speak of Christ, the latter because Christ’s glory is included in the vision of God’s glory in Isaiah 6. Who has and who has not ‘believed our report’? Why has God blinded their eyes, etc.? Does this apply today to (a) Jews, and (b) non-Jews? Why do you believe?
2 The seriousness of rejecting Jesus is the subject of verses 44—50, in which John summarizes the teaching of Jesus on this matter. Why is it so serious to reject Jesus? See especially verses 45, 46, 50, and compare Pr. 1: 20—33. Why will Jesus’ word be the judge (verse 48)?
Notes
1 Verse 42. ‘Put out of the synagogue’: çf. 9: 22. This was a very severe punishment, involving separation from public worship and from social intercourse.
2 Verse 45. ‘Sees’: here is the concept of careful observation leading to spiritual insight.
STUDY 26 John 13:1-20
1 Verse 53. ‘Teacher and Lord.’ What degrees of Lordship are revealed in verses 1 and 3? Did Jesus perform the task of a servant in spite of, or because of, His relation to the Father? Cf. Phil. 2: 5—8.
2 What important lesson did Jesus teach in response to Peter’s interruptions? See verses 8 and 10. Cf. Tit. 3: 5; 1 Jn. 1: 7.
3 What further application did Jesus make of His action as an example to His followers? Cf. Lk. 22: 22—27. Are you giving sufficient heed to this matter? See verse 17.
Notes
1 Verse l0. ‘Bathed’: the disciples had been cleansed; all except Judas (verse
11). Cf. 15: 3.
2 Verse 20. ‘Anyone whom I send’: i.e., the apostles and all subsequent witnesses to Christ. So also verse 16.
STUDY 27 John 13:21-32
1 Trace the action of Satan upon the heart of Judas as shown in this Gospel. See 6: 70; 12: 4—6; 13: 2,27. If the giving of the morsel to him in verse 26 was Jesus’ last appeal of love, what state of heart does verse 27a indicate? What connection has verse 30 with 12: 35, 36?
2 Compare verses 31, 32 with 12: 23, 28. Verses 31 and 32a point to the action of the Son and 32b to that of the Father. To what impending events did these words point? How can the Father be glorified in you?
STUDY 28 John 13:33—14:14
1 Trace the connection between 13:33-37 and 14:1-6. Where was Jesus going? Why could they not follow until later? To what event does ‘I will come again’ refer?
2 In what respect were the questions of both Thomas and Philip short—sighted? How is Jesus the way, the truth and the life, especially in relation to the Father?
3 What prospect does Jesus set before His disciples as a consequence of His return to the Father? See verses 12—14. Do you know anything of this in your experience? Why are the works of the believer called ‘greater works’?
STUDY 29 John 14:15—24
1 Three times in this passage Jesus speaks of loving Him (verses 15, 21, 23). How does our love for the Lord Jesus show itself? Is this true of you? Since love is personal, can you see to what personal relationship this love leads?
2 In what sense does Jesus ‘come’ to us (verse 18)? How is this related to the coming of ‘another Advocate’ (see Note 1)? Give examples of ways in which Jesus proved to be the first ‘Advocate’.
3 Why cannot the world ‘see’ the Spirit or Jesus (verses 17,19)? Cf. 1:11; 3:19; 5:37; 7:34; 8:19,47; 12:37—40. What explanation did Jesus give here in answer to Judas? How can the eyes of men be opened to see Him?
Notes
1 Verse 16. ‘Counsellor’: literally, one called to one’s side to plead on one’s
behalf. ‘Advocate’ is a better translation. Cf. 1 Jn. 2:1.
2 Verse 18. ‘Desolate’: better, ‘bereaved’.
3 Verse 22. Cf. 7:4. The disciples also naturally expected that the Messiah would
display His power to the world.
STUDY 30 John I4: 25 — 15:8
1 The disciples were distressed at the thought of Jesus going away and leaving them alone in a hostile world; cf. 16: 6. What promises does Jesus give in verses 25—29 to answer their fears? Why does His going to the Father bring greater benefit than if He had remained as He was? What also does verse 31 teach about Christ’s reason for facing the cross?
2 What does the parable of the vine teach about (a) the purpose for which the branches exist, (b) the vinedresser’s dealing with the branches, and (c) the dependence of the branches upon the vine? With verses 3 and 7 compare 14:15,21,23; see also 8:31,32. What kind of fruit do you bear? Cf. Gal. 5: 22, 23.
Notes
1 14:28. ‘The Father is greater than I’: cf. 10: 29, 30. He is not greater in being more divine, but in the eternal Father-Son and God-man relationships.(See NBCR,p. 959.)
2 14:30. ‘The ruler of this world’: cf. 12: 31; 16:11; 2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 2: 2; 1 Jn. 5:19. The RSV ‘has no power over me’ gives the true sense of these words. There is nothing in Jesus over which the devil can claim possession, and therefore domination.
STUDY 31 John 15: 9-25
1 People think of the Christian life as a joyless observance of rules. What answer to this idea is contained in these verses? Is it your experience?
2 If we are disciples of Jesus, why must we expect hatred from the world? Why did many hate and persecute Jesus?
3 Love not only feels, but acts. By What actions is (a) the love of the Father shown to the Son, (b) the love of the Son to His disciples, and (c) the love of the disciples to one another? Cf 3:35; 5:20; 1 Jn. 3:16—18.
STUDY 32 John 15:26 — 16:15
1 What evidence do you find in 16: 1—7 that the disciples were cast down by Jesus’ words? Why did He say that He had not spoken of these things before, and why did He speak of them now? Notice, however, that He did not lighten in any way the dark picture He had drawn, but rather shaded it more deeply (16: 2).
2 What new force, does Jesus say, will be brought to bear upon the world, and through whom (see 15: 26, 27)? What threefold result will follow (16: 8—11)? How would this make Jesus’ departure an advantage instead of a loss?
3 What results ought this situation to have upon the disciples (a) in their dependence on the Holy Spirit, and (b) in the place of the Holy Spirit and the Person of Jesus Christ in their thinking? Is this true of us? See i6: 14, 15.
Notes
1 16:2: ‘Put you out of the synagogues’: see Note on 12: 42.
2 16:5. The questions of Thomas (14:5) and Peter (13: 36, 37) concerned their own following of Jesus. No-one was now asking about the glory to which Christ was going in His return to the Father.
3 16: 8—11. The Holy Spirit will convince men of their false standards of sin, righteousness and judgment (Cf. Is. 55: 8,9). He will show them that the essence of sin is unbelief in Christ; that true righteousness is not that of the Pharisees (works of the Law) but the righteousness seen in Christ, and declared in the gospel; and that judgment awaits all who follow the ruler of this world. At Pentecost the heavens were convinced by the Spirit’s witness through the apostles, exactly as Jesus says here.
4 16: 13. ‘Declare to you the things that are to come’: i.e., interpret the significance of Christ’s impending crucifixion and resurrection, as well as other divine actions.
STUDY 33 John 16:16-33
1 ‘A little while’. In the light of verses 16—22 do you consider that this refers to the time between the death of Jesus and His resurrection; between His ascension and Pentecost; or both?
2 Note the RSV in verse 23, ‘You will ask me no questions.’ With the Spirit to enlighten (cf. verses 12—15) and the Father to supply our needs, what do we learn in verses 23—28 about the place of prayer? On what do we rely when we pray in the name of Jesus Christ? Cf. 14:13, 14; I5:16.
3 In verse 33 Jesus sums up the situation. In what two opposing spheres would the disciples live? What would be their experience in the one and in the other? What can be the ground of your courage and confidence?
STUDY 34 John 17 (first study)
Jesus’ prayer falls into three divisions: (a) verses 1—5, for Himself; (b) verses 6—19, for the immediate circle of disciples; (c) verses 20—26, for the great company who should afterwards believe.
1 The hour of Jesus’ supreme sacrifice has come (verse 1; cf. 2:4; 7:6,30; 8:20; 13:1). How is this related to the glorifying of the Son and the Father (verses 1—4)? Already the glory of God has been seen in Jesus (1:14); how is it seen also in His disciples (verse 22)?
When will they see the full glory of the Son (verses 5, 24)?
2 In verses 6—14 note how many things Jesus has already done for His disciples.
3 What does our Lord pray that the Father will do for those whom He has given Him? Is this prayer being answered in you? Are you ‘consecrated in truth’ (verse 19)?
Notes
1 Verse 2. ‘Power’: better, ‘authority’, as in RV. The whole of humanity lies within the sphere of Christ’s commission. Cf. Ps. 2:8; Mt. 28:18,19.
2 Verse 5. A prayer that the glory of which for a time He had ‘emptied himself’(Phil. 2: 6, 7) might be restored to Him.
3 Verses 17,19. Note the repetition of the word ‘to consecrate’. Jesus consecrated Himself to the holy Father in fulfillment of His perfect will, particularly in offering Himself as the sacrifice for sin. Cf. Heb.10:5-10. This shows what true consecration involves.
STUDY 35 John 17 (second study)
1 What is our relationship to the world? How should we ourselves pray regarding people in the world?
2 Verses 20—23. Is the Lord praying for the uniting of all branches of the Christian church as in the ecumenical movement? What is the object of His prayer? What will its fuller realization mean?
3 Observe the significance of the ‘word’ or ‘words’ of the Father and the Son in this passage.
STUDY 36 John 18:1—27
Jesus’ arrest and trial before Caiaphas.
1 In verses 4—11 and 19—23 what qualities of our Lord’s character appear in relation to (a) those who came to arrest Him, (b) His disciples, and (c) His accusers?
2 How did Peter’s own actions contribute to his fall? Of what was he afraid? Does fear ever prevent you from declaring your association with Jesus Christ?
Note. Verses 5, 6, 8. ‘I am he’: the thrice—repeated use of this phrase point to its special significance. It is virtually a reiteration of the divine name, ‘I AM’. Cf. Ex.3:14; Jn.8:58. Note the effect of Christ’s statement on the hearers.
STUDY 37 John 18:28 — 19:16
The trial before Pilate.
1 Trace through this passage the attempts made by Pilate to spare Jesus from death, and the steps taken by the Jews to counter his efforts. The full charge brought against Jesus is given in Lk. 23: 2. (Note the Jews’ use of both religious and political threats to overcome Pilate’s resistance; see 19: 7, 12.) What features of the character of Pilate and of the Jews are revealed here? Could we be guilty of similar injustice?
2 ‘The King of the Jews.’ Note how this title forms the central interest from 18:33 to 19:22. What is the real nature of Jesus’ Kingship? How does it differ from the world’s? How is Jesus’ royal dignity shown here? How does the use of the title reveal the sin of the Jews, and the glory of Jesus’ sacrifice?
Notes
1 18: 28. ‘Praetorium’: the headquarters of the Roman governor.
2 18: 31b. The Romans did not allow the Jews to inflict capital punishment. Hence Pilate’s words in 19:6 imply that there was no ground in Roman law for Jesus’ death. However he spoke a deeper truth than he realized.
STUDY 38 John 19:17—37
1 The story of the crucifixion is told in seven incidents, namely verses 17—18, 19—22, 23—24, 25—27, 28—29, 30, 31—37. How does each incident manifest some fresh aspect of the glory of the suffering Saviour?
2 Which scriptures are quoted in this portion as having found fulfillment in this hour? To which aspects of Jesus’ sufferings and of His saving work do they point?
STUDY 39 John 19:38 — 20:10
1 What made both Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus now come out into the open? With I9:38 cf. Lk. 23:50,51; and trace Nicodemus’ growing faith, 3:1—15; 7:45—52. Both were members of the Sanhedrin, the Council of the Jews which had condemned Jesus.
2 20:1—10. How do these verses show that the disciples were not expecting the resurrection of the Lord? What does the description of Peter and John’s visit to the tomb reveal about each of their respective temperaments? What was it that John believed?
Notes
1 19:39. ‘About a hundred pounds’ weight’: an exceptionally lavish amount.
2 20:5,7. The positions of the clothes showed that they had not been unwound from Jesus’ body. He had gone out, just as later He came in, where the doors were shut, without the doors being opened(20:19,26).
STUDY 40 John 20:11—31
1 Why was Mary so concerned that the body had gone from the tomb? What did Jesus convey to her when He said ‘Mary’? Why did He say, ‘Do not hold me’? Is it possible for us to miss the best in the Lord while holding on to the good?
2 Does verse 29 show that the disciples were still doubting? What convinced them that Jesus was truly raised from the dead? Why was Thomas moved to make the complete avowal of faith, to which none of the others had yet attained? Was it only that he saw Jesus? How can one who has not seen Him be led to faith in the risen Lord (verses 29—31)?
3 In verses 21—23 the risen Christ commissions His apostles. By what authority, with what power, and for what purpose does He send them?
Note. Verse 17. Note the distinction, ‘my Father and your Father’. Jesus never said of Himself and His disciples, ‘Our Father’, as though their relation to God was the same as His. He is the only begotten Son; we are sons of God ‘in Him’.
STUDY 41 John 21:1—14
1 Compare this passage with Lk. 5:1-11, noting the similarities and the differences. Why did the disciples take up their old work again? What did they learn from this experience?
2 What did the Lord reveal here (a) about Himself, (b) about the work which the disciples were to do? How does this revelation of the risen Lord affect your own life and work?
Note. Verse 14. ‘The third time’: first time, 20: 19—23 ; second time, 20: 24—29; third time, now in Galilee. See Mk. i6: 7. Probably the third recorded by this Gospel is meant here.
STUDY 42 John 21:15—25
1 What is the significance of (a) Jesus’ use of the name Simon in addressing Peter (cf. 1:42); (b) the phrase ‘more than these’ (verse 15; cf. Mk. 10: 28—30; I4:29); (c) Jesus asking Peter three times, ‘Do you love me?’ (cf. 13:38)?
2 Though Peter had failed, Jesus re-commissioned him. What does this teach about (a) the Lord’s nature, (b) Peter’s spiritual condition?
Can you expect always to be restored after a fall? What does the Lord require from you?
3 What may we learn from verses 18—23 about (a) the different ways in which the Lord directs the life of each one of His people; (b) what our own main concern is to be?
Notes
1 Verses 18, 19. According to tradition Peter died as a martyr in Rome.
2 Verse 23. A statement introduced to correct a current misunderstanding of what the Lord had said about John.
these truths mean something to you?
Note. Verse 29. ‘He saw Jesus coming’: probably after the forty days in the wilderness, when He was tempted by Satan. That Jesus’ baptism had already taken place is shown by verse 32. Cf. Lk. 3:21, 22.
STUDY 3 John 1:35-51
1 Describe what it was that brought each of these five men to Jesus. How far did
they understand who Jesus was? What account of Him can you give to others?
2 Verses 48,49. Why did Jesus’ answer elicit the response of Nathanael? See 2: 25.
What do verses 47—50 reveal of Nathanael’s character?
Notes
1 Verse 42. Cephas = Peter = Rock.
2 Verses 47,51. An allusion to the story of Jacob in Gn. 32: 24—29 and 28:12,13.
3 Verse 51. This word, as shown by the plural ‘you’, was spoken not about
Nathanael only, but about all the disciples. Jesus would be revealed to them
as the true and final Mediator between God and man.
STUDY 4 John 2:1—22
1 Verses 1—11 present the first of the seven ‘signs’ (see Introduction), which
reveal the identity of Jesus and stimulate faith (verse ii). What particular
aspect of Jesus’ glory does this miracle display?
What change in our life does turning the water into wine represent? Cf. 2
Cor.5:17. What can we learn from Mary’s response to Jesus?
2 The idea of the ‘Temple’ unites verses 13—17 with 18—22. How does Jesus appear in
each incident? By what authority does He drive out the traders? Cf. Mal. 3:1—3.
What crisis does this incident foreshadow in the mind of Jesus? What did He
foresee concerning the cost and character of His mission?
Notes
1 Verse 4. The English, even in RSV, makes Jesus’ words seem disrespectful, but in
the Greek the form of address is perfectly courteous. Jesus makes it clear that
He depends upon no human instructions, even from His mother, but only upon that
which God appoints. He is awaiting His Father’s instructions.
2 Verses 14—16. See TNTC (p. 61) for discussion whether there were two cleansings
of the Temple, one at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, as here, and one at the
end, as recorded in the Synoptics.
STUDY 5 John 2:23—3:21
1 Why was Jesus not satisfied with the faith spoken of in 2:23? Cf. 4:48; 6:26, 30;
Mt. 13:54. Is my faith the kind that pleases God?
2 What was right and what was lacking in Nicodemus’ assessment of Jesus? How did Jesus’ answer correct him? What is involved in being ‘born of the Spirit’, and why is it needed? Cf. Mt. 18:3 Jn. 1:12, 13; 2Cor.5:17; Rom. 8:8,9.
3 Why was the lifting up of the Son of man necessary? (Note ‘must’ in verse 14.) On what ground are men judged and condemned? Where do you stand in relation to these truths?
Notes
1 Verse 5. ‘Born of water’ probably refers to John’s baptism.
2 Verse 8. As with the wind, so with the movement of the Spirit, the effect
is real and recognizable, although the process is hidden.
3 Verses 12,13. The gospel speaks of heavenly things, of which Christ is the sole
revealer. Cf. 3:31, 32; Mt. 11:27.
STUDY 6 John 3: 22—36
1 How might one have expected John to have replied to the statement of verse 26?
Consider the quality of character and the principles brought out in his answer.
How far do you share his attitude to Christ? How does it apply to your situation?
2 What is said about Jesus in verses 31, 32, 34, 35, which set Him apart from and
above all others?
3 ‘Receives his testimony’, ‘believes in the Son’, ‘does not obey the Son’ (verses
33, 36). What kinds of response to Jesus Christ do these phrases describe? To
what consequences do they lead?
Notes
1 Verse 32. ‘No one’: i.e., generally speaking; it is qualified in verse 33.
2 Verse 33. ‘Sets his seal’: he both confirms his acceptance of the truth of
God’s word and in his consequent experience proves the truth of it. Cf. 7: 17.
STUDY 7 John 4:1-26
1 What did our Lord mean by ‘living water’ (verse 10)? Why, when He had wakened in
the woman a desire for it, did He not at once grant her request? What was
necessary before He could do so?
2 Trace the successive steps by which Jesus brought the woman to feel her need of
salvation, and pointed her to Himself. What can we learn from this to help us as
we seek to lead others to Him?
3 In verses 19, 20 was the woman evading the demand for a personal response? How
does Jesus’ answer meet the need of those today who evade the claims of God by
professing to follow a correct form of worship? Where must all look for salvation?
Note. Verse 20. ‘This mountain’: i.e., Mount Gerizim, where the Samaritans had built a temple. The temple had been destroyed, but the Samaritans regarded the place as holy.
STUDY 8 John 4: 27-54
1 How do the previous verses explain and verses 35—38 develop the truth which Jesus
expressed in verse 34? What gives you most satisfaction in life?
2 Two groups of Samaritans and the Capernaum official all believed in Jesus, but
through different means. What was the particular truth about Him which brought
each of them to faith? To what did ‘the second sign’ (verse 54) point? What
aspect of the Lord’s character or power led you to Him?
3 Verse 48 seems to be a test of the man’s sincerity. How would you explain Jesus’
words here?
Note. Verses 35—38. In the natural world there were yet four months until harvest, but in the spiritual sphere in this instance reaping was possible at once. Someone else had done the sowing.
STUDY 9 John 5: 1—29
1 Verses 2—9, the third ‘sign’. What features of Jesus’ power does it reveal? What did He do for the man, and demand from the man, apart from making him walk? See verses 6 and 14.
2 Verses 17—29. In what terms is Jesus’ relationship with God described? What functions concerning judgment has God given to Jesus, and why? How do these truths concern us?
3 Verses i6—18. What connection has Jesus’ statement in verse 17 with His healing on the sabbath? How does this agree with Gn. 2: 2, 3, and how does it answer the Jews’ criticism of His action?
Note. Verse 25. What is meant here is spiritual resurrection from the death of sin. Contrast verses 28, 29.
STUDY 10 John 5:30-47
1 To what four different testimonies to Himself does Jesus appeal? Which does He
Himself regard as of least importance, and why? Contrast 8: 14.
2 Verses 39,40. Is it still possible to study the Bible without finding life? If so,
what is lacking? What reasons does Jesus give for the Jews’ failure? Cf. 2 Cor. 3:
14—16.
Note. Verse 31. ‘Not true’: in the sense of not being accepted as true. Cf. Dt. 19:15; Mt. 18:16; Jn. 8:13,14.
STUDY 11 John 6: 1-21
1 Taking this fourth ‘sign’ in the context of verses 1—13, note what it reveals concerning (a) why the people were attracted to Jesus;
(b) His own attitude to the people; (c) His testing of His disciples’ faith; (d) His use of their co—operation; (e) the source of the answer to men’s need. What over—all lesson was this miracle intended to convey?
2 Verse 55. Why did not Jesus wish to be made king by these people? What may we learn from His withdrawing from the place of success to be by Himself?
Cf. Lk. 5: 15, 16.
Notes
1 Verse 7. A denarius may be valued as a day’s wage for a labourer; cf Mt. 20:2.
2 Verse 14. ‘The prophet who is to come’: cf. Dt. 18: 15; Mt. 11:3; He is
here identified by the people with the Messiah, as verse 15 shows.
STUDY 12 John 6:22—40
The miracle of verses 4—13 is the basis of the dialogue between Jesus and the Jews in verses 25—59.
1 The people saw the outward form of the miracle, but failed to discern what it signified spiritually (verse 26). Why? From what motives did they seek Jesus? Are you more concerned about spiritual development than material prosperity (verse 27)?
2 ‘Labour’ in verse 27 is literally ‘work for’. How did the people relate this word (a) to the work they were expected to do (verse 28), (b) to the work of Moses compared with Jesus (verses 30, 31)? What work did Jesus (a) require from them (verse 29) and (b) offer from Himself (verse 32—40)? What, therefore, is the answer to the question in verse 28?
3 How do verses 35—40 present God’s answer to man’s hunger?
Note. Verses 22—25 explain the astonishment of the crowd at finding Jesus next day on the Capernaum side of the lake. They had noticed that He had not gone with the disciples.
STUDY 13 John 6: 41-71
Today’s portion falls into four parts:
(a) verses 41—51,Jesus’ reply to murmurings of the Jews;
(b) verses 52—59, Jesus’ answers to the wranglings of the Jews;
(c) verses 6o—65, Jesus’ reply to murmurings of His disciples;
(d) verses 66—75, Jesus asks the Twelve, ‘Will you also go away?’
1 Comparing verses 36, 37 with 43—45, why do you think some people will not accept Jesus’ words? By what steps do others come to experience salvation?
2 The closing verses 60—71 make clear that what Jesus offers to men is not fleshly or material gain (cf. verse 27), but spiritual life through union with Himself. What three reasons does Peter give why he and his fellow disciples remained faithful when many others went back?
3 How did Jesus give His flesh for the life of the world? What is meant by eating His flesh and drinking His blood?
Notes
1 Verse 62. The return of the Son of man to heaven (cf. 3:13) will be a greater wonder than the words just spoken. It will confirm the divine character of Jesus and of His words.
2 The approaching Passover Feast was clearly in our Lord’s thought as He spoke, and there may be anticipating allusions to the Lord’s Supper; but Jesus is speaking in this discourse, not of the sacrament itself, but of the truths of which the sacrament is only one expression. Note the manner of true participation (verses 35, 63, 68, 69).
STUDY 14 John 7: 1-24
Chapters 7:1 — 10:21 give an account of Jesus’ visit to Jerusalem at the Feast of Tabernacles six months before His death. The story vividly portrays the various attitudes towards Jesus among different groups. These groups fall into two main classes: one, ‘the Jews’, who included the chief priests, Pharisees, rulers and ‘the people of Jerusalem’, and the other, ‘the people’, that is, the general multitude from all parts, who were attending the feast. The first of these two classes was, in the main, hostile to Jesus.
1 How do the words of Jesus’ brothers in verses 3—8 show that they did not understand Him? What did Jesus mean by ‘my time’? The world’s attitude to Jesus prevented Him from showing Himself to them, as other men might (verses 4, 7). Can you expect any different reception from the world (cf. I5: 18—21)? Has verse 13 any reproach for you?
2 Verses 17,18. What two tests does our Lord suggest by which a man can discover whether Jesus’ teaching was true and of divine origin? What will it cost you to apply these tests?
Notes
1 Verses 8, 10. Jesus did not break His word. He meant that He was not going up to the feast just then, and at their direction.
2 Verses 21—24. The law of Moses commanded circumcision on the eighth day after birth (Gn. 17:12; Lv. 12:3), and it was the practice of the Jews to perform the rite on that day, even if it fell upon the sabbath. Jesus argued that to make a man’s whole body well on the sabbath had even more justification than to circumcise him.
STUDY 15 John 7: 25-52
1 What illustrations are found in these verses (a) of the deep impression made by the Lord Jesus upon many; and yet (b) how their incipient faith was checked by ignorance (verses 27—29), or prejudice (verses 35, 36), or pride (verses 48—52)? Is one of these hindering me?
2 The chief priests and the Pharisees by no means saw eye to eye in most matters, but they were united against Jesus. What action did they take at this time, and what prevented its success? It is often said, ‘No thinking person now believes that. . . ‘. What example of this attitude can you find in this passage?
3 In what way is the promise of verses 37, 38 an advance on that of 4:13,14? What difference does the Holy Spirit make to your life? Cf. Acts 1: 8.
Note. Verse 39. The Spirit was already present and active in the world, but the particular promise of Joel 2:28 was not fulfilled until the ascended and enthroned Christ gave the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. See Acts 2:16—18, 33.
STUDY 16 John7:53—8:29
1 For the passage 7:53 — 8:11, see Introduction. It has perhaps been introduced here as an illustration of 8:15. What two different types of sinner can you see in the Pharisees and in the woman? Why did Jesus treat her so gently? Would His words to her bring conviction of her sin?
2 In verses 13—29 what does Jesus say about His origin, His ultimate destination, His relation to the world, His relation to God?
3 What was lacking in the Pharisees which prevented them from recognizing the truth of Jesus’ words? How can I see the light of truth? How does light lead to life? See verses 12, 24.
Notes
1 8:12. An allusion to the pillar of fire which guided the Israelites on their journey through the wilderness (see Nu. 9: 15—23), and which was commemorated during the Feast of Tabernacles by brilliant lighting of the Temple.
2 Verses 13,14. There is no contradiction with 5:31. There Jesus says that if He had been the sole witness in His own cause, His witness would not have been true. But in both passages He goes on to point out that He is not alone in His witness. See verses 17, 18.
STUDY 17 John 8:30-59
1 The form of expression in Greek rn verse 31 shows that ‘the Jews’ here did not commit themselves to Jesus as much as the ‘many’ in verse 30. What steps leading to full freedom are seen in verses 31—36? What is this freedom? In what sense did the Jews claim to be free? Are you truly free?
z This section is concerned with the real meaning of parentage. For what reasons did Jesus argue that these Jews were not truly the children of Abraham or of God, but of the devil? What evidence did Jesus give that He is God’s Son? Why were they not able to see this?
Notes
1 Verse 51. ‘He will never see death’: i.e., know the experience of that death
which is God’s judgment on sin; cf. Gn. 2:17; Jn. 5:24; 11:26.
2 Verse 56. ‘My day’: Abraham in faith saw ahead to the day of Christ’s incarnation,
and anticipated His saving work.
3 Verse 58. ‘I am’: the divine name, as in Ex. 3:14.
STUDY 18 John 9
1 This is the sixth of the seven ‘signs’. To which aspect of Jesus’ work does it point? See verses 5, 39. In how many ways is the opening of this man’s eyes to be compared with the giving of spiritual sight? Does your personal experience of Jesus’ power give you the same assurance in answering His critics as this man had?
2 Explain verses 39—41. Detail the ways in which the words and actions of the Pharisees in verses 53—34 illustrate this passage.
Note. Verse 14. The ‘work’ for which the Pharisees condemned Jesus as breaking the sabbath was making clay, as well as healing. The latter was allowed, but only in an emergency.
STUDY 19 John 10:1—21
Compare Je. 23:1—4. By their attitude to the blind man of chapter 9 the Pharisees, who claimed to be the spiritual guides of Israel as the people of God, had shown themselves to be ‘thieves and robbers’ (verses 1, 8), like the false prophets of the Old Testament.
1 Verses 1-10. Why does Jesus call Himself ‘the door of the sheep’? What are the privileges and blessings of those who enter in? How do the sheep recognize the true shepherd? What does he do to them? Do you know his voice?
2 What are the marks of the good shepherd? Can you find in verses 11—18 (a) proof that our Lord’s death was not a mere martyrdom, (b) the purpose of His life and death, and (c) an incentive to missionary work? Cf. Rev. 7:9, 10, 15—17.
Notes
1 Verse 3. ‘Hear’: i.e., listen attentively to, and so obey.
2 Jesus is both ‘door’ and ‘shepherd’. Others also are under-shepherds (Acts
20: 28, 29; 1 Pet. 5: 2—4) who must themselves first enter through the ‘door’.
STUDY 20 John 10: 22—42
1 Why would a plain answer to the Jews’ question of verse 24 have been useless? What indications of the nature of Jesus’ Person were already being given? See verses 25, 32, 37, 38. Why were the Jews incapable of seeing this? Do your works corroborate your words?
2 In the statements of verses 27, 28 how is the sheep’s relation to the shepherd described, and how the shepherd’s relation to the sheep? On what grounds given in verses 28, 29 can you be sure that you will never perish?
3 In what terms does Jesus describe His relationship with God, and what evidence does He give in support of His claim? How far are the words of the Jews at the end of verse 33 correct? What ought they to have done?
Notes
1 Verse 30. The word ‘one’ is neuter in the Greek: ‘a unity’, not ‘one person’.
2 Verses 34—36. See Ps. 82: 6. Even the judges of Israel, acting as God’s representatives, were called ‘gods’. The Jews should have seen that Jesus was far superior to them. This comparison with the men of the Old Testament is sufficient argument to refute the charge of blasphemy. Jesus does not imply that He is merely a man like them.
STUDY 21 John 11: 1-27
The seventh ‘sign’.
1 Compare verse 4 with 9: 3. Explain the apparent contradiction both in verse 4 and also in verses 5, 6. See verses 14, 15. Can you see why God sometimes seems to delay answering your prayer?
2 What direction and assurance do verses 9, 10 give for the conduct of your life? Cf. 9: 4, 5.
3 In verses 21, 22, 24 Martha makes three correct but limited statements. In respect to each of them Jesus’ answer in verses 25, 26 reveals that He has within Himself infinitely greater powers than she knew. What are they?
Note. Verse 26. ‘Shall never die’: for the believer death is no longer death. It introduces him into a new state of life. See Note on Jn. 8: 51.
STUDY 22 John 11: 28—44
1 What is the special significance of this seventh ‘sign’? How is it related to the events which Jesus was shortly to experience as the climax of His work? In what way was the glory of God revealed?
2 Why did Jesus pray aloud before calling Lazarus from the tomb? What does this teach about the means by which His miracles were accomplished? Cf. Jn. 5: 19, 20; 14: 10.
Note. Verses 33—38. The word ‘weep’ in verse 33 is the wailing of mourners; that in verse 35 implies silent tears of sympathy. The rendering of RSV in verse 33, ‘he was deeply moved in spirit’, does not give the full force of the Greek, for which Prof. Tasker suggests, ‘He was enraged in spirit and troubled Himself’ (TNTC, p. 140). His anger was roused against the evil powers of death, which caused such distress to mankind, and which He was about to conquer, here by a mighty display of divine power, and finally on the cross by His own death and resurrection.
STUDY 23 John 11:45 - 12:19
1 Observe the varied effects of the miracle. See especially II: 45,46, 47—53, 54; 12:10,11, 17—19; and cf. Lk. i6: 31. How is it that the same act quickens faith in some, and hatred in others? Cf. 11: 47,48; 12:11, I9; Mt. 27: 18.
2 12: 1—8. What insights does Mary’s action reveal? How far does your love for the Lord lead you to understand Him, and to serve Him without counting the cost?
3 In 11: 47—53 and 12: 12—16 there are two examples of God overruling men’s words and actions to fulfill His own purposes. What is the real purpose of God to which each points?
Note. 11: 48. The Jewish leaders feared that Jesus might lead a revolt for which the Romans would exact severe punishment.
STUDY 24 John 12:20-36
The Greeks who inquired for Jesus were a token of the world of people beyond Israel who would be saved through Jesus’ atoning death and resurrection (cf. 10:16; 12:32). Their coming therefore introduces the consummation of Jesus’ work; see verse 23.
1 Give examples of the ways in which you can love your life, or hate it. To whom does Jesus primarily refer in verse 24? In view of this, what is involved in following Him (verse 26)?
2 In what sense did the coming ‘hour’ (verse 23) bring about the glorifying of the Son of man and of the Father (verse 28)? How did His being lifted up involve the judgment of this world (verses 31—34)?
3 Verses 35, 36 give Jesus’ last appeal to the nation. What is meant by walking and believing in the light? Are you doing this?
STUDY 25 John I2:37-50
This passage presents the problem of unbelief in face of manifest evidence of God’s power and presence.
1 Both quotations from Isaiah in verses 38—40 speak of Christ, the latter because Christ’s glory is included in the vision of God’s glory in Isaiah 6. Who has and who has not ‘believed our report’? Why has God blinded their eyes, etc.? Does this apply today to (a) Jews, and (b) non-Jews? Why do you believe?
2 The seriousness of rejecting Jesus is the subject of verses 44—50, in which John summarizes the teaching of Jesus on this matter. Why is it so serious to reject Jesus? See especially verses 45, 46, 50, and compare Pr. 1: 20—33. Why will Jesus’ word be the judge (verse 48)?
Notes
1 Verse 42. ‘Put out of the synagogue’: çf. 9: 22. This was a very severe punishment, involving separation from public worship and from social intercourse.
2 Verse 45. ‘Sees’: here is the concept of careful observation leading to spiritual insight.
STUDY 26 John 13:1-20
1 Verse 53. ‘Teacher and Lord.’ What degrees of Lordship are revealed in verses 1 and 3? Did Jesus perform the task of a servant in spite of, or because of, His relation to the Father? Cf. Phil. 2: 5—8.
2 What important lesson did Jesus teach in response to Peter’s interruptions? See verses 8 and 10. Cf. Tit. 3: 5; 1 Jn. 1: 7.
3 What further application did Jesus make of His action as an example to His followers? Cf. Lk. 22: 22—27. Are you giving sufficient heed to this matter? See verse 17.
Notes
1 Verse l0. ‘Bathed’: the disciples had been cleansed; all except Judas (verse
11). Cf. 15: 3.
2 Verse 20. ‘Anyone whom I send’: i.e., the apostles and all subsequent witnesses to Christ. So also verse 16.
STUDY 27 John 13:21-32
1 Trace the action of Satan upon the heart of Judas as shown in this Gospel. See 6: 70; 12: 4—6; 13: 2,27. If the giving of the morsel to him in verse 26 was Jesus’ last appeal of love, what state of heart does verse 27a indicate? What connection has verse 30 with 12: 35, 36?
2 Compare verses 31, 32 with 12: 23, 28. Verses 31 and 32a point to the action of the Son and 32b to that of the Father. To what impending events did these words point? How can the Father be glorified in you?
STUDY 28 John 13:33—14:14
1 Trace the connection between 13:33-37 and 14:1-6. Where was Jesus going? Why could they not follow until later? To what event does ‘I will come again’ refer?
2 In what respect were the questions of both Thomas and Philip short—sighted? How is Jesus the way, the truth and the life, especially in relation to the Father?
3 What prospect does Jesus set before His disciples as a consequence of His return to the Father? See verses 12—14. Do you know anything of this in your experience? Why are the works of the believer called ‘greater works’?
STUDY 29 John 14:15—24
1 Three times in this passage Jesus speaks of loving Him (verses 15, 21, 23). How does our love for the Lord Jesus show itself? Is this true of you? Since love is personal, can you see to what personal relationship this love leads?
2 In what sense does Jesus ‘come’ to us (verse 18)? How is this related to the coming of ‘another Advocate’ (see Note 1)? Give examples of ways in which Jesus proved to be the first ‘Advocate’.
3 Why cannot the world ‘see’ the Spirit or Jesus (verses 17,19)? Cf. 1:11; 3:19; 5:37; 7:34; 8:19,47; 12:37—40. What explanation did Jesus give here in answer to Judas? How can the eyes of men be opened to see Him?
Notes
1 Verse 16. ‘Counsellor’: literally, one called to one’s side to plead on one’s
behalf. ‘Advocate’ is a better translation. Cf. 1 Jn. 2:1.
2 Verse 18. ‘Desolate’: better, ‘bereaved’.
3 Verse 22. Cf. 7:4. The disciples also naturally expected that the Messiah would
display His power to the world.
STUDY 30 John I4: 25 — 15:8
1 The disciples were distressed at the thought of Jesus going away and leaving them alone in a hostile world; cf. 16: 6. What promises does Jesus give in verses 25—29 to answer their fears? Why does His going to the Father bring greater benefit than if He had remained as He was? What also does verse 31 teach about Christ’s reason for facing the cross?
2 What does the parable of the vine teach about (a) the purpose for which the branches exist, (b) the vinedresser’s dealing with the branches, and (c) the dependence of the branches upon the vine? With verses 3 and 7 compare 14:15,21,23; see also 8:31,32. What kind of fruit do you bear? Cf. Gal. 5: 22, 23.
Notes
1 14:28. ‘The Father is greater than I’: cf. 10: 29, 30. He is not greater in being more divine, but in the eternal Father-Son and God-man relationships.(See NBCR,p. 959.)
2 14:30. ‘The ruler of this world’: cf. 12: 31; 16:11; 2 Cor. 4:4; Eph. 2: 2; 1 Jn. 5:19. The RSV ‘has no power over me’ gives the true sense of these words. There is nothing in Jesus over which the devil can claim possession, and therefore domination.
STUDY 31 John 15: 9-25
1 People think of the Christian life as a joyless observance of rules. What answer to this idea is contained in these verses? Is it your experience?
2 If we are disciples of Jesus, why must we expect hatred from the world? Why did many hate and persecute Jesus?
3 Love not only feels, but acts. By What actions is (a) the love of the Father shown to the Son, (b) the love of the Son to His disciples, and (c) the love of the disciples to one another? Cf 3:35; 5:20; 1 Jn. 3:16—18.
STUDY 32 John 15:26 — 16:15
1 What evidence do you find in 16: 1—7 that the disciples were cast down by Jesus’ words? Why did He say that He had not spoken of these things before, and why did He speak of them now? Notice, however, that He did not lighten in any way the dark picture He had drawn, but rather shaded it more deeply (16: 2).
2 What new force, does Jesus say, will be brought to bear upon the world, and through whom (see 15: 26, 27)? What threefold result will follow (16: 8—11)? How would this make Jesus’ departure an advantage instead of a loss?
3 What results ought this situation to have upon the disciples (a) in their dependence on the Holy Spirit, and (b) in the place of the Holy Spirit and the Person of Jesus Christ in their thinking? Is this true of us? See i6: 14, 15.
Notes
1 16:2: ‘Put you out of the synagogues’: see Note on 12: 42.
2 16:5. The questions of Thomas (14:5) and Peter (13: 36, 37) concerned their own following of Jesus. No-one was now asking about the glory to which Christ was going in His return to the Father.
3 16: 8—11. The Holy Spirit will convince men of their false standards of sin, righteousness and judgment (Cf. Is. 55: 8,9). He will show them that the essence of sin is unbelief in Christ; that true righteousness is not that of the Pharisees (works of the Law) but the righteousness seen in Christ, and declared in the gospel; and that judgment awaits all who follow the ruler of this world. At Pentecost the heavens were convinced by the Spirit’s witness through the apostles, exactly as Jesus says here.
4 16: 13. ‘Declare to you the things that are to come’: i.e., interpret the significance of Christ’s impending crucifixion and resurrection, as well as other divine actions.
STUDY 33 John 16:16-33
1 ‘A little while’. In the light of verses 16—22 do you consider that this refers to the time between the death of Jesus and His resurrection; between His ascension and Pentecost; or both?
2 Note the RSV in verse 23, ‘You will ask me no questions.’ With the Spirit to enlighten (cf. verses 12—15) and the Father to supply our needs, what do we learn in verses 23—28 about the place of prayer? On what do we rely when we pray in the name of Jesus Christ? Cf. 14:13, 14; I5:16.
3 In verse 33 Jesus sums up the situation. In what two opposing spheres would the disciples live? What would be their experience in the one and in the other? What can be the ground of your courage and confidence?
STUDY 34 John 17 (first study)
Jesus’ prayer falls into three divisions: (a) verses 1—5, for Himself; (b) verses 6—19, for the immediate circle of disciples; (c) verses 20—26, for the great company who should afterwards believe.
1 The hour of Jesus’ supreme sacrifice has come (verse 1; cf. 2:4; 7:6,30; 8:20; 13:1). How is this related to the glorifying of the Son and the Father (verses 1—4)? Already the glory of God has been seen in Jesus (1:14); how is it seen also in His disciples (verse 22)?
When will they see the full glory of the Son (verses 5, 24)?
2 In verses 6—14 note how many things Jesus has already done for His disciples.
3 What does our Lord pray that the Father will do for those whom He has given Him? Is this prayer being answered in you? Are you ‘consecrated in truth’ (verse 19)?
Notes
1 Verse 2. ‘Power’: better, ‘authority’, as in RV. The whole of humanity lies within the sphere of Christ’s commission. Cf. Ps. 2:8; Mt. 28:18,19.
2 Verse 5. A prayer that the glory of which for a time He had ‘emptied himself’(Phil. 2: 6, 7) might be restored to Him.
3 Verses 17,19. Note the repetition of the word ‘to consecrate’. Jesus consecrated Himself to the holy Father in fulfillment of His perfect will, particularly in offering Himself as the sacrifice for sin. Cf. Heb.10:5-10. This shows what true consecration involves.
STUDY 35 John 17 (second study)
1 What is our relationship to the world? How should we ourselves pray regarding people in the world?
2 Verses 20—23. Is the Lord praying for the uniting of all branches of the Christian church as in the ecumenical movement? What is the object of His prayer? What will its fuller realization mean?
3 Observe the significance of the ‘word’ or ‘words’ of the Father and the Son in this passage.
STUDY 36 John 18:1—27
Jesus’ arrest and trial before Caiaphas.
1 In verses 4—11 and 19—23 what qualities of our Lord’s character appear in relation to (a) those who came to arrest Him, (b) His disciples, and (c) His accusers?
2 How did Peter’s own actions contribute to his fall? Of what was he afraid? Does fear ever prevent you from declaring your association with Jesus Christ?
Note. Verses 5, 6, 8. ‘I am he’: the thrice—repeated use of this phrase point to its special significance. It is virtually a reiteration of the divine name, ‘I AM’. Cf. Ex.3:14; Jn.8:58. Note the effect of Christ’s statement on the hearers.
STUDY 37 John 18:28 — 19:16
The trial before Pilate.
1 Trace through this passage the attempts made by Pilate to spare Jesus from death, and the steps taken by the Jews to counter his efforts. The full charge brought against Jesus is given in Lk. 23: 2. (Note the Jews’ use of both religious and political threats to overcome Pilate’s resistance; see 19: 7, 12.) What features of the character of Pilate and of the Jews are revealed here? Could we be guilty of similar injustice?
2 ‘The King of the Jews.’ Note how this title forms the central interest from 18:33 to 19:22. What is the real nature of Jesus’ Kingship? How does it differ from the world’s? How is Jesus’ royal dignity shown here? How does the use of the title reveal the sin of the Jews, and the glory of Jesus’ sacrifice?
Notes
1 18: 28. ‘Praetorium’: the headquarters of the Roman governor.
2 18: 31b. The Romans did not allow the Jews to inflict capital punishment. Hence Pilate’s words in 19:6 imply that there was no ground in Roman law for Jesus’ death. However he spoke a deeper truth than he realized.
STUDY 38 John 19:17—37
1 The story of the crucifixion is told in seven incidents, namely verses 17—18, 19—22, 23—24, 25—27, 28—29, 30, 31—37. How does each incident manifest some fresh aspect of the glory of the suffering Saviour?
2 Which scriptures are quoted in this portion as having found fulfillment in this hour? To which aspects of Jesus’ sufferings and of His saving work do they point?
STUDY 39 John 19:38 — 20:10
1 What made both Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus now come out into the open? With I9:38 cf. Lk. 23:50,51; and trace Nicodemus’ growing faith, 3:1—15; 7:45—52. Both were members of the Sanhedrin, the Council of the Jews which had condemned Jesus.
2 20:1—10. How do these verses show that the disciples were not expecting the resurrection of the Lord? What does the description of Peter and John’s visit to the tomb reveal about each of their respective temperaments? What was it that John believed?
Notes
1 19:39. ‘About a hundred pounds’ weight’: an exceptionally lavish amount.
2 20:5,7. The positions of the clothes showed that they had not been unwound from Jesus’ body. He had gone out, just as later He came in, where the doors were shut, without the doors being opened(20:19,26).
STUDY 40 John 20:11—31
1 Why was Mary so concerned that the body had gone from the tomb? What did Jesus convey to her when He said ‘Mary’? Why did He say, ‘Do not hold me’? Is it possible for us to miss the best in the Lord while holding on to the good?
2 Does verse 29 show that the disciples were still doubting? What convinced them that Jesus was truly raised from the dead? Why was Thomas moved to make the complete avowal of faith, to which none of the others had yet attained? Was it only that he saw Jesus? How can one who has not seen Him be led to faith in the risen Lord (verses 29—31)?
3 In verses 21—23 the risen Christ commissions His apostles. By what authority, with what power, and for what purpose does He send them?
Note. Verse 17. Note the distinction, ‘my Father and your Father’. Jesus never said of Himself and His disciples, ‘Our Father’, as though their relation to God was the same as His. He is the only begotten Son; we are sons of God ‘in Him’.
STUDY 41 John 21:1—14
1 Compare this passage with Lk. 5:1-11, noting the similarities and the differences. Why did the disciples take up their old work again? What did they learn from this experience?
2 What did the Lord reveal here (a) about Himself, (b) about the work which the disciples were to do? How does this revelation of the risen Lord affect your own life and work?
Note. Verse 14. ‘The third time’: first time, 20: 19—23 ; second time, 20: 24—29; third time, now in Galilee. See Mk. i6: 7. Probably the third recorded by this Gospel is meant here.
STUDY 42 John 21:15—25
1 What is the significance of (a) Jesus’ use of the name Simon in addressing Peter (cf. 1:42); (b) the phrase ‘more than these’ (verse 15; cf. Mk. 10: 28—30; I4:29); (c) Jesus asking Peter three times, ‘Do you love me?’ (cf. 13:38)?
2 Though Peter had failed, Jesus re-commissioned him. What does this teach about (a) the Lord’s nature, (b) Peter’s spiritual condition?
Can you expect always to be restored after a fall? What does the Lord require from you?
3 What may we learn from verses 18—23 about (a) the different ways in which the Lord directs the life of each one of His people; (b) what our own main concern is to be?
Notes
1 Verses 18, 19. According to tradition Peter died as a martyr in Rome.
2 Verse 23. A statement introduced to correct a current misunderstanding of what the Lord had said about John.