Bible Study - Signs (5) - The Sign of HIS Presence - John 6:16-21 + Others - March 30, 2025

 

Bible Study – Signs (5) – The Sign of HIS Presence – John 6:16-21 – March 30, 2025 (Excellent)

In JESUS’S presence, we have no need to fear.

Last week, we studied sign 4, the feeding of the 5,000.

In John 6: ¹⁵ Therefore, when Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain by himself.

JESUS knew that HIS calling from GOD, HIS FATHER, was to be KING of King’s and LORD of Lord’s but not as the world thinks but according to GOD’S redemptive plan for all people.

Often in our life’s journey, Satan offers us alternatives to GOD’S plan for our lives and we have to decide whether or not to trust HIM and stay the course.

JESUS stayed the course according to GOD’S Redemptive plan.

JESUS doing so, resulted in all peoples having the opportunity to become God’s eternal Children by the miracle of Spiritual birth. This is possible through faith in JESUS, as confirmed by the indwelling Holy Spirit and confirmed with Spiritual Gifts as we grow Spiritually. All Spirit-born people are to use their Spiritual Gift or Gifts, as they faithfully walk with GOD and JESUS upon earth.

Folks, this is Good News!!! Being Spirit born means all who are “born-again” in his or her spirit continue serving GOD, as led by the indwelling Holy Spirit. Their final destination is to live eternally in Heaven with GOD, JESUS and all who are in Heaven.

Our focus scripture is John 6:16-21.

Let’s read John 6:16-18:

The Fifth Sign: Walking on Water

¹⁶ When evening came, his disciples went down to the sea, ¹⁷ got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capernaum. Darkness had already set in, but Jesus had not yet come to them. ¹⁸ A high wind arose, and the sea began to churn. 

Often, the storms in our lives are designed to help build our faith in JESUS and guide us to a deeper walk with HIM.

Let’s read John 6:19-20:

¹⁹ After they had rowed about three or four miles,^[c] they saw Jesus walking on the sea. He was coming near the boat, and they were afraid. ²⁰ But he said to them, “It is I.^[d] Don’t be afraid.” 

The vast majority of scripture translations state that JESUS responded with “I,” “I AM” a very few translate “me.” I believe “I” or “I AM” is the correct translation. The disciples knew that GOD’S name was “I AM” and JESUS was helping HIS disciples to connect the miracles and what they were encountering where acts that only GOD could accomplish.

In the original Greek, I understand this passage reads, “JESUS appeared as if HE was going to walk pass them.” When I first read that years ago, I laughed and thought how neat. JESUS had/has a sense of humor.

The thought came to me that JESUS was walking on water, and HIS disciples were struggling against the wind and waves and JESUS shouting out to them, “Hey guys, I am making better time walking than you are rowing.” That is my speculation.

Actually, we read in Mark 6:45-52 Walking on the Water

⁴⁵ Immediately he (JESUS) made his disciples get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side, to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. ⁴⁶ After he said good-bye to them, he went away to the mountain to pray. ⁴⁷ Well into the night, the boat was in the middle of the sea, and he was alone on the land. ⁴⁸ He saw them straining at the oars,^[h] because the wind was against them. Very early in the morning^[i]  (About 3-6 AM) he came toward them walking on the sea and wanted to pass by them. ⁴⁹ When they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out, ⁵⁰ because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke with them and said, “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” ⁵¹ Then he got into the boat with them, and the wind ceased. They were completely astounded, ⁵² because they had not understood about the loaves. Instead, their hearts were hardened.

It seems that JESUS had an impulse to walk past HIS disciples, but HE chose not. It was a teaching moment not to be wasted. Plus, HIS disciples seemed to be trying to figure things out i.e., why did JESUS send us out into a storm and then come to us walking on water? The disciples knew what they saw, JESUS walking on the water during a terrible storm that they witnessed with their own eyes. Plus, they witnessed JESUS taking ordinary bread and fish and feeding thousands of people, with baskets of food leftover.

When we obediently follow JESUS, HE will show us extraordinary things and teach us. We have to trust and obey as we journey with HIM. Things will come up that will cause us to discern how to manage.

We also read in Matthew 14:24-33, Matthew’s account of this event.

Matthew 14:24-33: Walking on the Water

²² Immediately he^[f] made the disciples get into the boat and go ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. 

Notice: JESUS compelled HIS Disciples to get into the boat! Why? There was a vital teaching moment in the making.

This event brought to my mind that it was time for the disciples of JESUS to move from being spectators to participants. They needed to see JESUS as the true SON OF GOD. They had been, so-to speak, on the outside observing miracles, now it was time for them to participate in a miracle and broaden their knowledge of just who JESUS was and HIS mission.

I recall when I soloed. I was flying with my instructor for a lesson and made two of the worst landings since taking flying lessons. My instructor told me to stop the plane at the end of where we had been landing and got out of the plane. My first thought was “I have scared my fight instructor.” He motioned for me to take off and watch for a commercial flight that was due to land. I did and thought oh gee, “I am on my own.” It was not a good feeling, but the only way down was to land the aircraft, which I did, and I remember when the wheels touched down all fear went out of me and knew I could do it again.

I taxied to where I had left my instructor. His first words were, “Where you surprised that I told you to take it around again? YES, I said. My instructor said, “you made two terrible landings when I was with you, but you recovered from them. I knew then that you were ready to solo. When you can take care of yourself and the plane you are ready to solo and fly.”

JESUS was building a team that would have to function when HE was no longer physically with them. The Holy Spirit would be their guide at the right time after HE ascended into Heaven.

The Holy Spirit is still the assurance and guide for all who are redeemed by faith in JESUS and by HIS shed blood. Once saved, always saved.

I know, I rejoice with you!!!

²³ After dismissing the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. Well into the night, he was there alone. ²⁴ Meanwhile, the boat was already some distance^[g] from land,^[h] battered by the waves, because the wind was against them. ²⁵ Jesus came toward them walking on the sea very early in the morning.^[i]  (3-6 AM) ²⁶ When the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost!” they said, and they cried out in fear.

²⁷ Immediately Jesus spoke to them. “Have courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

²⁸ “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter answered him, “command me to come to you on the water.”

²⁹ He said, “Come.”

And climbing out of the boat, Peter started walking on the water and came toward Jesus. ³⁰ But when he saw the strength of the wind,^[j] he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me!”

So, what do we learn? When we step out in faith, we must KEEP OUR EYES UPON JESUS, less we begin to sink.

The Apostle Paul stated it best in Ephesian 6: ¹⁰ Finally, be strengthened by the Lord and by his vast strength. ¹¹ Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens. ¹³ For this reason take up the full armor of God, so that you may be able to resist in the evil day, and having prepared everything, to take your stand. ¹⁴ Stand, therefore, with truth like a belt around your waist, righteousness like armor on your chest, ¹⁵ and your feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In every situation take up the shield of faith with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷ Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit—which is the word of God. ¹⁸ Pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request and stay alert with all perseverance and intercession for all the saints.

Fellow Christians, we are in a battle, and we must suit up each day to fight in the spiritual realm, especially as the day approaches for the return of JESUS to rapture all Spirit-born Christians.

JESUS is our sustainer, comforter, protector, and redeemer.

³¹ Immediately Jesus reached out his hand, caught hold of him, and said to him, “You of little faith, why did you doubt?”

³² When they got into the boat, the wind ceased. ³³ Then those in the boat worshiped him and said, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

JESUS loves for us to have the desire to increase our faith in HIM as we serve, but we must be careful not to test our faith. Let JESUS push our boat into the water when our faith needs to be increased.

Notice, Peter asked JESUS’ permission for him to get into the water. JESUS said “Come on in.” When we see JESUS at work, that is our invitation to join HIM but equally as important is when we step out on faith for us to keep our eyes fixed on JESUS.

Our human mind takes over when we do things or witness things contrary to what is supposed to be normal according to the world.

Let’s read John 6:21:

²¹ Then they were willing to take him on board, and at once the boat was at the shore where they were heading.

When we trust JESUS along life’s journey, and we bring HIM onboard in our situation(s) suddenly we find we have arrived safely where we were supposed to be.

Trust and obey when we so-to-speak, “walk on water,” less we sink.

This is especially true as we approach the return of The LORD JESUS TO EARTH.

Keep in mind, in the end-times as recorded in Matthew 24:24

For false messiahs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.

Read and study GOD’S Word, “The Holy Bible,” pray and walk with JESUS as led by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

The storms in life, allowed by GOD, are designed to build our faith and trust in JESUS and GOD. However, there are times we create our own storms. May we discern the difference!

My prayer is for all who are going through the storms that life brings are comforted by our LORD JESUS because you are precious to GOD, JESUS and of excellent value to the kingdom of GOD.

Blessings!!!

 

Bible Study - Signs (4) - The Sign of HIS Provision - John 6:1-15 - March 23, 2025

 Bible Study – Signs (4) – The Sign of HIS Provision – March 23, 2025

JESUS meets the needs in our lives.

Our focus scriptures are John 6:1-15, Matthew 15:29-38 and Mark 8:1-13.

Let’s read John 5:31-47: (This scripture leads us to our focus scripture in John 6.)

Witnesses to Jesus

³¹ “If I testify about myself, my testimony is not true. ³² There is another who testifies about me, and I know that the testimony he gives about me is true. ³³ You sent messengers to John, and he testified to the truth. ³⁴ I don’t receive human testimony, but I say these things so that you may be saved. ³⁵ John^[f] was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light.

A number of years ago, our young son and I went spelunking with his Scout troop. We were accompanied by a guide who informed us that the cave we were to explore was considered a "wild" cave. The guide had been in the cave and helped map the cave. We learned the importance of having multiple sources of light when a person enters a cave.

As I was working my way around the narrow rock wall several feet from the floor of the cave lined with various sizes and shapes of rocks. As soon as the person ahead of me traversed around the corner of the wall there was darkness. I thought to myself it would not be a good place for my light source to fail, because it had given me a problem.

It came my turn to traverse the corner. As I began traversing the wall, my head lamp went out and I was in total darkness. I stopped for several brief seconds and thought “What do I do?” When suddenly the person behind me was working his way to the same corner and his head lamp gave me enough light for me to see where I needed to hold and work my way around the corner. Fortunately, once around the corner there was a ledge, and I could work with my head lamp to get it working again. After exploring this wild cave, we went to a cave which had been mapped, and they would allow you to spend the night. It is very dark in a cave but also remarkably interesting.

It was a valuable lesson. Often, along life’s journeys we need the light of others to help us through the tough/dark times in our lives.

Be a light to others who are or may be experiencing darkness.

Remember, JESUS is the light of the world and all who have been Spirit-born are also lights and represent truth.

The world offers multiple sources of light, but JESUS is the only true light WHO guides all who are “born-again” as they travel through life. The HOLY SPIRIT leads all to seek the true light, JESUS.

Reflect back over your life’s journey and ask GOD to reveal times when HE guided you through dark times.

John the Baptist was the forerunner for JESUS, John was the Hearld for JESUS.

When a King was approaching a town or village; a forerunner would go before the King to announce to the people that the King was coming, get ready to greet him.

John the Baptist was the forerunner or Hearld for JESUS. John the Baptist was also the cousin of JESUS.

Let us continue reading John 5:36-47:

³⁶ “But I (JESUS) have a greater testimony than John’s because of the works that the Father (GOD) has given me to accomplish. These very works I am doing testify about me that the Father has sent me. ³⁷ The Father who sent me has himself testified about me. You have not heard his voice at any time, and you haven’t seen his form. ³⁸ You don’t have his word residing in you, because you don’t believe the one (JESUS) he (GOD) sent. ³⁹ You pore over the Scriptures because you think you have eternal life in them, and yet they testify about me. ⁴⁰ But you are not willing to come to me so that you may have life.

If you have not placed your faith in JESUS, what is your excuse for not coming to JESUS? Salvation is clear. A person must believe that JESUS is the promised Messiah and place his/her faith in HIM and HIS Passion? Doing so results in you being “born-again” in your human spirit which results in a new you that will live eternally, through the miracle of Spiritual Birth, as GOD’S Son or Daughter.

Let’s Continue with our scripture John 5:41 -----

⁴¹ “I (JESUS) do not accept glory from people, ⁴² but I know you—that you have no love for God within you. ⁴³ I have come in my Father’s name, and yet you don’t accept me. If someone else comes in his own name, you will accept him. ⁴⁴ How can you believe, since you accept glory from one another but don’t seek the glory that comes from the only God? ⁴⁵ Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father. Your accuser is Moses, on whom you have set your hope. ⁴⁶ For if you believed Moses, you would believe me, because he wrote about me. ⁴⁷ But if you don’t believe what he (Moses) wrote, how will you believe my (JESUS)words?”

The Jews had their minds made up about who the Messiah would be when GOD sent HIM to earth and JESUS did not meet their criteria.

What are your criteria for JESUS, GOD’S Messiah?

This is the fourth sign as revealed in John 6:1-15.

The scripture records two separate feeding miracles. Were they the same or different miracles? We will explore.

They were different. The feeding of the 5,000 was populated for the greater part by Jews. The feeding of 4,000 was in an area populated by mostly Gentiles. GOD reaches across the isle to minister to all people.

Let’s continue to explore!!!

Let’s read John 6:1-15:

The Fourth Sign: Feeding of the Five Thousand

The feeding of these 5,000 people occurred on the northwestern shore of the sea of Galilee, primarily populated by the Jews.

6 After this, Jesus crossed the Sea of Galilee (or Tiberias). ² A huge crowd was following him because they saw the signs that he was performing by healing the sick. ³ Jesus went up a mountain and sat down there with his disciples.

⁴ Now the Passover, a Jewish festival, was near. ⁵ So when Jesus looked up and noticed a huge crowd coming toward him, he (JESUS) asked Philip, “Where will we buy bread so that these people can eat?” ⁶ He asked this to test him, for he himself knew what he was going to do.

⁷ Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii^[a] worth of bread wouldn’t be enough for each of them to have a little.” (A denarii was one day’s wage for a laborer.)

Often, a shortage of funds forces us to seek other alternatives to solve the problems we encounter in life.

⁸ One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, ⁹ “There’s a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish—but what are they for so many?”

Keep in mind that JESUS only did what HE saw HIS FATHER doing.

¹⁰ Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.”

There was plenty of grass in that place; so, they sat down. The men numbered about five thousand. ¹¹ Then Jesus took the loaves, and after giving thanks he (JESUS) distributed them to those who were seated—so also with the fish, as much as they wanted.

¹² When they were full, he told his disciples, “Collect the leftovers so that nothing is wasted.” ¹³ So they collected them and filled twelve baskets (handbaskets) with the pieces from the five barley loaves that were left over by those who had eaten.

¹⁴ When the people saw the sign^[b] he had done, they said, “This truly is the Prophet who is to come into the world.”

¹⁵ Therefore, when Jesus realized that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, he withdrew again to the mountain by himself.

The people likely saw JESUS as a provider of free food and a miracle worker.

Is that all they or we need? NO!!! All humans need redemption from eternal death which all humans received when Adam and Eve disobeyed GOD. Their disobedience condemned all humans to eternal death.

This was the feeding of 5,000:

Matthew 14: ¹⁷ “But we only have five loaves and two fish here,” they said to him.

¹⁸ “Bring them here to me,” he said. ¹⁹ Then he commanded the crowds to sit down on the grass. He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed them. He broke the loaves and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. ²⁰ Everyone ate and was satisfied. They picked up twelve baskets full of leftover pieces. ²¹ Now those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

Mark 6: ³⁸ He asked them, “How many loaves do you have? Go and see.”

When they found out they said, “Five, and two fish.” ³⁹ Then he instructed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. ⁴⁰ So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. ⁴¹ He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed and broke the loaves. He kept giving them to his disciples to set before the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. ⁴² Everyone ate and was satisfied. ⁴³ They picked up twelve baskets (handbaskets) full of pieces of bread and fish. ⁴⁴ Now those who had eaten the loaves were five thousand men.

The feeding of the 5,000 refers to the same group.

Luke 9: ¹³ “You give them something to eat,” he told them.

“We have no more than five loaves and two fish,” they said, “unless we go and buy food for all these people.” ¹⁴ (For about five thousand men were there.

Then he told his disciples, “Have them sit down^[b] in groups of about fifty each.” ¹⁵ They did what he said, and had them all sit down. ¹⁶ Then he took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he blessed and broke them. He kept giving them to the disciples to set before the crowd. ¹⁷ Everyone ate and was filled. They picked up twelve baskets (hand baskets) of leftover pieces.

John 6: ⁸ One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, ⁹ “There’s a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish—but what are they for so many?”

¹⁰ Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.”

There was plenty of grass in that place; so, they sat down. The men numbered about five thousand. ¹¹ Then Jesus took the loaves, and after giving thanks he distributed them to those who were seated—so also with the fish, as much as they wanted.

¹² When they were full, he told his disciples, “Collect the leftovers so that nothing is wasted.” ¹³ So they collected them and filled twelve baskets (handbaskets) with the pieces from the five barley loaves that were left over by those who had eaten.

¹⁴ When the people saw the sign^[b] he had done, they said, “This truly is the Prophet who is to come into the world.”

The feeding of the 5,000 is the same miracle recorded by the four gospels.

Now, we consider:

The feeding of about 4,000 men

Matthew 15:32-38 - Feeding of the Four Thousand

³² Jesus called his disciples and said, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they’ve already stayed with me three days and have nothing to eat. I don’t want to send them away hungry, otherwise they might collapse on the way.”

³³ The disciples said to him, “Where could we get enough bread in this desolate place to feed such a crowd?”

³⁴ “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked them.

“Seven,” they said, “and a few small fish.”

³⁵ After commanding the crowd to sit down on the ground, ³⁶ he (JESUS) took the seven loaves and the fish, gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. ³⁷ They all ate and were satisfied. They collected the leftover pieces—seven large baskets full (Larger than a handbasket). ³⁸ Now there were four thousand men who had eaten, besides women and children. 

Mark 8:1 - In those days there was again a large crowd, and they had nothing to eat. He (JESUS) called the disciples and said to them, ² “I have compassion on the crowd, because they’ve already stayed with me three days and have nothing to eat. ³ If I send them home hungry, they will collapse on the way, and some of them have come a long distance.”

⁴ His disciples answered him, “Where can anyone get enough bread here in this desolate place to feed these people?”

⁵ “How many loaves do you have?” he asked them.

“Seven,” they said. ⁶ He commanded the crowd to sit down on the ground. Taking the seven loaves, he (JESUS) gave thanks, broke them, and gave them to his disciples to set before the people. So, they served them to the crowd. ⁷ They also had a few small fish, and after he had blessed them, he said these were to be served as well. ⁸ They ate and were satisfied. Then they collected seven large baskets (Larger than handbaskets) of leftover pieces. ⁹ About four thousand were there. He dismissed them.

JESUS was teaching HIS disciples then and HIS Children today that HE is sufficient to meet our needs when we present our needs to HIM.

HIS provisions come in many different ways. As we, who have experienced Spiritual birth, walk with JESUS and seek to learn from HIM, HE provides. The manner that HE provides may surprise us but nevertheless, HE provides and in doing so, HE teaches us and builds our trust in HIM.

Many people are experiencing tight times but rejoice our LORD provides for those who trust HIM.

In the Old Testament you may recall the 1 Kings 17:14:

For thus says the Lord the God of Israel, ‘The jar of meal shall not be spent, and the cruse of oil shall not fail, until the day that the Lord sends rain upon the earth.’”

As GOD’S chosen, through faith in JESUS, GOD still provides.

FATHER, we thank YOU for YOUR care for YOUR children, both physically and Spiritually, through challenging times. We see YOUR compassion and love for all people through the miracles of JESUS and HIS Passion.

FATHER, give those who know the truth opportunities to share YOUR truth and light.

Blessings!!!

 

 

Bible Study - Signs (3) - The Sign of HIS Authority - John 5:1-17 - March 16, 2025

 Bible Study – Signs (3) – The Sign of HIS Authority – John 5:1-17 – March 16, 2025

JESUS works in a way that goes beyond our expectations.

Our focus scripture is John 5:1-20.

Let’s read John 5:1-20:

We saw in last week’s study that JESUS healed the son of a certain royal official, as recorded in John 4: ⁴⁶ He (JESUS) went again to Cana of Galilee, where he had turned the water into wine. There was a certain royal official whose son was ill at Capernaum. (Cana and Capernaum were about 17 miles apart) ⁴⁷ When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea into Galilee, he went to him and pleaded with him to come down and heal his son, since he was about to die. JESUS told this father that his son was healed, which the servants of the royal official confirmed the next day as the official and JESUS continued their journey.

JESUS makes it clear as recorded in John 5:19:

Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, the Son is not able to do anything on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father does, the Son likewise does these things.

Clearly the FATHER and The SON are ONE and since the Passion of JESUS, all who place their faith in JESUS are ONE with GOD and JESUS, as confirmed by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

The passion of JESUS and a person’s faith in JESUS, through the miracle of being Spirit-born, results in the “Born-again” person’s body being the Temple. WHY?

JESUS paid for the price of sin, in full, by HIS sinless life and by the shedding of HIS blood. JESUS paid for all sin, but every person must accept HIS gift through faith in JESUS. JESUS is the redeemed person’s High Priest. All who seek salvation come to GOD through faith in JESUS. There is no longer a need for those born-again to go to an earthly priest because every Spirit-born person has direct access to GOD and JESUS 24/7. But those Spirit-born need human counseling from a trusted source.

We who have been Spirit-born are called to go into all the world, as led by the indwelling Holy Spirit, and use the Spiritual Gifts GOD has given us.  

Caution: It is easy for those who are Spirit-born to seek Spiritual Gifts and not focus upon the giver of Spiritual Gifts or use it or them as HE leads.

Those called must do as JESUS did, “Only do what you see the FATHER doing.” FATHER, open the Spiritual eyes of all who are Born of YOUR SPIRIT to see YOU at work and then to join YOU in YOUR Work.

Let’s explore!!!

The Third Sign: Healing the Sick

5 After this, a Jewish festival took place, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. ² By the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem there is a pool, called Bethesda^[a] in Aramaic, which has five colonnades. ³ Within these lay a large number of the disabled—blind, lame, and paralyzed.^[b]

⁵ One man was there who had been disabled for thirty-eight years. ⁶ When Jesus saw him lying there and realized he had already been there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to get well?”

JESUS may have seen this lame man early that day or over a number of days, either way, JESUS saw him and his need. JESUS approached the lame man with a very important question, “Do you want to get healed?” That seems like a strange question but if JESUS healed this man, JESUS knew that this man’s lifestyle would change; he no longer had an excuse.

There are some people who enjoy their poor circumstances life brings their way.

⁷ “Sir,” the disabled man answered, “I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up, but while I’m coming, someone goes down ahead of me.”

Often, we are misled by notions rather than truth. Notice, this poor soul was among other poor souls who were also in need of healing. Those gathered thought if they got into the water when it was “stirred” they would be healed. Did the stirring of the water result in healing or was it a placebo?

This man had been disabled for thirty-eight years.

⁸ “Get up,” Jesus told him, “pick up your mat and walk.” ⁹ Instantly the man got well, picked up his mat, and started to walk.

Now that day was the Sabbath, ¹⁰ and so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, “This is the Sabbath. The law prohibits you from picking up your mat.”

¹¹ He replied, “The man who made me well told me, ‘Pick up your mat and walk.’”

¹² “Who is this man who told you, ‘Pick up your mat and walk’?” they asked. ¹³ But the man who was healed did not know who it was, because Jesus had slipped away into the crowd that was there.^[c]

JESUS circled back to find the man HE had healed. The healed man was enjoying being healed and walking carrying his mat. JESUS went looking for this man and found him ----

¹⁴ After this, Jesus found him in the temple and said to him, “See, you are well. Do not sin anymore, so that something worse doesn’t happen to you.” ¹⁵ The man went and reported to the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well. ¹⁶ Therefore, the Jews began persecuting Jesus^[d] because he was doing these things on the Sabbath.

The healing of this lame man was a sign to the Jews and JESUS made sure the healed man knew who had healed him.

We have to be careful not to get caught up in rituals and miss the blessing. The Law versus Grace. JESUS fulfilled the Law and established GRACE through HIS shed blood and HIS Passion.

The Jews began their search for this person who dared to heal this former lame man that made him so happy that he picked up his matt and was walking around the temple complex.

Honoring the Father and the Son

¹⁷ Jesus responded to them, “My Father is still working, and I am working also.” ¹⁸ This is why the Jews began trying all the more to kill him: Not only was he breaking the Sabbath, but he was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal to God.

¹⁹ Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, the Son is not able to do anything on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing. For whatever the Father^[e] does, the Son likewise does these things. 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 whom he wants. ²² The Father, in fact, judges no one but has given all judgment to the Son, ²³ so that all people may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Anyone who does not honor the Son does not honor the Father who sent him.

This is why all who desire to be saved from the consequence of sin, which is eternal death, must place their faith in JESUS and HIS Passion.

When a person places his/her faith in JESUS, a miracle takes places quicker than the twinkle of the eye. GOD’S Spirit joins with the human spirit and that person in “born-again.”

JESUS healing this lame man is the third miracle of JESUS.

Turning water into wine reveals HIS power over material things.

The healing of the royal official’s son without placing HIS hands on him reveals that JESUS does not have to be present to heal.

The healing of this man who had been lame for a long time and helpless to get into the waters by his own strength when the water stirred.

JESUS told the lame man:

⁸ “Get up,” Jesus told him, “pick up your mat and walk.” ⁹ Instantly the man got well, picked up his mat, and started to walk.

Keep in mind that this lame man did not know JESUS. JESUS spoke and the lame man was healed as he responded to the command of JESUS.

When we, who have been Spirit-born, respond to the command of GOD through the prompting of the Holy Spirit, we are strengthened as we put into action what GOD reveals to those who respond to HIS command.

Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Signs (2) - The Sign of HIS Grace - John 4:46-54 - March 9, 2025

 

Bible Study – Signs (2) – The Sign of HIS Grace – John 4:46-54 – March 9, 2025

JESUS works on behalf of all who come to HIM.

Our scripture is John 4:46-54.

Last week, we studied JESUS’ first sign which was turning water into wine at a wedding. It was not just any wine but the best wine.

This was a miracle then and a miracle today. It was a foreshadow of the purpose of JESUS. JESUS came to fulfill the Law and to establish Grace for all who place their faith in JESUS. This was represented by the new wine coming from jars or containers containing ceremonial water repurposed by JESUS from being used for ceremonial cleansing to eternal cleansing through faith in JESUS and HIS Passion.

JESUS was attending this wedding along with the disciples HE had chosen up to that time and HIS mother.

They had been invited to attend this wedding which would last a week or up to thirty days.

Mary was told that the wine had run out. Running out of wine would have been a social embarrassment to the bride, groom, and their families.

The word of this need was communicated to Mary.

Once Mary was told, she, based upon scripture, told JESUS about this problem. Mary told JESUS the wine ran out.

Mary asked JESUS to intervene to meet the need of this family. Why?

Running out of wine would have been an embarrassment to the Families of the bride and groom, as well as the bride and groom.

Mary turned to JESUS and told HIM of the need, and she told the servants to do whatever HE said. She knew, HE knew what to do and HE did.

Who benefited most by JESUS turning water into the best wine? The servants who filled the jars which were designated for ceremonial use with clean water. The servants were the first to know that JESUS had turned ordinary water into the best wine when the head of the banquet, who knew wine, gave his approval.

Those who study GOD’S Word and put into action what is revealed to them, benefit because of their obedience.

What was the role of the servants? They were to be obedient and do what JESUS asked them to do. That is our role as well, when we obediently serve JESUS.

How does HE communicate with HIS servants today? Through the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Salvation through faith in JESUS places a person on a path of Spiritual discovery. It is an awesome journey. My prayer is that all will place their faith in JESUS and discover the many precious gems, gold, and silver rewards they can earn along their faith walk with JESUS. Let’s explore!!!

The Second Sign: Healing an Official’s Son.

Let’s read John 4:46-47:

⁴⁶ He went again to Cana of Galilee, where he had turned the water into wine. There was a certain royal official whose son was ill at Capernaum. ⁴⁷ When this man heard that Jesus had come from Judea into Galilee, he went to him and pleaded with him to come down and heal his son, since he was about to die.

JESUS returned to Cana of Galilee where JESUS turned water into wine. Why did JESUS return to Cana of Galilee? GOD led HIM there because GOD knows the hearts of those in need of ministry. When we are prompted to speak to someone or to meet a need, as Christians, GOD has a reason. GOD knows all who are in need and especially in need of salvation.

It is likely that word had spread about JESUS, WHO had turned ordinary water into the best wine.

A man, who was a royal official heard that JESUS was back in Galilee. This Royal Official had a son who was sick and about to die. This official had likely heard about JESUS turning ordinary water into wine, a miracle. It is possible that this Royal official had attended the wedding. Could JESUS do more than turn water into exceptional wine? Like, heal this royal official’s son without touching him.

As parents, we all know we will do whatever it takes to minister to or get help for our child or children.

Our scripture captures the intensity of the moment in verse 47. “The father pleaded with JESUS.”

Why do you think the father of the boy “pleaded” with JESUS? It reveals the faith and trust that the father of the boy had in the ability of JESUS to heal his son. It was a step of faith by the father of the boy for him to approach JESUS with such confidence. Doing so reflects this official’s heart.

This is a message to all who seek JESUS. A step of faith is the most vital step a person seeking eternal salvation can take. A step of faith is vital when a person desires the healing touch of JESUS whether physical, emotional, or Spiritual healing.

Let’s read John 4:48-50:

⁴⁸ Jesus told him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will not believe.”

Since the man was a royal official, was JESUS referring to those in authority? Likely!

⁴⁹ “Sir,” the official said to him, “come down before my boy dies.”

⁵⁰ “Go,” Jesus told him, “Your son will live.” The man believed what^[n] Jesus said to him and departed.

JESUS teaches all who seek HIM a valuable lesson. What does it take for a person to accept JESUS as his or her Savior? A step of faith toward JESUS. As a person moves toward JESUS, JESUS moves toward him/her.

This official was used to taking orders from trusted sources and his response reflected his recognition of JESUS’ authority.

It is easy for those who seek JESUS to get caught up in signs and wonders and overlook the power of GOD through JESUS.

It is like a story I heard. A man slipped and was falling off a cliff. He cried out LORD, “save me,” when all of a sudden, a large root that was sticking out of the cliff caught his clothing and stopped him. The man then said, “LORD that is ok, this root stopped me.”

The boy’s father expressed his faith in the word “Sir!” “I know and believe YOU can heal my son!” WOW!!!

Those words were and are expressions of faith.

How did JESUS reply?

The most beautiful words to a person’s or especially a parent’s ears are, “Go,” Jesus told him, “your son will live.” The man believed what^[n] Jesus said to him and departed.

Notice, it was not the title of the man that was important, but it was his faith. That is vital for all humans to keep in mind.

Walking with JESUS is a journey of faith and trust. Just be aware because we can find ourselves assessing our walk with JESUS by asking HIM to jump through our hoops and do things that confirm our lack of faith. A faith journey builds a person’s faith in JESUS.

The boy’s father believed JESUS and continued to walk with JESUS.

Let’s read John 4:51-54:

⁵¹ While he (the boy’s father) was still going down, his servants met him saying that his boy was alive. ⁵² He (the father of the boy) asked them at what time he got better. “Yesterday at one in the afternoon^[o] the fever left him,” they answered. ⁵³ The father realized this was the very hour at which Jesus had told him, “Your son will live.” So, he himself believed along with his whole household.

⁵⁴ Now this was also the second sign Jesus performed after he came from Judea to Galilee.

Miracles or signs of GOD, reach far beyond the immediate to many. Is GOD and JESUS still reaching out to the people of the world? YES!!! Even more so today because we are getting ever closer to the return of JESUS. This is not a time for those who have been Spirit-born to slack off but as never before to work as led by the Holy Spirit.

This study is a lesson for us to know that JESUS can heal at a distance, but it takes faith in JESUS! This is why we pray in faith and in the name of JESUS for ourselves and others.

As a Spirit-born person, if you are prompted to pray for something or someone, do so because there is a need, and GOD has called you to respond.

Do you know JESUS as your Savior? If not, now is your opportunity.

Ask JESUS to forgive you for all your sins and for JESUS to come into your heart. Doing so, results in you being “Born-again” or “Spirit-born” into the eternal family of GOD. It is a miracle!

If you prayed to receive JESUS as your Savior, then welcome into the eternal family of GOD. Now, as a Spiritual newborn, you need Spiritual nourishment – talking to GOD/JESUS in prayer, reading and studying GOD’S Word, The Holy Bible and meeting with fellow Christians. Ask JESUS to lead you to a Bible believing and teaching church or fellowship.

Blessings!!!