As I have explained in the past, one of the reasons I am doing this blog is I am curious to see what kind of messages one might get from reading the bible. What might one learn as a take-away. Here is my quick summary of the good and bad from John
The Good
2:6 Church should not be a place of profit
8:7 Don't judge others by a different standard than you judge yourself
9:16 Keeping the Sabbath not so important
13:34 Love one another
The Bad
9:3 A man is blind from birth so Jesus can show off and heal him
12:40 God removes people's free will
14:12 Christians can perform the miracles like Jesus did (clearly false)
19:28 Jesus does things expressly to "fulfill scripture"
20:29 Belief without evidence is a virtue
Showing posts with label John. Show all posts
Showing posts with label John. Show all posts
Monday, May 14, 2012
Friday, May 11, 2012
John 21
Jesus Appears to Seven Disciples
Seven disciples were fishing and not catching many fish. Jesus then told them to throw the net off the right side of the boat and they caught so many they had trouble bring up the net. When they brought in the fish There was a fire going and Jesus was there. No one dared ask who it was, they knew it was the lord.
So, does Jesus not look like Jesus? Why is he coming back and people don't recognize him?
Jesus and Peter
Jesus asked Peter several times if he loved him, and when Peter said yes he told him to watch his sheep.
Is sheep supposed to be the people following Jesus. Is Jesus putting Peter in charge?
Jesus and the Beloved Apostle
Peter asks if the "disciple whom Jesus loved" was following them is going to betray Jesus. Jesus says that he should stay until "I return" and that was spread around the group.
I didn't understand this at all.
Seven disciples were fishing and not catching many fish. Jesus then told them to throw the net off the right side of the boat and they caught so many they had trouble bring up the net. When they brought in the fish There was a fire going and Jesus was there. No one dared ask who it was, they knew it was the lord.
So, does Jesus not look like Jesus? Why is he coming back and people don't recognize him?
Jesus and Peter
Jesus asked Peter several times if he loved him, and when Peter said yes he told him to watch his sheep.
Is sheep supposed to be the people following Jesus. Is Jesus putting Peter in charge?
Jesus and the Beloved Apostle
Peter asks if the "disciple whom Jesus loved" was following them is going to betray Jesus. Jesus says that he should stay until "I return" and that was spread around the group.
I didn't understand this at all.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
John 20
The Resurrection
Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that it was open, so she went to Simon Peter and "the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved"
I thought he loved them all, what is with this?
She told them that someone has taken Jesus out of the tomb. They went to the tomb and say the linen cloths lying there. The face cloth was in a separate place, all folded up.
What about the earthquake and the angel, or the pair of angels?
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
Mary was weeping outside the tomb and 2 angels were sitting where Jesus had lain and asked why she was weeping. She said it was because someone took away the body of Jesus. Then Jesus appeared behind her and asked why she was weeping, she didn't realize it was him and said if he knew where Jesus' body was to tell her. He had her pay attention and notice it was him and then told her to go tell everyone what she had seen, so she went and told the disciples.
Here is the part with the angels. At least all of the versions of this story seem to have angels, although the order of events is still all mixed up. For example, in the Matthew story the angel was there right at the beginning of it, here Mary brought everyone back to the tomb and they left before the angel made an appearance.
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
The disciples were afraid of the Jews so they were hiding, Jesus appeared among them and told them to chill out. He breathed on them and told them to receive the holy spirit.
Jesus and Thomas
Thomas was not with the others when Jesus appeared, he said he wouldn't believe unless he could see Jesus and touch his wounds. 8 days later Jesus appeared before them again and let Thomas touch his wounds. He said "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed"
I do not like this last bit. Why would it be a virtue to believe something without evidence?
The Purpose of This Book
Jesus did many other signs which are not recorded here, these have been recorded so that you can believe he is the son of God.
Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that it was open, so she went to Simon Peter and "the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved"
I thought he loved them all, what is with this?
She told them that someone has taken Jesus out of the tomb. They went to the tomb and say the linen cloths lying there. The face cloth was in a separate place, all folded up.
What about the earthquake and the angel, or the pair of angels?
Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene
Mary was weeping outside the tomb and 2 angels were sitting where Jesus had lain and asked why she was weeping. She said it was because someone took away the body of Jesus. Then Jesus appeared behind her and asked why she was weeping, she didn't realize it was him and said if he knew where Jesus' body was to tell her. He had her pay attention and notice it was him and then told her to go tell everyone what she had seen, so she went and told the disciples.
Here is the part with the angels. At least all of the versions of this story seem to have angels, although the order of events is still all mixed up. For example, in the Matthew story the angel was there right at the beginning of it, here Mary brought everyone back to the tomb and they left before the angel made an appearance.
Jesus Appears to the Disciples
The disciples were afraid of the Jews so they were hiding, Jesus appeared among them and told them to chill out. He breathed on them and told them to receive the holy spirit.
Jesus and Thomas
Thomas was not with the others when Jesus appeared, he said he wouldn't believe unless he could see Jesus and touch his wounds. 8 days later Jesus appeared before them again and let Thomas touch his wounds. He said "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed"
I do not like this last bit. Why would it be a virtue to believe something without evidence?
The Purpose of This Book
Jesus did many other signs which are not recorded here, these have been recorded so that you can believe he is the son of God.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
John 19
Jesus Delivered to Be Crucified
Pilate tries a few times to get the people to let them go, but they were determined to have him crucified. Pilate tries his best to help and get Jesus freed but he won't help himself and everyone seems against Jesus.
At one point people in the crowd said "We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die", but recently they said that it is not lawful to put anyone to death. Which is it?
Pilate tried once again to get the people to let him go. He said to the Jews "this is your king" then he asks "should I crucify your king?" and they said that their only king is Caesar so he delivered Jesus over to them to be crucified.
The Crucifixion
They took Jesus out to Golgotha and crucified him. They put a sign on his cross that said "king of the Jews" and they divided up his belongings. Jesus' mother was there and he acknowledged her.
The Death of Jesus
Jesus said that he was thirsty to fulfill the scripture, and so they gave him some wine and then he released his spirit.
This is the kind of thing that I am talking about when I discount prophecies. Does it really count if he is doing this for the express purpose of fulfilling the prophecy? Was he even thirsty or did he just say it because he thought he was supposed to?
Jesus' Side Is Pierced
The soldiers came to the three people who were crucified to break their legs, but since Jesus was already dead they didn't break his legs, but they pierced his side with a spear and water and blood came out. This fulfilled some scripture.
Jesus Is Buried
Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate if he could take the body of Jesus and he was allowed to. He put him in a tomb that was never used previously.
Pilate tries a few times to get the people to let them go, but they were determined to have him crucified. Pilate tries his best to help and get Jesus freed but he won't help himself and everyone seems against Jesus.
At one point people in the crowd said "We have a law, and according to that law he ought to die", but recently they said that it is not lawful to put anyone to death. Which is it?
Pilate tried once again to get the people to let him go. He said to the Jews "this is your king" then he asks "should I crucify your king?" and they said that their only king is Caesar so he delivered Jesus over to them to be crucified.
The Crucifixion
They took Jesus out to Golgotha and crucified him. They put a sign on his cross that said "king of the Jews" and they divided up his belongings. Jesus' mother was there and he acknowledged her.
The Death of Jesus
Jesus said that he was thirsty to fulfill the scripture, and so they gave him some wine and then he released his spirit.
This is the kind of thing that I am talking about when I discount prophecies. Does it really count if he is doing this for the express purpose of fulfilling the prophecy? Was he even thirsty or did he just say it because he thought he was supposed to?
Jesus' Side Is Pierced
The soldiers came to the three people who were crucified to break their legs, but since Jesus was already dead they didn't break his legs, but they pierced his side with a spear and water and blood came out. This fulfilled some scripture.
Jesus Is Buried
Joseph of Arimathea asked Pilate if he could take the body of Jesus and he was allowed to. He put him in a tomb that was never used previously.
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
John 18
Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus
Jesus was with his disciples in a place that he went many times to talk to them, so Judas knew the place. Judas brought a group of soldiers from the chief priest and Pharisees. Jesus knew what was going to happen so he stepped forward and asked who they were seeking. They said Jesus and he said "I am he." They gell to the ground.
Did they fall to the ground in worship of Jesus or did they fall to the ground as in they were knocked back? Both seem consistent with the way it is written to me.
Simon Peter drew a sword and cut off the ear of the high priest's servant but Jesus told him to stand down. Jesus then said that he would "drink the cup the father has given me"
This story seems to match my memory of the way it was before.
Jesus Faces Annas and Caiaphas
Jesus was brought to Annas who was father-in-law to Caiaphas who thought someone should die for the people.
Uhh, ok
Peter Denies Jesus
Peter followed Jesus and was not initially recognized as a disciple. Then at some point someone asked him if he was a follower of Jesus and he said no.
Somehow this seemed less important than the way it was told before.
The High Priest Questions Jesus
The high priest asks Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. He says that he has spoken openly to the world in synagogues and temples, he has said nothing in secret. One of the officers struck Jesus because he didn't like the answer and Jesus said if he was lying then they should point out his lie, otherwise why are they striking him?
For the record, Jesus did lie here, he said he has never kept anything secret but he has in the past.
Peter Denies Jesus Again
While warming his hands, Peter was again asked if he knew Jesus and he said no, then the rooster crowed.
Oh, the story wasn't over before
Jesus Before Pilate
Jesus was then let to Pilate and he asked why they brought Jesus to him. They said they wouldn't have brought him unless he had performed evil. Pilate then said if they want to put him to death they should do it themselves. The Jews then said that it is not lawful for them to put anyone to death.
Is this true? Aren't there laws in the old testament about stoning people to death? What am I missing here?
My Kingdom Is Not of This World
Jesus and Pilate talk, Pilate tries to ask Jesus direct questions and Jesus is evasive. Eventually Pilate decides that in his opinion Jesus is not guilty so he asks the crowd whether he should release Jesus or Barabbas (a passover custom). The crowd tells him to release Barabbas.
I mentioned this before, but in Mark the chief priests were in the crowd helping them to choose Barabbas to be let free. Doesn't exactly make for a contradiction, but it does seem an odd detail to leave out.
Jesus was with his disciples in a place that he went many times to talk to them, so Judas knew the place. Judas brought a group of soldiers from the chief priest and Pharisees. Jesus knew what was going to happen so he stepped forward and asked who they were seeking. They said Jesus and he said "I am he." They gell to the ground.
Did they fall to the ground in worship of Jesus or did they fall to the ground as in they were knocked back? Both seem consistent with the way it is written to me.
Simon Peter drew a sword and cut off the ear of the high priest's servant but Jesus told him to stand down. Jesus then said that he would "drink the cup the father has given me"
This story seems to match my memory of the way it was before.
Jesus Faces Annas and Caiaphas
Jesus was brought to Annas who was father-in-law to Caiaphas who thought someone should die for the people.
Uhh, ok
Peter Denies Jesus
Peter followed Jesus and was not initially recognized as a disciple. Then at some point someone asked him if he was a follower of Jesus and he said no.
Somehow this seemed less important than the way it was told before.
The High Priest Questions Jesus
The high priest asks Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. He says that he has spoken openly to the world in synagogues and temples, he has said nothing in secret. One of the officers struck Jesus because he didn't like the answer and Jesus said if he was lying then they should point out his lie, otherwise why are they striking him?
For the record, Jesus did lie here, he said he has never kept anything secret but he has in the past.
Peter Denies Jesus Again
While warming his hands, Peter was again asked if he knew Jesus and he said no, then the rooster crowed.
Oh, the story wasn't over before
Jesus Before Pilate
Jesus was then let to Pilate and he asked why they brought Jesus to him. They said they wouldn't have brought him unless he had performed evil. Pilate then said if they want to put him to death they should do it themselves. The Jews then said that it is not lawful for them to put anyone to death.
Is this true? Aren't there laws in the old testament about stoning people to death? What am I missing here?
My Kingdom Is Not of This World
Jesus and Pilate talk, Pilate tries to ask Jesus direct questions and Jesus is evasive. Eventually Pilate decides that in his opinion Jesus is not guilty so he asks the crowd whether he should release Jesus or Barabbas (a passover custom). The crowd tells him to release Barabbas.
I mentioned this before, but in Mark the chief priests were in the crowd helping them to choose Barabbas to be let free. Doesn't exactly make for a contradiction, but it does seem an odd detail to leave out.
Monday, May 7, 2012
John 17
The High Priestly Prayer
Jesus prays to the father. He says that he has told the people that the father is really the source of his power. They believe in the father. Jesus says he has guarded all of his people and none have been lost except the son of destruction so that the scripture could be fulfilled.
Interesting that Jesus acknowledges that Judas' part was necessary.
Jesus says that he is leaving as he is not of the world, neither are his followers. He asks the father to keep them from evil.
His followers are not of this world? What does that mean?
Jesus prays to the father. He says that he has told the people that the father is really the source of his power. They believe in the father. Jesus says he has guarded all of his people and none have been lost except the son of destruction so that the scripture could be fulfilled.
Interesting that Jesus acknowledges that Judas' part was necessary.
Jesus says that he is leaving as he is not of the world, neither are his followers. He asks the father to keep them from evil.
His followers are not of this world? What does that mean?
Friday, May 4, 2012
John 16
The Work of the Holy Spirit
Jesus will leave here and the holy spirit will come help you out. It is a good thing he is leaving for if he didn't the holy spirit would not come. Jesus still has many things to say but the disciples cannot yet bear it, so the holy spirit will tell them when the time is right.
That is interesting. I have never heard that the holy spirit came down when Jesus died. I figured it had always been around or something.
Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy
Jesus says that they will be full of sorrow, but in a short amount of time it will turn into joy.
Jesus is referring to his death and resurrection I assume
I Have Overcome the World
Jesus says he will stop using figured of speech and speak plainly. He was with the father but left him to come to Earth, now he is going back to the father. Everyone seems happy with what he said.
I just don't have much to say here. For my purposes of reading, this stuff is not particularly interesting.
Jesus will leave here and the holy spirit will come help you out. It is a good thing he is leaving for if he didn't the holy spirit would not come. Jesus still has many things to say but the disciples cannot yet bear it, so the holy spirit will tell them when the time is right.
That is interesting. I have never heard that the holy spirit came down when Jesus died. I figured it had always been around or something.
Your Sorrow Will Turn into Joy
Jesus says that they will be full of sorrow, but in a short amount of time it will turn into joy.
Jesus is referring to his death and resurrection I assume
I Have Overcome the World
Jesus says he will stop using figured of speech and speak plainly. He was with the father but left him to come to Earth, now he is going back to the father. Everyone seems happy with what he said.
I just don't have much to say here. For my purposes of reading, this stuff is not particularly interesting.
Thursday, May 3, 2012
John 15
I Am the True Vine
Jesus is the vine and we are all branches. Any branch that bears fruit will be pruned so it will be able to bear more fruit, but any branch that does not bear fruit will be cut off and burned in a pile. If you keep the commandments of Jesus, you will abide in him as he did in the father. The main thing Jesus wants is to love each other as he loved the disciples.
I'm not a huge fan of the metaphor, but I do like that the focus here is on loving each other.
The Hatred of the World
If the world hates you, know that they hated me first. I have plucked you from the world and now the world hates you. If you were still of the world it would love you.
This is an interesting idea, you were of the world and the world was cool with you, but now you are of Jesus and the world hates you. The thing that comes to mind, how does this change if the world is majority Christian? Or at least your local environment, if the country you live in for example, is majority Christian, it flips around a bit.
If I have come and talked to people and performed miracles and they still don't believe, then they are sinning and they have no excuse for their sin. However, if I had not come and done these works, they would not be guilty of sin.
Well now this is interesting. It reads to me like it is saying before Jesus came around, no one knew any better so they wouldn't get thrown into hell. Which seems good because it isn't really fair to get thrown into hell if you never had a chance. Although, if that is the case, what was Jesus saving us from? If my interpretation is correct, Jesus really set things in motion to allow us to burn in hell. Ok, I confused myself here.
After Jesus is gone the holy spirit will bear witness about him as will you (Jesus' followers)
I'm not really sure what it means that the holy spirit will bear witness. Perhaps this is the idea that you feel it in your heart or something.
The hour will come when people will want to kill you and think they are offering service to God, but this is because they do not know the father.
This kinda sounds like any other rivalry to me (escalated to killing)
Jesus is the vine and we are all branches. Any branch that bears fruit will be pruned so it will be able to bear more fruit, but any branch that does not bear fruit will be cut off and burned in a pile. If you keep the commandments of Jesus, you will abide in him as he did in the father. The main thing Jesus wants is to love each other as he loved the disciples.
I'm not a huge fan of the metaphor, but I do like that the focus here is on loving each other.
The Hatred of the World
If the world hates you, know that they hated me first. I have plucked you from the world and now the world hates you. If you were still of the world it would love you.
This is an interesting idea, you were of the world and the world was cool with you, but now you are of Jesus and the world hates you. The thing that comes to mind, how does this change if the world is majority Christian? Or at least your local environment, if the country you live in for example, is majority Christian, it flips around a bit.
If I have come and talked to people and performed miracles and they still don't believe, then they are sinning and they have no excuse for their sin. However, if I had not come and done these works, they would not be guilty of sin.
Well now this is interesting. It reads to me like it is saying before Jesus came around, no one knew any better so they wouldn't get thrown into hell. Which seems good because it isn't really fair to get thrown into hell if you never had a chance. Although, if that is the case, what was Jesus saving us from? If my interpretation is correct, Jesus really set things in motion to allow us to burn in hell. Ok, I confused myself here.
After Jesus is gone the holy spirit will bear witness about him as will you (Jesus' followers)
I'm not really sure what it means that the holy spirit will bear witness. Perhaps this is the idea that you feel it in your heart or something.
The hour will come when people will want to kill you and think they are offering service to God, but this is because they do not know the father.
This kinda sounds like any other rivalry to me (escalated to killing)
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
John 14
I Am the Way, and the Truth, and the Life
Jesus says that his father's house has many rooms and he will go and prepare a place for you. Jesus says if they have known him, they also know the father and can get to the father through him. Philip asks for Jesus to show them the father. Jesus says he is in the father and the father is in him.
I don't really understand what this means.
Whoever believes in me will do the works that I do an will do greater works. Whatever you ask in my name I will do.
Is it just me, or does it sound like he is saying anyone who believes in Jesus will be able to do the miracles that he does? I would say that either this verse is wrong, or the miracles that Jesus is said to do are wrong, because if I am reading this right, then Christians should be able to heal the blind and so forth.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit
Jesus will die soon, but the holy spirit will come down and help Jesus' followers out in his place. Anyone who loves Jesus will be helped by the holy spirit.
This section was a little wordy, but I think that was pretty much the gist of it.
Jesus says that his father's house has many rooms and he will go and prepare a place for you. Jesus says if they have known him, they also know the father and can get to the father through him. Philip asks for Jesus to show them the father. Jesus says he is in the father and the father is in him.
I don't really understand what this means.
Whoever believes in me will do the works that I do an will do greater works. Whatever you ask in my name I will do.
Is it just me, or does it sound like he is saying anyone who believes in Jesus will be able to do the miracles that he does? I would say that either this verse is wrong, or the miracles that Jesus is said to do are wrong, because if I am reading this right, then Christians should be able to heal the blind and so forth.
Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit
Jesus will die soon, but the holy spirit will come down and help Jesus' followers out in his place. Anyone who loves Jesus will be helped by the holy spirit.
This section was a little wordy, but I think that was pretty much the gist of it.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
John 13
Jesus Washes the Disciples' Feet
Jesus washes the feet of his disciples. He said that some of them are clean but not all of them, he is referring to the fact that he will be betrayed. He also points out that they call him teacher and yet he is washing their feet. He says that a servant is not greater than his master.
Is that supposed to be a master is not greater than his servant? To claim that the servant is not greater than the master is not profound right? Also, in the footnotes, it says bondservant instead of servant, which if I understand correctly basically means slave.
Before I move on, I would also like to say that it felt like I didn't really understand this section. It is quite possibly I missed something important here, if anyone thinks that is the case please speak up :)
One of You Will Betray Me
Jesus says that one of the disciples will betray him. Simon Peter asks Jesus who he is talking about. Jesus says that it is the person he will give his bread to. He then gives the bread to Judas. Satan goes into Judas as soon as he gets the bread and Jesus tells him to do whatever he will do quickly, and Judas leaves. The other disciples think he left to get some supplies as Judas keeps the money.
I'm guessing that what Jesus said to Simon Peter was not heard by the rest. It doesn't say that, but without that detail the whole exchange is pretty confusing.
A New Commandment
Jesus said that where he is going they will not be able to follow. He then gives them a new commandment, to love one another just as he has loved them. "People will know you are my disciples if you have love for one another."
This is great. I do know that there are a great number of Christians who make this the central focus of their Christianity. To them I say kudos.
Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial
Peter asks where Jesus is going and he says that Peter cannot follow him now, be he can later. Peter says that he will lay down his life for Jesus, and Jesus says Peter will deny him three times before the rooster crows.
This is interesting. Jesus says that he cannot follow him now, but he will be able to later. In the previous section I was wondering why the disciples couldn't follow him (it seemed to imply that they wouldn't go to heaven or something) but this says that actually they just can't go right now.
Jesus washes the feet of his disciples. He said that some of them are clean but not all of them, he is referring to the fact that he will be betrayed. He also points out that they call him teacher and yet he is washing their feet. He says that a servant is not greater than his master.
Is that supposed to be a master is not greater than his servant? To claim that the servant is not greater than the master is not profound right? Also, in the footnotes, it says bondservant instead of servant, which if I understand correctly basically means slave.
Before I move on, I would also like to say that it felt like I didn't really understand this section. It is quite possibly I missed something important here, if anyone thinks that is the case please speak up :)
One of You Will Betray Me
Jesus says that one of the disciples will betray him. Simon Peter asks Jesus who he is talking about. Jesus says that it is the person he will give his bread to. He then gives the bread to Judas. Satan goes into Judas as soon as he gets the bread and Jesus tells him to do whatever he will do quickly, and Judas leaves. The other disciples think he left to get some supplies as Judas keeps the money.
I'm guessing that what Jesus said to Simon Peter was not heard by the rest. It doesn't say that, but without that detail the whole exchange is pretty confusing.
A New Commandment
Jesus said that where he is going they will not be able to follow. He then gives them a new commandment, to love one another just as he has loved them. "People will know you are my disciples if you have love for one another."
This is great. I do know that there are a great number of Christians who make this the central focus of their Christianity. To them I say kudos.
Jesus Foretells Peter's Denial
Peter asks where Jesus is going and he says that Peter cannot follow him now, be he can later. Peter says that he will lay down his life for Jesus, and Jesus says Peter will deny him three times before the rooster crows.
This is interesting. Jesus says that he cannot follow him now, but he will be able to later. In the previous section I was wondering why the disciples couldn't follow him (it seemed to imply that they wouldn't go to heaven or something) but this says that actually they just can't go right now.
Monday, April 30, 2012
John 12
Mary Anoints Jesus at Bethany
Jesus was hanging out with Lazarus (the guy he has recently raised from the dead) and Mary used a bunch of expensive ointment to anoint the feet of Jesus. Then she wiped it clean with her hair. Judas asked why they didn't sell the ointment and donate the money to the poor. He didn't actually care about the poor, he was a thief and would dip into the money before it was donated. Jesus said to leave her alone, she should keep the rest of the ointment for the day of his burial. For the poor you always have but I will not always be here.
That last line is strange to me. I thought he was supposed to be in favor of giving all of your belongings to the poor, yet he seems to be indulging in this expensive thing and wants it to be kept for his death.
Now, as to the part with Judas, we have seen this story before. Why was the detail about Judas never mentioned before? It seems like a pretty big detail to leave out. Also, in this version it is only Judas who complains where in the other versions it says there are multiple disciples who complain.
The Plot to Kill Lazarus
The chief priests wanted to put Lazarus to death as well as Jesus, because many have seen that Jesus raised him from the dead and they were following him.
Seems logical I guess, if you are willing to kill one person, why not another.
The Triumphal Entry
Jesus rode in to town on a donkey. This matched what was in some ancient prophecy and everyone thought it was great.
I've said this many times, but I just don't find these types of things interesting. The thing is, Jesus knew about the prophecy right? He wanted to fulfill the prophecy so he was seeking out the donkey. Doesn't that make the prophecy less impressive? As Matt Dillahunty has pointed out on numerous occasions, if I order a steak and then the waitress brings me a steak, is she fulfilling prophecy or just following instructions? For the prophecy to be interesting, I would think the players would have to at least not know what the prophecy means while they are fulfilling it, although even then, you have the problem of the players fitting the prophecy to events in the past. (Why is everything reminding me of star trek lately?)
Some Greeks Seek Jesus
Among the people that came to worship Jesus were some Greeks. Jesus says that whoever loves life loses it but whoever hates life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
Not really sure what the message is supposed to be here. If I hate life, why would I want eternal life? I would rather live one life happily than eternal life which I hate. Is the implication that if you hate this life you will get eternal life later and that life will be good? It doesn't seem to say that, but I will be honest, I find the wording of this section fairly confusing so I might be missing something pretty big here.
The Son of Man Must Be Lifted Up
Jesus shouts to the heavens that God should glorify his name. He does. Many in the crowd said they heard thunder while others said they heard angels.
My old roommate and I used to talk about this verse on occasion (he is catholic). We were discussing when people see Jesus or the virgin mary in objects that I thought it was just our natural pattern matching. He referenced this verse and said maybe there is something really there, but you only see it if you want to see it.
Jesus says he will be lifted up to heaven. The crowd responds that the Christ is supposed to stay forever, so how can he be lifted up? He avoids their question and just says that he won't be around forever so they should enjoy the light while they can.
The Unbelief of the People
After saying these things Jesus hid himself away from everyone. He was upset that he has performed so many miracles and yet people still don't believe in him. However, many people did believe in him they were just afraid to say it because the people in power didn't like Jesus.
Don't listen to what they are saying, they are picking on you because they are jealous.
Jesus Came to Save the World
verse 47 says he is not here to judge, but then verse 48 says he is here to judge, what am I missing?
Jesus was hanging out with Lazarus (the guy he has recently raised from the dead) and Mary used a bunch of expensive ointment to anoint the feet of Jesus. Then she wiped it clean with her hair. Judas asked why they didn't sell the ointment and donate the money to the poor. He didn't actually care about the poor, he was a thief and would dip into the money before it was donated. Jesus said to leave her alone, she should keep the rest of the ointment for the day of his burial. For the poor you always have but I will not always be here.
That last line is strange to me. I thought he was supposed to be in favor of giving all of your belongings to the poor, yet he seems to be indulging in this expensive thing and wants it to be kept for his death.
Now, as to the part with Judas, we have seen this story before. Why was the detail about Judas never mentioned before? It seems like a pretty big detail to leave out. Also, in this version it is only Judas who complains where in the other versions it says there are multiple disciples who complain.
The Plot to Kill Lazarus
The chief priests wanted to put Lazarus to death as well as Jesus, because many have seen that Jesus raised him from the dead and they were following him.
Seems logical I guess, if you are willing to kill one person, why not another.
The Triumphal Entry
Jesus rode in to town on a donkey. This matched what was in some ancient prophecy and everyone thought it was great.
I've said this many times, but I just don't find these types of things interesting. The thing is, Jesus knew about the prophecy right? He wanted to fulfill the prophecy so he was seeking out the donkey. Doesn't that make the prophecy less impressive? As Matt Dillahunty has pointed out on numerous occasions, if I order a steak and then the waitress brings me a steak, is she fulfilling prophecy or just following instructions? For the prophecy to be interesting, I would think the players would have to at least not know what the prophecy means while they are fulfilling it, although even then, you have the problem of the players fitting the prophecy to events in the past. (Why is everything reminding me of star trek lately?)
Some Greeks Seek Jesus
Among the people that came to worship Jesus were some Greeks. Jesus says that whoever loves life loses it but whoever hates life in this world will keep it for eternal life.
Not really sure what the message is supposed to be here. If I hate life, why would I want eternal life? I would rather live one life happily than eternal life which I hate. Is the implication that if you hate this life you will get eternal life later and that life will be good? It doesn't seem to say that, but I will be honest, I find the wording of this section fairly confusing so I might be missing something pretty big here.
The Son of Man Must Be Lifted Up
Jesus shouts to the heavens that God should glorify his name. He does. Many in the crowd said they heard thunder while others said they heard angels.
My old roommate and I used to talk about this verse on occasion (he is catholic). We were discussing when people see Jesus or the virgin mary in objects that I thought it was just our natural pattern matching. He referenced this verse and said maybe there is something really there, but you only see it if you want to see it.
Jesus says he will be lifted up to heaven. The crowd responds that the Christ is supposed to stay forever, so how can he be lifted up? He avoids their question and just says that he won't be around forever so they should enjoy the light while they can.
The Unbelief of the People
After saying these things Jesus hid himself away from everyone. He was upset that he has performed so many miracles and yet people still don't believe in him. However, many people did believe in him they were just afraid to say it because the people in power didn't like Jesus.
Don't listen to what they are saying, they are picking on you because they are jealous.
Jesus Came to Save the World
verse 47 says he is not here to judge, but then verse 48 says he is here to judge, what am I missing?
Friday, April 27, 2012
John 11
The Death of Lazarus
There was a man Lazarus in Bethany who is ill. Mary and Martha are his sisters, Mary is the one who anointed Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. They sent word to Jesus asking for help. He heard that Lazarus was in trouble, so he decided to stay put for a few days and then head back to Judea.
I'm confused, is Bethany and Judea the same thing or something? Shouldn't he be heading toward Bethany? Does he perhaps have to travel through Judea?
The disciples say that he is crazy because in Judea the people want to kill him. Jesus tells them he needs to go because Lazarus has fallen asleep. They say he will wake up so why worry about it. Then Jesus says more plainly that Lazarus has died and they need to go to him. Thomas then says to his fellow disciples "Let us also go, that we may die with him."
I suddenly like Thomas. Seriously though, why is Jesus being confusing on purpose? I feel like he does this all the time and it just serves to make things harder to follow.
I Am the Resurrection and the Life
When they get to Bethany Lazarus has been dead and in the tomb for 4 days already. Martha said that if Jesus had been there Lazarus would not have died. Jesus said Lazarus would rise again, Martha said she knows he will rise on the last day. Jesus said he is the resurrection and the life, everyone who lives and believes in him shall never die.
I'm curious what exactly this really means. Lazarus is dead right there. And people die all the time. We commonly interpret this as life in heaven after death, but that doesn't seem to be what Jesus is really saying here, he is saying people won't die.
Jesus Weeps
Mary heard the Jesus was calling for her, so she went to him and the disciples followed. She was weeping and said if he was there Lazarus wouldn't have died. He asks to be shown the body and he was so overcome that he wept when he saw how moved she was. Some people ask why Jesus let Lazarus die since he is able to heal a blind man.
Seems like a big leap, to expect that if you can heal blindness you can stop death. It actually reminds me of an episode of TNG.
Jesus Raises Lazarus
They get to the tomb, which is a cave with a stone in the way, and Jesus says to move the stone. They say that he has been dead for days and there will be an odor. Jesus asks if they believe in him, if they do they will see the glory of God. They take away the stone and Jesus talks to God and presumably asks for Lazarus to be brought back to life. Then they yelled for Lazarus to come out and he did, his hands and feet were wrapped with linen.
It occurred to me while I was reading this, is Lazarus a rich man? It seems that way as he is buried in a cave with a boulder at the entrance. Certainly this isn't how they bury everyone right? How does that mesh with the idea that rich people can't get into heaven and that people are supposed to give away all of their stuff?
The Plot to Kill Jesus
Many of the people who witnessed this believed in Jesus, but some went to the Pharisees and told them what happened, they didn't want him to do these things as it might make them lose power. So they worked on a plan to capture and kill Jesus
[Edit] If you want a much more thorough look at this passage, you should check out The Wise Fool post about it]
There was a man Lazarus in Bethany who is ill. Mary and Martha are his sisters, Mary is the one who anointed Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. They sent word to Jesus asking for help. He heard that Lazarus was in trouble, so he decided to stay put for a few days and then head back to Judea.
I'm confused, is Bethany and Judea the same thing or something? Shouldn't he be heading toward Bethany? Does he perhaps have to travel through Judea?
The disciples say that he is crazy because in Judea the people want to kill him. Jesus tells them he needs to go because Lazarus has fallen asleep. They say he will wake up so why worry about it. Then Jesus says more plainly that Lazarus has died and they need to go to him. Thomas then says to his fellow disciples "Let us also go, that we may die with him."
I suddenly like Thomas. Seriously though, why is Jesus being confusing on purpose? I feel like he does this all the time and it just serves to make things harder to follow.
I Am the Resurrection and the Life
When they get to Bethany Lazarus has been dead and in the tomb for 4 days already. Martha said that if Jesus had been there Lazarus would not have died. Jesus said Lazarus would rise again, Martha said she knows he will rise on the last day. Jesus said he is the resurrection and the life, everyone who lives and believes in him shall never die.
I'm curious what exactly this really means. Lazarus is dead right there. And people die all the time. We commonly interpret this as life in heaven after death, but that doesn't seem to be what Jesus is really saying here, he is saying people won't die.
Jesus Weeps
Mary heard the Jesus was calling for her, so she went to him and the disciples followed. She was weeping and said if he was there Lazarus wouldn't have died. He asks to be shown the body and he was so overcome that he wept when he saw how moved she was. Some people ask why Jesus let Lazarus die since he is able to heal a blind man.
Seems like a big leap, to expect that if you can heal blindness you can stop death. It actually reminds me of an episode of TNG.
Jesus Raises Lazarus
They get to the tomb, which is a cave with a stone in the way, and Jesus says to move the stone. They say that he has been dead for days and there will be an odor. Jesus asks if they believe in him, if they do they will see the glory of God. They take away the stone and Jesus talks to God and presumably asks for Lazarus to be brought back to life. Then they yelled for Lazarus to come out and he did, his hands and feet were wrapped with linen.
It occurred to me while I was reading this, is Lazarus a rich man? It seems that way as he is buried in a cave with a boulder at the entrance. Certainly this isn't how they bury everyone right? How does that mesh with the idea that rich people can't get into heaven and that people are supposed to give away all of their stuff?
The Plot to Kill Jesus
Many of the people who witnessed this believed in Jesus, but some went to the Pharisees and told them what happened, they didn't want him to do these things as it might make them lose power. So they worked on a plan to capture and kill Jesus
[Edit] If you want a much more thorough look at this passage, you should check out The Wise Fool post about it]
Thursday, April 26, 2012
John 10
I Am the Good Shepherd
Jesus says that if someone sneaks into the sheepfold they are a thief, but if they go in through the door they are a shepherd. If the sheep know the shepherd's voice they will follow, but they won't follow a stranger. Jesus is using a figure of speech which they don't understand, so he explains further. The people are the sheep and Jesus is a good shepherd. All others who came before are thieves who were not trusted. He also says that he has the authority to lay down his life for his sheep and take it up again, some people don't trust him because of this claim.
I like that after he says something that requires a bit of interpretation he explains it in further detail. I wish he would do that more often. As far as the actual message of this section, Jesus is basically saying everyone like him that came before was a fake but he is real. I personally don't find such declarations to be that convincing.
I and the Father Are One
The Jews gathered around Jesus and asked him to tell them if he is the Christ in plain language. He said he is, they said it was blasphemy and they tried to stone him and then they tried to arrest him. He got away.
Again, he is asked to talk more plainly and he complies. It appears that he was willing to answer plainly so long as he was asked, too bad someone didn't just follow him around constantly asking him to be more clear. I don't really have much else to say here, I guess it is pretty remarkable how barbaric the time seems to be, they want to stone him for saying he is God.
Jesus says that if someone sneaks into the sheepfold they are a thief, but if they go in through the door they are a shepherd. If the sheep know the shepherd's voice they will follow, but they won't follow a stranger. Jesus is using a figure of speech which they don't understand, so he explains further. The people are the sheep and Jesus is a good shepherd. All others who came before are thieves who were not trusted. He also says that he has the authority to lay down his life for his sheep and take it up again, some people don't trust him because of this claim.
I like that after he says something that requires a bit of interpretation he explains it in further detail. I wish he would do that more often. As far as the actual message of this section, Jesus is basically saying everyone like him that came before was a fake but he is real. I personally don't find such declarations to be that convincing.
I and the Father Are One
The Jews gathered around Jesus and asked him to tell them if he is the Christ in plain language. He said he is, they said it was blasphemy and they tried to stone him and then they tried to arrest him. He got away.
Again, he is asked to talk more plainly and he complies. It appears that he was willing to answer plainly so long as he was asked, too bad someone didn't just follow him around constantly asking him to be more clear. I don't really have much else to say here, I guess it is pretty remarkable how barbaric the time seems to be, they want to stone him for saying he is God.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
John 9
Jesus Heals a Man Born Blind
They come across a blind man and the disciples ask Jesus whether the man sinned or if it was his parents who made him blind. Jesus says neither, but instead he is blind so that God's might could be displayed in him.
So the guy was blind so Jesus could show off and heal him? That is garbage.
Jesus spits on the ground and anoints the guy's eyes with the resulting mud. When he washes it off he can see. Everyone who knows the guy is surprised he can see and he tells them what happened. They try to find Jesus but fail. They went to the Pharisees and told them the story, they pointed out that the day the guy was healed was the Sabbath and Jesus must therefore not be from God. But others pointed out that he must be because of what he can do.
Jesus again demonstrates that he doesn't think keeping the Sabbath is all that important, I like that.
They don't believe the man had been blind so they ask his parents and they verified that he was born blind. They ask the man once again and he said that Jesus healed him. They said Jesus was a sinner and the man, he said that may be so, but he was healed by Jesus. He asked them if they wanted to be disciples of Jesus and they were mad because they were disciples of Moses who they know talked to God. He said he was blind but now he can see so the man must be from God to be able to do such things.
Jesus heard of all of this happening and found the man he had healed. Jesus asks if he believed in the son of man and the guy said yes. Jesus said many people could become blind. A Pharisee nearby asks if he is blind and Jesus said if he was blind he would be guilt free.
Does this last bit show that we are talking about being blind to sin or something?
They come across a blind man and the disciples ask Jesus whether the man sinned or if it was his parents who made him blind. Jesus says neither, but instead he is blind so that God's might could be displayed in him.
So the guy was blind so Jesus could show off and heal him? That is garbage.
Jesus spits on the ground and anoints the guy's eyes with the resulting mud. When he washes it off he can see. Everyone who knows the guy is surprised he can see and he tells them what happened. They try to find Jesus but fail. They went to the Pharisees and told them the story, they pointed out that the day the guy was healed was the Sabbath and Jesus must therefore not be from God. But others pointed out that he must be because of what he can do.
Jesus again demonstrates that he doesn't think keeping the Sabbath is all that important, I like that.
They don't believe the man had been blind so they ask his parents and they verified that he was born blind. They ask the man once again and he said that Jesus healed him. They said Jesus was a sinner and the man, he said that may be so, but he was healed by Jesus. He asked them if they wanted to be disciples of Jesus and they were mad because they were disciples of Moses who they know talked to God. He said he was blind but now he can see so the man must be from God to be able to do such things.
Jesus heard of all of this happening and found the man he had healed. Jesus asks if he believed in the son of man and the guy said yes. Jesus said many people could become blind. A Pharisee nearby asks if he is blind and Jesus said if he was blind he would be guilt free.
Does this last bit show that we are talking about being blind to sin or something?
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
John 8
The Woman Caught in Adultery
Apparently this story is not in early manuscripts. I would think that leads to the conclusion that it is a forgery, but I suppose a believer might think that it just means God added it later. Unfalsifiability sure is convenient.
A woman was caught in adultery and she was brought to Jesus. The Pharisees wanted to see what he would do and hoped that they would get something to use against him. They said that the law of Moses says she should be stoned. He said that the person who is without sins should cast the first stone. Everyone went away and Jesus told the woman to also leave and sin no more.
This story is a forgery? Really!? This one is iconic.
I Am the Light of the World
Jesus said he is the light of life, the Pharisees said he is lying. He said it is not just him who talks but his father. They asked where his father is and he said if they knew him they would know his father too. Jesus said these things in the temple but no one arrested him because it wasn't time yet.
Seems to me that they are asking legitimate questions and he is not giving them very satisfying answers. Also, it sounds like he should be arrested because of what he is saying but it isn't time yet so God is intervening or something.
Jesus said he is going a place they cannot follow, so the people wondered if he was going to kill himself. Jesus said that he is from above, not from here. People will die for their sins unless they believe in him.
Seems to me like Jesus is talking in a more round-a-bout way than is necessary here.
The Truth Will Set You Free
Jesus tells the Jews listening to him the truth will set them free. They say they have never been slaves so how can they be set free. He says they are slaves to sin.
This is an interesting idea. There are certainly some sins that can spin out of control, but I don't like the idea that you can't get them back in control.
You Are of Your Father the Devil
The crowd tells Jesus their father is Abraham, he says that if that were true they would do the works of Abraham, but they are trying to kill him. They said they were not born of sexual immorality, but they were born of God, Jesus replies that if they were born of God they would love him, they were born of the devil because they didn't understand what he was saying.
It seems to me like there is a huge communication problem here. The crowd is trying to understand Jesus but failing and they are all getting frustrated. You would think God would be better at communicating.
Before Abraham Was, I Am
The crowd says that Jesus has a demon, he says he doesn't. Jesus says if they listen to him they won't die, they are mad he is saying he is better than Abraham who died. Jesus says he was around before Abraham but they say he isn't even 50 years old. They try to stone Jesus but he gets away.
Wow, Jesus is doing a bad job of communicating and they try to stone him. I'm surprised I've never heard this story before. Something about this story seems a bit off, I think because they are just talking past each other.
Apparently this story is not in early manuscripts. I would think that leads to the conclusion that it is a forgery, but I suppose a believer might think that it just means God added it later. Unfalsifiability sure is convenient.
A woman was caught in adultery and she was brought to Jesus. The Pharisees wanted to see what he would do and hoped that they would get something to use against him. They said that the law of Moses says she should be stoned. He said that the person who is without sins should cast the first stone. Everyone went away and Jesus told the woman to also leave and sin no more.
This story is a forgery? Really!? This one is iconic.
I Am the Light of the World
Jesus said he is the light of life, the Pharisees said he is lying. He said it is not just him who talks but his father. They asked where his father is and he said if they knew him they would know his father too. Jesus said these things in the temple but no one arrested him because it wasn't time yet.
Seems to me that they are asking legitimate questions and he is not giving them very satisfying answers. Also, it sounds like he should be arrested because of what he is saying but it isn't time yet so God is intervening or something.
Jesus said he is going a place they cannot follow, so the people wondered if he was going to kill himself. Jesus said that he is from above, not from here. People will die for their sins unless they believe in him.
Seems to me like Jesus is talking in a more round-a-bout way than is necessary here.
The Truth Will Set You Free
Jesus tells the Jews listening to him the truth will set them free. They say they have never been slaves so how can they be set free. He says they are slaves to sin.
This is an interesting idea. There are certainly some sins that can spin out of control, but I don't like the idea that you can't get them back in control.
You Are of Your Father the Devil
The crowd tells Jesus their father is Abraham, he says that if that were true they would do the works of Abraham, but they are trying to kill him. They said they were not born of sexual immorality, but they were born of God, Jesus replies that if they were born of God they would love him, they were born of the devil because they didn't understand what he was saying.
It seems to me like there is a huge communication problem here. The crowd is trying to understand Jesus but failing and they are all getting frustrated. You would think God would be better at communicating.
Before Abraham Was, I Am
The crowd says that Jesus has a demon, he says he doesn't. Jesus says if they listen to him they won't die, they are mad he is saying he is better than Abraham who died. Jesus says he was around before Abraham but they say he isn't even 50 years old. They try to stone Jesus but he gets away.
Wow, Jesus is doing a bad job of communicating and they try to stone him. I'm surprised I've never heard this story before. Something about this story seems a bit off, I think because they are just talking past each other.
Monday, April 23, 2012
John 7
Jesus at the Feast of Booths
Jesus didn't want to go to Galilee because the Jews were seeking to kill him. His brothers and sisters wanted him to go because they said he shouldn't work in secret. He said his time hasn't come to speak openly. Jesus then went to the feast secretly and there was much talk of him. Some said he is great, some said he is leading his people astray.
At about the middle of the feast, Jesus went up to the temple to teach. They marvel at his teaching because he was never taught, he says he is teaching what the father wants him to. He doesn't seek his own glory but instead his fathers. They say he has a demon and he replies by talking about working on the Sabbath.
I didn't quite follow at the end there. But apart from that, the main point seems to be that Jesus is getting started in convincing a lot of people. And at the start he had a lot of opposition.
Can This Be the Christ?
Some people pointed out that many people want to kill Jesus yet nobody is doing it. Then they asked if that is because those people realize he is Christ. Some say that we are not supposed to know where the Christ comes from yet we do know where Jesus comes from so he can't be the Christ. Jesus blows them off.
This sounds to me like he is justifying why a prophecy isn't being properly fulfilled (just a guess). Is there some old thing that says we aren't supposed to know the origin of Christ? Is this getting at something completely different and I'm misinterpreting?
Officers Sent to Arrest Jesus
The Pharisees heard the people talking about Jesus so they sent some guys to arrest him. Jesus said he would be with the people a little longer but then he would some place where they won't be able to find him.
Is this talking about when he is going to die and go to heaven? If so, aren't they supposed to also be able to go to heaven when they die? I'm confused
Rivers of Living Water
If you are thirsty come to me and drink and if you believe rivers of living water will flow out of your heart.
what?
Division Among the People
Some people liked what he said, some people wanted to arrest him, but no one touched him. Then the officers from the Pharisees showed up and asked why they didn't bring him in. They said that no one had talked like him before and the officers asked if they had been fooled by him.
Seemed pretty much the same as a section up higher.
Jesus didn't want to go to Galilee because the Jews were seeking to kill him. His brothers and sisters wanted him to go because they said he shouldn't work in secret. He said his time hasn't come to speak openly. Jesus then went to the feast secretly and there was much talk of him. Some said he is great, some said he is leading his people astray.
At about the middle of the feast, Jesus went up to the temple to teach. They marvel at his teaching because he was never taught, he says he is teaching what the father wants him to. He doesn't seek his own glory but instead his fathers. They say he has a demon and he replies by talking about working on the Sabbath.
I didn't quite follow at the end there. But apart from that, the main point seems to be that Jesus is getting started in convincing a lot of people. And at the start he had a lot of opposition.
Can This Be the Christ?
Some people pointed out that many people want to kill Jesus yet nobody is doing it. Then they asked if that is because those people realize he is Christ. Some say that we are not supposed to know where the Christ comes from yet we do know where Jesus comes from so he can't be the Christ. Jesus blows them off.
This sounds to me like he is justifying why a prophecy isn't being properly fulfilled (just a guess). Is there some old thing that says we aren't supposed to know the origin of Christ? Is this getting at something completely different and I'm misinterpreting?
Officers Sent to Arrest Jesus
The Pharisees heard the people talking about Jesus so they sent some guys to arrest him. Jesus said he would be with the people a little longer but then he would some place where they won't be able to find him.
Is this talking about when he is going to die and go to heaven? If so, aren't they supposed to also be able to go to heaven when they die? I'm confused
Rivers of Living Water
If you are thirsty come to me and drink and if you believe rivers of living water will flow out of your heart.
what?
Division Among the People
Some people liked what he said, some people wanted to arrest him, but no one touched him. Then the officers from the Pharisees showed up and asked why they didn't bring him in. They said that no one had talked like him before and the officers asked if they had been fooled by him.
Seemed pretty much the same as a section up higher.
Friday, April 20, 2012
John 6
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand
It was time for a passover feast and Jesus saw that a large crowd had gathered. He asked his disciples how much it would cost to feed them all and they said it would cost more than 200 denarii. Andrew pointed out that there is a boy with 2 fish and five loaves, so Jesus took it and prayed, then distributed them. After it was done they gathered the leftovers and it filled 12 baskets. The people said that Jesus was clearly a prophet and he could see they wanted to force him to be king, so he withdrew.
I found an differences from this version from the versions in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The first is that in the other 3 versions they felt the need to feed the people because they were in a desolate place. In fact, I think Jesus actually went to the desolate place to be alone but was followed anyway. This time it was passover and Jesus wanted to feed everyone because it was time for a feast. I'm not sure I would have even noticed this except I went to my first passover seder a few weeks ago. I'm also not sure how much I think this discrepancy is a big deal, I find it interesting for sure, but in my opinion it is less of a big deal than other contradictions I have come across.
There is something about this story that I like but it requires assuming that Jesus did not use magic. Suppose there were many people in the crowd who actually did have bread on them and they could see that there was not enough being provided so they put some of their bread in the basket rather than taking some out. This story then becomes Jesus inspiring people to share with each other, which is a good message and also hints at the idea that people are generally good at their core.
Jesus Walks on Water
A few of Jesus' disciples went out to a boat and went a few miles out to sea. A storm picked up and then they saw Jesus coming out to them on the water. He told them not to be afraid and they were happy to get him into the boat, and they were immediately at the land.
The way it is told here it sounds like a dream.
I Am the Bread of Life
The crowd noticed that Jesus and his disciples did not get into the boat together, but they are both gone even though there was only 1 boat available to them. They follow him and find Jesus and ask him what is up. He says they are looking for him because of the bread they got, but they should focus on food that endures forever. Jesus says that he is the bread of life, no one who believes in Jesus will be hungry or thirsty. Also those who believe will have eternal life for that is the father's will. The people are not satisfied with this because they know he came from Joseph and Mary. Then he says the manna from Moses was from heaven, but Jesus is the living bread, if you eat of him you will not die. You must eat of Jesus' flesh and drink of his blood to get eternal life.
Well based on that the whole transubstantiation thing does seem to make a bit more sense. According to this verse, I could see how some people would be insistent that the wine literally becomes blood and the cracker literally becomes flesh.
The Words of Eternal Life
Some of the disciples did not like the message he was delivering and complained, he said that they can only follow him if it is granted to them by the father and many of the disciples turned away. He then asked the 12 if they wanted to leave as well and said that one of them is a devil.
Wow, I have never heard this before. I always thought that anyone could be a Christian if they wanted, but this seems to be saying that some people are not allowed.
It was time for a passover feast and Jesus saw that a large crowd had gathered. He asked his disciples how much it would cost to feed them all and they said it would cost more than 200 denarii. Andrew pointed out that there is a boy with 2 fish and five loaves, so Jesus took it and prayed, then distributed them. After it was done they gathered the leftovers and it filled 12 baskets. The people said that Jesus was clearly a prophet and he could see they wanted to force him to be king, so he withdrew.
I found an differences from this version from the versions in Matthew, Mark, and Luke. The first is that in the other 3 versions they felt the need to feed the people because they were in a desolate place. In fact, I think Jesus actually went to the desolate place to be alone but was followed anyway. This time it was passover and Jesus wanted to feed everyone because it was time for a feast. I'm not sure I would have even noticed this except I went to my first passover seder a few weeks ago. I'm also not sure how much I think this discrepancy is a big deal, I find it interesting for sure, but in my opinion it is less of a big deal than other contradictions I have come across.
There is something about this story that I like but it requires assuming that Jesus did not use magic. Suppose there were many people in the crowd who actually did have bread on them and they could see that there was not enough being provided so they put some of their bread in the basket rather than taking some out. This story then becomes Jesus inspiring people to share with each other, which is a good message and also hints at the idea that people are generally good at their core.
Jesus Walks on Water
A few of Jesus' disciples went out to a boat and went a few miles out to sea. A storm picked up and then they saw Jesus coming out to them on the water. He told them not to be afraid and they were happy to get him into the boat, and they were immediately at the land.
The way it is told here it sounds like a dream.
I Am the Bread of Life
The crowd noticed that Jesus and his disciples did not get into the boat together, but they are both gone even though there was only 1 boat available to them. They follow him and find Jesus and ask him what is up. He says they are looking for him because of the bread they got, but they should focus on food that endures forever. Jesus says that he is the bread of life, no one who believes in Jesus will be hungry or thirsty. Also those who believe will have eternal life for that is the father's will. The people are not satisfied with this because they know he came from Joseph and Mary. Then he says the manna from Moses was from heaven, but Jesus is the living bread, if you eat of him you will not die. You must eat of Jesus' flesh and drink of his blood to get eternal life.
Well based on that the whole transubstantiation thing does seem to make a bit more sense. According to this verse, I could see how some people would be insistent that the wine literally becomes blood and the cracker literally becomes flesh.
The Words of Eternal Life
Some of the disciples did not like the message he was delivering and complained, he said that they can only follow him if it is granted to them by the father and many of the disciples turned away. He then asked the 12 if they wanted to leave as well and said that one of them is a devil.
Wow, I have never heard this before. I always thought that anyone could be a Christian if they wanted, but this seems to be saying that some people are not allowed.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
John 5
The Healing at the Pool on the Sabbath
Jesus went to a place where there were a lot of invalids such as blind, lame, and paralyzed people. There was one guy who had been an invalid for 38 years and Jesus told him to get up, take his bed and walk, the guy was healed an immediately he was healed and he did so. People saw him carrying his bed and said he shouldn't do that because it is the Sabbath, he said the man who healed him told him to do it. They were mad at Jesus.
I know you aren't supposed to work on the Sabbath, but carrying your bed counts?
Jesus Is Equal with God
The Jews were upset with Jesus because he said God was his father making him equal with God, so they wanted to kill him.
Seems like a bit of an overreaction to me.
The Authority of the Son
The son will do as the father can do. The father passes his power to the son. Soon the dead will hear the voice of the son of God and will live. "an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out."
What?
Witnesses to Jesus
You don't need to trust me what I say about myself, you can trust what John the baptist said about me.
Jesus went to a place where there were a lot of invalids such as blind, lame, and paralyzed people. There was one guy who had been an invalid for 38 years and Jesus told him to get up, take his bed and walk, the guy was healed an immediately he was healed and he did so. People saw him carrying his bed and said he shouldn't do that because it is the Sabbath, he said the man who healed him told him to do it. They were mad at Jesus.
I know you aren't supposed to work on the Sabbath, but carrying your bed counts?
Jesus Is Equal with God
The Jews were upset with Jesus because he said God was his father making him equal with God, so they wanted to kill him.
Seems like a bit of an overreaction to me.
The Authority of the Son
The son will do as the father can do. The father passes his power to the son. Soon the dead will hear the voice of the son of God and will live. "an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out."
What?
Witnesses to Jesus
You don't need to trust me what I say about myself, you can trust what John the baptist said about me.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
John 4
Jesus and the Woman of Samaria
Jesus went to a well in the town of Sychar and he was tired. A Samaritan woman came to get water from the well and Jesus asked for a drink. She asked why a Jew would ask a Samaritan woman for a drink, and he said if she asked him for a drink he would give her one such that she would never be thirsty again. He tells her to bring others to see him and tells her things about her that he shouldn't know, so she is convinced he is Christ. While she is telling the other people of the town, the disciples return and try to get him to eat and he says his food is the works he does. He stays in that town for a few days then moves on to Galilee.
A lot of things here about spiritual food/drink and I guess spiritual health or something. I dunno.
Jesus Heals an Official's Son
An official had an ill son who was going to die soon, so he asked Jesus to heal him. Jesus said the kid would be fine and the official went on his way. On the way back one of his servants intercepted him and said his son was going to be fine, he asked when he started recovering and the time he gave was when the official was talking to Jesus.
My interest in this is really what could be gotten out of the bible in terms of lessons for life, that kind of thing. As far as I can tell, the miracles Jesus does are primarily to demonstrate that he is Godly and that he has power. I'm not really interested in that so I just don't have much to say here.
Jesus went to a well in the town of Sychar and he was tired. A Samaritan woman came to get water from the well and Jesus asked for a drink. She asked why a Jew would ask a Samaritan woman for a drink, and he said if she asked him for a drink he would give her one such that she would never be thirsty again. He tells her to bring others to see him and tells her things about her that he shouldn't know, so she is convinced he is Christ. While she is telling the other people of the town, the disciples return and try to get him to eat and he says his food is the works he does. He stays in that town for a few days then moves on to Galilee.
A lot of things here about spiritual food/drink and I guess spiritual health or something. I dunno.
Jesus Heals an Official's Son
An official had an ill son who was going to die soon, so he asked Jesus to heal him. Jesus said the kid would be fine and the official went on his way. On the way back one of his servants intercepted him and said his son was going to be fine, he asked when he started recovering and the time he gave was when the official was talking to Jesus.
My interest in this is really what could be gotten out of the bible in terms of lessons for life, that kind of thing. As far as I can tell, the miracles Jesus does are primarily to demonstrate that he is Godly and that he has power. I'm not really interested in that so I just don't have much to say here.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
John 3
You Must Be Born Again
Jesus is talking to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and ruler of the Jews. Jesus tells him that it is impossible to see the kingdom of God unless you are born again. He asks how you can be born again and Jesus replies that you must be born of water and spirit. Nicodemus asks how this can be and Jesus asks how he can be a teacher of Israel and not understand. He says "If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe how can you believe heavenly things?"
Jesus says if you are not baptized then it is impossible to see the kingdom of God. This seems to make the "kingdom of God" more like what we normally think of as heaven than the earthly kingdom under rule of God discussed previously on this blog. Also, talking about being born again in spirit, sounds like he is talking of heavenly things to me as opposed to earthly things.
For God So Loved the World
God sent his son to earth so that whoever believes in him can have eternal life. If you don't believe you are condemned. If you are evil and do evil things you will hide from the light so your works will not be exposed.
I don't think belief is an act of will. If I don't believe in something, it is not an act of defiance, it is just that I have not been convinced. Punishing someone for not being convinced is not right. Put another way, suppose I don't really think any of this sounds real but I try to force myself to believe and act like I believe but deep down I really think the whole thing sounds fishy. Is that virtuous?
John the Baptist Exalts Christ
John and Jesus are both baptizing people, John's disciples tell him that Jesus is also baptizing and everyone is going to him. John says that he is from earth but Jesus is from heaven so Jesus is better than him.
Jesus is talking to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and ruler of the Jews. Jesus tells him that it is impossible to see the kingdom of God unless you are born again. He asks how you can be born again and Jesus replies that you must be born of water and spirit. Nicodemus asks how this can be and Jesus asks how he can be a teacher of Israel and not understand. He says "If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe how can you believe heavenly things?"
Jesus says if you are not baptized then it is impossible to see the kingdom of God. This seems to make the "kingdom of God" more like what we normally think of as heaven than the earthly kingdom under rule of God discussed previously on this blog. Also, talking about being born again in spirit, sounds like he is talking of heavenly things to me as opposed to earthly things.
For God So Loved the World
God sent his son to earth so that whoever believes in him can have eternal life. If you don't believe you are condemned. If you are evil and do evil things you will hide from the light so your works will not be exposed.
I don't think belief is an act of will. If I don't believe in something, it is not an act of defiance, it is just that I have not been convinced. Punishing someone for not being convinced is not right. Put another way, suppose I don't really think any of this sounds real but I try to force myself to believe and act like I believe but deep down I really think the whole thing sounds fishy. Is that virtuous?
John the Baptist Exalts Christ
John and Jesus are both baptizing people, John's disciples tell him that Jesus is also baptizing and everyone is going to him. John says that he is from earth but Jesus is from heaven so Jesus is better than him.
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