Choosing Light Over Darkness and Recognizing Divine Authority
John 12:44–50 (NKJV)
44 Then Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. 45 And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me. 46 I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness. 47 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. 48 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day. 49 For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. 50 And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”
Message
I. Choosing Light Over Darkness (44-45)
See v44-45.
44 Then Jesus cried out and said, “He who believes in Me, believes not in Me but in Him who sent Me. 45 And he who sees Me sees Him who sent Me.
In v44, Jesus emphasized that it was the Sender of the Son, the Father who they believed when they believed Jesus. Also, it is the Sender of the Son, the Father whom they see when they see Jesus. So, it is not about choosing a group of men called the Pharisees or a man Jesus. It is about choosing darkness or light, the devil or God. Choosing Jesus is choosing God. If they choose something else than Jesus, they chose the devil instead of God. See v46.
46 I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness.
Jesus is the light of the world. This means that His believers will no longer remain in darkness (See John 12:46 NLT). Choosing Jesus is choosing the light. Choosing something else than Jesus is choosing darkness. Jesus said He had come as ‘a’ light but He is the true light (John 1:9) when there are many false lights. Without Jesus the true light, the world is in darkness. So, it is important to believe in Him so as not to abide in darkness. People who believe the darkness or a false light as their light, their darkness is great (Matthew 6:23b). The devil tries to make ‘the truth’ ‘a lie’ and ‘a lie’ ‘the truth’ (Genesis 3:4). I found an Old-Testament-version of Matthew 6:23b. It is Isaiah 8:20. See Isaiah 8:20 NLT.
20 Look to God’s instructions and teachings! People who contradict his word are completely in the dark.
Jesus is the Word of God (John 1:1, Revelation 19:13). Eating from the tree of knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 2:9) would bring death and was forbidden by God (Genesis 2:17). The person eating its fruit represents someone living in moral autonomy, who decides good and evil without referring to the Word of God. As a result, this person will sin because he may do things his heart likes or it says ‘good’ but the Word of God may condemn those who do such things. Moses knew they were prone to following their own desires and defiling themselves instead of remembering and obeying all the commands of the Lord (Numbers 15:39 NLT). The ‘following the desires of one’s own stubborn heart’ is exactly what would lead to utter ruin! (Deuteronomy 29:19 NLT b). When Jesus said, ‘He who loves his life will lose it’ (John 12:25 NKJV a ), ‘love his life’ means
- ‘like to follow one’s own desires and defile oneself’ (Numbers 15:39 NLT)
- ‘like to follow the desires of one’s own stubborn heart’ (Deuteronomy 29:19 NLT b)
Therefore, the Holy Bible teaches,
“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”
as written in Matthew 4:4 NKJV and Deuteronomy 8:3 NKJV.
II. Jesus’ Words with God’s Authority and Eternal Life bring Salvation or Final Judgment (47-50)
See v47.
47 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.
The unbelief on His words is subject to judgment. But Jesus does not judge the unbeliever. It is because Jesus did not come to judge the world but to save the world. See v48.
48 He who rejects Me, and does not receive My words, has that which judges him—the word that I have spoken will judge him in the last day.
The words Jesus has spoken will judge him who rejects Him and does not receive His words. See v49.
49 For I have not spoken on My own authority; but the Father who sent Me gave Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak.
The words of Jesus have the authority of God. See v50
50 And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, just as the Father has told Me, so I speak.”
God’s command brings (causes) everlasting life (50a). Eternal life is defined in John 17:3 as ‘the experiential relationship with the only true God and Jesus Christ whom God has sent’. All Jesus spoke are just as the Father has told Jesus (50b).
The Light of the World and the Consequences of Unbelief
John 12:34–43 (NKJV)
34 The people answered Him, “We have heard from the law that the Christ remains forever; and how can You say, ‘The Son of Man must be lifted up’? Who is this Son of Man?”
35 Then Jesus said to them, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. 36 While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.” These things Jesus spoke, and departed, and was hidden from them.
37 But although He had done so many signs before them, they did not believe in Him, 38 that the word of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spoke:
“Lord, who has believed our report?
And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”
39 Therefore they could not believe, because Isaiah said again:
40 “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts,
Lest they should see with their eyes,
Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn,
So that I should heal them.”
41 These things Isaiah said when he saw His glory and spoke of Him.
42 Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; 43 for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
I. Follow and believe while you have the light (34-36)
Jesus said, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified (John 12:23). And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to Myself (John 12:33).” What was the people’s response? See v34-36.
34 The people answered Him, “We have heard from the law that the Christ remains forever; and how can You say, ‘The Son of Man must be lifted up’? Who is this Son of Man?”
35 Then Jesus said to them, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. 36 While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light.” These things Jesus spoke, and departed, and was hidden from them.
The answer of Jesus tells who this Son of Man is and when He will be lifted up. The Son of Man is the light of the world Jesus and He will be lifted up a little while later (35). When the light Jesus is still alive and with them, they should follow (walk with) Him so that darkness may not overtake them (35a). A person who is overtaken by darkness may even participate in the tragic sin of killing the Son of Man. A person who walks in darkness (who does not follow Jesus) cannot have the conviction of Salvation to go to heaven (35b). Therefore, when the light Jesus is still alive and with them, they should believe in Him so that they may become sons of light (36).
- Based on v35-36, a Christian minister may encourage or urge them to follow and believe the light of the world Jesus if he leaves his mission field soon.
- The apostle Paul set a commendable example, as seen in Acts 20:26-27 NLT and Acts 20:33-35 NLT. He showed his concerns before his departure in Acts 20:29-31 NLT.
- No one was like Moses (Deuteronomy 34:10 NLT) except Jesus (Deuteronomy 18:15 NLT, Acts 3:22 NLT).
- Moses urged them to choose life and blessing by loving, obeying and committing themselves firmly to God (Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT).
- Cursed is anyone who does these: See Deuteronomy 27:15-26 NLT
- Blessings for obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-14 NLT) and curses for disobedience (Deuteronomy 28:15-68 NLT)
- Ten Commandments (The Initial Terms of the Covenant): Deuteronomy 5:6-21 NLT
- Moses showed his concerns before his departure in Deuteronomy 31:29 NLT.
- Moses urged them to choose life and blessing by loving, obeying and committing themselves firmly to God (Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NLT).
II. God has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts (37-41)
See v37-41.
37 But although He had done so many signs before them, they did not believe in Him, 38 that the word of Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spoke:
“Lord, who has believed our report?
And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”
39 Therefore they could not believe, because Isaiah said again:
40 “He has blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts,
Lest they should see with their eyes,
Lest they should understand with their hearts and turn,
So that I should heal them.”
41 These things Isaiah said when he saw His glory and spoke of Him.
v38 is prophesized in Isaiah 53:1 and v40 in Isaiah 6:10. The Jews did not believe despite of so many signs (39). The fact is that they could not believe because God had blinded their eyes and hardened their hearts. If they do see with their eyes and understand with their hearts, then they will turn to God so that God should heal them. But for some reason, God didn’t want to heal them. What is God’s reason for not wanting to heal them? We can read Isaiah 6:11-13 for reference. Isaiah 6:13b may be the reason: “So the holy seed shall be its stump” (Isaiah 6:13b).
III. They loved the praise of men more than the praise of God (42-43)
See v42-43
42 Nevertheless even among the rulers many believed in Him, but because of the Pharisees they did not confess Him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue; 43 for they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.
John 5:44 (“How can you believe, who receive honor from one another, and do not seek the honor that comes from the only God?”) was spoken by Jesus when they didn’t receive Jesus who had come in His Father’s name, but they would receive another who would come in his own name (John 5:43). Similarly, v43 was written when they didn’t confess their faith in Jesus to avoid being put out of the synagogue. If they confess their faith in Jesus bravely and become put out of the synagogue, they receive the praise of God and they seek the honor from the only God. However, if they do not confess their faith in Jesus to avoid being put out of the synagogue, they receive the praise of men (the Pharisees) and seek the honor from one another.
A Grain of Wheat and the Truth
John 12:20–33 (NKJV)
20 Now there were certain Greeks among those who came up to worship at the feast. 21 Then they came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.”
22 Philip came and told Andrew, and in turn Andrew and Philip told Jesus.
The Messiah Teaches
23 But Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified. 24 Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. 25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.
27 “Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour. 28 Father, glorify Your name.”
Then a voice came from heaven, saying, “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again.”
29 Therefore the people who stood by and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to Him.”
30 Jesus answered and said, “This voice did not come because of Me, but for your sake. 31 Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out. 32 And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.” 33 This He said, signifying by what death He would die.
Message
I. The Parable of a Grain of Wheat (20-26)
See v20-21
20 Now there were certain Greeks among those who came up to worship at the feast. 21 Then they came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.”
Jesus ministered mainly for the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 10:5-6, 15:24). But His name was heard by the Gentiles as He performed powerful signs and preached the words of eternal life. Finally, certain Greeks came to see Jesus. See v22.
22 Philip came and told Andrew, and in turn Andrew and Philip told Jesus.
Andrew was a helpful disciple and assisted Philip twice (22, John 6:5-9). See v23-26.
23 But Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified. 24 Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. 25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.
At this point when the Gentile Greeks came to see Jesus, Jesus declared that ‘the hour’ had come that the Son of Man should be glorified (23). Related to His glorification (the sacrifice and the resurrection) He taught a lesson. He used a grain of wheat for His metaphor. The shell of grain should be processed by moisture and air in the soil and die, then the life inside the grain sprouts, grows and becomes a large plant or tree, producing much grain. If it does not die, it remains alone (24). He who loves life, that is, who doesn’t want to sacrifice (=die), will lose it. And he who hates his life in this world, that is, who sacrifices (=die) in this world will keep it for eternal life (25).
When we serve Jesus, we should follow His love and sacrifice (26a). If we see the Lord’s servant in a place such as a hospital or a prison, we know Jesus must be there! (26b). Jesus often chose to go to help outcasts or the most hopeless (See John 5:3, 5, 6) because Jesus cares for anyone like them as if that person were Himself (Matthew 25:35-40 NLT, Matthew 25:42-46 NLT). There is the promise of ‘honor’ from the Father to anyone who serves Jesus (26c).
Practical Real-Life Example:
Imagine a farmer who has a single grain of wheat. If he keeps it in a jar, it will remain just one grain. However, if he plants it in the soil, the grain will “die” (24), sprout, grow, and eventually produce a whole crop of wheat, yielding many more grains. This process of planting and growth requires patience and trust in the process.
Practical Guidance for Real Life:
- Embrace Sacrifice for Greater Good: Just as the grain of wheat must die to produce much fruit, we are called to let go of our selfish desires and ambitions. This might mean sacrificing our time, resources, or comfort to serve others and follow Jesus’ teachings. In doing so, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those around us and contribute to a greater good.
- Trust the Process: Like the farmer who trusts that the grain will grow, we need to have faith in the process of spiritual growth. This involves trusting that our sacrifices and efforts will bear fruit in due time, even if we don’t see immediate results.
- Serve with Love and Humility: Serving Jesus means following His example of love and sacrifice. This can be practiced in everyday life by helping those in need, showing kindness to others, and putting others’ needs before our own. When we serve with a genuine heart, we reflect Jesus’ love and bring honor to God.
- Seek Eternal Perspective: Jesus teaches that those who love their life will lose it, but those who hate their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. This means prioritizing spiritual values over worldly gains. By focusing on eternal life and God’s promises, we can find true fulfillment and purpose.
- Recognize God’s Presence in Service: When we serve others, we are serving Jesus. Look for opportunities to serve in your community, church, or workplace. Remember that in serving others, you are also honoring God, and He promises to honor those who serve Him.
By applying these principles, we can live a life that is fruitful and aligned with Jesus’ teachings, just like the grain of wheat that produces much grain when it falls into the ground and dies.
II. His Glorification, the Judgment of this world, and drawing all to Himself (27-33)
See v27-28.
27 “Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour. 28 Father, glorify Your name.”
Then a voice came from heaven, saying, “I have both glorified it and will glorify it again.”
His hour has come (see v23). Before the sacrifice, His soul was troubled. But Jesus is not asking the Father to save Him from this hour because He came to this hour on purpose. In v23, the hour is when the Son of Man should be ‘glorified’ even though it starts with the ‘sacrifice’ on the cross. However, the shame and pain on the cross will be followed by the glorious resurrection. The glory is so great so that the sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory (See Romans 8:18). So, the 'sacrifice’ and the 'resurrection’ were indicated by Jesus with one word, the 'glorification’.
V28a shows that Jesus was not escaping from this hour but going to glorify the name of the Father. So, He prayed, “Father, glorify Your name.” (28a)
God answered via a voice from heaven (28b). “I have glorified it.” may indicate the resurrection of Lazarus after his four-day death. “I will glorify it again.” may indicate the resurrection of Jesus after His crucifixion. See v29-33.
29 Therefore the people who stood by and heard it said that it had thundered. Others said, “An angel has spoken to Him.”
30 Jesus answered and said, “This voice did not come because of Me, but for your sake. 31 Now is the judgment of this world; now the ruler of this world will be cast out. 32 And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.” 33 This He said, signifying by what death He would die.
The prayer of Jesus (28a) was responded to by a voice from heaven that could be heard by the people who stood by (28b, 29). Jesus explains that the voice came for our sake. The resurrection is an important event and it glorifies the Father. But the resurrection comes after the cross. No cross, no glory. But the sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory (Romans 8:18). His hour of glorifying the Father is now (23) and now is the judgment of this world (31a). Now the ruler of this world will be cast out (31b). So, the children of God will be protected from him in the kingdom of God but the world around us is under the control of the evil one (See 1 John 5:19 NLT). The crucified Christ will draw all people to Himself (32, See 1 Timothy 2:4, 1 Corinthians 15:25, 27).
Practical Guidance for Real Life:
- Embrace Your Purpose: Just as Jesus accepted His purpose despite the suffering it entailed, we should seek to understand and embrace our own purpose of life in God. This might involve facing challenges and making sacrifices, but knowing that we are fulfilling our purpose can give us strength and determination.
- Trust in God’s Plan: Jesus did not ask to be saved from His hour of suffering because He trusted in God’s plan. In our own lives, we may face difficult situations, but trusting that God has a greater plan for us can provide comfort and hope. Remember that even in times of trouble, God is working for our good.
- Seek to Glorify God: Jesus’ prayer was for God’s name to be glorified (28). In our daily lives, we can seek to glorify God through our actions, words, and attitudes. This might involve showing kindness, helping others, and living with integrity. By doing so, we reflect God’s love and bring honor to His name.
- Understand the Power of Sacrifice: Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was followed by His glorious resurrection. This teaches us that sacrifice often leads to greater rewards. In our own lives, making sacrifices for the sake of others or for a greater cause can lead to personal growth, fulfillment, and blessings.
- Recognize the Importance of the Cross: Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection are central to the Christian faith. Understanding the significance of the cross can deepen our faith and commitment. It reminds us that suffering and sacrifice are part of the journey, but they lead to ultimate victory and glory.
- Live with an Eternal Perspective: Jesus spoke of drawing all people to Himself through His crucifixion (32). This reminds us to live with an eternal perspective, focusing on the spiritual and eternal implications of our actions. By keeping our eyes on eternity, we can navigate life’s challenges with hope and purpose.
By applying these principles, we can live a life that is aligned with Jesus’ teachings and His example of glorification.
The Most Beautiful Devotion by Mary and The Blessed Humble King Jesus
John 12:1–19 (NKJV)
1 Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. 2 There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. 3 Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.
4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, 5 “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.
7 But Jesus said, “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. 8 For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.”
9 Now a great many of the Jews knew that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. 10 But the chief priests plotted to put Lazarus to death also, 11 because on account of him many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus.
12 The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13 took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out:
“Hosanna!
‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’
The King of Israel!”
14 Then Jesus, when He had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written:
15 “Fear not, daughter of Zion;
Behold, your King is coming,
Sitting on a donkey’s colt.”
16 His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written about Him and that they had done these things to Him.
17 Therefore the people, who were with Him when He called Lazarus out of his tomb and raised him from the dead, bore witness. 18 For this reason the people also met Him, because they heard that He had done this sign. 19 The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!”
Message
I. Mary’s Most Beautiful Devotion and Judas’ Objection (1-8)
See v1-3.
1 Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. 2 There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. 3 Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil.
The event of Mary anointing the Lord (3) is also written in Matthew 26:6-13, and Mark 14:3-9. According to v5 or Mark 14:5 NLT, the oil worthed a year’s wages. Mary expressed her gratitude and love toward Jesus. See v4-6.
4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, 5 “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it.
Judas Iscariot showed his objection to her deed. Mary was willing to spend the expensive fragrant oil for Jesus, but Judas preferred to turn it into cash for his advantage because he used to steal from the money box. This shows Judas didn’t have the heart for Jesus and was an idiot and a thief. See v7-8.
7 But Jesus said, “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. 8 For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.”
Jesus was going to die on the cross soon. Her deed was for comforting, loving, blessing, and appreciating before it. The opportunity to do this for Him would not come again but there are always a lot of opportunities to help the poor.
II. Impact of Jesus’ Resurrection of Lazarus and the Dark Conspiracy (9-12)
See v9-12.
9 Now a great many of the Jews knew that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. 10 But the chief priests plotted to put Lazarus to death also, 11 because on account of him many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus.
12 The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem,
Raising four-day-dead Lazarus impacted many Jews to believe in Jesus (11). The expressions ‘a great many of the Jews’ (9), ‘many of the Jews’ (11), and ‘a great multitude’ (12) show the impact of the resurrection of Lazarus Jesus performed (17-18, John 11:1-44). However, the chief priests plotted to kill Lazarus (10) to oppose the impact (11). This shows they were of their father the devil, a murderer from the beginning (John 8:44).
III. Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord (13)
What did the great multitude (12) do? See v13.
13 took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out:
“Hosanna!
‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’
The King of Israel!”
They praised Him as ‘the King of Israel’ and shouted ‘Hosanna’ (Psalm 118:25). ‘Hosanna’ is an exclamation of praise that means ‘Save now’ [1].
The great multitude called Jesus ‘blessed’ for His coming ‘in the name of the Lord’ (Psalm 118:26, John 5:43a).
The Jews didn’t receive Jesus who came in the name of the Lord (=His Father’s name) (John 5:43a). Jesus pointed out that if another comes in his own name, they would receive (John 5:43b). Jesus said they couldn’t believe Him because they would receive honor from one another, and did not seek the honor that would come from the only God (John 5:44). Jesus attributed Jews’ disbelief to their desire for honor from each other, rather than from God.
IV. The Humble King, Jesus (14-15)
They praised Him as ‘the King of Israel’ (13) but the following verses show that Jesus is the humble King. See v14-15.
14 Then Jesus, when He had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written:
15 “Fear not, daughter of Zion;
Behold, your King is coming,
Sitting on a donkey’s colt.”
V15 is from Zechariah 9:9. Jesus, depicted as a humble King, riding into the city on a young donkey fulfilled the prophecy from Zechariah 9:9. See v16.
16 His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written about Him and that they had done these things to Him.
His disciples initially didn’t understand these things, but they remembered the prophecies (Psalm 118:25-26, Zechariah 9:9) and these events after Jesus was glorified. Here, His Glorification means His Crucifixion and Resurrection. See v17-19.
17 Therefore the people, who were with Him when He called Lazarus out of his tomb and raised him from the dead, bore witness. 18 For this reason the people also met Him, because they heard that He had done this sign. 19 The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!”
As can be seen also in v9-12, the witnesses of Lazarus’ resurrection testified about Jesus, attracting more people to Him (17-18). John 11:47 shows the chief priest and the Pharisees were together. Therefore, the Pharisees may be part of their dark conspiracy (10-11) to oppose Jesus. Despite their efforts, the Pharisees felt they were accomplishing nothing, observing that ‘the world has gone after Him’.
References
[1] The Holy Bible. New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers, Inc. 2021 Ed
The Prophecy and Plot: Jesus’ Sacrifice Foretold
The Easter message on John 11:1-48 (Jesus who is the Resurrection and the Life) was posted earlier and available at https://www.comnc.org/the-gospel/the-gospel-of-john/jesus-who-is-the-resurrection-and-the-life/
John 11:49–57 (NKJV)
49 And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all, 50 nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” 51 Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, 52 and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad.
53 Then, from that day on, they plotted to put Him to death. 54 Therefore Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there into the country near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim, and there remained with His disciples.
55 And the Passover of the Jews was near, and many went from the country up to Jerusalem before the Passover, to purify themselves. 56 Then they sought Jesus, and spoke among themselves as they stood in the temple, “What do you think—that He will not come to the feast?” 57 Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a command, that if anyone knew where He was, he should report it, that they might seize Him.
Message
We’re about to step into a powerful story from the Bible. It’s about a prophecy made by Caiaphas, the high priest, and a plot against Jesus. The scripture, taken straight from John 11:49-57, helps us understand why Jesus’ sacrifice was so important, not just for one nation, but for all of God’s children everywhere.
I. Caiaphas’ prophecy: Jesus’ Sacrifice for the nation and God’s children (49-52)
See v49-52.
49 And one of them, Caiaphas, being high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all, 50 nor do you consider that it is expedient for us that one man should die for the people, and not that the whole nation should perish.” 51 Now this he did not say on his own authority; but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the nation, 52 and not for that nation only, but also that He would gather together in one the children of God who were scattered abroad.
The Jews have been seeking Jesus to seize or kill for breaking the Sabbath (John 7:1, 11, 25, 30, 32, 10:39). Also, they tried to stone Him for blasphemy (John 8:59, 10:31). However, they found an additional reason to justify Jesus' death. God revealed through the high priest that Jesus would die not only for the nation but also for God’s children worldwide (51, 52). His sacrifice was perceived as a necessary measure to save the entire nation from perishing (50). These verses reveal Jesus’ mission for the nation and the extensive implications of His sacrifice for the Gentiles.
II. The Plot Against Jesus: His Withdrawal and the Approaching Passover (53-57)
See v53-54.
53 Then, from that day on, they plotted to put Him to death. 54 Therefore Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews, but went from there into the country near the wilderness, to a city called Ephraim, and there remained with His disciples.
Now ‘His hour’ of sacrifice has come closer.
See v55-57.
55 And the Passover of the Jews was near, and many went from the country up to Jerusalem before the Passover, to purify themselves. 56 Then they sought Jesus, and spoke among themselves as they stood in the temple, “What do you think—that He will not come to the feast?” 57 Now both the chief priests and the Pharisees had given a command, that if anyone knew where He was, he should report it, that they might seize Him.
That’s the end of the message for this part of the Bible. We’ve seen a prophecy, a plot, and the lead-up to Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice. The scripture from John 11:49-57 gives us a deeper understanding of why Jesus had to die and what his death meant for the world. It’s a reminder of the great love and sacrifice that Jesus showed us, a love that continues to touch lives today.
The Divinity of Jesus: Affirmation, Denial, and Belief
John 10:31–42 (NKJV)
31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him. 32 Jesus answered them, “Many good works I have shown you from My Father. For which of those works do you stone Me?”
33 The Jews answered Him, saying, “For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and because You, being a Man, make Yourself God.”
34 Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods” ’? 35 If He called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken), 36 do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’? 37 If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; 38 but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.” 39 Therefore they sought again to seize Him, but He escaped out of their hand.
40 And He went away again beyond the Jordan to the place where John was baptizing at first, and there He stayed. 41 Then many came to Him and said, “John performed no sign, but all the things that John spoke about this Man were true.” 42 And many believed in Him there.
Message
In the previous message, we learned the following.
The Jews didn’t believe the Good Shepherd Jesus despite the Works of God He performed (John 10:22-26). But His sheep hear His voice, follow Him, have eternal life and shall never perish (John 10:27-28a). The Father is greater than all (John 10:29a), which supports the reason that no one can snatch His sheep out of the Father’s hand (John 10:28b, John 10:29b). The Son and the Father are one (John 10:30). So, the Son is greater than all and no one can snatch His sheep out of His hand.
What happened when Jesus said, “I and My Father are one.” in John 10:30?
I. The Jews' denial of Jesus’ Divinity (31-33)
See v31.
31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone Him.
Previously, the Jews took up stones to throw at Him in John 8:59, too. See v32-33.
32 Jesus answered them, “Many good works I have shown you from My Father. For which of those works do you stone Me?”
33 The Jews answered Him, saying, “For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and because You, being a Man, make Yourself God.”
They didn’t recognise Jesus as the Son of God or God. This contrasts that the criminal recognised Jesus as divine by calling Him ‘Lord’ (Luke 23:42 NKJV). They should have recognised His divinity when they saw many good works He had shown from His Father. But they didn’t believe Him being divine.
II. Jesus’ Divinity, affirmed by the Scripture and the Works of God (34-38)
See v34-36.
34 Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, “You are gods” ’? 35 If He called them gods, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken), 36 do you say of Him whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’?
Jesus quoted Psalm 82:6a. See Psalm 82:6 NKJV.
6 I said, “You are gods,
And all of you are children of the Most High.
In this verse, ‘I’ is God. God called them ‘gods’. Jesus taught that the reason He called them so was that the word of God came to them (35). Then, Jesus has more reasons to be considered ‘divine’ and ‘not blaspheming’.
- The Father sanctified Him (36a).
- The Father sent Him into the world (36b).
- Jesus said He was the Son of God (36c).
- Jesus did the works of the Father (37, 38)
See v37-38.
37 If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; 38 but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.”
The works of God Jesus performed was one of the five witnesses of Jesus, which was greater than the human witness John (John 8:14, 5:31-40). The works show them the Father was in Jesus, and Jesus in the Father (38, Also see John 14:11).
III. The Jews’ Persistent Unbelief and Continued Rejection of Jesus’ Divinity (39)
See v39.
39 Therefore they sought again to seize Him, but He escaped out of their hand.
Despite the many good works Jesus performed (32), they persisted in their unbelief. Jesus explained the reason for their unbelief in John 10:25-26 NKJV (“because you are not of My sheep”). Everyone who has heard and learned from the Father comes to Jesus (John 6:45 NKJV). The Jews did not hear God because they did not belong to God (John 8:47). Their view is shown in v33. The Jews sought to take Him before (John 7:11, 30, 32, also see John 7:1, 25). But they didn’t actually take Him then and He didn’t have to escape. Again, they sought to seize Him in v39. This time, Jesus had to escape from them.
IV. The Power of John’s Testimony in Guiding Belief in Jesus (40-42)
See v40-42.
40 And He went away again beyond the Jordan to the place where John was baptizing at first, and there He stayed. 41 Then many came to Him and said, “John performed no sign, but all the things that John spoke about this Man were true.” 42 And many believed in Him there.
The works of God Jesus performed are greater witness than John’s (John 5:36) but v41 shows that it was John’s message that guided many to believe in Jesus. Also, we can learn that a human witness of Jesus doesn’t necessarily have to perform any sign.
The sheep of the Good Shepherd Jesus hear His Voice, follow Him and shall never perish
John 10:22–30 (NKJV)
The Opposition at the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem
22 Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. 23 And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon’s porch. 24 Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.”
25 Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me. 26 But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep, as I said to you. 27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 30 I and My Father are one.”
Message
I. The Jews didn’t believe the Good Shepherd Jesus despite the Works of God He performed (22-26)
See v22-25.
22 Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. 23 And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon’s porch. 24 Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, “How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.”
25 Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father’s name, they bear witness of Me.
The works of God Jesus performed is one of the five witnesses (Jesus, John, the works, the Father, the Scriptures) (John 8:14, 5:31-40). The blind man knew ‘one thing’ so obvious that no one could deny, that is, the healing of his blindness (John 9:25). Jesus said, “…though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me, and I in Him.” (John 10:38, See also John 14:11) But the Jews still didn’t believe. Jesus says the reason. See v26.
26 But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep, as I said to you.
The sheep ‘hear’ (‘know’) the voice of the (good) shepherd (John 10:3, 4, 14, 16, 27). As a result, they understand his (or His) words (John 8:43) and believe (John 8:46). On the contrary, those who do not believe are not of His sheep (26).
II. His sheep hear His voice, follow Him, and shall never perish (27-30)
27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.
The good shepherd knows the sheep (John 10:14, 27) and they follow Him (John 10:4, 27).
28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.
‘eternal life’ is defined in John 17:3. ‘never perish’ is also ‘never die’ (John 11:26). Jesus is the resurrection and life. The believer shall live even if he may die physically (John 11:25) and he shall never die spiritually (John 11:26). ‘neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand’ is expressed in Romans 8:38-39. See Romans 8:38–39 NKJV.
38 For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, 39 nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
See v29-30.
29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand. 30 I and My Father are one.”
The Father is greater than all, which supports the reason that no one can snatch His sheep out of the Father’s hand. The Son and the Father are one. So, the Son is greater than all and no one can snatch His sheep out of His hand.
The Good Shepherd Jesus – the Father knows Him, He knows the Father, His will and His love for the sheep
John 10:14–21 (NKJV)
14 I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own. 15 As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.
17 “Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again. 18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.”
19 Therefore there was a division again among the Jews because of these sayings. 20 And many of them said, “He has a demon and is mad. Why do you listen to Him?”
21 Others said, “These are not the words of one who has a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
Message
The good shepherd, Jesus, gives His life for the sheep because He owns and cares about the sheep (John 10:11-13).
Jesus says, “I am the good shepherd.” again in v14a. Let us study other aspects of Jesus being the good shepherd.
I. The good shepherd, Jesus, know His sheep and is known by His own (14)
See v14.
14 I am the good shepherd; and I know My sheep, and am known by My own.
Jesus is the good shepherd (14a). First of all, the good shepherd knows His own sheep (14b). This fact is also shown in John 10:3c (“and he calls his own sheep by name”). And they know the good shepherd (14c). In John 10:3, we learn that the sheep hear the voice of the shepherd. They follow the shepherd because they know (recognise) his voice (John 10:4b).
II. As the Father knows Jesus, Jesus knows the Father, His will and His love for the sheep (15-16)
See v15.
15 As the Father knows Me, even so I know the Father; and I lay down My life for the sheep.
As the Father knows the Son Jesus, Jesus knows the Father (15a). So, Jesus knows very well what the Father’s will is. Jesus said, “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but raise it up at the last day. And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I raise him up at the last day.” (John 6:39, 40). Jesus has come down from heaven, not to do His own will, but the will of God who sent Him (John 6:38). Jesus obeyed the will of the Father, obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross (Philippians 2:8). The good shepherd understands His sheep who need Him and knows the Father’s love for them and His will to save them. And He lays down His life for the sheep. To forgive (save) them, He sacrificed His life on the cross and paid for their sins.
See v16.
16 And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.
‘this fold’ is the Jewish sheepfold and other sheep not of this fold are the Gentiles. The Jews and the Gentiles will become one flock under one shepherd, the Lord Jesus.
III. The Father loves Jesus because He lays down His life that He may take it again (17-18)
See v17.
17 “Therefore My Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again.
Jesus always did those things that pleased the Father (John 8:29b). So, the Father was with Him and had not left Him alone (John 8:29a). And Jesus lay down His life that He may take it again. So, the Father loves Him. ‘laying down His life’ is one of the things that pleased the Father.
See v18.
18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This command I have received from My Father.”
Jesus was crucified not because He didn’t have enough power to protect His own life but because He laid it down voluntarily. Jesus had the power to take His life down and the power to take it again. His sacrifice on the cross and the resurrection are commanded by His Father.
IV. A division among the Jews (19-21)
See v19-20
19 Therefore there was a division again among the Jews because of these sayings. 20 And many of them said, “He has a demon and is mad. Why do you listen to Him?”
We see that the people in the world may mistakenly think that the heavenly (John 3:31) and spiritual (John 6:63) man Jesus has a demon and a mental disorder. So, we shouldn’t be surprised when we are misunderstood by them.
See v21.
21 Others said, “These are not the words of one who has a demon. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”
Those who took the work(s) of God performed by Him into consideration maintained their belief (trust, faith).
Jesus, the Door of the Sheep and the Good Shepherd
John 10:1–13 (NKJV)
“I Am the Good Shepherd”
10 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6 Jesus used this illustration, but they did not understand the things which He spoke to them.
7 Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. 10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. 12 But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. 13 The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep.
Message
I. Jesus, the Door of the Sheep (1-10)
See v1-6.
10 “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. 2 But he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the doorkeeper opens, and the sheep hear his voice; and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 And when he brings out his own sheep, he goes before them; and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. 5 Yet they will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” 6 Jesus used this illustration, but they did not understand the things which He spoke to them.
What v1-5 means is in the following verses. See v7-9.
7 Then Jesus said to them again, “Most assuredly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who ever came before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.
Before Jesus came to the world, the sheepfold was without the door! So, anyone and everyone who approached the sheep was a thief and a robber. Jesus came to the world and now the sheepfold got the door (=Jesus) which a shepherd can enter through! The sheepfold could be the Jewish sheepfold or a Gentile sheepfold. For the Jewish sheepfold, the Pharisees were the religious leaders of the sheep (=the Jews). The Pharisees before Jesus came or without knowing Jesus were not shepherds but thieves and robbers! The disciples of Jesus are the shepherds! Jesus is the door of salvation for the sheep and the shepherds. ‘pasture’ is the word of eternal life (John 6:68).
10 The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.
The thief may steal their blessings, (heavenly) gifts (or prizes), and possessions. He may kill their (spiritual) life and destroy their future (happiness). But Jesus came that they might have life in its fullness. See v11-13.
II. Jesus, the Good Shepherd (11-13)
11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. 12 But a hireling, he who is not the shepherd, one who does not own the sheep, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them. 13 The hireling flees because he is a hireling and does not care about the sheep.
In v1-10, Jesus is the door of the sheep. In v11-18, Jesus is the good shepherd. The shepherd is one who enters through the door of the sheep, Jesus (John 10:2). Now Jesus shows what is the ‘good’ shepherd. The ‘good’ shepherd gives His life for the sheep (11). Obviously, the ‘good’ shepherd is not a selfish person. He must be a merciful, considerate, sympathetic and sacrificial person. When one is busy satisfying one’s flesh (=sinful nature), one may not be selfless, but selfish, idiotic, rebellious, and deceptive. But, a godly person who puts the will of God first and follows the Spirit of God may not be selfish but do what is good, right and fair. Further, let us think about how much one should love someone so that one may sacrifice one’s life for the person. One must extremely value, care and love the person. The ‘good’ shepherd’s love touches my heart and my tear falls down. Jesus compares the ‘good’ shepherd with a hireling (12). A hireling is neither the shepherd nor the owner of the sheep (12a). So, when he sees the wolf coming, he leaves the sheep and flees (12b). And the wolf catches the sheep and scatters them (12c). In this illustration, ‘giving life for the sheep’ is not simply ‘dying’ but rather ‘providing appropriate protection against the predators’. It takes skills, bravery, commitment, tools, awareness, vigilance, wisdom, and everything it takes to protect the sheep. Jesus gave us the word of eternal life, the Holy Spirit, the Apostles, and His Churches and He is with us till the end of the age. To save us from sin and condemnation, Jesus has done the ultimate sacrifice required by the law. He did what it took to protect us from the wolf (the sin & death, the accuser, the tempter). The hireling flees because he is hired for money and does not really care about the sheep. The Pharisees might be hired by a Synagogue or the Temple for money but they didn’t really care about the sheep who needed protection from sin and death.
