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Irving L. Jensen
JOHN
by Irvinc L. JENSEN
CONTENTS
Introduction . . . 1
LESSON Background and Survey .. . 5
ERA OF INCARNATION BEGINS

Prologue: “The Word Made Flesh” . . . 21
Witnesses and Discoveries of Jesus . . . 28
Miracle Worker and Voice of Authority . . . 34
Teacher ‘Come from: God =. 92169
ee “This
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sro) Is Indeed the Christ” . . . 45
YEARS OF CONFLICT
=| Persecution Against Jesus Begins . . . 50
Bread of Life Refused . . . 55
Attempts to Arrest Jesus . . . 59
Light of the World Rejected . . . 68
The Good Shepherd Spurned . . . 66

The King of Israel Enters Jerusalem . . . 70
DAY OF PREPARATION
Events Attending the Last Supper . . . 76
Farewell Discourses . . . 81
High-priestly Prayer . . . 87
HOUR OF SACRIFICE
Arrested and Tried . . . 91
Crucified and Buried . . . 95
DAWN OF VICTORY
Signs of the Resurrected Jesus . . . 98
Postresurrection Appearances in Galilee . . . 104
A Review of John . . . 108
The Geography of John’s Gospel . . . 109
Bibliography . . . 110
© 1970 by THe Moopy Bre InstTiruTE or CuIcAco

Printed in the United States of America
ISBN: 0-8024-1043-X
What book of the Bible shall we study first? and What
book shall we translate first? are two typical questions
asked by new Bible study groups and by Bible-translating
teams. In most cases the book chosen is the gospel of
John. This is because John’s gospel has a combination of
many desirable features making it a primer for reading
and study: it clearly presents foundational truths; it com-
bines fact and interpretation; it presents the way of salva-
tion succinctly and persuasively (e.g., 3:16); its very
setting and atmosphere are universal; and it is picturesque
and attractive in varied forms.
Introduction Bible study can be one of your most enjoyable activities.

Once you have tasted the thrill of personal, firsthand dis-
covery, have sensed the illuminating help of the Holy
Spirit in your study, and have seen how contemporary
the Bible is, your approach to God’s Word will take on
a new dimension. It is the hope of this writer that this
study guide will be an incentive for you to dig into the
inexhaustible mine of God’s riches as found in the gospel
of John.
Suggestions for the home Bible class:
The many Bible classes which are meeting weekly in
homes of our land are a bright indication of a healthy
spiritual hunger of many for the bread of God’s Word.
The item common to these informal groups is the Bible.
The classes are truly Bible classes if the Bible is the center
of attention and discussion.
Below are given some suggestions and guidelines for
making your Bible class a profitable one. Devote some
time in the first meeting of your class to a discussion of
these suggestions. In some cases, a suggestion may not
apply to your class (such as the “refreshments” item).
The “ingredients” of a home Bible class:
1. The Holy Bible and a study manual. Use the same
version, such as the King James, for the entire group, but
have access to other versions for comparison of readings.
A study manual used by each member of the class is a
common basis for directed group study.
2. The Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the unseen
Miracle-worker in the class’ pursuit of the goal. “Faith
cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God”
(Rom. 10:17). Depend on Him to make your class fruit-
ful. (Read I Cor. 2.)
3. The students. If the group is hungry for the Word,
the class will succeed. Christians will become stronger in
their faith, and non-Christians will be stirred to think
about accepting Christ as Saviour.
4. The host. The host is a key to atmosphere. New
members or visitors should be invited by the host, not the
leader.
5. The leader. The role of the leader is shepherd-
teacher. A lay leader is to be preferred over a clergyman,
because the home Bible class situation emphasizes the
role of the laity. It should be noted here that a home
Bible class is not intended to compete with the local
church’s Bible classes, but rather to supplement the pro-
gram of the church. For example, many unsaved neighbors
will attend a home Bible class who would otherwise stay
away from a church. When they are saved, they will then
recognize the need of entering into the fellowship of a
local church where the gospel is faithfully preached.
6. The fellowship. The combination of students, host
and leader should be a fellowship of common purpose.
The group may be a mixture of Christians and non-
Christians, but the common purpose of all is to learn
what the Bible says and how it should be applied.
Suggestions for the students:
1. Read. Read every Bible verse cited in the manual,
and study the manual carefully.
2. Record. Make notations in the margins of your Bible;
record observations on paper; write out answers to ques-
tions in the manual.
3. Inquire. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in the group
meeting.
4. Participate. Share with others what you have learned
in your study.
5. Apply. Be as obedient in applying the Bible to your
life as you are hungry to know what it says.
Suggestions for the leader:
1. Know the group. Know the spiritual needs of the
members of the class. Also, be aware of their knowledge
of the Bible and study abilities.
2. Be well organized. Have the three parts of the meet-
ing (opening minutes, main discussion, closing minutes)
well planned, even though your plans are subject to
extemporaneous adjustment in the course of the informal
class meeting.
3. Be well prepared. In addition to studying carefully
the Bible text and the manual’s lesson, think of ways to
use the charts of each lesson in the class meeting. The
chart is an important visual aid and affords variety in
group study.
4. Ask questions. Encourage the members of the class
to participate. This is done most effectively by well-chosen
questions directed to them. Also, never belittle any mem-
ber’s remarks or answers.
5. Emphasize the main truths. The leader should keep
the class from wandering away from the main teachings
of the Bible passage being studied. Watch for clues in the
Bible text to such main teachings, or otherwise strong
words and phrases. This study guide will be of help in this.
6. Storm the will. The hour of discussion should make
a difference in the heart of everyone in the group. Persuade
each one to examine the heart honestly, and to act
accordingly.
7. Further recommendations for the discussion hour.
Note: The size of the group should be kept relatively
small. Start another group as the number increases.
a. Open the meeting on time.
b. Keep the entire meeting informal. It is not in-
tended to be a formal worship service.
. The opening minutes should be devoted to wel-
coming visitors, reviewing the previous group
study, and identifying the goals of the present
discussion.
. Devote most of the hour to a free, informal dis-
cussion of the main parts of the lesson. Note: You
may choose to devote more than one meeting to
the discussion of any one lesson of this study
guide. Illustrate the Bible passages from your own
experience, and encourage the members of the
group to do the same.
. As you approach: the end of the meeting, sum-
marize the things learned, and let the members
suggest ways to apply the Bible truths.
. Make clear what the homework is for the next
meeting.
. Close the meeting on time. Light refreshments
(if any) and further discussion (if sought) should
be kept distinct from the stated class meeting
hour.
Lesson1
background and Survey

FOUR MAIN STAGES ARE RECOMMENDED
FOR THE PERSON WHO WANTS TO STUDY

ANY ONE BOOK OF THE SCRIPTURES.
These stages are:
1. learning the background
of the book (ez, author,
date written)
2 making a survey of the book a¢ a whole
3. making a firsthand analysis of each part (eg,
chapter) of the book
4. rherring to outside helps (eg, commentaries) for
supplementary and checking aid
This first lesson is devoted to the background of the
goepel A John and 2 survey, or overview, of the book.
The remainder of the manual is a guide to firsthand
analysis A each chapter A John. The study suggestions
and questions of those analytical lessons are of such a
nature that you can complete each lesson without much,
if any, reference to outside aide. (At times you will be
directed to such aide for help on technical or problem
PAAZAZE. )
1. BACKGROUND.
A. Avthor.
Authors of many Bible books are not identified by name.
This is s0 in the case of the gospel of John. The traditional
view is that Jobn the apostle, sometimes referred to as
John the evangelist, was the author; hence the title, gos-
pel of Jobn, or gospel according to John.* (The titles of
© Ancher view is that 2 dose Gigle A the apotie, referred

to 28 Jon
the Ader, was the text’s antr. Gee AM. Hester, The Gospd Aconding
to \Am, pp. 12-44.
Or
our Bible books were not a part of the inspired text, but
were added along the way for identification purposes.)
According to 21:20, 23-24, the “disciple whom Jesus loved”
was the author. Read 13:23; 19:26; 20:2; 21:7 for other
similar descriptions of this disciple. In each case, John
could be the disciple meant. If John was the author, why
do you suppose he would not name himself in these
passages?
Listed below are some descriptions and other facts
concerning the Apostle John. Study these carefully to
become acquainted with the author. Be sure to read all
verses cited.
1. John was a son of Zébedee (21:2) and Salome (cf.
Matt. 27:56; Mark 15:40; John 19:25). Since Salome was
a sister of Jesus’ mother Mary, Jesus and John were
cousins. This would partly explain the close association
between the two.
2. John was a brother of the Apostle James. Jesus
surnamed both men as Boanerges, or “sons of thunder,”
a name indicating perhaps a fiery personality (cf. Luke
9:52-56) .
3. Zebedee, James and John were fishermen at the
Sea of Galilee. Zebedee was probably well-to-do (Mark
1:19-20).
4. John may have been a disciple of John the Baptist
when Jesus called him to His service (Mark 1:20). His
age at that time may have been around twenty-five, and
he lived to be one hundred.
5. John was a Palestinian Jew, a close companion of
Peter, and a contemporary of the events of his gospel.
6. John became a leader of the Jerusalem church
(Galo-2:9);
7. John wrote three epistles and Revelation in addition
to his gospel. Because Revelation refers mainly to the last
days, the comparison may be made that as John the
Baptist prepared the way for the first coming of Jesus,
the Apostle John prepared the way for His second coming.
8. There are only a few historical references to John
after the events of the Gospels. Read these:
Acts 4:1-22 —— John with Peter
8:14-15
Galatians 2:9 — One of John’s contacts with
Paul
Revelation
1:1, 4, 9 — John’s exile experience,
around A.p. 95
9. From New Testament biography and epistles a
composite personality image of John is seen, though
incomplete in some respects. John was a man of courage,
fervor, loyalty, spiritual perception, love and humility.
The subject of love is a keynote of his epistles. Of this
Merrill Tenney writes, “As Christ tamed his ardor and
purified it of unrestrained violence, John became the
apostle of love whose devotion was not excelled by that
of any other writer of the New Testament.”+ (Cf. I John
4:7.)
A little may be learned about the man John from the
book he wrote, although one is not usually aware of the
author as his gospel is being studied. From that stand-
point the authorship may rest in anonymity, suggested
symbolically by someone’s remark that “this gospel was
written by the hand of an angel.”
B. Date and Place of Composition.

The latter years of John’s life were spent around
Ephesus, hub city of Asia Minor, where the apostle was
teaching, preaching and writing. The advanced nature of
John’s gospel points to the fact that the other three
Gospels had already been written, and that a period of
time had elapsed since their writing. Now the church’s
need was for a restatement of the same story of Christ,
but with more reflection and interpretation combined with
the narrative. On the basis of this it may be concluded
that John wrote his gospel toward the end of the century,
or around A.p. 85, while he was ministering at Ephesus.t
Ten years later, around a.p. 95, John was exiled by
Emperor Domitian to the island of Patmos, where he
wrote the book of Revelation (cf. Rev. 1:9).
C. Original Readers.
By the time John wrote his gospel the church had
matured in its transition from a Jewish exclusivism (cf.
Acts 10) to a universal outreach. Hence it was very
natural for this fourth gospel to be directed to a universal
audience. This is why John translates Hebrew and Aramaic
4 Merrill C. Tenney, New Testament Survey, p. 189.
t John’s gospel is sometimes called “The Ephesian Gospel.”
words (e.g., Siloam, 9:7; Gabbatha, 19:13; and Golgotha,
19:17), and why he explains Jewish religious practices
(e.g., the burial custom of 19:40).
D. Style of Writing.
There is a basic simplicity about the language and struc-
ture of the fourth gospel, while the meaning of its mes-
sage ranges from the perspicuous (e.g., 3:16) to the
mystical (e.g., 1:1). Luther wrote, “Never in my life have
I read a book written in simpler words than this, and yet
the words are inexpressible.” Another theologian has ex-
pressed it this way:
The noble simplicity and the dim mystery of the narration, the
tone of grief and longing, with the light of love shedding its
tremulous beam on the whole—-these impart to the Gospel of
John a peculiar originality and charm, to which no parallel can
be found.§
John is a book of contrasts, moving quickly from grief
and sadness to joy and gladness; from the storms of
opposition to the peace of fellowship; from condescension
earthward to ascension heavenward; from doubt to faith;
from life to death. Any attentive reader of this gospel
must be stirred within as he ponders what its narrative
has to do with him.
E. Purposes.
The three different writings of John (gospel, epistles,
Apocalypse [Revelation]) reveal three different basic pur-
poses of the author: |
1. The gospel: the evangelic founding of the church
2. The epistles: the organic shaping of the church
3. The Apocalypse: the eternal future of the church ||
John explains specifically in 20:30-31 why his gospel was
written. It was primarily to win unbelievers (Jew and
Gentile) to a saving faith. John also must have had in
mind the confirming of believers in their faith,# so that
the church would have a stronger witness.
Read 20:30-31 for John’s purpose in reporting the “signs”
of Jesus in his gospel. The miracles were called “signs”
by John because they signified vital spiritual truths. John
§ August Tholuck, quoted in John Peter Lange, Lange’s Commentary on the
Holy Scriptures, 17: vii.
|| Ibid., p. 15.
# The New English Bible translates 20:31 as “recorded in order that you
may hold the faith that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.”
wanted his readers not only to learn those spiritual truths,
but to come to a personal relationship to Jesus through
faith in Him as Christ, the Son of God. Keep in mind the
words “believe” and “life” as key words of John’s gospel.
What is the connection between signs, belief and life?
John also had other purposes in mind, subordinate but
related to those mentioned above. One was to refute the
heresy of Docetism, which denied the true humanity of
Jesus (observe John’s “answer” in 1:14). Another was to
expose the unbelief of Judaism** (e.g., “He came to his
own country, but his own people did not receive him,”
1211, TEV»:
THE SYNOPTICS AND JOHN ChartA
chiefly concerned with Jesus’ gives more coverage to Jesus’

ministry in the north, around ministry in the south, around
Galilee Judea
much emphasis on “kingdom” more emphasis on the person

inheritance of Jesus (“I am’s”) and eternal-
life inheritance
Jesus as Son of David, Jesus especially as Son of God

Son of man
the gospel of the infant the gospel of the maturing

church church
the earthly story the heavenly meaning
Jesus’ sayings generally more of the long discourses

short (e.g., parables) of Jesus
comparatively little com- much commentary by John

mentary by the gospel writer
only one mention of a three, possibly four, Passovers

Passover cited (on this basis it is con-
cluded that Jesus’ public minis-
try lasted 34% years)
** The word “Jew” appears around seventy times in the gospel.

F. Relation to the Synoptic Gospels.t+
The four canonical Gospels record an identical gospel
(“good news”) about the same God-Man, Jesus. Yet each
gospel has its own unique function.{{ The one gospel
markedly different from the other three is John’s. Some of
these differences are shown in Chart A.
Most of the comparisons shown on Chart A refer to the
Gospels’ contents as a whole. For instance, Jesus is no less
Son of God in the synoptics than He is in John.
G. Coverage of Jesus’ Life.
The four Gospels differ from each other as to how much

they report of Jesus’ life. Whatever each author included
or excluded was determined by a divinely inspired selec-
tivity with a view to the particular gospel’s purpose.§§ After
we have reconstructed from the four Gospels the main facts
of Jesus’ three and one-half years of public ministry, we
can compare how much of that total ministry each gospel
reports. Chart B shows the coverage of John’s gospel, as
indicated by the shaded areas.
1. Observe that John gives a full coverage of the first
year of Jesus’ ministry. What region of Palestine was
mainly involved?
2. John also gives extensive coverage of the last months
of Jesus’ ministry. Like the other three Gospels, he gives
special attention to Jesus’ death and resurrection.
3. Read in your Bible the four references to Passovers
cited on the chart. (Some hold that the “feast’’ of 5:1 was
not of Passover time.)
4. Observe that one verse, 7:1, covers the entire six-
month period of Jesus’ specialized ministry. (The synoptic
gospels give an extensive coverage to this period.) What
would be the purpose of an author of a gospel, like John,
to include in his narrative only certain events of Jesus’ life?
++ The word “synoptic” is used to identify the similarity of Matthew, Mark

and Luke. The word itself is from the Greek synoptikos, which means “to
see the whole together.”
tt For a comparison of the four Gospels, see Irving L. Jensen, Studies in
the Life of Christ.
§§ For example, Matthew omits Jesus’ first miracle in Cana; Mark omits
the nativity story; Luke omits Jesus’ meeting with the Samaritan woman; John
does not record Jesus’ ascension to heaven. (Neither does John report Jesus’
nativity and genealogy, youth, wilderness temptations, and _ transfiguration. )
10
11
John 5:1
John 1:19 ff.

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ll. SURVEY.||||
We have studied the background of the fourth gospel in
order to appreciate more how and why it was given to the
world. Now as we enter the stage of survey study, followed
by analysis in the subsequent lessons, our goal is to learn
what the gospel says and means.
Open your Bible to the gospel of John and rapidly turn
the pages of its twenty-one chapters. As you do this pre-
pare your mind to get a general overview of this book, just
as one would view New York City from the top of the Em-
pire State Building. This is what survey study is—seeing
the structure of the book as a whole, and getting the “feel”
of its contents. Survey study should always precede analy-
sis. The rule is “Image the whole; then execute the parts.”
(Have you ever tried thumbing through a magazine first
for a casual acquaintance, and then returning to read the
individual articles and features?)
For your study you should use a Bible in which you will
not hesitate to make pencil notations. Throughout your
study, whether survey or analysis, always keep a pencil in
hand as you read the Bible text, and use it to record your
observations.
A. First Reading.
Your first reading of the gospel should be of a scanning
type. Spend about an hour (averaging three minutes per
chapter) viewing only some of the prominent features of
each chapter.4# Don’t try to be exhaustive in this stage
of your study. The main purpose of this scanning is to make
a first acquaintance by identifying some of the book’s con-
tents. After you have scanned each chapter, record a
chapter title on Chart C, similar to the titles shown. (Note:
Divisions are made at 1:19, 10:40 and 12:36b instead of
2:1, 11:1 and 13:1, respectively.) Things to look for in
this scanning are main characters (e.g., Lazarus, chap. 11),
main events, and key words and phrases. You may choose
to read only the first verse or two of each paragraph in a
chapter, rather than all the verses of the chapter. (For
|| || For a detailed description of the survey method of study, see Irving
Jensen, Acts: An Inductive Study, pp. 43-54. L.
H## OF course, the original Bible autographs did
not have chapter divisions,
or, for that matter, verse divisions. Such divisions
are helps to us today for
reference and for identification of small units of thought.
12
CHAPTER TITLES Chart C
survey study, train your eyes to see things without tarry-

ing over the details. )
What are some of your first impressions of John’s gos-
pel after this first reading?
B. Second Reading.
As you scan the gospel a second time, keep in mind the
chapter titles you recorded earlier. Try to identify any
turning points in the narrative, such as when Jesus be-
comes a prisoner. Try making a simple outline of the
gospel, and record this.
Chart D is a completed survey chart showing various out-
lines which you will be referring to as you now use the
following study suggestions:
1. Compare the first verse of John and the last verse.___
2. How does 1:19 begin a new section? That is, how is
1:1-18 different from 1:19 ff.?
3. Generally speaking, to whom is Jesus extending His
ministry in 1:19—12:36a? =
Who are the special objects of His ministry in 12:36b—
17:26?
4. What verses of chapter 5 show beginnings of opposition
to Jesus?
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Study the outline of Chart D concerning the people’s un-
belief, and compare this outline with the one shown of the
disciples’ belief. As you study John, keep in mind both of
these developments.
5. The hour of 12:36b has been called ‘““The Great Pause.”
How is this a turning point in the gospel? For help in
answering this, identify the “they” of 12:37 and “his own”
of 13:1. Then refer to Chart D and note the various out-
lines that have a turning point at 12:36b.
6. In what chapter does Jesus’ arrest take place? Where

is the resurrection recorded? How are chapters 20—21
related to this resurrection?
7. Do the verses 20:30-31 appear to conclude the main

story of the gospel? If so, how do you account for the in-
clusion of chapter 21?
Observe that 21:24-25 has a reference to the writing of
the fourth gospel, as does 20:30-31. Could you say that
John has two endings?
Chart D shows chapter 21 as an epilogue. Compare this
with the prologue of 1:1-18.
8. From Chart D, how long is the time period of 1:19—
12:36a? ‘ ‘ ;
Compare this with the time period of the last half of the
gospel. As was noted earlier, of the gospel writers only
John reports Jesus’ early Judean ministry, without which
record Christ’s ministry would seem to be only two and
one-third years. To show how selective the gospel writers
were, it may be noted that John reports events of only
about twenty individual days of Jesus’ public ministry.
Read 21:25 for an explanation of the necessity of such
selectivity.
9. Note the key words and phrases shown on Chart D.
How many of these were key words which you had dis-
covered earlier in your study? Each key word (e.g., ““‘be-
lieve”) suggests an important subject developed in John’s
gospel. Some time during the course of your study in
John make topical studies of these. (An exhaustive con-
15
cordance, like Strong’s, will identify all the verses in John
containing such words. )
10. Note also by Chart D that 20:30-31 are given as key
verses for this gospel. What are the key words of these
verses?
Recall from earlier in the lesson the meaning of “signs.”
Observe on Chart D what chapters record the signs. Was
Jesus’ main purpose in performing the signs that of al-
leviating distress? How does 20:31 furnish an answer to
this question?
11. The deity of Jesus is a main subject of John’s gospel.
Each chapter makes reference to this deity. Read the
selected verses (one per chapter) shown below, and record
the essence of each verse: —
1:49
peWi|
3:16
4:26
O25
6:33
7:29
8:58
ery
10:30
12232
Mets
16
14:11
15:1
16:28
Lit
18:11
Ses
20:28
21:14
It will also be instructive to read personal recognitions of

Jesus’ deity, recorded in John, by these people:
John the Baptist (1:34)
Nathaniel (1:49)
Peter (6:69)
Martha (11:27)
Thomas (20:28)
John (20:31)
Christ*** (10:36)
From your study of the above verses, why is a belief in
the deity of Jesus necessary for salvation?
12. Observe on Chart D the outline Signs Wrought; Self
Revealed. Actually, in both main sections of John’s gospel
Christ was revealing who He was. In the last section, how-
ever, He pressed His claim more explicitly and revealed it
fully in His death and resurrection.
Christ appears under many titles in this gospel, such as
“the Word,” “Creator,” “Only Begotten of the Father,”
“Lamb of God.” John records several “I am” testimonies of
Jesus. Read those shown below, and record the identifica-
tion made:
can right-
#%@ This is one of Jesus’ own claims to deity. Only God Himself
fully claim deity. Since Jesus is God, He could make such a claim.
17
6:35
8:12
8:58 (cf. Exodus 3:14)
10:11
11:25
14:6
15:1
As you think about the above identifications which

Jesus Himself made, list the many wonderful blessings
and helps which are yours as a Christian because this same
Jesus dwells within your heart.
Review Exercises
It is always good to review what has been studied in a

lesson. See how many of the following exercises you can
complete without referring back to the pages of the lesson.
1. What are the four main stages of studying any one
book of the Bible?
2. What do you know about John the apostle concerning

these areas:
. his family
. occupation and religion before his calling to discipleship
. relation to the early church
. Bible books he wrote
. his character
approximate age at death
When and where was the fourth gospel written?
.
. Who were this gospel’s original readers?
. What is the main theme of this gospel?
WO
fF
On
MR
SR. Compare the fourth gospel with the synoptic
AQAA
gospels.
18
7. What periods of Jesus’ ministry are thoroughly reported
by John?
8. Name some key words of John. Quote the key verses.
What title may be given this gospel?

9. See how much of the survey outline (Chart D) you can
recall. Why is a new division made at 1:19; 10:40; and
12:36b?
10. How was “The Great Pause” a turning point in Jesus’
public ministry?
11. What is the general content of the prologue and epi-
logue?
co * *
Your analysis of the text of John begins with the next
lesson. Each lesson is divided into seven sections, described
briefly below.
1. Introductory paragraphs. Here a main theme of the
passage is identified, and continuity with the previous les-
son established.
2. Preparation for study. This includes such suggestions
as reading related Bible passages of other books, and set-
ting up a work sheet for analysis.
3. Analysis. This is the heart of your own firsthand
study. Spend most of your time here.
4. Notes. Some commentary notes and explanations are
included here.
5. Further advanced study. This is for those desiring to
do extra study related to the passage.
6. Some applications. It is always good to be reminded
that Scripture was given to man to be applied. Then, the
reminder calls for action.
7. Words to ponder. A key phrase or verse of the pas-
sage is quoted here, for a final meditation.
Lo
Here is a recommended list of study “tools” to be used
for the exercises of this manual:
A Minimum List:
1. A good study Bible. Use an edition that has ample
space in the margins for notations. Avoid using a small-
print edition. (Note: Unless otherwise cited, the verses
quoted in this manual are of the King James Version. )
2. Paper. Always have a sheet of paper or notebook
handy for recording your observations and other notes.
3. Writing tools. A pencil, ball-point pen and some
colored pencils are recommended for recording purposes.
Other Recommended Aids:
1. One or two modern versions of the New Testament,
to compare readings of the passage being studied.
2. An exhaustive concordance (e.g., Strong’st tf).
3. A commentary on John (a good one-volume commen-
tary on the whole Bible, such as The Wycliffe Bible Com-
mentary, is very adequate for these studies) .
ttt James Strong, The Exhaustive Concordance

of the Bible.
20
Lesson 2 John 1:1-18
ERA OF INCARNATION
BEGINS Prologue:
“The Word Made Flesh’
WHILE THE WORLD WAITED AND WATCHED
VIA TELEVISION, ASTRONAUTS BORMAN,
ANDERS AND LOVELL CIRCUITED THE MOON.
They were on man’s first lunar orbit. The voices of the

astronauts added a unique dimension to the awesome
flight in their reading of the Bible’s record of the original
creation—Genesis 1. “In the beginning God created the
heaven and the earth.”
Any thinking person is interested in the origin of the
universe and of man. How did these come into being? The
Genesis creation account gives the true answer—in the
beginning of time God created the universe, including the
highest creature, man.
The Apostle John knew and believed the Genesis
creation story. The first three words of his gospel repeat
the first three words of Genesis, and two verses later he
makes the summary statement that all things were made
by the “Word” (v. 3). From that point on, however,
John’s object in the prologue (1:1-18) is not to expand
on the matchless cosmogeny of Genesis, but to show how
this Creator Jesus was involved in His Father’s plan of
redemption for the fallen human race. This is the subject
of our present lesson.
I. PREPARATION FOR STUDY.
As you study each chapter in the gospel of John, keep in

mind the general theme of the section where it is located.
Chart D should be referred to for this. Chart E-1 is an
excerpt from that chart.
Bal
FIRST EXCERPT FROM CHART D Chart E-1
PROLOGUE ERA OF INCARNATION BEGINS
OB ECG) (O°F Bie LEI

Identifications of Jesus
The section 1:1—4:54 seeks to show who Jesus is, as the

object of man’s belief. As you proceed in your analysis
of
1:1-18, look for the ways Jesus is identified in these verses.
Record your findings in the empty box shown. Continue
this study for all the lessons devoted to this section.
Il. ANALYSIS.
Segment to be analyzed: 1:1-18.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 6, 14.
Your study of 1:1-18 should prove to be a
stirring intro-
duction to John’s gospel if you open your
heart and mind
to the Spirit’s voice. The passage is unexce
lled in the Bible
for its compactness of the gospel message.
Examine each
truth carefully. Weigh the significance of
each fact, whether
it is explicitly stated or implied. Learn
all you can about
Christ and His Father from these verses.
1. Paragraph subjects. Mark the paragraph divisions in
your Bible. Always be paragraph-consc
ious as you study
any one segment in the gospel. Since
a paragraph is a
group of verses with a common subje
ct, you should try to
determine what that subject is for
each paragraph you are
studying. Try this exercise for the
three paragraphs of
1:1-18, and record your findings below
.
22
1:1-5
eS ls es
1:14-18:
2. Key words and phrases. Read the passage again, with

pencil in hand, underlining or circling repeated key words
and phrases. Record these words and phrases on Chart F
in the designated spaces, as often, and in the same order,
as they appear in the Bible text. Some very important sub-
jects are suggested by these key words, and are later
developed by John in the gospel account that follows. If
you are studying in a group, discuss these words as to
meaning, significance, implications and applications.
3. Topical studies. Note the four topics shown on Chart
F. Record on the chart all references to these subjects.
a. “The Word.”
Does this phrase appear in the second paragraph? For
the sake of effect, try reading verse 14 immediately after
verse 1. Do you see any parallels in the phrases?
verse 1 verse 14
In-the beginning was the Word, And the Word was made flesh
and the Word was with God, and dwelt among us
and the Word was God full of grace and truth
How do these verses make it clear that the “Word” must
be Jesus Christ?
Where in the prologue is Jesus Christ first identified by
name?
How does the title “Word” identify a main ministry of
Jesus to this world? In answering this, consider the mean-
ing of the phrase “he hath declared him” (1:18)--'Phe
Greek word for “declared” as used in Acts 21:19 reveals
something of the main intent here.
23
JOHN 1:1-18 ChartF
Key Words TOPRPUGCAL ST URNES

and
Phrases
“The Word”
What is the normal function of words in everyday life?
Compare the three paragraphs using this outline:

The Word in Creation (vv. 1-5)
The Word in History (vv. 6-13)
The Word in Incarnation (vv. 14-18)
Contemplate further this great miracle of Christ’s in-
carnation, “the Word was made flesh.” Compare Paul’s
comments on it as recorded in Philippians 2:5-11. Why
did Jesus unite with human flesh?
Did Jesus cease being God when He became a Man?

What is John the evangelist’s answer to this?
Can you comprehend the doctrine of two natures (divine

and human) residing in one person simultaneously? Does
one’s own inability to understand such a doctrine nullify
its truth?
Compare the words ‘grace and truth” (1:14) with the
words “life” and “light” (1:4). These are good subjects for
group discussion.
b. The human race.
Go through the entire segment and note all direct or
indirect references to people. What is the predicament of
man suggested in the first paragraph?

In what sense is it true that Jesus “lighteth every man
that cometh into the world” (v. 9)?

What is meant by the phrases “the world knew him not”
(v. 10) and “his own received him not” (v. 11)? (See
Notes on the phrase “his own.” )
Who are the ones referred to by the first-person pronouns

of these phrases: “We beheld his glory” (v. 14); “Of his
fulness have all we received” (v. 16)?

c. Christ.
We have already seen Christ referred to as the “Word.”
25
What other titles or identifications are given Him?
What aspects of His ministry are revealed in these identi-
fications?
Recall the content of the key verse 20:31. How does the
prologue of John serve the purposes disclosed by that
verse?
d. Salvation.
If the prologue of J ak were the only scripture teaching
about salvation, how much could we learn? Consider these
areas:
objects of salvation
need of salvation
character of salvation
prerequisite for salvation
transaction of salvation
life of salvation
Saviour of salvation
What is meant by the phrase “sons of God” (v. 13)?
Who are sons of God now? =
Ill. NOTES.
1. “Comprehended” (1:5). The word means “overcame. 2?
2. Verse 11 may be read thus: “He came to his own coun-

try, but his own people did not receive him” (TEV).
The first “own” is neuter; the second is masculine.
“His own people” probably refers to Israel (cf. Matt.
IESE TOY
3. “Power” (1:12). The word means “authority.”
4. “Grace for grace” (1:16). The intention of this phrase
is that of one grace, or blessing, added to another as the
believer appropriates each grace.
26
IV. FURTHER ADVANCED STUDIES.
1. You may want to learn more about this faithful servant

of God, John the Baptist, who is given an honored place
in the prologue by such brief references as ‘“There was a
man sent from God” (1:6). For such a study, read Luke
1:5-80; 3:1-6.
2. The Greek translated “dwelt” in verse 14 means literally
“tabernacled.” The Old Testament tabernacle was the place
which symbolized God’s dwelling with His people. Read
Exodus 25:8-9, observing the word “dwell.” With the help
of a Bible dictionary or Bible encyclopedia make a study of
the Old Testament tabernacle as a type of Jesus’ ministry
among men.
V. APPLICATIONS.
Anyone who reads the prologue of this gospel must ac-

knowledge that it involves him personally. God and glory,
men and darkness, Word and light, and a Christ that
“dwelt among us” are words that suggest a redemptive
movement from God to man which is to be found nowhere
else in the world.
1. In what sense is Jesus God’s Word to the world today?
2. What light does Jesus offer all unsaved people?

3. What light does He offer to those whom He has given
authority to become sons of God? Are you walking in
that light?
4. Are you appropriating the fullness of the life of Jesus in
you, enjoying blessing upon blessing from Him?
Vi. WORDS TO PONDER.
“Out of the fulness of his grace he has blessed us all, giving

us one blessing after another” (1:16, TEV).
at
Witnesses and Discoveries

of Jesus
JESUS COULD NOT DO WHAT HE DID
UNLESS HE WAS THE PERSON HE WAS;

NOR WOULD PEOPLE FOLLOW HIM AS LORD.
So in the first days and weeks of Jesus’ ministry His ac-
tivities and contacts were such as would introduce Him
personally to the world. The passage of this lesson records
for us some of these major identifications made on Jesus’
contacts with men at the beginning of His public ministry.*
Read verses 1:6-8, 15, studied earlier, and recall that John
here is identified as a witness of Jesus to men, that they
might look to Him for salvation. The passage you are
about to study gives more details of John’s clear-cut
witness of Jesus; how men found, or discovered, Jesus
through that witness; and how they in turn became wit-
nesses also.
You might want to prepare a work sheet similar to Chart
G to record your observations in this study. Chart G shows
a breakdown of the passage intc three main units.
Il. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses IG 2) Bis AS).
A discernible pattern throughout the passage is
the re-
peated alternation between witness and discovery.
The
pattern is this: A witnesses to B; B discovers; B witness
es
to C; etc. Follow this pattern for your analysis
of this
passage.
* Jesus’ public ministry began officiall

y on the occasion of His baptism,
when from heaven came these words
of ordination, “Thou art my beloved
Son, in whom I am well pleased.” (Read
Mark 1:9-13.)
28
WITNESSES AND DISCOVERIES OF JESUS ChartG
1:19-51
&ws ze
wi
2 >
° fe)
Y” .v)
”
a a
”
n
w
Z
Lo
= WITNESS WITNESS
DISCOV
ERY
DISCOVERY DISCOVERY
WITNESS
1. John’s Witness (1:19-28). Did John have a clear con-

viction of his mission? Read Isaiah 40:3 which John
quoted (v. 23).
2. John’s Discovery (1:30-33). John the Baptist did not

recognize Jesus when He came to John’s baptism. But
God gave John a sign of identification. What was it? (Cf.
Mark 1:10.) = eee) :

3. John’s Witness (1:29, 34). Contrast “This is he” (v.
30) with the earlier “Who art thou?” (v. 19). What were
John’s two testimonies of Jesus?
How does the one identify His humanity, and the other,
His deity?
29
The word Lamb suggests a slain lamb (cf. Isa. 53:7). What
was the purpose of such animal sacrifices in the Old Testa-
ment?
Read Hebrews 9:22 and its surrounding context. Why did
Jesus have to be God-Man to be an acceptable substitution-
ary sacrifice for the sins of the world?
Observe how John witnessed to two of his disciples about

Jesus (vv. 35-36).
4. The two disciples’ discovery (1:37-40). How did these
men first identify Jesus (v. 38)?

One day later they recognized Him as whom?
What brought about the discovery (v. 39)?

5. Andrew’s witness (1:41-42a). How significant to a Jew
is the statement “We have found the Messias’”’? Bete) a)
6. Simon’s discovery (1:42b). What is suggested by this

verse as to what Simon discovered about Jesus?
7. Jesus’ witness (1:43). This is Jesus’ witness concerning

Himself. What do the words “Follow me” suggest about
Him?
8. Philip’s discovery (1:44-45). Who did Philip discover
Jesus to be?
9. Philip’s witness (1:45-46). What sound advice is con-
tained in the words “Come and see’?
10. Nathaniel’s discovery (1:47-51). What three titles did
Nathaniel give Jesus (v. 49)?
What is the significance of this combination?
11. Jesus’ witness (1:50-51). What did Jesus reveal about

Himself as to His relation to heaven and to earth?
=
30
Compare the titles “Son of God” (v. 49) and “Son of man”
KVeole
12. One of Jesus’ maxims was “Seek and ye shall find.”
Discoveries come by searching. Review this passage and
observe the various kinds of searching which brought about
the various discoveries.
13. Continue the study begun in Lesson 2, where you
recorded on Chart E-1 identifications of whom Jesus was.
Record your findings on Chart E-2.
SECOND EXCERPT FROM CHART D Chart E-2
PROLOGUE ERA OF INCARNATION BEGINS
OFBSIGE
Gil ODF PB LE ESICE FE
The Word
made flesh
—Creator
—tTrue Man
Ill. NOTES.
1. “Pharisees” (1:24). This “ultra” party of Jews claimed

salvation on the basis of physical descent from Abraham
and a strict adherence to the law. They rejected John the
Baptist because he preached that all people (Jew and
Gentile) were sinners needing to repent of their sins and
to look to Jesus as their Redeemer.
2. “John was baptizing” (1:28). This was not Christian
baptism, but a special temporary ordinance symbolizing the
washing away of sins. Thus John preached “the baptism of
repentance for the remission of sins” (Luke 3:3).
31
3. “Two of his [John’s] disciples” (1:35). One is named
Andrew (1:40). The Wycliffe Bible Commentary suggests
the Apostle John as the other: “Silence regarding the
name of the other points to the writer of the Gospel, who
withholds his name out of modesty.”’+
4. “Messias” (1:41). For the benefit of his non-Jewish
readers, John supplies the interpretation of this title: “the
Christ.” ‘“Messias” is the Hebrew term for “the anointed
one.” The Greek word “Christ” comes from chrio, “to
anoint.” The Messiah or Christ was the One appointed and
anointed by God to be the Saviour.
5. “Thou shalt be called Cephas” (1:42). When Jesus gave
a surname to someone, the meaning of the new name sug-
gested that particular characteristic of potentiality. “Ce-
phas” was the Aramaic name for “Peter,” meaning “stone.”
Peter eventually was to become a strong leader in the fel-
lowship of the Christians (as the book of Acts bears out).
6. “No guile” (1:47). This commendation was not one of
sinlessness, but of no deceit on the lips. That is, Nathanael
was frank and honest. (Cf. I Peter iD ese)
7. “Son of man” (1:51). This was Jesus’ favorite title for
Himself, because it identified Him with the ones for whom
He came to die.
IV. FURTHER ADVANCED STUDY.
1. The meaning and significance of Jesus’ words become

clearer to us when we are familiar with the various groups
to whom He spoke. With the help of a Bible dictionary or
encyclopedia, read about such groups as Pharisees,
Sad-
ducees, scribes, elders, priests, high priests, and Sanhedri
n.
2. Study the subject of the Jews’ Messianic hope in
the
days of Jesus. What kind of a king were they looking
for,
and on what Old Testament Scriptures did they base
their
expectations?
+ The Wycliffe Bible Commentary, p. 1075.
32
V. APPLICATIONS.
1. Many lessons about witnessing are taught in this pas-
sage. Make a list of these.
2. What good traits of John the Baptist, revealed in this
passage, should be coveted by Christians today?

3. In what sense do Christians have fellowship with Jesus
today? What are the activities and blessings of such fellow-
ship?
4. Does God know and determine our potential for Chris-

tian living and service, and can He give the wisdom and
power to fulfill His commission?
5. Show evidences from contemporary history that assure

you that Jesus is the exalted Son of God today (cf. Phil.
eo)
“Thou shalt see greater things than these” (1:50).

The full Christian life is not a static experience, but a
continuing relationship in which God reveals more and
more of Himself to us, in the measure of our response to
His revelation. The Lord is the Author of great things,
and also of greater things. Is this our experience of Him?
Miracle Worker
and Voice of Authority
JOHN NOT ONLY RECORDED THE HISTORICAL
FACT OF JESUS’ INCARNATION BUT GAVE
AIS PERSONAL TESTIMONY OF THAT GLORY.
John wrote in his prologue, ““And the Word was made flesh,
and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory
as of the only begotten of the Father,).” Then John was
moved to cite some of the first manifestations of Jesus’
glory in signs which He performed before the public. Of the
water-to-wine miracle, John writes, “This beginning of
miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth
his glory” (2:11).
1. Acquaint yourself with the geographical settings of

this chapter. Locate on a map these places: Cana, Galilee,
Nazareth, Capernaum, Jerusalem. Keep in mind the sig-
nificances of the last four places, shown here:
Galilee—where Jesus performed most of His public
ministry
Nazareth—where Jesus spent most of His life up to
the time of His public ministry
Capernaum-——Jesus’ “headquarters” during His Galilean
preaching tours
Jerusalem—the holy city; city of worship; with its
temple, a symbol of God’s meeting place with man;
the city of Jesus’ death and resurrection
2. The account of 2:13-25 is associated with the time of
the Jews’ Passover feast. Read Exodus 12:1-20 and Leviti-
cus 23:1-8 to acquaint yourself with the background of this
feast and its associate feast, the Feast of Unleavened
Bread.
34
H. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 12, 13, 23.
Mark the paragraph divisions in your Bible. Note on Chart
H that the two short paragraphs are transitional ones.
JOHN 2:1-25 Chart H
Transition Transition
verse 12 verses 23-25
Read and reread the chapter, underlining in your Bible

key words and phrases. Record on paper things that stand
out in your mind after these readings. Record a paragraph
title on Chart H for each of the two main paragraphs.
What do paragraphs 2:1-11 and 2:13-22 have in common
as to what they teach about Jesus?
1. Read 2:1-11. What did Jesus mean by the first quoted
words of verse 4 in light of the last phrase of His state-
ment?
What was Jesus’ relationship to His mother when He was
a child and youth (cf. Luke 2:51)?
Compare also His tender relationship to her at’ His death

(John 19:26-27).
On the phrase “mine hour” read these references to this

in John: 7:30; 8:20; 12:23, 27; 13:1; 17:1. What was this
hour?
35
Study the three words “miracles,” “glory” and “believed’”’
as they relate to each other in verse 11. Compare this verse
with 20:30-31.
2. Read 2:12. What may have been the activities of these
few days at the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry?
What does the inclusion of such a verse in the gospel ac-
count contribute to the gospel’s authenticity? =
3. Read 2:13-22. Compare this paragraph with 2:1-11.
Compare your findings with these:
WATER TO WINE (2:1-11) TEMPLE SCOURGING (2:13-22)
Home Temple
Concern Distress
Creation Correction
Power and Glory Authority and Life
In your group, discuss the meaning of each of the follow-

ing terms: “passover,” “my Father’s house,” “this temple.”
How are these terms related to each other?
In what way was Jesus’ coming resurrection a credential

for doing what He did in the temple?
Observe how Jesus was beginning to invite people to a

position of faith in what He would do in the future, as
well as in what He was doing at the time, in their presence.
Make a list of all the things this paragraph teaches about
Jesus.
36
4. Read 2:23-25. How does the word “But” of verse 24
qualify the statement of verse 23?
Compare 12:42-43. What is inferred by the statement “for
he knew what was in man” (v. 25)?
Relate this word “man” to the first four words of chapter
3.
What does this paragraph teach about the presence of
Jesus; performance of Jesus; and knowledge of Jesus? ___
5. Note how many times the name “Jesus” appears in

this chapter. All other designations of Jesus are titles. The
name “Jesus” comes from a Hebrew name meaning “Je-
hovah is salvation.” Read Matthew 1:21 in this light. Also,
what is meant by the phrase “many believed in his name”
CJobn.23207-Cia42 12) 7
6. How is Jesus identified in this chapter? Record your
answers on Chart E-2, a project you have been working on
for the last two lessons.
ill. NOTES.
1. “They wanted wine” (2:3). That is, the supply of wine

ran out. Wedding feasts in Jesus’ day often lasted as long
as a week.
2. “Woman” (2:4). This form of address was not one of
disrespect (cf. 19:26), though Jesus’ answer was one of
refusal.
3. Two temple cleansings. Mark records a similar though
different cleansing of the temple by Jesus (Mark 11: 15-19).
One was at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry; the other at
the end. The secularization and commercializing of the
Jewish worship arena was religious corruption of the per-
sistent kind. One might call it “Bedlam and Babble in the
House of God.”
4. “The Jews’ passover” (2:13). The combined feast of
Passover and Unleavened Bread was one of the three an-
37
nual feasts which all Jewish men were required to attend
in Jerusalem (cf. Lev. 23:5-8; Exodus 23:17). Thus at
Passover time the city was crowded with Jewish visitors
from near and far.
5. Verse 17 in Today’s English Version reads thus: “My
devotion for your house, O God, burns in me like a fire.”
6. “Forty and six years” (2:20). Herod’s temple was
begun around 20 B.c. and was completed in a.p. 63.
Here are some subjects for further study:

1. Delve further into the study of strong words in the text,
for example, “glory” (2:11). For outside help, a recom-
mended volume on word-study is W. E. Vine, An Exposi-
tory Dictionary of New Testament Words.
2. Make a study of all the Bible references to “wine.”
3. Sometimes a symbolical meaning is suggested in the
action of a Bible story, illustrating a biblical truth. Try to
discover some symbolisms in the two stories of this lesson.
For example, what is illustrated by the fact that water
reserved for the Jews’ religious rite of purifying was trans-
formed into another product by Jesus?
V. APPLICATIONS.
1. Examine your own heart and see if you can identify

when your faith in Christ as Miracle-worker is the strong-
est. Is such a time associated with personal experiences,
such as:
a. when you are in special need
b. when you are in a certain mood
c. after you see a definite answer to prayer
d. after prayer and Bible devotions?
How would you describe the healthy faith-life?
2. Is it possible for Bible-believing churches today to com-
mercialize and secularize the activity of worship? Why is
it so important that a spirit of worship should pervade a
place of worship?
VI. WORDS TO PONDER.

“He [Jesus] knew what was in man” (2225)
38
Teacher Come from God

THUS FAR IN THE GOSPEL OF JOHN NOT
MANY ACTUAL SPOKEN WORDS OF JESUS
HAVE BEEN RECORDED BY THE AUTHOR.
A few commands of Jesus (e.g., “Come and see,” 1:39;

“Follow me,” 1:43) and a few prophecies (e.g., “Thou shalt
see greater things,” 1:50; “In three days I will raise it up,”
2:19) appear, but any extensive treatment on the subject
of salvation is limited to the words of the gospel writer
(e.g., 1:1-18) and of John the Baptist (e.g., 1:29-34).
Now in the design of his gospel, John breaks forth with
the story of one of the greatest confrontations of Jesus with
an unsaved man. The man was Nicodemus, an influential
leader of the Jews. The subject of the conversation was the
urgency and way of salvation. Nicodemus’ informant was
none other than the “teacher come from God.”
Little did John know that one of the verses (3:16) of
this passage would become a universal “golden text” of
Christians in the centuries to follow.
1. Relate this passage to what goes before. For example,

observe ‘The Feats of Man” (2:20); “The Stuff of Man”
(2:24-25) ;“The Desperate Need of Man” (3:3). What do
you learn from reading the last phrase of chapter 2 and the
first phrase of chapter 3 together, thus: “He knew what
was in man. There was a man named Nicodemus”? Ponder
afresh the tremendous truth that God is vitally interested
in the spiritual condition of each individual person whom
He brings into this world.
In relating chapter 3 to chapter 2, keep in mind also that
Jesus had just challenged the system of Judaism.
39
2. Review the differences between the baptizing ministries
of John the Baptist and Jesus. John called his ministry one
of baptizing with water (1:31); that of Jesus he called a
baptizing with the Spirit (1:33). Consider this as you
study 3:5.
3. Review the story of Moses and the bronze serpent in
Numbers 21:4-9. This is the Old Testament type referred
to in John 3:14-15 (cf. 12:32-33) .
4. Keep in mind the progressive study of identifications of
Jesus which you began in earlier lessons. Recall John the
Baptist’s enthusiastic “Look, there is the Lamb of God!”
(1:29). Search for new identifications in this chapter, and
record them on Chart E-3.
THIRD EXCERPT FROM CHART D Chart E-3
ies en a0 hya pe ge
OBJECT OF BELIEF
—The Word Lamb of God Miracle-Worker

—-sacrifice —pPower in nature
Son of God
—true God
—Creator Messiah Voice of Authority «

—Christ —authority in worship
—True Man King of Israel

—King
ll. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 116, 2253
Read all of chapter 3 through prayerfully and
carefully,
with pencil in hand. Record key words and phrase
s of these
paragraphs on Chart I.
40
MORE IDENTIFICATIONS OF JESUS Chart|
3:1-36
DIVINE SUPREME
TEACHER LORD
words
Jesus’ CONVERSATION
words
the
John
Baptist’s
He must increase
eternal life
. is above all
COMMENTARY
CONVERSATION
COMMENTARY words
John’s
author
words
John’s
author
What is the theme of each paragraph?

The breakdown of paragraphs on Chart I is based on
the interpretation that Jesus spoke the words through verse
15 (Conversation), followed by the gospel writer’s words
(vv. 16-21) (Commentary); and that John the Baptist’s
words appear in the next paragraph (vv. 22-30) (Conversa-
tion), followed by the gospel writer’s words (vv. 31-36)
(Commentary ) .*
A. Divine Teacher (3:1-13).

1. Who did Nicodemus recognize Jesus to be?
2. How did Jesus demonstrate to Nicodemus that He was a

unique Teacher, a divine Teacher?
* This commentarylike pattern of John’s gospel distinguishes it from the
synoptic gospels. Refer to commentaries for a discussion of possible inter-
pretations as to where conversation ends and where commentary begins in
this passage. Whoever is the source of the words in each case, of course, the
teaching is divine truth.
41
3. What is the impact of the repeated phrase, “Verily,
verily, I say unto thee’? :

4. What did Jesus deem necessary and vital to teach Nico-
demus?
5. Does the text say that Nicodemus asked for this teach-
ing? On the basis of Jesus’ words, what does it mean to be
“born again’?
B. Life-Giver (3:14-21).
1. Read 3:14-15. In the previous verses Nicodemus was

inquiring about the process of being born again (observe
the usage of “how” of vv. 4 and 9). Did Jesus explain the
process? In verse 14 Jesus reveals not the process but the
prerequisite for new birth. What is it?
2. Compare
p Jesus’ use of the word “must” in verses 7 and
14.
3. What elements of the gospel appear in 3:14-15?
4. Observe Jesus’ reference to Himself by the favorite

title of “Son of man” (3:14).
5. John does not record for us here what turn of heart
Nicodemus had as a result of his visit with Jesus. Read
7:45-52 and 10:39 for what is known about Nicodemus at
those later times.
6. Read 3:16-21. List the various truths about the gospel
taught by these verses. The word “saved” (v. 17) appears
two other times in John’s gospel (read 5:34; 10:9). What
are the key words of John 3:16?
(Here is an interesting exercise: the first letters of what

words in 3:16 spell GOSPEL?)
42
C. Supreme Lord (3:22-36).
1. Read 3:22-30. What did John the Baptist mean by the

words “He must increase, but I must decrease” (3:30)?
Let the verses leading up to that statement give clues to
your answer.
2. Read 3:31-36. How do these verses give a basis for such

a testimony as that of verse 30?
3. How is Christ here shown to be the supreme Lord? ___
4. How is verse 36 a summary for the entire chapter? ae
Ill. NOTES.
1. “Born of water and of the Spirit” (3:5). The reference

to water may be symbolical of repentance and the spiritual
cleansing coming from it, just as John the Baptist’s water
baptism was a baptism unto repentance (Matt. 3:11).
Some interpret “water” as signifying cleansing by the
Word (I Peter 1:23).
2. “Condemn” (3:17). The word is translated “judge” in
some versions. The root meaning of the word is “separa-
tion.” (Cf. “eternal judgment” of Heb. 6:2.) The eternal
destiny of all unbelievers will be separation from God, not
annihilation.
3. “The same baptizeth” (3:26). This refers not to actual
baptizing by Jesus (cf. 4:2), but to the baptisms which
His disciples performed in His name (and, perhaps, under
His supervision) .
Review the testimonies of Jesus by John the Baptist as

recorded in chapter 1. Then observe the additional testi-
mony recorded in chapter 3.
List all the comparisons and contrasts of this chapter,
such as: flesh and spirit, earthly things and heavenly
things.
43
V. APPLICATIONS.
1. What can be learned about personal evangelism from
3:1-15?
2. Observe that Nicodemus was a learned ‘master of Is-

rael,” probably a member of the Jewish Sanhedrin (high
court); and yet he was in darkness as to eternal truths.
How do you explain that today there are many intellectual
“giants” aware of what the Bible says who refuse to
acknowledge its truth and pertinence? How can such peo-
ple be reached with the gospel?
3. What are some characteristics and expressions of humil-

ity in Christian living? What should the Lord have in your
life: Place, Prominence, or Preeminence?
“He must become more important, while I become less

important” (3:30, TEV).
44
“This Is Indeed the Christ”

WE HAVE ALREADY STUDIED THE FIRST OF
JESUS’ MIRACLES IN CANA AND HIS
LENGTHY PERSONAL WITNESS TO NICODEMUS.
Chapter 4 of our present lesson deals with two similar

ministries of Jesus: an extended personal witness to a
woman of Samaria (4:7-42), and Jesus’ second miracle,
also performed in Cana (4:43-54). Before our study is
concluded we will want to compare these two sets of
similar ministries.
It is interesting to observe that although Jesus’ ministries
often involved the masses, such as preaching to large
groups of people, more space is devoted in the Gospels to
His dealings with individuals or small groups, such as
families. The two stories of chapter 4 illustrate this. Jesus
was ever conscious of individual souls. Surely all of God’s
servants today, living in a world whose streets are thronged
with the masses, must constantly be reminded of their ob-
ligation to individual souls. Mass evangelism must move
on and accelerate, but individual Christians must be faith-
ful ministers to their neighbors.
1. Recall that Jesus was in Judea as of the events of

chapter 3 (cf. 2:18; 3:22). Now, at 4:3, “He left Judea,
and departed again into Galilee.” Look at the map (Chart
T) and note that the direct route from the environs of
Jerusalem to Galilee was through Samaria.
2. Keep in mind the origins and basic tenets of the reli-
gion of the Samaritans. Briefly, they are:
Origins: A small group of Jews was allowed to remain in
Israel when the Assyrians took the northern kingdom cap-
tive in 722 B.c. These Jewish peasants intermarried with
45
imported inhabitants from Assyria and other foreign lands,
hence the beginning of a “‘half-breed” stock of Jews. Be-
cause of this stock admixture, Jews returning from Babylon
to Jerusalem under Nehemiah around 445 B.c. refused the
offer of Samaritans to help rebuild the holy city and its
temple. Thus began a rivalry between the two peoples.
Tenets: Samaritans worshiped at their own temple on
Mount Gerizim. They claimed their religion to be truly
founded on the law of Moses. The Pentateuch (first five
books of the Old Testament), with changes to conform to
their beliefs, was their total Scripture.
Il. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 7, 16, 27, 31, 39, 43.
Read this chapter slowly and prayerfully. Make a note of
all the important things taught about such subjects as
everlasting life, true worship, the true Messiah, service to
God, faith, and the purposes of miracles. The questions
given below will direct you to these and other important
quests.
A. Jesus and the Samaritan Woman (4:1-42).
1. SETTING (4:1-6).
a. What is implied in the statement “he must needs go
through Samaria” (4:4)?
What divine imperative of service is also suggested in these
words?
b. What does verse 6 teach about the humanity of J esus?
2. MEETING (4:7-26).
a. The prominent atmosphere of this passage is Jesus’
personal concern for this Samaritan woman. What were
the woman’s needs?
46
How did Jesus offer to help those needs?
b. What is said in this passage to support these statements:

For the castoff, there is contact.
For the unenlightened, there is teaching.
For the sinner, there is a way to God.
For the wistfully hopeful, there is hope fulfilled.
c. Jesus wanted people to know who He truly was. Observe
how the woman identifies Jesus in these verses:
vid
v. 11
Volo
ve 29
Observe that Jesus very clearly identified Himself as the
Christ to the woman (v. 26). Complete your recording of
identifications of Jesus which you began on Chart E-1.
d. The woman was referring to Mount Gerizim when she
said “this mountain” (v. 20). List all the things Jesus
taught her about true worship in the verses that follow.
3. Resutts (4:27-42).
Good results came of Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan
woman. List these, paragraph by paragraph:
a. Concerning the woman (4:27-30)
b. Concerning the disciples (4:31-38)
c. Concerning the Samaritans (4:39-42)
B. Jesus and the Nobleman’s Son (4:43-54).

1. Relate verse 48 to the key verse of John, 20:31.
47
2. Compare the man’s “Come” (v. 49) and Jesus’ “Go
9
(v. 50).
3. Observe how verse 50 records a believing without seeing.
How is this a test of genuine faith?

4. Observe the influence of the nobleman upon his whoie
house (v. 53).
Ill. NOTES.
1. Verse 9b is translated by Today’s English Version: “For

Jews will not use the same dishes that Samaritans use.”
2. “Living water” (4:11). The woman did not comprehend
what Jesus meant by living water in verse 10. She probably
thought He meant the flowing, running water which is at
the bottom of spring-fed wells.
3. “Salvation is of the Jews” (4:22). True revelation of
God’s salvation was to be found in Jewish institutions
(e.g., the Old Testament Scriptures), not Samaritan. Jesus
also may have been referring here to Himself, a Jew, as the
Saviour.
4. “I know that Messias cometh” (4:25). The woman had
some background of religious instruction. Passages such as
Deuteronomy 18:15-18 of the Pentateuch taught the coming
of an anointed Prophet.
IV. REVIEW OF 1:19—4:54.
Think back over the chapters of this first main section of

John. You have been observing in your studies of these
lessons the various identifications of who Jesus is. For this
review, note different experiences of the following people in
the presence of Jesus which brought about some measure
of faith:
1. disciples at the wedding in Cana (2:11)
. Jews at Jerusalem (2:23)
. aruler of the Jews (suggested by 7:45-52; 10:39)
. Samaritan woman (4:29)
. Samaritan townspeople (4:42)
bd
CW
Dok. nobleman and his household (4:53)
48
V. FURTHER ADVANCED STUDY.
1. Make a comparative study of the two Cana miracles

(water to wine, 2:1-11; nobleman’s son healed, 4:43-54)
and the two conversations (with Nicodemus, 3:1-14; with
the Samaritan woman, 4:7-42).
2. Many practical lessons on personal evangelism are
taught in Jesus’ encounter with the Samaritan woman. See
how many of these you can derive from the passage.
Vi. APPLICATIONS.
Let every Christian ask himself:

1. Am I aware of the personal need of strangers, with whom
I come in contact, to hear the gospel and believe in Christ
for salvation?
2. Do I consider some strangers to be outcasts, beyond my
talking with them about their needs?
3. Am I honestly facing the fact that the spiritual “fields”
of the world are waiting to be harvested?
4. Am I willing to be a sower, while another reaps?
Vil. WORDS TO PONDER.
“We... know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of

the world” (4:42).
49
Lesson ia John 5:1-47
YEARS OF CONFLICT
Persecution Against Jesus Begins
AT CHAPTER 5 THE AUTHOR BEGINS TO
RECORD INSTANCES OF OPEN OPPOSITION
TO JESUS BY THE JEWISH RULERS.*
A key phrase of chapter 5 is “For this reason the Jews be-

gan to persecute Jesus” (v. 16, TEV). Refer to the survey
chart of John (Chart D) and observe that the section
5:1—12:36a is called ‘““Years of Conflict.”” The chapters of
this conflict section are widely selected stories covering a
period of about two years. The climax of opposition comes
in the hour of crucifixion, recorded by John in chapter 19.
Since we are beginning a new section in John’s gospel,
it is profitable to get another glimpse of the book as a
whole. When studying a book of the Bible we don’t want
to lose sight of the “forest”? as we walk among the many
individual “‘trees.”’ Chart J shows the four major sections of
the gospel. Compare this outline with those of Chart D.
FOUR MAIN SECTIONS OF GOSPEL OF JOHN ChartJ
IDENTIFICATIONS CONFLICTS - PREPARATIONS CRISES
foal true ae false intimate __ redemptive

claims charges fellowship work
INTRODUCTIONS OPPOSITION INSTRUCTIONS EXPERIENCES

TO THE PEOPLE BY THE JEWISH RULERS FOR THE DISCIPLES IN TRIUMPH
* In most instances in the Gospels, the word “Jews,” in the context of op-
position to Jesus, refers to the Jewish rulers.
50
As noted above, the conflicts with Jesus culminated in
the crises of Jesus. In writing his gospel John chose to
include a long section (12:36b—17:26) dealing with
Jesus’ intimate fellowship with His disciples just preced-
ing His arrest and trial. The interrelationships of these
four parts of John’s gospel are shown in this diagram:
CONFLICTS
Jewish Rulers ee
IDENTIFICATIONS CRISES
The Person he Redemptive
of Jesus Work of Jesus
PREPARATIONS
Jesus’ Disciples
You will want to keep this survey in mind as you pro-

ceed in your study of the lessons that follow.
1. PREPARATION FOR STUDY.
1. Observe the time reference of this chapter, given in 5:1.

This manual takes the position that the unnamed feast was
a Passover feast.+ (See Chart D for the other annual
Passovers in John.) Thus one year transpired between the
cleansing of the temple and the healing recorded in this
chapter. Compare 2:13 and 5:1.
2. It may surprise you to see how incessant was the an-
tagonism ‘of the rulers and people against Jesus during
these last two years of His public ministry. Even some of
Jesus’ disciples opposed Him on occasion. Read the fol-
lowing references, within the section 5:1—12:36a, and
record your observations of the oppositions. An example
is given.
As you conclude this study of opposition to Jesus, recall
the prophecy written seven hundred years earlier by Isaiah,
“He is despised and rejected of men” (Isa. 53:3).
+ See A.T. Robertson, A Harmony of the Gospels, p. 42. Other views are
that the feast was Tabernacles, Purim or Dedication.
51
Source of Opposition Type of Opposition Reason for Opposition
5:16
5:18 sought to kill Jesus Jesus claimed deity
5:43
6:41
6:52
6:61, 66
6:70
7:1
75
7:11
7:12
7:20
7:27, 30
7:32
7:41, 44
7:45
7:47
8:6
8:13
8:48, 53, 59
9:16
9:22
9:24
10:19
10:24, 31
10:39
11:46
11:53
11:56-57
12:4
12:10
12:19
52
Il. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 10, 17, 25, 30.
There are three main parts to chapter 5, shown by the
outline below. Organize your studies around this outline.
The Beginning of Persecution.
1. DiscrEDITING A MIRACLE (5:1-16).

a. What did the Jews’ objection reveal about their sense
of values?
b. Why was the time of the week not a deterrent to J esus’

miracle-working?
2. DENYING DIvINE AUTHORITY (5:17-29).

a. What authority for miracle-working did Jesus claim?
b. How intimate was this Father-Son relationship?

3. REJECTING THE WITNESSES (5:30-47).
a. List the various witnesses which Jesus cited as proof that
He was doing the work of God.
b. How were the people rejecting those witnesses? 4
Ill. NOTES.
1. Verse 39 may be read thus: “You study the Scriptures

because you think that in them you will find eternal life.
And they themselves speak about me!” (TEV).
2. “He [Moses] wrote of me” (5:46). Of this Lange’s
Commentary writes:
Moses wrote of Christ, as the seed of the woman that shall bruise
the serpent’s head (Gen. 3), as the seed of Abraham by which all
the nations of the earth shall be blessed (Gen. 12ff.), as the
Shiloh unto whom shall be the gathering of the people (Gen. 49),
53
as the Star out of Jacob, and the Sceptre that shall rise out of
Israel (Num. 24:17), as the Great Prophet whom God will raise up,
and unto whom the Jews should hearken (Deut. 18). Moreover, the
moral law of Moses, by revealing the holy will of God and setting
up a standard of human righteousness in conformity with that
will, awakens a knowledge of sin and guilt (Rom. 3:20; 7:7), and
thus serves as a school-master to bring us to Christ (Gal. 3:24).
Finally, the ritual law and all the ceremonies of Mosaic worship
were typical of the Christian dispensation (Col. 2:17), as the healing
pA the wilderness pointed to Christ on the cross (Num. 21:9;
John 3:14).¢
Study this chapter for all the evidences it furnishes con-

cerning the deity of Jesus Christ. How is Jesus God by
being Son of God?
V. SOME APPLICATIONS.
This chapter is a severe rebuke to formal, legalistic religion

and to unbelief. Just as Jesus healed the man who had
been crippled for thirty-eight years, He can take a soul
dedicated to a dead cause and transform it to newness of
life. Why are there so many lifeless religions in the world
today? What have you learned in this chapter about belief
and unbelief?
“Sir, I have no man .. . to put me into the pool” (5:7).
oe ioe Peter Lange, Lange’s Commentary on the Holy Scriptures, 17:
54
Bread of Life Refused

JESUS WAS REJECTED BY THE JEWS
AT JERUSALEM BECAUSE OF WHAT HE
DID AND WHO HE SAID HE WAS.
This was the story of chapter 5, which we studied in the

last lesson. Now we learn from chapter 6 that Jesus was
also rejected at Galilee, not only by Jewish rulers, but by
followers who were even beginning to call themselves His
disciples.
There is a year interlude between chapter 5 and 6.
(Compare 5:1 and 6:4.) The synoptic gospels record
various events that transpired during that time. The pur-
poses of John’s gospel did not require the inclusion of these
in the account.
This is a long chapter, and it would be well to see its

structure as a whole before analyzing its parts. Chart K
shows this structure.
Make a survey reading of the chapter with this outline
in mind, observing how the paragraphs are related to each
other. For example, how did the miracle of feeding (6:1-15)
bring on the discourses (6:22-59)? Also, what two para-
graphs involve only Jesus and the twelve disciples?
ll. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 16, 22, 25.00, 41, D2, 69,
67.
55
STRUCTURE OF 6:1-71 ChartK
MIRACLES REACTIONS
DISCOURSES OF DISCIPLES
5,000 Storm Informal Formal The Group The

Fed Stilled Discussion Discourses at Large Twelve
TEMPORARY ETERNAL
PHYSICAL BENEFITS SPIRITUAL LIFE
A. Miracles (6:1-21).
1. Compare the two miracles as to setting and need; power
demonstrated; methods used; and effects.
2. What kind of king did the people want to make Jesus,
according to verse 15?

3. Why did Jesus want to be alone at this time?
B. Discourses (6:22-59).
1. Why were the people hunting for Jesus (v. 26)?

2. What is the basic difference between seeing a miracle
and eating miraculous bread (v. 26)?
56
3. Center your study about Jesus’ key testimony: “I am
the bread of life” (v. 35). Make a list of all the things
Jesus taught relating to His being this bread from heaven.
What did the people mean when they said to Jesus, “Lord,
evermore give us this bread” (v. 34; cf. v. 36)?
C. Reactions of Disciples (6:60-71).
(Note: The disciples of verses 60-66 were the large group

of followers, not the select group of twelve. This is clear
from the distinction made in 6:67a and by the word “many”’
in verses 60 and 66. The disciples of verses 3, 16, 22 and
24 were the twelve. )
1. What was the stumbling block for many of Jesus’ fol-
lowers at this time (6:60-66)?
2. Compare the testimony of Simon Peter, in verse 69, with
the key verse of John, 20:31.
Ill. NOTES.
1. The miracle of the feeding of the five thousand is the

only miracle common to all four Gospels.
2. A denarius (“pennyworth,” 6:7) was the average daily
wage of a laborer in Jesus’ day.
3. “Eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood”
(6:53). Jesus was no doubt anticipating the Last Supper
(Luke 22:14-23) when He spoke these words.
1. Go back over this chapter and observe how Jesus’ disci-

ples were receiving training in discipleship. A suggested
path of inquiry:
a. in fellowship with Jesus (6:1-4)
b. in impotency (6:5-9)
c. in service (6:10-13)
d. in solitude (6:14-15)
e. in commitment (6:67)
57
2. Refer to commentaries for help in explaining the mem-
bership of Judas, “a devil,” in the chosen circle of the
twelve.
1. Do you believe God can still perform miracles? Do you

pray believing He can do “impossible things’?
2. Do you sense Jesus’ nearness in experiences of fear?
Do you hear His “It is I; be not afraid’?
3. Are you appropriating all there is of Jesus as you live
the Christian life?
“Will ye also go away?” (6:67).
58
Lesson Q John 7:1-53
Attempts to Arrest Jesus

JESUS IS THE ONLY MAN WHO HAS FULLY
KNOWN AND OBEYED THE WILL OF THE
FATHER CONCERNING HIS LIFE ON EARTH.
Jesus knew why He was sent to this world, what He must

say and do, when and how His hour of death would come,
and where He would go after death. He knew when He
should hide from the multitudes, and when He should ap-
pear before them publicly. And He also knew that the
time and manner of His death did not depend on his hiding
nor on His public exposure, but on the predetermined
appointment of His heavenly Father.
When Jesus healed the impotent man in Jerusalem, the
Jewish rulers sought to kill Him (5:18). Jesus returned
to Galilee to fulfill a ministry there relatively unhindered
(6:1—7:1). When the Feast of Tabernacles (October, A.p.
29) was at hand, Jesus’ hour of death was only six months
away (Passover, April, a.p. 30). Since His Father had
some ministries for Him to fulfill around Judea and Perea
before His death, it was the right time for Jesus to go to
Jerusalem during this holiday, even though there would be
constant attempts at His life from then on.
Your study of chapter 7 will reveal how Jesus remained
untouched though He walked into the mouth of the lion
of the enemy at Jerusalem. The two most prominent truths
of this chapter are:
1. Jesus’ clear consciousness of His mission and His hour

“T am from him, and he hath sent me” (7:29).
“My time is not yet full come” (7:8).
2. The enemies’ failure to seize Jesus

“No man laid hands on him” (7:30).
59
1. Refer back to Chart B to see what part of Jesus’ public
ministry is covered by the passage of this lesson (7:1-53).
Chart L is an excerpt from that chart.
EXCERPT FROM CHART B Chart L

Extended Ministries Specialized Ministry Concluding Ministries
4 months
] 10 months
|
6 months 3 months 3 months
|
EARLY
GALILEAN | GALILEAN
MIDDLE LATER
GALILEAN
PEREAN
SECOND YEAR THIRD YEAR
PASSOVER PASSOVER
(6:4) (11:55)
Observe that the six-month Later Galilean Period is passed

over by John with the brief mention of 7:1. Our detailed
information concerning Jesus’ ministry at this time is fur-
nished by the synoptic gospels.
2. The action of 7:2-53 took place in October, during the
Feast of Tabernacles (7:2). Observe the progression in
Jesus’ relationship to. this feast as you compare
these
verses: 8, 10, 14. Read Leviticus 23:34-44 and Deuteronomy
16:16-17 for descriptions of this popular Jewish festival
which marked the conclusion of the harvest season.
ll. ANALYSIS.
Paragraph divisions: See tabulation below.
Study the chapter to see the various types of opposition
against Jesus, and the clear-cut testimonies which Jesus
gave concerning His mission on earth. Concerning
the
latter, note the repetitions of the phrase “he that sent me.”
Record your observations on paper, following this format:
60
snsaf papuajep ajdoad 9y} (,,SM2f,,)
snsef Jo ssulyoeay OYyM 9|doedq Aq uoijisoddg pale vee ydeiseiedg
q UOl}!soadag
Make a note of anything you do not understand, and
discuss such questions in your group.
ll. NOTES.
1. “As the scripture hath said” (7:38). Jesus here does

not quote any particular Old Testament verse, but gives
the essence of various passages which describe miraculous
waters proceeding from God. Some such passages are
Exodus 17:6; Isaiah 44:3-4; 58:11; Ezekiel 47:1-9; Joel
2:23; and Zechariah 14:8.
2. “Doth our law judge” (7:51). See Deuteronomy 1:16.
1. Study the various questions of this passage. Compare

the people’s questions with those of Jesus.
2. What does this chapter teach about the Jews’ expecta-
tion of the Messiah (“Christ”’) ?
1. How strong and sure is your sense of mission for Christ

today? Can you say, as Jesus did, “He that sent me. . .”?
2. Are “rivers of living water” pouring out from your heart
today, as a result of the Spirit’s ministry? And are those
rivers a source of blessing to others?
3. Are you quick to judge people before you listen to their
ease? (Cf.7:51.)
“And every man went unto his own house” (UR583))

The verse is deeper than it appears. It singles out in-
dividual hearts, individual homes. It doesn’t say how many
were believers or unbelievers. Truly it is a sobering con-
clusion to the chapter, suggested in the following outline:
Reactions to Jesus
Officers’ Reaction: AWE
Nicodemus’ Reaction: JUSTICE
Pharisees’ Reaction: SCORN
People’s Reaction: MIXED
62
Lesson 10 John 8:1—9:41
Light of the World Rejected

CHAPTERS 8&—9 CONTINUE DESCRIBING THE
JEWS’ GROWING ANTAGONISM AGAINST JESUS
DURING THE FEAST OF TABERNACLES.
His enemies sought to kill Him, but no man could lay his
hands on Him, because the time of His sacrifice had not
yet come. He had more things to teach them before He
would let them take Him.
The subject of sin—-forgiven sin and unforgiven sin—
is prominent in these two chapters. It is interesting to
observe that Jesus does not introduce the subject. People
(scribes and Pharisees in 8:3, and His disciples in 9:2)
approach Him with questions about sin, and He responds
with the truth. To sinners walking in darkness Jesus
declared, “I am the light of the world” (8:12).* Some of
His hearers believed; but for the majority, He was the re-
jected light.
The best preparation for studying this lesson is a review

of the previous lesson. Observe the continuity of thought
and tone from chapter 7 to chapter 8. Also, compare these
two verses:
““And every man went unto his own house” (7:53).
“Jesus went unto the mount of Olives” (8:1).
Il. ANALYSIS.
Segments to be analyzed: 8:1-59 and 9:1-41.

Paragraph divisions: See Chart M.
Chart M is a survey of 8:1—9:41 centered about the sub-
* Read I John 1:5-9 for the connection between sin and the picture of
darkness.
63
SURVEY OF 8:1—9:41 ChartM
Subject of Sin
a7,
fs 7
,
POWER TO FORGIVE POWER OVER NATURE
Declaration: Demonstration:
“Tam the light of the world” “Now | see”
(8:12) (9:25)
Spiritual Ministry (forgiveness) Accredited by a Visible Miracle

“Sin “Servant
no of
sin’’
ject of forgiveness of sins.+ Note the various two-part out-

lines of this chart. How is chapter 9 related to chapter 8?
Read in your Bible 8:12 and 9:5, observing how the state-
ment “I am the light of the world” connects the two chap-
ters.
1. First, read each paragraph and record a paragraph title
on the chart.
2. Compare the opening events of each chapter (e.g., “this
woman,” 8:4; “this man,” 9:2). How is the subject of sin
introduced in each case?
3. Study the context of the phrases about sin shown on the
chart:
“Sin no more” (8:11).
“Servant of sin” (8:34).
“Who did sin?” (9:2).
“Your sin remaineth” (9:41).
+ Most New Testament authorities, on the basis of manuscript
evidence,
conclude that 7:53-8:11 was not written by John,
though a record of true
fact. It cannot be demonstrated, however, that this
paragraph, regardless of
authorship, was not inspired as the rest of Scripture
and intended of God to
be included in John’s gospel at this point.
64
4. Read the paragraphs again and note any reference
(stated or implied) to forgiveness. Include in this topical
study any fruit of forgiveness, such as “ye shall be free
indeed” (8:36). Did the healed man of chapter 9 even-
tually experience forgiveness of sins?
5. Make a list of what is taught in these chapters about
a. opposition to Jesus
b. claims of Jesus
c. truths of the gospel message
lil. NOTES.
1. ‘““Now Moses in the law commanded us” (8:5). This was

a reference to Leviticus 20:10; Deuteronomy 22:23-24.
2. “Thou art a Samaritan” (8:48). As noted in an earlier
lesson, a Samaritan was of mixed stock (Jewish and for-
eign), claiming to be of the only true religion descended
from Abraham. The base intent of the charge against Jesus
is obvious.
In these chapters Jesus says more about His Father. Make

a study of this subject as it is taught throughout the entire
gospel of John.
V. APPLICATIONS.
1. Do you have the forgiving spirit exemplified by Jesus

in this passage?
2. Are you a “disciple indeed,” continuing to live in the
Word of Christ (8:31)?
3. How does truth make a man free (8:32)? How does
Jesus, the truth, make a man free (8:36)?
4. You believe in Christ; do you worship Him (9:38)?
“The night cometh, when no man can work” (9:4).
65
Lesson {1 John 10:1-39
The Good Shepherd Spurned

JESUS WAS DISTRESSED WHEN HE HEARD
THAT THE JEWISH RULERS HAD CAST OUT
THE BLIND MAN WHOM HE HAD HEALED.
Like a shepherd recovering a lost sheep, Jesus found the

man and brought him into His flock, in vital spiritual rela-
tionship to Himself (9:35-38). This event was the occasion
for Jesus telling the multitudes the beautiful parable of the
good shepherd, which is the main subject of our present
lesson.
This passage is of two parts, separated in time by about

two months. This is shown by Chart N. (Compare Chart
B.)
FEASTS OF TABERNACLES AND DEDICATION ChartN
October: Feast of Tabernacles (7:2) December: Feast of Dedication (10:22)
Beginning of the Later Judean Ministry Close of the Later Judean Ministry
LUKE
10—13
RECORDS EVENTS
HERE
66
Read 7:2 and 10:22 for the two time references. Then note
how the two parts (10:1-21 and 10:22-39) are brought to-
gether by the common subject of shepherd (e.g., “The
sheep hear his voice,” 10:3; “My sheep hear my voice,”
POD Ty:
Il. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 7, 19, 22, 31.
The parable of the shepherd is one of the most beautiful
of Jesus’ picture stories about Himself.* You will want to
tarry long over this passage to gather its many wonderful
truths. Record your observations below.
Elements of the Parable (10:1-6) Jesus’ Interpretations and Applications (10:7-18)
“parable” is not the usual word so

# The Greek word of 10:6 translated
the literary form of the discourse is basically
translated in the Gospels, but
the same.
67
Who of Jesus’ day (e.g., in chap. 9) were thieves, robbers
and hirelings?
Who would they be today?

What is meant by each of the following statements:
“TI am the door of the sheep” (10:7)
“He shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find

pasture” (10:9)
“That they might have life . . . more abundantly” (10:10)
“They shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them
out of my hand” (10:28)
What reason did the Jews give for threatening to stone

Jesus (10:33)?
Observe that they wanted to distinguish between His words
and His works. How did Jesus relate His words and works
(10:38) ? Compare 20:31.
What miracle was wrought in 10:39?
Ill. NOTES.
1. “Shall go in and out” (10:9). This is a familia

r Old
Testament expression for the activity of a leader
(cf. I
Sam. 18:16; II Sam. 3:25). The picture is
a composite
of freedom, safety and sustenance.
2. “Other sheep I have” (10:16). Since Jesus
is speaking
primarily to Jews, the reference to other sheep
probably
means Gentiles.
3. “Ye are gods” (10:34). The quote is from
Psalm 82:6,
where the reference is to judges. The same
Hebrew word
is translated “judges” in Exodus 21:6.
68
Make a comparative study of the shepherd psalm (Ps. 23)

and this shepherd parable.
Vv. APPLICATIONS.
Write a list of all the blessings you as a believer can claim

because Jesus is your Shepherd.
“The sheep follow him: for they know his voice” (10:4).
69
Lesson 12 John 10:40—12:36a
The King of Israel Enters Jerusalem

THE HOUR OF JESUS’ DEATH WAS FAST
APPROACHING, AND HE WAS WELL AWARE
OF WHAT HINGED UPON THAT DEATH.
Not once in His ministry did He panic or despair. Every

event purposefully pointed to the cross, so that His con-
stant testimony was, “For this cause came I unto this
hour” (12:27). In this lesson we will be studying some of
the key experiences of Jesus which took place at the close
of the period of open conflict with the religious rulers.
Chart O gives a survey of the events of the passage of this

lesson. Study this before you begin to analyze the various
parts of the passage.
FINAL MINISTRIES AND ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM Chart0
TO
PEREA BETHANY EPHRAIM BETHANY ENTRY INTO JERUSALEM
OO) (12:36b)
The The
Two Sequels King hour
comes is come from
them"’
Jesus
hide
‘'did
himself
(12:13) (12:23)
Final Ministries in Perea and Vicinity Final Entry into Jerusalem
70
The name Lazarus appears in the story even after the
section 11:1-44. Read these references and observe the con-
nections: 12:1, 2, 9, 10; 17.
Il. ANALYSIS.
Segments to be analyzed: 10:40—12:11; also 12:12-36a.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 10:40; 11:1, 5, 17, 28, 38,
45, 54, 55; 12:1, 9; also 12:12, 20, 27.
As you analyze the two segments of this passage, follow
the outline shown below. It may help you to record this
outline in the margins of your Bible, to give direction as
you read the text.
A. Final Ministries in Perea.*
1. PrerEaN Mrnistry (general description, 10:40-42).

What references to John the Baptist are made here? What
does this teach about the fruits of faithful witness? ____
2. AN INTERRUPTION OF THE PEREAN MINISTRY (11:1-44).

What is taught in this story of the raising of Lazarus at
Bethany, about:
the will of God
walking in spiritual light
resurrection life
faith
Jesus’ compassion .
the power of Jesus

3. Two SEQUELS OF THE LAZARUS MIRACLE.
a. Counsel against Jesus by the Jewish rulers (11:45-57).
What was the rulers’ fear? _

the Bible. It refers to regions on
* The name Perea does not appear in
and Samaria. “Beyond the
the eastern side of the Jordan opposite Judea
Jordan” (peran tou Iordanow) is Perea.
gal
How did Caiaphas reason that Jesus’ death would save the
nation of Israel? —
Observe from 11:53 that at this point there was an or-
ganized plot to take Jesus’ life. What did this cause Jesus
to do (v. 54)?
Does this indicate that Jesus had more work to do? Let the
last phrase of 11:54, “There [he] continued with his
disciples,” be a clue as to the kind of work Jesus wanted
to do before His death.
b. Supper in Bethany, Lazarus attending (12:1-11).
Lazarus’ presence spoke of resurrection. What did the
ointment symbolize (see v. 7)? Both Caiaphas and Mary
unwittingly were prophesying the redemptive sacrifice of
Jesus. But compare the hearts of Caiaphas and Mary. Also
compare the hearts of Judas and Mary.
B. Final Entry into Jerusalem.
Once the opposition against Jesus came out into the open
in the early part of His ministry, it never waned. Over and
over again the Apostle John has had 90 record how Jesus
was despised and rejected of men. It must have lightened
John’s heart to pen the triumphant account of the trium-
phal entry into Jerusalem of Jesus as He was lauded by
multitudes as “the King of Israel.”+ The march itself was
prophetic; when John wrote about it the prospect of
kingship was assured.
Jesus’ march into Jerusalem took place on Sunday, the
first of the six days of Passion Week (Sunday through
Friday). On Friday Jesus would be hanging on the cross.
1. PEopLr’s Acciaim (12:12-18).
Why were so many people paying homage to Jesus
(12:1'7-18).?
Recall from your reading of the last few chapters that
many people were believing on Jesus (e.g., 10:42; 11:45;
1-2 Bh
+ Of course when John penned these words

a half century after the event,
he recalled that many of the people lauding
Jesus in the march were soon
mocking Him on the cross, a change wrought
about because the people’s
expectation of a Messianic inauguration at this
time did not come about.
72
2. PHARISEES’ DESPERATION (12:19).
Who comprised most of Jesus’ enemies: the laity, or the
religious rulers?
What influence do false religions have on the world today?
Can the true church of God prevail? (Cf. Matt. 16:18.)
3. GREEKS’ QUEST (12:20-22).

Ponder the significance of the words, “Sir, we would see
Jesus.” Will Jesus refuse such a request today?

4. Jrsus’ TESTIMONY (12:23-36a).
Compare Jesus’ words “The hour is come” (12:23) with
the multitudes’ earlier exclamation “Blessed is the King of
Israel that cometh” (12:13). What did the multitudes
want?
What was Jesus ready to offer?

This passage contains many wonderful statements by
Jesus. Make a list of these, and of the truths that can be
applied to your own life.
lil. NOTES.
1. “And not for that nation only” (11:52). Jesus died for
Gentiles as well as for Jews.
2. “Spikenard” (12:3). This was an expensive ointment
imported from northern India.
3. “Hosanna” (12:13). Literally, this Hebrew term means
“Save, I pray” (cf. Ps. 118:25-26). On the occasion of
Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem it was more an ascription of
praise.
4. “Life” (12:25). Two Greek words are translated “life”
in this verse. The verse may be paraphrased thus: “(He who
loves his psuche (life in the physical body) shall lose it,
but he who puts his psuche second in importance in this
world shall guard it to zoe (spiritual life) eternal.”
5. “Father, save me from this hour” (12:27). If this was
a prayer of Jesus, it anticipates the agony which He later
73
experienced in Gethsemane (cf. Matt. 26:38-42). Some
versions translate the words as a question, thus: “Shall I
say, ‘Father, do not let this hour come upon me’? But that
is why I came, to go through this hour of suffering” (TEV).
Think more about the significances of the Lazarus miracle.

How was such a miracle a combination of many miracles?
Can miracles be fully described in human language, even

in the words of Scripture?
The raising of Lazarus is the last miracle recorded by
John in the main body of his gospel. (The resurrection and
postresurrection appearances of Jesus stand in a category
by themselves, and the draught of fishes is part of the epi-
logue.) You might want to make a comparative study of
the miracles of John’s gospel. Look for such things as the
need bringing on the miracle, the method used by Jesus,
attributes of Jesus revealed, and effects on the people and
disciples.
Recall from 20:30-31 what John’s main purpose was in
reporting these miracles. Were Jesus’ purposes, in per-
forming them, the same as John’s, in reporting them?
1. What do you learn from:
a. Jesus’ love for Lazarus
b. Mary’s love for Jesus
c. Judas’ cold heart
d. The people’s praise of Jesus (12:12-15) _ s

2. What kind of service does Jesus expect of His disciples
(12:25-26) ? _
74
3. What are the most important lessons you have learned
from your study of this lesson?
“Jesus wept” (11:35).
Vil. SUMMARY OF 5:1—12:36a.
The section 5:1—12:36a covers about two years of Jesus’

public ministry, which were marked by a growing hate of
the Jewish rulers against Jesus because of His claims to
Messiahship and divine sonship. These religionists had
one goal: kill Jesus.
Many of the multitudes gave a sympathetic ear to Jesus’
claims, and demonstrated their support by giving Him a
royal reception as He rode into Jerusalem on an ass. There
were not a few of these who believed on Him.
And then there were Jesus’ close friends and disciples.
For the most part they are in the background in John’s
gospel during these chapters, but all references to them
reveal a loyal group of followers (Judas was the exception).
Throughout this period of conflict with His enemies,
Jesus faithfully performed His mission. He told who He
was, He demonstrated who He was, and He invited all
people to believe on Him to be saved. When that mission
was over, He “walked no more openly among the Jews”
(11:54), for He was ready now to accomplish a more pri-
vate ministry to the twelve disciples. This is the subject of
the next main section of John’s gospel.
75
Lesson 13 John 12:36b—13:38
DAY OF PREPARATION
Events Attending the Last Supper
AT THIS POINT IN HIS GOSPEL JOHN
BEGINS TO CONCENTRATE ON JESUS’
PRIVATE MINISTRY TO HIS DISCIPLES.
In 12:12-19 John had reported Jesus’ triumphal entry into

Jerusalem, which took place on Sunday of Passion Week.
The passage 12:20-36a could be dated on Tuesday of that
week, and the words, “Jesus . . . departed, and did hide
himself” (12:366), could refer to Wednesday, about which
all four gospel writers are silent. All of Jesus’ discourses to
His disciples reported only by John (chaps. 13—17) were
spoken on Thursday, around the occasion of the Last
Supper.
Sayings of Jesus reported in the first half of John’s
gospel were mainly directed to unbelievers, for those were
years of conflict with His opposition. The discourses re-
ported in this new section of John (chaps. 13—17) are
mainly for believers, for these were blessed truths which
Jesus spoke to a::d about His disciples.
1. Refer to Chart D and renew your survey acquaintance

with John’s gospel. Observe how these lines describe the
entire section 12:36b-—17:26:
Private Ministry
Self Revealed
Day of Preparation
Ministering to His Close Disciples
2. Study Chart P, which identifies Jesus’ activities in Pas-
sion Week. Locate the passage of our present lesson on
the chart.
76
PASSION WEEK Chart P
KING KING
EXTOLLED MOCKED
oe is ons bes rove
ea ibe |i |
Authority
ms te se
Jesus speaks much Jesus speaks little
Marching Driven
into the city out of the city
on a colt bearing a cross
(John 12:12-19) (John 19:17)
Il. ANALYSIS.
Segments to be analyzed: 12:36b-50; also 13:1-38.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 12:36; 44; also 13:1, 12, 18,
31, 36.
A. Transitional Segment (12:36b-50).

Think of these transitional verses as functioning in the
structure of John’s gospel as shown on Chart Q.
1. Read 12:37-43. This paragraph is really a parenthesis

between 12:36 and 12:44. Observe John’s three comments
on the people’s unbelief:
a. It was not logical (12:37).
b. It had been foretold (12:38).
c. It was a result of hardness of heart (12:39-40).
Concerning the last verses, does God keep a person from
believing? Fs
Read Matthew 13:14-15 for light on this quote from Isaiah
6.
77
FUNCTION OF TRANSITIONAL VERSES ChartQ
1:18—12:360 (J ‘These things ““and did hide

spake Jesus"’ himself from them"’
12:37-43
John’s Commentary
on
Belief and Unbelief
Ministry Ministry
to the to the
Public Disciples
12:44-50
Jesus’ Teaching
on
Belief and Unbelief
2. Read 12:44-50. What does Jesus teach about belief and
unbelief here? _
B. Discourses at the Last Supper (13:1-38).
Read these paragraphs carefully and prayerfully. Try to

visualize the scenes, and sense the tone of Jesus’ words.
What are your first impressions after reading this chapter?
How is verse 1 an introduction to the theme of the entire
chapter?
What was Jesus mainly teaching in His washing of the
disciples’ feet?
How often does Judas appear in the story? What do you
think is meant by the phrase “Satan entered into him”
(13520)?
78
What does this chapter teach about the following subjects:
Christian Love and Fellowship
Humility
Service
Discipleship
Loyalty
Self-confidence
Defection
Ill. NOTES.
1. “Before the feast of the passover” (13:1). Some take

this to mean that the supper of verse 2 was not a Passover
meal (Thursday) but a preparatory fellowship meal. For
an able defense of the position that it was a Passover meal,
see A. T. Robertson, A Harmony of the Gospels, pages
279-84. The phrase ‘“‘supper being ended” is translated in
some versions as “during supper” (e.g., ASV).
2. “Dipped the sop” (13:26). This was a custom whereby
a morsel of bread was dipped in sauce and extended to
the person as a token of friendship. What does Jesus’ ges-
ture reveal about His heart of love?
3. “It was night” (13:30). Everett F. Harrison writes of
this,
In a writing so sensitive to symbolism and underlying meaning

as this Gospel, these words must have special significance. They
picture at once the benighted condition of Judas through surrender
to hatred of Jesus and also the coming of the hour when the
powers of darkness would engulf the Saviour.*
4. “A new commandment” (13:34). This was new because

of the disciples’ new relationship to God through Jesus
Christ (hence Jesus’ words, “as I have loved you”).
Some Christians hold that foot-washing is an ordinance for

the church as well as an example given by Christ. Make a
study of the Bible passages on this subject.
and Everett F. Harrison (eds.), The Wycliffe Bible
® Charles F. Pfeiffer
Commentary, p. 1103.
(eo)
Study all the Bible references to Judas, Jesus’ betrayer.
Include Psalm 41:9 in your research.
V. APPLICATIONS.
Picture yourself as one of Jesus’ disciples listening to Him

at this Last Supper. What would have struck home at your
heart, of the things He said in this passage?
“This is how all men will know that you are my disciples,
because you have such love for one another” (John 13:35,
Phillips) .
80
Lesson 14 John 14:1—16:33
Farewell Discourses
ANYONE WHO ASKS THE QUESTION,
‘WHAT KIND OF A PERSON WAS JESUS?’

WILL FIND A THOUSAND ANSWERS IN JOHN.
This is particularly true in the section 12:36b—17:26. The

three chapters of our present lesson contain three farewell
discourses of Jesus delivered to His disciples on the evening
before His crucifixion. The first discourse, chapter 14, was
probably spoken in the upper room where the last supper
(chap. 13) was held.* The last phrase of 14:31 suggests
that Jesus and His disciples left the house and started
walking east toward the Garden of Gethsemane. The second
discourse (15:1—16:4a) and the third (16:4b-33) may
then have been spoken as the group moved quietly through
the city.+ The high-priestly prayer of chapter 17 was prayed
before Jesus and His disciples crossed the Kidron Valley
on their way to Gethsemane.
One cannot read these long discourses and prayer of

Jesus without recognizing the supernatural inspiration
which was given John the author to know what to record.
As you study these chapters, open your heart to this won-
derful divine revelation. Thank God for giving you this
Word. And determine in your heart that you will be a
better Christian as a fruit of your study.
The three farewell discourses could be called one dis-
course, because they are so intimately related. For pur-
poses of study, however, it is helpful to recognize three
® Some Bible students prefer to regard 13:31-38 as part of this first dis-
course, The content is not affected either way.
+ It is difficult to say where the second discourse ends and _ the third
begins because of the constantly recurring subjects which Jesus spoke abont
in this informal conversation with His disciples.
81
separate units, and analyze these accordingly. The main
subjects of the discourses may be identified thus:
FIRST DISCOURSE SECOND DISCOURSE THIRD DISCOURSE
16:4a 16:4b
The Father's House Vine and the Branches Promises of Jesus
ll. ANALYSIS.
Segments to be analyzed: 14:1-31; 15:1—16:4a; 16:46-33.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 14:1, 8, 12, 15, 27; 15:1, 12,
LOLOL AO LON:
A limited number of suggestions as to what to look for in
these chapters are given below. You will want to extend
your studies beyond these exercises. Because of the in-
formal setting of Jesus’ discourses, with occasional inter-
ruptions by some of His disciples, no clear-cut outline can
be determined for many parts of the discourses. The out-
lines suggested below will give seme direction for study;
you should try arriving at your own outlines after you
have familiarized yourself with the text.
A. First Discourse: The Father’s House (14:1-31).
1. INTRODUCTION (14:1).
How does the opening phrase introduce the subject of
peace?
Compare this with verse 27, which begins the conclusion of

the discourse.
2. COMING TO THE FATHER BY BELIEVING JESUS (14:2-7).
Observe the key phrase “cometh unto the Father” (14:6).
What aspect of salvation is taught by this phrase? =
What does verse 6 teach about the way of salvation? _
82
3. KNOWING THE FaTHER THROUGH KNOWING JESUS
Gi428=11s):
What do these verses teach about knowing the Father? __
4. WORKING FOR THE FATHER THROUGH JESUS’ WorKING

GLA at >)
What do works have to do with the Christian life?
5. LovED BY THE FATHER THROUGH LOVING JESUS (14:15-

26).
What verse contains the phrase “loved of my Father’?
What are the rewards for loving Jesus and His Father?
6. CONCLUSION (14:27-31).
Relate verse 27 to verse 1. How was such a promise of
peace important in view of the statement “the prince of
this world cometh” (14:30) ?
Who is this prince?

How is the rest of the paragraph a summary of the dis-
course?
Write a list of the prominent truths taught in this first
discourse about the Son; the Father; and the Holy Spirit.
What are the commands to believers, and promises? Look

for these same truths as they are taught in the next two
discourses.
83
B. Second Discourse: Vine and the Branches (15:1—16:4a).
1. RELATIONSHIP OF BELIEVERS TO JESUS (15:1-11).

How intimate is the relationship of the believer to Jesus,
according to the figure of vine and branch?
What are the key words of this paragraph?
What is the prominent command?
What is the promised blessing?
What is meant by the severe judgment cited in verse 6?
What is suggested by the word “much” in the phrase

“much fruit’?
2. RELATIONSHIP OF BELIEVERS TO EACH OTHER Gib212-17 ye
What is the basic command here?
What are some of the things Jesus meant when He said,

“As I have loved you” (v. 12)?
3. RELATIONSHIP OF BELIEVERS TO THE WorLD Gb:18==

16:4a).
What main state of affairs does Jesus recognize in verses
18-25?
How is 15:26—16:4a related to this?
What help can Christians depend on in times of persecu

-
tion?
84
C. Third Discourse: Promises of Jesus (16:4b-33).
As you read this discourse, think of the many ways in

which Jesus gave comfort and inspiration to His disciples
at this critical hour. The following outline suggests one
line of thought for your study.
1. PROMISE OF GUIDANCE (16:4b-15).
Who of the Trinity is especially designated as the Chris-
tian’s Teacher and Comforter today?

Is it the function of the Spirit to glorify the Son, or the
Son to glorify the Spirit (v. 14)?

Why is the knowledge of truth (v. 13) so necessary for
successful living?
2. PROMISE OF Joy (16:16-24).
What is taught here about joy after sorrow?
About prayer?
3. PROMISE OF VicToRY (16:25-33).
What is taught here about victory through tribulation?
How significant were the words of verse 33 on the lips of

Jesus in view of His approaching trial and crucifixion?
Il. NOTES.
1. “Greater works” (14:12). The comparison concerns

scope, and suggests how extensive the ministry of the
gospel would become.
2. “Comforter” (14:16). The Greek parakletos (“one
called to the side of”) may be translated “helper.”
3. “A little while, and ye shall not see me” (16:16). This
is a reference to Jesus’ death. The next part of the verse
refers to His postresurrection appearances.
4. “Proverbs” (16:25). The reference is to obscure sayings.
The truths about Jesus’ death and resurrection and other
85
vital doctrines were obscure to the disciples at this time
because these were not the kinds of events the disciples
were expecting.
Here are some suggested areas of study, related to this

lesson:
1. the Holy Spirit and His relation to the Trinity
2. the kind of love which Christians should be demonstrat-
ing
3. effective prayer
4. what it means to abide in Christ
V. APPLICATIONS.
These chapters are filled with vital spiritual lessons for

Christian living today. Make a list of ten such lessons, and
compare your list with those of other members of your
group.
“In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good

cheer; I have overcome the world” (16:33).
86
High-priestly Prayer
JESUS’ HIGH-PRIESTLY PRAYER IN JOHN 17
HAS BEEN CALLED THE NEW TESTAMENT’S
NOBLEST AND PUREST PEARL OF DEVOTION.

When John Knox was dying he whispered to his wife, “Go,
read where I first cast my anchor.” And without further
instruction she turned to John 17.
A Christian cannot read this chapter without being
warmed in heart over the tremendous fact that his Lord
prays to the Father on his behalf.
We would like to be able to reconstruct the setting of
this five-minute prayer of Jesus, but no details are given
in the account, other than that Jesus lifted up His eyes
to heaven (17:1), and spoke the words in the presence
of the eleven disciples (cf. 18:1). Few details, but an awe-
some truth: the Son of God speaking to His Father in
heaven about His disciples!
As you approach this chapter, think of the heart needs

of the disciples at this time. Also, think how Jesus was
feeling at this time, knowing what trying experiences were
awaiting Him in the next hours.
Before you begin to analyze the prayer for what it
teaches, enter into its atmosphere by reading it aloud,
slowly and softly, in one sitting. Read it in the manner you
think Jesus may have uttered it at the time. Such interpre-
tative reading can be a very illuminating experience.
Il. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 6, 20.
87
The prayer is clearly of three main parts. Chart R gives
an outline around which you may organize your study.
Use this work sheet to record key words and phrases, and
to show relations between parts.
JESUS PRAYS Chart R
17:1-26
Glorify thy Son
For Sanctify them

His Disciples
For them also
88
1. Read 17:1-5. What is the basic petition of verse 1?
What various truths are taught about Christ’s glory in

this paragraph?
What is eternal life, according to these verses?
2. Read 17:6-19. Who are “the men which thou gavest

me” (17:6)?
What does Jesus say about these men in this paragraph?
Study the context and meaning of the two petitions, “Keep

[them]” (v. 11) and “Sanctify them” (v. 17). Compare
the phrases “for the world” (v. 9); “in the world” (v. 11);
“of the world” (v. 14); “out of the world” (v. 15); “into
the world” (v. 18).
3. Read 17:20-26. For whom is Jesus praying here? What
are His petitions?
What is taught here about “love” and “glory”?
As you think back over this prayer of Jesus, what are some
of the great blessings associated with Christ’s gift of eternal
life?
ll. NOTES.
1. “I pray not for the world” (17:9). This does not re-
flect a disinterest on the part of Jesus toward unsaved
people. He can only pray the prayer of John 17 for those
who choose to come to God by Him.
2. “The son of perdition” (17:12). Judas was lost. “Jesus
was saying that the loss was not a reflection on His keeping
89
power as the shepherd of the flock. Rather, Judas had
never really belonged to him except in a nominal, external
sense (cf. 13:10-11)
.”*
Study what the Bible teaches about

1. sanctification
2. common fellowship of believers
A concordance, topical handbook, and a book on doc-
trines will be of help for such studies.
V. APPLICATIONS.
Read this high-priestly prayer again, and whenever refer-

ence is made to a believer, read your name instead (if you
are a believer). This may prove to be your most enjoyable
moment in this study.
“T do not ask you to take them out of the world, but I do

ask you to keep them safe from the Evil One” (17:15,
TEV).
* The Wycliffe Bible Commentary, p. 1112.

90
Lesson 16 John 18:1—19:16a
HOUR OF SACRIFICE
Arrested and Tried
JESUS HAD NO SLEEP THURSDAY NIGHT,
FOR THE DIVINELY PROGRAMMED FINAL
COUNTDOWN FOR HIS CRUCIFIXION HAD BEGUN.

After the high-priestly prayer of chapter 17 the succession
of events was this:
Soul-Agony of Gethsemane*
Arrest
Trials
Scourging
Crucifixion
Death
Not one of these experiences did Jesus try to delay, or
avoid. To the very end, His attitude was one of obedience
to His Father’s will: “The cup which my Father hath given
me, shall I not drink it?” (18:11; cf. Matt. 26:1-2). In
your study of John’s account you will observe that even
some of the details of these last events had been prophesied
hundreds of years earlier in the Old Testament Scriptures.
That Jesus was not a fatalist concerning such a sovereignly
fixed program is shown throughout the Gospels by the in-
tensity of His human emotions in the midst of each trying
experience. This Man of sorrows, acquainted with grief,
was “obedient unto death, even the death of the cross”
CPril? 2:8).
|. PREPARATION FOR STUDY.
1. As background for 18:1-11, read the Gethsemane account

as given in Matthew 26:30, 36-46 (cf. Mark 14:26, 32-42;
Luke 22:39-46).
of Jesus entering the Garden cf
* John makes only the brief mention
Gethsemane with His disciples (18:1).
91
2. Keep in mind that Jesus was confronted by two dif-
ferent realms of authority in His trial. The political rulers
were Roman, and the religious rulers were Jewish. Shown
below are the two confrontations, with three stages in each.
Note how much is reported by John.
Jewish Trial
1. Before Annas (John 18:12-14, 19-23) .
2. Informal trial by Sanhedrin before dawn (John 18:24;
Matt. 26:57, 59-68; Mark 14:58, 55-65; Luke 22:54, 63-65).
3. Formal trial after dawn (Matt. 27:1; Mark 15:1; Luke
22:66-71).
Roman Trial
1. First appearance before Pilate (John 18:28-38; Matt.
27:2, 11-14; Mark 15:1-5; Luke 23:1-5).
2. Before Herod Antipas (Luke 23:6-12).
3. Final appearance before Pilate (John 18:39—19: 16a;
Matt. 27:15-26; Mark 15:6-15; Luke 23:13-25).
Il. ANALYSIS.
Segment to be analyzed: 18:1—19:16a.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 18:1, 12215, 1925728532;
386; 19:1, 12.
As you read this passage, try to catch the tone and feeling
of each part. This will reveal much of the significant truths
involved. Here are two topical studies to pursue for the
passage:
A. Observe and Record.

1. words directed to Jesus
2. words spoken by Jesus
In each case, try to determine what was meant, what
brought on the words, and what effect the words had.
B. Comparative Study.
For 18:28—19:16a, make a comparative study of Pilate’s
estimate of Jesus, and the Jews’ estimate of Jesus.
The
following study questions will lead you into other importa
nt
subjects of this passage.
1. Read 18:1-11. Who takes the initiative in this scene?
Observe Jesus’ tender concern for His disciples
(v. 8).
92
2. Read 18:12-14, 19-24. The high priest of verse 19 is
Annas. Translate verse 24 thus: “So Annas sent him bound
unto Caiaphas the high priest.” Observe that Jesus in-
sisted that He always told the truth.
3. Read 18:16-18, 25-27 (cf. 13:38). What important lesson
do you learn from these denials by Peter?
4. Read 18:28-32. What was Pilate’s wish? On verse 31b,
see Notes. For verse 32, compare Matthew 20:19.
5. Read 18:33—19:16a. Meditate long over the truths sug-

gested by these powerful phrases:
Art thou a king? (18:37).
What is truth? (18:38).
I find no fault in him (18:38).
Behold the man! (19:5).
Crucify him! (19:6).
We have no king but Caesar (19:15).
Ill. NOTES.
1. “Annas” (18:13). Caiaphas was the official high priest;

Annas his father-in-law had been the official high priest
earlier (A.D. 6-15), and was now serving with his son-in-
law in an unofficial capacity. (Cf. Luke 3:2; Acts 4:5-6.)
2. “Another disciple” (18:15). This may have been the
Apostle John.
3. “Hall of judgment” (18:28). This was Governor Pilate’s
headquarters.
4. “It is not lawful for us to put any man to death”
(18:31). On occasion the Jews were permitted to stone a
person who had violated the temple precincts. According
to Roman law, however, only the Roman authorities had
the power of execution, and this was by crucifixion.
5. “Scourged him” (19:1). This was cruel torture by beat-
ing, using rods or weighted whips. Most victims fainted;
many died (read Isa. 53:5).
1. Study the subject of Jesus and the kingdom, using out-

side helps.
93
2. Study the symbolic meanings of some of the parts of
this narrative, such as “passover,” “king,” “crown,”
“thorns” (see Gen. 3:17-18).
V. APPLICATIONS.
What does this story of Jesus have to do with today? For

example, are people today crying out, in essence, “We
have no king but Caesar’? See how much of sinful human
nature is revealed in this passage, and make the applica-
tions.
“My kingdom is not of this world” (18:36).
94
Lesson ie John 19:16b-42
Crucified and Buried

DEATH ITSELF IS ALWAYS COLD AND
ABRUPT, MOVING IN AS A DARK CLOUD
TO DO ITS WORK OF SEPARATION.
The story of Jesus’ death should never be glamorized. The

redemptive fruits of Christ’s death are glorious, but the
hour of His death was mankind’s darkest hour. Even nature
itself echoed this, with the darkening of the sun and the
violent earthquake (Luke 23:45; Matt. 27:51).
If Jesus did not die physically, then He really did not
die.
If all the sins of mankind were not placed on Jesus in His
death, then He did not die for ali men’s sins.
If Jesus did not really suffer on the cross, then judgment
for sin is a light matter.
If Jesus did not die, then He did not finish the Father’s
work.
If Jesus did not really die, the Bible is a lie.
But Jesus did die, as John so clearly reports, “They . .
saw that he was dead” (19:33). How He died, and what
His friends did with His body, is the story of this lesson.
The Gospels give no detailed description of the process of

Roman crucifixion. The text usually reads only briefly, as
in John, “They crucified him.” Can you suggest a reason
for this relative silence? Consult a Bible dictionary for a
full description of crucifixion as a Roman form of execu-
tion. Also, read Psalm 22:1-21 for a description of some
of the physical, mental and spiritual agonies of Jesus on
the cross. Consult the dictionary also about the burial
customs of Jesus’ day.
95
li. ANALYSIS.
Segment to be analyzed: 19:16b-42.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 16b, 23, 25, 28, 31, 38.
John’s account of Jesus’ death is brief but weighty. He
paints six portraits for us to examine and meditate upon.
As you look at these, record your impressions.
Jesus’ identity recognized (19:16b-22)
Jesus’ goods confiscated (19:23-24)
Jesus’ mother cared for (19:25-27)
Jesus’ life given (19:28-30)
Jesus’ death verified (19:31-37)
Jesus’ body buried (19:38-42)
1. Read these prophecies which were fulfilled at this time:

Psalm 22:18; 34:20; Zechariah 12:10.
2. Which paragraphs record words of Jesus?

How would you compare Jesus’ thoughts in each para-
graph?
96
3. What symbolic teaching is suggested by the blood and
by the water which flowed from Jesus’ side (19:34)?
4. How significant is it that Nicodemus was one of the
men who claimed Jesus’ body to prepare it for burial? ____
lil. NOTES.
1. “His mother’s sister” (19:25). Probably Salome, mother

of John.
2. “I thirst” (19:28). This was a cry of physical anguish,
not an appeal for its alleviation.
3. “That their legs might be broken” (19:31). The break-
ing of the victim’s legs was intended to hasten his death.
Jesus’ words “It is finished” (19:30) are significant with

respect to the doctrine of salvation. Refer to the episile to
the Hebrews to learn what is said there about the finality
of Christ’s death (e.g., Heb. 9:23-28).
Vv. APPLICATIONS.
What does the death of Jesus mean to you?
How is your salvation based on it?

What did Paul mean when he wrote, “I am crucified with
Christ’’?
What are some of the manifestations of such an attitude
in Christian living?
“And he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost” (19:30).
ot
Lesson if: John 20:1-31
DAWN OF VICTORY
Signs of the Resurrected Jesus
THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS WAS BOTH
PRESCHEDULED OF GOD AND WHOLLY

UNANTICIPATED BY THE DISCIPLES.
Jesus had clearly instructed His disciples earlier about His

forthcoming death and resurrection (Mark 8:31-32), but
they did not understand the meaning then, nor did they
even remember the words later. Understanding would come
of believing, and believing would come through signs.
John 20 records for us some of the signs which restored
the disciples of Jesus to a personal and new relationship
to Him as the risen Lord. How utter defeat can suddenly
and miraculously turn to victory is one of the glowing
truths of this chapter.
1. Recall the burial procedure of 19:40, including the

anointing with spices. Refer to a Bible dictionary for
a
description of the burial customs of Jesus’ day. Mary
Magdalene (and other women, Mark 16:1) came to the
tomb early Sunday morning to anoint the body of Jesus
more permanently (Mark 16:1).
2. Visualize yourself as being one of Jesus’ friends
or
disciples who saw His body committed to the sepulche
r.
What would you be thinking, now that your Leader was
dead, whose prophecies of resurrection you have forgotten?
Il. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1,411,.19,-24:°30.
98
Read the chapter once or twice with the cited paragraph
divisions in mind, making preliminary notations in your
Bible. What are your first impressions of the chapter?
How does the phrase “And many other signs” (v. 30) re-
late to the paragraphs preceding it?
What is the chapter’s main point?
Chart S is a work sheet for recording observations and

outlines. Below are suggested some subjects for study.
Record all your findings.
1. To whom are signs (miracles with a message) given in
each paragraph? (Note the answers already recorded on
Chart S as an example of recording observations.) _____
2. What is the particular sign or evidence in each situation?
3. What are the reactions of the people involved? _____
4. Observe every appearance of the word “see” (in its

various grammatical forms). How is the word “see” re-
lated to the word “signs”?
5. How are the phrases “But Mary” (v. 11) and “But
Thomas” (v. 24) related to the paragraphs preceding them?
6. What is one major difference between the sign of the

first paragraph and the signs of the next three paragraphs?
7. Analyze carefully 20:1-10. Focus your study on the three

“saw,”
different Greek verbs translated “saw,” “seeth” and
chart. There is a progres sion of intensit y in
shown on the
the verbs: *
* See Irving L. Jensen, Independent Bible Study, pp. 18-19.
99
SIGNS OF THE RESURRECTED JESUS Chart $
20:1-31 SIGNS or PERSONS’
EVIDENCES REACTIONS
To Peter
and John other disciple . . . SAW (blepei) the linen clothes
—apprehensive
Simon Peter . . . SEETH (theorei)
other disciple . . . SAW (eiden)
BUT MARY stood without
—weeping
To the
Disciples
— intimidated
BUT THOMAS. . + was not with them
—doubting
Many other signs... .
100
John: blepei: this is mere partial viewing of the burial
spot from the entrance to the tomb, apparently without any
significant reaction other than the affirmation that what
Mary had reported was true.
Peter: theorei: this is beholding something astounding.
Peter saw, closeup, the napkin, or head roll, all rolled up,
still intact like a cocoon.
John: eiden: this is perceiving to the point of belief. John
perceived that here was something impossible, and God
had done it. So he believed.
Reconstruct the action of the paragraph with the above
meanings in mind.
8. Extend this study of the verb “see” to the remainder of
the chapter, according to these translations: the “seeth”
(v. 12) and “saw” (v. 14) are theorei; and the “‘seen” (v.
18), “saw” (v. 20), “seen,” and “see” (v. 25) are from
the root eiden.
9. Read 20:11-18. Explain why Mary recognized Jesus
when he said “Mary,” whereas she didn’t recognize Him
when He first spoke (v. 15).
10. Read 20:19-23. Account for the disciples’ fear of the
Jews (v.19).
What different message is introduced by each appearance
of the blessing ‘“‘Peace be unto you’’?
11. Read 20:24-29. Whose word was unconvincing to
Thomas? :
What is significant about each part of the affirmation “My
Lord and my God”?

12. Study the content of Jesus’ doctrinal teaching at the
end of the second, third and fourth paragraphs. Record
what you think is being taught in each case:
20:17
2022-23
20:29
13. Analyze the key verses 20:30-31. Record all the truths
101
taught by these verses. Then compare your findings with
this outline:+
Selective Gospel: “many other . . . but these”

Attested Gospel: “in the presence of his disciples”
Apologetic Gospel: “these are written, that ye might”
Interpretative Gospel: “that Jesus is the Christ”
Definitive Gospel: ‘‘the Son of God”
Effective Gospel: “ye might have life”
Hl. NOTES.
1. “Wrapped together” (20:7). The Greek word suggests

a winding of the graveclothes around Jesus’ body in the
form of a cocoon.
2. “Touch me not” (20:17). The strength of the Greek is
“Stop clinging to me.” Jesus allowed the touching of His
resurrected body at this time (cf. Matt. 28:9; John 20:27),
but not the intimate “clinging” of the former relationship
before Calvary. Jesus wanted to remind His friends that
the new era of His glorification had begun.
3. “Whose soever sins ye remit .. .” (20:23). Jesus in-
tended by these words that the disciples should declare
the fact and the how of God’s forgiveness of sins.{
What kind of a resurrection body will we as believers have?

Study I Corinthians 15 for much light on this. Is Jesus’
resurrection body a clue to what ours will be like?
V. APPLICATIONS.
1. In what kinds of situations do Christians need the com-

fort and assurance of Jesus’ “Peace be unto you”?
2. The phrase “so send I you” (v. 21) is a classic mission-
ary marker.§ Build a list of comparisons of the two parts
of the equation, and apply these to present-day Christian
service:
+ Outline by Merrill C. Tenney, John: The Gospel of Belief, pp. 34-36.
{ Refer to commentaries for extended treatment of this verse.
§ Read the stanzas of the hymn “So Send I You” if you have
access to
this.
102
“AS MY FATHER HATH SENT ME” “EVEN SO SEND | YOU”
“Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have be-
lieved” (20:29).
103
Postresurrection Appearances
in Galilee
IN THE CLOSING CHAPTER OF JOHN WE
READ OF A THIRD APPEARANCE OF JESUS

TO HIS DISCIPLES BY THE SEA OF GALILEE.
The survey Chart D shows chapter 21 as an epilogue, sug-

gesting a formal conclusion of the gospel with the verses
20:30-31. In another sense, however, chapter 21 is not de-
tached from chapter 20, because John here reports more
evidence of the miracle of Christ’s resurrection. (To sense
this natural continuity, try reading 21:1 immediately af-
ter 20:29.) *
Try to imagine what constituted the disciples’ daily life

from the day Jesus first appeared to them in His resurrec-
tion body until He ascended into heaven (Acts 1:9). Did
they have any explicit instructions for living, from Jesus?
What do you imagine they were thinking about and dis-
cussing as they met together from time to time? What was
their source of income for the physical needs of life? What
may have been their plans for the future? Ponder these
things as you prepare to study John 21.
Il. ANALYSIS.

Paragraph divisions: at verses 1, 15, 20, 24.
There are three main paragraphs in this chapter, followed
by the concluding verses 24-25. Study the paragraphs care-
fully, and record your observations on paper. Begin by
* Perhaps a better reconstruction of the organizational structure of the last
two chapters of John is done not in explaining why
chapter 21 was added
to chapter 20, but in explaining why John placed
20:30-31 at the end of
chapter 20 rather than at the close of the entire gospel.
104
identifying the main characters besides Jesus in each para-
graph.
A. Miracle (21:1-14).
Why was Jesus not recognized as He stood on the shore

(v. 4)?
What brought recognition later (v. 7)?
What truths did the disciples learn from this appearance of

Jesus which supplemented what they had learned in the
first two appearances (chap. 20)?
B. Challenge (21:15-19).
What was the main question which Jesus asked Peter? ___
Relate this to the invitation given Peter at the end of the

conversation (v. 19).
You may want to make a comparative study of the
various words spoken in this two-way conversation. The
words are listed below.
Jesus’ Question
Verse 15 Lovest? (agapas)t | love (filo) Feed my lambs

Verse 16 Lovest? (agapas) | love (filo) Shepherd my sheep
Verse 17 Lovest? (fileis) | love (filo) Shepherd my sheep
Do you think there was a connection between Jesus’

thrice-repeated question and Peter’s earlier threefold de-
nial?
+ The Greek word agapas in this context has the meaning of unselfish love,
ready to serve. The filo of Peter’s answer suggests intimate and tender affec-
tion. See W. E. Vine, An Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words,
Ill, 20-22.
t The Greek word of v. 16 is different from the one translated “feed” in
V3, 15%
105
C. Correction (21:20-23).
Who is the one being corrected here?

For what did Jesus correct him?
D. Conclusion (21:24-25).
Note the “we” of verse 24 and the “I” of verse 25. Verse
24 may have been written by close associates of John, such
as elders of the church at Ephesus.
Compare verse 25 with 20:30-31. Is it natural to interpret
that John was author of both concluding statements?
Ill. NOTES.
1. “I go a fishing” (21:3). Of this, Everett F. Harrison

writes, “It is hazardous to conclude that Peter was going
back to fishing as a permanent occupation.”’§
2. “Another shall gird thee” (21:18). This may be trans-
lated ‘‘another shall fasten them,” referring to the hands
being fastened to the cross. The phrase “thou shalt stretch
forth thy hands” (v. 18) is a reference to the crucifixion
form of execution.
The appearance of the two different Greek words for “love”

in this passage suggests a topical study of love which
would be an appropriate conclusion to your work in the
gospel of John. An exhaustive concordance and books on
word studies will be of much help here. As you think back
over the gospel of John, how prominent was the subject of
love on Jesus’ lips as He spoke to His disciples?
V. APPLICATIONS.
We can learn at least two vital lessons about Christian

discipleship and service from this final chapter of John.
One is that our love for Christ is a basic condition for
fruitful service (21:15-19). The other is that Christ holds
§ The Wycliffe Bible Commentary, p. 1121. In this commentary Harrison
gives reasons for this interpretation.
106
us responsible for the performance of our own service, not
service by others (21:20-23).
“Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine” (21:12).
107
A Review of John
Below are listed some of the major subjects which are
part of John’s gospel. See how much you can recall of
each subject, from your study of this gospel.
About Jesus
Jesus as Incarnate Son; His relation to the Father
His trials
His crucifixion and resurrection
Some Doctrines
Way of salvation
Eternal life
The Holy Spirit
Various Subjects
Miracles as signs
Opposition by the Jews
Training of the twelve
Purpose of John’s gospel (20:30-31)
Practical Subjects
Belief and unbelief
Witnessing
Christian love
Prayer
Attaining wisdom
“Jesus did many other mighty works in his disciples’

presence which are not written down in this book. These
have been written that you may believe that Jesus is the
Messiah, the Son of God, and that through this faith you
may have life in his name” (20:30-31, TEV).
108
THE GEOGRAPHY OF JOHN’S GOSPEL Chart T
THE GREAT SEA
= Samaria © ;
Nis
Mt AS
SAMARIA Ebol
JUDEA Mt.
Arnon River
_—_—_ ee UC” _ —_
109
Bibliography
Godet, F. L. Commentary on the Gospel of John. Grand
Rapids: Zondervan, n.d. 2 vols.
Griffith-Thomas, W. H. The Apostle John: His Life and
Writing. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1946.
Harrison, Everett F. John, The Gospel of Faith. Chicago:
Moody, 1968.
Hendriksen, W. Exposition of the Gospel According to
John in The New Testament Commentary. Grand Rap-
ids: Baker, 1953. 2 vols.
Hunter, A. M. The Gospel According to John. Cambridge:
U. Press, 1965.
Jensen, Irving L. Acts: An Inductive Study. Chicago:
Moody, 1968.
_______. Independent Bible Study. Chicago: Moody, 1963.
_____. Studies in the Life of Christ. Chicago: Moody,
1969.
Lange, John Peter. Lange’s Commentary on the Holy
Scriptures. Vol. 17, John. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, n.d.
Lenski, R. C. H. The Interpretation of St. John’s Gospel.
Columbus, Ohio: Wartburg, 1942. Thorough exposition.
Macaulay, J. C. Devotional Studies in St. John’s Gospel.
Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1945.
Morgan, G. Campbell. The Gospel According to John.
Westwood, N.J.: Revell, n.d.
Pfeiffer, Charles F., and Harrison, Everett F. (eds.). The
Wycliffe Bible Commentary. Chicago: Moody, 1962. One-
volume commentary of the whole Bible.
Robertson, A. T. A Harmony of the Gospels. Nashville:
Broadman, 1922.
110
Scroggie, W. Graham. St. John: Introduction and
Notes.
New York: Harper, 1931. Excellent outlines.
Strong, James. The Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible.
New York: Abingdon, 1890.
Tenney, Merrill C. John: The Gospel of Belief. Grand
Rapids: Eerdmans, 1948. Excellent combination of sur-
vey and analysis.
. New Testament Survey. Rev. ed. Grand Rapids:
Eerdmans, 1961.
Vine, W. E. An Expository Dictionary of New Testament
Words. Westwood, N. J.: Revell, 1961.
Westcott, B. F. The Gospel According to St. John. Grand
Rapids: Eerdmans, 1951. Excellent scholarly treatment.
UL
NOTES
112
Irving L. Jensen is professor and chairman of the
department of Bible at Bryan College. His clear and
simple presentation of difficult and complex material has
gained him a well-deserved reputation as an outstanding
teacher. He holds degrees from Wagner College (B.A.),
Biblical Seminary (S.T.B.), and Northwestern Theologi-
cal Seminary (Th.D.). In addition to the books in the
Bible Self-Study Guide series, he has authored Inde-
pendent Bible Study, which explains his method of Bible
study; Acts: An Independent Study, an in-depth study
of the book of Acts; Enjoy Your Bible, discussing ways
to approach, absorb, and appreciate the Bible; and
Jensen Bible Charts, a collection of some of his most use-
ful Bible charts, with instructions for effective use.
BIBLE SELF-STUDY GUIDES This series of study guides has been designed
for individual, group, or class use, with numerous outlines, charts, maps, dia-
grams, and other helps that make exploring and learning the Bible’s message
easy and exciting. Not simply an explanation of the text, these study guides
offer a complete do-it-yourself Bible study course, a respense-oriented aid to
personal study. Space is left for recording personal observations and answers
to questions. Charts are given to be filled in with the results of personal inves-
tigation into the text. Suggestions for projects and further study are offered.
And when the study is completed, these books provide a permanent record of
your personal study of the entire Bible, which you will refer back to time
after time. No series of study guides surpasses these in usefulness in personal
or group study.
OLD TESTAMENT: Isaiah, Jeremiah (1023-5) Galatians (1048-0)

Genesis (1001-4) Ezekiel, Daniel (1026-X) Ephesians (1049-9)
Exodus (1002-2) Minor Prophets of Israel Philippians (1051-0)
Leviticus (1003-0) (1028-6) Colossians and Philemon
Numbers and Deuteron-
Minor Prophets of Judah (1052-9)
omy (1004-9) (1029-4) First and Second Thessa-
Joshua (1006-5) Haggai, Zechariah. Mala- lonians (1053-7)
Judges and Ruth (1007-3) chi (1037-5) First and Second Timothy
First and Second Samuel and Titus (1054-5)
(1009-X) Hebrews (1058-8)
First Kings and Chronicles NEW TESTAMENT: James (1059-6)
(1011-1) Matthew (1040-5) First and Second
Mark (1041-3) (1060-X)
ANN
Second Kings and Chron-
I
icles (1012-X) Luke (1042-1) Epistles of John a
Ezra—Esther (1015-4) John (1043-X) (1062-6)
Job (1018-9) Acts (1044-8) Revelation (1066-£
Psalms (1019-7) Romans (1045-6) The Life of Christ
Proverbs (1020-0) First Corinthians (1046-4) (1067-7)
Ecclesiastes
Solomon
and Song
(1021-9)
of Second Corinthians
(1047-2) UL
MMU
s09-ZZ
a —_ WMA —
Xx

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-)

ERA OF INCARNATION BEGINS

The Good Shepherd Spurned . . . 66

© 1970 by THe Moopy Bre InstTiruTE or CuIcAco

Introduction Bible study can be one of your most enjoyable activities.

background and Survey

FOR THE PERSON WHO WANTS TO STUDY

© Ancher view is that 2 dose Gigle A the apotie, referred

B. Date and Place of Composition.

THE SYNOPTICS AND JOHN ChartA

chiefly concerned with Jesus’ gives more coverage to Jesus’

much emphasis on “kingdom” more emphasis on the person

Jesus as Son of David, Jesus especially as Son of God

the gospel of the infant the gospel of the maturing

the earthly story the heavenly meaning

Jesus’ sayings generally more of the long discourses

comparatively little com- much commentary by John

only one mention of a three, possibly four, Passovers

** The word “Jew” appears around seventy times in the gospel.

G. Coverage of Jesus’ Life.

The four Gospels differ from each other as to how much

++ The word “synoptic” is used to identify the similarity of Matthew, Mark

John 1:19 ff.

survey study, train your eyes to see things without tarry-

1. Compare the first verse of John and the last verse.___

2. How does 1:19 begin a new section? That is, how is

1:1-18 different from 1:19 ff.?

3. Generally speaking, to whom is Jesus extending His

Who are the special objects of His ministry in 12:36b—

4. What verses of chapter 5 show beginnings of opposition

Vua JO NOILVNYVONI SUW3A

lines that have a turning point at 12:36b.

6. In what chapter does Jesus’ arrest take place? Where

7. Do the verses 20:30-31 appear to conclude the main

It will also be instructive to read personal recognitions of

8:58 (cf. Exodus 3:14)

As you think about the above identifications which

It is always good to review what has been studied in a

2. What do you know about John the apostle concerning

8. Name some key words of John. Quote the key verses.

What title may be given this gospel?

11. What is the general content of the prologue and epi-

ttt James Strong, The Exhaustive Concordance

VIA TELEVISION, ASTRONAUTS BORMAN,

ANDERS AND LOVELL CIRCUITED THE MOON.

They were on man’s first lunar orbit. The voices of the

I. PREPARATION FOR STUDY.

As you study each chapter in the gospel of John, keep in

PROLOGUE ERA OF INCARNATION BEGINS

OB ECG) (O°F Bie LEI

The section 1:1—4:54 seeks to show who Jesus is, as the

Segment to be analyzed: 1:1-18.

2. Key words and phrases. Read the passage again, with

and the Word was with God, and dwelt among us

and the Word was God full of grace and truth

How do these verses make it clear that the “Word” must

something of the main intent here.

Key Words TOPRPUGCAL ST URNES

Compare the three paragraphs using this outline: