John – Page 10 – Be Still…

John 1:1-18 – The Eternal Word

Here’s an exercise to try. Reread this text, verses 1-5 and 14, but replace the word “Word” with “Jesus.” You now have an entirely different, richer picture of who Jesus really is. Jesus was very much part of creation, and all that exists can be eternally grateful. As the “Word,” Jesus represents all truth, including the Word of God.

What goes through your mind when you realize that Jesus is not only our Savior but our Creator? God wasn’t about to create something so precious only to see it destroyed by sin. God knew we would stumble and be lost without Him. How the heart of God must break when so many people disregard Jesus’ involvement in their lives! When is the last time you thanked God for creating you or something you encounter each day? Even as believers, we get a bit lax when it comes to our gratitude because we start to take God for granted. Continue reading “John 1:1-18 – The Eternal Word”

John 13:1-17 – The Servant

Read John 13:1-17

You’re invited into a very tender moment between Jesus and his closest followers in this reading. We find ourselves with Jesus and his disciples on the last night they’ll spend together before his death on the cross. All four gospels mention Jesus’ last supper, but John’s gospel is the only one that reveals Jesus’ character as a servant washing his disciples’ feet.

What does this tell us about who Jesus is? Jesus wants us to see another side of his leadership style, that a of a servant. Jesus wants us to model after him, so it’s good to see him in action. As Christians, we seek every day to be more like Jesus. Getting to know Jesus helps us figure out how to act. Even though Jesus is God’s son, he is approachable and loving with the heart of a servant.

Continue reading “John 13:1-17 – The Servant”

John 17:17 – What is Truth?

“Make them holy by your truth; teach them your word, which is truth.” (John 17:17)

In today’s world, the word “truth” is misused in some frightful ways. People like to claim their “own” truth in situations, that is, their own views and opinions of the world. In those circles, everyone’s “truth” could be different. I wish they could use a different word, because for me, “truth” means what Jesus defines in our verse, part of his prayer. Truth is God’s word.

Context (John 17): This whole chapter is a prayer of Jesus. It’s a very tender moment as Jesus prays after teaching his disciples some very important truths and before he is arrested and put to death. Jesus is showing his own obedience to the Father as his moment has come—the moment for which he was sent. Jesus acknowledges God’s plan and his love for his followers, including those of us who believe. Jesus appeals to God on our behalf for protection and to teach us the truth. Continue reading “John 17:17 – What is Truth?”

John 14:21 – Intimate Relationship

“Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them.” (John 14:21)

Doesn’t God love the whole world? Yes, he does! But Jesus promises us a deeper, more intimate love from the Father when we show Jesus we love him. We’re like one big happy family full of love. Sounds nice, doesn’t it?

Context (John 14:15-26): These are Jesus’ words telling his disciples and us about the promised helper, the Holy Spirit he’s going to send them. Jesus openly acknowledges that his followers are set apart and will receive special treatment from God for their obedience. The relationship between Jesus and his followers is intimate and personal. This promise from Jesus is for all who love him. Continue reading “John 14:21 – Intimate Relationship”

John 15:7 – What Do You Want?

“But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted!” (John 15:7)

Let’s unpack this memory verse. It’s important to know from the start that this is not Jesus telling his followers that he is a magic genie in a bottle who will grant all wishes. That is not who Jesus is or ever will be. Jesus is talking about the importance of our relationship with him here.

Context (John 15:1-17): Jesus describes himself in this passage as the “true grapevine.” That image would have spoken more directly to his audience, but we are all familiar to a degree with the importance of pruning to keep our plants healthy and growing. We also know that branches cut off from the tree soon wither and die. Jesus doesn’t want us to be separated from him, but to abide in him, be in relationship with him, and trust him with our lives. Continue reading “John 15:7 – What Do You Want?”