JESUS Died for Us - John 12:7-15; 13:21, 26-27; 19:16b-19, 33-37 - April 1, 2007

Sunday School Lesson – JESUS Died for Us – April 1, 2007

This is a continuation of our study in the Book of John. Our study this Sunday is a hop, skip and jump through the scripture focusing on John 12:7-15; 13:21, 26-27; 19:16b-19, 33-37.

My computer is back in the shop until the end of April so the lessons will be abbreviated.

Last Sunday we saw GOD performing a miracle to get the attention of the religious leaders and the people. HE raised Lazarus, who had been dead for four (4) days and stinking, from the dead. This was to reveal without question that JESUS is the SON OF GOD and to reveal that HE is the resurrection and the life. JESUS has the authority over death and HE has the authority to give eternal life to all who accept HIM as SAVIOR.

The raising of Lazarus also prepares the way to reveal, that through the resurrection of JESUS, that JESUS paid in full the penalty for sin and conquered death. HE is the first fruit of those who have died and a confirmation that all who believe in HIM have eternal life through the miracle of rebirth.

Let’s read John 12:7-15:

The Decision to Kill Lazarus
9 Then a large crowd of the Jews learned He (JESUS) was there. They came not only because of Jesus, but also to see Lazarus the one He had raised from the dead. 10 Therefore the • chief priests decided to also kill Lazarus, 11 because he was the reason many of the Jews were deserting them[3] Lit going away and believing in Jesus.

After the resurrection of Lazarus the Jews wanted to kill both Lazarus and JESUS. But fortunately many people believed and acknowledged JESES as the Messiah.

The Triumphal Entry
12 The next day, when the large crowd that had come to the festival heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13 they took palm branches and went out to meet Him. They kept shouting: “• Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord[4] Ps 118:25–26 —the King of Israel!” 14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, just as it is written: 15 Fear no more, Daughter Zion; look! your King is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt.[5] Zch 9:9

We celebrate this occasion as Palm Sunday. There are many people in Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. Just think about it. GOD delivered the Israelites from the bondage of slavery and HE instituted the Passover to celebrate this event. JESUS is crucified on the day the Israelites celebrated the Passover, to full fill the deliverance of all mankind from the bondage of sin and death.

The Jewish historian, Josephus, estimated the number of people in Jerusalem to be over 2 million. Jerusalem was all-abuzz about JESUS raising Lazarus from the dead. They acknowledged HIM as the Messiah but they were looking for a political solution from Roman rule. They had not considered that JESUS was going to set them free from the ultimate enemy, sin and death.

The crowd welcomed JESUS as a conqueror but HE did not ride into Jerusalem as a military conqueror would ride into a city to declare victory. A military conqueror would have ridden into the city on a white horse but JESUS rides into Jerusalem on a donkey indicating that HE is coming in peace. GOD gives us this prophesy through the prophet Zechariah.

Zechariah 9:9:
9 Rejoice greatly, Daughter Zion! Shout in triumph, Daughter Jerusalem! See, your King is coming to you; He is righteous and victorious,[7] Or and has salvation humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.[8] Isa 62:11; Mt 21:5; Jn 12:15

“Hosanna” means “save now.” The crowd wanted JESUS to deliver them from Roman rule now. When we get false notions about what GOD’S plan is we are greatly disappointed when it does not work out like we think it should. GOD is very clear. HIS ways are not our ways and HIS thoughts are above our thoughts. When we have the proper relationship with HIM we will not prejudge how GOD will accomplish things around us. We will wait upon HIM and be obedient to our part in HIS plan.

Now we skip to the betrayal of JESUS.

Let’s read John 13:21, 26-27:

Judas’ Betrayal Predicted
21 When Jesus had said this, He was troubled in His spirit and testified, “I assure you: One of you will betray Me!” 22 The disciples started looking at one another—uncertain which one He was speaking about. 23 One of His disciples, the one Jesus loved,[9] Jn 19:26; 20:2; 21:7,20 was reclining close beside Jesus.[10] Lit reclining at Jesus’ breast; that is, on His right; Jn 1:18 24 Simon Peter motioned to him to find out who it was He was talking about. 25 So he leaned back against Jesus and asked Him, “Lord, who is it?” 26 Jesus replied, “He’s the one I give the piece of bread to after I have dipped it.”[11] Ps 41:9 When He had dipped the bread, He gave it to Judas, Simon Iscariot’s son.[12] Other mss read Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son 27 After [Judas ate]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. the piece of bread, Satan entered him. Therefore Jesus told him, “What you’re doing, do quickly.” 28 None of those reclining at the table knew why He told him this. 29 Since Judas kept the money-bag, some thought that Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the festival,” or that he should give something to the poor. 30 After receiving the piece of bread, he went out immediately. And it was night.

JESUS was troubled in HIS Spirit. This is akin to HIM being angry in last week’s lesson. JESUS was concerned for the person who was going to betray HIM.

JESUS mentions what is about to happen to put Judas on alert that HE is aware of what he is going to do and giving him an opportunity to change his mind. The Apostle John was next to JESUS and the Apostle Peter was next to John. Peter hears what JESUS said about one of them betraying HIM. Peter wants to know who it is and asks John to ask JESUS. So he does.

JESUS is dipping bread into a bowl of gravy or sop. JESUS hands it to Judas. This should have identified Judas as the culprit. But the handing of the bread to a person also had another meaning. When a host handed the bread to a person it was a sign of friendship, acceptance and honor.

Judas clearly got the message but the others missed the message. Judas was the treasurer and they thought JESUS had asked him go do something. We learn that Judas was a thief.

Many speculate as to why Judas betrayed JESUS. Some think he was ambitious and power hungry. He knew JESUS had extraordinary power and he wanted HIM to establish an earthly kingdom because he wanted to be part of the ruling body. We do not know for sure but it is clear JESUS appealed to him and gave him ample opportunity to change his mind. But the scripture is clear that once Judas left, he made up his mind to do the deed.

Life is all about making decisions. GOD gives each of us the freedom to make decisions. We are accountable for the decisions we make both good and bad.

If you read the full account of the events to unfold in the remaining scripture we learn the following:

Peter denied JESUS three (3) times and realized his sin, wept, repented and was forgiven. Peter went on to faithfully serve our LORD.

Judas realized he had made the wrong decision and hanged himself.

Grace was available to both. Peter sought and received grace but Judas took matters into his own hands and killed himself.

It is important that every one of us realize no matter what we have done, GOD will forgive each of us and welcome us into HIS family. If we have strayed, HE is there to welcome us back into fellowship with HIM. Our part is to confess our sin and it HIS part to forgive and to restore.

Now we fast forward to the crucifixion.

Let’s read John 19:16b-19, 31-37:
The Crucifixion
Therefore they took Jesus away.[7] Other mss add and led Him out 17 Carrying His own cross, He went out to what is called Skull Place, which in Hebrew is called Golgotha. 18 There they crucified Him and two others with Him, one on either side, with Jesus in the middle. 19 • Pilate also had a sign lettered and put on the cross. The inscription was:

JESUS THE NAZARENE THE KING OF THE JEWS

Jesus’ Side Pierced
31 Since it was the preparation day,[12] Jn 19:14 the Jews did not want the bodies to remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a special[13] Lit great day). They requested that Pilate have the men’s legs broken and that [their bodies]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. be taken away.[14] Dt 21:22–23 32 So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first man and of the other one who had been crucified with Him. 33 When they came to Jesus, they did not break His legs since they saw that He was already dead. 34 But one of the soldiers pierced His side with a spear, and at once blood and water came out. 35 He who saw this has testified[15] Jn 1:14–15,34 so that you also may believe. His testimony is true, and he knows he is telling the truth.[16] Jn 21:24 36 For these things happened so that the Scripture would be fulfilled:[17] Jn 13:18; 17:12; 19:24 Not one of His bones will be broken.[18] Ex 12:46; Nm 9:12; Ps 34:20 37 Also, another Scripture says: They will look at the One they pierced.[19] Zch 12:10

JESUS is beaten and crucified. Crucifixion is a very cruel way to kill a person. The Romans adopted crucifixion from the Greeks, who in turn adopted it from the Medes and the Persians. The Romans wanted a method of punishment, which was cruel to deter crime. They wanted it to be public and wanted all on lookers to see how cruel it was. They would allow a body to hang for days to rot on the cross. The Jewish historian, Josephus, called crucifixion the “most wretched of deaths.” The person crucified usually died of dehydration, suffocation and heart failure.

The person being crucified would raise himself or herself up on the cross to breath. If the executioners wanted the person being crucified to die quicker they would break their legs to prevent them from pushing themselves up to breath.

JESUS willingly gave HIS life for each human on the cruel cross that all who believe in HIM might have forgiveness of sin and receive the gift of eternal life.

Notice they did not break the legs of JESUS but they did pierce HIS side to make sure HE was dead. The following prophecy captures the crucifixion of the Messiah.

Zechariah 12:10:

10 “Then I will pour out a spirit[4] Or out the Spirit [5] Zch 4:6; Ezk 39:29; Jl 2:28–29 of grace and prayer on the house of David and the residents of Jerusalem, and they will look at[6] Or to Me whom they pierced. They will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child and weep bitterly for Him as one weeps for a firstborn.[7] Jn 19:37; Rv 1:7

Zechariah 13:1: (The purpose of the death of the Messiah.)
1 “On that day a fountain will be opened for the house of David and for the residents of Jerusalem, [to wash away]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. sin and impurity.[1] Zch 3:1–10

Exodus 12:46:
46 It is to be eaten in one house. You may not take any of the meat outside the house, and you may not break any of its bones.[10] Nm 9:12; Ps 34:20; Jn 19:33,36

This is a foreshadow of the coming of the Messiah WHO would take away the sins of all who believe upon HIM.

Numbers 9:12:
12 they may not leave any of it until morning or break any of its bones.[7] Ex 12:10,46; Jn 19:36 They must observe the Passover according to all its statutes.

Psalm 34:20:
20 He protects all his bones; not one of them is broken.[8] Jn 19:36

JESUS paid the ultimate price to redeem each of us from sin and death. HE redeemed us from the enemy, which is impossible for us, mere humans to conquer through our worn effort, ability or power.

May our LORD prepare each heart this Easter for us who already know HIM and those who do not know HIM to see HIM as we have never seen HIM before – our SAVIOR and our LORD. For HE has risen!!!! Rejoice because HE did it for you and for me!!!

JESUS Restores Our Lives - John 11:1-44 - March 25, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – JESUS Restores Our Lives – March 25, 2007

This is lesson four (4) for the month of March but we will continue studying the book of John for the month of April.

Our scripture is John 11:1-57.

So far in our study of the Book of John, JESUS has referred to Himself as the following “I AM’S”:

I AM the bread.
I AM the light.
I AM the door.
I AM the good shepherd.

In our lesson this Sunday, “I AM the resurrection and the life.”

Death is a mystery to us. The vast majority of us do not want to die. We enjoy life in our earth suit (our human body). GOD intended for us to live forever on earth but Adam and Eve through their disobedience changed that for us. We are all going to die unless the LORD JESUS returns before we die.

We live in an imperfect world and bad things happen to both good and bad people. The hope that we have both here upon earth and after we die is through CHRIST. The Good News, which is the Gospel of CHRIST, is stated by JESUS Himself in John 5:24:

24 “I assure you: Anyone who hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not come under judgment but has passed from death to life.

When we ask CHRIST to forgive us of our sins and come into our lives, HE does. Through the miracle of rebirth we are born into the family of GOD and we become HIS children. At that moment we experience the miracle of rebirth and we are made righteous and given the gift of eternal life. Our reborn spirit will exit our earth suit or body when we die and we are immediately in the presence of the LORD. The life of a Christian never skips a beat.

Our lesson today is evidence that JESUS has complete authority over death. This is the seventh sign in the book of John showing that JESUS is the SON of GOD, the MESSIAH. Listed below are the signs in the Book of John:

The First Sign: Turning Water into Wine.
The Second Sign: Healing an Official’s Son.
The Third Sign: Healing the Sick.
The Fourth Sign: Feeding 5,000.
The Fifth Sign: Walking on Water.
The Sixth Sign: Healing a Man Born Blind.
The Seventh Sign: Raising Lazarus from the Dead.

The seventh sign is a transition point for JESUS’ ministry. Up until this event HE had said HIS time had not yet come, but from this event forward, HE speaks of HIS time having come. The rest of the book is a series of events continuing to fulfill prophesy, preparing JESUS’ disciples and HIS followers for HIS death, resurrection and ascension. Bible scholars are not sure but it is roughly four (4) months until HIS crucifixion.

Let’s read John 11:1-16:
Lazarus Dies at Bethany
1 Now a man was sick, Lazarus, from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 Mary was the one who anointed the Lord with fragrant oil and wiped His feet with her hair,[1] Jn 12:3 and it was her brother Lazarus who was sick. 3 So the sisters sent a message to Him: “Lord, the one You love is sick.” 4 When Jesus heard it, He said, “This sickness will not end in death but is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” 5 (Jesus loved Martha, her sister, and Lazarus.) 6 So when He heard that he was sick, He stayed two more days in the place where He was. 7 Then after that, He said to the disciples, “Let’s go to Judea again.” 8 “• Rabbi,” the disciples told Him, “just now the Jews tried to stone You, and You’re going there again?” 9 “Aren’t there 12 hours in a day?” Jesus answered. “If anyone walks during the day, he doesn’t stumble, because he sees the light of this world. 10 If anyone walks during the night, he does stumble, because the light is not in him.” 11 He said this, and then He told them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen • asleep, but I’m on My way to wake him up.” 12 Then the disciples said to Him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will get well.” 13 Jesus, however, was speaking about his death, but they thought He was speaking about natural sleep. 14 So Jesus then told them plainly, “Lazarus has died. 15 I’m glad for you that I wasn’t there so that you may believe. But let’s go to him.” 16 Then Thomas (called “Twin”) said to his fellow disciples, “Let’s go so that we may die with Him.”

Martha, Mary and Lazarus are good friends of JESUS. JESUS had visited in their home. John wanted to make it clear to all who would read his account of these events to know that he was referring to the Martha and Mary who lived in Bethany near Jerusalem. This is the Mary who had anointed the feet of JESUS likely expressing her gratitude to JESUS for raising her brother, Lazarus, from the dead.

Martha and Mary send a messenger to tell JESUS that HIS friend Lazarus is sick. They say the one YOU love is sick. The word used for love is a word that connotes a warm friendly love for a true friend.

We know there is some distance separating JESUS and his friends but we do not know just how much. Scholars have speculated that it is a one (1) to two (2) days journey. There are two (2) Bethany’s. The place where Maratha and Mary lived is about two (2) miles from Jerusalem. The other is across the Jordan River where JESUS is.

Here is what we know. Let’s go back and read about the events which resulted in JESUS leaving the area and crossing the Jordan River.

Let’s read John 10:31-39:
Renewed Efforts to Stone Jesus
31 Again the Jews picked up rocks to stone Him. 32 Jesus replied, “I have shown you many good works from the Father. Which of these works are you stoning Me for?” 33 “We aren’t stoning You for a good work,” the Jews answered, “but for blasphemy, because You—being a man—make Yourself God.” 34 Jesus answered them, “Isn’t it written in your law,[10] Other mss read in the law I said, you are gods?[11] Ps 82:6 35 If He called those whom the word of God came to ‘gods’—and the Scripture cannot be broken— 36 do you say, ‘You are blaspheming’ to the One the Father set apart and sent into the world, because I said: I am the Son of God? 37 If I am not doing My Father’s works, don’t believe Me. 38 But if I am doing them and you don’t believe Me, believe the works. This way you will know and understand[12] Other mss read know and believe that the Father is in Me and I in the Father.” 39 Then they were trying again to seize Him,[13] Jn 7:44 yet He eluded their grasp.
Many beyond the Jordan Believe in Jesus
40 So He departed again across the Jordan to the place where John had been baptizing earlier, and He remained there. 41 Many came to Him and said, “John never did a sign, but everything John said about this man was true.” 42 And many believed in Him there.

JESUS is across the Jordan River where John the Baptist used to preach and likely where JESUS was baptized.

The important thing is that the messenger delivered the message. Now notice carefully, when the messenger delivered the message to JESUS, JESUS said, “This sickness will not end in death but is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” The messenger heard what JESUS said and so did JESUS’ disciples.

John inserts the fact that JESUS loved Martha, her sister and Lazarus before he adds and HE stayed for two (2) more days.

We must keep in mind that JESUS never did or said anything that was not approved by the FATHER. HE was completely obedient to everything the FATHER instructed HIM to say and do.

JESUS knew that GOD, the FATHER had a plan and would glorify HIM through the plan. Lazarus would not end in death. It was important for JESUS to stay for another two (2) days.

It is hard for us to think of a delay fitting into GOD’S plan for our lives. This is why we must have the relationship with our LORD such that when HE tells us to wait that we wait. JESUS was obedient and waited. Then when HE said let’s go, HIS disciples cautioned HIM about what had recently happened in that area. The people wanted to stone HIM.

JESUS knows that the FATHER has prepared the way and has a plan and purpose which will fit into HIS overall plan leading to the redemption of mankind from sin and death. JESUS is the light.

JESUS tells HIS disciples that Lazarus has fallen asleep and HE will wake him up. The disciples immediately think Lazarus is simply sleeping. It was a very natural thought. But it was JESUS way of making it clear to the disciples that Lazarus is “DEAD.”

We see that Thomas is ready to fight to the death if necessary.

Let’s read John 11:17-
The Resurrection and the Life
17 When Jesus arrived, He found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb four days. 18 Bethany was near Jerusalem (about two miles[2] Lit 15 stadia; 1 stadion = 600 feet away). 19 Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother. 20 As soon as Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet Him. But Mary remained seated in the house. 21 Then Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother wouldn’t have died. 22 Yet even now I know that whatever You ask from God, God will give You.” 23 “Your brother will rise again,” Jesus told her. 24 Martha said, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, will live. 26 Everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die—ever. Do you believe this?” 27 “Yes, Lord,” she told Him, “I believe You are the • Messiah, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”

JESUS arrives in the area and word immediately spreads to Martha and Mary. There is some speculation that JESUS arrives in the vicinity of Lazarus’ tomb.

Martha immediately rushes out to meet HIM. Mary remains in the house. Was Mary sulking or mad with JESUS because HE did not come sooner or just speak a word from where HE was to heal Lazarus? Mary is the one who sat at the feet of JESUS listening to HIS every word. Was she disappointed in JESUS?

Many of us get discouraged or disappointed with JESUS because we have made up our minds as to how HE should have fixed a problem. GOD’S ways are not our ways and HIS thoughts are higher than our thoughts. This is why we have to trust HIM and accept that HE is sovereign. This is very hard to do without the relationship with HIM.

Martha tells JESUS that if HE had been there her brother would not have died and even now what ever HE asked of GOD, HE would do it. This is a great statement of faith and confidence. But if we skip over to verse 39, when JESUS says to remove the stone, Martha says “He stinks.” So what does Martha have in mind?

Remember when Martha and Mary sent the messenger to JESUS? JESUS stated that the sickness would not end in death. It is likely that the messenger told Martha and Mary what JESUS said. Was Mary hoping beyond all hope that JESUS just might have a plan? Well HE does. It is time to reveal one of the most important aspects of HIS ministry and purpose.

JESUS tells Martha that “Your brother will rise again.” Martha acknowledges the resurrection which will happen in the future. Martha is looking for an event but JESUS wants her to see the person WHO makes the event possible.

JESUS states these beautiful words, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, will live. 26 Everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die—ever. Do you believe this?”
Then Martha makes her statement of faith. She calls JESUS, “LORD.” She states that she believes in HIM and recognizes HIM as the Messiah. JESUS wants her to see HIM as the ONE WHO makes the resurrection of the dead possible. The resurrection is the result of HIS obedience and is a person and not an event.

Let’s read John 11:28-37:
Jesus Shares the Sorrow of Death
28 Having said this, she went back and called her sister Mary, saying in private, “The Teacher is here and is calling for you.” 29 As soon as she heard this, she got up quickly and went to Him. 30 Jesus had not yet come into the village but was still in the place where Martha had met Him. 31 The Jews who were with her in the house consoling her saw that Mary got up quickly and went out. So they followed her, supposing that she was going to the tomb to cry there. 32 When Mary came to where Jesus was and saw Him, she fell at His feet and told Him, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died!” 33 When Jesus saw her crying, and the Jews who had come with her crying, He was angry[3] The Gk word is very strong and probably indicates Jesus’ anger against sin’s tyranny and death. in His spirit and deeply moved. 34 “Where have you put him?” He asked. “Lord,” they told Him, “come and see.” 35 Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, “See how He loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Couldn’t He who opened the blind man’s eyes also have kept this man from dying?”

Mary goes back to her house and tells Mary that JESUS wants to see her. She leaves quickly and the mourners think she is going to the tomb. So they follow her.

Could this be the reason JESUS did not go to the house to begin with? JESUS wanted as many people as possible to witness the event which was about to take place. So this entourage follows Mary.

Mary tells JESUS if only HE had been there her brother would not have died. JESUS knew that but there was a more important revelation about to take place. JESUS is angry. We are not sure what HE was angry about. Some speculate that HE is angry at death. Others speculate that HE is angry with the lack of belief of the people and has great compassion for them in their lost state. I think verse 37 captures the sentiment of some of the people.

John shows us the heart of JESUS. JESUS wept. JESUS weeps when we weep even though HE knows that HE is the resurrection and the power. HE understands our sorrows, hurts and disappointments.

Let’s read John 11:38-44:
The Seventh Sign: Raising Lazarus from the Dead
38 Then Jesus, angry in Himself again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone was lying against it. 39 “Remove the stone,” Jesus said. Martha, the dead man’s sister, told Him, “Lord, he already stinks. It’s been four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Didn’t I tell you that if you believed you would see the glory of God?” 41 So they removed the stone. Then Jesus raised His eyes and said, “Father, I thank You that You heard Me. 42 I know that You always hear Me, but because of the crowd standing here I said this, so they may believe You sent Me.” 43 After He said this, He shouted with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out bound hand and foot with linen strips and with his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Loose him and let him go.”

JESUS again is angry in Himself. They arrive at the tomb and HE asks them to remove the stone covering the entrance to the tomb. Martha tells us the Lazarus has been dead for four (4) days and he stinks. JESUS reassures Martha that she needs to trust when every thing in her being tells her differently. Martha, Mary and all the other people will soon see the power of GOD, THE MESSIAH revealed. It is one thing to heal the sick but quite another thing to raise a person from the dead who was already decaying.

JESUS prays to the FATHER out loud. HE wants all to know that HE already had permission for the FATHER to do what HE was about to do. HE wanted all to know where HE received HIS authority and power from.

Lazarus appears at the entrance to the tomb and JESUS instructs them to remove the grave cloths from Lazarus.

Many of us would like to know what Lazarus saw while he was dead. But there is no mention of what he experienced. This is not unusual. I have a friend who was pronounced dead for several hours. They had moved his body to the basement area where the undertaker picked up bodies. A nurse happened to pass by and notice his eye lid twitch. She began CPR and he came back to life. He said he went to heaven but there were not words for him to describe what he had seen. GOD does not want us to dwell on heaven but to remain focused on serving HIM while we are upon earth. We are to be HIS ambassadors to a lost world.

The result is that many believed in JESUS but the religious leaders knew they had to kill both Lazarus and JESUS.

John12:9-11:
The Decision to Kill Lazarus
9 Then a large crowd of the Jews learned He (JESUS) was there. They came not only because of Jesus, but also to see Lazarus the one He had raised from the dead. 10 Therefore the • chief priests decided to also kill Lazarus, 11 because he was the reason many of the Jews were deserting them[3] Lit going away and believing in Jesus.


Let’s read John 11:45-57:
The Plot to Kill Jesus
45 Therefore many of the Jews who came to Mary and saw what He did believed in Him. 46 But some of them went to the • Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. 47 So the • chief priests and the Pharisees convened the • Sanhedrin and said, “What are we going to do since this man does many signs? 48 If we let Him continue in this way, everybody will believe in Him! Then the Romans will come and remove both our place[4] The temple or possibly all of Jerusalem and our nation.” 49 One of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all! 50 You’re not considering that it is to your[5] Other mss read to our advantage that one man should die for the people rather than the whole nation perish.” 51 He did not say this on his own, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus was going to die for the nation, 52 and not for the nation only, but also to unite the scattered children of God. 53 So from that day on they plotted to kill Him. 54 Therefore Jesus no longer walked openly among the Jews but departed from there to the countryside near the wilderness, to a town called Ephraim. And He stayed there with the disciples. 55 The Jewish • Passover was near, and many went up to Jerusalem from the country to purify[6] The law of Moses required God’s people to purify or cleanse themselves so they could celebrate the Passover. Jews often came to Jerusalem a week early to do this; Nm 9:4–11. themselves before the Passover. 56 They were looking for Jesus and asking one another as they stood in the • temple complex: “What do you think? He won’t come to the festival, will He?” 57 The chief priests and the Pharisees had given orders that if anyone knew where He was, he should report it so they could arrest Him.

The religious leaders were more concerned with their political security than their spiritual security.

We saw in last week’s lesson that JESUS healed a man who was blind from birth. The Jews had no knowledge of such a healing ever occurring. This week we see that GOD allowed JESUS to give the people and the religious leaders the miracle of miracles. HE brought Lazarus back to life. Lazarus had been dead for four (4) days and had already begun to decay. That even topped healing the man born blind. But still many refused to be persuaded to follow JESUS.

WHO but GOD’S SON through GOD’S power could give life to a dead body that was already decaying? The religious leaders had already made up their minds and concluded that JESUS had to die for doing the impossible.

This is an example of the extent GOD will go to open the eyes of the spiritually blind. HE presents the opportunity but each human has to make a decision to accept what CHRIST has done for them or reject CHRIST. CHRIST offers each human the opportunity to be resurrected from the dead by accepting HIM as their SAVIOR. Every human is already dead and decaying. JESUS is the power to restore our life from the dead to live eternally. Lazarus was raised from the dead but he had to die again only to live eternally with JESUS.

Where will you spend eternity? In heaven with CHRIST or?

Ask CHRIST to forgive you of your sins and to come into your life right now.

JESUS Takes Care of Us - John 10:1-21 - March 18, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – JESUS Takes Care of Us – March 18, 2007

This is lesson three (3) in our series “What Does JESUS Do for Us?”

Our scripture is John 10:1-21.

So far in our study of John, JESUS has referred to Himself as:

I AM the Bread.
I AM the Light.

This Sunday HE refers to Himself as – “I AM the Door.”

It is interesting that JESUS referred to Himself as a door. A door is an opening or entrance into another area. Let’s see where the door JESUS offers leads.

Let’s read John 10:1-6:
The Ideal Shepherd
1 “• I assure you: Anyone who doesn’t enter the sheep pen by the door but climbs in some other way, is a thief and a robber. 2 The one who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The doorkeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has brought all his own outside, he goes ahead of them. The sheep follow him because they recognize his voice. 5 They will never follow a stranger; instead they will run away from him, because they don’t recognize the voice of strangers.” 6 Jesus gave them this illustration, but they did not understand what He was telling them.
This is a continuation of JESUS teaching the people in last week’s lesson. HE uses a familiar example to which they all could relate, tending sheep. JESUS uses the example of several shepherds combining their sheep in a large sheep pen. Usually such an enclosure had a moderately high stone or brush wall with only one (1) door or entrance. Sometimes they would use a cave. One of the shepherds or a trusted hired shepherd would agree to guard the sheep while the other shepherds would be free to rest, prepare food, get provisions or tend to their needs. The shepherds had the piece of mind to know that their sheep would be guarded by a reliable shepherd.
When the shepherd returned to gather his sheep all he had to do was enter the sheep pen and call the names of his sheep. His sheep would all come out of the sheep pen or fold and follow the shepherd.

There are several things that JESUS says which are key. The shepherd knows his sheep by name and the sheep know the shepherd’s voice and follow him. The shepherd does not drive the sheep instead he leads the sheep. The shepherd goes ahead of the sheep leading them.

I have been told of shepherds using another shepherds clothing in an effort to fool the sheep. The impostor shepherd dressed in the other shepherds clothing and called the sheep by name. Even though the impostor was wearing the clothes of the sheep’s shepherd, the sheep refused to follow him. The key is in knowing the voice of the true shepherd.

This is true for us today. We must know the voice of our SAVIOR and LORD JESUS CHRIST.

JESUS also refers to anyone who enters any other way as a thief or robber. There is some speculation that JESUS is referring to the religious leaders they had encountered after the blind man was healed in last week’s lesson. The people fail to understand what HE is talking about. So JESUS attempts to enlighten them.

Let’s read John 10:7-10:
The Good Shepherd
7 So Jesus said again, “I assure you: I am the door of the sheep. 8 All who came before Me[1] Other mss omit before Me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep didn’t listen to them. 9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 A thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it in abundance.

JESUS uses the phrase “I AM the door.” This phrase is emphatic. It is uttered with great authority. JESUS is saying, ““I AM” and there is NO other!”

What is a door? A door is an entrance into another area. It is a passage.

1 Samuel 1:9:

9 Hannah got up after they ate and drank at Shiloh.[7] LXX adds and presented herself before the Lord Eli the priest was sitting on a chair by the doorpost of the Lord’s tabernacle.

In the Old Testament the Priest had to offer a sacrifice first for his sins and then he could offer a sacrifice for the sins of the people. The Priests would position themselves at the entrance to the Tabernacle so they could offer the sacrifice for the person wishing to enter the Tabernacle.

Let’s read Leviticus 1:1-5:

1 Then the Lord summoned Moses and spoke to him from the tent of meeting: 2 “Speak to the Israelites and tell them: When any of you brings an offering to the Lord from the livestock, you[1] Or Lord, from the livestock you may bring your offering from the herd or the flock.

3 “If his gift is a • burnt offering from the herd, he is to bring an unblemished male. He must bring it to the entrance to the tent of meeting so that he[2] Or it may be accepted by the Lord.[3] Lv 22:18–22; Dt 15:21; Heb 9:14; 1 Pt 1:19 4 He is to lay his hand on the head of the burnt offering so it can be accepted on his behalf to make • atonement for him.[4] Lv 4:4,20; 16:16–18,21; Nm 15:25 5 He is to slaughter the bull before the Lord; Aaron’s sons the priests are to present the blood and sprinkle it[5] Lv 16:14–15; Heb 9:19,21–22; 10:22; 12:24; 1 Pt 1:2 on all sides of the altar that is at the entrance to the tent of meeting.

In the Old Testament GOD came down form heaven and dwelt among the people of Israel at the Tabernacle and later at the temple. GOD gave Moses HIS requirements for those who sought forgiveness of their sins. They had to come to the entrance of the Tabernacle and offer a sacrifice for their sins. Then the Priest would present the blood of the animal sacrificed and sprinkle it on all sides of the altar at the entrance to the tent of meeting. This was to prove to GOD that a sacrifice for sin had been made. The presence of the cloud over the Tabernacle indicated the presence of GOD.

JESUS is drawing a parallel to this practice, particularly for the religious leaders, who are still in the crowd of people. HE is the door or the entrance to GOD. “I AM” has come to earth and “I AM” is the entrance to GOD. Once JESUS gives HIS life for the sins of mankind, JESUS has prepared the human body to be the Tabernacle for the HOLY SPIRIT to dwell. We no longer have to wait until we see the cloud over the Tabernacle to know that GOD is present. As a Christian, GOD is with us 24/7 through the indwelling HOLY SPIRIT.

JESUS says that HIS sheep can go in and out of the fold to find pasture. When we are in CHRIST, HE wants us to be nourished in the pasture of HIS Word and life itself as we build a relationship with HIM.

HE wants us to have an intimate loving relationship with HIM and for us to be nourished through this relationship. HE wants us to study GOD’S Word, pray, fellowship with HIM, to really know HIM and to be obedient to HIM. HE is the way to the abundant life. HE is the way to life that overflows because we are no longer shackled by the unknown of sin, death and judgment. HE has set us free and we as Christians are free to live in fellowship with HIM here upon earth. When we escape this earth suit, called a body, life just keeps on going, except we are in the very presence of our SAVIOR and LORD JESUS and GOD THE FATHER for all eternity. WOW!!!

Then JESUS says all who came before HIM are thieves and robbers. Is HE talking about the early prophets? No. It is believed that HE is speaking about the religious leaders who are still in the group of people listening to JESUS. The religious leaders already had the opportunity to establish their leadership among the people. But the people have failed to follow them. Those who have recognized JESUS, as the true shepherd, have heard HIS voice and follow HIM.

The sheep are the prize possession. The religious leaders want the sheep. So the religious leaders are willing to try to get them any way they can. But those who know the truth are secure in the fold of the good shepherd.

Some religious people are so eager to have a following of people they will say and do any thing to get them to follow them. Recently one of the news magazines featured a story about an ex-convict who calls himself Jesus. He has a following of people.

There are good shepherds and bad shepherds. Discernment, which is a gift of the HOLY SPIRIT, will help Christians separate the good shepherds from the bad or misleading shepherds.

Let’s read John 10:11:

11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.

JESUS tells the people that HE is the good shepherd and HE gives HIS life to protect HIS sheep. No one takes HIS life from HIM. HE freely gives HIS life so that all who believe in HIM will have eternal life. The fact that the miracle HE just performed by giving sight to the eyes of the man who had been blind since birth is proof that HE is Who HE says HE is.

Let’s read John 10:12-15:

12 The hired man, since he is not the shepherd and doesn’t own the sheep, leaves them[2] Lit leaves the sheep and runs away when he sees a wolf coming. The wolf then snatches and scatters them. 13 [This happens]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. because he is a hired man and doesn’t care about the sheep. 14 “I am the good shepherd. I know My own sheep, and they know Me, 15 as the Father knows Me, and I know the Father. I lay down My life for the sheep.

This entire discourse about sheep is an effort to connect the people with the scripture they already had and particularly the religious leaders knew. The people knew about the commitment of those hired to tend sheep. Some were very good and took their job seriously but there were others who could care less. JESUS is focusing on the hireling who was not committed to the job. All the people knew that a good shepherd was committed to his sheep.

I am told that some shepherds knew their sheep so intimately that some could be blindfolded and others would hand them sheep to touch. The blindfolded shepherds could identify their sheep by touch. OH!!! Does this warm your heart? JESUS knows each of HIS because HE has touched us. HE even knows the number of hairs we have on our heads. HE knows us intimately. Do we know HIM intimately? Do we know HIS voice?

JESUS gave HIS life that those who accept HIM as SAVIOR will have forgiveness of their sins and have eternal life. How secure is this? We will see in the next scripture.

Let’s read John 10:16:

16 But I have other sheep that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will listen to My voice. Then there will be one flock, one shepherd.

JESUS says HE has sheep in another fold. Who are these sheep? That is where we as Gentiles come into the grace of GOD. JESUS came first to the House of Israel. JESUS already knows they will, for the most part, reject HIM. In early Christianity the converted Jews spread the Gospel of CHRIST. The Gentiles for the most part have followed HIM and spread the “Good News” of salvation through CHRIST to the entire world. I know there is a strong Messianic Jewish congregation in Virginia serving the Washington, DC and surrounding areas. We are all of the same fold because we have all placed our trust in JESUS the Messiah.

Let’s read John 10:17-21:

17 This is why the Father loves Me, because I am laying down My life so I may take it up again. 18 No one takes it from Me, but I lay it down on My own. I have the right to lay it down, and I have the right to take it up again. I have received this command from My Father.” 19 Again a division[3] Jn 7:43 took place among the Jews because of these words. 20 Many of them were saying, “He has a demon and He’s crazy! Why do you listen to Him?” 21 Others were saying, “These aren’t the words of someone demon-possessed. Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?”

JESUS makes it very clear that HE is in control of HIS own life. HE and HE alone has the right to give up HIS life and to take it up again. HE has the full authority over HIS life because the FATHER has given HIM that authority. JESUS has complete and utter confidence in what the FATHER has told HIM.
JESUS is saying GOD, MY FATHER and I have discussed these things. JESUS is saying HE has spoken to GOD and GOD has spoken to HIM. On top of all that HE calls GOD HIS FATHER.

This is more than many of the people can tolerate. Keep in mind that the religious leaders are still among the people. They want to cause confusion among the people so they say that JESUS must be either crazy or demon-possessed. It is not clear but I think the statement “Why do you listen to HIM?” was likely made by some of the religious leaders. Confusion and doubt are always good things to insert when one wants to shape a direction of a movement.

I want to be very clear that we do need to be discerning when we follow any leader. Not all leaders have good intentions. When red flags go up or we feel uneasy, then pay attention. Check them out. Test religious leaders by using the scripture. Test what they say and do using scripture as the gauge.

The measure these people had, regarding the authenticity of JESUS, were the miracles HE had performed among them. HE had just given sight to a man who had been born blind. The religious leaders themselves had checked out and confirmed that the man had been born blind. No one in history had ever been healed of blindness when they had been born blind. Some of the people made the connection and likely found the truth that JESUS was the promised Messiah. Or it could have been after HE died, was buried and was resurrected that they made the connection. The seeds have been planted.

JESUS takes care of HIS sheep. The proof is that HE gave HIS life to protect all who believe in HIM from sin and death. Sin and death are thieves and robbers that no human can defend themselves against. We are all helpless. That is why the GOOD SHEPHERD is the door. HE says HE is the way to GOD. HE is the truth and the life.

A portion of our scripture states it best in verses 9 and 10:

9 I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 A thief comes only to steal and to kill and to destroy. I have come that they may have life and have it in abundance.

JESUS Opens Our Eyes - John 9:1-41 - March 11, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – JESUS opens Our Eyes - March 11, 2007

This is lesson two (2) in our series, “What Does Jesus Do for Us?”

Our scripture is John 9:1-41.

The “I AM’S” of John:

John 6:35 - I AM the bread of life.
John 8:12 - I AM the light of the world.
John 10:9 - I AM the door.
John 10:11 - I AM the good shepherd.
John 11:25 - I AM the resurrection and the life.
John 14:6 - I AM the way, the truth and the life.
John 15:1 - I AM true vine.
John 15:5 - I AM the vine.

In the Book of Exodus, GOD refers to Himself as “I AM.”

Exodus 3:14:

14 God replied to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.[6] Or I AM BECAUSE I AM, or I WILL BE WHO I WILL BE This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.”

In the Book of John we see JESUS referring to Himself as “I AM.”

JESUS says, “I AM the light of the world.” Light reveals flaws. Light gives a contrast to the dark. Light dispels imaginations resulting from the dark. Light reveals truth once hidden by the dark. Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned. We are all spiritually blind and seek to know the truth. Finding the truth requires a step of faith. When we seek to know the truth, we step from darkness into the light as only CHRIST can reveal. Then we see. But although we see, some of us do not see all there is to see in the beginning. It is a journey of revelation as we seek to know our SAVIOR and LORD JESUS CHRIST.

JESUS opens the eyes of those physically and spiritually blind. When JESUS healed the blind HE did so in a variety of ways. Our journey as a Christian also begins in a variety of ways.

Touch – Matthew 9:29-30:

29 Then He touched their eyes, saying, “Let it be done for you according to your faith!” 30 And their eyes were opened. Then Jesus warned them sternly, “Be sure that no one finds out!”[15] Lit no one knows

Two (2) Touches – Mark 8:22-25:

22 Then they came to Bethsaida. They brought a blind man to Him and begged Him to touch him. 23 He took the blind man by the hand and brought him out of the village. Spitting on his eyes and laying His hands on him, He asked him, “Do you see anything?” 24 He looked up and said, “I see people—they look to me like trees walking.” 25 Again Jesus placed His hands on the man’s eyes, and he saw distinctly. He was cured and could see everything clearly.
Spoke – Mark 10:51-52:

51 Then Jesus answered him, “What do you want Me to do for you?” “Rabbouni,”[14] Hb for my teacher; Jn 20:16 the blind man told Him, “I want to see!” 52 “Go your way,” Jesus told him. “Your faith has healed you.” Immediately he could see and began to follow Him on the road.

Spit and made mud and instructed to wash – John 9: 6-7: (Our lesson this Sunday)

6 After He said these things He spit on the ground, made some mud from the saliva, and spread the mud on his eyes. 7 “Go,” He told him, “wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means “Sent”). So he left, washed, and came back seeing.

We must keep in mind that JESUS did and said only as the FATHER instructed HIM. JESUS had to be obedient to the FATHER both for HIM to be sinless and for the power of GOD to be manifested through HIM.

I put myself in the place of JESUS. It is easy to touch someone or speak and their eyes are healed. But when the FATHER said to spit on the person’s eyes or spit in the dirt, make mud and rub the mud on their eyes? I would likely question such action. This is why when we serve our LORD, we must have complete confidence and trust in JESUS and the FATHER to do exactly as we are instructed. This requires a loving intimate relationship with THEM to respond in complete obedience.

Let’s read John 9: 1-41 with on-going comments:

1 As He was passing by, He saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples questioned Him: “• Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?”

JESUS sees a man blind from birth. It is important that the man is blind from birth because no one has ever been healed who was blind from birth. JESUS sees this as a teaching opportunity for HIS disciples and a variety of other people.

JESUS’ disciples immediately associate the man’s blindness with sin. It was common in those days to associate sin with a disease, deformity or calamity. GOD is punishing someone.

3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” Jesus answered. “[This came about]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. so that God’s works might be displayed in him. 4 We[1] Other mss read I must do the works of Him who sent Me[2] Other mss read sent us while it is day. Night is coming when no one can work. 5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

JESUS makes it clear that sin is not the problem but GOD can use this situation to reveal HIS power through JESUS. The power of GOD is manifested through JESUS.

We as Christians are servants of the LORD and GOD uses us to manifest HIS power to others. We live in an imperfect world and GOD through HIS grace provides for all humans.

Because we live in an imperfect world there are many fellow humans who have many infirmities. I believe GOD gifts mankind to minister to the needs and comfort of others. This could be through gifts HE gives to others such as care givers, physicians, surgeons, researchers, therapists, those who discover medicines, treatments, etc. or though HIS own divine touch. Through these gifts HE manifests Himself to draw all mankind closer to HIM and to reveal Himself and HIS handiwork.

JESUS is the light of the world and HE continues to be the light through every Christian and through HIS handiwork.

6 After He said these things He spit on the ground, made some mud from the saliva, and spread the mud on his eyes. 7 “Go,” He told him, “wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means “Sent”). So he left, washed, and came back seeing.

JESUS spits on the ground and makes mud from HIS saliva. This was not a strange thing in that day. Some thought the saliva of a prophet had healing power. Why does GOD instruct JESUS to spit on the ground, make mud, spread it on the man’s eyes and then go wash it off? Of course, I do not know for sure but here are some thoughts. JESUS Himself had to be obedient to the FATHER. The disciples raised the question about who sinned. This was a teaching lesson for the disciples and the other people. The disciples, the other people and the man to be healed are all on a spiritual journey. The blind man had to be obedient to what JESUS had instructed him.

Keep in mind that GOD made man from the ground. So using dirt mixed with spit in the hands of GOD results in a miracle. Did GOD want all the people involved to make the connection with the Genesis scripture when GOD made man? Did GOD want them to see the connection of GOD and JESUS through this miracle? Why was the blind man instructed to go wash in the pool of Siloam? Did GOD want the people to connect HIS SON JESUS with the living water that gives life to all who drink of it? GOD could have healed the blind man instantly without the spittle, mud, going to the pool or washing in the pool. GOD had a plan to lead others to seek JESUS. Just as the events were a process of obedience, so is the process an attempt for GOD to open the spiritual eyes of the religious leaders and all the people involved.

The blind man is obedient to JESUS and he receives his sight. The fact the blind man is obedient is a step of faith. He goes, washes and returns with his sight.

8 His neighbors and those who formerly had seen him as a beggar said, “Isn’t this the man who sat begging?” 9 Some said, “He’s the one.” “No,” others were saying, “but he looks like him.” He kept saying, “I’m the one!” 10 Therefore they asked him, “Then how were your eyes opened?” 11 He answered, “The man called Jesus made mud, spread it on my eyes, and told me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash.’ So when I went and washed I received my sight.” 12 “Where is He?” they asked. “I don’t know,” he said.

So a number of people see that the former blind man from birth has received his sight. It is hard for them to believe it. They want to know what happened. So the man tells them exactly what happened. It was “The man called JESUS.” “Where is HE?” “I don’t know.” JESUS is not around. Why? Let’s see. (The people need to process the facts even more and discover that GOD is truly in our midst. If JESUS had been there their efforts would have shifted to JESUS and not proving that the man was blind from birth and has been healed by GOD through JESUS.)

The Healed Man’s Testimony
13 They brought the man who used to be blind to the • Pharisees. 14 The day that Jesus made the mud and opened his eyes was a Sabbath. 15 So again the Pharisees asked him how he received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” he told them. “I washed and I can see.” 16 Therefore some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for He doesn’t keep the Sabbath!” But others were saying, “How can a sinful man perform such signs?” And there was a division among them.

JESUS is in trouble with the religious leaders because HE has worked on the Sabbath by making mud using HIS spit. WOW!!! This is serious because anyone who would work on the Sabbath by healing a man’s blindness cannot be a man of GOD. Can HE? HE must be a sinner. However, some see it differently. Some say, HE must be a man from GOD because HE healed the man who has been blind from birth. So they question the man further to settle this question.

17 Again they asked the blind man,[3] = the man who had been blind “What do you say about Him, since He opened your eyes?” “He’s a prophet,” he said.

I said earlier that the blind man and the people are on a spiritual journey. This is the beginning of his journey. He first sees JESUS as a prophet and he makes the connection of JESUS being a prophet for the people. Remember it was thought that the spittle of prophets had healing power. The Pharisees find the man’s story hard to believe, so they will check into it further. GOD has directed the events to get the religious leaders, the Pharisees, to explore this miracle. JESUS could have just healed the man’s eyes but HE was obedient to the FATHER. The FATHER has a plan for the man, the religious leaders, the man’s neighbors, friends and the curious. In an effort to open the eyes of the various people from spiritual blindness, GOD allowed this healing to be more visible. So the religious leaders investigate the matter further.

18 The Jews did not believe this about him—that he was blind and received sight—until they summoned the parents of the one who had received his sight. 19 They asked them, “Is this your son, [the one]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” 20 “We know this is our son and that he was born blind,” his parents answered. 21 “But we don’t know how he now sees, and we don’t know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he’s of age. He will speak for himself.” 22 His parents said these things because they were afraid of the Jews, since the Jews had already agreed that if anyone confessed Him as • Messiah, he would be banned from the • synagogue. 23 This is why his parents said, “He’s of age; ask him.”

The Pharisees want so much to disprove this miracle. They put he pressure on the Man’s parents. The man’s parents are afraid the religious leaders will ban them from the synagogue. They do not want to lie and they do not want to be in trouble with the religious leaders, so they say check with our son. He is of age.

Being of age meant he was at least 13 years old or older. So they go to the man a second time.

Can you see the noose getting tighter around the Pharisees neck as they try to disprove the miracle? They are proving the miracles more and more and condemning themselves at the same time. They had already considered HIM as Messiah. They knew the scripture like the back of their hand. The Book of Isaiah refers to the coming of the Messiah and what HE will do.

Isaiah 35:5:

5 Then the eyes of the blind will be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped.

They have already said that JESUS is not the Messiah therefore they must discredit the miracle. After all if HE truly healed the man blind since birth, HE must be the promised Messiah. But this cannot be true because the religious leaders have already made up their minds.

24 So a second time they summoned the man who had been blind and told him, “Give glory to God.[4] Give glory to God was a solemn charge to tell the truth; Jos 7:19. We know that this man is a sinner!” 25 He answered, “Whether or not He’s a sinner, I don’t know. One thing I do know: I was blind, and now I can see!”

As a young Christian the blind man simply testifies to what has happened to him. He does not know scripture but he knows what JESUS did for him. Often we say we cannot witness to others. Your testimony is the most powerful witness you can make as a Christian. People can argue the Bible with you but they cannot argue your testimony because it is your personal testimony. We all were blind at one time and we encountered JESUS. When we encounter JESUS we have to make a decision. We either choose HIM as our SAVIOR or we reject HIM. When we are obedient and accept HIM our spiritual eyes are opened and we can see HIM through our spiritual eyes. Ephesians 1:18-19: 18 [I pray]* The bracketed text has been added for clarity. that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the glorious riches of His inheritance among the saints, 19 and what is the immeasurable greatness of His power to us who believe, according to the working of His vast strength.

26 Then they asked him, “What did He do to you? How did He open your eyes?” 27 “I already told you,” he said, “and you didn’t listen. Why do you want to hear it again? You don’t want to become His disciples too, do you?” 28 They ridiculed him: “You’re that man’s disciple, but we’re Moses’ disciples. 29 We know that God has spoken to Moses. But this man—we don’t know where He’s from!”

The religious leaders question the blind man hard. He holds his ground because he knows that he was blind but now he sees. No one will take that away from him. The same is true when we accept JESUS as our personal SAVIOR. When we take that step of faith we know that a change has happened in our lives and we belong to GOD through CHRIST.

The former blind man is bold and chides them about them wanting to be a disciple of JESUS. We see the pride that comes out from the religious leaders. In essence they are saying we already know all there is to know about serving GOD and we are the disciples of Moses. They knew GOD spoke to Moses. They had preacher religion. They worshipped Moses and not GOD.

30 “This is an amazing thing,” the man told them. “You don’t know where He is from, yet He opened my eyes! 31 We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but if anyone is God-fearing and does His will, He listens to him. 32 Throughout history[5] Lit From the age no one has ever heard of someone opening the eyes of a person born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, He wouldn’t be able to do anything.” 34 “You were born entirely in sin,” they replied, “and are you trying to teach us?” Then they threw him out.[6] = they banned him from the synagogue; v. 22
WOW!!!! The former blind man preached a powerful message to the religious leaders. He uses the terms “God-fearing” and “man from GOD” which again shows that the person who healed him is being revealed to him further. The religious leaders are insulted. But the young convert presented them with an inspiring message which they refused. But they hear “God-fearing” and “man from God.” They throw him out of the synagogue. The religious leaders have made their decision about JESUS. However, the former blind man’s spiritual journey continues.
The Blind Man’s Sight and the Pharisees’ Blindness
35 When Jesus heard that they had thrown the man out, He found him and asked, “Do you believe in the • Son of Man?”[7] Other mss read the Son of God 36 “Who is He, Sir, that I may believe in Him?” he asked. 37 Jesus answered, “You have seen Him; in fact, He is the One speaking with you.” 38 “I believe, Lord!” he said, and he worshiped Him. 39 Jesus said, “I came into this world for judgment, in order that those who do not see will see and those who do see will become blind.” 40 Some of the Pharisees who were with Him heard these things and asked Him, “We aren’t blind too, are we?” 41 “If you were blind,” Jesus told them, “you wouldn’t have sin.[8] To have sin is an idiom that refers to guilt caused by sin. But now that you say, ‘We see’—your sin remains.

JESUS is absent from all this but HE hears that the religious leaders have thrown the former blind man out. JESUS seeks the man and finds him. JESUS is always seeking a relationship with HIS children.

We see by the question JESUS asks the former blind man, “Do you believe in the Son of Man?” “Son of Man” is a term used to embody all hat JESUS is both human and divine. The man responds with a polite and respectful term “Sir.” Who is HE, Sir? The former blind man is still on his spiritual journey. JESUS reveals Himself more clearly to the man and he believes.

This is the final step in the man’s spiritual journey. He sees JESUS as the SON OF GOD and worships HIM.

JESUS then reveals HIS purpose is to bring spiritual light to all who are spiritually blind. Some will see HIM as the SON OF GOD but others will become more hardened to their way of thinking and reject HIM.

When we, as humans, say we have it all figured out and we reject JESUS, we have condemned our selves and we stay spiritually blind. When we place our trust and faith in JESUS, then our blind spiritual eyes are opened and we see clearly that JESUS is the ONLY SON OF GOD. HE IS OUR SAVIOR and LORD.

Our journey begins with a simple step of faith. This step of faith places us on the spiritual path to get to know JESUS more and more as we walk with HIM and as we build an intimate loving relationship with HIM. The closer our relationship, the more we trust HIM and are willing to respond to HIM in obedience.

I think this last scripture is most revealing. JESUS says if they were truly spiritually blind then they would not be in sin. I think this gives us some insight why children who are conceived and die before being born or die before making a profession of faith will be in heaven. Those who knowingly reject JESUS are accountable and condemn themselves.

JESUS is the light of the world. Is HE your light? If not ask HIM to forgive you of your sins and to open your spiritual eyes right now.

JESUS Forgives Our Sins - John 8 – March 4, 2007

Sunday school Lesson – JESUS Forgives Our Sins – March 4, 2007

This series continues our study in the book of John. We have a new emphasis of study, “What Does JESUS Do for Us?”

Our lessons for the month of March are:

March 4 – JESUS Forgives Our Sins – John 8
March 11 – JESUS Opens Our Eyes – John 9
March 18 – JESUS Takes Care of Us – John 10
March 25 – JESUS Restores Our Lives – John 11

The study of book of John is foundational and fundamental to the Christian faith.

I want us to take a quick look at Chapter 7 before we begin our study. I have several Catholic friends who were devastated when the Catholic Church acknowledged that JESUS had brothers and sisters. Yes, JESUS had brothers and sisters but JESUS was the first born of the Virgin Mary. JESUS would have missed out on family life and some of the trials of being the older brother. Remember, HE was tempted in all ways like we are, so being a member of a family was part of HIM experiencing life in the flesh.

Let’s read Mark 6:3:
3 Isn’t this the carpenter (JESUS), the son of Mary, and the brother of James, Joses, Judas, and Simon? And aren’t His sisters here with us?” So they were offended by Him.

Let’s read John 7:1-5:
1 After this, Jesus traveled in Galilee, since He did not want to travel in Judea because the • Jews were trying to kill Him. 2 The Jewish Festival of Tabernacles[1] Or Booths [2] One of 3 great Jewish religious festivals, along with Passover and Pentecost; Ex 23:14; Dt 16:16 was near, 3 so His brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go to Judea so Your disciples can see Your works that You are doing. 4 For no one does anything in secret while he’s seeking public recognition. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.” 5 (For not even His brothers believed in Him.)

JESUS’ brothers, not HIS disciples, were chiding HIM. JESUS had decided not to go to the Jewish Festival of Tabernacles because the FATHER had told HIM to wait. JESUS’ brothers, in essence, were saying to HIM, gee, what do YOU mean, YOU are not going to the Festival? Aren’t YOU the superstar and want everyone to see YOU? Do you think they were jealous of their brother’s popularity? We are not sure but the one thing we do know, HIS brothers did not believe in HIM as the SON of GOD or MESSIAH at this time. We cannot leave it here. We must see if HIS brothers changed their minds about JESUS later.

Let’s go to Acts 1:12-14:

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olive Grove, which is near Jerusalem—a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 When they arrived, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. 14 All these were continually united in prayer,[3] Other mss add and petition along with the women, including Mary[4] Or prayer, with their wives and Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers.

JESUS has been crucified, buried, resurrected and ascended into heaven. The disciples, some women, Mary the mother of JESUS and GUESS who – HIS brothers are praying and waiting on the promised HOLY SPIRIT. WOW!!! Something must have changed the minds of HIS brothers. Do you think it was the resurrection? I think so. They finally recognized their brother JESUS as THE SON OF GOD, their SAVIOR and REDEEMER.

Who are some of the most critical people in the world? Who knows us better than anyone else? Our close friends and family know us. Yes, they questioned JESUS’ authority before the crucifixion but they became believers after HIS resurrection and ascension. JESUS’ brother James became the head of the Christian church in Jerusalem and authored the Book of James.

Let’s read Galatians 1:18-19:

18 Then after three years I did go up to Jerusalem to get to know • Cephas,[8] Other mss read Peter and I stayed with him 15 days. 19 But I didn’t see any of the other apostles except James, the Lord’s brother. 20 Now in what I write to you, I’m not lying. God is my witness.[9] Lit Behold, before God

The Apostle Paul is writing about the time after his conversion experience on the road to Damascus. I think Paul is checking out the history and fundamentals of Christianity. He meets with the Apostle Peter (Cephas) and then he meets with James, the brother of JESUS. Paul is a very well educated man and I think he is verifying all that happened during and after JESUS’ ministry on earth. We know that if Christianity had been a fraud, Paul would not have continued to walk with CHRIST and dedicate his life to serve CHRIST.

1 Corinthians 9:5:
5 Don’t we have the right to be accompanied by a Christian wife, like the other apostles, the Lord’s brothers, and • Cephas?

Paul refers to JESUS’ brothers in the context of the Christian faith.

Why are we discussing this? In today’s world we see many who try to discredit the very foundation of our faith. When we have questions we need to ask the FATHER to reveal the truth to us as we read the scriptures.

Our scripture is John 7:53 – 8:11; 8:30-36.

Let’s read John 7:53 and 8:1:

[ 53 So each one went to his house.

The reason I want us to begin with verse 53 is notice the bracket before verse. All the scripture verses from John 7:53 to John 8:11 lie between brackets. This means these verses are not found in the earliest of manuscripts. Does this mean the verses are not true? No. Most Bible scholars agree that the event of the woman caught in adultery fits well with the efforts of the religious leaders to trap JESUS. They also agree that the event had been purposely left out of some manuscripts when they were being copied by hand because there was a concern such a story might encourage some to be more promiscuous. JESUS did not condemn the woman

Let’s read John 8:1:

1 But Jesus went to the • Mount of Olives.

We all need to get away to our selves at times. Likely JESUS wanted to be alone to pray and fellowship with the FATHER. JESUS is on a mission and HE needed to stay focused. Keep in mind JESUS is both 100% human and 100% divine. We need to do the same as we journey through life.

Let’s read John 8:2-8:

2 At dawn He went to the • temple complex again, and all the people were coming to Him. He sat down and began to teach them. 3 Then the • scribes and the • Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery, making her stand in the center. 4 “Teacher,” they said to Him, “this woman was caught in the act of committing adultery. 5 In the law Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do You say?” 6 They asked this to trap Him, in order that they might have evidence to accuse Him. Jesus stooped down and started writing on the ground with His finger. 7 When they persisted in questioning Him, He stood up and said to them, “The one without sin among you should be the first to throw a stone at her.” 8 Then He stooped down again and continued writing on the ground. 9 When they heard this, they left one by one, starting with the older men. Only He was left, with the woman in the center. 10 When Jesus stood up, He said to her, “• Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” 11 “No one, Lord,”[1] Or Sir; Jn 4:15,49; 5:7; 6:34; 9:36 she answered. “Neither do I condemn you,” said Jesus. “Go, and from now on do not sin any more.”][2] Other mss omit bracketed text

JESUS goes to the temple at dawn to begin teaching. HE is teaching in the outer court area where women could assemble plus others to discuss the scriptures.

Enter the religious leaders of that day – the scribes and Pharisees. They had been up early that day as well. The cast of characters are the scribes, who know the law like the back of their hands and the Pharisees, who lived by the law. To accuse someone of breaking the law, you needed at least two (2) witnesses. At least two (2) in this group had witnessed this woman in the act of committing adultery. So the top religious leaders bring her to JESUS for final judgment.

The law required that both parties caught in the act of adultery to be stoned. So where is the man? Some think that the man may have helped the religious leaders catch the woman and in exchange for his cooperation, he was let go. Who knows, but the fact is, the religious leaders have the example they want to use to trap JESUS.

If JESUS condemns the woman to death, the religious leaders will report HIM to the Romans because the Jews could not condemn someone to death. So JESUS would be arrested by the Romans. Plus, the religious leaders knew that JESUS was viewed by the crowd as ONE with compassion. If JESUS condemned her to death, this action would compromise HIS popularity with the crowds. If HE forgave the woman of her act, then they could point a finger at HIM and say HE was not following the law. They hoped either way JESUS would be compromised with the people.

JESUS is teaching a number of people and they interrupt HIM. They wanted an audience. The religious leaders address JESUS as “teacher.” They honor and acknowledge HIM before the audience only to hope they will discredit HIM in a few short minutes. They make the charge against the woman. Just in case JESUS does not say the right words they tell HIM what the law requires – stoning. But they want to know what JESUS has to say about the situation. So what does JESUS do?

JESUS is standing. HE remains silent, stoops down and uses HIS finger to write on the ground. Did the religious leaders think HE was ignoring them? They keep asking HIM to give them an answer. JESUS keeps HIS cool under pressure.

Much has been speculated about what JESUS was writing on the ground. We do not know but what HE was writing could have been used in combination with what JESUS was about to say.

Like most, I have a thought. Not about what JESUS is writing but about what JESUS was doing while HE was writing.

We studied a few weeks ago about JESUS only doing and saying what the FATHER instructed HIM to do or say.

Let’s read John 5:19-22 and 30:

19 Then Jesus replied, “• I assure you: The Son is not able to do anything on His own, but only what He sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father[6] Lit whatever that One does, the Son also does these things in the same way. 20 For the Father loves the Son and shows Him everything He is doing, and He will show Him greater works than these so that you will be amazed. 21 And just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so the Son also gives life to anyone He wants to. 22 The Father, in fact, judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son,

30 “I can do nothing on My own. I judge only as I hear, and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.

Let’s read John 12:49-50

49 For I have not spoken on My own, but the Father Himself who sent Me has given Me a command as to what I should say and what I should speak. 50 I know that His command is eternal life. So the things that I speak, I speak just as the Father has told Me.”

I think JESUS was talking to the FATHER seeking HIS guidance in this situation. The FATHER tells HIM what to say, “The one without sin among you should be the first to throw a stone at her.”

Who is the only one qualified to throw that stone?
JESUS Himself is because HE is the only one who is sinless. The FATHER has given all authority to JESUS to judge.

Then JESUS stoops down again and continues to write on the ground. This may have been a combination of writing what the FATHER had instructed HIM to write and also talking to the FATHER. HE could have asked the FATHER to allow the SPIRIT to search every person’s heart and reveal any sin in their lives.

When JESUS stoops down it breaks the conversation with the group and allows time for the accusers to consider the question and self evaluation. The SPIRT of GOD reveals to each one at least one (1) sin and the religious leaders begin to silently move away, beginning with the oldest. The older we get, the more we realize how we have missed the mark of following the law. Each of the religious leaders removed themselves until only JESUS and the woman are left.

JESUS stand’s up again and looks around. The woman is still there even though her accusers are gone. The woman knows she was caught in the act of adultery and she has sinned. She could have slipped away as well, after all JESUS was writing on the ground. The fact she is still there, I think is a message to JESUS. She was willing to accept the judgment from the ONE to whom the religious had brought her for final judgment. In essence she was agreeing that she was guilty by remaining. She was willing to accept the judgment of JESUS. JESUS asks the woman “Woman, where are they?” “Has no one condemned you?”

Her reply is critical. Verse 11 – “No one, LORD” Oh can you see the humility in her answer which seems to be anticipating a judgment reply from JESUS? “No one, LORD.” Not stated but I think she is anticipating a judgment from JESUS. I think she knows that she is guilty because she remains after all her accusers have left.

But notice she calls JESUS LORD!!! What does that indicate?

Let’s see what the scripture tells us about a person calling JESUS LORD.

Romans 10:9-10:
9 if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 With the heart one believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth one confesses, resulting in salvation.

1 Corinthians 12:3:
3 Therefore I am informing you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, “Jesus is cursed,” and no one can say, “Jesus is Lord,” except by the Holy Spirit.

The fact that she calls JESUS LORD reveals her heart. JESUS knows her heart and then HE reveals HIS judgment in verse 11.

“Neither do I condemn you,” said Jesus. “Go, and from now on do not sin any more.”

What a relief these words must have been to her ears. She was likely prepared to be condemned but instead she hears, “Neither do I condemn you.”

Do you remember our lesson in John 1:1 when we discussed the Word and the power of JESUS’ Words? HE is the Word and HE spoke the world into being. HIS Words have power. Think about that for a moment. When JESUS speaks “Go, and from now on do not sin any more” HIS Words carry the power of cleansing and of equipping her to change her life. She has the opportunity for a new life in CHRIST.

Let’s read John 8:30-36:

30 As He was saying these things, many believed in Him. 31 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed Him, “If you continue in My word,[9] Or My teaching, or My message you really are My disciples. 32 You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 33 “We are descendants[10] Or offspring; lit seed; Jn 7:42 of Abraham,” they answered Him, “and we have never been enslaved to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will become free’?” 34 Jesus responded, “• I assure you: Everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin. 35 A slave does not remain in the household forever, but a son does remain forever. 36 Therefore if the Son sets you free, you really will be free.

JESUS has been teaching the people that HE is the light of the world. HE discusses HIS relationship with the FATHER and HIS departure. The people are trying to understand what JESUS is telling them from an intellectual point-of-view. The spiritual cannot be understood through the intellect but must be revealed.

Verse 30 tells us that many believed in HIM. But JESUS challenges those who believe in HIM to continue studying and learning of HIM. Why is HE telling them to continue with HIM since they are already believers and how will continuing with HIM set them free?

When we first believe in CHRIST, it is only the beginning of our journey of growing and maturing in CHRIST. Unless we continue walking with HIM, getting to know HIM and building a relationship with HIM, we are not nourished and can’t grow into a healthy, mature Christians.

The response of the people makes it clear that they do not understand what JESUS is talking about. They are still relying on their heritage or birthright as descendants of Abraham. Simply they are a slave to sin and if they want to be free from sin, the SON is the only ONE who can set them free. JESUS urges the people, who believe in HIM, to continue to follow HIM. HE knows that once HE completes HIS mission, then they will know what HE has done for them and they will be truly set you free from the bondage of sin and death.

Many of us have head knowledge about our salvation. Often it takes continuing with our LORD before we fully understand what CHRIST has done for us. Our head knowledge has to be replaced with heart knowledge. When this happens it is an awesome revelation. Often such a revelation means that we have to yield our will to CHRIST and give up our efforts to figure spiritual things out.