The Gospel of John: Recent Episodes
Bob Corbin & Family Bible Church
An Expository Series covering the Gospel of John. Presented at Family Bible Church located in Martinez, GA
- During the past nine months we have been considering John's presentation of Jesus - the Son of God who became flesh in order that He might become the payment for our sins, as the Lamb of God. Jesus became that payment - the sacrifice to take away our sins - when He was crucified. Jesus' final statement on the cross was: "It is Finished!" Three days later, He rose bodily from the dead, appearing first to Mary Magdalene and then to two disciples traveling to Emmaus (cf. Luke 24:13-35). Last week we covered the third and fourth appearances of Jesus, which were the first two appearances to His disciples after His resurrection - first to 10 of the 11 (Thomas was missing) and then to all 11. Today we cover the last chapter in the Gospel of John.
- Speaking of Jesus' disciples, Luke writes in Acts 1:3 - "... to whom He also presented Himself alive after His suffering by many infallible proofs, being seen by them during forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God." The New Testament records at least 10 appearances by Jesus to various people and groups during this forty day period. John ends his account with one of these, where Jesus appears to seven of His disciples in Galilee along the shore of the Sea of Tiberias (also known as the Sea of Galilee). This appearance shows us three different ways that this is the same risen Jesus as the Jesus the disciples had known prior to the crucifixion. Jesus challenges Peter to "Follow Me" and to "Feed My sheep".
- This message was presented on December 19, 2021 by David Hayes.
- During the past nine months we have been considering John's presentation of Jesus - the Son of God, who became flesh, in order that He might become the payment for our sins, as the Lamb of God. Over the past couple of weeks we have been considering that very payment. Jesus' final statement on the cross was: "It is Finished!" Three days later, He rose from the dead. This was the attestation that God had truly accept His sacrifice for our sins was accepted.
- After Jesus rose from the dead, He appeared to Mary Magdalene and then to two disciples traveling to Emmaus (cf. Luke 24:13-35).
- Today, we examine Jesus' next two appearances, these are with His disciples in the upper room.
- This message was presented on December 12, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- Over the past couple of weeks, we have been considering the final hours of Christ's earthly ministry - from His example of humility in washing the disciples' feet to His sacrificial gift of Himself upon the cross for the sins of the world.
- The final message of Jesus upon the cross was "It is Finished!" In the Greek, that was the word "tetelestai." It is in the perfect tense, indicating a past action with a continuing result. Jesus stated that in His sacrifice, He was completing all that needed to be accomplished in order for the penalty of our sins to be paid.
- Today, we examine the confirmation of that sacrificial offering; the attestation that God had truly accepted that offering: His Resurrection!
- We will examine first of the initial impact of this event upon the lives of some principal participants and then the importance of the Resurrection itself upon mankind.
- This message was presented on December 5, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- We have been considering John's declaration of the Gospel of Jesus Christ for the past nine months. We have seen that the purpose of John's gospel is to reveal Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God in order to take away the sins of the world.
- Today, we come to the fulfillment - the consummation - of this purpose, when Jesus offers Himself for the sins of the world!
- Last week we saw the perplexity of Pilate as he interacted with Jesus, and then his ultimate capitulation of the Truth because of the fear of men.
- Today, we see again how God takes what is meant for evil and uses it for good. Satan, seeking to destroy the plan of God actually fulfilled the plan of God!
- This message was presented on November 28, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- Last week we considered Jesus' arrest in the garden by the soldiers and religious leaders. He was led by them to Annas and then Caiaphas to be interrogated by them. We focused last week upon Jesus' rebuke of Peter (considering the discussion of the sword and the cup) and Peter's denial of Jesus.
- Today, we want to look at the trials themselves. Specifically, I would like to present it from the perspective of Pilate - as one who is being confronted with the truth.
- This message was presented on November 21, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- We have taken the past two months to consider Jesus' final moments with His disciples. All that we have been studying has happened in just a few hours. We considered His institution of the Lord's Supper, His example of loving servanthood, His promises (of a home in heaven and of His presence on earth), His warning of coming persecution, and His prayer for their (and our) unity.
- Today, we consider the actions of Jesus and His disciples in the Garden of Gethsemane ... seeing once again the proclamation of Jesus' deity, and the conclusion of Jesus' prophetic proclamation of Peter's denial of Him.
- This message was presented on November 14, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- Last week, we began to consider Jesus' prayer at the end of His time of instruction with His disciples. He asked the Father to glorify Him with the glory that He shared with the Father before the world came into existence! In the midst of this request, He also provided a definition of eternal life. Eternal life is relationally knowing God the Father and Jesus the Messiah, who had been sent out of, and by, the Father.
- Today, we will consider Jesus' requests on behalf of those who follow Him - His disciples.
- This message was presented on November 7, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- We have spent the last eight months studying John's account of the ministry of Jesus Christ - the Son of God who became the Lamb of God in order to take away the sin of the world.
- Over the past two months, we have been studying chapters 13-16 which record Jesus' actions and instructions to His disciples during the final hours of His life. They traveling to the Garden of Gethsemane where He will pray and then, subsequently, be arrested. However, before they arrive there, Jesus takes a moment to pray for His disciples. We have the blessing of having that High Priestly prayer of Jesus recorded for our learning.
- Today, we will consider the first eight verses of chapter 17, which records an important request of Jesus'.
- This message was presented on October 31, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- Jesus - the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world - is in His final hours. As we have been studying the past couple of weeks, He is sharing with His disciples concerning what to expect after He leaves them.
- Today, we come to the end of this time instruction with Jesus' final summary and exhortation. Jesus once again reveals to His disciples who is He, where He came from, and what is about to transpire in their lives.
- As we consider this portion, it is good for us to meditate upon what our thought process would be like if we were in the "sandals" of the apostles ... and, then to consider how we still react, and respond, even knowing now much than they did!
- This message was presented on October 24, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- We are in the midst of John's account of the ministry of Jesus Christ where Jesus, in His final hours, is intimately sharing with His disciples regarding what to expect after He leaves them.
- Jesus promised His disciples that He would prepare a monae for each of those who follow Him in His Father's house, that He would intercede on their behalf with the Father, that He would send the Holy Spirit to dwell in those who loved Him and kept His commandments, that He and the Father would set up their monae in that individual as well, and that He would give them His peace. Then, Jesus exhorted His disciples to abide (meno) in Him - in His Word and in His love. If they did this, they would be fruitful in their lives and the Father would be glorified.
- Last week, we began to consider Jesus' instruction to the disciples regarding their interaction with the world ... that they were in the world but not truly of the world. As a result of being His disciples, the world would hate them as it hates Him. In fact, Jesus shared that the world hated Him without a cause. Yet, as we experience this persecution from the world, we need to constantly remember that Jesus promised to be with us through it, and that the Holy Spirit would be at work - in our lives and, through our lives, in the world.
- Today, we consider the remainder of the portion of Scripture that began last week.
- This message was presented on October 17, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- We are in the midst of John's account of the ministry of Jesus Christ where Jesus, in His final hours, is intimately sharing with His disciples regarding what to expect after He leaves them.
- Jesus has promised them that He will be going to His Father's house to prepare a monae for each of those who follow Him. He promised that, being at the Father's right side, He would be interceding on their behalf. He promised that He would send the Holy Spirit to dwell in those who loved Him and kept His commandments, and that He and the Father would set up their monae in that individual as well! Finally, He promised them His peace.
- Last week we saw that Jesus exhorted His disciples to abide (meno) in Him - in His Word and in His love. If they did this, they would be fruitful in their lives and the Father would be glorified. He also shared that those who truly abided in Him would indeed be fruitful. Those who were not bearing fruit were not actually connected to the vine (and He was/is the vine).
- Today, we see Jesus' instruction to the disciples regarding their interaction with the world ... that they were in the world but not truly of the world. He reveals to them what would the results of their following Him. This is important information for us to understand, embrace, and heed as we also begin to experience persecution.
- This message was presented on October 10, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- Over the past four weeks, we have been considering Jesus' loving, servant leadership to His followers - expressed by His example of humility in serving them while they bickered regarding their greatness, and expressed through the promises that He gave them in the midst of their dismay.
- Over the past two weeks, we have considered Jesus' promises to those who believe in Him. First, that He would prepare a dwelling place (monae) in His Father's house. Next, Jesus stated that He would intercede on their behalf with the Father; if they asked anything in His name (according to His will) He would accomplish it for us. He then promised those who love Him and keep His commandments, that He would send the Holy Spirit to dwell within them; and that the Father and Son would set up their monae in the believer! Finally, He promised them His peace.
- As we transition into chapter 15, Jesus begins to teach His disciples while they are traveling from the upper room to Gethsemane. In this final time of teaching, Jesus seeks to encourage them in face of what they will experience in life.
- Jesus shares that the key to living a fruitful life will be abiding in Him. Abiding (meno) is the verbal root of monae. We must choose to dwell in Christ, in His Word and in His Love. If we do so, we will bear fruit and the Father will be glorified.
- This message was presented on October 3, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- At the beginning of chapter 13, we saw Jesus celebrate the Passover meal with His disciples. In the context of this meal, Jesus began to reveal to His disciples the fullness of His love for them. He took off His outer garment, took the towel of the door servant, and began to wash their feet, tangibly revealing to them His servant leadership.
- Jesus then began to share with them that it would beneficial to them for Him to complete the task which He had come to perform. Through the perfection of this redemptive ministry on their behalf, He would also be establishing the basis for other means of Him serving them.
- Last week, we saw the declaration of Jesus that if He left - and He was - it would be to prepare a place in His Father's house for each of His disciples, and then come back to get them as their rooms were prepared! Jesus stated that He Himself would escort them, and that the place prepared would be a permanent place of remaining, no more roaming. As part of the validation of this promise, Jesus again referred to His Oneness with the Father - He was in the Father and the Father was in Him.
- In our passage today, we see Jesus provide His disciples with at least three more promises regarding the benefits to His departing them.
- This message was presented on September 26, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- Over the past two weeks, we have seen Jesus reveal His love for His disciples through His servant leadership.
- Today, we see Him begin to share some very important promises of how He will continue to serve them. Indeed, the first of the promises is truly that to which the hope of our salvation is anchored: Our Reservation in Heaven!
- This message was presented on September 19, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- The primary purpose of John's gospel is reveal Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. The first 12 chapters of John's gospel account cover the public ministry of Jesus, revealing His Deity through both His declarations and the performance of miracles that only YHWH could do.
- Last week, we began to look at Jesus' final evening with His disciples. In chapters 13-18, we see Jesus' final teaching and instruction to His disciples. As we discussed last week, when you know that you are about to pass away, you want to make sure that you impart those things that you believe those you are leaving behind need to know. This is what we will be considering over the next two months or so.
- This section is initiated with the statement that Jesus "having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end."
- Last week, we saw that Jesus demonstrated His love through servant leadership. He saw their need and then became involved in meeting their need. His washing their feet was just a small illustration of the sacrifice and cleansing that He would shortly perform on their behalf.
- Today, we continue looking at the "extent" of this great love, by looking deeper into the context and relationships which were involved during that event. For, in this moment, we see the juxtaposition of the failure of man with the faithfulness of God.
- This message was presented on September 12, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- This message was presented on a Monday morning, at the end our annual Family Camp.
- Over the past six months we have examined the public ministry of Christ. John spent the first 12 chapters of His gospel account revealing the Deity of Christ - that Jesus was truly the Son of God. We saw that Jesus not only declared that He was YHWH, but that He also performed miracles that only YHWH could do.
- Today, we come to chapter 13, where we find a major transition that will last for the next five chapters. John takes the space in his gospel account to reveal Jesus' final teaching and instruction to His disciples. When you know that you are about to pass away, you want to make sure that you impart those things that you believe those you are leaving behind need to know. This is what we will be considering over the next two months or so.
- Today, we consider the importance of Jesus' demonstration of servant leadership.
- This message was presented on September 6, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- "Who is Jesus?" That is what the religious leaders, and people in general, during Jesus' day was trying to figure out. Jesus had declared Himself to be YHWH - I am I AM - and had backed it up with works that only the Creator God could accomplish.
- Last week, we began considering Jesus' final week of Jesus' earthly life. Jesus entered into Jerusalem knowing that He would be offering Himself as the propitiation for the sins of the whole world. His entrance was received with a variety of responses.
- But it is Jesus' response in the midst of this revelry which truly draws our attention. Jesus again began revealing to His disciples that He would be soon voluntarily offering His life. And this offering was according to the plan and purpose of God.
- This message was presented on August 29, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- We have been considering John's presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, in order to strengthen and unify the church around this core belief.
- Jesus had drawn the "Line in the Sand" by declaring: I am I AM. This had caused a great debate amongst the people and religious leaders. They were being forced to answer the question, "Who is Jesus?"
- Jesus had performed undeniable works - including giving sight to a man born blind and raising Lazarus from the dead.
- Jesus has been ministering through Judaea and Galilee for approximately three years at this point.
- Today, we see the beginning of the final week of His earthly life. Jesus comes to Jerusalem knowing that He will be offering Himself as the propitiation for the sins of the whole world.
- As we consider Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem and His interaction with the crowd, we are reminded of John 1:1-13 ... that the Light shone in the darkness and the darkness comprehended it not ... He came unto His own and His own received Him not ... But to as many as received Him, He gave the right to become the children of God!
- This message was presented on August 22, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- The Gospel according to John: John's presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, in order to strengthen and unify the church around this core belief.
- THE LINE IN THE SAND ... Jesus declared: I am I AM. The Jews understood what Jesus was declaring: "You, being a man, make Yourself God!" Jesus responded: "Though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that in Me is the Father, and also I am in Him."
- Jesus had performed undeniable works - including giving sight to a man born blind. This was a miracle that was unparalleled. He did what only the Creator could do! But, then He raised Lazarus from the dead ... and Lazarus had been dead four days!
- What were the religious leaders to do? They had to decide. On which side of the line were they going to stand?
- Today, we see the remarkable juxtaposition of results in choosing a side in this life and death decision!
- This message was presented on August 15, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- The Gospel according to John: John's presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, in order to strengthen and unify the church around this core belief.
- In John 8, we saw that Jesus declared very clearly WHO He was: that He was YHWH Incarnate sent from God the Father, and that each individual's salvation depended upon whether they believed this core truth. It truly brought the TRILEMMA of the religious leaders to a head. WHO WAS JESUS? Who did they say that He was? Was He a blatant false teacher - a liar - as they accused him of being (8:13)? Was He a lunatic, who was demon-possessed, and making ridiculous claims (8:52)? Or, was truly YHWH (the LORD) incarnate as He claimed to be (8:24,28,58)?
- After declaring this, He healed a man born blind. This was a miracle that was unparalleled. He did what only the Creator could do!
- He then claimed to be "the Good Shepherd." Again, this was a clear reference to YHWH from Psalm 23:1 and Isaiah 40:10-11).
- Today, Jesus hits the apex of the crescendo of evidence which He has been presenting - with the resurrection of Lazarus!
- This message was presented on August 8, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- The Gospel according to John: John's presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, in order to strengthen and unify the church around this core belief.
- In John 8, we saw that Jesus declared very clearly WHO He was: that He was YHWH Incarnate sent from God the Father, and that each individual's salvation depended upon whether they believed this core truth.
- In fact, we saw at the end of chapter 8 that the Pharisees took up stones to throw at Him in order to kill Him. But, Jesus walked through them and went out the Temple ... and healed a man who was born blind!
- Last week, we saw Jesus declare the third and fourth of the metaphorical "I AM" statements: "I am the Door," and "I am the Good Shepherd."
- His declaration of being the "Good Shepherd" was another CLEAR indicator to Whom He was declaring Himself to be.
- Today, we continue in this discussion of Jesus with the Jews.
- This message was presented on August 1, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- 3 weeks ago, Pastor Bob gave us a very comprehensive analysis of the title "I AM" with a focus on how Jesus used that title in John 8 to draw "a line in the sand" regarding His true identity as God.
- That title, or name for God, that Jesus applies to Himself over and over again throughout the gospel of John, is a vital component of Jesus' assertion of His deity, which as we mention nearly every week, is one of John's primary purposes for His gospel account.
- One way Jesus used that title is through 7 metaphorical I AM statements sprinkled throughout John's account. They are one of the distinctives of the book. And this morning we will be looking at the 3rd and 4th of these statements where Jesus declared "I AM the door" and "I AM the good shepherd".
- Shepherd imagery is found throughout the Bible, and it paints a powerful picture not only of Jesus' deity but also of His great love and care for His own, both now and in the future.
- This message was presented on July 25, 2021 by Chuck Sabo.
- The Gospel according to John: John's presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, in order to strengthen and unify the church around this core belief.
- Over the past four weeks, we have considered the powerful declarations of Jesus regarding His divinity during the Jewish Feast of Tabernacles.
- Over the past two weeks, we have considered His declaration that He was YHWH through the metaphorical declaration: I AM the Light of the World and the Literal declarations: Unless you believe I am I AM, you will die in your sins; When you exalt the Son of Man, you will know I am I AM; and, finally, Before Abraham was, I am I AM!
- Today, we see Jesus, the Light of the World, perform a distinctly Messianic Miracle - giving sight to a blind man ... bringing light into this man's darkness (cf. Isaiah 29:18; 32:3-4; 35:5; 42:6-7, 16; 43:8)
- This message was presented on July 18, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- The Gospel according to John: John's presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, in order to strengthen and unify the church around this core belief.
- Last week we considered the weight of Jesus' statements in chapter to be "I AM." We saw that His claim is goes deeper than the seven metaphorical expressions commonly referenced. Today, we want to focus on the applications derived from these declarations.
- Jesus states that there will be a clear distinction in those who are His followers, and those who are not.
- This message was presented on July 11, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- The Gospel according to John: John's presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world, in order to strengthen and unify the church around this core belief.
- A month ago, we considered Jesus statement, "I am the bread of life." At that time, we focused upon the earthly, temporal, physical mindset of the Jews and Jesus' call for them to have a heavenly, eternal, spiritual perspective. However, we also mentioned that we would take a look at the other aspect of Jesus' statement - the "I AM" aspect - when we got to chapter 8.
- It is important to remember the context as we enter this passage. It is just after the Feast of Tabernacles - seemingly it is the day after the final day of the feast ... and it is a weekly Sabbath (cf. John 9:14). Jesus is in the court of the women, which was also the court of the treasury (cf. Mark 12:41-44). It was also the court where they would have the huge lamps representing the shekinah khabod (tabernacling glory) of YHWH in the wilderness (the pillar of cloud/fire). Two weeks ago, we saw how Jesus equated Himself to the Rock which provided the Israelites water throughout the wilderness journey - "If anyone thirsts - let him come to Me and drink!" Last week, we moved to this day after the Feast and David showed how the Scribes and Pharisees sought to trap Jesus by bringing to Him a woman caught in the act of adultery. They wanted Jesus to pass judgment upon her according to the law - yet, they did not fulfill the law themselves by also bringing the man she was with! Jesus instructs the crowd, "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first." The accusers all left. But, there was still a crowd and Jesus began to teach the crowd!
- It is at this point, that we see Jesus begin an interaction with the crowd that truly becomes "a line in the sand." We begin with the Pharisees wanting to have Jesus arrested, or trapped in His words. We end with them picking up stones to throw at Him! What transpired? Jesus in this passage gives CLEAR TESTIMONY - to the Jews who understood the Scriptures - that He was claiming to be YHWH!
- This message was presented on July 4, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
- As we have been studying The Gospel of Jesus Christ according to John, we have noted that the major purpose of the book is the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. It is this truth, as well, which is at the core of the gospel message. The perfect sacrifice for our sins could only be made by God Himself becoming man.
- On May 16, we studied John 5:18-47, considering Jesus’ strong claim to equality with God the Father, including having authority from the Father to give life, to raise the dead, and to judge all mankind. Yet, Jesus also offered a way to avoid judgment. He said, “he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.”
- Today, we will look at the account in John 8, where the religious leaders present Jesus with an opportunity to judge – they bring him a woman caught in the act of adultery. This account is one of the best examples in the gospels of what Jesus says in John 12:46-47 – “I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. And if anyone hears My words and does not believe, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world.” When considering all of the things Jesus said, it is clear that Jesus is both Savor and Judge; but in His first coming He came as Savior, not as Judge. It is later when He will come as Judge, “when the Son of Man comes in His glory” (Matthew 25:31-46; Revelation 20:11-15).
- This message was presented on June 27, 2021 by David Hayes.
- The Gospel according to John: A presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world.
- Last week we considered the confrontations that Jesus had with His brothers in Galilee and with the Jews in Jerusalem. In both situations, the individuals were confronted with what to do, or think about, Jesus. Who WAS He? How did do what He did? How did He know what He taught? Could He really be the Messiah?
- As we continue in John chapter 7, we see the crowd continuing to struggle with the identity of Jesus ... seeking to discern if He was indeed the long-awaited Messiah (v. 7:25-31; 7:32-36; 7:40-53).
- However, the major impact of this passage is contained with Jesus' statement recorded in verses 37 and 38.
- To gain the full significance of Jesus' declaration, we will first need to consider the significance of timing and location of this declaration, during the Feast of Tabernacles.
- This message was presented on June 20, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
The Gospel according to John: A presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. Over the past five weeks: we have seen Jesus ... - Heal the Official's Son from a Distance ... revealing His authority over illnesses; - Heal the Lame Man at the Pool of Bethesda - on the Sabbath ... revealing His authority over infirmities and the Sabbath; - Declared His authority over death, judgment, the resurrection, and the distribution of eternal life; - Feed 5,000+ people with five loaves of bread and two fish ... revealing His power over material substance; - Walk on water in a storm - revealing His power over nature; - Transport the disciples and their boat to the other side of the lake - revealing His power over time and matter!; - Declare that He was the Bread of Life - greater than Manna - and was God's provision for our salvation. Today, we see the effect that these events and teaching were having on the populace ... and even in His own family! And, we have to ask the question, "How do we deal with events and Scriptures which do not seem to make sense?" This message was presented on June 13, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
John's purpose is the presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. This is important, for it is only through believing in this truth that man might be saved. Two weeks ago, David led our examination of two more miracles of Jesus - His feeding of the multitude and His walking on the water. Last week, we examined a couple of passages within this context which have been misused to prove God's predestination of certain individuals to salvation. As a summary of that discussion, we saw that it is God who has done the "work" of salvation. By His grace, He has made the way for us to come to Him through faith. "Believing" was not viewed by Christ as a "work." Rather, He viewed it as the responsibility of man to "believe." Additionally, God "desires (thelo) all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth." (1 Tim 2:4) And, it is He "who works all things according to the counsel (boulae) of His will (thelaema)." (Eph 1:11) However, all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God, and cannot therefore enter into His presence, nor will they seek His face on their own. Hence, no one can come to God unless God draws them. Jesus stated that if He was lifted up, He would draw all men to Himself. This is accomplished through the ministry and convicting work of the Holy Spirit! Today, we want to examine the exchange between Jesus and the Jews, which highlights the struggle that man has to think with a heavenly mindset. This message was presented on June 6, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
John's purpose is the presentation of Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world. This is important, for it is only through believing in this truth that man might be saved. Salvation is the work of God alone. It is not according to plan, or purpose, of man. Man continually is distracted by the temporal and physical. Jesus was continually seeking to get people to focus on the eternal and spiritual. It is no different today! Last week, David discussed the miracle of the feeding of the multitude. At the conclusion, we saw how Jesus went aside to pray while sending His disciples off in a boat. Later that night - in the fourth watch - Jesus walked out to them on the water. The people waited for Him on the shore ... but, they were about to be surprised! This message was presented on May 30, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
As we have been studying The Gospel of Jesus Christ according to John, we have noted that the major purpose of the book is the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. It is this truth, as well, which is at the core of the gospel message. The perfect sacrifice for our sins could only be made by God Himself becoming man. On May 16, we studied John 5:18-47, considering Jesus’ strong claim to equality with God the Father, including having authority from the Father to give life, to raise the dead, and to judge all mankind. Yet, Jesus also offered a way to avoid judgment. He said, “he who hears My word and believes in Him who sent Me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life.” Today, we will look at two incredible miracles that Jesus performs in John 6, where Jesus feeds a multitude of thousands of people (the men alone numbered 5000) with just five loaves of bread and two small fish, and then He walks on water to catch up with the disciples who are miles across the Sea of Galilee in a boat. We also will consider why John chose to write of these two signs of Jesus power immediately after the teaching of John 5. This message was presented on May 23, 2021 by David Hayes.
As we have been studying The Gospel of Jesus Christ according to John, we have noted that the major purpose of the book is the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. It is this truth, as well, which is at the core of the gospel message. The perfect sacrifice for our sins could only be made by God Himself becoming man. On May 2, we studied John 4:43 – 5:18, considering the 2nd and 3rd of Jesus’ signs. The third sign was the healing of the sick man at the pool of Bethesda. This healing occurred on the Sabbath, becoming a big problem for many of the Jews. How could a man from God break the Sabbath? Jesus’ response caused even more consternation, as He equated Himself with God. Today, we will continue in the rest of John 5, where Jesus expands on His equality with God. The unity of the Father and the Son leads to the Son, Jesus, having authority over things that the Jews (and we) associate only with God. Jesus particularly emphasizes His authority over resurrection and over judgment as evidence of His unity with the Father. John 5 ends with Jesus presenting a list of Five Witnesses, intended to help people believe that the Son has been sent by the Father. Jesus says, “… I say these things that you may be saved.” – John 5:34. This message was presented on May 16, 2021 by David Hayes.
As we have been studying The Gospel of Jesus Christ according to John, we have noted that the major purpose of the book is the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. It is this truth, as well, which is at the core of the gospel message. The perfect sacrifice for our sins could only be made by God Himself becoming a man. On April 11, we studied John 2:1-25 considering the beginning of Jesus' signs. We saw in that message that there are at least seven signs, which John includes in his account of the gospel of Christ, and that the purpose of these signs were demonstrate the deity of Christ and His fulfillment of the Messianic office. In that message, we considered the first of the signs and the prophetic proclamation of the seventh. Today, we consider the second and third of these signs presented by John. Last week, in our examination of Jesus' conversation with the woman at the well, we considered the fact that God is NOT a respecter of persons. There is no partiality or prejudice with Him. All are equally received through faith; all are equally condemned as a result of unbelief. We see that truth portrayed in today's portion of Scripture as well. This message was presented on May 9, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
As we have been studying The Gospel of Jesus Christ according to John, we have noted that the major purpose of the book is the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. It is this truth, as well, which is at the core of the gospel message. The perfect sacrifice for our sins could only be made by God Himself becoming a man. We are told by Paul in 1 Timothy 2:3-4 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. Hence, IF Jesus was God - who became flesh - we should expect that He would demonstrate this attribute of God: a desire for all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. That is exactly what we do see in our passage today. There is a whole lot of teaching contained in this passage. However, the overall theme of this interaction between Jesus and the Samaritan woman is Jesus' desire for people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. We will examine this passage following the three primary topics of discussion. This message was presented on May 2, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
As we have been studying The Gospel of Jesus Christ according to John, we have noted that the major purpose of the book is the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. Last week, we examined Jesus' conversation with Nicodemus contained in the first part of chapter 3. In that passage, we saw that Nicodemus came to Jesus seeking to find answers to his questions. Jesus gave him the ultimate answer ... how to enter the Kingdom of God. In order to enter the Kingdom of God, one must be born again. You must be born of the flesh and of the spirit. That spiritual birth comes through believing that Jesus is who He claimed to be ... the Son of God who became the Lamb of God to take away the sins of the world! John continues this discussion by transitioning to an event that occurred at the Jordan River - at Aenon, near Salim - where John the Baptist declares the Supremacy of Christ in multiple ways to those who are questioning him. First, we must make a quick detour into the doctrine of baptism, which was the initial subject of the conversation. This message was presented on April 25, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
We have been studying The Gospel of Jesus Christ according to John. As we have noted, John's major purpose is to undergird the unity of the church through the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. Throughout the first two chapters of the book, John has been revealing testimony that supports that claim. Last week, in our examination of chapter 2, we saw how John revealed Jesus' power over nature by turning water into wine at the wedding of Cana. Additionally, in the section regarding His cleansing of the temple we are told ... "Now when He was in Jerusalem at the Passover, during the feast, many believed in His name when they saw the signs which He did." (cf. John 2:23) Jesus was performing many other signs other than the few that John is choosing to highlight to prove the deity of Christ. It is in the context of seeing these irrefutable signs, that we continue our consideration of John's testimony. For John now begins to share about an encounter that Jesus had with an older Pharisee named Nicodemus. It is this conversation with Nicodemus which contains some of the clearest statements regarding God's provision of salvation. Yet, at the same time, this conversation contains some deep truths to ponder and continue to meditate upon. This message was presented on April 18, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
We have studying John's presentation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As we have noted, John's major purpose is to undergird the unity of the church through the presentation of the proof that Jesus is the Son of God. In each of previous three messages from chapter 1, we have seen how John clearly interweaves either direct, or indirect, references to the deity of Christ. John's presentation of the gospel is slightly different from that of Matthew, Mark and Luke ... in that his primary focus is not in the chronological presentation of Jesus' ministry. Rather, again, John's goal is to provide proof that Jesus was the Son of God who was incarnate in order to become the Lamb of God ... in order to take away the sin of the world! In our passage today, we are presented with another means in which John is proclaiming the deity of Christ - through signs or miracles. First, we need to consider the identification and purpose of these signs, and then look at the application of the events surrounding the demonstration of the first sign and the declaration of the final sign. This message was presented on April 11, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
Two weeks ago we noted the importance of the beginning of book in drawing the attention of the reader and communicating the theme which the book will be addressing. Clearly, we have seen that John's intent is to reveal Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God in order to take away the sins of the world! Next in writing is how you introduce your primary characters. First impressions are lasting impressions. We have been introduced to Jesus as the Word of God, the Messiah of God, the Son of God and the Lamb of God. In today's message we are introduced to at least four of Jesus disciples (Andrew, Peter, Philip and Nathanael). Within the passage, we meet each individual as they meet the Lord. There is much to glean from Jesus' interactions with each of them. We begin our journey at the Jordan River - the site of John's ministry. Note throughout these interactions - the attribute of omniscience, which is displayed by Jesus ... another indicator of His deity! This message was presented on March 28, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
We are studying the Gospel According to John. This account was written by the Apostle John, the brother of James and the son of Zebedee. We have discussed the two-fold purpose that John seem to have while writing this account - to present an eye-witness account to the Deity of Christ in order to undergird the Unity of the Church. John reveals Jesus as the Son of God who became the Lamb of God in order to take away the sin of the world. Last week, we considered John's immediate description of Jesus as the Word of God. John declares that the Word was with God and that God Himself was the Word. He then goes on to declare that the Word was the Creator who became flesh, came into the world that He created, and was rejected by His creation! In the midst of this testimony of the Word, we are told about a second individual whose name is also John. This individual we are told was in the world for a special purpose as well. This special purpose of John is evidence even prior to his birth! Today, we want to consider this "Voice in the Wilderness." This message was presented on March 21, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
One of the most important parts of writing a book is having a catchy introduction, or beginning; something that will grab the attention of the potential reader and at the same time will give a hint toward what the remainder of the book will be about. The Gospel According to John does exactly that. This is a true marvel, as the Sanhedrin gave testimony to: "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had been with Jesus." John was a simple Galilean fisherman who penned one of the most profound books ever written - and that is because it was "god-breathed." John begins this Gospel account by blending concepts that would grab both the Jewish and Greek mind ... and would lay the foundation of his two-fold purpose - Confirming the Deity of Christ (the Son of God who took on flesh to become the Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world) in order to undergird the Unity of the Church. This message was presented on March 14, 2021 by Bob Corbin.
This week's message launches a study on The Gospel According to John considering the fit, form and function of John's gospel. Its fit within the Bible, its form in terms of some of its unique structure, especially in comparison to the other gospel accounts, and then finally its function or purpose. As part of this, we'll consider a two-fold purpose that the Apostle John seems to have been given by the Holy Spirit. A two-fold purpose that was closely related to one of the major challenges faced by the early church in the late first century when John penned this book, namely the challenge of Gnosticism, a false religion that sought to undermine the identity and work of Jesus Christ. So, first and foremost, it was John's intent to make the deity of Jesus Christ crystal clear to us. To make it absolutely clear that Jesus is God ... the Son of God who became The Lamb of God to take away the sin of the world. But then it seems that John’s secondary purpose was for the knowledge of the deity of Christ to fuel the unity of the church, so that the church could more effectively fulfill its mission in a climate where false teaching was on the increase. The deity of Jesus undergirds the unity of the church ... that we may be one, so that the world may know! This is the heart of John's gospel and timeless truth that we need to hear, understand and apply today. This message was presented on March 7, 2021 by Chuck Sabo.