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BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 3: John 2:13-17

by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

SUMMARY OF JOHN 2:13-17

Jesus went to Jerusalem for Passover. When he saw that inside the temple courts people were selling cattle, sheep, and doves, he drove all of the money lenders out of the temple.

He told them to stop turning His Father’s house into a market.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 3: John 2:13-17

6) Passover. At Passover, a sacrificial lamb is required to cleanse them of sin. If the people traveled, they could instead tithe silver. The money lenders were there to supply these requirements to the Jewish people.

7a) He got angry. He made a whip and drove the money lenders out.

b) To take bold, immediate action when you see something being done that is not right.

8a) Psalm 69:9: “for zeal for your house consumes me, and the insults of those who insult you fall on me.” This speaks to the zeal Jesus had for the purity of the temple. And, God speaks this in Psalm, but here it explains Jesus’ actions. It is implied that Jesus is acting for/as God here.

b) Jesus will come to the temple and purify it, which is what he did when he kicked out the money lenders.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 3: John 2:13-17

I love this example of Jesus’ very human emotions and his direct action to correct the wrong.

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 3: John 2:13-17

Bible scholars estimate that more than 2 million Jews came to Jerusalem for Passover. Paying the temple tax was required, which is why there were money lenders there.

Background: The money lenders were in the Court of the Gentiles, the only place the Gentiles could allowed to pray and offer sacrifices. Jesus sees this as a defiling of the temple since it’s been turned into a marketplace. Great synopsis HERE

Furthermore, the temple tax had to be paid in Tyrian shekels, which had the most amount of silver in it, so the money changers had to exchange the Jews’ coinage in order to satisfy this requirement.

Making a whip would take a bit to time. Jesus did this methodically. He did not drive out the money lenders out of passion.

The outer court was where Gentiles could worship the Lord. With the money lenders there, this space was not corrupt.

Jesus converts water first, then cleanses the temple. Conversion first, then cleansing of the temple.

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BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 2: John 2:1-12

by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

Summary of John 2:1-12

Jesus attends a wedding with his mother and disciples in Galilee. When they run out of wine, Mary asks Jesus to help. Jesus turns water into wine for the wedding banquet. It was choice wine.

This is the first of many signs that Jesus performed that revealed his glory and who he was. Jesus then traveled to Capernaum.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 2: John 2:1-12

3a) They ran out of wine for the wedding banquet. This is an embarrassment and could bring shame upon the couple. Hospitality was huge back in ancient times, and failing to provide your guests with adequate drink was a major faux pas.

b) I think Mary was asking Jesus for a solution, not necessarily a miracle. We see this when she tells her servants to do whatever Jesus tells them to do. She responds with obedience.

c) If you approach Jesus with the expectation he will do what you want, you can expect a poor response. If  you approach Jesus with an open heart and looking for help, you can expect him to answer in his way.

d) Jesus is hesitant to reveal himself yet to the masses, but he does so.

4) Miracles but also answering people’s requests with an active answer.

5a) Jesus did something only the Messiah could do.

b) It shows me that not only is anything possible with God, but anything is possible when you have an open heart and mind.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 2: John 2:1-12

I love this miracle! It solves a basic human need (drink) and helps avoid an embarrassing situation (shows Jesus’ compassion), and it’s done in an unpresumptuous way.

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 3, Day 2: John 2:1-12

The 3rd day refers to the continuation of John’s telling of events: the beginning (John 1:19-28), Day 1: (John 1:29-34), Day 2: (John 1:35-42), Day 3: (John 1:43-51)

Jesus blesses weddings (he does this as we see by attending them). He blesses events in our lives when we invite him in.

It is presumed that Joseph died young since he is not mentioned here. Many Bible scholars believe Jesus took care of the family until they were of age. This is why he stayed in Nazareth and left when they were all cared for.

Mary probably approaches Jesus as the head of the household who is used to solving problems. It’s no different today from going to your family members to solve problems.

By calling Mary “woman,” Jesus is distancing himself since he is now in the public eye.

Fun Fact: Many only appears in the Gospel of John one more time — at the cross (John 19:26)

When Jesus spoke of “his hour,” he meant the cross.

Jesus most likely prayed before performing this miracle and did not do it just to please Mary.

Note that not very many words of Mary’s are recorded in the Bible. Those that are point to Jesus as Sovereign. As we see here, you are to do whatever he tells you to do.

Jesus used the existing water pots, allowing the servants who filled them to share in his miracle.

The pots were filled to the brim; a transformation was coming, not an additive to the water.

They took out the water in faith that was now wine.

Whether the wine was transformed in the pot or at the pouring, we do not know. There was extra, which the couple could have sold for more money for a start in life.

This is the FIRST of SEVEN signs recorded in John’s Gospel, each designed to bring the reader to faith in Jesus.

Jesus’ 7 Signs in the Gospel of John

  1. John 2:1-11 – Water into wine
  2. John 4:46-54 – Healing of the nobleman’s son
  3. John 5:1-15 – Healing at the pool of Bethesda
  4. John 6:1-14 – Feeding the 5,000
  5. John 6:15-21 – Jesus walks on water
  6. John 9:1-12 – Healing of the man born blind
  7. John 11:1-44 – Lazarus raised from the dead

Fun Fact: The Greek word for “signs” is used 74 times in the New Testament, 23 times in John’s Gospel.

Note the hint of the 3rd day of glory as this miracle happened on the 3rd day.

The disciples believed in Jesus more after the miracle, which was probably a motivation for Jesus performing it — to strengthen their faith.

We believe more in the Lord when He does great things for us, too!

Mary expects great things and lets Jesus do it his way. Great example!

map of Galilee in times of Jesus www.atozmomm.comCapernaum was on the shore of the Sea of Galilee. Jesus spends a lot of time here during his ministry. (Matthew 4:13).

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BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 2, Day 3: John 1:29-34

by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

Summary of John 1:29-34

John sees Jesus coming. He calls out “Look, the Lamb of God!” He is the one.

John testified that he saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove on him. God told John that this will be the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit. He says this is God’s Chosen One.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 2, Day 3: John 1:29-34

6a) The lamb was the sin offering that cleansed the people from sin. It’s blood was poured out to atone for sin. With John calling Jesus the Lamb of God, he is saying Jesus is the one who has come to cleanse the people of sin. He is saying Jesus is perfect as the lamb had to be as well.

b) I’m in awe. It’s so hard to believe Jesus would die for my sins, but it’s the truth I hold on to!

7) Jesus was sent by God as the Spirit descending from heaven upon him proved. God declared “This is my Son.” This is the Messiah who was sent by God to save the world and who is God incarnate.

8 ) Water baptism is an outward sign that you accept Jesus’ sacrifice for your sins into your heart. Jesus’ baptizes with the Holy Spirit and saving grace, granting us eternal life with the Father.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 2, Day 3: John 1:29-34

So powerful! Can you imagine seeing Jesus get baptized?! What a sight!

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 2, Day 3: John 1:29-34

Scholars believe this scene was after John baptized Jesus and after the 40 days of temptation in the wilderness. Jesus is paying a visit to John.

Note that John points out Jesus’ great reason for coming: to save us!

Note there’s only one sin of the world. Jesus takes away all sin.

Jesus was before all; he is eternal.

God gave a visible symbol of who Jesus was. This allowed John to be a witness for Jesus, the Son of God.

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Friday Digest BSF John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1

by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW IN BSF JOHN’S GOSPEL: THE TRUTH LESSON 1

  • The Word is Life
  • The Word is Jesus
  • The Word is Light
  • The Word is Everything
  • The Word is grace
  • With the Word, you are blessed
  • If you have the Word, you have God
  • You are nothing without the Word

TAKE AWAY: Having the Word is as simple as believing.

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BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 5: John 1:14, 16-18

by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

Summary of John 1:14, 16-18

The Word (Jesus) became human and he came from the Father. Christ has given us grace and truth. No one has seen God but Jesus has made God known.

We receive grace from Jesus. The law was given through Moses but Christ brings grace and truth. No one has seen God, but Jesus who is God has made him known.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 5: John 1:14, 16-18

12)

The Word became flesh: Jesus became human.

And made his dwelling among us: Jesus came to earth.

We have seen his glory: Through Jesus, we see God’s glory and the glory of Jesus.

The glory of the one and only Son: This is Jesus’ and God’s glory.

Who came from the Father: God sent Jesus.

Full of grace and truth: Jesus is full of grace and truth

13a) We receive the grace given by Christ that he has already given us since the beginning of time.

b) Too many ways to count. From not dying, not being harmed, having a good life, having a great family, being blessed with animals, being able to help others, and the list goes on.

c)

The law was given through Moses: the laws put forth by God for living was given by Moses.

Grace and truth came through Jesus Christ: Christ gives us grace and truth.

God’s “one and only Son, who is himself God…has made him known.” Jesus who is God has made God known. This one speaks to me because in Jesus, I can see God and they are one and the same who are with me always. I need all the help I can get!

14) So much. God is full of love, compassion, helpfulness, strength, and judgment. God corrects me when I need it and gives me another chance. God picks me up when I fall. Always and forever.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 5: John 1:14, 16-18

Great emphasis on the grace of God/Jesus and how we can be close to God/Jesus as God’s children. Great!

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 5: John 1:14, 16-18

John states that the Word/Jesus became flesh and lived among us, not in the tabernacle only. John saw Jesus and saw his glory. The Greek verb is “beheld.” The glory of Jesus is full of grace and truth.

Jesus brings a never-ending supply of grace. Jesus replaced the law of Moses.

When you see Jesus, you see God.

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BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 4: John 1:9-13

by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

Summary of John 1:9-13

The light (Jesus) was coming to bring light/life to the world. The world, however, did not recognize him or receive him. Those who did believe in him became children of God born of God.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 4: John 1:9-13

8a) Most did not recognize Jesus or receive him.

b) God’s chosen people, the Jews

c) Reasons is that they just can’t see Christ or see him in their life. Following Christ is too hard. And, they believe God/Christ to be unloving or distant.

9) You must receive Christ and believe in his name and what he did for you.

10)

Born not of natural descent: We were born of the Holy Spirit.

Nor of human decision: Chosen by God to believe.

Or a husband’s will: Believing in Christ is the choice of no other by yourself.

Born of God: Born or God’s will.

11) I know I am God’s child because I have accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior into my heart.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 4: John 1:9-13

Jesus came for one reason: to give us eternal life. Yet, many cannot grasp this simplicity. Do you?

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 4: John 1:9-13

We are all born by God’s grace.

How powerful is sin that the Creator of the Universe (Jesus) came and no one recognized him?

We are born anew, in Christ, when we believe.

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BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 3: John 1:6-8, 15

by atozmom, posted in BSF John's Gospel: The Truth 2023/2024

SUMMARY OF JOHN 1:6-8, 15

A man named John was sent from God to be a witness to the light (this is John the Baptist as witness to Jesus). John testified to who Jesus was.

BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 3: John 1:6-8, 15

6a) To be a forerunner and witness to Christ.

b) Such a good question after the above question! It’s definitely to shine the light of Christ, but in a different way than John the Baptist. It’s through my daily life, my interactions with others, my work, my family, my animals, and more.

7a)

1) This is the one I spoke about. This means that this is the one whom John has been prophesizing as the Messiah.

2) He who comes after me has surpassed me. Jesus came after John the Baptist’s ministry, and Jesus is greater than John.

3) He was before me. Jesus was before John the Baptist. This means since the beginning and in terms of status, too. He was first among all things; first in every sense.

b) That Jesus is God.

Conclusions BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 3: John 1:6-8, 15

Great lesson on our life’s purpose.

End Notes BSF Study Questions John’s Gospel: The Truth Lesson 1, Day 3: John 1:6-8, 15

Many mistook John the Baptist for Jesus, which is why John the Baptist and John the Apostle put so much emphasis on Jesus being the Messiah.

Being a witness was a big deal in ancient times. If someone spoke well of you, it carried a lot of weight. This is why you’ll see in the book of John witnesses for and against Jesus.

Ancestors were revered in ancient times. So, Jesus coming before John the Baptist and first in everything meant a lot.

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Summer Bible Study: Sermon on the Mount: Week 4, Day 5: Matthew 7:21-29

by atozmom, posted in WordGo Sermon on the Mount

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 7:21-29

Only those who do the will of the Father will get into heaven. Basically, those who aren’t hypocrites and truly have a heart for God.

Those who follow God’s law and Jesus’s teaching will have a firm foundation like someone who built his house on a rock. Those who don’t are like the foolish man who built his house on sand, so the house eventually fell under the strain.

The crowds were amazing as Jesus’s authoritative teachings.

Questions for Matthew 7:21-29

12) Those who have a true heart for God enter the kingdom of heaven. Others don’t. We need Jesus and through Him, we find life. Lord, give me your heart, so I can live your way and follow your path and not my own. Let me find you everywhere I go and in all things and share that love for you with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

13) The rock is rooted. It does not move. It supports the house and everything in it. Our rock is Jesus. His work is our salvation, which is the foundation of our lives. Isaiah 28:6 tells us that Jesus is the cornerstone. 1 Corinthians 3:11 tells us that Jesus is our foundation. Builders build by submitted to Christ as our Savior and living by faith, doing God’s will, and following His ways.

14) God’s truth holds us firmly in place. We are not subjected to the whims of the wind. Those who do not have Jesus build on sand that moves and crumbles. Sand is not solid. I stand solid with God. Jesus is my rock and Savior. I want to strengthen that more and share that with others.

Conclusions to Sermon on the Mount Matthew 7:21-29

If your heart is on Jesus, you are saved. If you are only going through the pretenses of being with Christ, you are not saved. Period.

The wise come to Jesus and have a solid foundation of faith. The foolish do not follow Christ and live on shaky ground.

Find security in God’s love and God will bless you, others, and society as a whole.

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Summer Bible Study: Sermon on the Mount: Week 4, Day 4: Matthew 7:13-20

by atozmom, posted in WordGo Sermon on the Mount

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 7:13-20

The road to life has a small gate and is narrow and only a few find it. The road to destruction is wide and broad and many enter.

Watch out for false prophets whom you will know by the fruit they bear. They will bear bad fruit and can only bear bad fruit. Good trees bear good fruit, and bad ones bear bad. Bad trees are cut down and thrown into the fire.

Questions for Matthew 7:13-20

9) That the path to life (heaven) is only through him and not many will find this path. John 14:6 says he is the only way to God. He is the way, the truth, the life. Acts 4:12 says salvation is found only in Jesus. Many people don’t like the rules God places on them to find Him and Life. They want to do things their way. In the end, they pay the ultimate price for this thinking. They want to be in charge and set the rules. I’m on God’s Road!

10) They bear bad fruit. Their actions reveal who they really are. John 15:16 says God chooses those to be with Him to bear lasting fruit. Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. I like to think I do my due diligence, and if someone says something that does not make sense to me, I try to find the truth.

11) Judging is quite different from questioning. We should always question what we hear if it doesn’t make sense, even if it’s from someone claiming to be of God. We can trust God’s Word, the Holy Spirit’s guidance, and prayer to help us discern false prophets, while not judging others.

Conclusions to Sermon on the Mount Matthew 7:13-20

If you are strong in faith and prayer and know God’s Word, it’s hard for others to lead you astray. As we study the Bible, we should remember that knowing God and His teachings is like putting on armor; we are shielded from evil-doers. We must not fall prey to what the world says. God and Jesus are our guiding lights.

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Summer Bible Study: Sermon on the Mount: Week 4, Day 3: Matthew 7:7-12

by atozmom, posted in WordGo Sermon on the Mount

SUMMARY OF MATTHEW 7:7-12

“Ask, and it will be given to you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and the door will be opened to you.” If you ask God, He will give you good gifts like we would our kids.

Do unto others what you want done to you. This is the Law.

Questions for Matthew 7:7-12

6) That they are extremely simple: ask, seek, knock. That if you do these simple things, God will give it to you. I’m praying for lots of things. I want to move from where I am living. My husband is currently searching for a new career path he enjoys. I’m praying for the health of all my family members.

7) God provides for us. God loves us. God provides all that we need. We only need to ask, seek, and knock at His door. God gave us His only Son. We are to give Him our hearts.

8 ) It would look wonderfully. We are to put others first. This shows our obedience to Him. When we put others first, we naturally grow with God.

Conclusions to Sermon on the Mount Matthew 7:7-12

Pray, pray, pray sums up this lesson!

Everything stems from love. The more you love God, the more you love others.

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