The Seven “I Am’s”: The Vine

Posted on February 5, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

“I am the vine, my Father is the Vinedresser… I am the vine, you are the branches” (Jn. 15:1-5).

The words were said on the night Jesus would be arrested.  Judas already had left, having found opportunity for Jesus’ arrest absent of crowds (John 13:21-30 cf. Luke 22:3-6).  “It was night” (John 13:30b) in more than one way.

Jesus’ words were designed to fortify the disciples.  He instructed: (1) Abide in Me (John 15:4-7).  The means by which a disciple continues to abide in him is by obedience (John 15:9-10; 1 John 3:24a).  The words “abide in my love” (John 15:9-10) refers to fellowship love relations (John 14:21-23).  It is up to us to keep ourselves in this love (Jude 21).  (2) Let Me abide in you (John 15:4).  This means that the word of Christ should find a home in our hearts (John 15:7 cf. Colossians 3:16; Psalm 119:11).  We’re to have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5).  He is to dwell in us by faith (Ephesians 3:17a).  It is to be, “no longer I who lives, but Christ lives in me” (Galatians 2:20).  (3) Bear fruit unto the glory of the Father (John 15:1-2, 8).  We’re to be “fruitful in every good work” (Colossians 1:10).  (4) You cannot bear fruit unto the glory of the Father, unless you abide in Me (John 15:4-6).  (5) If you don’t bear fruit, you’ll be pruned away, and burned in the fire (John 15:2, 6).

The imagery is of a vine.  Jesus is “the true vine”.  What is the significance of the term “true”?  Possibility #1: This does not mean true as opposed to false.  It means true in the sense of superior, or substantial [cf. He is the true light (John 1:8-9); He is the true bread (John 6:31-35); heaven is the true holy place (Hebrews 9:24)].  It’s possible they were looking at a vine plant when this was said.  Possibility #2: Israel , at times, is spoke of as a vine (Psalm 80:8-14; Isaiah 5:1-7; Jeremiah 2:21; Hosea 10:1, etc.).  Some came to believe that physical birth into Israel was sufficient to salvation.  Jesus may be saying, “I am the true vine in which one must be.”

The branches are individual disciples, and not denominations as claimed by some.  Denominations aren’t even under consideration.  The context is obvious: (1) verse five reads, “ye are the branches.”  Jesus is addressing his disciples, individual men, not denominations.  (2) Verse six reads, “If a man abides not in Me…” Notice, men not denominations are in view.

Who can bear fruit unto God?  Jesus said, “He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; For without Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).  Just as a branch can do nothing without being sustained by the vine, even so, the ones bearing fruit unto God must abide in Jesus.

Does this mean that the non-Christian can’t do any good thing?  “Sinners can read the New Testament and learn of and practice any and all of the ethical traits taught therein… However, sinners, not being in Christ, will never be able to acceptably glorify God by their good behavior (John 15:8; Ephesians 3:21), nor will reproduction of those Biblical ethical traits bring them into Christ where salvation is found exclusively… We must thus understand the Lord’s statement to be elliptical: Apart from me ye can do nothing [that will glorify my Father unto your salvation, that will enable you to be saved]” (Dub McClish, The Eighteenth Annual Denton Lectures, p. 392).

Let’s summarize the series: He is, (1) The Bread of Life.  He is our spiritual sustenance.  (2) The Light of the World.  He is our guide, illuminating the way to the Promised Land.  (3) The Door.  He is our access to good things.  (4) The Good Shepherd.  He cares about us.  (5)  The Resurrection and Life.  He is our hope, and comfort in death.  (6) The Way, The Truth, and The Life.  He is the road, standard, and life that leads to the Father, and eternal life.  (7) The Vine.  He is the sustainer of spiritual life, and the means by which we have the ability to bear acceptable fruit unto God.

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The Seven “I Am’s”: The Way, The Truth, and The Life

Posted on February 4, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

 John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me.”  These words were spoken by Jesus.  They were uttered the night of his arrest, the night before his death.

The words of John 13:31-16:33 form a contextual unit.  Jesus’ words, in this section, were designed to comfort, strengthen, and prepare the disciples for the tragic events which were to soon come.  Amazing: He was the one who was about to die a horrible death; yet, he was preparing others during his final night on earth!

Here is a sampling of what he said: (1) I am going away (John 13:33; John 13:36; 14:2-4; 14:28).  You will not follow me, right now (John 13:36).  When I go, you will neither see me (John 16:10, 16), nor speak with me (John 16:23).  (2) It is for your benefit that I go away (John 14:2; 16:7-15).  (3) I will not leave you helpless (John 14:16-18; 14:26; 15:26-27; 16:7-15; 16:26-27).  (4) One day, we may again be together (John 13:36; 14:3; 14:28).  (5) Remember to love (John 13:34-35; 14:21, 23-24; 15:9-10, 12-13, 17).  (6) Remember to obey (John 14:15; 14:23-24; 15:10; 15:14).  (7) You have a job to do (John 15:27; 16:7-15 cf. 17:20 cf. Acts 1:8).  (8) There will be persecution (John 15:18-21; 16:1-4).  (9) Don’t stumble (John 16:1).  (10) “Let not your heart be troubled” (John 14:1; 14: 27 cf. 16:33).  Literally, stop letting your heart be troubled.  (11) “Believe in God, believe also in Me” (John 14:1 ASV).  The wording is the same in both clauses.  Either both are indicative and should be rendered, “You believe in God, You believe also in Me”, or, both should be considered imperative and should be rendered, “Believe in God, believe also in Me.”  However, it should not read, “You believe in God, believe also in Me” (viz. KJV, NKJV).  The thought seems to be, “Instead of having a troubled heart, remember to trust in God, remember to trust in Me.”

The disciples had a difficult time understanding.  Peter asked, “Lord, where are you going?”  (John 13:36).  Thomas asked, “Lord, we do not know where you are going, and how can we know the way?” (John 14:5).

Jesus replied: (1) I am going to My Father (John 14:2-3; 14:28).  (2) “In My Father’s house are many mansions (lit. dwelling places) if it were not so, I would have told you” (John 14:2).  Meaning: There is plenty of room for you there.  J.W. McGarvey remarked on the words, “if it were not so, I would have told you” saying, “That is to say, if heaven had been such limited capacity that there was little or no hope that you could follow me, I should have dealt plainly with you, and should have disabused your mind of all vain hopes” (The Fourfold Gospel, p. 660).  (3) As to how to get there: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6).  (a) The Way, This is language of a road or a path to be traveled.  Watch the fact that he didn’t say “a way” but “the way”. He is not just one of many paths for man to follow to heaven. One can’t come to the Father except by Him.  Few people travel this path (Matt. 7:13-14; Prov. 14:12; 2 Peter 2:15, 21).  True Christians are of the way (Acts 9:2; 16:17; 18:25; 18:26; 19:9; 19:23; 22:4; 24:14; 24:22). (b) The Truth, It is through Jesus that spiritual truth necessary for salvation comes (John 14:26; 15:26; 16:7-15).  The truth of Jesus’ words sets man free (John 8:31-32).  God’s truth sanctifies (John 17:17).  While one may find some truth in various philosophies and religions of the world, the truth, the complete truth, which leads to salvation, is from Jesus.  (c) The Life, Salvation and Eternal Life are found in no other (Acts 4:12; 2 Timothy 2:10; 1 John 5:11); as he said, “No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).

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The Seven “I Am’s”: The Resurrection and the Life

Posted on February 1, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

 Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).

One of the most fundamental desires of man is to continue to live.  Some have sought to do so through diet.  They have taken vitamins, minerals, herbs, and elixirs of every imaginable concoction seeking to extend life.  Some have turned to exercise.  They have run, biked, swum, and perspired profusely in effort to prolong life.  Some have turned to cryogenics.  Ted Williams, the Boston Red Sox slugger, died in 2002 at the age of 83.  His head is frozen in hopes that one-day science will be able to heal him and bring him back to life.

However, it is not just extended life for which man is longing.  Man desires not just quantity of life, but quality of life.  Jesus addressed this fundamental longing of man in John 11:25-26.

The context concerns the death of one of Jesus’ friends, Lazarus (John 11:1-ff).  Jesus had been in their home (Luke 10:38-ff).  Jesus loved this family [(John 11:3, 5, 36) Note:  v. 3 and v. 36 indicate phileo love].  He resided in their home, it seems, just prior to the cross (Mark 11:11; 12-14, 19-20).

News was sent that Lazarus was sick (John 11:1).  Jesus, upon hearing the news, delayed travel for two days (John 11:6).  Why did he delay?  (1) Some have suggested that the delay was to give time for Lazarus to die.  Such doesn’t fit: (a) The messengers would travel on one day; (b) Jesus would delay two days; (c) Jesus then on the next day would travel (1 + 2 + 1 = 4); (d) Lazarus was dead and buried four days when Jesus arrived (John 11:17, 39); (e) Thus, it seems likely that Lazarus died shortly after the messengers were sent to Jesus.  (2) The length of time strengthened the witness of this sign.  “Rabbinical writings indicate a common superstition among the Jews, that the soul of a deceased hovered around the body for three days in hopes of a reunion with the body, but took its final departure when decomposition began the third or fourth day.”  (Gary Fallis, Brown Trail class notes on John).  Jesus had raised others (Luke 7:14-16; Luke 8:52-56); However, in this he demonstrated his power even after decomposition had begun (John 11:39). It brought glory to God, and His son (Jn 11:4).

“Jesus wept” (John 11:35).  [Note: It has been said that because “Jesus wept,” we can “rejoice evermore” (1 Thes. 5:16).  Such is a play on the two shortest verses in the New Testament.  John 11:35 is 9 English letters, or 16 Greek letters.  1 Thessalonians 5:16 is 15 English letters, or 14 Greek letters.  Each consists of just two words.].  Jesus ordered, “Lazarus, come forth!” (John 11:43) and he did.

It is in this context, Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25).  This is a metonymy.  The effect is put for the cause of that effect (that is Jesus).  E.W. Bullinger explains the meaning to be that Jesus is “the worker of resurrection and the giver of resurrected life” (Figures of Speech used in the Bible, p. 562).

Jesus added, “He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live” (John 11:25b).  Meaning: though one may die (physically), yet through belief he may live in glory (cf. John 5:28-29; Rom. 2:7-11; Col. 3:4).

Furthermore, He said, “And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die” (John 11:26a).  Meaning: Possibility #1: This refers to those who are alive at Jesus’ return (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52).  Possibility #2: Whoever lives (spiritually) shall never see death (ref. to the second death – Revelation 2:11; 20:6; 20:14; 21:8).  This seems to be the best explanation, harmonizing with John 8:51.

Note: The term “believe” (John 11:25, 26) is not a one time action but represents a continuous state of affairs (present active part).  This is not a one-time thing.  It is a way of life.

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The Seven “I Am’s”: The Good Shepherd

Posted on January 30, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

The idea of shepherding sheep was familiar to first century Israel.  It was a time-consuming, sometimes labor-intensive, sometimes hazardous, serving work.  Sheep had to be led (and sometimes carried when injured or too young to keep up), watched (for straying, disease, predators), defended (lion, bear, wolf, jackal, even an eagle could be a threat to the young) watered and fed (sometimes shepherds dug wells, dammed up streams, provided buckets of water and grain), doctored and nursed (disease, wounds, cuts and scrapes).  Shepherding, if done right, was demanding work.

However, as with any occupation (doctor, lawyer, nurse, politician, preacher, teacher, coach, accountant, plumber, carpenter, janitor, grocer, babysitter, etc.)  there are those who care, and those who don’t.  There are those who do their best, and those who simply fill a position.

Jesus wants us to know how much he cares for us.  He says, “I am the good shepherd.  The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep… I lay down my life for the sheep” (John 10:11, 15).  The idea is of a shepherd who hazards his life caring for the sheep.  Matthew Henry commented, “It is the property of every good shepherd to hazard and expose his life for the sheep” (Vol. 5, p. 832).  Jacob did (Genesis 31:40).  David did (1 Samuel 17:34-35).  Jesus is of like spirit.  He cares for us, laying down his life for us.

In counter-distinction, not all religious leaders were (are) of the same character.  Jesus speaks of hirelings.  He says, “A hireling … sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them.  The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep” (John 10:12-13).  Dub McClish has wisely remarked, “Not all hired men are hirelings.  Some have genuine concern for others and for doing their work well.  However, the hireling’s motive is wholly selfish and mercenary, having no genuine care for the sheep” (The Eighteenth Annual Denton Lectures, p. 377).  This is true.  Jacob was hired (Genesis 29:15; 31:7, 41).  Yet, he cared for the sheep.  The sheep did not belong to David, but his father (1 Samuel 17:34-ff).  Yet, David cared.  It is true that the church doesn’t belong to the elders (1 Peter 5:1-4), and it is true that some elders are paid (1 Timothy 5:17-18).  However, such does not make them hirelings. Some genuinely care. Rick Brumback has remarked, “Preachers who fill ‘position’ simply for pay or prestige, or who will not represent the entirety of Heaven’s truth for fear of recrimination (vv. 26-27), are also ‘hirelings’ .  Such are likely to flee at the first sign of danger or controversy, unwilling to stand and face the threat in protection of the flock.  The hirelings do not have the welfare of the sheep as their ultimate concern.  How different is Jesus as the good shepherd…” (ibid, p. 204).

Furthermore, Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd, and I know my sheep, and am known by My own” (John 10:14).  He knows us.  He is aware of even the number of hairs on our head (Matthew 10:30; Luke 12:7).  This is another indication of his love and care for us.

Jesus mentions “other sheep” (John 10:16).  While he was on earth, he and his disciples labored with “the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:6; 15:24).  These are distinguished from the Samaritans and the gentiles (Matthew 10:5-6).  However, Jesus’ care is for all of humanity (Matt. 28:18-ff; Mark 16:15-ff).  He calls all into one flock (John 10:16; cf. Ephesians 2:16-17; Galatians 3:28; Colossians 3:11).  Are you following the voice of The Good Shepherd?

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The Seven “I Am’s”: The Door

Posted on January 28, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

 “I am the door” (John 10:7, 9).  This is figurative language.  It attracts attention, and beckons one to look closer in order to understand the point of comparison.

The language is of a sheepfold (John 10:1-10 cf. Numbers 32:16; Judges 5:16; 2 Chronicles 32:28; Psalm 78:70; Zephaniah 2:6).  A sheepfold (sometimes called a sheepcote) is an enclosure in which sheep were kept for protection.  At night, shepherds would take their sheep to a sheepfold.  The folds were typically a stonewalled, unroofed enclosure, which was often hedged around in thorny hedge to deter predators.  Many were large enough to hold several herds at once (Confusion did not exist because each herd knew the voice of its shepherd, and each shepherd knew his sheep).  A porter [(KJV), gatekeeper (ESV), doorkeeper (NKJV, NASB)] was stationed to guard the one door leading in and out of the sheepfold.  It was his responsibility to restrict who came and went to only authorized shepherds. Shepherds commonly were provided a ‘bunk house’ in which to rest, while the porter kept watch.

Sometimes thieves and robbers stole sheep.  They did not typically do so by the door (John 10:1).  Instead, “the current criminal practice was to climb over the wall, slaughter as many sheep as possible before detection, and throw them to accomplices outside…” (Ralph Gower, The New Manners and Customs of Bible Times, p. 133-140.  Quoted in the Eighteenth Annual Denton Lectureship Book, p. 202).

Jesus used the picture of the ancient sheepfold to make three points: (1) He is the door that leads to good things.  He said, “I am the door.  If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture…  I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly” (John 10:9-10).  Sheep in times of old passed through the door of the sheepfold.  They entered for physical safety, and generally found it (though, there were bad men who would occasionally enter unlawfully and kill the sheep).  They exited to find pasture, that is, physical sustenance.  The point is, Jesus is the one we go through to receive spiritual safety and sustenance.  He provides abundant life.  He provides everlasting life (John 3:16; John 10:28; 12:25; 1 John 2:25; 1 John 5:11-13).

(2) He reminds them that not all religious leaders lead to good things.  He said, “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy” (John 10:10).  Sheep thieves did not come with the best interest of the sheep’s well-being.  They were plunderers, interested in self.  Even so, many religious leaders are not interested in the people’s spiritual well-being; they are motivated by other things, purely selfish things (Rom. 16:18; 1 Tim. 6:5; Tit. 1:11; 2 Pet. 2:3).  He indicated that such had been the nature of many even prior to His coming (John 10:8).  There had been false messiahs.  However, now that He has come, all religious leaders should lead the people through Him. He is the door through which the sheep are to pass.

(3) Faithful sheep are discerning.  They don’t follow any and every voice (John 10:3-5; 8b).  We need to investigate matters (Acts 17:11; 1 Thes. 5:21).  We need to prove preachers (1 John 4:1).  We need to know the difference between the doctrine of Christ and the commandments of men (Matt. 15:9). How well do you know the voice of the Shepherd?

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The Seven “I Am’s”: The Light of the World

Posted on January 25, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

It is helpful, to fully appreciate this metaphor, to understand the timing of Jesus’ words.　 The Feast of the Tabernacles had just occurred (John 7:2, 14, 37 cf. 8:2).　 Zondervan’s Pictorial Dictionary describes this feast saying, “It… historically commemorated the wanderings in the wilderness.　 During this feast people lived in booths and tents in Jerusalem to remind themselves of how their forefathers wandered in the wilderness, and lived in booths” (p. 280). The description is accurate (see Leviticus 23:33-44; Nehemiah 8:13-18). This feast had to do with remembering the journey to the Promised Land. Remember, they were guided to the Promised Land by a “pillar of cloud” in the day, and a “pillar of fire” in the night (Exodus 13:21-22; Numbers 14:14; Nehemiah 9:12, 14; Psalm 78:14; Psalm 105:39).　 The commentator Hendriksen indicates that during this feast, “There was the illumination of the inner court of the temple, where the light of the grand candelabra reminded one of the pillar of fire by night, which served as a guide through the desert (Numbers 14:14)”　 (William Hendriksen, New Testament Commentary: Exposition of the Gospel According to John.　 This is quoted by Dub McClish in the Eighteenth Annual Denton Lectureship book, p. 372).

There was another Jewish custom of which you should be made aware.　 The Jews added a custom following the last day of the Feast of the Tabernacles.　 They lit lamps and placed them where the sacred books were ordinarily kept in allusion to passages like: (1) Proverbs 6:23, “The commandment is a lamp, and the law a light; reproofs of instruction are the way of life”, and (2) Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (This custom is explained by Adam Clark Vol., 5, p. 577).　 They evidently understood that God’s Word was to　guide the feet through life and into that ultimate Promised Land.

Back to Jesus’ words: “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12).　 His words are bold. He is declaring that he is our guide to the Promised Land.　 He is the Word of God (John 1:1, 14; Revelation 19:13) lighting the way to the Promised Land.

Let us soberly ask the question: “Are we humbly following his lead?”　 He promised, “He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” (John 8:12).

Another point to consider is this: “Are we a light that others can follow to the Promised Land?”　 Paul said, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 KJV).　 Can we say such to others in good confidence, and with a clear conscience?　 Jesus wanted us to be a light for others in this world of spiritual darkness.　　He said, “You are the light of the world… Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14, 16).　 Paul urged brethren, “Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights, holding fast (forth KJV) the word of life…” (Philippians 2:14-16).　 The world needs to see: (1) The light of Christ (John 8:12); (2) The light of the Gospel (2 Timothy 1:10; 2 Corinthians 4:4); (3) The light from our lives in both word and deed (Philippians 2:14-16; Matthew 5:14-16).　 Ponder the words of Tillit S. Teddlie’s song, “Into our hands the Gospel is given, Into our hands is given the light; Haste let us carry God’s precious message, Guiding the erring back to the right.”

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The Seven “I Am’s”: The Bread of Life

Posted on January 23, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

Man cannot physically live very long without food and water.  Four to six weeks without food is about the physical limits for most.  Three to five days without water under even ideal circumstances is about the maximum for most.  There are extraordinary stories of lengthier situations:  (1) Lawrence McKeown of Ireland lasted seventy plus days on a hunger strike in 1981 (www.mostoftenasked.com).  (2) Andreas Michavecz survived in an Austrian holding cell eighteen days without either food or water in 1979.  They supposedly had forgotten that he was there (Guinness Book of World Records, 1998).  (3) Mitsutaka Uchikoshi of Japan reportedly survived twenty-four days on a mountainside without food or water before being rescued in 2006 (BBC News).  The Bible tells us that (4) Moses (Exodus 24:18; 34:28; Deuteronomy 9:18), (5) Elijah (1 Kings 19:8), and (6) Jesus (Matthew 4:1; Luke 4:1-2) all fasted for forty days.  Yet, even these six examples remind us that man needs food and water.  He cannot go very long without these things.

Aron Ralston understood this.  In 2003, while hiking alone in Utah’s Blue John Canyon, a giant boulder fell pinning his right arm to the canyon wall.  He eventually, after six days of being stuck, willfully snapped the two bones of his forearm and cut off his own arm with a pocketknife in order to free himself.

Jesus said, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst” (John 6:35).  Similar words are said to the woman at the well (John 4:10-14).  In contrast with food and drink which temporarily sustains the physical body, Jesus is offering “everlasting life” (John 4:14).

Furthermore, He said, “I am the bread of life.  Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and are dead.  This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that one may eat of it and not die” (John 6:48-50).  The children of Israel, in the wilderness received manna from God to eat.  It nourished their bodies.  It temporarily sustained their physical lives.  However, they did eventually die.  Jesus and His words have power to spiritually nourish us (John 6:27, 63), and provide us with eternal life (John 6:67-68).

What are we to do?  (1) We are to come and believe (John 6:35).  Note: This certainly is not speaking of mere mental belief (cf. Luke 6:47-ff; cf. Acts 11:18).  (2) We are to eat of this bread (John 6:50-51).  How do we do this?  Compare John 6:50-51 with John 8:51 which reads: “Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death.”  We eat the bread by consuming and living the teachings of Jesus.  Indeed, Peter got it correct when he said to Jesus, “You have the words of eternal life” (John 6:68).  Jesus taught, “The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63).  We must take His words and consume them.

Too many have their priorities wrong.  Jesus said, “Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life” (John 6:27).  This is a relative negation.  He certainly isn’t telling us in an absolute sense not to labor for physical food (cf. Ephesians 4:28; 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15).  What he is doing is emphasizing the need to work even more diligently in the spiritual realm. It is even more important.  Let’s remember that He is the bread of life.

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The Seven Signs: Raising the Dead (John 11)

Posted on January 21, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

“The miracles of our Lord are so full of incidental lessons that a study of those incidental lessons is much like going to a river and trying to drink it dry.” (W. Gaddys Roy, Sermon outlines on the miracles of Jesus, p.viii). How true this is!

The Setting

Lazarus is sick (John 11:1). Lazarus’ sisters, Mary and Martha, send word to Jesus, who is about a day’s journey from them. The message is simply “Lord, behold, he whom you love (Phileis, friendship love) is sick” [(John 11:3). Notice: They do not even mention Lazarus’s name, Jesus and Lazarus’ relationship was that close].  Where else could they turn?

Jesus does not immediately leave, but delays two days before leaving (John 11:6). Jesus knows that Lazarus is now dead (John 11:14). In fact, he must have died the day the messengers were dispatched to Jesus [cf. John 11:17 (4 days – 2 days of delay – 1 day travel to Jesus – 1 day Jesus travel to them)].

Jesus, after two days, says “Let us go to Judea again…Lazarus is dead” (John 11:7, 14). This troubles the disciples (John 11:8 cf. 10:22, 31-33, 39-40). This could well mean their lives. Thomas courageously responds, “Let us also go, that we may die with him” (John 11:16). Paraphrase: “We’ll go with him. If we die there, we’ll die there. But, let us follow him.”

As they near the house, a large number of Jews are gathered around Mary and Martha. Martha receives word that He is nearing, and goes out secretly to meet with him. She says, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21). Ouch! Martha leaves, and secretly summons her sister to Him [It is possible that not all the visitors were friendly toward Jesus (cf. John 11:45-46)]. Mary also says, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:32). Many tears were shed (John 11:33). Jesus also would weep (John 11:35).

The Sign

Jesus is led to the grave, a cave sealed with a stone (John 11:34, 38). Some of the Jews say, “Could not this man, who opened the eyes of the blind, also have kept this man from dying?” (John 11:37).

Jesus instructs, “Take away the stone” (John 11:39). Martha objects, “Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days” (John 11:39). Jesus replies “Did I not say to you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” (John 11:40). The stone is removed. After Jesus prays to the Father, he commands “Lazarus, come forth!” (John 11:43). He did. Jesus then instructs that they loose him from his binding grave-clothes (John 11:43).

Why had Jesus waited to come to this family? Perhaps, it was so that the decay process would be well under-way. Jesus had raised others (Luke 7:14-16; Luke 8:52-56). However, Lazarus had been dead four days (John 11:17; 39). The length of time strengthened the witness of the sign. “Rabbinical writings indicate a common superstition among the Jews, that the soul of a deceased hovered around the body for three days in hopes of reunion with the body, but took its final departure when decomposition began the third or fourth day. (Gary Fallis, Brown Trail class notes on John).

The purpose of this sign is clear. Jesus, in prayer to the Father, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me…that they may believe that you sent me” (John 11:42-43).

Lessons

  1. Jesus raised the dead. Jesus later proclaimed “I have the keys of Hades and of Death.” (Revelation 1:18).
  2. Jesus said “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me, though he may die, he shall live.” (John 11:25). Meaning: Though one may die (physically), yet through belief he may live in glory (cf. John 5:28-29; Roman 2:7-11; Colossians 3:4).
  3. Jesus also added. “And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.” (John 11:26). Meaning: Possibility one- This refers to those who are alive at Jesus’ return (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52). Possibility two- Whoever lives (spiritually) shall never see death (ref. to Second Death- Revelation 2:11; 20:6, 20:14; 21:18). This seems the best explanation, harmonizing with John 8:51.
  4.  Jesus wept (John 11:35). He cares. It has been said: because “Jesus wept,” we can “rejoice evermore.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16). Such is a play on the two shortest verses in the New Testament. (John 11:35 is 9 English letters, or 16 Greek letters. 1 Thessalonians 5:16 is 15 English letters, or 14 Greek letters. Each consists of just two words).
  5.  Jesus didn’t save Martha, Mary, or Lazarus from experiencing sorrow and pain in this life. However, he did furnish these faithful friends with joy after heartache. Even so, the faithful today may experience heartache in life. However, joy awaits the faithful.
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The Seven Signs: Sight to the Blind (John 9)

Posted on January 18, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

Miraculous signs confirmed the New Testament message.   Jesus worked miracles.  Jimmy Jividen lists 35 specific miracles performed by Jesus, not counting the miracles connected with the cross, resurrection, and ascension (Jimmy Jividen, Miracles from God or Man, p. 17-18).  These could be categorized as: 17 bodily cures; 9 miracles over forces of nature; 6 cures of demon possession; 3 raised from the dead (ibid, p. 16).  The book of Acts records 12 specific miracles performed through individuals in the early church, not counting acts which came directly from heaven without human agency (ibid, p. 50).  These include 6 bodily cures; 2 raised from the dead, 2 miraculous curses; 1 cure of demon possession; 1 bestowal of the gift of tongues and prophecy.  Additionally, there are many general, non-specific references; 29 such references in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John; 10 such references in Acts.

The Setting

Jesus and his disciples behold a blind man, blind from birth (John 9:1).  The disciples see this as an issue to discuss.  They ask, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” (John 9:2).

They pose a false dichotomy.  They see only two possibilities.  The assumption is that all personal suffering is a result of sin closely connected with the one suffering, either personal sin or family sin.  “The underlying concern – well intended, but misguided – was not to charge God with perpetrating evil on innocent people” (ESV Study Bible).  Therefore, “Did this man sin?”  Some Jews believed that children could sin even while in the womb.  Others may have adopted a belief in reincarnation from the Greeks.  “If this is not the result of this man’s sin, did his parents cause this?”  The sin of parents can have consequences on their children (Exodus 20:4-5; cf. Numbers 14:33; Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, crack babies, etc.).  Some believe that the children were directly punished due to their parents sin.

The notion that all personal suffering is the effect of sin closely connected to the individual, is an enduring belief.  It was believed in Jesus’ day (John 9:1-2).  It was believed in Paul’s day (Acts 28:1-4).  It is believed by the Hindus.  Birth defects and abortions are considered deserved by some because of bad karma from a previous life.  It is believed in America.  Some think that those without wealth and health are not good people, and some how are necessarily responsible for this condition.

The Statement

Jesus answers, “Neither this man nor his parents sinned, but that the works of God should be revealed in him.” (John 9:3).

If they were expecting a lengthy discourse on the problem of evil, pain, and suffering, they did not receive it.  If they were expecting a full answer to why suffering exists in this world, Jesus did not provide it.  However, he does plainly state that not all suffering is due to personal sin, and parental sin.  Saying that, neither this man’s nor his parents’ sin is the cause of this condition of blindness.

Instead, it is “That the works of God should be revealed in him.  I must work the works of Him who sent me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work.  As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:3b-5).

The word “that” does not always indicate cause.  It may be used to denote effect or result (e,g, Matthew 23:34-37; John 9:39).  Compare this passage with John 11:4.

The disciples see in the blind man an issue to discuss, but Jesus sees in the blind man a work to do.  He sees a need to be met.  He sees an opportunity to do good (Galatians 6:10)

Jesus is conscious of the limited time He has remaining on earth.  The night (death) is coming when no one can work (accomplish anything on earth).  He is determined to shine as a light in the world, so long as he lives in the world (ex. Matthew 5:16; Philippians 2:15-16).

The Sign

Jesus heals the man.  He does so on conditions (John 9:6-7; cf. 2 Kings 5:10-ff).  Perhaps, this is to teach us to accept Jesus’ words, even when we have little or no connection between the condition and the benefit offered.  Such is really a test of the heart, a test of our trust in Him and His worlds.

Lessons

  1. Sometimes, the innocent do suffer.  Jesus did.  Stephen did.  Job did. This man did.
  2. Sometimes, we may not have all the answers as to why a condition exists.  Instead of worrying about such, let us look at such as an opportunity to let our light shine, and bring glory to the Father.
  3. Life is brief.  Let us “Work the works of Him… while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work” (John 9:4; see also: Psalm 90:12; Ephesians 5:15-16; Colossians 4:5).
  4. Sometimes, the benefits that God offers are only available to us on certain conditions.  We should trust and obey.  Robert Taylor, Jr. points out, “He was not given sight and then went to Siloam to wash.  He went to wash and then sight was given” (Studies in the Gospel of John, p. 136).  The order is clear – (a.) Condition stated; (b.) Condition obeyed; (c.) Benefit received.
  5. The records of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John record Jesus healing the blind on several occasions [(1) Matthew 9:27-31; (2) Mark 8:22-26; (3) Matthew 12:22; Mark 3:22; Luke 11:14; (4) John 9:1-12; (5) Matthew 20:29-34; Mark 10:16-52; Luke 18:35-43].  This man, who was born blind, exclaimed, “Since the world began it has been unheard of that anyone opened the eyes of one born blind.  If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.” (John 9:32-33).
  6. Jesus went on to speak of spiritual blindness, saying that the reason some remained in their sins was because they refused to acknowledge their blindness, but continued to say “We see” (John 9:41).  Pride keeps some from understanding their lost condition, and seeking to have such corrected.  Don’t let this be you.
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The Seven Signs: Walking On Water (John 6:15-21)

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Bryan Hodge

More than 1200 species of animals have the ability to walk on water (lifeslittlemysteries.com). Some are classified as “gliders.” These are tiny creatures (such as: water striders, fisher spiders and mosquitoes.) Their bodies can be supported by the surface tension of the water. Others are classified as “slappers.” These are larger creatures (such as: basilisk lizards, water birds including the western grebe and ducks, and even dolphins.) Their feet or tail must be fast enough to keep them out of the water. The basilisk lizard actually moves its feet quickly enough to create a small air pocket beneath its feet which helps lessen psi. In the case of the dolphin, it must move its tail with enough force to lift its body up from the water.

Man cannot naturally walk on water. MythBusters Season 5 “Episode 9” made multiple attempts using various devises to try to successfully walk on water. All were total failures.

Now let us consider the fifth sign. Jesus walks on water.

The Setting

Jesus had miraculously fed over five thousand people (John 6:1-14 cf. Matthew 14:21). The sentiment of the multitude was “This is truly the prophet who is come into the world” [John 6:14 cf. 1:21; 1:25; 7:40-41 (The O.T. foretold of such a prophet Deuteronomy 18:15-19 cf. Acts 3:22-26)]. In fact, they wanted to take Jesus “by force and make him king” (John 6:15).

 Think of an earthly king with the powers of Jesus. What a welfare program! He could feed the people. Herbert Hoover once spoke of a “chicken in every pot”, such was popular. But this man, Jesus, could miraculously supply food. What military possibilities! An army needs food. It travels on it stomach. Perhaps, this man could liberate them from Rome. After all, hadn’t Moses fed their ancestors in the wilderness? And not only that, hadn’t Moses liberated them from Egypt? Who since Moses had miraculously feed so many?

Jesus knew their thoughts (John 6:15 cf. 2:25). Their thoughts were not in agreement with his ministry. He had not come into the world to serve as an earthly king (cf. John 18:36; Luke 17:21). He sent the twelve away by boat to Bethsaida, and he also dispersed the crowd (Mark 6:45). He went to pray (John 6:15 cf. Mark 6:46).

The twelve left at about 6 p.m. (John 6:16; Matthew 14:22-23). The distance across the Sea of Galilee was not far. It’s greatest width is eight miles, and it is only about thirteen miles in length. Yet, hours later, at least 3 a.m., they still had not made it to their destination (Matthew 14:25: “fourth-watch” is from 3 a.m. til 6 a.m.). A great wind and turbulent sea was against them and they had made only about four miles (John 6:18-19; Matthew 14:24; Mark 6:48). They were “straining at rowing” (Mark 6:48). [Fierce winds are common on the Sea of Galilee. Cool air rushes down the mountains and into the warm below sea-level areas of the Sea of Galilee. Oliver Greene has commented, “Historians tell us that in that day sudden, terrific violent storms would sweep down upon the Sea of Galilee almost without warning – and the same is true even today. The sea is surrounded by mountain gorges, which seem to act as a funnel to draw the wind down out of the hills upon the little sea” (The Gospel According to Mathew, vol. 2, p. 232)]. They may have been blown off course toward Capernaum (so explains Guy Woods, Commentary on John, p. 120). Remember that these men, include at least four who were experienced fisherman, were not novices.

The Sign

Jesus came to them walking on the sea (John 6:19). His appearance startled them (John 6:19 cf. Matthew 14:25-26; Mark 6:48-49). He comforted them saying, “It is I; do not be afraid” (John 6:19). He even permitted Peter to join him on the water (Matthew 14:28-ff). When he entered the boat, the wind ceased (Matthew 14:32; Mark 6:51) and “immediately the boat was at the land” (John 6:21). Previously, he had rebuked the winds and sea, producing a great calm, and they had said “who can this be, that even the winds obey him?” (Matthew 8:23-27). Now, they said “Truly you are the Son of God” (Matthew 14:33).

Lessons

  1. Several times Jesus is pictured as withdrawing from others to be alone with God in prayer (Mark 6:46 cf. Luke 22:41). We all need time alone with our God (see Matthew 6:6). Let us pray frequently. Let us pray with unguarded openness to Him, the kind of prayer which can’t be done in public.
  2. Jesus once spent all night in prayer (Luke 6:12). This may be another occasion of many hours being spent in prayer (Matthew 14:23 cf. 14:25). We each should spend time with God, pouring out our hearts to Him. If Jesus thought that He needed this, how much more do we? Let us pray with purpose and fervor.
  3. Even nature was put in obedience to Jesus. King Canute was a Danish king who ruled over England (1016-1035 A.D.), Denmark (1019-1035) and Norway (1028-1035 A.D.). He grew tired of sycophants (yes-men) and decided to teach his officers a lesson. He had his chair brought down to the water at low tide. He asked “Do you think it will stop if I give the command?” They said “Give the order, O Great King, and it will obey”. The King answered “Very well Sea, I command you to come no further! Surf, stop your rolling! Surf, stop your pounding! Do not touch my feet!” Naturally, it didn’t work. The King then said “well, my friends, it seems I do not have quite so much power as you have believed. Perhaps, you have learned something today. Perhaps, now you will remember there is only one king who is all-powerful, and it is he who rules the sea and holds the ocean in the hollow of his hand. I suggest you reserve your praises for him” (William J. Bennett, The Book of Virtues, p. 67-68).
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