What Happened after the Samaritan Woman tells Her Neighbors about Jesus?

 

In John 4:27–42, after her encounter with Jesus, the Samaritan woman takes the surprising action of leaving her water jar and going back to her town to tell others about her experience. Despite the cultural norms that might have discouraged her from speaking openly, especially to men, she boldly shares her encounter with Jesus, saying, "Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Messiah?" Her testimony compels many of the townspeople to come and see Jesus for themselves.

Following her testimony, many Samaritans from the town go to meet Jesus and, after hearing him speak, many more believe. They tell the woman, "We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world."

This passage highlights how the gospel can spread through personal testimony and the authenticity of a transformative encounter with Jesus. The woman’s willingness to share her experience, despite her social position, shows that anyone can be a messenger of the gospel. It also illustrates how personal testimonies can inspire others to seek their own relationship with Jesus, spreading the message further as people encounter it firsthand.

Go here for more on: Lesson 5 The Witness of the Samaritans

Jesus Reveals Himself to the Samaritan Woman at the Well: John 4:16-26

 In John 4:16–26, Jesus demonstrates His divine knowledge of the Samaritan woman’s life by revealing intimate details about her relationships. He tells her, "Go, call your husband and come here," prompting her to reply that she has no husband. Jesus responds by affirming her statement and then reveals that she has had five husbands, and the man she is currently with is not her husband. This profound insight into her personal life astonishes her, as it demonstrates that Jesus has supernatural knowledge.

The woman reacts by recognizing Jesus as a prophet, saying, “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet.” She then engages in a theological conversation about worship, expressing a desire to understand more. In response, Jesus reveals Himself as the Messiah, the promised Christ, by declaring, “I who speak to you am He.” This is one of the clearest moments in the Gospels where Jesus directly reveals His identity as the Messiah, leading the woman to believe and ultimately to share this encounter with her community.

Go here for more on: Lesson 5 The Witness of the Samaritans

"Sir, give me this water" John 4:15 What was the response of Jesus?

 

In John 4:15-26, Jesus’s conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well reveals profound truths about spiritual life, worship, and His identity as the Messiah. These verses unfold in several parts, each illuminating a different aspect of Jesus's message.

Summary and Explanation of John 4:15-26

The Woman’s Request for Living Water (John 4:15)  

After Jesus describes the “living water” that leads to eternal life (John 4:10-14), the Samaritan woman responds in verse 15 by asking for this water, saying, “Sir, give me this water so that I won’t get thirsty and have to keep coming here to draw water.” She interprets “living water” literally, seeing it as a way to avoid her daily, physically tiring trips to the well. However, her request shows openness and a desire to understand what Jesus is offering, even if she doesn’t yet comprehend its full meaning.

Jesus’s Call to Bring Her Husband (John 4:16-18)  

Jesus responds, saying, “Go, call your husband and come back.” When the woman replies that she has no husband, Jesus reveals His knowledge of her life, stating that she has had five husbands and is currently with a man who isn’t her husband. This response is crucial because it opens the door to a deeper conversation, allowing Jesus to gently bring her to a realization of her need for spiritual transformation. He speaks without judgment, showing His insight and compassion.

The Woman’s Recognition and Question on Worship (John 4:19-20)  

Amazed by Jesus’s knowledge, she recognizes Him as a prophet, saying, “Sir, I can see that you are a prophet.” She then shifts the conversation to the topic of worship, asking about the difference between Samaritan worship on Mount Gerizim and Jewish worship in Jerusalem. This was a central religious dispute between Jews and Samaritans, and her question reflects her growing spiritual curiosity, as well as the religious tension that separated their peoples.

Jesus’s Revelation About True Worship (John 4:21-24)  

Jesus responds by teaching that true worship is not tied to any specific location (such as Jerusalem or Mount Gerizim) but is spiritual and must be done “in spirit and in truth.” He explains that true worshipers are those who connect with God on a spiritual level, transcending physical locations or rituals. This teaching emphasizes that God is seeking a relationship with people that is rooted in genuine spirituality and sincerity, not just external practices.

The Woman’s Mention of the Messiah and Jesus’s Revelation (John 4:25-26)  

The woman, sensing the weight of Jesus's words, mentions the coming of the Messiah, saying, “I know that Messiah” (called Christ) “is coming. When he comes, he will explain everything to us.” In response, Jesus makes a profound revelation, telling her, “I, the one speaking to you—I am he.” This is one of the clearest instances in the Gospels where Jesus openly identifies Himself as the Messiah, and it is notable that He chooses to reveal this truth to a Samaritan woman, an outsider by societal and religious standards. This declaration fulfills the anticipation of the Messiah and extends His mission to all people, not just Jews.

How Jesus Responded to the Woman’s Request

When the woman asked for “living water,” Jesus responded not by immediately providing it but by addressing her personal and spiritual needs. His directive to call her husband wasn’t meant to expose or embarrass her but to gently show her the brokenness in her life, thus preparing her heart to understand the nature of the “living water” He offered. Her request initiated a dialogue that led her to recognize her spiritual thirst and need for transformation.

Jesus’s response is compassionate and purposeful, moving from practical needs to deeper spiritual truths. He guides her from a literal understanding of water to an understanding of spiritual life, from physical thirst to a longing for God, and ultimately from her life circumstances to the revelation of the Messiah. 

In the end, her encounter with Jesus led to her transformation. She went back to her village, proclaiming that she had met someone who knew everything about her, leading many in her town to believe in Jesus (John 4:28-30, 39-42). Jesus’s interaction with her illustrates His willingness to meet people where they are and gently guide them into a fuller understanding of God’s love and truth.

Go here for more on: Lesson 5 The Witness of the Samaritans

Key Themes in John 4:7-15 Jesus and the Woman at the Well.

 

John 4:7–15 is a passage where Jesus has a conversation with a Samaritan woman at Jacob's well, a pivotal scene filled with symbolic language, cultural context, and spiritual significance.

   Jesus initiates the conversation by asking the woman for a drink. This simple request breaks multiple cultural barriers. Jews and Samaritans historically despised each other, yet Jesus, a Jewish man, not only speaks to her but asks to drink from her vessel. Furthermore, Jewish men rarely spoke to women in public, let alone a Samaritan woman. This interaction demonstrates Jesus’ intent to transcend social norms and extend God’s love and invitation to all people, regardless of societal or cultural divisions.

   The woman’s surprise highlights the cultural rift, as Jews generally avoided any interactions with Samaritans. This distinction reflects the historical conflict that arose when Samaritans, a mixed ethnic group, diverged religiously from mainstream Judaism, adopting their own unique religious practices and even building their temple on Mount Gerizim.

   Jesus shifts the conversation from physical water to “living water,” a term with dual meaning. On one hand, "living water" can mean fresh, flowing water, as opposed to stagnant well water. But here, Jesus speaks metaphorically about the spiritual sustenance He offers—something far beyond physical satisfaction. Jesus’ reference to “the gift of God” suggests that He Himself embodies this divine gift, offering spiritual renewal and eternal life.

   The woman, still thinking in physical terms, questions how Jesus could provide this "living water" without a bucket. She appeals to her heritage by invoking Jacob, the revered patriarch who provided this well, showing her respect for tradition and doubt in anyone who claims to offer something greater.

   Jesus clarifies that physical water from the well will only satisfy temporarily, whereas the “living water” He offers is eternal and unending. This living water signifies the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, which refreshes, empowers, and leads to eternal life. Jesus’ words here echo later passages in John where He promises the Spirit as a source of ongoing, abundant spiritual life.

   The Samaritan woman, still somewhat misunderstanding, desires the water so she won’t have to return to the well repeatedly. Her literal interpretation reflects a partial understanding, yet her desire to receive the “living water” shows an openness to Jesus’ message and her own spiritual need. This willingness sets the stage for the rest of their interaction, where Jesus addresses deeper aspects of her life and spiritual condition.

Key Themes in John 4:7-15.

 Breaking Social Barriers  

   Jesus’ actions model God’s outreach to all humanity, regardless of cultural or social barriers. By speaking to the Samaritan woman, Jesus demonstrates the inclusivity of the gospel.

 Living Water as Spiritual Renewal

   "Living water" symbolizes the Holy Spirit, who is essential for spiritual life and transformation. Jesus offers something that quenches deeper spiritual thirsts—eternal life, inner peace, and purpose.

 Spiritual Misunderstanding and Openness

   The woman’s initial confusion shows a common human tendency to interpret spiritual truths in physical terms. Yet her openness to Jesus’ offer indicates a heart ready to understand more, pointing to the importance of faith and curiosity in spiritual growth.

Promise of Eternal Life

   Jesus highlights that what He offers is not temporary or worldly but eternal and enduring, filling a void that earthly things cannot. This foreshadows His mission to reconcile humanity with God.

John 4:7-15 uses the imagery of water to reveal a deeper spiritual truth about the human condition and Jesus’ mission. While we seek satisfaction in the material, Jesus offers a divine “living water” that meets our ultimate needs and promises eternal life. This passage encourages us to look beyond physical needs and cultural divides to receive the life-transforming gift Jesus offers, leading to eternal relationship with God.

Go here for more on: Lesson 5 The Witness of the Samaritans

Jesus in Samaria Visits the Woman at the Well: John 4:1-9

 

In John 4:1-9, Jesus' journey to Samaria and his interaction with the Samaritan woman at the well offer deep cultural and theological insights.

 Why Jesus Went to Samaria

Jesus was traveling from Judea to Galilee, and the most direct route passed through Samaria. However, many Jews avoided Samaria due to longstanding animosity between Jews and Samaritans. Samaritans were of mixed heritage and had different religious beliefs, including a different place of worship, Mount Gerizim, rather than Jerusalem. By choosing to go through Samaria, Jesus showed he was willing to cross social and ethnic boundaries to reach people in need.

How Jesus Opened Dialogue

Jesus began the conversation by asking the woman for a drink of water, which broke several social norms. In that culture:

Jewish men typically did not speak to women in public, especially those they didn't know.

Jews did not generally associate with Samaritans.

Jesus, as a rabbi, could have been seen as ceremonially unclean by drinking from a Samaritan’s vessel.

By simply asking for a drink, Jesus demonstrated humility and respect for the woman’s humanity and dignity, creating a bridge that allowed for a more profound spiritual discussion. This opened the way for him to share his message, ultimately revealing himself to her as the "living water" and the awaited Messiah.

Go here for more on: Lesson 5 The Witness of the Samaritans

Sabbath School Lesson 5: The Testimony of the Samaritans

 

Themes in the Gospel of John

Sabbath School Lesson 5

The Testimony of the Samaritans

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

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> Download the notes for Lesson 5 video here.

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> Download  Themes in the Gospel of John (4th  qtr) Sabbath School Lessons Here

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How to Deal with Church Leaders like Nicodemus?

 

In the story of Nicodemus (John 3:1-21), we see a religious leader who has significant knowledge of Jewish law and tradition but lacks understanding of the deeper spiritual truths. Jesus gently corrects Nicodemus, emphasizing the need for spiritual rebirth and transformation through the Spirit, rather than simply relying on intellectual or theological knowledge.

When dealing with church leaders who may seem knowledgeable but are missing what really matters—such as love, humility, or a true relationship with God—here are a few approaches inspired by this encounter

Grace and Patience

 Jesus didn’t condemn Nicodemus but took time to explain the truth to him with grace. In our interactions, it's essential to approach such leaders with respect and patience, recognizing that growth and deeper understanding may take time.

Encouraging Humility and Reflection

 Nicodemus was humble enough to seek out Jesus privately and ask questions. Encouraging leaders to remain humble, open to learning, and willing to reflect on their beliefs can be crucial for spiritual growth. Sometimes posing thoughtful, probing questions can help.

Focus on Transformation, Not Just Knowledge

 Jesus emphasizes the importance of being "born again" and led by the Spirit, pointing to transformation rather than just head knowledge. We can encourage leaders to focus on personal spiritual transformation, seeking God’s heart in prayer, and living out love and service.

Leading by Example

 Sometimes the best way to show what really matters is through our own actions. Demonstrating Christ-like love, humility, and a focus on spiritual transformation can model for leaders the essence of true faith in action.

Prayer

 Praying for leaders who may lack deeper understanding is powerful. Asking God to open their hearts to the truths of His Word and Spirit can be transformative.

These approaches are gentle yet firm, respecting the role of leaders while also prioritizing the deeper truths that Jesus highlighted in His conversation with Nicodemus.

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Insights into the Encounter Between Jesus and Nicodemus: John 3:1-21

 

In John 3:1-21, the encounter between Jesus and Nicodemus plays a significant role in supporting the overall theme of the Gospel of John, which is centered on the revelation of Jesus as the divine Son of God and the necessity of faith in Him for eternal life. Here's how Nicodemus' testimony and Jesus' insights into him reinforce this.

 Nicodemus' Testimony and the Theme of John's Gospel

 Nicodemus as a Pharisee and Ruler of the Jews. Nicodemus represents the religious leaders of Israel, many of whom were skeptical or hostile toward Jesus. He comes to Jesus at night, symbolizing his uncertainty and spiritual blindness (a recurring theme in John). Nicodemus' respectful acknowledgment of Jesus as a teacher "come from God" (John 3:2) reflects his partial understanding of who Jesus is, but it is incomplete.

 Jesus as the Light. In the Gospel of John, Jesus is repeatedly described as the "light of the world" (John 1:4-5; 8:12). Nicodemus' coming to Jesus at night hints at his need for spiritual enlightenment. This theme of light and darkness is essential in John's Gospel, illustrating the contrast between belief and unbelief, sight and blindness, life and death.

 Jesus' Response to Nicodemus

 Being "Born Again." Jesus tells Nicodemus that no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are "born again" (John 3:3). This is a profound statement about spiritual rebirth, which Nicodemus initially misunderstands in a literal sense (John 3:4). Jesus explains that this rebirth is spiritual, not physical, and involves being born of water and the Spirit (John 3:5-6). This rebirth is the transformation necessary for entering the kingdom of God, a central message of the Gospel.

 Faith and Eternal Life. Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus culminates in the declaration of the necessity of belief in the Son of God for eternal life. This is most famously expressed in John 3:16, where Jesus says, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse encapsulates the entire message of the Gospel of John—faith in Jesus as the Son of God brings eternal life.

 Jesus' Insight into Nicodemus

 Seeing Nicodemus' Heart. Jesus demonstrates that He can see into Nicodemus’ spiritual state. Without Nicodemus explicitly asking, Jesus responds to the deeper questions of Nicodemus’ heart by explaining the need for spiritual rebirth. This shows that Jesus knows Nicodemus' confusion and his desire for truth, even though Nicodemus has not fully articulated it. Jesus’ ability to see into Nicodemus’ heart reflects John’s portrayal of Jesus as omniscient and aware of human thoughts and motives (John 2:24-25).

 The Wind Metaphor. Jesus uses the metaphor of the wind to describe the work of the Spirit (John 3:8). Just as the wind is invisible yet its effects are seen, the work of the Holy Spirit is mysterious but transformative. This challenges Nicodemus' understanding of how one enters the kingdom of God and further highlights Jesus’ divine knowledge.

 Nicodemus' Development

 Nicodemus' testimony in John 3 sets the stage for his gradual transformation. While in this scene he is uncertain and confused, he later reappears in John 7:50-51, where he defends Jesus before the Pharisees, and in John 19:39, where he helps Joseph of Arimathea bury Jesus. These appearances suggest that Nicodemus slowly moves from confusion to belief, echoing the journey many in John's Gospel take toward faith in Jesus as the Messiah.

The testimony of Nicodemus supports the theme of the Gospel of John by illustrating the necessity of spiritual rebirth and faith in Jesus for salvation. Jesus' interaction with Nicodemus shows His divine insight and reinforces John's portrayal of Jesus as the bringer of truth, light, and eternal life. The conversation is a microcosm of the broader themes of the Gospel: the contrast between light and darkness, spiritual blindness and sight, and life through faith in Jesus.

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John 1:43-46: Philip's Encounter with Jesus

 

In John 1:43-46, Philip’s encounter with Jesus reveals his immediate recognition of who Jesus is, which demonstrates his early faith.

John 1:43: Jesus decides to go to Galilee, where He finds Philip and says to him, "Follow me."

John 1:44: Philip, from Bethsaida (the same city as Andrew and Peter), begins to follow Jesus.

John 1:45: Philip then finds Nathanael and tells him, “We have found the one Moses wrote about in the Law, and about whom the prophets also wrote—Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.”

John 1:46: Nathanael skeptically responds, “Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” But Philip simply replies, “Come and see.”

Philip's message in verse 45 reveals several things about his faith

Recognition of Jesus as the Messiah

Philip identifies Jesus as the fulfillment of the prophecies found in the Law of Moses and the writings of the prophets, demonstrating that he believes Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah. This shows his faith in Jesus' divine role right from the beginning.

Conviction and Enthusiasm

His immediate response to find Nathanael and share the news suggests that Philip is already convinced of Jesus' significance. He doesn’t hesitate or doubt; instead, he’s eager to bring others to Jesus.

Trust in Jesus’ Authority

Even though Nathanael expresses skepticism about Jesus being from Nazareth, Philip’s faith is evident in his confident reply, “Come and see.” He trusts that simply encountering Jesus will be enough to convince Nathanael, reflecting Philip’s own assurance in Jesus' identity and authority.

Philip’s message reveals that he already has a firm belief in Jesus as the Messiah and shows a readiness to share this good news with others, trusting in Jesus' power to reveal the truth to those who doubt.

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Nathaniel's Response to Jesus: John 1:47-51

 

In John 1:47–51, the account of Jesus meeting Nathanael (also known as Bartholomew) shows how Jesus revealed His divine knowledge, which convinced Nathanael of who He was.

 How Jesus Convinced Nathanael

 Verse 47: As Nathanael approached, Jesus said, "Here truly is an Israelite in whom there is no deceit!" Nathanael was surprised because Jesus seemed to know his character without having met him before.

 Verse 48: Nathanael asked, "How do you know me?" Jesus replied, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you." This knowledge of Nathanael's whereabouts, even though Jesus was not physically present, revealed Jesus' supernatural insight.

 Nathanael’s Response

 Verse 49: Nathanael immediately responded, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the king of Israel." This was a declaration of faith, as Nathanael recognized that only someone with divine authority could know such things.

 Verses 50-51: Jesus then told Nathanael that he would see even greater things, specifically mentioning "heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man," referring to future revelations of Jesus' glory and divine nature.

Nathanael’s response shows that he was convinced of Jesus’ identity through the miraculous knowledge that Jesus displayed.

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The Two Disciples of John. Why did they follow Jesus?

 

In John 1:35-39, the two disciples who were following John the Baptist took decisive action after hearing his witness about Jesus.

John's Witness

 John the Baptist saw Jesus passing by and proclaimed, "Look, the Lamb of God!" (John 1:36). By identifying Jesus this way, John was pointing to Him as the Messiah, the one sent by God to take away the sins of the world (as mentioned earlier in John 1:29).

The Disciples’ Reaction

 After hearing John’s testimony, the two disciples (one of whom is later identified as Andrew) immediately left John and started following Jesus (John 1:37). This was a direct response to John’s powerful witness about Jesus’ identity as the promised Savior.

Why They Followed

 They followed Jesus because John’s words revealed that Jesus was not just another teacher or prophet, but the "Lamb of God" — the fulfillment of the long-awaited Messiah. The phrase "Lamb of God" would have had deep significance to them, evoking the image of the sacrificial lamb, central to Jewish understanding of atonement and redemption. Their decision to follow was driven by a desire to know more about this person who carried such profound meaning.

Their Interaction with Jesus

 Jesus noticed them following Him and asked, "What do you want?" (John 1:38). The disciples asked where He was staying, which implied that they wanted to spend more time with Him. Jesus invited them to "Come and see," and they spent the day with Him (John 1:39).

Why they followed is key. They recognized from John’s testimony that Jesus was the one they had been waiting for—the Messiah. John's witness stirred their hearts to seek more from Jesus, so they followed Him to learn from Him directly, marking the beginning of their journey as His disciples.

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The Proclamation of John the Baptist: Jeus is The Lamb of God

In John 1:29–37, John the Baptist makes a profound proclamation about Jesus. The passage describes John seeing Jesus coming toward him, and he declares:

“Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29, ESV)

Proclamation

John the Baptist identifies Jesus as “the Lamb of God.” This proclamation is essential because it reveals Jesus' mission and role in God's plan for humanity.

Image of the Lamb

The image of the lamb carries deep significance, particularly for the Jewish people:

Sacrificial lamb: In the Old Testament, lambs were used as sacrifices for the atonement of sins, particularly during the Passover (Exodus 12). In the Passover story, the blood of a lamb protected the Israelites from the angel of death. By calling Jesus the "Lamb of God," John is identifying Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice for sin.

Isaiah's prophecy: In Isaiah 53:7, the Messiah is depicted as a suffering servant, like a lamb led to the slaughter. This image connects Jesus to the prophetic vision of a Savior who would suffer for the sins of the people.

Significance for Understanding Jesus’ Mission

Atonement for sin: John's proclamation underscores that Jesus' mission is to atone for the sins of humanity. Jesus would be the sacrificial lamb who takes away the sin of the world through His death on the cross.

Universal salvation: Unlike the sacrificial lambs in the Old Testament, which were for specific people (like the Israelites), Jesus as the Lamb of God is a sacrifice for the entire world. This reveals the universal scope of Jesus' mission to save all who believe in Him.

John the Baptist's proclamation of Jesus as the "Lamb of God" emphasizes His role as the ultimate sacrifice for sin, fulfilling the prophecies of the Old Testament and pointing to His mission of bringing salvation to all. This image of the lamb is rich with theological meaning, encapsulating Jesus’ purpose as the Savior and Redeemer.

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John the Baptist explains his ministry and mission: John 1:19-23

 

In John 1:19–23, John the Baptist explains his ministry and mission when questioned by the Jewish leaders. Here’s a summary of how he responds.

He denied being the Christ (John 1:19-20). When the Jewish priests and Levites from Jerusalem ask John who he is, he immediately denies being the Christ (Messiah). He knows that people are curious about whether he is the long-awaited savior, but he clarifies that he is not.

John the Baptist also denies being Elijah or "the Prophet" (John 1:21). The leaders then ask him if he is Elijah or "the Prophet" (a reference to the prophecy in Deuteronomy 18:15 about a prophet like Moses). John denies both identities. Although in a spiritual sense, he fulfills the role of Elijah by preparing the way for the Lord (as Jesus would later say in Matthew 11:14), John himself makes it clear he is not literally Elijah returned to earth.

John affirmed his true role (John 1:22-23). Finally, they ask him directly who he is so they can report back to those who sent them. John quotes from Isaiah 40:3, saying:

“I am the voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way for the Lord.’”

Here, John the Baptist defines his mission as one who prepares the way for the coming of the Messiah. He describes himself as a "voice" announcing the arrival of someone far greater than himself—Jesus. His role is to call people to repentance and prepare their hearts to receive the Lord.

John the Baptist humbly points to Jesus and emphasizes that his own mission is to prepare the way for the coming of the Lord.

More from Lesson 4 Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah

Sabbath School Lesson 4: Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah

 

Themes in the Gospel of John

Sabbath School Lesson 4

Witnesses of Christ as the Messiah

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

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> Download the notes for Lesson 4 video here.

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> Download  Themes in the Gospel of John (4th  qtr) Sabbath School Lessons Here

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The Glorifying Glory of Jesus and the Father: John 17:1-5

 

In John 17:1–5, Jesus is praying to God the Father just before His arrest and crucifixion. The phrase, "Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you," carries deep theological significance.

Throughout the Gospel of John, Jesus refers to "the hour" as the time of His suffering, death, and eventual glorification. Here, He is acknowledging that the time for His crucifixion and the fulfillment of His mission has arrived.

Jesus is asking the Father to glorify Him through His impending death and resurrection. The term "glorify" means to reveal or make manifest God's divine nature and power. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus would reveal God’s love, justice, and power over sin and death.

Jesus’ death and resurrection would also bring glory to the Father by demonstrating God's redemptive plan for humanity. Through His obedience to the Father's will, even to the point of death, Jesus would show the Father’s love and desire to save the world.

Jesus is asking the Father to glorify Him in His sacrificial work on the cross so that through it, He can bring glory to the Father by completing the work of salvation and revealing God’s character to the world. This mutual glorification emphasizes the unity of purpose between the Father and the Son in the plan of salvation.

More for Lesson 3 Themes in the Gospel of John

Belief and Unbelief: The Consequences from the Gospel of John

 

The Gospel of John, particularly in its prologue (John 1:1–18), introduces the themes of belief and unbelief, contrasting those who receive Jesus and become children of God with those who reject Him. This theme is revisited throughout the Gospel, including in the passages you’ve mentioned. Let's explore how each one repeats and develops the theme of belief/unbelief.

John 3:16–21

This passage is one of the most well-known in the New Testament, especially John 3:16, where belief in Jesus is presented as the key to eternal life.

Belief: Verse 16 states, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This echoes the prologue's emphasis on the life-giving power of believing in Jesus (John 1:12–13). Those who believe are granted eternal life.

Unbelief: Verses 18–19 focus on the consequences of unbelief. Those who do not believe in Jesus are "condemned already" because they have rejected the light. Unbelief is seen as a choice to "love darkness instead of light," much like in the prologue where some "did not receive" the true light (John 1:10–11).

John 9:35–41

This passage occurs after the healing of a man born blind, leading to a discussion between Jesus and the Pharisees about spiritual blindness.

Belief: In verse 35, Jesus asks the healed man, "Do you believe in the Son of Man?" The man responds affirmatively, expressing his belief and worshiping Jesus (v. 38). This aligns with the prologue’s idea of recognizing and accepting Jesus as the source of light and life (John 1:9, 12).

Unbelief: The Pharisees’ reaction highlights unbelief. They claim to see but are spiritually blind, which reflects their rejection of Jesus (v. 39–41). This corresponds to the theme in John 1:5, where the light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has not understood it. Their refusal to believe in Jesus is characterized as willful blindness, further reinforcing the theme of unbelief introduced earlier.

John 12:36–46

This passage takes place during Jesus’ final public ministry, where He emphasizes the importance of believing in Him as the light.

Belief: Jesus implores the crowd to "believe in the light" while they still have the opportunity (v. 36), reiterating the prologue’s theme of Jesus as the true light (John 1:9). Those who believe in Jesus will become "children of light," a concept echoing John 1:12, where believers are given the right to become children of God.

Unbelief: In verses 37–41, despite the many signs Jesus performed, many people still did not believe in Him. This echoes the prologue (John 1:10–11), where Jesus was not received by His own people. Verses 42–43 also address those who believed but were afraid to confess their faith openly due to fear of the Pharisees, highlighting the tension between belief and public acknowledgment.

In all three passages, John reinforces the themes of belief and unbelief first introduced in the prologue:

Belief leads to life, light, and becoming children of God.

Unbelief results in condemnation, darkness, and spiritual blindness.

These texts emphasize that belief in Jesus is essential for eternal life, while unbelief is portrayed as a rejection of the light and the truth, themes central to John’s Gospel.

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People who do not Listen to The Word and Accept Him: Jesus in John 1:9-13

 

In John 1:9-13, the apostle John highlights the tension between Jesus, the true light, and the world's response to Him. These verses depict a profound and somewhat harsh reality about how people react to Jesus and His message.

Here's the passage (NIV):

John 1:9-13

 9 The true light that gives light to everyone was coming into the world.

 10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him.

 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him.

 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—

 13 children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.

 Harsh Realities John Depicts

 Rejection of the Creator (v.10)

 Despite being the Creator of the world, Jesus was not recognized by the world He made. This rejection highlights humanity's spiritual blindness and alienation from God.

 Rejection by His Own People (v.11)

 Jesus came specifically to His own people, the Jewish nation, yet many did not receive Him. This rejection by His own emphasizes the tragedy of unbelief among those who should have been most prepared to accept Him.

 Spiritual Blindness and Unbelief

 The "light" (Jesus) illuminates truth, but not everyone chooses to see it. This reflects the condition of the human heart — hardened by sin and unwilling to accept God’s revelation, even when it's right before them.

 The Gift of Divine Adoption (vv.12-13)

 Despite widespread rejection, there is hope. John shifts the focus to those who do receive Jesus, underscoring the grace and privilege of becoming children of God. This transformation is not based on lineage, human will, or effort, but on divine intervention and grace.

John portrays the reality that Jesus, the true light, was largely rejected by the world He created, including by His own people. This rejection is a harsh reminder of humanity’s tendency to resist divine truth, yet those who do receive Jesus are given the profound gift of becoming God's children.

The Word Made Flesh: John 1:1-3,14 Identify Jesus and is the Most Important Truth

 

John 1:1–3 and 14 are foundational verses in the Bible that speak to the identity and role of Jesus Christ in creation and His incarnation.

John 1:1–3 (ESV):

 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him was not any thing made that was made."

These verses declare that Jesus, referred to here as "the Word" (Greek: Logos), was with God from the beginning and that He is, in fact, God. Jesus is portrayed as eternal, existing before creation, and the agent through whom everything was made. Nothing in creation exists apart from Him.

 John 1:14 (ESV):

 "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."

Verse 14 reveals the most profound act: the eternal Word, Jesus, took on human flesh and lived among humanity. This is the doctrine of the Incarnation—God becoming fully human while remaining fully God. In doing so, He displayed the glory of God in a form that humans could see, and His life was characterized by grace and truth.

 Why is this the most important truth?

It reveals who Jesus is. These verses establish the deity of Christ. He is not just a prophet or teacher; He is God Himself who came in the flesh. Understanding this is key to the Christian faith.

The Incarnation bridges the gap between God and humanity. Jesus becoming human means He can truly empathize with human weaknesses, yet without sin. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He provides a way for humans to be reconciled to God.

Salvation depends on this truth. If Jesus were not both fully God and fully human, He could not provide salvation. Only God has the power to save, and only a perfect, sinless human could stand in our place to bear the penalty for sin. This makes the truth of His divinity and humanity essential for salvation.

It demonstrates God’s love. The fact that God became flesh to live among us and ultimately die for our sins shows the depth of His love and His desire to redeem us. This truth is the foundation of the gospel message.

John 1:1–3, 14 is essential because it declares the divine nature of Jesus and His mission to bring salvation to humanity—a truth upon which the entire Christian faith stands.

Jesus, Logos, and The Word: John 1:1-5

 

John 1:1–5 is a profound passage that introduces the nature of Jesus Christ as the "Word" (Logos in Greek) and His relationship with God, creation, and humanity. 

 The Eternal Nature of Jesus (The Word)

 Verse 1: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."

 This emphasizes that Jesus (the Word) existed before time began, coexisting with God. He is not a created being but eternal, just as God is eternal. 

 The Word is identified with God, revealing Jesus' divine nature.

 Jesus' Role in Creation

 Verse 3: "Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made."

 Jesus, as the Word, is the agent through whom all creation came into being. This highlights His omnipotence and role as Creator alongside God the Father.

 Everything in existence owes its origin to Him, underscoring His sovereignty over all things.

 Jesus as the Source of Life and Light

 Verse 4: "In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind."

 Jesus is the source of both physical and spiritual life. His life brings light—truth, righteousness, and understanding—to humanity.

 The "light" symbolizes salvation and the revelation of God's truth, which Jesus brings to the world.

 Jesus Overcoming Darkness

 Verse 5: "The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it."

 This verse reveals Jesus’ triumph over evil, sin, and death. Darkness represents sin and the fallen state of the world, but Jesus, the light, shines through and is never overcome by it.

 The imagery of light overcoming darkness speaks to the hope and victory that Jesus offers in the face of spiritual darkness and opposition.

These verses reveal that Jesus is eternal, divine, the Creator, the source of all life and light, and victorious over sin and evil. He is central to God's revelation to humanity and the key to spiritual life and salvation.

More: Themes in the Gospel of John, Lesson 3

Sabbath School Lesson 3 - The Backstory: The Prologue

 

Themes in the Gospel of John

Sabbath School Lesson 3

The Back Story: The Prologue

You may use this for presenting and studying the current Sabbath School Lesson.

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> Download the notes for Lesson 3 video here.

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> Download  Themes in the Gospel of John (4th  qtr) Sabbath School Lessons Here

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The Raising of Lazarus and Jesus' Claim of being The Resurrection and The Life: John 11:38-44

 

The raising of Lazarus in John 11:38–44 powerfully illustrates Jesus’ declaration that He is “the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25) because it demonstrates His authority over death and His ability to grant life. Here's how this miracle reveals Jesus in that role.

Lazarus had been dead for four days, which, in the cultural and biological understanding of the time, meant his body had already started to decompose. Despite this, Jesus commands Lazarus to rise from the dead. Only someone with power over life and death could perform such a miracle. Jesus shows that He can restore life even when death seems final.

The miracle of Lazarus points forward to Jesus’ own resurrection. Just as Jesus brought Lazarus back to life, He would rise from the dead after His own crucifixion. This miracle serves as a tangible demonstration of the resurrection power Jesus claims to have, validating His future promise of eternal life for believers.

By proclaiming, “I am the resurrection and the life,” Jesus is not just claiming that He can bring people back to life but that He is the very source of life itself. The raising of Lazarus shows that through Jesus, there is not only physical life but also the promise of eternal life.

Jesus tells Martha, Lazarus' sister, “Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live” (John 11:25). The miracle of Lazarus’ resurrection reinforces that those who believe in Jesus will not experience eternal death, as He can give them everlasting life.

The miracle not only shows Jesus' power over death but also serves as a sign of the eternal life He offers to all who believe in Him.

Why Doug Batchelor is a Hypocrate

 

It should come as now surprise that none other than Doug Batchelor is hypocrite. Most of these big-name ministry people are. They love quoting The Bible to make their Pharisaical points, pointing out how others should behave, dress, live, and eat.

One of his favorite topics is the wearing of jewelry. He talks piously as he points out scriptures like:

1 Timothy 2:9 (NIV) "I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes,"

Pastor Batchelor then goes on a diatribe of drivel as to how the wearing of gold is sinful and adornment comes from within,  extolling the virtues of plain clothes, no makeup, no jewelry.

Like all these wannabe-Pharisees, who think it's their business to make up rules for others to follow, they themselves ignore Biblical teaching in their own lives. Let's quote Jesus on this one:

Matthew 23:1-3 (NIV)

"Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: “The teachers of the law and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat. So you must be careful to do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach."

Take a look above at a recent photo of Doug Batchelor's wife, taken recently at his Prophecy Odyssey series in New York.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Y68Z_P3vxQ

Hmmm. It looks like good ol' Pastor Doug missed some things that Paul wrote

1 Corinthians 11:6 (NIV)

"For if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off; but if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, then she should cover her head."

1 Corinthians 11:14-15 (NIV)

"Does not the very nature of things teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering."

1 Timothy 2:9 (NIV)

"I also want the women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, adorning themselves, not with elaborate hairstyles or gold or pearls or expensive clothes,"

No wonder our churches are failing to bring new members, and younger ones are moving on. We keep preaching rules that even we don't follow.

Before anyone talks about others, they should look within. In fact, what good does any of this do at an evangelism series? Alienate people? Our job is to bring people to Jesus on the grace of Jesus and His death. Not on our perfection following one man's rules and regulations.

We can do better than this.

*Image copied under Fair Use: U.S. Copyright Office Fair Use Index

John 9:17-34 - The Pharisees question the blind man who was healed.

 

In John 9:17-34, the Pharisees, the Jewish religious leaders, interrogate the man who had been born blind after Jesus healed him. Here’s a summary of the key questions they asked and how the formerly blind man responded.

 "What do you say about him (Jesus), since he opened your eyes?" (v. 17)  The man replied, "He is a prophet."  

   This was a bold statement, acknowledging Jesus as someone sent by God, which contrasted with the leaders' skepticism.

 "Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?" (v. 19) The parents confirmed, "We know that this is our son and that he was born blind. But how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes."  

   Fearing the Jewish leaders, the parents avoided answering directly about Jesus, pointing the leaders back to their son.

"What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?" (v. 26) The man grew frustrated with their persistent questioning and replied, "I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you also want to become his disciples?"  

   This response is somewhat sarcastic and defensive, hinting that the man had grown tired of the leaders' refusal to believe in Jesus' miracle.

 The leaders accused Jesus of being a sinner, to which the man responded.

The man countered, "Whether he is a sinner I do not know. One thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see."  

He simply testified to the miracle, regardless of the leaders’ theological claims.

The leaders became angry and said, "You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?" (v. 34), and then they cast him out of the synagogue.  

This passage illustrates the tension between the religious leaders, who were skeptical and unwilling to accept Jesus, and the healed man, who was increasingly bold in affirming Jesus' role in his healing.

The Misunderstanding of the Disciples in the Healing of the Blind Man: John 9:1-16

 

In John 9:1–16, the story of Jesus healing a man born blind offers both a miraculous healing and an opportunity for Jesus to correct misunderstandings about suffering and sin.

 The Disciples' Belief

When Jesus and His disciples encounter a man who was born blind, the disciples ask:

“Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (John 9:2)

Their question reflects a common belief in that time: that physical ailments or suffering were direct punishments for specific sins. They assumed that the man's blindness was caused by either his own sin (even though he was born blind) or the sin of his parents.

 Jesus' Response

Jesus rejects this notion. He responds:

“Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.” (John 9:3)

Jesus corrects their belief by explaining that the man's blindness is not a result of sin but rather an opportunity for God’s glory to be revealed. He shifts the focus from blame and punishment to the idea that even suffering can serve a greater purpose in God’s plan.

 The Miracle

Jesus then heals the man by spitting on the ground, making mud with His saliva, and applying it to the man’s eyes. He instructs the man to wash in the Pool of Siloam, and after doing so, the man regains his sight (John 9:67).

 Significance

 Jesus corrects the disciples' misunderstanding of suffering and sin, emphasizing that not all suffering is a direct result of individual sin. 

 He highlights that God's power and glory can be displayed through healing and restoration.

 This act of healing also leads to a controversy with the Pharisees (John 9:13–16), who question whether the miracle was lawful because it was performed on the Sabbath.

Thus, Jesus teaches that suffering can sometimes be an occasion for God's work, rather than a punishment for sin.

More: Lessons from Themes in the Gospel of John Lesson 2

Are we Called to be Fruit Inspectors?

 

Someone sometime ago came up with some line that we are not to judge others, but we can be fruit inspectors. Whoever said it first, was 100% wrong.

What gives us the right to judge the "fruit" of others? First of all, we have no diea what they may or not may not be doing for the Lord. Since we do not spend every waking hour with them, how are we able to judge what they do?

We are not called to tell people what their ministry is. We are not called to tell people that we can do their ministry better. All of us, in our own ways, can have a ministry. We all are important.

Everyone should read the entire chapter of 1 Corinthians 12.

1 Corinthians 12:21-22 NIV

The eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, “I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable,

Our weakest members are part of the body. Their ministry is just as important as others.

The Pharisees would be quick to criticize the widow for giving 2 small coins. But Jesus praised her above all of them. She gave her all.

Would you have been a fruit inspector on that poor widow?

Are we in some contest, that we must boast about our fruit, and check to see if others are keeping up?

Who gives us the right to boast that our fruit is better? Or more important? And that someone else's is not enough... Think about that.

The Pharisees were the epitome of fruit inspectors. Look at what they accused Jesus of. Blasphemy, drinking, eating, breaking the Sabbath, havig a demon. They constantly criticized His miracles and compassion.

Is that what you are doing to others? 

Listen to what Jesus said to those expert fruit inspectors:

Matthew 23:27-28 New King James Version (NKJV)

“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness."

We can be fruit inspectors. That is, fruit inspectors of ourselves. Inspect your own fruit and stop looking in other church member's baskets.

How did the people respond to His miracle of the feeding of the 5,000, and how did Jesus use this to try to teach them who He was? John 6:14-15,26-36

 

In John 6:14-15, 26-36, the people witness Jesus perform the miracle of feeding the five thousand, and their response is telling. Let’s break it down.

 1. The People's Response to the Miracle (John 6:14-15)

After Jesus miraculously fed the multitude with just five loaves of bread and two fish, the crowd immediately recognized the significance of what He had done. They said:

 Verse 14: "This is truly the Prophet who is to come into the world."

 They saw Jesus as the promised prophet foretold in Deuteronomy 18:15, likely with the expectation of a political or military leader who would free them from Roman rule.

 Verse 15: "Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself."

 Their enthusiasm was focused on earthly concerns—they wanted to make Jesus a king, expecting Him to lead them in rebellion against the Romans, rather than understanding the spiritual significance of His mission.

 2. Jesus’ Teaching (John 6:26-36)

After the miracle, the crowd follows Jesus to Capernaum. Jesus uses the opportunity to redirect their focus from physical to spiritual matters.

 Verses 26-27: Jesus rebukes the crowd for seeking Him because of the food rather than for the spiritual truth. He says, "You seek me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not labor for the food that perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life."

 Jesus challenges their materialistic view, urging them to seek something far more important—eternal life, which He can give.

 Verses 28-29: The people ask, “What must we do to do the works God requires?” Jesus replies, “The work of God is this: to believe in the one He has sent.”

 He emphasizes faith in Him as the key to salvation, not just performing works.

 Verses 30-31: The people demand another sign, referring to the manna their ancestors ate in the wilderness.

 They still misunderstand, focusing on material provision and comparing Jesus to Moses, who provided manna.

 Verses 32-35: Jesus clarifies that the true “bread from heaven” is not the manna but Himself. He says, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty."

 Jesus reveals that He is the source of spiritual sustenance and eternal life, not just a provider of physical needs.

 3. Key Lesson

 The miracle of feeding the five thousand was meant to point to Jesus as the Messiah and the Son of God, the one who gives eternal life. However, the people were fixated on the immediate, physical benefits (food, earthly kingship).

 Jesus used this moment to teach them that He is the "bread of life," offering something far greater than physical sustenance—eternal life through faith in Him.

Jesus was trying to shift their focus from the temporary (earthly bread, physical needs) to the eternal (spiritual nourishment and salvation through Him).